Monday, June 9, 2008

Our New Neighbor & Fishing



Last week our neighbor Barb had mentioned she saw a large turtle down by Abby's swing set. Buddy was barking at it for quite a while so she checked it out. First she thought it was a dog toy, got a little closer - maybe a groundhog, got a little closer, yep - it's a very large snapping turtle. Her husband Frank, caught him Saturday morning and let held on to him so we could see him. He filled up the trash can at the base as you can see. Why most people say turtles are slow now amazes me. This snapping turtle could move his head and snap at you faster than you can blink an eye. Frank intended on relocating the turtle, but while he was in his backyard the turtle knocked over the trash can and escaped back in to the creek. So we'll have to pay attention when we go down to the swing set until he's recaptured.


Bass Pro Shops also sponsored "Reel" Time with Kids this weekend where the Missouri DNR and some other sponsors came out to provide some fishing fun for kids of all ages. They provided the pole and worm, Abby somewhat did the rest. She actually did reel in the line a little but not when the fish was on, Daddy took over. The pond by Bass Pro is extremely stocked so there was a 100% chance you were going to catch a fish. She also received a nice certificate as well, and now Daddy has the itch to fish with her every chance he can get. If you are wondering - she caught an 8 inch Perch.

Monday, June 2, 2008

Don's 60th Birthday party






This weekend we celebrated Don's 60th Birthday. Tim and Betsy organized a very nice party at Beaver Dam Park in Plainview, IL. The weather was beautiful and the park was very nice. They had a lake for fishing also, but only a few bluegill and crappie were taken from it. Betsy and Pam made a very unique fish cake for Don. Unfortunately Abby was suffering from a little stomach virus and didn't want to be with anyone other than Mommy, so that's why she is grouchy in the photos and not her normal "cheesy" self. They had about 30 people show up at the BBQ and I think everyone had a great time. The food was good and so was the company. Don had friends from college there, the volleyball crew as they call themselves. Also he had several brothers and sisters attend from his side along with his parents and in-laws.