There are man important people in ones life, those who make a lasting impression, whether its one you choose to remeber or one you choose to forget. For me I choose to rember one very special, extradinary, exampluary woman; who I am proud to say I am like her in many ways.
Growing up in Middltown there was an icon not only in the town but in my life, my grandmother. From as early as I can rember she was a the center of everything. Our family nucleous, she was the pillar to all in good times and bad. Her strength; inuition and raw waitress demeanor allowed her to handle many situation with fluidity.
These traits were never more prevelant to me than the winter of 1972 when a sever storm hit our town, forcing my family out of our home and into a small efficentcy apartment in town to weather the storm. I being just eight years old worried how Santa would find us if we were not home for Christmas. My grandmother assured me that all would be okay and that Santa would find us no matter where we were staying. Most children at that young tender age would be skeptical of anyone stating that Santa would find you no matter what, I was not for I had come to have great faith in what ever my grandmother said. She had never said anyting that I did not find to be true or directional.
It was Christmas eve; I rember my granmother picking us up and on the car ride told us we were on our way home. She had held true to her word; tucking us in that night assured me that in the morning Santa would have had no problems finding me. I awoke the next morning to find a tree that was not there the night before; presents piled high and breakfast on the table. I found out many years later as a teen the true story.
My grandmother had pulled her resources and my family together; aunts, uncles, extended family and friends to make sure that I and my sister would have the best Christmas ever. She was Santa; putting gifts together, finding the largest tree ever, decorating, cooking and managing to get it all done in the few hours as Sugar Plums danced in my head. I know it sounds like the pages of a Christmas Carol, but honestly true and very real.
As I started to write this essay I tried to find a moment; a story, a phrase, a blink in time to descrie this woman and there were dozens and dozens to choose from. I did however, keep coming to this memory or the woman I am so proud to say has made a lasting inpression forever in my life. Now I only hope to inspire my own daughter to have those memories of me or a special person that makes such an impression it leaves a permanent mark in her life and my grandmother did mine.
About Me
- LisaJGerrishSingh
- I am looking to share my love of cooking, tips, recipes and remixes with others.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
A Work In Progress
I have always been interested in turning the simple into the outstanding. This is certainly prevalent in my desire to have a wonderful yard without the high cost and effort of a professional landscaping company. I always have had a vision or an eye for the inner beauty. I see the potential of even a tree branch that has fallen in the yard, this desire is what prompted me to research and discover the use for many things left behind, thrown away or in need of recycling.
So where do I begin, not being an avid recycler or a landscaper/ yard smith by trade, I decided to begin my work in progress. I am somewhat computer knowledgable and because of the convenience, I jumped on the Internet and began to google away. Home Made Simple is a site that I have been using very regularly and have even subscribed to get regular updates and a newsletter, http://www.homemadesimple.com/en-US/Garden/Pages/Home.aspx Then one day last week while at my most favorite store in the world, The Dollar Tree, I cam across a do it yourself book, containing many ideas and suggestions on turning the every day item into something to enhance your garden, yard or outdoor living.
I moved into an apartment; second floor, with a simple 6x6 landing or deck, if you can call it that, which overlooks my small but interesting yard. Under the porch was a collection of what most would think of as trash, yes there certainly were items that I decided to through away, however; I set aside a handful of items that I felt I could reuse. There was parts of a crib; old planters, a wire bakers rack, several spiral metal posts and two bamboo tiki torches. What to do? I began simple creating a work in progress.
The crib pieces appeared to be the sides of the crib that slide up and down. I set the against the side of the house and stepped back a bit and gazed and began to wonder. Then a thought came to mind and I jetted in the house to grab the lap top and started googling " how to use crib sides in landscaping" sure enough up pop the top five or so. I begin to click and then find the perfect use, I turned the crib sides to a standing up right position and used them as a lattous in two different flower bed:). One this year will support my Morning Glory's that are located in the front yard, on each side there now are two rose bushes that will be supported by the metal twisted pieces.
Now I wondered what kind of suggestions could I research or find to utilize the wire bakers rack? When in conversation with a neighbor she suggested I use it outside as well for a plant display. That is exactly what I did, it now is sitting in the side yard. I spray painted it purple to add color and make it stick out against the cedar siding.
I was amazed at how just taking some time and researching or surfing the net, how many solutions, suggestions, ideas flood the pathways. I now wonder how come more people do not utilize researching or surfing the net to recycle and reuse. In today's world of the advacates of 'Go Green' why do they not use this thought process and make old new or purposeful.
So much like like this essay my yard has become a process, I have stepped back; looked, readjusted, moved, re-thought, researched, redesigned and with review have made changes and altered the out come or the look. I continue now for my yard is still "a work in progress"
So where do I begin, not being an avid recycler or a landscaper/ yard smith by trade, I decided to begin my work in progress. I am somewhat computer knowledgable and because of the convenience, I jumped on the Internet and began to google away. Home Made Simple is a site that I have been using very regularly and have even subscribed to get regular updates and a newsletter, http://www.homemadesimple.com/en-US/Garden/Pages/Home.aspx Then one day last week while at my most favorite store in the world, The Dollar Tree, I cam across a do it yourself book, containing many ideas and suggestions on turning the every day item into something to enhance your garden, yard or outdoor living.
I moved into an apartment; second floor, with a simple 6x6 landing or deck, if you can call it that, which overlooks my small but interesting yard. Under the porch was a collection of what most would think of as trash, yes there certainly were items that I decided to through away, however; I set aside a handful of items that I felt I could reuse. There was parts of a crib; old planters, a wire bakers rack, several spiral metal posts and two bamboo tiki torches. What to do? I began simple creating a work in progress.
The crib pieces appeared to be the sides of the crib that slide up and down. I set the against the side of the house and stepped back a bit and gazed and began to wonder. Then a thought came to mind and I jetted in the house to grab the lap top and started googling " how to use crib sides in landscaping" sure enough up pop the top five or so. I begin to click and then find the perfect use, I turned the crib sides to a standing up right position and used them as a lattous in two different flower bed:). One this year will support my Morning Glory's that are located in the front yard, on each side there now are two rose bushes that will be supported by the metal twisted pieces.
Now I wondered what kind of suggestions could I research or find to utilize the wire bakers rack? When in conversation with a neighbor she suggested I use it outside as well for a plant display. That is exactly what I did, it now is sitting in the side yard. I spray painted it purple to add color and make it stick out against the cedar siding.
I was amazed at how just taking some time and researching or surfing the net, how many solutions, suggestions, ideas flood the pathways. I now wonder how come more people do not utilize researching or surfing the net to recycle and reuse. In today's world of the advacates of 'Go Green' why do they not use this thought process and make old new or purposeful.
So much like like this essay my yard has become a process, I have stepped back; looked, readjusted, moved, re-thought, researched, redesigned and with review have made changes and altered the out come or the look. I continue now for my yard is still "a work in progress"
Sunday, April 24, 2011
In Review
It has become the inspiration and template for the modern fantasy genre. And it is an adventure that is filled with wonder, magic, action and vividly memorable characters. These are impressive accomplishments for any story. But considering the fact that The Hobbit was originally intended to be a simple children’s tale, the success of the book is all the more pronounced.
Bilbo Baggins who professes to dislike adventures, but who secretly harbors a love for things like maps and stories of princesses and dragons. He’s a wonderfully simple, even innocent character. Bilbo’s love for simple things evokes a similar pull in many of us – that longing for a simpler time, when there wasn’t a care in our personal world. But of course, that’s not the way things are in the real world and it’s not the way things are even in Bilbo’s world.
Bilbo’s call to adventure comes from another classic; that of the wise old man, in the form of the wizard, Gandalf. The beginning of Bilbo’s quest with the Dwarves of the Lonely Mountain, and guides the troop about halfway to their destination. But more important than the geographical journey across Middle Earth, Gandalf’s guidance brings Bilbo closer to reaching his full potential.
The quest itself is fairly straightforward. Bilbo will accompany thirteen Dwarves from his home in The Shire, through Rivendell, across the Misty Mountains, and through Mirkwood to the Lonely Mountain. There, Bilbo’s job, as burglar, will be to gain entrance to the mountain so that they may defeat the might dragon Smaug and reclaim the Dwarven treasure which Smaug stole many years before. The quest may sound unremarkable in today’s age, but that is simply because it has been replicated so many times since The Hobbit was first published. But even if you think you’ve heard this story before, Tolkien’s version is worth reading.
The further into Middle Earth he travels, the difficulty, and risk, of the challenges Bilbo faces increase. He begins with an abortive attempt to pickpocket a group of Trolls and eventually discovers the courage and strength to confront the great dragon Smaug, all alone, deep in Smaug’s lair. Of course, Bilbo’s journey has been guided by Gandalf, aided by the Dwarves, the Elves of Rivendell, the Eagles and a fateful encounter near the dark roots of the Misty Mountains.
First, the journey under the mountain symbolizes the descent into hell,the darkest places of our personal selves. Without confronting that, we will be unable to discover our true selves, and our quest would fail. Within the darkness of the mountain, Bilbo bravely presses on. He is rewarded for doing so by way of his discovery of a mysterious ring. But before he can claim this treasure as his own, he has one more archetype to confront: a dark shadow of himself. This shadow is represented by the miserable, pitiful creature Gollum.
Bilbo’s confrontation with Gollum is important because of its implications for the quest – as well as its implications for the Lord of the Rings saga that will soon follow. More importantly for Bilbo is the necessity that he must confront what he could become, if he were to be consumed by evil. Indeed, immediately after acquiring the ring, Bilbo’s innocence is lost. He bends the rules in a game of riddles against Gollum and later, he flat out lies to Gandalf. These are minor occurrences, but they would be harbingers of a great danger had Bilbo not defeated his shadow. The defeat itself doesn’t come during the riddle game, but rather a few moments later when Bilbo, made invisible by the ring, has an opportunity to murder Gollum. He doesn’t, however, and so he defeats the darkness within and his quest can continue.
In the end, the confluence of events, including his daring rescue of the Dwarves, from a horde of larger-than-life spiders in Mirkwood, teaches Bilbo that he does indeed have strength within himself. Quite literally, Bilbo begins to know himself. And that confidence helps him in the final transformation which he must undergo – from a timid, simple, innocent person into a crafty, intuitive and brave adventurer. Bilbo finally faces the worst of his fears, conquers them, and confronts the deadly dragon Smaug, deep in the bowels of the Lonely Mountain. The moment when Bilbo overcomes his fear is the moment in which he, finally and completely, transforms from who he was into who he was always meant to be. Bilbo achieves his full potential and, as a result, gains treasures far greater than the gold he carries away from the Lonely Mountain.
Bilbo must make his return journey, back to his home where is transformation can provide benefits to himself and those around him. As he and Gandalf finally take their final steps toward The Shire, Gandalf says, quiet profoundly, “My dear Bilbo! Something has happened to you. You are not the Hobbit you once were.” even Gandalf has noticed the transformation
The classic adventure tales of creatures, and fantastical beings have survived the hands of time. Very much the premiss I believe for the spin off or trilogy or extensions of the version. I believe that everyone at heart truely wants to be able to transform themselves into a character and live vicarously through a writters expression and tale. The phenomenon of this tale and the following of the Lord of the Rings has allowed those of all ages to relate to the alternate world of fantasy, allowing an escape from the world of turmoil that we call ours to one of fantasy knowing when one closes the book so closes the adversity. However it also provides what I call " the light at the end" for if the hobbit a simple creature can have such an adventureous and cautic life and survive so can we.
It is my opinion that if one is looking for a good read, The Hobbit, I highly reccomend. It is a book that has survived the times as a true classic and basis, example for authors that have contined to create tales in the classic contents. If there is any doubt that this would be a book to remember, just browse the first chapter and I feel you would be hooked. Tranporting yourself from the current life into the past of the hobbit you can experience a life of adventure.
Bilbo Baggins who professes to dislike adventures, but who secretly harbors a love for things like maps and stories of princesses and dragons. He’s a wonderfully simple, even innocent character. Bilbo’s love for simple things evokes a similar pull in many of us – that longing for a simpler time, when there wasn’t a care in our personal world. But of course, that’s not the way things are in the real world and it’s not the way things are even in Bilbo’s world.
Bilbo’s call to adventure comes from another classic; that of the wise old man, in the form of the wizard, Gandalf. The beginning of Bilbo’s quest with the Dwarves of the Lonely Mountain, and guides the troop about halfway to their destination. But more important than the geographical journey across Middle Earth, Gandalf’s guidance brings Bilbo closer to reaching his full potential.
The quest itself is fairly straightforward. Bilbo will accompany thirteen Dwarves from his home in The Shire, through Rivendell, across the Misty Mountains, and through Mirkwood to the Lonely Mountain. There, Bilbo’s job, as burglar, will be to gain entrance to the mountain so that they may defeat the might dragon Smaug and reclaim the Dwarven treasure which Smaug stole many years before. The quest may sound unremarkable in today’s age, but that is simply because it has been replicated so many times since The Hobbit was first published. But even if you think you’ve heard this story before, Tolkien’s version is worth reading.
The further into Middle Earth he travels, the difficulty, and risk, of the challenges Bilbo faces increase. He begins with an abortive attempt to pickpocket a group of Trolls and eventually discovers the courage and strength to confront the great dragon Smaug, all alone, deep in Smaug’s lair. Of course, Bilbo’s journey has been guided by Gandalf, aided by the Dwarves, the Elves of Rivendell, the Eagles and a fateful encounter near the dark roots of the Misty Mountains.
First, the journey under the mountain symbolizes the descent into hell,the darkest places of our personal selves. Without confronting that, we will be unable to discover our true selves, and our quest would fail. Within the darkness of the mountain, Bilbo bravely presses on. He is rewarded for doing so by way of his discovery of a mysterious ring. But before he can claim this treasure as his own, he has one more archetype to confront: a dark shadow of himself. This shadow is represented by the miserable, pitiful creature Gollum.
Bilbo’s confrontation with Gollum is important because of its implications for the quest – as well as its implications for the Lord of the Rings saga that will soon follow. More importantly for Bilbo is the necessity that he must confront what he could become, if he were to be consumed by evil. Indeed, immediately after acquiring the ring, Bilbo’s innocence is lost. He bends the rules in a game of riddles against Gollum and later, he flat out lies to Gandalf. These are minor occurrences, but they would be harbingers of a great danger had Bilbo not defeated his shadow. The defeat itself doesn’t come during the riddle game, but rather a few moments later when Bilbo, made invisible by the ring, has an opportunity to murder Gollum. He doesn’t, however, and so he defeats the darkness within and his quest can continue.
In the end, the confluence of events, including his daring rescue of the Dwarves, from a horde of larger-than-life spiders in Mirkwood, teaches Bilbo that he does indeed have strength within himself. Quite literally, Bilbo begins to know himself. And that confidence helps him in the final transformation which he must undergo – from a timid, simple, innocent person into a crafty, intuitive and brave adventurer. Bilbo finally faces the worst of his fears, conquers them, and confronts the deadly dragon Smaug, deep in the bowels of the Lonely Mountain. The moment when Bilbo overcomes his fear is the moment in which he, finally and completely, transforms from who he was into who he was always meant to be. Bilbo achieves his full potential and, as a result, gains treasures far greater than the gold he carries away from the Lonely Mountain.
Bilbo must make his return journey, back to his home where is transformation can provide benefits to himself and those around him. As he and Gandalf finally take their final steps toward The Shire, Gandalf says, quiet profoundly, “My dear Bilbo! Something has happened to you. You are not the Hobbit you once were.” even Gandalf has noticed the transformation
The classic adventure tales of creatures, and fantastical beings have survived the hands of time. Very much the premiss I believe for the spin off or trilogy or extensions of the version. I believe that everyone at heart truely wants to be able to transform themselves into a character and live vicarously through a writters expression and tale. The phenomenon of this tale and the following of the Lord of the Rings has allowed those of all ages to relate to the alternate world of fantasy, allowing an escape from the world of turmoil that we call ours to one of fantasy knowing when one closes the book so closes the adversity. However it also provides what I call " the light at the end" for if the hobbit a simple creature can have such an adventureous and cautic life and survive so can we.
It is my opinion that if one is looking for a good read, The Hobbit, I highly reccomend. It is a book that has survived the times as a true classic and basis, example for authors that have contined to create tales in the classic contents. If there is any doubt that this would be a book to remember, just browse the first chapter and I feel you would be hooked. Tranporting yourself from the current life into the past of the hobbit you can experience a life of adventure.
Warm Summer Breeze Blows.....I slip into the world of The Hobbit
The warm summer breeze blows; with the rays shinning on my back, I begin to daydream as I turn the pages of my favorite book. I look into the distance and see not only the view but the window to the shire so colorfully painted int he first pages of The Hobbit.
Bilbo describes the knoll in which he has built his home; surrounded by the roaming hills of the shire, with blooming wild flowers, the warm scented summer air and the bubbling brook that runs along in the near distance. He sits on a log at the end of the path, smoking his pipe, he begins to describe the adventure of his life.
I can picture myself there; for I have a similar background living downeast secluded from major towns and cities, I am certainly in a country setting such as he. My back yard is wooded, with a brook that runs along the edge, with great brook fish. The side yard contains plush grash, just like the knoll of the shire; birds singing, the wildfowers growing in bunches, with an occasional passerby of horse and buggy or the neighbors coming bearing fresh bakes pies or a cassarole.
In the Hobbit, Bilbo also describes his neighbors, his friends and his experiences with the wizards and fantastical creatures with vididness. I often day dream as I read on that my family, friends and neighbors transform into the characters leaping from the pages of the book.
I read this book as a young teenager and to this day the story sticks with me like superglue. I was not much of a reader, prefered to listen to the radio or conversation with my friends and family. This book was a joy to experience and I made sure that I read each page with great attention and experience to make it last.
Even thought the tale has been told and re written and made into a series of movies nothing is more relevant in my opinion than the orginal, classic tale of The Hobbit.
Bilbo describes the knoll in which he has built his home; surrounded by the roaming hills of the shire, with blooming wild flowers, the warm scented summer air and the bubbling brook that runs along in the near distance. He sits on a log at the end of the path, smoking his pipe, he begins to describe the adventure of his life.
I can picture myself there; for I have a similar background living downeast secluded from major towns and cities, I am certainly in a country setting such as he. My back yard is wooded, with a brook that runs along the edge, with great brook fish. The side yard contains plush grash, just like the knoll of the shire; birds singing, the wildfowers growing in bunches, with an occasional passerby of horse and buggy or the neighbors coming bearing fresh bakes pies or a cassarole.
In the Hobbit, Bilbo also describes his neighbors, his friends and his experiences with the wizards and fantastical creatures with vididness. I often day dream as I read on that my family, friends and neighbors transform into the characters leaping from the pages of the book.
I read this book as a young teenager and to this day the story sticks with me like superglue. I was not much of a reader, prefered to listen to the radio or conversation with my friends and family. This book was a joy to experience and I made sure that I read each page with great attention and experience to make it last.
Even thought the tale has been told and re written and made into a series of movies nothing is more relevant in my opinion than the orginal, classic tale of The Hobbit.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Top Easy Bake Oven Chef:) (Expertise)
I opened the brightly colored wrapping paper; decorated with candy canes and Christmas candies, to reveal a box of familiarity from a trip to the department store weeks earlier with my dad. It was an Easy Bake Oven, overjoyed; full of excitement I broke into the box, empty the entire contents onto the floor, ignoring all the other gifts and fragmented wrapping paper that I had already tore through. Quickly organizing and searching for the instruction book, I could not wait to start my adventures baking and exploring the wonderful world of the light bulb.
I set up shop at the end of the counter in the kitchen, placing the Easy Bake Oven at the end; in the draw beneath held the small pans and the baking packages that come with the starter set. I read each box in complete trance and followed the directions to the T without deviation. The outcome each and every time was perfection, a tasty experience for all. However; after several days that came to an end when I opened my last box of cupcake mix, what to do now. I was not willing to give up, not willing to except that this would be the end of my glorious adventure in light bulb baking:)
Reading the basic ingredients of the Easy Bake mixes, I realized that the contents incorporated the contents of our kitchen, with the exception of the fillers and big words I could not pronounce. I began to read the contents on the boxes in the pantry;things like the Bisquick, Jiffy box, staples in my mothers shopping trips. I found they contained the same or similar ingredients as the Easy Bake boxes.
I began to experiment with he contents of the pantry and formulated a recipe that to this day I still use as a staple to my baking forte. It is two cups of Bisquick mix, one cup Hersey baking chocolate powder, two eggs, one stick of butter and a 1/4 milk, blend till creamy and smooth. Take and divide batter into cup cake pans and bake at 350 for 20 to 30 minutes until you can poke with a tooth pick and remove dry. For the frosting you can take two cups of powdered sugar and one stick of room temp butter and blend to make butter cream frosting;) Have to admit that over a period of time, when I first began to experiment with the contents of the pantry,that all Easy Bake Oven experiences were not successful. I did not let this deter me from my passion to become an expert:) I did have times that I wondered if I would ever be able to get the burnt, charred, crusted mix off the pans. There were many times I wondered if I forgot an ingredient or used more of one item and not enough of another.
My experience with the Easy Bake Oven has educated me and I have now moved up to the Big Girl Oven, finding myself very proficient in its use. I have also graduated to recipes and ingredients not all under one label, moving away from the Bisquick Mixes. Now wondering if I could actually be competition on some of these shows on Food Network, baking with the best. Watch out Food Network, I am the next Star:)
I set up shop at the end of the counter in the kitchen, placing the Easy Bake Oven at the end; in the draw beneath held the small pans and the baking packages that come with the starter set. I read each box in complete trance and followed the directions to the T without deviation. The outcome each and every time was perfection, a tasty experience for all. However; after several days that came to an end when I opened my last box of cupcake mix, what to do now. I was not willing to give up, not willing to except that this would be the end of my glorious adventure in light bulb baking:)
Reading the basic ingredients of the Easy Bake mixes, I realized that the contents incorporated the contents of our kitchen, with the exception of the fillers and big words I could not pronounce. I began to read the contents on the boxes in the pantry;things like the Bisquick, Jiffy box, staples in my mothers shopping trips. I found they contained the same or similar ingredients as the Easy Bake boxes.
I began to experiment with he contents of the pantry and formulated a recipe that to this day I still use as a staple to my baking forte. It is two cups of Bisquick mix, one cup Hersey baking chocolate powder, two eggs, one stick of butter and a 1/4 milk, blend till creamy and smooth. Take and divide batter into cup cake pans and bake at 350 for 20 to 30 minutes until you can poke with a tooth pick and remove dry. For the frosting you can take two cups of powdered sugar and one stick of room temp butter and blend to make butter cream frosting;) Have to admit that over a period of time, when I first began to experiment with the contents of the pantry,that all Easy Bake Oven experiences were not successful. I did not let this deter me from my passion to become an expert:) I did have times that I wondered if I would ever be able to get the burnt, charred, crusted mix off the pans. There were many times I wondered if I forgot an ingredient or used more of one item and not enough of another.
My experience with the Easy Bake Oven has educated me and I have now moved up to the Big Girl Oven, finding myself very proficient in its use. I have also graduated to recipes and ingredients not all under one label, moving away from the Bisquick Mixes. Now wondering if I could actually be competition on some of these shows on Food Network, baking with the best. Watch out Food Network, I am the next Star:)
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Imagine this, could this be your daughter or son?
Recently I took part in this discussion, feeling very strongly that offering my comments and view would give light that others would not imagine. So the question is "Why would girls want to wrestle against boys?" "I am a strong supporter of athletics but this just seems obvious or does it?"
The discussion covered a situation; a young man forfeited his chance at winning a wrestling competition, because he had to wrestle a girl. It received a great amount of publicity and controversy. I began to debate the true issue or the true reasoning behind what to me seemed to be such a simple situation.
The discussion covered a situation; a young man forfeited his chance at winning a wrestling competition, because he had to wrestle a girl. It received a great amount of publicity and controversy. I began to debate the true issue or the true reasoning behind what to me seemed to be such a simple situation.
I offered my initial comment; I would look at it from a professional view, if they are trained correctly and truly are about the sport then it is the skill being tested not the gender. In most school settings from the beginning of sports interactions, both girls and boys have at one time played a sport of some kind on the same team. Even in a leisure setting; the park, a family picnic, a summer day at the lake, I have witnessed a friendly game of tag foot ball, basket ball or some type of contact activity between boys and girls.
I followed with; having a daughter who has joined our armed forces have thought of many avenues; settings, or circumstances, that would place her as a woman in a compromising situation, I only have faith that I as a parent have taught her and provided her with the mental capacity to make decisions and placement in situations that are based on the whole picture, but such is life and yes things do happen that we cannot plan or even imagine Now she goes as a woman to make the choices and to handle the situation fully armed not only to defend herself but women and our Nation.
Others commented; “I would never let my daughter wrestle against males. The moves and holds they have to do are in no way appropriate for a male to do to a female. The male forfeiting showed a great deal of respect for her as a young woman. I totally agree with the previous comment. It was very sad to see that GENTLEMAN loses his championship shot due to the other team putting a female between him and his goal. He did the absolute right thing and let her win by forfeit. I feel sorry for him in a way as the other coach should never have allowed girls on a boy’s team.”
So I think to myself; is it the thought that is inappropriate; have we become a society that reads into every physical situation that sex is the motive; that a simple maneuver is considered groping and invasion of a females personal space?
So I think to myself; is it the thought that is inappropriate; have we become a society that reads into every physical situation that sex is the motive; that a simple maneuver is considered groping and invasion of a females personal space?
I wish I could have truly been the fly on that wall; did the families of the wrestling team get involved initially, allowing this young lady to be on the team, what was the schools position, what about the fellow team members, what about the girl herself, what if , what if, how come?
So I present to you the reader the following questions; "What would your opinion or decision be if your daughter was on a wrestling team of all boys, would you let her wrestle, does gender matter, who is responsible for the issues that arise, you as a parent, the school, the team, the coach?" The questions are endless as do I think the answers or comments will be
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Presence is it To Be or not To Be?
For forty-two days and nights, the sun rose and set and it seemed as if time was standing still. Most would gaze at the warmth of the sun and look to smell the flowers or for the bees that fly from each open bud gathering the nectar of life. To see the sun set and hope they hear that sound of sizzle as the heat of the sun meets the cool skyline and creates that vapor affect. Much like still life photography these moments, a still captured and should be revered as every precious moment should be.
There are many views in life that one would think inspiring and altering, but some experiences are somewhat faded or clouded by momentary judgements. This moment in time even though it was more than a calender month held both good and adverse experiences and tested the stamina and mental fortitude of many.
It was the day after the fourth of July, he and his friends had decided to take a hike up the path of "Lovers Leap", a ledge at the edge of the Kenduskeague river here in town. The sun was up and shinning in all its luminous light, which caused hews raising from the water to the top of the ledge. He wondered what a view and how it would look from just the edge of the ledge that over looks that entire area of the river. He stepped ever closer, as his friends continue on, one foot to far and down he falls. With the grasp of ever tree branch, trying to find a grip of ledge he still plummets to the bottom. He hits the base and like a rubber ball bounces into the middle of the river now trying to stay afloat and yelling for help. His friends have now notice the absence and have heard his screams. A friend rushes to the path to slide down in hopes that he will be able to save his friend and the other quickly rushes and calls 911.
The real now flashes forward to the beginning of forty days and nights. The view not as scenic as he lays there in the hospital bed with tubes protruding from every possible part of his body. The sound of the life support machines invade the room sounding like a marching band in rhythm almost hypnotic. The swarm of doctors and nurses that come in and out of the room are much like the colony of bees gathering nectar from the flowers in hopes to pollinate the answers or gain knowledge to help recovery. Sitting at the bed side hand in hand, speaking words of love and support in hopes that he hears you.
Each day now brings to light issues that were not there the day before, each test brings a result sometimes positive other times adding just another concern. Wondering what ever did one think as he stepped to the edge "What was he thinking?" "Why was he there?" and " Why not me instead of him?" The cot that is now set up next to his, makes you wonder is he comfortable and is there anything that I can do to make sure his is, without his responding? As a mother one thinks that when a child is in danger or suffering, you would gladly exchange places.
The doctors inform, telling that each day on life support decreases his chances of survival. Did he learn or did he gain that inner motivation to overcome adversity? Its now thirty days in, he has begun to show signs towards a potential recovery. He has begun to open h is eyes and respond to your voice. The next day he now is pulling at the tubes in his airway and the doctor states they are going to remove the tubes to see if he will be able to breath on his own. Reluctantly the tubes are removed, he gasps and then turns to you and says "Hello". Have you ever heard anything more joyful, almost harp sounding as the strings of your heart are plucked. He turns to you and says " Knew you were here, could hear your voice and they become the wings around my heart that helped me survive"
Within days he has now gone from a room full of machines, tubes, nurses and doctors to a semi private room with a shower and bathroom of his own. Not one person would ever imagine how a man, now reverted back to the need of having his mother help him with the simple things, almost infantile. Dressing, bathing and yes embarrassing as it may be but even assistance in the bathroom. Remarks remind him that this seems like old times and that it is a right of passage as a parent to take care of him in any way possible.
In July of 2005, my son fell from a 110 foot cliff, "Lovers Leap" and survived. Was I present at the time? Yes even though I was miles away the moment he fell I knew. I was there with him for the next forty-two days and nights, did not falter, did not leave his side and to this day I am still there for him no matter what. There are those who have connection being a family member, but I can truly state that as a parent, the kind of parent I am I will always have that connection that presence and will always be bound to my children in a way no other can be.
There are many views in life that one would think inspiring and altering, but some experiences are somewhat faded or clouded by momentary judgements. This moment in time even though it was more than a calender month held both good and adverse experiences and tested the stamina and mental fortitude of many.
It was the day after the fourth of July, he and his friends had decided to take a hike up the path of "Lovers Leap", a ledge at the edge of the Kenduskeague river here in town. The sun was up and shinning in all its luminous light, which caused hews raising from the water to the top of the ledge. He wondered what a view and how it would look from just the edge of the ledge that over looks that entire area of the river. He stepped ever closer, as his friends continue on, one foot to far and down he falls. With the grasp of ever tree branch, trying to find a grip of ledge he still plummets to the bottom. He hits the base and like a rubber ball bounces into the middle of the river now trying to stay afloat and yelling for help. His friends have now notice the absence and have heard his screams. A friend rushes to the path to slide down in hopes that he will be able to save his friend and the other quickly rushes and calls 911.
The real now flashes forward to the beginning of forty days and nights. The view not as scenic as he lays there in the hospital bed with tubes protruding from every possible part of his body. The sound of the life support machines invade the room sounding like a marching band in rhythm almost hypnotic. The swarm of doctors and nurses that come in and out of the room are much like the colony of bees gathering nectar from the flowers in hopes to pollinate the answers or gain knowledge to help recovery. Sitting at the bed side hand in hand, speaking words of love and support in hopes that he hears you.
Each day now brings to light issues that were not there the day before, each test brings a result sometimes positive other times adding just another concern. Wondering what ever did one think as he stepped to the edge "What was he thinking?" "Why was he there?" and " Why not me instead of him?" The cot that is now set up next to his, makes you wonder is he comfortable and is there anything that I can do to make sure his is, without his responding? As a mother one thinks that when a child is in danger or suffering, you would gladly exchange places.
The doctors inform, telling that each day on life support decreases his chances of survival. Did he learn or did he gain that inner motivation to overcome adversity? Its now thirty days in, he has begun to show signs towards a potential recovery. He has begun to open h is eyes and respond to your voice. The next day he now is pulling at the tubes in his airway and the doctor states they are going to remove the tubes to see if he will be able to breath on his own. Reluctantly the tubes are removed, he gasps and then turns to you and says "Hello". Have you ever heard anything more joyful, almost harp sounding as the strings of your heart are plucked. He turns to you and says " Knew you were here, could hear your voice and they become the wings around my heart that helped me survive"
Within days he has now gone from a room full of machines, tubes, nurses and doctors to a semi private room with a shower and bathroom of his own. Not one person would ever imagine how a man, now reverted back to the need of having his mother help him with the simple things, almost infantile. Dressing, bathing and yes embarrassing as it may be but even assistance in the bathroom. Remarks remind him that this seems like old times and that it is a right of passage as a parent to take care of him in any way possible.
In July of 2005, my son fell from a 110 foot cliff, "Lovers Leap" and survived. Was I present at the time? Yes even though I was miles away the moment he fell I knew. I was there with him for the next forty-two days and nights, did not falter, did not leave his side and to this day I am still there for him no matter what. There are those who have connection being a family member, but I can truly state that as a parent, the kind of parent I am I will always have that connection that presence and will always be bound to my children in a way no other can be.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
The Shell Of A Great Man....
He sits on the deck off the back of the house staring forward with a distant gaze, the world moving fast forward around him, but he remains still and acknowledges little. Still the center of conversation and the admiration of most he is but a shell of the man he once was.
Fifty plus year ago this man met a woman with several children already, can’t say they fell in love at first sight but how they must have loved each other to take on life that was already operating at a pace most of us view from afar. They went on to have children together making a dozen, yes a dozen children, all girls but three.
Early morning coffee in hand he heads out the door to begin the day. Working at a local mail delivery service courier, he still is at full speed, whether it is customer assistance or aiding a fellow employee, he was always the go to guy. Driving home he still has work with him to be delivered in route to his destination.
His second job begins around five o’clock, his hand in the preparation of dinner or taking one or another of the children to one or another function. He may need to assist in a project or homework or a repair around the house. Holidays he also finds time to create handmade gifts and to decorate the family home with flare to compete with the neighbors of the most lights and animated decorations on the lawn.
It’s the weekend and he gets up at sunrise to begin the stuffing of things to do before the house opens and the children poor out or the door bell rings. The lawn has to be mowed, the pool cleaned and he still finds time to hit the garage to dabble in his love for crafts. As with the most he did, his crafting was unbelievable, stained glass and macramé plant hangers and figures, little village buildings for grandmother’s holiday town display or the train that operates around the base of the Christmas tree.
Summer vacations now include grandchildren and trips to places like Cape Cod, the Grand Cannon or a trip to Maine. He makes sure all is supplied and the Winnebago camper is fully loaded and the pop up section is not in need of repair. He even washes the cloths at the river bed; imagine that, a task one would only read about in a history book.
As the years pass he still does not falter from being the one everyone counts on, he remains ever constant, the center of conversations and functions and at times if he is not there they seem a bit empty.
His love has now passed, he is alone, he becomes more and more withdrawn and now his life has jumped off the fast lane of the highway to the breakdown lane looking for assistance.
My grandfather once the center of the universe for so many now suffers from old age and onset Alzheimer’s. He will always remain constant; loving, caring, motivated, strong, funny dependable and the list could go on and on. Even though he seems vacant at a glance I know he remains forever the man and not the shell.
Friday, February 25, 2011
I will take a slice of Parent.....(Slice)
I was born in 1964; older sister to one brother, one sister, but my family did not stop there. On my mothers side I had my grandparents and twelve Aunts and Uncles. Being part of such a large family, family size pizza was always on the menu, usually with a variety of toppings. I often thought I would order the same, but would find that each person certainly perfers a personal pan with individual toppings. So here is my slice..
By the age of eight I had been taking care of my younger sister, four years my younger, for my mother was a two job working parent and my hands were always a support. I was a weekend warrior for my younger brother; my fathers child from his second marriage, my status as the big sister was with him as well, even diaper duty:)
This experience came in handy when I began to babysit for a family in the summer of 75; to earn extra money for the things most teenagers wanted at that time, school cloths, makeup, an Atari game system, yes Atari :). I would pass most the time away; babysitting, listening to Donna Summers records and dancing with hair brush on the coffee table. The money was a great reward but have to honestly say I found myself enjoying the fact that I was taking care of the children and gaining the experiences.
June of 84 I graduated high school and went on to attend a course school; Training Development Corporation, were I first met the father of my first child and fell in LOVE. Did I think at that time this would begin the journey of being a parent? I would have to say yes, my maternal instinct or that internal clock was ticking to loud it made a resounding noise to be heard by most that knew me.
May 8, 1985; I gave birth to my first child, a son, 12lbs 11 oz and yes that is not a typo :). The conditions surrounding this experience were rough and not what one would expect as a first time parent. I had a condition called eclampsia and found myself in the hospital two weeks before delivery on bed rest. I started labor early that morning and labored for 27 hours, at which point I had enough and told my mother to get the doctor to help me. She had gone to the door to seek the doctor, only to turn and find that I had gone into a ceasure. I do not remember anything from that point until they woke me and informed me that I had given birth to my son.
As a parent of one young man; I did hope that someday I could give him the opportunity to have a sister or brother to share experiences in life as I did being a big sister. December 8, 1989; the day of my birth, I gave birth to my second child. Most would find better ways to spend their birthday then being in labor or having a C-section, but I found it to be the best present anyone could ever receive. A boy, 10lbs 131/2 oz and healthy. I did not have any complications, I did not have any difficulty other than having to recovery from C-section. Due to the fact that I had a C-section with my first, they stated a C-section was more advisable. He was also 22 inches long and today is over 6 feet tall.
I had decided after the birth of my second child, a single parent for the second time and loving the parental way of life, I was worried about finances, housing, diapers, food and spreading my self too thing that I would not be able to be a great parent. After great discussion with my physician I decided to take measures to be happy with the two children.
Well four years later I found that I was having my third child. September 1,1993; I gave birth to a daughter, 8lbs 11oz and full of life. This delivery, also by C-section, was planned and well monitored. I spoke with the doctor to ask how I was able to have a full term pregnancy and give birth to a child after a sterilization procedure. He explained to my that some how I had become that 1 percent of women that after such a procedure is able to conceive. This amazing situation only supported my thoughts; even from such a young age as eight, that I was destined to be a mother, a parent.
Today; February 25, 2011, continues my life as a parent of three. The oldest is now in TX selling Kirby's for a living. My middle child is working hard, as a freight supervisor, unloading freight trucks in pre-sort for UPS. My youngest has amazed me every day; now a Senior at BHS, she also is a second year culinary student at UTC and has joined the Army Nation Guard. Does this end the parent trip, of course not, it just opens the door, now I just wait for the future days of my life and the continued progression of life and birth into grandparenthood :)
By the age of eight I had been taking care of my younger sister, four years my younger, for my mother was a two job working parent and my hands were always a support. I was a weekend warrior for my younger brother; my fathers child from his second marriage, my status as the big sister was with him as well, even diaper duty:)
This experience came in handy when I began to babysit for a family in the summer of 75; to earn extra money for the things most teenagers wanted at that time, school cloths, makeup, an Atari game system, yes Atari :). I would pass most the time away; babysitting, listening to Donna Summers records and dancing with hair brush on the coffee table. The money was a great reward but have to honestly say I found myself enjoying the fact that I was taking care of the children and gaining the experiences.
June of 84 I graduated high school and went on to attend a course school; Training Development Corporation, were I first met the father of my first child and fell in LOVE. Did I think at that time this would begin the journey of being a parent? I would have to say yes, my maternal instinct or that internal clock was ticking to loud it made a resounding noise to be heard by most that knew me.
May 8, 1985; I gave birth to my first child, a son, 12lbs 11 oz and yes that is not a typo :). The conditions surrounding this experience were rough and not what one would expect as a first time parent. I had a condition called eclampsia and found myself in the hospital two weeks before delivery on bed rest. I started labor early that morning and labored for 27 hours, at which point I had enough and told my mother to get the doctor to help me. She had gone to the door to seek the doctor, only to turn and find that I had gone into a ceasure. I do not remember anything from that point until they woke me and informed me that I had given birth to my son.
As a parent of one young man; I did hope that someday I could give him the opportunity to have a sister or brother to share experiences in life as I did being a big sister. December 8, 1989; the day of my birth, I gave birth to my second child. Most would find better ways to spend their birthday then being in labor or having a C-section, but I found it to be the best present anyone could ever receive. A boy, 10lbs 131/2 oz and healthy. I did not have any complications, I did not have any difficulty other than having to recovery from C-section. Due to the fact that I had a C-section with my first, they stated a C-section was more advisable. He was also 22 inches long and today is over 6 feet tall.
I had decided after the birth of my second child, a single parent for the second time and loving the parental way of life, I was worried about finances, housing, diapers, food and spreading my self too thing that I would not be able to be a great parent. After great discussion with my physician I decided to take measures to be happy with the two children.
Well four years later I found that I was having my third child. September 1,1993; I gave birth to a daughter, 8lbs 11oz and full of life. This delivery, also by C-section, was planned and well monitored. I spoke with the doctor to ask how I was able to have a full term pregnancy and give birth to a child after a sterilization procedure. He explained to my that some how I had become that 1 percent of women that after such a procedure is able to conceive. This amazing situation only supported my thoughts; even from such a young age as eight, that I was destined to be a mother, a parent.
Today; February 25, 2011, continues my life as a parent of three. The oldest is now in TX selling Kirby's for a living. My middle child is working hard, as a freight supervisor, unloading freight trucks in pre-sort for UPS. My youngest has amazed me every day; now a Senior at BHS, she also is a second year culinary student at UTC and has joined the Army Nation Guard. Does this end the parent trip, of course not, it just opens the door, now I just wait for the future days of my life and the continued progression of life and birth into grandparenthood :)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Memoirs Of A Special Woman
During our visit we ventured to my uncle's, he has a beautiful country style home in a town close by the town in which I grew as a child. I have to say this visit became full of wonderful experiences and impressionable moments. In the picture above; that I took during my visit, this is the memorial site for my grandmother. A bench with a special notation engraved in the marble stone to sit and reflect to remember the woman I fondly called Tu Tu and the willow tree, her favorite tree, that marks the location in which the ashes of her are buried. I was unable to make it to her ceremony when she passed and I was truly disappointed for I felt I had no closure. Having visited my uncle's home and this site has now made a lasting impression that I will carry forever.
As we all sat in the kitchen eating a selection of cheeses, crackers and wine, we all spoke of TuTu amongst each other and my grandfather who has come with us to my uncles that day. I recalled how just a year before she had passed that they had come to visit me in Maine. She, my grandfather, my mother, myself and the children had made a trip to Acadia National park. My daughter had asked me on that trip how come I call my grandmother TuTu, I replied that when I was a child for some reason I called her that and it stuck. Seeing where I was the oldest grandchild all the other grandchildren followed suit. My uncle spoke up saying it seemed to fit for Tu Tu in a very short skirt and my grandmother was not but 5 feet tall. I laughed saying well all great things come in small packages, he agreed.
I have now taken this photo; framed it; it now hangs on my wall in the living room and is the center piece for a wall of family memories and photos. I did so for all of her life she was the center, the main support emotionally that held our family together. As we get older and our minds become more rigid and less Sponge Bob:) I do suggest to everyone, take pictures, write down your memoirs, not only to keep it fresh for you but to pass along to others when the time comes.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Are You Going To Scarboro Fair (Childhood Memoir)
As a little girl, I would burst with excitement when my father would tell me that we were going to the summer’s first county fair. There was nothing more spectacular to me than the smell of fresh baked goods and getting spoiled with one of my favorite things to have a huge, circular, multi-colored Lollipop on a wooden stick, with flavors that taste like a rainbow's colors.My grandmother for as long as I could remember had made dolls from remnants of clothing, strands of yarn, buttons, ribbons and any item of odd quantity. She had entered a set of homemade dolls at this county fair for the first time. I remember wanting to see them for they were packed in a box that sat next to me in the back seat of the car, I tried to peak but was scared someone would see me and I would be scolded.
It seemed like days were passing as we waited for the judging of the dolls, we walked past several tables and viewed all the dolls that had been entered. We finally came to the table were my grandmothers dolls were displayed, I could feel my heart race and my eyes widen when I finally looked at her entries. There were a set of three dolls; the first one had golden braided hair, with big blue button eyes and a yellow dress with big sunflower print. The next doll had black strands of yarn that she somehow had been able to make big flowing curls and a dress bright blue with big poke a dots. As my eyes came to the final doll, I began to wonder had my grandmother had me in mind when she created this one; the doll is wearing a dress with lollipops printed all over, the same ones that I love, circular, multi-colored on a stick. This doll had braided reddish hair, just like mine and big brown eyes just like mine.
My father and I joined my grandparents for some lunch, they proceeded to play some fair games and ride some carnival rides. I just want to go back and gaze at the dolls again. I had truly lost my interest in most of the fair activities, excited to go see were my grandmother had placed and what color ribbon was on her dolls. On our way back to the display area for the dolls, I did get that lollipop, big, round colorful and yes it taste just like a rainbow. We finally returned to the display area, as we pushed through the crowd to get back to her table, I thought I was going to burst. We walked up to the table; I was holding my fathers had so tight; a big Blue Ribbon was displayed on her table, first place.
As my father fastens the seat belt I turn to my left and there sits in the back seat with me, the three dolls my grandmother had entered and won first place for. As we travel down the road, heading home my grandmother turns to me and states that I can choose one doll to keep for my very own. Can you guess which one I chose.............? That’s right the one that looked just like me, or so I thought, the one with the dress of lollipops, reddish braided hair and brown eyes.
We arrived home, I grasped the doll like there was no tomorrow. My grandmother had asked me a short time later are you going to choose a name for your doll, I explained to her that I had a name for her the moment I choose her. She asked what that name might be? I replied Lilly Lollipop. Lilly did not leave my side the entire weekend and for many years to come.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Fom Here To There Or Is It There To Here ( Tone,Travel)
The doctor has just told me, "Lisa you are in fact expecting" I never expected to hear that I was going to have another child. I would have to wait now, until I am far enough along to find out if I am having a boy or girl. The day has come, "Lisa it appears you are having a girl", I begin to cry, the doctor ask, "Lisa are you in pain?" No I have never been happier in my life" or so I thought....the journey has begun.
Sitting here in the dark; I am flooded with emotions, remembering the first time I held you in my arms. Your porcelain face looked up at me with eyes filled with sparkle and endless openness into the world, your journey started that day. I just made hotel reservations for us and tomorrow morning we travel to Portland as you begin the next road of your journey in life, my little girl has joined the Army National Guard.
The sun has chosen to appear this morning; we load the car with our overnight bags and head to the store. As we drive up the road, I look over to gaze at the fine young lady you have become and yet I still see the porcelain faced child with eyes wide open that I saw the day you were born. You are so full of life; adventure, your individuality makes you the aspiring woman that you are and the amazing role model I know you are going to become.
As we reach the Augusta area it has begun to flurry, the roads are wet. I am glad we have extra windshield fluid in the trunk we are going to need it. Here we go; just in time, let’s pull over and full the tank so that I can see the road the rest of the way to Portland. I am not sure if it’s the coffee or the anticipation of getting to Portland that has my nerves in a bunch or is it the pride and joy and he sense of accomplishment I see in you. A red car has just pulled up beside us; you point out the driver as he is digging for what appears to us, seems to be gold, but we know it’s just a great big Booger, sorry if this is gross but how we laugh. If there is a goal for me in my life, it is that your life always has laughter.
Even though we have now only been here twice, we pull off the interstate into Lewiston to visit with Betu and Raj and grab some lunch, I am starving. As we sit in the restaurant the wonderful aroma of curry, Indian spices has my mind spinning and my stomach growling. I make joke of how you will miss simple food like this as soon as you have to experience military rations. Once again I sit back and watch you interact with our family friends, I am so proud of you it is overwhelming at times.
Off to Portland: we have jumped back on the interstate, you have settled back in the seat to take a nap, what will I do with myself when you’re gone? I am going to make sure I take every moment from this point on and snap shot them in my mind so that I do not forget one smile, one laugh, not even one tear.
Wake up sleepy head, were here exit 46 and I can't believe we made it without GPS. The hotel is decent, I know you are looking forward to staying here and I am still a bit edgy but I am sure it will pass. We check in and I ask you what now of course still with the little girl in you, 'Can we go to the mall?" how some things don't change. I hope they don't in some sense but can't wait for things to change so you may experience life and all it has to offer.
I am on the fifth floor and your room is on the third, how I feel that like the miles down the highway we are also miles apart. You have just called me to let me know you have a roommate and you and she are going to dinner. I sit her now even though the room is well lit; the TV is on HBO, I am alone, is this how it feels? I know that you have to leave; I know that you have to go; I know that I have prepared you for things the best I know how, so fly away, fly away but always remember how to get home.
Sitting here in the dark; I am flooded with emotions, remembering the first time I held you in my arms. Your porcelain face looked up at me with eyes filled with sparkle and endless openness into the world, your journey started that day. I just made hotel reservations for us and tomorrow morning we travel to Portland as you begin the next road of your journey in life, my little girl has joined the Army National Guard.
The sun has chosen to appear this morning; we load the car with our overnight bags and head to the store. As we drive up the road, I look over to gaze at the fine young lady you have become and yet I still see the porcelain faced child with eyes wide open that I saw the day you were born. You are so full of life; adventure, your individuality makes you the aspiring woman that you are and the amazing role model I know you are going to become.
As we reach the Augusta area it has begun to flurry, the roads are wet. I am glad we have extra windshield fluid in the trunk we are going to need it. Here we go; just in time, let’s pull over and full the tank so that I can see the road the rest of the way to Portland. I am not sure if it’s the coffee or the anticipation of getting to Portland that has my nerves in a bunch or is it the pride and joy and he sense of accomplishment I see in you. A red car has just pulled up beside us; you point out the driver as he is digging for what appears to us, seems to be gold, but we know it’s just a great big Booger, sorry if this is gross but how we laugh. If there is a goal for me in my life, it is that your life always has laughter.
Even though we have now only been here twice, we pull off the interstate into Lewiston to visit with Betu and Raj and grab some lunch, I am starving. As we sit in the restaurant the wonderful aroma of curry, Indian spices has my mind spinning and my stomach growling. I make joke of how you will miss simple food like this as soon as you have to experience military rations. Once again I sit back and watch you interact with our family friends, I am so proud of you it is overwhelming at times.
Off to Portland: we have jumped back on the interstate, you have settled back in the seat to take a nap, what will I do with myself when you’re gone? I am going to make sure I take every moment from this point on and snap shot them in my mind so that I do not forget one smile, one laugh, not even one tear.
Wake up sleepy head, were here exit 46 and I can't believe we made it without GPS. The hotel is decent, I know you are looking forward to staying here and I am still a bit edgy but I am sure it will pass. We check in and I ask you what now of course still with the little girl in you, 'Can we go to the mall?" how some things don't change. I hope they don't in some sense but can't wait for things to change so you may experience life and all it has to offer.
I am on the fifth floor and your room is on the third, how I feel that like the miles down the highway we are also miles apart. You have just called me to let me know you have a roommate and you and she are going to dinner. I sit her now even though the room is well lit; the TV is on HBO, I am alone, is this how it feels? I know that you have to leave; I know that you have to go; I know that I have prepared you for things the best I know how, so fly away, fly away but always remember how to get home.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
From Up Here I See A Sprout (Nature Descriptive)
I am sitting here with my cup of coffee in one hand and the garden hoe in the other. The smell of the morning has started to evaporate the dew, you can almost hear it as a slight sizzle. I venture towards the flower bed all tucked in by the brown paper bag looking leaves that have provided the blanket for the winter.
As I remove the leaves the smell of earthy soil I already see the peaks of sprouts from the bulbs evidently I missed digging up last fall. The earth worms have also come to visit they quickly wind across the newly tussled soil looking for the escape back under.
Putting the pile of leaves and other items I have now cleared from the bed into a bag, tie it off and move on to the next. As I return to the flower bed I can not believe how in just that short of time the sprouts are now no long transluscent but pale green, almost like a green bean that has gotten water logged.
Uncovering the area I have also come across a small pile of bricks and have decided to use them as a boundary around the outside of the flower bed area. The bricks have a weathered look and add nicely to the look of the area. As I place the last brick I glance at my watch to see over an hour has passed and almost like lapse time photography the sprouts are not green, not translucent, not even water logged.
Taking a moment I sit and ponder on how I will continue, do I want to go and purchase flowers, seeds, shrubbery or do I want to let the sprouts grow for I do not remember what they may present. A squirl has now come down and is lurking just slightly to my left and is chattering almost trying to add his opinion or to yell at me for disturbing his personal space.
I have taken a water fountain of Lilly leaves that has been sitting under the porch all winter and has tarnished just slightly with almost a mildew coloring. I place it in the center of the flower bed atop of a pile of broken various sized bricks, hmmm this looks really nice. I am trying not to take away from a focal point wanting the bed and the flowers to be the stars.
These sprouts do not need miracle grow, now they are almost smiling on the verge of having grown almost in a moment. I have been so blindsided by the sprouts that I am now just noticing that I have cleaned up this entire section of the yard and it is now lunch time.
My daughter just yelled from the porch " is it not bad enough that you have OCD cleaning the house, do you have to do it to the yard too" You have been no help, I have done it all myself, just like the lazy sprouts that have been hiding under the blanket of leaves she decides to grace me with her presence after pulling herself out of bed at noon.
Sitting here now I hear birds and the squirrels tussling through the trees, the neighbors dog barking at the kids now playing in the yard across the street. There still sit the sprouts, several of them and I have decided to let them have their day. I am going to wait to add anything additionally to the flower bed.
There done for today, I am sitting here while the dogs run in the yard just like the sprouts that have been release you would think the dogs had just been given a new leash:) on life as well. Yelling at them (the dogs) I warn them to stay away from from the flower bed. I feel accomplished and I look forward to the days to come and the changes (glad I am not talking dirty sheet) that the flower bed will hold.
As I remove the leaves the smell of earthy soil I already see the peaks of sprouts from the bulbs evidently I missed digging up last fall. The earth worms have also come to visit they quickly wind across the newly tussled soil looking for the escape back under.
Putting the pile of leaves and other items I have now cleared from the bed into a bag, tie it off and move on to the next. As I return to the flower bed I can not believe how in just that short of time the sprouts are now no long transluscent but pale green, almost like a green bean that has gotten water logged.
Uncovering the area I have also come across a small pile of bricks and have decided to use them as a boundary around the outside of the flower bed area. The bricks have a weathered look and add nicely to the look of the area. As I place the last brick I glance at my watch to see over an hour has passed and almost like lapse time photography the sprouts are not green, not translucent, not even water logged.
Taking a moment I sit and ponder on how I will continue, do I want to go and purchase flowers, seeds, shrubbery or do I want to let the sprouts grow for I do not remember what they may present. A squirl has now come down and is lurking just slightly to my left and is chattering almost trying to add his opinion or to yell at me for disturbing his personal space.
I have taken a water fountain of Lilly leaves that has been sitting under the porch all winter and has tarnished just slightly with almost a mildew coloring. I place it in the center of the flower bed atop of a pile of broken various sized bricks, hmmm this looks really nice. I am trying not to take away from a focal point wanting the bed and the flowers to be the stars.
These sprouts do not need miracle grow, now they are almost smiling on the verge of having grown almost in a moment. I have been so blindsided by the sprouts that I am now just noticing that I have cleaned up this entire section of the yard and it is now lunch time.
My daughter just yelled from the porch " is it not bad enough that you have OCD cleaning the house, do you have to do it to the yard too" You have been no help, I have done it all myself, just like the lazy sprouts that have been hiding under the blanket of leaves she decides to grace me with her presence after pulling herself out of bed at noon.
Sitting here now I hear birds and the squirrels tussling through the trees, the neighbors dog barking at the kids now playing in the yard across the street. There still sit the sprouts, several of them and I have decided to let them have their day. I am going to wait to add anything additionally to the flower bed.
There done for today, I am sitting here while the dogs run in the yard just like the sprouts that have been release you would think the dogs had just been given a new leash:) on life as well. Yelling at them (the dogs) I warn them to stay away from from the flower bed. I feel accomplished and I look forward to the days to come and the changes (glad I am not talking dirty sheet) that the flower bed will hold.
Parasailing Through Life What A View (Action-Observe)
I stepped out to the edge of the boat, as the harnass pulls tightly, I feel secure knowing that the support is there. I grab the arm of my friend who has decided to take the plunge, so to speak and so begins the adventure. Parasailing, I thought of it as a spur of the moment adventure not realizing how it actually related to the every day life up to that point that I had experienced.
The Boat kicked into high gear and soon we were looking at the world so differently. How blue and harmonous was the water below, yet in the distance and behind us we could see the frothy white caps of the disturbances from influences, the boat chopping through the water as it has us in tow, the current that fights with fists against the reef or perhaps the sea life that is rising to dispute us invading there world.
Now that we are sailing through the air, the sun was piercing, yet warm and comforting and lighted the view in hughes of color and clearity. I can imagine how the view would be different and how non reflective things would have been had clouds played prevelance in the day.
Parashoot is open and flapping in the wind all exposed yet keeping us steady and on the path in line with the boat. Its color seemed crisp and almost had a smell, like the comercials you see for Skittles candy. I really could sense banana for yellow, chery for red, apple for green.
As the boat began to slow and we came closer to the ground the colors, the smells and the view became dull and almost stale. I thought to myself how life should be like Parasailing, to enjoy such a view every day and to experience sights, smells, sounds and enlighting details should be a norm instead of a spur of the moment jump off the end of a boat.
Now with my feet firmly planted on the ground or boat, I should say, I wanted to imediately wanted to go back up and view life from the sky to keep the sense of clarity and objectiveness it seem to add to the experience. Now I had to change that view and incorporate the experience into the every day life the future presents.
We have all heard the phrase "take time to smell the roses" I think that I would say "take time to go Parasailing" enrich your life with the view, the sights, the smell of Skittles:) and change your perception even if it is slight it could be life altering.
This is my view
From UP Here
The Boat kicked into high gear and soon we were looking at the world so differently. How blue and harmonous was the water below, yet in the distance and behind us we could see the frothy white caps of the disturbances from influences, the boat chopping through the water as it has us in tow, the current that fights with fists against the reef or perhaps the sea life that is rising to dispute us invading there world.
Now that we are sailing through the air, the sun was piercing, yet warm and comforting and lighted the view in hughes of color and clearity. I can imagine how the view would be different and how non reflective things would have been had clouds played prevelance in the day.
Parashoot is open and flapping in the wind all exposed yet keeping us steady and on the path in line with the boat. Its color seemed crisp and almost had a smell, like the comercials you see for Skittles candy. I really could sense banana for yellow, chery for red, apple for green.
As the boat began to slow and we came closer to the ground the colors, the smells and the view became dull and almost stale. I thought to myself how life should be like Parasailing, to enjoy such a view every day and to experience sights, smells, sounds and enlighting details should be a norm instead of a spur of the moment jump off the end of a boat.
Now with my feet firmly planted on the ground or boat, I should say, I wanted to imediately wanted to go back up and view life from the sky to keep the sense of clarity and objectiveness it seem to add to the experience. Now I had to change that view and incorporate the experience into the every day life the future presents.
We have all heard the phrase "take time to smell the roses" I think that I would say "take time to go Parasailing" enrich your life with the view, the sights, the smell of Skittles:) and change your perception even if it is slight it could be life altering.
This is my view
From UP Here
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