by Ethan Johnson
September 21, 2007

For whatever reason, we have taken on a lodger. Well, another lodger, what with all of the house geckos creeping around our yard. A few weeks ago, I found something new on our patio that was decidedly unlike a gecko: A toad. I took some photos of it, then released it across the alley from our house. Nothing like getting a handful of toad pee. It brings back memories of Lake Superior, or scout camp. (Sniffle) Another one hopped along a few days later, resulting in another photo shoot and relocation. Now we're on our third distinctly different toad. Since the third time is the charm, I left it alone to see what businesses it had with our yard. The answer: A burrow.

[Edit 9/23/2007: Upon reviewing the photos, it is the same toad each time. Not sure how it is homing in on its burrow, but that kind of tenacity has inspired me to be more welcoming and protective.]

by Ethan Johnson
December 28, 2006

(Part I is available here.)

by Ethan Johnson
August 3, 2006

Note: The Vision Thing is finally being laid to rest. As this podcast continues to draw significant interest from the wine-loving community, I have moved it here and will ask that the winery update its website accordingly. This was back when I was using an alias instead of my real name when I was blogging. How silly in retrospect, huh? Also, the wine shipping laws have changed in the US since this interview. This originally "aired" on March 9, 2005.

sov_030905.mp3 (14.7mb, length: 32 minutes, 19 seconds)

by Marlena Elias
December 23, 2000

During this holiday season, when our lives are filled with hectic schedules and shopping lists, I wanted to share a very special, heartwarming story with all of you. This story is about a boy and his special problem.

by Marlena Elias
October 21, 2000

Since this week we are remembering Ms. Roxanne the cat, it is also appropriate to mention my dog Eddie. I put Eddie to sleep on October 10, 1999, so I want to take this time to remember why I loved him so much.

by Marlena Elias
August 26, 2000

Magic the poo-diddley-pot is our one year-old Lhasa Apso. As many of you have read at this web site, Magic and his sister Racine are going through puberty. I would like to share with our viewing audience a few of Magic's affectations now that he is going through "the change."