Thanksgiving Dinner 2008

We had planned on having a large family gathering but the weather predictions sounded like travel would be dangerous so everyone stayed home this year.  Our temperatures have been below freezing and we've had periods of sleet and snow.  Today however, it is sunny and 40 at the moment, but snow and dropping temperatures are being forecasted for tonight and over the next few days.

I spoke to the kids on the phone and that helped me feel better.  I am very thankful for my loving family.   I am truly blessed to have them in my life.

Here are a few pictures of our meal.  We bought a farm fresh turkey from a local farmer - it was wonderful - no toxic additives or chemicals, growth hormones or medications.   It was so tender and flavorful!  We had home made stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, broccoli, cole slaw, rolls and Steve made a scrumptious cranberry pecan relish.  Everything was so good.  Of course, Mom made a pumpkin pie.

We missed everyone but our thoughts were with you today - and always.

Outing - Movies/Dinner

Today, February 16, 2008 we went to Moorefield to the movie theatre to see "The Bucket List". We had a few minutes before the movie started so we all played a few arcade games. Andrew was the PINBALL WIZARD!!! It was a lot of fun. We had the room to ourselves - except for one little kid who's mom was working at the popcorn counter.

We've been wanting to see this movie since we first saw previews and finally it came to our area.

Andrew is a big fan of Jack Nicholson so we were anxious when we saw it advertised at our local theatre (Moorefield, 35 miles away). It was a beautiful day so off we went.

Everybody really enjoyed the movie. Funny in parts, but mostly was a tale of gratitude, faith and life's purpose.

There were 13 people at our showing. We love the uncrowded aspect of rural living.





After the movie we went to one of our favorite cafes for an early dinner - Aroma's Coffee House. Besides fresh roasted coffee, J.D. offers a variety of homemade dishes. We've tried most things and everything is good. Today we all decided on Pizza. He makes homemade dough and ingredients are fresh.

Here is a picture of our farm items that Aroma's has for sale. J.D. - the owner is a regular customer for fresh produce in the summer. After we ate, J.D gave us a personal tour of his kitchen and told us all about his coffee roasting process.

Picking Apples

Today was a glorious day - nice breeze, mild temperatures, a partly sunny with a few clouds.

Our Grandsons

Meet Dakoda and Joshua!!!


The Paulsen Family - 2007

Just hanging out at the farm! Hi There!

What a fun time we have together!!! Roasting Weenies and Marshmallows, Yum!



Joshua and Dakoda -- the best kids in the world!!!

My Birthday 2007

Steve and I visited the Tri-State Zoological Park on my Birthday - April 1st. The zoo is a small family run operation. We had a really good time seeing the animals up close and talking with the zoo keeper. Click on the photo album to see a slideshow.

Tri-State Zoological Park

Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens near Charlotte, NC

David, Rachel and I visited the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens near Charlotte, NC on Saturday afternoon (3/24/2007). It was a beautiful day - sunny, breezy, and very warm. These Gardens are a sight to behold.

And the aroma of the air was soft and sweet.

Here are a few pictures that will give you an idea of the beautiful grounds. The place is still under development and is not scheduled to be completed until 2015. Currently the Orchid House is under construction due to open Spring 2008.

Later we went out for a Bar-B-Q and then back to their home for a nice glass of wine and to unwind.

I had such a lovely time!

Falls Park, Greenville, SC

The Park is located in the middle of the city. It's main attraction is a suspension bridge that spans over the Reddy River. The falls is a three tier waterfall dropping approximately 150 feet. Tourists and local photographers gather here for gorgeous natural backgrounds of flowers and water in their portraits.