How Fred Crashed the Party and When He Returned

Yesterday, Keith found a desert tortoise in our garden while he was weeding. We kept checking to see where he was and were able to keep finding him for about two hours and then he disappeared. Leah named him Fred, because turtles need simple names. Later, we decided that Franklin would be a good name (for obvious reasons). There has been a name controversy ever since. But, when Fred/Franklin left we didn't know if we'd see him again. We could only tell the party guests about Fred.

And now for party pictures...Yesterday was a beautiful afternoon to be outside. J was sick so we tried to stay outside and he tried to avoid us when we had to come inside. I wasn't feeling the best (weather related) so Keith had to manage all the grilling and preparing - he did a great job.

Today, we looked out in the garden and Fred/Franklin was there again. He comes in the morning around 10am and leaves the garden around 3pm. E watched how he gets out of the garden (and we think we need to make a little ramp to make the climb easier) and where he goes when he leaves (he burrows into the rocks under the natal plum right next to the garden). So, we have a new guest and I think its pretty cool.

1. Keith planting a tomato plant, 2. Egg plant 3. Yellow Bell Pepper 4. automatic watering system!
5. Blackberry flowers 6. Fred/Franklin 7. more blackberry flowers

We also setup our Spring potted garden. We've started out with three pots: one for tomatoes, one for egg plant (they were out of zucchini), and one for bell peppers. We have been inspired by Keith's brother John (who may start a pumpkin growing contest this summer) and Pop who was very successful with his garden last year. Since the plants will be automatically ordered watered, it is more likely that the plants will live and provide veggies for us. Of course, we like to think we are gardening since veggies are soo expensive right now . . . so we'll just not talk about spending $100 in supplies in order to save a buck (how many egg plants will we have to eat to break even?)

Will Turner: [skeptically] He roped a couple of sea turtles?

Mr. Gibbs: Aye, sea turtles!

Will Turner: What did he use for rope?

[Mr. Gibbs pauses, uncertain.]

[They look up and see Jack.]

Jack Sparrow: Human hair... from my back.

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl