Out Like a Lamb, In Like a Lion? 2014-2015

Usually this adage is set aside for springtime. I just decided to use it now because at this point it looks like it could be a very, very long winter in the Midwest. I have my fingers and toes crossed that it will whiz by without too much of an issue, but I am a realistic and pessimistic person.  So far with all the illnesses and uproar the last few weeks  it looks like if you are a gambling person it could be a real crap shoot. One wonderful positive note was an addition of a first grandson and announcement of another grandson on the way in 2015.

For the last several months social media, news and just personal observations have been littered with anger, unrest, varied opinions, violence, etc. Don't think I haven't noticed or have my own opinions, I do. Yes, our society needs change but society is also going about it in a very destructive way that will only make matters worse.  How much worse does it have to get before it gets better? Only time will tell.

 I have personally experienced many "isms" in my lifetime.  Where I grew up it was very ethnically diverse but not without being called whitey, honky, cracker and the spanish slang "puto/puta". At the time my only thought was yes it bothered me but you took it on the chin so too speak and went on about your day and life.  One of the "consider the source" situations. Once I went into the working world at the time I figured name calling would be a thing of the past.  I figured "grownups" were much more adult and didn't treat issues the same. Sadly I was wrong. It then became more competitive and chauvinistic.

One of my first unfortunate experiences with  a co-worker I will probably never forget.  Each year at this time she would grab her calendar and pick all of the days off throughout the year that usually included Christmas and other holidays. One year it became a battle of wills between her and another co-worker on who would take off the two weeks of Christmas and New Years. It didn't really matter to me at the time because I was not married or didn't have children and they both did. The situation went on for several days and finally the one lady decided to basically give in to the seniority worker. Unfortunately, what the senior worker said I  wish I hadn't heard. Another co-worker asked her if she had finally decided what days she would get off. Her comment, "oh yes we were down to the wire but hey if "whitey" gives I take.

Societies peaks and valleys really haven't changed much over the years in that you have your tough times, tough nuts to crack, some nuts are not worth your time and effort, issues change for the good, some heartaches will pop up when you least expect and joy will come in little clouds when the rain or snow falls. Things will change if you want it to. Those who don't want some form of change will sadly be lonely beings.

Photo in Dana Point, CA Photo by Tony Tribolet

Growing up in California we were just a few miles away from beaches in any given direction. Although my visits when living their were few, I always knew it was their and a car ride away. The picture above was taken by a client  in California. Several years ago when I saw this picture he posted on Facebook I told David the next time he saw Tony to tell him how beautiful this picture was that he captured.  I was very touched when unexpectedly he sent me a copy. Today, it proudly hangs in our family room on ironically a west facing wall. Even though I am miles away I can look to the west and see the sunset on the beach. This is probably the only thing in life you can truly count on.

The sun will always rise in the east, and set in the west.  I hope the lion of winter will keep its roar quietly like a lamb for 2015 and think before it strikes.

The Party is Over

Wow my last post was in mid-November. Little did I realize that so much would be crammed into the month of December. I had my list out of what had to be done and pretty much right off the bat the list went by the way side. Early in December what I thought was a little scratchy throat turned into full blown bronchitis and the hack remnants still linger. I, like many winter season babies (of which both of my children were and now two of my grandchildren are) will be ever blessed with never knowing if you will make it through the winter without sickness lurking.

Down for almost two weeks with no desire to shop, decorate or deal with Christmas thank goodness this year we planned ahead in our business. Almost every year for as long as we have been in business this month almost always includes our beloved beastly truck getting sick and coughing into a repair shop. We vowed this year that with the arrival of our first grandson and third grandchild that David would take off from work the entire month of December. Something that was on the list that was fully accomplished.  He stepped in and decorated outside (yes Clark Griswold is alive in well in Sedville) and we pretty much had things up on schedule. A little ironic since we were not going to be home this year for Christmas due to the early delivery of said grandson (Greyson Matthew). He was to arrive on December 25th but due to obvious reasons expressed by my son and daughter-in-law of doctor being out of town then and prior complications from daughters' arrival it was best to plan ahead his delivery.

Papa and Greyson

Greenlee and Greyson

Hadleigh and Greenlee

Now that we have three grandchildren and one more due next year, I reflect back to my time growing up as an only child. My family nucleus was a total of five including my parents and grandparents. Each holiday no surprise guests, quiet, fun and without any drama. At that time I thought every family enjoyed the peace and tranquility. BOY WAS I WRONG!! For the past 30+ years each year has been a surprise, noisy, sometimes catastrophic, drama, suspense, sometimes reading like a soap opera. Truth yes, I would sometimes like to go have the quiet peaceful days. I don't always adapt to unexpected surprises well (unless they are special gifts that my husband showers on me each year for unknown reasons) its at that time I realize his appreciation on how hard it can be for me and his undying support during the difficult memories I go back too.  Our lives are filled with most things we rarely expect, those circle of life moments you have no control over. The older we get not always the easiest to except. Trying to find the little bit of joy the holidays are suppose to bring, sometimes are overshadowed by people and things no matter if its the holidays still create heartache.

I have vowed next year to start shopping earlier. Yes, even though he was home we seemed to procrastinate at things until the last minute which I rarely enjoy doing. My goal will be to have ideas, wrapping the whole nine-yards done in a reasonable time. Who am I kidding, it probably will never happen. Something always gets in the way and change is hard.

As the year draws to a close I look back, the gifts are unwrapped, the decorations are still up yes the party is over. But, really things have only just begun.

May 2015 be less drama filled,  good times abound. I will try my very best to make life a better party. Will you?

Boots of Life

When I was a kid one thing made me happy around this time of year. I would check the mailbox every time I went to my grandparents in hope that the Sears Christmas Catalog had arrived. With a pad of paper in hand I would thumb through the pages and mark what I wanted Santa Claus to bring me for Christmas.  Granted, I would receive much fewer items than what I had listed but I would systematically plot out section by section what I hoped I would get on Christmas morning.  Many of the items were geared toward winter weather fun in the catalog like sleds and ice skates. I never gravitated toward those for obvious reasons.

My first pair of ice skates I am not sure exactly where my parents got them but they were double runners that strapped onto shoes. The story was that I was around three years old.  I don't really remember my first experience but I am told I showed little fear.

By the time I was a little older  around six or seven I had my first pair of recreational skates that had the blades already on the vinyl boots. These are fine for beginners but at that point I really wanted to move up to skates that would allow me to do more. Each time I grew out of skates I would move up to the next level of skating boot.

My first pair of custom made boots I saved for and bought myself. I remember going to see Howard Craker who worked out of a small rink across from the Van Nuys Courthouse. The skates and blades got me through my early times competing. I was so proud that I was able to come up with the money to buy them. Back then basic custom boots cost about $200 and blades were around $125.

The last custom pair I still have. Harlick was always my boot of choice. They were a little more expensive but not near what I recently noticed while checking the Internet.   Instead  of the catalog you can go to Amazon or order directly through the many companies now that make figure skates.

SP-Teri, Harlick and Riedell are still major producers. Some of the newer manufacturer's are Jackson Skates developed by Donald Jackson, a former Canadian and World Champion skater and the futuristic looking skates from Edea out of Italy. Prices range from still under $100 for basic skates and blades to in the one thousand dollars and up for top of the line. You can have your name engraved on them and extra amounts of plush padding inside you might even forget your wearing skates.

I did check the Sears website for what they now offer.  They are definitely not the skates of the old Christmas catalog days but I guess they make any youngster of today ready to still make that list for Santa Claus.

Skating is and will always be a very expensive sport to participate in. Sometimes hard to be a spectator and not a regular participant. The sport still has the allure of beauty, grace and poise.

Boots of Life

Tanned, creased with age and wear
The skates lay still for now
What once glided with grace and speed
Now scratched and a little dull
The memories they stir within my soul
Will continue on through the rest of my life

The Random Ways Skating Comes Into My Life

When I hear the words figure skating usually my head pops up like a tiny puppy hearing the words "want a treat". No matter what I am doing, my heart skips a quick beat for a moment. Over the many years its brought me laughter, pain, stability, inspiration and a multitude of emotions. It gave me strength when I had little,  No matter how I have tried over the years by trying to substitute it with other things, nothing has come close to the feelings and joy the sport brought me.

This past week several different stories popped up in the media. Skating like everything else in the world has went through changes. Some good, some not so good.

A former skating coach was sentenced to 98 years for child molestation.  Something you hate to hear no matter what or where. The rink should always be a safe haven,

Rockefeller Center Ice Rink opened this past week.  The light bulb went off in my mind to my trip with the team when we got to skate there. A once in a lifetime experience.

Crown Center Skating Rink in Kansas City opened this week also. Last year we took our oldest granddaughter there for her first skating experience. Watching her, fearlessly stride off was a highlight. Maybe a trip back will help curb my fever.

The official announcement that Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir were officially commentary duos for figure skating. Move over Dick Button, Scott Hamilton and other's who have come before them. Ready or not here they are. For me the jury is still out on this one.

If not for social media I probably would be fairly lost about what's going on in the skating world. Although I do try and catch some skating on television, who is actually competing sometimes I have no clue who they are. It has been long enough now that most of the skaters who skated when I did or were just starting when I retired, so to speak are now retiring themselves. Many of the coaches are not coaching anymore or on a limited basis. Now the students of the infamous coaches are teaching a new chapter of figure skaters.

I recently started following on Tai Babilonia on Facebook. Together with Randy Gardner, they won the 1979 World Pair Championships and were five-time National Pair Champions. During and after her skating career has been an interesting and hard road. She now co-hosts a show with Ken Boxer called, The Ken Boxer, Live Show out of Santa Barbara, CA. Check it out on YouTube.

A conversation this past week with one of my friends some how got diverted to clothing and of course skating outfits of which I had a few. From a hobo costume, to Fred Astaire tux/tails and top hat, to a evening gown with Richard Dwyer (Google him),  spandex by the yards and numerous pairs of tights.  Businesses around the rinks in any area were not surprised to see you enter there business with a tiny skirt and not think a second thought. So I guess I really shouldn't be shocked now when I walk into my Walmart and see some interesting outfits. A sign of the times and a glimpse of where I live. A figure skating outfit would be totally out of place in Sedalia, MO.

My boots may not be laced, or my blades as sharp, not a rink nearby nor a beaded costume in my future but I will take the random ways skating peeks its way in my life, keep it coming.

They Went to the Game and All I Got Was This Lousy Sweatshirt

Well almost everyone here is waving a blue and white Kansas City Royals flag in hopes of a World Series sweep of the San Francisco Giants.   I was really in hopes of another blue and white team (Los Angeles Dodgers)  when I heard that they might have a chance. A California Freeway World Series would have been ideal.

Back in the 1970's I was an avid baseball observer. Although I never went to any games during that time, I watched whenever they were on television. The best years for me were during that time of 73-78 when players such as Ron Cey, Steve Yeager, Danny Lopes, Bill Buckner and Steve Garvey were my  dream team players. Also the announcing duo of Vin Scully and Jerry Doggett made the play-by-play one of the best. (Vin Scully still continues to announce at the age of 86). They provided some exciting baseball for many years with little drama that the sport has now. I think the biggest drama was who was caught using  pine tar on their bats and the occasional bench clearing.

After that time baseball was a little boring for me, until flash forward to 1988 and the Dodgers were again in the World Series. That year my husband and son were fortunate enough to get to go to a series game. My son probably remembers very little of it (age 3) but I remember David saying it was one of the most exciting games he had ever witnessed.  Not only memories came home that night but souvenirs. Since I was back skating around this time they gifted me with a sweatshirt.  Though I wore it rarely skating, I have kept it after all these years.

Mind you my husband wasn't and has never been a sports fanatic. Many have told me I am lucky to not be a "sports widow". I actually watch more sports than he ever has.  After this game he really got disinterested. I remember shortly after this one of the biggest player strikes occurred and it really soured his feelings on salaries versus fans.

Around 1991 my son had started playing t-ball a little. The coach found out that our local Ford dealership was having a local Reseda, CA boy who had made it to the big leagues sign autographs.  The player had been in the 1985 World Series and his name was Brett Saberhagen. He was lucky enough that day to receive an autographed baseball and baseball card. 

Fast forward a couple weeks ago when the Royals were not yet in the playoff games my daughter got tickets through her work to a game. It was a day for firsts in that it was the first ever game for granddaughter Hadleigh and also I think my daughter's first game ever. Although they lost that day they stayed until the end and since that day, Hadleigh became a fan of the Royals, for now. Maybe I can persuade her to wear Dodger Blue some day.

Are We Losing The Ability and Chance to Write?

Not a day goes by where I am not seeing the debate about technology and the true hand written word on the Internet or newspaper (for those who actually still read a paper you hold in your hand that gets delivered to your home).  A definite strong debate about the pros and cons is happening everywhere.

 I first wrote about this debate on this blog back in June, 2011. "The Written Word Changing How We Communicate? My last comment in that blog; "don't take away something that makes each person unique". In a time where we keep pushing individuality and non-conformity why are we still having this debate?

In just about every article I have read on the subject the first statement made is "schools don't have the time to teach due to constant-changing curriculum". Penmanship, a word most over the age of 20 know but those under probably need to Google should still be important as it is what makes individuals unique.

In both an article I read recently that a friend tagged on Facebook, written by Melinda Carstensen for the Lake Elsinore, CA-Wildomar Patch News and also this past weekend in our local Sedalia Democrat Newspaper by Bob Satnan was that computers are replacing the true written word.

I know it may seem strange as I am typing this blog that by doing so I have went the way of the computer, but I still do a good majority with a pen or pencil in hand. I personally still write and sign checks, I write my grocery list, I even write thank you notes. I take notes to even help with what I am writing on the computer.  Although my cursive writing isn't as clean as it used to be and my print gets sloppy (I got rid of the knuckle bump years ago) people that have known me for years say my writing still looks pretty much the same.

Mr. Satan told of a story in his article that went back to his school years in that a teacher accused him of having someone else complete an assignment he turned in. As it turned out after his mother accompanied him back to school and explained the difference was the first part had been done before he was told he couldn't go to basketball practice until after his homework was done. (remember those days of rushing through something just to get it done so you could do what you wanted to do?) If  he had done his assignment as they do today on a computer how do you verify it belongs to that person and someone else hasn't done the keystrokes?

Everyone has those days of rushing through something and not taking the time to do something presentable the first time. Is that where we have come to with regards to the hand written or cursive word? Are teachers, because of scheduling not wanting to take the time? Are parents not having enough time in the daily schedule to help children learn?

My oldest granddaughter is just starting to learn letters and numbers. I told my daughter why not use both. Let her use the computer/tablet to trace over the letters to learn but also have paper to actually put pencil in hand and get experience in writing it. I would not just want her or any of my grandchildren to just mark X as a signature or not know how to write. That will go back to the times of illiterate people who couldn't read or write. Wouldn't it?

Even learning keyboard functioning makes for a lot of room for errors. Since our local newspaper was purchased by a larger company in the Midwest and have let go many local writers I have noticed the proofreading practices are below acceptable. Not an issue goes by that I don't notice a proofreading error or a duplicate article written in the same paper with a different headline. Is this because someone is getting sloppy and doesn't have the time? It probably wouldn't matter if they were hand writing it or typing but its just another sloppy short cut.

Some sad statistics that were covered in the article by Melinda Carstensen are truly disturbing:

45 states and the District of Columbia have followed Common Core Standards since 2010 which gives schools the option to teach cursive but DON'T require it. (so far I am not a proponent of Common Core)

Many educators no longer feel cursive is worthwhile, as writing moves to tablets and computers and state tests dictate curricula

By grade 12, half of classroom assignments are written on computers. Many schools around the country are also assignment a computer to each child for the school year.

Most parents state children can not read their teacher's cursive handwriting.

States such as Georgia, Massachusetts and California have taken steps toward making cursive mandatory. Tennessee lawmakers are fighting to keep.

One sad look toward the future of why hand writing is detrimental to how our society will evolve is during the George Zimmerman murder trial, 19-year-old Rachel Jeantel testified she couldn't read a letter that a lawyer handed her. It was written in cursive. Sad and unacceptable.

I will continue to take pad to paper and will use my trusty computer and tablet. You can do both if you put your mind and hand to it. No one can take that away, unless you let them.

Season's Change

Well here we are again. Summer flew by and fall has tiptoed in quietly this time around. The trees are just slowly as of today starting to turn the different brown, yellow, orange, red hews that bring the autumn season into full view.

Sadly fall and winter are not my favorite seasons. I know it is God's plan to let things happen and plants, trees and other living things must close the door to life and bring new life in but sometimes you stop and think it is just too soon.

This morning I opened the local newspaper to two wonderful pictures of butterflies. The migration of monarch butterflies has started its voyage to Mexico for the winter. One such nectar stop was the Highway Gardens at the Missouri State Fairgrounds. The aster flower, native to Missouri helps make the trip a little easier. Although the deforestation in Mexico has caused the monarch to decline, steps are being made to protect and restore these beautiful flying wonders.

 I was glad I stopped by the highway gardens this morning and saw a few stragglers who wanted to stick around a little while longer.The window of opportunity is small to view them so I was glad the day was nice enough to catch a few.

As I was taking the pictures my thoughts went to a school friend who passed away this past weekend. We went all through school K-12. Although after graduation we saw each other at a reunion and more recently connected on Facebook occasionally, it was sad for me to think that someone I played on the playground growing up was gone too soon.   When I read the news on Facebook my first memory that came to mind was that she was the first person I remember in school that had food allergies. I am sure there were others but today everyone seems to be allergic to everything.

Like seasons changing, butterflies migrating, friendships come and go. Take time today to say hi, e-mail or message a friend or family member.

Missouri State Fair 2014 Experience

Each year in August our town of 22,000+ people braces for an influx of people from all around the state and beyond. Traffic becomes interesting, planned errand running which usually takes a short time becomes a car trip that makes life interesting. For 11 days the main roads become a traffic jam most don't know how to navigate.

The fair is a time for people watching, riding rides, eating over the top food (a corn dog is always a must have). Fried green tomatoes, funnel cakes, pineapple cones, its definitely not a stick to your diet form of entertainment.

This year although the weather was cloudy (at least it didn't rain), humid, (I found damp spots on my body that I never thought about being damp before) it was 9+ hours of walking, eating, sitting, observing, and watching two 4 year old girls have the time of there lives. Hadleigh and her friend Kyra got to experience new foods they had never tried and rides they were big enough and daring enough to ride this year. They are definitely growing up. While they grow up the adults in attendance (my daughter Jennifer, David and myself) started to feel our ages pretty quickly.

I remember the first trips to the fair we made when our kids were both kids themselves. Now they bring there kids to experience the fair like they have done over the years. We all find ourselves shaking our heads at the differences between then and now.  Times have definitely changed.

After seven hours of eating and taking the little ones around, it was time for David and I to do something we hadn't done in years (usually David isn't home around fair time so it was a special touch to celebrate our 30th Anniversary). When we saw Sara Evans last at the fair she was an unknown to Nashville country music but a New Franklin, MO hometown favorite that we remembered at the Budweiser tent stage. She put on a great concert of all her first hits and now her most recent songs also.  It was a family reunion of sorts when she brought her two sisters who were her former backup singers to do a song. At her encore she preformed a Bruno Mars song with a twist "When I was Your Man" and Neon Trees "Everybody Talks". Joe Nichols opened for Sara and also put on a great performance. He is definitely back.

The fair is the swan-song to summer with days later the school year will be starting and fall will be just around the corner. Enjoy the rest of summer, I know I will be.

Everything to be Blue Over

Sneaking a berry

This past weekend my daughter and granddaughter and I took a little adventure. Our local paper had a great article about a local blueberry farm that had just opened up this week for people to come and pick blueberries. Anne's Acres in Lincoln, MO is a family-owned and run farm that looks to be a great addition to our locally grown produce.

I must admit as a kid I was not a real blueberry lover, but as I have gotten older I have definitely acquired the taste for them. Ditto my daughter and granddaughter also love them.  We got up early and ventured just a few miles south of home, grabbed our buckets and started picking. I had no real idea how many we would pick since it was our first time and we were not sure how long we would be at the farm I knew that we wanted to have enough to at least freeze some and make blueberry pancakes and muffins.

The process of cleaning and drying went pretty quickly and ten Ziplock bags later (roughly a little under 5 lbs worth) we are set. We probably would have had more but unfortunately they were so enticing to my granddaughter Hadleigh she put more in her mouth than in the communal buckets for home. We threatened to have her weighed when we finished.

It was a great first experience and I am sure we will keep it in mind for next year. One to factor in a little longer time to pick more berries, and a little less taste testing.

Architecture/Construction Everybody Has to Start Somewhere

I came across this picture the other day on Pinterest and basically it made me think of my situation for the past week. I am not sure this may or may not be some one's home. The saying "a person's home is his castle" has a universal meaning. If you have watched any Home and Garden program on just about anything to do with home repairs or home remodeling it is most definitely not an easy process. What sometimes is a weekend warrior project usually turns out to take twice as long. Budgets are usually out the window after the first hour you start the project because you usually find what may have started off as a small issue now becomes much more detailed than originally thought which in turn will cost more money.

On my go to Sunday Morning program a segment on architect recently was on Moshe Safdie who has been the architect to some of the most beautiful and noted structures around the world. The Kauffman Center for Performing Arts in Kansas City, MO and the United States Institute of Peace in Washington D.C. are just two such structures. What started on paper in his mind ended up as beautiful pieces of structural artwork for all the world to enjoy.

It has always fascinated me traveling around and see some interesting architecture that you really, wonder what an interesting concept for a building! Growing up my grandparents would take me to a restaurant called The Parasol Restaurant in Torrance, CA. It is no longer there but the pretty pink parasol was always a conversation piece of the community for many years. Although I never ate at the Hollywood Brown Derby, it was a part of early Hollywood for decades. Its derby shape was known around the country and world. Who doesn't remember the I Love Lucy episode with Lucy and William Holden--classic!

With all the famous and infamous structures around the country built and designed by some of the most renowned architects and building construction individuals my little situation seemed ever so easy to take care of--NOT.

With all the unseasonably strange weather we have had the past few years it finally caught up to the roof. Little did we realize what could have been a very easy and routine fix turned out to be more than what we or anyone bargained for. Unfortunately, sometimes you are left with shaking your head as to why people do things they way they do. Safeguards, planning ahead and working in a structured environment doesn't seem to be the work plan for everyone. 

I do not, never have and probably never will live in an expensive palace but you want to be dry, and be able to move around with ease in your home. Right now I am not yet at that point, but hopefully I will see the light at the end of the tunnel very soon.

I was being overly facetious in putting the above picture up but at this time, that is exactly what is appropriate for how I am feeling.

 

Birthday Wishes--Whatever Way You Do It Will Be Appreciated

I know I am not alone when I say sometimes the older you get birthdays are just different. Every day you wake and can say you have made it another day is a birthday. When you are young like my granddaughter's both are excitement abounds with celebrating with friends, games, cake and ice cream.  A young face holding up little fingers to indicate how old they will be put a smile on your face. Yes, we all did that same gesture at one time in our life, but now not enough fingers and toes can be found to do that same gesture for me.

I am always amazed at someone who has reach 100 years old all the wonderful, interesting and ever changing world they have experienced. Sometimes the faster paced and ever changing world becomes overwhelming I am sure.

Over the weekend I again got inspiration for my blog from CBS Sunday Morning.

Toledo, OH retired salesman Jim Gagnon really always enjoyed his job. He loved meeting people and learning about them. So much so over the years he has kept track of many of them on every birthday. Many hand written ledgers of people he met selling or some he only met once briefly but believed it was important enough to keep birthday information on them and each day takes time to make a phone call, ask them how they are, and then wish them a Happy Birthday. Some might think well what else does he have to do with his spare time? But, actually such a warm, kind and thoughtful message can make a person's day even better. It really takes such a little moment in even a busy schedule.

For those social media users, Facebook will alert you of your friends birthdays if you want. Sometimes on certain days I may have two or more friends that I always try and make sure I send them even a one sentence message on the big day. I'm sure they appreciate and how long can it take really?

I have a few childhood friends that for some strange reason the date just sticks out in my mind. One is around the time my traditional school year would get out for summer break so that is pretty easy to remember. The other childhood friend was really the only person I knew for a long time that had an August birthday. A few years ago both mentioned "WOW we can't believe you remember".

Some dates really stick in my mind because they have the same birthday as a relative. No limit seems to exist for some dates. 

Be it a card, a phone message (really please don't text), a lunch or dinner date, a small token of the day its always nice to be wished birthday greetings. You never know, you just might make the person's day even more special. I kinda wish I knew Jim Gagnon.

Memorializing the Times in Your Heart

Life is funny. When I was younger Memorial Day was usually the first weekend you could usually spend outside getting a tan started. If you went back to school with a slight glow, you knew your weekend was meaningful. Of course I also knew this date was set aside usually to remember those who had died for our country or it was also a time to honor just family members who were no longer with us.

We usually went to the cemetery to lay flowers at my great-grandpa Sheldon's grave. He had passed long before I was born but he lived with my mom and grandma during World War II while my grandpa was serving and he and my grandma were very close.

Lexington, MO Confederate Cemetery

On Facebook for several days many of my friends had forwarded a post on The Blue Street Journal about May 1, 1865 was the original Memorial Day in Charleston, SC. Former slaves reburied 257 Union soldiers to honor them for fighting for their freedom. It took 2 weeks to dig the graves. In another source, Boalsburg, PA considers itself the birthplace of Memorial Day.

Personally, I don't think one answer matters as too who or where was the first real Memorial Day observance. For me its remembering family who served or didn't but still hold a strong place in our hearts. They are no longer with us so we take this day either to place flowers on grave sites, eat a favor meal, drink a favorite drink or just recall memories of the great times spent with wonderful people who left our lives too soon.

Earth Day 2014

This past week my daughter told me that at our granddaughter's preschool they planted tree saplings for Earth Day. I was happy to hear that even at the young age of four the school was taking advantage of this activity. My granddaughter has participated for all of her four years at my house when it comes to recycling. She happily takes plastics, cereal boxes, glass, paper and puts them in the two bins I have in my laundry room. Not only does it teach her about recycling but also it gives her a knowledge already into doing household chores. Killing two birds with one stone is always a plus.

My daughter-in-law this past weekend shared a story of how she received a tree sapling when she was in school and without her parents knowledge decided to plant it herself in front of her bedroom window so she could watch it grow. This didn't have such a great ending as over the years the tree grew so large it cracked the house foundation.

Several years ago, I participated in the city wide hazardous waste roundup they have at our state fairgrounds. I remember sitting in my car in line to drop off items for longer than anticipated but was just glad that our city had finally took the plunge into being more environmentally aware. It has definitely taken a while to catch on here but now when I go to drop off at our local sites sometimes I have to wait for a parking space. That I like to see. After dropping off my old printer, hard drive, scanner and large bag of various batteries and a few paint items I was handed a booklet by a volunteer Emergency Management person entitled, "Recycle in Missouri" published by the Missouri Recycling Association.

 I was shocked to read that way back in 1990 SB 530 established a statewide goal of reducing waste by 40 percent.  Not until a few years ago was it even actually visible here in my city but I guess better late than never and it does seem like more and more people are actually participating. 

Also in this publication it stated that Missouri's waste and scrap is one of Missouri's top ten exports totally $451 million dollars in 2012. 

Since 2008, the Missouri State Fair has participated in recycling by having separate recycling drop barrels during the time of the fair. In 2012 alone, 6.6 tons of recycling was collected from 330 receptacles.

I am glad to hear and see that our city has stepped forward to help recycle, reuse and help our environment.

Butterfly Visitor

Goalder Photography

A little shameless plug for my daughter Jennifer the photographer. She capture this photographic moment in her yard this weekend and the caption read, "Spring is Here 2014". After I saw the photo I had a quiet "aha" moment in church yesterday like I sometimes do just before the service. I call these quiet moments grandma times. 

When I was little I frequently accompanied my grandma Ruby to church on Sundays. I always enjoyed this time with her and I believe my early beginnings at church helped me to make the decision ten years ago to return to my Lutheran faith.

Recently I have been bringing my oldest granddaughter, Hadleigh to our blended service once a month. She has already shown a desire to sing and learn about Jesus through her pre-school time.

I also thought that the butterfly symbolized my other grandma Edith. April 18th will mark the 12 year anniversary since her passing. I couldn't help but wonder if maybe the visit was her way of wishing Hadleigh a Happy 4th Birthday a little early (April 14th).  Hadleigh and my grandma Edith also share the same middle name (Amazetta).

Unfortunately, neither grandma was able to meet Hadleigh but I think by carrying a little bit of both of them inside she will grow to be a terrific young lady.

Cashews--A Handful of Pleasure

A friend recently posted something on Facebook that I laterally had never heard of before.  Thanks Kristina. The article stated that cashews are a natural anti-depressant.

I know many people don't care for any type of nuts either due to allergies or just the taste. But as long as I can remember cashews have been one of my top nuts of choice. One reason also could be because every time I eat one I think of my grandpa Conner. Some people have dessert, other's maybe an after dinner beverage but his was to sit in his recliner, and reach for the little recycled pork and bean jar with the foil wrapped top and get a handful of his guilty pleasures.

 Now I bet he didn't know back then that a little handful of these nuts was actually a remedy for what ailed him. Gramps was a World War II veteran who kept all the stories inside. The quiet man through the years kept many things tucked deep inside I would later discover. But, those monthly routine visits to the San Pedro Commissary probably did him more good than any of us would realize. He would buy large quantity cans of the nuts to squirrel away in his closet for future indulgence. The price back then was high, not as high today(this 10 oz. bag above was $4.29 at Aldi's) but they were cheaper than apparently a doctor visit for a prescription today.

A friend that worked on the Port of Los Angeles docks one time asked him if he wanted a bag of raw cashews. The process of preparing and roasting was long and he only did it once because they just didn't taste the same to any of us.

It is hard to believe that two handfuls of cashews equals a dose of prescription Prozac.  Hey it works for me!

A few of the amazing benefits are: high in vitamins,  can prevent gallstones (wish I had known that a few years ago), can prevent cancers, helps your hair and the list goes on.

It is probably the only nuts that you don't shell yourself. Due to the toxicity of the outside shell they must be done before roasting and consuming.

As they say you learn from your elders (thanks Gramps) and quoting a Mounds/Almond Joy commercial, "sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't) hey its cheaper than a doctor visit and oh so much better for you. Yummy

Just Another "B" Word

While looking at the various statistics about corporate America you wonder sometimes if women are or will ever be more than just 5 percent of Fortune 500 CEO positions. Are we shooting ourselves in the foot or ignoring the obvious? Every time I think we are reaching the top of the hill, comments, suggestions or opinions get in the way and back down the hill women go.

Several weeks ago Sheryl Sandberg along with Girl Scouts USA CEO, Anna Maria Chavez and former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice launched the "Ban Bossy" Campaign to Empower Girls to Lead Initiative.

On the ABC News piece by Cynthia McFadden, Sandberg the author of "Lean In" wants to ban the word "bossy". She brings up that the negative put-down stops girls from going for leadership roles.

What came to mind first was "Sticks and stones, may break my bones, but words can never hurt me". Words to live by? Not according to Sandberg. Negative shutdowns stop girls from pursuing leadership roles because girls don't want to be called "bossy and don't want to be disliked.

When we look at more statistics the numbers are not positive: Women do 66 percent of the work in the world, they make 10 percent of the income, and 1 percent hold property. Women are 50 percent of the population, 17 percent hold board seats of companies and 19 percent of Congress are women. 2014 and these figures for me are sad.

When I started kindergarten I was one of the youngest in my class. My time before attending school I was rarely around children, mostly adults.  I remember report cards we were got non-traditional letter grades. O for outstanding, G for good, S for satisfactory and N for needs improvement.  I dug my old cards out and every semester through that year I received only Satisfactory and a few Needs Improvements. My two needs improvements were in works independently with others and plays well with others.

Throughout my life I have had my share of disappointments, disagreements, and being disliked. There are many words that can be expressed when describing many women in today's working world. Why not organized, initiators, assertive, ambitious.

In the same interview, Barbara Walters who will be retiring from her long running show this year described how throughout her career as a journalist she has been called "bitchy" and "pushy". She was one of the first to work in a male dominated field and she has conquered the ultimate.

In the interview with ABC  it was mentioned that Warren Buffet, (one of the wealthiest Americans) had made an eye opening and interesting observation. He said,  "he had made it where he is today because he only competed with half the population". Pretty profound on his part but also sad. Would he be where he is today if attitudes had been different?

Bossy is just another word. Sometimes it can hurt, other times people think it is a compliment. Put our big girl panties on and get out their and change things. Maybe to coin a phrase from my 4 year old granddaughter's favorite movie and song right now maybe women should forge on and just "Let it Go".

It's the Real Thing-Spring Break Much Needed Getaway

With all the crazy winter freezing, bone chilling cold weather, you know when it is time for a getaway and I jumped at the chance. The trip was to see my friends who have just recently relocated to Atlanta, Georgia area from Sedalia to which I am still adjusting too, as are they into their new downsized living space.

As I left Kansas City Airport (still a shock to the system to adjust to all the newer security, sad that our society has had to be on our toes on a minute by minute basis) off I went to stop one Milwaukee, WI. Yes to get a cheaper flight you must go to all parts in between to get to your destination. After the layover I was happy to get a row to myself (almost unheard of these days with packed, overbooked flights) I was on my way to Atlanta.

Once at the Atlanta Airport I hopped onto the MARTA train. I have to say of the several I have had a chance to ride (NY Subway, DC, Los Angeles, Atlanta's rail system is clean, quick and easy and the end of the red line led me right too my destination and pick up by my friends).

Our first day out to explore was to the World of Coke Cola Museum.

The approximate two hour tour was well worth the price of admission. Although I rarely drink any coke or soda product as in years past, It was a fun experience trying all the flavors from around the world.  Favorite flavors were from South Africa which had a tropical fruit flavor, England had a ginger ale taste but the absolute worst taste of all was from Italy. If you see a can or bottle of Beverly take a chance but my opinion was that it tasted HORRIBLE!

The museum had a terrific display of memorabilia from the first coke porcelain urn dispenser to the Sochi 2014 Olympic souvenir glasses. Of course I had to take a picture of the figure skating glass.

After the museum we walked through 1996 Olympic Centennial Park. 

Having just recently watched the Sochi Olympics weeks before, this plaque at the bottom of  a statue was something that I think  people, not only athletes should take to heart.

Of course one of the things I truly enjoy about traveling the country is eating at off the beaten path eateries. Friday night Jennifer and Roger took me to a Cajun inspired restaurant in Canton, GA called The Roux. It was well worth the hour plus wait. The place was rather small, but the food was big. The Jambalaya was almost as if you were in New Orleans. Definitely a thumbs up experience.

How fitting that my visit was during the St. Patrick's Day festivities. Saturday morning we decided to take the MARTA to downtown and enjoy the parade. 

After having made several trips on the rail we met a very nice couple from South Africa on the trip. They joined us to watch and they were very interesting to talk too and learn how the weather in Atlanta is not that much different than South Africa. Although they had been living in Atlanta 13 years (they still had the accent). A little bit of MO again popped up in the parade with the Budweiser Clydesdale's being a highlight for the crowd. Also the largest human Irish flag at the end of the parade was a crowd pleaser. After about a two mile walk back downtown down the middle of Peachtree St. we ate at the Hard Rock Cafe. Food was delicious and the 80's music that played during our meal was fun.

My second to last day Jennifer and I decided to antique hunt and we found a great place. Just down the street from her was Red Baron's Antiques. 

Jennifer you can't take the dealer out of her.

Early switchboard (way before cell phones)

Apparently after talking to one of the proprietors he said this shop had spearheaded the Auction Kings show.  You name it they had it from vintage cars to a $37,000 bedroom set from a Spanish Monastery.  

Another terrific eatery was Le Bistro in Roswell Provisions at Canton, GA. We had the most wonderful cupcakes, quiche and tea. 

 My last day I was also able to visit a transplanted California friend. We have known each other since we were six and it was so much fun having lunch with her and talking about our lives today. Although we are far apart, Facebook has kept us in touch and I hope that we can try and stay in touch even more now that I have brought her and my other friend together. 

Overall it was a great trip, always nice to get away from the daily routine, glad my friends have gotten back to a life that is a little faster paced then what they have had for the last several years and look forward to exploring Atlanta again. The people were friendly, helpful and a breath of fresh southern hospitality. 

Up a Tree With a Whole Different Meaning

 I had my camping out period back when my son was in Scouting. Those weekend trips where my real first experience of the great outdoors. We would pack up on Friday night, drive a few hours, unpack and sleep under the stars and wake up the next morning at the butt crack of dawn.  His Dad and other parents would fix breakfast and we would start our day in nature. I have to say I really did enjoy those times but camping out is not for me at this time in my life.

Cut to present time.  Recently channel surfing I came across a program on Animal Planet called Treehouse Masters. I have to say, I am hooked!. Pete Nelson started this tree house building empire 30 years ago . Born in Brookhaven, NY his love for building and art was partly inspired by artist Michael Ince.  Over the weekend I came upon his special Ultimate Treehouses-The Roots, where he talked about how tree houses are not what they used to be or where they are going.

A brief overview gave an interesting look back at some of the first tree houses. France's oldest known tree house is build in an old oak tree in Allouville Bellefosse. Struck by lightening in the late 1600's, it still proudly stands today.

The oldest known tree house in the world is located in Great Britian at Stropshire's Pitchford Hall. Once visited by a 13 year old Queen Victoria, this house once a tourist attraction, still strands proud and untouched.

One of the repair projects that Pete Nelson took on stands right in my old back yard in Sherman Oaks, California. Rick Polizzi built a "haunted" tree house in his front yard. Each year he elaborately decorates it for the ghoulish holiday and conducts tours. See pics at hauntedlawn.blogspot.com.

In most of the episodes I have watched of Treehouse Masters, the prices seem to run between $40,000 and $90,000. It all depends on how much your childhood memory turns into an adult reality.

One tree house in the State of Alaska Pete did a repair on was all built with recycled materials and literally put together with just a saw, hammer and nails. After almost 20 years, this tree house can only be accessed by helicopter and has no heat, running water or electricity. This is the true meaning of "back to nature".

As a kid my grandparents had two very large avocado trees in the back yard. I always imagined having a tree house in them, someplace to have personal, quiet adventures. Much like Scouts' brother Jim in "To Kill A Mockingbird" a place to get away and just think, the tree house's of today bring a whole different meaning to up in the trees.

Futuristic tree houses and science fiction, reptilian looking mock ups, many people have a view of what they see in a tree house in the future. Somethings are best left to plain old nature. This kind I don't mind at all.

Sochi Olympics 2014 - We Now Return to Our Regular Scheduled Programming

Well for the last 17 days like many other people I was pretty glued to my television 24/7.  It is not the first Olympics I have watched and probably won't be the last. I usually take time to view both summer and winter games but I am partial to the winter for obvious reasons.

I remember my first  viewing was 1968 when Peggy Fleming won the gold for the U.S. Probably not a surprise to some but that games may have turned out differently if not for the plane crash in 1961 that claimed the team that probably would have competed in 1968. My first introduction to Peggy was one of the first rink shows I went too around this time. Peggy was representing a local figure skating club and was the star draw that year.

Jump to 1976 the year of Dorothy Hamill fever.  Her bright pink dress and her signature haircut (I never could pull off that one) her American Sweetheart looks and rather meek personality still warm people to this day. In a recent Google search of her I found out that each year she has a skater's camp in Arizona. If you have $4,500 you too can spend the week with her and learn the tricks of the trade. What a bucket list item that would be.

In 1984 Scott Hamilton wore the gold medal. Even while he was commentating the evening games this time its love of the sport, spirit and enthusiasm brought a whole different spin to the games. I have to admit his play by play was a breath of fresh air from long time commentating by Dick Button from years past.

Brian Boitano won gold in 1988. It was pretty special to see him skate for the gold. Who would think he is now a television personality on food and design channels.

1992 brought the year of Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan drama. Although the skating world is never far away from some sort of drama, Nancy winning bronze that year seemed like a fitting end to a strange year in the skating world. The 20 year revisited piece they did at the closing ceremony coverage was both a little sad and hopefully the end to a still tragic story. Tonya's banning from the skating association was equal to Pete Rose being banned from the Baseball Hall of Fame in my opinion. She was a pioneer in skating, maybe all not for the right reasons but her life struggles are really no different that anyone else. It seems like she is on the right path and although she truly didn't seem as recovered as Nancy who actually took the brunt of the distraction and drama, Nancy still can hit the ice with her head held high.

Tara Lipinski won gold in Nagano in 1998. Pretty much another come out of nowhere from the U.S. did what she needed to do then retired at 15. How many can say that!

One note on the Tara/Johnny duo.  I am pretty sure NBC put them in the mix for a reason. Not just to bring a younger perspective to the commentating and their raw, direct comments on each skater was sometimes a little harsh. The dueling hairpieces and jewelry for me was also a little distracting.  Keeping that on the ice was what I watched for.

The special milestones were also fun. Seeing ice dancers White and Davis get gold was definitely not unexpected. I personally knew from the beginning they were our real only hope for medals this year: honesty. Ice dancing started with easy to intricate patterns on ice to almost having a really difficult time finding the difference unless you really know skating between dance and pair skating. There has definitely become a very small line between the two again in my opinion. But still fun to watch.

Carolina Kostner and Mao Asada had the best programs of the ladies. Kostner's fine lines both on ice and in her costumes were from skating of old. Both skaters put their hearts, souls and sweat into skating. It is especially not often that someone can come back from a 16th place short program and end up in 6th place.  My feeling was that the Russian and Korean skaters were their more for their government then for themselves. Where Yuna Kim skated with very little emotion Adelina Sotinkova skated like the energizer bunny and not a lot of grace. One is set to retire and the other well who really knows if you we  will see her in another Olympic Games with little Yulia Lipnitskaya on her heels. I hope Yulia is someone who we will see in the future.

Skating has and always will be a subjective sport. The scoring is still flawed and more will come out I am sure about it in the coming weeks. Back in the good old days when the score keepers had boxes around their necks with numbers from 0-6 in them and someone would yell "marks" and they would pull out a card in each hand are long gone, but what they have even skaters are having a hard time understanding much less the non-skater. Just when I really got the old scoring down they changed it to something I wouldn't even waste time on. But in a nutshell, Russian won the gold because she started out with more content (jumps, tricks) and her artistic and extras put her over the top and also it helped that she was in Russia.

Overall everything I watched was fun, the back stories in every sport brought tears to my eyes. Disappointed that we didn't get medals in long track speed skating but I am sure they will also go back to the drawing board like all the other sports that competed and see what can be done better. With that we will now return to our regular scheduled programming and our routine lives.

An extra back story to the Olympics experience of 2014 was my three year old granddaughter enjoyed watching and skating around on the carpet that with much pushing from her and my granddaughter got me back on the ice after a 5 year hiatus. It wasn't for very long, and it was on a very tiny rink, I didn't do any "tricks" but the smell of refrigerant put a thought that maybe I might try and get to a rink more often. This old elephant hasn't forgotten how to skate.

You Say Goodbye and I'll Say Hello

It seems to me the last several weeks for me has been a full schedule of this. Some good and some sad.  With a not so welcome hello our bitter cold weather seems to continue forever and added too it snow came hand in hand with it. I think the older most people get the less tolerant some get with it not only joint wise but also some of us do not do well in hibernation mode. But, unfortunately Mother Nature has her own mixed up plan and the ground hog extended winter by at least six weeks for most around the country. For my west coaster's the rain dancing must have paid of finally.

It hardly seems possible that the Beatles celebrated their 50th Anniversary together this week. Although, only two are left, their music will live on forever for many people. I was too young to really remember anything from the British invasion but I do have one Beatles album tucked away in my eclectic collection. Thanks grandpa for that one. Over the years I have enjoyed several of their top songs but probably my favorite is "Yesterday". The words to it probably are more prolific for me personally now more than ever.

For those who watch late night television an icon bid farewell. Jay Leno said nighty night for the second time. This time what seemed to be on his own terms. I never watched Johnny Carson growing up and really didn't start watching Jay Leno until about 17 years ago. Living on the west coast his show didn't start until 11:30 PST. and I was always fast asleep by then. Until a sudden jolt back in 1994 (Northridge Earthquake) did Jay become my nightly buddy. After the quake I had to have the television on and Jay and I were together for one year faithfully. After we moved I pretty much watched his show almost every night. I guess I felt he was my west coast connection. Also I will admit I did see him frequently when I would skate at the Burbank ice rink. The studio was right down the street and sometimes I could see him driving around in some of his crazy, unique vehicles. I remember once he was stalled at an intersection in his vintage fire truck. People were honking and waving.

 I have watched Jimmy Fallon and he seems to be a good fit for the changing times. Although I do see some similarities. Time will tell.

 Warsaw Dam 2009

My last physical goodbye isn't truly a goodbye forever though. This past week I said see you later, to a good friend.  We have been friends for 6 1/2 years, and although we won't be just down the street anymore social media and the traditional phone call will be our way of keeping the lines of communication and our friendship alive.

Follow the Leader

When I was in school when it was time to go out and play in the school yard or go to eat in the cafeteria, the usual drill was boys line up in one line and girls in another. Usually in size order I was pretty close to the front of the line. At that point I doubt if I thought of myself as a leader except that for size order that's where I ended up.

Throughout my life I have been put into situations where I have been in charge of various things. Some by choices, other's not so much. We all have those opportunities to put forth our ideas or beliefs that we hope others willingly will follow.

I can remember my parents saying their are two types of people: leaders and followers. Their constant definition was that leaders gather information, present it to others and hopefully the rest of the people involved will go along with it, without too much question. The followers didn't always care what the information was they just followed everyone else either because they didn't care to provide input or to be a part of the decision makers group they just wanted to fit in. How many times did we here, "If John jumps of the roof are you going to do it?"

This past Sunday the pastors' sermon was entitled: "Follow the Leader". It was very fitting that the message was such due to the last several weeks being bombarded with the choices of leadership issues in my life.

As children growing up our "leaders" are our parents or caregivers.  We are taught in the bible to honor our mother and father. At what point does that sometimes change? When they are unable too? When what they do may not be in their best interest? It's a slippery slope and the elephant in the room that most either don't want to face or feel it is not their place too.

In politics we are constantly told to pick a party. In the last several elections it has become very difficult to pick any specific party. It's a grocery list of items that all make up how my beliefs are and I seriously don't feel all they provide is in my personal best interest.

I often mention while driving around where I live and I see a pasture full of cows, when one starts walking do you notice the other cows often  follow? I have been told that cows are not very intelligent.

Now with social media like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and all the others we "follow" each other. A little strange? Maybe. Times are definitely different. I don't want someone to just "follow" me I want them to engage in conversation, comment and not just "Like". Especially when I am aware not everyone agrees.

If by following something or someone goes against how you morally feel, my advice is you better really question why? Don't do it because it is the easy way out or because you think other people will think better of you. It usually works against you and it becomes really difficult to clean up the mess that is created in the end and believe me as the leader all the negatives will fall on your shoulders because the followers will go on to someone or something else.

Lead with the right foot or in my case my left foot.  

Phone Calls from Above

How often  have you picked up the phone and no one answers? That happens often now with robo calling, more than we care to waste our time with I'm sure. Recently, author Mitch Albom who wrote "5 People you Meet in Heaven" and" For One More Day" has written a new book dealing with the heavens. "The First Phone Call from Heaven" is about a small town in Michigan and their residents who suddenly get phone calls from loved one's who have passed away.

They say you write about what you know, but since Mitch Albom is definitely alive I wonder how he comes up with all these heavenly related stories.

I have heard of people who have crossed over and then came back but you can really either only believe or take their word what heaven is really like.

During his interview about his new book, Mr. Albom was asked who would be one of the first one's you would want to hear from? His was "Tuesday's with Morrie" professor Morrie Schwartz from his alma mater Brandeis University. He said his first question would be, "Well how do you think I've done?".

I really pondered this myself. Although I haven't read his new book yet it made me really think about all the people who have passed on that either I didn't get to have that one last conversation with. Not that I would now expect any answers to any of my burning questions but many of the people at the top of the list have been gone for many years.

My grandpa died when I was still a teen so he would definitely be one of the top on the list. Probably the first thing I would say would be "Now I really understand". The wisdom of the years that have passed since his death puts so much of my life growing up into a little clearer perspective on things he did or didn't share.

Another person would be my biological mother. We had so few actually conversations before her death, Whether or not she would actually answer the questions I would pose, well I'll never know.  One of my co-workers in one of my first positions was a second mom during my period of "awakening". We lost touch toward the end of her life and I always regretted not talking as often as we should have.

I guess until I actually read the book and come to my own conclusions on the story outcome my one piece of advice I have even before reading it is this...True friends no matter how many quotes you may read elsewhere you stay in touch with. Face to face conversation is so much more than a text or e-mail. Even a quick hand written note means more than nothing at all. It's one thing if there are miles between you but believe me the effort that is made means so much. Time is precious but so are friendships.

Don't sit by the phone and wait for that call from above, make the resolution to reach out and touch your friends--they will love you for it.