Kentucky Derby and the Willow.
I mentioned previously that we were going to a Kentucky Derby party down in San Jose and there would be a hat contest for the best decorated lady’s hat. I had no idea that this was a tradition and there are even magazines filled with photos, ideas, and instructions. So Mrs. side pocket set about creating one and this was the result.
We just got back and it was a great party. On belinda’s recommendation I put all my money on Suddenbreakingnews due to the DKos/OND connection but alas, it was not to be. Then there was a vote by ballot box for the best hat. Mrs. side pocket won overwhelmingly.
You would think that just winning would be enough, but there was a prize. Just what every true Kossack dreams of, she got a pony!
To backtrack a bit, just as we were leaving for San Jose Mrs. side pocket looked out the kitchen window and shouted in surprise. I ran outside and discovered to my shock that 1/3 of our willow tree had collapsed. KTK readers are familiar with that tree; it was discussed and photographed in my Mistletoe diary in which I stated I would have to cut a branch to access and destroy the parasite growth. The branches stem from a single point on the ground and I had noticed they had seemed to be spreading apart but I saw no cracks in the trunk.
Talk about luck. It fell between the expensive “wedding arch” visible in the upper picture and a fine plum tree laden with fruit. To show scale, the branch is two feet wide at the base. Willow is good firewood so when I finish felling the other branches I’ll have a whole year’s firewood. I have to be realistic, however. It is 17 days till my wrist surgery and no chainsawing for three months. Aaaack.
Let me add, Happy Mother’s Day to those it applies to, and Happy Sunday to everyone in general.
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