Monday, July 18th, 2004

The temps are cool again this morning. I have windows open and the fresh air is cooling the house for a few hours. Some were open all night.

Yesterday afternoon Kyle and Holly came up and with Shad helping felled the 80'+ Silver Maple tree that was only about 15' outside the living room. It has been shedding limbs beside and onto our house for the past 4 years or so quite badly. Jack now says his father was advised to not plant that tree in that place because it would place the house in danger. He thinks it was planted in about 1950 when the house was first built. I am not thrilled that the only remaining shade tree is gone from this side of the house but I am thrilled and relieved that we don't have to wonder how much damage will be done to the house everytime there is a storm. Shad and I will begin to put the limbs thru the chipper shredder today. It will be a long job-maybe 2 whole days and then the big limbs and trunks(all 5 of them)will be hauled off with the tractor. We may try to sell some of the big ones for lumber and I think each child will want a slice for a stool just for memories.

I talked to NJ last night. I'll be getting together with her sometime this week while she is in K.C. Maybe she will get to meet our daughter Kris who lives in Independence too. I'm thinking of an evening meal in Kris's back yard. That way it won't cost much for anyone and we can just visit and she can see Kris's raised beds, etc.

GOD bless and keep each and all of you.