Friday, November 19, 2010

Desert Happiness


Sarah loves the freedom and the flavor of the desert.





Caroline had a blast planting seeds for flowers and can't wait to be able to pick the flowers to give to her Mom. Or for her Mom to cut and give to her. She understands though, that this is, "just an experiement."




Really, can life be any better for our three year old? Popsicle in hand, waterproof boots, two acres to roam, and plenty of water to splash in?

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Overall simplicity


After being here a few days we quickly realized that our childrens' clothes were being ruined by the elements outside. Sand, water and cactus pricklies just don't keep cotton in shape for very long. After changing outfits multiple times a day and using more oxiclean than I had in the previous many months Eldon suggested overalls. Of course, that was brilliant! The kids love them! Even Caroline, my dress queen, loves to wear her overalls "for work only," but puts them on every morning for at least a few minutes before switching to the dress of the day.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Desert Dwelling

Translation:  "Everyone must check our shoes to see if you have pricklies." 

The kids have quickly become familiar with some of the dangers of the desert.  Like going barefoot in a place where the "Jumping" Cholla Cactus thrives.  It's packets of "priclez" really do have a way of jumping onto you even when you are very cautions. 

But there's a lot to love about the wildlife here.  Like the Ocotillo plant that looks like a giant inverted octopus on steroids... with thorns and occasional flowers.  And the ubiquitous rabbits and quail.  And the occasional roadrunner.  And the coyotes patrolling the neighborhood at all hours.  And the tarantulas hanging out by the front door.  And--of course--Joshua Trees.  For example...

A Sunday afternoon walk started with "parasols" in hand.  But then the parasols were traded in for rocks after we saw a few foxes (or coyotes?) trot across the trail.

If you're not careful at night around the front door, you may have some uninvited company enter the house.

Of course, we're loving it here.  Come visit us in the wilderness!