Lakeside bookworm

Frosty Trees

2012-02-10T17:01:00.000-08:00

As we continue to have an unusual winter season, we do get to enjoy such awesome sights as these frosty trees. While neighboring towns received snow, all we got was frost!

And with the temperature rising above freezing AGAIN, all this beautiful frost was gone by noon! We can't claim very warm temperature today, Feb. 10, as we are having to endure a wind chill that is way below zero!! Brrrrr! Oh well, we'll be warming up again in a few days!!

New cats

2012-01-28T10:16:00.000-08:00

Since losing my "Misty" a few months ago I have been keeping these two half siblings of Misty well fed this winter. Fortunately, with our extremely mild winter it hasn't been hard to feed them. They both were seen awhile back in December actually eating a fish from the lake as the lake wasn't frozen at that time. The snow you see in these pictures that were taken earlier this week has already completely melted. My deck is totally snow-free today (1-28-12) and may even be warm enough later next week for me to sit outside. My deck faces a southerly direction which means on a sunny day it is nice and warm most all day long.

Different winters!

2012-01-26T15:12:00.000-08:00

Besides the difference in cars notice the difference in amount of SNOW!!

The big snow was from a year ago and the lesser snow shows the small amount we got last week - and it being the end of January 2012!! The lack of snow this year has caused the cancellation of not only the snowmobile drag races but the "kids' sledding party" at the log cabin! The popular Arctic Open golf event is still scheduled for a shallow area of the lake but I hear that should a golfer break through the ice he/she may find themself in knee deep MUD!

First Newborn Recipient!

2012-01-21T09:19:00.001-08:00

Five week old Katelyn

was the first recipient of a free book from the library this week.

This is a new service the library is starting. Thanks to the Friends of the Library
and the library, a new book will be given to all families in our local area when they are blessed with the arrival a newborn babe! The parents get to choose which book they want (board books are being offered at this time) and the lucky book chosen by our first parents was one entitled "Sweet Dreams, Little Bunny" by Maribeth Boelts. Another family with a newborn son wasn't able to come in for this first-time event but will be receiving their new book at a later date. We look forward to seeing more of the these precious recipients in the future!

Beginning of Game Fun

2012-01-17T11:51:00.000-08:00

Started our first "after school hour" board game fun despite the fact there wasn't any school (due to the MLK holiday). When there isn't school we don't usually get as many children as on school days. That is ok though as those who do come still enjoy the popcorn and dring along with whatever activity is planned for the day.

Seen here are children playing two of the many games that were made available. I even prepared a special "hot chocolate" marshmellow treat and then forgot to read the story that went with it because we were all having so much fun playing games that the time got away from us!!

"Piggy Bank" Window Display

2012-01-09T10:05:00.000-08:00

The "theme" of this month's library window display is to make a new year resolution to "save money" - thus these interesting banks belonging to a collection by board president Judy Kramer and her grandchildren. However, the little small one between the yellow and blue bank on the top left shelf is actually a 75 year old bank belonging to her husband. May we all have a more prosperous 2012!

Warm January day-2012

2012-01-05T11:25:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable!! I was literally outside this a.m. SHOVELING leaves with my snow shovel! I filled 4 bags of leaves that didn't get bagged earlier this year. As you can see that both the back and front area of my lakeside home look more like an autumn day rather than a winter day in January!! Had a call from my daughter in Miami saying that she was "freezing" down there! Of course, Floridians think they are "freezing" if the temps gets lower than 70 degrees!!

Snowy New Mexico -2011

2012-01-02T10:17:00.000-08:00

Just returned from my trip to Carlsbad, N.M. where they had the snow we usually have here in Iowa!! I was meant to take this trip as the weather for this time of year was most cooperative with sunshine the entire trip and no road issues (except all the wind on my return trip). These pictures just show a few of the snowy scenes I saw which include snow in Carlsbad AND up at Ski Apache at Ruidoso, N.M. One of my friends is sitting next to a snowman (slightly smaller than its original size) that she built over the Christmas weekend. Unfortunately for the snowman he was melted away by midweek as was most of all the other snow. Even up at Ruidoso, the 60 degree weather didn't leave much snow in the town itself but fortunately for skiers there was enough snow up on the mountains for them.

Iowa Dec. 2011

2011-12-22T15:18:00.000-08:00

December in Iowa of 2011 may well go down in the record books as unusually mild. This picture off my lakeside deck shows the mere dusting of snow received just 3 days before Christmas!! It was almost all melted by noon!

The beautiful "trees" can be seen in an Omaha mall and the Nativity scene is in my home. I thought the two house plants really added a "realistic" touch. I hadn't used them in that location before and am glad I made that change this year. Also, if one didn't know, the 3 wise men really didn't see Baby Jesus in the stable but about 2 years later in a home in Bethlehem. (Matthew 2:11). They had a long way to travel and over the most desolate area of land which is part of the reason.

Christmas in L.V., 2011

2011-12-16T16:03:00.000-08:00

What a difference a year makes!! Last year at this time our first "Candle walk" and special Christmas events were cancelled due to a terrible blizzard. This year was totally different with sunshine and much milder temps. Lots of goodies were available for purchase at the local American Legion Bldg. along with this special visitor. The traditional horse pulled wagon rides were "braved" by many despite the rather chilly breeze. Since I had company from out of town coming to my home in the evening I didn't get to the other events but heard that about 25 young people did take the the candle walk from the museum to main street and a lot of fun was had by those who attended the bingo later in the evening. Lots of great prizes were won. I will have to make a better attempt to attend that next year.

Snow Fun at the Library

2011-12-03T11:06:00.000-08:00

Our first snowy day of the season excited a few of our library "locals"! Between checking out their Facebook news and playing some Wii games, these energetic girls decided to make a minature snowman on the library's front lawn. As a reward they were treated to popcorn. Today's snow is the gentle, pretty kind one wishes would fall on Christmas Eve! Will have to wait and see what actually happens on that day this year.

A frosty, icy Nov. Morn

2011-11-28T11:05:00.000-08:00

Took these pictures this late November morning to show the early morning frost on my deck and the division of ice and water on the lake. With the below freezing temps. rising again into the 40s the ice will again probably turn to water. Our unusually mild November afternoons (despite some rather chilly winds at times) have enabled me to continue saving money on electricity as I haven't had to turn on a crawl space heater that I use to keep pipes from freezing once our winter weather settles in for good. Sunny days have also added to the pleasant days of November 2011. Thanksgiving Day itself was a real record heat breaker in Omaha where I was on that day this year - they reached into the 70s!!!!

Lake View's 2011 Tourism "Party"

2011-11-21T10:28:00.000-08:00

Hooray for our small Iowa town!! We received the Iowa 2011 Community Tourism of the Year Award! A special celebration party was open to all on Thursday the 10th with lots and lots of food and drink! Pictured here are some of the key people who had a part in organizing the event as well as providing the information to the state of Iowa regarding all the wonderful year round events this small Iowa town provided for both residents and visitors! For more information on all of our events check out the town's website http://www.lakeview-ia.com/ or lvcity@iowatelecom.net.

Library Open House

2011-11-10T11:36:00.000-08:00

After a year from our major renovation project when absolutely EVERYTHING was removed to do foundation repair work, the Lake View Public Library held its open house this week to showcase all the work that was done and to honor all those who contributed both financially and physically in this project. Newly appointed President of the Friends of the Library, Lorraine Peterson provided both the beautiful window display of fall items but she also provided the table decor and goodies for the open house. She is seen here with board treasurer, Karen Van Meveren, who was president of the library board of trustees during the year of all the renovation work. It was a rough year to be president but she did a great job.

Halloween at the Library

2011-11-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Our first ever "spook room" at the library was a huge success this year. Once the lights were out and we had jack-o-lanterns and candles all lit, it really did take on a spooky feeling. We will definitely want to decorate again next year as it brought in over 60 children not counting the parents that came with them. Hopefully word will now spread and next year we will have more (the downtown businesses had over 200 ).

Two of my able assistants did their part and dressed out for the occasion and helped pass out goodies. Volunteer patrons also contributed by loaning some of the "spooky" decor items which, along with all the cobwebs and Halloween visitors, made for a fun event.

Spooky Library Room

2011-10-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

Spook Trail time in Lake View. Between 4:30 and 6:00 p.m. on Monday, October 31, trick or treaters will be roaming the streets of the down town where most if not all businesses will dole out Halloween treats. Since beginning the library's "after school hour" the library meeting room has been acquiring all kinds of creepy decor leading up to this final October event. Beginning with the creation of a life size scarecrow, bats & skeletons hanging around, spiders weaving their webs all over the room and pumpkins&jack-o-lantern art showing up all over, this room is ready for "masked visitors" of all shapes and sizes come Monday, the 31st. Some added items include a skeleton head that blinks and another skeleton that sings a silly tune. Black candles will be lit along with a special votive candle that along with the hanging black entrance bat will create those typically frightening sounds one associates with Halloween.

Do wish everyone a safe and pleasant Halloween!

October "after school hour" projects

2011-10-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

The Monday "after school hour" I initiated this year has really been a successful endeavor. Pictured here are scenes from our "skeleton day" and "spider day". You will also notice the life size scarecrow the students made during our "scarecrow day". Our visiting live "skeleton" in one picture helped pass out unique skeleton shaped candy on a pretzel stick that his mother so graciously made for the students. A team competition was held on Skeleton Day to see which team could assemble skeletal bones the quickest. One of the special spider activities was the making of cake roll "spiders" using pretzels for legs and red hots for eyes. We also played the game Twister. With the help of a library volunteer, our meeting room is getting spookier each week. Pictures of this room will be forthcoming as we complete our October Halloween themes before going into a November theme.

The Pumpkin Patch at Valles, Ne.

2011-10-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to visit this excellent Halloween extravaganza recently. It is an extensively decorated pumpkin patch along with a large gift shop and numerous areas of family fun as seen in some of these pictures. I was there to specifically to see and hear my friend's grandson who plays in the teenage band called Crimson Dawn. That is a great band group I might add. I would like to have them be one Lake View's Stone Pier Concert performers for some time in the future.

Sept. 2011 Cabin coffee event

2011-09-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

Another great turnout for our "Coffee at the Cabin" event. Close to 20 people, including more men than usual enjoyed a perfect weather morning to fellowship outside the 'ole log cabin. Coffee, juice and delicious pastries were available as well. The next one is scheduled for Wednesday, October 26 at the usual 9:00 a.m. time. If the weather should be cold enough, we enjoy eating and visiting inside near the working fireplace. Anyone is welcome.

Halloween in September - 2011

2011-09-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

The annual "Halloween in September" at our local Camp Crescent Campground is set to be open in all its glitz and glimmer tonight. Although a camper's event, many local children along with curious adults will "trick or treat" throughout the campground this evening. The pictures shown here are just a few of the "haunting scenes" participants have set up. Once it becomes dark, there will be lots of lights and TREATS!! A special thanks to all those who take the time to make this a special September event in small town Iowa.

"Scarecrow" After school event

2011-09-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

Scarecrows was the theme for our 2nd After school Hour event. Didn't have as many children as our "gingerbread" event last week but that was probably because it wasn't advertised the same. Now that word will be getting out that this will be a weekly event I expect the numbers to increase. Those that did attend this week had a great time again "competing" at some Wii sport games, participating in a story/poem about a scarecrow who needed to make "scary faces" to scare away the crows, AND the stuffing of our own life-size scarecrow! It is still standing in our meeting room and actually does cause one to "jump" when not expecting to see it standing there.

Next week's theme will be centered around football season with bats, spiders, apples/pumpkins to be upcoming themes. This weekly event is for K-4th grade students and includes popcorn, drink, prizes and other edible goodies.

Gingerbread Man- After School Event

2011-09-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

The first After School Hour event went off in great style with a gingerbread man theme- thanks to a new picture book entitled The Gingerbread Man - Loose in the School by Laura Murray. 30 children from grades K-4 croweded into our not hardly large enough meeting room to eat popcorn, design paper gingerbread men (seen above) compete in Wii sport games, hear the story, go on a gingerbread man scavenger hunt throughout the library and then end up decorating edible gingerbread man shaped cookies! Since only a few pairs got to compete on the Wii the competition, along with prizes, will continue next Monday and other Mondays up until November when the weather gets a little unpredictable. Will try and plan for the younger children to be able to do their activitity in a different area if the crowd of older children is as large as this first one. All in all everyone had a good time. I failed to get a picture of my able assistant, Joyce, who was even wearing a special gingerbread apron. Will get a belated one to post.

The View from my home- Sept. 2011

2011-09-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

Here are some new scenic views from my lakeside home: a gorgeous sunset over the lake, leaves changing color, my recently manicured secret garden area and some lovely cloud formations. It is scenes like these that make the coming winter weather worth living through!

Carlsbad,N.M. homes

2011-09-02T11:41:00.000-07:00

While visiting my New Mexico "hometown" this past summer my friend took me on a tour of different houses. The very adobe Spanish style home is one that is located along the Pecos River that runs through Carlsbad and should I ever want to give up my lovely Iowa lakeside home, this is where I would probably want to move to. The other two houses pictured here are definitely out of my price range but are just two of many lovely homes in this desert town. They, too, have the Pecos River in their backyard. All homes along the Pecos have a special "Christmas on the Pecos" event where they have very elaborate yard decorations all lit up for tourists and locals to view while floating down the river on large pontoons designed for this annual event.

Kid's Pioneer Day 2011

2011-08-29T09:56:00.000-07:00

We had another successful Kid's Pioneer Day at our authentic log cabin. There were 45 plus kids in attendance along with several of their parents. The weather was most cooperative providing sunshine and a cool breeze. Three boys from Harlan were impressed with their Lincoln log construction (one had to run to his campsite to get his own camera) and our local outdoorsman, Lon, was another big hit this year with his fire making skills and log sawing. Girls seem to continue to actually enjoy washing clothes the pioneer way and dressing up in long dresses. Former school teacher, Lois, filled in this year as our one room school teacher and there were funs games to play as well. Bags of jelly beans were given out to game participants. Homemade ice cream and even homemade butter skills were given with samples to keep . Ron & Joyce again provided fry bread and stew for everyone's taste buds. Another teacher showed off her natural dye making skills along with the homemade ice cream. Looking forward to adding something new to next year's event along with the standby favorites! It is an event being held every last Saturday in August for those needing to put it on their calendars.

Carlsbad Cavern's Jim White memorial

2011-08-23T11:48:00.001-07:00

During my recent visit to Carlsbad, N.M. I visited this new memorial to the somewhat infamous rancher/farmer who is credited with discovering the Carlsbad Caverns that are located about 20 miles south of Carlsbad. It is hard to imagine someone willing to climb down into the then never discovered caverns since there were not the electric lights one can now depend on to light the way. Also, as depicted here, Jim White had only a rope ladder to use compared to the nicely paved walkway tourists can now use - not to mention there is even an elevator for the less agile. Having lived in this area most of my adult life including my college days I have visited the caverns more than once but have never taken the more primitive trip that is now available for the more hardy cavers since additional cave openings have been discovered. I prefer now to visit the large gift shop and restaurant at the top that has a spectacular view of the surrounding desert all the way into Mexico "on a clear day"!

Kid's Pioneer Day Pics!

2011-08-19T09:48:00.000-07:00

The 3rd annual Kid's Pioneer Day events are scheduled for August 27, from 10:00 a.m. - Noon! Here are pictures from last year's event. The popular sack races along with some other games will take place and "winners" get jelly bean prizes. Old fashioned laundry and dressing up in pioneer type clothing (although they have to settle for adult sizes) has also been a favorite event. This year kids will actually get to sit at a spinning wheel to experience how one works. They will also get to see how butter was made and taste some homemade butter AND ICE CREAM this year! Lon Buse, our avid outdoorsman, has another surprise task planned for this year. In the past he showed the children how to saw wood to make a log bed and how to whittle whistles out of wood. The Bettin family will continue to provide food cooked over the open fireplace inside the log cabin. Children of all ages are welcome to attend and there is no charge.

"Poker Run" on Blackhawk Lake

2011-08-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

I got to see a little of the annual "poker run" this summer -- especially since one of my neighbors was one of the "stops" boaters could retrieve their prize. Seen here are some of the hardy souls who enjoyed the sunshine from the dock location and then there are those who chose to merely partake from a more comfortable location in the shade! It was a great day weatherwise for those who had signed up for the event as was the weather for the recent Carp Fishing Contest that took place this past weekend. Learned that some lucky person did catch a $1,000 fish!!

"Fishing Gear"

2011-08-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

This is the newest window display at the Lake View Public Library - "Fishing Gear". It is a collection from one of the local residents who represents the many avid fishing enthusiasts that come to beautiful Black Hawk Lake! In fact, the 30th annual Carp Fishing Contest is scheduled for this August 13-14. $10,000 is also the "lure" that attracts! There are 10 fish tagged that could earn someone a thousand dollars and there are also other prizes for those who catch the smallest, largest and other identifying factors. If the weather on this weekend is as great as it is today, the lake area should be a very busy place!

Fiesta Party Finale

2011-08-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

This year's summer reading program ended with a "Fiesta Party"! I even brought back a pinata from my trip to New Mexico just days before. Since a label says "Made in Mexico" that must make it authentic right?! Pictured here are the main prize winners of the summer and a few of the participants who helped smash open the pinata - thus the joyful scramble to pick up its contents. We ended up using one of the prize totebags as the blindfold. I was pleased to average over 20 children at the other 4 special programs held in June but didn't get that many at this final program. That was ok as those that did come got more to eat!!

Best Western SaddleBack Motel

2011-08-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite Best Western Motels that I usually stay at when traveling from Iowa to New Mexico is this one located in Oklahoma City, OK. My grandson and I recently spent the night here at the Saddleback Motel. You can probably tell why it is a favorite from all the southwestern decor in the lobby, restaurant area and even on the walls that lead up to an exercise room! The food and rooms are also a real plus. It is also located very close to a huge waterpark although I have not yet taken any of my children to visit it.

Car Display

2011-07-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

Come see the different cars on display at the Lake View Public Library this month. Local resident John Barker has quite a variety of antique cars that are now being displayed in the window display area of the library. Maybe there is one you may have ridden in or driven in by-gone days.

July 7-8 Activities

2011-07-09T12:49:00.000-07:00

The weather has cooperated great this week for two special events in town. A mini circus was here on Thursday and our 3rd Stone Pier Summer Concert performance was held on Friday night. Both events were well attended - thanks I'm sure to the weather. Our annual biggest event of the year is coming is this next week so if you are in the area be sure and come to it. Our one of a kind parade of water floats is always the big highlight along with the fireworks, rides, food stands, etc.

Coffee at the Lake View log cabin

2011-07-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

This wonderfully restored original log cabin has become a popular place for our Wednesday morning "Coffee at the Cabin" events. At our recent gathering in June we were honored with a visit from the local town mayor. Although it is mostly a female gathering we have been honored with other male visitors such as senator Steve Kettering, banker Matt Huegerich as well as a few husbands of the women who attend. Our next scheduled gathering is Wednesday, August 31 at 9:00 a.m. Coffee and "goodies" are included free of charge. During the summer months the log cabin, the museum and this "school house" are open on Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. through Labor Day except on our big carnival weekend, the third weekend in July. Free will donations are accepted at both places.

2011-07-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

Ida Grove, Iowa ,is the home of Ken and Dart Harskamp who have this beautiful garden open to visitors. I, as a member of the Lake View Garden Club was there on a "field trip" this past Thursday and what a treat it was to not only see all the summer flowers and shrubs blooming but Dart prepared a delicious lunch for us as well. Because the temps were in the 90s we didn't eat in their lovely pool area but were invited to eat inside their unique home. That was also something special to see as Ken is also an artist and has several paintings of flowers and outdoor scenes. There are so many different plants that I am at a loss to begin to identify them in these pictures but recommend anyone making plans to visit. Ken and Dart (short for Darlene) are very pleasant hosts and love to showoff their horticulture skills.

Major Windstorm Damage

2011-06-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

75 mile per hour winds were reported in our area last night. Pictured here are just a few of the tree damages as a result. The huge root seen along with the rest of this great shade tree will not only be missed for its shade but did damage to the house it landed on as barely seen in the background! Thought the branch in the middle of the trampoline was rather unique. Another picture here is taken in the yard of our local museum.

The New Glacier Bay Restaurant

2011-06-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

Lake View's newest restaurant/bar finally opened for business recently. Pictured here is a view from the outside seating area where one can easily see Blackhawk Lake. The inside is decorated with many vintage pictures and relics of the area from bygone days. The food is a good as when we once were able to eat at a former lakeside restaurant, Ryan's East End. Maybe because the same chef is doing the cook'in!! Anyway, I heartily recommend a visit. They even have their dock available for those wishing to travel by water to eat. At the present it is only open in the evening but well worth the wait!!

Come winter I am sure the large fireplace will be an added attraction, although with the unseasonably cool summer we have already experienced we may not have to wait until winter to make use of a fireplace.

Relay for Life luncheon

2011-06-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

The local Methodist Church recently held a specially decorated benefit luncheon to help the Relay for Life. Pastor Dave and able assistant Elaine are seen here amidst some of the uniquely decorated tables. The meal included a variety of salads along with those ever tempting homemade desserts.

Bike Rodeo

2011-06-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

Iowa's weather cooperated nicely for another of Lake View's new events - A BIKE RODEO. One of the town's new businesses, Up Around the Bend was the site of the announcer for such events as:

weaving in around road cones to pick off tennis balls and replace them without them falling to the ground;throwing a water balloon over a high bar; as well as taking a bite out of a hot dog while driving under the bar. The event was followed by a Poker Run which I'm sure the good weather was a positive asset for this event along with the ribbon cutting later in the afternoon of the newly completed Sauk Bike Trail from Lake View to Carroll, Iowa.

A new summer "hot dog vendor" was also available along Main Street for those needing a quick lunch following the "rodeo" events. This particular vendor can usually be found near one of our stone piers. I need to try one of their jalapeno sausages soon!

Unique Library- Sac Co. Conservation Center

2011-06-10T11:50:00.000-07:00

Not many libraries have animal/bone displays in them. Pictured here are a few shots from the newly dedicated Sac County Conservation Center. The entire room is lined with exhibits of various native animals. You can see that there are even exhibits on some of the book shelves. Again, I encourage anyone to make time to visit this wonderful new facility in Sac County.

Sac Co. Conservation Dedication

2011-06-06T11:52:00.000-07:00

The dedication of the new Sac County Conservation Center was held on Sunday, June 5 as seen in some of these pictures. It is a wonderful addition to the county and well worth a visit. There are several "hands on" exhibits for young and old to enjoy and a very unique library that I will "showcase" in a future blog. Before I took this picture of this huge "nest" two children were sitting amidst the "eggs"playing with the "baby birds". Barb Bloom was the main speaker along with others including County Supervisor, Dean Stock. Just before the actual ribbon cutting ceremony a rescued hawk was released and then we all were glad to return to the coolness of the interior where refreshments were also available in the townstair kitchen/classroom area. Be sure and plan a visit to see this new facility between Lake View and Sac City, Iowa.

New Infomation Sign

2011-06-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

Check out this new information sign recently installed at the entrance to our Sauk Bike Trail! It not only lists upcoming events but can show pictures, do animation and even display short video clips!! Those volunteers who used to have to manually put up notices are to commended for their service and can now "retire" their job to modern technology! The map kiosk is still available for viewing and one can also enjoy the work of our local Park Board members who landscape all the beautiful flowers and shrubbery at this biking entrance. This is just one of many great reasons to come visit this small Iowa town.

Memorial Day weekend in Lake View

2011-05-31T10:54:00.000-07:00

Despite the weather this past weekend, many of the usual Memorial Day weekend events and activities were enjoyed. Monday's windy but sunny weather allowed for the miniature golfers to enjoy the "golf" site and boaters could "hide out" from all the wind in the bay area. Crescent Campground was packed and were probably glad for Monday's sunshine as well. Fishing was great out in my area of the lake on Sunday during the wet and misty weather of that day. I heard that fish like that kind of weather. My nephew and other family members caught 12-13 edible fish that were eaten on Monday. There were also over 20 some garage sales going on over the weekend. The picture shown here is the "left overs" of my friend's sale. Not pictured are the other Saturday morning events of plant sales, bake sales and the pancake breakfast.

One does need to be reminded though, that the reason for Memorial Day is to honor those in our Armed Services, both past and present. Rev. Herman Kramer gave a wonderful keynote address at the annual service sponsored by our local American Legion Post. May we all continue to pray for those still risking their lives so that others may live in peace.

Sauk Bike Trail

2011-05-20T12:23:00.000-07:00

Bike riders and walkers- here is Lake View's beautiful and unique entrance to the Sauk Rail Trail. This June 11 there will be ribbon cuttings at the different towns that the trail passes. The event starts in Carroll, Iowa and ends in Lake View around 3:00 p.m. Lets hope the weather will be more cooperative by then than it has been for most of this spring season!
(picture courtesy of Emily Busch)

Boy Scout Display

2011-05-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

In recognition of our local Boy Scout Troop 195 and all Boy Scout Troops, this display has been set up in our library display window for the month of May. Last year was the 100th anniversary of scouting and I, for one, have a deep respect for this organization - especially in light of the legal issues they have had to deal with because of the so called "politically correct" and unjust (in my opinion) demands our country has tried to inflict on this wonderful organization. Here, in this small Iowa town the local troop have willingly provided volunteer service in a variety of ways from helping move furniture from our local museum/log cabin to serving as waiters at the many fund raisers throughout the year-to name just a few. If volunteer help is needed by almost any church, organization or individual you can be sure our Lake View Boys Scouts are "prepared" to help!!

Park Picnic Tables - seasonal signs

2011-05-09T10:46:00.000-07:00

One of the seasonal signs around Lake View's Camp Crescent are the placement of all those picnic tables!! As seen in one picture, they are all stacked up in a line like "snow breakers" in winter and then spread out along all the camping sites for the other 3 seasons. I do think they took a little longer getting placed this spring due to our longer length of cool weather. With our temps in the 80s and possible 90 by tomorrow, campers will soon be flocking to the shores of our beautiful Black Hawk Lake.

Arbor Day 2011 Honorees

2011-05-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

Arbor Day 2011 was a much more pleasant day to be out than some previous years. This year three trees were planted in honor of three members of the Sproul family with daughter/sister Judy being the living recipient. Mr. & Mrs. Sproul were active members of this community for many years and will be missed by many. Both our city administrator and our city mayor along with Iowa congressman Kettering were on hand to give fitting tributes. These newly planted trees, white flowering crabs, can be seen at the entrance to the Sauk Bike Trail - a great place to walk or ride a bike!

Coffee at the Log Cabin - 2011

2011-04-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

Our first "coffee at the cabin" for 2011 was held this past Wednesday with a good showing of 8 participants. Due to the chilly "spring weather" our faithful "cabinman" got a warm fire going for us before we women gathered for good food and fellowship. We were so warm and cozy we actually stayed longer than usual. Notice the use of the 'ole ironing board
that we used to display all our "goodies"! Next gathering is scheduled for Wednesday, June 29th at 9:00 a.m. I feel certain we won't need the fireplace then and can again sit out under the porch roof.

Pelicans still here!

2011-04-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

On this unseasonably cold April day the pelicans didn't seem to mind it one bit. There were many out enjoying an early breakfast despite the at freezing temperatures that even brought a light covering of snow to our area this late in April. You can see some of the snow in the tree. I have learned that if I step outside to get closer pictures they quickly float or fly away so I feel lucky to have gotten this lone pelican's picture as close as it is. With most all the boat docks out in my area of the lake, once boat lifts are put in and boat traffic begins, the pelicans will move to safer territory.

Civil War Clothing

2011-04-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

An interesting presentation of Civil War clothing was held at the Carroll Museum recently. The members of this Civil War re-enactment group came dressed in period clothing and even though it was primarily to show case women's clothing, the women were escorted by their husbands since that was the custom then. Quite different from today when women go just about anywhere alone. I wasn't able to stay for their entire program due to the Pelican Fest going on in L.V. but did hear some interesting tidbits of information and learned how to properly sit down with a hoop skirt on!! Did you know that the reason many chairs back then only had one "arm" was to accomodate men with their swords and women wearing hoops ?

Pelican Fest Events - 2011

2011-04-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

Pelican Fest 2011 began with an omelet breakfast by the Lake View Lion's Club (I failed to get a picture of this) that was enjoyed by over 300 people. Other events of the day included viewing of live pelicans around the lake. The wilflife group SOAR were present with a few live birds like this grey horned owl and a screech owl that was released just before I got there. The local museum was the site of 3 hourly power point presentations by Rene Stroud of the Sac County Conservation Dept. Over 80 people visited the museum during this time. There were also Percheron drawn wagon rides for those wishing to re-live the slowness of traffic before the invention of the automobile and THEN....

the "grand finale" of this year's Pelican Fest was the first ever PELICAN PLUNGE! The creative entrant shown here even created and wore her own specially designed jewelry for the event before taking the plunge herself! Other than the fact the warm weather turned cold and cloudy it was a successful event and one to look forward to again next April 15!

The PELICAN PLUNGE!

2011-04-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Lake View's first "Pelican Plunge" event was a huge success in my opionion. Not only were there several brave participants but a large crowd showed up to view the event on April 10th. That was the day of the 3rd annual Pelican Fest. This new event will most likley be repeated next year! Some of the participants' pictures here are: members of the High School football team and their coach, 3 "women" (men) from the local Mens Club, one of our local policemen and some real "classy" students in their Easter attire! Our mayor was the first to "plunge" in the 40 some degree water and our city councilman and one of his sons finished the event. It was truly a unique spectacle for all of us in attendance from the very young to the very elderly in our small town- one that will be talked about for some time I'm sure.

Tapestry of Tables 2011

2011-04-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

Another year for the creative ladies of our local Lutheran Church! Here are just a few pix of the ones I took of this year's annual Tapestry of Tables. I was privileged to eat at the "Grandmother's Kitchen" table and enjoy homemade lime pickles and apple pie ala mode! Of course there was the usual variety of delicious salad choices including the ever popular deviled eggs!! How these ladies can come up with a different theme each year is a wonder to enjoy! Congratulations ladies for another excellent luncheon!

First Warm Spring Day of 2011

2011-03-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

What a glorious spring day at last with enough sunshine I was able to sit out on my deck for awhile and read and take in these sights:

gulls flying all around, robins, a beautiful blue sky and an ice free lake! I also heard and saw the familiar spring sounds of workers putting in their boat docks - a sure sign that spring is here!

Unfortunately as I write this two days later I again woke up to a light covering of snow but know that it will soon be gone and warm spring/summer days are in the near horizon.

Lake View's Marketing Area

2011-03-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

This map layout shows the large area of states and towns that make up the actual residents of this small Iowa town. Many are what we call our "seasonal residents" but none the less I found this map most impressive the first time I saw it. If you could get a closer look you would see all the lines drawn to the different towns.
What draws people from outside the town's limits? The number one reason is our beautiful Black Hawk Lake, the southern most glacial lake in our country. To find out about all the many fun events held in this small town check out http://www.lakeview-ia.com/. When you go to this site you can also get more information from Facebook and Twitter by clicking on either of the invitations at the top right of the home page.

First day of Spring, 2011

2011-03-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

Hooray for the first day of spring at last!! Notice the real signs of this special day in these pictures. All the gulls gathered in one of the pictures. Unfortunately I couldn't zoom out far enough to get the eagles that were also out on the remaining ice area of the lake. Then you can see where the ice had melted near my shoreline. It was all gone by late afternoon. My area of the lake is always the last to melt away. Donald and Daisy have returned to my neighborhood and then there is Mr. Woody Woodpecker again on my birdfeeder. All of this occured on this first day of spring along Black Hawk Lake.

"Hot Rod" school musical

2011-03-12T10:45:00.000-08:00

Hats off to the 7th and 8th graders who performed in their recent musical "Hot Rod", Cruising back to the 50s"! The overall plot made one think of the movie, Grease, although this was a modified version with the main character being a girl who used to belong to a drag racing gang and is now trying to join a special sorority group. That is until her younger sister desperately needs to raise money to pay off a debt to the "bad guys". Big sister can help if she will once again race in an upcoming drag race against the "greasers"! Of course, her old boyfriend comes to the rescue and all ends as happily as in the movie "Grease"! The musical numbers were great and all the characters did an outstanding job!

Native American Collection

2011-03-03T11:37:00.000-08:00

Come see this unique Native American display now seen in our local library. David Geary has quite a story to tell about each of the items, some of which he made by hand. A sample of cider/sage is in one picture. This was used by the Indians as a smudge stick for ceremonial purification rites. Each of the animals were representative of a particular tribe's medicinal beliefs.

The loss of a great tree!

2011-03-02T10:41:00.000-08:00

What a loss will be realized later this summer from the loss of this huge tree that was recently struck by lightening. There is some question by some of us, myself included, as to why all of the tree had to be cut down. Why couldn't just the damaged part be trimmed. You can see from these pictures that the huge pieces stacked are NOT hollow. The area this tree shaded was in a prime location for people to sit under and around during our annual summer carnival stage events. Now everyone will have to either use umbrellas to protect themselves from the heat or just suffer without any shade covering. I'm sure the two houses across the street will also miss all the shade this tree provided. A new tree will probably be planted but how long will anyone be able to benefit from it?

UPDATE: I have now heard the reason for cutting the entire tree down although I still believe it will be missed by at least the carnival spectators this summer. Liability issues are at the crux of the matter. Nowadays that is a sad state of affairs but one that is very real and costly if not heeded..

African "Safari" Presentation

2011-02-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

A handful of people braved the cold weather to witness an African safari presentation by Jean Huegerich last night. She gave an outstanding presentation that was laced with humor, knowledge and great pictures taken from her high quality camera. It has been suggested that she develop a way to display some of the many pictures and souvenirs in our library display window in the near future.

February Penguins

2011-02-19T13:04:00.000-08:00

A look at our February window display -- a penguin collection belonging to Pat Smith. These penguins probably wouldn't be too happy around Lake View these past few days. We have been pleasantly "teased" with an early taste of early spring-like weather. Still ice on our lake for any lost penguins that should show up and with our open water area in the bay they would even be able to easily find some fish to eat. Speaking of penguins though - I have somehow literally lost some of my own penguins I have used for displays in the children's area. If anyone reading this has some to donate they would be lovingly cared for.

Log Cabin Sledding Party 2011

2011-02-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

How is this for new transportation to our local museum/log cabin? Our 2nd annual log cabin sledding party was a great success in terms of weather and participants. The 30 degree temperature helped to bring 15 kids out to sled down the hill beside the log cabin. One of the pictures posted here includes a couple of brave adults who were willing to attempt a slide down . They discovered that those of "lighter weight" had better success!! A special thank you to the city workers who cleared snow for easier access to both the cabin and the museum but especially for the path seen in these pictures that provided the best sledding hill for a fun afternoon event. Hot chocolate, desserts and hot dogs (that one had to cook themselves over the cabin fireplace) were available inside our authentic 1800 log cabin.

Winter fun on the ice!

2011-01-31T11:56:00.000-08:00

Three ways to have "fun" on a frozen lake are seen from my lakeside home! All 3 scenes were viewed on the same Sunday afternoon. My vivacious neighbor to the east was trying to keep up with her skiing practice (that was definitely a new sight to see as I looked out my window ) and my neighbor on the west enjoyed snowmobiling with two of his sons. The "older" son even has his own snowmobile. Then even further out on the lake I saw the first TRUCK of this winter that was next to an ice fishing hut. I remember how surprised I was a couple years ago when I first moved to my lakeside home to see a truck of all things driving across the frozen lake! Now I can add "skiing" to the list of new things to see on Black Hawk Lake!!

Birthday flowers

2011-01-29T08:21:00.000-08:00

Just had to "show off" my beautiful birthday flowers received from my Florida "kids" seen in the picture. They were delivered to the library where I work and since more people will get to enjoy them there will probably leave the arrangement at the library instead of taking it home. I would probably have an ongoing battle keeping my new kitten from literally destroying the beauty of the flowers anyway. I have some "beautiful" kids, too, don't I!! Praise God for them.

Snowmobile Drag Races!!

2011-01-27T13:56:00.000-08:00

What a great new winter event for this small Iowa town!! Our first ever snowmobile drag races. Unfortunately,I wasn't able to be one of the many spectators but was able to acquire these fabulous shots from someone who was!! There were over 20 participants who ran in different categories. A picture of the winners can be seen on my facebook for those who have access to that. A picture will also be forthcoming I'm sure in local newspapers. The next big event for Lake View is the annual Arctic Open - a unique game of golf on the frozen ice of Black Hawk Lake. That event is the weekend of Feb. 5 along with a kids' sledding parting at the 'ole log cabin.

Lakewood Ballroom

2011-01-19T12:06:00.000-08:00

Memories oh memories!! Can't you see the dancers on the dance floor. Can't you see all the people enjoying a meal in the banquet area. There are many memories associated with this building that is no longer being used. Oh that someone would be able to purchase it and restore it to the memorable uses it had in the past: whether eating, dancing, even rollerskating or just plain socializing. Many high school class reunions as well as special family events were often held in the spacious rooms seen here. The town museum has numerous pictures showing the history of this building from the early 1900's to the recent past that do indeed take one through "memory lane".

Winter/Summer Fun

2011-01-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

What a difference a season can be!! Both of these pictures were taken in the Bay area of Black Hawk Lake but as you can see the activity and scenery is much different. One must really enjoying fishing to sit out on the ice on a cold and cloudy day! Such huts can be seen at different locations on the lake including the area where I live but I was able to get a closer shot of these 3 as they are right off our beach area. Tomorrow, ice fishing enthusiasts will again be meeting at the library before going out in the cold for practical training.

A new upcoming event for our small town will be snowmobile drag races on January 22. Should be an interesting event to watch if one doesn't care to participate.

Flurryville Window Display

2011-01-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

This is our latest new window display - Flurryville Snowmen. One must come in and see the variety of snowy characters displayed. With the foot of snow we accumulated in the past 24 hours these characters would feel "right at home". One of my favorites in this collection (but you can't see it in this picture) is one of a snowman with a fishing pole. I like this one because I am in awe of all the ice fishermen (and women if there are any) that I see from my lakeside view this time of year!

This coming Saturday, Jan. 15 there will be another ice fishing clinic. It starts at 9:00 a.m. at the library and will then go out to an icy area for actual "hands on" fishing.

Misty, my new kitten

2010-12-31T11:38:00.000-08:00

Here are some scenes of my new kitten, Misty, as she is having fun with one of the bags I use to carry things to and from the library. She has been enjoying the warmth of being inside during these cold Iowa days but does spend a lot of time gazing out the patio door where she often sees her mom, the neighborhood's "wild mama". This mama cat had 4 late summer kittens which I was told wouldn't survive unless someone "rescued" them. I thus decided to once again keep a cat for myself (I once owned several when I lived in Missouri back in the 1960s and then later owned two gorgeous white Persians while in New Mexico) and so Misty is now "rescued" until warmer weather returns at least.

Ice Sailing

2010-12-24T10:59:00.000-08:00

Caught this picture of one of our local ice "sailors" yesterday on our now frozen Black Hawk Lake. Unfortunately the close up picture caught him moving thus the blurry image. So far we are having much less snow than this time last year but a "more significant" snowfall is forecast for later in these final days of 2010. These shots were taken from inside my lakeside home where it remains nice and cozy with my wonderful gas fireplace that was installed just a year ago. Ice fishermen have also been out ON the lake in their little huts as well as the snowmobilers. Haven't seen any trucks yet but with our below freezing temps. it may not be long before a few trucks will be seen as well. I am already looking forward to seeing BOATs go by my home instead of snowmobilers!!!

Our town's "new blue" look!

2010-12-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

Here is a view of the new winter decorations to our downtown light poles. The silvery white garlands and corresponding white on blue banners so beautifully enhance our new blue street lights - street lights that at first caused somewhat of a "stir" among some residents until one got used to them! I think now the majority of our residents really find our uniquely colored utility poles to be quite an attraction to our small town. The deer and sleigh in the background are also a new addition.

The smaller picture shows how these unique poles looked shortly after being installed this past summer. Winter snow makes them really stand out in my opinion. I hear that some travelers come just to see our "new blue" look!

Storm of December 11, 2010!! A Night to Remember

2010-12-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

This damaged gate to my home was minor compared to the trauma 11 college students and one 1 high school student had to deal with the afternoon of December 11, 2010. These 12 young people (some of who are pictured here) left Lincoln, NE at 11:00 a.m. headed for Storm Lake, Iowa and Buena Vista College. They got as far as the small town of Odebolt, Ia. around 3:00 p.m. in the midst of a growing blizzard. Their road to Storm Lake was closed to even snow plows so they opted to drive the 15 miles to my hometown since two of the students knew where I lived. It took them close to 3 hours to drive that 15 miles!!! As one student said, "it was the grace of God" that got them through zero visibility. To add to their dilemma, there was a snow drift so high just 4 houses from mine that was impassable causing them to even have to walk the rest of the way to warmth and food!!

My personal Christmas decorations

2010-12-04T16:19:00.000-08:00

A few of my personal home decorations for this year. Of course, the real reason for the season is the Nativity scene which includes a miniature nativity "tree" that lights up. Then NOTICE my unique palm tree!! Since I won't be having any family "home for Christmas this year" I decided I didn't need a traditional tree. The 3rd item is a musical skating snowbear that also lights up. If you should happen to visit my home you will also see a lighted pueblo village on my fireplace ledge which represents my love of the Southwest. My fireplace has gotten a lot of use already this year!! Stay warm!

Library Moving Day 2010

2010-11-26T11:20:00.000-08:00

Here are some scenes of a busy day of emptying out an entire library of ALL its contents!! Thanks to the many volunteers and city employees the library was ready for the foundation work needed to level and stabilize the floor. Two large trucks like the one seen here were donated for use by a local businessman and other large items were stored in churches and our local museum. We are still not entirely open as there has been a delay in delivery of the carpet for our childrens' area but we officially opened this week of November 22nd. The president of our library board has earned a "round of applause" for all the volunteer hours and stress filled hours she has given toward the completion of this awesome task. She will be ready for her annual trek south to warmer weather after the holiday season!!

Sega Fredo, Fl

2010-11-22T11:54:00.001-08:00

After having to de-ice my windshield this a.m. I am wishing I were back in Florida!!! These sunny, warm scenes are where my son works on Lincoln Road, a high tourist outdoor-mall like area in Miami Beach. It is an area of about 5 blocks of outdoor eating places and a variety of shops. There is no east to west vehicle traffic from one end to the other which is what makes it a unique outdoor mall.

Deep, Deep Snow

2010-11-18T11:10:00.000-08:00

Our first major snowfall since last winter fell 6 days ago and we still have some heavy piles of snow around. These pictures show how deep the snow was on my two lakeside deck tables-one measured 11 inches and the wrought iron table measured 8 1/2 inches!!! Fortunately since these are on the south side of my home all the snow has since melted. That is not the case on my northside drive way!! Oh, to be back in Florida where I was last month!

Miscellaneous Fall Pictures

2010-11-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

How about these extremely different pictures I recently took!! The beautiful fall tree is in the backyard of an Omaha, NE. friend, the center picture is what trees look like year round in Miami, Fl., and the sunset picture was another picture taken from my own lakefront yard! Since returning from Florida in mid-October, Iowa has been a roller coaster of temps. I returned to very chilly weather, then somewhat warmer to then cold enough to light my fireplace and now these past few days have felt like summer!! Did hear some good news this a.m. with a local tv weather lady saying Iowa WON'T be having as bad a winter as last year. Hooray!!!

Scenes from Miami

2010-11-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

Notice all the traffic here!! That is one of the reasons I no longer live here but enjoy visiting my children who do enjoy the big city life. As a librarian I always like to visit different libraries. This one in North Miami Beach is quite small but within walking distance from my son's home.
Fortunately my two week visit this past month included great weather with little to none humidity --- until the day I left. One of these pictures shows the scenic high rise view my dauther has from her place of employment with Zyscovich Architects. She works on the 27th floor that overlooks the Bay of Biscayne and Bayside. The boat picture was taken at ground level at Bayside, a very high tourist area where one can take rental boat rides, shop and eat and attend various outdoor concerts, etc.

Enroute to Florida from Iowa

2010-10-17T15:41:00.000-07:00

My 3 day drive from Iowa to Florida included several rest stops. Thought this rest area near Iowa City was quite unique. The Florida one was visited on my 3rd day of driving. It took all of day 3 to cross the northern part of Florida and then all the way south to Miami Beach. I was blessed with good weather the entire trip and arrived in busy Miami Beach just after sunset. The middle picture shows the view across the street from my son's new home in North Miami Beach. As I experienced the 2 years I lived in this city, the heavy traffic hasn't lessened ONE BIT!! One reason I love small town life if Iowa.

In memory of Kirk Hansen

2010-10-07T11:46:00.000-07:00

This is one of my last pictures of a very dear friend taken at this year's Kid's Pioneer Day. Kirk will be remembered by many for his out going personality, his willingness to help in any situation, and as seen here his interest in history. He will be missed by not only his family as seen in the other two pictures posted here but by his many friends both in Omaha, NE. and here in small town Lake View. Heaven is even better with Kirk's arrival as he continues to visit with old and new friends as he was known to do in great length while here on Earth. Hope to see you again soon, dear friend.

more travel scenes

2010-09-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

If you haven't figured it out yet, I love to take sky pictures. This one was taken on my way home from Red Oak, Iowa, after stopping in Elk Horn to visit this Danish windmill gift shop. Then later I tried out a great Danish restaurant next door to the windmill and ate an absolutely delicious and tender roast beef sandwich! Any one of Danish ancestry must plan a visit to this unique town. The log cabin pictured here is found in Red Oak. I didn't get to go inside and be able to see how it compares to one we just restored here in Lake View so will have to plan for that on another trip to southern Iowa someday.

Scenes from Red Oak, Iowa

2010-09-20T11:47:00.000-07:00

I just recently attended an historical preservation convention in Red Oak, Iowa, and of course had to visit this unique library. I learned that they are still in the process of re-shelving and organizing items from their major renovation project of over a year ago. Hopefully it won't take as long for Lake View's library to be re-shelved and organized come this November. This is our last week for patrons to get any books they want to read during our closure.

Storm clouds - Sept. 15

2010-09-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

Had to stop along the highway last night on my way home from Carroll, Ia. to take these sky shots!! The stormy picture was taken east and the sunnier ones were taken from the same roadside stop but facing west!! Awesome!! Right!? In fact I had barely pulled into my home before the storm from the east started pouring rain in my area around the lake.

The end of a season

2010-09-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost over for 2010 and with it ends not only the many boaters who will "hang out" in the town bay area and the campers who camp at our two campgrounds, the one pictured is at 30 Acres BUT a very sad ending is seen with the sale of a special lake "icon"- the East End dining facility pictured here. It was just recently auctioned off and it will probably not be another eating place as it has been for many, many years. In years past boaters could not only boat up to the place but one could even gas up their boats from the dock seen in this picture. The gas pumps went out several years ago but it has remained a popular eating place up until recently. What will the area become in the future is not known at this time. Plans for another restuarant are "in the works" to be near our new Boulders Inn and Suites Motel but until that becomes a reality the above pictured restaurant has now disappeared in the annuls of Lake View's history.

Pioneer Sing a long 2010

2010-09-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

NEW EVENT! This is another new "pioneer" event I initiated to bring people to visit our wonderful newly renovated log cabin -- a "pioneer sing a long"! We had 35 people attend this first endeavor and the weather cooperated perfectly --until of course close to closing when the mosquiotos came out! Because of a special grand opening at the museum and the fact I was suffering from a bad leg we opted to eat and sing closer to the museum and on flatter ground rather than up the hill close to the actual log cabin. A special thanks to my helpers who provided the fire pit for the hot dogs and marshmellows, a fellow Garden Club member who manned the food table and of course, my music director.

2nd Annual Kid's Pioneer Day

2010-08-31T10:50:00.000-07:00

Another successful Kid's Pioneer Day was held at the authentic log cabin here in Lake View. The events included some new "stations" as well as the candle making, sack races and the 'old scrub board washer tub from last year. Our newest additions were the arrival our Nebraska "mountain man", a very dear neighbor friend of mine, members of a spinners/weaver guild, and natural cloth dyeing by one of our local teachers. Another new addition that we plan to definitely expand next year is the "dress up clothes" and school room experience. The girls (didn't have any clothes for the boys) really enjoyed this new event and our "pioneer teacher" has been rehired for next year. Another popular "station" from last year was the log cutting area although this year our "logsman" had bark whistles for the kids to learn how to make. Last year they got to see how he made and full size bed from tree logs. The bed is now in the loft of the cabin.

A new log cabin scheduled for this coming weekend is a "pioneer sing a long" with hot dogs and chips. More info on that in a later blog.

Southwest furniture

2010-08-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

Just a few shots of some really unique home furnishings I saw while visiting a friend in Santa Fe this summer. I love all the native style fireplaces. As mentioned on an earlier blog posting, my friend's home has 5 of these unique fireplaces!! The top picture is my own gas fireplace that was just put in this past winter---- just in time for the big ice storm that knocked our power!! It has a southwest look as well but not as authentic as the ones in Santa Fe!!

"cool" convertibles!

2010-08-20T11:53:00.001-07:00

Aren't these some really "cool" rides!!? They both belong to some very special friends. And notice the fancy wall mural that is located on the back wall of a unique pizza shoppe in Omaha. If ever you are in Omaha you need to go visit the Pizza Shoppe at 6056 Maple Street. Eat some great pizza, hear some live music and find out the story behind this elaborate mural ... and there is much more to this pizza eatery!

2 Special Birthday Parties

2010-08-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of attending two very special birthday parties recently. One was a "Wild Animal" party for a 3 year old relative which included specially designed "animal cookies", a tiger cake and tiger pinata. The other was a musical party which was actually part of a scheduled musical performance by one group of high school age musicians. These talented young people are part of a special group of musicians who audition to be part of a musical group. The group pictured are playing at the Pizza Shoppe in the Benson area of Omaha, Nebraska. The birthday cake depicts a guitar in honor of one of the guitar player's 14th birthday. He is also a special friend of mine. My best wishes to him as he continues to grow musically!!

More Library Fun

2010-08-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

More highlights from the last event of this year's summer reading program.

A race between a turtle and a salamander resulted in..... THE TURTLE WON! AGAIN!

Bubble blowing pictures were done by all present and was a big hit. Rene Stroud was again a great presenter and I look forward to having her do future presentations once we know when the library's foundation work will begin and end.

My "pioneer family"

2010-08-05T15:53:00.000-07:00

My special "pioneer family" as we rode on one of the Lake View water parade floats this summer. My family consisted of two of my grandchildren and a special friend of my granddaughter. I hadn't ridden on one of these floats since childhood which is obviously many years ago. The abundance of insects hasn't decreased any at all so this will probably be my last time to willingly ride on one of these special floats. Can't speak for the other family members.

We will be having a second annual "Kids Pioneer Day" at a REAL log cabin recently restored here in town so be watching for pictures of that great event later in the month.

"Bubbles" end of Summer Reading Program

2010-07-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

A special program around the theme of "bubbles" was presented by Rene Stroud of the Sac County Conservation Commission. Rene always presents an informative and fun "hands on" program for children. This was the final event of this year's Summer Reading Program and because of windy weather we stayed in the library instead of meeting at the beach. Pictured are two of the science experiments and one of the outdoor games played. Winners were announced and prizes were given to all participants which included a free pass to our local beach "miniature golf" course. Had we held the program at the beach the kids could have "golfed" while done there.

Water Parade Floats -2010

2010-07-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

After an uncertain beginning to this year's annual Parade of Water Floats, here are a few examples of what can be accomplished when a town unites. The production of these unique water floats was started back in the 1950's by a handful of creative residents and businessmen. The floats were originally built by individual groups and several years later one person would be in charge of building ALL the floats with financial help from the various sponsors. It didn't take long for the overwhelming task of this job to cause "burn out". I say thank you to all those who "took up the cross" so to speak this year to see that this fabulous and very unique feature to Lake View's Summer Water Carnival would not "pass away"! I hope that next year we will continue to see a return to a united community support of this wonderful tradition.

unique architecture

2010-07-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

Unique architecture is prevalent in the town of Santa Fe as well as Carlsbad, New Mexico. I am especially fond of the adobe look found throughout Santa Fe as seen in two of these pictures. One is of the famous "La Fonda" hotel from the Fred Harvey days when the railroads were first built. The other is a building in down town Santa Fe. The white building is actually a unique private home in Carlsbad, N.M. (not California) and the first picture is of the Carlsbad Court House

Trip to New Mexico

2010-07-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

This sign is not far from a very, very steep mountain decline!!! The kind of ride you hope your brakes will hold..... and I was certainly glad to reach the bottom near the town of Raton, N.M. I have now returned from a most pleasant visit in Santa Fe with a fellow teacher friend. The picture of the outdoor fireplace is one of many I took of her lovely 1920's true adobe country home. Other pictures are scenes of the Santa Fe area including a native dancer in the historic plaza area of downtown Santa Fe. I did some shopping and even visited all 3 of the libraries in Santa Fe before heading out of the cool mountain temperature into the hot south - Carlsbad. Now that isn't in CA but is the town with the famous Carlsbad Caverns. They are worth seeing at least once if you are ever in that part of the country. I lived in this area for close to 30 years. I enjoyed seeing many friends from the church I attended there as well as another teacher friend at whose house I stayed before returning to hot and muggy Iowa with two of my precious grandkids.

Pool Splash!

2010-07-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

Splashes and more splashes were evident at this "pool party" at the Wall Lake Pool for participants in the summer reading program for both Wall Lake and Lake View. This was the final BIG event for Wall Lake but Lake View readers can continue to earn prizes throughout the month of July. The BIG FINALE for Lake View will be held Wednesday, July 28 at 1:00 p.m. It will probably be held at our Camp Crescent Beach area. Rene Stroud of the Sac County Conservation Dept. will again be presenting one of her hands on event around a theme of "Bubbles". Final prizes and special awards will also be given at this time and of course, refreshments of some kind will be available.

Doreen Cronin-Author

2010-06-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

These 3 new books by a very gifted and often humorous children's author are part of the 68 new books the library recently received from the Libri Foundation. The duck is part of a wide collection of other water "animals" roosting around the children's area as part of the Make A Splash summer reading program theme. I am "headlining" the Doreen Cronin books as we have over a dozen of her books. They all have "talking" animals. I especially enjoyed reading to my elementary students the Dairy ones as it very funny to imagine as you read of a worm or as pictured above, a spider writing in 1st person narrative.

Puppet Fun with Lisa Laird

2010-06-22T08:18:00.000-07:00

Pockets Full of Fun- an interactive puppet performance by Lisa Laird was another great success at this summer's reading program
held last week. Lisa and her puppets are well known throughout the state and probably others as well as she knows how to get kids to interact and learn through the art of puppetry. As seen in just a few pictures here she uses colorful props and posters. She also has special "gifts" for each participant at the end of her shows. We look forward to having her back next summer. If you want more information here is her website:www.pocketsfulloffun.com

Tapestry of Tables!

2010-06-19T06:25:00.000-07:00

If you have never attended one of these "Tapestry of Table" events you have missed out on a truly gorgeous fund raiser (my opinion at least). Here are just a few pics of some of the many tables hosted by the Lutheran Church women's annual fund raiser. Even you men might find the variety of creative displays by the hostesses to be worth viewing--even if you don't stay and enjoy the delicious salads and special desserts each hostess provides that are usually related to the table's specific theme. You will also notice that some ladies literally "dress" the part! If you click on the individual pictures you can get a closer look at the details provided. I imagine the ladies at the table with the bird cage never thought they would eat lunch amidst a cluster of bird nests!! I was privileged to sit at one of the two tables designed around a sewing machine/quilt theme.

Alligators in the Library!!!

2010-06-15T11:56:00.000-07:00

Remember those alligators from Florida? If you missed them scroll back to some December/January posts. Anyway, these baby reptiles visited the library this past Wednesday as part of the 2010 Summer Reading Program. Needless to say when the kids saw what was coming out of the covered cage there were a lot of ooohs and aaaahhs to be heard! The program was possible thanks to the Blank Park Zoo from Des Moines."Make a Splash" is the theme for this summer and I'm sure these repiles know how to do just that!!