“because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
Luke 1:78-79 ESV
Another clear but fairly pleasant late August morn, but the humidity was creeping up and I could tell it. Now it is onward to September morns, the mornings of August, 2024 being forever history! Traditionally Labor Day weekend is thought of as the unofficial end of summer, but our outdoor thermometers don’t always agree with tradition!
As I left the sunrise to continue on its own, I walked about 200 yards to the front of the Sunshine Cottage. The sun was not going to allow me to take on other interest just yet however, as this array of beautiful color grabbed my attention. I always plant at least one pot with purple fountain grass, and this one moment of perfect light made me glad I did…and I felt better about watering it almost every day for 4 months!
I was on my way home on this country road and just had to stop and take a photo. With soy beans on the right, corn on the left, and the southern end of the Appalachian Mountains in the distance, I couldn’t pass it up. September will bring on the harvest, including the full harvest moon, but these fields aren’t quite ready.
I discovered a few pounds of cracked corn in a sack in the back of the garage, left over from spring I guess. Rather than attract mice this fall by having it around, I dumped it at the back of the pasture. My thoughts concerning mice were legitimate as one of my trail cameras started sending photos of mice (along with quite a few other hungry creatures) headed toward the small pile. By accident, I have established a nice hunting ground for a local red-tailed hawk. He circles around over the pile and on occasion dives down out of sight. I saw him again the next day following the same pattern.
If you like Tiramisu, Pam says you would love one from Bottega. The reason I mention that Pam “says” is because I don’t eat Tiramisu. The reason I don’t eat it is that coffee (espresso in this case) is used in some way in the dessert recipe. I’ve never had a cup of coffee and do not want to take a risk on anything that might have a hint of coffee involved. She also says you really can’t taste the coffee, but I say, why chance it. Am I not the strangest person on the planet, not liking coffee??
The autumn fire sedum, that bloomed completely out of season in June, is back and now giving us those hints of autumn that usually arrive in September. It is a perennial and has again outgrown its space. I think we will have to separate it or completely relocate it for the second time!
As I rode through our local farming community last week, sights like this one reminded me that this is Labor Day weekend. A lot of work was going on…was this fertilizer or maybe lime being spread? I had no intention of disturbing the operation to ask questions, I will get the details later. Labor Day was set aside by Congress as a National Holiday in 1894, (30 states already celebrated it). It is celebrated on May 1 in much of the world, but always the first Monday in September, here, and in Canada.
Labor Day gave me pause for reflection on bygone days when our community had thriving plants that produced things and employed thousands. I drove by the former Goodyear plant last week. The clock tower in the older part of the facility still looks great, but all is quiet below. This plant closed in 2020 after 91 years. It was at one time the largest tire producing plant in the world. I have many friends and acquaintances who worked there.
Extremely important memories for me are attached to this scene. At one time this was the main gate and clock house of Gulf States Steel, formerly Republic Steel. This plant closed in 2000. The memories are important because I worked in management here and spent 25 years going in and out this gate. In the mid 70’s there were well over 3,000 employees and in past times even more. But the memories go deeper. I spent a lot of my childhood with my grandparents. They lived on this street about 100 yards from where I stood to make this photo. My dad and grandfather had almost 100 years of combined service working here. As a boy I would set up a lemonade stand by the sidewalk that you may see on the right behind the oak tree. My grandmother would make lemonade and snacks for me to sell to workers as they would come and go. Her name was Bonnie Mae Kennedy. If you’ve looked at our blog many times, you’ve no doubt seen Ella Mae, and Emma Kennedy! Sorry for a lengthy caption, but I could write a book here!
Moving on to current ongoing labor, this is one way to deal with the invasive kudzu. All the darker green is kudzu and the brown behind and beside the machine is former kudzu. Seth didn’t allow me to operate the skid steer, but I was given the position of fuel man, which was fine with me. I believe the machine was kept running well over 20 hours last weekend with a large part of the cleanup involving kudzu and privet!
The kudzu removal was a bit too late for this very large, very old pine. The vines covered the tree probably 50 feet up and I assume were the cause of death.
We have a lot of invasive plants and I imagine you do where you live?? This photo represents two of my top vote getters for certain. As invasive and aggravating as kudzu and privet are, the kudzu bloom is very unique and has a wonderful fragrance this time of year… and the green berries of privet (seen behind) will be good food for wildlife in the coming weeks. I was thrilled that after 3 seasons of lost senses due to Covid, I could once again smell the kudzu!
Our look back today takes us to Montana’s Triple Creek Ranch in the Bitterroot Valley, 10 years ago this weekend! Pam is the only one who hasn’t aged.
Taking a different route to the river along the creek brought with it some discoveries. Cardinal flower always shows up in late summer and will be in wet areas. I know where it typically grows but I found it in a new place among a lot of other water loving things. The creek is low and completely dry in spots.
There were a lot of signs of activity around this home place, but the ground is so dry no tracks of any kind were visible. I was considering placing a trail camera near this spot anyway to see what might be around, so I believe I will go back and do that.
We made a new trail to the river back in February which gives us a route along a section of woods that before was not that easy to travel through. This is a portion that is a bit more open than nearby thickets. If plants had a mind and could develop a determination to persevere and not give up on life, this would be a showcase example. The trunk of this tree is huge but totally rotten and decayed. It has to be very old to be this size. The large branch seen high on the left is alive and well, tall and thriving. I cannot see how this old trunk can support and nourish the younger, but it is happening and has been for a long time. Provoking thoughts and good lessons here!
Another view of old daddy trunk!
When I finally arrived at the river the water was still and calm, providing a nice reflection of what was on the opposite bank. The tree canopy blocked my vision to the other side but the water mirrored what was there! The air was also very still and flying insects found me immediately.
Labor Day weekend on a trail in the Bitterroot Range…a Rocky Mountain High!
Wishing all of you a wonderful and safe Sunday and a great Labor Day!
”Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever”.
Hebrews 13:8
Linking with:
Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
Imparting Grace,Life and Linda
For the first time I read your story on your blog, the verse His mercies are new every morning great is thy faithfulness came to mind. I had no idea of Butch’s accident. In August of 2016 my husband and I walked away from a head on collision without a scratch on us. The Holy Spirit told me not to take the Firebird but the truck. Butch you are a walking miracle. Beautiful pictures as always. So happy I found your blog. We had a blue heron sitting in a tree on the side of our driveway yesterday. Do you have them in your neck of the woods? Have a great holiday weekend and beyond.
Thank you Maryann. So glad you read the story. It’s been 17 years and I deal with things as I’ve gotten older that are probably results of that time but nevertheless I am extremely blessed. Funny you mention the heron. We had one a few years ago standing between the front sidewalk and the house. Stayed a while and flew off. Have a wonderful holiday!
Butch and Pam
This post makes me think of “Beauty and the Beast” Kudzu is beautiful in many ways but a beast to tame and I have never seen one of it blooms or smelled it. It is so sad what our government has allowed. I hear another steel plant is being sold to another country. Your precious memory brought tears to my eyes. We are a country in decline. I loved the country road picture. I grew up riding many of those roads and walking to friends houses down those roads. What, no coffee? But you are so energetic! No tiramisu? And you drink tea! So tea is your energy drink. Anyway tiramisu is a favorite and Pam’s looked delicious. The old tree holding up the young vibrant limb has a story I’m waiting to hear from you, Hope is alive and I hope you and Pam have a safe productive and healthy week.
Good to hear from you Alice. The kudzu bloom has a fragrance that’s quite nice but beauty and the beast is a good summary of it. I tasted coffee on 2 occasions through the years and just don’t like it at all. Tea is my caffeine source. I’m going back to study that old tree, ran out of time that day. Have a great Labor Day!
Butch and Pam
Beautiful photos! I’m thankful this Sunday morning that we survived another August here in Texas. Thankful also the Lord’s mercies are new every morning, regardless of the day or season.
Exactly right Rachel about His mercies. We’ve been in Texas in July and August and we definitely understand. Thank you and have a wonderful September!
Butch and Pam
Gorgeous photos, all. It may still be warm in your world but the light is beginning to look more “autumnal.” What fabulous views you have shared. I loved seeing the photo from 10 years ago. Pam DOES look exactly the same!
Thank you Jeanie. I was just outside before sunset and the angle of the light is just like you mentioned. It does have a different look. Pam definitely loves your last comment. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
Happy end of August, Pam and Butch! Are August and February the most unpopular months?!? Thank you for sharing a bit of your family history and the photos in the plants. The younger generations need to know how great our country used to be; it is our only hope for reclaiming it. My area (Upstate SC) was the queen of textiles, now all gone overseas. Abandoned mills are everywhere, and now our precious farmland is being sold to developers. Thousands of $400K “shacks” are being built after clearcutting every single tree. Sorry for the rant! Butch, how do you know you don’t like coffee if you never tasted it?!? (I feel the same about liver!!!).
Thank you so much Roxanne. February is a downer to me except we got married in February, maybe so we could turn it into a great month. Our textiles here have gone away too. Your ranting is fine. I have tried coffee twice through the years and it was just as bad the second time. I’ve had 1 oz. or less in my lifetime, and I’m with you on the liver. Have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
The fountain grass is gorgeous when the sun hits it. It is really colorful. So many plants vital to local communities have closed. It’s a shame. Firestone, International Harvester, and Kimberly Clark all left our area. The production workers were badly impacted. I would imagine the workers were grateful for a young entrepreneur selling lemonade and snacks as the plants could be extremely hot. My Mom worked in 120 degree heat in the 60’s making light bulbs. She retired from KC when the plant closed. My uncle worked at Firestone. Thanks for the trip down memory lane! Cleaning kudzu and privet is hard work! Wisteria is just as bad if not controlled. They are all pretty when in bloom, but they will take over the area. Have a great weekend! Clara❤️
Thanks Clara and I forgot about wisteria. It sure can get out of control. I did well with the lemonade. I believe it was a nickel for a cup. It was all profit as grandmother furnished everything. No overhead cause that’s just what grandparents do. I love the fountain grass and always plant one. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
The fountain grass bathed in sunlight is gorgeous! The tiramisu looks delicious, do you have an allergic reaction if you have coffee Butch? I’m so glad you got your sense of smell back. Kudzu is so invasive, and I had no idea it bloomed…Interesting history and stories about the plant, I hate seeing so many businesses closed or closing, times are changing… Love the photo from the trail in the Bitterroot Range, stunning! Happy Labor Day Pam and Butch~
Thank you Jenna. No allergies to coffee, just tasted it a couple of times and it’s not for me. I definitely have plenty of other caffeine habits to make up for it. You should try to locate a kudzu bloom and tell us what you think. We do love those Rocky Mountains. Have a great Labor Day!
Butch and Pam
A plethora of images that celebrate nature in all her forms and color.. you have captured them exactly.
Alas, the great industries that were the foundation of our great productive history have faded and would
it not be miraculous if those still standing, though empty, could be resurrected and imbued with renewed
promise and vigor? A whole new generation to discover the value of muscled labor and joy of enterprise?
It took vision and determination then and would be needed today. We were a mighty Nation and this optimist believes it could be once again. Blessed are they who knew first hand the spirit of those times.
A wonderful memory share, Butch. And yes, dear Pam is ever-young.
Thanks for these words Mary. I do hope we can see a resurrection of making “stuff” in the USA. When the foundation crumbles the rest is not far behind. Love your optimism and encouraged by it. Pam is truly excited about your final comment. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
Towns change for better and worse while filling and breaking our hearts. Hoping new businesses and friends with beautiful gardens will soon move your way.
Thank you for these thoughts Leslie Anne. Change is life and life is change and it’s certainly not all bad. I think we need a friend to move nearby who is a willing gardener to give me pointers and help. Have a splendid week!
Butch and Pam
Love the color in the fountain grass. We have a red tail hawk here as well, and he is welcome to the mice, but I wish he’d leave my squirrel pets alone. Kudzu is the scourge of our area, completely covering acres of trees, and working its way towards our land. It is a horrible invasive vine that we cannot seem to get under control. Love the nature photos, beautiful as always.
Thanks Carole. I hope you can manage to fight off the kudzu. The color on our trees here right now is from drought and heat but maybe you will soon be seeing some fall colors in NC?? Yes, the hawks are welcome to the mice. Have a great week!
Butch and Pam
Butch and Pam, Happy September! There’s so much to love here! The humidity in SW MO was very high yesterday. Today, a much prettier 1st day of September!
I really enjoyed the story of Gulf Steel (Republic) and the lemonade stand and your family. Yes, you SHOULD write a book! What memories on that road. Many years of service (especially going back to selling lemonade!).
The pic of the 4 of you is my favorite! What precious people! There’s nothing like the views you share–God’s beautiful world, including those things that can be pesky. All enveloped in his amazing landscapes of our beautiful country–and the world surrounding all of you. The view of the fields and the Appalachians spoke to me, too!
May God bless you all today and always. Love, Karla and Finley 🙏❣️
Your comments are always so encouraging Karla. My lemonade stand was very profitable even at a nickel a cup because of no overhead, grandmother furnishing everything. The 4 in the photo would probably love to “feel’ 10 years younger but of course we wouldn’t go back, there were no sweet grands then. Creation is definitely indescribably beautiful even in its fallen state. I doubt I could write a book but I might like to do that. I’ve written a lot of songs, so maybe I need to let that be it. Have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
Thank you, both, for your heartfelt messages, support, and prayers. I’d love to hear all of your songs! I’m praying for you all daily. Many blessings as we carry on and embrace faith always!
This post really touched my heart…
May you and your beautiful family have a wonderful holiday. Thank you and God bless.
And God bless you Sue. Thank you for commenting and we hope you have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
Happy Labor Day weekend. It is a mass exodus around here being so close to the beach. I adore your first sunrise pic. It is beautiful!!!!
Pams’ Tiramisu does look delicious. Y’ll both seem to be able to eat sweets and not gain weight. Pam does look the same.
I went to a friends 100th birthday party today and ate a wonderful piece of cake but I haven’t had a piece of cake in ages.
It was interesting to see the bloom on Kudzu. I’ve never seen it I don’t believe.It is a pretty bloom.
Hve a great week. Bonnie
Thank you Bonnie. I guess everyone wants to get in one last summer fling at the beach. Don’t be fooled, we can’t get away with eating sweets without consequences, it’s a battle. We think you should eat more cake and find you a kudzu bloom to smell. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
My sedum blooms whenever it feels like it
Thanks Gail. That exactly fits our sedum. Seems like a few other plants are acting that way too this year. Have a great week!
Butch and Pam
So pretty and so interesting and as usual very informative. I have always been concerned about the invasion of kudzu, will it ever be eradicated?. Isn’t it interesting that something so invasive can have the lure of something beautiful such as the bloom. Interesting about the names of the grands. …as well as the story about the Goodyear plant. Reminded me of the story on Fox Nation and the closing of the coal mines in Hazard KY at about the same time. So sad so many affected by things like this. But we have to always remember that God is in control. We can’t see the whole picture, and we may never see it but He is in control. The good, the bad and the ugly. Our God is awesome and amazing. Praise Him. Have a wonderful September.
Thank you Kari. It is a fact that so much that will invade and cause harm appears as beautiful and is alluring. You are so right on target with the fact that God is sovereign over all. Everything according to Divine Providence. There is a big picture and we can see part of it at times, but not all. We do know the end of the story. Hope you have a great week and a wonderful September!
Butch and Pam
Happy Labor Day weekend Butch and Pam. I enjoyed reading this post and seeing your photos of amazingly beautiful scenes. I have never smelled the blooming kudu. So happy your sense of smell returned Butch! Happy and a blessed September…
Thank you Emily. We wish kudzu wasn’t around but at least it smells good in August and September. We appreciate your comments. Have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
Butch, I loved your memories of the Gulf States Steel and I’m so sorry the plants have closed. There must have been many people who lost their job. So sad. The purple fern looks beautiful in the light and the sunrise is gorgeous. The big rotten tree must have an interesting story to tell. I had to google Kudzu because I don’t think I’ve ever heard of it. It sounds like a nasty plant even if it does smell nice lol. Love the picture of the four of you!! Wishing you both a lovely week!
Thank you so much Kim. It is probably good that you only know kudzu through Google. And yes, many jobs were lost and many families had a tough time. The 4 of us were a bit younger. 10 years makes a huge difference. Hope you have a great week!
Butch and Pam
Adorable post and beautiful photos. Blessings dear friends.
Thank you Maristella. We hope you are having a good Monday and that you have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
Such an interesting post! You will have to tell us Pam’s secret for not aging!.😊 God bless you all!
Thank you Cheryl and God bless you. Pam won’t even share her secret with me. We hope you have a pleasant week!
Butch and Pam