Oh pretty young Isabelle Pearl,
With your twinkles and smiles and curls.
Would you please give some thought,
to the beaus you have caught?
You've left none for the other dear girls.

It's another intensely warmish day in Tennessee. I am facing the heat with very little courage and keeping myself indoors. Owen is unswayed by it and has been outside as much as possible. Ivan would be there with him, were it not for nap time. He is still in much need of rest each day. Though Owen would deny that he ever needs it, yesterday he was definitely a more agreeable person after taking a nap.

My back is continuing to heal and slowly but surely I am taking back the territory lost by my pain. The kitchen floor has been long overdue for an attack from the mop and I have seen signs of a takeover by ants. I must delay no longer in wielding my weapon and conquering this tiny foe with many brethren. I will not surrender.