Autumn Post

I agree with my sister--if a wet and cold Spring means a magnificently beautiful Autumn, then I'll take it. A few days ago, we were driving east of here and crossed the Boise River. It was low and sparkling, framed with a million red and yellow leaves, and a deer was wading across, the water only about a quarter of the way up her long legs. It was so gorgeous I wanted to cry.

Today might be the prettiest day I have ever seen. November 3, it's about 68 degrees and not a cloud in this Idaho sky. I went on a field trip with Wilson to the Nature Center this afternoon and the sun was so bright I had a hard time taking good photos. Their guide, a cool long-haired college kid, was the best guide I have ever seen, and I have been on many a Nature Center field trip. Wilson and his classmates had a great time looking for mink, beaver, salmon, bugs, compost worms and learned that the ever-present squirrels here aren't native. That made me feel better about the plan I have been simmering on my mental back burner about how to rid our yard of squirrels next year. I was feeling a little guilty until today, after learning that even the earthy, animal-lovin' field trip people 'take care' of that sort of business...

Wilson and friends spotting bugs

Eliza and Wilson had a successful Halloween, though the whereabouts of 99% of Wilson's candy is a mystery, and nobody in this household is 'fessing up to stealing it. He has a sad little bowl with Dum Dums, Red Hots and Smarties scattered across the bottom of it.

(On a sidenote, I was out in the front yard when my kids were walking home from school today. From down the street I heard this conversation

"I did NOT eat your candy!"

"Yes, you did!"

"It was probably Mom and Dad. Ask them!")

The Tooth Fairy and a Star Wars Clone

My husband surprised me and pulled this together for Halloween. I think he liked it. I think he really does want long, luscious hair to flip around. He was entirely too comfortable in his get-up.

We are looking forward to a weekend of Irish Dance. This will be a fantastic performance if you're in the market for something to do. Let me know if you want me to save you a seat.

Parting Shot:
Martha.
Typical cat.