Floating into Autumn

Just like you, we're trying to finish up all the outdoor projects before

winter settles in.  This morning when I went outside to work in the yard, 

I found a surprise waiting for me.

Can you see it?  

If you remember, last fall I was trying to decide what cutout design I wanted

on the new shutters we were planning to make.

Well, I finally made a decision.....

I decided to keep the old wood shutters after all.  

There have been many changes, both inside and out since our house was built in 1921, 

so we're keeping this detail just as it was back then.  Bill worked many hours

removing the old finish and replacing a few pieces, but now they're good as new

and back on the windows where they belong.  I have no idea how he got them

up by himself, but I'm happy and so is our house........

and probably our neighbor across the street, too.

It's not all work and no play at 911. 

 I always try to fit in one last outdoor adventure when the leaves are in full color.

Last weekend as Carol (Art and Sand) and her husband were enjoying the sunshine

and lively scenes while kayaking along the beautiful California coastline, we were paddling down

a northern Minnesota river enjoying an equally beautiful, but polar opposite scene.

The water was as calm as could be and the sky was slightly overcast.

The lazy river winds for miles without a noticeable current, so turning around

 and heading upstream to the lake is no chore at all.

We didn't see any wildlife other than a few birds,

but as you can see the beavers have been busy feathering their nests. 

 I guess they like weathered wood and natural elements in their decor, too.

Taking a five.

A lone water lily blooms in the warm water.

There were a even a few raindrops at this point, but I didn't mind.

It's a fifteen minute paddle across Swan Lake to the boat landing to the right of the bridge.

  If you look closely, you can see the profile of our state bird, the loon,

 who came to bid us goodbye for the season.  Its partner was to the left, out of camera range.

Seven o'clock and it's already getting dark.

And so the sun sets on another kayak season.

Thanks for coming along!

Vickie

I'm joining the parties at:

Cozy Little House Tweak it Tuesday

Common Ground Be Inspired