Gaelic Threads

At Least Today It's a Different Song

2012-02-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

No lyrics this time, just a youtube link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6Oi7CdBc78

I love the romance of this story. We've seen the chapel and Grace Gifford's prison cell in Kilmainham Gaol. Don't know why I felt compelled to share this, other than the song's been stuck in my head for a day and a half. Hope you enjoy the info.

http://www.easter1916.ie/index.php/people/signatories/joseph-mary-plunkett/

Did you guess I'm ready to go back?

To Speak of Music

2012-02-07T14:20:00.000-08:00

I've had the strangest songs going through my head all day, the same two songs, over and over. The first is one I have on a Mary Black cd. The first time I heard it, I was struck by the haunting tune. Then I listened to the lyrics, which are just as haunting:

My youngest son came home today
His friends marched with him all the way
The fife and drum beat out the time
While in his box of polished pine
Like dead meat on a butcher's tray
My youngest son same home today

The song speaks of the troubles in Northern Ireland. Mike and Scott, you would probably like Mary Black. I'm especially drawn to the "dead meat" portion of the lyrics.

The second song isn't haunting, it's irritating:

Hot dogs, Armour hot dogs
What kind of kids eat Armour Hot Dogs?
Fat kids, skinny kids, kids who climb on rocks
Tough kids, sissy kids, even kids with chicken pox
love hot dogs, Armour Dot Dogs
The dogs kids love to bite!

Would anyone care to join me in my own personal hell?

Status Check

2012-02-01T09:34:00.000-08:00

So the goal I stated for last month was to simplify, to get the clutter cleared. And how well have I done? Not so well, I'm afraid, but I did accomplish this much:

Two cabinets cleared out and organized
Kitchen counter and sideboard cleared once in a major way, and pretty well maintained, day to day
Yarn stash reduced and organized

Like I said, not so much. But I haven't given up - my goal for the next month is to get the kitchen cabinets done. Surely, I can accomplish that much.

There are times that I marvel that we get anything done around here. I keep expecting the chaos to lessen, but it's not happening. I have to stop myself once in a while to remember that to school age kids in the house means that things may not stay on track. I don't know how Mom did it; I certainly can't. It feels like we all fly from one thing to another. Homework is a major undertaking. Clutter piles up higher than we can keep up with. But there's been time for the fun stuff, too - a couple of bike rides, the long promised trip to Disneyland for Mackenzie's birthday. Life is pretty good.

Name That Town 2

2012-01-26T09:09:00.000-08:00

Is this making anyone else homesick?

Name This Town

2012-01-22T13:30:00.001-08:00

And do you have a favorite story to go with it?

2012-01-19T21:49:00.000-08:00

I guess we didn't pay attention when Conor decided he wanted a bed to sleep in, so he solved the problem himself:

Mackenzie supplied the fuzzy stole for his blanket.

A Lost Tooth & Finished Object

2012-01-05T07:49:00.000-08:00

Mackenzie lost another tooth.

And my first "Finished Object" of the year - a Shilling Hat for the Women's Wellness Center.

A Very Good New Year

2012-01-02T20:13:00.000-08:00

Only two day old, 2012 has already had its ups and downs. The highlights of the last two days:

A surprise visit from the son of long-time friends and his adorable family.

A bike ride with Christian and Mackenzie.

Going to see "The Adventures of TinTin" and going out to dinner.

We won't talk about the Christmas decorations that aren't put away or the laundry to be down. So far, 2012 is a great year.

Farewell, 2011

2011-12-31T13:33:00.000-08:00

And I can't say I'm sorry to see it go. What is it that always makes you think next year will be better? Ah, yes, Hope, and a belief in following the plan God set out for you. There are a lot of lessons in the events of the last year, including:

1. Love your family and be grateful for every second you have with them.
2. Remember that everyone has chosen a path, and if you can't agree with or support that path, let them go on. You cannot change them, you can only pray that the way they're going will lead them where they need to be.
3. Accept the fact that the house will never be completely clean, the work will never be done, and that the world doesn't really care if it is.
4. Make sure you spend at least some time every day doing something that you love.
5 Stop trying to make yourself the perfect person and appreciate the person that you already are.
6. There really aren't very many "things" that you need in your life. Be careful about which ones you let in.

My first goal for 2012 is to purge. I'm not sure how to measure this; all I know is that I'm surrounded by "stuff" that really means nothing to me, and in many ways it makes life harder. More stuff to clean around, more stuff to walk around. I'll check back on this one in a month. How are you starting the new year?

I hope everyone has a great 2012. Love you all.

Mission Accomplished!!

2011-12-30T14:21:00.000-08:00

Phew, it's over! I ultimately met my reading goal - hurray!! But I have to admit it was close, and I just managed to squeak by by reading a couple of old mysteries that I've read and reread before. Couldn't help myself - I just couldn't bear to miss it. I'm not upping my goal for next year, but I am going to try not to leave it so late.

Christmas in Ireland?

2011-12-28T13:39:00.000-08:00

The latest addition to my book list (Christmas in Wales) was loaned to me by my neighbor because it's a short read. But it left me with ideas - do you think we could do this some year? It would be nice to dream about.

It's Christmas

2011-12-17T20:56:00.000-08:00

Somehow I haven't felt ready for Christmas this year. Too many appointments to keep, too many issues to deal with, too much homework, too much cleaning. But panic has set in - I only have a week!! And it's going to be just fine. See our tree? See the big red "blob" on the right? It's an angel, hand made by Mackenzie. Many of the ornaments are hung too close together, but the kids did it, they love it, and I wouldn't change it for the world. Today we made pepperminst schnapps. I sent Gil his kringla. I'm baking cookies tomorrow, and we're going to have a fine Christmas. I wish we could all be together, but you're all here in our hearts.

In Cod We Trust

2011-12-09T08:11:00.000-08:00

Mike and Scott, you've got to try this one. Maybe we should go back to our "other" roots!

The End's Approaching!

2011-11-26T11:40:00.001-08:00

I'm never going to catch up - my goal of 100 books may be unattainable. But I'll keep plugging away. Mike and Scott, the book I just finished might be interesting to you. Maybe a little Steven Kingish.

As long as I'm here, maybe you can tell me why people approach the information desk to ask a question, then turn their backs on you and walk away before you've finished the answer. Maybe I should just start feeding them lies.

Audiobooks

2011-11-20T12:35:00.000-08:00

Okay, this is working for me. Not enough time in the day, so I can now use my Ipod to multitask. And on top of that, I used the Ipod to track my walk workout this morning, while listening to a book at the same time. The ultimate multitasking. What a nerd I am, and only 20 years behind the times!

True Crime

2011-11-14T13:45:00.001-08:00

So what are your favorite true crime books? The one I just finished, Evidence of Love, was very compelling. Read it in less than 24 hours.

Last Two Book Entries

2011-10-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I've read a book I couldn't put down. That's the way I felt about The Vault. The second book is related to the first, although not really a sequel.

Ruth Rendell is tricky, though. She writes a series with a police inspector, Wexford, that I like very much. Her other stories can be weird and suspenseful; I don't always enjoy those. In this case, the first book was weird and suspenseful, the second a "Wexford" book. Really loved them.

A Friend Returns

2011-10-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

When I first started working at this library, one of our "regular" homeless people was Sonny. He came in every day. He had a supply of very short pencil ends in his pocket, along with bits of eraser. He spent much of his time writing poetry, which he would copy. Photocopies were left lying on tables for us to find. In time, it felt like Sonny was a friend. He'd stop and visit; I taped a couple of books together for him.

Then I think about two years ago he disappeared. We heard that he had been arrested. And he didn't come back. Until today.

He looks good. His travels led him to Florida, where he stayed about a year. He's going back in a couple of weeks. I hope he comes by to say hello again.

And he left me three poems.

Intervention: Paranormal TV

2011-09-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

My name's Kathy and I'm a paranormal junkie. My DVR list contains at least three paranormal programs with three or four episodes a week. I watch them while I clean, do laundry, monitor the kids' computer use, any excuse I can use to have the tv droning on about ghosties. Not a good thing.

So I'm committed to cut back. One episode of Ghost Hunters a week, not four. Maybe one other series, but don't ask me to decide which one right at this minute. Breaking bad habit; breaking bad habit.

But what to replace them with? I have to have something to watch while I'm knitting! We tried two new "comedies" the other night, new to us, anyway, and I'm not sure they were funny. One was "The Middle" and the other was "Modern Family." They seemed funny in a cynical, sarcastic way. I think I was looking for "The Cosby Show" instead of "Roseanne" and was sorely disappointed. So, suggestions please!

Benjamin Black

2011-09-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

I just finished the fourth book in Benjamin Black's Quirke series and I'm recommending the series highly. The books are set in Dublin of the 1950's. Start with the first title, Christine Falls. The main character is pretty dark, but becomes more likable as the series progresses. Try it guys!

A Disclaimer, and A Night at the Movies

2011-09-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

First, the disclaimer. Now I know my self-challenge to read 100 books in the year 2011 is a personal challenge. I don't think anyone's standing by waiting to see me fail. However, I'm feeling the stress. Then I pinpointed one little piece of that stress and used it as an excuse to beef up my numbers. I read to Christian every night (except when I'm working). I sometimes read to Mackenzie, but she prefers Grandpa. Anyway, lately we've been reading longer books, Christian and I, and I think if I'm spending around 30 minutes reading out loud, I'm entitled to take credit for it. I'll only count chapter books, and if it looks like I'm cheating, I'm sorry, but I don't really care. I hate to give up on the goal. That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

Now on to Movie Night!

What a great time we had! The PTA set up an inflatable movie screen in the field at school, sold pizza, candy and water, and gave away popcorn and glo-sticks. We brought chairs, blankets, jackets and pillows. The "preview" was presented by Mr. Visca, the principal, who loves music (he owns an Elvis wig and wears it frequently) and love kids. He played "Name That Tune" with his I-pod and had kids and parents dancing and singing before the show. (Not so much grandparents, at least this one, but I'm a stick-in-the-mud). It was hysterical watching Kenzie do the "Gummy Bear Dance" and it's amazing how many old songs the kids are familiar with. I guess that's a function of Mr. Visca's "Funky Fridays." I don't remember school being so much fun!

The movie was Monsters, Inc., if anyone cares, and we had a great, cheap evening. The kids went right to bed when we got home, so it couldn't have been much better. We'll definitely look forward to this one next year.

Garden Work

2011-08-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

Today was "clean out the vegetable garden and tidy up the yard" day, and here is part of the results:

We all had a great time, and doesn't her playhouse look lovely?

Home Again

2011-08-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

Seattle did not disappoint. The weather was nicely cloudy. There were ample opportunities for family "reuniting." It was wonderful to get to know my sister-in-law better. It was great to meet Scott's friend and companion. Personally, I loved the chance to be with all of my grandchildren at the same time. The time spent with Allison was special. At 15, she's not going to want to hang around too much longer. James is funny and refreshingly blunt. I hope we don't have to wait for another 80th birthday to do it again. Christian and Mackenzie got to experience new things and loved every minute of the trip.

Mom, I hope you got what needed from this trip. You've raised a bunch of decent people, I think. We still bicker (and I'm the worst), and harbor sibling rivalries (and I'm the worst), but we love and respect one another, and any opportunities we have to be together are precious. Love you, Mom, and we hope you have many more happy years.

The Adventure Begins

2011-08-03T19:30:00.001-07:00

We're off to Seattle tomorrow afternoon. We'll all excited and eager to be off. The airport alone will be a big deal to the little guys, and I think we have enough diversions packed to keep the plane ride calm.

Can't wait to see you all!

Updates - Swimming, Knitting and Books

2011-07-15T08:50:00.001-07:00

We did swimming lessons in June, and as you can see, Mackenzie is a water baby!

I've finally finshed the Whisper Cardigan that mom gifted me the yarn for. It was the hardest project I've done yet, but well worth it! Now to find the perfect outfit to go with it.

And now on to the next project - a shawl from Folk Shawls using yarn from the infamous Senior Stash. I love this book and may do every pattern!

As to books, I have not stopped reading, but I'm caught up in listening to a book by Deborah Harkness called A Discovery of Witches. I'm listening to it because I'm #222 on the list for the book at the library and the audiobook fell right in my hand. Denny, I think you might reall like this. I would say Mike too, but it gets a little romantic. Anyway, it's 24 hours of listening.

Summer Starts!

2011-06-25T12:33:00.001-07:00

It's been a long time since we had a grade school kid getting out of school for the start of summer. I remember now that the rush of freedom isn't just felt by the student - it's a whole shift in the family's attitude. No early morning schedules, no rushing out the door, at least not for a week or so. A whole day of possibility ahead of us!

We celebrated the end of school with a beach dinner and milkshakes from McDonald's. It was obviously the right choice because they want to do it every day. If only.

The Vegetable Garden

2011-06-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

...is really overgrown. We have a lot of stuff in a little space. The peas and beans are funning wild. Next year we'll just do beans because no one seems to like sugar snap peas. There are lots of lovely green tomatoes, but not enough sun to ripen them yet. We will not be harvesting pumpkins or watermelons. I think they're too squashed. And four of the corn stalks have tassels. Does that mean something?

Maybe next year we'll just do successive plantings of tomatoes!

Oops, I Think I Get It

2011-06-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

I just finished Joanna Trollope's The Daughters-in-Law. I've read a few of her books over the years, and pretty much liked them. Some speak to me more than others, and this one had a big-time message - moms don't have to be in control. In fact, after a certain point, they shouldn't be. I don't think I ever thought I would have a hard time separating from my kids, but I was obviously wrong. Sure, circumstances have been such that it has been necessary for us to stay very involved, but we would all benefit if I could maintain a little emotional distance. Just a thought, and a goal.

Our Garden Gnome

2011-05-30T07:04:00.001-07:00

Our little garden is flourishing. So far we've harvested about 12 snow peas and 1 tiny carrot. Mackenzie is my best helper out there. She'll water, weed, and pet the corn, because you know, corn has to be petted to make it grow.

A Night in the Frog Pond

2011-05-24T21:49:00.001-07:00

Tonight was the kindergarten play, "Once Upon a Lily Pad." Very cute and it was a huge success. Christian was a snake and he handled it well. Much better than the end of summer play for the YMCA last year. How nice he's growing up!

The Birds' New Home

2011-05-22T18:39:00.000-07:00

Our love birds are so happy in their new aviary that I feel guilty for having them in their indoor cage for so long. I hear them first thing in the morning, eager to be part of the outside world.

California Spring?

2011-05-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

I'm not complaining, but it's raining today. Maybe not the best day because we moved the birds to their outside home yesterday, and I worry about them being too exposed. But the cloudy skies are beautiful and the air smells fresh. Everything is green and I love the rain. I wouldn't be sad if we have a cooler, wetter summer, but that's probably too much to hope for.

Wilderness Park Adventure Day

2011-04-20T08:26:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time on Saturday! The local County wilderness park had a special free event for families, free being the operative word. So off we went to pet snakes and to look at animal pelts. There were kid games and food trucks included, definitely something for everyone.
Mackenzie was definitely the more enthusiastic snake person.

Wild kitty with her new snake friend!

And Christian, along with his mom and Grandma, loved the food.

See the squirt gun on the table in front of him? Definitely the best part of his day!

Rogers' Garden

2011-04-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

We actually started this project last month, but have been waiting for the pictures. We planted: pumpkins, squash, watermelon, carrots, corn, tomatoes, peas, and green beans. As you can see, the whole family got involved. We've been watering and weeding faithfully. Mackenzie is taking personal responsibility for the snails. And we now have healthy plants to watch and enjoy. Stay tuned for progress reports!

The Weir

2011-03-29T12:48:00.001-07:00

Jim took me to South Coast Repertory for our anniversary and we saw an Irish play called "The Weir." The playwright is Conor McPherson. It's not getting a great recommendation from me, but it was an afternoon enjoyably spent. It takes place in an Irish pub and has some great ghost stories. What more could one ask for?

Good Things About March

2011-03-20T08:35:00.001-07:00

1. Rain and more rain
2. Birthdays - Dad, Rosanne, Scott, Grandma Norris and Grandma Long
3. St. Patrick's Day - especially the party
4. Leprechaun traps
5. A new garden - pictures to follow
6. Visiting relatives - so nice to feel connected
7. And last, but not least - LEPRECHAUNS

Notice how I didn't include St. Joseph's Day, swallows, or Swallows Parade? Think we need to get out of town next weekend.

"Comfort Reads"

2011-03-09T13:16:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't noticed, many of the books I've added in the last couple of weeks are part of a series. Two series, actually, both by the same author. She is my current "comfort read." When the world seems a little hectic and the burdens a little heavy, she's created a world that gives me some escape. It's a world where problems always seem to have a solution and where people are ultimately kind to each other. Kind of like a 1950's tv show, huh?

So, what books do you turn to when you need that kind of escape? I'd like some new ideas.

First Grade

2011-02-08T15:34:00.000-08:00

My determination to post here more frequently has not been very successful. Between bouts with the flu and a less than cooperative computer, my blogging capablity has been severely challenged. But I'll keep trying.

When did first grade become so hard? My dim, distant memories of first grade are of Mrs. Stokes class where we laboriously printed our letters and went outside for recess. Milk in glass bottles at recess are a great memory, too. I don't really remember what my kids did in first grade; simple reading, I guess, number order, counting to 100, getting used to a full day at school? And maybe a little bit of homework.

First graders now work hard! A homework folder comes home every week with math pages, writing projects, word sorts, 20 minutes of reading. And if someone's been goofing off in class (do I know anyone who would do that), there's a stack of extra work to be made up. Then there are special projects like gluing 100 objects to a poster board to celebrate 100th Day of School and a Valentine box to be covered. First grade is really wearing us out!

Anyway, that's life at our house right now. Kenzie is chomping at the bit to get into kindergarten. I'm afraid all I see is more homework ahead of us!

And #2

2011-01-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

"Spiky, gray, grim," a quote from the Amazon review. Not an easy read, but well worth it.

Book #1 is Up!

2011-01-04T15:18:00.000-08:00

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

This looked like a good start to the year, as well as finish to the old year. Known for my cheerful disposition (Dad called me Grinch, remember?), it seemed the time was ripe for self improvement. I liked this woman's approach - the changes are in little things that finally come down to attitude. So if you see me being more polite, more organized, less critical, you can blame it on the book.

A Movie Recommendation

2011-01-01T23:47:00.000-08:00

Stone of Destiny.

We watched it on Netflix. You'll love it.

Christmas Memories

2011-01-01T10:32:00.001-08:00

Kenzie crying when she realized the preschool Santa was Grandpa.
The Christmas tree with all the ornaments at the bottom.
Cuddling with Kenzie as we watched the Nutcracker on the portable dvd player.
Giving in and letting the kids decorate Christmas cookies.
The homemade labels on my jars of peppermint schnapps.
Watching Christian and Kenzie dance to the Wii.

A very nice Christmas.

Yesterday

2010-12-29T21:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas just doesn't come without the bittersweet anymore. I've gone back and forth about writing this, but I can't seem to let it alone. Yesterday Matt dropped in on us out of the blue. We knew he was in jail - he was there about a week. We were both pretty much on our way out to work. We gave him food - breakfast and a bag of portable stuff. We gave him money that we'd set aside for his Christmas. We gave him the new shoes his grandma had bought him for Christmas. We let him take a shower and gave him a bag of toiletries. Then Jim drove him to his probation officer and went on his way.

He doesn't seem to have changed. It wrenches my heart to keep him so much on the outside of our lives, but he only brings chaos when we let him in, and now we have small children in the house that don't need to witness it. Matt can make better choices, but I'm afraid those choices won't be available to him too much longer. And he doesn't seem inclined to do one thing differently. He needs or prayers, but I think that's all the support we have for him now.

In the meantime, Jim and I spent the day feeling wounded and wishing there were another way of handling it. The good news, I guess, is that we did handle it and went on with our lives. Thanks for being there, everyone.

Quiet Christmas

2010-12-25T19:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas day is drawing to a close, and I think it was one of the most peaceful we've ever had. Not everything was perfect. There were members missing from the family circle. Little kids got cranky and a little overexcited. But it was nice. Each of us ended the day feeling like it had been wonderful. No thoughts of unfulfilled wishes and a lot of understanding that Christmas is for being together and appreciating what we have.

Mike and Scott, we missed you. I hope your day was also filled with joy and peace. Know that you are loved.

Reading Goal

2010-12-21T12:06:00.000-08:00

I realized today that there was a goal buried deep in my heart - I really thought I could easily read 100 books in the year 2010. Well, unless I spend the next week and a half reading, I'm not going to make it.

So for the coming year it's official: I WILL read at least 100 books. I will save myself from countless hours of watching mindless tv. I will read at night to relax, maybe freeing me from the need to plug into my Ipod to get to sleep. And I will make some headway on the ever-growing list of books I want to read.

Anyone want to join me in the challenge?

I Do Like Rainy Days

2010-12-19T20:27:00.000-08:00

I do like rainy days. I do like rainy days.

Except when it's the weekend and the kids are not in school. If we'd been smart, we would have let the go outside in rainboots and get wet. That's why we have rainboots, right? Instead we're stuck with two wiggle worms who can't possibly go to sleep because they've been inside all day. You'd think I'd know, huh.

Oh, well. Back to the Y and daycare tomorrow.

So This Is Christmas

2010-12-17T14:58:00.000-08:00

After three bouts with the flu, it has been feeling like Christmas just wasn't going to get done this year. So many things to finish. The house to clean. Packages to mail. Decorating that we always do still sitting in boxes.

But then I noticed a few little things. Mackenzie singing "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" the minute she gets out of bed. Christian counting the days. Children staring out the front window at the neighbors' Christmas lights. Christian singing along to Christmas music on the Ipod when he's going to sleep.

Christmas is here. If we don't do another thing, we're all set. What I have to do is to let go of what "perfect" Christmases were in the past and appreciate the one we have right now.

Giving Thanks

2010-11-26T08:28:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was one of the most restful Thanksgivings I can remember. The last couple of holiday seasons have been difficult. Holidays have always meant family time together, wild and noisy, and our little Southern California sector of the family just seemed to get smaller and smaller. On more than one occasion, I've found myself thinking, "This isn't what I thought it would be." The picture in my head and heart has always been of children and grandchildren gathering together, and in today's world, that just isn't possible very often.

But a new holiday feeling is emerging. Our family circle has expanded to include my stepsister and her husband, who have not often been there to celebrate with us. What started out uncomfortable is now becoming pleasant. It's like new life has been injected into our family group. We all had such a good time this Thanksgiving. (Mom maybe less so, as she washed all the pans.) This was the first year in a long time that we all sat down at the Thanksgiving table together, not spread across two rooms. The grandchildren were respectful of the holiday feeling, pretty good manners at the table, eager to have their part in the holiday. The food was really good, and I think everyone felt appreciated.

A real Thanksgiving memory was established. Thanks, Mom, for having all of us. It will be wonderful when some of the rest of you can join us. Other than that, I wouldn't change a thing.

I can't wait for Christmas!

I Don't Have All of the Answers

2010-11-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

I really love my kids and I've worked hard to be there for them, whatever the need. But, you know what? I don't have all the answers. And if I spend all of my time trying to figure out how to solve their problems, when will they either learn to find their own solutions or decide to live with the consequences of their choices. So from this moment on, I will strive to be the cheerleader. I might look a little silly out there jumping up and down, but I'll bet my heart will be lighter if I trust them to take that next step themselves.

We've Got Weather

2010-10-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure we haven't been transported to another state! Lightning and thunder crashed through the night and left us briefly with no power this morning. The poor dog had to be tricked into going outside, and when the cats insisted they had to go out, they dashed right back in. It's fun, it's wonderful, and hopefully it won't last so long we get tired of it.

Rain in October in California! Thanks!

Song for Ireland

2010-10-16T16:21:00.000-07:00

For some reason I've taken a lot of trips down memory lane in the past couple of weeks. The very first evening we ever spent in Ireland was with Janet and Tom. At the end of the evening we ended up at The Plough, a pub located kitty-corner from the Abbey Theater. It was our first Irish pub. It was crowded and we felt lucky to snag the only table in a little tiny balcony that overlooked the rest of the pub. We were downing our first pints, listening to the musicians playing to the noisy crowd below. As they started playing "Song for Ireland," it seemed like everyone else in the pub began to sing along. I hope I can insert this link properly; this song still makes my heart soar

Checking In

2010-09-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

Not much to say here, but it's been a while. We're settled into the new school routine with a minimum of fuss. Waiting for real fall weather - 90+ temperatures have go to go. Mourning the loss of an uncle and wishing we could all be together.

2010-08-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

I heard Grandma Norris's voice in the library a while back. Not really, of course; I quickly connected the voice I heard to one of our computer patrons. But for a few brief moments I was joyful and felt that all was well with the world. The incident keeps coming back to my mind in various ways. What does she think about all of us? Are we passing muster? Is she frowning at that sarcastic tone I used with Rosanne the other day? And all of that is important to me. The bottom line is that I would like my children and grandchildren to feel about me the same way I feel about her. Tough shoes to fill.

I may be in trouble, though - I saw Jim's mom in my exercise class.

Update (and Excuses, I Guess)

2010-08-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

I keep meaning to add something here, but somehow just haven't had the time/inspiration to do it. My primary excuse is that I'm waiting for the pictures. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

I was reading a book the other day and came across this line (paraphrased): Sometimes I feel like I spend my life pulling boulders up the hill, and every time I let loose just a little bit, one of them goes rolling back down to the bottom. In my first "aha" moment I was thinking, "This describes my life exactly" and I spent the next few minutes wallowing in and thoroughly enjoying my self pity. Then another thought hit me: Who made me responsible for pulling all those boulders anywhere? Hmmm.

Difficult Conversations

2010-05-29T14:35:00.000-07:00

I'm here at the reference desk eavesdropping on a conversation going on at the other end. I'm not sure what the topic is, and it's not important. What's drawing my attention is the string of one-liners coming out of this person's mouth, one after the other. How do you have a real conversation with someone like that?

We have a neighbor that is much the same way - no matter what you're talking about, he has zinger after zinger. I sometimes feel that he just plain isn't interested. I also end up worn out - it's a lot of work having to constantly "react."

Silly post, I know.

We've Joined the 21st Century

2010-05-27T13:52:00.000-07:00

We've joined the 21st century and you may never see us again! AT&T came out yesterday and installed new services - phone, computer, cable. Jim and I will spend the next couple of weeks trying to get our address books straightened out. When we're not doing that, we'll be watching tv. I already recorded Ghost Hunters and one episode of The Tudors. Rosanne cruises the movie channels and Jim just likes poking around to see what we get. Christian was thrilled because he could watch The Upside Down Show (better you shouldn't ask) on the UPSTAIRS tv! With the addition of the Netflix movies through the Wii, we're in serious danger of being in tv overload.

So you may never see us again!

Leave me some suggestions of what we just can't miss!!

Checking In

2010-05-22T22:02:00.000-07:00

We had a great day today. Mom came down to see Christian's last t-ball game of the season. The weather swung back and forth between cool and warm - lots of puffy clouds and a gentle breeze. We all had pizza at the team party and Christian loves his bobble-head trophy. Each player got a special award - his was for the Season's Best Hit. Rosanne and I cleaned a cupboard and Jim and the kids washed a car. We were busy and all felt like we accomplished something.

In addition to the dog, three cats and two birds, we are now watching over an aquarium of tadpoles. They aren't staying - as they turn into frogs the neighbor's taking them home to his pond. I'm sure you can't see them in this photo, but the playhouse porch is where they're living for the time being.

Knitting has slowed down considerably since I finished Kenzie's cape. The books I've requested at the library are coming fast and furiously, too fast for me to keep up with them. I just finished a fun ghost story called The Tale of Halcyon Crane by Wendy Webb. It's really pretty close to being a gothic novelty. A fast read that I had a hard time putting down. Denny, you might like it; Scott and Mike, give it a miss, I think.

So tell me, what's your favorite ghost story.

Little Red Riding Hood & Roller Coaster

2010-05-04T14:29:00.001-07:00

A more skillful blogger would be able to arrange these pictures artistically, but this is about the best I can do. I just wanted to let you know that we've all been busy around here, me on knitting a "Red Riding Hood" cape for Kenzie and Jim on roller coaster construction. Wish you could all be here to enjoy them with us. By the way, despite the look in her eye, Mackenzie is not on mind-altering drugs. And the little passengers in the roller coaster scream as they head down the dips!

Another Book Recommendation

2010-05-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

False Mermaid by Erin Hunt. You guys gotta read this one.

Scott, I hope you have pictures from the Elton John concert.

They're Finished

2010-04-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

A little big, but I love them!

Book Recommendation

2010-04-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

I'm reading a really interesting book right now - brothers of mine, you may have already read it - called Confederates in the Attic. The author is Tony Horwitz. The author is a journalist who finds himself wrapped up tracing the progress of the Civil War as it still exists today. It almost makes you want to be a re-enactor, but it doesn't make me feel very comfortable about living in the South.

Keep It Positive

2010-04-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

Much of the time I find myself dwelling on the negative things going on around here. But you know, life ain't all that bad. On the up side:

1. I'm really enjoying that water aerobics class I'm taking, and one day when I couldn't make it, I went to the gym to ride the recumbent bicycle for a while.

2. I'm not as "creaky" as I was; my joints don't hurt anymore. I suppose that has to do with item #1.

3. I love cold, rainy weather and was kind of sorry to see winter slip away, but the sunshine and days of scattered showers have been pretty nice.

4. We had a parent/teacher conference for Christian yesterday, and he's really doing well! Yeah!

5. We miss Jim's presence because it seems like he's always locked away in his office, but we're grateful that he has plenty of work to do.

6. I'm rearranging my days so that I schedule in the things I WANT to do before the things I SHOULD do, making me a more cheerful person.

7. I really love my job and look forward to the hours I spend there. Not everyone can say that.

This was a very "me" oriented post, but it helps me to put it out there to remind myself of just how good I have it.

Love you all.

Of Things Genealogical

2010-03-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

So have any of you been watching "Who Do You Think You Are" on Friday nights? I've been planning my Friday evenings around it, much to the amusement of the Friday night wine sippers in the neighborhood. Wouldn't it be fun to find some really fun and significant story in the family tree, but you probably have to be a celebrity to earn that privilege.

It's had me thinking though. What is the one question you would like to have answered about our family forebears? Come on, you guys - there has to be one. I want to know why Richard Long came to the United stats, and what were the circumstances of his coming. (Does that qualify as one question?) I don't think it's as simple as the famine; he was able to buy land pretty soon after he got here. So why? Any ideas? Jim thought perhaps Richard inherited money instead of land and was able to make the move. Tell me what you think and then give us a question to discuss.

T-Ball Season Begins

2010-03-07T14:02:00.001-08:00

I really had forgotten how much fun t-ball is. Some kids will really hit the ball, while others hit the tee or just manage to tip the ball off the tee into the dirt in front of home plate. Five adults (at minimum) stand on the field to point the runners in the right direction or to remind the fielders to pick up a rolling ball and then to throw it. Even when a fielder manages to get the ball to first base ahead of the runner, the runner gets to stay on base. And when the last kid on the team bats, everyone already on base gets to run the bases to finish their runs.

The kids all look confused and there's a lot of good-natured shouting going on. Kids beam when they hear their parents and teammates cheer for them.

I love it and it's just too funny!

And Here It Is!

2010-03-06T14:14:00.001-08:00

The second sock is on the needles!!

One Sock Almost FInished

2010-03-04T11:12:00.000-08:00

I'm about six rows away! I may not have made the Olympics challenge, but I will finish these socks.

Progress Report

2010-02-20T16:36:00.001-08:00

First sock about 2/3 finished!

Knitting Olympics

2010-02-13T08:48:00.000-08:00

Last night I threw caution to the wind and joined the Yarn Harlot's Knitting Olympics. The challenge is to select a knitting project (not too easy) to start during the Olympic's opening ceremony and then to have that project be completed before or during the closing ceremonies. I selected a sock pattern knit called "Ramage." I'm sure none of you are particularly interested, but I'm going to use the blog to track my progress.

I'm going to have to speed things up - I got about 1" completed last night. Picture to follow.

Our Chuck E. Cheese Visit

2010-01-19T19:33:00.000-08:00

This was definitely my favorite part of Mackenzie's Chuck E. Cheese birthday - Mackenzie hiding under the table to get away from the big mouse. Everything else was pretty fun, but this was the funniest!!

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T11:43:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say Happy New Year to all of you. Here's hoping the year is bright and beautiful!

For One More Day

2009-12-27T10:45:00.001-08:00

Mike, Scott and I missed you a lot this Christmas. (You too, Denny.) We had a few conversations like the ones we had with you in Seattle, this time more holiday-oriented, but every bit as cathartic.

One of the things we said more than once was how nice it would be if we had had the foresight and the maturity to "dig deeper" with family members while we were still lucky enough to have them around. Somehow it feels like so many mysteries would be unlocked with just a little more information.

Along that theme, I just finished listening to an audio recording of Mitch Albom's for one more day. I've avoided his books because they appeared to hold emotional pitfalls, which I avoid religiously. But it wasn't so bad, and although a little maudlin, it did hold an important message for me. It's about a down-and-out man who is trying to end his miserable life when his dead mother appears and they spend one last day together. The end's predictable, but I like it. Maybe you will too.

Have a happy new year, you guys, and I love you all. Let's spend the year cherishing the happy moments.

Merry Christmas to All

2009-12-25T20:15:00.000-08:00

It's close to time for the after-Christmas quiet to descend. It's been a hectic day, full of noise, laughter, tears and food. We're all tired and each looking for a way to wind down after the day's excitement. Christmas stories have been read, at is hoped that little eyes will soon close for the night. And it's time to reflect on what kind of Christmas we had. At our house we had much to be grateful for: a bit of healing for Rosanne, some fun evenings with Scott, a couple of chuckling phone calls with Mike, a Christmas dinner like we haven't had in a few years.

The year past has not been an easy one, for more reasons than any of us want to recount. We've had Christmases in the past where we've had sorrow, disappointment, or worry to overcome, but this year has kind of topped them all. But we're strong and not a family to be brought down by life. I love you all, and am grateful for all you give us. Echoing Scott's New Year's wish, here's to 2010!

A Crossroads

2009-12-02T07:59:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, Matt is being released today and should be back in town tonight. Our plan is to let him stay with us for seven days, using that time to help him get back on his feet, as best as we are able.

Emotions are running pretty high, and they run the gamut: happiness to dread. It's so hard to hope when hopes have been dashed so many times. I was talking to someone yesterday, trying to explain how I felt. I miss the funny, playful Matt of about third or fourth grade. He has the capability to love, he showed it then. I'm so sorry for the turn his life has taken. We tried so hard to guide him in the right direction, but couldn't save him from his own decisions.

I guess it's safe to put my wish out there among you, those whom I love and who love me best: my Christmas wish for Matt is to find a peaceful, productive life, surrounded by his family. He says he's changed and I hope he has, especially for his sake. So the next few days are a crossroads for him and for us. He can do the work he needs to do to achieve the life he says he wants. Or he won't. Send prayers and good thoughts our way.

No Complaints

2009-11-08T18:55:00.000-08:00

The last few days have felt like something's different - either our stars are in alignment or there are a raft of guardian angels gracing the house, because the word to describe the last couple of days is "content." The Halloween hubbub is over, the candy is almost gone, we're on a relatively normal schedule, and everyone's pitching in to make the load lighter. So I have to give thanks and remember that life isn't like this very often.

I love you all and hope you can have days like this too.

Homesick

2009-10-30T15:49:00.001-07:00

It all started this morning as I risked being late to work by finishing Shannon, by Frank Delaney. Irish friends are not fond of him as an author - he "talks too much." But in this book and one of his other books, Ireland, he manages to give words to the feelings I have about Ireland. There is a scent in the breeze and a sound of soft wind and rain that makes me feel more at home there every time I visit. Anyway, in many ways I was reluctant to finish the book because it felt like I was closing the door on a special place in my heart.

And then on the ride to work I listened to a CD that only made the feeling stronger. It was the first Celtic Woman CD, not one that I usually warm too. But there's a whistle/fiddle piece near the end that lightened my heart and made me yearn for dark pubs and good music.

And that's why you get a picture of the Brazen Head, reportedly the oldest pub in Dublin. We never expected it to be anything but touristy, and it is that, but still with the feeling that it's a local. The music was wonderful and the atmosphere magical. Wish we could all be there together.

Is It Fall Yet?

2009-10-18T21:50:00.001-07:00

The Halloween decorations are up. There are pumpkins everywhere. We're watching baseball playoffs. This all says it must be fall.

So why is it still so hot? I want to wear cardigans and clothes with sleeves to work. I want it to be cold at night. I guess at the moment I just want to live in Washington or Ohio!!

Family Dinner

2009-10-12T18:43:00.000-07:00

Tonight was one of those nights that will be a watershed night for us - we had a family dinner. No filling plates at the counter and sitting down piecemeal to eat. The table was set. The food was placed on the table. Everyone was served and we all finished at the same time. Not a big deal, you say? Well, it is in this house. We've been hoping for it. We've been working toward it. We've had to argue with Rosanne who thinks the whole thing is too much trouble. We did it. And we had a nice dinner. And the kids ate; Christian even had seconds. I had to make sure I would remember this moment in years to come. Just in case it was because of the food, I'll include the link (Denny will want it). So celebrate with us; we're almost a normal family!

http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/06/the_best_lasagn/

P.S. I don't know that this is the world's best lasagna; it's not Mom's. But it's easy and it's good.

Controlled Chaos

2009-10-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

It was so nice to get away, and so nice to be home again. But right now it feels like we're in a state of chaos - controlled chaos, but chaos nonetheless. Nothing awful, just needed to put the words down somewhere. The biggest challenge is setting up household "routines," which we've pretty much managed without, I guess. AGHHH! It will be fine; it will be fine. (Laughing here, honest!)

Memories of Washington

2009-10-03T19:36:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful trip, and thank you to all of those in Washington who made us welcome. Only when I got home did I realize that I didn't have the camera out for some of the best moments (I got at least one of them, as you can see). Not one single picture of my brothers or Denny. Don't count on me to be the family chronicler!

More than many of our other trips to Seattle, this one was about connecting and reconnecting in a big way. Among the things I'll remember are:

James playing soccer
Allie making me feel like she wanted to spend time with me, even though she's 13
Meeting Denny again and spending a lot of time just chatting
Shedding some tears and then some laughter with my brothers over days gone by
Listening to Mike and Scott play guitar, even if it was for only one evening
Riding the ferry with Gil, Jenny and James
Listening to James complain that he wanted to go home, until we reached Fort Casey and he decided he couldn't possibly leave yet
Lunch with Mike and Scott in the Pike Place Market, looking out over the Sound
Getting to know more about Denny and finding out we really are kindred spirits
"Theme Day Meals" - Mexican day, Hamburger day, Grease day (my innards are still protesting)

I'm sure there are many more memories that will pop up as the days go by, but the sense I came home with is that my family's pretty special. I hope we can do it all again soon. Hope the rest of you loved it too.

Knitting Update

2009-09-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

There just hasn't been much that's blog-worthy going on around here. My biggest accomplishment is the new sweater I just finished for Mackenzie. Lots of fun and not too hard. I had to hurry once I figured out it's not going to fit for very long!

Looking forward to being in Seattle in a week or so!

Uncle Larry

2009-08-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

It is unbelievably sad and just unimaginable that our Uncle Larry was killed. The physical distance between us adds a kind of buffer; my sad thoughts can't possibly compare with the deep stabbing pain his family is feeling. We hadn't seen each other since my grandmother died, but his weekly checking in emails were always a joy and did so much to help us hold onto the love we had for each other. As my youngest uncle, he was the one who seemed the most playful, the one that understood us best and was so great at being a kid, even when he was in his sixties. I hope that there is something I can say to make his wife and sons as well as his brothers and sisters, know how much I loved and admired him.

Solvang Report

2009-08-18T21:20:00.001-07:00

Nothing witty to write about this time; just a report on our weekend in Solvang. I can't even share personal pictures because our camera decided to poop out on us. [I've snagged a couple of pictures off the Internet, just for effect.] But we did have a nice weekend with a few little adventures.

For those who have experienced Solvang, much of it has not changed. Food is the same - Danish sausages, meatballs, pastries and cookies. We ate at The Little Mermaid to fulfill one of Rosanne's childhood desires and the food was pretty darn good. The main shops are the same so we didn't find a lot that we had to buy. The kids got to experience the grab-all-kinds-of-candy-out-of-barrels-and-pay-too-much-for-it-store. And we hit every toy store in town. What has changed is the number of wine tasting locations in town; I'd estimate 15 to 20. The atmosphere is definitely more "wine country," which makes sense as the vineyards are proliferating.

We spent the night in Santa Maria, which worked out fine. We had hoped to see the Petersons while we were up there, but they'd gone north to help Jeff and his wife move. We did not look up any Halsne relatives; my bad. The drive up there was nice and it was good to be out of the hubbub of Solvang itself.

Sunday morning we ate at the hotel and then headed to Lompoc to see the Mission La Purisima. We hadn't been there in a long time; it was the mission we liked to visit best because it was still pretty unrestored. It's much different now, but is still far enough away from everything that it felt "real." All three kids enjoyed the farm animals - sheep, pigs, donkeys, horses, turkeys, chickens and a bull - and the little ones had a chance to really run around for a while.

We then headed back to Solvang for lunch before the return trip. Eating is our favorite Solvang activity. On Saturday we'd eaten Danish meatballs - wonderful and not at all like Swedish meatballs. Sunday it was sausages - bratwurst and knockwurst. It all came with red cabbage and satisfactory amounts of potatoes. I bought a loaf of limpa bread, thinking it was the bread we always had in smorgasbords, but it's more like rye. Any ideas about what bread I was looking for? All in all, we had a good time. Our drive home took six hours, so that part wasn't so pleasant.

The lesson we learned from this trip: the kids are pretty decent travelers, but next time we'll aim for a shorter drive.

In Praise of Patsy's

2009-08-09T07:51:00.001-07:00

There are times when all you need is your Irish pub. Last night was one of those times. So we headed to Patys' Irish Pub in Laguna Niguel. Was it perfect? Almost. The service was very slow - the Irish are never in a hurry. I think the man who served us is the same man in the picture above, albeit a little older. He brought the little kids Shirley Temples and turned one of the tvs to the Cartoon Network. Jim and I each ordered a Guinness, and at about the time Jim was getting ready to reorder, our friend placed another full glass in front of him saying, "This was a mistake, so you should drink it." I came home feeling satisfied; I couldn't make it to Ireland but this helped a lot. The kids got squirmy and no one cared but their mom. The ladies sitting next to us smiled at the kids from time to time. And when we were finally able to pay the bill (no charge for Jim's second Guinness or the refills on the Shirley Temples), our proprietor complimented us on how well the kiddies behaved. A nice evening, and we'll gladly do it again for anyone who wants to come visit. Hint, hint.

Dad

2009-08-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

None of us ever really talks about today, but I think the same thought is there for all of us. We may not have known him as well as we'd have hoped. Our memories of him may not all be rosy. There may be a lot of questions about who he really was and what he was really like. The bottom line, though, is that we love him. At this moment I'm shedding the tears that I pretty much keep at bay every time I think of him. I believe that the best parts of him live in each of his children. There are parts of myself that I like to tell myself are my connections to Dad.

James Patterson

2009-07-25T11:43:00.001-07:00

Has anyone else noticed that many of James Patterson's new books are co-authored? What gives with that?

You Gotta Read.....!

2009-07-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

I just finished "The Burnt House" by Faye Kellerman. I read many of her books a few years ago, then stopped reading the series. I'm going back to read them and I think you all should read them too. I'd start with the first in the series, "The Ritual Bath." Back to reading --too many books, too little time.

The Playhouse

2009-07-23T07:04:00.001-07:00

This playhouse has been one of the happiest parts of our summer. See those two little kids inside? They don't care if the construction work is done, this place is THEIRS! It has been wonderful watching them play construction worker and house in the afternoons and evenings. Kenzie has brought her vacuum cleaner out to clean. They sit in the window and look at what's going on next door. Christian begs to sleep in it. It has given them lots of opportunities to spend time with Jim - he is infinitely patient with teaching them to hammer nails and to hold wood while he saws. I can't wait to see it finished.

2009-07-10T12:03:00.000-07:00

I'm probably breaking all sorts of protocol here, but I got an email from Janet Dugan today which she had received from a friend whose cousin just got back from a trip to Ireland. It made me soooo homesick and I thought you all would enjoy it. So, thank you, Randy, whoever you are. And now the rest of you have to believe our leprechaun story!!

...all my planes remained in the air, coming down only when they were supposed to; the Guinness ran fair and plentiful but didn't cause me to make too much a fool of /'meself/'; I fell in love with Ireland... as well as with several Irish lasses, none of whom...sadly... asked me to remain behind; I found they do actually eat Irish Stew and Shepard's Pie and that each taste much better in Eire-land...accompanied by a pint of Guinness; and it surprised me that there was a real castle 'round nearly every corner and that there was a pub [or two] on every corner!

The countryside is even more beautiful than the glimpses one gets of it in books and movies... the word that comes to mind is 'sweet' and when combined with Ireland's turbulant history, it brings a tightness to ones chest and throat as well as tears to the eyes. There's less than 5 million people on the entire isle... fewer than reside in the greater Houston area... and in spite of their recession, failing economy, and near half million unemployed [Gee, thank you, Michael for closing down the Dell offices in Dublin], I haven't met a more up-beat and future-looking people anywhere.

My guided day-trip to [London]Derry in Northern Ireland brought well home their 'troubles' and a better historical understanding of just what it is all about... along with where the feelings lie today... there's still unrest even though progress has been made and is being made, but I'm not sure anyone sees a real end to it all, though an "end" through a joint interest in improving the economy is being realized right now. But their basic differences today remain and lie well beyond simply religion. To say it's only about religion would be the same as saying that our civil war was only about slavery.

Oh, and it does seem to be true that a flair for music must run in every Irishman's veins, for I heard music everywhere and coming from the most unlikely of people. Sure, and didn't I kiss the Blarney stone? Well, of course, I did! 100 steps to the top of Blarney castle [built in 1210 a.d.] winding my way up and through a narrow solid-stone stairway [claustrophobic tunnel actually!] to the top battlement of the main tower only to be lowered backwards down to kiss the stone... which they do not wipe clean between 'kissers'!! But I had to do it.

And, once, just outside a pub door, I think I caught a glimpse of, from the corner of me eye, a wee little cobbler-fellow dressed in a suit of green with a red vest, wide belt, and pointed shoes, but I'm not for sure for they say there really are no Leprechauns in Ireland and that it's the Guinness that may have overtaken me eyesight... well, I know what I saw, so that's my story and I'm a-stickin' to it! :)

I recommend a trip to Ireland for anyone. Well worth the time and expense and if you have antecedents from there, well, so much the better, for it will add a personal dimension to your trip that will cause the isle to really reach out and grab your heartstrings.

Three Alarm Thursday

2009-07-09T19:45:00.001-07:00

So another peaceful day at the library. Not. We had a balloon program this morning, meaning hundreds of kids and moms (maybe a slight exaggeration). We had summer reading, meanind more kids and moms. And then we had a construction worker who cut into the wires for the fire alarm. Alarm goes off. We evacuate people. We try to figure out why the fire department isn't there (we do already know there's no fire). We try to figure out how to turn the alarm off. I talk to the alarm company, who won't tell me how to do anything because I don't have the password (which turns out to be "Clemente"). And then thankfully it turns itself off. This was all in the first hour of the morning. Got us all moving and laughing. It happened twice more, but the construction worker ran in and got it turned off before we could get there.

People are so strange, though. It just wasn't real to most of them. I don't understand the elderly couple who come in every morning and race everyone else to the newspapers so they can read them first and don't think they need to leave the building when the alarm is blaring. I don't understand people who don't want to leave their computer sessions just because the alarm is blaring. They all didn't know there wasn't a fire. Oh, well. Made the day interesting.

Nothing else really going on. James had his tonsils and adenoids removed today, also his ears drained, I think. Jennie says he's whiny, but okay. Wants real food and is cuddling with his dad. Hope you all had a good day.

Ahh, Mondays & Michael Jackson

2009-07-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Monday, and turned out to be a very peaceful day. My work schedule has changed so that I don't go in until 1:00. That gives me the morning to catch up on what's left over from Sunday - the company dishes, the trash to get ready for Tuesday, the last minute laundry. And I take an hour or two to read, knit, something quiet. This week I needed the quiet. After 10 days of company and a major holiday, I was tired. So yesterday I sat in the backyard under the gazebo, knitting and listening to my Ipod. Nearly a perfect morning.

Today has been only slightly more productive. Much to my shame, I found myself caught up in the Michael Jackson circus taking place today. It started when I was listening to KFI on the radio on my way to Target. Bill Handel is really good at poking sarcastic fun and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to his description of what was going on. By the time I got home I had to see the gold-plated coffin and the crowds that had to be coaxed in off the street for myself. I wonder if all of this was really necessary. I think it would have been more dignified if the family had just had a quiet family/friend service rather than carting that poor man's body around the city of Los Angeles. Did the fans really need this? I don't think so - they just wanted to be part of the circus, the last performance. I can't say I had a lot of regard for Michael Jackson, but the media attention hasn't done anything to improve my opinion of him. The one celebrity that did "speak to me" was Brooke Shields, talking about how the two of them exchanged stories and formed a bond over being child stars together. Was it that childhood stardom that sowed the seeds of perversity and tragic unhappiness in Michael Jackson? From the looks of it, I'd say his family is still doing it to him.

Book Review - The Walking People

2009-07-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

An outstanding book about three young people who emigrate in Ireland, I don't remember whether it was in the 1950s or 1960s. Mike and Scott, not so sure you'll like it. Mom, maybe you will. Denny, I think you should try it. Author is Mary Beth Keane.

Happy Fourth of July

2009-07-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since I've been on here - plenty of excuses, but mostly because I just haven't had the time. We had a wonderful ten days with the Seattle family; ups and downs, of course, but in the end it was good to be with them and we'll miss them terribly.

Our July 4th was great - a little time to pull the house in order, some time to unwind, and then to Great Grandma's for fireworks. The little guys have missed going up there so much. And we haven't had "street" fireworks in years. Christian loved every minute of it; Mackenzie had had enough pretty quickly. She made us cover her ears for her the whole time and I finally just took her into the house to watch tv with Great Grandpa. But it was great, and it made me miss the old days of sitting in the street for fireworks. Nothing will ever be so simple again, but then I guess it was simple for us because we only had the fun, not the work.

I'll be back to blogging soon.

Morning Chuckle

2009-06-12T11:52:00.001-07:00

There is an apple tree in our backyard. It's not very old and it's not very big. We generally get about six apples a year, and frankly, they aren't very good. But it is a great temptation to little ones, especially since the apples are so low to the ground. There has been a constant litany this spring - don't pick the apples until Grandma or Grandpa says it's okay. Well, they didn't pick the apples. As I was sitting on the patio drinking coffee this mornig, something in the apple tree looked a little odd. I went over to look, and sure enough, someone had been eating apples. But they didn't take them off the tree! See, that's progress!!

Stop and Smell the Roses (or Hydrangeas, as the Case May Be)

2009-06-09T08:36:00.001-07:00

One of the original intents in my blogging was to have a place for clearing my head once in a while. I guess you can guess that my head hasn't been too clear lately. It is very tempting to blame one of my forebears for the nasty, self-pitying side of my temperament, but I think I have to own it all myself. All too often I let myself dwell on the difficulties in my life, but if I've learned anything in the last few months, it's that many people have it much more difficult than I.

This last weekend was great, weather-wise, and it was the perfect opportunity to drag the kids outdoors and get some major work done in the yard. We cleaned the hill, we planted roses and strawberries, and one of us stopped to enjoy the flowers! Life wasn't perfect, but we found plenty of opportunity to laugh, play, and appreciate the time we had together. So my goal is to pull myself out of the pity party a little more often, just in case I miss something really fun.

Thank You Ed

2009-06-04T20:59:00.000-07:00

I've never found the perfect words to tell Ed thanks for being our "second dad." He'll never admit to being that, but in my eyes, he is. He would never think of replacing "Dad" in our hearts and lives; that was never his intention. After all, we were pretty much adults when he became a permanent fixture. But he's always shown concern for us, love for us, and respect for us. He has offered and given us advice and help, sometimes with the stern words a dad has to use with his kids. He has stood by and watched us make mistakes but never made us feel like we weren't welcome or were too much trouble. He's been a loving companion to our mother, making a home with her and enjoying life together when they could.

We love you, Ed, and I for one can't imagine what life would be like without you. I hope your birthday was wonderful.

News Story From the Past

2009-05-14T06:43:00.000-07:00

This week I was digging through dusty boxes of family detritus and came up with something I hadn't seen before - a news article about Dad testifying for the Senate Rackets Committee. I'd heard a little about this from Mom, but the article made the whole story come alive.

The article's pretty yellowed and fragile, so I thought I'd just duplicate it here for you guys to read, if you're interested. There's no date on the article. Hopefully, I'm not breaking any copyright laws.

Frozen-Pie Worker Testifies on Freeze
A frozen-pie plant worker told the Senate Rackets Committee today that Nathan W. Shefferman's labor-relations firm helped freeze one union out of a food factory and then helped another get a "very poor contract."

The witness, Gary Long, testified that the Morton Packing Co. secretly ordered him to form a "spontaneous" committee of workers to prevent the CIO United Packinghouse Workers from organizing its Webster City, Iowa, plant in 1955.

But later, he said, the company cooperated with the Bakery Workers Union in recruiting members and signing a three-year contract which gave a raise of only five cents an hour.

A Packinghouse Workers official said his union wanted rasies of 2 to 46 cents an hour for the Morton workers.

Cooperation
Mr. Long said one employee of Sherman's firm, Labor Relations Associates, worked with him to fight the Packinghouse Workers and another later signed up members for the bakery workers.

Before Mr. Long testified, attorneys for the frozen-food firm - now a division of Continental Baking Co. - tried to put the case on ice, claiming the testimony would prejudice their defense against National Labor Relations Board charges filed against the firm by the Packinghouse Workers.

The committee refused. Chairman John L. McClellan (D., Ark.) said the group tried not to interfere with criminal trials but could not defer its work for the outcome of a civil action.

Beginning
The Morton case was the opening gun in an investigation of Mr. Shefferman, 70-year-old Chicago labor relations counselor to some 300 firms across the nation.

Sen. McClellan said, Mr. Shefferman's firm was "apparently dedicated to the proposition that no employer need deal with a labor union unfriendly to their interests."

The chairman said the Taft-Harley Act put restrictions on management as well as labor, and the committee would investigate whether there has been "a deliberate and calculated effort to circumvent and defeat these provisions on behalf of management." (UP)

byline: Washington's sprightliest society columnist - Evelyn Peyton Gordon in The News.

One of My Favorite Blogs

2009-05-09T14:10:00.000-07:00

http://celticmemoryyarns.blogspot.com/2009/05/old-roads-and-new-life.html

I hope so much that this link works. I've been pretty "homesick" for Ireland lately, and this lady's writing can feed my soul. Feel free to skip the parts about knitting.

Another Movie Review

2009-05-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, not much going on around here, so I'll talk about another movie. Seems to be a good way to get some convervation going.

Sunday night we watched "Frost/Nixon." I wasn't sure what to expect really, but I found it fascinating. I would say our family is not traditionally impressed with Richard Nixon; I remember Grandpa Long being very vocal about him. The Watergate incident has always been fascinating to me - the twists and turns, the secrecy, the apparent inability of Nixon to be honest and to recognize when it was time to give up the pretence. I have watched "All the President's Men" again and again, always finding something new in it.

I had no background on the Frost/Nixon interviews. I remembered David Frost as a tv personality, but didn't really get that he wasn't a serious newsman, so that part of the story was interesting. But I really appreciated the portrayal of Nixon's personality. Much of what I saw supported by gut instinct about the man, but there were a couple of surprises, too, and the unfolding of the story was interesting to watch.

Doldrums, The Reader

2009-04-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, guys; I've hit a rough spot here. Nothing drastic, nothing unusual, I just can't seem to get out of my rut. And I like writing on here. So ask me a question, give me a nudge. Help me out please.

Stayed up last night to watch "The Reader." Seems like there's been a run of holocaust movies lately, most of which I haven't watched. (I'm probably overstating, but there was at least ONE more.) Has anyone else seen this one? There were a couple of character issues I didn't get and would like explained. Consider it a challenge.

Book Site

2009-04-15T08:21:00.001-07:00

Not much to blog about here - my brain is just not engaged. But I will pass on info about a web site that was sent to me at work:

http://www.goodreads.com/

If you haven't seen it before, it's a site where you can list books you've read, want to read, want to forget, etc. There's book recommendation capabilities, networking stuff; in many ways it's like Librarything (http://www.librarything.com/), just a little newer. I signed up to try it out and I think it will be fun. If my house can't be organized, at least my reading list will be. And I think I'll go back to Librarything, too; they have a couple of programs where you can get free books to review.