A Hiatus of Sorts for Skating Through Life

For the past several weeks my life has made some drastic changes.

On September 25th an extremely freak fall at home led to a broken femur, surgery and a new chapter in my routine of life. So many things in life happen for a reason and I guess this was mine.

I have always been pretty healthy and never or rarely go to the doctor unless I absolutely have too. Life for the past several years has been filled with a variety of tasks that I felt I didn't always have a choice but to handle the best way I could and sometimes put other things before myself. You hear all the time that you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of others. I now know that is 100 percent true.

I have been called many things positive and negative. But right now I call myself a strong, independent, fighter who has breast cancer. I know already this road is not easy (I have had one infusion and have another next week). It is one step at a time and according to my oncologist it is the easiest to treat.

Several friends asked if I was going to blog about my journey. Frankly, I did hesitate only because according to the statistics, I am 1 in 8 who gets a breast cancer diagnosis. With so many women and men who have breast cancer why is my experience any different? Well as I began to talk to a few people and express some of my situations I would get, "Gee that is interesting" or "Wow I never heard that" so maybe I do have a reason to blog this new chapter.

I thought about just ending Skating Through Life since before these cancer events started I had lost a little bit of my spark in writing, but as in skater's lives and the new trend in just about anything today its all about the "REBOOT".  Maybe after this part of my life is evolving I will just take a skating hiatus.

I have chosen the title for the blog: BC Chronicles--The Journey Into My Pink World...it is still in early stage:

www.BCChroniclesTheJourneyIntoMyPinkWorld.blogspot.com

Armadillo Population Down- Summer of 2019

After a winter of many days in, to get to take a road trip and celebrate 35 years of marriage is a full circle adventure. Now that our lives with business, family, caregivers adds to our time much more than anticipated, the hubby talked me into getting away for a couple days to celebrate 35 years (technically together 37 years) of not killing each other after all these years.

So for a couple days we headed south to the what many around the Midwest call the southern Las Vegas; Branson, MO (population 10,000 +/- normally, in the summer more than you care to count but enough to help the economy). It had been some time since we had been to Branson. The last time was with kids and in-laws so this time we were in the minority because we didn't have double digit numbers of an entourage. A good thing because you can get into restaurants and other venues a lot quicker with two than more than two people.

The approximate three hour drive down single and double lane roads, green pasture after green pasture was a welcome diversion.

Our first stop was in Springfield for some much needed Hurt's Donuts. We bought enough for a couple days and for sure one or two day old Hurt's are worth the wait. After checking into the quaint and quiet Branson Hotel in Downtown Branson, we took a wonderful tour with Lori the Manager and couldn't have asked for someone more welcoming to make us feel comfortable. After presenting us with a delicious California wine we relaxed and plotted our couple of days.

Our first evening dinner was a little disappointing, but more on that later. We got up the next morning, had breakfast at a local cafe within walking distance and set off for The Butterfly Palace. I have visited several around the country over the years and always excited to see the butterflies in any habitat. Although, the butterfly containment did not have a lot of butterflies to view flying around, (they do release them consistently after they emerge but I guess we just were not at the right time). The 3D video on Monarch's was very good and the gift shop was well stocked with variety of items.

A side note, back at our hotel the manager mentioned that any shows or venues we wanted to visit we could have the tickets emailed to her. We had decided to go to a show (SIX) that same day. Along with the coupons she gave us I averted a real disaster. I accidentally gave the tickets to SIX to the Butterfly Palace cashier! I didn't realize until after we finished watching the video what I had done but we were able to get them back without incident. Off to the SIX show we went. I will say I had many suggestions of shows by many people. In all honesty some of the shows have been there for years and if you have seen them once you sometimes prefer something different. Honestly, ended up choosing this one because it was a Saturday Special Price. But, let me tell you they didn't disappoint. The six brothers (Knudsen) do all singing without music and provide the "instruments" from their voices. The two hour show was well worth it and they did music from the 40s to current day.

Branson Hotel Sculpture

Branson Hotel Garden

 After the show we drove to the Big Cedar Lodge/Top of the Rock for dinner. What a difference a day makes! The meal, view and sunset was summer perfect.  I enjoy a good grilled steak and unfortunately, M. Mike's didn't hit the mark for either David or myself. But, I guess an entire weekend of perfection is a lot to ask for. It was recommended but not a good Friday night for M. Mike's.

On our back home we stopped in Springfield at the Fantastic Caverns. I had heard about this place for years and to further delay our trip back home we decided to stop and check it out. First discovered by John Knox and his dog in 1865, the cave was held in secret during the Civil War so that they wouldn't be used for military hiding places. In 1867, 12 brave women from the Springfield Women's Athletic Club ventured into the caverns and left, there signatures in stone. Many of the names are still visible (except one) to commemorate these women's entry of the caves.  Always enjoy a good women victory story. The comfortable 60 degrees every day was a welcome change for the warm days previously.

As our trip came to an end one observation for the summer season was obvious; the roadkill totals were definitely different this year I noticed. Pretty sure with all the rain we have had this spring and summer it definitely brought out the armadillo population out on the roads, unfortunately many did not make it across the road to the other side.

Other pics and stories on my Instagram.

The Age of Living Dangerously

Already more than half way through the year and as some free time came my way I realized it had been an extremely long time since I had posted. Don't get me wrong,  I have tried to make time for blogging but you come at a point in life where after doing the same things over and over again you wonder if it is worth the efforts. I have walked that road a lot lately.

Purging the different sections of your life can be a great thing. From closets of clothes you no longer wear, to old records that are a walk down memory lane.  What and who you dedicate your time and efforts too should also be reevaluated as well, believe me I have and am continuing to do that as well.

 This is my absolute favorite time of year when I can take pride in my plantings and partake in capturing photos, weeding and not needing to think of certain other things in my daily life. I attempt to do this in between the heatwave, rain and other daily life situations.

Not helping the situation has been a literal pain in my side; back pain. While overdoing life at 57 1/2 I somehow strained my back so it has been a challenge to take care of it as well. Doing without yoga for a few weeks and basically trying to find a comfortable place while sleeping has been interesting. The back pain actually reminded me of my time figure skating when practicing I strained my back so bad I could hardly cope with the pain. It took several weeks of muscle relaxers and rest and within no time I was back on the ice.

Those days of recovery are much longer these days and living dangerously becomes living with a freedom of complications and hopefully a little peace but as I punch this post out I hear thunder coming from the west.

Tucked in on a Snowy Day 2019

I feel like this is a confessional. It has been six months since my last blog post. My post in July talked about the ugly Japanese Beetle infestation in our area and other's had experienced in the spring of 2018. Now its a Snowmageddon of such and possible blizzard next weekend.

So many things have occurred in the past six months. To much to try and cover in one post. I pretty much gave up on the blog I think because I felt; who cared. I went back and looked at how long ago I started it and what I had covered in that time period. Ten years! Ten years of opinions, perspectives, skating stories, family stories etc.  I created an Instagram account a couple years ago and have posted pictures of things in my life. Very few selfies but more of a journal.

When I started the blog, social media was not as judgmental as it is now. Let's face it we all are a little judgmental sometimes more than we should be but it is a fact and the only way you can get away from it is to lock yourself inside, not talk to anyone and let your voice be silenced.

On snowy days like we are having we tend to reflect on things because we are being held hostage by Mother Nature. Yes, it is beautiful but after a big storm like this I am ready for the buzzer to sound letting me get back to my somewhat normal daily life.  For now I am getting many projects done that had been on my list for snowy day activities.

Happy 2019. Lets see where this year the journey takes me.

2019 January Snowstorm

Ode to the Japanese Beetle

This past weekend it was a wonderful morning to grab a cup of coffee and sit out on the lounge chair in the backyard. The cardinals were singing and the buzz of various insects signified it was the end of another week. When out of the corner of my eye I see one! It is not your ordinary small bee or fly; its another one of THEM.

I put down my cup of coffee on the small glass table next to the lounge chair and let out a deep, long sigh. I grabbed the other cup next to the coffee cup on the table and slowly but surely I made my way across the yard to the pink hibiscus bush where the vinyl fences meet and my quest would begin.

Pluck, pluck, pluck those pesky flying creatures.  The prickly feel of their legs trying to escape my clutches does nothing to deter me from forging ahead to the next section. Almost each morning and each evening this is where you can find me; in my domain. My concoction of choice is Dawn dish soap and warm water; their final jacuzzi before their demise. They have wrecked havoc on just about every sweet, timid leaf of every type tree, flowering bush and crop in the area. One by one they suck the sweet leaves to a papery thin shell of its former self.  In my feudal attempt I know I have only scratched the surface and hopefully as I have heard they will only be around for a few more weeks. Only to return next year fully ready for the same fight. Probably our best hope is that the next winter will be a really white one with the hope they will kill them off for an extended period.

I wonder if next year is the summer of locusts? I surely hope not. I doubt I would be as bold in my quest for eradicating in the same way.

Oh and the mug. I am sure my friend who I received it from didn't intend for me to use it as a holder for dead beetles but the same little bird that I got this mug from is having the same problem only slightly worse. I don't think she will mind. We have both been there and done it!

Reunions Come and Go But the Memories Remain

The summer months are frequently the time for reunions. Be it family, school or some other group its not hard to find a picnic or fancy banquet for what can be one of the most enjoyable types of get together in a person's life. I looked at attending my school reunions as somewhat of my proms that I didn't attend. I have attend three high school reunions and hard to believe a fourth is coming up next year.  While drafting this post I actually received an invite for a group page for our 40th Reunion planning.  For the last several years my high school has a yearly picnic that includes all the graduation years that is always around June 15th. I have never attended one of them, but often see pictures posted of the event. Updates on that reunion will probably be integrated in post for the year.

After a lifetime of figure skating, the group I skated with had its first reunion in 2001. I flew out to attend and most from that team I was on from 1988-1991 attended. For that reunion it was extremely enjoyable to take a look back at our accomplishments and to know I helped blazed a trail for what synchronized skating is today. Still not an Olympic sport or highly televised sport but apparently if you look on YouTube you might find one of our performances; I have yet to find any, but still searching.

Late last year we got word that one of our founding members had succumbed to pancreatic cancer. I did a blog post shortly after I heard after combing my old scrapbook. Carolyn was a sweet yet precise lady of skating. She along with our first coach Chuck came up with music, costumes and choreography for many of the early numbers. Carolyn provided her expertise until the very end. After hearing about her passing several of the former members decided to try and get as many former members together for another reunion.

Unfortunately, life gets in the way and I was unable to attend. Even with the at your fingertips of almost everything it was not enough advance notice for me to go. Picking up and going places isn't as easy when you have so many other commitments and people depending on you regularly. I guess that can be a good thing sometimes but also difficult as well.

My rooming buddy/hair and makeup stylist Pam and also another member Nikki kept me updated through email and social media contacts. Some of the pictures below are from the pdf  file they put together with the entire history from 1983 when the Fabulous Forties team began to the last competition year in 1998.  As I looked at a couple pictures that were sent the day of the event, only a few of the members during my time were able to attend but I would have known them if I saw them in a crowd.

Since hearing about this reunion I have had many memories come to mind. All the summertime brainstorming to put a new program together, themes, music and practice sessions. Looking back our group of ladies were way ahead of the times. What I would give for a nice cold ice rink in this Midwest humidity!!

My first introduction to team skating was also in a short debut in 1983 before I took a couple year's hiatus to have kids. I remember we were a young, green group for team skating but it wet my appetite for what would later become one of the most enjoyable times in my life of skating.

I may not be directly in the sport today, but I am attempting to keep skating in my life by trying my hand at a short story with skating as a part of the story line.  It is a work in progress, slow but hopefully someday a finished product will be published.

Although, I wasn't at the reunion, I was their in spirit. The real test is for those who know me to pick me out of the pictures. I don't think it will be that hard.

1988 Reno, Nevada Nationals

1989 Rhode Island Nationals

1990 Houston, TX Nationals

Our Official Trophy Pic from 1990 and 1991 Anchorage, AK Nationals Fred and Ginger Program

68

Many people have lucky numbers in life. Some use them for picking lottery numbers in hopes of a big win, others have certain numbers that remind them of a special event. There are those people who have a mind for numbers and those who can't remember a number to save their life.  So much in life you are expected to remember your personal social security number or those of others in your family. Lets face it we are a world of numbers. How many PIN numbers do you keep?

This year marks the 68th Anniversary of my in-laws. In a nutshell they have seen a lot, been through a lifetime of situations, but have reached 68 years of marriage together. At a time when marriage is like a dinosaur and some couples treat marriage like an old outfit, they have managed to make it. The last several years has been extremely difficult but somehow they have managed to make it through each obstacle the best they can.

They still know what the other is thinking, finish each other's sentences and are each other's best friend. They have seen their families through good times and bad times, heartache and joy. They have been blessed by many grandchildren, great and great,great grandchildren. Too many to count and name and wouldn't begin to attempt.

Pics-Enjoying Jacuzzi in CA, 40th Anniversary in CA and 50th Anniversary in MO.

Long marriages of any kind are hard to find these days.  Lifespans are unknown. People change over the years. Couples think they don't have to be married, a piece of paper doesn't make a marriage. The definition of family has changed over the years. Some except it, others don't.  Everyone has an answer to what a good marriage can and should be.

Each moment they have is a milestone.  May they have many more.

Out of the Nest Before You Know It

Photo caption? Mom I am hungry up here!!

A hawk eye view from robins to the west.

Over the last two spring seasons we have had multiple nest residents at our house.  I am not sure why these last two years have been different that the previous years we have lived here because we never had birds build nests.

 I guess it could be many scenarios if I put my mind to it. We had three trees for many years in the back yard and a trailer park behind our property up until about five or six years ago. The trailer park was cleared out to make way for a future car dealer body shop, and the trees systematically came down over the last several years either due to storms or updating the yard. I guess like anything when multiple things change in the course of a life, change is always the next best thing.

Last year we actually had two sets of robin chicks. Once the robins were done with enlarging their families and fall season appeared we dismantled the nest in our fall cleanup process. This year the resident robin picked one spot early in the spring but due to weather while building, it was taken away by Mother Nature. Resident robin didn't let the situation get her down, she just built another home.

It was much closer to my sliding glass door so I really struggle with the fact that our family might create problems with her family inadvertently.  Now that the eggs have hatched and Mama robin has done a perfect job of feeding and caring for the three or four (not really sure) kids she created I await the morning I go out and the nest is empty. Not sure whether another tenant will appear set to take over the homestead but the evolution of spring leaves nothing to posts on social media.

The robin tale also made me think about this time of year when kids get out of school and wonder what their path will be next.

A friend experienced her daughter completing kindergarten this year with a heavy heart (the kindergartner had an extremely heavy heart).  Mom videoed the event and I am sure she will cherish the video until she graduates from other milestones of her school career.

Another person had a daughter who graduated from elementary school. Our town is such that our schools are broke up for now K-4, Middle School is 5 and 6, Junior High is 7 and 8 and High School is 9-12. Hard to keep up and I am sure it will change once again in the near future. Elementary graduates walk the hall for the last time to goodbyes from the lower grades. Some to tears and some to cheers.

This year I read in the local paper that the graduating senior class at the high school erected a For Sale sign on the front of the high school building as a senior prank. It got a chuckle or too I am sure.

Going away or graduating from college can be just as emotional not only for parents but also the students. I remember when we packed the truck and vehicles to send our kids off. It was just a year away but as we some children they didn't come back to live at the home we made for them as their parents. We raised them to go on and make lives for themselves after finishing school.

Today is much different than it was back then. Kids come back and leave, and come back and leave or never leave home at all. For whatever reason flying away from the nest can be hard sometimes to spread our wings and get off the ground.

Yesterday I saw one of the birds in our nest standing on the edge of the nest. New fluffy feathers quietly waiting for his parent across the yard chirping away.  Life is difficult. Sometimes without realizing parents and those around the kids can make things even more difficult. Society as a whole can be unkind.

As summer knocks on our back door, and kids and parents can enjoy the summer life let us remember, nests are comfortable but get out and spread your wings and enjoy what life has waiting for you.

The First Official Day to Plant Flowers

It has been said that designating a single celebration day for Mother's, Father's, Grandparents or various others should be omitted from calendars. I know many who prefer not to celebrate for various reasons and those who yell from the rooftops loud and proud. I like to take the middle approach.

As a child I remember making cards in school for Mother's and Father's Day and giving to my parents. Grandparent's Day wasn't celebrated until 1978 according to my Google search.  1978 wasn't a very celebratory year in my family since that was the year my grandpa passed away. Actually, everyday for me growing up was grandparents day since they were such a large part of my life.

Fast forward to my first celebration of Mother's Day as a new Mom. I remember David got me flowers and a special card. I probably still have the card somewhere.  It was special celebrating a new holiday among the many our family had celebrated so far.

Several years later I remember sending a handwritten letter to my birth mom around the time of Mother's Day hoping to connect. It took a while but we were able to write each other but never got to celebrate Mother's Day or any holiday for that matter. Sad; yes but just a part of my interesting and eventful life.

This day for me is a day of reflection, relaxation and flower planting. Several years ago I started the do not plan flowers before Mother's Day rule and for the past several years it has worked rather well. Although this year it is seasonably warm for Mother's Day, I think my choices will progress nicely.

Happy Mother's Day to all.. Celebrate as you wish.

When You are Doing More Reading than Writing

Even though I have complained about the winter cold; it really hasn't been that bad as in past winter's but the older I get the worse the cold is to me in my mind. When the flu season started I thought I should take as many precautions as I can without getting the flu shot. In the past I had the mindset to get the shot but for several years I have went the opposite and just haven't. Some may think its crazy to roll the dice I seem to dodge the bullet most years. This year all reports indicated that it might be a bad year for the flu.  Washing hands, carrying anti-bacterial products, other than wearing a protective bubble I managed to stay on the well side.

Our youngest grandson had what seemed to be an upper respiratory incident and sure enough he graciously shared the lovely sickness. For a full week plus I hacked and snorted and felt like I was eating Kleenex by the box. I finally survived the major part but as everyone who is older knows it takes sometimes twice and three times as long to recover and back to 100 percent.

I remembered when I was competing competitively forging on while not 100 percent was just part of skating. Several of the competitors during the last Olympics dealt with some injuries/sicknesses but put on their performance faces and moved on.

The one positive out of all of this was I had more than enough time to read a few books and relax and ponder life. I am not sure if it was the over the counter medicine or home remedies or just the right amount of time I had to clear my mind of daily tasks but it was a welcome diversion during an otherwise unproductive several days.

While reading some interesting books, (A full log of recent book is listed on the blog) I also thought once again about doing a better job about blogging and about my own ideas of writing stories. 

One of the author's I did pick up this time was Phaedra Patrick. She has written two charming books: "Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper" and "Rise and Shine Benedict Stone". Both stories take you to places that tell great stories of life, and scenarios that leave you thinking. She does have a website: www.phaedra-patrick.com that also has some interesting writing tips if like me your are interested in taking the leap. She is also on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. She was gracious enough to respond to several of my comments so I hope we can start further dialog. She also has some upcoming books which I am sure will be just as wonderful.

Her Writing Tips from A to Z on her website I found to be really helpful and informative. I especially enjoyed :

F-Firsts. Make your first line, paragraph and chapter really count

J-Journey-Make the journey as interesting as possible

T-Time Find the time. Either between cleaning and your shopping.

It is truly funny how we don't always say no when we should. We make time for everything; just about, yet we think when we are sick we don't have time for it. I guess by being sick it made time to reflect on maybe some things I want to do than things I am expected to do.

Olympic Story 2018 - Is Figure Skating a Sport?

Two weeks, every four years. No need to wonder where I have been if I am not doing my routine tasks of my life. Yes, I complain that my bones are stiff because of the constant changes in weather created

more and more as I age, and I find myself counting the days until spring arrives but deep down my knees and other joints in my body are signaling my mind that the years of my youth and beyond the aches and pains are from one thing; figure skating.

Every four years Olympic figure skating shoots to the headlines to further bring non-skater's interest and opinions as well as others into a conversation that ultimately usually ends up in a heated debate. What would any Olympics be without debate!

The scoring changes a few years ago has left most skaters and non-skaters shaking heads anyway. The quad fest has put a whole different meaning to how many times can you spin and still land on one foot.

This year's figure skating team for me has been interesting to watch. Due to prior placements the pair's only had one team eligible and for me knowing ahead of time that they probably wouldn't place individually but glad that all America's figure skater's  were able to pull off a bronze medal this time was pretty impressive. I am still a little on the fence about this team competition category (just for me personally would rather see synchronized skating added, more on that later).

It has definitely been a skating marathon of highs and lows of epic proportions. Once a skater, always a skater. Growing up at ice dance sessions it was probably one of the most exciting events since Torvill and Dean. To actually see some trips and falls is really a rare sight but let me tell you not surprising.

If you have watched any coverage on the NBCSN channel each night hopefully you have been educated by Scott Hamilton, Tanith White and others.  They have provide a great insight to the actual world of all the discipline's that really have not been touched upon before. All skates and skaters are definitely not created equal.

Figure Skating Olympics 2018 was exciting it was also somewhat disappointing for me as well. Ice Dancing has definitely come leaps and jumps from what it was. I learned pattern dances like the Dutch Waltz, Fiesta Tango and 14 Step. The original dances have been transformed into a ballet of sorts but one thing that hasn't changed; is the blades. They still are much shorter than figure skate blades and one teenie tiny position change backward or forward can mean doom. Even the top contenders can have that oopsy moment and boy they did.

The "Shibsib" journey has been exciting but as some of my non-skating friends have also stated, "boy it must be creepy to dance with your sibling". That I never did but I will say most of the time personally when I did ice dance and went to dancing sessions I skated with much older men that frankly wasn't a picnic either. Guess that is why I kept to single skating much of my life.


I think every skaters' dreams of skating pairs, yes I did but one facet of skating I never attempted. The American team was a Romeo and Juliet story and although they did not reach the individual pair medal standings, the skating/personal story they presented was beautiful and inspiring.

All expectations were directed to the Men's Skate. With three men's hopefuls; Nathan Chen, Adam Rippon and Vincent Zhou speculation was on how many quad's would be hit on all the programs. Actually, in the end it didn't impress me how many they did but whether or not the program's in the end were the full package.  Great debate among skater's and arm-chair skater's was abound. Stories of how the men keep their bodies just slender enough so that the 4 or more revolutions can be met is mind blowing. Debate on whether it is/isn't a sport was answered in one interview by Vincent Zhou. The articulate, young skater's response to one report was priceless. In the final outcome, the men placed in the top 10 which for skating; is a good thing for the future competition year.

The last figure skating event last night was yet again, completed jumps or pop-outs. And too many pop-outs made for a sad showing for the American women. Although the Russian's not surprising the little forces in the skating world didn't disappoint it was noted in commentary that none of the top Russian's from the previous Olympics are even skating today.  Win and run or be tossed aside for the next generation of power princesses? Yes, it is sad but true.

I hope if what they say around the water cooler is true that by 2022 Synchronized will be included in the figure skating events. I think a petition should be started for at least televising it on the regular sports channels or else I may have to fish out my old team tapes for any one's viewing pleasure.

Is figure skating a sport? My long answer is; Yes, skating is a sport. It is a lifestyle. It is a job. It is costly. It is beautiful. It has highs, lows and it can make a person or break a person. Weak ankles, mind, spirit and bodies can materialize at any given time. You skate through sickness, health, wardrobe malfunctions, you name it I have seen it happen on the ice. I never had the dream of going to the Olympics, but I had some pretty amazing experiences that only the sport of figure skating could bring.

Hopes that the U.S. will go back to basics and fuel the minds of skater's as well as the bodies. That would be the complete skating package for 2022 in Beijing.

Word of the Day--Not What I Expected

The first of the year had come and gone without a single story to post for 2018. Not that I haven't had many ideas and topics come to mind but at this point in life things just get in the way.  Until now. I have been on the fast track since the first day of 2018. Doing more than I sometimes can handle, and other times wondering why I put myself out in life the way I do.  I guess it is just in my nature, the way I was raised and probably at this point in my life it is hard to teach an old dog new tricks.

Since I can remember I have never done anything really in my life half-assed to put it mildly.  I was that way with figure skating. It is a sport in which you have to work over and over and over again. You fall, you get back up and you do it again. Let's face it a sport not for the faint at heart. Just remember the Olympics are only a few short days away you will understand if you watch even one day of it.  I am sure the drama will unfold within the first day of events.  Even with all that it was my sanctuary even with all the drama

So with all the situations I have been thrown into whether by choice or by default it was a little bothersome when after a short conversation with someone today a word and her definition of it really resonated with me: moldable.

Again my first thought went to figure skating. I saw many individuals either younger, my age or older try to find some sort of success in the skating world. Many did and others sadly did not. Commitment is a big part of it along with of course the funds to do so. You really can't have one without the other. If you watched any of the recent figure skating Nationals, questions and no answers were being thrown left and right about the judging verses the moves completed. The final outcome had many scratching their heads for answers including some of the all time greats voicing their confusion of the sport and where it is today.

Sadly, the conversation we were speaking of was in the health care field.  When she said the word moldable, frankly it was the first time I had heard it used in this context.  When I questioned what she meant she said she was told that today employers are looking for young, moldable people who don't question anything, go with the flow.  Basically: Don't Rock the Boat. Really?  When I looked up the word, most of the definitions referred to plastic, clay, wax or inanimate objects.  Do these employers follow the news? Social Media? The World as a Whole?  What are we saying to society as a whole with this usage of the word. 

Today, even figure skaters work with a variety of different people usually young and old in hopes of making their skating experience the best that they can and learning different techniques and observing how history has helped evolve the sport today.  Not everyone can be an Olympian. It is a high expectation only few can really achieve.  Are we now at a point in society where working is only for the faint at heart as well?

I have a strange feeling in the pit of my stomach that 2018 is going to bring many moments of looking up words that have different meanings. Just add this to my growing to do list that goes on and on and on. 

2017--The Year That Was or Wasn't

Well again. We are at the end of another year. Yes, I know some people don't even get a chance to say that. As I have watched several in memoriam segments on TV the last couple days I find a couple people that have passed on I wasn't aware they had. As you get older and cynicism sets in and you look back to see if you have accomplished all that you have wanted out of life no matter how long or short that life may be it is really only for your own benefit that we even probably put ourselves through these thoughts. Does anyone really care?

I heard somewhere recently that "blogging" is a thing of the past. Really the only people that do it is because maybe they can't say what they really want directly. For many years I have never had problems saying what I really feel either in front of or behind a blog posting. It may not always be appreciated,  my philosophy of "do you want me to lie or tell you the truth" has become a mantra year after year. Truth be told I haven't blogged as much this year as in years past. My reason at the moment...sometimes skating through life gets complicated and difficult when you do not wear the skates anymore. It isn't always about the shiny blades, white boots and costumes. It may be just about stepping on the slippery surface and hoping you can stay upright and the routine gets completed without an unexpected fall (which I did this week) and the appreciated applause at the end.

Having stated all this 2017 has been a year of embarrassment, empowerment, roadblocks, realizations, reality, sorrow, rebellion (no matter how young or old you can always be rebellious), frustrations, and several other things sprinkled in.

No one ever knows what the next year will bring. I hope to be as prepared as one can be to glide on the ice of life. To use an old skating mantra; if you feel yourself falling, relax and don't tense up. Your less liable to get hurt. Guess I better use that technique more in 2018. Only time will tell.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

Another year has almost ended and the Christmas holiday is upon us already. As always we got a  head start on decorating right after the Turkey Dinner.  The weather cooperated and most decorating is in place in and outside our house. The memories of growing up came to mind when as we unpacked our artificial tree for yet another year (year nine and still the lights worked). Artificial trees have evolved many times over. The tinsel tree of my youth to the mixed plastics of today makes for some interesting conversations on whether to go real or fake once again. 

Since the family also decorates my in-laws home now due to health reasons and age, it becomes an interesting and entertaining topic at their house as well.  Last year my mother-in-law swore she had more trees in the attic than we could find. In all fairness, much of the decorations were downsized just a bit, given or sold to make memories for someone else. She indicated next year she would like another tree. I hope the tall, skinny trees become a thing of the past because as I told her, "we may just need to take the old lights off and string new one's next year". My hubby won't be a happy camper if that is the alternative.

A client of ours went into the live tree farm business in the last year. Who knows we could both win in that situation. The smell of a live tree could be a reality next year. 

In another Oh Christmas Tree story our neighbor who has a tree we have watched grow taller and taller over the last 20 years once again decided to decorate for Christmas. When the tree was manageable to self-decorate he strung lights for several years. Then when it got so tall he couldn't or wouldn't step on a ladder he stopped decorating. This year access to a lighting service in our area seemed to take the fuss out of his and many others' outside home decorating issues. My elf enjoys decorating so until he decides otherwise, will continue the tradition at our house.

 Now if he would just instruct the mean elves in the attic to please leave the blow-up outside ornaments and lights alone we would have had a decorating experience without major flaws. Think we may try a new plan of action next year on that issue.

Where Should the Thanks Go?....

Well here we are another year has come and gone and many are baking and slaving away for that big dinner tomorrow. Back's are hurting, fingers are raw and dry from hand washing after hand washing.  Trying to at least make one special dish for everyone seated at the dinner table. Wait.....

Sounds like the start of a great traditional story, but this year it won't be for my family. This is the year of the revolution.  The year to break the tradition. I seem to have heard the last several days I am not the only one who decided that I would not be cooking Thanksgiving Dinner for 2017. 

With mouths agape and looks of disbelief on many I have talked with, I am that person this year.  Don't feel bad, don't be ashamed or appalled.  The year has been filled with so many things out of control that this was one area it felt timely and right to do.

I am going to bed a little earlier. Not getting up before the crack of dawn to start the oven for the bird.  Like one of the last scenes in the movie a Christmas Story, we will be going out for dinner. No not to a Chinese Restaurant but to a restaurant where all of the arrangements will be taken care of and not a dish will we have to wash. It is the first time but may not be the last time it happens, but we are thankful for the opportunity to break from cooking.

Hoping that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner. However, and wherever is your choice.

 

The Older You Get

How many times have you seen quotes about friendships? You can find just about anything on Pinterest (my go to place) for things relating to needing, keeping or releasing friends.  Many people in my lifetime have said, "pick your friends wisely".  That other go to saying "keep your friends close and your enemies closer" still definitely holds true.  You don't need to be friends with everyone. Who would want that responsibility anyway?  To tall an expectation for this five foot one and shrinking female!

I received this card from a very dear sister friend with a tiny present inside. Cards being sent is almost an unheard of gesture in this busy technology generated world we live.   It brought a tear to my eye for many reasons. First she doesn't live nearby anymore and our time together is basically phone calls or text messages. People who can call for coffee or go out on a lunch date on a moments notice are extremely lucky. I do not get that luxury much anymore.  When I called to thank her for the thoughtful gift the two hour plus phone call wasn't long enough. Life just gets in the way. Even as we get older. When you can find someone who you can share things without it going any further is a true blessing.

I have found actually that it seems in my life I have more acquaints than truly close friends.  She has listened to so much of my troubles and I her that sometimes I think we could write a book and possibly make money off of it.  It would either be a great mystery or a human tragedy but by writing standards probably a terrific read.

At a time in life where it seems like life is so precious I hope that we can maintain even from miles away our special relationship. 

Running or Walking Away--What Does it Really Accomplish?

Most kids at almost any age probably fantasize about running away from home. I can remember as a youngster under teenage years, getting upset at my parents for something and wanting to get the heck out of Dodge. On one occasion I recall putting a few items in a towel and tying it to a broomstick and walking to the front door and saying "I am leaving and never coming back". I was unhappy about something and immediately thought that my first option was to walk out the door and leave home. When I was growing up I was unable to walk to school, walk down the block to a friends house or anywhere for that matter until I was 12 years old. Even then the only places I was allowed to walk by myself or with anyone was to junior high which was only a few blocks from home or to my grandparents who lived behind the junior high school. My allowable radius was pretty small even by California kid standards.  I only recall threatening to leave a few times and after reflecting figured I was better off right where I was. Growing up in a time when you feared your parents and what they would do to you if you misbehaved doesn't seem to hold true today.

I didn't actually leave the comforts of home until I was almost 21.  When I could actually leave home I never looked back. I was an adult, making money and departed at an appropriate time frame for me. Even at that age, it was a scary, sometimes unforgiving experience.

Today, on social media I have seen no less than three young people who have for whatever reason left home.  Obviously,  we don't know the whole stories of these people but it has definitely worried their parents.

One time when my kids were little we were in a chain department store shopping with a friend.  I had always instructed the kids to keep a hand on the cart while we were walking so that I knew where they were. Well they decided to leave as I was getting something off a shelf. When I turned around they were gone. Of course I freaked out but my friend had them within eye view. "Hang back so they can't see you" she said.  When they realized we were not around they raced back and never attempted to sneak away again. Several times the incident has come up in conversation as unforgettable moments.

You might at the time think you are hurting your parents or whoever is a part of the reason you are running or walking away from something.  Today, no matter where you live be it large city or small towns--it is a scary, unpredictable world out there where sometimes a quick decision you make can effect the rest of your life.  Social media can be a pro or con in making a bad situation worse or jumping to conclusion but my hope is that a bad situation can turn into a life lesson learned for these young people. 

Total Eclipse 2017

After months and months of preparations Total Eclipse 2017 is an event for the books. I have to say after having not felt the best for the past week, I wasn't really thinking that much about it but this once or twice in a lifetime phenomenon was a pretty big deal for those who live in Sedalia and those who traveled from far and wide to come and enjoy the show.

Many people spent high dollar for Amazon purchased glasses that as late as last week got e-mailed that they were not to be used for viewing. Many places around town including the 10 days of the fair had free or minimally priced ones. (Side note..did not attend the fair this year) I didn't get out much for the 10 days.

The hours leading up to the eclipse brought some interesting observations. At one point it was forecast to have possible rain in the area but it remained cloudy and overcast almost the entire time prior to the peak of viewing.

Although, I did attempt to build a viewing box the old-fashioned way to view the eclipse my granddaughter and I last minute decision was to go to church since they had free glasses available if you brought canned goods for the local food pantry. On the short drive around town earlier on traveling down the highway many people pulled into the various parking lots around town with folding chairs, cameras and glasses and prime spots to view the event.  A small group was assembled as time got closer, the weather got cooler as the sun and moon inched closer and closer to full eclipse. As darkness approached a silence covered the area. Not a sound was heard for that brief moment until the confusion of the birds and cicadas conversed. The hush was deafening.  As the show began to end it wasn't until later in the evening after watching some of the reports on television on just how magnificent the event really was.

 With all the constant turmoil around it was absolutely wonderful how this event brought a needed peace among people everywhere.

It takes a special event for people to stop and smell the roses or in this instance to stop and be totally eclipsed by the sun and moon.

Time Perspective Summer 2017

It is completely obvious to me that time has a way of not only catching up to you but also playing extremely mean tricks with your mind sometimes. It is bad enough that I have gotten slightly behind on certain things--namely blogging. When I looked at a friends' blog recently and noticed she has had an awful lot to contribute I took a moment and realized it had been almost 4 months since I sat down and blogged.

I wish I could say I was off traveling the world or that I was having fun doing nothing. Unfortunately, it hasn't always been the case. Oh yes, I have taken the time to read. My day is never complete unless I have read even if its while drinking coffee in the morning or wine in the evening outside while also multi-tasking and enjoying some of the cooler summer evening sunsets on my back patio.

We managed to get half of our floor tile project accomplished. Of course the easiest tile install resulted in some choice words from hubby. Don't ever just go by the "it is suppose to be lock and easy" description on the minimal directions. But hey it looks wonderful. And its one less thing on the long list of items. Unfortunately, I am still trying to get the house back into order before the next project requires me to tear the house apart once again.

Managed a trip to view the blooming plants and mythical creatures at our favorite garden. It was a hot day but well worth the road trip. I am sure we will hopefully visit a few more times before the weathers turns.

"Skittles Bush" Powell Gardens, MO

A last minute meet up with my daughter and yoga instructor recently provided  a fun diversion for us all. They were painting "virgins" but I had took my brush to canvas before. They both captured the rolling hills, sunset, and tree visions spot on. My tree envy in the middle turned out well. Next time maybe a little wine may help to cultivate my tree growth.

Audrey, Cindy and Jennifer (Artists in Training)

Along with planting my own backyard garden with flowers, bushes and tomato plants this year my green thumb seems to be doing rather well this year.

Along with all the other functions I attend, appoints I must schedule in for family and squeeze as much fun time in my summer is going way too quickly for my taste. My want list gets sometimes hazed over with my need to do list.  But just like politics those blurred lines seem to creep into your life whether you want them to or not.

Summer is suppose to be filled with fun, adventure and time for doing the things you really want to do. Our family has had to deal way to much lately with funerals, and illnesses. A dear friend moved to her final resting place as well as three of Davids' family members very close together. 

I can only hope that what few summer remaining weeks are left will not be "eclipsed" by anything unexpected.  Except maybe on August 21st when probably the last eclipse I will ever experience will happen. Perspective; the last eclipse like this happened in 1979. I was freshly out of high school and on my way to being a career girl. August 21, 2017, oh so much has happened since then Wow! does that put time into perspective!

What to Do When You May Need a Donut Double

At a time when sometimes I think I truly need a maid to clean up my house, a personal stylist to do my hair, makeup and to pick out my clothes each day and maybe just an all around personal assistant, I really thought I would need to add to the list this week--a donut double.

Hurts Donut Company Emergency Sedalia Delivery

Late last week I had an event pop up on my Facebook feed. It caught my eye because DAH it was donuts. I have many friends around the country who brag about designer donuts. I have watched an episode of Diners, Drivers and Dives and many other Food Network programs dealing with my kryptonite. At a time when every organization around the country is trying to find a new and exciting fundraiser to hold Child Safe came up with a terrific one. Hurts is based out of Springfield, MO just a hope skip and approximately 170+/- miles from our town. The hoopla surrounding the paramedic truck deliveries, lights and sirens and general great advertising-wrapped concept is one, frankly these parts doesn't experience often. 

So, my first plan was to be at the not so secret sight prior to touch down. Unfortunately, a slight glitch intervened and I thought my donut experience was gone at least for yesterday. But as the planets and or donuts aligned I was able to get the unscheduled appoint finished and still have time to buzz over in the rain, cold, every-changing lovely Missouri weather and take my place among the other donut aficionados. It was an experience listening to the various conversations around me. Most in my selection of the line seemed to be young, college students who decided to miss classes for the event. Young mothers with children who from my perspective could have cared less about waiting in line for even these special donuts.

As stated in the local newspaper, approximately 850 dozen donuts were made available for the fundraiser and 10% of sales was going to Child Safe.  I haven't heard yet whether they completely sold out. I know I bought my fair share and yes I even shared with several people.  Some commented why would you stand in line for what some call expensive donuts? Well it was for a cause and maybe just maybe someone will invest in a franchise for our town. You never know? Stranger things have happened in 20+ years.