Together in Yates Center

July 28, 2013 by Debra

Together in Yates Center.

It’s not too often Kevin will take a day off from work. Being in commercial construction the busiest time is summer. Of course when work is strong- keep working. In winter- the slower months, don’t spend money which translates to; Stay Home.

This year was not a usual year. We purchased land in Yates Center, KS last Fall. We were celebrating Kevin’s birthday and our anniversary this July. I really needed to get away; even if it was just some place close. It was a nice surprise when Kevin agreed to take two days away from work. BUT this came with stipulations: Could not rain Tuesday or Wednesday- laying concrete. If it rained, our trip would be delayed.

Kevin made an appointment with the Division of Conservation – Kansas Department of Agriculture. Our appointment was scheduled for Thursday @ 1:00 pm. We left our home Thursday morning early- 6:10 am. Our first stop was the DMV in Lawrence. From there we drove at a leisurely pace to Yates Center, KS.

doc kansas department of agriculture — Kansas Department of Agriculture – Division of Conservation

I once had a friend ask me what would I do when taking pictures became work. Oh- I thought that would never happen. BUT it did. This is one of the reasons I created G’masDiary. Every place I go now, I take my camera. Take images for me. Have fun, memories for me to look back on. Throughout my life I have had to separate work from home- Crohon’s Disease flair up’s if I don’t separate the two. I want to get back to the place where picture taking is second nature- not just in work, but with my family when I am not working.

Our get-away was a trip to Yates Center and the long drive home. I was amazed at the beauty of the landscape. What wonderful things we saw that we were not looking for! Several places I marked so we can go back and visit our next trip to Yates Center- in particular, Fall River.

Thursday we spent our time in Yates Center and Eureka. Our motel room in Yates Center- The Townsman, was really nice and clean. We ate at the local Pizza Hut for dinner. Lunch was in Eureka- Cherokee. Mozzarella sticks were included on the buffet. Boy was I a happy camper!

Friday we drove to Emporia, KS with stops along the way. We drove through a small portion of the Flint Hills. One weekend if I can get Kevin to go again, I want to explore the Flint Hills. We passed through Cassody and Strong, KS. We arrived in Emporia late afternoon. We settled into our hotel- Comfort Inn. We ventured out into Emporia. Kevin asked me if I have ever been to a Dollar Tree store. No- well now I can say that I have. During our shopping spree in Dollar Tree, Kevin bought me a bottle of bubble bath. Anytime we stay in hotels/motels, I enjoy taking a bath. We have just a shower, no tub at home. Baths are a luxury for me!

Saturday we met Erika, Shaune & Briella for lunch at one of my favorite places- Golden Corral. Visited for a while then headed for home. What a wonderful weekend spent with my husband!

Onions & Seeds

June 28, 2013 by Debra

Onions & Seeds

I was walking in the yard last evening not really thinking of much. As I was passing my husband’s garden I noticed this odd plant. So later that evening I asked him what it was. He smiled sheepishly at me and asked me, “Why”. I am now really wondering what it is he’s growing! He has a couple rows of onions and he let five plants “seed”.

The next time you are walking through your yard, what do you see that you have overlooked? Is it interesting? Do you know what it is? If not, do a Google search. You may just be surprised at what you learn! Be sure to grab your camera and take a pic of it…..

Click for more information on growing onion seeds.

Pretty in a Blue Dress | Lake Shawnee, Topeka KS

June 15, 2013 by Debra

Pretty in a Blue Dress.

One day last month Erika, Shaune and I went to Sam’s Club. We were shopping for household items. As we were browsing the isles, I noticed clothing for children. Of course I just had to take a peek. It was then that I spotted this blue dress. Erika said they really had no where to wear a dress like this one at the time. Well- Grandma said, “We’ll take pictures in it and then she can wear it whenever.” Little girls look so adorable in cute dresses!

Briella with her red hair looks really good in blue, green and purple. I knew her pictures would turn out wonderful. It was a matter of getting her to sit still long enough to snap the lens!

Lake Shawnee is beautiful. I immediately thought of this location for Brie’s photo session. Notice the chair. This was the chair I purchased for my children. Erika sat in this chair at the same age! Not only does this show the passing of time, but the chair kept Briella still for a few poses.

The gallery is available on the family page.