Improvising

I love going to the river, finding that perfect sandbar, and soaking up the sun.

This year the sandbars are under water and the river is more or less off limits. Luckily my dad felt the need to spend a decent chunk of time in Bomgaars so I was left to browse and found this gem.

It was the perfect way to relax and get a bit of sun at our cabin while staying cool!!

The fancy hat was also snagged during said Bomgaars trip!! Who knew Bomgaars could net such finds.

I Could be a Farmer

Yesterday I threw on my “work” boots and

tried my hand at windrowing. It was quite fun operating this big ol machine.

I had a great teacher and even though it was a tiny bit harder than expected I think with a lil practice I would be quite the ol pro.


Granted my rows are slightly crooked but not bad for a beginner?? Right?

The Flood of 2011

Ventured to Lewis and Clark Monument a few days ago to take in the flooding around Council Bluffs. Was breathtaking, sad, and a little frightening to see what the Mighty Mo is capable of. Praying for the levees protecting Council Bluffs to hold firm and keep us dry all summer! Pictures from the outing coming soon.

*Photos by Joshua Ortman

Fresh Air

I love the hustle and bustle of the city and the constant assortment of activities to choose from.

But I also love the smell of fresh farm air and wide open spaces. I feel quite blessed that I am able to enjoy both worlds equally!

City Lights

This photo was taken from Fairmont Park looking out over downtown Council Bluffs and Omaha. Pretty cool huh! I think I need to take a photography class so I can learn how to take cool photos!

*Photo by Joshua Ortman

Celebrate CB Parade

With all the flooding concerns I missed posting photos of the Celebrate CB Parade.



It turned out to be a perfect parade day with sunny skies and no rain drops.






There were over 80 entries for the parade and many many spectators lined up along the route.

One of my favorite moments was when we passed by a little girl and she exclaims “look the Princess car”. In reference to our car of females (right now four of the five city council members for Council Bluffs are women!!).

Huge thanks to the committee that organizes the parade, all the volunteers, participants, and spectators (and my mom the photog and greatest supporter on earth). They are what made this day so fun and enjoyable. Always nice to celebrate your hometown!


Capped off with a concert in the park that included one of my favorite musicians.

Big Green Tractors

Ever start a date with a ride in a JD to feed the cows?


No? Me neither until recently. Turns out it can be quite fun. And once again brings to mind another great Jason Aldean song, Big Green Tractor.

You Call them Weeds, I Call them Flowers

All this rain equals gorgeous green lawns and fields splattered with flowers. If it blooms and looks pretty it’s a flower right??

Dirt Roads

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Jason Aldean song – Dirt Road Anthem. Reminds me of my time in the country. Every time I hear it can’t help but smile and reminisce.


You never know what you may encounter on a drive in the country. For instance this isolated spot which once held life.

Baseball Weather

Should look like this:

Not this:

Crazy weather at the College World Series last night!

Kolache Days 5k

Every year Verdigre, NE has Kolache days. It entails all sorts of fun from races, volleyball tournaments, parades, and street dances. We went as little kids and loved it. Last year I started attending again and love their 5k or 10k run. This year I gathered up many of my favorite running partners and siblings and we rocked the Kolache Days 5k.

They let us register 5 minutes before the start of the race, they are sending us shirts as they were out of our size, they held our valuables during the run, they cheered for us like crazy the whole route, and the proceeds support the fire department in Verdigre. What a perfect run only possible in a small town!

Custom outfits and all!