Olympic Athletic Club

I'm a member of Olympic Athletic Club in Ballard, the Scandinavian area of Seattle. I'm half Swedish and I love Ballard. I would like to live there but I can't afford it. I joined OAC at the end of December when I moved here. It's a Fit Life Gym, which means that when you travel throughout Oregon and Washington, you can go to the other Fit Life Gyms free. I haven't been to the OAC since January because I go to 24 Hour Fitness Northgate almost every day and it seems far to go to Ballard. I was told to park at the far parking lot near the water near an abandoned restaurant. OAC is crowded and they are building a new part. I got to thinking that if I were making the decisions, I would build a whole new four story two block long athletic club next to the water. The space is just sitting there doing nothing. My gym would have glass walls next to the water so you can see out on all four floors. On the first floor would be an Olympic size swimming pool. Four laps would be saved for hydrofit and deep water running classes at all times, 8 to 12 lanes for lap swimming. On the side saved for hydrofit and deep water running, I would put a giant flat screen television for those who get bored running in the water. There would be also music piped in at other times when classes aren't in session. There would be four to six large classrooms and there would be classes running every hour in each classroom with Zumba, Body Pump, standing abs, Tai Chi, and lots of other choices. There would be tennis and racketball. There would be a large basketball size court for indoor roller skating. I would go to skates.com and buy the quad skates I've been looking at with the purple wheels. It would be a gorgeous facility and people would come from all over to exercise there. The top floor would be the poof floor for spa treatments, hot tubs, steam rooms, and saunas overlooking the water. There would also be a restaurant, juice bar, and a salad bar. It would be beautiful. I called and asked for a refund since I'm not using my membership. I think I paid $680 for a year. Next year I would only have to pay $40 a month. I was told there is a no refund policy, which I don't think is nice so I am giving my membership to my son, Ben.

Body Pump

I went to body pump this morning at 24 Hour Fitness Northgate. Shannon was the instructor. She's great! She's been off for awhile having a baby. I haven't had her before so she's new to me. She's nice, high energy, enthusiastic, fun, and great at getting everyone in the room to reach higher. I'm going to enjoy taking her classes. She should teach more classes. As I look at the schedule, I see there is only 1 body pump class on Saturday, none on Friday and Sunday, and only 1 on Wednesday so there is lots of room for more classes in the schedule and more instructors. If I could decide, I would take over the floor above and build large classrooms. I would run at least three classrooms with classes from morning to night, one right after another. There would be several body pump classes every day, every two hours, and several zumba classes a day, every two hours. There should be Zumba Gold classes, aqua Zumba, and Zumba Sculpt. Zumba and Body Pump classes are bringing people in to 24 Hour Fitness. There should be more and the rooms should be much bigger. It is so crowded in body pump that people have to set up in every corner of the room, even next to the equipment. While we are at it, let's build a large olympic size pool with a large deep end. 24 Hour Fitness is a proud sponsor of the Olympics so we need a huge pool too for hydrofit and deep water running. As we dream on, let's add racketball, tennis, handball. Let's also add another basketball court, only use it for indoor roller skating. Then I will go to skates.com and buy my quad skates with purple wheels! Oh, the fun we could have..............There should also be Tai Chi and an hour long standing abs class. Years ago, I think 1999 or 1998 when I was a member of 24 Hour Fitness in Salem, Oregon, there was a great standing abs class. It was great and everyone loved it. I think there should be a standing abs class in every gym. Not everyone likes to get on the floor and twist all up and not everything thinks it's fun to do sit ups. There would a lot of people that would vote for standing abs for an hour class, at least 30 minutes.

The Planetary Report

I received the Planetary Report yesterday from the Planetary Society. One of the best parts about the Planetary Society is that Bill Nye, the Science Guy, is the CEO. He's the best science educator around. On page 5, he talks about the Mars landing coming up soon and Planetfest 2012 in Pasadena. He mentions the death of Ray Bradbury, one of the best SF writers and members. In the center of this issue is a great section for kids with instructions on building a MarsDial. The Atlantic Crossing Total Eclipse 2013 voyage sounds fabulous which follows the historic path of Columbus across the Atlantic. On pages 12 Deimos and Phobos, moons of Mars are discussed with a "did you know that..." series of facts like "deimos seems to be covered in dust," and "Phobos is slowly moving towards Mars and probably will crash into it in about 10 million years." For reports on the expedition to the end of the earth to observe the aurora borealis and more, subscribe today and become a member of the Planetary Society founded by Carl Sagan. The Planetary Society, 85 South Grand Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105-1602. USA. 626-793-5100. www.planetary.org. e-mail: tps@planetary.org

Phos in Northgate Seattle

I love eating at Phos and when I eat out in my neighborhood, I usually go to Phos. Phos is healthy Vietnamese cuisine. It is located right in back of 24 Hour Fitness in Northgate. The food is fresh, healthy, and makes me feel like I have made a great choice when I eat there. I usually order #16 or #19. I need to branch out and try other items on the menu. The price is reasonable for all the healthy food. I enjoy the green tea at my meal. I could eat there every day. I usually eat there at least twice a month.

Woodland Park Zoo

I am a member of the Woodland Park Zoo. I paid for my membership on Easter Sunday when I went to the Easter Egg hunt with my family to see my granddaughters have fun. I love visiting the zoo and need to visit more often. When my husband I have traveled to different parts of the country and the world, we always visited the zoo. I visited the zoos in London, Beijing, and Chicago. Zoos protect animals where habitats are threatened and are the front line in helping protect them. It is a great gift to be able to see exotic and rare animals in a zoo up close to observe and marvel. A yearly membership is important to me and is one way I have of helping animals around the world who are threatened. It's important to support the zoo. A couple of months ago, I visited the zoo in Columbus, Ohio when I went to visit my youngest son, Daniel. My favorite animals in the zoo are the large cats, especially the Siberian tigers. All these gorgeous animals need to be protected around the world.

Ban on plastic bags in Seattle

I hear constant grumbling about the plastic bag ban here in Seattle and that it is too much to expect customers to bring bags or pay the 5 cents to pay for a paper bag that can be recycled. It isn't too much to pay 5 cents. Businesses could easily pad prices and not say a thing about this cost. I appreciate and admire the leadership in Seattle of leading the way to stop the use of plastic bags and hope it extends to the rest of the world. The plastics industry pollute our water, air, and environment and all you have to do is watch a video of a bird choking on a plastic bag to understand why this is needed.

Seattle Art Museum

I have a membership to the Seattle Art Museum and I visit often, about twice a month. The art inspires me, fills my soul, makes me happy. I visited yesterday. Right now there is the Australian Aboriginal Art collection on exhibit. I find it fascinating and inspiring. It makes me want to paint using these techniques of the dots, lines, and curves to paint the solar system, star systems, and galaxies. I can hardly wait for the Rembrandt and Van Dyck exhibit coming in February of 2013.

Phos

I really like eating at Phos. The last two times I have had lunch with my son, Ben, we went to Phos. The Vietnamese cuisine is inexpensive, healthy and fresh food that I enjoy. The address is 1414 2nd AVenue in downtown Seattle, close to the Seattle Art Museum building. It's a great place to eat.

Starbucks

I love Starbucks. I used to love riding on the train coming into Seattle to visit my son and see the Starbucks building. I believe in the mission statement of Starbucks and I admire the CEO. I recently bought another Starbucks card. Since I was going downtown today to have lunch with my son, I decided to register it. I met my son in the Starbucks in the lobby of Russell Investments. It's a beautiful building and a nice Starbucks. I sat outside. I ordered a brewed coffee and a small cup of ice. I was offered a sample of one of the new natural energy drinks made with green coffee extract and real fruit. I picked a lime refresher and it was delicious and refreshing. I know that I will enjoy this great low calorie choice this summer. Thank you, Starbucks. You're great!

Zumba with Neil

I just came back from taking a second Zumba class today at 24 Hour Fitness. I couldn't stay for the whole hour but sweat was pouring off my face and dropping on the floor so I had a great workout in 40 minutes. I am glad Neil is back. I've been told he is an international flight attendant. Wow, what fun! I bet he has Zumba gigs all over the world where he stops at large resorts. That's the way to live. He's very charismatic and great at Zumba. I hope he teaches often.

Zumba with Marco

I just came back from an hour of Zumba at 24 Hour Fitness Northgate. Marco Antonio Contreras is the instructor on Wednesday. I admire Marco. I admire him as a gifted dancer and as a person. He brings people together and shares his love of dance. I'm grateful to be in his class to learn from him. Zumba is pure fun. Marco is the BEST Zumba instructor I have ever seen. His dance and choreography is flawless and fluid. He blends Zumba moves with his own original choreography and it's great. A couple of months ago, I purchased the new set of Zumba DVD's and I watched a couple. Marco's choreography is better. I will be first in line to buy one of his.

Les Mills Body Pump

I went to Body Pump at 5:30 p.m. at 24 Hour Fitness. I really enjoy this class. I know it is making a difference. This is a class using a barbell with different weights doing squats, lunges, and lifts. Usually I go to the classes in the morning but today, I tried this one and I'm glad I did. The instructor was someone I hadn't had before and he was great. His name is Elbert. I don't see him on the schedule anymore this week for Body Pump. I hope he teaches more classes. If I were to bet, I would say he's a fraternity guy and has been in the Greek system at a university from the way he was talking. He obviously has lots of friends and is great around people. My youngest son was President of Sigma Pi and he's also great around people. I made it through 55 minutes of class. We started 5 minutes late and worked out until the next class came through the door. In looking at the schedule, I don't see any Body Pump classes at all on Fridays and Sundays or Wednesday mornings so there is plenty of room on the schedule for more instructors and more classes. I hope to take more classes by Elbert because he's great! High energy, enthusiastic, and fun.

Seattle Bridge Club

When I first moved to Seattle, I created a notebook. I searched for things that I wanted to find here. One of the things I wanted to find was bridge. I've never played bridge or been around it but I knew it would be fun. One day when I was shopping at the Dollar Tree on 15th, north of Northgate by QFC, I saw the Seattle Bridge Club with plenty of small tables and chairs. It looked like a great place to me and I wanted to find out all about it so I called up and asked. On Monday nights, Nick Tipton teaches beginning bridge lessons starting at 7 p.m. He's a great teacher, brilliant, and a nice person. I'm finding out that bridge has so many layers and takes effort to learn. In order to "get it" I need to read about it, spend time playing, and take lessons. Those who are great at bridge participate in tournaments around the country and the world. Sounds great to me and a lot of intellectual, challenging fun. I don't have a beginning group to play with. I haven't been diligent about reading about bridge. I find that in order to start playing, you have to have a certain level of knowledge and need to be accountable to everyone at the table, especially your partner. The people in the class all seem very nice, potential friends. I'm not giving up. I must try harder to learn and spend more time reading about it. I hope that I find a group to play with every week. I wanted my son, Ben, to be my partner because he's a card counter and so smart but he turned me down. He doesn't have time. Maybe eventually, I'll be playing and confident in my skills to play.

Suits

I've discovered a new show on television--Suits on the USA Network. It's my new favorite show. It's an amazing new series set in Manhattan in a large law firm starring Gabriel Macht and Patrick J. Adams. My favorite character is a young attorney named Mike. He's brilliant with a conscience.

Writers Digest Tutorials

I've been having fun watching Writers Digest Tutorials. It's one of the best investments I have made. Since June 23rd, I've watched 14 of them. Most of them last over an hour. I've been able to spend 1 hour and 24 minutes with Cheryl Klein, the executive editor of Arthur Levine Books who worked with J.K. Rowling and edited the Harry Potter series. How amazing is that! Her tutorial is HOW TO PLOT AND STRUCTURE YOUR NOVEL. I've watched it twice. Last night I watched Scott Eagan an agent that represents Greyhaus Literary Agency here in Washington. He sounds like a great agent to have. His tutorial is HOW TO TARGET AGENTS AND EDITORS--MARKET YOUR NOVEL TO THE RIGHT PEOPLE. I love watching writing craft tutorials and am grateful for this opportunity.

Marco Antonio Contreras Zumba Instructor

I just got back from the 24 Hour Fitness Super Sport Club in Northgate Seattle. I walked a whole block to get home. I took a Zumba class by Marco Antonio Contreras, the Zumba instructor. He's a gifted dancer with star quality. He is so good. No other instructor even comes close. I can see him having his own CD's, being on television, and in the movies. I can see him being a permanent choreographer on So You Think He Can Dance. He's absolutely amazing. His talent is rare. He's also kind and good inside. He's the total package. I've only taken his classes three times but it only took one class to see who he was. He's great at cueing to let everyone know what comes next and his dance is flawless. He lives dance. Marco is Zumba. I keep requesting more classes by Marco to the manager of 24 Hour Fitness. I am requesting that he teach every single day, two or three classes a day, seven days a week. A 24 Hour Super Sport Club needs the best instructors and Marco is the BEST! There are days when there isn't a Zumba class during the day. There should be at least two Zumba classes during the day and one in the evening, seven days a week. Zumba is popular and every class is packed with people having fun.

Health Care

I am one of the millions without health care. I'm working on prevention. I'm trying to eat healthy and exercise every day. I look for the good in every day and if things don't turn out as I had hoped, I turn it into something good. I'm great at finding fun at a bargain. Reading a great book is one of the best ways. We're taught in this country to not complain or whine about what we don't have. Keep smiling no matter what.........

Heaven

Heaven is Seattle. Heaven is Zumba. Heaven is a membership to the Seattle Art Museum, Pacific Science Center and Woodland Park Zoo. Heaven is walking around Green Lake and going to Dukes or Spud for fish and chips. Heaven is looking at the art of Dale Chahuly. Heaven is playing mah jongg. Heaven is ballroom dancing. Heaven is going to the Seattle Symphony. Heaven is living one block from 24 Hour Fitness and close to the Northgate Mall. Heaven is going to the Seattle Public Library and reading stacks of books. Heaven is talking to my children. They're the best people I know. Heaven is spending time with my grandchildren. I hope there are friends in this new heaven. I hope there is extra money in this heaven to be a member of the Aquarium and to buy season tickets to Seattle Symphony, Northwest Ballet, Broadway plays and live theater. I hope there is a cruise once a year in this heaven and what I write turns into big checks in the mail. I LOVE Seattle and I'm grateful to be here. I look forward to my future.

National Dance Day

Saturday, July 28 is the 3rd annual National Dance Day. There are going to be two routines. Routine 1 is Hip Hop and Routine 2 is Zumba. You can find out all about it at www.fox.com/dance or www.dizzyfeetfoundation.org

So You Think You Can Dance

What fun! SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE is here again to enjoy. It is a show that celebrates talent, hard work, and the spirit of dance. I watch the show slowly. Watch a little bit, savor it, watch a little more. Christopher Scott, choreographer did a spectacular job on the baseball routine for three male dancers. It brought the entire audience to their feet and did such an amazing job of showcasing the special talent of all three dancers. I love this show. I love to see young people win.

Nora Ephron

I'm very sad that Nora Ephron passed away. It is a tremendous loss. I admire everything that she was as a writer, screenwriter, and playwright. She was a strong woman who stood up for women and understood that women do not have the same rights as others. On page A2 of the June 27, 2012 issue of the Seattle Times, Nora Ephron is quoted as saying of women, "We are definitely the best-dressed oppressed group. Nora Ephron wrote the screenplays, SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE, WHEN HARRY MET SALLY and so many more. I loved what she wrote, like I have always loved Neil Simon. It is hard when someone dies who should have lived 30 more years so that the world would still be able to enjoy all she loved to create.

Ben Haber

I opened the Seattle Times and I found the coverage of the Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon. On page C9, I looked down the list of runners and found my son's name, Ben Haber, as coming in 17th place in the men's section with a time of 2:55:18. Wow! I'm so proud. I knew yesterday. I was babysitting his two cute, smart, precious little girls, my granddaughters while he was running. I wanted to be on the sidelines yelling for Ben because he is amazing. He hasn't had time to train and he was injured too. He came in with an amazing time anyway! What could he do, if he ran and trained the way he should be? I sent him a text that said I would be cheering every mile in my heart and I was during the race. It was great because he arranged to have the stats sent to my cell phone during the race. It was exciting. Ben started the track club at Northwestern University when he attended. He got a degree in biomedical engineering at Northwestern. He came in first place in the Kilauea Volcano Run, a grueling marathon running on lava in Hawaii in July of 1999. His time was 3:11:53. He has been sponsored by Brooks. In the 2000 Chicago Marathon, Ben came in with a time of 2 hours, 36 minutes. In the 2001 Boston Marathon Ben came in with a time of 2:35:53. Ben is the best and he deserves the best. He deserves to be surrounded by people who are supportive, encouraging, and want to see him win. Ben has always been the best at everything. He has always worked hard and is amazing. Yes, I am very proud of him and always will be.

Mighty O Donuts

I had a Mighty O Donut today and it was delicious. Homemade right there in Green Lake. It was perfect. I had a coconut one. I love Green Lake. In a perfect world, I would have the money to buy a house near my son so I could walk to Tangle Town, Mighty O Donuts, Diggity Dog, Spud, Dukes, the zoo, walk to Wallingford, and walk around Green Lake every day. Oh the fun..............

Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon

I'm so excited. My son, Ben sent me a text that signs me up so I can track him on my cell phone while he is running the Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon. This is going to be fun because I can feel like I am part of it all. I'm so proud of him. He's always been a great and amazing runner. He started the track club at Northwestern University when he attended. He got a degree in biomedical engineering at Northwestern, the BEST, the FINEST. The Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon is tomorrow. I wish I was running too but I'm not ready. Maybe someday. My son, Benjamin Haber has always been my hero. He's brilliant and great at everything. I've always called him my Golden Boy. Now he is a man and all grown up with two beautiful, smart little girls of his own. Ben is an amazing runner. He came in first place in the Kilauea Volcano Run, a grueling marathon in Hawaii in July of 1999. His time was 3:11:53. He has been sponsored by Brooks. In the 2000 Chicago Marathon, Ben came in with a time of 2 hours, 36 minutes. In the 2001 Boston Marathon Ben came in with a time of 2:35:53. Ben is amazing and I'm always proud of him. If you are out there cheering for people at the Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon, please cheer and yell for my Ben. He's amazing. He has worked hard for everything he has ever gotten and he deserves the BEST. Ben works at Dendreon, a biotech in downtown Seattle in the Seattle Art Museum building so I have fun going downtown on the bus, having lunch with Ben, and then going to the Seattle Art Museum. Please cheer for Ben. Ben is great at everything and I'm so proud of him. Ben ran the Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon in 2 hours and 55 minutes. Great time for someone who doesn't have time to train and is so busy. If he had time to train consistently, I wonder what his time would be?.............

Body Pump

I took a weights class at 24 Hour Fitness this morning in Northgate Seattle. The class is called Body Pump. It's a 60 minute weights class using a barbell as you do squats, lunges and lifts. There are supposed to be 800 repetitions in each class so you are really getting a workout. This morning at 9:30 a.m. Wanda was the instructor. She's great. She's high energy and her enthusiasm is infectious. She's nice to everyone. She's a great instructor, great at cueing, and great at making it fun. Now I love ACDC because of her. The music is blaring and she wears a microphone to tell you what to do. It is so much fun to just get lost in the repetitive motion and music. This class is good for me. It will help me to sculpt and tone my body as I lose weight. It's perfect and Wanda is my favorite instructor for Body Pump. The room is packed with strong women who are fit and take care of themselves.

Zumba

I just got back from zumba at 24 Hour Fitness in Northgate in Seattle. I had so much fun and did the entire 60 minutes. Marco is the instructor on Wednesdays now. He's the BEST instructor that I have ever had because he is a great dancer, great at cueing, great as an instructor, and great with people. I want to lose weight with zumba. Not all zumba instructors are created equal. Marco is amazing because he makes it pure fun and he is easy to follow. With zumba you get lose in the movement and the music. I'm not great at it but I do the best I can and I have a great time. It would be perfect if Marco would teach at 24 Hour Super Sport Fitness Club at Northgate every day or he needs to start selling DVD's but a class is better. All I want to do is zumba if there is a great teacher like Marco..........Zumba is pure fun!

Seattle

I had so much fun on Friday. I rode on the #16 bus downtown and met my son, Ben for lunch. Then I went to the Seattle Symphony to hear Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No. 3. It was glorious. I was in the presence of perfection. After the symphony, I walked to the Seattle Art Museum since I have a membership. I wanted to see the new Australian Aboriginal Art collection. I saw a few pieces the last time I went and it inspires me to want to paint the galaxy using these techniques. After having fun at the Seattle Art Museum, I went to Ben's house [my son] for dinner and then home. A perfect day........

Sid the Science Kid

I love Sid the Science Kid on PBS. It's sponsored by Boeing. It's the greatest kid show. This picture is of my granddaughter, Anna with Sid the Science Kid that was taken at the Pacific Science Center in Seattle.

Columbia Tower Race

My son, Benjamin Haber completed the Columbia Tower Race and came in 4th place. This yearly event is sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to raise money. Ben was on Team Dendreon. It is a 69 story climb up the Columbia Tower. Ben ran up the 69 flights of stairs in 8 minutes, 18 seconds. www.bigclimb.org

Tough Mudder

My son, Daniel Haber finished Tough Mudder on Saturday. It's a 12 hour grueling experience that is an extreme endurance challenge. You can see the video all about Tough Mudder at www.toughmudder.com. He didn't train and says that if he does it again, he will. One of his Sigma Pi fraternity brothers who moved to Ohio asked him to sign up. You have to be tough and fit to finish this challenge.

Arthur Murray School of Dance

My life has completely changed from last week to this week because of Arthur Murray School of Dance. I'm living my dream. I can't get over how much fun my first dance lesson was tonight. Let me take you back to two days ago when I discovered Arthur Murray School of Dance across from Office Depot on Aurora, not too far from where I live in Northgate in Seattle. When I saw it, I thought it would be so much fun to take lessons so I drove across the street to investigate. I signed up for two private lessons for $59. I had a lesson with Zach who is a great teacher and nice. We did the tango, the waltz, and something else like the waltz. I've been wanting to take ballroom dancing my whole life and now I finally get to do it. My husband didn't ever want to dance so I have only danced in my heart. I also love watching So You Think You Can Dance and once in awhile Dancing With the Stars. I can't get over how much fun I had this evening. It's fun to dress up, meet new people, dance to music, and just have a great time. The group lesson was learning how to do the Bachata. I have never heard of that before but Zach did a great job of teaching and getting everyone to learn it, even me. I sure hope I get to continue taking lessons. I had such a wonderful time. It was pure fun.

Rahm Emanuel

I look forward to casting my vote for Rahm Emanuel for President of the United States in a few years. I've been watching his career with interest and enjoyed reading the feature article, "In Your Face," in the Summer issue of Northwestern. If you want to read the complete article, go to www.northwestern.edu/magazine

Weight Watchers

I have been going to Weight Watchers for 16 weeks straight here in Seattle. Last week, I lost 4 pounds for the week. I have been concentrating on exercising and eating healthy and it is working out for me. I'm not giving up. I'm going to continue to work hard. What is helping me? Zumba and Body Pump, a weight class at 24 Hour Fitness!

Zumba

I have been having so much fun taking Zumba classes at 24 Hour Fitness in Northgate. When I wake up in the morning, I think about Zumba and it makes me smile. Zumba is pure fun. It is movement, music, and dance. I enjoy all the instructors but my favorite is Marco. He is great at cueing, a great instructor, his movements are fluid, and he is an amazing dancer. I also really like Niel as an instructor.

May 27th

This photo was taken on May 27th, 2012. In the back from left to right are Benjamin Haber, my son, holding my granddaughter Ella. I'm in the middle, and on the right is my daughter, Gretchen Bennett. Seated on the couch is Amanda, Ben's wife holding my granddaughter Anna. In the middle is Elizabeth, my granddaughter and Gretchen's daughter. Next to Elizabeth is Jack, my grandson. On the end is Christopher, Gretchen's husband. In the morning, Gretchen and I went over to Starbucks on Northgate Way and then went to the Zumba class at 24 Hour Fitness in Northgate. Gretchen is my oldest. She's the Executive Director of Liberty House in Salem, Oregon. We spent the afternoon at the Woodland Park Zoo. I really enjoyed the raptor presentation. Ben did Ski to Sea yesterday. Ben works at Dendreon in downtown Seattle, which is in the Seattle Art Museum building.

Modern Family

My favorites on the show Modern Family are Manny and Lily.

I wish.................

I wish everyone in the world was valued, wanted, needed, and loved. I wish everyone had a circle of friends and family who show support, encouragement, and help when needed. I wish everyone had unlimited opportunities to develop their potential so they can grow and soar. I wish everyone was surrounded by kindness, laughter, fun, happiness, and joy. And I wish this for myself................ I wish all animals on earth, birds in the air, and fish in the ocean were protected. I wish no one was allowed to pour chemicals into water on earth. I wish no person had to worry about violence, abuse, or racism. I wish everyone felt safe, had enough food, and adequate shelter. I wish everyone was educated to their ability and everyone could go to university without financial burden. I wish everyone had health care. I wish women, all women in the world, were respected. I wish all children were safe, happy, loved, and protected.

Seattle

I love Seattle. Everything is here. I feel so blessed to live here. I'm now a member of the Woodland Park Zoo, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Seattle Science Center so I can go on the bus and visit whenever I want. I also want to become a member of the Aquarium. What else is in Seattle that I love?...the symphony, Broadway plays, and much more. I love going to the gym at 24 Hour Fitness. I found deep water running and hydrofit at the Helen Madison pool. Last week I played mah jongg, which was super fun. I got mah jongg twice. Seattle is an international city where people from all over the world come to live and work. Everyone gets along and lives side by side. I looked up the demographics of Northgate before I moved here--1/3 new immigrants from other countries, 1/3 young urban professionals, and 1/3 humble class.

24 Hour Fitness

I'm a member of 24 Hour Fitness here in Northgate. I've been trying to go once a day. What I love at 24 Hour Fitness is Zumba, Body Pump, and the elliptical. Body Pump is helping me build muscle and lose weight. You use a bar with weights as you do squats, lunges, and lifts. The music makes it fun to do the repetitive motions. I've been told it is 800 repetitions per class.

Zumba

This morning I finished the full 60 minutes of Zumba at 24 Hour Fitness here in Northgate. I love Zumba. It's pure fun. I love the music. I love the movement. This is only the second time that I have been able to finish the full 60 minutes. Christina was the instructor today. She's so much fun and makes it fun for everyone in the room. All the Zumba instructors are fun, energetic, smiling, and nice. It would be so much fun to be a Zumba instructor.

My Family

I was looking through some old family photos and came across this one that made me very happy. We're all sitting on the couch. I'm sitting on the far left holding Daniel. Ben is next to Gretchen. Then comes Aaron and Joe who is being held by Leslie. Les passed away over 9 months ago. We were married over 39 years.

My Job

My job at the Seattle Times telemarketing center didn't work out. I wasn't able to make the required quota of daily/Sunday subscriptions each week. I needed 16 every week in order to stay. I was told last week that if I didn't make the quota, Friday was my last day. It was a great job, great hours, health care benefits, and close to my home. I wanted it to work out so I felt sad to leave.

Everyone with whom I worked was different from one another so it was interesting. Each call was a challenge. I believe in print media. I believe in newspapers. I love the Seattle Times and I'm a subscriber. I believe in newspapers with the same irrational love that I have for trains. It's in my blood. So I don't understand anyone who doesn't share the same feelings. A newspaper, a great one like the Seattle Times that has won 8 Pulitzer prizes, is a blessing to any community with the highest standard of journalism, reporting, and commentary. It is the pulse of the area. It gives you important information that everyone needs to know. I consider it essential.

The best part of working for the Seattle Times was the birthday card I received from Michael Shepard, senior vice president, business operations. It was an honor to briefly work for the Seattle Times.

THE WORST HARD TIME

I'm part of a bookclub at the library. The last selection was THE WORST HARD TIME by a Seattle author, Timothy Egan. This is an important book and won the National Book Award. It tells of the drama of the American dust bowl and how it was caused by greedy people wanting to make money by using the land inappropriately. The native grasslands of the region of the area where Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico intersect weren't meant for large scale farming. After the top soil was disturbed by farming, the winds and drought took over to destroy this region. The heartbreaking misery caused is well documented within the pages of this book.

After reading this book, I wonder what other things are being done in the name of greed and money that will destroy the land? drilling for oil, nuclear power, natural gas and oil pipeline, chemicals spewed into the air and water, etc.

My Birthday

I turned 64 on February 25th. What I wanted to do was go roller skating. I haven't been on roller skates since the early 1980's in California when I skated with my kids outside. I used to be serious about roller skating in junior high in Salem, Oregon but that was a very long time ago.

I didn't think I was going to be able to stand up because I was even having trouble standing on the carpet at first. After about an hour, I was skating around almost as fast as my son, and Amanda, his wife.

It was a wonderful day. We went to the Rusty Pelican in Wallingford for breakfast and I ordered my favorite, Garden Skillet. Then we went for a cupcake at Trophy Cupcakes and I had the chocolate cupcake with white butter cream frosting, my favorite.

I wish there were more roller skating rinks around. Roller skating is pure fun.

Jodi Picoult

Jodi Picoult came to the Seattle Public Library to a packed auditorium of fans who love all her books. Jodi shared with the crowd some of her research that went into LONE WOLF, which was fascinating. I’m in awe. It was an honor to meet her and to walk away with signed copies of her books. I was in the presence of greatness and everything that a writer should be. She’s articulate, clever, generous, brilliant, funny, does original research for each book, and writes about serious issues with courage.

Her newest book, BETWEEN THE LINES, that comes out in June, was written with her daughter. It sounds like it will be a big hit, not only with the young adult crowd but with all of the Jodi Picoult fans. I wouldn’t be surprised if it starts out on the top 10 bestseller list after hearing a little preview.

I am wondering if she knows Stephen King who says on her book jacket, “Picoult writes with unassuming brilliance,” and if she plays with the Rock Bottom Remainders since she is musical—SING YOU HOME.

I stood in line with two young high school students who have read every Jodi Picoult book and cry at the endings. They brought her a card.

You can see a podcast of Jodi Picoult at the library website. www.spl.org

Life in Seattle

Sometimes when I wake up in the morning, I want to sing out because I am so happy. I am close to everything.

On Monday I went to 24 Hour Fitness to use the elliptical for 60 minutes, then I used my exercise bike for 60 minutes, and I walked back and forth to work for 50 minutes. Pretty good. Yesterday I used the elliptical for 60 minutes, did 30 minutes on the exercise bike, and walked back and forth to work. I am trying to establish this as a routine to build endurance. I must add weight training, walking around Green Lake, and hydrofit in the pool. I want to start roller skating again. I'm looking at these great quad roller skates online that are around $350. First, I need to see if I can still stand up and go to a roller skating rink. I haven't skated in years. Guess I will have to pad up.

I have a telemarketing job with the Seattle Times. It's part-time. I really like it. Every call is a challenge. It is like all the cold calls I have made as a volunteer for political candidates for years, only with these cold calls, I get paid. Pretty good.

Shen Yun

Last night I went to Shen Yun with my son and daughter in law. Shen Yun is the story of China shown through the performing arts. The synchronized dance was enchanting and mesmerizing and I was in awe of the athletic display of the dancers who made it appear effortless. I loved the playful moments with the orchestra.

I didn't know that gymnastics originated from classical Chinese dance, nor did I know about Falun Dafa, the Chinese faith that believes in truth, tolerance, and compassion.

I also learned about an amazing preschool in Redmond for children ages 2 through 6 with a curriculum of "geography, culture, science, math, language, phonic, practical life, sensorial, music, dance, art, spelling, reading, botany, zoology, and Chinese." Now that is a preschool worthy of my granddaughter, Anna. I'm impressed. Scribbles Montessori at 22506 NE 102nd Place in Redmond. 425-868-0530.

Moments of Shen Yun brought me back to my visit to China in the early 90's with my husband. Les wanted to walk on the Great Wall, so we did and toured several cities.

This is why I moved to Seattle--to go to events like this. I moved to be in the midst of civilization to see the ballet, enjoy the symphony, visit the art museum, science museum, and the zoo. I came to see Broadway plays and live theater.

Seeing Shen Yun made me happy inside and it will stay with me for a long time. The arts fill your soul and nourish your spirit. It is essential and life giving.

Shen Yun Preforming Arts
McCaw Hall at Seattle Center
February 7-8, 2012

Apartment Fires

When I got up this morning, I turned on the news and learned there was an apartment fire this morning in Queen Anne in Seattle. The people who were stranded out in the cold were helped by Seattle Metro. A bus drove up and parked giving warm shelter to those who were waiting in the cold until they could go back to their apartment.

I was thinking that there should be rope ladders you could buy at Home Depot and other hardware stores so that people who live in an apartment building have an escape exit ready. Anyone living in a 3rd or 4th floor apartment could have a rope ladder that they could hang out their window or attach to their balcony for a safe exit in case of fire. This would reduce danger and reduce the risk of firemen who enter burning buildings to save someone in a 3rd or 4th floor who are trapped. I wonder if rope ladders are sold at Home Depot? I guess I will have to call and find out.

If rope ladders aren't sold for this purpose, then fire departments all over the United States could have them made and sell them for a fund raiser. I would buy one. I believe it would save lives.

I'll just bet that anyone trapped in an apartment in a fire and had to be rescued or who jumped, would say they wished they had a rope ladder at that moment.

Eucalyptus Oil

I learned this last week that when you have a cold, it is important to use eucalyptus oil. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties and it is an expectorant. Inflammation is the start of all disease so to prevent inflammation is important.

You wet a wash cloth, put one or two drops of eucalyptus oil on it, warm it in the microwave for a few seconds and breathe it in. Do this once a day to prevent a cold from developing into pneumonia or bronchitis. You find it at a health food store. I need to buy some and start doing this. I think this is a great idea. It could prevent the use of antibiotics.

Garlic is a natural antibiotic so eat plenty of garlic when you are sick and to prevent becoming sick.

Happiness

You can make the choice to be happy every day and look for the good around you. It's important to appreciate all that you have. It's important to smile, be positive, and to listen.

Dukes

Now I have a favorite new restaurant for fish and chips. It is Dukes. It was delicious. The batter was light and crispy, not heavy and soggy. The fish was in large chunks. It was cooked perfectly. The fries were even perfect. It was the best cold slaw I have ever eaten. The chowder was the best I have ever eaten too. Even the waitress was amazing. I was surprised at how great everything was because my experience at Dukes raised the bar for several areas in restaurants for me--the best fish and chips, the best cold slaw, the best waitress, the best chowder.

The waitress commented that she had tasted everything on the menu. This tells me that she cares about being the best waitress she can be. She was professional, efficient, courteous, and gave great and excellent service. She was great with my granddaughter and family.

Now when I think of fish and chips, I think of Dukes.

Seattle

I moved to Seattle and I love it here. I live close to everything. I live within walking distance to a large mall, grocery store, gym, library, restaurants, bookstore, and almost anything I could want. What could be better than this?

I hardly have to drive my car anymore. I could walk to everything or catch a bus and not even use my car at all. I'm very blessed and I'm so happy that I made the decision to move.

3.67 Acres for Sale in Alsea

I have 3.67 acres for sale that is two miles from the main street in Alsea. It's a beautiful property directly across the street from a million dollar view of a wetland, mountains, and farmland. There is a timber exemption so you can market and grow timber for a cash crop. There's about one acre that can be put into garden with nine large raised beds, fruit trees, etc.

Benton County says the land is worth more than what I owe for the property. I'm not asking for the moon. I just want to be cashed out of what I owe for the mortgage so I won't have bad credit.

There are problems with the house. It's a two bedroom with 1 1/2 bath. When I made the decision to move from Alsea, I contacted several realtors in Alsea and Corvallis. Then I had an inspection done which revealed that a major pipe was broken under the house spilling sewage. I spent $3500 to clean it up plus I pumped the septic tank. I have a portapotty outside since the plumbing is still not connected. I've spent a lot of money on projects, getting the deck taken away, mowing, etc.

Since I don't want to stay in Alsea, I need to sell. It's discouraging when I have had recommendations from four mortgage and loan officers, one real estate attorney and several realtors to just walk away. I don't want to have bad credit. The land is worth what I owe on the mortgage.

It would be fabulous to put a home on the hill overlooking the million dollar unobstructed view of the wetland. The last family who lived here was Anthony Vella who was a professor at Oregon State University. He thought it was just fine to drive back and forth to Corvallis. Is there someone out there who wants a bargain piece of property, loves to live out in the country, wants to garden, enjoys fixing things, and wants to enjoy the beauty?.....................

Seattle

I'm moving to Seattle. I have nothing keeping me in Alsea since I don't have close friends or a support system. I'm moving to opportunities to go to the symphony, Broadway plays, the Art Museum, the science center, and more activities, like a book club. I will be able to walk to the gym, instead of driving almost an hour to get there and then an hour back home again.

This photo was taken in March of 1993.
Les passed away six months ago so I'm going through photos,
a history of 39 years of marriage, and accumulation of stuff.

For the last five years, Les was very ill going from specialist at two hospitals in Oregon trying to find out what was wrong. Blood tests were taken several times a year but it wasn't discovered until October of 2010 that he had 4th stage esophageal cancer which blocked his stomach. He needed a feeding tube. Then the trips to OHSU for chemo started every two weeks. It was hard. He was in pain and it was difficult to go through without friends or a support system surrounding us. A week before he passed away, he was released from Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis after spending several days. I miss talking to Les.

Trader Joes

I love shopping at Trader Joe's. I could live close to Trader Joe's and never grocery shop anywhere else. They care about healthy food, and freshness. I can count on finding food without preservatives, chemicals, and nitrates. I went to Trader Joe's in Corvallis on Friday and bought seaweed roasted snacks, pomegranate seeds, and a bunch of other stuff.

My favorite cold cereal is Trader Joe's Organic Golden Flax Cereal with 1,000 mg of Omega 3 fatty acids, 5 whole grains, 6 grams of dietary fiber per serving. It's really good and it doesn't get soggy in milk.

Scott Gerweck

I was in the presence of genius today. I went to the Willamette Valley Symphony in Corvallis, Oregon at the Ashbrook Independent School Theatre. I heard Scott Gerweck's symphony, "At the Mountains of Madness," which was inspired by a novella written by Howard Lovecraft about a scientific expedition to the Antarctic. The complexity, the color, tone, and textures of the blending of so many different instruments was impressive. I have no doubt he will be writing scores for movies soon. I was in awe and in my heart was standing on my tippy-toes shouting bravo.

I did not realize until I heard Scott Gerweck speak before the symphony started that writing a symphony is similiar to writing a novel in that you search to find the right words, the blending of plots, bringing the characters alive with dialogue, and on and on.

It's a real treat to go to the Willamette Valley Symphony. I went last time too. Next time will be the music of Franz Schubert, Franz Josef Haydn, and Beethoven's Symphony Number 7 on Sunday, March 18, 2012 at 4 p.m. at Ashbrook Independent School in Corvallis. www.willamettevalleysymphony.org

Dendreon

I had the opportunity to attend a kick ball event at Green Lake in Seattle hosted by Dendreon on Saturday, July 9th. I had a great time. My son, Benjamin Haber, invited me and I felt honored to come. I have never seen so many smart people in one place in my life. It's obvious that everyone started out as a gifted child who was great at everything, just like Ben.

Ben played on the Buttercup team. There were four teams and everyone worked at Dendreon. I liked everyone I met. They know how to have fun, joke around, and they are so nice to each other.

I want to move to Seattle. Everything is better in Seattle.

Operating Room Masks

The other day when I went to visit my husband at the hospital in Corvallis, Oregon the nurse handed me a mask to wear since I still had cold symptoms. I understand this and it is important not to spread germs. However, it is hard to wear these masks.

You are breathing in your own exhaust or carbon dioxide. This can't be good. It's not comfortable. Over a period of time, I wonder if this is healthy. Then I started to wonder about doctors who wear masks in the operating room who breathe in their own exhaust. I wonder if it hampers their judgement and efficiency over time to breathe in carbon dioxide.

When you are spraying chemicals in the garden in the backyard, some people forget to wear masks. My husband hasn't worn a mask to protect himself most of the time in the last 10 years here in Alsea spraying for blackberries and poison oak. This can't be healthy. Now I seriously wonder if this is the cause of his esophageal cancer.

There needs to be a oxygen exchange system created that covers the mouth that releases the carbon dioxide but allows you to breathe fresh oxygen.

Medical Charts

I have made medical charts for years to keep track of the medication that my husband is prescribed. I don't know how anyone would keep track of it without a chart. I use Microsoft Publisher.

In an ideal world, when a doctor prescribes medication, and the patient picks it up at the pharmacy, the patient would be handed a chart to keep track of it all.

I put all medications down on the chart and I write down everything that needs to be done in the day for his care. I put down the times the medications are given. I check off when things are done.

New Blog

I started a new blog. http://sharinginnovations.blogspot.com.
Now I get the message bX-ixy 9ss that says I can't access it.
When I tried to look at my new blog it says on blogger that it doesn't
exist. I tried to call Google but they don't have live support.

Survivor

I love watching Survivor. I wait for each episode with anticipation of what will happen next and I get all emotionally involved with what happens. I have always wished that I could be on the show. I even tried out once in Eugene for an audition but didn't make it.

Who do I like best on Survivor, Redemption Island? Boston Rob! I hope he wins.

President Barack Obama

I am in awe of, and so impressed with President Barack Obama. His intelligence, calm, ability to negotiate, and his record clearly shows that he is heads above past presidents and anyone else thinking of running against him. I believe that he is the best president that we have ever had in the White House. This is the most difficult of times and yet he has brought us out of financial ruin and set us back on the right track. He is making a difference in all areas of American life to make it better for everyone who lives here. He has brought justice to 9-11 survivors and all families who lost loved ones. I'm grateful that he is the President.

Health Care

I heard on television that the United Nations now ranks the United States as 37 in the world in health care. So why are we paying the big bucks for health care when we are number 37 in the world. We are the only country in the world who charges so much for health care. We should have single payer health care or the public option in the United States. The people in the United States got sold out in Congress.

What I don't understand is backward diagnostics in this country and the lack of adequate equipment to diagnose. How can one be diagnosed with 4th stage cancer after several years of complicated blood tests, being seen by medical experts, and have it not show up? Where is the hand-held scanner that instantly tells you what is wrong in your body with recommendations for vitamins and treatment? We are backward in medical care in this country. Doctors and nurses seem to be smart and seem to care but just how far away are we in this country from the guessing of 100 years ago? Doctors and hospitals seem hesitant to share information which just might solve some of the problems. Equipment should instantly feed the numbers into the computer so it doesn't have to be entered by hand.

Some doctors and nurses have abused their position and the public trust. No doctor or nurse should be using their position of power for their own personal agenda. A doctor or a nurse who has caused harm should not be protected.

We need better medical security so that a hospital or doctor can communicate with a pharmacy without fear of who they are communicating with. Itemized bills are a thing of the past. Why is that? Is it because there are just too many items with outrageous charges?

Someone needs to clean it all up. Where are the Democrats with courage in Congress who have a voice and want to vote for the public option and single payer health care? Where are the Democrats with courage in Congress who want to make sure that health care is held accountable?

China and Education

China is now number one in education in the world. They are first in math. First in reading. First in science. They are the best and they worked hard to get there. I admire what they have accomplished. I admire excellence. I'm not surprised because usually the best students are from China in American classrooms.

We struggle in the United States. We don't seem to care about excellence. We would rather protect inadequate teachers than make sure that students come first. Great teachers need to be rewarded. Excellence needs to be rewarded and celebrated.

Tax Cuts for the Rich

I'm disappointed and shocked that everyone in Congress is so willing to give tax cuts to the wealthy. Democrats seem to be wearing Republican clothing and no one seems to remember the financial disaster just prior to President Obama being elected in the fall of 2008. I don't get it. Where are the strong Democrats who care about fighting for the people who are poor and disadvantaged without a voice? Where are the strong Democrats who care about fighting for the elderly and senior citizens? Where are the strong Democrats who care about doing what is right because it is the right thing to do and refuse to take the perks and money from public interest groups?

Why would anyone even consider giving 7 billion dollars to the wealthy in this country who don't need it when millions are without health care, millions are or have lost their home, millions are hungry, and we have such severe need? Corporations should pay more. The wealthy should pay more to solve the problems in this country. Corporations and wealthy individuals shouldn't be allowed to get away with robbing this country again and again and again.

A Perfect Life

If my life were perfect, I would be a best selling writer and go on book tours to meet my readers. I would dress like Mary Higgins Clark and buy beautiful pieces of jewelry from jtv.com. I would have the house of my dreams with a huge kitchen with plenty of room for entertaining friends. I would laugh and have fun often. My husband would make me laugh. We would travel. We would have a vacation home near the ocean. We would enjoy great restaurants, live music, broadway plays, art museums, and zoos. I would probably never stop smiling.

In reality, life isn't so perfect.......but I have many things to be grateful for and I'm good at making my own fun no matter what happens around me.

Writers Digest

The latest issue of Writers Digest Magazine came in the mail yesterday. I have already read half the issue. It's full of great writing inspiration, ideas, and motivators to get a writer writing. I love reading writing magazines, writing books, and writing. It's part of me. Maybe I will never have a novel published or more articles published or my poetry appreciated but I write anyway.

I'm grateful for Writers Digest Magazine. "USING FRUSTRATION, HURT AND ANGER TO FUEL YOUR WRITING" by Bill O'Hanlon really jumped out at me in this Big 10 issue packed full of articles every writer needs to read. Often when things happen to me or I feel victimized, I keep it inside and not write. This article talks about the power that transfers onto the page when you write about it. I guess I should write a memoir about living in Alsea the last 10 years, and then another memoir about my feelings and experiences with religion, and then a memoir starting at the beginning in Libby, Montana. I guess my question that keeps raking at me is so I let myself write my heart out with novels or memoirs or juvenile fiction........will it arrive at the destination? will it be wanted? will it be taken out my house when my husband and I leave for a few days? Yes, I feel insecure about it. Number 9 says "write yourself out of or through a crisis," and number 6 says to "write to deal with fears or trauma." I've lived through too much loss and trauma. Maybe I should write how I want my life to be.

Atlas Shrugged

I have been having fun reading ATLAS SHRUGGED by Ayn Rand. I have read some of her books in college and I am revisiting her writing. This book is about trains, which I love, and a great heroine, Dagny Taggart. It is a mix of philosophy, business, and great drama. I have been reading the 35th anniversary edition while listening to the audio book at the same time so I can become completely lost in the story.

It's fun to read about d'Anconia Copper Mines when it makes me think of my grandfather who was an engineer at the Anaconda Copper Mine in Great Falls, Montana. My grandfather died a month before I was born so I didn't ever get to know him.

The perfect place to read this book would be on an Amtrak vacation as you cross the country from one coast to the other and back again.

My Garden

As I was watering my garden this morning and walking around my yard, I keep being reminded of things that have changed at times when we have been away from Alsea. Take for example, my Shasta Daisy......... The first thing that was done to it was a cutting of the center. I didn't do it. My husband didn't do it. I didn't give permission for anyone to do it. Then the crowded multiple plants stuck together were taken away and out of my yard leaving one plant. I didn't do it. My husband didn't do it. I didn't give permission for anyone to do it.

This kind of stuff happens when we are gone away from Alsea and I want it to stop. I come home to find the center branches out of new trees cut off to prevent it from growing too tall. I know how to do all this stuff or I can look it up in a gardening book or in a gardening magazine or look online at all the great gardening websites. I went through the OSU Master Gardening program in 1999 in Salem, Oregon so that I could learn more about gardening.

No one has the right to come into my yard to tend my yard and garden. No one has permission. I have lots of No Trespassing signs posted and I need to put more up along our 3.68 acres.

The point is that it makes me feel like until this mystery is solved, until I know who is doing this, until it is stopped, I can't leave with my husband for any length of time. I don't have the money for expensive cameras and monitors.

No one also has permission to come into my house. So many things have been missing over the years like photos, journals, books, original art. What is the point of drawing and painting when some of the art that I am most proud of was stolen? What is the point of writing when it is stolen out of my house? How do I protect myself from people coming into my house when I am gone? All kinds of things have been missing--fabric, documents about my inventions and the e-mails to the engineering department at OSU, letters, things I have written, etc. Not fair. How much do I have to lose?

Either it is a professional crook or someone is abusing their position of power and authority to get into my house.

Guess I am staying home. Guess I am not going to Ohio or Washington since no one is helping me prevent and solve the problem. I wrote to two national political leaders with no answers or response. I guess I have to give up all my dreams because everything I try is squelched. Guess I was born into the wrong area, the wrong time, around the wrong people in order to bloom and become all I can be.

Young & the Restless

I've been watching the Young and the Restless on CBS for years. The neverending story teaches, entertains, and shows what can happen as the characters interact.

I love Victoria and Billy together. The fun, joking-around magic, when they are alone away from their battling families, take me to a place in my heart that is full at the moment that I watch. It's rare when the chemistry between two actors dazzle and radiate off the screen in this way. Victoria and Billy need their own prime time show but there has to be lots of fun and joking around with lots of laughter.

Publishers Weekly

On page 132 of the July 19th, 2010 issue of Publishers Weekly is an essay that every children's writer, every teacher, every person who cares about gifted children and anyone who loves books MUST read. All children's writers need to read it to see what an impact they make when they take the time to reach out and communicate with readers and how important it is to visit schools.

"Tour of Duty: Why one children's author keeps visiting schools" by Lynne Jonell is worth the price of this issue. I read it to my husband. The first paragraph is what every first paragraph should be and after I read that to him, he agreed to listen to the rest. I didn't get very far before I started choking on tears since I feel passionate about gifted children. I had to stop more than once. It is a powerful essay. Gifted children should be taught in schools on three levels--at their academic level in all subjects and above their level to challenge and for enrichment. Review should not predominate but be kept to a minimum. Now in most public schools throughout the country, gifted children only review. Sad and tragic! President Obama is working hard to encourage excellence in schools but there are few takers for the incentives. I guess we care more about protecting teachers than in protecting the rights of children to learn and to encourage teachers who motivate. Oregon rejected it.

Lynne Jonell's latest book is HAMSTER MAGIC. After reading this article, I can see that her books need to be on the top of the list of all book buyers for children. President Obama bought her book, THE SECRET OF ZOOM for his daughters.

Publishers Weekly is a must read for writers to keep current with what is happening in book publishing. Anyone who loves books can use it as a list of what to read. What I love most are the interviews and articles about and by writers.

Tiziano Ferro

I have a new favorite singer--Tiziano Ferro from Italy. I watched the 2010 World Music Awards. Tiziano Ferro won as best Italian artist. He was the best part of the entire show. He sang "Breathe Gentle." He's young. His music transcends all age groups. Passion exudes from every pore as he sings. He's a world performer.

CBS Watch Magazine

I subscribe to CBS Watch Magazine because CBS is my favorite of the three major network channels. I consistently watch CBS more than any other channel.

The last CBS Watch Magazine had a feature on the Mentalist, one of my favorite shows. Simon Baker is a surfer from Australia who is magic on the screen. I wonder if he knows Aussie pro surfers Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson?

I haven't received the last issue in the mail. I saw it mentioned on television. It's a feature on NCIS, another great CBS choice. So........just where is my issue?

2010 Rock 'n' Roll Seattle Marathon

My son, Benjamin ran in the 2010 Rock 'n' Roll Seattle Marathon. He came in 13th place overall and first in his age group. He had a finish time of 2:47:39. He's sponsored by Seattle Running Company. I'm so proud of him.

Anna, my granddaughter, wanted to run with him when she saw him at the 18 mile marker. She's only 1 1/2. She's amazing, just like her Dad.

Favorite TV shows

My top three favorite television shows are Huge on ABC Family, and Eureka and Haven on the SyFy Channel.

Jersey Couture

Jersey Couture is one of my favorite shows on the Oxygen Channel. It's all about Diane & Co. in Freehold, New Jersey which is an amazing dress boutique with a large inventory of dresses for prom and any formal occasion that can cost from $500 to $10,000. Diane and her daughters, Chrissy and Kim are smart business women who are not satisfied until they find the perfect dress for their customers. This reality show is fun to watch and they are entertainers and funny on the show.

It would be fun to work at the shop so I could have the opportunity to be part of it. I think they should have an additional service for their hard-to-please customers. A computer program or a large notebook with different fabric choices and designs could make a custom choice possible. The woman could choose from a variety of fabrics, colors, and designs. For example, a woman could pick a kelly green silk, with three quarter length sleeves, long length, and a slimming fit. Prompts on the computer program could help make choices easier with tips for what looks best on what figure. All measurements are added into the program. If the woman has original design drawings to incorporate into the dress, this could be given to someone in the store. If there is enough time before the event, this unique design made for the woman who walked through the door could be made for her by seamstresses or a dress designer that contracts with Diane & Co. This way a woman would receive the dress of her dreams and feel certain that her dress is an original that is made just for her.

They have a "fluff me" service for weddings to help the bride get ready for her important day. I wonder if they rent gowns for weddings for all members in the wedding party with a complete fluff me service for all the bridesmaids, bride, and mothers?

Barefoot Contessa

I watch Barefoot Contessa on the Food Network Channel because I really love the show and I like her. She's fabulous and a wonderful cook. I wish I could be friends with her. She's nice and kind. Her husband is really handsome. It's cute how she dotes on him with all his favorite dishes and he loves everything she does.

She made the most fabulous chocolate cake that I want to make. It must be full of calories with the 3 sticks of butter, cream cheese, buttermilk. It looks yummy.

Cooking is a gift to share with others. To sit around a table and share a great meal is a celebration. Dr. Andrew Weil said in one of his books that if you eat an unhealthy meal at a table full of friends and family, the food doesn't have all the harmful consequences as if you are alone, stressed, and lonely. I bet there is something to that.

All My Children

I'm a new fan of All My Children, a day time soap opera. I love Erika played by Susan Lucci. She's a true fighter and inspirational heroine. On Monday she had quite a speech in her hospital bed after surviving a plane crash and time in the wilderness.

She said, "Surviving those mountains, it's made me stronger than I ever was. I have never been so sure of who I am and what I want than I am right now. If I get hurt so be it. If I have to fight the Greenleys of the world, bring them on. One thing I know is that I will not hide and I will definately not surrender. I have survived too much, way too much, to run off and hide because I'm afraid I am going to get hurt again. I will live the life I want with a man who wants the same things I want. I will take the pleasure with the pain and the good with the bad and I will never give up. That's for sure. I will never ever quit. I will have the life I want because I am committed to living every moment to the fullest."

Great writing! It would be fun to split off into clones and go out to be everything I can be. One of me would look for a boss to work for like Erika. I would want to work a 80 hour week and make piles of money, live in a big house, and wear nice clothes.

Soap operas are a life saver for people who are alone. They give you a dose of friends without all the complications. You can see all the problems play out in the television show without having to get into the muck. Easier..........

Wild Birds

We feed wild birds at our house and I also try and grow plants that will be food for them. We hang up two hummingbird feeders. We put up two black thistle feeders for the American Goldfinch. We have four sunflower seed feeders for a mix of other birds. We put out a couple of suet cakes a day. We also put out dried corn cobs in a feeder. So we get a lot of birds. We have most of the feeders under the eaves of our house to bring them up close to the window so we can see them. It's so much fun to watch them. I love it and so does my husband.

Right now there are six American Goldfinch on the black thistle feeder next to the window as I am typing. My favorite bird that comes is the Evening Grosbeak. They are so beautiful. My husband thought they were parrots that escaped when he first saw them come to our feeders.

I've heard how the black birds are predators and drive away the other birds. Phooey! If you put out enough food for everyone, there isn't any fighting. I have ravens who come and patrol the yard like sentinels. Ravens are very intelligent and have been known to talk and warn people of danger. I have to admit that I'm not that warm and fuzzy about the starlings.

I love the Stellers Jays. We have a large group of ring-tailed pigeons that come. Yesterday I counted 15 on one feeder. They even stood on the backs of each other to get the sunflower seeds. We had to put a large board under neath one of the feeders so it could be a platform for the bigger birds since they had a hard time getting at the seed. Before the large birds would have to flap their wings while trying to get a sunflower seed. All the wild birds are welcome in my yard. I love them all.

Cats

I have two indoor cats. They are exclusively indoor cats and I've had them for a long time. We got them at the Humane Society in Salem approximately 14 years ago.

First came Angel who was needed since I found a mouse. She had been returned to the Humane Society twice before and we were told that if we took her back, it would be the end of her. She wouldn't let me hold her any time I wanted and I wanted a cat that I could hold any time I wanted. I had a dream and dreamed of an orange and white cat. I sent my husband out to look for an orange and white cat and he came home with Thomas. Thomas is perfect. He would let me hold him all day, everyday, if I wanted. He follows me around the house. He loves crunchy cat treats. He mopes around the house if I am gone and gets angry if I am gone for a couple of days. He turns his back on me, refuses to purr, and doesn't lighten up until I've been home for several hours. I found a cure for this pouty behavior. The last two or three times I have left him alone, I have left phone messages that he can hear in the house telling him that I will be home and that I know he has all the food and water he needs and that I love him. It works. He feels connected and is excited to see me when I come home. It helps him not feel so insecure. When he was a kitten, he was left to starve in an abandoned building so I think this is why.

My cats are indoor cats and never go outside. This way they don't eat the wild birds, catch fleas, or get run over. When we went to the Humane Society, they had us sign a paper that said that we would keep them indoors and we agreed. They said that the life of an indoor cat was 12 years or more and the life of an outdoor cat was 3 years. Well, it's true. My cats are 14 years old and counting. They run around the house, love cat treats, are healthy and are fun.

Cats are more independent and maintenance free than dogs. I've been wanting another Basset Hound, a senior Basset Hound but then I remember what it is like to be up in the middle of the night because they have to go outside. Cats are easier. Although I admit that I would be mighty tempted if I saw the saggy, moanful look of a Basset Hound who needed a home. Basset Hounds aren't yappy or drag you along when you go for a walk. They are mellow and easy going. I've always loved Bassets. Maybe someday.........

Friends

My husband asked a doctor recently, who is an expert in this area, a question for me during a visit. I wanted to know what is the secret to having a friend and getting along. This doctor said, "You have to agree with everyone and what everyone says, if you want to have friends and belong in a group."

I guess this is my problem. I don't want to give up my own opinions or identity. I can't be invisible. I can't give up who I am for the sake of blending in and belonging to a group. It is much more important to me to find the truth and to learn than to belong. I have too many questions. I am much more concerned with knowing I am right at the moment and am honest than in always agreeing. I need to be able to express concern, if I have it. People don't need to agree with me. That's not what I want because then it would be boring. How can you learn from people, if everyone agrees?

So I have no idea where I belong. I guess I belong right where I am--staying at home reading stacks of books.

I have wanted to find supportive people of my goals and dreams, and from whom I can learn. I can't afford to travel far. I can't afford memberships. I'm not sure where I belong. And if it is the truth that you truly have to agree with everyone, then I don't see how it can work.

I work hard to be nice and be supportive of others. I enjoy encouraging people but I'm not willing to say yes when I feel no or say that the sky is green when I can see that it is purple. I don't believe that a true friend would ask this of me. I guess I am dreaming and what I have wanted is nonexistent.

I don't understand why everyone needs to agree in order to work together. The joy of being around others is the learning about the differences and other points of view. Why does everyone have to agree? I guess I just don't get it.

A book is a much better solution to learn from and find support or entertainment.

A few years ago I thought I had found a friend with similiar interests who had a husband who I thought would get along with mine. It seemed to work until she had my whole life planned out into the future. I don't have time to sit on the phone for three hours and then do it again the next day.

I guess I don't want to get into the mess of relationships either because having a friend means that you take on their mess too. I have enough to deal with.

Publishers Weekly

I was shocked that the United States doesn’t corner the book publishing market in the world!

The June 21, 2010 issue of Publishers Weekly lists the top publishers of the world. How many times is the United States listed in the top 50? Not 50! Not 45! Not 40! Not 35! Not even a whopping 25! Only 10……….
#2 Reed Elsevier--UK/NL/US
#8 McGraw-Hill Education
#11 Cengage Learning --Canada/US
#12 Scholastic Corp.
#13 Wiley
#14 Houghton Miffllin Harcourt-- US/Cayman Islands
#19 Harper Collins
#27 Simon & Schuster
#28 Readers Digest
#46 Perseus
Who is in the Number One spot? Pearson in the UK.
Germany is also on the list 10 times!
Interesting……………..

Red Bull

I received a sample of Red Bull in the mail.

I have a story about Red Bull. When I was waiting in line to audition for Biggest Loser in Portland, a truck drove up with Red Bull advertising on it and handed out free samples of Red Bull. I went over to take one. I was grateful. I stuck it in my purse to save it. I’ve never had one before. I waited in line for 11 hours with all the others who all shared hope in their hearts to be on Biggest Loser. It was getting so hot and stuffy when we finally got inside. The line was wrapped around inside the building as it was on the outside. I was out of money. I couldn’t buy water. I couldn’t afford the pizza, they were selling. At the 10 ½ hour point, I was almost done for. I had run out of steam. I thought I was going to faint or pass out. Then I remembered the Red Bull in my purse. I took it out. I couldn’t even open it myself. I had to ask for help. I drank it and it was really good. I had no idea what it would taste like. Then I waited and the magic happened. I started to feel better. I got my second wind and a few more hours of energy. At the 11 hour mark in line when I was about to audition for Biggest Loser, I was ready and rejuvenated.

James Patterson

I love James Patterson. He’s my favorite. Someday, if my ship ever comes in, I’m going to have a huge library with floor to ceiling book cases. In one of the book cases will be signed first editions of all of James Patterson’s books.

Buy all his books at your nearest bookstore. If you haven't discovered him yet, you'll want to read everything he's ever written.

Right now I’m reading JUDGE AND JURY. Again he came to rescue.

On page 98 is the paragraph. It’s about a judge who is being harassed by the mob.
“This was in my bed last night. In my bed, Mr. Cavello! Under my covers. The evening edition broke around seven. My house was completely locked up and alarmed. No one has been inside since four that afternoon. You have an educated guess as to how this got there, Mr. Cavello?”

This is what has been happening to me. It started in Gates where we lost everything and continued for the last ten years in Alsea. A crook or someone official abusing their power position?

When I got to page 98, I didn't feel alone. I felt connected. I know what it feels like to have someone go through your things and not be able to protect yourself. I know what it feels like to feel so powerless. My solution until I know this is over is to stay home.

Oil Spill and BP

When corporations cause harm, they need to pay. Consequences must follow.

BP has destroyed the ecosystem of the Gulf. There's no end in sight. Businesses and careers have been damaged and destroyed. Families have lost their income. Fish, birds, and wildlife have died and are being harmed. Tourism in the area is damaged at millions of dollars a day. The clean up is hazardous to those who do the work.

When businesses cause harm in the course of doing business, they must be responsible. They must be held accountable. There has to be consequences.

Large corporations are acting like bullies and spoiled little kids who want their own way and do not want consequences. Yes, they must pay for the damage. Yes, we need to make sure that businesses can not do this again. A fine for misbehavior isn't good enough. Assets should be frozen until the damage is paid.

I applaud President Obama for expecting and callling for consequences. This can't keep happening in this country.

We are a global community. When one section of the world is damaged, it directly effects other areas of the world. We need to work together to make sure that someone who is out for greed and money isn't allowed to destroy without consequences.

If there were consequences in place, the oil industry would have invested in money to prevent accidents like this. Their major investment is in PR. PR isn't going to get you out of this one, BIG OIL.

Alsea Valley Voice

I was the editor of the print edition of the Alsea Valley Voice from July, 2009 through April, 2010. It was fun, at least in the beginning. I loved writing articles, interviewing people, encouraging new writers, and working to showcase talent in the area. I loved volunteering in this way.

What made it hard at the end was when people in the area and leaders would promise articles that they did not deliver. I was promised 8 items for the April issue that I didn't receive. I had hoped for 12. I was told that I expected too much. What made it even more frustrating was that when I started to write more, I was criticized by some for making it all about me. I guess interviewing people and writing articles with my by-line was too much of Wendy for some. Oh, well.......... I guess they want an invisible editor and invisible writers that showcase the area.

I figured that someone more connected to the community would do a much better job of getting more articles so I quit. Within 5 days time after my e-mail resignation, the board met, found a new editor, and someone came to my door to get everything. They jumped at the opportunity so I fade into the background again. Will I surface again to volunteer in Alsea. I doubt it. Every attempt seems to end the same way. I'm not wanted here and I'm not valued. Simple as that.

Staying Home

I've been staying home for the last couple of months. I've only left my property twice. Why? Almost every time when my husband and I have left, we come back to find something missing or changed. Until someone gives me answers, help or I find a solution, I'm not going anywhere.

This has been happening ever since we moved here 10 years ago. Why? It's harrassment or a really good crook or someone abusing their official power position who picks things up here and there when they enter our house. No one has our house keys. No one is given permission when we leave to watch the place. We have a security system. So how is this happening? Bush created Homeland Security and no one has addressed potential abuses of the right to enter someone's home without a search warrant.

I've spoken out against leaders. Is this why? Roadblocks show up with every attempt to succeed. Some have told me that I must have really made someone mad. I don't blindly follow. I think. I question. I read. I investigate. I speak out. I value the truth and the law. I wish I had gone to law school. No one bothers attorneys. An attorney is armed with the law.

My husband called Benton County Sheriff Department and was told without proof, there is nothing they can do. I've called too. Not even a report was filed.

So do I give up on dreams? Do I stay home to protect what little I have? One person that I discussed it with agrees that this is a great way to make someone feel insecure. The last thing that was taken was a large plastic bin of fabric I bought on sale that I was saving to make quilts for my grandchildren. The retail price of the fabric has to be close to $800. I think this is why things like this are taken because who would believe someone that fabric was stolen.

Should I quit writing too? What is the point of trying and putting in effort to find roadblocks in every direction? I can't afford to do many things so money limits what I can attempt.

I'm great at finding the good within the limits of what is possible. I'm great at finding something to do within the financial limits or within the selections available. I am never bored. I change directions. I enjoy knitting, quilting, watching TV and movies, sewing, gardening. There are so many books I've wanted to read. But what is the point of creating when you are stopped? What is the point of writing when you are not allowed to flourish? Do I give it up?

It's hard when you don't have friends or a support system. It's hard to be isolated without a network of people to consult who want you to succeed and who want you to win.

Sometimes I feel like I live in the wrong state or country. A new book being published in August is an important one that is reviewed in the June 14th edition of PUBLISHERS WEEKLY. WERE YOU BORN ON THE WRONG CONTINENT?: HOW THE EUROPEAN MODEL CAN HELP YOU GET A LIFE by Thomas Geohegan discusses the difference between the lifestyle in Europe as compared to the United States. Geohegan argues that "the middle class is the real beneficiary of European social democracy--its members reap free education, free child care, free nursing home care, guaranteed vacation time, and generous unemployment benefits--while their white-collar American counterparts struggle to pay for the same." It makes me want to live in Sweden or Germany. Order it from www.amazon.com or go to your nearest bookstore to order a copy. Think. Don't just blindly believe what those around you tell you to believe. Read. Question.

Rise of the New Right

The MSNBC special on Hardball, "Rise of the New Right" was scary. Leaders of the Conservative Right and Tea Party Members are calling for arms, inciting violent behavior, and talking about "taking out" those who do not agree with them. They are talking about revolution and violence. So...how is this different from definitions of terrorism?

The more I listen to leaders on the right, the more I shake my head and wonder about their ability. Angle of Nevada has PR people cleaning up her website. She's the one who suggests chickens to pay for health care.

Many on the right go to church. What does this say about churches? Any church which spouts hatred, violence, and the desire to harm others isn't even in the category of spirituality or religion in my opinion.

Hot in Cleveland

The new situation comedy on TVLD is a hit. This pilot comedy starring Valerie Bertinelli has all the ingredients for success. Betty White is fabulous! I love the characters. It's a Boomer Sex in the City.

Oil Spill

I wonder when Congress is going to put laws in place that will prevent future oil spills from happening. I wonder when Congress is going to quit wasting time, quit taking money from special interest groups and work hard for the United States of America and the good of all. It isn't okay for a large corporation to pollute and destroy. Safeguards and preventions must be put into place so this can't happen.

We have President Bush to thank for the carte blanche policies that has allowed Big Oil to do what they want.

The reason why I am a Democrat is because I don't believe that local governments can govern without the check and balance system of the federal government. Someone must be the watch dog to make sure corruption is rooted out.

How much of each day in Congress is spent efficiently to bring forth solutions and answers? How much time is wasted? How much of the process in Congress prevents solutions, action, and resolution?

The damage caused by this oil spill in the Gulf impacts tourism, wildlife, the fishing industry, all cities along the coast and many miles inland, and will take years to recover. The assets of all who are responsible should be frozen and should pay for this damage.

So You Think You Can Dance

The first show of auditions in NYC and Miami were glorious with so much talent. I love Adam Shankman and Mia Michels. They cry at the extraordinary and the genius. I was crying with them. I love to see talent and the exceptional. I love to see talented young people who work hard, endure, practice, and who persist. I also love Cat Deeley. I love to see what she is going to wear each week plus she is so nice. Everyone's great on the show for they delight in the best and the finest in dancing. They encourage and direct it and give it opportunity to shine and bloom.

I'm excited to see what happens and all that follows. This is one of the best shows on television. It has encouraged dance, competition, and young people all across the country taking dance classes who dance their hearts out.

Banned Inventions

Isn't it time to take a look in the file of "banned inventions" to find new and better ways for energy resources at a time when oil and natural gas has worn out its welcome?

I remember watching on the Science channel and seeing a program about Motor Development International MDI in Nice, France who has produced a car that can run on water vapor. It needs only one tank of gas to run from NY to LA. Isn't this a much better idea? They already have cars and trucks made.

Senator Jeff Merkley

Oregon's Senator Jeff Merkley, my Senator, is a HERO for standing up to Big Oil and saying "No!" to offshore drilling along the Oregon Coast. It takes courage to do this. He's a hero and I'm proud that he's the Senator from Oregon.

Oil Spill

The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is threatening the environment, life in the ocean, tourism, cities along the ocean, and the qualify of life in the area.

It is outrageous and ridiculous that President Obama should be blamed for this.

BP obviously didn't put measures in place to prevent this from happening. If they didn't anticipate problems and have a plan, they shouldn't be drilling in the first place. All oil companies and natural gas companies that are drilling with accidents should be held accountable. They should pay for the damage. They are responsible.

We need to use other energy sources and stop relying on oil and natural gas. There are oil spills in other parts of the world that have seriously caused harm to wildlife and fish. This should be stopped.

We need to halt and seize assets. With this much damage, oil and natural gas shouldn't be given the opportunity to drill.

Amtrak Cascades

I love trains and I love traveling by the train. I recently went to Seattle on Amtrak Cascades to visit my son and granddaughter. Traveling by train is my favorite way to travel. Everyone is so nice, professional, gives great service. It is so much easier than driving to travel by train. You can relax, read, look out the window, work on your computer, or eat in the Bistro car.

The Bistro car has delicious food selections at reasonable prices. James in the Bistro car is efficient, personable, and nice. He's great on the loudspeaker.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that Amtrak is 20% more energy efficient than commercial airlines and 28% more efficient than cars. Traveling by train is a green choice.

The next time you plan your vacation go to amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL.

I looked in the maps across the United States and I was shocked and surprised that there isn't a train route linking Cleveland, Ohio to Columbus, Ohio or Columbus, Ohio to Cincinnati, Ohio. There should be a direct route from Cleveland to Cincinnati through Columbus, in my opinion.

Everyone I talk to on the train enjoys traveling by train. There are businessmen, students, attorneys, grandmas visiting grandchildren and families. It's so much easier and you are well taken care of.

Be sure to take your headphones because they show movies.

Biggest Loser

I auditioned for Biggest Loser last Sunday. I stood in line for 11 hours at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland with hundreds of others who had hope in their heart of being chosen until there was no hope. I arrived at 8:15 a.m. and went into the room with a group of others at 7:20 p.m. I was number OR1354. Outside there was rain, wind, and the cold. Inside the lobby of the convention center, it was warm because of all the people.

There were so many nice people in line with me. It was fun to watch, listen, and talk to the people. If I had it to do over again, I would have interviewed everyone who would talk to me so I would have plenty of material for lots of articles. I didn't. I wish I had. There was one lady from New York who was so funny. She came up with so much great material. She could easily have her own popular sitcom on television. There were four people who stayed together in a group ahead of me. I wish I had asked for a business card. One worked in real estate, another was a mortgage broker. One was an attorney. I liked them all and if I were to pick friends out of the whole bunch, it would be them.

Maybe I'll never see anyone in line again but it was a moment in time that we all shared. I'll never forget it.

There were so many people that it showed me that every major city in the U.S. with a television station, could hold a competition like Biggest Loser. There would be plenty of people who would want to be on the show. Portland, Oregon has Nike. All you would need are trainers and a big gym plus a place to house the contestants for a couple of months. It would help a lot of people and it's possible.

My Philosophy

I have decided that my philosophy is enjoy what you have and be nice along the way. You can work towards dreams but they don't happen right away and sometimes they don't happen. All you can do is appreciate what you have and be nice to anyone you come in contact with.

Southwest Airlines

My husband and I flew Southwest Airlines from Portland, Oregon, stopping over at Las Vegas, and then on to Columbus, Ohio to see our son graduate from The Ohio State University.

Southwest Airlines enjoys high customer loyalty. Many refuse to fly with any other airline. One reason is that you can depend on Southwest Airlines. They are generous with their snacks and there is extraordinary excellent service by all. Everyone is nice and they do their best to serve your needs. I witnessed a flight attendant who was extraordinary in helping people with their needs, luggage. He went out of his way to help people. I was impressed with everyone who is connected to Southwest Airlines.

Spirit magazine can be found in the pockets of the seats in front of you. Read it next time you fly Southwest. There are always great articles. I read one article twice because it was so good. The article was called "Brooklyn's Back 40" and it was written by Manny Howard in the March 2010 issue. It was all about a guy in the middle of Brooklyn who transformed his backyard into a farm. He brought in 5 tons of new soil in the 40 by 20 foot space. He ended up with chickens, potatoes, herbs, corn, beets, celery, rabbits, cucumbers, cantaloupes, peppers, tomatoes, squash, eggplant, garlic, leeks, beans. Did everything work? No, but he learned and he ate from his garden and so did his family. It was wonderful to read. Another great article was about Burbank, California which made me want to move there because of the great walking paths, small town feel, close proximity to all the great directors. Burbank is where they make the movies that make people cry, laugh, and entertain.

Dale Chihuly

My favorite contemporary artist is Dale Chihuly. I had the opportunity to see his glass art in Columbus, Ohio a couple of weeks ago at the Columbus Museum of Art. His creativity expressed in glass spills out of bounds and explodes off in all directions. I love it! I'm always inspired when I see a Chihuly.

I first saw his glass at the Portland Art Museum years ago at an exhibit. Now for the second time, I got to see his genius in Columbus.

Someday I hope to see his museum in Tacoma, Washington. He's a genius and no one even comes close in any art medium, in my opinion.