May's Celebrations

Whew! May is only a week or so old and already my datebook looks like it's been assaulted by the Pen Brigade. There is not a white spot on it.

Mostly, this month is about celebrating Nathan and his graduation. However, squeezed between the spaces there are two family birthday (Ellen and Dan), Ellen turns 16, and oh yeah, gotta finish out the year end for work.

One of the big monthly milestones was passed this weekend at the Band Banquet. Actually, I was pleased that I wasn't a blubbering idiot during the event, since there is the requisite slideshow where the seniors are highlighted with baby pics, etc. Seeing kids that have had cupucakes at our house when they were in mid-high all dressed up in suits can really tug at the heart.

Another milestone this week: Ellen's first real "do" which she requested as part of her birthday month. Now dubbed the "fox with the purple locks" she has set her mark as the first female in our family with purple hair extensions. I take a long-view of the whole hair deal: at this stage of the game, if hair becomes a big issue between parents then you're in for a world of hurt. It's a small scene on the stage of life and one that I'd rather keep short and sweet.

As for the garden, we're at a standstill with all projects. The drought of 06 has stepped aside to make way for daily thunderstorms. Water is standing in my back yard -- and not just in the ponds. A quick walk out to the garden is a spongey hike that leaves me muddy and eager for warmer days.

The garden, though, looks amazing this year. My garden is now about 5 years old -- the time when a garden can start coming into its own. It's also the time when some of my original plantings are aging and may need to be replaced in the fall. Because of the uncertain weather, I'm holding off on all plantings until fall and working mainly on hardscapes, weeding and other maintainance.

Nathan and his granddad, trying to figure out how to tie his tie. I, of course, help by taking a pic. 

Nathan and his "Smiley" a tradition for the graduating band students. Each student gets a hand painted ceramic statue done by their parents. I don't know which was more difficult -- raising a son or painting that little statue. 

Ellen and Nathan at Nathan's band banquet this weekend.