Meridian, Idaho
My dad will turn 95 at the end of July.
For 95, he’s in amazing health. Heck for 80, he’s in amazing health. 🙂
He lives with my sister Mary Lou in her gorgeous house that sits in a park-like setting on the Carson River in Fallon, Nevada.
Wildlife is bountiful including deer grazing on the pasture, neighborhood dogs stopping by for a Milk Bone treat, and a plethora birds.
For some reason, this year there has been an abundance of magpies. And Dad can’t stand magpies!
I’ve always rather liked magpies, but many people don’t. I think part of the reason is that they are clever, and the other part is that they have a reputation to steal things.
Magpies are part of the crow family, and the Eurasian magpie (pictured above) is considered one of the most intelligent animals in the world, and the only non-mammal species able to recognize itself in a mirror test. (Wikipedia)
Dad taught all his girls lots about the outdoors. We went on a camping trip most every summer. We learned how to fish in streams and on lakes. He taught us how to catch lizards using dental floss and a stick. We hiked to the top of Mount Rose, the highest mountain near Reno. (I’m pretty sure I complained the whole way because it was a tough hike and freezing cold, but now it’s one of my fondest memories…)
Dad taught us many of the things he loved doing as a boy. He loved sharing and teaching, and he also enjoyed doing those things again.
And apparently that continues…
He asked Mary Lou for a sling shot for his birthday. She ordered one and gave Dad his gift early.
And now he’s doing target practice for magpie murders. 🙂
I didn’t know Dad asked for one. That is fabulous! Great post Kathy. Thanks for the good memories.
And, I remember complaining about that hike too. And remember Pierre struggling against the wind? I have been saying for years I want to do that hike again and gosh darn it —- this is the year. Want to come?
I didn’t remember Pierre going until you said something, Carol. If I get down to Fallon again this year, it’s a date. We will hike Mount Rose. 🙂
Thank you for posting this. I couldn’t see this on my very non-smart phone yesterday. He looks like a Bobbsey Twin. Now all he needs is a soap box cart and a trip to Berkeley to ride through the campus and scare all the students like he did when he was a boy!
Was that hike pre-me? I don’t remember doing that. I would be up for a try.
Kathy, Mr. Knuf always called me “lizard catcher” instead of Joanne….
Mary Lou took a great photo. 🙂
That hike was probably really close to when you were born, Joanne. I do remember going over to the Browns’ house for hot chocolate that has never treated better.
I didn’t realize you caught lizards, too. What fun!
Yeah Dad!!! I hate magpies! Getem’ with your wrist rocket!!!
He’s working on it, Sharon! 🙂
Hi Kathy, Just wanted to let you know I enjoy your blog. I read it every day and it seems I know you better than ever. I loved your information about your travels and now about your new home. Keep it up. Glad you are enjoying life and seeing new things. Love to you and Richie. Leal
Thank you, Leal. We are working towards traveling again. I’d love to travel, but just not for so long at one time. That was fun, but way too much togetherness. 🙂