Candidates for the position of Benton County Commissioner and Sheriff came to the Alsea Library to speak to members of the community. It should have been at the Grange so more people could have attended, especially since the meeting room at the library wasn't used.
I came to support Linda Modrell for County Commissioner and Diana Simpson for Sheriff and I expressed my support.
A few months ago, I went to a County Commissioners meeting in Corvallis for the first time. I was impressed with Linda Modrell as the shining star on the board. I came to the board meeting with my expressed need for safe walking trails, a community center gym with exercise equipment, a skateboard park for young people, a pool, and a wide paved trail that would allow roller blading, running, walking, and bikes. I want to see a trail similiar to Green Lake in Seattle here in Alsea. Yeah, I know....a pie in the sky dream with low budgets and no money for such ideas, but Linda Modrell took me seriously and called me. We talked on the phone a couple of times and she encouraged me to proceed to find support. A meeting was scheduled at the library and I was the only one there.
Last year in November, I wrote a mystery novel for National Novel Writing Month. Diana Simpson was generous and kind enough to offer to read it to critique for law enforcement details since she enjoys reading mysteries. She also met with me in an interview as I asked her questions. I wanted to get to know her a little better to understand this strong woman who came to Alsea last year to meet the community. Diana has the law enforcement background in parole and probation, and experience as Under Sheriff to be Sheriff. She stands for integrity and accountability, things that I believe in too.
I learned some new things last night as I listened to all the candidates. I learned how vulnerable Alsea is in a disaster in emergency preparedness. I learned that deputies from the Sheriff's department do not always have contact with Corvallis on their radios. We need a cell tower or a radio station in Alsea.
Some community citizens expressed desire to build houses on their acreage. Some expressed concern that people are moving away and it's hurting the school. I expressed the opinion that unless clean industry comes into Alsea to provide jobs, who would buy the houses? I suggested that the proposed Benton County Jail be here in Alsea or a Casino since the Alsea Indians used to live here. We need some kind of a big box store distribution center to provide jobs here. County Commissioner Candidate, Wright (no literature was handed out so I think that's right) expressed a plan to open the old lumbermills in the area to create biodiesel out of the brush collected and cleared in the forest. Interesting idea but I would have to understand the bi-products and what it does to the environment.
I was impressed with all the candidates--good people who are stepping up to take a leadership role to serve.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Wal-Mart
Way to go, Wal-Mart!
Wal-Mart sets the standard.
Wal-Mart does it better.
Wal-Mart has a heart and cares about bringing low prices to those who need help stretching a dollar.
Yesterday, I went into the bedroom to hang up some clothes and my husband was watching Fox News on television. On the news, it said that Wal-Mart is going to test market in one of its Florida retail stores selling generic prescription drugs for $4 to help those in need. Wal-Mart is a leader with compassion.
I watched a couple of television specials about Wal-Mart and was impressed with the business model of efficiency and smooth opperation. The positive energy at its conventions and the drive to keep finding ways to do things better was impressive. My son works for Wal-Mart in Kissimmee, Florida. He tells me about how he sings marketing jingles over the loud speaker to sell his products in the garden department. He enjoys his job and I know he's good at it.
Sam Walton created Wal-Mart to bring low prices to rural America. Alsea, Oregon 97324 is a village of 600 to 1000 people. We are one hour from the coast and 45 minutes away from Corvallis. Alsea needs a Wal-Mart for the jobs, for the low prices, and to create hope. I know I would enjoy a job in the fabric and yarn department. How about it, Wal-Mart? Please come to Alsea.
Wal-Mart sets the standard.
Wal-Mart does it better.
Wal-Mart has a heart and cares about bringing low prices to those who need help stretching a dollar.
Yesterday, I went into the bedroom to hang up some clothes and my husband was watching Fox News on television. On the news, it said that Wal-Mart is going to test market in one of its Florida retail stores selling generic prescription drugs for $4 to help those in need. Wal-Mart is a leader with compassion.
I watched a couple of television specials about Wal-Mart and was impressed with the business model of efficiency and smooth opperation. The positive energy at its conventions and the drive to keep finding ways to do things better was impressive. My son works for Wal-Mart in Kissimmee, Florida. He tells me about how he sings marketing jingles over the loud speaker to sell his products in the garden department. He enjoys his job and I know he's good at it.
Sam Walton created Wal-Mart to bring low prices to rural America. Alsea, Oregon 97324 is a village of 600 to 1000 people. We are one hour from the coast and 45 minutes away from Corvallis. Alsea needs a Wal-Mart for the jobs, for the low prices, and to create hope. I know I would enjoy a job in the fabric and yarn department. How about it, Wal-Mart? Please come to Alsea.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
The Stupid King
I wrote a fairy tale this morning that I will share with you.
THE STUPID KING WHO LEARNED A LESSON
Once upon a time in a kingdom far away, there was a little princess with long golden curls without any friends. The princess had one major flaw. She spoke her mind, had opinions, and wouldn't keep her mouth shut. The little princess was smart with great ideas.
The King gave power to the Royal Smart Person's School to follow the princess around with video cameras and tape recorders to record her every word without her knowledge. They had to be sneaky and not let her know what they were up to but she knew something was amiss. Everyone was afraid to be a friend to the princess because they had to be very careful not to tell the princess the truth.
The people in the kingdom were sick of paying taxes so the King wanted to make money from the ideas of the little princess. The King discovered there were other ways to make money to buy the Queen all she wanted. He listened to all the tapes, hour by hour, of the words of the little princess. The King was able to fund several trips to Tahiti for the Queen based on invention ideas of the princess.
After several years, the King discovered that the princess had lost her spirit and she was no longer happy because she had no friends. This didn't bother the King but it stopped the flow of saleable ideas since the princess was sad. The King decided to send the little princess to a spa to pamper her from morning till night for a month. Then she would be happy and would think up new money-making ideas to make the King rich beyond measure. This new idea didn't work because no one could make the princess happy. The little princess knew that no one was a friend unless they told her the truth about what was happening to her. This no one would do.
The little princess with the golden curls tried to get help and people to listen in other Kingdoms. The King had contingency plans in place so no one learned the true identity of the princess with the great ideas.
The little princess with the golden curls grew sadder and sadder until she started to get sick with symptoms that needed pills and a doctor. The King called the Royal Smart Doctor with all the answers. "Oh, Royal Smart Doctor, you must make the princess happy again." The Royal Smart Doctor said, "I can do it. I have a little pill that works magic." The Royal Smart Doctor gave the little princess the pill and she died from the side effects.
The King said to the Royal Smart Doctor, "Just look at what you have done! You killed the little princess with the golden curls. Now my source of money has dried up. I'll sue you in court and take all your pennies."
The Queen heard of the calamity and told the King that maybe the little princess only needed a friend and someone to trust who wouldn't betray her. "I wouldn't have needed trips to Tahiti, if I had a true friend who was kind. Maybe the little princess could have been my friend." The Queen looked sad and was disappointed in the King.
The King looked down into the Royal Garden where the Queen sat by the Royal Timber Bamboo that was a cash crop to be made into flooring in the Royal Kingdom, one of the ideas of the little princess. "My Queen, yes, you might be right. Maybe we all made a mistake. We should have been kind. We should all have been a friend. We should have invited her to the Royal Palace for a feast. We shouldn't have been greedy and used her ideas without her permission."
The King decided to mend his ways and try a different path. He commanded the Royal Smart Person's School to find the way to happiness, friends, and peace. The King realized that maybe if people were happy and had friends, there would be enough great ideas to make every dream come true in the Kingdom. Although the little princess with the golden curls died a horrible death being isolated and alone without any friends, her life served a purpose because it changed lives for the better.
THE END.
THE STUPID KING WHO LEARNED A LESSON
Once upon a time in a kingdom far away, there was a little princess with long golden curls without any friends. The princess had one major flaw. She spoke her mind, had opinions, and wouldn't keep her mouth shut. The little princess was smart with great ideas.
The King gave power to the Royal Smart Person's School to follow the princess around with video cameras and tape recorders to record her every word without her knowledge. They had to be sneaky and not let her know what they were up to but she knew something was amiss. Everyone was afraid to be a friend to the princess because they had to be very careful not to tell the princess the truth.
The people in the kingdom were sick of paying taxes so the King wanted to make money from the ideas of the little princess. The King discovered there were other ways to make money to buy the Queen all she wanted. He listened to all the tapes, hour by hour, of the words of the little princess. The King was able to fund several trips to Tahiti for the Queen based on invention ideas of the princess.
After several years, the King discovered that the princess had lost her spirit and she was no longer happy because she had no friends. This didn't bother the King but it stopped the flow of saleable ideas since the princess was sad. The King decided to send the little princess to a spa to pamper her from morning till night for a month. Then she would be happy and would think up new money-making ideas to make the King rich beyond measure. This new idea didn't work because no one could make the princess happy. The little princess knew that no one was a friend unless they told her the truth about what was happening to her. This no one would do.
The little princess with the golden curls tried to get help and people to listen in other Kingdoms. The King had contingency plans in place so no one learned the true identity of the princess with the great ideas.
The little princess with the golden curls grew sadder and sadder until she started to get sick with symptoms that needed pills and a doctor. The King called the Royal Smart Doctor with all the answers. "Oh, Royal Smart Doctor, you must make the princess happy again." The Royal Smart Doctor said, "I can do it. I have a little pill that works magic." The Royal Smart Doctor gave the little princess the pill and she died from the side effects.
The King said to the Royal Smart Doctor, "Just look at what you have done! You killed the little princess with the golden curls. Now my source of money has dried up. I'll sue you in court and take all your pennies."
The Queen heard of the calamity and told the King that maybe the little princess only needed a friend and someone to trust who wouldn't betray her. "I wouldn't have needed trips to Tahiti, if I had a true friend who was kind. Maybe the little princess could have been my friend." The Queen looked sad and was disappointed in the King.
The King looked down into the Royal Garden where the Queen sat by the Royal Timber Bamboo that was a cash crop to be made into flooring in the Royal Kingdom, one of the ideas of the little princess. "My Queen, yes, you might be right. Maybe we all made a mistake. We should have been kind. We should all have been a friend. We should have invited her to the Royal Palace for a feast. We shouldn't have been greedy and used her ideas without her permission."
The King decided to mend his ways and try a different path. He commanded the Royal Smart Person's School to find the way to happiness, friends, and peace. The King realized that maybe if people were happy and had friends, there would be enough great ideas to make every dream come true in the Kingdom. Although the little princess with the golden curls died a horrible death being isolated and alone without any friends, her life served a purpose because it changed lives for the better.
THE END.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Wedding Photo
This is sure fun to add photos to my blog! Here is the wedding picture of the beautiful Amanda Label Haber married to my son, Benjamin Leslie Haber next to her. Amanda is an RN. Ben works for Zymo Genetics in Seattle and graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in biomedical engineering. He's also a great runner. On my dining room wall, I have a plaque with a photo of him coming in 174th with a time of 2:44:05 on October 11, 1998 in the Chicago Marathon. Next to Ben is me in my dress that I received lots of compliments that I bought at a bargain price at the Fashion Bug in Corvallis.
Gretchen is the oldest and Ben's sister. Gretchen is with her husband, Christopher Bennett next to her with my two beautiful grandchildren, Jack and Lizzy. Besides being a great Mom, Gretchen is the Executive Director of Liberty House in Salem. Chris is a Senior Mortgage Specialist with American Gold Mortgage Corp in Salem.
Right in front of Ben is the Amazing Alexander Haber who was the ring bearer. Alex is my handsome grandson who makes films. We created one together when we were in Seattle. I am the film editor. Alex was the Director, Actor, and Producer. The title of the film is "Good Side, Bad Side." I'm editing the film and working on the credits.
Next to Alex is Daniel, the youngest Haber and the brother of Ben, Gretchen, and Joe. Daniel works for Battell in Mountainview, California. He's a project manager with Battell working with NASA and the airline industry. Daniel graduated from Oregon State University and plans to go on to graduate school for his MBA. He went to Copenhagen Business School in Denmark during the summer of 2003 and then worked for a pharmaceutical company in Berlin, Germany for six months.
At the far left of the photo is Joseph or Joe, Alexander's father. Joe went three years to Mesa State College in Colorado and majored in music. He's written over 20 original songs and lyrics this year. He's so talented on stage and I have yet to hear anyone not love his strong, clear, and powerful voice. Joe lives in Florida and is a garden manager at Wal-Mart in Kissimmee.
Next to the beautiful Amanda, is Leslie, my husband of 34 years. Leslie went three years to the University of Illinois in Chicago before I met him. He's a Mensa.
I love my family. I wish we could be together more often. No one goes for my idea of everyone living on the same street. Maybe if I can ever make it with my writing, I can hop around and visit everyone often. I would also pay for a family cruise each year.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Married for 34 Years
I've been married to Leslie Haber for over 34 years. We eloped on April 17, 1972. We didn't go to one of those cheesy wedding chapels in Reno, Nevada. We settled for the Justice of the Peace in City Hall.
I didn't have a fancy wedding. My family wasn't gathered around. I got one wedding gift from the people I worked with--an international cookbook.
Why did I marry Leslie? I married Les because he looks like Jerry Lewis, has integrity, personal courage to do the right thing, and we were attracted to each other right from the first moment we met.
This photo was taken a couple of years ago. Les is 56 and I'm 58.
Over the years, we've been through a lot of tragedy and hardship. We've also had some great times when we've had money and had opportunities to travel.
We have the best kids in the whole world. I'm proud of every one of them. They're amazing. Gretchen, Ben, Joe, and Daniel. Aaron died in 1995.
Les was right there to help with homework, drive kids to and from school, and battle with teachers who were unfair. Les let me stay home because I wanted to be with my kids even when we didn't have a lot of money. Most men would have booted me out the door to get a job. I loved reading stacks of books, playing games, and teaching my children.
I haven't always agreed with Les about things. He doesn't dance. He does respect my right to speak my mind and is supportive. Most men wouldn't do that, if I said something they disagreed with. We agree on almost everything.
When I have ever been in the hospital which has been very little (birth of children, cancer, and bleeding ulcers), Les has been right beside me.
Now Leslie is in pain most of the time. He sure has done a great job this last year of cutting brush and making our 3.68 acres look nice. He does what he can, when he can, as much as he can. We've lived here in Alsea now for five years and I am finally adjusting.
Every morning when Les wakes up, I start coffee and we sit down at the kitchen table to play canasta. I usually win, which makes it fun for me. Les won yesterday and the day before. Oops!
We love watching the wild birds outside. The Stellers Jays have left us. So have the American Goldfinch. Where are they? The trees used to be filled with song.
Les is the one who fixes everything. He's the one I call when I have problems with the computer. He's the one I call when I need something put together. He's the one who reads directions.
Les loves watching Fox News and tells me what's going on in the world. That's his area.
I make frozen TV dinners so I don't have to cook all the time. Then I know Les gets his vegetables with his meat that he loves so much. Yesterday I made him German apple pancakes for breakfast.
Les has been my best and only friend for a lot of years now. I'm worried about him. It's sad when he goes out the door with his pruner in hand and says that he'd rather die cutting brush than in a hospital room. I told him that nothing can happen to him because I need him. I love you, Leslie.
Please God watch out for Leslie and keep him safe. Please heal his body and make him painfree.
Health Care
Millions of Americans are without health insurance. I am one of them. It's a bit scarey. I deny symptoms and try to prevent problems. I try to eat healthy out of my garden and to exercise.
What does it say when basic care isn't provided? It says that there is no safety net when something goes wrong. It says you are not of value and that you don't matter.
My husband is having problems right now. He suspects a heart condition. When he goes to see a doctor or a nurse, he said they don't use a stethoscope. Why is that? If you don't look for a problem and record evidence, then you can pretend it doesn't exist. Is this what is going on? When one of the millions without insurance keels over, no fault is found. Then there is no evidence of not providing the proper treatment because no problem existed in the first place.
I guess the medical community who is afraid of malpractice law suits have discovered a way to protect their rear end. See no problem. Hear no problem. No evidence. No problem exists. No fault found.
Maybe this is the New No Fault Insurance for the medical community.
What does it say when basic care isn't provided? It says that there is no safety net when something goes wrong. It says you are not of value and that you don't matter.
My husband is having problems right now. He suspects a heart condition. When he goes to see a doctor or a nurse, he said they don't use a stethoscope. Why is that? If you don't look for a problem and record evidence, then you can pretend it doesn't exist. Is this what is going on? When one of the millions without insurance keels over, no fault is found. Then there is no evidence of not providing the proper treatment because no problem existed in the first place.
I guess the medical community who is afraid of malpractice law suits have discovered a way to protect their rear end. See no problem. Hear no problem. No evidence. No problem exists. No fault found.
Maybe this is the New No Fault Insurance for the medical community.
Meet the Candidates
Republican candidate, Jim Feldkamp who is running for a seat as a U.S. Congressman came to Alsea on Wednesday evening.
I forgot to put this event on my calendar. I didn't realize that I made an error until I saw the Jim Feldkamp sign in front of the Alsea Hope Grange on Thursday on my way to the library. When I got home, I looked at my copy of the Alsea Valley Voice, our community newsletter. Yup, I'd missed it. It was the night before.
What should I have done? I should have highlighted this on my calendar. It's a great idea to meet candidates, ask them questions, listen to what they have to say and see how they field questions. It's unusual that candidates come to Alsea, which is out in the middle of no where, 45 minutes from the nearest city with bargain shopping.
I know I have been interested in politics less and less. I used to subscribe to the Congressional Record years ago when I first got married. It came in the mail every day. Over the years, I have enjoyed watching C-Span to see live debate in the House and Senate.
I am concerned about the election process. I am concerned that nothing is being done about the integrity of the election process to make sure that each vote counts and is protected. When evidence was brought forward to show that voting machines have been tampered with so that a vote for one candidate will register a vote for another candidate and nothing has been done, something is very wrong. The voting process should be of utmost concern by all people in the United States.
I remember watching BookTV on the weekend on C-Span2 when the author spoke who wrote about this very issue. His book documented evidence that the election process was tampered with throughout our nation starting with the Presidential election between Bush and Gore and then again in the last election. Something is wrong when attorneys don't come forward to protect the law and the integrity of the vote. People in power remain silent as if powerless. Why?
Until this matter is fixed, we can not be sure that our vote counts. Is the American electorate in a state of denial, marching forward anyway going through all the formality of an election process? I am worried about the integrity of the voting process.
Oregon has paper ballots. I'm grateful for that. I want my vote to count. Each vote should be guarded and protected. Each vote needs to count in every election, especially the national election.
I forgot to put this event on my calendar. I didn't realize that I made an error until I saw the Jim Feldkamp sign in front of the Alsea Hope Grange on Thursday on my way to the library. When I got home, I looked at my copy of the Alsea Valley Voice, our community newsletter. Yup, I'd missed it. It was the night before.
What should I have done? I should have highlighted this on my calendar. It's a great idea to meet candidates, ask them questions, listen to what they have to say and see how they field questions. It's unusual that candidates come to Alsea, which is out in the middle of no where, 45 minutes from the nearest city with bargain shopping.
I know I have been interested in politics less and less. I used to subscribe to the Congressional Record years ago when I first got married. It came in the mail every day. Over the years, I have enjoyed watching C-Span to see live debate in the House and Senate.
I am concerned about the election process. I am concerned that nothing is being done about the integrity of the election process to make sure that each vote counts and is protected. When evidence was brought forward to show that voting machines have been tampered with so that a vote for one candidate will register a vote for another candidate and nothing has been done, something is very wrong. The voting process should be of utmost concern by all people in the United States.
I remember watching BookTV on the weekend on C-Span2 when the author spoke who wrote about this very issue. His book documented evidence that the election process was tampered with throughout our nation starting with the Presidential election between Bush and Gore and then again in the last election. Something is wrong when attorneys don't come forward to protect the law and the integrity of the vote. People in power remain silent as if powerless. Why?
Until this matter is fixed, we can not be sure that our vote counts. Is the American electorate in a state of denial, marching forward anyway going through all the formality of an election process? I am worried about the integrity of the voting process.
Oregon has paper ballots. I'm grateful for that. I want my vote to count. Each vote should be guarded and protected. Each vote needs to count in every election, especially the national election.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
DirecTV
Just as my husband and I were leaving the Consumers Power event in Corvallis today, I noticed a man with a navy shirt that said DirecTV. Of course, since I enjoy talking to almost everyone I see, I asked if he was from DirecTV. He said yes, so I said that I LOVE DirecTV.
I met Matt Webb, the owner of Global Communications at 2323 NW 9th Street in Corvallis, Oregon 97330. 541-754-9931. Matt's a nice young man who gave me three of his cards to pass out to people who want to connect to DirecTV.
Why do I LOVE DirecTV? I love it because of the great service, price, variety of programming, and my TiVo. I couldn't live without my TiVo or DirecTV. I can't imagine people with a busy schedule who want to watch their favorite shows without a TiVo. With a TiVo, you can schedule your favorite shows to be recorded to watch at a time convenient to you. You can fast forward through commercials. You can back up and pause to write down a recipe or an address. You can take notes during science shows. It's amazing. You can watch shows recorded last week in the middle of the night, if you can't sleep. You can save up movies to watch. If you work odd hours, you can have all your favorite shows waiting for your off hours. I can't just couldn't tolerate watching television the old fashioned way by sitting down and turning on the television hoping that something good is on.
Think about it.............get a TiVo and call DirecTV.
I met Matt Webb, the owner of Global Communications at 2323 NW 9th Street in Corvallis, Oregon 97330. 541-754-9931. Matt's a nice young man who gave me three of his cards to pass out to people who want to connect to DirecTV.
Why do I LOVE DirecTV? I love it because of the great service, price, variety of programming, and my TiVo. I couldn't live without my TiVo or DirecTV. I can't imagine people with a busy schedule who want to watch their favorite shows without a TiVo. With a TiVo, you can schedule your favorite shows to be recorded to watch at a time convenient to you. You can fast forward through commercials. You can back up and pause to write down a recipe or an address. You can take notes during science shows. It's amazing. You can watch shows recorded last week in the middle of the night, if you can't sleep. You can save up movies to watch. If you work odd hours, you can have all your favorite shows waiting for your off hours. I can't just couldn't tolerate watching television the old fashioned way by sitting down and turning on the television hoping that something good is on.
Think about it.............get a TiVo and call DirecTV.
Consumers Power Inc.
Did I have a great day or what! September 9th is my lucky day. I went to the annual Consumers Power meeting for all its share holders. Everyone in the area served by Consumers Power was invited. Last year I heard from some women at quilting how great it was so I was determined to attend this year. I'm so glad I did. My husband and I had a great time.
Consumers Power is a coop and gives better service than any we have experienced living in other cities. Last year Oregon had major weather problems. When an outage occured, they are right out there fixing the problem in the worst weather. You can count on them to get the job done right and done as quickly as possible.
Not only do you get great service from Consumers Power but they invite you to an annual free chicken dinner with all the trimmings. Yes, my mind constantly centers on good food. Two pieces of crispy chicken from KFC with cold slaw, baked beans, potato salad, and one of those melt-in-your-mouth biscuits. There was also cartons of cold chocolate milk, coffee, ice cream, and delicious white cake with nice people all around you at one of the large three long tables. Each family took home an aster. I got a purple aster. I've been wanting one. They served a lot of people. It had to have been over 200. Maybe more.
During the meeting, they gave out great prizes to anyone with a winning ticket. They gave out everything from a chain saw and brush cutter to a set of knives and a blow dryer. A bald man won the blow dryer so that got a laugh. I won the perfect gift. It was something that I have been wanting for a long time--a HoMedics Sound Spa with six nature sounds (ocean, summer night, rain, rainforest, thunder, and waterfall). It's a clock radio with an alarm clock. You can work, read, and go to sleep at night or wake up listening to the sound of a rainforest or a waterfall. Since I love the sound of water, it's the perfect gift for Wendy. Thank you Consumers Power!
Mark Parker spoke during the meeting, the Voice of the Oregon State University Beavers. He was fun to listen to, especially when he recapped the great moment when the Beavers won the National Baseball League Championship. It was fun to hear that at the age of seven, he was giving a play by play account of his friends as they played basketball and baseball together. It was cute when he said his parents encouraged him as he used a tape recorder when he watched the games on television growing up to record his own sports commentary. He's now living his dream since 1999 to give the play by play of the OSU Beavers. What a great guy and a nice person! The OSU Beavers have the potential to win every game, every year. They just have to work hard and believe.
The monthly magazine, the Ruralite, was also there handing out free coffee to everyone. It would be fun to write articles for the Ruralite.
What a great day! I met so many nice people. I saw Russ Sapp (a nice family from Alsea) up on the stage who represents Alsea. I won a great gift for which I am grateful that I will use every day. I had a great lunch with KFC chicken. They gave everyone an extension cord and four 60 watt eco light bulbs. The only thing I didn't get to do was ride in the bucket. Maybe next year....
Consumers Power is a coop and gives better service than any we have experienced living in other cities. Last year Oregon had major weather problems. When an outage occured, they are right out there fixing the problem in the worst weather. You can count on them to get the job done right and done as quickly as possible.
Not only do you get great service from Consumers Power but they invite you to an annual free chicken dinner with all the trimmings. Yes, my mind constantly centers on good food. Two pieces of crispy chicken from KFC with cold slaw, baked beans, potato salad, and one of those melt-in-your-mouth biscuits. There was also cartons of cold chocolate milk, coffee, ice cream, and delicious white cake with nice people all around you at one of the large three long tables. Each family took home an aster. I got a purple aster. I've been wanting one. They served a lot of people. It had to have been over 200. Maybe more.
During the meeting, they gave out great prizes to anyone with a winning ticket. They gave out everything from a chain saw and brush cutter to a set of knives and a blow dryer. A bald man won the blow dryer so that got a laugh. I won the perfect gift. It was something that I have been wanting for a long time--a HoMedics Sound Spa with six nature sounds (ocean, summer night, rain, rainforest, thunder, and waterfall). It's a clock radio with an alarm clock. You can work, read, and go to sleep at night or wake up listening to the sound of a rainforest or a waterfall. Since I love the sound of water, it's the perfect gift for Wendy. Thank you Consumers Power!
Mark Parker spoke during the meeting, the Voice of the Oregon State University Beavers. He was fun to listen to, especially when he recapped the great moment when the Beavers won the National Baseball League Championship. It was fun to hear that at the age of seven, he was giving a play by play account of his friends as they played basketball and baseball together. It was cute when he said his parents encouraged him as he used a tape recorder when he watched the games on television growing up to record his own sports commentary. He's now living his dream since 1999 to give the play by play of the OSU Beavers. What a great guy and a nice person! The OSU Beavers have the potential to win every game, every year. They just have to work hard and believe.
The monthly magazine, the Ruralite, was also there handing out free coffee to everyone. It would be fun to write articles for the Ruralite.
What a great day! I met so many nice people. I saw Russ Sapp (a nice family from Alsea) up on the stage who represents Alsea. I won a great gift for which I am grateful that I will use every day. I had a great lunch with KFC chicken. They gave everyone an extension cord and four 60 watt eco light bulbs. The only thing I didn't get to do was ride in the bucket. Maybe next year....
Monday, September 04, 2006
Jerry Lewis
Just where is Jerry Lewis this Labor Day? I don't see announcements of a telethon or news about Jerry.
I've always loved Jerry Lewis. He's always been my favorite for all these years. When other kids were oogling over rock stars, I oogled over Jerry Lewis. Yes, I like the Beetles and Rolling Stones but no one comes close to Jerry on my list.
My husband looks like Jerry and that's one of the many reasons why I married Les in addition to his intelligence, integrity, personal courage, and many other attibutes.
Jerry has always made me laugh. He does anything for a laugh. He's the good guy on the screen and the one with the big heart.
Les took me to see Jerry in Portland, Oregon. Jerry starred in Damn Yankies, the Broadway play. I kept my eyes on Jerry throughout from my seat. After it was over, I waited outside and stood in his way so he had to brush past me. It was awesome. They said no one could talk to him so that was it.
I wrote him a letter once but never got an answer or a signed photo.
I would love to see him on stage someday in Las Vegas. He's the draw for me. I've never had the opportunity.
For all the years of telethons and hard work to help kids, Jerry should win some momentous award--like the Nobel Peace Prize for the millions and millions of dollars for muscular dystrophy research. Jerry Lewis is a hero.
I love you, Jerry. I always will. Please get better and listen only to the best doctors.
I've always loved Jerry Lewis. He's always been my favorite for all these years. When other kids were oogling over rock stars, I oogled over Jerry Lewis. Yes, I like the Beetles and Rolling Stones but no one comes close to Jerry on my list.
My husband looks like Jerry and that's one of the many reasons why I married Les in addition to his intelligence, integrity, personal courage, and many other attibutes.
Jerry has always made me laugh. He does anything for a laugh. He's the good guy on the screen and the one with the big heart.
Les took me to see Jerry in Portland, Oregon. Jerry starred in Damn Yankies, the Broadway play. I kept my eyes on Jerry throughout from my seat. After it was over, I waited outside and stood in his way so he had to brush past me. It was awesome. They said no one could talk to him so that was it.
I wrote him a letter once but never got an answer or a signed photo.
I would love to see him on stage someday in Las Vegas. He's the draw for me. I've never had the opportunity.
For all the years of telethons and hard work to help kids, Jerry should win some momentous award--like the Nobel Peace Prize for the millions and millions of dollars for muscular dystrophy research. Jerry Lewis is a hero.
I love you, Jerry. I always will. Please get better and listen only to the best doctors.
Friday, September 01, 2006
$5 Quilt Club
Oh the fun you can have at Grandma's Attic Sewing Emporium in Dallas, Oregon! I love Rachel Greco's monthly $5 Quilt Club and Rachel is one of the women I admire.
This is how the club works. August started the new quilting year at Grandma's Attic. If you bring in $5, you receive a quilt block with fabric and instructions. Last year the theme was "She flies with her own wings," and this year is "First Ladies of America." You receive one of the amazing redwork designs created by her son and you hear stories about the First Ladies at the White House throughout history. Last month was Martha Washington and today was Abigail Adams. Rachel talked about the inspiring example of Abigail this morning and how she was intelligent with strong opinions.
Rachel Greco is a natural entertainer. Her love of research and learning shows as she shares stories of women. She is a strong advocate of women. Rachel should have her own quilting show on national television. It would sure be popular. She would be great and loved by all who love to quilt. Everyone flocks to Dallas on the first Friday and Saturday of the month for five sessions. Last year were stories about pioneer women. Not only do you learn to quilt but you feel inspired and uplifted after listening to Rachel.
Abigail was a woman of strength and leadership. Interesting that in 2006 that in the United States of America, women do not have equal rights under the Constitution.
This is how the club works. August started the new quilting year at Grandma's Attic. If you bring in $5, you receive a quilt block with fabric and instructions. Last year the theme was "She flies with her own wings," and this year is "First Ladies of America." You receive one of the amazing redwork designs created by her son and you hear stories about the First Ladies at the White House throughout history. Last month was Martha Washington and today was Abigail Adams. Rachel talked about the inspiring example of Abigail this morning and how she was intelligent with strong opinions.
Rachel Greco is a natural entertainer. Her love of research and learning shows as she shares stories of women. She is a strong advocate of women. Rachel should have her own quilting show on national television. It would sure be popular. She would be great and loved by all who love to quilt. Everyone flocks to Dallas on the first Friday and Saturday of the month for five sessions. Last year were stories about pioneer women. Not only do you learn to quilt but you feel inspired and uplifted after listening to Rachel.
Abigail was a woman of strength and leadership. Interesting that in 2006 that in the United States of America, women do not have equal rights under the Constitution.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
So You Think You Can Dance
Can you believe it? I still haven't watched the final show. I watched the first 15 minutes and then I speeded over to the end to see who won.
It's great that Benji won. He's a great dancer with heart and he will represent the show well. Heidi and Benji are great dancers who work hard and who live dance. All the dancers in the top 10 are deserving to win and I hope that all go on to major jobs that showcase their talent on stage.
I have been busy and haven't had time to watch a lot of television. That's one reason why I haven't finished the show. The biggest reason is because I just don't want it to end. I want to savor it, minute by minute. I love this show. It's my favorite show.
I wish I had dance in my life. I had a chance to dance at Ben's wedding but it's obvious that I don't get to dance. I dance only in my heart.
It's great that Benji won. He's a great dancer with heart and he will represent the show well. Heidi and Benji are great dancers who work hard and who live dance. All the dancers in the top 10 are deserving to win and I hope that all go on to major jobs that showcase their talent on stage.
I have been busy and haven't had time to watch a lot of television. That's one reason why I haven't finished the show. The biggest reason is because I just don't want it to end. I want to savor it, minute by minute. I love this show. It's my favorite show.
I wish I had dance in my life. I had a chance to dance at Ben's wedding but it's obvious that I don't get to dance. I dance only in my heart.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Tangletown in Green Lake
A few blocks from Ben's house in Green Lake, off the main roads and in the center of the neighborhood is Tangletown, an Elysian brewing company.
www.elysianbrewing.com
2106 N. 55th Street
1-206-547-5929
It's worth a visit for great food and great beer. You can buy a sampler of 5 beers to try. The waiter talked about a pumpkin beer that's popular in the fall that sounded delicious.
Boy, did I have a great breakfast with an Italian sausage and cheese omelet. Wow! That was good. I don't remember the name but it's delicious.
My favorite breakfast place in Seattle so far has always been the Rusty Pelican in Wallingford but now I also like Tangletown. A perfect start for any day in Seattle and then mozey on over to Green Lake and walk the 2.8 mile trail around this amazing manmade lake. How could life be any better than this?
www.elysianbrewing.com
2106 N. 55th Street
1-206-547-5929
It's worth a visit for great food and great beer. You can buy a sampler of 5 beers to try. The waiter talked about a pumpkin beer that's popular in the fall that sounded delicious.
Boy, did I have a great breakfast with an Italian sausage and cheese omelet. Wow! That was good. I don't remember the name but it's delicious.
My favorite breakfast place in Seattle so far has always been the Rusty Pelican in Wallingford but now I also like Tangletown. A perfect start for any day in Seattle and then mozey on over to Green Lake and walk the 2.8 mile trail around this amazing manmade lake. How could life be any better than this?
RACHA NOODLES and Thai cuisine
After we rode the duck, Ben took our family over to Racha Noodles on Mercer Street to enjoy Thai food in the Queen Anne district of Seattle. Ben's taken me here before and each time I have loved each dish ordered. It's elegant dining with delicious food.
I remember another time when they had music on Thai instruments softly playing in the background. I love the sculptures of large glass and metal flowers.
My favorite dish is #68 Golden Cashew with bell peppers, green onions, celery, carrot, cashew nuts, and Racha special sauce.
Always the best food and the best jasmine green tea. www.rachathai.com
RACHA NOODLES and thai cruisine
23 Mercer Street close to the Space Needle
Seattle, WA 98109
1-206-281-8883
I remember another time when they had music on Thai instruments softly playing in the background. I love the sculptures of large glass and metal flowers.
My favorite dish is #68 Golden Cashew with bell peppers, green onions, celery, carrot, cashew nuts, and Racha special sauce.
Always the best food and the best jasmine green tea. www.rachathai.com
RACHA NOODLES and thai cruisine
23 Mercer Street close to the Space Needle
Seattle, WA 98109
1-206-281-8883
Ride the Duck
Anyone visiting Seattle needs to head on over to the Space Needle and ride the duck. It's a tour of Seattle's best spots with an entertaining account of all interesting highlights as you pass on land and in the bay.
One in eight people living in Seattle owns a boat. I remember eating at Ivars at another visit to Seattle and watching people arrive in boats to eat at this amazing restaurant that caters to an upscale crowd.
While our duck was touring the bay, we learned that Seattle allows a fixed number of houses in the water. Some multi-million dollar homes have a basement enclosed by glass windows with lights to attract the fish. One woman who retired early from Microsoft decided to start a rowing school. When told that her school on the bay was one too many and would have to be torn down, she added a motor. I would sure like to meet this amazing woman who is an inspiration to all. Now she takes her "boat" out each year for a huge fundraising event to circle the bay overlooking the Space Needle and downtown Seattle.
If you want laughter, fun, and to see the best of Seattle, Ride the Duck. I can sure highly recommend it. Thanks, Ben! www.ridetheducksofseattle.com 1-206-441-DUCK (3825).
One in eight people living in Seattle owns a boat. I remember eating at Ivars at another visit to Seattle and watching people arrive in boats to eat at this amazing restaurant that caters to an upscale crowd.
While our duck was touring the bay, we learned that Seattle allows a fixed number of houses in the water. Some multi-million dollar homes have a basement enclosed by glass windows with lights to attract the fish. One woman who retired early from Microsoft decided to start a rowing school. When told that her school on the bay was one too many and would have to be torn down, she added a motor. I would sure like to meet this amazing woman who is an inspiration to all. Now she takes her "boat" out each year for a huge fundraising event to circle the bay overlooking the Space Needle and downtown Seattle.
If you want laughter, fun, and to see the best of Seattle, Ride the Duck. I can sure highly recommend it. Thanks, Ben! www.ridetheducksofseattle.com 1-206-441-DUCK (3825).
A Fairy Tale Wedding
When your children marry, all you want as a parent is their happiness. This is all I have ever wanted for all of my children.
My son, Benjamin married Amanda on August 20th in the rose garden at the Woodland Park Zoo in GreenLake, which is part of Seattle. It was a fairy tale wedding in a beautiful setting. Ben's brothers, Joe and Daniel stood beside him in support as I looked on with pride sitting next to my husband, their father.
At the reception, Joe sang a song created by Joe and Sharon Label, Amanda's mother to the tune of "Going to the Chapel." It outlined Ben and Amanda's journey of love that brought them to the garden in marriage. It was cute. Joe also sang a selection from Andrew Lloyd Weber accompanied on the harp by Karyn Jones.
Daniel made a magnificent speech as the best man. He's always great in front of a group.
The food catered at the reception at the Zoo couldn't have been a better selection or variety. It was delicious.
Amanda and Ben are both happy and I'm happy for them both as they start their new life together. They are off to Tahiti for the honeymoon on the beach, surf and the sun. They have a beautiful home in Green Lake and the years ahead to share together.
Although it was only a few days of meeting Ben's new family, it was nice to meet everyone and get to know Amanda's family. The blending of families makes life much richer.
The garden wedding among the gorgeous roses makes me want to start a rose garden of my own here in Alsea. It sure was beautiful and I don't see how it could have been nicer.
My son, Benjamin married Amanda on August 20th in the rose garden at the Woodland Park Zoo in GreenLake, which is part of Seattle. It was a fairy tale wedding in a beautiful setting. Ben's brothers, Joe and Daniel stood beside him in support as I looked on with pride sitting next to my husband, their father.
At the reception, Joe sang a song created by Joe and Sharon Label, Amanda's mother to the tune of "Going to the Chapel." It outlined Ben and Amanda's journey of love that brought them to the garden in marriage. It was cute. Joe also sang a selection from Andrew Lloyd Weber accompanied on the harp by Karyn Jones.
Daniel made a magnificent speech as the best man. He's always great in front of a group.
The food catered at the reception at the Zoo couldn't have been a better selection or variety. It was delicious.
Amanda and Ben are both happy and I'm happy for them both as they start their new life together. They are off to Tahiti for the honeymoon on the beach, surf and the sun. They have a beautiful home in Green Lake and the years ahead to share together.
Although it was only a few days of meeting Ben's new family, it was nice to meet everyone and get to know Amanda's family. The blending of families makes life much richer.
The garden wedding among the gorgeous roses makes me want to start a rose garden of my own here in Alsea. It sure was beautiful and I don't see how it could have been nicer.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Mel Gibson
I had a phone conversation with my Aunt Ellen who is 97 years old who excuses the behavior of Mel Gibson. I, however, cannot excuse his words so easily.
Alcohol may have released the words but they were in his heart.
I am always confounded when any Christian pours out hatred for ANY group of people when Jesus commanded that we love thy neighbor as thyself. Can one be an example of Christianity and feel hatred towards anyone? I think not!
God made everyone. We are all a little different so He can tell us apart. Some are different colors. We come in different shapes and sizes but we are all children of God. We should be kind to one another and get along.
Alcohol may have released the words but they were in his heart.
I am always confounded when any Christian pours out hatred for ANY group of people when Jesus commanded that we love thy neighbor as thyself. Can one be an example of Christianity and feel hatred towards anyone? I think not!
God made everyone. We are all a little different so He can tell us apart. Some are different colors. We come in different shapes and sizes but we are all children of God. We should be kind to one another and get along.
So You Think You Can Dance
So You Think You Can Dance is ENTERTAINMENT in all caps! The high energy show teaches the spirit of dance. Nigel Lithgoe, the correographers, and other produces of this important show, my favorite show, should win major awards for encouraging dance at a time when obesity is so high among youth and adults in this country. I can think of no greater joy than dance.
I've learned a lot about different types of dance. I had no idea what krumping was and now I have a true appreciation for hip hop. I still have a lot to learn but this show is explosive with talent from the dancers and choreographers. Original routines are expected by Mia Michaels. Brian Friedman said, "I love when dance is art." So do I. The "dorktastic" routine, a phrase coined by Brian referring to Shane Spark's choreography tonight, was fun and unexpected. Gifted choreographers, the BEST of the Best are featured on this show.
The group pop routine at the end, choreographed by Wade Robson, was original, art, fun, and pure joy to watch. I love this show. It makes me want to get up and dance at 58. I dance in my heart with each one on stage.
Next week we will learn who America picks as the favorite dancer. Out of four gifted dancers, one will be selected by the vote. My vote out of the four is for Travis who I feel is the greatest of all as a technical dancer and performer. All will go on to major careers on stage, no matter who wins. They have all danced their hearts out, showing emotion from their toes, up through each part of their body with high energy and talent. They are all winners! Thank you, Nigel Lithgoe, for bringing So You Think You Can Dance into my living room!
I've learned a lot about different types of dance. I had no idea what krumping was and now I have a true appreciation for hip hop. I still have a lot to learn but this show is explosive with talent from the dancers and choreographers. Original routines are expected by Mia Michaels. Brian Friedman said, "I love when dance is art." So do I. The "dorktastic" routine, a phrase coined by Brian referring to Shane Spark's choreography tonight, was fun and unexpected. Gifted choreographers, the BEST of the Best are featured on this show.
The group pop routine at the end, choreographed by Wade Robson, was original, art, fun, and pure joy to watch. I love this show. It makes me want to get up and dance at 58. I dance in my heart with each one on stage.
Next week we will learn who America picks as the favorite dancer. Out of four gifted dancers, one will be selected by the vote. My vote out of the four is for Travis who I feel is the greatest of all as a technical dancer and performer. All will go on to major careers on stage, no matter who wins. They have all danced their hearts out, showing emotion from their toes, up through each part of their body with high energy and talent. They are all winners! Thank you, Nigel Lithgoe, for bringing So You Think You Can Dance into my living room!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
My Garden
I measured my garden space last weekend and found out that I have 2500 square feet in garden. I have plans to dig more beds and to put more of my land in production. We have 3.68 acres. One acre can be used for garden. The other 2 1/2 acres is to be kept in timber.
I have big plans to add dwarf fruit trees, nut trees, more blueberries, thornless blackberries and raspberries, seedless table grapes, currants, hardy keewee, more corn, and more delicious fresh vegetables.
I'm not sure I want to sell much. I'm mainly doing this to make sure I have enough food. I know how to can and preserve since I took the Master Food Preserving course in Salem in 1999 at the same time that I went through the Master Gardening course. That year in Master Gardening, I volunteered 175 hours of my time in addition to the time with showing people how to can in demonstrations.
I've never had a garden this big before so I need to learn more about crop rotation, what vegetables work together, and I need to start a serious garden journal.
I also want to have a big dahlia bed with a large variety of dahlias. I love dahlias. They make such great bouquets to bring in the house and to give away.
This will all take time. Inch by inch, foot by foot, and yard by yard, my garden will get bigger and bigger.
I have big plans to add dwarf fruit trees, nut trees, more blueberries, thornless blackberries and raspberries, seedless table grapes, currants, hardy keewee, more corn, and more delicious fresh vegetables.
I'm not sure I want to sell much. I'm mainly doing this to make sure I have enough food. I know how to can and preserve since I took the Master Food Preserving course in Salem in 1999 at the same time that I went through the Master Gardening course. That year in Master Gardening, I volunteered 175 hours of my time in addition to the time with showing people how to can in demonstrations.
I've never had a garden this big before so I need to learn more about crop rotation, what vegetables work together, and I need to start a serious garden journal.
I also want to have a big dahlia bed with a large variety of dahlias. I love dahlias. They make such great bouquets to bring in the house and to give away.
This will all take time. Inch by inch, foot by foot, and yard by yard, my garden will get bigger and bigger.
I received a letter from my cousin in Sweden a couple of days ago. My cousins from Sweden came to visit me in Alsea three years ago. Although I sent letters and a package, I didn't hear back. I thought it odd.
Finally, I have proof that I'm not getting all my mail. In my cousins letter, she said she sent two letters that I didn't receive. So there it is in writing.
I try to make a formal complaint and was given a telephone number. I was told that my cousin in Sweden needs to follow up on this. No one wanted to know my name. I didn't get to sign a form. I didn't get to make a formal statement.
I sure wonder how much mail I don't receive that is sent to me.
Finally, I have proof that I'm not getting all my mail. In my cousins letter, she said she sent two letters that I didn't receive. So there it is in writing.
I try to make a formal complaint and was given a telephone number. I was told that my cousin in Sweden needs to follow up on this. No one wanted to know my name. I didn't get to sign a form. I didn't get to make a formal statement.
I sure wonder how much mail I don't receive that is sent to me.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Religion
Religion is one of those topics, like politics, that people say you should avoid discussing.
I grew up going to church every Sunday as a Lutheran. It was central to my identity. I was baptized in Libby, Montana. In the third grade, I went to the Lutheran School across from my church on the same street as my house at 1120 Montana Avenue. When we moved to Salem, Oregon, I was confirmed at Grace Lutheran. Then we moved to Keizer and I went to Luther League at Faith Lutheran on North River Road. My days of being a Lutheran stopped when I visited my church in Montana when I was in college. The minister said that only those people in that particular congregation was going to be saved. I knew that wasn't true so I went searching.
I started to go to the silent Quaker meetings at the suggestion of my history professor at Oregon College of Education, Dr. Kenneth Holmes.
When I married my husband in 1972 and he told me he was Jewish, the first words out of my mouth were, "Oh, I love Jerry Lewis!" I had learned in Sunday School that Jews were God's chosen people. They are the BEST! They are the ones that God loves best.
My husband and I couldn't find common ground and a religious home. I was told that I couldn't belong to the synagogue because I wasn't born a Jew, and he was told that he couldn't be a Lutheran because he asked too many questions.
Years later in 1995, we joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We put our whole hearts into this church. I had parties in my home to welcome new members, celebrate birthdays, new babies, and welcome missionaries. This was in our home on Burlwood Loop SE in Salem. I enjoyed being on the compassionate service committee. My husband was in the Elders Quorum Presidency. I was Primary President in Gates and Secretary in the Stake Relief Society Presidency. I loved singing in the Stake Choir in Salem. Not only did we serve with volunteer time but we tithed all our money. One year we tithed over $25,000 in Salem. I still have the copy of the tithing statement signed by the Bishop. Then we served as service missionaries to help people in an eight stake area find employment in Salem.
After we moved to Alsea, we were driving back and forth four days a week to make the 2 hour trip each way. I started to question a few things so I wrote letters to Salt Lake, which embarrassed the Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Corvallis. He told my husband to "shut her up and control her." That didn't go over well with me. I was hurt that he didn't care to help me get to the truth and talk over my feelings. When we moved to Alsea, I was asked what I needed, I asked for friendship because I knew it would be hard to live in an isolated area. We were shunned when I started to question a few things. I stopped going. I guess the shunning was supposed to silence my mouth and teach me a lesson.
I witnessed that people can go to church every Sunday, take on the name of Jesus Christ, and steal, lie, and betray their church the rest of the week. I saw the cruelty to others who don't agree. I understood for the first time how political extremes could exist in the same church when I took the political test on the Liberterian website which lumps communists and fascists together in one category--all who want to suppress dissent and who want complete obedience. I learned much more taking that test than that I am a Centrist in the Left Liberal area.
My husband continued serving his mission in Salem driving faithfully back and forth to Salem. Medicine was given to him to help him cope with the strain of it all by a doctor belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Corvallis. This doctor ignored my pleas that my husband was falling asleep in the chair and I worried about the safety of my husband driving to Salem. An attorney belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints helped to drain all our money away. We have been betrayed. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has seen fit to cause problems in our family and they have done their best to stop any kind of progress.
I've been told to shut up about my feelings and what happened to us but that only allows it to continue. On my wall is a framed poster that says, "In Germany they first came for the communists and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a trade unionist. Then they came for the catholics, and I didn't speak up because I was a protestant. Then they came for me--and by that time no one was left to speak up." Pastor Martin Niemoller
What do I have left? My truth.
I believe in Jesus Christ. I grew up with my faith. I feel comforted by my faith. I believe that God made all people that live on the earth, and that the two greatest commands are to love the Lord with all thy heart and to love thy neighbor as thyself. This means we should care about everyone. We should love everyone even those who are hard to love. This means people who are different from us, people who grew up different, people who live on the other side of the earth. I believe it is important to hold strong to your values and to not compromise them. I feel it is important to be kind to others, no matter how you are treated in return. I believe I have a right to my own opinion and I feel responsible to speak out against injustice.
I grew up going to church every Sunday as a Lutheran. It was central to my identity. I was baptized in Libby, Montana. In the third grade, I went to the Lutheran School across from my church on the same street as my house at 1120 Montana Avenue. When we moved to Salem, Oregon, I was confirmed at Grace Lutheran. Then we moved to Keizer and I went to Luther League at Faith Lutheran on North River Road. My days of being a Lutheran stopped when I visited my church in Montana when I was in college. The minister said that only those people in that particular congregation was going to be saved. I knew that wasn't true so I went searching.
I started to go to the silent Quaker meetings at the suggestion of my history professor at Oregon College of Education, Dr. Kenneth Holmes.
When I married my husband in 1972 and he told me he was Jewish, the first words out of my mouth were, "Oh, I love Jerry Lewis!" I had learned in Sunday School that Jews were God's chosen people. They are the BEST! They are the ones that God loves best.
My husband and I couldn't find common ground and a religious home. I was told that I couldn't belong to the synagogue because I wasn't born a Jew, and he was told that he couldn't be a Lutheran because he asked too many questions.
Years later in 1995, we joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We put our whole hearts into this church. I had parties in my home to welcome new members, celebrate birthdays, new babies, and welcome missionaries. This was in our home on Burlwood Loop SE in Salem. I enjoyed being on the compassionate service committee. My husband was in the Elders Quorum Presidency. I was Primary President in Gates and Secretary in the Stake Relief Society Presidency. I loved singing in the Stake Choir in Salem. Not only did we serve with volunteer time but we tithed all our money. One year we tithed over $25,000 in Salem. I still have the copy of the tithing statement signed by the Bishop. Then we served as service missionaries to help people in an eight stake area find employment in Salem.
After we moved to Alsea, we were driving back and forth four days a week to make the 2 hour trip each way. I started to question a few things so I wrote letters to Salt Lake, which embarrassed the Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Corvallis. He told my husband to "shut her up and control her." That didn't go over well with me. I was hurt that he didn't care to help me get to the truth and talk over my feelings. When we moved to Alsea, I was asked what I needed, I asked for friendship because I knew it would be hard to live in an isolated area. We were shunned when I started to question a few things. I stopped going. I guess the shunning was supposed to silence my mouth and teach me a lesson.
I witnessed that people can go to church every Sunday, take on the name of Jesus Christ, and steal, lie, and betray their church the rest of the week. I saw the cruelty to others who don't agree. I understood for the first time how political extremes could exist in the same church when I took the political test on the Liberterian website which lumps communists and fascists together in one category--all who want to suppress dissent and who want complete obedience. I learned much more taking that test than that I am a Centrist in the Left Liberal area.
My husband continued serving his mission in Salem driving faithfully back and forth to Salem. Medicine was given to him to help him cope with the strain of it all by a doctor belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Corvallis. This doctor ignored my pleas that my husband was falling asleep in the chair and I worried about the safety of my husband driving to Salem. An attorney belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints helped to drain all our money away. We have been betrayed. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has seen fit to cause problems in our family and they have done their best to stop any kind of progress.
I've been told to shut up about my feelings and what happened to us but that only allows it to continue. On my wall is a framed poster that says, "In Germany they first came for the communists and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a trade unionist. Then they came for the catholics, and I didn't speak up because I was a protestant. Then they came for me--and by that time no one was left to speak up." Pastor Martin Niemoller
What do I have left? My truth.
I believe in Jesus Christ. I grew up with my faith. I feel comforted by my faith. I believe that God made all people that live on the earth, and that the two greatest commands are to love the Lord with all thy heart and to love thy neighbor as thyself. This means we should care about everyone. We should love everyone even those who are hard to love. This means people who are different from us, people who grew up different, people who live on the other side of the earth. I believe it is important to hold strong to your values and to not compromise them. I feel it is important to be kind to others, no matter how you are treated in return. I believe I have a right to my own opinion and I feel responsible to speak out against injustice.
We have a new Post Mistress in Alsea named Nichole. I really like her. It's the best building in Alsea when its hot outside because of the air conditioning. Usually my husband wants to pick up the mail but I enjoy it when I do.
I attended the ceremony last year when Nichole was installed as Post Mistress. I even included the ceremony in my Nano Novel for 2005 last November. I'm a sap for parades and ceremonies that touch the heart and expect one to do their best. This ceremony talks about the great responsibility of safeguarding and protecting the mail. I admit that when these words were said, there were tears in my eyes.
I was alarmed the other day when my husband came home to say that the key was stuck in the lock. The lock had to be replaced and new keys issued. I'm impressed with Nichol's action.
I have a vivid imagination, which helps me write novels. My mind immediately took off wondering whether someone had tried to jimmy the lock to get into our box. Were they successful? Then I wondered if someone had a key and has been getting into our mail since I never think I am getting all my mail. Then I thought I would check this out by asking if anyone had been seen getting into our box. A strange look on the face by the guy who helps out let me know that he thought this was an odd thing to say.
I attended the ceremony last year when Nichole was installed as Post Mistress. I even included the ceremony in my Nano Novel for 2005 last November. I'm a sap for parades and ceremonies that touch the heart and expect one to do their best. This ceremony talks about the great responsibility of safeguarding and protecting the mail. I admit that when these words were said, there were tears in my eyes.
I was alarmed the other day when my husband came home to say that the key was stuck in the lock. The lock had to be replaced and new keys issued. I'm impressed with Nichol's action.
I have a vivid imagination, which helps me write novels. My mind immediately took off wondering whether someone had tried to jimmy the lock to get into our box. Were they successful? Then I wondered if someone had a key and has been getting into our mail since I never think I am getting all my mail. Then I thought I would check this out by asking if anyone had been seen getting into our box. A strange look on the face by the guy who helps out let me know that he thought this was an odd thing to say.
So You Think You Can Dance
I can't believe that Allison was voted off the show. I thought she had the talent to make it to the end. I don't like to see anyone go home. Ryan is another extraordinary talent that went home.
I was interested to hear that the tour of the top ten dancers is a go. The first city is Seattle on September 12. I wish I could be there. I wish I could afford to go. I'm not sure I can afford to make a trip back up to Seattle or go anywhere.
I know the tour will be an amazing success and it will stimulate the love and joy of dance even more. So You Think You Can Dance has been so refreshing to watch on television. It's my favorite show and always lifts my spirits.
So who's left....Donyelle, Travis, Ivan, Natalie, Heidi, and Benji. They are all gifted dancers. Each one deserves to win.
Thank you to Nigel Lithgoe and Simon Fuller for bring so much joy to millions and especially to me.
I was interested to hear that the tour of the top ten dancers is a go. The first city is Seattle on September 12. I wish I could be there. I wish I could afford to go. I'm not sure I can afford to make a trip back up to Seattle or go anywhere.
I know the tour will be an amazing success and it will stimulate the love and joy of dance even more. So You Think You Can Dance has been so refreshing to watch on television. It's my favorite show and always lifts my spirits.
So who's left....Donyelle, Travis, Ivan, Natalie, Heidi, and Benji. They are all gifted dancers. Each one deserves to win.
Thank you to Nigel Lithgoe and Simon Fuller for bring so much joy to millions and especially to me.
Health Care
There is a crisis in the United States. Millions of people are without any medical insurance. My husband and I are among this number.
When you are without health or dental insurance and without any savings, you start to ignore and deny symptoms. I try to treat everything with exercise, fresh air, healthy foods. When medical bills start to pile up, as in our case, you have to wait until they are paid down to continue with any further medical help.
I've been ignoring chest pains, numbness, and high blood pressure. It doesn't help that I haven't been exercising since I stopped going to the gym. It's only compounding the problems but I can't afford it and I can't afford the gas to go into Corvallis.
I got stung by a bee or hornet on my ankle four days ago. My foot is swollen and it's bright red. How do I deal with it? I took two Excedrin for the pain. I put cold compresses on it. Yesterday I plastered oatmeal all over it. I went to my medical reference book and learned that it isn't a life threatening situation unless it starts to effect the respiratory system so I'm not worried.
My husband went to a clinic in Eugene months ago for help. I thought this was a great idea because the clinic was set up to help people without insurance. He was seen by a doctor. A whopping bill of $400, no answers or help. The doctor wanted him to come back. My husband insisted that he talk to him over the phone to avoid another big bill. The doctor admitted that he didn't have any answers on the phone.
Now he went for blood tests at the clinic in Benton County in Corvallis for over $200 and they won't give him the results without the $20 bucks for a visit. They said that the price was discounted 50%. He made two phone calls so far to try to get them to tell him the results over the phone.
Millions of dollars are being funneled into Oregon from the federal government to help people without insurance. It's going for buildings, salaries, and discounted care. We can't afford discounted care on a fixed income.
Dental care is another crisis. You can afford to have great teeth, if you have insurance and money. The last time I was at the dentist, he was aware that I have a chip in my front tooth that needs to be filled. He let me walk away without taking care of it. I can't afford to go back until the bill is paid down.
About three years ago I started to pour out my heart to someone who works with the homeless. I thought she would have compassion, would listen, and care. I was wrong. She said, "No one cares. No one wants to listen." So you learn to shut up, deny feelings, deny medical problems, and do the best you can with what you have.
So many people are left without adequate medical help and care. It shows that people aren't valued. It shows that there is a lack of compassion. It shows that money gets you the care you need.
When you are without health or dental insurance and without any savings, you start to ignore and deny symptoms. I try to treat everything with exercise, fresh air, healthy foods. When medical bills start to pile up, as in our case, you have to wait until they are paid down to continue with any further medical help.
I've been ignoring chest pains, numbness, and high blood pressure. It doesn't help that I haven't been exercising since I stopped going to the gym. It's only compounding the problems but I can't afford it and I can't afford the gas to go into Corvallis.
I got stung by a bee or hornet on my ankle four days ago. My foot is swollen and it's bright red. How do I deal with it? I took two Excedrin for the pain. I put cold compresses on it. Yesterday I plastered oatmeal all over it. I went to my medical reference book and learned that it isn't a life threatening situation unless it starts to effect the respiratory system so I'm not worried.
My husband went to a clinic in Eugene months ago for help. I thought this was a great idea because the clinic was set up to help people without insurance. He was seen by a doctor. A whopping bill of $400, no answers or help. The doctor wanted him to come back. My husband insisted that he talk to him over the phone to avoid another big bill. The doctor admitted that he didn't have any answers on the phone.
Now he went for blood tests at the clinic in Benton County in Corvallis for over $200 and they won't give him the results without the $20 bucks for a visit. They said that the price was discounted 50%. He made two phone calls so far to try to get them to tell him the results over the phone.
Millions of dollars are being funneled into Oregon from the federal government to help people without insurance. It's going for buildings, salaries, and discounted care. We can't afford discounted care on a fixed income.
Dental care is another crisis. You can afford to have great teeth, if you have insurance and money. The last time I was at the dentist, he was aware that I have a chip in my front tooth that needs to be filled. He let me walk away without taking care of it. I can't afford to go back until the bill is paid down.
About three years ago I started to pour out my heart to someone who works with the homeless. I thought she would have compassion, would listen, and care. I was wrong. She said, "No one cares. No one wants to listen." So you learn to shut up, deny feelings, deny medical problems, and do the best you can with what you have.
So many people are left without adequate medical help and care. It shows that people aren't valued. It shows that there is a lack of compassion. It shows that money gets you the care you need.
Friday, July 28, 2006
TiVo
Yes, I have a TiVo. I'm not sure I would want to watch television without it. It organizes your shows and keeps them waiting for you when you have the time to watch.
Many people recommend against watching television but I truly love the escape into shows like So You Think You Can Dance. It's my favorite right now.
My television is broken. I had a 32 inch old set so now I watch a tiny one. It's better than nothing.
TiVo's are amazing. You can fast forward through commercials or back up if you want to write down an address. You can freeze a frame even on live television with a TiVo. I use this feature most often when I'm taking notes.
If I didn't have a TiVo, I wouldn't be able to keep up with all the great shows on television. There are amazing science specials that I don't want to miss. Some great older Doris Day, Jimmy Stewart, or Jerry Lewis movies are only on at odd hours. A TiVo makes it all possible at the flick of a button.
Many people recommend against watching television but I truly love the escape into shows like So You Think You Can Dance. It's my favorite right now.
My television is broken. I had a 32 inch old set so now I watch a tiny one. It's better than nothing.
TiVo's are amazing. You can fast forward through commercials or back up if you want to write down an address. You can freeze a frame even on live television with a TiVo. I use this feature most often when I'm taking notes.
If I didn't have a TiVo, I wouldn't be able to keep up with all the great shows on television. There are amazing science specials that I don't want to miss. Some great older Doris Day, Jimmy Stewart, or Jerry Lewis movies are only on at odd hours. A TiVo makes it all possible at the flick of a button.
Weight Watchers
I really miss Weight Watchers. I miss the meetings and I miss learning from everyone.
I find that I struggle to exercise staying at home without going into Corvallis to the gym. Gardening has been my major exercise this past month and my garden shows it. I'm starting to till a new garden bed. I have big plans.
As I weigh this morning, I see that I have lost one pound since June 21 on my last Weight Watcher meeting. I'm surprised that I haven't gained. I know I'm not making the progress I would be making if I were going to the meetings.
I received Weight Watcher magazine in the mail yesterday. I'm grateful for the articles and recipes.
I'm trying to stay on the Weight Watcher diet eating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and drinking lots of water. I miss it Weight Watchers and being part of it. I hope that I can do it again one day.
I find that I struggle to exercise staying at home without going into Corvallis to the gym. Gardening has been my major exercise this past month and my garden shows it. I'm starting to till a new garden bed. I have big plans.
As I weigh this morning, I see that I have lost one pound since June 21 on my last Weight Watcher meeting. I'm surprised that I haven't gained. I know I'm not making the progress I would be making if I were going to the meetings.
I received Weight Watcher magazine in the mail yesterday. I'm grateful for the articles and recipes.
I'm trying to stay on the Weight Watcher diet eating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and drinking lots of water. I miss it Weight Watchers and being part of it. I hope that I can do it again one day.
So You Think You Can Dance
This is my favorite show. I tivo it to make sure I don't miss a minute. The only trick with tivoing a show like So You Think You Can Dance is that you MUST watch it within an hour or two after the live show so you can vote. I must admit that I haven't watched the Thursday show yet. I don't like to see anyone go home. I love all these young people. They are amazingly talented.
Nigel Lithgoe's excellence, class, high standards, and love of dance is infectious. I'm grateful that he created this show with Simon Fuller. I love seeing the different styles of dance. Dance celebrates the beat and essence of life. The energy on the show is electric.
My favorites this week were Allison, Ivan, Natalie, Heidi, and Benji. I'm surprised that I didn't like the others as much this week. They are all excellent dancers. And I miss Dimetry. He had such presence on stage and so much drama. I really enjoy the talent of Donyelle, Travis, and Ryan. They are ALL excellent and outstanding dancers but this week, they were not my favorites.
The talent of the correographers surprise me with original routines that amaze and delight. I love it all. It's fun. Thank you Nigel Lithgoe for bringing dance to television.
Nigel Lithgoe's excellence, class, high standards, and love of dance is infectious. I'm grateful that he created this show with Simon Fuller. I love seeing the different styles of dance. Dance celebrates the beat and essence of life. The energy on the show is electric.
My favorites this week were Allison, Ivan, Natalie, Heidi, and Benji. I'm surprised that I didn't like the others as much this week. They are all excellent dancers. And I miss Dimetry. He had such presence on stage and so much drama. I really enjoy the talent of Donyelle, Travis, and Ryan. They are ALL excellent and outstanding dancers but this week, they were not my favorites.
The talent of the correographers surprise me with original routines that amaze and delight. I love it all. It's fun. Thank you Nigel Lithgoe for bringing dance to television.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Global Warming
Do you believe yet? I do. Even my 97-year-old Aunt Ellen in Wolf Point, Montana believes in global warming. She's a conservative Lutheran from a small town. She's intelligent and she used to teach school.
We can't keep abusing our planet without global consequences.
Ever since I have moved to Alsea five years ago, the logging trucks have been piled high with logs coming by my house. Some trucks only have three logs to fill it up. It takes much longer the grow the trees than it takes to cut them down. I'm not against responsible timber harvesting. I know that the forests here are replanted but I wonder about other parts of the world. I wonder if too much timber is being harvested even in my area.
And what about water that's unfit to drink. The Willamette River running through Oregon is now given the label as a dead river. There are mixing zones up north of Portland where chemicals are dumped legally into the river. This water flows into the ocean. Businesses that have polluted for years still dump into rivers without consequences. Now it says in the Corvallis Gazette Times that they are finding dead crabs and other sea life floating to the surface. The AP journalist got a quote from an OSU scientist who said that pollution isn't responsible but I question it. You can't keep letting chemicals flow into rivers and the ocean without consequences detrimental to all life.
Specials fill up network schedules on global warming. There's also specials about global dimming which is responsible for reflecting sunlight back into space thereby masking global warming.
I voted for Al Gore for President. Since the election, he's been trying to make a difference about global warming. I feel strongly that we need Al Gore for President but first we need to make sure that elections reflect the vote of the people.
We can't keep abusing our planet without global consequences.
Ever since I have moved to Alsea five years ago, the logging trucks have been piled high with logs coming by my house. Some trucks only have three logs to fill it up. It takes much longer the grow the trees than it takes to cut them down. I'm not against responsible timber harvesting. I know that the forests here are replanted but I wonder about other parts of the world. I wonder if too much timber is being harvested even in my area.
And what about water that's unfit to drink. The Willamette River running through Oregon is now given the label as a dead river. There are mixing zones up north of Portland where chemicals are dumped legally into the river. This water flows into the ocean. Businesses that have polluted for years still dump into rivers without consequences. Now it says in the Corvallis Gazette Times that they are finding dead crabs and other sea life floating to the surface. The AP journalist got a quote from an OSU scientist who said that pollution isn't responsible but I question it. You can't keep letting chemicals flow into rivers and the ocean without consequences detrimental to all life.
Specials fill up network schedules on global warming. There's also specials about global dimming which is responsible for reflecting sunlight back into space thereby masking global warming.
I voted for Al Gore for President. Since the election, he's been trying to make a difference about global warming. I feel strongly that we need Al Gore for President but first we need to make sure that elections reflect the vote of the people.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Wild Birds
My husband and I enjoy feeding the wildbirds here on our property. We have such a wide variety with several feeders available. I like to put the feeders next to the window so the birds have to come up close. I don't enjoy hunting birds down with binoculars.
We have five hummingbird feeders in two windows and I need to buy more. I saw that at John Boy's Merchantile in Alsea, there are some for sale at $4.99. That's a bargain. A wire feeder for dried corn cobs is hanging in the Redwood tree next to our house. Three suet feeders hang in the tree and near the fence post. I make about 64 suet cakes a month using Crisco shortening, wildbird seed, sunflower seed, corn, and sometimes a dab of peanut butter and oatmeal. They like it. The Stellers Jays scream at us from the White Oaks surrounding our property when the suet isn't put out fast enough. The two thistle feeders for the American Goldfinch are almost empty. We need to buy another 50# bag of black thistle for them.
It's fun to have bird friends who visit at different times of year. Across the road is a wetland that attracts birds and wildlife. I'm grateful for the wetland. Not only is it beautiful to see but it cleans the ground water.
More feeders are needed and different kinds with a variety of seeds. It can only get to be more fun watching the wildbirds here as I enjoy my garden. When I have more plants that attract butterflies, birds, and hummingbirds, it will only get better.
We have five hummingbird feeders in two windows and I need to buy more. I saw that at John Boy's Merchantile in Alsea, there are some for sale at $4.99. That's a bargain. A wire feeder for dried corn cobs is hanging in the Redwood tree next to our house. Three suet feeders hang in the tree and near the fence post. I make about 64 suet cakes a month using Crisco shortening, wildbird seed, sunflower seed, corn, and sometimes a dab of peanut butter and oatmeal. They like it. The Stellers Jays scream at us from the White Oaks surrounding our property when the suet isn't put out fast enough. The two thistle feeders for the American Goldfinch are almost empty. We need to buy another 50# bag of black thistle for them.
It's fun to have bird friends who visit at different times of year. Across the road is a wetland that attracts birds and wildlife. I'm grateful for the wetland. Not only is it beautiful to see but it cleans the ground water.
More feeders are needed and different kinds with a variety of seeds. It can only get to be more fun watching the wildbirds here as I enjoy my garden. When I have more plants that attract butterflies, birds, and hummingbirds, it will only get better.
My Garden
My garden is growing by leaps and bounds. Each day I see new growth. Now with the hot weather today through the weekend, it should take off.
My corn patch is over my head and new little corns are developing. The sunflowers are high over the corn. I planted the broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and peas in the shade of the sunflowers and corn so they wouldn't bolt or go to seed. I have thirteen tomato plants with lots of little green tomatoes on the vines. I'm looking forward to eating tomatoes as I walk through the garden. The spinach is almost done for. I need to plant a new row. The beets and carrots are hidden under the spaghetti squash. I have romaine lettuce ready to pick and head lettuce almost ready. This is the first time I've grown head lettuce so this was fun. I have a giant pumpkin plant developing little pumpkins and I look forward to seeing what will happen. They are supposed to weigh 100 pounds. I have little green peppers developing and cucumbers.
I'm already eating the broccoli and zucchini. The bok choy is already gone and was great in stir fry. I've enjoyed munching on spinach when I go out to water in the morning. The lettuce is ready and I've been giving some away to neighbors.
This is the most fun in the garden I've had since we moved here five years ago. It took me a long time to adjust to living out in the middle of no where but I genuinely am having fun on our 3.68 acres now. I have no intention of ever moving away. It's precious to have land that's quiet and beautiful. I plan on growing grapes, kiwi, raspberries, more blueberries, and much more. It's fun to be able to eat fresh and healthy food grown in your garden. It's also practical since we don't have savings or any insurance.
Right now choices are limited about what I can do but I do love my mornings out in the garden in Alsea.
My corn patch is over my head and new little corns are developing. The sunflowers are high over the corn. I planted the broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and peas in the shade of the sunflowers and corn so they wouldn't bolt or go to seed. I have thirteen tomato plants with lots of little green tomatoes on the vines. I'm looking forward to eating tomatoes as I walk through the garden. The spinach is almost done for. I need to plant a new row. The beets and carrots are hidden under the spaghetti squash. I have romaine lettuce ready to pick and head lettuce almost ready. This is the first time I've grown head lettuce so this was fun. I have a giant pumpkin plant developing little pumpkins and I look forward to seeing what will happen. They are supposed to weigh 100 pounds. I have little green peppers developing and cucumbers.
I'm already eating the broccoli and zucchini. The bok choy is already gone and was great in stir fry. I've enjoyed munching on spinach when I go out to water in the morning. The lettuce is ready and I've been giving some away to neighbors.
This is the most fun in the garden I've had since we moved here five years ago. It took me a long time to adjust to living out in the middle of no where but I genuinely am having fun on our 3.68 acres now. I have no intention of ever moving away. It's precious to have land that's quiet and beautiful. I plan on growing grapes, kiwi, raspberries, more blueberries, and much more. It's fun to be able to eat fresh and healthy food grown in your garden. It's also practical since we don't have savings or any insurance.
Right now choices are limited about what I can do but I do love my mornings out in the garden in Alsea.
So You Think You Can Dance
I love this show. I love the high energy and the talent of the young people. I love the creativity of the choreography. I love the judges, especially executive producer, Nigel Lithgoe. I love Cat Deeley.
Ten talented dancers were up tonight to dance a solo and perform routines as a couple. Mixing it up was just what was needed. My favorites again were Ivan, Donyelle, Travis, Heidi, Allison, Benji, Natalie, and Ryan. Dmetry is a favorite and a smooth classical dancer. I'm surprised that Martha chose to hide her electric smile with the huge hat. I enjoy seeing Ivan dance smooth ballroom styles. Travis is magnificient. Heidi brings her best every week and surprised me with the contempory dance. Donyelle puts everything into her dance with great intensity and passion. I agree with Nigel that Ryan will make a great contempory solo performer on stage. As the competition picks up, everyone will need to be at their best with every solo and as a partner. All of them are talented. They can't let up or relax, if they want to win.
I'm grateful for this showcase for dancing talent, and the uplifting spirit of the show, So You Think You Can Dance.
Ten talented dancers were up tonight to dance a solo and perform routines as a couple. Mixing it up was just what was needed. My favorites again were Ivan, Donyelle, Travis, Heidi, Allison, Benji, Natalie, and Ryan. Dmetry is a favorite and a smooth classical dancer. I'm surprised that Martha chose to hide her electric smile with the huge hat. I enjoy seeing Ivan dance smooth ballroom styles. Travis is magnificient. Heidi brings her best every week and surprised me with the contempory dance. Donyelle puts everything into her dance with great intensity and passion. I agree with Nigel that Ryan will make a great contempory solo performer on stage. As the competition picks up, everyone will need to be at their best with every solo and as a partner. All of them are talented. They can't let up or relax, if they want to win.
I'm grateful for this showcase for dancing talent, and the uplifting spirit of the show, So You Think You Can Dance.
Political Cartoon
A mean-spirited political cartoon was in the Sunday issue of the Seattle Times. You can google "Seattle Times political cartoon and July 16, 2006" to find it. I feel it shows a lack of respect for the contributions made by babyboomers and a lack of regard for human life and dignity.
I am worried that an entire generation will be exterminated by another when help is needed and when babyboomers are most vulnerable.
There are other hints that this devastation is on the horizon for Babyboomers with the practice of "comfort care" in nursing homes. Comfort care sounds like something everyone wants. In reality it means the withdrawal of food and water. Morphine is given for the pain of starving to death. Normally, the label of comfort care is only for those individuals with a terminal illness but I have witnessed this happening to an elderly woman who was not terminally ill and without consent of the family. How can this happen? It can happen when family members are not alert to the care given in nursing homes, do not visit enough, and trust medical personnel without question.
Babyboomers need to be careful about their health and practice preventive measures to ensure their protection.
I am worried that an entire generation will be exterminated by another when help is needed and when babyboomers are most vulnerable.
There are other hints that this devastation is on the horizon for Babyboomers with the practice of "comfort care" in nursing homes. Comfort care sounds like something everyone wants. In reality it means the withdrawal of food and water. Morphine is given for the pain of starving to death. Normally, the label of comfort care is only for those individuals with a terminal illness but I have witnessed this happening to an elderly woman who was not terminally ill and without consent of the family. How can this happen? It can happen when family members are not alert to the care given in nursing homes, do not visit enough, and trust medical personnel without question.
Babyboomers need to be careful about their health and practice preventive measures to ensure their protection.
The Happily Ever After House
Ben's new home is close to everything he loves. I was happy to get the chance to see it last weekend. It's close to running, Green Lake, the Purple Pelican for breakfast, Wallingford for great pizza and a movie, tennis courts, golf, and it's close to the Zoo.
I named the house. I call it "the happily ever after house" because it has everything Ben loves.
A beautiful home with a tropical backyard, lush grass, and a great area to entertain. Mature trees outline the property to give shade and cool summer days at a time when global warming will become more real in the years ahead. If the potential bamboo problem is solved, the house will give many years of happy memories.
The kitchen was gutted and with the help of Lowes, a new kitchen was designed that is spectacular. I helped to paint the kitchen with American Tradition paint from Lowes, a paint that goes on like whipped cream or pudding.
It showed that I haven't exercised in over a month. I walked to Green Lake and half way around and then I had to stop or I could see myself limping the next few days.
Green Lake is a nice area. You pay to live close to the paved trail around Green Lake but it is worth having a healthy life style within walking distance.
I named the house. I call it "the happily ever after house" because it has everything Ben loves.
A beautiful home with a tropical backyard, lush grass, and a great area to entertain. Mature trees outline the property to give shade and cool summer days at a time when global warming will become more real in the years ahead. If the potential bamboo problem is solved, the house will give many years of happy memories.
The kitchen was gutted and with the help of Lowes, a new kitchen was designed that is spectacular. I helped to paint the kitchen with American Tradition paint from Lowes, a paint that goes on like whipped cream or pudding.
It showed that I haven't exercised in over a month. I walked to Green Lake and half way around and then I had to stop or I could see myself limping the next few days.
Green Lake is a nice area. You pay to live close to the paved trail around Green Lake but it is worth having a healthy life style within walking distance.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Seattle
I'm excited to leave today to drive to Seattle to visit my son, Benjamin. He owns a home in Ballard, the Scandinavian part of Seattle. I love Ballard and would love to live there someday. Ben's getting married to the beautiful Amanda in August. Ben just bought another home in Green Lake. Green Lake will be close to running and closer to his work at Zymo Genetics.
I love the energy of Seattle. So many opportunities. So many cultural events. The Seattle Art Museum, the great new library system all over the Seattle area, the Space Needle, the science museum, broadway plays, the symphony, the Nutcracker at Christmas put on by the Northwest Ballet Company, J.A. Jance the mystery writer, Gloria Kempton of Writers Digest Magazine, the zoo, the troll under the Freemont Bridge that I'm writing a children's book about are just a few of the things I love about Seattle.
I love driving on I-5 approaching the center of Seattle. When you start to see all the tall buildings, you know life is happening all around you. There is an energy that makes me feel alive. I love visiting. I love seeing my son. I'm blessed to have a fine son, like Ben. I have fun talking to him, listening, hearing about what's important to him, playing canasta, laughing, joking around. Another trip to Seattle in August to see Ben marry Amanda and live happily ever after.
I love the energy of Seattle. So many opportunities. So many cultural events. The Seattle Art Museum, the great new library system all over the Seattle area, the Space Needle, the science museum, broadway plays, the symphony, the Nutcracker at Christmas put on by the Northwest Ballet Company, J.A. Jance the mystery writer, Gloria Kempton of Writers Digest Magazine, the zoo, the troll under the Freemont Bridge that I'm writing a children's book about are just a few of the things I love about Seattle.
I love driving on I-5 approaching the center of Seattle. When you start to see all the tall buildings, you know life is happening all around you. There is an energy that makes me feel alive. I love visiting. I love seeing my son. I'm blessed to have a fine son, like Ben. I have fun talking to him, listening, hearing about what's important to him, playing canasta, laughing, joking around. Another trip to Seattle in August to see Ben marry Amanda and live happily ever after.
So You Think You Can Dance
Oh, I love this show. It's my favorite right now.
This week my favorites were Allison and Ivan, Martha and Travis, Donyelle and Benji. I thought Allison and Ivan were off the top with their contemporary routine. They were shooting stars! I loved them. I can't get over the growth in Ivan. He's only 18. He's such a gifted dancer and so is Allison. My second choice this week was Martha and Travis with the fox trot. Donyelle and Benji are great and always do well but Donyelle is dancing with an injury.
It's always great to see Cat Deeley. She's charming, a great host, and wears gorgeous dresses that are so unique. I also enjoy Nigel. Nigel makes the show. It was great to see Brian as one of the judges. Mary was so touched by Ivan's performance. She did such a great job of correographing the opening dance on the first night this week. Nigel, Mary, and Brian are a great balance.
Ashlee and Musa went home. All these young people are so talented in dance. Dance is their whole life and means everything to them. We need great entertainers in the world. I hope the world opens up to all of them with opportunities.
I'd sure love to see each large city starting their own dance competitions to encourage talent. Dancing is a great way to channel energy. It would be great to see talent encouraged more than it is now. I'm so happy to see this show, So You Think You Can Dance which encourages the spirit of dance.
This week my favorites were Allison and Ivan, Martha and Travis, Donyelle and Benji. I thought Allison and Ivan were off the top with their contemporary routine. They were shooting stars! I loved them. I can't get over the growth in Ivan. He's only 18. He's such a gifted dancer and so is Allison. My second choice this week was Martha and Travis with the fox trot. Donyelle and Benji are great and always do well but Donyelle is dancing with an injury.
It's always great to see Cat Deeley. She's charming, a great host, and wears gorgeous dresses that are so unique. I also enjoy Nigel. Nigel makes the show. It was great to see Brian as one of the judges. Mary was so touched by Ivan's performance. She did such a great job of correographing the opening dance on the first night this week. Nigel, Mary, and Brian are a great balance.
Ashlee and Musa went home. All these young people are so talented in dance. Dance is their whole life and means everything to them. We need great entertainers in the world. I hope the world opens up to all of them with opportunities.
I'd sure love to see each large city starting their own dance competitions to encourage talent. Dancing is a great way to channel energy. It would be great to see talent encouraged more than it is now. I'm so happy to see this show, So You Think You Can Dance which encourages the spirit of dance.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Car in the Ditch
The excitement this morning was going out for the newspaper and finding a car in the ditch. This happens at least twice a year. It almost happened twice yesterday. Breaks screeched to a slower speed going around the corner. The last time was a few months ago when a car took out the fence next door.
The Benton County Sheriff Deputy is still here. The tow truck just took away the car.
I'm shocked that I didn't hear it. Usually I hear all the commotion even if it happens in the middle of the night with screeching breaks, skidding tires, and a slam into the ditch. Nothing this time. My dog, Polly didn't even bark.
Now onto the real work this morning, plotting my mystery novel....
The Benton County Sheriff Deputy is still here. The tow truck just took away the car.
I'm shocked that I didn't hear it. Usually I hear all the commotion even if it happens in the middle of the night with screeching breaks, skidding tires, and a slam into the ditch. Nothing this time. My dog, Polly didn't even bark.
Now onto the real work this morning, plotting my mystery novel....
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Visit to see family
On Friday morning I started out from Alsea early to go to Grandma's Attic in Dallas for the $5 Quilt Club. I signed up for two colorways in the next quilting year that will be star blocks that celebrate First Ladies in the White House. Rachel will concentrate on one First Lady a month with stories about these great women. I wonder if Rachel will continue the great original redwork to go along with the star blocks. Maybe flowers for each First Lady? Her creative and talented son draws the original designs enjoyed by all the quilters.
Then I headed on into Salem. I stopped at Starbucks for coffee and to brainstorm ideas for my mystery novel while waiting to meet my daughter, Gretchen for lunch at Applebees. I noticed that the cups at Starbucks publish flashfiction and short nonfiction essays. I wish I had remembered to keep my cup.
I arrived early to see Gretchen at Applebees on Liberty in North Salem. We had the best time over great salads talking about her work and my mystery novel. I don't get to see Gretchen enough so I thought lunch once in awhile would be great. Afterwards, I went over to volunteer at Liberty House for a couple of hours at her work.
In the afternoon I spent time with Jack and Liz at their daycare in South Salem. Gretchen has worked for the county and state of Oregon for the Commission of Children and the Family, and Child Care Information Services so she knows the best person in the area to watch her children. We spent the afternoon outdoors with water play--frozen and spashy wet in the hot sun.
Delicious pizza for dinner with Chris, Gretchen, Jack and Liz in their beautiful home in West Salem. Early to bed for me after a long day. I'm an early to bed, early to rise kind of person.
Then up at 5:30 for a shower. When everyone started getting up, we headed on over to A.C. Gilbert House Discovery Village, an amazing children's museum. www.acgilbert.org The mission statement for Gilbert House is "to provoke curiosity, inspire awe, foster enjoyment, encourage learning, and enable understanding in all youth." This is a fun place to visit with children and is probably would be one of the BEST places to work in Salem. A.C. Gilbert earned a degree in medicine from Yale, earned the Olympic gold metal in pole vault, and invented the engineering toy for children--the Erector Set.
After Gilbert House on the river front, it was off to a great lunch at Baja Fresh and then I needed to start heading back to Alsea. It's hard to live so far from family. I wish all my kids lived on the same street in the same city but that's unlikely. It would be fun to bring over homemade bread, have dinner at least once a week at my house, and find ways to be supportive and encouraging.
On the way home I stopped at the Bi-Mart at the Independence/Monmouth junction for a great 50% off sale on plants. I noticed the last time I came there were lush, healthy plants. They have a great grower in Junction City, it says on the tag.
Many fun memories, great photos, and sad to have it end so soon. Till next time.
Then I headed on into Salem. I stopped at Starbucks for coffee and to brainstorm ideas for my mystery novel while waiting to meet my daughter, Gretchen for lunch at Applebees. I noticed that the cups at Starbucks publish flashfiction and short nonfiction essays. I wish I had remembered to keep my cup.
I arrived early to see Gretchen at Applebees on Liberty in North Salem. We had the best time over great salads talking about her work and my mystery novel. I don't get to see Gretchen enough so I thought lunch once in awhile would be great. Afterwards, I went over to volunteer at Liberty House for a couple of hours at her work.
In the afternoon I spent time with Jack and Liz at their daycare in South Salem. Gretchen has worked for the county and state of Oregon for the Commission of Children and the Family, and Child Care Information Services so she knows the best person in the area to watch her children. We spent the afternoon outdoors with water play--frozen and spashy wet in the hot sun.
Delicious pizza for dinner with Chris, Gretchen, Jack and Liz in their beautiful home in West Salem. Early to bed for me after a long day. I'm an early to bed, early to rise kind of person.
Then up at 5:30 for a shower. When everyone started getting up, we headed on over to A.C. Gilbert House Discovery Village, an amazing children's museum. www.acgilbert.org The mission statement for Gilbert House is "to provoke curiosity, inspire awe, foster enjoyment, encourage learning, and enable understanding in all youth." This is a fun place to visit with children and is probably would be one of the BEST places to work in Salem. A.C. Gilbert earned a degree in medicine from Yale, earned the Olympic gold metal in pole vault, and invented the engineering toy for children--the Erector Set.
After Gilbert House on the river front, it was off to a great lunch at Baja Fresh and then I needed to start heading back to Alsea. It's hard to live so far from family. I wish all my kids lived on the same street in the same city but that's unlikely. It would be fun to bring over homemade bread, have dinner at least once a week at my house, and find ways to be supportive and encouraging.
On the way home I stopped at the Bi-Mart at the Independence/Monmouth junction for a great 50% off sale on plants. I noticed the last time I came there were lush, healthy plants. They have a great grower in Junction City, it says on the tag.
Many fun memories, great photos, and sad to have it end so soon. Till next time.
Baja Fresh
My daugher and son-in-law took me out for lunch at Baja Fresh in Salem on Saturday. I LOVE that place! Baja Fresh is a Mexican grill. This is the second time I've been there. I wish I could eat there every day.
Baja Fresh boasts No microwaves, no can openers, no freezers, no lard, no msg, no compromises. Sounds good to me. I enjoy eating healthy. You can relax and know that you aren't harming your body. You just sit back and enjoy the flavors. I love the veggie bare burrito. It's $5.25.
My grandchildren, Liz and Jack sure seemed to be enjoying their lunch as much as their grandma.
Baja Fresh boasts No microwaves, no can openers, no freezers, no lard, no msg, no compromises. Sounds good to me. I enjoy eating healthy. You can relax and know that you aren't harming your body. You just sit back and enjoy the flavors. I love the veggie bare burrito. It's $5.25.
My grandchildren, Liz and Jack sure seemed to be enjoying their lunch as much as their grandma.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Friday Fun
I'm off to Dallas, Oregon for the $5 Quilt Club at Grandma's Attic. www.grandmasattic.com Rachel Greco, the owner of the shop has a great club which draws women from all over central Oregon to her shop. Armed with great stories about women in Oregon history and quilting, she entertains and teaches. Next month is the start of a new quilting year at her shop. If you pay $5 for fabric and instructions to complete a quilt block and bring it back finished the next month, your next block in the series is free. This continues so that you can make a quilt top for only $5. Of course, there are tempting fabrics and quilting notions in the shop that make everyone want to spend more than $5 a year.
Then I'm off to have lunch with my daughter, Gretchen at Applebees in North Salem, next to her work at Liberty House where she's Executive Director. I love eating at Applebees--great food with lots of healthy choices. I like it that they link their menu to Weight Watchers.
After that play with Jack and Lizzy, my grandchildren, at their daycare. Then I enjoy dinner with the family, spend the night, and come back home to Alsea on Saturday.
Then I'm off to have lunch with my daughter, Gretchen at Applebees in North Salem, next to her work at Liberty House where she's Executive Director. I love eating at Applebees--great food with lots of healthy choices. I like it that they link their menu to Weight Watchers.
After that play with Jack and Lizzy, my grandchildren, at their daycare. Then I enjoy dinner with the family, spend the night, and come back home to Alsea on Saturday.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
So You Think You Can Dance
I look forward every week to watch the show on FOX, So You Think You Can Dance. It's become my favorite show right now. I love to see these talented young people stretch and learn new types of dances. I've learned a few myself that I didn't know about. I'd never heard of krumping and I didn't know anything about popping.
My favorites last night were Heidi and Ryan, Martha and Travis, Donyelle and Benji, Allison and Ivan. But then there's the electricity of Natalie and Musa dancing together and it's always fun to watch Dimetry. Everyone's amazingly talented.
During the commercials, I watched American Idol Taylor Hicks dancing and singing for Ford Motor Company. I'd like to buy one of his CD's and see him live in concert.
One of my favorite judges, Dan Karaty was up last night and it's always a pleasure to see Nigel Lithgoe. Again Cat Deeley went over the top with fashion. I'm seeing new designs each week that I haven't seen before. Just who is her designer?
After watching this exciting show, I turned to my mail and opened the July issue of National Geographic. As I was flipping through the pages, I found the article, "Shall we dance?" with some great quotes about dancing.
"Dance is bodies sounding off. We pour out love and hate, joy and sorrow; appeal to the spirits, gods, and nature; flirt, seduce, court; celebrate birth, death, and everything in between....Dance is so profane, some religions ban it; so sacred, others claim it." --Judith Lynne Hanna, an anthropologist at the University of Maryland.
"We dance out of anguish, to attain solace, and, sometimes, in an attempt to heal." --Cathy Newman, author of article.
Then Tommy Johnson, the Hip-Hop Clown talks about krumping. "Krumping is a creative alternative to gang fighting. It's how you take out aggressions without violence." That is certainly is positive to the alternative.
A photo taken in Albany, Oregon of square dancing made me wonder why the Hope Grange in Alsea doesn't have weekly dances. We need a polka band and dancing right here in Alsea. That shouldn't be contraversial or objectionable to anyone.
I certainly hope that the need and desire to dance spreads. It's a great way to expend energy, keep fit, and use your time.
My favorites last night were Heidi and Ryan, Martha and Travis, Donyelle and Benji, Allison and Ivan. But then there's the electricity of Natalie and Musa dancing together and it's always fun to watch Dimetry. Everyone's amazingly talented.
During the commercials, I watched American Idol Taylor Hicks dancing and singing for Ford Motor Company. I'd like to buy one of his CD's and see him live in concert.
One of my favorite judges, Dan Karaty was up last night and it's always a pleasure to see Nigel Lithgoe. Again Cat Deeley went over the top with fashion. I'm seeing new designs each week that I haven't seen before. Just who is her designer?
After watching this exciting show, I turned to my mail and opened the July issue of National Geographic. As I was flipping through the pages, I found the article, "Shall we dance?" with some great quotes about dancing.
"Dance is bodies sounding off. We pour out love and hate, joy and sorrow; appeal to the spirits, gods, and nature; flirt, seduce, court; celebrate birth, death, and everything in between....Dance is so profane, some religions ban it; so sacred, others claim it." --Judith Lynne Hanna, an anthropologist at the University of Maryland.
"We dance out of anguish, to attain solace, and, sometimes, in an attempt to heal." --Cathy Newman, author of article.
Then Tommy Johnson, the Hip-Hop Clown talks about krumping. "Krumping is a creative alternative to gang fighting. It's how you take out aggressions without violence." That is certainly is positive to the alternative.
A photo taken in Albany, Oregon of square dancing made me wonder why the Hope Grange in Alsea doesn't have weekly dances. We need a polka band and dancing right here in Alsea. That shouldn't be contraversial or objectionable to anyone.
I certainly hope that the need and desire to dance spreads. It's a great way to expend energy, keep fit, and use your time.
Friday, June 30, 2006
My World is in the Garden and in my Home
The title of this post is a spin-off from the title of the book, THE WORLD IS IN MY GARDEN by Chris Maser. I met his wife, Zane at Fitness Over 50 in Corvallis about three years ago. I've been intrigued with the title of this book since I heard about it from Zane.
My world is now in the garden and in the house on my acreage in Alsea. Gas prices and a lack of money has forced me to look hard at my choices in life. I can't afford to make all the trips into Corvallis to exercise or to do extra things. Just a fact. Corvallis is 45 minutes away from Alsea.
Life these days needs to be about having everything you love near to you. My dream would be to live within walking distance to a great grocery store (notice that I listed food first), the library, a gym, and shopping. It would also be great to find a church home and be part of a hobby group, like knitting or quilting. Right now that's not possible. Zip. Nada. Since I'm dreaming at the moment, let's also add dancing, science and history museums, zoos, the symphony, travel, art museums, Broadway plays, friends, and mah jongg.
I'm hard at work in my garden and working on three novel manuscripts. I'm taking three correspondence courses through the mail. I'm working on a mystery aboard a cruise ship for Long Ridge Writers Group with my character created last November for NaNoWriMo. The second one is a mainstream novel about elder issues for Writers Digest School, and the last one is a juvenile novel about two sisters who deal with the death of their mother through writing plays for the Institute of Children's Literature. A chapter yesterday and more today.
I have the honor and privilege of working with and learning from three amazing and talented writers. For Writer's Digest School, I'm working with Gloria Kempton, one of the editors from Writer's Digest Magazine. I'm working with the science fiction and mystery novelist, Mary Rosenblum for Long Ridge Writer's Group, and the non-fiction children's writer, Linda Durrant from the Institute of Children's Literature.
Sometimes it's hard for me to stay home all the time but too much outside activity is destructive to my writing process. I am hoping my writing will earn periodic vacations and opportunities to visit great events like the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon. So much to see. So much to learn. Writing must come first.
I'm having fun today because my character for one of my novels just leaped off the page and I love her. I finally figured her out. She was going to die at the end of the book but I changed my mind. She's too much fun. I must keep her for more books.
Fade out until the next time...........
My world is now in the garden and in the house on my acreage in Alsea. Gas prices and a lack of money has forced me to look hard at my choices in life. I can't afford to make all the trips into Corvallis to exercise or to do extra things. Just a fact. Corvallis is 45 minutes away from Alsea.
Life these days needs to be about having everything you love near to you. My dream would be to live within walking distance to a great grocery store (notice that I listed food first), the library, a gym, and shopping. It would also be great to find a church home and be part of a hobby group, like knitting or quilting. Right now that's not possible. Zip. Nada. Since I'm dreaming at the moment, let's also add dancing, science and history museums, zoos, the symphony, travel, art museums, Broadway plays, friends, and mah jongg.
I'm hard at work in my garden and working on three novel manuscripts. I'm taking three correspondence courses through the mail. I'm working on a mystery aboard a cruise ship for Long Ridge Writers Group with my character created last November for NaNoWriMo. The second one is a mainstream novel about elder issues for Writers Digest School, and the last one is a juvenile novel about two sisters who deal with the death of their mother through writing plays for the Institute of Children's Literature. A chapter yesterday and more today.
I have the honor and privilege of working with and learning from three amazing and talented writers. For Writer's Digest School, I'm working with Gloria Kempton, one of the editors from Writer's Digest Magazine. I'm working with the science fiction and mystery novelist, Mary Rosenblum for Long Ridge Writer's Group, and the non-fiction children's writer, Linda Durrant from the Institute of Children's Literature.
Sometimes it's hard for me to stay home all the time but too much outside activity is destructive to my writing process. I am hoping my writing will earn periodic vacations and opportunities to visit great events like the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon. So much to see. So much to learn. Writing must come first.
I'm having fun today because my character for one of my novels just leaped off the page and I love her. I finally figured her out. She was going to die at the end of the book but I changed my mind. She's too much fun. I must keep her for more books.
Fade out until the next time...........
So You Think You Can Dance
I love the high-energy show on Fox TV, SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE. There's so much talent. Everyone who has made it this far is amazing.
I'm so impressed with this show that gives opportunities and a showcase for dancing talent. It's the British who are coming up with some of the BEST shows on television like American Inventor, So You Think You Can Dance, and American Idol.
I enjoy watching Nigel Lythgoe, the executive producer and I'm grateful he created the show with Simon Fuller. I love watching the entertaining Cat Deeley and can't wait to see what she's going to wear every week. My favorite choreographer and judge is Brian Friedman.
My favorite couples are Heidi and Ryan, Allison and Ivan, Donyelle and Benji, Dmitry and Aleksandra, Martha and Travis.
This show makes me want to get up and dance. As a little girl I took ballet and tap dance so I was introduced to dance. After we moved away from my hometown of Libby, Montana where I was born, and moved to Salem, Oregon at the end of 3rd grade, there were no more lessons.
I was sad to see that Aleksandra was eliminated from the show this week. She just graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois so I know she has a bright future ahead of her. It's one of the finest universities in the country. I'm prejudiced because my son graduated from Northwestern in biomedical engineering. I think it's the BEST! Best wishes for success, Aleksandra.
I'm so impressed with this show that gives opportunities and a showcase for dancing talent. It's the British who are coming up with some of the BEST shows on television like American Inventor, So You Think You Can Dance, and American Idol.
I enjoy watching Nigel Lythgoe, the executive producer and I'm grateful he created the show with Simon Fuller. I love watching the entertaining Cat Deeley and can't wait to see what she's going to wear every week. My favorite choreographer and judge is Brian Friedman.
My favorite couples are Heidi and Ryan, Allison and Ivan, Donyelle and Benji, Dmitry and Aleksandra, Martha and Travis.
This show makes me want to get up and dance. As a little girl I took ballet and tap dance so I was introduced to dance. After we moved away from my hometown of Libby, Montana where I was born, and moved to Salem, Oregon at the end of 3rd grade, there were no more lessons.
I was sad to see that Aleksandra was eliminated from the show this week. She just graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois so I know she has a bright future ahead of her. It's one of the finest universities in the country. I'm prejudiced because my son graduated from Northwestern in biomedical engineering. I think it's the BEST! Best wishes for success, Aleksandra.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
OSU wins College World Series
The headlines on the front page of the Corvallis Gazette Times this morning reads "CHAMPS! OSU Wins College World Series!" Congratulations to OSU, to Coach Casey, and to all the players on the OSU baseball team! The GT has inserted a great poster of the team jumping in the air celebrating victory. What a great photo! It deserves to be put on the wall.
I remember saying a week ago last Monday to someone at Timberhill Athletic Club that they have the ability to win it and they did! Cool! I'm happy for them and I'm happy for everyone who loves baseball in Oregon.
In a related article in the GT, it said that Timberhill Athletic Club was packed for the final game. Many went with the intention of exercising while watching the game on Cardio Theater as they are on the elliptical runner or exercise bike. That's the way to watch the game. Perfect.
I remember saying a week ago last Monday to someone at Timberhill Athletic Club that they have the ability to win it and they did! Cool! I'm happy for them and I'm happy for everyone who loves baseball in Oregon.
In a related article in the GT, it said that Timberhill Athletic Club was packed for the final game. Many went with the intention of exercising while watching the game on Cardio Theater as they are on the elliptical runner or exercise bike. That's the way to watch the game. Perfect.
Saving Face
I've discovered that life these days is all about saving face. In relationships one of the most important things is to allow the other person to save face. To confront with wrongdoing can be the ultimate sin. Whistleblowers these days are not protected. They are hunted down and destroyed never to work again. Just look at the woman who blew open the Enron fiasco. When asked if she has a job, she said no. All she can do is go around the country telling her story. No one will hire her because she poses a threat. Everyone knows she won't keep her mouth shut, if she sees someone do something wrong.
What are you supposed to do when you see someone do something wrong that will also cause you harm? What was she supposed to do? Blend into the background and allow it to continue? No one seems to care these days whether something is right or wrong. It's all about saving face.
I tried another social experiment last week. It wasn't planned. It just happened. I was kind to someone who has caused me great harm. I was genuinely nice. I felt like a Jew being kind to Hitler. I guess I hoped it would end the escalation. I guess I hoped he would stop. I guess I hoped he would say he was sorry for all he has tried to do to me. I think all it did was to justify in his mind that he was right in the beginning.
Ah, well... Am I sorry for being nice? No. I cling fast to my values. I forgave a long time ago. I feel strongly that it is important to be nice, no matter how I am treated.
If I were younger, I'd go to law school. I'd arm myself with knowledge of the law so no one would ever be able to take away so much again and I'd help protect others from having this happen to them. The law is like martial arts--it's the armor of protection in case you need to use it in an emergency. People don't mess with attorneys. I would feel protected and I'd always be nice. :-)
What are you supposed to do when you see someone do something wrong that will also cause you harm? What was she supposed to do? Blend into the background and allow it to continue? No one seems to care these days whether something is right or wrong. It's all about saving face.
I tried another social experiment last week. It wasn't planned. It just happened. I was kind to someone who has caused me great harm. I was genuinely nice. I felt like a Jew being kind to Hitler. I guess I hoped it would end the escalation. I guess I hoped he would stop. I guess I hoped he would say he was sorry for all he has tried to do to me. I think all it did was to justify in his mind that he was right in the beginning.
Ah, well... Am I sorry for being nice? No. I cling fast to my values. I forgave a long time ago. I feel strongly that it is important to be nice, no matter how I am treated.
If I were younger, I'd go to law school. I'd arm myself with knowledge of the law so no one would ever be able to take away so much again and I'd help protect others from having this happen to them. The law is like martial arts--it's the armor of protection in case you need to use it in an emergency. People don't mess with attorneys. I would feel protected and I'd always be nice. :-)
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Minimum Wage
This week I was watching C-Span2, as I often do. Years ago I used to subscribe to the Congressional Record. It came in the mail and it was free. I thought it was amazing that I had access to the speeches and text of what went on in Congress.
Senator Dick Durbin from Illinois spoke about an amendment that will be presented by Senator Edward Kennedy. Senator Durbin is the co-sponsor. It will raise the minimum wage in three steps over several years. First, to $5.85, then to $6.55, and finally to $7.25. The minimum wage is now at $5.15 and has not been raised for 9 years.
President Franklin Roosevelt first created the federal minimum wage. Senator Durbin said that raising the federal minimum wage would benefit 6 1/2 million workers, half of whom are women. He said that 37 million Americans are living in poverty, which is 10% of all Americans. 13 million are children. Since the late 1970's poverty in the United States has increased by 50%.
Senator Durbin said that a minimum wage employee working 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year earns $10,700 a year. This is $6,000 below the federal poverty guideline of $16,600 for a family of three. He said, "We should be ashamed of our nation where we have reached this point where we ignore what we are doing to people because of minimum wage."
He went on to say, "While we have consistently year after year denied an increase in minimum wage to the poorest, hardest working Americans, we have every year without fail increased congressional pay. Our salaries have gone up while we have ignored the plight of the poorest among us."
Those Americans earning minimum wage are not our poorest Americans, for we have an invisible poor who are homeless and without shelter living in our country. Even if the minimum wage were raised to $7.25 in a few years, I doubt that it will make up for inflation and pay for the needs of a family with health insurance, child care, food, housing, clothing, gas, heating, etc.
Something to think about but we can write to our Senators and ask them to support the Kennedy Amendment to raise the minimum wage. Another thing we can do is to write a letter of thanks to Senators Kennedy and Durbin for leading this effort to raise the minimum wage. So often acts of courage are not remembered with a letter of thanks. Senator Durbin said, "There was a time when both political parties cared about the issue of poverty. Today we don't discuss it. I don't know why. I think we should." So do I.
Senator Dick Durbin from Illinois spoke about an amendment that will be presented by Senator Edward Kennedy. Senator Durbin is the co-sponsor. It will raise the minimum wage in three steps over several years. First, to $5.85, then to $6.55, and finally to $7.25. The minimum wage is now at $5.15 and has not been raised for 9 years.
President Franklin Roosevelt first created the federal minimum wage. Senator Durbin said that raising the federal minimum wage would benefit 6 1/2 million workers, half of whom are women. He said that 37 million Americans are living in poverty, which is 10% of all Americans. 13 million are children. Since the late 1970's poverty in the United States has increased by 50%.
Senator Durbin said that a minimum wage employee working 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year earns $10,700 a year. This is $6,000 below the federal poverty guideline of $16,600 for a family of three. He said, "We should be ashamed of our nation where we have reached this point where we ignore what we are doing to people because of minimum wage."
He went on to say, "While we have consistently year after year denied an increase in minimum wage to the poorest, hardest working Americans, we have every year without fail increased congressional pay. Our salaries have gone up while we have ignored the plight of the poorest among us."
Those Americans earning minimum wage are not our poorest Americans, for we have an invisible poor who are homeless and without shelter living in our country. Even if the minimum wage were raised to $7.25 in a few years, I doubt that it will make up for inflation and pay for the needs of a family with health insurance, child care, food, housing, clothing, gas, heating, etc.
Something to think about but we can write to our Senators and ask them to support the Kennedy Amendment to raise the minimum wage. Another thing we can do is to write a letter of thanks to Senators Kennedy and Durbin for leading this effort to raise the minimum wage. So often acts of courage are not remembered with a letter of thanks. Senator Durbin said, "There was a time when both political parties cared about the issue of poverty. Today we don't discuss it. I don't know why. I think we should." So do I.
Alsea Bounty of Art
Last Saturday the Alesa Public Library held an art festival showcasing the local talent. I wanted to take a quick peek near the end of the day when they were taking down the art and I saw an amazing variety of talent. They are having another Bounty of Art here in Alsea in October and it is worth coming with money in your pockets.
I saw everything from creative felted hats and scarves to fine crafted wood furniture. There was a large selection of handmade soaps and candles that are perfect for gifts on any occasion. I saw exquisite floral paintings and photography of local landscapes that would be perfect for any wall in your home. I saw a large selection of hand-made quilts. There were Native American wood carvings, puzzles, and spoons. One of the puzzles that caught my eye was in the shape of a large frog. To top it all off there were delicious baked goods.
Next October I need to make sure I have money in my pockets to buy the Bounty of Art in Alsea.
I saw everything from creative felted hats and scarves to fine crafted wood furniture. There was a large selection of handmade soaps and candles that are perfect for gifts on any occasion. I saw exquisite floral paintings and photography of local landscapes that would be perfect for any wall in your home. I saw a large selection of hand-made quilts. There were Native American wood carvings, puzzles, and spoons. One of the puzzles that caught my eye was in the shape of a large frog. To top it all off there were delicious baked goods.
Next October I need to make sure I have money in my pockets to buy the Bounty of Art in Alsea.
Weight Watcher Wednesday
Yesterday at Weight Watchers, I lost 2.4 pounds for the week for a total of 18 pounds since I started.
The meeting was inspirational as usual and the group lost a total of 46.8 pounds this week. Nancy said, "If we want to lose weight and keep it off, we need to talk different and think different." The meeting centered on positive affirmations, self-talk, and empowering beliefs.
Nancy closed with this motivational message. "Watch your thoughts, they become your words. Watch your words, they become your actions. Watch your actions, they become habits. Watch your habits, for they become your character and your character becomes your destiny."
My exercise for the week:
Wednesday: 30 minutes elliptical runner, then 10 minutes weights, back to 45 minutes on the elliptical runner, and finished with a 30 minute swim. On the elliptical runner, I was watching C-Span2. I watched Senator Smith from Oregon talk about the sacrifice of Thomas Tucker. My heart goes out to the family of Thomas Tucker. I sent a letter today offering my sympathy. I pray that this does not happen again and that the world can live in peace.
Tuesday: gardening
Monday: 1 hour and 20 minutes elliptical runner and 30 minutes swim
Sunday: 30 minutes exercise bike
Saturday: 30 minutes swim and 30 minutes elliptical runner. I wish I could afford to own an elliptical runner. A good one. A new Precor 546.
Friday: gardening
Thursday: 30 minute walk
Wednesday: 30 minutes swim and 60 minutes elliptical runner.
The meeting was inspirational as usual and the group lost a total of 46.8 pounds this week. Nancy said, "If we want to lose weight and keep it off, we need to talk different and think different." The meeting centered on positive affirmations, self-talk, and empowering beliefs.
Nancy closed with this motivational message. "Watch your thoughts, they become your words. Watch your words, they become your actions. Watch your actions, they become habits. Watch your habits, for they become your character and your character becomes your destiny."
My exercise for the week:
Wednesday: 30 minutes elliptical runner, then 10 minutes weights, back to 45 minutes on the elliptical runner, and finished with a 30 minute swim. On the elliptical runner, I was watching C-Span2. I watched Senator Smith from Oregon talk about the sacrifice of Thomas Tucker. My heart goes out to the family of Thomas Tucker. I sent a letter today offering my sympathy. I pray that this does not happen again and that the world can live in peace.
Tuesday: gardening
Monday: 1 hour and 20 minutes elliptical runner and 30 minutes swim
Sunday: 30 minutes exercise bike
Saturday: 30 minutes swim and 30 minutes elliptical runner. I wish I could afford to own an elliptical runner. A good one. A new Precor 546.
Friday: gardening
Thursday: 30 minute walk
Wednesday: 30 minutes swim and 60 minutes elliptical runner.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Weight Watcher Wednesday
I gained a pound this week. The meeting was inspirational. Nancy is a great leader who encourages everyone. I like her. Today one of my WW friends has lost 40 pounds. She's inspirational to everyone.
Today I went to the athletic club and did 60 minutes on the ellilptical runner and 30 minutes in the pool. Yesterday I did 60 minutes elliptical runner, 10 minutes weights, 5 minutes NuStep, and 20 minutes in the pool. That's it. Nothing else all week. I'm not consistent with exercise. I only like to exercise at the gym and it's 45 minutes away. With the gas prices up so high, it's hard to get there. I would love to be able to exercise there 5 days a week.
Timberhill Athletic Club is the most beautiful gym. It has everything you could want. It's spacious and packed with great equipment of every variety. There's so much for everyone with racketball, tennis, handball, two pools, sauna, spas, steamroom, basketball court, etc. I feel blessed to be able to exercise there. Since I don't have health insurance, I consider my membership as my health prevention insurance. I don't want to give it up because then I wouldn't exercise at all. I learned to swim for the first time about a year and a half ago. Pretty amazing for being over 55! I don't swim fast but I can get back and forth completely on my own without any help or fear of the water. Others zoom past back and forth in the next lanes and I slowly go back and forth. I think some of them can do several laps to my one but I'm having a great time. I love the water and I love the chance to be able to swim. I think I would die inside if I couldn't have this opportunity to swim and be in the deep end. Kind of silly but it's important to me.
Next week they are having special classes on healthy aging. I'm looking forward to learning how to be a healthy 58 year old who wants to stay that way.
Today I went to the athletic club and did 60 minutes on the ellilptical runner and 30 minutes in the pool. Yesterday I did 60 minutes elliptical runner, 10 minutes weights, 5 minutes NuStep, and 20 minutes in the pool. That's it. Nothing else all week. I'm not consistent with exercise. I only like to exercise at the gym and it's 45 minutes away. With the gas prices up so high, it's hard to get there. I would love to be able to exercise there 5 days a week.
Timberhill Athletic Club is the most beautiful gym. It has everything you could want. It's spacious and packed with great equipment of every variety. There's so much for everyone with racketball, tennis, handball, two pools, sauna, spas, steamroom, basketball court, etc. I feel blessed to be able to exercise there. Since I don't have health insurance, I consider my membership as my health prevention insurance. I don't want to give it up because then I wouldn't exercise at all. I learned to swim for the first time about a year and a half ago. Pretty amazing for being over 55! I don't swim fast but I can get back and forth completely on my own without any help or fear of the water. Others zoom past back and forth in the next lanes and I slowly go back and forth. I think some of them can do several laps to my one but I'm having a great time. I love the water and I love the chance to be able to swim. I think I would die inside if I couldn't have this opportunity to swim and be in the deep end. Kind of silly but it's important to me.
Next week they are having special classes on healthy aging. I'm looking forward to learning how to be a healthy 58 year old who wants to stay that way.
Reunion
I got a post card in the mail yesterday about my 40th year McNary High School reunion for the class of 1966. The card brought a flood of memories. Our senior class will join North Salem High School at Pietro's Pizza. Then there will be a picnic and potluck in Keizer the next day in August.
Our senior class was split because it was so large. Our sophomore and junior years at North Salem High School was split into an early morning school and an afternoon school. My senior year at McNary left us part of what we once were at North. My junior and senior year were half days with morning at school and the afternoon at W.T. Grant Company on Liberty Street. I was manager of three departments and enjoyed retail. I've always liked business.
I belonged to Faith Lutheran Church on North River Road in Keizer. Our Luther League often did many activities together and they were my best friends. I remember meeting at Pietro's after football or basket ball games for pizza in a group. I remember slumber parties at Merna's house. We watched the Beatles for the first time together at one of Merna's slumber parties on the Ed Sullivan Show. Merna's mother died last year in Portland. She was a kind woman.
The guy in charge of the reunion was one of my skating partners. During elementary school, junior high and stopping in high school, I used to roller skate and compete. I can't find my metals that I won in competitions for dance and free style. I didn't get very far. I only received three metals. Two for dance and one for freestyle. There was a movement to make roller skating part of the Olympics but it didn't happen. I remember the fun of my book of choreography for dance. I loved to roller skate. I used to live at Skateland on the weekends growing up. Almost every Saturday. Almost every Sunday. Sometimes during the week. I loved to skate and I loved dancing on skates. It stopped before it got a chance to really begin. I didn't get to take the lessons I needed. The Olympic dream for roller skating didn't happen. I sure don't understand why, considering some of the events in the Olympics today. Roller skating is a healthy sport for kids to keep fit and active. I think they made a big mistake to not allow it. There was room for roller skating in the Olympics.
Our senior class was split because it was so large. Our sophomore and junior years at North Salem High School was split into an early morning school and an afternoon school. My senior year at McNary left us part of what we once were at North. My junior and senior year were half days with morning at school and the afternoon at W.T. Grant Company on Liberty Street. I was manager of three departments and enjoyed retail. I've always liked business.
I belonged to Faith Lutheran Church on North River Road in Keizer. Our Luther League often did many activities together and they were my best friends. I remember meeting at Pietro's after football or basket ball games for pizza in a group. I remember slumber parties at Merna's house. We watched the Beatles for the first time together at one of Merna's slumber parties on the Ed Sullivan Show. Merna's mother died last year in Portland. She was a kind woman.
The guy in charge of the reunion was one of my skating partners. During elementary school, junior high and stopping in high school, I used to roller skate and compete. I can't find my metals that I won in competitions for dance and free style. I didn't get very far. I only received three metals. Two for dance and one for freestyle. There was a movement to make roller skating part of the Olympics but it didn't happen. I remember the fun of my book of choreography for dance. I loved to roller skate. I used to live at Skateland on the weekends growing up. Almost every Saturday. Almost every Sunday. Sometimes during the week. I loved to skate and I loved dancing on skates. It stopped before it got a chance to really begin. I didn't get to take the lessons I needed. The Olympic dream for roller skating didn't happen. I sure don't understand why, considering some of the events in the Olympics today. Roller skating is a healthy sport for kids to keep fit and active. I think they made a big mistake to not allow it. There was room for roller skating in the Olympics.
Toll Roads
I've been having fun reading original historical documents at the Benton County Historical Museum in Philomath. I'm working on a children's article about life along the Oregon Trail.
Yesterday and last Friday yielded great tidbits of information that have nothing to do with the experience of children along the Oregon Trail but I figure I'll use it someday in an article or book.
One entry that caught my eye yesterday was about toll roads along the Oregon Trail. Along the Platte River, the Sioux Indians spread out four buffalo robes on the ground and told immigrants they needed to pay a toll for crossing through their territory. Ingenuity at work. Those wanting to pass needed to give a quart of flour and a pint of sugar for each person. For each yoke of oxen, a certain amount of tobacco, bullets, and gun powder was needed. The flour was placed on one robe, sugar on another, tea and coffee on a third, powder and bullets on the fourth.
I've read more than one account of jokesters along the Oregon Trail. It seems that pioneers thought that Native Americans shared the same sense of humor. They found out that what was said in jest was taken seriously. Offers to trade women and children for horses were responded with horses brought and expectations that the trade would be made. This caused havoc on more than one occasion when pioneer men tried to get out of this oral contract.
An interesting legend with the Flathead Indians near Astoria was about salmon. Any salmon that was caught by a pioneer was followed home by an Indian who proceeded to cut out the heart of the salmon and burn it. They believed that if the heart of the salmon was not burned, the spirit of the fish would go back to the ocean where it lived and tell the other fish how it was caught. They believed that if this was not done, there would be no fishing the next year. So maybe this is why wild salmon is becoming scarce in the northwest. Some fishermen are forgetting to burn the heart of the salmon and the spirit of the wild salmon has gone back to tell how they were caught. Makes perfect sense to me. We don't respect the land anymore or take care of it so there are consequences.
Oh, the fun of history. The most fun is when there are stories about people. I was a social science major in college. I was planning on teaching high school history. My degree is from Oregon College of Education, which is now Western Oregon University in Monmouth.
Things don't always go as planned. I took one class that changed the way I saw education forever. In a class called the Exceptional Child about the full range of difference, I learned about the Institute of the Achievement of Human Potential in Philadelphia. This changed how I regarded the potential of parenting to make a difference in the lives of my own children.
It's been fun at the museum library to see books written by one of my favorite professors, Dr. Kenneth Holmes, a gentle and kind man. He was a history professor who wrote countless books and articles. I took a writing class from his son, Donald. I was invited over for lunch one day and was served chicken in orange sauce by Mrs. Holmes. A wonderful family who I remember with great memories.
Yesterday and last Friday yielded great tidbits of information that have nothing to do with the experience of children along the Oregon Trail but I figure I'll use it someday in an article or book.
One entry that caught my eye yesterday was about toll roads along the Oregon Trail. Along the Platte River, the Sioux Indians spread out four buffalo robes on the ground and told immigrants they needed to pay a toll for crossing through their territory. Ingenuity at work. Those wanting to pass needed to give a quart of flour and a pint of sugar for each person. For each yoke of oxen, a certain amount of tobacco, bullets, and gun powder was needed. The flour was placed on one robe, sugar on another, tea and coffee on a third, powder and bullets on the fourth.
I've read more than one account of jokesters along the Oregon Trail. It seems that pioneers thought that Native Americans shared the same sense of humor. They found out that what was said in jest was taken seriously. Offers to trade women and children for horses were responded with horses brought and expectations that the trade would be made. This caused havoc on more than one occasion when pioneer men tried to get out of this oral contract.
An interesting legend with the Flathead Indians near Astoria was about salmon. Any salmon that was caught by a pioneer was followed home by an Indian who proceeded to cut out the heart of the salmon and burn it. They believed that if the heart of the salmon was not burned, the spirit of the fish would go back to the ocean where it lived and tell the other fish how it was caught. They believed that if this was not done, there would be no fishing the next year. So maybe this is why wild salmon is becoming scarce in the northwest. Some fishermen are forgetting to burn the heart of the salmon and the spirit of the wild salmon has gone back to tell how they were caught. Makes perfect sense to me. We don't respect the land anymore or take care of it so there are consequences.
Oh, the fun of history. The most fun is when there are stories about people. I was a social science major in college. I was planning on teaching high school history. My degree is from Oregon College of Education, which is now Western Oregon University in Monmouth.
Things don't always go as planned. I took one class that changed the way I saw education forever. In a class called the Exceptional Child about the full range of difference, I learned about the Institute of the Achievement of Human Potential in Philadelphia. This changed how I regarded the potential of parenting to make a difference in the lives of my own children.
It's been fun at the museum library to see books written by one of my favorite professors, Dr. Kenneth Holmes, a gentle and kind man. He was a history professor who wrote countless books and articles. I took a writing class from his son, Donald. I was invited over for lunch one day and was served chicken in orange sauce by Mrs. Holmes. A wonderful family who I remember with great memories.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Family
Les and I visited Gretchen, Chris, and our grandchildren, Jack and Lizzy in Salem yesterday. They have a gorgeous new home in the hills of West Salem. Jack was miserable with allergies but it is always fun to see the kids and spend time with them.
Gretchen is only $1,500 away from meeting her fundraising goal for Liberty House. A check from the Roth family came in last week for $10,000. Another hero in Salem! When I think of the name Roth, I think green. Green is the main color theme in their chain of grocery stores. I also think of great chocolate frosted donuts, which I enjoyed when I lived in Salem and shopped at Roths. I also think of the great Salem hero, Orville Roth who is the major financial contributor for the Children's Garden at the Oregon Garden in Silverton. When I went through the Master Gardening program in Salem in 1999, I learned of his plans and later saw the spectacular results. His program funds trips to students in public school classes from all over Oregon to visit the Oregon Garden each year. I believe it's in the 5th grade.
Gretchen is only $1,500 away from meeting her fundraising goal for Liberty House. A check from the Roth family came in last week for $10,000. Another hero in Salem! When I think of the name Roth, I think green. Green is the main color theme in their chain of grocery stores. I also think of great chocolate frosted donuts, which I enjoyed when I lived in Salem and shopped at Roths. I also think of the great Salem hero, Orville Roth who is the major financial contributor for the Children's Garden at the Oregon Garden in Silverton. When I went through the Master Gardening program in Salem in 1999, I learned of his plans and later saw the spectacular results. His program funds trips to students in public school classes from all over Oregon to visit the Oregon Garden each year. I believe it's in the 5th grade.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
The Apprentice Finale
I just finished one of my Year to Success assignments on Bo Bennett's website at www.yeartosuccess.com and saw Donald Trump's name recommending this inspirational course. It reminded me of the Apprentice.
I watched the Apprentice season finale a couple of days ago. I enjoy watching Donald Trump and learning from him. It's rare that you have the opportunity to see someone react, give advice, and instruct who is a master at what he does. When most people think of business, Donald Trump comes to mind.
It was a great show with Sean and Lee battling to the end but Sean had the edge. Lee was a little too trusting, laid back, not as prepared. He's brilliant though and graduated from Cornell with a 4. Sean has an equally great background with added corporate experience with successful multimillion dollar deals. Lee helped to organize an event for Denis Leary and the New York Firefighters and Sean organized a Bare Naked Ladies concert. That's how much I know about current music groups. I had heard of this group but I had no idea what they were about.
It was a special treat to see Donald Trump's children on the show who both graduated from the Wharton School of Finance. I believe it's from the University of Pennsylvania. Both were outstanding and beautiful young people. Donald Trump Jr. and Ivanka Trump.
Sean will manage the new Soho 50 story condominium hotel in New York City. Such a deal! To have the opportunity to learn from Donald Trump and the chance to have it all. Congratulations, Sean!
I watched the Apprentice season finale a couple of days ago. I enjoy watching Donald Trump and learning from him. It's rare that you have the opportunity to see someone react, give advice, and instruct who is a master at what he does. When most people think of business, Donald Trump comes to mind.
It was a great show with Sean and Lee battling to the end but Sean had the edge. Lee was a little too trusting, laid back, not as prepared. He's brilliant though and graduated from Cornell with a 4. Sean has an equally great background with added corporate experience with successful multimillion dollar deals. Lee helped to organize an event for Denis Leary and the New York Firefighters and Sean organized a Bare Naked Ladies concert. That's how much I know about current music groups. I had heard of this group but I had no idea what they were about.
It was a special treat to see Donald Trump's children on the show who both graduated from the Wharton School of Finance. I believe it's from the University of Pennsylvania. Both were outstanding and beautiful young people. Donald Trump Jr. and Ivanka Trump.
Sean will manage the new Soho 50 story condominium hotel in New York City. Such a deal! To have the opportunity to learn from Donald Trump and the chance to have it all. Congratulations, Sean!
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Quilting and Scrapbooking on the Computer
Last night I attending an excellent free workshop sponsored by Hewlett Packard at Quilt Work Patches in Corvallis. Joe Hesch a former engineer with HP was the guest speaker who I've seen on television. He demonstrated and gave great answers to questions about the ease of scrapbooking on the computer using a software program he developed called SCRAPBOOK ASSISTANT for only $29.99, which is a bargain after I saw all the features. It's possible to bring photos into different shapes, create different backgrounds using photos, and put photos in photos. Another software program called QUILT SMART PHOTO SHAPE for $39 allows a quilter to create a double wedding ring wall hanging or quilt project by putting photos in the arc, printing on fabric paper, and sewing to your project. The software MONTAGE allows a collage of photos to create one big photo for a wall hanging.
Joe Hesch demonstrated creating silk scarves with your own precious photographs using SILK ON A ROLL with paper backing. The effect and color was brilliant to make a custom gift with great meaning for family and friends.
He wrote two books that are for sale, PHOTO FUN and MORE PHOTO FUN. Another book will be coming out soon called, POSTERIZE IT. Go to www.amazon.com for the books or buy them at your local quilt store with all the tools and supplies.
I learned about fabric sheets that you can buy at your local quilt store to use for special projects, like placemats, napkins, skirts, fabric for dresses, craft projects. He showed us that it's possible to print on wood veneer for special wood crafts and gifts.
It was packed in the room to hear Joe Hesch and everyone received great information on how to use your printer, computer, and the tools to make special gifts in a short time using priceless photos. Everyone enjoyed hearing his family stories about Minnesota, his dog, his older sisters, his proud mother who attends quilting guild meetings, and to see all his quilting projects. My Dad was born in Winthrop, Minnesota so it was fun to hear the stories. It was a great evening and I'm glad I went since I learned so much about using your computer to print on fabric.
Joe Hesch demonstrated creating silk scarves with your own precious photographs using SILK ON A ROLL with paper backing. The effect and color was brilliant to make a custom gift with great meaning for family and friends.
He wrote two books that are for sale, PHOTO FUN and MORE PHOTO FUN. Another book will be coming out soon called, POSTERIZE IT. Go to www.amazon.com for the books or buy them at your local quilt store with all the tools and supplies.
I learned about fabric sheets that you can buy at your local quilt store to use for special projects, like placemats, napkins, skirts, fabric for dresses, craft projects. He showed us that it's possible to print on wood veneer for special wood crafts and gifts.
It was packed in the room to hear Joe Hesch and everyone received great information on how to use your printer, computer, and the tools to make special gifts in a short time using priceless photos. Everyone enjoyed hearing his family stories about Minnesota, his dog, his older sisters, his proud mother who attends quilting guild meetings, and to see all his quilting projects. My Dad was born in Winthrop, Minnesota so it was fun to hear the stories. It was a great evening and I'm glad I went since I learned so much about using your computer to print on fabric.
Weight Watcher Wednesday
Milk was the topic at Weight Watchers today. In addition to providing the calcium needed for bones and teeth, it provides protein, zinc, riboflavin, vitamin D, and helps you lose weight. Dairy products help to regulate your heart beat, helps reduce bone loss, helps transmit nerve impulses, helps muscles contract, and prevents osteoporosis. After menopause, the acceleration of bone loss goes way up so that's why women over 50 need three servings a day.
What constitutes a good dairy choice? Yogurt, cheese, nonfat or lowfat milk, cottage cheese, pudding, hot chocolate made with milk. Tips for adding more dairy to your diet are consider eating cheese and milk as a snack, add cheese to a sandwich, freeze yogurt and smoothies, use milk in soups and on cereal.
The latest research shows that eating yogurt promotes weight loss. I love yogurt. I eat the nonfat kind that is 4 points. I also eat string cheese. I rarely drink a glass of milk but I think I need to reconsider this. With all the benefits of milk and dairy products, I need to make sure I eat my three servings a day.
At the meeting today there were three women who lost 25 pounds. One lost 10 pounds and several lost their first 5 pounds. One young mother reached her 10% goal and reached the 16 week goal. I heard testimonials today from several Weight Watchers that the Core Program fills them up so they aren't hungry and they are successful at reaching their weight loss goals.
Meetings are always an inspiration. Nancy, our leader, said that Weight Watchers who are consistent in attending meetings find three times the success as those who weigh in and leave.
I lost .4 pounds this week to make up for the gain of .4 pounds last week. I'm back on track. I had a bout with cake and ice cream during the week that threatened my progress but I'm okay now.
My exercise for the week looks like this:
Today
One hour Hydrofit in the deep water and one hour Fit for Life with weights.
Saturday through Tuesday
Gardening and housework
Friday
30 minutes swim with snorkel and 10 minutes NuStep
Thursday
Total Body Sculpt with Gilad on FitTV
Wednesday
30 minutes exercise bike, 45 minutes snorkel in pool, and Gilad's Body in Motion on FitTV
What constitutes a good dairy choice? Yogurt, cheese, nonfat or lowfat milk, cottage cheese, pudding, hot chocolate made with milk. Tips for adding more dairy to your diet are consider eating cheese and milk as a snack, add cheese to a sandwich, freeze yogurt and smoothies, use milk in soups and on cereal.
The latest research shows that eating yogurt promotes weight loss. I love yogurt. I eat the nonfat kind that is 4 points. I also eat string cheese. I rarely drink a glass of milk but I think I need to reconsider this. With all the benefits of milk and dairy products, I need to make sure I eat my three servings a day.
At the meeting today there were three women who lost 25 pounds. One lost 10 pounds and several lost their first 5 pounds. One young mother reached her 10% goal and reached the 16 week goal. I heard testimonials today from several Weight Watchers that the Core Program fills them up so they aren't hungry and they are successful at reaching their weight loss goals.
Meetings are always an inspiration. Nancy, our leader, said that Weight Watchers who are consistent in attending meetings find three times the success as those who weigh in and leave.
I lost .4 pounds this week to make up for the gain of .4 pounds last week. I'm back on track. I had a bout with cake and ice cream during the week that threatened my progress but I'm okay now.
My exercise for the week looks like this:
Today
One hour Hydrofit in the deep water and one hour Fit for Life with weights.
Saturday through Tuesday
Gardening and housework
Friday
30 minutes swim with snorkel and 10 minutes NuStep
Thursday
Total Body Sculpt with Gilad on FitTV
Wednesday
30 minutes exercise bike, 45 minutes snorkel in pool, and Gilad's Body in Motion on FitTV
Friday, June 02, 2006
Author Within
I critiqued a young adult YA novel manuscript for Joan Stradling, a gifted writer, a couple of weeks ago. It was a quick read, a page-turner, a manuscript that you didn't want to put down because you wanted to see what would happen next. Joan has a winner on her hands. A fantasy adventure that is masterfully crafted to take the reader into the story.
Joan is a master storyteller. Her description takes the reader into the story with sensory details and the pacing of an adventure. I'm excited for her success that is to come in the future. I can see many books ahead for her. I'm proud to have had the opportunity to read her manuscript. Congratulations, Joan! I look forward to seeing it in bookstores and buying a copy.
Her blog is at http://authorwithin.blogspot.com
Joan is a master storyteller. Her description takes the reader into the story with sensory details and the pacing of an adventure. I'm excited for her success that is to come in the future. I can see many books ahead for her. I'm proud to have had the opportunity to read her manuscript. Congratulations, Joan! I look forward to seeing it in bookstores and buying a copy.
Her blog is at http://authorwithin.blogspot.com
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Liberty House
One of the heroes of Salem is my daughter, Gretchen Bennett who is the Executive Director of Liberty House in Salem, Oregon. She works tirelessly to "stop the hurt" of the abused child. The website is www.libertyhousecenter.com. Liberty House is a center where cases of suspected child abuse and neglect are helped by trained professionals sensitive to the special needs of the child.
Dick Withnell of Salem, a local car dealer and community leader has given the Board at Liberty House a challenge to raise $35,000. by the end of June. If they are successful without Gretchen's help, he will match the donations with his own check for $35,000. Dick Withnell is a true hero who makes a difference to help children.
More heroes in Salem.... So far this week, Walt Beglau from the Marion County District Attorney's Office walked through the door with a check for $6,000. Pietro's Pizza, where I remember enjoying lots of pizza, pledged a donation of $5,000. The Salem Elks donated $2,000. Let's see what other heroes there are in Salem who care about children and will come forward to help this great cause.
In looking at the list of the Board members of Liberty House, I see that Tim Murphy from Salem Hospital is the Chair and President of the Liberty Board. That contact alone should bring in the money. If I remember correctly, Salem Hospital is THE largest employer in Salem or at least used to be. With all the doctors and nurses who should care about this issue, it should be a piece of cake for Mr. Murphy to walk in with a big check.
Maybe there are other wealthy community members, like Dick Withnell, who will also meet the challenge of matching his donation of $35,000. Another great fund raiser for Liberty House would be to raffle off a new car. Everyone wants to win a new car and I can see a long line of people to buy tickets. Maybe enough money will be raised so that every child's needs who are abused in the Salem area will be met plus money left over for prevention.
Gretchen would make a great guest on the Oprah Show. I know that the issue of child abuse is important to Oprah and she cares. Maybe Oprah would consider making a donation to Liberty House.
I'm sure that the Liberty House Board will live up to the challenge. Gretchen inspires loyalty and trust. I remember when Gretchen brought back the trophies in debate for Lewis and Clark College in Portland. Her skill as a facilitator, grant writer, and administrator are equal to all the greats across this country. She works hard and has the courage to stand up for difficult issues. You go girl!
Dick Withnell of Salem, a local car dealer and community leader has given the Board at Liberty House a challenge to raise $35,000. by the end of June. If they are successful without Gretchen's help, he will match the donations with his own check for $35,000. Dick Withnell is a true hero who makes a difference to help children.
More heroes in Salem.... So far this week, Walt Beglau from the Marion County District Attorney's Office walked through the door with a check for $6,000. Pietro's Pizza, where I remember enjoying lots of pizza, pledged a donation of $5,000. The Salem Elks donated $2,000. Let's see what other heroes there are in Salem who care about children and will come forward to help this great cause.
In looking at the list of the Board members of Liberty House, I see that Tim Murphy from Salem Hospital is the Chair and President of the Liberty Board. That contact alone should bring in the money. If I remember correctly, Salem Hospital is THE largest employer in Salem or at least used to be. With all the doctors and nurses who should care about this issue, it should be a piece of cake for Mr. Murphy to walk in with a big check.
Maybe there are other wealthy community members, like Dick Withnell, who will also meet the challenge of matching his donation of $35,000. Another great fund raiser for Liberty House would be to raffle off a new car. Everyone wants to win a new car and I can see a long line of people to buy tickets. Maybe enough money will be raised so that every child's needs who are abused in the Salem area will be met plus money left over for prevention.
Gretchen would make a great guest on the Oprah Show. I know that the issue of child abuse is important to Oprah and she cares. Maybe Oprah would consider making a donation to Liberty House.
I'm sure that the Liberty House Board will live up to the challenge. Gretchen inspires loyalty and trust. I remember when Gretchen brought back the trophies in debate for Lewis and Clark College in Portland. Her skill as a facilitator, grant writer, and administrator are equal to all the greats across this country. She works hard and has the courage to stand up for difficult issues. You go girl!
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