Yes, you read that correctly.... I titled this 'hodgepodge'. Not a word I use a lot or one that I have heard in many, many years, but I thought it appropriate for this particular blog.







We have had so many nasty storms come through the valley these past few weeks, I wanted to share some of the fabulous photos that my (daughter, Miranda) own little prof. photographer captured as well as some mobile pics I have. There were numerous reports of funnel clouds, sighted tornadoes, and rotations in clouds in our area during this time. It just amazes me, because for many years, this was not something we were accustomed to ever experiencing. I have been in awe!




My daughter (Miranda) and I really enjoy taking photos of this old farm, but it's even more exciting when something captures your attention..... and makes you realize how "great the powers that be"!



In this photo, you can actually see something dropping down in what will actually become a funnel cloud. Pretty amazing!



















And this, of course, is our backyard, being belted with heavy winds and rain!!!



And with all of this in mind... we decided that we needed something to look forward to ---- a vacation!!! Wheeee! Since Kent and I have been married, we honestly have not been on a vacation together other than our 'honeymoon'. Granted.... that was pretty special! So we perused over a gazillion different beach houses all over the Outer Banks, NC. (We love the Outer Banks ---- so romantic!) And voila! We found the perfect get-away!

Yes, it might seem a bit over the top.... and with 8 bedrooms, it is a bit large for us, but by the time we found everything we wanted in a beach house, this was what was left. Plus!!! We fell in love!
It is not only in the 4x4 section of Corolla... which means 4-wheel drive only vehicles, but it is pet friendly (you all know how much we love our animals!), and has a heated pool and hot tub. And with all of that... there are wild mustangs that roam the beach. Oh wow! We are so very excited... and it is always nice in life to have something to look forward to, isn't it? Like a little light at the end of one's tunnel, so to speak.

As you can see, the view is spectacular!


















And since we will be miles and miles away from restaurants, stores, etc.... we will be taking advantage of this beautifully equipped kitchen and dining area. I have already contacted a family owned business back in Alaska that is going to ship Alaskan King Crab for a dinner on the beach! Oh yum! Something else to look forward to....











Besides Kent and I, my daughter, her boyfriend, a couple friends of theirs, and some wonderful new friends we have made over the course of a few months will be enjoying this fabulous beach retreat around the first of September, 2009. I will be sure to update and share photos after the big event.


Until next time....

Phew! I've done it again, haven't I? Neglected my blog and stayed away too long. But I've taken care of the farm, garden, house, cabin, etc. enough that I should be able to get back into the swing of things again.


This particular blog is "all" about my dad, a.k.a. "Buddy" or Larry Carty. I got to spend quite a bit of time with him this past weekend due to the Powell Valley High School 1960-1969 class reunion held here in Big Stone Gap, VA. He and my mom were the first graduating class at Powell Valley in 1960. I think that it is pretty cool... as well as the fact that I graduated from PVHS, myself, only 20 years later in 1980.






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My dad also made a big announcement on his visit here with friends and family. He brought along his lady friend and fiance, Wanda. She was a delight! We got to spend a lot of time with both of them at our cabin up at Huff Rock the Sunday/ Monday after the reunion

















Toward the end of the visit, we retreated back to the old farm house and dad took Wanda on a tour of the area. And my daughter (the photographer), Miranda, got to spend some quality time shooting their engagement photos on and around the farm. Lots of good food, laughter, and memories shared that weekend. I'm glad I got to share it with my "blog" friends.






Until next time...