Ah, Spring!

What are we doing these days? Getting outside before the mosquitoes set in, for one. The weather is gorgeous and we've been spending a lot of time working on our yard.

In August '04 when we moved in the yard was a wild, overgrown sea of half grown trees and underbrush. Robbie took the loppers and bow saw to it and we were slowly able to discern that there had originally been some order. As we've been able in the last several years we've pruned and weeded and it's become quite a haven for the family, especially the shortest member. (no, not Atticus--he's still indoor only, to his chagrin)

One of Riley's favorite places is the back of the yard behind the giant oak tree where we've created a secret place for children to hang out. It's secluded enough to offer a bit of mystery and the 'boy sized' tree is just right for climbing.

We're interested in putting a deck on the back of the house so there'll be a haven for grown-up people too. Ideally it'd be a screen porch with a gabled roof so we could have a mosquito free place to enjoy our yard, but that's a pretty big deal, so we'll start with a deck and go from there.

For those who know of our desire to buy property in the country, the current housing market has effectively put the brakes on that plan, so we're going to sit tight and make improvements on our house till things clear up. We're just grateful to be here, knowing there are people suffering a great deal right now, so no complaints. :-)

My former Rag Dolls band mate and two of his sons are coming to B-ham to play a show tomorrow and are staying over at our house, which should be fun! Robbie and I will take Riley early to the gig and if it's not too complicated with Riley at a busy venue I'll sing a couple of songs with them. We'll have a little music Saturday morning though, which should be a lot of fun. We've set up a little practice space in the basement and it'll be great to have some pals over to play music.

And speaking of music, I must profess my admiration for the amazing, enigmatic Nellie McKay! NPR has an article and video of her on their music page today and man, I am blown away. Any contemporary gal who can sing like Lotte Lenya gets my vote.