Tonight I took a walk and saw many many signs of fall.... but before I let go of summer, I need to record a few more of the memorable events.
A Weekend In The Catfish Capital of Wisconsin
Rich, Anita, Mike and I visited my Grandpa Jake's hometown of Tennyson, WI. Last year we made the trip and enjoyed wandering around and imagining what Grandpa's early life was like. After a year of visiting frequently and doing some research, Rich was now able to tell us more and show us around, and even introduced us to new friends.
We know for a fact that this building was where our great grandfather had a mercantile.
Part of the "new" coating has fallen away and the old store is exposed in one area.
We know that this strange looking creature is what is left of a lead mine where some of our relatives worked.
This "hippie farm" is across the road.
Rich has talked with people from California and Chicago who dive in the old mine and they told him about the amazing clarity. We both sampled some and it tasted very cold and good. Rich took a bottle of this water and had it tested at a facility in Austin. The water is very pure and good for drinking ... amazing when you consider it was a lead mine...
This scene outside the home of some new "relatives"(?) caught my eye.
Mrs. Brant, on the front tractor, is also a descendant of the Mullers. But so far we haven't been able to figure out how we may be related. Yep, we got to attend a parade in Potosi since it was Catfish Days.
We spent a couple of hours at the local historical society reading and discovering more about the area.
We learned about these unique stone structures which were built in the ravine to hold back rushing water. Not only did they hold, but they have survived 100 years later. It is difficult to see, look on the left middle.
When we visited the Mississippi River, I saw the biggest waterlily plants I have ever seen.
We stopped at a couple of different cemeteries and saw some grave décor none of us had ever seen before.
The old cedar tree in the background is scheduled to be destroyed; the old cemetery will lose some of its character when that tree is gone.
Two more graves with decorations we had not seen
and we posed by an old cedar.
Saturday Night Dinner In Amboy, Minnesota
Our friend, Doug, grew up in Amboy and suggested that we might enjoy dinner at a café in town. Ten of us decided on a night, reservations were made and it was a memorable evening. Our first stop was the old one room schoolhouse in which Doug attended school for his first three years. I didn't get any pictures of it because I left my camera in the car but it was a very neat experience. I think the city should be commended for taking the initiative and restoring this old school house.
The café is in an old gas station and only seats about 20 people. It was a warm evening and no air conditioning, but the food made up for the warm surroundings.
Mike and I both had smoked pork chops that were 2 inches thick and tasted better than any I have ever eaten. And dessert - rhubarb bread pudding was very good - so good Mike ordered a second one to bring home. Oh yea, the yard decoration is pretty interesting, also.
Amboy skyline ... complete with elevator.
Our next stop was a most interesting home - three or more city lots filled with original pieces ...
I loved the big patch of zinnias - they always remind me of mom.
Interesting lawn chairs - easily transported to another area since they are on wheels.
These two were made of drain spouts...and of course, bowling ball heads.
The owner and creator showed us his workshop...
And Gary took a break with one of the fellows...
We could have spent another hour there, but it was getting dark.
AMBOY - who knew it was a place to visit.
Vacation Bible School
Once again this year, we both helped out at VBS. We met with all the kids over three nights and talked about the Bible story of the loaves and fishes. We talked about ways we can share in our daily life and each child painted several crosses that Mike and I will give to children in Mexico as a part of the outreach program.
All of the children concentrated and truly enjoyed the production process. They were very serious about sharing the symbol of God's love.
Mississippi River Trip
Bonnie and Barry joined Mike and I on the Starkweather's boat one August day.
We relaxed,
talked smart,
and enjoyed the scenery. And unlike these two, we enjoyed one an other's company.
Thanks, Doug and Lael, for sharing your day on the water with us.
