The Walking Wonder

Well, after 15 months of learning from the floor, Eden finally got up and walked
today. She's not taken steps on her own before today, but this afternoon, when her walker banged into the wall and she couldn't back it up, she just turned and walked away from it. Then, she realized that she was walking, figured out how much fun it was, and ran around the house the rest of the evening! When she's not practicing her sommersault position, she's in a dead run! Love to all~

Eden's 1 year pics...

A little late in the game, I realize, but here are Eden's 1-year pictures, that were taken in September by Jane on her ranch. She's weighing in at about 18 pounds now and just added tooth #3 to her collection. She enjoys being outside and LOVES to play with the dogs. The weather has been nice here, so it's worked out to get our dose of fresh air every day. Enjoy!~

Nativity Progress Continued

You may recall the beginning state of the nativity from December of 2005. Here is where it is at today. Well, actually a few days ago. There has been some light added, but that project is not yet complete.

Joseph and all the other furnishings are temporary to help give scale. After the initial primer and airbrushing, all of the bricks and rock received multiple layers of washes and dry brushing. I'm currently not content with the logs, but they will have to do for now. I liked the look of the chip board as a base, so I gave it a couple coats of stain and called it good. In the works is a lighted roof for the angel to stand.

Reformation 2006

Strawn Mad Carving Day 2006

Sarah and I have begun a tradition of carving pumpkins on the day of Halloween. After my Letterman disaster last year (see October2005 blog) we have decided that the day of will be fine instead of carving ahead of time. Fortunately our carving skills are improving which makes for more interesting designs. Unfortunately that means it takes more time. Here are our attempts this year. Enjoy!

Comedy and Tragedy (those wacky theatre masks) carved by Al.

Ghost Rising from Grave carved by Sarah


Luther's Rose (note the attempted use of food coloring in the heart and background) carved by Al (template homemade) I also attempted to use a Dremel grinding wheel to remove skin and flesh from the outer pumkin to allow more light to shine through. It worked well, even though it left pumpkin residue all over my glasses, face, sweatshirt, etc.


Headless Horseman carved by Sarah

This years attempts were hampered by freezing weather that did a good number on the pumpkins (interior ice and shriveling) and made our hands very chilly. Sarah's first attempts at more detailed carving came out very well and she has much to be proud of.

The pumpkins, adorned with great holiday music (Bach's Taccotta and Fugue in D Minor, themes from the X Files, Psycho, and other halloween favorites) once again garned comments from kids and adults alike.

Next year Al will attempt a 1973 Corvette, pumpkin style, and the famous painting of Jesus' profile. Stay tuned. :-)