In Pittsburgh Yinz!

  
   
    
 

Boats & Barns

   
 

Homework, Construction Updates & a Snuggle

I love how she keeps me company while I’m doing homework…so cute.

Construction has begun on our new house (yay)! Here’s a picture of the meadow that’s a part of our land. I’m hoping to have more updates if the weather cooperates.

Here’s a picture of ice formations from inside the footer trenches. The picture really doesn’t do justice to the neat little crystals.

Moving Out & Moving On

Shortly before Christmas we sold our house. We’d only lived in it for a little over a year, which was frustrating. We found out our contractor was getting ready to create a couple more developments in our area with houses practically identical to ours. Bearing that in mind, we decided it was now or never to sell.

So we packed up AGAIN and have moved into an apartment while our new house is being built. Living on the third floor without having an elevator is a huge pain in the butt, especially when carrying groceries or taking the dog out. At least it’s only temporary…I keep reminding myself how much I love the new house plan; and this is what it will look like

Now that we’re situated (for now) I’ve been trying to work on some new designs & products for my Etsy shop. Here’s what I’ve come up with so far…

Thanksgiving Scenery

November Bees

It’s hard to believe, but we still have bees. They’re a nice leftover from summer, especially since it’s been getting dark so early. I’ve decided to enjoy them for as long as I can, even though I’m looking forward to putting our Christmas tree up tomorrow.

Have a great weekend! Get out and enjoy nature – it’ll reboot & refresh you 🙂

Our Saturday Scenery

From our ride this morning (about 14 miles). These are a few shots from the entrance to the bikeway and along the trail.

Statuary – Washington, DC

 

 

 

Ride to Percival’s Island

My husband and I have recently started trail riding, so we’ve been trying to bike every morning or so. This morning we finally managed to ride over to Percival’s Island.  From where we parked, the total round trip was about 12.5 or 13 miles.  Since the temperature this morning was a little cool at around 70F the conditions were perfect.  Here are a few pictures from the trail:

It looks like the “Love Locks” bridge in Paris has inspired a local version.

You can hike, bike, paddle and climb here.

Here’s a closer view of the fountain in the background.

This is a photo taken facing the Point of Honor on the James River.

You can read more about Percival’s Island and the Blackwater Creek Bikeway here.

“Geisha” by John Gallagher

I had my eye on this book for a really long time. It seemed like every time I went to Barnes & Noble I’d pick it up so I took that as a good sign and bought the book. I’m really pleased that I did because it’s an exhaustive one full of interesting facts. Needless to say, the accompanying photos are beautiful & bring some light into the closed world of the Geishas. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in Japanese culture, history, or maiko/geiko.  Here’s a terrific series called “The Secret Life of Geisha.”  Arthur Golden, author of the book “Memoirs of a Geisha” shares some of his insight into the “Flower & Willow World.”  Part 1 can be found by clicking here.

And this is what’s staring at me while I’m trying to read it…