Bellevue Botanical Gardens

Spent some time at lunch w the folks at these beautiful gardens. Perfect weather and a nice visit before the folks head to CA and AZ.

Favorite sayings from Michelle's desk

My friend Michelle works the front desk. Not an easy job, I know from personal experience when I fill in up there!

She has wonderful sayings and pictures surrounding her window which always get people's attention. Several have asked for copies, which I was happy to provide.

Here's one:

"It is always possible to be thankful for what is given rather than to complain about what is not given. One or the other becomes a habit of life."

Elisabeth Elliot

Taking time to smell the flowers (and enjoy the view)

Had a moment on Friday before work to enjoy a cup of coffee on the sunny patio at the new building.

Grandma June

We took this picture last year when Grandma June made the trip from Quartzsite AZ to see John in LA. She sure loves to hold little great-grandson Romey every chance she gets.

Some of you may know that grandma is home from the hospital after several gall bladder related procedures. I want to say thank you to all the family in Quartzsite who is helping Grandma during her recuperation. Mother traveled from Seattle and Diana traveled from England to help. Lynn and Larry have also been wonderful.

Grandma, thanks for being my affectionate, fun loving, drum playing, rock collecting, card playing Grandma. We love you and are praying for a speedy recovery.

Tony the pizza man

My friends Mary and Ron told me about Tony the cancer survivor whose picture is on several Community Transit buses. They told me that if I wanted the best pizza in the area to go to his place, #1 New York Pizza off Highway 9. They also warned me that New York native Tony would not allow pineapple on his pizzas!

Jim and I went there tonight and met Tony. What a character. He sat down and told us his story. Told us about "firing" a nurse during his hospital stay, Told us about his favorite doctor and showed us his tattoo "Thank you Dr. Costas".

Then we enjoyed some pineapple with Tony the correct way - soaked in Rum!

I probably haven't done justice to Tony's incredible fighting spirit. Put a link to the Providence Regional Cancer Partnership website story about him. He has also been in many local papers, most recently the Seattle Weekly.

September 11, 2001

In memory of all those who lost their lives. Asking a special blessing on the loved ones they left behind. And a heartfelt thank you to all the men and women who showed us the heroic side of human nature.

Greyhound Pets Inc. Picnic 2009

Unfortunately, due to rain, the picnic was held in the meeting room. We missed using the beautiful big yard but all seemed to have a good time anyway.

By the way, don't know if you can see in the pictures, but each dog had a name tag saying Hroo my name is ____

Beautiful trees

How wonderful to hear from Cousin Diana in England where hubby Brad is working for a few years. They are coming back to the states a few times in the near future so I know everyone is looking forward to seeing them.

They recently took trips to Germany and Switzerland. Diana was kind enough to send pictures from the trips. I have put a link to her snapfish albums on this blog. Wonderful pictures of local townspeople, scenery and architecture.

I was especially enchanted with the beautiful trees - God's architecture at its finest.