Muff's Nest

Meet The Tower

2012-01-31T12:05:00.001-08:00

One of the great things about living with my sister is that I get see all the stuff she has collected over the years. In our library is the tower. It is a four sided, incredible ......thing. I really don't know how to describe it. It uses shadow boxes and various other contraptions to hold all sorts of knick knacks that Elinor has found. It even has a metal hip joint on the front...a contribution from our good friend, Todd, who works as a doctor's assistant (I think). It sits on a stand and has branches that extend from it. It is cool. I never cease looking at it with new interest every time I go into the room.

You Just Never Know

2012-01-26T22:43:00.000-08:00

In case you are wondering, this is a picture I took of the 4th of July fireworks in Washington, DC on the tv. Who would have thought? The reason for the picture is because I found some information about a relative that is really cool.

It all began when I went into Ancestry.com and was updating my credit card info. If you haven't tried Ancestry.com, it is a really great site to trace your family. While I was on there, I noticed a little blerb that said Kentucky Marriages. We have been looking for info on several marriages that we thought took place in Kentucky and hadn't had any luck. Tonight.... we had luck. I put in the name Eleanor Peace Collett. She was born in 1802 in Wakefield, England. We had always thought she married a Michael Barstow....WRONG!!!!! She married his brother, Jeremiah. They had three children...the second one was Marie Louise Barstow. Marie married a William Owsley George and they produced 6 kids. The first was Eva Waller George who married John Joseph Kreer. Their youngest child was Elinor Peace Kreer who married Arnold W. Totman. They had three girls: Evelyn (my Mom), Barbara, and Priscilla (my favorite Aunt-Pat).

I was so excited that I called Elinor(my sister) who is visiting friends in the Bay Area. She was thrilled. It was a cool find and I am delighted. You just never know what you will find when you are not really trying.

Dinner With Thomas And Sam Fox

2012-01-23T22:38:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas with Thomas and Sam Fox by taking them to their favorite restaurant,

RIB CITY.

Both boys really like this place because of the great rib sause.

Sam who is not much of an eater these days cleaned his plate. I don't think the restaurant had to wash either of the boys' plates.

Elinor and I also enjoy this restaurant so it wasn't a hardship to go. We had hoped to have the company of John also but he had to work. We will have to reschedule with him. Darn! That means we will have to go and eat there again. Poor us!!!!!!!

Extremely Soft and Incredibly Far

2012-01-21T16:03:00.000-08:00

I saw a movie today called EXTREMELY LOUD & INCREDIBLY CLOSE. It starred Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock and a very talented boy by the name of Thomas Horn. It was about a boy whose father died in 9/11 and how he goes on a search to make sense of it. Of course, there is no way to make sense of 9/11 . How do you make sense of 8 men highjacking 4 planes and crashing them?

The boy believes that his father left him something and he has to find it. In doing so, he meets some wonderful people, including his grandfather, and overcomes some of his fears in the process.

He also comes to find out that his mother isn't as distant from him as he thought. That she can think like he does and understand him pretty well. He had been pushing her away but she didn't give up. I think I may have treated my own father in much the same way. He never protested very much and I thought that perhaps he didn't care but I think now I was wrong.

Maybe I just wasn't listening or he was talking too softly but I am sorry Dad. I didn't hear you then but I feel you now. Love you lots and thanks for trying.

Unrequited Love

2012-01-17T13:48:00.001-08:00

His name is Achmed and he lives next door. When Cashew

first saw him, she went nuts. She lay down on the floor and cried and rolled and did all manner of unlady cat things.

Now, it is all over. Oh, she comes over and sniffs at the screen but then she just goes her way.

Such is life....catstyle....or not.

There Is A Room

2012-01-17T13:19:00.000-08:00

There is a room in our home

where I can be all alone.

It is a wonderful room though

it hasn't a phone.

Alas, it lacks a simple dial tone.

Though the room is tiny with

no place to roam,

It is an essential part of our dear

little home.

There is much to look at and

good things to read.

There is artwork galore...whatever

you need.

So I come to this room to be on my

own.

Happily seated on our brand new

THRONE

Have You Ever Tried To Play Solitaire Around A Cat?

2012-01-13T09:22:00.000-08:00

Have you ever tried to play solitaire around a cat? It is an experience for sure. I keep saying "Lie Down, Cashew....Lie Down."

Cats are so obedient........HA! And if I try to move her out of the way, she smacks me (sometimes with claws out) with her paw. Now I ask you.....is that nice? For some reason,

she wants to be on the computer desk staring at me. Not only does she want to be on the desk, but when she goes to get up there, she uses me for a step(from floor to my thigh to the desk).

Now really!!!!

Very strange little beast........and I love it.

The Best Christmas Present Ever

2012-01-12T22:33:00.000-08:00

Every year, Elinor gives me a really cool present

for Christmas. This year, she outdid herself.

She made totebags for the Domino Queens.

Eash one is different and special for the lady to whom it was given. The first one in the first

picture is for Carol Eyre. She loves the color black, music and travel. Sue Moore, the first lady on the viewer's left collects old hankies(clean, of course) and old linen. Carleen Yamashita is a Japanese Hawaiian and also, our hostess. The fabric for hers is all Japanese. Next to her is Carolyn Robertson, a lover of flowers and gardening so hers has flowers and gardening. And finally, our classic lady, Berta Dowden and her bag is brimming over with class.

Elinor gave me these bags for each of my friends and it was so much fun to present them. The

ladies were delighted. Each bag also had a tag on it made from domino designed material and shaped like the head of a queen(complete with crown). It was soooooo cool.

Elinor's bags are so unique but then so is Elinor. She sure made Christmas fun for me. Thanks, Sis.

What Do You See?

2012-01-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

Recently, I gave a poem to a friend. I am enclosing it because I need for my other friends to see it too.

What do you see when you look at me?

When you look, what do you see?

Do you see a mass of color?

Or am I invisible to your eye? Do you stop and examine or will you pass me by?

No, you are curious. You take the time you need.

You look deeper than most; you want to get a good read.

So I open up for you and let my inner light glow.

You are one of my dearest friends and I just wanted you to know.

I am grateful to my friends. They keep me going and on an even keel.

They give my life a sweet meaning and I cherish them. I just wanted you to know.

Butterfly or Hawk

2012-01-05T10:01:00.000-08:00

Today is my cousin Robert's birthday. He passed away but I find myself thinking about him often. He was a big guy in so many ways.

I was talking with his mom and she mentioned that she and her daughter thought about Robert as perhaps a hawk. It is easy to picture Robert soaring overhead, keeping watch on those he loved. In my dream book, it says to see and preceive from great heights; powerful; to soar spiritually. Yeah, I can see Robert doing that.

When I make my calenders, I designate someone who has passed with a sticker of a butterfly.

In my dream book, it says rebirth in higher form; transmutation of energy. I believe that fits Robert as well. I am glad I remember Robert. Whether butterfly or hawk, he is still flying high in my book.

Good Morning 2012

2012-01-01T08:12:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to you, World! I have just read a book that is a

real uplift. It is called CHRISTMAS JARS by Jason F. Wright. It is all about a great little tradition that sounds like fun. You get a jar and fill it with your change, a little each day and at the end of the year you give it to someone in need. You don't tell them your name or where you live....you just give it to them. It doesn't matter how much is in the jar. It is the giving that is important.

The best thing about this book is that it is small and a quick read. Try it....it will make you feel good and that is a good way to start a new year.

A View From My Gut

2011-12-31T09:56:00.000-08:00

This is what I see when I am down watching TV
at night: Cashew lying on my stomach. This is her comfort zone and I guess it is mine too. There is something very soothing about a 11 lb cat stretched out on your torso, snoring. Yes, she does snore. She also purrs, loudly and there is a difference between the two.
Occasionally, I scratch her ears, her neck, the top of her head, or the back by her tail but she doesn't enjoy this as much as when she is parading on my desk.
I love this little cat. She is my pal and she seems to like my company for which I am grateful.
Happy New Year, Little Friend. And a Happy New Year to you, Cuz. You know how this feels from a dog lover's point of view. And Nani is heavier than Cashew so maybe she is lying beside you and not on you which might be a little uncomfortable for you. Whatever, at least it isn't Punky.
Happy New Year to All.

Leaves

2011-12-24T00:14:00.000-08:00

It is funny. At this time of the year, one does not expect to see leaves still on the trees. After all, it is winter. And yet, there are a whole bunch of trees around here that still have most of their leaves. Our neighbors across the street have a tree that still has a bunch. They had raked up a slew of them only to find their yard cover again with a new batch in the morning. We don't really have that problem because most of our trees are fir trees.

Ain't life a kick?

So This Is Christmas

2011-12-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

The John and Yoko song has been running in my head for days now. I was watching the final episode of the Sing Off and this was the last song.

Our house is all decorated thanks to Evie and two of her friends. They had come down for a concert on Friday and they helped with the tree.

These are actually pictures of past Christmas but so what.

Elinor's mod nativity is still beautiful, Cashew still likes to meander under the tree and Santa Claus is still riding the chicken. We are celebrating a little differently this year because I will not be going up to Evie's.

I know the Coleman Christmas will be wonderful but the bod just doesn't cooperate anymore on trips.

However, I will not be neglected. The Domino Queen, Carlene, has invited me to Christmas dinner. Maybe we will bring out her ukelele and sing a little. She plays really well. Elinor and I will celebrate here and there. Living with my sister is a little like Christmas every day anyway.

Goodbye Old Blue

2011-12-05T12:23:00.000-08:00

I sold an old friend today: My old Toyota Blue Camry. It was a gift from a dear friend, David Adison. He sold it to me for a $1.00 and I sold it for $999.00 more.

Old Blue was a great car. It got Cashew and I safely to Washington State and we did alot of sightseeing in the first year we were here. Of late, it has been a godsend to my niece, Maureen, who used it to drive to work to save gas. She usually drives an Excursion which uses diesel. I will miss Old Blue and His Flying Flower. Thanks, David, for a very special gift.

A Little Imagination

2011-12-03T21:36:00.000-08:00

We saw a great movie today: HUGO. It was an interesting story of a boy who works in a clock tower in a railway station. His parents are dead and he must stay hidden or he will be taken to the orphanage. His father was a clock maker and he loved to tinker so the boy also enjoyed it. His father found this mechanical man but died before he could fix it. So the boy began to tinker.

I won't tell you any more because I don't want to spoil it for you but it was really cool.

Speaking of which, it is really COLD here today. We about

froze in the movie theatre. I've heard about saving money on turning down the heat but I could have used a blanket today. BURRRRRRRRRRR.

Two Years In A Row

2011-11-29T23:27:00.000-08:00

It is blooming again: Our Christmas Cactus.

This has got to be one of the most beautiful sights imaginable. The lovely blossoms, some red, some pink, and some white. It is just amazing.

It really lifts your spirits. We've had a lot of rain lately but how can one be sad when this is flowering in your kitchen.

I think this must be a gift from my Dad. He was always so good with flowers and plants of all kinds. He had stuff growing outdoors and indoors. He and his wife, Mary Jo, even had tomato seedlings growing in the basement.

I am lousy with plants but somehow this keeps growing. I am grateful for the blooms. It does my soul a world of good. Thanks, Dad.

Much To Be Thankful For

2011-11-23T23:54:00.000-08:00

What is about 12am that makes me thoughtful?
I don't know but there it is. Today is Thanksgiving. The house smells so good right now. We have been baking pies. We didn't make them....just baked them. Pecan and cherry.....my two favorites.
It was fun watching Evalyn Coleman teach her eldest daughter, Ellie, how to make a crust. She made 12 of them so I think she has it now.
Later this morning, Maureen and the Coleman girls and probably Thomas Fox will be running in the Turkey Trot Race(5k). Better them than me.
Joe got in last night. I am delighted because I didn't think he was coming. Also, Izzy and Johnny Harris will be here. Izzy has to share holidays with Johnny's family. The Ettobi family will be arriving from Silverdale. They are friends of the Colemans but they have won the hearts of us all down here.
Ellie's dear friend Heidi and her family will join us and there are a few more so we should be able to get rid of one or two of those pies.
I am grateful for so many things: My sister and brother, my sister in law, my nieces and nephews and all the greats, the Domino Queens, my good friends back in Virginia, my wonderful cousins....Margaret and Carole...and last but never least, Cashew.
Thank you, God, for all these wonderful people. Please bless them each and everyone.

Goodbye Glenwood

2011-11-20T22:27:00.000-08:00

When I first moved to Vancouver, one of the first things I did was to find a church that I could attend. I tried several different ones but to no avail. Then I found Glenwood Community Church in Battle Ground. When I walked in, there was canned music playing. The song was one of my favorite hymns: Bones of Elijah. They use to play it all the time in Virginia and it always made me feel good. I thought it was a sign.

The Church asked new people to fill out communication cards so I did. They contacted me and I went in to talk to the assistant minister. He was very nice and I thought I had found a home.

Now almost four years later, I don't feel that way. At Glenwood, I am invisible: not to the congregation but to the ministers.

I don't expect them to speak to me all the time but when someone sits in the same place and is always early and they come in for a mic check, you can at least say" Good Morning" or "Hi". I realize they are busy but doesn't take that long especially when you say hello to everyone else. It's not like I'm hiding or like you can't see me. I am not exactly small shall we say.

I have tried to fit in. I have tried the Bible study classes but I didn't enjoy them as much as I use to in Virginia. They kind of remind me of a short story class I took in college. We dissected the story so much that I lost interest in the whole thing. I've tried to be involved by working at the Vacation Bible Camp but I guess it is not enough.

I may try another church or I may just go with Elinor. The Mormons don't ignore me. I am always welcomed from the Bishop to the Missionaries to the women in the Relief Society.

Lynn, if you are reading this, don't panic. I don't believe I will join the Mormons but it is nice to worship where you are wanted.

We Got The Gloomies

2011-11-18T01:18:00.000-08:00

It has been raining forever here. I know that is one of the Northwest's drawing points but it is not one I appreciate for any length of time.

I want some sunshine. It might make people a little more friendlier.

We have some demonstraters down in Portland. The thing about these groups of people is that they are disrupting the city. Now I have no problem with people expressing their dissatisfaction with how things are but when they prevent others from doing their jobs or getting to their homes....well that doesn't set well.

People are afraid to go into the city which hurts business. When business is hurt, then we have more unemployed so who is that helping?

I don't get it.

All you hear on the news is bad stuff. One of my favorite singers had a song called "Sure Could Use A Little Good News" and we could. How about a little sunshine?

Tribute to the beast with apologies to Billy Joel

2011-11-17T10:05:00.000-08:00

She can kill with a swipe, she can wound with her claws,

And she can ruin your faith, she has her own laws,

And she only reveals what she wants you to see.

She hides like a kitten but she's always a puss cat to me.

Ooooh, she takes care of herself (licka lick).

She can wait if she wants, she's ahead of her time. (especially if it is dinner time)

Oooooh, and she never gives out, and she never gives in.....she just changes her mind.

She is frequently kind and she's suddenly cruel.

But she can do as she pleases, she's nobody's

fool.

She'll purr and she'll snuggle and then walk over you.

She plays like a kitten but she always just Cashew.

Problem

2011-11-15T10:19:00.000-08:00

There is a problem when you don't blog daily.....people don't check on you. You become invisable. I stopped blogging because I didn't feel I had anything to say. I certainly didn't have any new pictures to show. There was just the old stuff and the old me.

Well, there you have it.......or had it. I am back.

I don't like being invisable.

The question is will they come back?

Are you still there?

Changes

2011-11-14T09:34:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is coming and with it, changes.

We will still be having it at Maureen's but this year, there will not be a football game. Instead, people will be running in a race. This will also be the last Thanksgiving with the Coleman Family for a while.

Joe is at sea now but he will have a new post next Thanksgiving: Washington, DC. Maureen is talking about renting a house at the shore and holding Thanksgiving there and so things change.

The reason for the holiday remains the same: a time to give thanks and a time to share. It is still good. We shall see what next year brings. Meanwhile, I intend on enjoying this year.

Next week, Elinor gets home, the Coleman family arrives and the race will be run.

Strange.....

2011-11-13T00:10:00.000-08:00

There are times when I just want to blend with the scenery. Sometimes there are times when I want to just sit.

Sometimes, I want to dance .

And sometimes, I want to soar away.

Life is weird that way. Emotions go crazy and we don't know how to handle things. It is 12:15am on Sunday. I would like to soar....fly thru the night...float on the clouds....fly towards the moon...be anywhere but here.

Just a thought.........Strange.

It Is More Blessed To Give

2011-10-14T23:34:00.000-07:00

You know the old adage it is more blessed to give than receive...? It is true. It is also more fun.

Recently, Elinor received a calling from her Church: humanitarian committee. It was a match made in heaven. She is loving it and because I live with her, I am loving it too. She started out getting everyone to contribute to making hygiene kits. These consist of two hand towels, two combs, four toothbrushes, two bars of soap, and one tube of toothpaste. This all fits into one gallon zip lock bag. The kits are for victims of disasters but they are also great to hand to the homeless. There are several agencies here in Vancouver like SHARE and OPEN HOUSE MINISTRIES which help people who are homeless. Last night, after we had been collecting all this stuff for a couple weeks, we got together and assembled kits. Today, we drove to SHARE and OPEN HOUSE MINISTRIES and delivered them. It was cool.

Our next project is socks. The neat thing is that once you get started, it actually becomes fun.

We've been making a list of things we can gather. Some are obvious but others are not like

alarm clocks. Since both SHARE and OPEN HOUSE are interested in helping people get back on their feet, alarm clocks make sense. After all, you have to get up to make appointments and interviews.

This ROCKS!!!!!!!!!

Butterflies are free....

2011-10-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

Today is my Aunt Pat's Birthday...she would have been 89 years young. I never see my Aunt growing old although she certainly did. But that is not how I see her. She was vibrant, excited about life and curious. There was a joy in her that was wonderful to be around. We had some great adventures. I remember exploring Lake Barcroft with her by canoe. It was sooo much fun. And walking around Tokyo looking for those plastic sample of food so she could take them back with her to show the kids at Hayfield.

Whenever I see a butterfly, I think of Pat....flitting from flower to flower...drinking in life's joy. Happy Birthday, Aunts. Love ya lots.

Maroo Foo

An Answer To A Letter

2011-09-25T23:04:00.000-07:00

Last month I read the biography of Thomas S. Monson who is the President of the Church Of Jesus Christ Of The Latter Day Saints better known as the Mormon Church. I was deeply moved by this book and even more so by this incredible man.

I was so moved that I actually wrote a letter to him. I never in a million years expected to hear a reply but today I received one.....not exactly the way I thought but perhaps even better.

President Monson sent two missionaries to personally answer my questions. They were not the missionaries who are attached to Elinor's ward. These two were two I hadn't met before. I must say I was a little taken aback when I answered the door. Elinor hadn't come home from Church so I couldn't figure out who they were. I was slightly confused and then my niece, Evie, arrived. When I finally understood that they were here because of the letter I had written, I was dumbfounded.

I figured that the letter had gotten lost or he was just too busy to write. I wasn't angry.....just a little disappointed but not anymore.

The two missionaries explained that they had been sent by the Mission President on behalf of the Prophet(President Monson). They had come to answer any questions that I had about the Church. Actually, the only question I had asked President Monson was whether I could partake of the Sacrement with Elinor when I was visiting her Church. The answer was yes I could.

We had a lovely discussion joined in by my niece and sister. It was really a cool experience and one I shall never forget. President Monson wanted me to have a complete answer and a letter would not have done that because there could be not give and take. This way I got my answer and he made sure I got the correct information. I knew I liked this man. It was a wonderful "open" letter from a very busy individual who took time from his schedule to reach out to another person and let them know that he cared.

Please, Heavenly Father, Bless this man and take good care of him. The world needs more like Thomas S. Monson.

A Bouquet

2011-09-22T22:51:00.000-07:00

I lost a friend today... Ruth Gil.

She was my mother's friend first but she was my friend last. She was a crusty old gal full of spunk. She had class as well. She always looked good. She had a good sense of humor and a great love of people. She believed in service. She spent years touring around in the book mobile taking books to senior homes and the home bound. She brought a cheerful smile along with her friendly face. My mother use to help her. That is how they became pals. When my mother died, Ruth became my pal. I would visit her down at the Westminister Retirement Cottages in Lake

Ridge, Virginia. We would go out to lunch or do errands or just talk. As Ruth became older, she took some nasty spills and finally, her daughter, Sally, moved her closer to her near New Market.

I am glad I knew Ruth Gil. I will always treasure our friendship. I am sure my mom will have a pleasant welcome for her. Have fun catching up, ladies.

Ross

2011-09-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my brother's birthday. He turned 69 years old. It is funny because he sure doesn't sound like he is 69 although I am not sure what 69 sounds like.

He sounds like he has always sounded to me....loving. Dearest friend, protective brother, clown, all-around good guy.....that's my bro.

I love this man with all my heart. How did I get to be sooooooo lucky to be a part of his life. I treasure every day I know him. I ask my Heavenly Father to watch over him and his wonderful wife, Sharon, and keep them safe. I am so Blessed to have my Rossy in my life.

You are the best, Bro.

Well I made it!

2011-09-12T23:23:00.000-07:00

63...Good grief! Who would have thought it? Surely not me. Does this picture look like someone who would be 63 someday? I don't think so. Nevertheless, here I is.

It has been quite a birthday. Elinor began it by making me a bag for my scriptures. It is beautiful. It goes over my shoulder and I love it. She made it out of material designed by my niece, Laura Gunn. I have to take a picture of it so you can see.

Then I got serenaded by my cousin, Margaretta, at 9:01 pm on the 11th. She said I was officially 63 because it was midnight in the East. The next day, I received an emails from my nieces Cindy Foster,Lynn McDonald-Burks, and Mo Fox; facebook hits from Ashton Bailey, Wendy Bailey,and Ellie Coleman; I got taken out to brunch by the Domino's Queens and then we played(I came in 4th). I got phone calls from Cindy Foster, Ross Bailey, Evie Coleman, Annie Wiehe, and Lonnie Schmidt. I got cards from Lynn Smith, Carolyn Shoup, JJ Gualtieri, The Golden Girls,and Twinbrook Chiropractic. E-cards from Ace Adams and Margaret Darby. A

beautiful print from Donna Turgeon of a seagull that we both took pictures of on the Eastern Shore. I also received a cute cap and a sock purse from my brother, Ross and his lovely wife, Sharon and fresh flowers from my friends, the Larsens.

In other words, today I was treated like royalty. It was a lovely birthday and I will treasure the memories for a long while. Thank you one and all.

Our New Sink

2011-09-05T19:08:00.000-07:00

This picture does NOT do this project justice by any means.

What you can not see is the lovely shelves in front of the chest of drawers. They are red and white and are now holding all of Elinor's dyes and paints. There is a nice long table there as well. There will be a counter running from the sink towards the table. The back wall is the Grandchildren's art display and I must say we have some real talent and imagination in our family(no surprise).

Our incredible neighbor, Todd Dixon, has done a masterful job and we are so excited. We are planning on having a Garage Warming Party to welcome our lovely new sink.

It sure does make coming into our home a real treat. Thanks, Todd. Well done, dear friend.

It Is That Time Again.....Happy Birthday, Cuz!!

2011-08-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

I don't have any recent pictures of my cousin, Margaret....mostly because she hates having her picture taken as much as I do. Sooooooooo

these are from our trip across country with our mothers. The train was in Kansas I think. What I remember is that there was dog poop uo in the engine and I couldn't figure how the dog got up there. The one with Margaret dancing is at Frontierland at Disneyland. How Margaret ever ended up on stage is beyond me( she was a shy young thing in those days ). The one with the horses is in Tucson near my Grandparents home. The horses were Billy Joe and Stinky. We sure did have a good time on them. Didn't you get tossed, Marg? Good memories. I am glad I know you, Margaret. I treasure our friendship more than you will ever know. It was fun singing to you at 12:03am this morning. Elinor and

I both enjoyed hearing your voice. May this be a wonderful year for you and your family. Love ya lots, Cuz.

Pick Myself Up, Dust Myself Off.........

2011-08-21T16:11:00.000-07:00

There she is.....the lady on the left....with dark glasses and the V for victory sign or does it mean something else. I can't tell nowadays. Her name is Lyndi. She is my niece and she is partly named for me. Today is her birthday. I have come to admire this tenacious woman. She has been on a roller coaster most of her life. She is my brother's oldest daughter and one of my favorite people.

She was a wild child and there were times when I wondered if she would make it. Just when you count her out, she gets right back in there. Recently, she has been going to school to get her degree in drug counseling. She has one semester left and she will have it. I am so proud of this young woman. She just doesn't give up. She just picks herself up, dusts herself off and goes out and kicks butt. Way to go, Lyndi.....WAY TO GO!!!!!!!

Elinor in Wonderland

2011-08-19T17:22:00.000-07:00

Elinor and I both enjoyed the movie Alice in Wonderland with Johnny Depp. Elinor was so taken with it she had to create her own garden. Isn't this fun? It almost makes me wish I could sew.....notice I say almost. She is sending the pattern to her partner, Beth, in Nevada so it should be out soon. Meanwhile, enjoy!!!!!!!!

Meet Joan Crowford

2011-08-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

This is Elinor's new creation and one I am very in love with. Joan is a fantastic crow complete with her own nest. It has all sorts of dodads on it and it is just fun.

Recently, Elinor had to make three of these birds so we had a flock in our workroom. It was fun. To quote the original......"I am just too much"

Excitement!

2011-08-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

You are probably wondering why there are three entries for today. I haven't taken pictures for a long time but I felt like trying.

This is a beautiful flower that a dear friend gave us. It was positively HUGE and I just had to try and get it. Not too bad for such a long absence. I am delighted and excited. We may have to try again soon.

TYG

Who Is Spying On Who?

2011-08-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

I love to open the door to our terrace so that Cashew can get some fresh air. She seems to like it too. This morning was a little different. We were being spied upon. These two just stared at each other for a while and then ..........................................NOTHING.

Cats are just weird.

Our Latest Puzzle

2011-08-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

Elinor and I love doing jigsaw puzzles but we are fussy. We don't just do any puzzle; they have to be interesting. This is by a terrific artist named Colin Thompson. He has written children's books as well as illustrating some and he does puzzles. We have all of his and they have each presented a challenge. Elinor loves the detail and the colors. I'm not sure what I like but I do enjoy doing them. He did one called the Library: all books but with some strange titles like LORD OF THE PIES, GONE WITH THE WINE, and LADY CHATTERLEY"S ROVER. Then there are all these little details like little restaurants, mice, and other silly things. The puzzle above had books with arms and legs. If you are looking for a fun thing, try this guy.

Where was the camera when I needed it?

2011-08-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

I sang Happy Birthday to my sister at 12:01 this morning. She laughed because we were both up too late but it was fun. This morning I was reading in bed when the telephone rang. It was 9:20am, not too early for us but there was no way I was going to make it to the phone before it finished ringing. I waited to see if it was someone who knew us and sure enough, it was. They called again. I started to get up but then out charges Elinor in her Birthday suit. I just about didn't make it to the bathroom because I was laughing so hard. It was her son, Ross calling to serenade with his wife, Wendy. It was a hoot.

My sister is 71 today and I wish her the very best of birthdays. I hope she gets calls from all her kids and her grandkids. I hope they all appreciate what a wonderful and incredible person she is and how she continues to add to their lives. She certainly adds to mine. May God Bless her and keep her safe.

A Decade Of Fun

2011-07-15T03:19:00.000-07:00

We saw Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows part 2 this morning. The movie was suppose to start at 12:01am but it malfunctioned and didn't start until 12:50am. It is now 3:27am and we are home again. It was fun. The saga is over and it ended on a positive note.

If you haven't read the Harry Potter books, try them. You will get hooked. It doesn't seem to matter what generation you are....you get hooked. My parents enjoyed them; my siblings enjoyed them; my nephews and nieces and great nephews and great nieces enjoyed them as well.

Four generations in our family. The movies were equal to the books. They were well made and with only an exception or two, kept the same cast all the way through.

It has been great fun. Thanks, J.K. Rowling. Well done.....well done indeed.

We Are Doing It Again

2011-07-13T23:21:00.000-07:00

It's that time again. Time for the last chapter of Harry Potter and yes, we are going to the midnight show again. Last year, we took John and Thomas Fox. This year, only John is going.

Thomas will be going on overland trek with other Mormon kids to get a feel of what it was like to be a pioneer. We will miss Thomas but we will suffer on.

Elinor and I have already watched the other seven videos from this series. It has been an incredible run. I have enjoyed the books and the movies equally and I will miss these characters.

It has definately been good fun.

Once more, into the fray, dear friends.........LUMOS. Let there be light.

Zyg Nagorski

2011-07-12T23:09:00.000-07:00

I received a call from my Brother, Ross, today. We both talked about the events of yesterday and how we almost lost a great nephew, Luke Gunn. Luckily, Luke is doing well.(See previous blog).

I asked Ross about his wife, Sharon, who is also in the hospital after undergoing some surgery on her leg. Sharon is improving daily and Ross told me that one of the things they do is read the paper together. Today he read about the passing of a dear friend, Zyg Nagorski. Zyg and his lovely wife, Marie, were friends of my family when we lived in Scarsdale, NY. Originally from Poland, they escaped during the WWII and made their way to the US. Mom met Marie at the Scarsdale Tennis Club. Yes, my Mother once played tennis( stop giggling, Cuz). The women became friends and so did the husbands. For years, the Nagorskis came to our house for holidays and cookouts. They were very good friends. They all

love to discuss current events and what was happening in the world. They formed a group called the Curious People. Zyg and Marie entrusted their oldest daughter to my folks while they were overseas in Egypt. Young Marie was suppose to be going to Syracuse but she would have none of it. She worked at Schraffts as a waitress and boy did she bring home the tips. Young Marie was and is very beautiful. When I first moved to DC, she was a big help to me.

When my Mom remarried, Zyg and Marie continued to be her dear friends. It was always a joy to see them. When Mom and Ken moved to Washington, the friendship continued. I will always consider them very special people in my life.

Dad and Zyg grew apart but Zyg was always sad about that and tried to make up. My father wasn't very good about making up. Maybe he will now. I hope so.

Safe journey, Zyg and thanks.

In A Moment......

2011-07-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

This is an old picture but it is all I have. We almost lost this sweet little boy tonight. He and his family were visiting friends and the friends had a pool. Luke had been swimming with a life jacket on but he asked if he could take it off. His mother asked if he was going to swim any more and he said no. She took it off.
The grownups were talking when the friend's little boy spied Luke at the bottom of the pool. They got him out and the friend performed CPR. Luke spit up water and was taken to the hospital. It appears as if he will be ok but Holy Cow!!!
I prayed like I have never prayed before and God answered. Thank you, God. Thank you!!!!!
This is a precious child. I would not like to be without him. How incredible!!!! It was just one moment.............
7/12/11
Just an update. Luke is fine. His Grandmother talked to him in the hospital this morning. It seems that Master Luke decided to go swimming without his waterwings. Little boys just have to try things on their own. We are all so grateful that this little guy is alright.

Is Anybody there?

2011-07-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite musicals is 1776. It is about the writing of the Declaration of Independence as seen through the eyes of John Adams. It was because of this musical that I became a fan of Adams. Towards the end of the show, there is a showdown between those who want slavery and those who don't. The South threatens to vote no if the part of the Declaration concerning slavery isn't removed. John Adams doesn't want to remove it. "History will never forgive us" he says. He is left alone in the Congressional Chamber and he wonders..."Is Anybody There? Does anybody see what I see?
I got an email from someone who felt that it was not right for Congress not to have to deal with Medicare and Social Security like the rest of us. They have voted themselves a retirement package that is incredible in benefits. Why do we allow that?
If they gave up their package, we might be able to make Social Security last a lot longer. When did serving in Congress become a full time business?
The guys who served in 1776 didn't get any benefits. John Adams had a heck of a time making ends meet. His wife Abigail had to run their farm by herself. She was lucky if she saw him once a year much less every night. So I ask Congress.....Is anybody there who cares whats going on? Serving your country shouldn't mean serving yourself.

The Golden Girls Do it Again !

2011-06-28T11:51:00.000-07:00

The 65's and 70's teams both brought home the silver medals from this year's Senior Olympics in Houston. These pictures are actually ones I took in Kentucky a while ago but these people were in Houston(I think) and they were probably doing what they are doing in these pictures. I'm sure Lynne was napping. I'm sure Margaret was running to second and I'm sure Weeksey was catching a fly ball.

I am proud of these ladies and I am proud to be affilitated with them. It is truely an honor.

Well Done, Ladies. Well done indeed!!!!!!!!!

Did You Ever Have One Of Those Days?

2011-06-19T22:29:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have one of those days where everything just seems to work?

Today was such a day. I woke up at 5am and said if I go back to bed I will not make it to church today. For some reason, I felt I had to be there. You just never know when God will choose to speak to you or how He will send his message. I have learned that when you get a"feeling" that you should do something........then you should definately do that something. So I turned my light on and kind of just lay there and willed myself not to fall back alseep. It worked because I got up and made it to church on time. Our church has three services but I choose to go to the first one because then I get my choice of parking spaces. I also like to hear the Worship Team(our music people) go thru the numbers so I can hear them before we sing them at the service. I hate not knowing the songs.

I have become friends with the Worship Team. We generally have four singers(usually two ladies and two men), we have a guitar, a bass guitar,a piano, and drummer. Sometimes we have an electric piano and sometimes we also have a mandolin. Occasionally, we have soloists like a violin or trumpet. There are no set people; it varies from week to week but we do have three people who are usually there. Colleen and Nathan who are in charge and Joe Stuart who sings and plays guitar/bass guitar.

Joe's family comes to the 9am service and when I attended that service, they sat behind me. We became friendly. Joe's wife is a lovely woman named Sunshine (perfect name for her). They have six wonderful kids: Analise(sp), Eon, Catherine, Henry, Harrison, and Lillian. Sunshine was carrying Harrison when I first met her. She has since had Lillian. The children are homeschooled and very bright. I have become special friends with Eon, the eldest boy. He is very polite and considerate and very interesting. He has a keen appreciation of military things. Today he showed me a new testament which he thought might have been printed during the Second World War. He couldn't find any date in it but I did when I looked thru it....1942. He was delighted.

Recently, Eon told me the family was going on vacation to Glacier National Park. I had some travel material at home so I brought it and gave it to them. Unfortunately, it was snowing at Glacier so they went to the Grand Canyon instead. On the way, they visited the Redwoods and they bought me a new walking stick complete with a whistle and compass. I was deeply touched.

They are truely a lovely family and they made me feel good. God sends His love in many wonderous ways. Thank you, God.

Cows

2011-06-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

Cows....We're remarkable Cows and wherever we go, it's a fabulous show. Yes, you know we are Cows.

This is from one of the most enchanting records I have ever heard. It was written by Sandra Boynton and it is a classic. It is called "Philadelphia Chickens".

The girls in the picture are Elinor's creation for her dear friend in Lincoln, Nebraska who owns a fabric store called the Cosmic Cow. In July, she will be opening another store in the town of Seward called ...what else but The Udder Store. Elinor has been having a ball helping in her unique way and she created these gems. I am not sure they will ever get to Nebraska because I have fallen in love with them but................anyway, we both remembered the Cow Song and it has been strolling thru our minds ever since. If you want to hear it, go to YouTube and type in Cowshow. Then try and get that tune out of your head. OY!!!!!!!!!

2011-06-02T12:09:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday, Mom!!!! You would have been 96 today and you probably wouldn't have liked that. I'd prefer to think of you when you were younger and feeling good.

I will always see you with flowers somewhere. Hopefully in the sunshine. Maybe a nice chair and definately a good book. Oprah has her tree but you would probably prefer a chair. In the background, your classical music(Dennis Owen putting in a few words). You might like a little Zinfandel and some toasted pecans. Yeah, that would be good.

I miss ya, Mom. Elinor and I sang to you today. Your Great Grandson, John Fox , is pulling weeds out in our garden so if you feel like sending a little love in his direction, it would be nice. We called Ross earlier but he wasn't home. We will try again. If you are looking out on a meadow and you see a nice horse named Laurel, say hello. It's her birthday too. Have a good day, darling. You are remembered with love.

Farewell, George

2011-05-31T09:27:00.000-07:00

Last week, I said goodbye to an old friend: my camera, George. I haven't been able to take pictures with him because my eyes just don't seem to focus right. My cousin, Carole Darby, has begun taking pictures and I thought she should have a good friend to encourage her so I sent her George. Today I got an email from her mom saying George had arrived safely. I am excited for Carole because she is about to discover a wonderful world. Somehow, you look at things differently thru a camera lens. You notice more. You find you want to tell a story with the camera. I have had a chance to tell many stories and I hope to tell some more but it isn't quite the same for me now. It is ok. I have lots of pictures to treasure and they bring forth lots of memories. The wolf is from the Philadelphia Zoo. My brother, Ross and his wife, Sharon and I went there because the Zoo was the oldest in the US. The bear is the Kodiak bear from the National Zoo in DC. I use to go there regularly before 8am and the animals got fed. The animals were more active. The frog was taken in Vancouver,BC when Carolyn Shoup and I were exploring the Chinese Gardens. The wild burros were taken from the highway on the way back to Las Vegas. Carolyn was driving(very fast) and we saw them and she put on the brakes. Thank God there was no one behind us.

Here's to your stories, Carole. May the memories begin.

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

Today is Memorial Day when we remember those who gave their lives for us. I have some memories of different Memorial Days over the years. When I was a kid, Memorial Day was usually the first backyard picnic put on by my Mom. I remember having the picnic table under the crab apple tree and having to pick out baby apples out of the salad. I remember my Dad cooking stuff on the grill. We always had fruit salad made from watermelon, canteloupe, blueberries and grapes. The friends that came were the same. It was a pleasant gathering.

Memorial Day at Grier School was very different. If I was lucky, I got to ride Hi Test in the parade. It would tour around Birmingham and end up at the little graveyard at the top of the hill. I don't remember alot about it except we use to go for a short ride after and then go to HorseHaven Inn.

After school, Memorial Day was just a holiday that I didn't have to go to work. The day just didn't penetrate my thick skull. I didn't really know anyone in the military. My brother served in the Marine Corps but he was discharged before Vietnam heated up.(THANK GOD).

Now, things have changed. I think about our troops over in the Middle East and I think about my nephew in law, Joe Coleman, who serves in the Navy. I am grateful to these men and women who have given so much. We are so lucky. Because they were willing to go and serve, we get to stay and enjoy our lives. I hope I never again just think of Memorial Day as just a day that I don't have to work. Please, God....bless each of those who are serving and who have served.

The Travelers

2011-05-21T22:26:00.000-07:00

Meet the Travelers. These are two of the windows from the United Methodist Church in Fairfield, ME. The people did not start out with a church but they did have a traveling preacher: Jesse Lee. He brought revivals to Fairfield Center. He brought one in 1794 and then again in 1808. By 1809, Ebenezer Newell led the people to form the first Methodist Group. Other groups were formed in Kendall Mills(the original name for Fairfield) and Nye's Corner(there is a cemetary there where some of my ancestors are buried.

These are two of the the three Traveling Windows. They were given in memory of William and Lydia Bryant(The Angel one is theirs), Ezra and Elizabeth Totman(Their window isn't shown) and Nahum and Susan Totman(Theirs is the Good Shepherd). William Bryant was a third Great Grandfather who sailed on the USS Constitution(Old Ironsides). His daughter was Susan French Bryant who married Nahum Totman. He was a second Great Grandfather and the owner of the Totman Lumber Mill. Ezra Whitman Totman and his wife, Elizabeth, were Nahum's brother and sister-in -law. The windows were given by relatives of the the Totmans. I haven't gotten all the connections yet but I am working on it.

The windows were installed in the Universalist Church in 1856. The church was closed in 1941 and the windows went to the Fairfield United Methodist Church which is since be demolished.

The windows have been moved several other times but they still exist even though their orignal churches do not. Two of the windows are in the Fairfield UMC and the other is in the Fairfield Center UMC.

I think it is kind of cool to have three such beautiful windows in memory of our ancestors. Hopefully, someday, we will have color pictures.

The Diva Hits It

2011-05-10T23:31:00.000-07:00

This is the cover to my niece's new CD called "Breathing". It has been a long time in the making but it was worth it. It is fantastic. Wendy Lane Bailey is totally awesome. Her choice of songs and her interpretation of the words were just incredible. Three of my favorites were "So In Love" , "Night Ride Home" , and "Mother's Prayer". They were positively haunting.

This amazing photo was taken by Isaac Bailey and he captured Wendy the way she will capture

you when you hear her sing.

I was honored to be one of Wendy's investors. I definately got my money's worth.

Well done, Diva. Well done, indeed!!!!!

PS. I used this picture without permission but I hope Wendy and Isaac will for give me.

I Remember Mom

2011-05-07T22:51:00.000-07:00

She loved people. She loved to hear their stories, what they liked, what books they had read, what music they enjoyed. She was always a good listener. I use to get embarassed when she would strike up a conversation with other people in lines or at concerts but that was Mom.

She had a passion for people. Of course, she enjoyed the spotlight too. She was crazy about being on stage and performing. She and her second husband, Kenneth, would do stories to music. Mom would pick short stories that were funny or sad or romantic and you, the listener, were transported. It was a rare gift.

There are so many reasons for remembering Mom. She would love what Elinor and I are doing with genealogy. She'd be right with us making phone calls or writing letters to cousins or historic
societies. I think she and Elinor would be fighting over the phone because Ellie likes that part too. They'd probably work it out because Mom didn't like to fight and Elinor is a Peace by nature and name.

I miss Mom but she's right out there in our backyard (pretty soggy with all the rain of late). I am so grateful for all she gave me. You did good, girl!!!!

Way To Go, Ginny!

2011-05-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

I lost a friend yesterday. Her name was Ginny Fant. She was a member of the Golden Girls Softball Organization and a fiesty one at that. Ginny was not what you would call a strong player. She couldn't field very well. She didn't run very fast and she didn't hit very far but on occasion, she could dazzle you. She loved to play first base but she had a hard time remembering to git off the base and get the ball.

I coached Ginny on several different teams during several different seasons. She was also on my 70's team when we won the Gold in Pittsburgh. She was mad because I didn't play her very much but I think she forgave me.

She also played basketball and competed in the triatholon. I couldn't believe she could do that but she did.

She was amazing and tough. I enjoyed knowing Ginny.

I would like to think that she is up in heaven getting things ready for a softball game when the rest of us join her. At least Janet Hull will now have someone to play catch with. I know Ginny will stake out 1st base and she will have seniority so no one can argue. Way to go, Fant. See ya later, I hope.

Dinner With 'The Guys

2011-05-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

I got a call from

my niece, Maureen , asking me if I would like to take two of my Great Nephews to dinner. She had some things to do and her husband was out of town. I said sure.

Dining with Thomas and Sam is pure joy. I asked the boys where they would like to go. Maureen had suggested Wendy's because it was cheap and quick but that didn't really appeal to me and it didn't appeal to guys either. Sam suggested Rib City which happens to be one of my favorite places. Thomas was not adverse to the proposition so off we went. Getting Sam to eat is a major feat now-a-days. He is on some medication and his appetite just isn't there.(Oh, should I have that problem!!!!!!!!) But Sam loves Rib City so I figured he just might eat. I was right. He ate a not only ribs, but french fries and a little corn on the cob. Of course, being Sam, he wore most of his dinner on his shirt but he enjoyed himself and I enjoyed him. It was sweet the way Sam looks up to his brother and Thomas is very good to his little brother. It isn't easy for him because he is 12 and getting to be a young man now but he is kindhearted and that is a blessing. We had a lovely time and I enjoyed my "date" with such handsome fellows. By the way, the little guy sitting with Thomas is his young cousin, Joe Bailey(George's oldest).

We Came To The Brink Distinctly......

2011-04-25T22:01:00.000-07:00

Back in 1960, there was a musical on Broadway written by Frank Loesser called Greenwillow. It was a gentle story about a family where the father is always off wandering leaving his wife and children to get along without him. The eldest son believes he is cursed to follow in his father's footsteps so he swears he will never marry. This does not bode well for his girlfriend. In comes this delightful minister who shows the son that he doesn't have to follow his father: His calling is to stay at home. This musical has been haunting us of late. There is a song sung by the Grandma and her old boyfriend called "Could've been a ring". It tells how they almost got married but "they never". She says "I were cautious". He answers "I were clever. We came to the brink distinctly, cosy close to mostly, mighty near to nearly but we never." I don't know why this song affects us but we find ourselves singing it at the craziest times. We sang it tonight as we were coming home from Goodwill. Elinor had just purchased a real milk can and it is now sitting in our front yard. She was looking for a cow and she probably would have bought one if she had seen it "but she never". Oh well.....there you have it. "I were cautious; she were clever." Way to go, sis!!!!!!

It's The Thought That Counts

2011-04-23T20:39:00.000-07:00

In all my pictures, there is not one rabbit. For shame! I am well aware that Easter is not about rabbits or easter eggs or any of that stuff but tonight, my thoughts drift back to an Easter I spent in Washington, DC. I was living in DC at the time. It might have been my second year there. I was lonely and feeling blue and really sorry for myself. As I recall, there was not much on TV so I decided to watch Bonanza. GREAT DECISION!!!!!!. They had an episode called "Caution:EASTER BUNNY CROSSING" and it concerned Hoss Cartwright. For those who don't remember Bonanza, it told of a widower with three grown sons: Adam(very austire), Little Joe(Michael Landon at his sexiest) and Hoss( the gentle giant). This story centered on Hoss who was trying to help some orphans. The lady who ran the orphanage wanted him to dress up like an rabbit and hide easter eggs. Picture this 6'3", 300 lb. guy dressed in this giant white suit complete with ears and tail and trying to get on his horse. The horse takes one look and bolts. Hoss finally catches the horse but then he comes upon a stage robbery. Hoss isn't carrying a gun ...where would he put it? What does he do.....he throws the easter eggs. I laughed until I cried and then I laughed again. My sides hurts but I assure you the blues were gone. Recently, I googled the show and found scenes from it on Youtube.(Unfortunately, they have since removed them). It still made me giggle. I will always remember Dan Blocker who played Hoss with great fondness. For one hour, he made laugh with pure joy. Happy Easter to all and remember what the real meaning of the day is..........Christ Has Risen.....HE HAS RISEN INDEED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Perfect Gift

2011-04-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

You know when you have someone you really love and you can't think of anything to get them for their birthday or for Christmas? Get them a party!
That is what Elinor gave me for Christmas last year and yesterday, we had the party. She gave me invitations, paper plates(two sizes), napkins, and prizes. Well, yesterday, the Domino Queens had a spring party and it was a hoot. We held the party at our usual gathering place which is Carleen Yamashita's house. Everyone brought something for lunch. Berta brought a salad, Carolyn brought a jello salad, Carleen had Chicken Alfredo and rolls, and Sue brought four types of homemade cookies. Carleen invited Elinor as well and she brought tulips for Carleen. After lunch, I took Ellie home because dominos is not her thing and we got down to serious business. I kept score and awarded gifties as I saw fit. Everyone received three prizes but you never knew what it was going to be for. It was such fun. Before we all left to go home, Carleen had her Grandson take a picture so maybe there will be a copy of it on the blog at a later date.
These very special friends were the real gift and I thank my wonderful sister for her thoughtful present.

Collections

2011-04-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

We are a home of collections. Elinor has hers and I have mine. Since we have been doing genealogy, we have come upon another collection: family. It is amazing the treasures we have uncovered like letters my Dad wrote to my Mom; a poem my Mom wrote when she was just a child that was published in the newspaper; lots of information about people. I found a write up about my Great Aunt Eloise's wedding. It told what she wore, who was there, and where she would be living after she was wed. We googled the address and the house is still standing so now we have a picture of the house.

Elinor has made contact with the Fairfield Historic Society in Fairfield, Maine. They have given us the name of a photographer who may have pictures of the Totman Lumber Mill which was owned by our Great,Great Grandfather, Nahum Totman. Elinor wants to get a feel for the people by seeing where they lived and worked. We are now working on putting together a little book telling the story of "When Christmas Went Insane". This was a story that written for my Mom's Mom by her sister, Great Aunt Laura and passed down to my sister, her daughter, Evie and Evie's daughter, Ellie. We think the whole family should have it so we are adding pictures of the story's players.

Collections are fun when shared.

Why Do We Always Wait Too Long?

2011-04-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

The one thing about doing genealogy is that you always wish you had the opportunity to talk to your relatives once more.

Unfortunately, they are mostly gone. You have waited too long. The problem is when you are growing up, you don't think you will ever be interested in the "old days"; then all of a sudden, you get interested and there is no one left to ask. How I wish I had paid more attention to my Grandfather Totman or asked more questions of my Grandfather McDonald. What I wouldn't give to talk to my Uncle Jack or Aunt Evie. And then there were those that we didn't realize were relatives, like Doty Bragg or Lorelei Robie.....what a treasure trove we missed. Why didn't this interest show itself earlier in my life? Although we have a lot of records, it is the stories we are missing. How I would have liked to have heard the stories because they are what makes the people come alive. If anyone reading this has any old relatives.....TALK TO THEM NOW!!! Find out what they remember. Write it down. What we have missed is our history, our path to where we are now. Many of our relatives experience similar things that we are experiencing now. After all, history does repeat itself.....maybe we might learn something.

I Think Spring Is Coming......Maybe

2011-03-15T11:44:00.000-07:00

I think spring is coming.....it's trying. There are crocus blooming and the forsythia is thinking about it. There is a bush outside my window and I can see a few blossoms.
There is a lot of sadness at present. I keep reading about Japan and all their woes. I remember how much Mom and I and Aunt Pat enjoyed our trip there. There was so much beauty. My prayers go out to the people. I wonder what will happen. They are now talking of radiation poisoning. We are so lucky here in this country. I am so lucky.
Spring means hope and the promise of good things to come. I do hope for improvement. I do hope.

I Found Another Cousin!!!!!

2011-03-03T21:42:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it.....we found another relative!

No, it is not this delightful girl standing next to me in this picture but it is her cousin too.

Elinor and I are doing geneaology big time. Elinor has most of the files since she was the one who was most interested. We have been entering them onto the computer and it has been fun. I was looking up the Totman Family(my Mother's paternal side) and there was a website for a Richard Totman. On his site, he mentioned my Grandfather, Arnold Washington Totman. He included his phone number and Elinor gave him a call. He wasn't at home so she left a message and low and behold, he called us back. He lives on the Big Island of Hawaii and Elinor talked to him for 1/2 hour. It seems that he is the Grandson of Frank Garfield Totman who is my Grandfather's nearest brother(two years difference). How cool is that? We had a picture of the nine Totman Siblings(there were actually 11 children all together but two died very young). We also had pictures of Frank Melville Totman and his wife Emma Vesta Judkins

our Great Grandparents. Small world...........you just never know who is going to turn up next.

There Be Snow Here!!!!!

2011-02-18T22:21:00.000-08:00

OK....stop laughing. I know that most of those who read this blog have had more snow in one minute than we have had in one day but what can I say? This is how it looked when I came down for breakfast two days ago. By noon, it was all gone. Not that I was sorry to see it go....I wasn't! I do not like the stuff. I do not like slipping and sliding. The thought of falling is not my idea of fun but still, for just a moment......it was pretty.

We do not get alot in the back yard because of the evergreens. We have about nine of them and they shelter us big time.

Oh well......a little more than a month until spring. I can be patient.......maybe.

Geneology - My Father's Side

2011-02-05T22:27:00.000-08:00

Elinor and I are knee deep in geneology. We have been having the best time too. Tomorrow while everyone else is watching the Super Bowl (Go Steelers!), we will be having our own Geneology Bowl.

We are working on my Dad's side at this time. My Dad's wife, Mary Jo did some major research for the family. She uncovered some wonderful info so we have a good foundation to begin. We have some wonderful old pictures and some history that my Uncle Jack wrote out. Jack is the guy in the bottom picture. I was suppose to be a boy and if I had been, I would have been named for him. He was a wonderful guy whom I did not appreciate until after his death. I am sorry about that. It is one of my major regrets. Jack is also in the picture with his parents, Betty and O. Ross McDonald. The last picture is of my Grandfather McDonald with his daughter, Isabel O'Neil. Isabel and I never hit it off but Elinor enjoyed her alot. They had this artist thing together. I didn't really know my Dad's side of the family and for this I am truely sorry. They were all very interesting. I will try and write more on this subject as I learn more. I am glad to be learning about them. It does go to show you that you should appreciate people more while they are alive. Word to the wise for all nephews and nieces....don't wait too long.

To The Men Whom Have Impacted My Life

2011-01-27T01:48:00.000-08:00

I don't have pictures of them all and that's a fact but here are a few. The top is my Grandfather, Arnold Totman. He was my mother's father and I use to visit him every summer with Mom. He told the best stories and I loved to talk with him. The middle picture is my Dad doing his favorite thing:gardening. He was a poet in the garden. The flowers were incredible and always interesting. He didn't always have luck with the lawn but he never stopped trying. He was a most generous man in helping people but I didn't alway appreciate that because I didn't think he liked me. Looking back, I can see I was wrong. He wanted me to succeed and do something I enjoyed. The bottom picture is my wonderful brother, Ross. He has always been my closest friend. He encouraged me and has constantly believed in me. He can make me laugh and he is the BEST traveling companion in the world.

There are others who have done much for me during my lifetime: my brother-in-law, Gary Bailey, my nephews-Ross,Isaac, George, Joe and Christian, my shrink JJ, and my cousin, Robert Darby. I have wonderful memories of Gary when we made fudge together. What a great time we had. Gary was also a gifted story teller and a Civil War buff with the talent to make history come alive. My nephews have each added to my joy with their love and kindness. JJ literally changed my life in so many ways. He is still a dear friend even though I haven't seen him in several years. His letters always offer wisdom and hope. Robert Darby left this world far too soon. This big strong yet gentle giant would come and help when ever asked. His generosity will never be forgotten by me. It was an honor to know him.

I have been very lucky in my life and I am grateful for all these fine men. Thanks, guys, for everything.

The Women Who Love and Have Liberated Me

2011-01-16T23:28:00.000-08:00

I watched Oprah Winfrey's Master Class which celebrated

Maya Angelou. What an incredible person she is and how beautiful-- inside and outside.

She talked about how love liberates and she told about her grandmother and her mother who both told her she would be famous.......that she would make a difference. I thought about the women in my life who have given me love and encouragement: Elinor at the top right. Maureen at the top left. Lynn Smith and Donna Turgeon......dear friends.

My great niece Ellie, Laura the Snugglebug and my darling, Evie. They have each made a major difference in my life. Lynn helped me find God and showed me how keep Him in my life. Donna helped me find myself. My nieces allow me to share in their lives which gives me a chance to share what I can. My wonderful sister has become one of my dearest friends, companion and counselor. I am learning to trust her with alot of my excess baggage. There have be others as well: My cousin, Margaret, Annie Wiehe and of course, my Mom. This crazy blog only allows you to put up 5 pictures so there you go. And I haven't begun to mention the guys..........Don't worry fellows.......I haven't forgotten you.

My thanks to these wonderful ladies.......I hope I can return the favor to each of you.

Courage With a Capital C

2011-01-11T19:46:00.000-08:00

Elinor and I went and saw an amazing movie today:The King's Speech. It stars Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush, two fantastic actors. The story tells about King George VI, Queen Elizabeth's father. The King stutters badly and needs help but it is a tricky situation. Geoffrey Rush plays an Australian guy who happens to be good at helping stutterers. Together, they strive to help the King to talk to his people during one of the most challenging times in history.

It was incredible. I hope you will all see this picture. Do Not be misled by the R rating. The King cusses but it is valid to the picture and there is no taking the Lord's name in vain. I was blown away by this movie

and I believe you will be too.

The Family Tree

2011-01-07T09:14:00.000-08:00

This seems to be the year of connections........connections to the family tree. Last year, our family got together for a wonderful wedding in December. Seven of Elinor's 10 children were here and they managed to hook up with the other three by phone so that ain't bad. It was a joyous time,enjoyed by all.

This year, Elinor and I are trying to connect with our family tree thru geneology. I found a website that mentioned Arnold Washington Totman who is my mother's father. It had some incorrect information on it so I notified them and today I heard back from them. How cool is that? We also made contact with a cousin whom I have only met once many years ago. We got an address and phone number from my Cousin Margaret in VA and Elinor called her. They talked for about an 1/2 hr and it was fantastic.

Family history is wonderful way to reach out and touch others. I am excited to begin this journey with my sister.

Talley HO!!!!!

Happy New Year?

2011-01-02T22:57:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is....2011 and how did I spend the past two days of this brand new year? Coughing and sneezing. Elinor and I both are sick; our house is a mess; and we have enough trash inside to sink a battleship or at least a large yacht.

However, tomorrow is a new day and I intend(at least I think I intend) to make some changes. We will try and start cleaning our room. Steady, Cashew, this is just an intention. It ain't a done deal, yet.

Things will get better.........We just have to start.

Sunset and Sunrise

2010-12-31T09:14:00.000-08:00

2010 is almost gone. Today is the 31st of December. The sun is shinning and it is breezy and crisp. Elinor and I both have colds but we've survived long enough to enjoy all the family that have been here for the past few days. The Wedding was beautiful and joyous even in the rain that prevailed the whole day. It didn't dampen anyone's spirits.

Isabel and Johnny were married at the Portland Temple and then a ring ceremony was held at the reception for those of us who couldn't attend the Temple sealing.

The reception was lovely. There was good food, fabulous cookies(the theme of the wedding was milk and cookies which both the kids really like), and some cool dancing. There were four generations of love from all the families involved. People had flown in from as far as Kasikstan(my niece, Cindy), Pittsburgh, PA, Morris Plains, NJ, St. Louis, Provo, and Phoenix. People had driven from Silverdale and Vancouver, WA and Corvalis, OR. We all

had a fantastic time. Izzy and Johnny are now in Hawaii enjoying their honeymoon(I hope) and everyone else has left to return to their respective homes.

Elinor and I have been Blessed by her sons and we feel blessed as we look forward to 2011(THE SUNRISE).

I wish all who may read this a safe and healthy New Year and I thank God for all I have learned in 2010(THE SUNSET). PEACE. LOVE. JOY!!!!!!!!

Sicker than a dog

2010-12-27T20:51:00.000-08:00

I hate being sick. Diarihha and upset stomach. Not good. Everyone is down in Corvallis for the rehearsal dinner. I stayed home because I really felt sick. I hate feeling sick.

The wedding is tomorrow but I don't think I will be going.

We shall see.

It's Christmas!!!!!

2010-12-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

We started celebrating Christmas early this year. My niece, Cindy, arrived from Miami and that was great. We so enjoy her visits. She resides some of the year in Kasikstan which is a long way away. So we are delighted to have her back in the States. Her daughter, Leigha and her fiance, Stephen, are also here from Logan, UT. Leigha has just graduated from College and we are all so proud of her. She and Stephen haven't set a date yet, but there is another wedding in the future. Yesterday, Elinor and I drove down to Eugene, OR to pick up her son, Isaac and his lovely wife, Heather, and their two children, Elijah and Charlotte. It was really fun to see Elijah again. And I finally got to meet my great niece, Charlotte, who is 5. The kids flew to Eugene because they got a great air deal. Today is Christmas day but unfortunately,

Elinor is not feeling well. That didn't stop us from opening gifts. Cindy brought us some lovely things from her travels to Greece, Turkey and India. Elinor gave me the makings of a Dominos

party, complete with plates, napkins, and prizes of other games. She also gave me two watches which I am wearing on each wrist. I gave her a movie pass for three movies which includes popcorn, a gift card to our favorite restaurant(Rib City) and a blues buster to her favorite antique shop and $25.00 to spend there. Elinor gave Cindy tights, slippers, and lotions and coffee to enjoy while here. We gave Stephen a backpack and hat and gloves. Leigha got all sorts of dodads. Rachel sent us some things she had made including an album of pictures of her family which we will treasure. Laura also sent some pictures of her tribe and a cute little travel bag for Elinor and I. All in all, it has been a nice Christmas. We got four new movies and three new puzzles(two from our dear brother, Ross and his wife, Sharon).

The two pictures above are from Christmas's past but memories are what Christmas are for me. As Elinor and I were driving down to Eugene, she read aloud from The Christmas Carol. Mom use to read that every year. She wrote in the book her own little message and that made us both feel warm and toasty. Then last night, Elinor read The Littlest Angel. Traditions and memories..............that's Christmas for me.

Christmas Cactus

2010-12-12T23:44:00.000-08:00

I am not sure how this poor little plant has survived but it has. In our house, this is positively amazing and profoundly beautiful. Our Christmas cactus has bloomed and it is cheering our hearts during this very rainy time. So feast your eyes and enjoy some yuletide joy and wonder. I would like to believe this is a gift from my Dad. He loved plants and he even did a little cactus gardening when he went to visit my Grandparents in Tucson, AZ. He 'd be down on his knees in the garden and would inevitabley back up into a cacti or two. Ouch!!!!! Thanks, Dad.

Getting Off The Ground

2010-12-06T14:29:00.000-08:00

I feel like a real klutz today. It seems that I mis-counted the money in our money jars. I thought we had $400.00; we actually had $200.00. We took the money to put in my account because I am the one who put the purchase on my credit card. The bank ran the coins thru their machine and low and behold, it was short. At first I was mad, but then I thought about it and realized I just screwed up.

I am not sorry for the purchase which was really cool; I just hate feeling like a fool. But I also recognize a growth in me today. Before, I would have sulked and made everyone miserable. Today, I was angry at first but I calmed down and took it in stride......much to my sister's relief. Live and learn. I am blessed. At least, I am not without funds. The purchase we made will make a lot of people happy and I am ok with that.

Izzi's Shower

2010-11-28T21:49:00.001-08:00

Now is this a bride or what?

Isn't she lovely?

We had a shower for Ms Izzi up in Silverdale on Saturday. Elinor and I left at 6am and drove up so as not to miss the 10am beginning. The shower was held at a dear friend of the Coleman's. Most of the women were from their ward and it was delightful. The gifts were thoughtful and most generous. The big stack in the picture above is all from Izzi's grandmother, Elinor. She went nuts in creating charming Chirstmas tree ornaments but there was also a special hanger for the wedding dress and the guest book. If you want to see the guest book, go to epbdolls.com and go to Elinor's blog. The book is fabulous.

The food was delicious and a good time was had by all. Getting the stuff back to Utah is going to be a trick but I believe they do have a plan. I haven't heard if it was a success or not. We shall see.

Giving Thanks

2010-11-25T22:37:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken 3 years ago. Unfortunately, I don't take pictures like I use to but the scene is the same.

This morning, many of the family participated in a Turkey Trot( a 10 k and a 5 k). So with that in mind, we didn't rush quite as hard to get over to the Fox House. Elinor had to make her famous cheese ball and deviled eggs(Joe Coleman's favorite). We finally got over there and the eating began(appetizers, that is). Some of the late arrivals decided to have the annual football game so most of the guests trooped down to the school field. The rest of us sat and talked and cooked.

After the sport fans returned, Christian Fox welcomed us to his home and we said grace and the serious eating began. There was the turkey, of course, nicely carved by Joe. This

was followed by a lovely salad, mashed potatoes, stuffing, sweet potatoes and apples, and Evie' s delicious rolls. There was cranberry sause(one by Evie and one by Mo......both good), Martinelli's sparkling cider, pickles, and olives.

After dinner, we had music by Evie. We sang carols, Christmas music.........the Coleman Girls

sang "I'm gettin' nuthing for Christmas" and we even had a Christmas polka danced by Ellie and her friend, John.

Finally, it was time for desert: PIES!!!!!!! Pumpkin, pecan, cherry, and Tom's famous Chocolate Pie. I just gained another 10 lbs writing this entry.

We sat around the table and everyone said what we were thankful for. This is probably one of the most beautiful traditions we have. There are a few chuckles, lots of love, and quite a few tears. We are a blessed family. We've had our share of problems but we also done pretty well in dealing with said problems. Every family has them. Some fall apart but we pull together. I love this family. I am thankful for every member whether I hear from them or not. They are a part of me........perhaps the best part.

Thank you, God, for this wonderful, crazy bunch. God bless us everyone.

Turkey Day Minus One

2010-11-24T23:26:00.000-08:00

Here's the latest Thanksgiving news. Evie and Maggie broke out of Silverdale and made it down here safely. Joe should be here now as well.

Elinor and I have always been a little miffed that we didn't have leftovers to make sandwiches out of so this year, we decided to cook our own turkey. It has been a long time since Elinor has cooked a bird so her estimation of the length of the cooking was a little off........like about 2 hrs and 15 min too long. We now have some turkey jerky as leftovers. We haven't tried it but she doesn't have a great deal of confidence. I figure if we have a lot of gravy, who cares? Elinor figures this overcooking will come in handy when the family goes to Missouri(when Christ returns).

Oh well, and so it goes.............

And I Thought I Had It Bad......

2010-11-23T22:46:00.000-08:00

It snowed here last night and it was cold but I was fine because I didn't have to go any place. My niece, Evie, was not so lucky. It snowed up in Silverdale and she lost electricity. She was suppose to be down here today but she couldn't get out. Her husband, Joe, was due home but we haven't heard if he got there or not. Ev says it is 47 degrees in the house........BURRRRRRRRR.

We have heard they will not get power on until Friday. That is crazy!!!!!!! and COLD!!!!!!!!!

So when you think you have it bad, just remember there are others who have it far worse. I hope Joe gets home quick so he can warm his wife up.

OK, now it's snowing!!!!!!!

2010-11-23T00:10:00.000-08:00

We are having our first snowfall tonight. It is cold and it is icy and I hate it. This is not fun to me. I dread going out because I am so scared of falling. I use to not mind but now, I really don't think I would be able to get up and the visions in my mind terrify me. I hate being embarassed and I would be. I also do not want to land in the hospital because that would really do it for me.

I can only hope this clears up by Thanksgiving and this coming Saturday. If anyone is reading this, please say some prayers for this fat old broad. Come on Springtime.......

It's Raining

2010-11-20T13:37:00.000-08:00

I had heard the rumors long before I moved out here. It rains alot in Washington State. They are NOT rumors. It does rain alot here and when the sun doesn't shine, it is COLD. Both Elinor and I are cold but it is fact of my life .It has been raining on and off for about a week now. I feel soggy and who knows, maybe a little moldy too. Oh well, Thanksgiving is coming and that means family. We started our celebration early by going to the midnight premire of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows. It was fantastic!!!!We took John and Thomas Fox with us because how can you see a Harry Potter movie without kids? We also took our trainer from

Curves, Louise, with us. She is lots of fun and we sat in the second row(that is all that was left). I am glad it wasn't in 3 D because there were two parts that I would have gone thru the ceiling if they had been. Yesterday, we went to a craft fair where our friend, Nancy Palomino was showing her stuff. It was very pleasant and Elinor bought a few things. I didn't. The calenders will have to do for Christmas presents this year.

Evie will be down on Tuesday and the girls(Ellie and Izzi) are flying in from Utah on Tuesday evening. I assume Joe and Maggie will be here on Wed. Thanksgiving should be alot of fun. Saturday, Elinor and I will go up to Silverdale for Izzi's bridal shower. Her wedding is in December (28th). The next few weeks will be nuts.

It can rain. I suppose it is necessary. I would be very grateful if it didn't snow but it is not something I have control over so I will leave it in the hands of one who does. Thanks God.

Great Aunt Evie and the Little House

2010-11-07T23:31:00.000-08:00

My Great Aunt Evie was a neat lady. She and her sister, Great Aunt May(whom I am named for) owned a lovely little house in Three Rivers, MI. It was a farm and it was beautiful. My parents were married there in 1937 on June 26th. Elinor was looking for something and came across the guest book for the Little House. Sure enough, there were all the names of the those who attended my parent's wedding. There was my Grandfather McDonald's big signature and Grandfather Totman's neat and tidy New England scrawl. My father signed as the "trembling groom". His brother, Jack's signature was very neat. Mom signed twice: Once as Evelyn G Totman and once as Evelyn McDonald, Bob's wife. I recognized most of the names and oh, the memories they brought back. Aunt Fay (Aunt Fay is the other one I was named for) and her boys, my mom's sisters...Barbie and Pat, my Grandmothers. How lucky I was to know these wonderful people. How they added to my life. I have fond memories of the little house and picking blueberries and raspberries. Of eating fresh corn and swinging in the hammock. I dearly loved Aunt Evie. She was a cool lady with a wonderful sense of humor and a smile that wouldn't quit. Thanks, Aunt Evie and Aunt May. Bless you both.

Secretariet

2010-10-26T22:33:00.001-07:00

I wish with all my heart I had a picture of Secretariet back in 1973 but I don't. This picture was taken at Churchill Downs but not at the Kentucky Derby and not that year. I wish I had been there. But I saw it on tv. I remember it like it was yesterday. I was so excited because this horse was special. You could see he was. The race was fantastic and so was the Preakness, two weeks later. However, it was the Belmont that really did it for me. I yelled and screamed the whole race and then I cried. He was so magnificent, so effortless......totally wonderful and he won by 31 lengths. UNREAL!!! I am not sure why this horse has meant so much to me but I have always been in love with him. I cried when he died. Even now, I watch his races on You tube and they still thrill me. I have seen the movie SECRETARIET and it was wonderful. I knew how it was going to end but that didn't make any difference. It was a great story. This is a movie I will own and this horse will always be a part of my life. Big Red.....YOU ROCK.....now and forever.

Negativity

2010-10-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

I am really fed up with the election this year. I don't know about anyone else but out here, there are so many negative ads that I am ready to say to hell with the whole process. In stead of telling what they can do to change our situation, these candidates just call each other names. I don't want to vote for any of them. I wouldn't mind if we just had to hear it once but you have to listen to four and five of these ads in a row. And they all say the candidate's name and that they approve of this message. Well, if they approve of these messages, I don't approve of them. Negativity is not helpful. Tell me what you would change and how you would change it. That is helpful. I put new words to a tune from ONCE UPON A MATTRESS called Sensitivity.

Negativity...negativity...what's the matter with that? Too much hate and too depressing. It's just a bunch of crap!

What Was Lost Is Found

2010-10-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was really weird. I got up and was going downstairs to drop off some laundry. I had to make a pit stop and I took the laundry in the john with me. On the way out, the phone rang so I answered it. I then proceded downstairs. Somewhere along the way I lost a pair of underware. I got down to the laundry room and they just were not there. I went back up to the bathroom and they weren't there either. I looked in my room. I looked on the stairs. Nada. I became convinced that I had flushed them down the john. I couldn't believe that I had done that but I was left with no alternative.

Then this morning, I was preparing to go downstairs again with some more laundry when I looked over at the window where the phone is and there were my undies.

I had a good chuckle and thought I would share it with my readers.

They were lost but now they are found. I was blind......now I can see.

Too funny!

And The Sun Shines Thru

2010-10-12T00:33:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have one of those moments when something becomes very clear? Well, I did.

Last Wednesday, we went out to lunch with some friends and they told us we had a flat tire(actually, it was leaking but it was getting flatter).

We decided to take it to the tire place and let them take care of it. We got there at about 30 min. before they closed. Elinor went in and they took the car and examined the tire. They told us there was no problem. When we got home, the tire still looked flat(low) but Elinor said it was fine. I fussed but let it go. On Sunday, my nephew, Joe Coleman, said "You have a flat tire". I was mad at the tire place but I couldn't do anything until Monday. I fumed about it but then I began to go over what had happened and BINGO! The light shone thru!!!!!!

The flat tire was on the back right side.......that is, if you are sitting in the driver's seat. If you are standing in front of the car, it is the left rear tire. Elinor probably said it was the left rear tire because she was looking at the car. The tire place,checked the left rear tire but they based it on if you were sitting in the driver's seat. (I found this out when I called AAA. They always go by sitting in the driver's seat). It all depends on where you stand.

The other thing I learned was that when you gut tells you to do something, you really should do it. If I had gone back to the tire place the next day, I wouldn't have had the flat tire Sunday. The light shone thru AGAIN. How cool is that? A twofer!!!!!!!

Goodbye Old Friend

2010-10-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

( Baja Sunset and Mulnamuth Falls)

(Privoloff Islands birds and an arctic fox)

(siberian indian woman)

On September 18, I lost a old friend:CruiseWest Cruise Lines. This was a small ship operation that started in Alaska and grew to take in fantastic cruises in Baja, The Snake and Columbia River, The Wine Country, Japan and the South Seas. They offered an up close and personal view of some of the most beautiful places on earth. I was priviledged to make three journeys on this line with my good friend, Carolyn Shoup. We went to Baja and Copper Canyon, Alaska, and the Snake and Columbia River. The ships were not fancy but the trips were incredible. We saw lots of wildlife, met wonderful people and saw breathtaking scenery. I am sorry to hear this company has gone out of business. The travel industry is poorer for it and so is anyone who enjoyed seeing nature at her best.

Well Done, Cruise West. Thanks for all the memories.

It Just Keeps Blooming

2010-09-19T10:47:00.000-07:00

Relationships are strange. They change with time. Sometimes they fade away and sometimes, they become stronger. That is the relationship I have with my brother, Ross. It just keeps blooming and getting stronger with age.

Today is his 68th birthday. I called and sang Happy Birthday to him. I made the mistake of calling on my cellphone which doesn't always last so I didn't talk very long but the love was there as it always is.

I love my bro. The love just keeps blossoming into something better and better. Please God, bless my bro and keep him safe. Oh, and THANKS for giving him to me in the first place.

I Don't Want to Be Angry Any More

2010-09-16T23:50:00.000-07:00

I have been known for holding a grudge but tonight I wish to release this anger. I have been mad at my minister because I gave him a picture and he ignored it.

He was just returning to the pulpit after suffering a heart attack two Decembers ago. I wanted to do something nice for him so I gave him one of my pictures of a sunrise and suggested that he go to Utube and type in the Celtic Women/ Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring. If you haven't heard this, you should listen to it. It is haunting. I thought it would make him feel really good. I am proud of my photography and I wanted a little acknowledgement. A really lousy reason to give a gift. I never heard anything from him and I was hurt. I did ask him but he didn't remember it. He said he would look but he never did so I have been angry with him ever since. How dumb is that?

Well, no more. I release this anger. Tonight it is gone. If you are going to give a gift, you should not have any expectations on how it will be received. Just give it from the heart and let it go.

Explanation of Life

2010-09-14T14:53:00.000-07:00

I received this from my softball organization and thought it was just right for the blog.

"On the first day, God created the dog and said: 'Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of 20 years.'

The dog said: 'That's a long time to be barking. How about only 10 yrs and I'll give you back the other 10?'

So God agreed. On the 2nd say, God created the monkey and said: 'Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I'll give you a 20 yr life span.

The monkey said: 'Monkey tricks for 20 yrs? That's a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back 10 yrs. like the dog did?

And God agreed. On the 3rd day, God created the cow and said: 'You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves, and give milk to support the farmer's family. For this, I will give you a life span of 60 yrs.

The cow said: 'That's a tough life for 60 yrs. How about 20 and I'll give you back the other 40?

And God agreed again. On the 4th day, God created man and said: 'Eat. sleep, play, marry and enjoy your life. For this I'll give you 20 yrs.

But man said: Only 20 yrs? Could you possibly give me my 20, the 40 the cow gave back, the 10 the monkey gave back and the 10 the dog gave back; that makes 80, okay?

'Okay,' said God, you asked for it.'

So that is why for our first 20 yrs we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves. For the next 40 yrs we slave in the sun to support our family. For the next 10 yrs, we do monkey tricks for the grandkids to entertain them (or nephews and nieces in my case). And for the last 10 yrs, we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone. That's me.......I'm barking.........WOOF!

Life has now been explained to you.

62

2010-09-12T23:50:00.000-07:00

Today, at 3:15PM, I officially turned 62 years of age. I started my day by getting up to take my sister to the airport at 3:45am. I returned home and went back to sleep. I awoke to a cheerful "Happy Birthday" from my cousin, Margaret calling from Virginia. Shortly thereafter, I received a delightful call from my brother, Ross. Elinor followed suit with a call from Nebraska telling me she had arrived safely. I got a call from an OA pal, emails from a Golden Girl teammate, facebook greetings from a great nephew and two great nieces, three birthday cards, a invite to lunch with the Domino Queens, and 20 days of gifts from my sister and roommate, Elinor.

I am truely blessed.

It was topped off by a dinner cooked by my niece, Maureen, who made the MOST DELICIOUS lasagna I have had in many moons. She invited two couples to join in the celebration. We had salad and garlic bread as well as several desserts. The best dessert was brought over by our dear friend, Cherrie-Sue. She made the most fabulous pear pie. I have never eaten one in my life but I am hooked. All in all, it was a delightful day. To those who took the time, Thank you from my heart. I truely appreciate your love.

9/11

2010-09-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

If you have been listening to the news lately, then you have heard about the Florida preacher who wants to burn the Koran on Saturday. I would like to say something to this guy. First of all, you are not being a good shepherd. You are leading your flock astray. Jesus Christ said .....You will love the Lord your God with all your might. This is the first commandment. Second, you will love thy neighbor as thyself. How is burning the Koran loving thy neighbor? If we have not learned this lesson, then all those people will have died in vain.

I do not want to forget 9/11. I want to remember those people.......the victums and the

rescuers. We must lift ourselves up and honor those who were there.

I am always a little off center

2010-08-31T22:04:00.000-07:00

This was taken on our infamous cross country trip with our mothers in 1961 I think. I am sure Margaret will correct me when she reads this.

It was in Old Tucson, Az which use to be an old movie set for westerns with John Wayne and others. If we posed behind these figures now, you would see us sticking out on both sides (at least you would certainly see me).

As always, I had a great time with Margaret. It is with real joy that I wish her a fantastic birthday today. I called her at 12:15am this morning(that was 9:15pm our time) to sing Happy Birthday with Elinor's help. I dearly love my cousin. For some reason we hit it off and are still hitting it off. She is my even keel. She keeps me steady. She is my dearest friend, my pal..........and I wish her all the best in all she does. May the wind be always at your back, Cuz. Safe Journey.

An A Ha Moment!

2010-08-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

I went to an OA meeting this morning. I didn't really want to be there. I dozed a little but then one of the members spoke up. She talked about the difference between losing and releasing. She said that when you lose something, it means you have to find it. She said that if you release it, you don't have to go looking for it.........you just let it go.
Now I know why I had to be at that meeting. AAAA Haaaaaaa!

Choices

2010-08-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

I went and had my eyes checked today. I haven't been able to take pictures because I can't see without a bit of a blur. I miss my photography. I miss it more than I thought possible. It is my only form of creative expression and I feel empty without it.

The news was not real good but it wasn't real disasterous either. It seems I may have the beginnings of Glaucoma. It requires that I get some blood tests for that as well as cholesteral. I don't have a medical plan so getting this done will not be easy but I will get it done. I am scared not just for the medical but the financial things as well. Just getting glasses and being tested cost $500.00. That's a lot of money so that upsets me. I have no idea where this will take me......I just know I don't want to go but I have no choice. Being without sight is too horrible for words.

Oh My Gosh! She is 70!!!!!!!

2010-08-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought? The old lady is 70 today!

Only she doesn't seem old to me. She has decided to clean house on her birthday. That is not how I would celebrate but to each her own. We will be having a party on Sunday when George, Evie, Ellie, and whoever else is around is there. It will be at Maureen's. The next day, she will be off with George to

California, Utah and Missouri. That's my sister!

May God Bless and keep her. Her name means light and she is a light to me. She shines big time!

PS. The part of the house that she cleaned was my room. Words can not express..............

Trust! Now!

2010-07-24T12:29:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has ever done a 12 step program knows that there is one step where you have to list your faults. Admitting your faults to yourself is really hard. After you do that, then you have to admit them to God. OHHHHHH Boy! I am having a really difficult time with that. What is so funny is that God already knows what I have done so what is the big deal? It is not like I can hide anything from Him but I keeps trying. I have been doing this for most of my life and it hasn't done any good whatsoever. All it does is hurt me. For the past two weeks, God has been sending me messages thru meditations that it is safe to tell Him but I am afraid. Why can't I trust Him. HE ALREADY KNOWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stubborn. I just can't let it go but I will. I am determined. I have to...............

What Is It About Taste ?

2010-07-20T22:32:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid, the only vegetable I would eat was green peas. Now I can't touch them except in salads or casseroles. I hated onions when I was little and now I love

them. I use to love to read. Now I don't open a book except to read my scripture each morning. I use to watch all sorts of movies. Now if there is a lot of violence or sex or swearing, I am not interested. Ads about drugs and such never bothered me before. Now they offend. Shows I use to find funny aren't any more. I had a favorite movie called "Author, Author" starring Al Pacino. It is about this playwright who has 5 kids living with him. Only one kid is his. The others belong to his wife who has been married 4 times. She can't commit. I wanted to show this to Elinor but there was so much swearing that I turned it off. I felt really bad because I know it offended her but it offended me too.

Of course, I think my sense of humor has died anyway because it sure has been a long time since I have laughed at any movie. Do I need to amputate my funny bone? Obviously, I have changed as a person and perhaps I have become more sensitive to other people. I don't know. Thank goodness my brother can still make me laugh. I don't know what I would do without him. He can almost always get me chuckling. God Bless my Bro and I guess He has blessed me too.

Where Do I Go From Here?

2010-07-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

I am feeling old today. 61 isn't all that old but it sure feels it. It is not that I would like to be a kid again because I wouldn't like that at all. I see all the things that kids go thru now and I don't think I would make it. I see all the ads for colleges and jobs where people are real excited about what is in their future and I wonder why I never felt that way. I don't remember be excited about doing anything. The future scared the crap out of me.

I remember my shrink asking me to picture myself in 5 years and I never could.

So what am I looking for? Where do I go from here? I haven't a clue. I keep asking but I am not hearing an answer. Guess I better clean out my ears again.

A Triple Birthday

2010-07-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

Today is a day celebrating 3 birthdays: Cindy Foster, Wendy Lane Bailey and Sam Fox. Since I only have a picture of Sam, I will talk about him.

This is a great little boy. He is 6 years old today. He loves to swim, and play Star Wars, and paint. He has a terrific smile and beautiful eyes. Sam is a joy. He has had some hard times but he is still a sweetheart.

I wish a happy birthday to my two nieces as well. Cindy is overseas in a place I can't spell. She is a wonderful person and I love and admire her. She has had to show a lot of courage lately but she has done that and more. Way to go, Cindy.

Wendy is a go getter. She has become an extraordinary cabaret

performer and is trying to cut her first album. I support her 100%. I can't wait to hear the album. If you are interested go to http://kck.st/cwfBal It is definately a winner.

Happy Birthday, Gang. Best to you all!!!!!!!

Izzi's in Love

2010-07-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

More than in love.......she is engaged. We met the guy last night and he is a sweetheart. His name is Johnny and he adores Izzi which is only right. They make a wonderful couple. The date is set for December 28th and they will be married in the Portland Temple. Johnny is a returning missionary who will be attending BYU where Izzi goes. They both want to complete their education so that is good. More info to follow. Needless to say, the Coleman Clan is delighted and Johnny has Papa Joe's appproval. He has our appoval as well. Way to go, Izz.