Houston..we have had bud break...the leaves are out!

Arkansas Early Spring Greetings from the Hot Tub!

It is a week before Easter and lots has happened since my last post. But I am really excited about what is going to happen this week. Josiah, Levi, Shannon and Matt are coming to visit Pop-Pop (that's me).

Notice Levi peeking!

Josiah is excited about coming to grandpa's Real House and not the House on Wheels (his words).  Matt and Shannon are in the process of getting ready to move to Alabama and I am excited that they are making the time to visit me.  I am hoping for good weather for park activities and am planning egg coloration fun stuff. Shannon is probably excited that she will not have to plan and cook an Easter meal.  Matt is looking to get away for a respite.  So for a few days my house will entertain and be their haven.

Now back to Chip's happenings since the last posting.

Green everywhere. In early March there was nada.

Vinca flowers attracts butterflies and  bees

Spring has truly sprung here... along with thunderstorms and associated hail and deadly tornadoes.  None of the recent fatalities occurred near here and my prayers go out to those who suffered personal loss. Along with deep cleaning the real house, I am redoing the landscaping at the front. 300 square feet of commercial grade weed fabric and 8 cubic yards of chocolate river rock. I am nearly done. (Hurray for the hot tub)

Healthiest my Vinca has ever been

No need to weed here! 6" minus pebbles!

Eureka Springs is build on a hillside. Cresent Hotel at top.

Downtown Eureka Springs. Notice Bike Cop

Eureka Springs itself has also blossomed with colors and planned convention activities from UFO gatherings to Hill Country Music and Biker rallies.  Bearded street musicians in bib overalls and colorful funky hats and skirts roam the store fronts with open music cases for tips. There is no flat spot to be found it seems. All the buildings conform to the land shape and space available. The town as well as its people are a crazy collection of eclectic artists, old hippies, musicians, intellectuals and good salt-of-the-earth common people. I like it!

Jim&Marilyn-Chip&Daisy-Don-Ricka&MaryLee&Rick

 Jim&Val-Great next door neighbors

My life was brightened with a visit from Daisy. I met her in the Fall at my 40th college reunion at Va Tech where she is on staff.  We hit the fun spots. I introduced her to some of my neighbors and friends.  We then took a short day trip to Missouri where she introduced me to some of her family and friends too.

Here Daisy, Darlene and I help Rick celebrate his 6X birthday in my sunroom

Notice redbuds at Lake of the Ozarks

The other highlight of this past month is that I made my first quiche ever. And it was very good. I had spinach, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, turkey bacon and swiss cheese in it. A man quiche.  Yum! My thanks to my friends Lee and Jay for feeding me lots of that fare this past winter. You were my inspiration.

I have several great food recipes that I have 'found' while on the road. I can post the recipes?

 My next blog will have several pictures of Shannon/Matt and the boys. I am just giving you a heads ups. I am a proud grandpa who is thankful for the many blessings that this stage of life brings. I am going to enjoy them all. It sure feels good to be on the road to contentment.

Sunset view from my deck. God is good!