Shockingly...

I've lived in VA for nearly 8 and a half years and have traveled pretty extensively throughout the state. But, today was the first time I saw tobacco actually growing. (this is in Brunswick Co.).

Slow Progress

Seeing these all together is now funny. Notice Marilyn is always staring at the kitten, while he's just happy to be there.

The Remaining Monuments

As promised, here are the other two Monuments on the far western side of Monument Avenue that I missed in my last post about them.

Maury Monument: I knew nothing of Matthew Fontaine Maury. After a brief amount of reading, it seems he was quite the guy. Although I'm sure being Commander of the Confederate Navy is what landed him on Monument Avenue, that seems to have been a minor accomplishment in his life. However misguided, I appreciate this thirst for science and knowledge and desire to use his mind to benefit his country. Not a bad example.

Arthur Ashe Memorial - The final and furthest west memorial is to tennis great and humanitarian, Arthur Ashe. This one was completed in 1996 after much debate. The Maury Monument had been finished in 1929. That means a full 67 years passed to solidify city impressions on what Monument Avenue stood for. My own opinion is that this is an odd placement for Ashe. He was undoubtedly a GREAT man, and Richmond would be foolish to not celebrate their native son loudly, proudly and prominently. That being said, I don't know that placing him in line with Confederate greats makes the statement that might be intended. I tend to agree with the thought that this spot might have been better served by a Monument to African American Civil War soldiers. It reminds me of the constant debates in DC when a new addition to the National Mall is proposed. I suppose, ultimately, we all have different opinions on what deserves commemoration and how it relates to what has been celebrated in the past and what will be honored in the future.

The Craziest Walk Ever

The nearly autumn air of the last couple days has been too much to resist. After a seminary inservice this morning and then grocery shopping, laundry and putting together enchiladas for tomorrow's Branch potluck - I set out for a walk to enjoy the weather.

I didn't have a route planned when I walked out the door, so I began on what was a normal stroll and decided to extend it. I ended up deciding to try to make it to a certain building and back before dark. (Incidentally, after getting home, I checked my route on Google Maps. Holy cow, it was 6 miles!). Anyway... this was new walking ground for me and the first dramatically interesting thing I came upon was this:

When I left my home, I had not anticipated having to decide whether or not to test how aggressive geese could be tonight. Just didn't even cross my mind. I admit, I was stumped for a few minutes. Even if they didn't chase me, I risked scaring them into the road. I ultimately decided to play it safe, take a picture, and then walk FAR outside of the geese occupied area. Crisis averted.

I reached the building I had set as a goal and turned around to head back on the opposite side of the street my outbound trip had been. Within two blocks I came upon this:

I know what you're thinking and the answer is, "No. I didn't find him asleep on my computer table". I actually found him trying to run and scale trees before he followed me for roughly 33 blocks home. At first, I ignored him. But he kept jogging right along side me and meowing when he got behind. I wanted him to just turn around and head home. When it became clear this was not going to happen, I picked him up during the last few blocks that have heavy traffic and brought him home for the night for some food, water and safety. Tomorrow, we'll find out if someone has reported him missing. He's a very cuddly and affectionate little guy. I think it's clear he's been loved. I hope to reunite him with his family asap.

Marilyn agrees. This is where she's been since he came in the door.

How Did I Miss This One?

Fan Club

I'm very opinionated on political issues, but have tried to keep this site more personal and separate from my work, but I couldn't help but share this one. I liked it too much.

Cucumber Mint Popsicles

I saw this while looking for guidebooks for Minneapolis/St. Paul. One of the local magazines there, The Rake, had it posted. Anyone know where I can find fresh mint? I've been craving julips for a while too! (non-alcoholic ones).


Minty Cucumber Popsicles

1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1 pound seedless cucumber
3/4 cup freshly chopped mint
2 Tbsp. freshly grated ginger
1 lime, juiced
Pinch salt

Boil sugar and water in small saucepan until dissolved, creating simple syrup. Set aside to cool. Peel cucumbers and chop into chunks. Purée in a blender, adding mint and ginger. Blend until smooth. Add simple syrup and mix until combined, then stir in lime juice and pinch of salt. Pour mix into popsicle mold. Paper cups can also be used, but take care to cover them with plastic wrap before poking through handles or sticks—this will provide stability, ensuring that handles remain upright. Freeze for several hours until hard-set.