DSCN2366, originally uploaded by Lizzie~Belle.

Today ended up being a beautiful day after all. I got to do some weeding in the garden, and I went for a walk along the river, where it is very green and lush. I guess all that rain was good for something! I also got my first mosquito bites of the season. Dratted things! We hates them, precious.

I had a nice visit with the family yesterday; it was good to see my brother and sis-in-law. We always have lots of laughs when we're all together. We shared stories until we ran out.

I finally finished potting all my plants today. Tomatoes, tomatoes, tomatoes, and parsley. I foresee lots of taboule and caprese in my future. I should learn to make mozzarella. Blessed are the cheesemakers!

And of course, I haven't forgotten the reason we have this day off. Thinking of all those who gave their lives in service to this country, including my Uncle Bob. May the freedoms they fought for never be taken from us.

orange poppy, originally uploaded by Lizzie~Belle.

I went down to the parade this morning, where I was gratified to see a large crowd lining the streets. This town shows up to honor its veterans. Everyone clapped as veterans marched or rode by. Of course, the day is meant to honor and remember those who died in service, but it's nice to remember those who lived as well.

The parade seemed smaller this year. I ended up walking all the way down to its starting point; I passed its front end on the bridge, and the last fire truck was going by as I reached its back end. I was disappointed that there were no horses this year.

I found this gorgeous poppy in front of a liquor store, where they had quite a nice little garden.

I'm really not ready to go back to work tomorrow, but as I did not win Powerball, alas, I must.