Steinbeck Vineyards Harvest

Everything in due season. At just the right time comes the harvest.

In our travels we have watched as cotton, strawberries, blueberries, alfalfa, oats, sweet corn, many varieties of melon, tomatoes, zucchini, and grapes are harvested. Look at this cool stuff God has given to us. He did not make all of our food look like manna. He showers upon us an abundance of color and texture. He gives us food we peel, shell, and shuck. What kind of God would provide a creation where we can continue to marvel in the work of His hand? The kind that loves us so much He delights in providing an interesting harvest.

Steinbeck Vineyards

I will post a few more glamourous photos next, but these photos show the guts of the harvest!

On the left is a trailer which holds 6 tons of grapes.

The harvester on the right passes directly over the vines, while the white hoses vibrate causing the grapes to fall on to the lower conveyor belt to be lifted up and onto another conveyor belt that drops them into the trailer, which is hauled alongside the harvester.

Some of the grapes cannot be harvested in this manner and are harvested by hand. We'll look at that next...

Taking on the Heights

I know that you can't tell from the first picture, but there is a path along the top edge of Moro Rock in Sequoia National Forest.

Dave does not like heights, but today he conquered a fearsome trek. Way to go Dave. Well done.

Moro Rock rises 6,725 feet above sea level which seems a lot higher when you have only a small rail between you and a long fall.

Sequoia National Park

You just can't get a picture that shows the size and scope of these big boys! What a magnificent park.

At the Ranch

We parked our house at the Lange Ranch, in Merced, CA over the weekend. Although we did not get to ride the horses we certainly were entertained by them. We also enjoyed the joyful noise of being with a family. Thank you Pastor John and Tami for the warm hospitality.

I am continually amazed by the open, kind, and helpful way we have been treated by God's people. "Sure you can park in our lot." Then there's "Please stay at our KOA - no, there is no charge." Or this..."there is an empty lot next to us, we can rig up the electric and water for you, stay as long as you want." And, "We have land, I'll show you on the map, just park there whenever you are in the area." Oh, how about... "My parents have a ranch, they would love to have you."

You do not know how encouraging it is to hear these comments. Every day miracles involving every day people who lead with God's love and open arms. I love my life. :)

I know what you mean

Whatever.

Yosemite!

The photo on the upper left shows Half Dome taken from Glacier Point at the end of the day when the reds glow.

The other two photos celebrate FALL.
Being in California, I have missed the colors of October. Palm trees, pine trees and cactus just don't cut it when you are after the brilliant colors of fall.

Sea Lions at Pier 39

The Sea Lions at Pier 39 are a sight to behold. The sea lions started arriving shortly after the earthquake in 1989. At first there were 10 - 50, soon there were nearly 300. Some winters the population can top 900 of these roly-poly swimmers.

If you get to Fisherman's Wharf check out pier 39.

Blue Angels - Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

Seeing the Blue Angels was thrilling and caused for a busy waterfront! We paused to have fish and chips on the waterfront, you know, while we were at Fisherman's Wharf. I had to include the photo of the pelicans who flew over in formation just after the Blue Angels had passed by - the crowd cheered for them too, then burst out in laughter. The pelicans were quieter. With every pass the Angels caused car alarms to sing. (so to speak)

Gotta Love a Country Boy!

Please note the inches of clearance on either side of haRVey. Yikes. Good job Dave.

We have had many experiences in which I have exclaimed, "I am so glad you were raised on a farm." This is one of those times.

Our kids...

...well thirty years ago they were our kids as Dave and I served as youth leaders at Zion Lutheran in Corvallis, Oregon. It was a pleasant surprise to see these lovely young ladies and to catch up on their lives after all this time.
Chris and Beth Swanson(on the left) hosted a House Concert(sorry Chris I don't have a photo of you.) It was a potluck dinner followed by more visiting and a concert by Dave.

I considered this event to be a great gift and yet another glimpse of heaven - to visit with old friends, make new friends and proclaim the Gospel in song to them all.

What is an "r" among friends.