Laurinda Wallace's Blog, page 11
May 26, 2013
Too Tough to Die
The title of this week's column is a familiar phrase in Cochise County. It's the descriptor for the infamous Tombstone. If you visit Casa Wallace, we'll make sure you get to this icon of Western history. Founded in 1879 by Ed Schiefflelin, it became a boom town in no time. This was because of the silver mines that dotted the countryside around the town. Tombstone was the county seat for many years, until Bisbee managed to wrestle it away in 1929. By that time Tombstone was in a major decline.
Stagecoach ridesEd Schieffelin was a prospector who struck silver in 1879 and a tent city sprang up as mining efforts grew. He and his brother, Al along with another business partner staked their claim for the Lucky Cuss mine and other fortune seekers poured into the area. Within a year, a real live town sprang up with a hotel, saloons, stores, the Bird Cage Theater, and so much more. Prostitution was legal in Tombstone as long as you were licensed. The "soiled doves" had quite the business during Tombstone's heyday and you can still see the "cribs" where the ladies entertained their clientele in The Birdcage Theater. The theater is the only remaining original building in Tombstone. No planning and shoddy building practices made the place a fire waiting to happen, which it did--twice. At the height of its popularity there were 10,000 residents and celebrities of all sorts walked the streets in the town too tough to die. Lillie Langtry, Little Egypt, Diamond Jim Brady, Bat Masterson, and of course the Earps.
Shooting some paintball bulletsLuxury was the name of the game in the 1880s, and goods of all sorts were brought in by train from Europe, California, and the East coast. You could have the finest champagne and fresh oysters at the hotel. If you had enough cash, you might get a seat at the table for the poker games that ran continuously at the Bird Cage Theater, 24/7/365 for eight years, five months, and three days. It is said that over $10,000,000 exchanged hands at the table where Doc Holliday, Diamond Jim, George Hearst, and many others played cards. The Bird Cage Theater houses many pieces of history in its basement today. A hearse made in Rochester, NY trimmed out in 24K gold is one of interest. The hearse's most famous passengers were the Clantons killed in the OK Corral gunfight. Its value is estimated at $1 million.
Tombstone is also home to the world's largest rose, a Lady Banksia rose painstakingly transported from England to the Wild West in 1885. It now covers over 8,000 square feet and for a fee you can see it behind the protective walls of its home.
Boot Hill Cemetery is just on the outskirts of town and is well worth a visit. Some of the Cowboy gang is buried there - the Clantons and Bill Brocious. The OK Corral is still there and reenactments are available throughout the day.
When the silver mines began to flood in 1886 with the demise of the primary pump for the mines, the end was in sight for Tombstone. The pump was destroyed by you guessed it --fire. It didn't take long for the town to empty and by the turn of the century, its population had declined to a several hundred.
There are lots more stories about Tombstone. It was quite the place and thoroughly wicked during those wild days. Shootings, prostitution, gambling, drinking, murder, corrupt lawmen, you name it, it was happening in Tombstone. Today it's a favorite tourist stop, where you can interact with cowboys and ladies of the evening on the boardwalks in town. You can visit the Tombstone Courthouse that still has the gallows out back. A stagecoach ride around town with a knowledgeable guide will give you a good overview of its history. You can dress up, play cowboy, visit a mine, wander through the Bird Cage and see where the men played poker in the basement, and get some BBQ. There's a celebration of some sort in Tombstone at the drop of a cowboy hat. One of the biggest weekends is Helldorado Days in the fall. Celebrities still show up to get a taste of the Old West and kids of all ages enjoy the ambiance of "The Town Too Tough to Die."
Our visitors (Robyn & Jill) outside the OK Corral
A little Tombstone humor
Stagecoach ridesEd Schieffelin was a prospector who struck silver in 1879 and a tent city sprang up as mining efforts grew. He and his brother, Al along with another business partner staked their claim for the Lucky Cuss mine and other fortune seekers poured into the area. Within a year, a real live town sprang up with a hotel, saloons, stores, the Bird Cage Theater, and so much more. Prostitution was legal in Tombstone as long as you were licensed. The "soiled doves" had quite the business during Tombstone's heyday and you can still see the "cribs" where the ladies entertained their clientele in The Birdcage Theater. The theater is the only remaining original building in Tombstone. No planning and shoddy building practices made the place a fire waiting to happen, which it did--twice. At the height of its popularity there were 10,000 residents and celebrities of all sorts walked the streets in the town too tough to die. Lillie Langtry, Little Egypt, Diamond Jim Brady, Bat Masterson, and of course the Earps.
Shooting some paintball bulletsLuxury was the name of the game in the 1880s, and goods of all sorts were brought in by train from Europe, California, and the East coast. You could have the finest champagne and fresh oysters at the hotel. If you had enough cash, you might get a seat at the table for the poker games that ran continuously at the Bird Cage Theater, 24/7/365 for eight years, five months, and three days. It is said that over $10,000,000 exchanged hands at the table where Doc Holliday, Diamond Jim, George Hearst, and many others played cards. The Bird Cage Theater houses many pieces of history in its basement today. A hearse made in Rochester, NY trimmed out in 24K gold is one of interest. The hearse's most famous passengers were the Clantons killed in the OK Corral gunfight. Its value is estimated at $1 million.Tombstone is also home to the world's largest rose, a Lady Banksia rose painstakingly transported from England to the Wild West in 1885. It now covers over 8,000 square feet and for a fee you can see it behind the protective walls of its home.
Boot Hill Cemetery is just on the outskirts of town and is well worth a visit. Some of the Cowboy gang is buried there - the Clantons and Bill Brocious. The OK Corral is still there and reenactments are available throughout the day.
When the silver mines began to flood in 1886 with the demise of the primary pump for the mines, the end was in sight for Tombstone. The pump was destroyed by you guessed it --fire. It didn't take long for the town to empty and by the turn of the century, its population had declined to a several hundred.
There are lots more stories about Tombstone. It was quite the place and thoroughly wicked during those wild days. Shootings, prostitution, gambling, drinking, murder, corrupt lawmen, you name it, it was happening in Tombstone. Today it's a favorite tourist stop, where you can interact with cowboys and ladies of the evening on the boardwalks in town. You can visit the Tombstone Courthouse that still has the gallows out back. A stagecoach ride around town with a knowledgeable guide will give you a good overview of its history. You can dress up, play cowboy, visit a mine, wander through the Bird Cage and see where the men played poker in the basement, and get some BBQ. There's a celebration of some sort in Tombstone at the drop of a cowboy hat. One of the biggest weekends is Helldorado Days in the fall. Celebrities still show up to get a taste of the Old West and kids of all ages enjoy the ambiance of "The Town Too Tough to Die."
Our visitors (Robyn & Jill) outside the OK Corral
A little Tombstone humor
May 22, 2013
Book Review - Jesus Himself
Every once in awhile, I review a book for readers. Today, here's a review that I recently posted to Amazon and Goodreads. This is a free book for Kindle currently, so if you're looking for devotional reading that is challenging, but brief, read on.
Jesus Himself by Andrew Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I discovered Andrew Murray two or three years ago and have continually been challenged by his to-the-point and contemporary message for Christians today. The overarching theme of the works I've read has been total surrender to Christ. Two short sermons by Andrew Murray are recorded in Jesus Himself.
Murray was a Dutch Reformed minister who lived in South Africa during the 1800s until his death in 1917. His passion for spreading the Gospel and challenging Christians to walk worthy is evident in his many writings. He was born and educated in Scotland, receiving his Masters degree in Aberdeen. Murray was also one of the founders of the South African General Mission. He married Emma Rutherford in 1856, Cape Town, South Africa, and they had eight children. Modern readers may find his language formal and a bit difficult to digest, but not overly so.
The surrendered heart is one that believes Christ will do exactly what He said He would - live in us and form us into His image. On this daily relationship with the Savior, Murray says, "If you throw open your heart and give up everything but just believing and allowing Him to do what He wants, it will come."
If your relationship with Christ is stagnant or if you're merely dabbling in religion, Jesus Himself will point you to a vital, growing relationship with the person of Jesus Christ. Once you begin reading, it's easy to picture Andrew Murray delivering these sermons to his congregation with passion.
A life of total faith, total surrender, and total dependence upon God is one that that is never boring and is totally worth it. Andrew Murray's life is a testimony to that and the timeless message of relationship rather than religion is exceedingly relevant for today.
View all my reviews
Jesus Himself by Andrew MurrayMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I discovered Andrew Murray two or three years ago and have continually been challenged by his to-the-point and contemporary message for Christians today. The overarching theme of the works I've read has been total surrender to Christ. Two short sermons by Andrew Murray are recorded in Jesus Himself.
Murray was a Dutch Reformed minister who lived in South Africa during the 1800s until his death in 1917. His passion for spreading the Gospel and challenging Christians to walk worthy is evident in his many writings. He was born and educated in Scotland, receiving his Masters degree in Aberdeen. Murray was also one of the founders of the South African General Mission. He married Emma Rutherford in 1856, Cape Town, South Africa, and they had eight children. Modern readers may find his language formal and a bit difficult to digest, but not overly so.
The surrendered heart is one that believes Christ will do exactly what He said He would - live in us and form us into His image. On this daily relationship with the Savior, Murray says, "If you throw open your heart and give up everything but just believing and allowing Him to do what He wants, it will come."
If your relationship with Christ is stagnant or if you're merely dabbling in religion, Jesus Himself will point you to a vital, growing relationship with the person of Jesus Christ. Once you begin reading, it's easy to picture Andrew Murray delivering these sermons to his congregation with passion.
A life of total faith, total surrender, and total dependence upon God is one that that is never boring and is totally worth it. Andrew Murray's life is a testimony to that and the timeless message of relationship rather than religion is exceedingly relevant for today.
View all my reviews
May 18, 2013
Word Wrangling
There's a fun little book on the shelf I received for Christmas one year from my sister, Yvonne. It's entitled, "Spilling the Beans on the Cat's Pajamas." The reason this came to mind was some recent conversations with yes, younger folks who don't have the slightest idea what you're talking about when it comes to time honored expressions--idioms. My husband told a server in a recent restaurant visit that she was "Johnny on the spot" with our drinks and received a zombie-like look.
In this terribly technical age of texts, emails, with acronyms to cover a range of phrases, such as lol, omg, btw,ayk are the norm. If you want my opinion, I think it's just plain sad. We're losing the fun of English, which as you know is a difficult and irregular sort of language. However, when people actually had conversations with each other, lots of of colorful expressions were used to keep things interesting. Most of them came from real life which also helps us to remember trivia on history, boating, plays, the Bible, and much more. So, if you ever get on Jeopardy with Alex, these might help you win big money.
Here are a few from this book by Judy Parkinson, who must have had a good time researching these familiar sayings. My mother used to tell her four children that we were giving her the "heebie jeebies." This meant we were giving her way too much anxiety which a reflection on our behavior at the time. The expression came about in the 1920s when rhyming phrases were all the rage (yet another expression). I can't help myself. Billy DeBeck, a cartoonist is credited with "heebie jeebies" which was used in his cartoon published in 1923 in the New York American.
Pig in a Poke - County Crafts UK.comHere's another familiar one - "a feather in your cap." Easy, right? It's to be proud of an accomplishment. This was literally a common practice on every continent. How about "a chip on your shoulder"? This is from around 1840 and a game between guys - of course! It involved a guy daring another guy to dislodge an actual chip or piece of wood from his shoulder. If you use some imagination, you can guess what happened in this particular game. Today, if you have a chip on your shoulder, you're carrying a grudge of some kind. Then if you do attempt to settle that grudge, you'll have to let the chips fall where they may.
There are many, many more that embroider our conversations with laughable word pictures, such as being "hoisted by your own petard." That comes from Hamlet. Parents should know that "little pitchers have big ears." You should also know that the "cat may get your tongue", but "every dog has its day". You may have to "eat humble pie "after" getting egg on your face." Isn't that much more fun than LOL?
So don't put your foot in it and don't buy a pig in poke. Shake a leg before they send in the clowns.
In this terribly technical age of texts, emails, with acronyms to cover a range of phrases, such as lol, omg, btw,ayk are the norm. If you want my opinion, I think it's just plain sad. We're losing the fun of English, which as you know is a difficult and irregular sort of language. However, when people actually had conversations with each other, lots of of colorful expressions were used to keep things interesting. Most of them came from real life which also helps us to remember trivia on history, boating, plays, the Bible, and much more. So, if you ever get on Jeopardy with Alex, these might help you win big money.
Here are a few from this book by Judy Parkinson, who must have had a good time researching these familiar sayings. My mother used to tell her four children that we were giving her the "heebie jeebies." This meant we were giving her way too much anxiety which a reflection on our behavior at the time. The expression came about in the 1920s when rhyming phrases were all the rage (yet another expression). I can't help myself. Billy DeBeck, a cartoonist is credited with "heebie jeebies" which was used in his cartoon published in 1923 in the New York American.
Pig in a Poke - County Crafts UK.comHere's another familiar one - "a feather in your cap." Easy, right? It's to be proud of an accomplishment. This was literally a common practice on every continent. How about "a chip on your shoulder"? This is from around 1840 and a game between guys - of course! It involved a guy daring another guy to dislodge an actual chip or piece of wood from his shoulder. If you use some imagination, you can guess what happened in this particular game. Today, if you have a chip on your shoulder, you're carrying a grudge of some kind. Then if you do attempt to settle that grudge, you'll have to let the chips fall where they may.There are many, many more that embroider our conversations with laughable word pictures, such as being "hoisted by your own petard." That comes from Hamlet. Parents should know that "little pitchers have big ears." You should also know that the "cat may get your tongue", but "every dog has its day". You may have to "eat humble pie "after" getting egg on your face." Isn't that much more fun than LOL?
So don't put your foot in it and don't buy a pig in poke. Shake a leg before they send in the clowns.
May 15, 2013
SimplyLove
Today is a special day for David and me. Thirty-seven years ago on a sunny Saturday afternoon, we said our marriage vows in front of about 150 people. Family, church family, and friends crowded the church pews dressed in their finest polyester. Yes, it was the 70s after all. The groomsmen had those powder blue tuxes and the bridesmaids floppy white hats. Sorry, everyone. It was a great time though.
Both of my grandfathers participated in the ceremony, reading Scripture from the Old and New Testaments. My uncle also took part and our pastor did the actual marrying. Our pastor did say we had the most preachers involved of any wedding he'd performed. They all behaved and didn't bust into an extra sermon, fortunately.
There are always little things that go awry at weddings, some more serious than others. Ours was merely a blip. After David and I were pronounced man and wife, I was just plain anxious to get to the reception and forgot that we needed to kiss. My new husband saved the day by grabbing my arm and planting one on me before I stepped away. He was very smooth about it and no one really noticed.
The rest of the day is pretty much of a blur. I vaguely remember the cake cutting and opening presents. Yes, back then you were expected to open the presents when all the couple wanted to do was start the honeymoon. Torture! My aunts were there to help with the reception, the ice cream was peppermint from Weiss' Dairy in Castile, and we smiled until our faces hurt. It was the beginning of my life as Mrs. David Wallace.
Sharing life with someone isn't always easy or fun, and the road is sometimes bumpy. But, the gift of a godly husband, who's also an all around good guy is a wonderful blessing.
David picked me up for our first date on his motorcycle. He was very cool with a black helmet and his denim jacket. It was absolutely thrilling to ride behind him, the open road, the wind in our faces, bugs splatting on his helmet visor.
We've been traveling together for a long time. And we're still having a lot of fun. Even though our motorcycle days are probably behind us, it's still a great ride.
Both of my grandfathers participated in the ceremony, reading Scripture from the Old and New Testaments. My uncle also took part and our pastor did the actual marrying. Our pastor did say we had the most preachers involved of any wedding he'd performed. They all behaved and didn't bust into an extra sermon, fortunately.
There are always little things that go awry at weddings, some more serious than others. Ours was merely a blip. After David and I were pronounced man and wife, I was just plain anxious to get to the reception and forgot that we needed to kiss. My new husband saved the day by grabbing my arm and planting one on me before I stepped away. He was very smooth about it and no one really noticed.
The rest of the day is pretty much of a blur. I vaguely remember the cake cutting and opening presents. Yes, back then you were expected to open the presents when all the couple wanted to do was start the honeymoon. Torture! My aunts were there to help with the reception, the ice cream was peppermint from Weiss' Dairy in Castile, and we smiled until our faces hurt. It was the beginning of my life as Mrs. David Wallace.Sharing life with someone isn't always easy or fun, and the road is sometimes bumpy. But, the gift of a godly husband, who's also an all around good guy is a wonderful blessing.
David picked me up for our first date on his motorcycle. He was very cool with a black helmet and his denim jacket. It was absolutely thrilling to ride behind him, the open road, the wind in our faces, bugs splatting on his helmet visor.We've been traveling together for a long time. And we're still having a lot of fun. Even though our motorcycle days are probably behind us, it's still a great ride.
May 11, 2013
Hard as a Rock
One of the gardening issues of living in the high desert is caliche--that's "ka-lee-chee." It's a miserable layer of soft stone (well that depends on who's digging - person or backhoe) about 12 inches down in the sandy clay of Casa Wallace. Much to my good husband's dismay, I wanted a bush transplanted to a new location. It hasn't done lick of growth in several years where it is. The mangy looking Bird of Paradise bush hasn't bloomed or managed decent greenery in quite some time.
Relocation did wonders for the Apache Plume bush which now is covered with fluffy pinkish plumes and white flowers. It was basically in the same spot as the Bird of Paradise, looking glum and unmotivated. Now in the courtyard, it's been revitalized.
Apache PlumeThe yellow Bird of Paradise's move was to a nearby garden with a recent agave transplant and a new red yucca to keep it company. The shovel went in easily at first, but before you knew it, caliche had been struck. This vein of calcium carbonate is stubborn. Applying liberal amounts of agua (water) from the hose softened it some. With a lot of elbow grease and an iron bar piercing the depths, the hard soil gave a little. Gypsum and generous amounts of soil amendment were finally added to the hole and the puny bush is now soaking in nutrients for the first time. It'll be awhile before we know if it will actually survive the move.
Courtyard ViewOne of the problems with caliche is that it's so hard, roots can't get past it to really establish themselves. It's common in arid areas - and thus we are dubiously blessed with it all over our yard. However, my red-headed Scotsman won't be thwarted. He stubbornly picks away at it whenever there's new planting to do with shovel, pickax, and his iron bar. Our gardens do look quite nice right now, and all that effort over the years has paid off. We'll see how it goes with the little bush.
New Plants - Unknown OutcomeMay 10, 2013
Book Giveaways in May
The Wallace family has had a lot to celebrate this month. Not only Emily & Chris' wedding, but David & I are celebrating 37 years of marriage on May 15. What better way to be thankful than to give back to my readers?
On May 31, three winners will be drawn. To enter, become a follower of this blog or "like" my FaceBook author page. If you do both, you'll have two chances to win. A copy of Family Matters, The Time Under Heaven, and Gardens of the Heart will be given away.
You can check out all three books on Amazon.You'll find descriptions and reviews. If you're looking for summer reading or a gift, take advantage of the May discounts at my e-store on all three books. The discount codes and links are below.
Family Matters - $1.00 off by using discount code LP6VZNF7
E-Store Link: https://tsw.createspace.com/title/4199607
The Time Under Heaven - 50 cents off by using discount code RYX9GUHQ
E-Store Link: https://tsw.createspace.com/title/3826464
Gardens of the Heart - $1.50 off by using discount code AWHMZXEX
E-Store Link: https://tsw.createspace.com/title/3966822
Family Matters is available for Kindle. E-books for the The Time Under Heaven are available for Kindle through Amazon and all other devices through Smashwords - www.smashwords.com.
I also invite you to stop by my new website at www.laurindawallace.weebly.com. My schedule and book news will be updated regularly.
For those who've read any of these books, please consider writing a review on Amazon. More reviews are always welcome.
Thanks so much readers! And...the next Gracie Andersen mystery, By the Book will be coming out in early 2014. Stay tuned.
On May 31, three winners will be drawn. To enter, become a follower of this blog or "like" my FaceBook author page. If you do both, you'll have two chances to win. A copy of Family Matters, The Time Under Heaven, and Gardens of the Heart will be given away.
You can check out all three books on Amazon.You'll find descriptions and reviews. If you're looking for summer reading or a gift, take advantage of the May discounts at my e-store on all three books. The discount codes and links are below.
Family Matters - $1.00 off by using discount code LP6VZNF7
E-Store Link: https://tsw.createspace.com/title/4199607
The Time Under Heaven - 50 cents off by using discount code RYX9GUHQ
E-Store Link: https://tsw.createspace.com/title/3826464
Gardens of the Heart - $1.50 off by using discount code AWHMZXEX
E-Store Link: https://tsw.createspace.com/title/3966822
Family Matters is available for Kindle. E-books for the The Time Under Heaven are available for Kindle through Amazon and all other devices through Smashwords - www.smashwords.com.
I also invite you to stop by my new website at www.laurindawallace.weebly.com. My schedule and book news will be updated regularly.
For those who've read any of these books, please consider writing a review on Amazon. More reviews are always welcome.
Thanks so much readers! And...the next Gracie Andersen mystery, By the Book will be coming out in early 2014. Stay tuned.
May 9, 2013
The Moment
It seems that life goes by faster the older you get. When you're a kid, summers are long and time drags its heels with evil glee when you're in math class. If there's one thing I'm learning right now is to enjoy the moment. The wedding was a chain of special moments from a family breakfast to the big day itself. There was a lot going on, but now it's over. It's a thing of the past, and now we've moved on to new moments.
We spend a lot of time worrying about moments to come or sometimes stewing over those in the past. It's easy to miss what's happening right now if we're living in the past or fretting about the future.
The best advice I had throughout the wedding was from Jennifer, our wedding planner. "Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment." I was very glad for that common sense reminder several times. I would have missed the joy of the wedding ceremony if I was focused on the reception. The fun of the reception would have paled if all I could think about was packing up to head home the next day. You might say the wedding was a special occasion, so of course you were focused on the ceremony, and all the fun. True. It's easier in that circumstance. But, how much joy is missed on regular days because the future or the past takes up the present moment? Life itself is a pretty special occasion, don't you think?
Rather than messing around with the past or with what's to come, the invitation is to enjoy today. Jesus got right to the heart of our worries in Matthew 6.
Here's the bottom line. Don't miss a moment of the present. Whether it's a tough day or an easy one, meet it with confidence in the One who made it. "This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 NLT.
I'm grateful for Jess Legaspi, our photographer for capturing some beautiful moments over the weekend. She has a very special gift. I can't wait to see the weekend through her camera lens. If you want to peek at some of the wedding photos, please visit her blog.
We spend a lot of time worrying about moments to come or sometimes stewing over those in the past. It's easy to miss what's happening right now if we're living in the past or fretting about the future.
The best advice I had throughout the wedding was from Jennifer, our wedding planner. "Take a deep breath and enjoy the moment." I was very glad for that common sense reminder several times. I would have missed the joy of the wedding ceremony if I was focused on the reception. The fun of the reception would have paled if all I could think about was packing up to head home the next day. You might say the wedding was a special occasion, so of course you were focused on the ceremony, and all the fun. True. It's easier in that circumstance. But, how much joy is missed on regular days because the future or the past takes up the present moment? Life itself is a pretty special occasion, don't you think?
How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it's here a little while, then it's gone. James 4:14 NLT
Rather than messing around with the past or with what's to come, the invitation is to enjoy today. Jesus got right to the heart of our worries in Matthew 6.
Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? vs 27
And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?" vs 30
Here's the bottom line. Don't miss a moment of the present. Whether it's a tough day or an easy one, meet it with confidence in the One who made it. "This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 NLT.
I'm grateful for Jess Legaspi, our photographer for capturing some beautiful moments over the weekend. She has a very special gift. I can't wait to see the weekend through her camera lens. If you want to peek at some of the wedding photos, please visit her blog.
April 27, 2013
Watch Out for Those Thorns!
As you probably guessed with the wedding around the corner, a domino effect takes over, and thousands of projects spring to mind to go along with it all. Apparently life events are great motivators.Today was culling out the cactus day. My good husband, with a pry bar and shovel went to town on the cow's tongue cactus which was mostly decimated by single digit temps this winter. It was pretty unsightly anyway --overgrown, ugly shape. The main part of the wicked plant had become hollow and rotten. The thorns are quite long - a couple of inches and it didn't come out without a bit of attitude. And as you might guess, the roots go to China.
In the middle of it all was a prolific agave with jagged leaves. They're like a bouquet of serrated knives, daring you to take it out. The mother plant had a large cluster of "pups" that had grown around her over the last nine years. I removed one to a new location. We'll see if it survives. The rest were tossed carefully into the wheelbarrow for removal. Cactus care can be daunting and dangerous task. Most varieties grow fast and soon overtake the area. To keep them healthy, pruning and sometimes removal is warranted.
I took a whack at the bunny ears cactus a few weeks ago. It's a low growing cactus and the paddles have fuzzy, cottony looking tiny thorns. Unfortunately for me, I was wearing shorts when the wind kicked up and those cottony looking thorns blew onto my legs as I sliced back the little ears. Not fun. Of course, I should have been wearing jeans, but it was a nice day. That particular plant was trimmed back nonetheless and is now growing within its assigned boundaries.
It's getting close to blooming time for them, and they should have a nice floral display when our company arrives after the wedding. There are a few lessons to appreciate from our thorny flora, but I'll let you figure them out for yourselves.
Aggressive Agave
Husband leaning on shovel, taking a break.
Belligerent Bunny Ears
Painful Pencil Cholla
Yellow pods are its fruit. Fuchsia pink blooms will come soon.
Purple Prickly Pear and more Bunny Ears
In the middle of it all was a prolific agave with jagged leaves. They're like a bouquet of serrated knives, daring you to take it out. The mother plant had a large cluster of "pups" that had grown around her over the last nine years. I removed one to a new location. We'll see if it survives. The rest were tossed carefully into the wheelbarrow for removal. Cactus care can be daunting and dangerous task. Most varieties grow fast and soon overtake the area. To keep them healthy, pruning and sometimes removal is warranted.
I took a whack at the bunny ears cactus a few weeks ago. It's a low growing cactus and the paddles have fuzzy, cottony looking tiny thorns. Unfortunately for me, I was wearing shorts when the wind kicked up and those cottony looking thorns blew onto my legs as I sliced back the little ears. Not fun. Of course, I should have been wearing jeans, but it was a nice day. That particular plant was trimmed back nonetheless and is now growing within its assigned boundaries.
It's getting close to blooming time for them, and they should have a nice floral display when our company arrives after the wedding. There are a few lessons to appreciate from our thorny flora, but I'll let you figure them out for yourselves.
Aggressive AgaveHusband leaning on shovel, taking a break.
Belligerent Bunny Ears
Painful Pencil ChollaYellow pods are its fruit. Fuchsia pink blooms will come soon.
Purple Prickly Pear and more Bunny EarsApril 24, 2013
Getting a Seat at the Wedding
Wedding is pretty much all we're talking about these days at Casa Wallace. We're down to the week before the big day for our daughter Emily and her fiance, Chris. We've been planning this for a year and the end is in sight. If you've ever been through a full blown wedding (not a JP or eloping thing), you know that the last weeks are full of details, stress, a little frustration, and more details. The seating chart has been the big deal this week. It's finally done and people who have responded that they'll attend, have a seat. They have an assigned table that will have a place card with their name.
It's going to be a great time. We'll have family and friends around us who are there with one purpose--celebrating the marriage of Emily and Chris. They've been waiting a long time for this day, endured a long separation, and mostly communicated by Skype. There will be toasts, gifts, music, dancing, and my heart will be glad to see them together.
While this is one of the best celebrations we experience, there is a greater one to come. It's another marriage feast, but it's going to be like nothing we've ever experienced here on earth.
Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear." For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God's holy people. Revelation 19:7-8 NLT
And the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb." And he added, "These are true words that come from God." Revelation 19:9 NLT
This event won't be stressful for the bride - the Church. The Bridegroom has taken care of every detail, down to what we'll wear. He'll make His entrance on a white horse. We'll be together, celebrating, and worshiping our Savior, our Friend, our Bridegroom. It's a celebration that will continue into eternity.
Emily and Chris will soon learn that their wedding day will be over before they know it. That year of planning will be a memory in no time. We'll all be amazed at how the time flew by and the party was over. It's the way with all human events.
The big event to come for those who have placed their trust in Christ won't be over in a matter of hours. Eternity stretches out ahead of us as the Bridegroom who bought us with His own blood will show us the wonders of Heaven. There won't be any of the stress or worries of this life either.
He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever." Rev. 21:4 NLT
But, you need to respond to the invitation to get a seat at the table. You've already been invited. Your name needs to be in the Book of Life. Don't miss that wedding by not sending an RSVP.
I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to Father except through Me. --Jesus (John 14:6)
It's going to be a great time. We'll have family and friends around us who are there with one purpose--celebrating the marriage of Emily and Chris. They've been waiting a long time for this day, endured a long separation, and mostly communicated by Skype. There will be toasts, gifts, music, dancing, and my heart will be glad to see them together.
While this is one of the best celebrations we experience, there is a greater one to come. It's another marriage feast, but it's going to be like nothing we've ever experienced here on earth.
Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear." For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God's holy people. Revelation 19:7-8 NLT
And the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb." And he added, "These are true words that come from God." Revelation 19:9 NLT
This event won't be stressful for the bride - the Church. The Bridegroom has taken care of every detail, down to what we'll wear. He'll make His entrance on a white horse. We'll be together, celebrating, and worshiping our Savior, our Friend, our Bridegroom. It's a celebration that will continue into eternity.
Emily and Chris will soon learn that their wedding day will be over before they know it. That year of planning will be a memory in no time. We'll all be amazed at how the time flew by and the party was over. It's the way with all human events.
The big event to come for those who have placed their trust in Christ won't be over in a matter of hours. Eternity stretches out ahead of us as the Bridegroom who bought us with His own blood will show us the wonders of Heaven. There won't be any of the stress or worries of this life either.
He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever." Rev. 21:4 NLT
But, you need to respond to the invitation to get a seat at the table. You've already been invited. Your name needs to be in the Book of Life. Don't miss that wedding by not sending an RSVP.
I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to Father except through Me. --Jesus (John 14:6)
April 20, 2013
Dust Devils, Bunnies, and Haboobs
Back East, this time of year is mud season. I bid it a fond farewell 10 years ago. Mud is rarely an issue here, but it's red and sticky when it does occur. Not good at all. Spring is the harbinger of dust season in Arizona. There's dust year around, but especially so in March and April. The winds kick up and red grit sifts through cracks and crevices. You'll find it in the house right after you've dusted. If you're an OCD duster--look out. The dust never ends. After a little more than 24 hours of 40-50 mile an hour winds last week which really coated everything with red dirt, it's calmed down to just breezy. While the windstorm was bullying its way across the state, a wall of dirt rose in the air, veiling the mountains to the east of Casa Wallace.
Haboob near Phoenix
Dust DevilLarger dust storms or haboobs occur regularly toward Phoenix, especially on the I-10. They're as dangerous as a blizzard, and maybe more so because people don't know how to drive in such severe conditions here. There have been many multi-vehicle pileups on the I-10 that have cost more than a few lives. Dust causes zero visibility just like snow, so if you see it coming, discretion is called for. Get off at the nearest exit, find a restaurant, and sit a spell. It beats getting creamed in the constant flow of truck traffic.
We most often experience dust devils which are mini tornadoes. They plow through your yard and rearrange patio furniture, garbage cans, and tear your roses apart. I've been caught in a couple and ended up with grit everywhere. A shower is immediately in order. They're not nearly as powerful as a tornado, but they are a nuisance. Because of the air heating up and the dry conditions, these whirling dirt throwers show up until the monsoons hit. When we actually have some humidity, the devils disappear.
There are scientific explanations of the weather patterns that cause these wind events, but I won't bore you with the details. The bottom line is that every area has its own ugly weather, and ours involves wind and dust rather than wind and snow. So, I'll keep collecting cushions in the courtyard and putting them back on the patio furniture until rain arrives.
Haboob near Phoenix
Dust DevilLarger dust storms or haboobs occur regularly toward Phoenix, especially on the I-10. They're as dangerous as a blizzard, and maybe more so because people don't know how to drive in such severe conditions here. There have been many multi-vehicle pileups on the I-10 that have cost more than a few lives. Dust causes zero visibility just like snow, so if you see it coming, discretion is called for. Get off at the nearest exit, find a restaurant, and sit a spell. It beats getting creamed in the constant flow of truck traffic.We most often experience dust devils which are mini tornadoes. They plow through your yard and rearrange patio furniture, garbage cans, and tear your roses apart. I've been caught in a couple and ended up with grit everywhere. A shower is immediately in order. They're not nearly as powerful as a tornado, but they are a nuisance. Because of the air heating up and the dry conditions, these whirling dirt throwers show up until the monsoons hit. When we actually have some humidity, the devils disappear.
There are scientific explanations of the weather patterns that cause these wind events, but I won't bore you with the details. The bottom line is that every area has its own ugly weather, and ours involves wind and dust rather than wind and snow. So, I'll keep collecting cushions in the courtyard and putting them back on the patio furniture until rain arrives.
