Another year is coming to an end, and with it another decade. It flew by just like all of the others in my recent memory. It seems that once we pass 30, there must be fewer days on the calendar. Or we forget half of the things we did, so time appears to have gone faster. Whatever it is, I don't like it.
However, since one of my New Year's resolutions is to look for the silver lining, I have to try spinning the warp speed passage of time in a positive light. To paraphrase one of Erica's favorite quotes by Abraham Lincoln, it's not the number of years in your life, it's the amount of life in your years. Abe really has something there. If we can pack as much living into however many years we have, does it matter how fast they go?
Each of you take a minute and look back on 2009 to brainstorm the "living," good and bad, that you did. It would be cooler if it were a photo montage set to music, but we'll have to settle for this. I'll use my oh-so-exciting 50th year as an example: life list, San Diego, dogs, blogging, boxes for the troops, Fred, family, wedding dress shopping, Harley riding, river rafting, campfires,writing letters and sending cards, bowling, mothering, two houses, meeting a soldier and sailor, funerals, weddings, wonderful friends, reading, crying, LAUGHING, reunions with college and high school pals, cats, football, walking and coffee with Cindy, golfing, meeting Cathi and Sara, trips, the cabin, yardwork, phone calls, surprise party, 25th anniversary, photography, holidays, good health, lots of driving, self-analyzing...you get the idea. Now to do it all again in the upcoming year, maybe with a few more risks and positive additions.
I have had a blessed year, knock on wood. I wish the best one ever for you in 2010--and I hope I will share in some of your good times.
**The Good Old Times
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Bat Outta Hell
Yes, that is the title of the greatest Meat Loaf album ever, but it's not my topic today. When I was younger, I liked the song "Little Old Lady from Pasadena." It was amusing--the idea of a granny with a red sports car who could give the young guys a run for their money on the highway. Well--those little old ladies aren't just in Pasadena anymore; they're here in the Northwoods, too. And I no longer find them so amusing.
The other day I was crossing from the parking lot to the grocery store when a large ugly car came barreling across my path. It had a Green Bay Packers license plate, and hunched over the wheel was a gray-haired woman in a Packer jacket with a determined look on her face. It was as if she were racing to get to the end zone and anyone in her way could just get plowed under. I jumped back out of the way, thinking I'd at least be happier getting run over by her than a Viking fan.
Later the same day, a blue-haired lady in a Lexus careened out from a stop sign right in front of me, rudely spraying slush and forcing me to brake abruptly to avoid her rear. Just where are these elderly women going in such a rush? A speed dating event at the senior center?
I understand that having one's independence as we age is important; a driver's license equals freedom, mobility, and the good feeling that we don't have to rely on others to get where we want to go. But wisdom is supposed to come with age, not a lead foot and disregard for the rules and etiquette of the road. I have noticed that old men tend to drive 20 mph like they have all day to get to their destination; it's the elderly women who are channeling Dale Earnhardt.
On the way into town today, I followed a PT Cruiser with paneling on the sides and a license plate that read GO GRNNY. I rest my case! And I do relaize that, God willing, I will one day be one of these old ladies behind the wheel. But I can assure you, I will not have blue hair or drive like a maniac. I'll probably let my much younger boyfriend do the driving.
The other day I was crossing from the parking lot to the grocery store when a large ugly car came barreling across my path. It had a Green Bay Packers license plate, and hunched over the wheel was a gray-haired woman in a Packer jacket with a determined look on her face. It was as if she were racing to get to the end zone and anyone in her way could just get plowed under. I jumped back out of the way, thinking I'd at least be happier getting run over by her than a Viking fan.
Later the same day, a blue-haired lady in a Lexus careened out from a stop sign right in front of me, rudely spraying slush and forcing me to brake abruptly to avoid her rear. Just where are these elderly women going in such a rush? A speed dating event at the senior center?
I understand that having one's independence as we age is important; a driver's license equals freedom, mobility, and the good feeling that we don't have to rely on others to get where we want to go. But wisdom is supposed to come with age, not a lead foot and disregard for the rules and etiquette of the road. I have noticed that old men tend to drive 20 mph like they have all day to get to their destination; it's the elderly women who are channeling Dale Earnhardt.
On the way into town today, I followed a PT Cruiser with paneling on the sides and a license plate that read GO GRNNY. I rest my case! And I do relaize that, God willing, I will one day be one of these old ladies behind the wheel. But I can assure you, I will not have blue hair or drive like a maniac. I'll probably let my much younger boyfriend do the driving.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Ine's Gift
I wasn't planning to write a blog today. We got about 6 inches of snow overnight, and it is still coming down, blowing around, and drifting. I went out to take care of the dogs, and they had snowy faces and wagging tails, like, "WOW, Mom, isn't this the greatest??!" I shoveled the front steps and came inside to wrap presents and work on more Christmas cards...but then I looked at my Christmas cactus and decided to blog instead.
I am not a good plant person. I forget to water them, and was never adept at carrying on a conversation with them. My best friend Mary gave me a plant in 1981 that I managed to keep alive for 25 years, but it finally up and died from lack of companionship.
Two years ago our dear friend Ine moved into a nursing home. I have written about her before; she was the girls' babysitter from the time they were newborns until Erica started school. When she moved out of her apartment, we inherited a good share of her belongings--including her Christmas cactus. I felt bad for the plant, knowing it was probably resigned to a slow, painful death in my care. I had it sitting on an end table in full sunlight, and a friend told me they do better in a cool environment with indirect sun. Duh! In the past I have gone a month or two without watering it, and finally give it a drink when I see the leaves wilting. But it hung in there, and last December rewarded my neglect with a single beautiful blossom.
Well, I haven't treated the plant any better this year--but I noticed a few days ago that it had at least two dozen buds ready to blossom, on almost every stem!! (or whatever you call them). And last night--some were blooming!! It is definitely a miracle, because by all rights that plant should be dead, or at least in intensive care. I am thinking of its profuse display of beauty as a Christmas card from Ine, and a sign that all is well in Heaven with her and Pop--who died 12 years ago today. To them and all our other loved ones who aren't with us anymore, we love and miss you! You're always in our hearts.
Merry Christmas! And maybe Santa will bring me a plant book this year.
I am not a good plant person. I forget to water them, and was never adept at carrying on a conversation with them. My best friend Mary gave me a plant in 1981 that I managed to keep alive for 25 years, but it finally up and died from lack of companionship.
Two years ago our dear friend Ine moved into a nursing home. I have written about her before; she was the girls' babysitter from the time they were newborns until Erica started school. When she moved out of her apartment, we inherited a good share of her belongings--including her Christmas cactus. I felt bad for the plant, knowing it was probably resigned to a slow, painful death in my care. I had it sitting on an end table in full sunlight, and a friend told me they do better in a cool environment with indirect sun. Duh! In the past I have gone a month or two without watering it, and finally give it a drink when I see the leaves wilting. But it hung in there, and last December rewarded my neglect with a single beautiful blossom.
Well, I haven't treated the plant any better this year--but I noticed a few days ago that it had at least two dozen buds ready to blossom, on almost every stem!! (or whatever you call them). And last night--some were blooming!! It is definitely a miracle, because by all rights that plant should be dead, or at least in intensive care. I am thinking of its profuse display of beauty as a Christmas card from Ine, and a sign that all is well in Heaven with her and Pop--who died 12 years ago today. To them and all our other loved ones who aren't with us anymore, we love and miss you! You're always in our hearts.
Merry Christmas! And maybe Santa will bring me a plant book this year.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Wally World Wip-off
I don't like shopping at Walmart, even on a good day. There are several reasons for it--the main one is philosophical regarding the way they treat employees; the others are just the annoyances of too many people, not enough check-outs operating, chaos in the parking lot, etc. The only reason I go there every week is because it carries the dog and cat supplies that I prefer for our pets. Well, today I discovered another reason to be wary of Wally World.
Awhile back I received a forward in my e-mail, warning of a scam going on at various Walmart stores. In a nutshell, it said that when a customer uses a credit card at the check-out, "cash back" money was being added to their total without their knowledge. Then the clerk would take the cash and give it to a friend, the next person in line. The customer wouldn't realize what had happened unless he/she made a point of checking the receipt, or until they received their credit card statement--and how could they convince the bank days or weeks after the fact that they hadn't received cash back??
I've received many e-mail warnings over the years, like don't lick envelopes because the glue has rat pee in it; or is it that pop can tops have rat pee on them from sitting in the warehouse? I can't remember--but this particular warning about Walmart, I did file away.
Today I was there getting my weekly stuff, and at the check-out I used my Discover card. On the screen it asked if I wanted cash back and I said NO. If I had been putting stuff back in the cart, I may not have noticed what came next--but I was paying attention. The next screen said: "You have requested $60 back in cash." What???!! I told the clerk what it said and that I did NOT want cash back. "Oh," she replied, "just press 'no'." She was a young woman, didn't seem nervous or strike me as trying to rip me off--so is it the whole Walmart POS system that's pulling these shenanigans? Can the clerk, from his/her side of the register, override your "no" and put "yes" to cash back if you aren't paying attention? I would think that at this time of year, with everyone in a hurry and millions of people shopping for the holidays, this scam could mean big bucks to a lot of employees in a lot of stores.
So when using plastic, carefully read every screen and check your receipts immediately to make sure you haven't been charged for money you never asked for--not just at Walmart, but everywhere. Pass this on to your friends and family (I can always use more readers!)
Awhile back I received a forward in my e-mail, warning of a scam going on at various Walmart stores. In a nutshell, it said that when a customer uses a credit card at the check-out, "cash back" money was being added to their total without their knowledge. Then the clerk would take the cash and give it to a friend, the next person in line. The customer wouldn't realize what had happened unless he/she made a point of checking the receipt, or until they received their credit card statement--and how could they convince the bank days or weeks after the fact that they hadn't received cash back??
I've received many e-mail warnings over the years, like don't lick envelopes because the glue has rat pee in it; or is it that pop can tops have rat pee on them from sitting in the warehouse? I can't remember--but this particular warning about Walmart, I did file away.
Today I was there getting my weekly stuff, and at the check-out I used my Discover card. On the screen it asked if I wanted cash back and I said NO. If I had been putting stuff back in the cart, I may not have noticed what came next--but I was paying attention. The next screen said: "You have requested $60 back in cash." What???!! I told the clerk what it said and that I did NOT want cash back. "Oh," she replied, "just press 'no'." She was a young woman, didn't seem nervous or strike me as trying to rip me off--so is it the whole Walmart POS system that's pulling these shenanigans? Can the clerk, from his/her side of the register, override your "no" and put "yes" to cash back if you aren't paying attention? I would think that at this time of year, with everyone in a hurry and millions of people shopping for the holidays, this scam could mean big bucks to a lot of employees in a lot of stores.
So when using plastic, carefully read every screen and check your receipts immediately to make sure you haven't been charged for money you never asked for--not just at Walmart, but everywhere. Pass this on to your friends and family (I can always use more readers!)
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Totally Cellular
I lived the first 40 years of my life without a cell phone, and have now had one for the past ten. At first we just had one phone, used only when necessary. Then as the girls got older and started driving, we got a 4-phone plan so they would have one to carry with them for emergencies. Well, as anyone with teenagers knows, "emergencies" soon became multiple minutes of overtime charges on the monthly bill. Then they discovered texting, so we got the basic texting plan. This also turned into extra money, with Fred and Erica being the biggest culprits. Now we have unlimited texting and seldom incur overages on anything.
What amazes me about these phones is that we all got along fine without them for so long, and now it's like losing a limb if we forget it at home when we walk out the door. Or if the battery goes dead and the charger isn't available. Or if I'm in the hills of Mindoro or the remote Amberg Hilton, where good signals are few and far between. It's not that I talk on it that much, and 99% of my calls are with Fred, Erica, and Katie. I just like to know that it's there if I'd really need it.
I try to be polite and not answer calls or texts when I'm with a friend--that's what voicemail is for, right? However, it's obvious that some people are so self-absorbed that every call has to be taken immediately--or when they are supposed to be spending time with you, they are calling other people instead. It's like, "This person is boring, are you doing something better?"
I've heard phones ring at weddings, in theaters, and in classes. Movie theaters are alight with phone screens right before the show starts, as if everyone has to check for any up-to-the-second communications before turning it off for 90 minutes. I only recently learned how to put my phone on vibrate--before that I'd just leave it in the car. For all I know, my little LG can bake a cake--but I've never taken the time to explore how to fully use it.
This morning I did some shopping in Rhinelander, and I was treated to several amusing examples of the "I'm in Public But Nobody's Listening" syndrome. Why do people think that they can talk at full volume in close quarters, but no one else will hear their private business?
Standing in line at the Walgreens pharmacy, I got to hear a young guy in his 20s arguing with his girlfriend. "Don't you care enough to come over here and see me?" he demanded. Ah, a long distance relationship. "What's so degrading to you about that?" a few minutes later. Only hearing one side of the conversation, I was left to imagine to what he referred: some weird fetish? A girl from the big city dissing little old Rhinelander? Next I went to Kohl's and encountered a snarling woman with a cartful of holiday items: "I'm not hauling out all the Christmas crap this year, it's too much work! Nobody cares anyway!" Joy to the World!
The best, though, was in the toy aisle at Shopko. A frazzled-looking mom was talking to a kid who was apparently home sick. She said, "I'll be home in a half hour; can't you wait till then?" Pause. "Well go in the medicine cabinet and it should be on the second shelf. But don't take your dad's pills!!" she warned emphatically. Hmm, I wondered. What's he taking? Viagra? Arsenic? All three people were standing right next to me as they shared their private lives, but none acted as if I were even there.
So yes, the wireless revolution is wonderful, annoying, rude, convenient and hilarious. It makes us want-- Oops, gotta go. My phone is ringing.
What amazes me about these phones is that we all got along fine without them for so long, and now it's like losing a limb if we forget it at home when we walk out the door. Or if the battery goes dead and the charger isn't available. Or if I'm in the hills of Mindoro or the remote Amberg Hilton, where good signals are few and far between. It's not that I talk on it that much, and 99% of my calls are with Fred, Erica, and Katie. I just like to know that it's there if I'd really need it.
I try to be polite and not answer calls or texts when I'm with a friend--that's what voicemail is for, right? However, it's obvious that some people are so self-absorbed that every call has to be taken immediately--or when they are supposed to be spending time with you, they are calling other people instead. It's like, "This person is boring, are you doing something better?"
I've heard phones ring at weddings, in theaters, and in classes. Movie theaters are alight with phone screens right before the show starts, as if everyone has to check for any up-to-the-second communications before turning it off for 90 minutes. I only recently learned how to put my phone on vibrate--before that I'd just leave it in the car. For all I know, my little LG can bake a cake--but I've never taken the time to explore how to fully use it.
This morning I did some shopping in Rhinelander, and I was treated to several amusing examples of the "I'm in Public But Nobody's Listening" syndrome. Why do people think that they can talk at full volume in close quarters, but no one else will hear their private business?
Standing in line at the Walgreens pharmacy, I got to hear a young guy in his 20s arguing with his girlfriend. "Don't you care enough to come over here and see me?" he demanded. Ah, a long distance relationship. "What's so degrading to you about that?" a few minutes later. Only hearing one side of the conversation, I was left to imagine to what he referred: some weird fetish? A girl from the big city dissing little old Rhinelander? Next I went to Kohl's and encountered a snarling woman with a cartful of holiday items: "I'm not hauling out all the Christmas crap this year, it's too much work! Nobody cares anyway!" Joy to the World!
The best, though, was in the toy aisle at Shopko. A frazzled-looking mom was talking to a kid who was apparently home sick. She said, "I'll be home in a half hour; can't you wait till then?" Pause. "Well go in the medicine cabinet and it should be on the second shelf. But don't take your dad's pills!!" she warned emphatically. Hmm, I wondered. What's he taking? Viagra? Arsenic? All three people were standing right next to me as they shared their private lives, but none acted as if I were even there.
So yes, the wireless revolution is wonderful, annoying, rude, convenient and hilarious. It makes us want-- Oops, gotta go. My phone is ringing.
Monday, November 30, 2009
A Hilton Holiday
Thanksgiving has once again come and gone, and this year ours was less traditional than usual. Katie and I were here by ourselves Thursday, and she had told me that she wanted to have a "pancake smorgasbord" for our holiday meal. She bought several flavored pancake mixes, including pumpkin, gingerbread, and caramel apple. I found some pork sausage--of questionable expiration date--in the fridge, and we had that with the pancakes. Very tasty and satisfying as we watched the Packers beat the Lions. Fred was still at the cabin for deer hunting, so he made a meal of squirrel and rice to have with his sister Wendy. His menu was probably closer to the fare shared by the Pilgrims and Indians--plus he hunted for the main course like they did.
Katie and I headed over to the Hilton after the game. Fred told us that we would have to use the generator sparingly because the gas level was down to 30% after his week there. I had planned a turkey dinner for Friday night when Erica and Craig were joining us, so that afternoon I sat peeling potatoes by lantern light. Fred chided me for preheating the oven because I was "wasting gas." I was making a 7 pound turkey breast in a roasting bag, and it was supposed to take two hours. Erica and Craig arrived, the potatoes were cooking, Fred was making asparagus--but the turkey didn't look too brown. I took it out of the oven and cut into the meat--nope, not cooked through. We stuck the stubborn bird back in the oven, Fred telling me to turn up the heat on it. I nudged it up to 375, and he promptly cranked it to 425.
While we waited on the bird, I attempted to make gravy. I have never been a good gravy maker, and this time was my worst effort ever. It was thick as paste and had little flavor. I was happy to learn that Craig doesn't eat gravy, and I knew my family would like it or lump it. (no pun intended)
All in all it was a tasty dinner, and nobody got sick from undercooked turkey. We had a fun evening playing cards and Taboo, and after a couple glasses of wine I taught the kids a new version of the Quarters game.
Saturday after packing up, we all piled into the Mule and drove out to cut down a Christmas tree. Fred found us a nice one, and later this week it will be decorated and raining down needles on the presents beneath it. 11% gas level left in the tank when we left--the lowest it's ever been!
Saturday night Fred, Katie, and I went to see the movie "The Blind Side." It's a great film for all ages and families. Two thumbs up!
Overnight it snowed an inch or so, and we woke up to a blanket of white and a ton of dirty laundry. It's washed now, and today begins the Christmas season in earnest. Fa-la-la-la-la...!
Katie and I headed over to the Hilton after the game. Fred told us that we would have to use the generator sparingly because the gas level was down to 30% after his week there. I had planned a turkey dinner for Friday night when Erica and Craig were joining us, so that afternoon I sat peeling potatoes by lantern light. Fred chided me for preheating the oven because I was "wasting gas." I was making a 7 pound turkey breast in a roasting bag, and it was supposed to take two hours. Erica and Craig arrived, the potatoes were cooking, Fred was making asparagus--but the turkey didn't look too brown. I took it out of the oven and cut into the meat--nope, not cooked through. We stuck the stubborn bird back in the oven, Fred telling me to turn up the heat on it. I nudged it up to 375, and he promptly cranked it to 425.
While we waited on the bird, I attempted to make gravy. I have never been a good gravy maker, and this time was my worst effort ever. It was thick as paste and had little flavor. I was happy to learn that Craig doesn't eat gravy, and I knew my family would like it or lump it. (no pun intended)
All in all it was a tasty dinner, and nobody got sick from undercooked turkey. We had a fun evening playing cards and Taboo, and after a couple glasses of wine I taught the kids a new version of the Quarters game.
Saturday after packing up, we all piled into the Mule and drove out to cut down a Christmas tree. Fred found us a nice one, and later this week it will be decorated and raining down needles on the presents beneath it. 11% gas level left in the tank when we left--the lowest it's ever been!
Saturday night Fred, Katie, and I went to see the movie "The Blind Side." It's a great film for all ages and families. Two thumbs up!
Overnight it snowed an inch or so, and we woke up to a blanket of white and a ton of dirty laundry. It's washed now, and today begins the Christmas season in earnest. Fa-la-la-la-la...!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Baby Boomer Sexy
Fred left last night for his annual deer hunting excursion at the cabin. He told me I could come along and be the "camp wench" --but as inviting as that sounded, I declined. I have plenty to keep me busy while he's gone, starting with errands in town this morning and coffee with my friend Cindy. Since my exploratory latte a few weeks back, I've been having one every week after we walk; so far my favorite is white chocolate caramel. But I digress...
Upon returning home, I dug the mail out of the mailbox, and staring up at me was Johnny Depp on my copy of People's "Sexiest Man Alive" issue! Oooo, just what I need when I'm home by myself! A glass of wine and glossy pictures of hot sexy guys!
Well...obviously sexy is in the eye of the beholder, but Johnny Depp is not my idea of a hunk. He's cute enough--but he doesn't make my heart pound or drive all coherent thoughts from my brain when I look at him. As I paged through the issue, I didn't come across too many that did have that effect. Matthew McConaughey, David Beckham, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr.--good-looking, but no adrenaline rush here. Hugh Jackman, Brad Pitt, Patrick Dempsey, George Clooney....getting warmer (but that could be a hot flash). The hottest picture in there, in my opinion, was of Gilles Marini--whom I only know from his being a contestant on Dancing With the Stars last season and his brief--but attention-grabbing--appearance in the shower in the Sex and the City movie.
Am I getting old? Is it because half of the guys in the issue are young enough to be my sons? Am I not ready for Cougar Town? Or is it that there is a lot more to being sexy than great looks?
If I was going to pick a sexiest man alive, I'd have to take qualities from several celebrities. I'd want the sweetness of John Krasinski (Jim) from The Office. The humor of Jon Stewart...the
ruggedness of Daniel Craig (James Bond)...the solid dependability of Gary Sinise or Tom Hanks...and as I've mentioned before, the looks of Vincent D'Onofrio (from Law and Order: Criminal Intent) I don't know what it is about him--his intelligence? The round face? Reminds me of someone....
So anyway, the big double issue was a little disappointing. I'll save it for Erica and Katie to drool over at Thanksgiving. And I'll just hope that AARP comes out with a Sexiest Man Still Alive sometime in the near future.
Upon returning home, I dug the mail out of the mailbox, and staring up at me was Johnny Depp on my copy of People's "Sexiest Man Alive" issue! Oooo, just what I need when I'm home by myself! A glass of wine and glossy pictures of hot sexy guys!
Well...obviously sexy is in the eye of the beholder, but Johnny Depp is not my idea of a hunk. He's cute enough--but he doesn't make my heart pound or drive all coherent thoughts from my brain when I look at him. As I paged through the issue, I didn't come across too many that did have that effect. Matthew McConaughey, David Beckham, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr.--good-looking, but no adrenaline rush here. Hugh Jackman, Brad Pitt, Patrick Dempsey, George Clooney....getting warmer (but that could be a hot flash). The hottest picture in there, in my opinion, was of Gilles Marini--whom I only know from his being a contestant on Dancing With the Stars last season and his brief--but attention-grabbing--appearance in the shower in the Sex and the City movie.
Am I getting old? Is it because half of the guys in the issue are young enough to be my sons? Am I not ready for Cougar Town? Or is it that there is a lot more to being sexy than great looks?
If I was going to pick a sexiest man alive, I'd have to take qualities from several celebrities. I'd want the sweetness of John Krasinski (Jim) from The Office. The humor of Jon Stewart...the
ruggedness of Daniel Craig (James Bond)...the solid dependability of Gary Sinise or Tom Hanks...and as I've mentioned before, the looks of Vincent D'Onofrio (from Law and Order: Criminal Intent) I don't know what it is about him--his intelligence? The round face? Reminds me of someone....
So anyway, the big double issue was a little disappointing. I'll save it for Erica and Katie to drool over at Thanksgiving. And I'll just hope that AARP comes out with a Sexiest Man Still Alive sometime in the near future.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Busy, Busy
I'm sure nobody out there has been holding their breath waiting for me to write a blog the past week. I've meant to get back to the almost-daily writing again, but I've been doing other things lately, I guess.
I've been working on packages for the holidays to send the troops that we support. I want to get them mailed within the next week or so, but have to write letters yet to include with them. Saturday I made 18 pounds of holiday trail mix and fudge that will go to Iraq for one of my "repeat" soldiers that I also supported in Afghanistan three years ago. Christmas cards for the Red Cross card drive for the troops have been mailed, and I got our personal cards addressed, too.
Thursday I spent the day cleaning house, which was long overdue. Apparently it either wore me out or I unearthed a 24-hour bug--because I spent Friday on the couch feeling achey and totally without energy. It wasn't the flu, thank goodness--and knock on wood!
Fred got home Saturday evening after being gone for 3 days. We went out for dinner and a movie--saw "The Fourth Kind." It's a story about alien abductions in Nome, Alaska in 2000, and is supposedly based on real people and events. I have to admit I was creeped out by it and afraid to look out the window during the night!
Yesterday we took advantage of the continued mild November weather and sunshine to finish up our pine tree project. I was afraid I'd have to take the chainsaw away from Fred before he cut down every tree along the side of the yard! Our "burn pile" is about 40 yards long now--Fred said he underestimated the size last weekend. I expressed concern about burning such a huge amount of branches, especially after his close-call experience at the cabin this summer when he burned up an old sofa sleeper--and, unintentionally, the woodpile sitting next to the fire pit. I expected Smokey the Bear to step out of the woods and arrest us!
Today I went grocery shopping for his 10 days at the cabin for deer season. He'll leave Wednesday, and has four friends joining him there for part of the week. At least I know they definitely won't starve, even if they don't get any deer! He always tells me I'm welcome to come along, but I don't want to disrupt the male bonding over beer, cigars, and multiple choruses of "The Thirty Point Buck."
So that's what I've been up to. I'll try to do better!!
I've been working on packages for the holidays to send the troops that we support. I want to get them mailed within the next week or so, but have to write letters yet to include with them. Saturday I made 18 pounds of holiday trail mix and fudge that will go to Iraq for one of my "repeat" soldiers that I also supported in Afghanistan three years ago. Christmas cards for the Red Cross card drive for the troops have been mailed, and I got our personal cards addressed, too.
Thursday I spent the day cleaning house, which was long overdue. Apparently it either wore me out or I unearthed a 24-hour bug--because I spent Friday on the couch feeling achey and totally without energy. It wasn't the flu, thank goodness--and knock on wood!
Fred got home Saturday evening after being gone for 3 days. We went out for dinner and a movie--saw "The Fourth Kind." It's a story about alien abductions in Nome, Alaska in 2000, and is supposedly based on real people and events. I have to admit I was creeped out by it and afraid to look out the window during the night!
Yesterday we took advantage of the continued mild November weather and sunshine to finish up our pine tree project. I was afraid I'd have to take the chainsaw away from Fred before he cut down every tree along the side of the yard! Our "burn pile" is about 40 yards long now--Fred said he underestimated the size last weekend. I expressed concern about burning such a huge amount of branches, especially after his close-call experience at the cabin this summer when he burned up an old sofa sleeper--and, unintentionally, the woodpile sitting next to the fire pit. I expected Smokey the Bear to step out of the woods and arrest us!
Today I went grocery shopping for his 10 days at the cabin for deer season. He'll leave Wednesday, and has four friends joining him there for part of the week. At least I know they definitely won't starve, even if they don't get any deer! He always tells me I'm welcome to come along, but I don't want to disrupt the male bonding over beer, cigars, and multiple choruses of "The Thirty Point Buck."
So that's what I've been up to. I'll try to do better!!
Monday, November 9, 2009
A Mule and a Hog
(No, the title of this blog doesn't refer to me and Fred.) Yesterday we spent the morning working in the yard. Fred has been thinning out the pine trees along the side of the lawn for several months, cutting them down and trimming off the branches. The past couple weeks I have been loading the branches into the mule and hauling them to the adjacent field to be burned. The mule--or Francis, as we call it--is a 4-wheel vehicle with a cargo bed that we keep at the cabin most of the year, but also use for plowing the driveway here during the winter. It's great for doing firewood and for driving around the acreage at the Hilton, too.
Last week the weather was so nice that I worked on the branches for three days. Every time a guy drove past on Silver Lake Road, he would slow down to watch what I was doing--obviously experiencing Mule Envy. With both Fred and I working on it yesterday, we would haul the whole tree over to the pile and he'd cut the branches off there--saving us the loading/unloading step. I was driving Francis most of the morning, but when it came time to drag a larger-than-usual tree, he told me that he'd better drive--"because I have a penis." "Well," I thought, "that can be fixed!" We now have a pile of pine boughs that is about 40 feet long and 6 feet high. It is going to make a heck of a bonfire once there is snow on the ground.
After a beef roast dinner, we decided to take the Harley out for one last ride since it was such a gorgeous day. November 8th--probably the latest in the year that we've ever ridden it! I hadn't been on the bike since the day after my birthday, and it felt so good to feel the wind in my face and the sun shining down on us. The air smelled like leaves and wood smoke, and we saw several other bikers out, too. There's no ill that a ride on a motorcycle won't cure!
When we pulled back into the yard after two hours, it was clouding up, darkness and the evening chill rapidly descending. We put the bike in the garage for the winter, checking the odometer to see how many miles we'd put on this year. 4500 from May to November.
Life is good with a mule and a hog. And Fred.
Last week the weather was so nice that I worked on the branches for three days. Every time a guy drove past on Silver Lake Road, he would slow down to watch what I was doing--obviously experiencing Mule Envy. With both Fred and I working on it yesterday, we would haul the whole tree over to the pile and he'd cut the branches off there--saving us the loading/unloading step. I was driving Francis most of the morning, but when it came time to drag a larger-than-usual tree, he told me that he'd better drive--"because I have a penis." "Well," I thought, "that can be fixed!" We now have a pile of pine boughs that is about 40 feet long and 6 feet high. It is going to make a heck of a bonfire once there is snow on the ground.
After a beef roast dinner, we decided to take the Harley out for one last ride since it was such a gorgeous day. November 8th--probably the latest in the year that we've ever ridden it! I hadn't been on the bike since the day after my birthday, and it felt so good to feel the wind in my face and the sun shining down on us. The air smelled like leaves and wood smoke, and we saw several other bikers out, too. There's no ill that a ride on a motorcycle won't cure!
When we pulled back into the yard after two hours, it was clouding up, darkness and the evening chill rapidly descending. We put the bike in the garage for the winter, checking the odometer to see how many miles we'd put on this year. 4500 from May to November.
Life is good with a mule and a hog. And Fred.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Holiday Cards for the Troops
Sending packages to the troops for the holidays is a wonderful way to share the spirit of the season. If you are unable to send packages, however, there are also programs available for sending cards. Last year I wrote out over one hundred cards, both at Christmas and Valentine's Day, for the Red Cross and VA hospitals' card programs.
Below you will find information on how you can brighten the holidays of both deployed and wounded soldiers. Thanks to my friend Deni in California for posting this information on anysoldier.com and Facebook. Please follow all the instructions carefully so your cards meet security requirements.
Red Cross "Holiday Mail for Heroes"
"The American Red Cross again will sponsor a national "Holiday Mail for Heroes" campaign to receive and distribute holiday cards to service members, veterans, and their families in the United States and abroad.
The card campaign includes those working and receiving care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. People shouldn't send cards to Walter Reed unless they are addressed to a specific wounded warrior. Due to security restrictions, Walter Reed cannot accept generic mail addressed to "A Recovering Soldier" or "Any Soldier." In past years, hundreds of cards were returned to senders because of generic addresses, many sent in response to misleading e-mails. The American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc. will partner for the third year to provide screening of all mail sent to the special P.O. Box address. Cards can be sent starting November 9 and postmarked no later than December 7 to reach service members recovering at Walter Reed. "
Please don’t forget to follow these guidelines while preparing your holiday greetings.
DO...
--Sign all cards
--Entitle cards “Dear Service Member, Family or Veteran”
--Send holiday-neutral cards rather than those with religious themes
--Limit cards to 15 per person or 50 for school class or business group
--Bundle groups of cards in single, large envelopes
DON'T...
--Send letters
--Include personal information such as home or email addresses
--Use glitter – excessive amounts can aggravate health issues of wounded recipients
--Include inserts of any kind as they must be removed in the screening process
Sending cards would be an excellent project for school classes, service organizations, youth groups, and others who are looking to make a real difference this holiday season.
Please remember those who are sacrificing so much on our behalf, and those who face long recoveries from their war-related injuries. Their lives will never be the same...let's show them we care.
Below you will find information on how you can brighten the holidays of both deployed and wounded soldiers. Thanks to my friend Deni in California for posting this information on anysoldier.com and Facebook. Please follow all the instructions carefully so your cards meet security requirements.
Red Cross "Holiday Mail for Heroes"
"The American Red Cross again will sponsor a national "Holiday Mail for Heroes" campaign to receive and distribute holiday cards to service members, veterans, and their families in the United States and abroad.
The card campaign includes those working and receiving care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. People shouldn't send cards to Walter Reed unless they are addressed to a specific wounded warrior. Due to security restrictions, Walter Reed cannot accept generic mail addressed to "A Recovering Soldier" or "Any Soldier." In past years, hundreds of cards were returned to senders because of generic addresses, many sent in response to misleading e-mails. The American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc. will partner for the third year to provide screening of all mail sent to the special P.O. Box address. Cards can be sent starting November 9 and postmarked no later than December 7 to reach service members recovering at Walter Reed. "
Please don’t forget to follow these guidelines while preparing your holiday greetings.
DO...
--Sign all cards
--Entitle cards “Dear Service Member, Family or Veteran”
--Send holiday-neutral cards rather than those with religious themes
--Limit cards to 15 per person or 50 for school class or business group
--Bundle groups of cards in single, large envelopes
DON'T...
--Send letters
--Include personal information such as home or email addresses
--Use glitter – excessive amounts can aggravate health issues of wounded recipients
--Include inserts of any kind as they must be removed in the screening process
Sending cards would be an excellent project for school classes, service organizations, youth groups, and others who are looking to make a real difference this holiday season.
Please remember those who are sacrificing so much on our behalf, and those who face long recoveries from their war-related injuries. Their lives will never be the same...let's show them we care.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
What's Good for Your Heart
Listening to another story about Bernie Madoff last night, I started wondering how a person could be so greedy. He stole billions of dollars from his investors, and now sits in jail for the rest of his thieving life. How many billions would he have needed for it to be "enough?" Or do people like him never have enough?
On the other side of the coin, there is a woman on the anysoldier.com forum who, like Bernie, is in her 70s. Unlike Bernie, who lived high on the hog in his penthouse apartment, she and her husband subsist on Social Security payments. Any extra money they have each month goes for sending packages to the troops.
Why is someone who has everything so unbelievably selfish, while someone with very little is remarkably generous? I don't know the answer to that, but I believe that most people do want to help others. The holidays are once again around the corner, and there are so many people in this country who will be dreading them. Lost jobs, no health insurance, family members in Iraq and Afghanistan, no home to go to at night. It is sobering to recognize that "there, but for the grace of God, go I." So what can those of us blessed with much do for those not as lucky this year?
Every community has various programs for giving, both during the holidays and all year round. Food pantries, homeless shelters, animal shelters, clothing drives, and Toys for Tots are just a few examples of places to donate. Not all gifts have to be monetary; you can volunteer with the disabled, make cookies for a military family, shovel an elderly neighbor's sidewalk, visit a nursing home, donate blood--the possibilities are infinite. Watch your local news sources for projects and programs going on in your area over the next couple months.
You all know that my number one cause is sending packages to the troops. What better way to thank them for their service when they are so far from home and family during the holidays? It's also a wonderful way for kids to learn appreciation for those who serve our country and experience the happiness that comes from giving to others.
Maybe old Bernie never felt the joy of giving something to a stranger without expecting anything in return. Maybe like the Grinch, his heart is three sizes too small. Most of us will never be billionaires, but we can still feel rich. Just give.
On the other side of the coin, there is a woman on the anysoldier.com forum who, like Bernie, is in her 70s. Unlike Bernie, who lived high on the hog in his penthouse apartment, she and her husband subsist on Social Security payments. Any extra money they have each month goes for sending packages to the troops.
Why is someone who has everything so unbelievably selfish, while someone with very little is remarkably generous? I don't know the answer to that, but I believe that most people do want to help others. The holidays are once again around the corner, and there are so many people in this country who will be dreading them. Lost jobs, no health insurance, family members in Iraq and Afghanistan, no home to go to at night. It is sobering to recognize that "there, but for the grace of God, go I." So what can those of us blessed with much do for those not as lucky this year?
Every community has various programs for giving, both during the holidays and all year round. Food pantries, homeless shelters, animal shelters, clothing drives, and Toys for Tots are just a few examples of places to donate. Not all gifts have to be monetary; you can volunteer with the disabled, make cookies for a military family, shovel an elderly neighbor's sidewalk, visit a nursing home, donate blood--the possibilities are infinite. Watch your local news sources for projects and programs going on in your area over the next couple months.
You all know that my number one cause is sending packages to the troops. What better way to thank them for their service when they are so far from home and family during the holidays? It's also a wonderful way for kids to learn appreciation for those who serve our country and experience the happiness that comes from giving to others.
Maybe old Bernie never felt the joy of giving something to a stranger without expecting anything in return. Maybe like the Grinch, his heart is three sizes too small. Most of us will never be billionaires, but we can still feel rich. Just give.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
She-Wolf
The other night at the movies, I saw a preview for a film coming out called The Wolfman. Actor Benicio Del Toro visits his family home after the violent death of his brother, and soon after, he himself is attacked by a wolf-like creature. When the moon is full, he transforms into a hairy, snarling beast.
I don't even need a full moon. It was like watching myself evolving in the mirror. Hair in undesirable places. Knee-jerk anger over much of what I see, hear, read, and experience. Gnashing my teeth and being generally disagreeable about Fred's suggestions and comments.
I wasn't always like this, was I?? (For sure I wasn't growing a mustache.) But it's this personality transplant that bothers me the most. I've always been relatively cheerful and easygoing, not instantly riled up about everything. I feel like the real me has been snatched away and replaced by Miss Trunchbull from Matilda.
Besides the surliness, I offer other fine qualities. I'm forgetful, indecisive, unorganized, and feel extra gloomy when the sun doesn't shine. Small things seem overwhelming, and big things I'd rather think about next year. Our wedding vows didn't say "In sickness and in health, through PMS and menopause." With that loophole, Fred might go over to the cabin and never come back!
I guess I'd better do some more research and figure out how we can survive this time of my life--which could last for several more years yet. SLAM!! (That was Fred running out the door.)
And if you see a furry creature baying at the moon on Halloween night, stop and say hi. It might be me.
I don't even need a full moon. It was like watching myself evolving in the mirror. Hair in undesirable places. Knee-jerk anger over much of what I see, hear, read, and experience. Gnashing my teeth and being generally disagreeable about Fred's suggestions and comments.
I wasn't always like this, was I?? (For sure I wasn't growing a mustache.) But it's this personality transplant that bothers me the most. I've always been relatively cheerful and easygoing, not instantly riled up about everything. I feel like the real me has been snatched away and replaced by Miss Trunchbull from Matilda.
Besides the surliness, I offer other fine qualities. I'm forgetful, indecisive, unorganized, and feel extra gloomy when the sun doesn't shine. Small things seem overwhelming, and big things I'd rather think about next year. Our wedding vows didn't say "In sickness and in health, through PMS and menopause." With that loophole, Fred might go over to the cabin and never come back!
I guess I'd better do some more research and figure out how we can survive this time of my life--which could last for several more years yet. SLAM!! (That was Fred running out the door.)
And if you see a furry creature baying at the moon on Halloween night, stop and say hi. It might be me.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Blog Neglect
Yes, I know; it has been over a week since I last wrote anything here. When life gets busy, the blog is one of the first things to fall by the wayside. I was out of town most of last week; first I spent two days down near Milwaukee with Amy, my college roommate. We had a great visit, and I wasn't on the computer a single time. I came home for about 24 hours, and then took off again. Fred and I spent a night in Eau Claire, where he then stayed for a 3-day training. I drove down to my mom's Thursday and had lunch with her, three of my aunts, and a cousin. Our October get-together has become a yearly tradition, and with six of us talking and laughing, I always feel sorry for the other restaurant patrons!
After staying overnight at my mom's, I headed to Eau Claire again and picked up Katie. We came back to Rhinelander in her car, driving in snow and slush, and she stayed for the weekend. On Saturday we picked up a few things in town for her Halloween costume. I suggested who she should dress up as, and it turned out to be really funny. I'm sure she will post a bunch of pictures on Facebook!
Now I have to finish up Halloween cards and my Christmas card swap cards for the troops. We are going to Amberg Friday for a Hilton Halloween, and I have lots to do before then. With holiday preparations on the horizon, I will probably become even more neglectful here. But...I'll write when the mood strikes me, or when a topic comes along that's too good to pass up. In case I'm away the rest of the week....HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!
After staying overnight at my mom's, I headed to Eau Claire again and picked up Katie. We came back to Rhinelander in her car, driving in snow and slush, and she stayed for the weekend. On Saturday we picked up a few things in town for her Halloween costume. I suggested who she should dress up as, and it turned out to be really funny. I'm sure she will post a bunch of pictures on Facebook!
Now I have to finish up Halloween cards and my Christmas card swap cards for the troops. We are going to Amberg Friday for a Hilton Halloween, and I have lots to do before then. With holiday preparations on the horizon, I will probably become even more neglectful here. But...I'll write when the mood strikes me, or when a topic comes along that's too good to pass up. In case I'm away the rest of the week....HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
The Great Sock Conspiracy
Socks are one of those necessary but dull items that we buy periodically when our old ones get holes or we need a new color or style. Most people don't get riled up about socks--until they start disappearing into the great black hole of laundry limbo.
Socks come out of the package in pairs, but somewhere during their construction, sock DNA is programmed so that one in each pair will vanish. Where do these socks go??! Some fall behind the washing machine or dryer, to be discovered months later in a dry, hardened ball. The corners of fitted sheets are favorite hiding places, as are sleeves, pant legs, and hoods. I've found them stuffed down in the couch cushions, behind the dresser, moldering in a gym bag, and lying in the driveway. Some get left at the cabin, at Grandma's and in motel rooms. Others simply vaporize into the ozone layer.
After Erica left for college, I completely cleaned her room. There were a dozen or more socks under the bed and stuck between the mattress and bed frame. Katie left a trail of mismatched socks strewn through the Elk Mound house at the end of the summer when she went back to school. Over the weekend I was looking for something under the seats in Fred's car, and I came up with one of his black dress socks. Its mate has been sitting on the dresser for months. Obviously my family thinks socks grow on trees--or know that Mom will buy new ones to replace those they have lost due to careless sock management.
Being the packrat that I am, I don't throw out any sock singletons. There is a bag of friendless footwear in my closet, some which have been mateless since the turn of the century or longer. You never know when a prodigal knee-hi might return.
Sometimes I will pair white socks together even if they aren't the same kind. A white sock is a white sock, after all, and if you're wearing long pants, who can tell? I have learned, though, that Fred gets annoyed if I match one of his black socks with a navy one--though I've never done that on purpose. Really.
I propose that sock manufacturers include three socks in a set--a pair and a spare. Or maybe communities could have sock swap days where we all bring in our odd man out socks and look for potential mates. Speed dating for footwear...I like it.
Socks come out of the package in pairs, but somewhere during their construction, sock DNA is programmed so that one in each pair will vanish. Where do these socks go??! Some fall behind the washing machine or dryer, to be discovered months later in a dry, hardened ball. The corners of fitted sheets are favorite hiding places, as are sleeves, pant legs, and hoods. I've found them stuffed down in the couch cushions, behind the dresser, moldering in a gym bag, and lying in the driveway. Some get left at the cabin, at Grandma's and in motel rooms. Others simply vaporize into the ozone layer.
After Erica left for college, I completely cleaned her room. There were a dozen or more socks under the bed and stuck between the mattress and bed frame. Katie left a trail of mismatched socks strewn through the Elk Mound house at the end of the summer when she went back to school. Over the weekend I was looking for something under the seats in Fred's car, and I came up with one of his black dress socks. Its mate has been sitting on the dresser for months. Obviously my family thinks socks grow on trees--or know that Mom will buy new ones to replace those they have lost due to careless sock management.
Being the packrat that I am, I don't throw out any sock singletons. There is a bag of friendless footwear in my closet, some which have been mateless since the turn of the century or longer. You never know when a prodigal knee-hi might return.
Sometimes I will pair white socks together even if they aren't the same kind. A white sock is a white sock, after all, and if you're wearing long pants, who can tell? I have learned, though, that Fred gets annoyed if I match one of his black socks with a navy one--though I've never done that on purpose. Really.
I propose that sock manufacturers include three socks in a set--a pair and a spare. Or maybe communities could have sock swap days where we all bring in our odd man out socks and look for potential mates. Speed dating for footwear...I like it.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Purr...Brrr!!
Yesterday's day-long snowfall here was not well-received by the inhabitants of our house. It's too early in the fall for the fluffy white stuff to be coming down, especially since it hasn't even been six months since our last spring snowfall! I am intellectually capable of knowing that this snow won't last and that we will have some more warm days before winter is here to stay. The cats, however, don't like what is going on at all.
Last winter Smokey and Russ became "inside" cats after it got cold out. I felt sorry for them, and they so appreciated the warmth and coziness of being in the house. We adjusted to being a 5-cat household--even though Snickers, Jazz, and Crunchy didn't much like having new siblings.
When spring finally came, the two "outsiders" were eager to get out and explore again after the long winter--and Crunchy was allowed to go out for the first time, too. For five months now, they have been indoor-outdoor cats. All three have spent whole nights and even weekends outside if we were gone. I would hear them at the door if they wanted to come in, and we were all happy with the arrangement.
Yesterday, however, brought a forgotten wrinkle in their collective cat consciousness. Smokey came inside covered with snow after being out all night--meowing pitifully, like "How could you leave me out there??!" Russ sat at the door wanting to go out as I assured her that it wasn't a good idea. She was insistent, though, so I opened the screen door and she stuck her nose out, sniffing the cold air--then retreated a little as a wet flake landed on it. Gathering her feline fortitude, she delicately put a paw onto the snow-covered porch--then looked back at me with a "what the heck is this?" expression on her face. She did go out, though, and awhile later Crunchy went through the same ritual.
They were in and out all day, like little kids wanting to play in the snow and then changing their minds. I could see out the window that much of their outside time was spent underneath the car!
Unlike their outside peers, Jazz enjoyed the day sitting on the heat vent, while Snickers burrowed in a fleece blanket on the bed. I think they had the better ideas.
Last winter Smokey and Russ became "inside" cats after it got cold out. I felt sorry for them, and they so appreciated the warmth and coziness of being in the house. We adjusted to being a 5-cat household--even though Snickers, Jazz, and Crunchy didn't much like having new siblings.
When spring finally came, the two "outsiders" were eager to get out and explore again after the long winter--and Crunchy was allowed to go out for the first time, too. For five months now, they have been indoor-outdoor cats. All three have spent whole nights and even weekends outside if we were gone. I would hear them at the door if they wanted to come in, and we were all happy with the arrangement.
Yesterday, however, brought a forgotten wrinkle in their collective cat consciousness. Smokey came inside covered with snow after being out all night--meowing pitifully, like "How could you leave me out there??!" Russ sat at the door wanting to go out as I assured her that it wasn't a good idea. She was insistent, though, so I opened the screen door and she stuck her nose out, sniffing the cold air--then retreated a little as a wet flake landed on it. Gathering her feline fortitude, she delicately put a paw onto the snow-covered porch--then looked back at me with a "what the heck is this?" expression on her face. She did go out, though, and awhile later Crunchy went through the same ritual.
They were in and out all day, like little kids wanting to play in the snow and then changing their minds. I could see out the window that much of their outside time was spent underneath the car!
Unlike their outside peers, Jazz enjoyed the day sitting on the heat vent, while Snickers burrowed in a fleece blanket on the bed. I think they had the better ideas.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Silver Bells
Tomorrow will be my and Fred's 25th anniversary. As you can see in the picture, I could not resist his sideburns and mustache, and he was enthralled by my Orphan Annie hairdo and hoot owl glasses. I remember many specific moments about our wedding day: the grim look on my dad's face as we walked down the aisle; Fred's tears when his late mother's favorite hymn was played; my sister Kelley wrestling his niece for the bouquet when I threw it; the wedding party hanging out in our hotel room till 4 AM. But it never occurred to me to wonder what our life would be like in five years, let alone twenty-five. All I was sure about was that we would live happily ever after.
Fast forward to now. Where did all that time go??! Working, raising kids, losing parents and siblings, weddings, grandkids, changing jobs, moving....some bad times, and many, many good times.
We renewed our vows on our tenth anniversary, complete with a dinner and DJ for family and friends. This one will be more low-key. We spent the weekend at the cabin, which is kind of ironic since we also spent our one-day honeymoon 25 years ago at some friends' cabin on the Black River. We went squirrel hunting that day; Fred shot them and I fetched them. This past Saturday we also went squirrel hunting--didn't see any, though.
Looking back from this vantage point, the experiences we have had and issues we have dealt with are like stepping stones that got us to where we are now. When we became partners and built a life together, we didn't know--and still don't--what the end of the story would be. Some days have been happily ever after, while on others we've played the parts of the wicked witch and the troll. But with love, support, trust, friendship, and respect we have made it this far, and I hope all that takes us through the next 25, too.
Happy anniversary, Dear! We're still having fun--and you're still the one.
Fast forward to now. Where did all that time go??! Working, raising kids, losing parents and siblings, weddings, grandkids, changing jobs, moving....some bad times, and many, many good times.
We renewed our vows on our tenth anniversary, complete with a dinner and DJ for family and friends. This one will be more low-key. We spent the weekend at the cabin, which is kind of ironic since we also spent our one-day honeymoon 25 years ago at some friends' cabin on the Black River. We went squirrel hunting that day; Fred shot them and I fetched them. This past Saturday we also went squirrel hunting--didn't see any, though.
Looking back from this vantage point, the experiences we have had and issues we have dealt with are like stepping stones that got us to where we are now. When we became partners and built a life together, we didn't know--and still don't--what the end of the story would be. Some days have been happily ever after, while on others we've played the parts of the wicked witch and the troll. But with love, support, trust, friendship, and respect we have made it this far, and I hope all that takes us through the next 25, too.
Happy anniversary, Dear! We're still having fun--and you're still the one.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
The Bacteria Cafeteria
Yesterday morning I watched a segment on "The Today Show" about germs. I was very glad that I wasn't eating breakfast as I found out some quite unsavory things. Did you know that after five years, the pillow on which you place your head each night has 10% of its weight composed of dust mites and their feces? Eewww!! You shouldn't keep your toothbrush on the sink because when you flush the toilet, miniscule particles of its contents spray up to ten feet. Gross!!! And every time you wash your undies in a load with other clothes, e coli bacteria are dispersed among the entire lot. YUK!!
After this nauseating news, I went to town and viewed every person I saw as a teeming, writhing cesspool of bacteria that I didn't want to go near. The woman in front of me in the checkout line sneezed, and I backed away, debating about putting my canvas bag over my head. I went into the store bathroom--after being checked out by the clerk who had been sneezed upon--and washed my hands with soap and water, humming the Happy Birthday song to myself. The length of this tune is supposedly the amount of time it takes to satisfactorily get rid of the germs.
Fortunately for our sanity, we soon forget about these horror stories not long after hearing them. If we didn't, most of us would probably never leave the house! We are lucky to have this wonderful thing called the immune system that in most cases will beat up on those nasty germs and prevent us from catching every bug that we encounter. But hand-washing is the number one preventive measure we can exercise to avoid geting sick. Apparently, adults touch their faces 18 times an hour, and children do so 80 times! If we have touched some disgustingly germ-infested item like the TV remote, computer keyboard, or telephone, then rub our eyes...ZAP! Germs can live on inanimate objects from 20 minutes to two hours! So that person at the grocery store who covers his mouth when he coughs--then pushes the cart back into the corral for you to use next--may have just passed on his cold. We're advised to wash our hands before touching our faces, but how many of us are even aware of the times we rub our eyes, scratch our cheeks, or push our glasses up our noses?!
As flu and cold season begins, I will wash my hands often, carry antibacterial hand gel in my purse, and try to keep my paws off my face. I won't shake hands. And I might also buy myself a new pillow and give Fred my old one.
After this nauseating news, I went to town and viewed every person I saw as a teeming, writhing cesspool of bacteria that I didn't want to go near. The woman in front of me in the checkout line sneezed, and I backed away, debating about putting my canvas bag over my head. I went into the store bathroom--after being checked out by the clerk who had been sneezed upon--and washed my hands with soap and water, humming the Happy Birthday song to myself. The length of this tune is supposedly the amount of time it takes to satisfactorily get rid of the germs.
Fortunately for our sanity, we soon forget about these horror stories not long after hearing them. If we didn't, most of us would probably never leave the house! We are lucky to have this wonderful thing called the immune system that in most cases will beat up on those nasty germs and prevent us from catching every bug that we encounter. But hand-washing is the number one preventive measure we can exercise to avoid geting sick. Apparently, adults touch their faces 18 times an hour, and children do so 80 times! If we have touched some disgustingly germ-infested item like the TV remote, computer keyboard, or telephone, then rub our eyes...ZAP! Germs can live on inanimate objects from 20 minutes to two hours! So that person at the grocery store who covers his mouth when he coughs--then pushes the cart back into the corral for you to use next--may have just passed on his cold. We're advised to wash our hands before touching our faces, but how many of us are even aware of the times we rub our eyes, scratch our cheeks, or push our glasses up our noses?!
As flu and cold season begins, I will wash my hands often, carry antibacterial hand gel in my purse, and try to keep my paws off my face. I won't shake hands. And I might also buy myself a new pillow and give Fred my old one.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
An American Soldier
Rhinelander lost a soldier in Afghanistan last Friday. Sgt. Ryan Adams, 26, was killed in Logar Province when his vehicle was attacked by rocket propelled grenades. Seven other members of his unit, the 951st Engineer Company out of Rhinelander and Tomahawk, were injured in the attack.
Sgt. Adams was a 2001 Rhinelander High School graduate. While there he played golf, baseball, and was quarterback of the football team. Described as a "natural leader," he joined the military after graduating and had already served one tour of duty in Iraq.
His funeral will be held at Rhinelander High School this Saturday. Memorials are being accepted in his name at Park City Credit Union and will go to an organization called Angel on My Shoulder, a charity that helps people, particularly children, deal with cancer. Sgt. Adams was very involved with this organization.
This past weekend was a deadly one for American troops in Afghanistan. Eight other soldiers were killed in an ambush, and many were wounded. These men are posted in the remote mountainous region in the eastern part of the country, a difficult place to live--and a desolate place to die.
As lives continue to be lost on our behalf, please do what you can to help make our troops know that they are appreciated and cared about--and that they aren't alone over there. Contact me, or go to www.anysoldier.com to get started.
Heroes wear military uniforms, not athletic ones. Please support our troops!!
Sgt. Adams was a 2001 Rhinelander High School graduate. While there he played golf, baseball, and was quarterback of the football team. Described as a "natural leader," he joined the military after graduating and had already served one tour of duty in Iraq.
His funeral will be held at Rhinelander High School this Saturday. Memorials are being accepted in his name at Park City Credit Union and will go to an organization called Angel on My Shoulder, a charity that helps people, particularly children, deal with cancer. Sgt. Adams was very involved with this organization.
This past weekend was a deadly one for American troops in Afghanistan. Eight other soldiers were killed in an ambush, and many were wounded. These men are posted in the remote mountainous region in the eastern part of the country, a difficult place to live--and a desolate place to die.
As lives continue to be lost on our behalf, please do what you can to help make our troops know that they are appreciated and cared about--and that they aren't alone over there. Contact me, or go to www.anysoldier.com to get started.
Heroes wear military uniforms, not athletic ones. Please support our troops!!
Friday, October 2, 2009
The Football Movie I Hope Is Never Made
When I count things now, I skip number 4 and just add one on at the end. My Brett Favre shirt is worn inside out and only for walking the dogs. Any newspaper stories about him get put directly beneath the litter boxes.
"Oh, she's so bitter!" you say. No, really I'm just mad at myself for thinking that loyalty exists in professional athletes. There is certainly enough bad behavior among NFL, NBA, and MLB players for anyone to realize that they often aren't deserving of the pedestals on which we place them. But as a Packer fan for nearly 40 years, I foolishy thought that we were different. Our team is from the smallest city in the league and is owned by the fans, not some rich old guy. Anyone who plays there is surrounded by the tradition, the history, and the legends. It's easy, as a fan, to get caught up in all that and think that the players feel the same way about the Packers, the town, and the legacy as we do.
I was naive to believe that Brett Favre, or any other player for that matter, feels allegiance to the team he plays for or the fans who love him. It's a job, a game, a business. Ok, I finally get that. But why does he have to look at the camera yesterday and say, "Monday night is just another game."? Come on, Brett! At least be man enough to say that "The Packers hurt me, and now is my chance to hurt them back." Do you think people would think less of you? I'd say you've already crossed that bridge, pal. It was worth it to you to come out of "retirement" twice, risk injury, destroy the good will and hero status you had in Green Bay, and maneuver to play for the team that is the Packers' biggest competition. So don't sit there and tell us this is like any other game. We fell for your heartfelt first departure from the game 18 months ago, but as we've since learned: your words are empty.
If the Vikings do make it to the Super Bowl (and lose for the fifth time) it should make him proud that they are using him just as he is using them. For revenge. For glory in the twilight of his career. But not for years of loyalty from a team and its fans. That seems pretty hollow compared to what he had in Green Bay.
Oh yeah, I forgot again. Loyalty has nothing to do with it.
"Oh, she's so bitter!" you say. No, really I'm just mad at myself for thinking that loyalty exists in professional athletes. There is certainly enough bad behavior among NFL, NBA, and MLB players for anyone to realize that they often aren't deserving of the pedestals on which we place them. But as a Packer fan for nearly 40 years, I foolishy thought that we were different. Our team is from the smallest city in the league and is owned by the fans, not some rich old guy. Anyone who plays there is surrounded by the tradition, the history, and the legends. It's easy, as a fan, to get caught up in all that and think that the players feel the same way about the Packers, the town, and the legacy as we do.
I was naive to believe that Brett Favre, or any other player for that matter, feels allegiance to the team he plays for or the fans who love him. It's a job, a game, a business. Ok, I finally get that. But why does he have to look at the camera yesterday and say, "Monday night is just another game."? Come on, Brett! At least be man enough to say that "The Packers hurt me, and now is my chance to hurt them back." Do you think people would think less of you? I'd say you've already crossed that bridge, pal. It was worth it to you to come out of "retirement" twice, risk injury, destroy the good will and hero status you had in Green Bay, and maneuver to play for the team that is the Packers' biggest competition. So don't sit there and tell us this is like any other game. We fell for your heartfelt first departure from the game 18 months ago, but as we've since learned: your words are empty.
If the Vikings do make it to the Super Bowl (and lose for the fifth time) it should make him proud that they are using him just as he is using them. For revenge. For glory in the twilight of his career. But not for years of loyalty from a team and its fans. That seems pretty hollow compared to what he had in Green Bay.
Oh yeah, I forgot again. Loyalty has nothing to do with it.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
A Latte More Sophisticated
I have never liked coffee. Over the years I have tried it off and on to see if I'd suddenly acquired a taste for it, but I always have the same opinion: Bitter! Yuk!! Somehow not enjoying a cup of the steaming black brew has made me feel less like an adult. Sure, I'm old enough to drink alcohol--but teenagers do that! You don't see them having a cup of coffee too often, though. At social gatherings or dinners while all the other guests are enjoying their conversation and cup o' joe, I'm drinking water or pop. Like someone at the little kids' table for Thanksgiving dinner.
Today my friend Cindy and I took our weekly walk around Rhinelander and then headed to the Crimson Cafe for our usual drink, snack, and hour of yakking. Since it was pretty frosty this morning, I decided to be bold and warm up with some COFFEE. I gazed at the menu board with its multitude of selections, not really understanding what I was reading. Espresso? Latte? I don't know what these things are! I did see "Chocolate Macadamia Nut" listed as a flavor, and I figured I'd better go with that to mask the coffee taste as much as possible. The nice woman behind the counter explained to me what a latte was and offered to make it with a "short shot" of coffee since I was a novice. (Since she made it with skim milk, I could also justify the cranberry walnut scone.)
My first sip tasted chocolatey and warm--and coffee-like. But it wasn't the icky screwed-up-face reaction I've had all the other times I've tried it in the past. I liked it! Maybe my taste buds have finally matured and I'd even like liver or sauerkraut now. (Not) I drank the whole 12-oz. cup, feeling very adult and cool. Next time I will try another flavor and maybe even go for 16 oz.!
Fred and Erica have been nagging me forever to quit drinking Diet Mountain Dew. I have relied on that for my caffeine fix, but if I become a coffee regular I can cut down on the pop. The snazzy flavored coffees at the cafes are more expensive than a soda, though, and I'd have to do some research to learn how to make them at home.
Perhaps I'm just getting more adventurous where drinks are concerned. On Saturday after touring the Miller Brewery, we were given 3 six-ounce samples of beer. Miller is affiliated with Leinenkugel's, so one of the choices was Berry Weiss. I took a glass and immediately fell in love! Today when I grocery shopped I bought a 12 pack of Berry Weiss. I skipped the coffee aisle completely--so maybe this "beverage maturity" is a gradual process.
Today my friend Cindy and I took our weekly walk around Rhinelander and then headed to the Crimson Cafe for our usual drink, snack, and hour of yakking. Since it was pretty frosty this morning, I decided to be bold and warm up with some COFFEE. I gazed at the menu board with its multitude of selections, not really understanding what I was reading. Espresso? Latte? I don't know what these things are! I did see "Chocolate Macadamia Nut" listed as a flavor, and I figured I'd better go with that to mask the coffee taste as much as possible. The nice woman behind the counter explained to me what a latte was and offered to make it with a "short shot" of coffee since I was a novice. (Since she made it with skim milk, I could also justify the cranberry walnut scone.)
My first sip tasted chocolatey and warm--and coffee-like. But it wasn't the icky screwed-up-face reaction I've had all the other times I've tried it in the past. I liked it! Maybe my taste buds have finally matured and I'd even like liver or sauerkraut now. (Not) I drank the whole 12-oz. cup, feeling very adult and cool. Next time I will try another flavor and maybe even go for 16 oz.!
Fred and Erica have been nagging me forever to quit drinking Diet Mountain Dew. I have relied on that for my caffeine fix, but if I become a coffee regular I can cut down on the pop. The snazzy flavored coffees at the cafes are more expensive than a soda, though, and I'd have to do some research to learn how to make them at home.
Perhaps I'm just getting more adventurous where drinks are concerned. On Saturday after touring the Miller Brewery, we were given 3 six-ounce samples of beer. Miller is affiliated with Leinenkugel's, so one of the choices was Berry Weiss. I took a glass and immediately fell in love! Today when I grocery shopped I bought a 12 pack of Berry Weiss. I skipped the coffee aisle completely--so maybe this "beverage maturity" is a gradual process.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
When Leftovers Multiply
Fred was home alone over the weekend when I was in Milwaukee with my bowling team, so he had to fend for himself at mealtime. I had made beef stew and biscuits, there was leftover pork chops and rice, stuff for sandwiches, and a German chocolate cake for his birthday. I knew he wouldn't starve.
When I got back Sunday he said, "We really need to clean out that refrigerator." Hmm, I thought. I shouldn't have left him home by himself. "There really isn't much in there," I replied. "You're hardly ever home for supper, and I always send you any leftovers for lunch." Him: "I'm talking about condiments and lunchmeat."
Oh. He is right about that. There are currently three open bottles of ketchup in there and 5--yes five--bottles of mustard! This is because we had several big events at the cabin over the summer, and when other people bring these condiments for the potlucks, they somehow end up coming home with US. Three of the mustards are spicy brown, and I don't ever buy that flavor. I rest my case! As for lunchmeat, I sent two pounds of it to use for lunches the weekend before last when Fred and two friends went sailing on Lake Superior. It's not my fault they didn't eat it all.
Just to do a quick inventory, we have 5 varieties of salad dressing, taco sauce, 2 BBQ sauce, tartar sauce, steak sauce, pickle relish, shrimp sauce, Miracle Whip, and soy sauce in there. There's only one jar of jelly, and that's because I used up two of them yesterday. There are two containers of parmesan cheese, but one is from Katie's fridge in Elk Mound. I inherited all of her open condiments when she went back to school 4 weeks ago. There are 12 cartons of yogurt with varying expiration dates--the oldest being Feb. 19, '09. Unless yogurt is moldy, I will eat it. That bacteria is good for your digestive tract, right?! We have 3 opened containers of Promise spread; Russ the cat jumped up on the unattended table after breakfast one morning when we had company and took a lick from one of them. I opened a new tub to use for the guests, but saved the other one for us to finish. The cat barely touched it, so I've just been using it on Fred's sandwiches. :)
One drawer is full of grapefruit that I bought in April, and the other has some hairy carrots and brown lettuce. Really, though, this is nothing compared to the fridge of years past when the girls still lived at home. Katie would make macaroni and cheese, then refrigerate the leftovers. Since she doesn't like it reheated--"Mom, it's too dry!"--we often had four or five containers of it turning various shades of green. Erica would make a vegetarian concoction that no one else wanted to eat, then forget that the extra was in there behind all that mac and cheese. It really is possible to find something in Tupperware that isn't identifiable unless you work on "C.S.I."
So yes, Dear, I will have the refrigerator cleaned out before the weekend. And since I bowl tonight, I'll leave a container of Fridge Surprise for your supper. Bon appetit!!
When I got back Sunday he said, "We really need to clean out that refrigerator." Hmm, I thought. I shouldn't have left him home by himself. "There really isn't much in there," I replied. "You're hardly ever home for supper, and I always send you any leftovers for lunch." Him: "I'm talking about condiments and lunchmeat."
Oh. He is right about that. There are currently three open bottles of ketchup in there and 5--yes five--bottles of mustard! This is because we had several big events at the cabin over the summer, and when other people bring these condiments for the potlucks, they somehow end up coming home with US. Three of the mustards are spicy brown, and I don't ever buy that flavor. I rest my case! As for lunchmeat, I sent two pounds of it to use for lunches the weekend before last when Fred and two friends went sailing on Lake Superior. It's not my fault they didn't eat it all.
Just to do a quick inventory, we have 5 varieties of salad dressing, taco sauce, 2 BBQ sauce, tartar sauce, steak sauce, pickle relish, shrimp sauce, Miracle Whip, and soy sauce in there. There's only one jar of jelly, and that's because I used up two of them yesterday. There are two containers of parmesan cheese, but one is from Katie's fridge in Elk Mound. I inherited all of her open condiments when she went back to school 4 weeks ago. There are 12 cartons of yogurt with varying expiration dates--the oldest being Feb. 19, '09. Unless yogurt is moldy, I will eat it. That bacteria is good for your digestive tract, right?! We have 3 opened containers of Promise spread; Russ the cat jumped up on the unattended table after breakfast one morning when we had company and took a lick from one of them. I opened a new tub to use for the guests, but saved the other one for us to finish. The cat barely touched it, so I've just been using it on Fred's sandwiches. :)
One drawer is full of grapefruit that I bought in April, and the other has some hairy carrots and brown lettuce. Really, though, this is nothing compared to the fridge of years past when the girls still lived at home. Katie would make macaroni and cheese, then refrigerate the leftovers. Since she doesn't like it reheated--"Mom, it's too dry!"--we often had four or five containers of it turning various shades of green. Erica would make a vegetarian concoction that no one else wanted to eat, then forget that the extra was in there behind all that mac and cheese. It really is possible to find something in Tupperware that isn't identifiable unless you work on "C.S.I."
So yes, Dear, I will have the refrigerator cleaned out before the weekend. And since I bowl tonight, I'll leave a container of Fridge Surprise for your supper. Bon appetit!!
Monday, September 28, 2009
To Touch a Life Forever
Today I had one of my most amazing experiences since I started writing to the troops. There was an envelope in the mailbox marked "free mail," which always gets me excited in the first place. I didn't recognize the name in the return address, so I figured it was a thank you from someone who had received one of my card swap cards from another Anysoldier supporter. When I opened the card, however, I got an even bigger surprise. The note was from a female Air Force captain, and she wrote:
"It is a very small world. I am from Wisconsin, too--not far from you. I grew up in Westboro, WI. This may be a strange question, but were you and Fred teachers in Rib Lake? Your names are familiar and similar to two teachers I had in the past. It would have been over 20 years ago, and I would have been known as Terry O------ back then. I joined the military over 22 years ago. Thank you from all of us at the Regional Contracting Center, Mosul, Iraq."
WOW!! Yes, I remember Terry! She lived only a mile or so from Westboro, which is where we lived, too, when we were teaching, and where we still own a house. She was a student in my freshmen English class, and Fred had her as a drivers' ed. student. It makes me proud to learn that this girl from a tiny town has made a career for herself in the Air Force--and that she remembers us from her high school years.
Terry is stationed in Colorado when she's not deployed, and she doesn't get to come home to Wisconsin as often as she'd like. She ended her letter saying, "Please drop a line if you get the time....Wisconsin is so beautiful in the fall!" I recognize homesickness when I see it, and Terry will soon be receiving a package from home--with some pictures of the gorgeous trees here in Rhinelander enclosed in the letter.
It was wonderful to touch the life of a student when I was teaching. To affect one of those lives again so many years later is a joy to my heart.
Please support our troops!!
**Happy 50th birthday today to my dear friend Mary in China!! She may have enjoyed the 16 days when she was younger than me, but they are over now!!!
"It is a very small world. I am from Wisconsin, too--not far from you. I grew up in Westboro, WI. This may be a strange question, but were you and Fred teachers in Rib Lake? Your names are familiar and similar to two teachers I had in the past. It would have been over 20 years ago, and I would have been known as Terry O------ back then. I joined the military over 22 years ago. Thank you from all of us at the Regional Contracting Center, Mosul, Iraq."
WOW!! Yes, I remember Terry! She lived only a mile or so from Westboro, which is where we lived, too, when we were teaching, and where we still own a house. She was a student in my freshmen English class, and Fred had her as a drivers' ed. student. It makes me proud to learn that this girl from a tiny town has made a career for herself in the Air Force--and that she remembers us from her high school years.
Terry is stationed in Colorado when she's not deployed, and she doesn't get to come home to Wisconsin as often as she'd like. She ended her letter saying, "Please drop a line if you get the time....Wisconsin is so beautiful in the fall!" I recognize homesickness when I see it, and Terry will soon be receiving a package from home--with some pictures of the gorgeous trees here in Rhinelander enclosed in the letter.
It was wonderful to touch the life of a student when I was teaching. To affect one of those lives again so many years later is a joy to my heart.
Please support our troops!!
**Happy 50th birthday today to my dear friend Mary in China!! She may have enjoyed the 16 days when she was younger than me, but they are over now!!!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Eating Crow--and Everything Else
Five months or so ago, I announced here that I was going to sign up for the Rump Roast 5K run on September 26th in Minocqua. I had put doing a 5K on my "life list," and I figured that by starting to get in shape in April I'd be able to handle the run 5 months later.
Well, I chickened out. Instead of running on Saturday, my rump will be roosting in Miller Park at the Brewer game. I'll most likely have an overpriced brat in one hand and a beer in the other. I'm going to Milwaukee for the weekend with my bowling team--and of course, one of the first items we decided was who would bring what snacks.
I don't know what it would take to keep me on the straight and narrow where food is concerned. Maybe I need to throw out all my cookbooks and cooking magazines, my cookie sheets and cake pans. Have some skinny, health-conscious person do my grocery shopping. Watch The Biggest Loser instead of Dancing With the Stars. Hear a bratty little kid call me Fatty fatty two-by-four.
Seriously, I know what I have to do; I just can't seem to get it done. Life = socializing = food = temptation. Living in a cave and having someone deliver me lettuce and water might work.
Less than nine months to Erica and Craig's wedding, and I'm no closer to looking for a mother-of-the-bride dress than I was six months ago. I can visualize the thought bubbles over people's heads as I come down the aisle:
"The mother of the bride is looking wide!" "She used to be thinner; what's she eating for dinner?!" "Her hair's natural red, but she's been overfed." "Wonder what she spent to buy that tent?" "After the wedding she can use it for bedding."
Just kidding--everyone will have their eyes on Erica anyway. Besides, I'm really not that desperate yet.
Maybe that's the problem.
**Happy birthday to Fred tomorrow!! I love you!!
Well, I chickened out. Instead of running on Saturday, my rump will be roosting in Miller Park at the Brewer game. I'll most likely have an overpriced brat in one hand and a beer in the other. I'm going to Milwaukee for the weekend with my bowling team--and of course, one of the first items we decided was who would bring what snacks.
I don't know what it would take to keep me on the straight and narrow where food is concerned. Maybe I need to throw out all my cookbooks and cooking magazines, my cookie sheets and cake pans. Have some skinny, health-conscious person do my grocery shopping. Watch The Biggest Loser instead of Dancing With the Stars. Hear a bratty little kid call me Fatty fatty two-by-four.
Seriously, I know what I have to do; I just can't seem to get it done. Life = socializing = food = temptation. Living in a cave and having someone deliver me lettuce and water might work.
Less than nine months to Erica and Craig's wedding, and I'm no closer to looking for a mother-of-the-bride dress than I was six months ago. I can visualize the thought bubbles over people's heads as I come down the aisle:
"The mother of the bride is looking wide!" "She used to be thinner; what's she eating for dinner?!" "Her hair's natural red, but she's been overfed." "Wonder what she spent to buy that tent?" "After the wedding she can use it for bedding."
Just kidding--everyone will have their eyes on Erica anyway. Besides, I'm really not that desperate yet.
Maybe that's the problem.
**Happy birthday to Fred tomorrow!! I love you!!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
I'm in a Hurry and Don't Know Why...
Since my late 20s, I guess after having kids, I have always felt like I'm in a hurry. There aren't enough hours in a day, and I rush from one activity to another--wanting the first to be done with so I can get to the next. I am impatient over anything that takes "too much time"--the computer not loading fast enough, the old guy driving 10 mph ahead of me, being put on hold by customer service like I don't have anything better to do. I've learned repeatedly that haste really does make waste, but it still hasn't sunk in. Just now I put laundry in the washing machine, and as I hurriedly grabbed the detergent off the shelf, I knocked the bottle of Shout down and broke the sprayer. Now I'm impatient and mad. It reminds me of an episode of All in the Family when hostility-plagued Archie Bunker read aloud an article title from The Reader's Digest: "Your Personality May Be Killing You."
The experts call this problem Time Urgency (TU) or Time Urgency and Impatience (TUI). It is typical of people with Type A personalities, but others can be affected, too. In an article by Dr. R. Murali Krishna, these questions are posed to determine if you may suffer from TU:
"Do you dislike waiting or feel impatient with the rate at which many things take place?
Do you find it difficult to linger at the table after eating?
Do you regularly do more than one thing at a time?
Do you suffer from "racing mind" and experience disturbances in your sleep?
Do you feel a chronic sense of time pressure?
Have you lost interest in activities away from your job?
Do you measure yourself by quantitative accomplishments?
Do you have difficulty accumulating pleasant memories?
Do you have a deep-seated need to be on time, or conversely, are you always late?
If you answered yes to any of these, you may have time urgency. It's not a healthy condition to have."
I'm not sure why I still feel this urgency at this stage of my life. My kids are grown up and I'm not working. A former expert at multi-tasking, I still try to do it--and now invariably end up with 3 or more failed efforts that have to be fixed or begun again.
Dr. Krishna offers ways to overcome TU in the complete article, which can be found at http://www.integris-health.com/INTEGRIS/en-US/Specialties/MindBodySpirit/Newsroom/MindMatters/TimeUrgency.htm
In the meantime, I will try to use some of his suggestions for slowing down. I already have enough strikes against me for developing heart disease. And, dear Fred, you should take a good look at this, too.
The experts call this problem Time Urgency (TU) or Time Urgency and Impatience (TUI). It is typical of people with Type A personalities, but others can be affected, too. In an article by Dr. R. Murali Krishna, these questions are posed to determine if you may suffer from TU:
"Do you dislike waiting or feel impatient with the rate at which many things take place?
Do you find it difficult to linger at the table after eating?
Do you regularly do more than one thing at a time?
Do you suffer from "racing mind" and experience disturbances in your sleep?
Do you feel a chronic sense of time pressure?
Have you lost interest in activities away from your job?
Do you measure yourself by quantitative accomplishments?
Do you have difficulty accumulating pleasant memories?
Do you have a deep-seated need to be on time, or conversely, are you always late?
If you answered yes to any of these, you may have time urgency. It's not a healthy condition to have."
I'm not sure why I still feel this urgency at this stage of my life. My kids are grown up and I'm not working. A former expert at multi-tasking, I still try to do it--and now invariably end up with 3 or more failed efforts that have to be fixed or begun again.
Dr. Krishna offers ways to overcome TU in the complete article, which can be found at http://www.integris-health.com/INTEGRIS/en-US/Specialties/MindBodySpirit/Newsroom/MindMatters/TimeUrgency.htm
In the meantime, I will try to use some of his suggestions for slowing down. I already have enough strikes against me for developing heart disease. And, dear Fred, you should take a good look at this, too.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Shield That Noggin!
Over the weekend, the 27th annual Fall Ride motorcycle rally was held in Tomahawk. Organizers were expecting 30 to 40 thousand bikes to be in attendance, and Fred and I would have gone if we hadn't had other plans.
On my way to Elk Mound Friday and again on the way back here Sunday, I saw hundreds of bikes on highways 51 and 29, making the trip to and from the rally. I started noticing how few of the bikers were wearing helmets. Long hair streaming, some with do-rags, men and women alike; I'd estimate 75% or more had forgone protective headgear in favor of riding wild and free.
Fred and I always wear helmets when we ride. I don't have any statistics, but even with a helmet, I'm not optimistic about avoiding serious injury or worse in an accident. However, the helmet is the one thing giving me hope that we would; without one, I picture a rider's head splitting open on the road like an overripe melon.
I know why people don't like to wear them. They can be hot, and mine makes my head itch. It's a bother taking it off/putting it back on every time you stop. The face shield made me claustrophobic, so I took that off almost immediately. Feeling the wind blow through your hair can be liberating--but then, having your head in one piece can be too.
When I read the newspapers or hear on the news that someone has been killed on a motorcycle, the story usually adds a postscript: "The victim was--or was not--wearing a helmet." More often than not, he or she wasn't.
I'm born to be wild, but I also value my round head and the brain cells I have left. So even if I look dorky, you'll always see me in my bright red helmet when I'm on the bike--whether it's a short ride or a long one.
Be safe out there!
On my way to Elk Mound Friday and again on the way back here Sunday, I saw hundreds of bikes on highways 51 and 29, making the trip to and from the rally. I started noticing how few of the bikers were wearing helmets. Long hair streaming, some with do-rags, men and women alike; I'd estimate 75% or more had forgone protective headgear in favor of riding wild and free.
Fred and I always wear helmets when we ride. I don't have any statistics, but even with a helmet, I'm not optimistic about avoiding serious injury or worse in an accident. However, the helmet is the one thing giving me hope that we would; without one, I picture a rider's head splitting open on the road like an overripe melon.
I know why people don't like to wear them. They can be hot, and mine makes my head itch. It's a bother taking it off/putting it back on every time you stop. The face shield made me claustrophobic, so I took that off almost immediately. Feeling the wind blow through your hair can be liberating--but then, having your head in one piece can be too.
When I read the newspapers or hear on the news that someone has been killed on a motorcycle, the story usually adds a postscript: "The victim was--or was not--wearing a helmet." More often than not, he or she wasn't.
I'm born to be wild, but I also value my round head and the brain cells I have left. So even if I look dorky, you'll always see me in my bright red helmet when I'm on the bike--whether it's a short ride or a long one.
Be safe out there!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Waiting for Someone
Trying to sell a house in today's market is a frustrating experience. Our home in Elk Mound has been for sale almost two and a half years now. We've had three realtors and accepted two offers--both of which fell through. I've cleaned the place about 50 times for showings and open houses, and went over there every two or three weeks this summer to mow the lawn. We've had the carpets cleaned, painted inside, and put in a $10,000 mound septic system a week after we moved to Rhinelander. We've steadily lowered the price, but it still hasn't sold.
Friday I drove over again to clean and do yardwork for a showing Saturday and an open house yesterday. Friday I cleaned the gutters on the house, picked three big containers of apples from the tree in the back yard, and packed up the stuff Katie had left there after moving back to Eau Claire for school. Saturday I was up at 7, scouring sinks and showers, mopping floors, vacuuming, knocking down cobwebs, dusting, and sweeping. Then it was outside to mow the lawn, clear branches from a downed tree, and clean up the dog kennel.
Around noon I sat on the deck to eat some yogurt and cool off. I looked around the back yard beneath its canopy of trees as acorns bounced on the deck around me. Down the valley, the trees were just starting to change color, and I heard the clang of the pumpkin launcher at the tree farm as they opened the new season.
As the breeze blew over me, I had an epiphany. I realized that this property isn't going to be purchased by people trying to get it as cheaply as they can or who complain that it needs work. It will be bought by someone who loves the home on the hill, nestled in a clearing surrounded by trees. Someone who wants to see birds and deer and even a bear or two in their back yard. Someone who will feed the stray cats, tame them, and let them come inside on frigid winter nights. Someone who won't mind walking more than a half mile down to the mailbox or parking their car at the neighbor's when it's too icy to make it up the hill. Someone who wants to raise kids and puppies and chickens and maybe even a cow in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Someone who will tell her husband what I told Fred 13 years ago the first time I went there: "This is the place I want. Can we get it?" "Well," he said, "the furnace is going to need replacing soon, and it's more than we were planning to spend..." "Please??"
I know that "someone" is out there. And that's who I want to have our house.
Friday I drove over again to clean and do yardwork for a showing Saturday and an open house yesterday. Friday I cleaned the gutters on the house, picked three big containers of apples from the tree in the back yard, and packed up the stuff Katie had left there after moving back to Eau Claire for school. Saturday I was up at 7, scouring sinks and showers, mopping floors, vacuuming, knocking down cobwebs, dusting, and sweeping. Then it was outside to mow the lawn, clear branches from a downed tree, and clean up the dog kennel.
Around noon I sat on the deck to eat some yogurt and cool off. I looked around the back yard beneath its canopy of trees as acorns bounced on the deck around me. Down the valley, the trees were just starting to change color, and I heard the clang of the pumpkin launcher at the tree farm as they opened the new season.
As the breeze blew over me, I had an epiphany. I realized that this property isn't going to be purchased by people trying to get it as cheaply as they can or who complain that it needs work. It will be bought by someone who loves the home on the hill, nestled in a clearing surrounded by trees. Someone who wants to see birds and deer and even a bear or two in their back yard. Someone who will feed the stray cats, tame them, and let them come inside on frigid winter nights. Someone who won't mind walking more than a half mile down to the mailbox or parking their car at the neighbor's when it's too icy to make it up the hill. Someone who wants to raise kids and puppies and chickens and maybe even a cow in a peaceful and beautiful setting. Someone who will tell her husband what I told Fred 13 years ago the first time I went there: "This is the place I want. Can we get it?" "Well," he said, "the furnace is going to need replacing soon, and it's more than we were planning to spend..." "Please??"
I know that "someone" is out there. And that's who I want to have our house.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Scooped!
Today's topic was going to be the increasing lack of civility in our society as evidenced by recent behavior of some celebrities, athletes, and politicians. But--last night on "Primetime Saturday Night Live," my whole blog's content was pretty much covered in one of their skits!! So as not to appear a plagiarist, I am cancelling today's entry.
I'm off to Eau Claire for a birthday lunch and to get the Elk Mound house ready for another open house on Sunday. Have a great weekend, everybody!!
I'm off to Eau Claire for a birthday lunch and to get the Elk Mound house ready for another open house on Sunday. Have a great weekend, everybody!!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The Endangered List
A few days ago a friend sent me a forward called "Things About to Become Extinct in America." I thought it was interesting reading and decided to be a lazy blog writer today and share it here. The disappearance of the honey bees and the family farm should concern all of us. Personally, I am bothered by the demise of the handwritten letter, but I doubt that will cause the end of the world. Last night I saw an ad for the Sony digital reader--and now I'm worried that books might soon be on this list. I won't enjoy curling up with a blanket on a rainy day to use my digital reader!! I want a real book that I can touch, write notes in the margin, pass on to a friend. There are some places technology should keep its nose out of...in my humble opinion.
THINGS ABOUT TO BECOME EXTINCT IN AMERICA
25. U.S. Post Office: They are pricing themselves out of existence. With e-mail, and online services they are a relic of the past. (refer to #9) Packages are also sent faster and cheaper with UPS.
24. Yellow Pages: This year will be pivotal for the global Yellow Pages industry Much like newspapers, print Yellow Pages will continue to bleed dollars to their various digital counterparts, from Internet Yellow Pages (IYPs), to local search engines and combination search/listing services like Reach Local and Yodel Factors like 20 an acceleration of the print 'fade rate' and the looming recession will contribute to the onslaught. One research firm predicts the falloff in usage of newspapers and print Yellow Pages could even reach 10% this year -- much higher than the 2%-3% fade rate seen in past years.
23. Classified Ads: The Internet has made so many things obsolete that newspaper classified ads might sound like just another trivial item on a long list. But this is one of those harbingers of the future that could signal the end of civilization as we know it. The argument is that if newspaper classifieds are replaced by free online listings at sites like Craigslist.org and Google Base, then newspapers are not far behind them.
22. Movie Rental Stores: While Netflix is looking up at the moment, Blockbuster keeps closing store locations by the hundreds. It still has about 6,000 left across the world, but those keep dwindling and the stock is down considerably in 2008, especially since the company gave up a quest of Circuit City . Movie Gallery, which owned the Hollywood Video brand, closed up shop earlier this year. Countless small video chains and mom-and-pop stores have given up the ghost already.
21. Dial-up Internet Access: Dial-up connections have fallen from 40% in 2001 to 10% in 2008. The combination of an infrastructure to accommodate affordable high speed Internet connections and the disappearing home phone have all but pounded the final nail in the coffin of dial-up Internet access.
20. Phone Land Lines: According to a survey from the National Center for Health Statistics, at the end of 2007, nearly one in six homes was cell-only and, of those homes that had land lines, one in eight only received calls on their cells.
19. Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs: Maryland 's icon, the blue crab, has been fading away in Chesapeake Bay . Last year Maryland saw the lowest harvest (22 million pounds) since 1945. Just four decades ago the bay produced 96 million pounds. The population is down 70% since 1990, when they first did a formal count. There are only about 120 million crabs in the bay and they think they need 200 million for a sustainable population. Over-fishing, pollution, invasive species and global warming get the blame.
18. VCRs: For the better part of three decades, the VCR was a best-seller and staple in every American household until being completely decimated by the DVD, and now the Digital Video Recorder (DVR). In fact, the only remnants of the VHS age at your local Wal-Mart or Radio Shack are blank VHS tapes these days. Pre-recorded VHS tapes are largely gone and VHS decks are practically nowhere to be found. They served us so well.
17. Ash Trees: In the late 1990's, a pretty, iridescent green species of beetle, now known as the emerald ash borer, hitched a ride to North America with ash wood products imported from eastern Asia . In less than a decade, its larvae have killed millions of trees in the
Midwest , and continue to spread. They've killed more than 30 million ash trees in southeastern Michigan alone, with tens of millions more lost in Ohio and Indiana .. More than 7.5 billion ash trees=2 0are currently at risk.
16. Ham Radio: Amateur radio operators enjoy personal (and often worldwide) wireless communications with each other and are able to support their communities with emergency and disaster communications if necessary, while increasing their personal knowledge of electronics and radio theory. However, proliferation of the Internet and its popularity among youth has caused the decline of amateur radio. In the past five years alone, the number of people holding active ham radio licenses has dropped by 50,000, even though Morse Code is no longer a requirement.
15. The Swimming Hole: Thanks to our litigious society, swimming holes are becoming a thing of the past. '20/20' reports that swimming hole owners, like Robert Every in High Falls, NY, are shutting them down out of worry that if someone gets hurt they'll sue.. And that's exactly what happened in Seattle The city of Bellingham was sued by Katie Hofstetter who was paralyzed in a fall at a popular swimming hole in Whatcom Falls Park .. As injuries occur and lawsuits follow, expect more swimming holes to post 'Keep out!' signs.
14. Answering Machines: The increasing disappearance of answering machines is directly tied to No 20 our list -- the decline of landlines. According to USA Today, the number of homes that only use cell phones jumped 159% between 2004 and 2007. It has been particularly bad in New York ; since 2000, land line usage has dropped 55%. It's logical that as cell phones rise, many of them replacing traditional landlines, that there will be fewer answering machines.
13. Cameras That Use Film: It doesn't require a statistician to prove the rapid disappearance of the film camera in America Just look to companies like Nikon, the professional' s choice for quality camera equipment. In 2006, it announced that it would stop making film cameras, pointing to the shrinking market -- only 3% of i ts sales in 2005, compared to 75% of sales from digital cameras and equipment.
12. Incandescent Bulbs: Before a few years ago, the standard 60-watt (or, yikes, 100-watt) bulb was the mainstay of every U.S. home. With the green movement and all-things-sustaina ble-energy crowd, the Compact Fluorescent Lightbulb (CFL) is largely replacing the older, Edison-era incandescent bulb. The EPA reports that 2007 sales for Energy Star CFLs nearly doubled from 2006, and these sales accounted for approximately 20 percent of the U.S. light bulb market. And according to USA Today, a new energy bill plans to phase out incandescent bulbs in the next four to 12 years.
11. Stand-Alone Bowling Alleys: Bowling Balls. US claims there are still 60 million Americans who bowl at least once a year, but many are not bowling in stand-alone bowling alleys. Today most new bo wling alleys are part of facilities for all types or recreation including laser tag, go-karts, bumper cars, video game arcades, climbing walls and glow miniature golf.
Bowling lanes also have been added to many non-traditional venues such as adult communities, hotels and resorts, and gambling casinos.
10. The Milkman: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in 1950, over half of the milk delivered was to the home in quart bottles, by 1963, it was about a third and by 2001, it represented only 0.4% percent. Nowadays most milk is sold through supermarkets in gallon jugs. The steady decline in home-delivered milk is blamed, of course, on the rise of the supermarket, better home refrigeration and longer-lasting milk. Although some milkmen still make the rounds in pockets of the U.S. , they are certainly a dying breed..
9. Hand-Written Letters: In 2006, the Radicati Group estimated that, worldwide, 183 billion e-mails were sent each day.. Two million each second. By November of 2007, an estimated 3.3 billion Earthlings owned cell phones, and 80% of the world's population had access to ce ll phone coverage. In 2004, half-a-trillion text messages were sent, and the number has no doubt increased exponentially since then. So where amongst this gorge of gabble is there room for the elegant, polite hand-written letter?
8. Wild Horses: It is estimated that 100 years ago, as many as two million horses were roaming free within the United States . In 2001, National Geographic News estimated that the wild horse population has decreased to about 50,000 head. Currently, the National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory board states that there are 32,000 free roaming horses in ten Western states, with half of them residing in Nevada . The Bureau of Land Management is seeking to reduce the total number of free range horses to 27,000, possibly by selective euthanasia.
7. Personal Checks: According to an American Bankers Assoc. report, a net 23% of consumers plan to decrease their use of checks over the next two years, while a net 14% plan to increase their use of PIN debit. Bill payment remains the last stronghold of paper-based payments -- for the time being. Checks continue to be the most commonly used bill payment method, with 71% of consumers paying at least one recurring bill per month by writing a check. However, a bill-by-bill basis, checks account for only 49% of consumers' recurring bill payments (down from 72% in 2001 and 60% in 2003)..
6.. Drive-in Theaters: During the peak in 1958, there were more than 4,000 drive-in theaters in this country, but in 2007 only 405 drive-ins were still operating. Exactly zero new drive-ins have been built since 2005. Only one reopened in 2005 and five reop ened in 2006, so there isn't much of a movement toward reviving the closed ones.
5.. Mumps & Measles: Despite what's been in the news lately, the measles and mumps actually, truly are disappearing from the United States .. In 1964, 212,000 cases of mumps wer e reported in the U.S. By 1983, this figure had dropped to 3,000, thanks to a vigorous
vaccination program. Prior to the introduction of the measles vaccine, approximately half a million cases of measles were reported in the U.S. annually, resulting in 450 deaths. In 2005, only 66 cases were recorded.
4. Honey Bees: Perhaps nothing on our list of disappearing America is so dire; plummeting so enormously; and so necessary to the survival of our food supply as the honey bee. Very scary. 'Colony Collapse Disorder,' or CCD, has spread throughout the U.S. and Europe over the past few years, wiping out 50% to 90% of the colonies of many
beekeepers -- and along with it, their livelihood.
3. News Magazines and TV News: While the TV evening newscasts haven't gone anywhere over the last several decades, their audiences have. In 1984, in a story about the diminishing returns of the evening news, the New York Times reported that all three network evening-news programs combined had only 40.9 million viewers. Fast forward to 2008, and what they have today is half that.
2... Analog TV: According to the Consumer Electronics Association, 85% of homes in the U.S. get their television programming through cable or satellite providers. For the remaining 15% -- or 13 million individuals -- who are using rabbit ears or a large outdoor antenna to get their local stations, change is in the air. If you are one of these people you'll need to get a new TV or a converter box in order to get the new stations which will only be broadcast in digital..
1. The Family Farm: Since the 1930's, the number of family farms has been declining rapidly. According to the USDA, 5.3 million farms dotted the nation in 1950, but this number had declined to 2.1 million by the 2003 farm census (data from the 2007 census is just now being published). Ninety-one percent of the U.S. FARMS are small Family Farms.
Stay tuned tomorrow for "The Extinction of Civility."
THINGS ABOUT TO BECOME EXTINCT IN AMERICA
25. U.S. Post Office: They are pricing themselves out of existence. With e-mail, and online services they are a relic of the past. (refer to #9) Packages are also sent faster and cheaper with UPS.
24. Yellow Pages: This year will be pivotal for the global Yellow Pages industry Much like newspapers, print Yellow Pages will continue to bleed dollars to their various digital counterparts, from Internet Yellow Pages (IYPs), to local search engines and combination search/listing services like Reach Local and Yodel Factors like 20 an acceleration of the print 'fade rate' and the looming recession will contribute to the onslaught. One research firm predicts the falloff in usage of newspapers and print Yellow Pages could even reach 10% this year -- much higher than the 2%-3% fade rate seen in past years.
23. Classified Ads: The Internet has made so many things obsolete that newspaper classified ads might sound like just another trivial item on a long list. But this is one of those harbingers of the future that could signal the end of civilization as we know it. The argument is that if newspaper classifieds are replaced by free online listings at sites like Craigslist.org and Google Base, then newspapers are not far behind them.
22. Movie Rental Stores: While Netflix is looking up at the moment, Blockbuster keeps closing store locations by the hundreds. It still has about 6,000 left across the world, but those keep dwindling and the stock is down considerably in 2008, especially since the company gave up a quest of Circuit City . Movie Gallery, which owned the Hollywood Video brand, closed up shop earlier this year. Countless small video chains and mom-and-pop stores have given up the ghost already.
21. Dial-up Internet Access: Dial-up connections have fallen from 40% in 2001 to 10% in 2008. The combination of an infrastructure to accommodate affordable high speed Internet connections and the disappearing home phone have all but pounded the final nail in the coffin of dial-up Internet access.
20. Phone Land Lines: According to a survey from the National Center for Health Statistics, at the end of 2007, nearly one in six homes was cell-only and, of those homes that had land lines, one in eight only received calls on their cells.
19. Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs: Maryland 's icon, the blue crab, has been fading away in Chesapeake Bay . Last year Maryland saw the lowest harvest (22 million pounds) since 1945. Just four decades ago the bay produced 96 million pounds. The population is down 70% since 1990, when they first did a formal count. There are only about 120 million crabs in the bay and they think they need 200 million for a sustainable population. Over-fishing, pollution, invasive species and global warming get the blame.
18. VCRs: For the better part of three decades, the VCR was a best-seller and staple in every American household until being completely decimated by the DVD, and now the Digital Video Recorder (DVR). In fact, the only remnants of the VHS age at your local Wal-Mart or Radio Shack are blank VHS tapes these days. Pre-recorded VHS tapes are largely gone and VHS decks are practically nowhere to be found. They served us so well.
17. Ash Trees: In the late 1990's, a pretty, iridescent green species of beetle, now known as the emerald ash borer, hitched a ride to North America with ash wood products imported from eastern Asia . In less than a decade, its larvae have killed millions of trees in the
Midwest , and continue to spread. They've killed more than 30 million ash trees in southeastern Michigan alone, with tens of millions more lost in Ohio and Indiana .. More than 7.5 billion ash trees=2 0are currently at risk.
16. Ham Radio: Amateur radio operators enjoy personal (and often worldwide) wireless communications with each other and are able to support their communities with emergency and disaster communications if necessary, while increasing their personal knowledge of electronics and radio theory. However, proliferation of the Internet and its popularity among youth has caused the decline of amateur radio. In the past five years alone, the number of people holding active ham radio licenses has dropped by 50,000, even though Morse Code is no longer a requirement.
15. The Swimming Hole: Thanks to our litigious society, swimming holes are becoming a thing of the past. '20/20' reports that swimming hole owners, like Robert Every in High Falls, NY, are shutting them down out of worry that if someone gets hurt they'll sue.. And that's exactly what happened in Seattle The city of Bellingham was sued by Katie Hofstetter who was paralyzed in a fall at a popular swimming hole in Whatcom Falls Park .. As injuries occur and lawsuits follow, expect more swimming holes to post 'Keep out!' signs.
14. Answering Machines: The increasing disappearance of answering machines is directly tied to No 20 our list -- the decline of landlines. According to USA Today, the number of homes that only use cell phones jumped 159% between 2004 and 2007. It has been particularly bad in New York ; since 2000, land line usage has dropped 55%. It's logical that as cell phones rise, many of them replacing traditional landlines, that there will be fewer answering machines.
13. Cameras That Use Film: It doesn't require a statistician to prove the rapid disappearance of the film camera in America Just look to companies like Nikon, the professional' s choice for quality camera equipment. In 2006, it announced that it would stop making film cameras, pointing to the shrinking market -- only 3% of i ts sales in 2005, compared to 75% of sales from digital cameras and equipment.
12. Incandescent Bulbs: Before a few years ago, the standard 60-watt (or, yikes, 100-watt) bulb was the mainstay of every U.S. home. With the green movement and all-things-sustaina ble-energy crowd, the Compact Fluorescent Lightbulb (CFL) is largely replacing the older, Edison-era incandescent bulb. The EPA reports that 2007 sales for Energy Star CFLs nearly doubled from 2006, and these sales accounted for approximately 20 percent of the U.S. light bulb market. And according to USA Today, a new energy bill plans to phase out incandescent bulbs in the next four to 12 years.
11. Stand-Alone Bowling Alleys: Bowling Balls. US claims there are still 60 million Americans who bowl at least once a year, but many are not bowling in stand-alone bowling alleys. Today most new bo wling alleys are part of facilities for all types or recreation including laser tag, go-karts, bumper cars, video game arcades, climbing walls and glow miniature golf.
Bowling lanes also have been added to many non-traditional venues such as adult communities, hotels and resorts, and gambling casinos.
10. The Milkman: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in 1950, over half of the milk delivered was to the home in quart bottles, by 1963, it was about a third and by 2001, it represented only 0.4% percent. Nowadays most milk is sold through supermarkets in gallon jugs. The steady decline in home-delivered milk is blamed, of course, on the rise of the supermarket, better home refrigeration and longer-lasting milk. Although some milkmen still make the rounds in pockets of the U.S. , they are certainly a dying breed..
9. Hand-Written Letters: In 2006, the Radicati Group estimated that, worldwide, 183 billion e-mails were sent each day.. Two million each second. By November of 2007, an estimated 3.3 billion Earthlings owned cell phones, and 80% of the world's population had access to ce ll phone coverage. In 2004, half-a-trillion text messages were sent, and the number has no doubt increased exponentially since then. So where amongst this gorge of gabble is there room for the elegant, polite hand-written letter?
8. Wild Horses: It is estimated that 100 years ago, as many as two million horses were roaming free within the United States . In 2001, National Geographic News estimated that the wild horse population has decreased to about 50,000 head. Currently, the National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory board states that there are 32,000 free roaming horses in ten Western states, with half of them residing in Nevada . The Bureau of Land Management is seeking to reduce the total number of free range horses to 27,000, possibly by selective euthanasia.
7. Personal Checks: According to an American Bankers Assoc. report, a net 23% of consumers plan to decrease their use of checks over the next two years, while a net 14% plan to increase their use of PIN debit. Bill payment remains the last stronghold of paper-based payments -- for the time being. Checks continue to be the most commonly used bill payment method, with 71% of consumers paying at least one recurring bill per month by writing a check. However, a bill-by-bill basis, checks account for only 49% of consumers' recurring bill payments (down from 72% in 2001 and 60% in 2003)..
6.. Drive-in Theaters: During the peak in 1958, there were more than 4,000 drive-in theaters in this country, but in 2007 only 405 drive-ins were still operating. Exactly zero new drive-ins have been built since 2005. Only one reopened in 2005 and five reop ened in 2006, so there isn't much of a movement toward reviving the closed ones.
5.. Mumps & Measles: Despite what's been in the news lately, the measles and mumps actually, truly are disappearing from the United States .. In 1964, 212,000 cases of mumps wer e reported in the U.S. By 1983, this figure had dropped to 3,000, thanks to a vigorous
vaccination program. Prior to the introduction of the measles vaccine, approximately half a million cases of measles were reported in the U.S. annually, resulting in 450 deaths. In 2005, only 66 cases were recorded.
4. Honey Bees: Perhaps nothing on our list of disappearing America is so dire; plummeting so enormously; and so necessary to the survival of our food supply as the honey bee. Very scary. 'Colony Collapse Disorder,' or CCD, has spread throughout the U.S. and Europe over the past few years, wiping out 50% to 90% of the colonies of many
beekeepers -- and along with it, their livelihood.
3. News Magazines and TV News: While the TV evening newscasts haven't gone anywhere over the last several decades, their audiences have. In 1984, in a story about the diminishing returns of the evening news, the New York Times reported that all three network evening-news programs combined had only 40.9 million viewers. Fast forward to 2008, and what they have today is half that.
2... Analog TV: According to the Consumer Electronics Association, 85% of homes in the U.S. get their television programming through cable or satellite providers. For the remaining 15% -- or 13 million individuals -- who are using rabbit ears or a large outdoor antenna to get their local stations, change is in the air. If you are one of these people you'll need to get a new TV or a converter box in order to get the new stations which will only be broadcast in digital..
1. The Family Farm: Since the 1930's, the number of family farms has been declining rapidly. According to the USDA, 5.3 million farms dotted the nation in 1950, but this number had declined to 2.1 million by the 2003 farm census (data from the 2007 census is just now being published). Ninety-one percent of the U.S. FARMS are small Family Farms.
Stay tuned tomorrow for "The Extinction of Civility."
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Wisconsin's Greatest Disaster
A couple years ago, Fred and I both read the book Firestorm at Peshtigo by Denise Gess and William Lutz. I had always been interested in the story of the worst fire in American history after learning about it in elementary school. Fred grew up only 40 miles from the town and surrounding area that was totally destroyed on October 8, 1871. Since reading the book, we both wanted to visit the Peshtigo Fire Museum and the fire cemeteries. Our friend Bill read it too, so we made the trip there Sunday from our cabin on the bikes.
The museum is in an old church that was moved years ago from one side of the Peshtigo River to the other. Obviously, there wasn't much left after the fire to be displayed in a museum, but there are a few items that were miraculously saved. Thousands of other things from that time period have been donated to give visitors a sense of what life had been like for the people there before the fire's devastation.
Just to give you some basic history, the fire occurred the same night as the Chicago Fire, and it caused a much greater loss of life and damage than the one in Illinois. Because of the poor communication in those days and the fact that Chicago was bigger, the enormity of the Wisconsin fire wasn't realized until later. The book provides horrific details about some of the people who were lost and the few who survived. The death toll estimates range between 1500 and 2500 people; it was hard to calculate because many bodies were totally disintegrated by the fire's high temperatures. In those days, itinerant people were common and there was no way to know how many were in the area during the fire. A display at the museum reported that 50 immigrants arrived in Peshtigo for work the day before the fire and were never seen again afterwards. The huge fireballs literally blew across Green Bay and killed people in Door County; a small town of 60 people burned to death there as they slept.
Many citizens fled to the river trying to escape the inferno, but that didn't necessarily save them. In the cemetery we read a marker that told about an older boy who took his young brother and sister, one on each arm, into the river for four hours--only to come out of the water to discover that the youngsters had died from hypothermia.
Going to the cemeteries felt like stepping back in time, overcome with the solemn awe you would similarly feel at a place like Arlington or Ground Zero. The remnants of whole families were buried in single graves, the stones listing names and ages of the "kinder" (children) in German. Marker after marker had October 8, 1871 as the date of death. One cemetery is adjacent to the museum, and no burials have been permitted there since 1916. A mass grave for 350 unknown people is just a small plot--so little was left to identify or bury. Harmony Cemetery a few miles out of town has another mass grave as well as individual ones for fire victims. We recognized names on the stones of people we'd read about in the book; one man, Karl Lamp, who lost his pregnant wife and four young daughters in the fire. He later remarried and had seven more children; some of his descendants still live in the area and go by the name of Lemke.
I left the cemetery feeling sadness for the victims and amazement at the resilience of the survivors. They rebuilt their town and farms, starting new lives from the ashes of what had been. It's an amazing story; if you get a chance to read the book or visit Peshtigo, do so!
The museum is in an old church that was moved years ago from one side of the Peshtigo River to the other. Obviously, there wasn't much left after the fire to be displayed in a museum, but there are a few items that were miraculously saved. Thousands of other things from that time period have been donated to give visitors a sense of what life had been like for the people there before the fire's devastation.
Just to give you some basic history, the fire occurred the same night as the Chicago Fire, and it caused a much greater loss of life and damage than the one in Illinois. Because of the poor communication in those days and the fact that Chicago was bigger, the enormity of the Wisconsin fire wasn't realized until later. The book provides horrific details about some of the people who were lost and the few who survived. The death toll estimates range between 1500 and 2500 people; it was hard to calculate because many bodies were totally disintegrated by the fire's high temperatures. In those days, itinerant people were common and there was no way to know how many were in the area during the fire. A display at the museum reported that 50 immigrants arrived in Peshtigo for work the day before the fire and were never seen again afterwards. The huge fireballs literally blew across Green Bay and killed people in Door County; a small town of 60 people burned to death there as they slept.
Many citizens fled to the river trying to escape the inferno, but that didn't necessarily save them. In the cemetery we read a marker that told about an older boy who took his young brother and sister, one on each arm, into the river for four hours--only to come out of the water to discover that the youngsters had died from hypothermia.
Going to the cemeteries felt like stepping back in time, overcome with the solemn awe you would similarly feel at a place like Arlington or Ground Zero. The remnants of whole families were buried in single graves, the stones listing names and ages of the "kinder" (children) in German. Marker after marker had October 8, 1871 as the date of death. One cemetery is adjacent to the museum, and no burials have been permitted there since 1916. A mass grave for 350 unknown people is just a small plot--so little was left to identify or bury. Harmony Cemetery a few miles out of town has another mass grave as well as individual ones for fire victims. We recognized names on the stones of people we'd read about in the book; one man, Karl Lamp, who lost his pregnant wife and four young daughters in the fire. He later remarried and had seven more children; some of his descendants still live in the area and go by the name of Lemke.
I left the cemetery feeling sadness for the victims and amazement at the resilience of the survivors. They rebuilt their town and farms, starting new lives from the ashes of what had been. It's an amazing story; if you get a chance to read the book or visit Peshtigo, do so!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Fabulous Fiftieth
My birthday weekend turned out to be much more fun--and not at all depressing!--than I was expecting it to be. Fred and I took off on the bike before 8 AM Saturday, me telling myself that I really wasn't 50 yet because I was born at 5:15 PM. We stopped in Wausau for breakfast at IHOP, then continued to Mosinee where Fred had a meeting at the airport. I entertained myself by reading and listening to passengers having fits because their flights were cancelled. By 1:30 we were on the road to Antigo where we met our friends Bill and Jennifer on their Honda Goldwing for the ride to the Amberg Hilton. The temperature was in the 80s, and the trip was an amazing sensory experience--passing through warm air currents, then cold ones; smelling the scents of farms, fields, and fall; feeling bugs splat on my forehead at 60 mph, and the trees!! Oh, the trees...flaming russet and crimson, plum, amber--I wish I had the 64-box of Crayolas here so I could choose color names to do them justice!
We got to the cabin a little after 4:30, and our nextdoor neighbors Annie and Lori immediately drove up. Not unusual--they knew it was my birthday. But then Bonnie from my bowling team (and Fred's office) and her husband Mike pulled into the driveway, and Bonnie was wearing a button with my first grade picture on it that said "Little Cheryl turns 50 today"!! Finally it clicked: I was getting a surprise party! My wonderful husband had planned it and arranged things when he was at the cabin the weekend before. More friends continued to drive in within the next hour: Penny and Jay, Renee and Ted, Josh, Billie and girls, Lee and Gail, Gene; Paul and Lauri all the way from Eau Claire, and Tom and Gail. I was completely fooled--no idea whatsoever!
I was treated to similar "old fogey" gifts that I have gleefully given other friends over the years on their 40th-50th b-days: a cane, black leis, a black whistle to use when I fall and can't get up, a book called "Sex After 50" (I also own "Sex After 40", which I didn't read, either!), a new bra whose long skinny cups hang down to my waist, etc. It's true; what goes around comes around. Some of the presents were nice ones, including money and goodies for my soldiers, sunflower decor for my kitchen, and enough fixings for daiquiris and margaritas to last me till I'm at least 50 and a half!
Eight friends spent the night, and after one of Fred's cabin breakfasts and some more conversation around the campfire, they headed for home. Fred and I, along with Bill and Jennifer, got on the bikes and rode south to Peshtigo to visit the Peshtigo Fire Museum. I will write more about that tomorrow.
Thanks to everyone who helped make my birthday so special. Whether it was being at the party, a phone call, or sending a card. present, or e-mail/Facebook wish, it is ALL greatly appreciated!!
I feel extremely lucky! Especially grateful to be married to Fred!!
Somebody over the weekend made the comment that now I'm in my Golden Years. Uh--I think I'm still in the aluminum years, as the pile of cans by my lawn chair Saturday night would indicate. I'll save the Geritol for my 75th!!
We got to the cabin a little after 4:30, and our nextdoor neighbors Annie and Lori immediately drove up. Not unusual--they knew it was my birthday. But then Bonnie from my bowling team (and Fred's office) and her husband Mike pulled into the driveway, and Bonnie was wearing a button with my first grade picture on it that said "Little Cheryl turns 50 today"!! Finally it clicked: I was getting a surprise party! My wonderful husband had planned it and arranged things when he was at the cabin the weekend before. More friends continued to drive in within the next hour: Penny and Jay, Renee and Ted, Josh, Billie and girls, Lee and Gail, Gene; Paul and Lauri all the way from Eau Claire, and Tom and Gail. I was completely fooled--no idea whatsoever!
I was treated to similar "old fogey" gifts that I have gleefully given other friends over the years on their 40th-50th b-days: a cane, black leis, a black whistle to use when I fall and can't get up, a book called "Sex After 50" (I also own "Sex After 40", which I didn't read, either!), a new bra whose long skinny cups hang down to my waist, etc. It's true; what goes around comes around. Some of the presents were nice ones, including money and goodies for my soldiers, sunflower decor for my kitchen, and enough fixings for daiquiris and margaritas to last me till I'm at least 50 and a half!
Eight friends spent the night, and after one of Fred's cabin breakfasts and some more conversation around the campfire, they headed for home. Fred and I, along with Bill and Jennifer, got on the bikes and rode south to Peshtigo to visit the Peshtigo Fire Museum. I will write more about that tomorrow.
Thanks to everyone who helped make my birthday so special. Whether it was being at the party, a phone call, or sending a card. present, or e-mail/Facebook wish, it is ALL greatly appreciated!!
I feel extremely lucky! Especially grateful to be married to Fred!!
Somebody over the weekend made the comment that now I'm in my Golden Years. Uh--I think I'm still in the aluminum years, as the pile of cans by my lawn chair Saturday night would indicate. I'll save the Geritol for my 75th!!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Excuses and More
I apologize to the readers of The Daily Mom who may have noticed that it hasn't been too "daily" lately. Maybe I should change the name! I have been a slacker I admit, but like any lazy bum I do have a lot of excuses!!
--We've had the best weather of the summer the past two weeks here. Sunny and in the upper 70s-low 80s every day. I have to take advantage of it while it lasts!
--Walking the dogs through the woods as the trees turn brilliant colors is something I look forward to every day now. I don't think there is anything more beautiful in nature than the fall colors, and Wisconsin has some of the best! They almost make it worth enduring the winter that follows.
--I've done a lot of running around lately--Elk Mound to Madison and back, plus regular weekly errands and chores. I walk with my friend Cindy once a week, followed by a stop for something to drink and maybe a bakery treat and chatting. Yakking takes less time than thinking of a topic and writing about it!
--Fred had a couple nights this week when he couldn't sleep--which meant I was awake a lot, too. He confessed to having coffee at an evening meeting one of the nights as we lay awake at 2:30. He asked for suggestions on how to get to sleep, and I said that a pillow pushed down on his face would probably work. He didn't like that idea. Katie recommended that we have separate "Grandma and Grandpa" bedrooms. He didn't like that one, either.
--I've been contemplating the impending 50th birthday--and eating a lot of chocolate. We are riding over to the Amberg Hilton on the Harley Saturday and celebrating it with some friends there. We'll visit the Peshtigo Fire Museum Sunday and be back in time for the Packers-Bears game that night.
So the next time I write here, I'll be 50 (but I can't promise more maturity!) I'm not going to be bummed about it when my dad and brother didn't even get to reach this decade. Kenny Chesney has a new song out called "I'm Alive" that expresses a good attitude about life, one I will try to adopt. It goes like this:
"So damn easy to say that life's so hard. Everybody's got their share of battle scars . As for me I'd like to thank my lucky stars that I'm alive and well.
It'd be easy to add up all the pain, and all the dreams you've sat and watch go up in flames. Dwell on the wreckage as it smolders in the rain...But not me... I'm alive.
And today you know that's good enough for me. Breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see?Today's the first day of the rest of my life, and I'm alive and well...I'm alive and well.
Stars are dancin' on the water here tonight. It's good for the soul when there's not a soul in sight. This motor's caught its wind and brought me back to life--now I'm alive and well.
And today you know that's good enough for me. Breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see?Today's the first day of the rest of my life...Now I'm alive and well. Yeah I'm alive and well...
Happy birthday to me! :)
--We've had the best weather of the summer the past two weeks here. Sunny and in the upper 70s-low 80s every day. I have to take advantage of it while it lasts!
--Walking the dogs through the woods as the trees turn brilliant colors is something I look forward to every day now. I don't think there is anything more beautiful in nature than the fall colors, and Wisconsin has some of the best! They almost make it worth enduring the winter that follows.
--I've done a lot of running around lately--Elk Mound to Madison and back, plus regular weekly errands and chores. I walk with my friend Cindy once a week, followed by a stop for something to drink and maybe a bakery treat and chatting. Yakking takes less time than thinking of a topic and writing about it!
--Fred had a couple nights this week when he couldn't sleep--which meant I was awake a lot, too. He confessed to having coffee at an evening meeting one of the nights as we lay awake at 2:30. He asked for suggestions on how to get to sleep, and I said that a pillow pushed down on his face would probably work. He didn't like that idea. Katie recommended that we have separate "Grandma and Grandpa" bedrooms. He didn't like that one, either.
--I've been contemplating the impending 50th birthday--and eating a lot of chocolate. We are riding over to the Amberg Hilton on the Harley Saturday and celebrating it with some friends there. We'll visit the Peshtigo Fire Museum Sunday and be back in time for the Packers-Bears game that night.
So the next time I write here, I'll be 50 (but I can't promise more maturity!) I'm not going to be bummed about it when my dad and brother didn't even get to reach this decade. Kenny Chesney has a new song out called "I'm Alive" that expresses a good attitude about life, one I will try to adopt. It goes like this:
"So damn easy to say that life's so hard. Everybody's got their share of battle scars . As for me I'd like to thank my lucky stars that I'm alive and well.
It'd be easy to add up all the pain, and all the dreams you've sat and watch go up in flames. Dwell on the wreckage as it smolders in the rain...But not me... I'm alive.
And today you know that's good enough for me. Breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see?Today's the first day of the rest of my life, and I'm alive and well...I'm alive and well.
Stars are dancin' on the water here tonight. It's good for the soul when there's not a soul in sight. This motor's caught its wind and brought me back to life--now I'm alive and well.
And today you know that's good enough for me. Breathing in and out's a blessing can't you see?Today's the first day of the rest of my life...Now I'm alive and well. Yeah I'm alive and well...
Happy birthday to me! :)
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Another Soldier in the Family
On Sunday I had the honor of meeting my fifth anysoldier.com contact in the five years that I have been supporting the troops. She is from Whitewater, WI and happened to be in Madison for the Badger game while home on leave. Since I spent the weekend down there too, we made plans to meet for lunch.
Captain Theresa Giorno and her boyfriend, James--who is also in the Army--both returned in August from deployments in Kuwait and Iraq. Theresa had received one of my cards from an Anysoldier "card swap", and she sent me a picture and letter at Christmas. I wrote back and continued sending her letters and packages--including Valentine's Day, her 25th birthday in May, her promotion to Captain in June...and she wrote back in response to every one.
Meeting her and James was just like my other get-togethers in the past: a real thrill!! She brought me a big bottle of wine, and I gave her a picture frame. We talked for an hour and a half about her experiences overseas, her family, and her new Boston terrier puppy, Achilles. Theresa reads my blog and I read hers, so we already knew a lot about each other--but a face-to-face conversation and a hug are still the best!!
After taking care of a soldier for several months, they become a part of your family. The ones who continue to stay in touch after they come back show just how much the support from home meant to them while they were deployed. We have been invited to two weddings, and I also feel like an honorary grandma to Taylor J. and Dreyden S., both two years old, after supporting their dads through two deployments so far. I haven't met either of them yet, but I know we will some day.
Thanks, Theresa and James, for your service to our country and for taking the time to meet me. Welcome home!!
Captain Theresa Giorno and her boyfriend, James--who is also in the Army--both returned in August from deployments in Kuwait and Iraq. Theresa had received one of my cards from an Anysoldier "card swap", and she sent me a picture and letter at Christmas. I wrote back and continued sending her letters and packages--including Valentine's Day, her 25th birthday in May, her promotion to Captain in June...and she wrote back in response to every one.
Meeting her and James was just like my other get-togethers in the past: a real thrill!! She brought me a big bottle of wine, and I gave her a picture frame. We talked for an hour and a half about her experiences overseas, her family, and her new Boston terrier puppy, Achilles. Theresa reads my blog and I read hers, so we already knew a lot about each other--but a face-to-face conversation and a hug are still the best!!
After taking care of a soldier for several months, they become a part of your family. The ones who continue to stay in touch after they come back show just how much the support from home meant to them while they were deployed. We have been invited to two weddings, and I also feel like an honorary grandma to Taylor J. and Dreyden S., both two years old, after supporting their dads through two deployments so far. I haven't met either of them yet, but I know we will some day.
Thanks, Theresa and James, for your service to our country and for taking the time to meet me. Welcome home!!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Husband Swap
Last weekend we had two guy friends stay here with us to attend a retirement party Saturday night. When they took their stuff upstairs, I told them to use the lamps in the bedroom they'd be staying in because the overhead light was burned out. The light is in the ceiling fan, and it has a round, coiled bulb that I'd never seen before. I tried weeks ago to remove it and get a new one, but I couldn't figure out how to take off the chains for the fan/light and get the fixture off. I told Fred about it, but he hadn't had time to look at it.
A few minutes after I mentioned it to our guests, Paul came downstairs with the burned-out bulb in hand! (He is the friend whose wife Lauri suggested I make a "honey-do" list for Fred last spring.) Of course, I was quite impressed that just mentioning the problem got almost instant results--and not only that, but I bought a new bulb the next day and Paul replaced it and reassembled the whole fixture. Fred was soon commenting in a catty voice, "Ooo, why don't you have Paul replace the window in the basement, too!" We all laughed, but it got me thinking...maybe that's not a bad idea!
We wives could start a program where we "swap" husbands for a day to get some long-overdue chores done. Think of the advantages: we wouldn't nag a guy who is our friend like we might do to our husband. For a man, doing a favor for a friend probably seems less like work than doing it for the old ball and chain. A friend probably won't say, "Will you make me a sandwich?" and plop down to watch TV mid-way through the job, either.
We could each make a list of our husbands' talents (most of them, anyway), and then choose whoever was best suited to the jobs we wanted done. One day every few months could be Husband Swap Day. While the men work on their chore lists, we women could go shopping, have lunch, and come up with new projects for the next swap day.
I think it could work! I live with a perfectly capable handy-man; finding time to DO the chores is the hardest part for him. Here is a list of his skills: carpentry, basic plumbing and electricity, changing oil, yard work, painting, doing firewood, moving furniture, cleaning garages/basements, hauling stuff, making macaroni and cheese and scrambled eggs--and playing gin.
Just don't ask him to change a light bulb.
**Happy 23rd birthday, Erica!!!!!
A few minutes after I mentioned it to our guests, Paul came downstairs with the burned-out bulb in hand! (He is the friend whose wife Lauri suggested I make a "honey-do" list for Fred last spring.) Of course, I was quite impressed that just mentioning the problem got almost instant results--and not only that, but I bought a new bulb the next day and Paul replaced it and reassembled the whole fixture. Fred was soon commenting in a catty voice, "Ooo, why don't you have Paul replace the window in the basement, too!" We all laughed, but it got me thinking...maybe that's not a bad idea!
We wives could start a program where we "swap" husbands for a day to get some long-overdue chores done. Think of the advantages: we wouldn't nag a guy who is our friend like we might do to our husband. For a man, doing a favor for a friend probably seems less like work than doing it for the old ball and chain. A friend probably won't say, "Will you make me a sandwich?" and plop down to watch TV mid-way through the job, either.
We could each make a list of our husbands' talents (most of them, anyway), and then choose whoever was best suited to the jobs we wanted done. One day every few months could be Husband Swap Day. While the men work on their chore lists, we women could go shopping, have lunch, and come up with new projects for the next swap day.
I think it could work! I live with a perfectly capable handy-man; finding time to DO the chores is the hardest part for him. Here is a list of his skills: carpentry, basic plumbing and electricity, changing oil, yard work, painting, doing firewood, moving furniture, cleaning garages/basements, hauling stuff, making macaroni and cheese and scrambled eggs--and playing gin.
Just don't ask him to change a light bulb.
**Happy 23rd birthday, Erica!!!!!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Techno-Dummy
I have never claimed to be knowledgeable where technology is concerned--which some of you already know. I've screwed up our universal remote for our TV/satellite dish; didn't know that there are different kinds of USB cords; waited two years after getting a digital camera before I attempted to use it. The girls had to teach me how to text message, and Katie or Fred still silence my cell phone for me in movie theaters.
Before my friend Mary moved to China a month ago, she told me that we'd be able to talk to each other for free on our computers using Skype. All I needed to do was download the Skype program, get an ID, and wait for us to be online at the same time--not really a problem with the exactly 12-hour time difference.
I was really excited the weekend before last when Mary appeared on Skype and dialed my computer! I answered the call and could hear her "Hello there!" as clear as a bell from the other side of the world. I started talking and she asked, "Cheryl? Can you hear me?" Well, yeah, I could hear her plain as day, but she obviously couldn't hear me. Skype also lets you instant message, so I sent her an IM that apparently my microphone wasn't working. She continued telling me about everything going on there while I frantically tried to figure out what was wrong. I tried the control panel, settings, anything with the word "audio" in the description. Nothing. I spoke loudly into anything on my 2-year-old laptop that looked like it could be a built-in microphone. "MARY?? CAN YOU HEAR ME??" She continued to soliloquize about the hot humid weather and the girls' adjustments to their new schools. Finally I gave up, telling her in an IM that I would dig up my Dell owner's manual and solve the microphone problem so we could converse next time.
Well--it turns out that my computer does not have a built-in mike! I'd just assumed--(which makes an ass out of me)--that any newer computer has one. DUH.
A trip to Wally World and $8.88 later, I had a new microphone and was all set for Mary's next appearance online. I even did a practice audio recording to make sure it worked!
Yesterday I had a 45-minute chat with my dear friend--and she has a computer with a built-in webcam so I could even see her!! At first it kind of looked like she didn't have teeth, but then it got better.
I am totally awestruck by the capabilities of today's communication technology! Who are the brainiacs that come up with this stuff?! It's way beyond anything that goes on in my head; I can barely even use it, let alone think it up! But I will enthusiastically enlist Skype to keep in touch with Mary--and Katie, too, when she goes to Ireland next semester. I'm going to wait on investing in a webcam, though. Not even my BFF needs to see what I look like first thing in the morning!
Before my friend Mary moved to China a month ago, she told me that we'd be able to talk to each other for free on our computers using Skype. All I needed to do was download the Skype program, get an ID, and wait for us to be online at the same time--not really a problem with the exactly 12-hour time difference.
I was really excited the weekend before last when Mary appeared on Skype and dialed my computer! I answered the call and could hear her "Hello there!" as clear as a bell from the other side of the world. I started talking and she asked, "Cheryl? Can you hear me?" Well, yeah, I could hear her plain as day, but she obviously couldn't hear me. Skype also lets you instant message, so I sent her an IM that apparently my microphone wasn't working. She continued telling me about everything going on there while I frantically tried to figure out what was wrong. I tried the control panel, settings, anything with the word "audio" in the description. Nothing. I spoke loudly into anything on my 2-year-old laptop that looked like it could be a built-in microphone. "MARY?? CAN YOU HEAR ME??" She continued to soliloquize about the hot humid weather and the girls' adjustments to their new schools. Finally I gave up, telling her in an IM that I would dig up my Dell owner's manual and solve the microphone problem so we could converse next time.
Well--it turns out that my computer does not have a built-in mike! I'd just assumed--(which makes an ass out of me)--that any newer computer has one. DUH.
A trip to Wally World and $8.88 later, I had a new microphone and was all set for Mary's next appearance online. I even did a practice audio recording to make sure it worked!
Yesterday I had a 45-minute chat with my dear friend--and she has a computer with a built-in webcam so I could even see her!! At first it kind of looked like she didn't have teeth, but then it got better.
I am totally awestruck by the capabilities of today's communication technology! Who are the brainiacs that come up with this stuff?! It's way beyond anything that goes on in my head; I can barely even use it, let alone think it up! But I will enthusiastically enlist Skype to keep in touch with Mary--and Katie, too, when she goes to Ireland next semester. I'm going to wait on investing in a webcam, though. Not even my BFF needs to see what I look like first thing in the morning!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Summer Farewell
The last day of August!! It seems like the summer went by in a flash--and I guess it did--because we were always busy! If I read back over my blogs since Memorial Day, there was something going on just about every week and during the weeks, too. Traveling--to the cabin, Elk Mound, Madison, Hayward, Mindoro, Bruce, Bayfield; having company both here and at the Hilton; taking care of lawns and houses and dogs; riding the Harley, writing lots of letters, taking lots of pictures, reading when I had the time. (Ten books for the summer, and I'm way behind on my goal of 75 for the year) Even finding time to write my blog has been hard the past couple weeks, as evidenced by the few and far-between entries here!
I didn't get around to several things I'd planned to do. I only went fishing once, but I guess there is still time for that during the fall. I missed all of the Thursday night concerts in town along the Riverwalk and have yet to get to the farmer's market here. I forgot to plant sunflowers until it was too late, and I never bought that bikini. (Hahaha) My diet sputtered and stalled.
Tomorrow a new month begins, and we already have plans every weekend through mid-October. We must feel the need to do as much as we can before the long winter arrives again--especially since we already had frost this morning and Fred had to scrape the windshield before going to work! Football season is upon us, and bowling league starts next week...the holidays will arrive in the blink of an eye. Fall is my favorite time of the year, with cool weather and beautiful trees--but like summer, it won't last long enough. So I plan to make the most of every remaining nice day, from today until I dig out that snow shovel.
I didn't get around to several things I'd planned to do. I only went fishing once, but I guess there is still time for that during the fall. I missed all of the Thursday night concerts in town along the Riverwalk and have yet to get to the farmer's market here. I forgot to plant sunflowers until it was too late, and I never bought that bikini. (Hahaha) My diet sputtered and stalled.
Tomorrow a new month begins, and we already have plans every weekend through mid-October. We must feel the need to do as much as we can before the long winter arrives again--especially since we already had frost this morning and Fred had to scrape the windshield before going to work! Football season is upon us, and bowling league starts next week...the holidays will arrive in the blink of an eye. Fall is my favorite time of the year, with cool weather and beautiful trees--but like summer, it won't last long enough. So I plan to make the most of every remaining nice day, from today until I dig out that snow shovel.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
A Mother's Son
Yesterday I had one of the most moving experiences of my life. I was able to meet my friend Cathi from Osborn, MO for the first time after getting to know her through e-mails, letters, and phone calls over the past year or so.
Cathi and I have both supported the troops using anysoldier.com for several years. Through our participation in "card swaps" and the anysoldier forum, we learned about each other's families. Both her sons were in the Army, but she also sent packages to other soldiers who needed things and didn't get much support from home. Cathi and I discovered much in common, and I found out that her family had lived only 25 miles from where I grew up in western Wisconsin when her husband--also in the Army--was stationed at Fort McCoy in the 80s.
On Memorial Day I wrote about the devastating loss Cathi's family suffered in January when her younger son Matthew's helicopter was shot down over Kirkuk, Iraq. Yesterday I had the privilege of getting to know Matthew through the memories of his mother. She brought along the scrapbook she had made for his wake, and I saw pages of him with his parents, brother, grandparents, and cousins. He kissed his bride and became a devoted father to a son and daughter. I saw the young boy who always wanted to fly join the Army and become a member of the 82nd Airborne, parachuting from a plane and later standing proudly in front of his Kiowa helicopter. Finally, on 1/26/09, he gave his life for his country. His older brother Christopher--who had just returned from his own Iraq deployment the summer before--escorted him home to Missouri for a hero's funeral.
Several thousand families all over this country have experienced the loss of a loved one in Iraq or Afghanistan since 2001. Most of us will not personally sacrifice anything as these wars continue. Cathi's wish is that we not wait for a funeral to express gratitude and caring for our military. The time to thank and support them is now, when they are far away from home and family, when a letter or package from someone they don't even know might be the boost they need to keep going a little longer.
As a mother, I feel Cathi's loss deeply. I admire her for raising sons with such courage and character, and for continuing to take care of other mothers' sons and daughters with packages as she lives a life without Matthew. I know we will be lifelong friends--and our next get-together will be in Missouri.
Please support our troops. http://www.anysoldier.com/
Cathi and I have both supported the troops using anysoldier.com for several years. Through our participation in "card swaps" and the anysoldier forum, we learned about each other's families. Both her sons were in the Army, but she also sent packages to other soldiers who needed things and didn't get much support from home. Cathi and I discovered much in common, and I found out that her family had lived only 25 miles from where I grew up in western Wisconsin when her husband--also in the Army--was stationed at Fort McCoy in the 80s.
On Memorial Day I wrote about the devastating loss Cathi's family suffered in January when her younger son Matthew's helicopter was shot down over Kirkuk, Iraq. Yesterday I had the privilege of getting to know Matthew through the memories of his mother. She brought along the scrapbook she had made for his wake, and I saw pages of him with his parents, brother, grandparents, and cousins. He kissed his bride and became a devoted father to a son and daughter. I saw the young boy who always wanted to fly join the Army and become a member of the 82nd Airborne, parachuting from a plane and later standing proudly in front of his Kiowa helicopter. Finally, on 1/26/09, he gave his life for his country. His older brother Christopher--who had just returned from his own Iraq deployment the summer before--escorted him home to Missouri for a hero's funeral.
Several thousand families all over this country have experienced the loss of a loved one in Iraq or Afghanistan since 2001. Most of us will not personally sacrifice anything as these wars continue. Cathi's wish is that we not wait for a funeral to express gratitude and caring for our military. The time to thank and support them is now, when they are far away from home and family, when a letter or package from someone they don't even know might be the boost they need to keep going a little longer.
As a mother, I feel Cathi's loss deeply. I admire her for raising sons with such courage and character, and for continuing to take care of other mothers' sons and daughters with packages as she lives a life without Matthew. I know we will be lifelong friends--and our next get-together will be in Missouri.
Please support our troops. http://www.anysoldier.com/
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Mississippi Mud
I didn't want to write about Brett Favre, but that was before his traitorous return from retirement yesterday to play for the team I have detested since I was 13 years old. I was so relieved three weeks ago when he chose to stay retired because I wanted to hang on to some of the good feelings I still had for him. Yes, I was upset last summer when he waited until training camp to announce that he still wanted to play. I wasn't happy that he became a Jet and would retire--I thought--as one of them. But I had mostly gotten over that and thought that at least he hadn't irreparably damaged his image and legacy. He's not the first big-name quarterback to leave the team he made his career with and finish up somewhere else. I felt he would still be welcomed back to Lambeau Field for the retirement of his number, recognized by the majority of the fans for what he'd meant to the team, the town, and the state.
However, that was before yesterday's knife to the hearts of Packer fans everywhere. I believe that he wants to play for the Vikings because it's the best way to hurt the Packers and the fans--as he told Sports Illustrated--"who never really loved me." He decided before training camp started that he couldn't give 100% and called off a comeback--then ambushed us by appearing in Minnesota yesterday and signing a 2-year contract. Gotcha!! He grins, holding up his new purple jersey, talking about how he had 16 great years in Green Bay, but they've moved on and so has he. Right.
I'm not saying the Packers are blameless in all this. I don't like Ted Thompson, and we will probably never know what went on behind the scenes with the Packers' management and Brett last year. But these latest choices are all being made by #4, and if he thinks that we have forgotten his desire to "stick it" to Ted Thompson by playing for Minnesota, then he must also think we have cheese for brains.
To many he has become a laughingstock, an athlete in the twilight of his career who can't face being out of the limelight or make a decision and stick with it for more than a month. Maybe looking at 40 in two months has made him temporarily insane. Who knows?
On March 6, 2008 during his tearful retirement press conference in Green Bay, he said: "It was never about the money or fame or records...it was never about me." Maybe it was true when he said it. It isn't any more.
However, that was before yesterday's knife to the hearts of Packer fans everywhere. I believe that he wants to play for the Vikings because it's the best way to hurt the Packers and the fans--as he told Sports Illustrated--"who never really loved me." He decided before training camp started that he couldn't give 100% and called off a comeback--then ambushed us by appearing in Minnesota yesterday and signing a 2-year contract. Gotcha!! He grins, holding up his new purple jersey, talking about how he had 16 great years in Green Bay, but they've moved on and so has he. Right.
I'm not saying the Packers are blameless in all this. I don't like Ted Thompson, and we will probably never know what went on behind the scenes with the Packers' management and Brett last year. But these latest choices are all being made by #4, and if he thinks that we have forgotten his desire to "stick it" to Ted Thompson by playing for Minnesota, then he must also think we have cheese for brains.
To many he has become a laughingstock, an athlete in the twilight of his career who can't face being out of the limelight or make a decision and stick with it for more than a month. Maybe looking at 40 in two months has made him temporarily insane. Who knows?
On March 6, 2008 during his tearful retirement press conference in Green Bay, he said: "It was never about the money or fame or records...it was never about me." Maybe it was true when he said it. It isn't any more.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Give a Kid a Pencil...
Back-to-school sales have been going on for a few weeks now, and school supplies are at the lowest prices of the year. One indirect way to help our troops is to send them school supplies for the children of Afghanistan and Iraq. Providing these kids with an education and a means to a better life will ultimately benefit our troops and our country.
One organization that provides these needed items to the children of war-torn Afghanistan and other countries began in 2005. It is called Operation Dreamseed and was founded by then-Captain Todd Schmidt, one of my Anysoldier contacts when he was deployed in Kandahar. An excerpt from the ODS website states: "For the first time, children of Afghanistan have the opportunity to receive an education, to have hope for a better future, and pursue their dreams. Operation Dreamseed is dedicated to distributing school supplies directly to Afghani children through the help of the U.S. Army. The program is a wonderful way for you and your family to fight alongside our soldiers, not taking lives, but planting seeds of hope in the minds of a young generation." Go to http://www.operationdreamseed.org/ for information on where and how to send items through this program.
You can also go to http://www.anysoldier.com/ on the "Where to Send" page. Scroll down the page to where it says "Click HERE to search anysoldier.com contacts." Using the box that says "requests and e-mail contents", type in school suppplies and click on SEARCH. This will give you a list of all the AS contacts who would like to receive these items for distribution to the children of Iraq and Afghanistan. You can read their individual posts and choose to whom you'd like to donate.
Three years ago Maj. Sean Gustafson wrote to me from Herat, Afghanistan where he and his group of Minnesota National Guard engineers were building schools and other projects for the people there. He said, "It is by helping the children here that we will ultimately help these folks make their country safe and democratic. Give a kid here a pencil and you've about doubled his net worth." You can see many pictures of children receiving donated school supplies if you look up Todd Schmidt and Sean Gustafson under "Old Contacts" on anysoldier.com
In Sean's words, "Happy people don't join the Taliban or Alqaeda."
Please help if you can.
One organization that provides these needed items to the children of war-torn Afghanistan and other countries began in 2005. It is called Operation Dreamseed and was founded by then-Captain Todd Schmidt, one of my Anysoldier contacts when he was deployed in Kandahar. An excerpt from the ODS website states: "For the first time, children of Afghanistan have the opportunity to receive an education, to have hope for a better future, and pursue their dreams. Operation Dreamseed is dedicated to distributing school supplies directly to Afghani children through the help of the U.S. Army. The program is a wonderful way for you and your family to fight alongside our soldiers, not taking lives, but planting seeds of hope in the minds of a young generation." Go to http://www.operationdreamseed.org/ for information on where and how to send items through this program.
You can also go to http://www.anysoldier.com/ on the "Where to Send" page. Scroll down the page to where it says "Click HERE to search anysoldier.com contacts." Using the box that says "requests and e-mail contents", type in school suppplies and click on SEARCH. This will give you a list of all the AS contacts who would like to receive these items for distribution to the children of Iraq and Afghanistan. You can read their individual posts and choose to whom you'd like to donate.
Three years ago Maj. Sean Gustafson wrote to me from Herat, Afghanistan where he and his group of Minnesota National Guard engineers were building schools and other projects for the people there. He said, "It is by helping the children here that we will ultimately help these folks make their country safe and democratic. Give a kid here a pencil and you've about doubled his net worth." You can see many pictures of children receiving donated school supplies if you look up Todd Schmidt and Sean Gustafson under "Old Contacts" on anysoldier.com
In Sean's words, "Happy people don't join the Taliban or Alqaeda."
Please help if you can.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Tidbits
--Trying to sell a house is an exercise in frustration and disappointment. The people whose verbal offer we had accepted finally put it in writing--and offered less than their original amount. When we countered, they came back with the exact same thing. So we said no--and are back to square one after two years on the market. Right now we own all three houses we've lived in since we got married. How many people can say that?!!
--I spent part of the weekend in Madison with Erica and Craig at their new apartment. It made me marvel that my firstborn is really an adult now and is starting medical school today. I know she will be an excellent doctor and a champion for women. We are proud of you, honey!
--Yesterday Fred started prep work for the deck he plans to put on the house. He wants to get the parts outside each door done before winter. Then he can tackle the indoor jobs that still remain on his honey-do list.
--I've discovered that an oven timer is a wonderful thing. I'd never used it in all the years I've been baking--I mean, how could anyone forget they had something in the oven?!! It's very convenient, and easier than having to turn off a shrieking smoke alarm.
--I started my diet 6 weeks ago. Five of those weeks I made healthy eating choices, gave up the things I knew weren't good for me, stopped baking, exercised. The past week I ate whatever I wanted. I am still stuck at a meager 3-pound weight loss. I'm not sure what my next step will be, but yesterday I baked zucchini bread and a banana chocolate chip cake.
-Last night Fred and I watched a movie called "Defiance." It was based on a true story--which is also a book by the same name--about some Jewish brothers who saved hundreds of Jews during World War II by hiding them in the forests of Russia. Daniel Craig is in it, and he's not hard to watch for a couple hours, either!
--Fred has $31.07 in his gin jar, and I have nothing. Zero. I'm going to take up solitaire.
--I spent part of the weekend in Madison with Erica and Craig at their new apartment. It made me marvel that my firstborn is really an adult now and is starting medical school today. I know she will be an excellent doctor and a champion for women. We are proud of you, honey!
--Yesterday Fred started prep work for the deck he plans to put on the house. He wants to get the parts outside each door done before winter. Then he can tackle the indoor jobs that still remain on his honey-do list.
--I've discovered that an oven timer is a wonderful thing. I'd never used it in all the years I've been baking--I mean, how could anyone forget they had something in the oven?!! It's very convenient, and easier than having to turn off a shrieking smoke alarm.
--I started my diet 6 weeks ago. Five of those weeks I made healthy eating choices, gave up the things I knew weren't good for me, stopped baking, exercised. The past week I ate whatever I wanted. I am still stuck at a meager 3-pound weight loss. I'm not sure what my next step will be, but yesterday I baked zucchini bread and a banana chocolate chip cake.
-Last night Fred and I watched a movie called "Defiance." It was based on a true story--which is also a book by the same name--about some Jewish brothers who saved hundreds of Jews during World War II by hiding them in the forests of Russia. Daniel Craig is in it, and he's not hard to watch for a couple hours, either!
--Fred has $31.07 in his gin jar, and I have nothing. Zero. I'm going to take up solitaire.
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