Today we met a lovely couple about our age who live on a ridge just 4 miles south of us, here in Ahwahnee. They have been good friends of Jacques and Yvonne -- Patrick’s friends for over 30 years. Actually Patrick met them many years ago, when Kathy was just a toddler. Obviously he was still married to Minerva.
Madeline and Paul sold their house in Simi Valley about 3 years ago and bought 25 acres here, then built a house. It’s at the top of a ridge overlooking Deadwood, the 3,000 ft. mountain that separates us from the rest of the world, to the southwest, on Highway 41.
Madeline is from near Pau, where Patrick was born (as was Yvonne). Her husband, Paul, is Yugoslavian, related to Jacques – but not sure of the exact connection. They fed us breakfast and indicated that we would be welcome to join their many social gatherings. They play Patanque very seriously, guess I need to learn how. It shouldn’t be hard for an old tennis player…
So tomorrow we leave for home – our primary one, that is. Can’t get back here until later in January now. Quail Cottage is winterized so that's comforting. We installed a regular double bed in the bedroom today and moved the huge trundle bed into the living room. Gives us more room all around.
We’ve had a fire in the wood stove the whole time, cozy. We’re lucky to live with many trees available for firewood, mostly dead oaks. It’s an old forest here.
Signing off from Quail Ridge.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Waving at the Camera
So here we are again in the Sierras, in our Quail Cottage. Tomorrow AM we leave for San Rafael to visit Connor, our grandson, and his parents. It began raining here this afternoon about 12:30 and it’s been steady ever since. We hear it’s snowing at higher altitudes. Here we are at about 3,000 feet. I felt nervous driving in the rain into Oakhurst earlier today to have lunch w/Marie. But it was OK.
We are spending Patrick’s last vacation week of the year. It’s been restful and pleasant. I really don’t miss TV here. In the evenings we play board games, gin rummy, watch videos, or just sit in front of the wood stove and chat. I go to bed here earlier than at home. And sometimes I sit and work on my blog -- like now.
The woodpeckers have created a nest atop a telephone pole across the driveway. They are total pests, and, very beautiful with scarlet breasts. We watch them w/binocs. Patrick has become a “Birder.” Maybe that’ll be his Christmas present – a bird ID book.
Tonight we celebrated our tenth anniversary of meeting each other at Lake Tahoe. Thanksgiving, 1997. Which was also the year that Dana – my “baby" decided to become Clean and Sober, checking herself into rehab. It was truly a year to be thankful. The following year, 1998, Dana was able to join us at the Lake for Thanksgiving – and really celebrate!
It was a beautiful time, and we played the video tapes at home during Thanksgiving this year to remind us of how very lovely it was. It was a time when my Aunt Nance was still decent, somewhat kind, and available. That time is gone now, too bad.
The tapes capture the first time Patrick put his arm around me; when he waved at my camera and told me he loved me (a mere 48 hours after we met). He was smitten.
I believe I said: Oh Shit.
We are spending Patrick’s last vacation week of the year. It’s been restful and pleasant. I really don’t miss TV here. In the evenings we play board games, gin rummy, watch videos, or just sit in front of the wood stove and chat. I go to bed here earlier than at home. And sometimes I sit and work on my blog -- like now.
The woodpeckers have created a nest atop a telephone pole across the driveway. They are total pests, and, very beautiful with scarlet breasts. We watch them w/binocs. Patrick has become a “Birder.” Maybe that’ll be his Christmas present – a bird ID book.
Tonight we celebrated our tenth anniversary of meeting each other at Lake Tahoe. Thanksgiving, 1997. Which was also the year that Dana – my “baby" decided to become Clean and Sober, checking herself into rehab. It was truly a year to be thankful. The following year, 1998, Dana was able to join us at the Lake for Thanksgiving – and really celebrate!
It was a beautiful time, and we played the video tapes at home during Thanksgiving this year to remind us of how very lovely it was. It was a time when my Aunt Nance was still decent, somewhat kind, and available. That time is gone now, too bad.
The tapes capture the first time Patrick put his arm around me; when he waved at my camera and told me he loved me (a mere 48 hours after we met). He was smitten.
I believe I said: Oh Shit.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Marie's Porch
On Marie’s porch in Oakhurst. A slight breeze plays with the wind chime that hangs from an oak tree branch. I hear the faint knocking of a woodpecker. Then, movement behind a boulder and suddenly there’s a mule deer, coming to graze. She watches as Sari (short for Saringhetti), Marie’s tortoiseshell kitty, joins me on the screened-in porch. The mule deer freezes, yet continues to chew her cud. Her shiny black bulb of a nose looks wet.
Now she’s vanished.
Marie had her house built on the top of a hill, so there are interesting views from each window. From the porch where I sit I look out on a terraced, informal garden of trees and boulders, with the late afternoon sun slanting the shadows.
Now a buck has come on stage, closely trailing a doe. It is mating season. She runs. He chases her. The scene will repeat itself over and over, for probably another 6 weeks. Unfortunately, as a result of this increased activity during deer mating season, many are hit by cars. Deer never look both ways when crossing the street. Or even one way.
Marie took me to see this property about 5 years ago, before construction began. There were deer tracks all over the hill. She decided to name the property and had a wooden sign made for the beginning of the driveway:
A Place Where God Makes Deer
Sitting here is like being in church, only better. Well, except when Marie is giving the message at church where she is an Associate Pastor. I love all of her sermons and so does everyone else.
Ah, a baby just walked by, probably looking for mom. There are 5 youngsters in this herd and about 4 adult females. One mom had twins last Spring. The bucks leave the herd at about one year, hang with other males and only return at mating season. They are not considered part of the herd but they do return once more after the babies are born. They probably then go to the higher Sierras.
I was just going to write that there is no more activity when I see a shadow and a doe crosses in front of me. She sips some water and chews on some acorns. A second, larger doe comes and nudges the smaller one. Mother and daughter? Oh, and now another baby.
The show goes on…
Now she’s vanished.
Marie had her house built on the top of a hill, so there are interesting views from each window. From the porch where I sit I look out on a terraced, informal garden of trees and boulders, with the late afternoon sun slanting the shadows.
Now a buck has come on stage, closely trailing a doe. It is mating season. She runs. He chases her. The scene will repeat itself over and over, for probably another 6 weeks. Unfortunately, as a result of this increased activity during deer mating season, many are hit by cars. Deer never look both ways when crossing the street. Or even one way.
Marie took me to see this property about 5 years ago, before construction began. There were deer tracks all over the hill. She decided to name the property and had a wooden sign made for the beginning of the driveway:
A Place Where God Makes Deer
Sitting here is like being in church, only better. Well, except when Marie is giving the message at church where she is an Associate Pastor. I love all of her sermons and so does everyone else.
Ah, a baby just walked by, probably looking for mom. There are 5 youngsters in this herd and about 4 adult females. One mom had twins last Spring. The bucks leave the herd at about one year, hang with other males and only return at mating season. They are not considered part of the herd but they do return once more after the babies are born. They probably then go to the higher Sierras.
I was just going to write that there is no more activity when I see a shadow and a doe crosses in front of me. She sips some water and chews on some acorns. A second, larger doe comes and nudges the smaller one. Mother and daughter? Oh, and now another baby.
The show goes on…
Friday, November 9, 2007
wild fires and old flames
This summer was a scary one with all the wild fires in So. Cal. I am worried about what all the ash/smoke did to my lungs. The back room’s windowsill is a black example of what was in the air. But whatisonegoingtodo? Couldn't lock myself in a plastic bubble.
My old flame, Paul Mantee, has lived in Malibu for many years. He and his wife had to evacuate in the Sept. fire and thank God they didn’t go up in flames. His home was destroyed in the ’90 (?) Malibu fire. I am so happy they got thru.
Speaking of my lungs, I checked w/my doctor, asking her if she thot high altitudes would be detrimental to me, as in going to So. America. She told me there is a prescription drug I could begin a few days before I am to go to a high altitude. Didn’t think it would be a problem.
And, it looks like El will not be going with me. I have some options which I will exercise. More as they develop. Dana and Monica do not think they can go, darn!
Jen turned me onto a blog by an American woman who lives in France and is married to a Frenchman. She’s a travel writer and a gourmet cook. She writes in her blog EVERY DAY. God, I am so lazy… Anyway, I forwarded the info to Sue LaCabe, as I’m sure she’d be interested.
BFF Pat is in Venice, due home in a few days. I am eager to hear how she enjoyed. She went with Daughter Chris, her husband’s daughter. Chris has been there many times and speaks fluent Italian.
Patrck and I went to see the movie Into the Wild the other day. Even tho I’d read the book several years ago, I found the movie very disturbing. What a waste of a very intelligent and idealistic young man who had so much potential. Thru his innocent and ill informed travels to the north he sacrificed so very much. Of course I regard his choices as a mother who loves her children. So I think he was very wrong to do what he did.
Well, he's in a better place, as they say...
My old flame, Paul Mantee, has lived in Malibu for many years. He and his wife had to evacuate in the Sept. fire and thank God they didn’t go up in flames. His home was destroyed in the ’90 (?) Malibu fire. I am so happy they got thru.
Speaking of my lungs, I checked w/my doctor, asking her if she thot high altitudes would be detrimental to me, as in going to So. America. She told me there is a prescription drug I could begin a few days before I am to go to a high altitude. Didn’t think it would be a problem.
And, it looks like El will not be going with me. I have some options which I will exercise. More as they develop. Dana and Monica do not think they can go, darn!
Jen turned me onto a blog by an American woman who lives in France and is married to a Frenchman. She’s a travel writer and a gourmet cook. She writes in her blog EVERY DAY. God, I am so lazy… Anyway, I forwarded the info to Sue LaCabe, as I’m sure she’d be interested.
BFF Pat is in Venice, due home in a few days. I am eager to hear how she enjoyed. She went with Daughter Chris, her husband’s daughter. Chris has been there many times and speaks fluent Italian.
Patrck and I went to see the movie Into the Wild the other day. Even tho I’d read the book several years ago, I found the movie very disturbing. What a waste of a very intelligent and idealistic young man who had so much potential. Thru his innocent and ill informed travels to the north he sacrificed so very much. Of course I regard his choices as a mother who loves her children. So I think he was very wrong to do what he did.
Well, he's in a better place, as they say...
Friday, October 26, 2007
Bye Little Quail
So each time we leave our mountain home we declare when we're coming back. In a couple of weeks. By the middle of the month. Later this month, etc. Now we say in a couple of weeks, but probably 3. It makes us feel better to have a plan.
It'll give us time to make more soup and stews, freeze them and bring w/us in the cooler. When we're ready
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Mountains
Winding down from 3 days at Quail. It’s beautiful here at this time of the year: changing leaves, cool nights – enough to build fires in the wood stove – and some gentle rainfall last night continuing thru til morning. Friend Marie joined us for BBQ steak dinner last night. We pick her brain about re-modeling, renting, selling, all that good stuff. As I told her last night, she thinks out of the box.
I’ve been on Prednisone for my lung infection. It’s strong stuff and makes me jittery, jazzed and a bit crazier than usual. Due to finish it in a few days, I’m grateful that it probably will be done before I get divorced. But hey, maybe not. We have that almost 5 hour drive ahead of us this afternoon…
I’ve been on Prednisone for my lung infection. It’s strong stuff and makes me jittery, jazzed and a bit crazier than usual. Due to finish it in a few days, I’m grateful that it probably will be done before I get divorced. But hey, maybe not. We have that almost 5 hour drive ahead of us this afternoon…
Saturday, October 6, 2007
South America
Friend El Winters and I are planning a South American trip in the spring. First to the Galapagos Islands off Ecuador, then on to Machu Pichu in Peru. I've always wanted to go to these places -- badly and for years. My Mom also wanted to visit M.P., so I'll take her with me in my heart. If it wasn't for my inheritance from her, thus my investments, I wouldn't be able to afford it.
I've been reading up on the areas. Finished a memoir by a woman who lived on the Galapagos as a child (My Father's Island), it was fascinating. Just returned from the library with Spanish for Dummies; an English/Spanish dictionary; and a book called A Traveler's Guide to El Dorado and the Inca Empire. Seems to have a lot of useful info about traveling down there.
Patrick said he'd speak Spanish to me every morning so I can practice. I took 3 years of it in high school, but that was 350 years ago...
It's an all inclusive tour and I'm told they take really good care of you. We will be sailing around the islands for 5 days. The only animal I don't care to get up close and personal with are the giant lizards -- I've already expressed my feelings about those creatures. Small, medium, large, gigantic. Nah.
Off to hit the books.
I've been reading up on the areas. Finished a memoir by a woman who lived on the Galapagos as a child (My Father's Island), it was fascinating. Just returned from the library with Spanish for Dummies; an English/Spanish dictionary; and a book called A Traveler's Guide to El Dorado and the Inca Empire. Seems to have a lot of useful info about traveling down there.
Patrick said he'd speak Spanish to me every morning so I can practice. I took 3 years of it in high school, but that was 350 years ago...
It's an all inclusive tour and I'm told they take really good care of you. We will be sailing around the islands for 5 days. The only animal I don't care to get up close and personal with are the giant lizards -- I've already expressed my feelings about those creatures. Small, medium, large, gigantic. Nah.
Off to hit the books.
Friend El Winters and I are planning a trip to South America next Spring. The Galapogos Is. off Ecuador, then to Machu Pichu in Peru. I've ALWAYS wanted to see both places. My mom always wanted to go to M.P., so I'm taking in my heart. And, if it weren't for my inheritance, thus my property investments, I couldn't afford to go either.
Just rturned from the library, checked out a Spanish for Dummies: Spanish/English
Just rturned from the library, checked out a Spanish for Dummies: Spanish/English
Computers and Sled Dogs
I've been postponing working on my blog -- I know why. I thought I should practice writing it on my laptop and transferring it later to the blog itself. I just did it successfully and feel more confidant.
Most of you who are about my age know what I mean about confidence. We weren't brought up with a computer in the house. I think the first one I ever saw was when I worked for the county of Santa Barbara in the early 80's. It took up a very large room in the basement of the Admin. Bldg. And it was scary!
So we get dragged, kicking and some of us screaming, into the 21st Century. I say that I just want to know enough to get by. I do love my new laptop. Neat Solitare.
Well, I'll write on this off and on today. It's fun, Nancy. I know, I know.
SLED DOG FOOD & BOOTIES
A few weeks ago I began to receive large boxes, delivered by the USPS. They were addressed to daughter Jen, forwarded by the P.O. in Skagway, Alaska. Now, although she has some mail forwarded to her here, I knew she wasn't purchasing boucoup stuff from large companies and sending them to herself in Alaska.
One arrived with REFRIGERATE IMMEDIATELY stamped all over it. With some sleuthing it was determined that a woman in the Yukon had been granted permission to use Jen's Skagway post office box -- but not by Jen. So Michelle's stuff was forwarded to Jen here.
Turns out that the box to refrigerate contained perishable dog food for the woman's sled dogs. She participates in the yearly Iditelrod. Another had dog booties in it.
I hope Michelle finally gets her goods. I told the USPS to return to sender...
Most of you who are about my age know what I mean about confidence. We weren't brought up with a computer in the house. I think the first one I ever saw was when I worked for the county of Santa Barbara in the early 80's. It took up a very large room in the basement of the Admin. Bldg. And it was scary!
So we get dragged, kicking and some of us screaming, into the 21st Century. I say that I just want to know enough to get by. I do love my new laptop. Neat Solitare.
Well, I'll write on this off and on today. It's fun, Nancy. I know, I know.
SLED DOG FOOD & BOOTIES
A few weeks ago I began to receive large boxes, delivered by the USPS. They were addressed to daughter Jen, forwarded by the P.O. in Skagway, Alaska. Now, although she has some mail forwarded to her here, I knew she wasn't purchasing boucoup stuff from large companies and sending them to herself in Alaska.
One arrived with REFRIGERATE IMMEDIATELY stamped all over it. With some sleuthing it was determined that a woman in the Yukon had been granted permission to use Jen's Skagway post office box -- but not by Jen. So Michelle's stuff was forwarded to Jen here.
Turns out that the box to refrigerate contained perishable dog food for the woman's sled dogs. She participates in the yearly Iditelrod. Another had dog booties in it.
I hope Michelle finally gets her goods. I told the USPS to return to sender...
Friday, September 14, 2007
Quail Lizards & Green Siding
We’re here at our cottage at Quail Ridge, in the Sierras. There is pounding outside the window that is musical to me because it’s the sound of siding being installed over the dreadful blue painted wood that we’ve looked at for almost 4 years now. The new color is called Tuscan Clay. The white trim will remain.
On the 4 hr + boring ride over here from the coast I was still thinking about Dana’s stay with us. The essence of our time in Morro Bay remains. It was sweet and funny, relaxing (did I mention spa massages at the hotel?) and stimulating, very comfortable and lovely.
Last year at this time I was visiting her in New York. A week at her hotel in Manhattan, a week on Long Island. I lived in the City with her father in the early 60’s, we moved to L.I. when I got pregnant with Dana. In our wanderings around the city I showed Dana the apartment house in the village where we had lived. She stated, “Well, I didn’t live here.” I replied, “But this is where you were conceived!” I think it was TMI…
This, also, was a magical time. The Universe kept saying YES to us: the Guggenheim had a show of American Abstract Impressionists – my favorite kind of art; Grand Central Station just happened to have a wonderful sculpture show in the lobby; we also had a grand display of thunder and lightening one evening; when we decided to drive past Jackson Pollock’s house in the Springs while staying at Montauk Point IT WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. The docent explained that it was a special occasion and is usually open by appointment only. A real WOW to walk on Pollock’s studio floor. We wore special booties of course. His floor is like one big painting.
Again, Magical Moments with my “baby.”
Oh, my, the siding looks green. I bite my tongue.
Lately we’ve been talking about selling Quail or refinancing it and buying a house in the San Luis Obispo area. Dana's and my time in Morro Bay also stimulated such thoughts. Patrick and I really like that area but we know we can’t afford something right on the coast. Also, the drive over here is wearing. But being here renews our love for the place.
I won’t mention the 2 lizards Patrick has had to remove from the premises since we arrived yesterday. I hate the damned things and don’t tell me they eat mosquitos. I DON’T CARE! Of course my imagination is humming, so now I just know a mother came in to have her babies and they’re ALL OVER THE PLACE. Agrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
We go home tomorrow and I’ll post this to my blog from my laptop (she said bravely). Ta Ta.
On the 4 hr + boring ride over here from the coast I was still thinking about Dana’s stay with us. The essence of our time in Morro Bay remains. It was sweet and funny, relaxing (did I mention spa massages at the hotel?) and stimulating, very comfortable and lovely.
Last year at this time I was visiting her in New York. A week at her hotel in Manhattan, a week on Long Island. I lived in the City with her father in the early 60’s, we moved to L.I. when I got pregnant with Dana. In our wanderings around the city I showed Dana the apartment house in the village where we had lived. She stated, “Well, I didn’t live here.” I replied, “But this is where you were conceived!” I think it was TMI…
This, also, was a magical time. The Universe kept saying YES to us: the Guggenheim had a show of American Abstract Impressionists – my favorite kind of art; Grand Central Station just happened to have a wonderful sculpture show in the lobby; we also had a grand display of thunder and lightening one evening; when we decided to drive past Jackson Pollock’s house in the Springs while staying at Montauk Point IT WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. The docent explained that it was a special occasion and is usually open by appointment only. A real WOW to walk on Pollock’s studio floor. We wore special booties of course. His floor is like one big painting.
Again, Magical Moments with my “baby.”
Oh, my, the siding looks green. I bite my tongue.
Lately we’ve been talking about selling Quail or refinancing it and buying a house in the San Luis Obispo area. Dana's and my time in Morro Bay also stimulated such thoughts. Patrick and I really like that area but we know we can’t afford something right on the coast. Also, the drive over here is wearing. But being here renews our love for the place.
I won’t mention the 2 lizards Patrick has had to remove from the premises since we arrived yesterday. I hate the damned things and don’t tell me they eat mosquitos. I DON’T CARE! Of course my imagination is humming, so now I just know a mother came in to have her babies and they’re ALL OVER THE PLACE. Agrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
We go home tomorrow and I’ll post this to my blog from my laptop (she said bravely). Ta Ta.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Whales Tales
Not sharks this time, but Dana and I saw lots of Humpback Whales' tails off Morro Bay last week. And sea lions by the hundreds. A few sea otters, floating on their backs.
But to start. Dana took a much needed weeks' vacation and spent it here, with her mommy (and Patrick, her step dad). For a girls' trip she and I went about 2 hours up the coast to Morro Bay and checked into the Inn at Morro Bay for 2 days.
First night -- a thunder and lightening storm, the edge of one of the Mexican hurricanes. Spectacular! From our room overlooking the bay we were in an audience seat viewing the show on the other side of the sand spit, toward open ocean. Jagged, bright lightening bolts followed by deafening cracks of thunder. Went on for hours.
The next morning it was raining fat drops and there was residual thunder. At each clap the seabirds that had been nesting in the trees and on the water all bolted into the air at once, frantic and sure they were being shot at. (We very rarely have such storms in CA.) We postponed the whale watching trip we had scheduled. We didn't want to represent lightening rods on the open boat. Went the next day instead.
As usual, when Dana and I travel together, everything becomes magical. The universe seems to provide the timing and we just participate. On our second night at the hotel we happened upon a lounge show that featured a quintet plus a ravishing red-headed vocalist. They specialized in bossanova jazz -- my favorite. They were so very good that at one point Dana and I got up and danced.
"Diana" told us during a break that she really got a kick out of our dancing. We praised her talent, told her she could make it in the Big Time. She could. Two different ladies complimented me on my blouse, which is frilly and feminine and not my usual style. What fun.
During Dana's week here we went shopping (we always find stuff to buy); had a ladies lunch w/4 of my favorite friends; hosted a cocktail party with our friends "JacknBob" and Sue; took 2 long, amazing beach walks; thoroughly enjoyed Patrick's chef skills on our plates; had a delicious BBQ at Sue's; and Dana made over our front porch.
It's always hard putting her on the plane. We did get a treat, tho. As we were standing, saying goodbye where everyone goes thru security, the woman on duty removed a jar of cheddar cheese from a passenger's hand and, telling them she couldn't accept it as a gift as they suggested, turned and gave it to us. It is from Solvang and it is the BEST.
Also got a bottle of water from some woman. We kidded that we should do this more often and maybe some day get dinner out of it.
Dana and I had decided against "water works" at the airport, telling each other that we'd get together again soon. My Dana-Banayna...
But to start. Dana took a much needed weeks' vacation and spent it here, with her mommy (and Patrick, her step dad). For a girls' trip she and I went about 2 hours up the coast to Morro Bay and checked into the Inn at Morro Bay for 2 days.
First night -- a thunder and lightening storm, the edge of one of the Mexican hurricanes. Spectacular! From our room overlooking the bay we were in an audience seat viewing the show on the other side of the sand spit, toward open ocean. Jagged, bright lightening bolts followed by deafening cracks of thunder. Went on for hours.
The next morning it was raining fat drops and there was residual thunder. At each clap the seabirds that had been nesting in the trees and on the water all bolted into the air at once, frantic and sure they were being shot at. (We very rarely have such storms in CA.) We postponed the whale watching trip we had scheduled. We didn't want to represent lightening rods on the open boat. Went the next day instead.
As usual, when Dana and I travel together, everything becomes magical. The universe seems to provide the timing and we just participate. On our second night at the hotel we happened upon a lounge show that featured a quintet plus a ravishing red-headed vocalist. They specialized in bossanova jazz -- my favorite. They were so very good that at one point Dana and I got up and danced.
"Diana" told us during a break that she really got a kick out of our dancing. We praised her talent, told her she could make it in the Big Time. She could. Two different ladies complimented me on my blouse, which is frilly and feminine and not my usual style. What fun.
During Dana's week here we went shopping (we always find stuff to buy); had a ladies lunch w/4 of my favorite friends; hosted a cocktail party with our friends "JacknBob" and Sue; took 2 long, amazing beach walks; thoroughly enjoyed Patrick's chef skills on our plates; had a delicious BBQ at Sue's; and Dana made over our front porch.
It's always hard putting her on the plane. We did get a treat, tho. As we were standing, saying goodbye where everyone goes thru security, the woman on duty removed a jar of cheddar cheese from a passenger's hand and, telling them she couldn't accept it as a gift as they suggested, turned and gave it to us. It is from Solvang and it is the BEST.
Also got a bottle of water from some woman. We kidded that we should do this more often and maybe some day get dinner out of it.
Dana and I had decided against "water works" at the airport, telling each other that we'd get together again soon. My Dana-Banayna...
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
High In the Sky
Jennifer, our first child, was born in 1964. She was a careful, rather quiet individual, private and a thinker. When I took her for her first day of Kindergarten I told the teacher that she was shy. After a day or so she corrected me: "No, Mrs. Hawks, she's reserved, not shy. She checks things out before she joins in." Mrs. I-Don't-Remember-Her-Name was right on.
Four years later Ms. Dana-Banayna joins the family. From the moment she's born she is Personality Central. I wrote a poem about her once, that began: "Neighborhood girls would take her for walks, she was such a friendly baby."
Therein could be the theme.
I have a photo of Dana on the beach, she was probably 3 years old. She's posed -- or scrawled -- and that is the beginning of my realization that my 2nd child has a slogan on her forehead, which reads:
ANYTHING GOES!
(Big Time)
Well, it took a few more years before she began to fulfill the prophesy, and she did it fully.
In her teens she began to skip school, hang out with the wrong people -- I know, I know, she was one of them! It was just the two of us. Jen was in college and doing her own life. Dana's father and I had divorced when she was 3-ish. We lived in California, he in New York. It got to be hellish.
I had to do tough love when she was 18. She had her forehead label on, pulsating. I was doing all the classic things to enable her. She was into drugs and alcohol. And whatever. So she had to leave. It sickened me. We were close to hating each other.
I did Al-Anon for a few years, which saved my life.
Long shot into future. It took years for her to come around and decide to change her life. In 1997, when she was 28, she checked herself into a rehab facility and spent the next TWO YEARS getting clean and sober. We celebrate her anniversary.
When Dana and her partner Monica were visiting earlier this month -- they live in New York -- we went to a carnival at a park in town. Right before we left to go home Dana wanted a last ride that Monica and I were not in the least bit interested in. Like risking our lives. There went Ms. Anything Goes, flying in a disc way too high in the sky. Then she threw her arms up -- not holding onto to anything -- and had the most glorious 5 minute ride in the sky.
My "baby" had made it, and was gloriously alive.
Oh, and big sister Jennifer is no slouch either. She's had a few different careers, now lives in Canada and supports herself as a freelance writer. She also is a pilot -- a very careful one. More on her later.
Four years later Ms. Dana-Banayna joins the family. From the moment she's born she is Personality Central. I wrote a poem about her once, that began: "Neighborhood girls would take her for walks, she was such a friendly baby."
Therein could be the theme.
I have a photo of Dana on the beach, she was probably 3 years old. She's posed -- or scrawled -- and that is the beginning of my realization that my 2nd child has a slogan on her forehead, which reads:
ANYTHING GOES!
(Big Time)
Well, it took a few more years before she began to fulfill the prophesy, and she did it fully.
In her teens she began to skip school, hang out with the wrong people -- I know, I know, she was one of them! It was just the two of us. Jen was in college and doing her own life. Dana's father and I had divorced when she was 3-ish. We lived in California, he in New York. It got to be hellish.
I had to do tough love when she was 18. She had her forehead label on, pulsating. I was doing all the classic things to enable her. She was into drugs and alcohol. And whatever. So she had to leave. It sickened me. We were close to hating each other.
I did Al-Anon for a few years, which saved my life.
Long shot into future. It took years for her to come around and decide to change her life. In 1997, when she was 28, she checked herself into a rehab facility and spent the next TWO YEARS getting clean and sober. We celebrate her anniversary.
When Dana and her partner Monica were visiting earlier this month -- they live in New York -- we went to a carnival at a park in town. Right before we left to go home Dana wanted a last ride that Monica and I were not in the least bit interested in. Like risking our lives. There went Ms. Anything Goes, flying in a disc way too high in the sky. Then she threw her arms up -- not holding onto to anything -- and had the most glorious 5 minute ride in the sky.
My "baby" had made it, and was gloriously alive.
Oh, and big sister Jennifer is no slouch either. She's had a few different careers, now lives in Canada and supports herself as a freelance writer. She also is a pilot -- a very careful one. More on her later.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
The St. Thomas Shark
I promise this will be the last stuff about sharks for a while. Just that these past 2 weeks the Animal Planet channel has been featuring stories on sharks – all different kinds, all over the world. I remain fascinated.
Last night it was all about Great Whites, which are the most deadly of all shark species. They score the most fatal attacks on folks, everywhere. Well, there is a guy who dives and SWIMS with Great Whites. And doesn’t get bitten. He has developed a technique whereby he lightly strokes the front of their snouts and they go into a sleeplike trance called Tonic Immobility. They will roll onto their backs and lie suspended in the water.
It reminded me of how we tamed our cockatiel, Princess. She had not been hand raised by the breeder and was quite skittish, only feeling safe in her cage. We wanted more contact. One day we discovered that she liked her head scratched. We proceeded to do this by sticking our fingers thru the bars of the cage. She would go into a totally relaxed trance, closing her eyes. Gradually we coaxed her out of the cage for short periods, always including a head scratching. After several weeks of this Princess came out readily, sat on our fingers, shoulders, and liked to join us for breakfast. Now she’s Daddy’s Girl and will sit on Patrick’s forearm until she gets a treatment.
I believe that all living beings have a soft spot.
Many years ago I was visiting St. Thomas alone. It was dead winter in New York, I had a little extra money, so had treated myself to some sun. I met a gentleman (at least I thought he was) and we went dancing. At one point during the evening he isolated me and proceeded to get way too friendly. He could have overpowered me easily, and we both knew it.
Divine intervention is the only explanation for what happened next. I just started blurting out phrases such as: “I’m really worried about my daughter. She’s been misbehaving lately, and I just don’t know what to do!” He immediately stopped the physical stuff and began giving me fatherly advice. He walked me back to my hotel and very courteously said good night.
I had miraculously found his soft spot. And, since I believe in a Higher Power, I knew I’d had help.
Last night it was all about Great Whites, which are the most deadly of all shark species. They score the most fatal attacks on folks, everywhere. Well, there is a guy who dives and SWIMS with Great Whites. And doesn’t get bitten. He has developed a technique whereby he lightly strokes the front of their snouts and they go into a sleeplike trance called Tonic Immobility. They will roll onto their backs and lie suspended in the water.
It reminded me of how we tamed our cockatiel, Princess. She had not been hand raised by the breeder and was quite skittish, only feeling safe in her cage. We wanted more contact. One day we discovered that she liked her head scratched. We proceeded to do this by sticking our fingers thru the bars of the cage. She would go into a totally relaxed trance, closing her eyes. Gradually we coaxed her out of the cage for short periods, always including a head scratching. After several weeks of this Princess came out readily, sat on our fingers, shoulders, and liked to join us for breakfast. Now she’s Daddy’s Girl and will sit on Patrick’s forearm until she gets a treatment.
I believe that all living beings have a soft spot.
Many years ago I was visiting St. Thomas alone. It was dead winter in New York, I had a little extra money, so had treated myself to some sun. I met a gentleman (at least I thought he was) and we went dancing. At one point during the evening he isolated me and proceeded to get way too friendly. He could have overpowered me easily, and we both knew it.
Divine intervention is the only explanation for what happened next. I just started blurting out phrases such as: “I’m really worried about my daughter. She’s been misbehaving lately, and I just don’t know what to do!” He immediately stopped the physical stuff and began giving me fatherly advice. He walked me back to my hotel and very courteously said good night.
I had miraculously found his soft spot. And, since I believe in a Higher Power, I knew I’d had help.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
I think I have figured out why time flies by just as fast as when I worked -- even though I’m retired. Why so many of us retired folks state that we don’t know how we had the time to work.
It's that we substitute leisure activities during the times we used to work. In the 7 months since I retired I have had more social lunches, have read more books, have taken more trips than I ever did before. Seven months have whizzed by in a blur. A lovely blur of rainbow colors.
I am also more conscious than ever about Time. How it is precious and I cannot waste a moment of it. Which is why we must spend time with people who are generous, kind, loving and caring. Being in another’s presence means that our energy is interfacing which means we affect and are affected by one another. Not a theory.
And this brings me to the conclusion that I must let go of certain people whom I have considered “Friends.” Many of them for decades. If they don’t contribute to the quality of my life then they are not Friends. Just people I know. When I said this to Daughter Dana and her Monica yesterday they agreed that this may be my Year of Clearing Out.
I really don’t know how to go about it – at all. Does one say, “I really don’t want to talk to/be around you any more?” Letting someone down gradually sounds appealing, however, is it honorable? Or do I tell L. that finding out that she has a vicious streak makes me want to avoid her? That when J. pressures me to do things her way I go cold? That I need to tell F. she embarrasses me by the way she treats others when we’re out together?
Many questions, not many answers. At least today.
I am signing off for now.
It's that we substitute leisure activities during the times we used to work. In the 7 months since I retired I have had more social lunches, have read more books, have taken more trips than I ever did before. Seven months have whizzed by in a blur. A lovely blur of rainbow colors.
I am also more conscious than ever about Time. How it is precious and I cannot waste a moment of it. Which is why we must spend time with people who are generous, kind, loving and caring. Being in another’s presence means that our energy is interfacing which means we affect and are affected by one another. Not a theory.
And this brings me to the conclusion that I must let go of certain people whom I have considered “Friends.” Many of them for decades. If they don’t contribute to the quality of my life then they are not Friends. Just people I know. When I said this to Daughter Dana and her Monica yesterday they agreed that this may be my Year of Clearing Out.
I really don’t know how to go about it – at all. Does one say, “I really don’t want to talk to/be around you any more?” Letting someone down gradually sounds appealing, however, is it honorable? Or do I tell L. that finding out that she has a vicious streak makes me want to avoid her? That when J. pressures me to do things her way I go cold? That I need to tell F. she embarrasses me by the way she treats others when we’re out together?
Many questions, not many answers. At least today.
I am signing off for now.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Dark Spots
Friend Ellie just spent 3 days with us. We went to Santa Barbara High School together a billion years ago (well, in the 50's), also began UCSB at the same time. She's a very direct, outspoken, fun person with lots of energy, a retired elementary school teacher.
Patrick, Ellie and I had lunch on Tuesday with Dennis, another classmate who Ellie stays in touch with. He reminded us that he was the youngest compared to E. and I. Altho' I barely remember Dennis from school, it was fun getting together. We sat on the balcony at Brophy Brothers for a 3 hour lunch, it was a beautiful day.
Toward the end of the afternoon, Dennis confided that he had a doctor's appointment the next day -- it was to discuss the dark spot on his lung that an x-ray had revealed. It brought up a whole lot, including my own dark spot.
At our last high school reunion last year I wanted to stand up in the middle of the picnic area on Sunday and scream: OK, everyone, time to rip off your disguises. You, over there, off with the white wig. John, you don't wear horned rim glasses to read! Time to slip off all that wrinkled skin, everybody. Stop this kidding around, it's not funny!
I wanted to...
So there are dark spots that we have to acknowledge and move on. They may be serious or just a bumpy place in our road. Everyone has them. It's how we handle those spots in our lives.
About five years ago two women that I knew developed inoperable cancer at the same time. Tairi was most concerned about telling me that she had a limited time to live, so upset, knowing how I'd feel.
Diana was impatient and cold when I called her to express my condolences, saying that I didn't know what to say. She growled back, "Well, then, why did you call?"
The spots in our lives.
Patrick, Ellie and I had lunch on Tuesday with Dennis, another classmate who Ellie stays in touch with. He reminded us that he was the youngest compared to E. and I. Altho' I barely remember Dennis from school, it was fun getting together. We sat on the balcony at Brophy Brothers for a 3 hour lunch, it was a beautiful day.
Toward the end of the afternoon, Dennis confided that he had a doctor's appointment the next day -- it was to discuss the dark spot on his lung that an x-ray had revealed. It brought up a whole lot, including my own dark spot.
At our last high school reunion last year I wanted to stand up in the middle of the picnic area on Sunday and scream: OK, everyone, time to rip off your disguises. You, over there, off with the white wig. John, you don't wear horned rim glasses to read! Time to slip off all that wrinkled skin, everybody. Stop this kidding around, it's not funny!
I wanted to...
So there are dark spots that we have to acknowledge and move on. They may be serious or just a bumpy place in our road. Everyone has them. It's how we handle those spots in our lives.
About five years ago two women that I knew developed inoperable cancer at the same time. Tairi was most concerned about telling me that she had a limited time to live, so upset, knowing how I'd feel.
Diana was impatient and cold when I called her to express my condolences, saying that I didn't know what to say. She growled back, "Well, then, why did you call?"
The spots in our lives.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Sharks and Smoke
I was telling my shark story to some women at my gym and Ingrid said she thought they may have been Basking Sharks. Could be, although it takes some of the bite out of my rant about how sinister they looked. Basking Sharks are notoriously timid, shy creatures, not dangerous at all. Ah shucks.
I've been hovering indoors most of the day because of the smoke and ash from the wild fire up in the back country. Even though it's many miles away, the residue reaches us and there are gray bits of ash all over my car. It's not good for anyone to inhale -- me in particular.
During the 37 years of cigarette smoking my lungs were compromised and I have scar tissue on one lung that shows as a dark spot in Xrays. My doctor warned me to stay away from second hand smoke and, of course, never start smoking again. I had my last cigarette in 1989 and would NEVER go back.
We have given up friends who smoke. I just won't gamble on my health in order to be polite. I wish I could apologize to all the people I jeoprodized with my terrible habit for all those years. Especially my two daughters.
So, Law of Attraction. I wish to attract healthy, happy people into my life who act responsibly: physically, mentally and emotionally, both toward themselves and others. No human being is totally evolved, but we all can surely work on it.
It continues to be a busy summer. I've been saying what other folks say when they retire -- how did I find time to work?
I've been hovering indoors most of the day because of the smoke and ash from the wild fire up in the back country. Even though it's many miles away, the residue reaches us and there are gray bits of ash all over my car. It's not good for anyone to inhale -- me in particular.
During the 37 years of cigarette smoking my lungs were compromised and I have scar tissue on one lung that shows as a dark spot in Xrays. My doctor warned me to stay away from second hand smoke and, of course, never start smoking again. I had my last cigarette in 1989 and would NEVER go back.
We have given up friends who smoke. I just won't gamble on my health in order to be polite. I wish I could apologize to all the people I jeoprodized with my terrible habit for all those years. Especially my two daughters.
So, Law of Attraction. I wish to attract healthy, happy people into my life who act responsibly: physically, mentally and emotionally, both toward themselves and others. No human being is totally evolved, but we all can surely work on it.
It continues to be a busy summer. I've been saying what other folks say when they retire -- how did I find time to work?
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Sharks
The marine layer cleared late this morning, so we decided to take a beach walk after visiting our recyle center and the donation drop off at our local thrift store.
We chose the beach at Isla Vista, which is adjacent to the housing neighborhood for students at the University of California at Santa Barbara. There are also scattered, friendly people there living in RV's and vans.
One can walk along the bluffs, then descend stairs down to the beach, or continue, like we did, on the bluff path all the way to Coal Oil Point. It was remarkably clear, our Channel Islands which are about 45 miles out to sea were unusually visable for a summer day. The sky was a deep blue and way out the ocean was a fitting navy blue.
Then we spotted them. Sharks! The waves were breaking gently, it was high tide and there seemed to be a clear corridor of green, tropical looking, shallow water between the shoreline and deeper water. We first counted 7 of them, at least 5 feet long, swimming very slowly back and forth. As we walked along we lost count, as they would turn and go back the way they came. They were, in a word, sinister.
Then, a woman with her young son approached the stair way to the beach. The boy had a boogie board under his arm. I decided to butt in and told them about the sharks and she quickly told her son that he wasn't going in the water today! She thanked me. Of course, the boy wanted to know what kind of sharks they were. I suppose they were sand sharks, but they were big and very black, that's all I cared about. And thot their behavior strange, so close to the beach.
We tracked the sharks for several hundred feet, then the path was too far away from the ocean. As we doubled back to leave we saw them again, not as clearly. Just as we were heading back to the car we were treated to dolphins way off shore. Sighting them always makes me happy.
A very special day and very unforgettable.
We chose the beach at Isla Vista, which is adjacent to the housing neighborhood for students at the University of California at Santa Barbara. There are also scattered, friendly people there living in RV's and vans.
One can walk along the bluffs, then descend stairs down to the beach, or continue, like we did, on the bluff path all the way to Coal Oil Point. It was remarkably clear, our Channel Islands which are about 45 miles out to sea were unusually visable for a summer day. The sky was a deep blue and way out the ocean was a fitting navy blue.
Then we spotted them. Sharks! The waves were breaking gently, it was high tide and there seemed to be a clear corridor of green, tropical looking, shallow water between the shoreline and deeper water. We first counted 7 of them, at least 5 feet long, swimming very slowly back and forth. As we walked along we lost count, as they would turn and go back the way they came. They were, in a word, sinister.
Then, a woman with her young son approached the stair way to the beach. The boy had a boogie board under his arm. I decided to butt in and told them about the sharks and she quickly told her son that he wasn't going in the water today! She thanked me. Of course, the boy wanted to know what kind of sharks they were. I suppose they were sand sharks, but they were big and very black, that's all I cared about. And thot their behavior strange, so close to the beach.
We tracked the sharks for several hundred feet, then the path was too far away from the ocean. As we doubled back to leave we saw them again, not as clearly. Just as we were heading back to the car we were treated to dolphins way off shore. Sighting them always makes me happy.
A very special day and very unforgettable.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
A few years ago, while visiting daughter Jen at her home in the Yukon Territory in Canada, we took a day trip down to Skagway, AK. Both of my daughters are fascinated with old cemetaries -- not sure why -- so visits w/them usually entail a trip to a cemetary or two.
Jen took me to the one near the Chilkoot Trail, in the woods, in the middle of nowhere. As we parked the car in the lot to take the pathway to the burial place, she casually mentioned that there have been several bear sightings in the area.
We walked down the trail, maybe 200 yards, and arrived where a space in the woods had been cleared and surrounded by a split rail fence. There are perpendicular pieces of wood at each grave with the carved names of each gold scavenger who died in the avalanche at Chilkoot Trail in 1898.
It is quiet, there is no one else there. Alive, anyway.
I realize the camera is still in the car, so Jen volunteers to go get it. I wander around a bit and notice there is a woman's name on one of the markers. Curious. I'd always thought the gold rushers were all men. Time passes. Jen doesn't come back. I chide myself about being nervous, then decide to walk back along the trail and meet up with her. I casually start out. Keep walking. Nothing. I am almost at the car. No one. I arrive at the car and Jen is not there.
Bears come to mind. I start back along the path and begin calling "Jen, Jennifer, where are you?" No answer. I walk a little faster. "Jen!" Now I am almost back to the graveyard. Oh, God, please, where is she? Finally I hear her calling "Mom?" "Mom!" Here she was, coming back down the path. I start laughing nervously, "I thought sure the bears got you!"
She had stopped in the porta potty on the trail.
I refer to this as my "The Bear Story." Because it was my reality that a bear could eat my daughter. I had passed the porta potty 3 times and never saw it. The bear was real, the outdoor toilet was not. Perception...
(To learn more about the Dyea Cemetary and the activities in the area many years ago, google DyeaCemetary, and it's the first entry. There are also great photos.)
Jen took me to the one near the Chilkoot Trail, in the woods, in the middle of nowhere. As we parked the car in the lot to take the pathway to the burial place, she casually mentioned that there have been several bear sightings in the area.
We walked down the trail, maybe 200 yards, and arrived where a space in the woods had been cleared and surrounded by a split rail fence. There are perpendicular pieces of wood at each grave with the carved names of each gold scavenger who died in the avalanche at Chilkoot Trail in 1898.
It is quiet, there is no one else there. Alive, anyway.
I realize the camera is still in the car, so Jen volunteers to go get it. I wander around a bit and notice there is a woman's name on one of the markers. Curious. I'd always thought the gold rushers were all men. Time passes. Jen doesn't come back. I chide myself about being nervous, then decide to walk back along the trail and meet up with her. I casually start out. Keep walking. Nothing. I am almost at the car. No one. I arrive at the car and Jen is not there.
Bears come to mind. I start back along the path and begin calling "Jen, Jennifer, where are you?" No answer. I walk a little faster. "Jen!" Now I am almost back to the graveyard. Oh, God, please, where is she? Finally I hear her calling "Mom?" "Mom!" Here she was, coming back down the path. I start laughing nervously, "I thought sure the bears got you!"
She had stopped in the porta potty on the trail.
I refer to this as my "The Bear Story." Because it was my reality that a bear could eat my daughter. I had passed the porta potty 3 times and never saw it. The bear was real, the outdoor toilet was not. Perception...
(To learn more about the Dyea Cemetary and the activities in the area many years ago, google DyeaCemetary, and it's the first entry. There are also great photos.)
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Quail Cottage
Tomorrow morning we leave for our Cottage at Quail Ridge. A few of you have been the there.
Two and a half years ago we bought property in Ahwahnee, CA. It's an area (wide place in the road) between Oakhurst and Mariposa on Highway 49. We bought it primarily for the 4+ acres of long-view high Sierras, but have fallen in love with the little cottage that's on the property. It's only about 750 sq. ft., with a little, separate bedroom. It has a full kitchen and a wood burning stove, full of second hand furniture, and we've equipped it with a/c as well.
At first we thought we'd rent it for the occasional visitor, as we are 1 hour from the Yosemite Valley. But as time went on we realized we didn't want strangers staying in our little Quail. We have loaned it to a few friends, but it's really not for rent. We get over there about once a month. There's a large brick patio out the back door and in the summer we put up our canvas gazebo. It is "meat eater" (yellow jackets) country in the summer, so it's really necessary. Our outdoor firepit is a round table with a middle kettle where we build a fire.
As the evening comes down and we watch the orangy sunset over Deadwood, we have our cocktails on the patio. When it is completely dark you can see more stars, brighter than you can imagine, planets, constellations and sometimes comets. In winter you'll feel a cool breeze coming from the snow covered peaks many miles away.
Two years ago I bought the ajacent 4+ acre parcel with some money I inherited from my Mom. It has 2 rentals on it, plus a pond and fantastic views, as the land slopes downward. It would be an impossible task to count the number of trees on it, from all types of oaks to Manzanita to evergreens. We talk about building on it some day, perhaps a log type cabin. There are many deer paths. We'll see the mule deer, but they are rather shy.
Meanwhile, Patrick has to work until retirement age, a couple of more years. So we enjoy it as our 3 day getaway. It's a 4 hr 45 minute drive from Santa Barbara. We also have a dear friend, Marie Lane (she was our minister at our wedding) who lives in Oakhurst and we always get together while we' re there. If Patrick comes back early I move in with Marie for a while. It's always delightful to see her.
So I'll be back later in the week. Namaste.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
In Santa Barbara we celebrate the Summer Solstice with a parade, on the nearest Saturday of the longest day of the year. This year we were 2 days close after. I've just come from the parade -- a visit to childhood fantasy.
Mostly I watched the children watching the parade. The dragons, people walking on stilts waving fluttering bright colored banners, foil wrapped knights sporting cardboard swords, grass skirted hula dancers moving to the deep beat of every type of drum, scantily clad roller skating harem girls, and, lastly, a young lady swaying, balancing on a ring in a huge, plastic bubble. The spirit is light, happy, fun. It felt like a totally painless injection. You cannot help but clap. The children cannot help but dance.
The parade rules are strict. No motorized vehicles, no political or religious statements or themes, nothing at all commercial. Just groups and individuals who want to be a part of the Solstice celebration. The parade ends at a park where the fun continues with music, food and craft booths and more performances. The tradition was started many years ago by a man named Michael who wanted to dance down State Street to celebrate his birthday. He's gone now and God bless him.
Some day Patrick won't have to work week-ends and holidays and can go to these things with me. That would be more fun...
And, if you're reading this and don't live here, visit me at Summer Solstice time and we'll go to the next parade together.
Happy Solstice!!!
Mostly I watched the children watching the parade. The dragons, people walking on stilts waving fluttering bright colored banners, foil wrapped knights sporting cardboard swords, grass skirted hula dancers moving to the deep beat of every type of drum, scantily clad roller skating harem girls, and, lastly, a young lady swaying, balancing on a ring in a huge, plastic bubble. The spirit is light, happy, fun. It felt like a totally painless injection. You cannot help but clap. The children cannot help but dance.
The parade rules are strict. No motorized vehicles, no political or religious statements or themes, nothing at all commercial. Just groups and individuals who want to be a part of the Solstice celebration. The parade ends at a park where the fun continues with music, food and craft booths and more performances. The tradition was started many years ago by a man named Michael who wanted to dance down State Street to celebrate his birthday. He's gone now and God bless him.
Some day Patrick won't have to work week-ends and holidays and can go to these things with me. That would be more fun...
And, if you're reading this and don't live here, visit me at Summer Solstice time and we'll go to the next parade together.
Happy Solstice!!!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Thot I should clarify what I wrote yesterday about my friend, the umbrella, and the dark glasses. It was to illustrate -- and it really did happen -- how our attitudes toward life are so very diverse. Always. We were, I thought, on the same trip. I had a really good time. She didn't. But she's an unhappy person, and it wouldn't matter where we went or what we did. So we won't travel together ever again. I'm sure I annoy her equally, with my upbeat attitude. So it's an -- oh well.
Friend Susan tells me that I stay young by continually trying new things. She's right, I believe. Next on my horizon is a laptop, so I can play when we're away from home, especially at our cottage in the Sierras, which has no phone hook-up.
I forgot to say that I really enjoy biographies of people who interest me. I'm currently reading a new one about Katharine Hepburn, Kate, the Woman Who Was Hepburn, by Wm. Mann. Quite long, quite good, very comprehensive. She and my mom physically resembled each other very much.
Two quotes from The Secret that struck me:
"Beliefs about aging are all in our minds, so release those thoughts from your consciousness. Focus on health and eternal youth."
and
"Do not listen to society's messages about diseases and aging. Negative messages do not serve you."
Ciao for today.
Friend Susan tells me that I stay young by continually trying new things. She's right, I believe. Next on my horizon is a laptop, so I can play when we're away from home, especially at our cottage in the Sierras, which has no phone hook-up.
I forgot to say that I really enjoy biographies of people who interest me. I'm currently reading a new one about Katharine Hepburn, Kate, the Woman Who Was Hepburn, by Wm. Mann. Quite long, quite good, very comprehensive. She and my mom physically resembled each other very much.
Two quotes from The Secret that struck me:
"Beliefs about aging are all in our minds, so release those thoughts from your consciousness. Focus on health and eternal youth."
and
"Do not listen to society's messages about diseases and aging. Negative messages do not serve you."
Ciao for today.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Day Two
I've gotten some interesting emails from friends who say they don't want to (or "maybe later"), or aren't able to create a google account to add their comments to my blog. And, some nice compliments added to my blog. The cliche, that's what makes horseraces, seems to apply here.
One email, from long term friend P., expresses concern that I will only create Hallmark greeting card phrases if I continue along the path I seem to have started, one of POSITIVITY. His suggestion to me is that I include all thoughts and show my diversity. Not to worry, P. and others, I am not a Pollyanna, never have been. But I am trying to lead my life by concentrating on the good, and the beauty. Ugly and negative are siblings that get too much publicity without me. And we know that Thought Creates.
The Glass As Half Empty:
On a recent trip with a friend, the weather report for the day was "partly cloudy, clearing in the afternoon." As we left the hotel to go our separate ways, I chose to bring my dark glasses with me. She chose to bring her umbrella.
The sun came out soon after.
I have an aunt who likes to play, "Ain't it awful?" I no longer spend time with her. You see, I can get into the game w/her too easily, and soon I start feeling depressed and yukky. So my friend with her umbrella just isn't going to play any large role in my life any more. It's that simple.
I'll try to include some reading recommendations from time to time. For those of you who are not familiar w/my reading tastes: I rarely read fiction; I enjoy memoirs; and true adventure tales. I used to read lots of true crime tales, but not much anymore. And the writing has to be excellent, or I physically cannot read it. A few books that I've lately enjoyed very much are:
"She Got Up From the Couch" A memoir by Haven Kimmel
"Tales of A Female Nomad" true story -- didn't make note of author
"Digging For the Truth" archeological adventures, by Josh Bernstein
"The Body Spoken" by Janice Deaner (just read it)
(I get all my books at the public library, and ideas about what I'll like from reviews, browsing at local bookstores, and from friends who know my taste.) (Hint, hint.)
Ta Ta for now.
One email, from long term friend P., expresses concern that I will only create Hallmark greeting card phrases if I continue along the path I seem to have started, one of POSITIVITY. His suggestion to me is that I include all thoughts and show my diversity. Not to worry, P. and others, I am not a Pollyanna, never have been. But I am trying to lead my life by concentrating on the good, and the beauty. Ugly and negative are siblings that get too much publicity without me. And we know that Thought Creates.
The Glass As Half Empty:
On a recent trip with a friend, the weather report for the day was "partly cloudy, clearing in the afternoon." As we left the hotel to go our separate ways, I chose to bring my dark glasses with me. She chose to bring her umbrella.
The sun came out soon after.
I have an aunt who likes to play, "Ain't it awful?" I no longer spend time with her. You see, I can get into the game w/her too easily, and soon I start feeling depressed and yukky. So my friend with her umbrella just isn't going to play any large role in my life any more. It's that simple.
I'll try to include some reading recommendations from time to time. For those of you who are not familiar w/my reading tastes: I rarely read fiction; I enjoy memoirs; and true adventure tales. I used to read lots of true crime tales, but not much anymore. And the writing has to be excellent, or I physically cannot read it. A few books that I've lately enjoyed very much are:
"She Got Up From the Couch" A memoir by Haven Kimmel
"Tales of A Female Nomad" true story -- didn't make note of author
"Digging For the Truth" archeological adventures, by Josh Bernstein
"The Body Spoken" by Janice Deaner (just read it)
(I get all my books at the public library, and ideas about what I'll like from reviews, browsing at local bookstores, and from friends who know my taste.) (Hint, hint.)
Ta Ta for now.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Today
Hello. This is the first day of my first blog. Since I'm newly retired from a career where I had a strong voice and an ongoing audience of about 150 people, I am missing being able to express myself and my beliefs. I think this blog will be a perfect alternative.
One reason I chose the name of Positively Nancy is because my intentions are to live a more positive life. Of course, "The Secret" is all about this. Having an attitude of gratitude, thinking only the highest thoughts, and surrounding myself with other positive people are what I continually practice. Note the word practice!
I made a second play on the word, positive, because I intend to express myself honestly and generously and with a full heart. I hope to be able to reach out to people with a similar attitude, and reinforce what I have been learning for all these years. I am spiritual, not in any traditional religious sense, and I believe in a higher power, that I usually refer to as God. She/he is a loving, protective spirit who, I believe, has many angels at work. This beautiful world and all its living things could not have happened just by chance.
I believe God is everywhere, in the flowers, in a soaring seagull, within ancient boulders, in our glass of water. In you, in me, just everywhere. Isn't this wonderful?
So, my first day. Whew. It's fun. For now, Nancy
One reason I chose the name of Positively Nancy is because my intentions are to live a more positive life. Of course, "The Secret" is all about this. Having an attitude of gratitude, thinking only the highest thoughts, and surrounding myself with other positive people are what I continually practice. Note the word practice!
I made a second play on the word, positive, because I intend to express myself honestly and generously and with a full heart. I hope to be able to reach out to people with a similar attitude, and reinforce what I have been learning for all these years. I am spiritual, not in any traditional religious sense, and I believe in a higher power, that I usually refer to as God. She/he is a loving, protective spirit who, I believe, has many angels at work. This beautiful world and all its living things could not have happened just by chance.
I believe God is everywhere, in the flowers, in a soaring seagull, within ancient boulders, in our glass of water. In you, in me, just everywhere. Isn't this wonderful?
So, my first day. Whew. It's fun. For now, Nancy
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