We were living in sunny California... and July was quite warm. Irma took the photo of me, then I ran and took her photo before the camera lens shut... either that or I did a little photo "processing" after the fact... I don't remember which.

This is Irma at her computer. Here is where she does all of her translation work and the table is handy for interviews and classes. You can tell that Ron doesn't use this room very much, because it's neat. 

Ron in his studio. notice the brushes and cigar boxes full of paint in the background. These are are less than a fourth of his art supplies. 

In the spare bedroom we have a full size futon. It's covered with a sheet to keep it clean, so this picture doesn't do it justice. 

And the stockings were hung by the chimney with care. Lacey was Ron's father, Gladys was his grandmother. They may be gone, but they're not forgotten. 

Karioki machine (wrapped in plastic) and fireplace 

Lettuce, peas, and beans 

Apricots just starting to ripen in December 

Peaches just starting to ripen in December 

This is the "shamrock" that was planted last year. The trees were planted at an angle on purpose... there is empty space between them, but they are growing straight up from this point on. 

Ron's painting of a garden 

Another of Ron's paintings... 

Ron's painting in the entry 

Ron's paintings in the hall 

The lemon tree 

This is the neighbor's plum tree. From just these few branches last year, Ron made 20 jars of jelly. 

These are the peach trees that are planted in the "shamrock." They look completely different than they did last year. 

Lucky is laughing because he didn't get caught digging in the garden... this time! 

The south side of backyard 

The front yard is full of color 

Roses in mid December... 

If a bow would stick to a package as well as it stuck to a forehead, you'd never get it off! 

While Ron opened presents, some were still working on dessert. 

This tells who was who at the Thanksgiving/ Birthday/ Hannukah/ pre-Christmas party