DEUTSCH ADVENTURES

Our First Visit to See Our New Grandchild

2011-03-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

And, this is the happy little family now......learning and enjoying all the wonderful things about bringing a new life into this world.

Navy blue eyes, a little bow mouth, and the most beautiful soft skin. She looks alot like Christie did in her baby pictures......but I also see a curious, precocious nature in those bright eyes just like her Daddy.

More Peyton

2011-03-23T12:58:00.000-07:00

Shaun took some wonderful pictures of Peyton........this one takes my breath away. My mother's 83 year old hands gently wrapped around her first great-grandchild.

Okay, so I think she's perfect, she is a precious little gift from God.

Well......here's the "4" generation picture........would love to see "5" someday........you never know that Miller clan live a long time.

Daddy with his little girl.........wow........he's just a natural at this Daddy stuff too !!!

Busy Day !!!

2011-03-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

"Bath Time"............

Tooooo cute ! And, she knows how lucky she is too, blessed with such a wonderful, loving mom.

All dressed up ready to go for a walk in her "Bob" stroller.

Wow......that was a tiring day........time for a little rest !!!

Just hanging out at the Deutsch's in Augusta

2011-03-23T12:31:00.000-07:00

"Please Gram Gram, enough already with all the kisses"

Gretchen and Shaun found the couch quite comfortable.

Christian was the perfect host !!! Cooking fabulous, creative meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, planned great entertainment, and even challenged his mother in a game of frisbee golf......super fun too.......that's my boy.

Looks like Peyton's trying to tell her Great-Grandma and Grandpa something quite important, I'm sure.......she's so brilliant.

Peyton napping with Pa Pa.......and just a few minutes later, so was Pa Pa.

A Picnic Celebration in the Park

2011-03-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

The park was the perfect spot to spend time sharing, laughing, and hugging with my family. It's been way too long since we've all been together.

Picture op during our stroll along the Savannah River......a little cool, but Peytie was warm and cozy. Time out for a snack !!

We had a great traditional picnic with BBQ, coleslaw, potato salad, veggies and a special cake to welcome Peyton Reese into our family, and to celebrate Mom & Dad's 65th wedding anniversary.

Guess It's Our Turn.......

2011-02-26T09:32:00.000-08:00

Well, we don't usually get much snow in the valley......but just like everyplace else this winter, we got hit with several inches. Stepping outside in the crisp early morning air to take these pictures was incredible and the stillness was breathtaking.

Baylee enjoys the snow for just a few minutes.....mostly to do her business and then hurries back inside where it's toasty warm.

It sure was beautiful while it lasted. By the afternoon, all was melted in the valley.....but still lots and lots of snow covers the mountains.

More Peyton Reese !!!

2011-02-15T16:22:00.000-08:00

Only 1 day old and already she's so pretty with a little pink bow in her hair posing for the camera !! Dark hair like mom and blue eyes like both mom and dad. She's so adorable.....I just want to squeeze her. Unfortunately, she's in Georgia and we're in Oregon, but we're so happy to be able to see our new grandbaby in just a few weeks. Can't wait.

I'M A GRAMMA !!!!!

2011-02-01T07:23:00.000-08:00

Just look at this beautiful little angel........minutes after birth.......and she's just perfect. Meet Peyton Reese Deutsch. Christian and Christie brought this tiny blessing into this wonderful world yesterday 1/31/2011. A ray of sunshine to brighten our lives. Perry and I are honored to be grandparents........our first.......but certainly many more to follow.

The "Real" Santa and Mrs. Claus

2010-12-26T10:45:00.000-08:00

It's true....we found out that our best friends, Ed and Lori Taylor, are really Santa and Mrs. Claus......every year they share joy, hope, and the spirit of Christmas with all...........especially every good little girl and boy.

I do believe.........I do believe.........I was good this year, Santa.......really !!!!!!!!!!

Holiday Fun......

2010-12-26T10:22:00.000-08:00

Since Per and I have been working our seasonal jobs 9-10 hours a day during the holiday, we were able to enjoy only a few of the Christmas events here.....this is one of the most creative displays I've ever seen at the "Festival of Trees".....snowman trees fishing!!!

We also lined the streets in the cold, with lots of others, for the "Jacksonville Victorian Christmas Parade". Local bands, dancers, old cars, people dressed in authentic victorian clothing and bagpipers playing Christmas carols got everyone in the Christmas spirit.

Baylee's photo op.....

"Please don't make me wear these goofy reindeer antlers."

HOWDY PARTNER !!!

2010-11-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

Whoa....yes, here we are all dressed up for our Halloween celebration at church. It was quite different, but very interesting and so many people dressed up in some outrageous and creative costumes. We honor many different faith traditions at our church and today our minister spoke about "Samhain" or summer's end. This is a Celtic festival celebration symbolizing the end of harvest, wrapping up the old and looking forward to the new year.

It is also a service of reflection and honoring of deceased ancestors who came before us........a celebration of their memory. Perry and I realized during this service, that we really don't spend much time thinking about people who were very influential in our lives. Thanking and honoring them and remembering how important they were as ancestors of our family. We focused on Perry's father, Zoltan Robert Deutsch, and my grandmother Norine Francis Miller. Wonderful strong loving leaders of our families.

My Birthday Celebration !!

2010-09-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here we are all dressed up for a wonderful dinner at my favorite restaurant here in Ashland, Macaroni's. Everything was perfect.......this time we sat in the lounge area so we could also watch the "Bears" !!! Okay....so I like football and didn't want to miss this game, it's my birthday...I can do what I want, right? And...if you don't know the Bears won and it was a great game. Live jazz for ambiance, great service, delicious food and I was with my best friend and love of my life.......what more could a girl want.

People don't "dress up" much here......it's a pretty casual place. But, sometimes "dressing up" a bit makes the occasion more special. Besides, Per looks "hot" in his double breasted blazer !!!

We're Addicted !!!!

2010-09-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess it's better to be addicted to bicycling than alot of other potentially harmful things out there !! We're still riding about 100 miles a week....still losing weight, getting firmer, and feeling the healthiest ever. Can't believe I'm actually putting a picture of myself on this blog in spandex........kind of scary.

Here's the skinny boy.........and his "new" bike....had to finally retire his other bike after 35 years of faithful service. After 6, lost count, flat tires and a broken spoke hub, Per finally decided to put it to rest. Fortunately, he had another frame, thanks to Christian, that needed some new tires, updated parts, and a bit of sprucing up......but good as new......still having those flats though......I had 3 also until we found out about these things here called "goat heads", it's actually part of a very pretty yellow flower/weed. They appear on the Greenway late summer to attack rider's tires with a vengence. So......we've licked that problem by staying OFF the Greenway for awhile. We've had some wonderful rides through the valleys and into the mountains........some very challenging mountains......some very painful mountains......but the views are gorgeous.

Welcome to the Elizabethan Theatre

2010-09-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a busy summer doing our "volunteer" thing !! We work the information table every Saturday night for the Green Show......some evenings we're either ushering for the Shakespeare productions in the Elizabethan or doing set-up and take-down for performers at the Green Show. We've enjoyed being involved and have met some very interesting people from many different places.....especially California.

This is the concession area of the Elizabethan. We've been fortunate to acquire free tickets this season and have seen Henry the IV, Hamlet, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Merchant of Venice, and this Sunday we're seeing 12th Night.

This is the inside of our open air Shakespeare Theatre, first one built in the United States. Designed after the Globe Theatre in London, which was built in 1599, where Shakespeare plays were originally performed. Preparing scenery for "Twelfth Night".

It's an awesome theatre with a capacity of 1400.....and most of the performances are sold out all summer. In addition there are two other indoor theatres that have afternoon and evening performances of Shakespeare and other contemporary plays as well. Needless to say Ashland is a very busy place in the summer.

Per taking a break one evening after setting up the stage for "Folklorico" a dance group from Mexico.

A Little Trivia for You !!!!

2010-08-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

One of the catagories at "Trivia" is "What Is It"........so play along.... can you guess what this is?? Give up yet? Well, it's a flowering artichoke and isn't it beautiful. Before they flower you can eat them, and we did, delicious and about 6-8 inches in diameter. I certainly have never seen an artichoke that big, nor the vibrant colored flower it creates. This beautiful artichoke plant is in our backyard and has 8 large purple blossoms on it.

Next one...."What Is It".......no guesses?.......c'mon........this sweet, gentle man whittles and sells magic sticks in Lithia Park. That's his cart filled to the brim with magic wands and spiritual sticks.....just in case you have a need for one.

We finally found "Trivia" !!!!

2010-08-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

Well, we've been living here exactly one year as of 8/2/2010 and are still loving it. We are so grateful to be living here surrounded by mountains and such beauty. Some of you know that we used to play Trivia at least once a week when we lived in Alpharetta, GA.....and we've been looking for Trivia here, karoke and open mic nights are much more popular. But, finally we found a place, Louie's, in downtown Ashland that has "Tuesday Night Trivia". What a blast!! Above is our team and friends......Ed and Lori Taylor. Yes, Ed does look like Santa........that's because he is !!! Each year he grows his beard and is the Ashland Santa Claus in our parade and lighting ceremony. He's the real deal !!

Another fabulous Green Show.........."Dance Kaleidoscope" from Indianapolis. Did I mention that we can see different great performers every evening (except Mondays) for free !!

Just another day in Ashland !!

2010-07-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

We were just enjoying a cup of coffee at a coffeehouse in Ashland........and these two golden statues come strolling in.....go figure....didn't know statues liked coffee !!!

Another Green Show........a group of young people from San Antonio, Texas playing and singing some wonderful Mariachi music.

Gretchen and Shaun's Visit

2010-07-19T16:40:00.000-07:00

Things started out a little rough due to a plane delay and a missed connection in LA.......but things turned out just great and Gretchen and Shaun got to spend a little more time in Portland before visiting us in Talent. We had a great time seeing and doing all sorts of fun things together.

Here's pics of lunch, at one of our favorite coffeehouses, and shopping day in Jacksonville. Gretchen and I went shopping, Per stayed home, and Shaun took lots of pictures. In fact, that's what Shaun did alot of........

Here we are having lunch again......at the Lodge at Crater Lake.....yum-yum !!!

I'm pretty sure Shaun enjoyed taking pictures at Crater Lake, last count was about 200, I think.

It was a cool day, about 55-60 degrees, with snow still on some of the slopes. The beauty all around was incredible.

Photo-Op..........

Here's the happy couple now.......don't lean back, it's straight down.

See all the snow.......below? More pictures !!!

Yes, the water is really that blue........it's the bluest water in the world.

This is a picture of the Wellsprings Spa sign where we spent a relaxing evening, doing a little swimming and chatting in the natural hot springs pool and hot tub.........we really didn't think it was appropriate to take pictures of the actual pool and hot tub that evening, due to the fact that after 7:45 clothing is optional. NO ! NO! we kept our bathing suits on.....for sure.....but there were many who didn't.

Had to take Gretchen and Shaun to "Inti's" our favorite mexican restaurant. They have great food and the best Sangria too........something I hadn't had since the 70's.

Saw several Green Shows, of course, while G&S were here. This was our volunteer night at the "Info Table".....can you see G&S in the crowd........Shaun, oh yes taking pictures !!

This night was a group from Eugene, Oregon playing the Taiko Drums. Very cool !! Gretchen and Shaun enjoyed Henry the IV at the Shakespeare Festival and not pictured but fun was had by all.....was a visit to Harry & David's, a shopping day in Ashland, breakfast at the Talent Cafe, bulk shopping at Winnco, and of course a BananaGrams tourney!!

4th of July Parade in Ashland

2010-07-19T14:50:00.000-07:00

4th of July is a huge event here. These are some highlights from the parade which lasted 2 hours down mainstreet Ashland. We volunteered to help set up the crafters booths in the park at 5:30 am. And then stayed to enjoy a full day of music and entertainment in the outdoor bandshell. There were all kinds of hand-crafted stuff for sale as well as just about any kind of food you could possibly want.

Luckily, we had front row seats and this is a view of the crowds lining the street. We couldn't believe that the city actually allowed people to reserve their space, with duck tape, on the sidewalks, along the parade route, the day before the parade......

This is the "Eco-Cab", available for a fee to anywhere in Ashland.

A parade would not be complete without bag pipers.....they were quite good too.

This is the best we could do..........just a little too close, eh....Perry's arm isn't quite long enough.

Getting Prepared for Mt. McLoughlin

2010-06-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

Well, we climbed Lower Table Rock, the steeper and more difficult of the two. This one was a 5.4 mile trek gaining 780 feet. We're training for the Mt. McLoughlin climb this fall. A 10 mile trek up forested slopes, that rises 9495 above sea level.

Here's Per checking his new "GPS". Guess the kids didn't want us to get lost on our hiking adventures. So.......they bought this very nifty hand-held "GPS" for their Pop for Father's Day. There's no chance we'll ever get lost now !!!

The weather was perfect, as usual, and we pretty much spent the day up there enjoying all the beauty around us.

View of the Rogue River and lakes from the top.

And, I bought Per this handy-dandy insulated backpack for Father's Day......just for occasions like this.....how convenient, don't you think? He carried our lunch to the top where we found this small space between two madrones in the shade. Everything always tastes better outdoors.

This is an old runway that spans about a mile across the top that someone made in the 1930's. When we reached the top, we were just in time to see a small plane taking off. Can you see it in the distance??

There was a spectacular wildflower display all around us, breathtaking for sure, with Mt. McLoughlin in the background.

There are definately some very unique species of wildlife here, such as this huge dandelion. And, an interesting type of moss called woolly meadowfoam that only grows on the Table Rocks, and no place else in the world. Never thought Botany would be so fascinating to me.

More Green Show Fun !!

2010-06-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

We are now regular volunteers every Saturday evening at the "Information Table" during the Green Show. It's been alot of fun talking with people from just about everywhere. The Green Show is every evening 7:15 until 8:00 pm in this outside venue before the Shakespeare Festival plays begin. We try to attend as many shows as we can........performers come from all over the US and we have seen some very talented people here.

Last Saturday was a fascinating group of men and musicians. Here they are doing "Morris Dancing".....an English folk dance that has a Moorish origin from the 1500's. Men dressed up with bells on their legs, do rhythmic stepping and complex choreographed dances with sticks, swords, and handkerchiefs....zig-zagging and criss-crossing....dipicting the struggle of the Moors and Christianity.

They are a rather interesting group of men !!!!

Yippee !! We're going to be Grandparents.....

2010-06-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true Christian and Christie are expecting a little bundle of love next January.......and that makes Perry and I .........Grandparents. We are so excited. Here's a picture of Perry showing Christie just how "big" her tummy will be real soon !!!
In honor of this very special event........I wrote poem.....hope you enjoy it.

A Garden Lullaby

What could be more perfect, more special than to be a Gramma,
rejoicing in one of life’s grandest and treasured moments.

This tiny blessing yet to be born, will change a couple into a sweet family,
a pink-cheeked gift from God will magically capture their loving hearts.

Delicate as a fine china cup, more precious than pure gold or silver,
a little angel’s feet will dance into our lives, leaving footprints on our souls.

For this birth, this divine process designed by the source of all life,
first a seed, then a bud, then a glorious beauty…..grows inside ….

I close my eyes and hear the soft peaceful notes of a song soon to be sung,
of a baby’s sweet voice filling the air with soothing coos and sighs.

Melt my heart dear little one, Gramma’s loving arms are open wide,
to gently rock and hug and cuddle, as I sing to thee a sweet garden lullaby.

A flower, a newborn, a testimony of beauty and joy in this wonderful world,
skin softer than the petals of a buttercup, fragrance sweet as blossom’s nectar.

Together we’ll listen to the gentle breezes and the trickling waterfalls,
do silly things in the white sparkling sunshine, or read enchanting fairy-tales.

We’ll picnic on the soft green grass with fresh baked goodies and food,
and gather all the twinkling stars in heaven, a gift for Mommy and Daddy.

It won’t be long, time passes so quickly, can’t wait to see your tiny face,
just a wee bundle of love, a brand new life beginning, a wonder and a miracle.

Thank you my son, my daughter-in-law, for this great honor of Gramma,
no greater blessing for me to see, this creation, embraced within a powerful bond of love.

6/17/10

Here's my NBC Green Show interview !!!

2010-06-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

Just a minor correction to Jacqueline's comments.................it's actually our 75th annual
"Green Show" at the Shakespeare Festival not 57th !!!!

http://localnewscomesfirst.com/index.php?option=com_seyret&task=videodirectlink&Itemid=431&id=5110

Another Adventure !!!!

2010-06-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Well.....you guessed it.......that's Perry and I dressed up as puppets for the "Giant Puppet Performance" at the Green Show. If you've read our blog from last year, you'll know we've been volunteering for the Shakespeare Festival which includes pre-play performances in the outdoor theatre. Tonight was opening night and we volunteered to participate as giant puppets......of course not really knowing what we were getting into !!! Little did we know we would have so much fun.

Here I am with, Jill and Guenter, owners of the Giant Puppets, helping me get into my tree. Kinda felt like I was wearing a carpet all evening. What a blast........though.......I could act like a fool and no one knew who I was !!!!

For opening night and being a little overcast, but no rain.......we we're so surprised how great the turnout was !!! Standing room only.......

Another fellow volunteer wearing the Coyote........yes, those are giant mushrooms.

Perry got to be the "Forest Maiden"......of course he wanted the one with the long black dreads, wishful thinking..........the kids absolutely loved us......it was high-fives and lots of pictures with the "Maiden". Lots of hugs, pictures and dancing videos for me !!! The teenagers had to have "videos" for facebook, or so I was told.

Me......doing a little "robot", I guess !!! We'll we did mention to a couple friends about us participating........and sure enough they showed up to get a good laugh and take all of these great pictures for us.

The "Forest Maiden" and a good friend from church with a gorgeous singing voice......Danika.

Another fellow volunteer "Green Man" and me............all the puppets walked around greeting people and dancing to the music before the show.....then 2 belly dancers performed.....while we danced with the kids and chatted with people, yes trees do talk.....then our flamingos took the stage and danced then we joined them.....and soon all the kids came on stage to dance too !!!! How cool, it brought out the kid in all of us.

Here's Per or should I say Maiden Per.......harrassing some ladies...........

The largest puppet standing about 14 feet tall was the "Forest Queen". So glad I didn't have to be in that costume.

Per dancing on stage.......yes, I did say dancing.

Me dancing on stage....I think I was doing the moonwalk or disco or something !!

Here's the owners as flamingos doing a choreographed number........

Per trying to clap with those huge hands.......at one point I got the audience clapping with us......what a hoot. The evening was an experience we'll never forget........check out live the dancing puppets on "youtube".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hr1eQzyk9Bo

A Saturday Hike to the Summit

2010-06-01T06:53:00.000-07:00

What a perfect day for a hike......Upper and Lower Table Rock Trails are just a short drive from us and unfortunately it's a trail that dogs are prohibited but, the hike up is a gain of 720 feet, pretty steep in some areas and would be too tough for Baylee anyway. The trail is a mix of shade from the Madrone and Black Oak trees and sunny views of the valley with displays of colorful blooming flowers along the way. At the top is a dramatic grassy meadow, surrounded by mountains all around......which inspired me break into song and dance just like Julie Andrews, "the hills are alive with the sound of music"......couldn't get Perry to take a video, so I could include it here. From the summit there is a birds-eye view in three directions. Siskiyou Mountains to the south, Mount McLoughlin to the east and the snowy rim of Crater Lake to the north. As you will see from the pictures below, the dangerous but intriguing rocky cliffs are black lava rock formed 9.6 million years ago and was the sanctuary home for the Takelma Indians in the 1800's.

Lower Table Rock is a longer trail to the top.......will do that one next time.

2010-05-31T15:18:00.000-07:00

Just love these Madrone trees......they are a deep mahogony color.

A little too close to the edge................... with Mt. McLaughlin in the background.

This is a picture of the green, green farmland below and a small portion of the lower part of the Rogue River. This summer hopefully with Gretchen and Shaun, we'll be rafting down the upper part where the white water is rated class 4 & 5.

The weather was perfect too !!!

2010-05-31T15:03:00.000-07:00

This is the rocky edge......and that little white spec in the distance are two people. Just to give you a better perspective.

Here's Perry sitting on the edge.....but not too close.

More Incredible Views

2010-05-31T14:43:00.000-07:00

We found a quiet little spot to sit a spell.........yes, those are my feet dangling over the side of the mountain.

What a beautiful sight to see these huge hawks just floating on the air current.....having a great time. They flew very close to us and I tried to take a closer picture too....below is the best I could do..........I certainly have alot of respect for the National Geographic photographers now !!!

At one point we saw seven hawks soaring together on the updrafts effortlessly over the treetops and through the valley.

Off to the right in the background is "Lower Table Rock". It also has a trail to the top.....a little more challenging. We'll attempt that one soon......preparing for our hike up Mt. McLaughlin later this summer.

This Is A Most Dangerous Road.......

2010-05-19T09:17:00.000-07:00

Hwy 66......a very curvy road up the mountain between Ashland and Klamath Falls....elevation about 1500 to a 4000 ft climb. Not many guardrails or buffer between you and the edge.........

Stopped here to take some pictures........as you can see.....to the left is the edge of the road....one little slip and it's goodbye, sayonara...........

At the crest of Hwy. 66 is the Greensprings Inn Resort. A rather rustic inn and cabins with a great restaurant. Stopped for coffee and delicious homemade pie........it's been so much fun exploring and finding all of these new places.

More Mountains

2010-05-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

Like my new yellow helmet??? My Mother's Day gift from my husband, to keep me safer.

We pulled off to the side of the road to get some pictures of the lush green valley below. Yes, it was straight down, a little un-nerving for me.

And...here's Per.....same bike all rebuilt and running like a charm after his accident last fall. We both got new jackets though, to protect us from road rash in the very unfortunate event of a mishap.

This is Immigrant Lake in Ashland. It's a reservoir for the valley and is a very beautiful lake in the spring and summer, before the water level starts to drop. A popular place for picnics, walks, water slides and boating.

Another Rainbow

2010-05-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

It's just unbelievable, we have never seen so many rainbows in our whole lives. After just about every rainfall, a beautiful rainbow appears......sometimes we can even see the whole arc.

Another Hike to the Top

2010-05-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

Well, we found this unpaved road in Jacksonville that looked interesting and decided to hike it. So, we parked and just kept on walking up, up, up. And, what a great view from the top!!! Can you see snow-capped, cloud covered, Mt. McLaughlin in the distance?

We're finding cool trails and roads everywhere......no shortage of opportunities to hike around here.

Christian and Christie visit Mom and Pop in Oregon

2010-04-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

And what a wonderful time we had......all dressed up here for Easter Brunch at Gogi's in Jacksonville.

Just tooooo cute !!!

A Day in the Vineyards

2010-04-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

The vineyards in the Applegate Valley are surrounded by towering mountains and green, green forests. Truly a sight to behold.

The Winery Tour.........

2010-04-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

Okay.......so they look happy........that's what sampling wine will do for you. The Troon Winery with it's Tuscany atmosphere and great wine put us in just the right mood to purchase !!!

Our New Home !!!

2010-04-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

Christian and Christie wanted a picture in front of our new home........just kidding, duh........this is the Schmidt Winery...one of the 3 we toured after sampling cheeses at Rogue Creamery and hand-made chocolates at the Lillie Belle Chocolate shop....yummy-yummy

Having a little fun in the barrel room......

Just pop a cork and enjoy !!!!!!!!!!!!!

My beautiful family at the Del Rio Winery........and the vineyards in the background were pretty awesome too.

A Full Day of Fun....

2010-04-13T08:47:00.000-07:00

It was a little chilly at Applegate Lake.......no swimming today for sure.....but the scenery was worth the drive.

Had to take C & C to some of our favorite restaurants and also tried some new ones too. This pic is from Abby's........home of the "loaded" and world's best veggie pizza !!!

Hiking the Britt Trail in Jacksonville

2010-04-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

Here's the little Deutsch hikers now.........enjoying a leisurely walk along the trail. Earlier in the week we did about 5 miles on a much more challenging trail "up" ...... mountain trail 2060 towards Mt. Ashland....coming back down was much easier...ya think?? !!!

And here's the bigger Deutsch hikers..........a Kodak moment on the trail.

More hiking pics on the Britt

2010-04-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

Me and my son..........

Baylee hung in there for all of our hikes......but had to stop often for refreshment !!!

On the trail.......Christie also loved the shopping in all the cute little boutique shops in Jacksonville.

Let's see.....if I recall correctly, Christie and I were out for a long "run" in the mountains while the boys rested in the wonderful sunshine after a tough hiking day....just kidding, I think we were probably napping inside!!!!

Other Fun Things We Did: Grower's Market, "Cat On A Hot Tin Roof" at the Shakespeare Theatre, Dinner at Inti's Latin Cantina, Chocolate Sampling at the Dagoba Chocolate Factory, Shopping in Ashland, Bananagrams Marathon, Family Meals Lovingly Made By Me...oops almost forgot the Rainy Day Bowling Tournament!

...whew, I'm exhausted.

Area Entertainment

2010-03-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

We have been quite fortunate to meet some very nice and generous people here. The Shakespeare season started this month, so when we went to say "hi" to a woman we volunteered for last fall, she gave us 4 complimentary tickets for Hamlet. It was good and strange.......all at the same time. Shakespeare language in a modern setting......with even a little "rap" to liven things up......certainly not the boring Hamlet we were all forced to read in high school.

Still looking for employment, Per and I went to a Chamber of Commerce meeting to network and won 4 tickets to this performance at our own little playhouse right here in Talent. It is amazing the quality and quantity of talent in the Ashland/Talent valley of only about 30,000 people.

Ashland's History

2010-03-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

It's a little difficult to see in this picture, but this Alder tree was going to be cut down due to disease and instead it was saved and now stands a memorial to the first settlers of the valley.

It is quite unique !!

More Snow in the Mountains

2010-03-09T09:46:00.000-08:00

Thought this was kind of an unusual shot......pink blossoms on the trees and 60 degrees in the valley and fresh snow in the mountains behind. It is "one of a kind" beautiful here.

And......I took this one from our front door after an evening of snow blanketed the mountains, only couple of miles from us.

" a' la mode designs" My New Business!!

2010-01-22T08:30:00.000-08:00

This is the display I made to sell these "latte wraps" at our local Talent Coffeehouse. Since I can't seem to find a j-o-b yet, I decided to earn some extra money (hopefully) selling these. They should sell very well here in this highly-caffeinated area. They are eco-friendly, reusable paper cup cozies, no more burning fingers. Convenient, colorful and fashionable, personalized with your monogram or a generic design.

I take bulk orders too, and will ship anywhere. So, order yours today........special price for friends and family.......$10.00 each. Call me.

MLK day at Mt. Shasta

2010-01-19T07:55:00.000-08:00

Well......take a look at this snowy forest playground. We originally drove to Mt. Shasta, CA today, about 80 miles from Ashland, to do some showshoeing on the trails, but.......it was snowing like crazy and couldn't get near the trails with our 4 wheel drive vehicle.....definately need chains or snow tires in this stuff.

So, we opted for a little snow play instead. It was absolutely breathtaking. Mt. Shasta gets about 275" of annual snowfall at an elevation of 14,162. It's up there!! We haven't seen snow like this since our last ski trip to Colorado about 12 years ago.

Baylee gets really animated in the snow....jumping, running and playing. Like this pic with Per. There weren't any people around this area, so the new snow was untouched. Wanted to do a snow angel, but was afraid I'd disappear and Per wouldn't find me until Spring !!!

Snow Fun !!!

2010-01-19T07:42:00.000-08:00

There weren't too many people on the sledding hill, probably because it was snowing so hard. But it sure looked like fun..........next time we'll bring a sled !!

Baylee sure likes the snow.......but this deep stuff really tired her out. She slept all the way home. While, we made a stop at one of the four coffeehouses in the "little" town of Mt. Shasta to warm up and dry out a bit.

As you can see, we were a little concerned about driving on these roads. We only made it about 1/2 mile up the 4 mile approach road to Mt. Shasta......due to the heavy snow and road conditions. Hopefully, next time we'll make it all the way to the top !!!

A little playtime at Mt. Ashland

2010-01-07T08:05:00.000-08:00

Yes!! That is 175# Baylee jumping and running in the snow.......this is her first experience with deep snow. She had a blast........while Per enjoyed a delicious cup of Dutch Bros. coffee.

Lots of snow to eat and play in. The ski area is closed on Wednesdays, so we had the place all to ourselves.

I think that big smile means she really loves Oregon too!!!

This is my rather feeble attempt to hold Baylee still for this "photoshoot" moment. It was a foggy day up there, but the snow was beautiful and we had lots of fun.

Callahan's Lodge

2010-01-07T07:42:00.000-08:00

This lodge is at the base of Mt. Ashland. A cozy room to rest after a long day of skiing or............

a relaxing place to eat whether you came to ski or just play. Great food and the view is awesome. They're saving that table for 2 in front of the fireplace for you.

Happy New Year !!!

2010-01-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous 2010, the beginning of a new decade. The beginning of a new day, every morning with the sunrise. The front view was a beautiful crimson glow.........

While the view from the back of our house was a vision of clouds on fire against a sapphire sky. Wow!!

Mountain Magic at Christmas

2009-12-26T20:48:00.000-08:00

Well, this is our very first Christmas ever that we have not been with our children. We have found that the choice we made to be here in Oregon, although exhilarating, can be a bit of a struggle being away from loved ones, especially at the holidays. All of our precious memories of love shared, food consumed, sounds of laughter, and family moments together at Christmas celebrations in the past will remain in our hearts forever. And, hopefully we'll be together very soon and next Christmas too !!!

On Christmas morning we awakened to inspiring Godful beauty outside our windows. The "frozen fog" coated everything and the air was hushed and peaceful. Our breakfast at this quaint Lithia Springs Inn was a charming surprise.

We chilled for more than 2 hours in this festive breakfast room enjoying friendly, provocative conversation with the owner and other interesting people celebrating their holiday at the inn.

Take a closer look at that wine cabinet on the right of the fireplace.........this place was filled with some very unique pieces of furniture.

Baylee got a new coat and shoes for Christmas

2009-12-26T20:41:00.000-08:00

Okay....so she doesn't look too happy right now, but hopefully she'll learn to walk in these booties that Christian & Christie got for her. We've been told it's very important to protect her feet if we plan to do more winter hiking and snowshoeing.

Christmas Day Hike

2009-12-26T20:29:00.000-08:00

Well, here's Per and Baylee forging the mighty creek. It was only about 25 degrees, Baylee said the water was colder though. We really couldn't believe how quiet it was in this amazing deep forest beauty.

How do you like my hat?? Had on my flannel lined jeans and fleecy boots too!! Okay-Okay, I have to......we're in Oregon now y'all !!! I do love the cold here....it's a comfortable cold.

We weren't quite high enough for the deep snow, but the frost was pretty thick in some areas. As the light came through the trees the frost sparkled like twinkle lights.

Christmas Photoshoot

2009-12-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

Baylee just didn't get it............we tried distracting her with treats....but then we got this!

" Baylee! Baylee! Hey pay attention.......the camera is not in the kitchen."

"Okay one kiss......now back to business here."

Look....look.....yes we survived and are still smiling too.

Our Winter Wonderland........

2009-12-07T16:15:00.000-08:00

We get what locals call "frozen fog". When there is an overnight fog........this is what we have when we wake up the next morning. Of course, I ran outside in my jammies to take these pictures. Took this one from the front porch.

....And this one from the back porch. Can't believe I actually caught the sun's rays just starting to rise over the mountains.

My Little "Bear" Tree

2009-12-03T10:52:00.000-08:00

This little tree has seen many Christmases as an understudy to our usual 12 footer. But, this year he is so proud to be the "only" tree. All lit up and decorated. Yes....that is a black bear climbing up the side. At least it's just a stuffed one......not like the one we almost ran into hiking last weekend. Found this wonderful road winding up the mountain, not far from our house, so off we went. As the 3 of us were hiking we spotted some very fresh bear tracks......then a little further.....found very fresh bear poop!!!! Think it's time to head back to the car.........at a little faster pace too. Whew !! made it.......now we're doing a little research about Oregon Black Bears before we head out again. Life is such an adventure..........

Tree Little......Wreath Big......Pears Yummy

2009-12-03T10:39:00.000-08:00

Well, this is it for decorations this year.....everything else is in our "POD" in California. That huge festive bowl is more than a dozen Comice pears from a Harry & David orchard right near our house. While walking one afternoon, we saw random pears left on the trees after the harvest. On closer evaluation, there were some beautiful 1 pounders, just left there to rot. We couldn't let that happen so...we stuffed our pockets, found lots of good recipes, and have been eating these delicious pears for almost every meal.

The crowds are gathering for the "Lighting of Ashland"

2009-11-30T10:18:00.000-08:00

I think all the people in the valley show up for this event........a small parade........people and children all bundled up in cold air.......hot cocoa.......smell of pine trees.......live music.....and of course Santa !!!

Again..........how we continue to enjoy the unique people we meet here. This woman and her Newfy, pulling a decorated cart, got all dressed up special tonight to see Santa and the town lighting.

Santa's countdown............................ 10-9-8.....3-2-1 .....WOW !

2009-11-30T09:12:00.000-08:00

It was absolutely beautiful. This is the first time in our life that we have lived in a small town and experienced the "Lighting of Christmas". It was a magical evening.

Baylee says "hi"

2009-11-30T09:04:00.000-08:00

Baylee's two favorite spots.......on the bed and in the middle of the room, where she can keep an eye on both of us, that is when her eyes are open.

NEW TRUCK !!!

2009-11-30T08:12:00.000-08:00

No, not really........but we are very happy about Per's new job with Harry & David. They are a gourmet food & fresh fruit gift company established more than 70 years ago. Right here in our little valley they employ about 2600 people, with a max of 5000 during the holidays. Medford is the corporate headquarters, which is about 5 miles from our home. When we took their tour, we learned that all of their delicious fresh fruit is grown here in the valley, and watched as the busy bakers made their cakes, chocolates, and cookies (yummy free samples). And everything is hand-packed. It's pretty impressive to watch in action. Harry & David is a company who's business practices are environmentally responsible & sustainable. Per's glad to be connected with a company who's reputation is honest & ethical.

It's a photoshoot for our "30th"......How awesome is that !!!!!

2009-11-22T11:37:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's right.......we made it 30 years !! Couldn't think of any other place I'd rather be but here in Oregon with the love of my life. Got all dressed up and went to "Macaroni's" in downtown Ashland for the best Italian meal ever. This was the restaurant where we ate the very first time we visited Ashland about 8 years ago (it's the vortex). The owner treated us to a drinks and dessert "on the house". What a treat. Definately a five star experience.

For those of you who were there.......the beautiful pearls around my neck are also 30 years old......a wedding gift from my sweetie.

Anyone for a hike ???

2009-11-15T07:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the perfect day for a hike...so we did......sunny, mid 30's and soooo peaceful.
"In pure silence each breath brings strength. The mind calms and a smile spreads bringing a wave of peace to each and every cell." Andrew Rouse

Baylee loves to hike too !! We only did about 4-5 miles today. The climb was about 1200' to 2500' in elevation.

There's already some snow in the higher elevations. Baylee stopped for a snack of snow !!

We really like this trail, it's well groomed and perfect for Per's first hike since his broken leg. The trailhead is in Ashland and this trail connects to the Pacific Crest Trail which runs from Canada through California.

Habitat for Humanity Punkin Chunkin'

2009-11-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

ALL FOR CHARITY........what a fun and creative event !! We spent yesterday at Hanley's Farm. A gorgeous piece of property established in the 1850's. It's an old farmhouse, gardens, barns, and acres of property donated to the Historical Society by the Hanley family back in 1982. The property still produces fruits, vegtables and has lots of horses and chickens all managed by the society. There were 2 trebuchets(as seen in the movie Kingdom of Heaven), pumpkin slingshots, tours, rock climbing, face painting, tie dye t-shirt making and lots of food to spend your money on.....all was donated to Habitat for Humanity. It was a beautiful, sunny day and we had a great time.

Per was the first person to attempt to sling 2 pumpkins together.......big hit with the crowd!!!

Not to be outdone....I tried to sling "3" together....splat-splat-splat !! Got lots of whoop and holler!!!

2009-11-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

.......They needed more muscle to load the trebuchet, so Per helped.

.............A FLYING PUMPKIN.........TOO COOL !!!!

More festival fun!!

2009-11-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, these are donated toilets for the festival........pick one to sling !!!! And.......there it goes !!! Click on the picture to see a flying toilet up real close.

Here's Per at the slingshot. The idea is to hit the bullseye with little pumpkins. Per said he was going for distance and overshot the cars by about 30 feet !!!!

Okay.....don't ask me why, but this is the waiting line to try your luck at pushing a urinal cake into a toilet seat shuffleboard style !!! It's all for charity.

2009-11-08T08:06:00.000-08:00

And........a little entertainment too!!!

This one's for Christie........my horse lover!!!!

Our First Visitor from BUMC

2009-11-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

It was so nice for Tal Cox to take the time to visit us while he was on a business trip in California. We showed him some of the highlights of Ashland and the valley, as well as had plenty of time to catch up on all the "happenings" at Birmingham United Methodist Church in Milton, GA. We are so grateful to have such wonderful memories from our 8 years attending BUMC, and really miss so many of our loving forever friends.

Finally.... pictures of our downtown Ashland and Lithia Park

2009-10-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

Crafts, music, clothing, and other stuff at the Artisan's Festival along the river every Sat. & Sun.

This is a small community of various creative and artistic people of all kinds.......painters, photographers, actors, dancers, musicians, sculptors, writers, to name a few.

Yes, that is a man in a speedo sunning himself in Lithia Park. ....it's a cool & breezy 65 degrees !!!

Some of Ashland's Quaint Shops, Restaurants, Hotels

2009-10-22T08:24:00.000-07:00

Lots of bicycle shops everywhere.........great trails and bicycle lanes on the roads too..........

Oregon really takes care of its riders.

This old fire house was built in 1908, became a mechanics garage in 1935, and is now a rather unique bookstore.

This is a popular Yoga and spiritual center........there are many centers in the valley for alternative or holistic medicine, spiritual counselors, yoga, and martial arts.

The outdoor life in the valley is incredible........hiking, skiing, running, boating, fishing, biking, and of course there are many shops, just like this one, that cater to your every need.

One of our favorite Italian restaurants.....Pasta Piatti. Love all the outdoor seating......... The Columbia Hotel established in 1910.

The Ashland Springs Hotel established in 1925.....is an Ashland landmark.

There are all sorts of art galleries downtown, as well as in the Railroad District. We enjoy the "Art Walk" the first Friday evening every month.

We have been told that we now live in the "Ashland Vortex"..........the story is that people who have grown up here and leave, are mystically drawn back by the "Vortex". They always come back and live here happily ever after. I'm beginning to think I understand the power of the "Vortex".

The "Varsity".....our downtown theatre

2009-10-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

Established in 1937 is home to the Ashland Independent Film Festival every spring, which brings film makers and lovers from all over the world.

Table for 2.....waiting for you

2009-10-22T08:20:00.000-07:00

Talent's Coffeehouse

2009-10-21T08:04:00.000-07:00

Monday is Laundry Day...Yippee

2009-10-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

Just wanted my family and friends to know, that it's not all fun and games here. I still cook, clean, volunteer, grocery shop, do laundry, take strenuous exercise classes and look for a part-time job and that keeps my days very busy. But, I do have to be honest. I love to cook, grocery shopping is unique here, Tai Chi though it is strenuous, we find it very peaceful too, and I use the time at the laundromat to have a latte at the coffeehouse above and read. This is where I do our laundry, because we couldn't fit the washer and dryer in the garage....................

2009-10-20T15:06:00.000-07:00

Because our garage looks like this.....and the rest of our stuff that doesn't fit in this house is still in a "POD" in California. See Perry squeezed inbetween changing the light bulb?? And you can see, I had to make sure Per put my elliptical together so I can keep on exercising now that our bicycles are put away for the winter!!! A bit cozy, but it works for me.

Deer in Lithia Park

2009-10-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

There are deer everywhere here......and they're not afraid of people. This family of deer were nibbling in Lithia Park as I drove by yesterday, completely undisturbed. I understand, from locals, that they can be quite a nuisance, eating gardens and crops. Some homes have tall fences around their gardens.

Soooo cute!!!

2009-10-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

A drive along the California coastline

2009-10-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we drove down the California coastline to the Redwood Forest. We stopped along the way in Crescent City for a latte and a stroll along the beach. Jake and Baylee enjoyed the beach, but were not too comfortable with the waves rolling in at their feet. It was a beautiful day, ocean breezes, 70 degrees, and so picturesque.

The rugged coastline of California

2009-10-14T08:43:00.000-07:00

There was a hazy sky that day due to a forest fire on a nearby ridge. We watched the helicopters lowering to the ocean and picking up water to drop on the fire.

Road through the Redwood Forest

2009-10-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

We had been to the Redwood Forest many years ago, but we just can't get enough of God's creations. You just cannot imagine how tall these trees are and the silence is heavenly.

We felt so dwarfed among this dense forest of magnificent trees

2009-10-14T08:33:00.000-07:00

Little Perry....Big Tree

2009-10-14T08:29:00.000-07:00

This one gives you a better perspective of just how big these trees are. This one was cut many years ago after falling across the street. Even the ferns are huge.

Each tree is so unique........

2009-10-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

Doggie Rest Stop...guess I should have been standing on the other side to take this picture !!!

2009-10-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

Baylee was having a great time....Jake's camera shy...hiding under the bench

2009-10-14T08:17:00.000-07:00

The Avalon Jazz Club

2009-10-14T08:02:00.000-07:00

We are almost regulars at this little restaurant in Talent. The Avalon features different Jazz musicians five evenings and on Sunday afternoons every week. There's so much and such a variety of music to choose from here in the valley. You could see live entertainment every night.....if you wanted to. I could picture Per playing drums again too........he's so anxious to get into the music scene here. Before playing worship music.......Jazz was his favorite.

Fall is Here--Trees in our front yard

2009-10-14T07:59:00.000-07:00

Gretchen's Visit

2009-10-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

Gretchen came to visit during her fall break from teaching. She and I did the tour d'jour of the valley. We saw a "70's" musical at the Cabaret Theatre in Ashland, saw a powerful production of Henry the VIII at the Shakespeare Festival, saw the Deaf Dance Company at the Green Show, wandered around the Grower's Market, and went shopping downtown Ashland, of course. Gretchen and I also went to Portland for a couple days. Portland has everything other big cities offer but much friendlier and more accessible. Gretchen's never been to Oregon, so we tried to see as much as possible in the 5 days she was here. Whew !! We were very busy, but had a wonderful time. Sure do miss my kids.

Nob Hill

2009-10-12T10:25:00.000-07:00

Nob Hill area has a little of everything....shopping, restaurants, bookstores, very cool homes and apartments, and a Trader Joes !!

Nob Hill has bubble tea and gelato too!!!

2009-10-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

More Nob Hill Shopping

2009-10-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

View from Hotel Room in Portland towards Vancouver Washington

2009-10-12T10:14:00.001-07:00

Grower's Market

2009-10-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

Gretchen and me at the Grower's Market. We took home lots of veggies. Check out the mountains behind.

Green Show Volunteer

2009-10-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's me working...the one with the short hair. Been volunteering for the Green Show at the Shakespeare Festival since we've been here. It's an outdoor variety show every evening 6:45 to 7:30, in the grassy area between the theatres in downtown Ashland. I did stage set up and tear down for the performers, and answered visitor's questions about our valley. It was fun being involved. The last evening I worked during this Green Show season, we saw a great Barbershop Quartet with humor. And...afterwards we were able to get 2 tickets to see the last performance of Macbeth. Different from what I remembered from high school....but don't think I finished that book. Sorry, Gretchen. Per was planning on helping also......but he got to watch instead this season, while I worked, due to his unfortunate motorcycle accident resulting in a broken leg. He's doing much better now....no surgery.....healing.....and getting ready for the winter skiing, snow shoeing, and hiking season.

Flamenco Musicians and Dancers

2009-10-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

I worked last Tuesday at the Green Show, helping and had the opportunity to see these fabulous Flamenco Performers....they were so good that we went back on Thursday evening to see them again.

Check out Martin's red shoes.....just a blurr when he danced

2009-10-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

Bernadette...dancing Flamenco since she was 7

2009-10-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

Marielena.....so graceful

2009-10-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

They were all so talented...what fun to watch!!

2009-10-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

Fire Mantra Performers at the Green Show

2009-10-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

The fire's just a little too close.....don't you think?

2009-10-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

Fire and Lights too !!!

2009-10-05T10:14:00.000-07:00