Gadding About at UNC Graduation for Class of 2018

The procession of graduates. 

My oldest grandson, Zach, graduated from UNC today, and I was there to celebrate.  It was a horribly hot day, but his grandfather and I made our way over early and managed to get a seat that remained in the shade for the entire program.  

A sea of Carolina Blue. 

Sitting in the shade. 

After the commencement, we walked over to the DKE House where we enjoyed a fine lunch. 

Zach on the left with his brothers Tyler (middle) and Brooks.

Granddaughter Grace. 

My first born son Michael, father of the graduate. 

The siblings in front of DKE House. 

Michael and Meredith with their four kids. 

One down, three to go.  Michael and Meredith (both graduates of UNC where they met) have done a great job rearing those grands. 

A Cup of Tea and A Good Book

A cup of green tea and a good book.

Patrick and Alvaro take care of our yard but I enjoy working outdoors too, so I manage to get in a bit of yard work without their noticing.  I trimmed a few of the shrubs out front in the cool of this morning.

After filling one bag with trimmings, it was time to enjoy a cup of tea and a book and the view from the front patio. 

A nice place for a cup of tea and a book. 

I try to have a cup of green tea each day because it is healthful, and the book that I am currently reading is written by one of Dan's former graduate students Curt Stager.  Still Waters The Secret Life of Lakes is the fifth book that Stager has authored and is dedicated to Dan, Joe Richardson, and Curt's father.  I'm sorry Still Waters wasn't completed before these three passed away.  Dan was aware that the book was in progress, and he knew that it would be dedicated to him as well.  Dan would have been very proud of the book as I'm sure the others would have been too.  In Still Waters Stager explains beautifully how lakes are impacted by humans and how lakes affect humans as well.  Laymen and scientists both can appreciate and learn from this book.

Book by Curt Stager and pottery by Westmoore Pottery. 

Mary at Westmoore Pottery made these little butter dishes that are great for holding used tea bags. 

This fountain began leaking so we converted it to a planter for my succulents. 

One of Mark Hewitt's first big pots. 

My view to the east when enjoying my tea on the front patio.    The rhododendrons are at their peak. 

It was quite pleasant spending time out in that area of the yard this morning, and I may return in the cool of the evening to enjoy the display of rhododendrons at their peak.