So much has happened...

...over the last 17 days!

I found out that traffic actually does exist here, unfortunately. This is at 4:30pm on a Friday-it went for ten miles that I could see.

See that blue Toyota at the top center, I really like that color. This was the best shot I could manage.

Mark made delicious stuffed zucchini with garden tomatoes and red peppers.

I found Hanz and Tubbs ready for bed.

Mark got a scary hair cut.

I saw an owl at Safeway.

James, Caleb and Mark picked tomatoes.

James,

Caleb,

and Mark blanched tomatoes.

Last but not least, I went on the river...twice! The first time (Thur 22nd) we went for over an hour just to get to know what the water feels like in a Kayak. The second time (Thur 29th) we journeyed down a longer stretch for over two hours while I learned about crossing the river in a Kayak and reading the rapids so I don't run into rocks (which I did a lot of). During first trip I successfully practiced rolling all the way over in calm water. The rapids were pretty mellow but still felt like a roller coaster. Throughout the second trip I flipped over accidentally twice and someone else, also in a Kayak, had to help me flip back upright both times. Balance seems to be the most challenging aspect of kayaking so far. When I fell over the first time I used up all my breath shouting 'whoa!' as I my mouth hit the water. I attempted to flip myself back over, but was holding the paddle all wrong. By the time I realized that it wasn't going to work I was about out of breath. Thankfully a fellow kayaker was at my side instantly, as always, and he helped me back upright. That was the first time that I admittedly panicked. However, the second time I was a little more calm. I think I was able to take a breath before going under the water. Again, I tried to roll upright on my own, but even though the paddle was in the right position this time, I still wasn't quite quick enough or as strong as I needed to be. I had a great time and love being out on the water. A special thanks to teachers Jon Wilmot, Caleb Campbell and of course Mr. Mark Fretts.

Here is a picture of our heirloom tomatoes, so delicious!

Amber's First Kayak

Yesterday Caleb, Mark and I- with breakfast sandwiches in our tummies- drove over to the South Hill to look at a yellow Wavesport Kayak that a fellow EWU alum and Spokane County citizen had for sale. Thanks to Caleb's superb knowledge of kayaks we were able to adjust and readjust to find that the boat did indeed fit me! A handful of cash later, I walked away with a kayak, skirt(which keeps the boat airtight when flipping over), paddle, helmet and PFD.

Today, we (Caleb, Mark and myself) took our kayaks out to Fish Lake for my second kayak lesson. Because of Caleb's superb kayaking skills I learned to brace and almost roll, which means one more lesson and I should be nailing my roll.

My cute little family

The Jamesapeño part du

Today, James did it again. One whole jalapeño equals a very hot James.

*See post on September 9, 2010

Pig Out In The Park 2011

While Mark was far away in the land of Idaho rafting the Salmon River, James and I met up with friends Kim, Katie and (new friend) Vince at Pig Out in The Park and crossed the bridge over beautiful Spokane River.

Time for food.
For appetizers: expensive grilled corn on the cob
Main Meal: Gyros (very delicious!)

Then off to roam the Beer Gardens

There were three BGs within the park. I found some fantastic chardonnay...if only I could remember what it was.

We enjoyed seeing the sun set.