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 |  Every person is a new door to a different world...
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Skyewriting ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** "The air up there in the clouds is very pure and fine, bracing and delicious. And why shouldn't it be? - it is the same the angels breathe." ~Mark Twain ~  ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** "When we are alone on a starlit night, when by chance we see the migrating birds in autumn descending on a grove of junipers to rest and eat; when we see children in a moment when they are really children, when we know love in our own hearts; or when, like the Japanese poet, Basho, we hear an old frog land in a quiet pond with a solitary splash - at such times the awakening, the turning inside out of all values, the "newness," the emptiness and the purity of vision that make themselves evident, all these provide a glimpse of the cosmic dance." ~Thomas Merton ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Why I'm Here~ ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** "Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive." ~from Six Degrees of Separation "Writing can be a creative and invigorating way to make our lives available to ourselves...We may discover that the better we tell our stories, the better we will want to live them." ~Henri Nouwen You can also read my poetry at "Invalid Item"  I'm so glad you dropped in! Peace and Blessings  ~Mandy~ |
** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** "I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it. People think pleasing God is all God care about. But any fool living in the world can see it always trying to please us back. " ~ Alice Walker (The Color Purple) Typically, I'm a morning person. When 10:30PM rolls around, I'm ready to trundle off to Dreamland and get my zzzzz's. Those who know me best ( susanL  ) can confirm that after eleven o'clock, my eyes begin to glaze over and my brain cells protest, causing my words to slur and conversation to float around my head like smoke in a Las Vegas casino. It's not pretty and no, I don't drink, save for the occasional cocktail (max 2) with friends. Therefore, I turn in at a reasonable hour each night, with very rare exceptions. Last night, or more specifically, this morning, was one of those exceptions. Astronomy forecasters predicted that the Perseids meteor shower would peak on August 12 and 13 this year, with as many as eighty meteors per hour. Shortly after 1AM, I slipped outside, hoping to wish on a shooting star. I found a soft patch of grass where I could view the entire night sky and lay down, waiting. After nearly thirty minutes, I still hadn't spotted a meteor and my eyes were growing weary, so I gave up my quest for the night. The evening, however, did not disappoint. From the moment my bare feet stepped onto the dew-kissed carpet of grass, my senses were awakened. Beneath the star strewn sky, I was mesmerized by ghostly silhouettes floating across a luminous half moon. Cricket song was the only sound, except for the occasional hum of an air conditioner. While the world sleeps, there is a peace that eludes the suburbs during daylight hours. I'm fortunate. From a very young age, my parents taught me to revere nature. Most summers, we'd venture west, with John Denver serenading us along the way. I have fond memories of Glacier National Park and Going to the Sun Road, where we once spotted a bull elk grazing and a kodiak romping in the snow. My father was especially fond of the Grand Tetons, where vast herds of elk and bison roam free and bald eagles are easily spotted while rafting down the Snake River. There's nothing quite like viewing wildlife in its natural habitat, where beauty and surprises abound. Somewhere along the line, I didn't completely forget these lessons, but I allowed the busyness of life and stress to interfere. Household chores began to take precedence over time out of doors, even on the loveliest of days. When I would walk, I'd tune the world out with headphones blaring in my ears, my eyes glued to the pavement directly in front of me and an endless to-do list consuming my thoughts. It's disheartening to consider what I may have missed while living in this tunnel. Intuitively, I began to realize that in order to reap enjoyment out of life, I needed to tune back in to my surroundings. I'd be remiss if I didn't credit Kåre Enga in Montana  and his gift of observation for inspiring me. Daily strolls are an integral part of my ritual, no matter how full my schedule may be. Headphones have been replaced by a voice recorder, so that I can note even the tiniest observations. Just some of the sights I've been gifted with this week... a downy woodpecker on two separate days - once, balancing on a prairie clover and on another day, pecking at a mullein spike the sun and half-moon meeting on equal planes during mid-morning blue herons *ahem* copulating and making a horrible racket a tiny nest, tucked in between cattails a crimson horizon, peering out from beneath ominous storm cloudsWith the possible exception of the herons, any of these gifts might have been easily overlooked. Everywhere, there is beauty, if we simply take notice. Peace and Blessings ~Mandy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Zx27dP1mTg |
** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** When you buy something with money you've earned, you enjoy it more than when someone else buys it for you. ~AnnMarie, age 14~ The key to success is selling my mom's chocolate chip cookies. ~Rachel, age 11~ Try as I might, it's difficult to ignore the colorful displays of spiral note books, Elmer's glue sticks and Crayola crayons pervading the aisles at my favorite Target store. Like it or not, summer is passing quickly and school will begin in fewer than three weeks. As students file into the hallways, they'll don fresh haircuts, the latest fashions, new sneakers and elaborate backpacks that promise to keep even the most disorganized student in order. Almost certainly, several items will also be confiscated during those first few days of school - iPods, cell phones, hand-held video games and skateboards. All too often, these children aren't troubled when an item is lost because a) there won't be consequences at home, and b) "Mom will just buy me a new one."  This blasé attitude doesn't apply to all children, of course, but more and more, there seems to be a sense of entitlement and indifference amongst our youth. The parking lot at our local high school is congested with Escalades, Hummers, Mustangs, Chargers, etc., mostly belonging to - the students! The dented, rusted Kias and Cavaliers belong to the faculty. Furthermore, when a child has privileged friends with lots of "toys," it makes it all the more difficult for a parent to instill the value of a dollar and a good work ethic - one reason I'm grateful that Emily has chosen to open enroll and complete her high school education in the rural district where she feels accepted and appreciated for who she is. Rare, but not completely removed, are the days of lemonade and kool-aid stands. When I was a child, my sister and I frequently sat up a card table near the curb with a box of Dixie cups, a cooler of ice cubes and a pitcher. After a couple of hours (and consuming some of our product), we'd happily count our quarters. I recall the pride I felt in purchasing Little Golden Books with money that I had earned. My cousin, Troy, earned his money by selling earthworms. He owned an electric probe that he'd push into the soil during the wee morning hours. He'd then scan the ground with his flashlight and harvest the creepy crawlers. Their home was near an access to the Iowa River and Troy sold dozens of worms to weekend fishermen. Years ago, I owned a red loom that came with a colorful assortment of nylon loops. My poor mother had a drawer over-flowing with pot holders that I wove during a creative phase. Last summer, I was browsing a local farmers' market when I spotted a young lady (probably 7 or 8), concentrating on her own weaving. Her loom was identical to the one I had owned and she was selling her pot-holders for three dollars each. I selected one in shades of green, turquoise and pink and admired the professional manner in which she made change from her Fisher Price cash register. Not long after the farmers' market, I accompanied a friend to an arts and crafts show. There, performing his magic, was a young man around ten-years-old. He appeared to be completely at ease with an audience and for just fifty cents, he'd do a magic trick. A miniature David Copperfield, he had perfected his craft and drew quite a crowd. Group efforts are even more lucrative. Emily's volleyball team regularly holds fund-raisers - concession stands, lasagna dinners, bake sales, etc. It helps off-set the cost of tournaments for parents and, last year, the girls earned enough to purchase new uniforms for this year's season. Whether families have simply become too busy, or it's a pervasive fear - pedophiles, lawsuits, child-labor laws, taxes, etc., - fewer and fewer children seem to know what it means to work or else do without. Whipping out a debit card may be simpler, but allowing children to earn their own money is a valuable teaching tool - for implementing math skills, learning to manage money, developing a business sense and interacting effectively with others. I'm encouraged whenever I see a little person trying to earn an honest profit. Supporting their efforts will benefit us all in the long run. Peace and Blessings ~Mandy Do-Re-Mi: Emily is off to the northwest corner of the state with a friend this week. The extra time is allowing me time to dust off my muse a bit and partake in a few challenges. Thanks to alfred booth, wanbli ska and NOVAcatmando  . Also, thanks to Kåre Enga in Montana for introducing flarfing to the community and to Thomas for moving me to tears with his own response to Alfred's challenge "Invalid Entry" You Fill Up My Senses: I found another quiet spot at the southern edge of Saylorville Lake. Not as secluded as Jester Park but - closer. The oak trees are majestic, the grass is cool and a pair of cardinals appear to reside there. I need my little get-aways! It Happened On This Day: In 1914, U.S. president, Woodrow Wilson, declared neutrality in WW I. Pink Update: My mother has undergone 4 of 12 treatments with this second series of chemo. The side-effects are fewer than with the first series of drugs. She is beginning to feel a little bit of stubble returning to her crown and is feeling fabulous. Iowegian Skies: Beautiful shades of coral to the west and 81° at 20:20. |
A friend on another site recently shared a list of ten things he missed about his hometown and his childhood. Though my childhood was far from perfect and a certain amount of dysfunction existed in our family (Isn't that true of most of us?), his entry left me feeling a little nostalgic about my own childhood and growing up in Marshalltown, Iowa, so I thought I'd share my own list of ten. In no particular order... Strolling to Seberg's Drug Store to purchase penny candy. My personal favorites were sour apple Jolly Ranchers, Sixlets and Tootsie Rolls. The drug store sat on the corner of 13th Street and Summit and was owned and operated by Edward Seberg, the father of the late actress, Jean Seberg.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean_Seberg Wading in the creek at Tankersly Park and catching crawdads. I was the consummate tomboy and frequently presented my mother with my latest catches...snakes, toads, insects and, the occasional baby rabbit. Her response was always predictable. "Get THAT THING out of here!"  Feeding the ducks at Riverside Cemetery. The final resting place of my brother (he was a preemie), great-grandparents and other family members is very picturesque with its gently rolling hills and mature oak trees. At the entrance to the cemetery is a beautiful pond. For as long as I can remember, the park has been home to two trumpeter swans and a variety of other water fowl. My grandmother and I often took small sacks of bread crumbs with us and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. Sitting on a bar-stool in Ray Coulter's Tavern next to my father. Once in a while, my father would allow me to accompany him to a poker game or to the "pool hall" to visit his good friend, Ray. Ray Coulter always called me Big Brown Eyes, despite the fact that my eyes are hazel. Every time we visited, he had a Hershey's bar with almonds just for me. Good ole Ray passed away at the age of 90 earlier this year. Hanging out with my friends, Donita and Amy. Until my family moved from the south end of town to the north end, I played baseball and marbles with the neighbor boys. Amy and Donita were my first female friends and we were inseparable. Donita was the blonde, I was the brunette and Amy was the red-head. Amy was a bookworm, Donita loved to dance and together, the three of us somehow muddled our way through puberty. Amy later joined the Peace Corps and met her husband in South America. She now teaches in Minnesota and is still a bookworm. Donita lives about twenty miles away and her tow-headed daughter is a tiny dancer. Each year, the third-graders in our building do a crayfish unit. I love to hear the shrieks and eewwwws when I reach into the tank and pick the little critters up. I guess fundamentally, we really don't change all that much. Queenie's "mile high peach pie." When I was growing up, Marshalltown was very lacking in its diversity...So much so that at the age of three, I innocently pointed out a "chocolate man" to my mortified mother. Queenie was an elderly African-American woman who lived a modest life and she could bake a pie like no other. Most of the local restaurants sold her pies and I would sometimes accompany my father to her home to purchase a whole pie. Strange thing is, I don't recall that he shared!  Queenie has been gone for several years, but some of the restaurants still advertise mile high peach pie...It just isn't the same. Visiting my aunt, Evelyn, and my uncle, Ward, on their dairy farm. There were always eggs to be gathered and kittens to cuddle. Aunt Evie could almost rival Queenie with her homemade black raspberry pie and she was always knitting something. Many lazy summer afternoons were spent slurping watermelon and seeing who could create the loudest ping by spitting the seeds at the propane tank. Going for Sunday drives. During my childhood, my father purchased and sold a variety of classic cars. My favorite was a silver 1957 Chevy Bel Aire. When my father purchased it, it only had 56,000 miles on the odometer and the interior still bore the protective vinyl covering from the factory. On sunny days, we'd take the car for a spin and afterward, it was my pleasure to help hand-wash and wax it before it took its protective place in the garage. I still lament that Dad sold that car. I think he does too. Family picnics at Riverview Park. My grandmother was a terrible cook, but she could do two things well...homemade noodles and ice cream. During our outings, she'd sit in the shade of a tree, hand crank her machine and serve up heaping bowls of vanilla ice cream. My great-grandfather always donned his blue and white striped overalls and delighted in watching us kids play, especially if we were being mischievous (He once sat and watched, laughing, while I colored on my mother's living room wall.) My aunt, Bonnie, and her then-husband, sang while he strummed the guitar. I'd usually steal away to the river to skip rocks or toss out a fishing line with my grandfather. Everything then seemed right with the world. Climbing trees, getting dirty and games like hopscotch and tether ball (Does anyone play those games anymore?). When I was a kid, coming indoors for dinner, a bath or bedtime was a huge imposition. Maybe I'm a little "old school," but I think this generation of kids is missing out. Your turn now.  What do you miss about your childhood/hometown? Peace and Blessings ~Mandy |
When I last wrote a month ago, I didn't plan on being absent from WDC for quite so long. So much for best laid plans.  The good news is, I'm moved, though not completely settled yet. Since I still have nearly a month before school begins, I intend to unpack at a leisurely pace and enjoy my remaining time off. I had planned on utilizing the library across the street for computer access, but that didn't last for long. I hate to admit that I'm so dependent on the internet, but it really is a useful tool for staying connected. It's also far more comfortable to sit in my pj's with mussed up hair, sipping a diet Mt. Dew and listening to a little John Denver, while reading or writing. Soooo...I'm delighted to be back. I've caught up with reading most of my favorite blogs, though I won't delude myself or others into believing that I'll try to catch up on commenting. Blogville has certainly been quiet though. It would seem I'm not the only one who's having a busy summer! The month of July, in review... After purging, packing and placing items in storage at a hectic pace, I was looking forward to a couple of weeks in Texas with my family. I was greeted by spectacular crape myrtles in variant shades of fuschia, lavendar, white and royal purple. Also anticipating my arrival was the oppressive heat! Almost every day topped out in the 100's and in the evenings, the temperature indoors hovered somewhere around 85°. I compensated by getting my walks in before 7:30AM and consumed enough water to fill an olympic sized pool. Each time that I visit, the town of McKinney becomes larger and less familiar. During my high school years, I visited my aunt there every summer. In the 1980's, the population was somewhere around 26,000 and we would have to venture into Plano or Dallas to go out for dinner or see a movie. Now, McKinney's population is about 125,000 and the once tiny town is almost indistinguishable from the rest of the metroplex. The one constant though, is the downtown area, which is bustling with antique stores, boutiques, soda fountains, artisan shops and restaurants. Homes, built around the turn of the 19th century, are also well maintained. Some are open to tours and others have been converted to Bed and Breakfasts. It's refreshing to know that the town prides itself on its history. http://www.downtownmckinney.com/frameset.asp?aid=144 http://s285.photobucket.com/albums/ll77/mandy_howe/?action=view¤t=7b1c8a48... It was also encouraging to see that my mother is indeed coming along well with her chemotherapy. She has a session each Friday and, besides being very sleepy on Sundays, she's as energetic and upbeat as I've ever seen her. As long as her white blood cell count remains stable, she should be finished sometime in late September. Thanks to all who continue to ask about her progress and for the collective well-wishes and prayers. After my first week in Texas, my sister and niece also arrived for a visit. Little Zoe is now 15-months-old, donning wispy blond pigtails, walking and saying a few words...baf(bath), woof-woof, up, nack(snack), pock(park) and nap. We also had fun reconnecting with my cousins, Phil, Dusty and Trey, and their young families. My aunt made the 3-1/2 hour trek from Austin and we all enjoyed a celebratory night out in honor of her birthday. I used my sister's camera to take pictures, which she promised to forward. I'm still waiting... When the 14th arrived, Emily and I reluctantly packed up our things and drove twelve tedious hours back to the midwest. The much cooler temperatures, light traffic and the color green (lots and lots of concrete in the metroplex) were a welcome relief. Still, I can't help lamenting that my family is so spread out. On the 15th, we began moving into our townhome. As windac once wrote, "Everything is a trade-off...Everything." I'm enjoying the proximity to the grocery store and other conveniences. I have access to many ammenities and there are several nice parks in the area, but they're a little too manicured and populated. I find myself missing the more rustic surroundings, solitude and abundance of wildlife at Jester Park. Therefore, I've promised myself one outing per week to my little retreat. Since moving in, I've managed to keep busy with various and sundry appointments, attended the Iowa Games in which Emily's volleyball team was sorely defeated (and so was my tush after nearly eight hours spent on the bleachers!) and continue to be surprised by the contents of boxes, which for some reason, didn't get labeled.  I've also been taking full advantage of the mild temperatures and walking has most definitely become my preferred mode of transportation. The theme of the day, today, appeared to be yellow...fire hydrants, daylillies, a yellow-jacket, dandelions, snapdragons, a Mustang convertible, a parakeet that seems to have been adopted by a grouping of finches, and even a pair of yellow jogging shoes. I've also been reminded recently that July 29th will mark my one-year anniversary here at WDC. This entry will be my 51st, so if I can manage one more in the next few days, I'll have averaged one entry per week. It doesn't seem that I've written that many and I know that I've certainly been sporatic at best. A very good friend, who shall remain anonymous, was kind enough to renew my membership for another year with no stipulations, but gently encouraged me to write more frequently. I fully intend to honor that request.  I've missed my friends here...It's good to be home! Peace and Blessings ~Mandy |
| Well...I've managed to be just as invisible during the month of June as I was in May. I've decluttered, packed and stored at least a decade's worth of stuff over the past few weeks. Tomorrow, I'll rent a truck for the big stuff and on Saturday, I'll be leaving to spend two-and-a-half weeks in Texas before returning to the Midwest and moving into my new abode. Purging has been both exhausting and liberating. I'm looking forward to downsizing, simplifying and being within walking distance of everything I need...a grocery store, the library, and even work. I'll be able to tend a little container garden without the drudgery of yardwork, utilize the pool and walk to VanDee's for an ice cream cone! Tomorrow, my internet will be disconnected, but during my stay in Texas, I'll finally have some down time to catch up with my friends here at WDC. In the interim, some of you have my cell phone number. I know that several members of Blogville are facing difficult situations, so if there are any developments that I should be aware of, I'd certainly appreciate a phone call. Or...I'd be delighted if any of y'all would just like to call to chat! So...I'll be incognito for a few days. Once I've fully recuperated from my trek, I look forward to spending a little more time here in Blogville. In the meantime, feel free to stop by my new p(oetry)log, "Invalid Item" . Have a wonderful weekend...Peace and blessings to all! ~Mandy |
Golly...Where did May go?  We're now entering into the second week of June and folks probably think I fell off the face of the earth or died. Quite the contrary...I'm just really adept at over-obligating myself. During the month, Emily has kept me on the go with her various and sundry activities. Add to that work, a road trip to Minneapolis, the return of an old friend, graduation parties, preparing for a move, (Are your eyes glazing over yet?) etc., and I've been caught up like Dorothy in a cyclone. My time online has been very limited, with the exception of a poetry class offered by our own NOVAcatmando , so I hope friends here will excuse my absenteeism over the past few weeks. Though May had its stressors, I did manage to make it through the month without deflating and collapsing from complete exhaustion. Yesterday marked the final work day and completion of the 2008-09 school year, so I finally have an opportunity to catch my breath, share some highlights, and catch up with a few of my favorite bloggers. But first, please oblige me a little happy dance... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWABJzHrGww There...that feels better. Now, as promised, I'll spare everyone the angst that accompanies the joys of selling a house, decluttering over a decade's worth of "stuff" and finding a new place that meets at least 75% of my criteria, and share a few highlights.For starters, May was definitely Emily's month. She wrapped up track season with several blue ribbons, an invitation to accompany the high school track team to the state meet to watch the hurdlers and to join the varsity team...as a freshman! She participated in the girls' middle school state track meet and the Hawks tied for the small school division championship. Here they are, receiving their plaque. ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** Additionally, there was an end-of-the-year concert showcasing the concert band, jazz band and choir. Just two days later, was eighth-grade graduation, followed by a dance, to which she accompanied her first date, a very nice boy named Michael. Sadly, just four days later, she gave him that all too familiar I just want to remain friends spiel. Ah, my little heart-breaker...You couldn't pay me to be fourteen again! Once past Emily's obligations, I was able to make take a couple of "sick" days and drive up to Minneapolis, where I met first met Kåre Enga in Montana at the bus depot. He charmed me instantly with his scholarly appearance, genial demeanor and his observation that I appeared young. Thank you, Kåre! We were then able to get acquainted at a Barnes and Noble coffee shop before departing to pick up the lovebirds, susanL and Thomas , (who I'm happy to report continue to be as lovestruck as teenagers) and then it was back to Minneapolis to rendezvous with scarlett_o_h, and her hubby, David. After some confusion over which Ramada they were staying at, we managed to spot a familiar face...There was certainly no mistaking the queen! ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** Unfortunately, there were six of us...seven counting da duck, one car and four seats, so we were resigned to restaurants within walking distance. Admittedly, I've never eaten at a Boston Market before, but the food was good and the company even better. After our meal, we sat in the lounge at Don Pablos where we enjoyed some drinks, conversation, some humorous quips, and closed down the joint...at 10PM! So, our little caravan then moved on to the hotel lounge where we were able to converse without the din of a restaurant and too early closing hours. For those who have never met Scarlett, she is very warm, engaging and expressive and, as Nada once wrote, she gives great hugs. I only wish we'd had more time. *sigh*I can't speak for Scarlett, but my impression was that she was also charmed by our generous poet, as he presented her with some lovely and very unique gifts, which I'll allow her to share with you. For those who have never met Kåre, I found him to be very conversant, thoughtful and intuitive. I think he likes to be somewhat of an enigma, so I hope he doesn't mind me sharing this photo. I just love his smile! ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** And here's the whole motely crew enjoying a few drinks and lively conversation. ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** Of course, I've known Susan most of my adult life, and Thomas is a perfect fit for her and her little consort. They're best friends and true companions who like to banter and cajole; peas and carrots. But somehow, I don't think that will surprise anyone who reads their blogs regularly.  As an additional treat, Mr. Enga was able to accompany me back to the cornfields of Iowa for a couple of days before returning to Missoula, the Celtic Connection and Butterfly Herbs. Once again, more time would have been nice, as I had to return to work on Friday. We were, however, able to enjoy a peaceful dinner at Lou's, a family owned restaurant I'd never patronized before, despite driving by quite regularly. While we shared conversation and overindulged in homemade pie, Emily was attending yet another dance, this time sans a date, just one block away. Do-Re-Mi: In addition to my little account above, my friend, Misty, visited from Maine just recently. We've been friends since seventh grade and hadn't seen one another in over five years. I've also been blessed with several gifts over the past few weeks...Some treats, ala the Queen Mary 2, from Scarlett, some delicious and very fragrant herbal tea, plus a copy of Trash and an almost complete set of Sushi from my dear friend, Kåre, a Take Me to Heathrow cheesecake (in honor of Scarlett?) from a student, a Jasmine candle and a miniature yellow rose bush, also from students. I'm reminded that gratitude needs to play an important role in my life. You Fill Up My Senses: I discovered a shady and secluded glen nearby, where I've managed to steal away a couple of evenings recently. The avian variety is splashy. Just the other night, I spotted a downy woodpecker, several blue birds, a goldfinch and a blue jay. Dusk is the best time to visit, when I'm almost guaranteed to spy a white-tailed deer. The Canadian geese also have goslings in tow. I love summer! Pink Update: My mother will undergo her third chemo session tomorrow. With each treatment thus far, she's experienced about 48 hours of extreme fatigue and her appetite is diminished. She had her head shaved last weekend and is beginning to lose the stubble. True to her positive outlook, she's enjoying not having to shave her legs! Thank you for all the continued well wishes and prayers! It Happened On This Day: In 1934, Donald Fauntleroy Duck made his film debut in The Wise Little Hen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5dowCyaP7I Iowegian Skies: Overcast and a cool 64° at 14:35 CDT. |
** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** “It is not until you become a mother that your judgment slowly turns to compassion and understanding.” ~Erma Bombeck~  "Mama exhorted her children at every opportunity to 'jump at de sun.' We might not land on the sun, but at least we would get off the ground." ~Zora Neale Hurston~ "The moment a child is born, the mother is also born...She never existed before." ~Rajneesh~ "No gift to your mother can ever equal her gift to you - life" ~Anonymous~ "When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child." ~Sophia Loren~ "I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life." ~Abraham Lincoln~ "It kills you to see them grow up. But I guess it would kill you quicker if they didn't." ~Barbara Kingsolver~ "Of all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother." ~Lin Yutang~ Yup...I'm taking it easy today in honor of Mother's Day. The beautiful image above is a creation by Beatien Yazz. This, and other fine Native American compositions can be viewed at http://www.firstpeople.us/pictures/art/odd-sizes/pt/Mother-And-Child-900x833.htm... Whether she's your mum, mom, nana, grandma, wife, daughter, sister or friend, let a mother know how special she is today...Happy Mother's Day! |
"Things do not pass for what they are, but for what they seem. Most things are judged by their jackets." ~Baltasar Gracian ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** To the casual observer, the above image is indicative of Iowa's topography. Someone passing through would expect to find a patchwork of wide open spaces, fields of corn and sprawling farms dotting the landscape...an accurate portrait of our nation's bread basket. There are a few small cities, but nothing that rivals megalopolises such as Chicago or New York. All in all, life here is quiet and predictable. However, a closer examination reveals a few unexpected surprises. Just a few of the hidden treasures in my neck of the woods...or should I say prairie? ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** The town of Madrid, formerly named Swede Pointe, was founded by Swedish settlers in 1846. The small town thrived primarily on farming but as its economy gradually became more dependent on coal mining, Italian immigrants came to the area to work the mines. Today, Madrid has approximately 2,300 residents. When construction began on this Hindu temple and cultural center, located just south of Madrid, six years ago, residents turned out to extend greetings and fellowship to their new neighbors. In turn, the temple opened its doors to the public. Suren Gupta, a consulting engineer and co-chair of the temple's board was quoted as saying, "Even with their differences, Hindus have much in common with other faiths. You speak the truth, to help a human being in suffering and in need, to do the right thing, to follow your conscience....things you would have in common in most religions."1 Incidentally, this temple is adjacent to the farmstead pictured above...Not exactly what you'd expect to find amongst the corn and soybeans. And speaking of farms... We have farmers...and we have farmers. My friend, Robert Lees, began his operation with a large, heated garage, several dozen Rubbermaid totes, and heaps of yard debris. He then purchased several thousand red wiggler worms and the family began composting all of their biodegradable waste. Robert began earning a small income by selling worm castings as fertilizer at local farmer's markets and grew the business by purchasing a lawn vacuum and hauling away leaves and clippings, which he then fed to his worm population. Today, he operates from an acreage outside of Mingo. His large outbuilding contains row after row of troughs which house millions of red wigglers. Robert has a contract with the Colfax-Mingo school district and composts most of their waste. He began selling off some of his worms to others interested in beginning their own businesses, but the downturn in the economy caused interest to wane. However, the demand for castings is on the increase and he has refocused his attentions on selling castings only. Former neighbors who guffawed at his efforts aren't laughing now... http://www.arpeggiofarms.com/ ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** Another little treasure is the town of Sheldahl. At a glance, this rural town, population somewhere around 350, doesn't appear to have much to offer. It was settled by a group of Norwegian immigrants in 1855 and named after its inhabitants, Osmond and Anna Sheldahl. What makes Sheldahl unique is that it sits on three counties...Polk, Story and Boone. Americana and patriotism are alive and well in this little town and every other year, Sheldahl hosts an Independence Day celebration complete with live bands, a mechanical bull, carnival rides and home made ice cream. It's small town U.S.A. at its best and after traveling around the world and coming back again, I have yet to see a fireworks display that can rival the one that Sheldahl puts on. Another beautiful display... ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** While the above image may be breathtaking, the sight of a cross on a hillside certainly isn't unusual...Not at a glance, in any case. This cross, on Gobbler's Knob, overlooks the small town of Granger, where I currently reside. From the early 1900's through the winter of 1929-30, Fred Buchanan operated the Yankee Robbins Show, which was later named the Robbins Brother's Circus. During the winter months, the elephant quarters were located in the area and those who didn't survive the winter were buried here. This cross marks their final resting place...and serves as a reminder that Iowa isn't the place for elephants in the wintertime! And...come wintertime, springtime, summer or fall...the town of Woodward also boasts a treasure, by the name of Kip Shannon. When the Lake Robbins Ballroom opened its doors in 1931, Kip was at the ticket counter doling out tickets for ten cents each. Today, at the age of 100, Kip still works the ticket counter with no immediate plans to retire...How's that for a work ethic?! http://www.lakerobbins.com/p/kip.htm Overall, Iowa is as it seems...but those inquisitive enough will find many unique attributes and riches undisclosed to the naked eye. People are like that too. When you take the time to look beyond the surface, who knows what hidden treasures lie in wait.  Peace and Blessings ~Mandy Do-Re-Mi: Life has been a little crazy in between track meets, preparing for Em's 8th grade graduation and selling the house. I haven't been able to keep up with my friends here in Blogville as much I would like to, so please accept my apologies. As of tomorrow, there are only five weeks of school remaining so I'll finally have some free time when summer arrives...Wahoo!!! Not that I'm counting or anything, but we actually have a paper chain hanging in the classroom. You Fill Up My Senses: I did sneak off yesterday and spent some alone time under the shade of a crab apple tree near the lake. The carpet of grass was soft and cool. Amongst the wild flora were violets, dandelions, creeping Charlie...and cannabis! It Happened on This Day: In honor of scarlett_o_h...On May 3, 1937, Margaret Mitchell won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel, Gone With the Wind. Iowegian Skies: A glorious 61° and clear at 22:11 CDT Footnotes |
...and a little child shall lead them. ~from the book of Isaiah ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** Last week, the magnolia trees in our region began delighting with their beautiful pink displays. Seemingly overnight, delicate pear blossoms have decorated their gray branches with ornate frocks of white and the forsythia is showing off its festive canary finery...all, just in time for Earth Day. In celebration, I'd like to share a folktale that I enjoyed reading to my children when they were small. It seems fitting, as I know that the hillsides of northern Texas are also dressed up for the occasion... The sun was hot, and nothing could grow on the dry land. The Wisest Comanche talked to Mother Earth. "Save your people, Mother Earth. Our land is dry, and we cannot find food. We are very unhappy. We need your rain to help us. If the rain does not come, all the plants will die. But if you hear us and send rain, the land will turn green. The rivers will flow again, and the buffalo herds will come back." On the evening of the third day, the Wisest Comanche heard a voice from the hills. "The Earth is dying because the Comanche people take what they need from Mother Earth, but they do not give anything back. If you all want to eat again, one of you must offer me a gift. One of you must give me the thing that you love the most. You must place the gift in the fire and burn it. After you spread its ashes in the wind, I will send rain." The Wisest Comanche built a fire and called his people together. "Mother Earth has asked for a gift," he said. "One of you must offer the thing that you love the most. Then it will rain, and we will have food again." "I will give this bow and arrow," said a young man. "I made it from the branch of a tree that grows in a forest far away." " I will give this beautiful, warm blanket," said a woman. "I made it with soft cloth and feathers." All of the Comanche people talked about the special things that they owned, but one by one, they took their gifts back to their homes. That night, the Wisest Comanche lay down to sleep. At midnight, he heard footsteps. He discovered a young Comanche girl, named She-Who-Is-Alone, near the fire. She was holding a doll in her arms, and the Wisest Comanche listened as she talked to her doll. "Beautiful doll, you are the thing that I love the most because my mother made you before she died. She used the softest cloth. She painted your eyes with blueberry juice, and she put blue beads on your belt. She put three blue feathers in your hair." The child held her doll in front of the fire and looked at it for the last time. "If I do not offer my doll as a gift and help my people, then we will all die. I must help my people." Then she placed her doll on the fire and watched it burn and slowly disappear. When the ashes were cold, She-Who-Is-Alone collected them and threw them into the wind. Then she lay down and fell asleep. It began to rain. In the morning, after the rain had passed over the land, the Wisest Comanche turned to watch the sunrise. He looked out over the hills and wondered whether what he saw was real or a dream! The hills looked very different now. The land was not dry and bare. Blue flowers covered the hills, and everything looked alive again. She-Who-Is-Alone woke up and smiled when she saw the flowers. "Mother Earth has received your gift," the Wisest Comanche whispered to the child. "Yes, Mother Earth is happy," she said. "She is speaking to all the people, telling us that we must take care of the Earth." Just then, they heard a blue jay sing. The Wisest Comanche and She-Who-Is-Alone followed the bird from hill to hill, looking at the blue flowers that grew there. When they got home, the Comanche people greeted She-Who-Is-Alone. They thanked her for her gift. Every spring, Mother Earth fills the hills and valleys of Texas with beautiful blue flowers. They remind us of the gift the young Comanche girl offered Mother Earth. We call these flowers bluebonnets. ~As told by Pat Cusick Ripton |
"You don't drown by falling into water. You drown by staying there." ~Robert Allen ** Images For Use By Upgraded+ Only ** Several years ago, I participated in the American Red Cross Water Safety Instruction course. Though my once athletic figure is a vague memory and my endurance has waned considerably, I took some lessons away from that class that left a lasting impression on me... A lifeguard has to be equipped, at any given moment, to assess a situation and react quickly and accordingly. All the while, they must maintain their composure and vigilance. A distressed swimmer will latch onto a rescuer and unintentionally push them under the water. Therefore, it is critical that the lifeguard approaches close enough to offer the victim a life ring, while still maintaining enough distance to ensure their own safety. Once the victim has grasped the life ring, the lifeguard's job isn't over. Swimming towards the shore can be exhausting and there may be underlying currents prepared to carry them both further out to sea. Keeping the shore within view is imperative, as is having the strength to assist someone who may be incapacitated or in peril. After the pair has reached the shore, the lifeguard must possess the skills to administer first aid or CPR until the victim is out of danger, or until additional help arrives. Most notable, however, was an astonishing statistic...8 out of 10 drowning victims drown in water that they could stand up in. It's a conundrum that's staggering. Apparently, finding themselves in a predicament, these people tend to panic. Not knowing which way is up, they expend all of their energy thrashing about and gulping in copious amounts of water. If they were to remain calm and exhale, a trail of bubbles would rise towards the surface, leading the would-be victim to oxygen and safety. It's important then, for both parties to be well-prepared in the event of an emergency. Swimming or boating with a buddy, remaining calm, acknowledging your limitations and knowing where to seek help can literally be the difference between life and death. And so it is with us... Sometimes our boats unexpectedly capsize...A family member becomes ill, a company closes its doors or a force of nature destroys everything in its path. At times, we create our own dilemmas by swimming beyond the safety ropes and getting in over our heads...We take on too many obligations, self-medicate with harmful substances or begin a project best left to professionals. By creating a network of family or friends, we can be all be better prepared to offer...or accept...a lifeline in times of difficulty and strife. There may be times when the situation is beyond our control and we need to turn to the experts for help. Most importantly...If and when we find ourselves submerged, we need to pause, exhale, and remember to look upward... Peace and Blessings ~Mandy Do-Re-Mi: Between track meets, taxes and Realtors, my time on-line has been very limited throughout the week. Time to play catch up...again! You Fill Up My Senses: After a bout with a virus and subsequent sinus infection, my sense of smell has taken its leave. I'm now able to detect strong...erm...aromas. I'm hopeful that I'll be able to enjoy the lilacs when they bloom. My other senses, on the other hand, are keen. This weekend, I've enjoyed a chorus of leopard frogs and honking geese. I noticed some new visitors to the lake...small ebony "ducks" with white bills. My curiosity was piqued and research revealed these birds to be wetland fowl called the American Coot.2 The magnolias are also in bloom. It's beginning to look a bit like spring! I Hugged a Stranger Today: Debi Wharton recently wrote an entry about public displays of affection. I'm a hugger, but very reservedly. I typically hug only people that I know and only if their body language indicates that they're receptive to being hugged. Today was an exception. As I was running a few errands, a woman approached me, saying "I just wanted to tell you how beautiful your hair is. You look lovely." It was an instant day brightener and after I thanked her, I felt compelled. I asked permission of course, and then she smiled warmly and hugged me as if I were her closest friend. I'm sometimes amazed by the kindness of strangers.Pink Update: My mother is now driving and has returned to work. She has reduced her hours and is getting adequate rest. She does still have some tenderness but CAT scans show positive results and she remains upbeat. She begins chemotherapy sessions on May 7. It Happened On This Day: In 1775, the Revolutionary War began with the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Iowegian Skies: Light drizzle and 55° at 00:15 CDT Footnotes |
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