The Queen's Lace

I love this time of year when the Queen Anne's Lace is blooming. I've also heard it called wild carrot but I don't know why. Reminds me of my childhood.

Small But Mighty

Cleaning crew at the Colonial VBS carwash was short but exuberant. It was advertised as a carwash of the bottom half of your car, raising funds for clean water in east Africa.

Lighting Up the Night

An exciting night at Kauffman Stadium. Bubba Starling finally made his major league debut to the delight of a lot of Gardner fans. Not on fire at the plate but he did score a run. A car caught fire in the parking lot to the dismay of a few folks. And finally, fireworks! A Royals win and fireworks – the perfect night.

An Over-Sized Salute

This huge flag hangs inside the grand hall at Union Station in honor of Independence Day.

Hanging Out at the Trading Post

A trading post in Colorado, on our way to Gunnison, just a few years ago.

Greetings from Stonehenge

I made a quick trip to Stonehenge yesterday (at Union Station). Hayden and Lowell were with me as were Stacy, Joey and Adam (but they took their own photo). Lowell created some art after the exhibit.

 

Floating Wetland

Last summer, Overland Park launched this floating wetland in South Park Lake to balance the water’s ecosystem because of harmful algae outbreaks. Constructed with native Kansas wetland plants growing on it, the island is supposed to improve the water quality by filtering the water and preventing the toxic algae from forming.The wetland was evaluated in June and deemed to be working but instead of 75 feet, one 1,000-1,500 feet is needed to effectively protect the lake. The fishing lake has been closed several times in recent years because of toxic algae outbreaks. Don't know what the plans are for expanding.

Welcomed

Adam was quite curious and alert during his baptism, welcoming him into the church. He also celebrated his 4 month birthday yesterday.

Flowerworks

I like this description of the allium after the bloom is finished about the 4th of July. Does remind me of fireworks.

Community Celebration

The Village Fest on the 4th is a wonderful celebration of community and Independence Day. We had a bit of rain at the end but the morning was delightful - Americana, a pie contest (where we got to eat the pie while the judges conferred), interaction with law enforcement (including sitting on a bit police motorcycle), and a petting zoo.

All Decked Out

Adam and Lowell were all dressed up for the 4th. Lowell had to change into a second outfit because we got caught in the rain at Village Fest.

Engineering Feat

Stacy and Hayden attempt to build a pyramid out of their young cousins for the 4th of July entertainment in 1996.

Must Be 4th of July Holiday

Because it's time for flag cake!

Lush and Green

Everything is growing and thriving with all the rain. As the heat sets in, we'll see how it goes.

Summer in the City

The great view from the balcony of Community Christian Church. The coloring reminds me of an old postcard.