February 19 - Okay, now john can tell you why the journal has been so bare for the last seven months. joyce and john started packing June 22nd. Their home was going to be remodeled starting August 10th and they were going to move out while the work was being done. They just moved back in on January 30th. The computer was reconnected on February 18th. joyce didn't feel it was a good idea to advertise that their house would be empty.

The remodeling includes windows all across the back of the house, so the ponds and waterfalls can be seen from anywhere in the house. All the "common room" walls were removed and a cathedral ceiling added. There are eight large skylights to bring in all the sunlight possible. The results is something john calls "lake contemporary" and is quite beautiful. joyce and john are taking the attitude that "less is more" in what goes into the new area. Flowering plants were quickly added to the area.

john can't wait to get out into the garden and start working again. It won't be much longer now.

February 21 - Two male Mallard ducks just landed in zenpond!!! These are the first Mallards this year. john is so happy they are back and will promptly put out the cracked corn for them. How beautiful they are with their ink-colored iridescent heads! john plans to cut a hole low in the fence (duck gate) as soon as possible so that Mom can march her babies into zenpond whenever she wishes.