So far we have enjoyed a cooler summer than in recent years, and last week we even had two full days of constant, soaking rain ... something we had rarely if ever seen in August. Our first 'near-frost' was actually two weeks ago -- we woke up one morning and our LaCrosse weather station reported 32.8 degrees F (0.4 C).
[Yes, that .8 would suggest someone here at the ranch is a bit of a weather nerd, but let's not reflect further on that.]
Our first real frosts are usually in late August, and always by the end of the first week in September, and though we haven't had it yet, the past couple of days have been unusually cool and fall-like. Yesterday was just a raw day ... cold and wet and windy. More like late October than August. With the temperature never getting above the 50s and the wind howling at 15 mph, the house had become uncomfortably cool by early evening -- and that meant a cold night ahead. So for the first time Alayne or I could remember, I fired up the wood stove in August.
Never far from the warmth of a wood stove is blind-and-deaf Spinner, and I took her photo yesterday evening not long after I got the fire started. This morning when we got up the house was warm and toasty.
We're supposed to return to the 70s Friday and Saturday, but be back into the 50s by Sunday ... and with a high of only 53 degrees (11.6 C) forecast for Labor Day on Monday. I think I'd better get started splitting some more wood for the stove!
Spinner's super cute.
And I love this bed because I've been thinking of getting one for my dog Tai, but he's big and that's a hefty "investment" for something he may snub his nose at just hours after trying it out. Makes me rethink trying it, in fact. Thanks!
Posted by: Ali | September 04, 2008 at 09:19 AM
It's starting to look like winter and Spinner looks so cozy! Spinner is special but then every one at RDR is special.
Posted by: Shirley * James * Portland, OR | August 31, 2008 at 12:44 AM
Tropical Storm Fay brought us a lot of wind and rain here in Jacksonville, but no cooler weather! Spinner would need to be in A/C and in front of a fan to keep cool. Keep the critters warm Steve!
Posted by: Debbie B. | August 29, 2008 at 11:23 AM
I envy your cool spell, as cool air, other than a/c would be a real treat right now! That's a precious pic of Spinner being all snuggly!
Warm hugs to all,
ginger, Tobias & Tlingit
Posted by: ginger & Tobias (the greythound) | August 29, 2008 at 10:46 AM
so is Spinner doing better now? He looks good.
Posted by: Mcappy | August 29, 2008 at 10:35 AM
Beautiful Spinner! Her expressions remind me so much of Baron only she's bigger and fluffier!
Posted by: Wendy | August 29, 2008 at 09:45 AM
Just looking at the photo with the cozy fireplace and comfy bed, makes me wish I was Spinner!
Posted by: Clay | August 29, 2008 at 09:14 AM
Spinner is so beautiful!
Posted by: Suzanne | August 29, 2008 at 08:46 AM
I love the picture of Spinner looking oh so cozy!
Stay warm!
Posted by: Carisa J | August 29, 2008 at 08:31 AM
The wood stove, in August? What is Ovanda's growing season, about forty-five days long?? :D
Posted by: Moon Rani | August 29, 2008 at 08:30 AM
You might be in for a colder than usual winter, folks. Make sure you have plenty of wood to get you through...and good luck! Down here in FL it is still in the 90's...pleh!
Posted by: Debbie | August 29, 2008 at 05:39 AM
Wow, that amazes me! For someone who lives in South/Central TX & we barely get any cold weather I cannot imagine using anything but the A/C at this time of the year. High today was in the 90's. Spinner sure knows the best spot to hang out. I am so glad to see Spinner. I have been thinking about him!
Posted by: Colleen & Sweet Kitty Erin - San Antonio TX | August 28, 2008 at 04:25 PM