Our Big Catch

John works a topwater lure in the area where we saw a fish feeding.

I'd like to tell you that John caught a big fish at the spot we named the Redfish Hole, but he didn't. If fishing was only about catching, then we would have given up a long time ago. Our big catch of the day was being together and enjoying the beautiful scenery. I don't think it could have a more gorgeous day!

Colorado River Sunset

I find that sitting outside, watching the sun go down is one of the finest ways to end the day. Even so, I don't do it often enough. There's real benefit in taking time out of our busy lives to stop and enjoy the moment. That thing you're doing can probably wait 30 minutes or so. Wishing you all a beautiful sunset.

Stop and consider the wondrous works of God. ~ Job 37:14 (ESV)

Ruby-throated Hummingbird Outside My Window

Mr. Ruby-throated hummingbird with his brilliant red gorget has staked a claim at our feeders. In this photo he is preparing to take off after a hummer just out of view who is daring to enter his territory. 

Beach Baby

Remembering Rose's first experience at the beach--June 2015.

I don't know what this stuff is, but I like the way it feels on my feet.

It's so pretty, Mama. I think I like the beach.

I changed my mind. I do NOT like the beach. It's loud and scary here. Why is the water moving?

I know you say it's okay, but I'm not sure.

Hold me, Mama!

Let's get out of here. I'm leaving.

Okay, I'll give it one more try.

Hey, you know what? This IS really fun! I never want to leave.

Zinnia Meadow

I loved this planting of zinnias at the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas. Zinnias are one of my happy flowers.

English Muffin Bread

I think almost everyone loves to eat homemade bread, but not everyone enjoys the effort it takes to make it. Well, if that describes you, then may I introduce you to *English Muffin Bread. 

In less than two hours (including stirring, rising and baking), you can be taking two loaves of delicious, yeasty bread out of your oven. 

This no-knead bread is similar to English muffins in texture--light and chewy with holes for soaking up whatever you spread on it. It's great toasted, of course, but also makes a fantastic French toast. 

I only just discovered English Muffin Bread, but it is already a family favorite in our home.

*The recipe I use is from Cook's Country. It's free, but requires registration on their site.

Edited on 1/7/16: Only current recipes on Cook's Country can be viewed with free registration. I believe you must now pay a subscription fee to see this recipe on their site. I found the same recipe posted here, with slightly different wording.

Butterfly by the River

These white butterflies (Great Southern White, I think) are numerous in Matagorda right now. This one kept flying into the shots I was taking of the river, so I zoomed in from where I was standing and took its picture. Later I applied a filter to jazz up the overall color of the photo, which was mostly gray before.

My Be Still Place

There is a place on the banks of the Colorado River that I love to go to. It's a tiny place, but that's the beauty of it. Housekeeping takes so little time. Meals are simple affairs, but tastier because of it.

A small garden out front welcomes butterflies and hummingbirds and fulfills my need to grow things. It's just the right size to keep weed free with minimal effort.

Which leaves more time in the day to enjoy the view and contemplate the majesty of the one who has blessed me so richly.

“Be still, and know that I am God.
    I will be exalted among the nations,
    I will be exalted in the earth!”  ~Psalm 46:10 (ESV) 

Fishermen in Silhouette

I don't think these fishermen caught any trout either. And they certainly didn't catch a shark.

Let's Go Fishing

We'll fish from the beach in Matagorda. The surf is calm which usually brings the trout close to shore to feed. I've heard reports that people are catching their limit of five trout in an hour. This should be good.

No bites that first hour, but finally some action. Whatever is on the line is big and putting up a good fight. All we need is one good sized trout for a meal.

What is that? Is it what I think it is?

Yep, it's a shark, hooked in the side. Hey, be still shark. I want to take your picture.

Remove the hook carefully and let's put him back.

And take one last picture.

Matagorda Beach Sunrise in Three Snaps

Myles and Geep

Grandson Myles came for a visit last month right before he turned 10 months. Don't you just love those rosy cheeks and little round belly? He's a squeezable sort of baby that everyone wants to get their hands on. His easy-going personality and occasional high pitched squeals remind me of his daddy. Such a cutie!

Tawny Emperor Butterflies

Tawny Emperor butterflies (and flies too) gather on a feeding station at the National Butterfly Center in Mission Texas. They are attracted by the sweet banana brew that is brushed into grooves on an old tree limb. I think it would be fun to try this in our butterfly garden at home.

Purple Water Lily

Purple water lilies at the National Butterfly Center, Mission, Texas. The colors in this photo make me happy!

Rose

Granddaughter Rose on a recent visit to our house (age 18 months). This sweet girl is a bundle of energy and full of pizzazz. She loves me, but Geep is her favorite. That's okay. He's my favorite, too!