Northwest Washington Fair

Today my sister Laura and I went with Mrs. Weese, Kelsie and Logan to the fair. Our primary reason for going was to see and hopefully learn more about Dexter cows but there were none this year. We still had an enjoyable time looking at goats, beef, dairy, poultry, sheep, quilting, blindfold chess and watching a horse show. See Laura's blog for more pictures and story.

Fort Flagler Criss Family Reunion

Welcome Home Women Folk

The family, besides Dad, Phil and I who were working, just returned from spending a few days at Stephen and Sarah's.

Every day the women do so much for us men which goes unnoticed. At our home that includes meals, laundry, general house cleaning, shopping, help in the garden, their great company in the evenings after work and caring for us in so many other ways.

We sure missed them this last weekend! With the long hours at work I didn't have much time for meal preparation. Left over beef and potato stew for dinner two nights and in a tortilla for lunches. I attempted to make a healthy shake like Susanna so cheerfully does for me but it ended up in disaster being sprayed over the cabinets and ceiling by the blender. It didn't compare in taste either. I think what I missed the most was the cheerful greeting I get after returning from a long day at work.

Guys, we need to show some appreciation for the many little things the women in our lives do for us!

Independence Day Celebration

I was instructed to take lots of "cute" pictures so I started with this cute gal

Old fashioned relay race:

Pouring milk

Peeling carrots

Pounding nails

Sewing buttons

Folding towels

Running with a bail of hay

Rebekah and Kelsie. They look like sisters, don't they?

Stephen and Sarah

We were delighted to have Stephen and Sarah come visit Thursday through Sunday after returning from their honeymoon. We enjoyed time at Birch Bay, BBQ with friends, wedding slide show and just being together. It was hard saying bye and there were some tears but we're also very excited for them as they start on this new phase in life. God bless you sister and new brother!

(thank you Laura for the picture)

Visiting the Weese Family Farm

Phil, Grandpa and me

Sarah and Stephen Married, and update

The big day has come and is now passed. Sarah and Stephen are somewhere on their honeymoon and I'm sure enjoying themselves. We're all very happy for them but miss them a lot.

Sarah always called me "J" and continued doing so even though I told her I didn't like that nickname. When I said goodbye and gave her a hug she called me "J" again. First thing I noticed when I came home from work today was no Sarah to greet me with a big smile and say "J is home! How was your day?" I'm going to miss that. Our "4 oldest" activities won't be the same without her. We love you Sarah!

I had gotten sick the day before we left for the wedding and most of the time I was there I had a head ache. Between that and the very emotional wedding I was very wore out. I've caught up a little on sleep and am getting back into the everyday routine. I finally got to my room which was neglected for the last week. The garden is growing fast. More updates to come on that. Work is picking up and I have all the hours I want and more right now. I've been able to get a few chicken customers and hope to raise a batch in August and September. 

Life is very full right now. And I'm enjoying it!

Murphy family pictures

I arrived in Roanoke, VA May 1st

Reading to the Murphy children

Daniel

Mrs. Murphy and Ruthy returning with eggs

Thomas

The Murphy family

Rebekah

 Visiting Falling Spring Falls

Having fun in a tire show room

Peter

Thomas

Ruthie

Sammy

Daniel's 2nd birthday

I couldn't get out of wearing the party hat as the children insisted.

John Deer gear

My buddy Thomas

Soaking wet after a walk during a down pour

Mr. Murphy mowing the lawn

New mouse traps

Peter