Today I had my annual physical and my cholesterol is up!!! No wonder--I have been eating like a teenager this winter. So saying goodbye to bad habits and tomorrow is a new day.
I am telling myself I can't take a trip to San Diego until I lose 18 pounds. That is not too much but it will be a good start so do it!! I just need to cut out all the fat I have been eating
For some reason I had interesting conversations in the waiting room at the Drs. I should really socialize more, it is good for me. The first couple were just interested in listening to my Bandido story and we went from there and then the last three were interested in my Montana wolf jacket and wanted to talk about Montana. One of them had a father in Scobey and another had a cousin in Billings. They did not know where Cooke City was. They liked my
jacket.
I finished "To Kill A Mockingbird". So glad I read it again, and yes, every high school student should read it, everyone should read it. I also watched another episode of "War and Remembrance" and it was such vivid images of details of the holocaust...so unbelievable what they did.
When I was in 4th grade our teacher read us episodes of Toby Tyler (joins the circus) every day after lunch. I really enjoyed it. Today I watched a movie that was made about him in the 60's. Still enjoyed it. Life is good.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Live in the Mountains
Meagan gave me a sign that said, "If you are lucky enough to live in the moutains, you are lucky enough." That was so true today. The sun was shining, it was not too cold and the grounds were still covered with snow. So beautiful, so peaceful.
Poor Bandido, though. He missed the driveway twice. Each time he walked passed it and then turned around and came back. I was letting him lead us on his leash. The third time he turned in at the right place. He didn't know when to turn in at the deck either. He certainly cannot be outside at all by himself. Poor Bandido.
Today I have been scanning pictures and listening to music. I can't believe how much I accomplish since I went off Facebook. Life is just a lot simpler if you are not involved in everybody's else's life. As my FEMA friend said, "If anybody wants to communicate with me, they know where I am." Guess that is true.
I have been writing again in my San Diego Scene and reading a lot of old letters. It was a good time when we used to write letters, I am so glad I have them.
Poor Bandido, though. He missed the driveway twice. Each time he walked passed it and then turned around and came back. I was letting him lead us on his leash. The third time he turned in at the right place. He didn't know when to turn in at the deck either. He certainly cannot be outside at all by himself. Poor Bandido.
Today I have been scanning pictures and listening to music. I can't believe how much I accomplish since I went off Facebook. Life is just a lot simpler if you are not involved in everybody's else's life. As my FEMA friend said, "If anybody wants to communicate with me, they know where I am." Guess that is true.
I have been writing again in my San Diego Scene and reading a lot of old letters. It was a good time when we used to write letters, I am so glad I have them.
Pacific Beach in 1964
This is another fun picture I found today. This was the day after my sister Carole's wedding in Pacific Beach. I am on the left, then my Mom, sister-in-law Mary, Carole, and my sister Jeanne. The children are Cheri ( Mary's daughter) Linda, Carole (Jeanne's daughter) and Johnny. Evidently David and Marilyn did not come to the wedding. Who had baby Maria? In most of the pictures, Mary was holding her. And I didn't see Richard in any of the beach pictures. He must have had to work after taking off the day before for the wedding.
From 1956
This is another old picture I found of my first year of teaching in San Diego. I was teaching in South San Diego and had too many students and no control in the second grade I was teaching. It was my second year as I had taught one year in Billings, Montana. The big difference is I had only around 20 students in Montana and here I had from 38-40 most of the year. It was very difficult and depressing.
My friend Norma (on the end right, who later set me up with Richard) had us all do a three act play and it was a wonderful diversion from my teaching experience. Fourth from the left is Danny Prager who lives on the same street as Meagan in San Diego. Second from the right is John who I dated when I first came to San Diego and next to me on my left is Bob who also wanted to date seriously. He was very nice but I was not interested in anything more than a friendship. After I met Bill, I didn't date any of the locals.
These young adults all were single and living in Fourth Ward in San Diego so we had lots of fun activites. There were many more other single adults, also. It was a very fun ward for us to be in--North Park of San Diego. I am, of course, the fifth from the right and I was playing the part of the mother in the play and Danny was my son, thus I had powdered grey hair. The big scene was when I had to kiss my husband...I can't remember if it was Bob or Chuck. Chuck, on my right, introduced me to Bill when he brought him to my school. Bill told me later it was love at first sight. We did have a fun romance with dancing, dinners, sailing, the zoo, and the beach. San Diego was a fun, sleepy town in the 50's.
1966 Winter Picture
I love to find pictures of Richard with the children. This was probably the winter of 1966 and we had probably gone up to Julian when it snowed. Nobody has mittens. Richard always enjoyed having an outing with the family. Looks like Linda and Johnny are throwing snowballs on Richard's back. We probably had hot chocolate and marshmallows before going back home.
We had about four inches of snow last night and it is all melting today. Glad I fertilized the daffodils yesterday before the snow.
Mitch came up to get the rest of his things and to say goodbye. He is going to Michigan for awhile to work and stay with his Valko grandparents. I hope he enjoys the change. I wonder if they are still having winter there???
Monday, March 26, 2012
Exhausted
Bandido and I are both recuperating from our exhausting ordeal, both of us walking far more than we normally do. Him seeking home, me seeking him. I know I didn't have any sleep Friday night and I am sure he didn't either as he wound his way down hill to the lakeside.
At least we are both sleeping a lot now and that is good.
It was interesting to go online and read of other traumatic experiences of people whose pets have disappeared, some eventually finding resolve and others none. I can see why people seek others online for similar experiences so they receive some kind of understanding in their anxiety. When a pet is lost or a loved one leaves, you have the same kind of guilty feeling. What should I have done that I didn't.? Was I negligent? Did I not show enough caring and love?
It has been a long time since Bandido has wanted to snuggle next to me like he used to--almost like an Alzheimer's patient, not knowing who he is or who you are, but I have been trying to get him to cuddle more since he came back. Does it matter to him? I am not sure? His eyes are glazed, I know he sees the shadow of my outline but does he see me???
At least we are both sleeping a lot now and that is good.
It was interesting to go online and read of other traumatic experiences of people whose pets have disappeared, some eventually finding resolve and others none. I can see why people seek others online for similar experiences so they receive some kind of understanding in their anxiety. When a pet is lost or a loved one leaves, you have the same kind of guilty feeling. What should I have done that I didn't.? Was I negligent? Did I not show enough caring and love?
It has been a long time since Bandido has wanted to snuggle next to me like he used to--almost like an Alzheimer's patient, not knowing who he is or who you are, but I have been trying to get him to cuddle more since he came back. Does it matter to him? I am not sure? His eyes are glazed, I know he sees the shadow of my outline but does he see me???
Saturday, March 24, 2012
"Yesterday was just awful"
...from the musical "Annie".
Last night while it was still light Bandido was on the deck but not ready to come in. When I went for him again he was gone. As I have said before, Bandido has only gotten off the deck once in the past year and that is when the snow was as high as the deck...and yet here he was... gone.
I looked everywhere in the house. Had I let him in and forgotten??? When Mike came home we looked again and again, even under the beds. It was so dark it was hard to see in the yards but I checked back and front over and over again. He was gone...but where?
At 2 am I still l hadn't been able to sleep and Mike was up, too. He drove us around just in case Bandido had been hit by a car or was on the side of the road. Nothing.
Bandido has 4 tags--one with my cell phone and his name, one with my house phone and his name, one with his rabies information and one with his Vet's name and number. I thought if someone had taken him in out of the cold, they would call in the morning. At 9 AM I called the Security...no one had reported a found dog.
I walked all the lots near my home. I had read on the internet about how dogs go off to die by themselves. I looked under all the decks. I walked up and down the street and across the street. Everytime the phone rang I thought it will either be good news or bad news but sooner or later he has to be seen and someone will call. There are not too many in the LAAC this time of year. Most are summer homes so it could be awhile.
But at about 4 pm the call came. Mary at Security in a cheerful voice said I would find Bandido laying on the beach at such and such a number on Peninsula. After I hung up I thought he must be dead or why would he just be laying there? But she did sound cheerful. I realized Mike had my car so asked my neighbor to drive me down.
When we got there my neighbor talked to the man of the house and I walked directly to the beach behind their house. I could see him laying in a fluffy ball, not moving, and I started to cry. But when I walked up to him I could see he was shaking like a cold leaf but when I wrapped him in my towel he cuddled up and perked up and got more perky as we neared home.
After a long drink and good food and some warm cuddling he was soon walking around acting very normal but inspecting everything and he looked very comforted to be home. He keeps going back to eat and eat, he must have used a lot of energy last night.
When I later tried to take him for a walk or even use the run he did not want to. He was either very tired or afraid, I am not sure which. Since Bandido cannot see very well or hear very well it must have been very frightening for him to walk all the way from my house at the top of the peninsula down to the east shore of the peninsula. We will never know why or how he did it...his left leg slips out from under him quite often and he walks in circles a lot. No wonder he was so tired. It is a lot further than I could have walked, that is for sure. Mike thinks he was interacting with the raccoons...we will never know.
At least for now, he has another lease on life and deserves a lot of cuddling, we better go see Dr. Bob and see what we can give him in comfort for his last days. Hard to believe Richard and I picked him out of a litter 16 years ago in November, just before Richard died. He has been a good, good friend to me.
Last night while it was still light Bandido was on the deck but not ready to come in. When I went for him again he was gone. As I have said before, Bandido has only gotten off the deck once in the past year and that is when the snow was as high as the deck...and yet here he was... gone.
I looked everywhere in the house. Had I let him in and forgotten??? When Mike came home we looked again and again, even under the beds. It was so dark it was hard to see in the yards but I checked back and front over and over again. He was gone...but where?
At 2 am I still l hadn't been able to sleep and Mike was up, too. He drove us around just in case Bandido had been hit by a car or was on the side of the road. Nothing.
Bandido has 4 tags--one with my cell phone and his name, one with my house phone and his name, one with his rabies information and one with his Vet's name and number. I thought if someone had taken him in out of the cold, they would call in the morning. At 9 AM I called the Security...no one had reported a found dog.
I walked all the lots near my home. I had read on the internet about how dogs go off to die by themselves. I looked under all the decks. I walked up and down the street and across the street. Everytime the phone rang I thought it will either be good news or bad news but sooner or later he has to be seen and someone will call. There are not too many in the LAAC this time of year. Most are summer homes so it could be awhile.
But at about 4 pm the call came. Mary at Security in a cheerful voice said I would find Bandido laying on the beach at such and such a number on Peninsula. After I hung up I thought he must be dead or why would he just be laying there? But she did sound cheerful. I realized Mike had my car so asked my neighbor to drive me down.
When we got there my neighbor talked to the man of the house and I walked directly to the beach behind their house. I could see him laying in a fluffy ball, not moving, and I started to cry. But when I walked up to him I could see he was shaking like a cold leaf but when I wrapped him in my towel he cuddled up and perked up and got more perky as we neared home.
After a long drink and good food and some warm cuddling he was soon walking around acting very normal but inspecting everything and he looked very comforted to be home. He keeps going back to eat and eat, he must have used a lot of energy last night.
When I later tried to take him for a walk or even use the run he did not want to. He was either very tired or afraid, I am not sure which. Since Bandido cannot see very well or hear very well it must have been very frightening for him to walk all the way from my house at the top of the peninsula down to the east shore of the peninsula. We will never know why or how he did it...his left leg slips out from under him quite often and he walks in circles a lot. No wonder he was so tired. It is a lot further than I could have walked, that is for sure. Mike thinks he was interacting with the raccoons...we will never know.
 |
| When we moved here 13 years ago. |
At least for now, he has another lease on life and deserves a lot of cuddling, we better go see Dr. Bob and see what we can give him in comfort for his last days. Hard to believe Richard and I picked him out of a litter 16 years ago in November, just before Richard died. He has been a good, good friend to me.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Monday, March 19, 2012
Dancing With The Stars
Is going to be wonderful to watch this year. Such beautiful, happy people who are so good!!!
Today I watched an excellent documentary on "To Kill a Mockingbird" so I need to check out the book and read it again. I did not know the author liv ed next door to Truman Capote and they were great friends until she won the Pulitzer Prize. Her name was Harper Lee and she never wrote another novel, some essays, but not a novel. However, she was able to live on what she made on that one book, which is almost unheard of...
I have really been enjoying the musical "Smash" but I am afraid they will drop it. They like the crazy shows the young people like instead of a good musical I think. I don't like part of the story line, however, it is going to ruin the show, always have to have a little trash I am afraid.
Bandido almost pranced down the street today with his coat on in the crisp air, he must be feeling well. Life is good!
Oh, yes, it is easy to keep up with my scriptures with BYUtv on Roku. Love it. And I am switching to Dish TV--hope that is good, they are cheaper with lots of freebies for 3 mo on some things and a year on others and I will have tv in my bedroom at no extra cost. The rep I talked to was excellent, so unusual but he did a great job and was so patient with me. Life is good!
Today I watched an excellent documentary on "To Kill a Mockingbird" so I need to check out the book and read it again. I did not know the author liv ed next door to Truman Capote and they were great friends until she won the Pulitzer Prize. Her name was Harper Lee and she never wrote another novel, some essays, but not a novel. However, she was able to live on what she made on that one book, which is almost unheard of...
I have really been enjoying the musical "Smash" but I am afraid they will drop it. They like the crazy shows the young people like instead of a good musical I think. I don't like part of the story line, however, it is going to ruin the show, always have to have a little trash I am afraid.
Bandido almost pranced down the street today with his coat on in the crisp air, he must be feeling well. Life is good!
Oh, yes, it is easy to keep up with my scriptures with BYUtv on Roku. Love it. And I am switching to Dish TV--hope that is good, they are cheaper with lots of freebies for 3 mo on some things and a year on others and I will have tv in my bedroom at no extra cost. The rep I talked to was excellent, so unusual but he did a great job and was so patient with me. Life is good!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Oscar Movies
I've been making my way through the Oscar movies. DirectTV is giving back $10 if you watch 4 this month. Last night I watched Descendants and enjoyed it very much. Clooney did a great job.
Tonight I watched "My Week with Marilyn". I thought Michelle Williams really had Marilyn down very well. Marilyn had something no one can really capture but she did remarkably well and she deserved an Oscar. I haven't seen the Thatcher movie yet, anxious to see Meryl Streep in that. Anyway I really enjoyed the Marilyn movie. The fellow who played Colin was great and I am anxious to see him again in another movie. I will have to see who he is.
We have had the strangest assortment of types of snow this week and then it all melts. What a strange winter or spring? One day there were large 50 cent size, very wet, blobs of snow coming down very close together and very fast. Never seen anything quite like it. The next day it was more like artificial snow, tiny dots and very dry. It also melted fast. But I am happy the yard is clean of branches, the buds are out and the daffodils pushing up and spring will soon be here. Life is good.
I think Mike and Mitch are enjoying each other--nice to have them here. With two of them here I have had light bulbs replaced, smoke alarms rearmed with new batteries, driveway and walks cleaned and they are both working at putting the toilet seat down. Mike had had jokes about it on one of his shows so I did express it was something they should learn to do...
Tonight I watched "My Week with Marilyn". I thought Michelle Williams really had Marilyn down very well. Marilyn had something no one can really capture but she did remarkably well and she deserved an Oscar. I haven't seen the Thatcher movie yet, anxious to see Meryl Streep in that. Anyway I really enjoyed the Marilyn movie. The fellow who played Colin was great and I am anxious to see him again in another movie. I will have to see who he is.
We have had the strangest assortment of types of snow this week and then it all melts. What a strange winter or spring? One day there were large 50 cent size, very wet, blobs of snow coming down very close together and very fast. Never seen anything quite like it. The next day it was more like artificial snow, tiny dots and very dry. It also melted fast. But I am happy the yard is clean of branches, the buds are out and the daffodils pushing up and spring will soon be here. Life is good.
I think Mike and Mitch are enjoying each other--nice to have them here. With two of them here I have had light bulbs replaced, smoke alarms rearmed with new batteries, driveway and walks cleaned and they are both working at putting the toilet seat down. Mike had had jokes about it on one of his shows so I did express it was something they should learn to do...
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Bridges of Madison County
I made my pies this morning, and I should note it doesn't work to substitute potato and corn starch for flour when making crumb crust. It just liquifies away. Pie still tastes good but you don't have the crunchy crust.
Anyway after making my pies I watched "Bridges of Madison County", one of my favorite movies. Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood are both such amazing actors and I hadn't noticed the beautiful music in the movie. There are also some wonderful lines in the movie, I want to go back and write down.
I remember the first time I watched it which must have been in 1995 I felt a little naughty liking it so much because it is about being unfaithful in your marriage. But there is a lot to learn from that movie also in just making your life the very best you can and blooming where you are planted--Living the moment--appreciating the wonder of life and the beauty of the world. One line at the beginning of the movie was Clint Eastwood saying:
"I had some wonderful dreams, they didn't all work out, but I'm glad I had them."
To me this is a movie with such feelings, scenery, music and messages it is a classic to watch again and again. I wonder what else the author has written.
Anyway after making my pies I watched "Bridges of Madison County", one of my favorite movies. Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood are both such amazing actors and I hadn't noticed the beautiful music in the movie. There are also some wonderful lines in the movie, I want to go back and write down.
I remember the first time I watched it which must have been in 1995 I felt a little naughty liking it so much because it is about being unfaithful in your marriage. But there is a lot to learn from that movie also in just making your life the very best you can and blooming where you are planted--Living the moment--appreciating the wonder of life and the beauty of the world. One line at the beginning of the movie was Clint Eastwood saying:
"I had some wonderful dreams, they didn't all work out, but I'm glad I had them."
To me this is a movie with such feelings, scenery, music and messages it is a classic to watch again and again. I wonder what else the author has written.
Winter Wonderland
Today is a one of the kinds of days I love most in Lake Almanor. I should write a poem about it. The snow is falling with large wet flakes and sticking to every branch and wire and it is beautiful, so beautiful. Bandido, even though I put his coat on, did not like it though and turned around immediately to get back in the house.
Mitch is here and he filled up the wood bin yesterday and I had gathered more kindling from around the lot so we are well set. I also made a run to Walmart so our cupboards are full. And we don't have to go anywhere today, I hope. Lovely day to sit home by the fire and play their games and read my books. Life is good. I think I will make apple pie, Lake Almanor apple pie, in fact, I think I will make two, one with regular crust for the boys and one with a gluten free crust for me. Yes, life is good!
Mitch is here and he filled up the wood bin yesterday and I had gathered more kindling from around the lot so we are well set. I also made a run to Walmart so our cupboards are full. And we don't have to go anywhere today, I hope. Lovely day to sit home by the fire and play their games and read my books. Life is good. I think I will make apple pie, Lake Almanor apple pie, in fact, I think I will make two, one with regular crust for the boys and one with a gluten free crust for me. Yes, life is good!
Hair
I have always wondered how certain famous people always appear to have the same hairdo month after month. I have never been able to achieve that. That must be why they have their own stylist travel with them on trips and such.
I have had many different people cut my hair through the years, I have found it extremely difficult for them to keep the hair cut the same from month to month.
For instance, I had let my hair grow out after a really bad short hair cut. So when I went to a stylist I have used in the past and I knew was good I went prepaed with pictures of how I wanted it to look. She complained that it wasn't right for me but she spent a lot of time working toward it and it was perfect. I loved dealing with my hair all month. It worked for me!! Yea, I have found the perfect length, etc. etc. etc. I just need it trimmed each month...or so I thought.
I went back five weeks later and I assumed (Motto: Never Assume) but I assumed she would trim the 1/4 inch off or so and keep it the same. Not so!!!! It ended up too short on the crown, too short on the top front, too long in the back for the too short on top, etc. In other words I went home with a hair cut that does not work and was totally different and shorter from the month before.
I have found this so true. They cut that first haircut perfectly and the second one is always too short. What should I say or do to see this does not happen? I guess I must take the pictures every time and let them know I do not trust them.
I have also found trying to explain what you want and what they hear you want is never the same.
One stylist did tell me it was very difficult to trim a razor cut so it was the same as last time when I told her to keep it the same and just trim it. And, of course, it was not. Anyway, one of the frustrations of my life.
I just heard noise from another frustration of my life...Bandido is waking up and I must hurry and let him out before he pees on the kitchen floor. Old age affects all of us in unkind ways.
Oh, yes, Bandido has a too short haircut, too, so we are both unhappy with our looks this month.
I have had many different people cut my hair through the years, I have found it extremely difficult for them to keep the hair cut the same from month to month.
For instance, I had let my hair grow out after a really bad short hair cut. So when I went to a stylist I have used in the past and I knew was good I went prepaed with pictures of how I wanted it to look. She complained that it wasn't right for me but she spent a lot of time working toward it and it was perfect. I loved dealing with my hair all month. It worked for me!! Yea, I have found the perfect length, etc. etc. etc. I just need it trimmed each month...or so I thought.
I went back five weeks later and I assumed (Motto: Never Assume) but I assumed she would trim the 1/4 inch off or so and keep it the same. Not so!!!! It ended up too short on the crown, too short on the top front, too long in the back for the too short on top, etc. In other words I went home with a hair cut that does not work and was totally different and shorter from the month before.
I have found this so true. They cut that first haircut perfectly and the second one is always too short. What should I say or do to see this does not happen? I guess I must take the pictures every time and let them know I do not trust them.
I have also found trying to explain what you want and what they hear you want is never the same.
One stylist did tell me it was very difficult to trim a razor cut so it was the same as last time when I told her to keep it the same and just trim it. And, of course, it was not. Anyway, one of the frustrations of my life.
I just heard noise from another frustration of my life...Bandido is waking up and I must hurry and let him out before he pees on the kitchen floor. Old age affects all of us in unkind ways.
Oh, yes, Bandido has a too short haircut, too, so we are both unhappy with our looks this month.
Friday, March 09, 2012
Winds of War
I am watching this series that Herman Wouk wrote about WWII. It really struck me in one scene. So many times soldiers are criticized or punished for killing innocent people yet, when Germany attacked Poland in 1939 the poles were trying to leave their cities and the Naziis came at them over and over with planes with machine guns. There were no enemy soldiers they were shooting at or munitions they were bombing, just innocent people trying to get away.
Listening to the devious lies of Hitler reminded me again of the gross mistrust I have of some of our government leaders in these latter days. There is so much deception and greed and power grabbing with no regard for what is best for America and her people. Hitler was able to get away with so much in the beginning because the people could not conceive of the evil he was capable of. Many called him crazy but still couldn't understand. He actually told the world the Poles had been attacking Germany for months before Germany retaliated in their surprise attack. He was proud of the fact he was deceiving England and France with his lies.
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." Edmund Burke
I don't like the character Ali McGraw plays anymore than I liked the character she played in "Love Story". She doesn't seem like someone guys would be so in love with, very manipulative and self serving. In "Love Story" I hardly could sit through it. I did not like her foul tongue and as I say I did not think she was lovable at all.
Listening to the devious lies of Hitler reminded me again of the gross mistrust I have of some of our government leaders in these latter days. There is so much deception and greed and power grabbing with no regard for what is best for America and her people. Hitler was able to get away with so much in the beginning because the people could not conceive of the evil he was capable of. Many called him crazy but still couldn't understand. He actually told the world the Poles had been attacking Germany for months before Germany retaliated in their surprise attack. He was proud of the fact he was deceiving England and France with his lies.
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." Edmund Burke
I don't like the character Ali McGraw plays anymore than I liked the character she played in "Love Story". She doesn't seem like someone guys would be so in love with, very manipulative and self serving. In "Love Story" I hardly could sit through it. I did not like her foul tongue and as I say I did not think she was lovable at all.
"The First Thing We Must Do is Understand"
--The second is to put our understanding into action." Good advice from President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. While I was having a fatty intolerance attack tonight I read something I want to remember.
President Uchtdorf warned of the tendency to complicate simple things. "Too often, we complicate the beauty and simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ with endless lists of meticulous expectations. however, when we focus on the 'why' of the gospel, much of the confusion fades away. Why are we asked to obey the commandments? Why is the Atonement of Jesus Christ of such value to us?"...
"Unfortunately, we sometimes don't seek revelation or answers from the scriptures...because we think we know the answers already...as good as our previous experience may be, if we stop asking questions, stop thinking, stop pondering, we can thwart the revelations of the Spirit."
"Please open your heart and minds to the will of heaven, and I promise that the Spirit will reveal the things that matter most--for you, your family...bring your decisions and efforts before the Lord in your daily prayers and ask for further light and direction. Trust Him. He knows you, and He loves you."
President Uchtdorf warned of the tendency to complicate simple things. "Too often, we complicate the beauty and simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ with endless lists of meticulous expectations. however, when we focus on the 'why' of the gospel, much of the confusion fades away. Why are we asked to obey the commandments? Why is the Atonement of Jesus Christ of such value to us?"...
"Unfortunately, we sometimes don't seek revelation or answers from the scriptures...because we think we know the answers already...as good as our previous experience may be, if we stop asking questions, stop thinking, stop pondering, we can thwart the revelations of the Spirit."
"Please open your heart and minds to the will of heaven, and I promise that the Spirit will reveal the things that matter most--for you, your family...bring your decisions and efforts before the Lord in your daily prayers and ask for further light and direction. Trust Him. He knows you, and He loves you."
Yea!! Maryanne to the Rescue!
I put out an email to see if anyone knew where the new dog groomer is in Chester and Maryanne came to the rescue. She had remembered seeing the sign some place so on way to her work today she scoped out Chester till she found it and called me the telephone number and directions. Thanks to Maryanne Bandido has a long overdue grooming appointment tomorrow. I hope the groomer will not be too hard on him and just shave him all off instead of trying to make him look good. His hair is very thick and a little mangy.
My Hot Dog Craving--Big Mistake!!
Yesterday when I saw the Miller Hot Dogs and got the craving it was a big mistake! I bought them and made my own gluten free hot dog buns and they worked!!! And they are so good! So good that I had them three meals in a row and little else except for Diet Dr Pepper and caramels made of butter, sugar and corn syryp.
Tonight I paid the price of my wacky diet. I had a huge fat intolerance or processed hot dog intolerance reaction tonight...evidently I couldn't digest so much accumulated fat with no veggies or anything else...
But the buns are good!!! Just remember, Janet, you have to eat sensibly and if you indulge in a huge hot dog it will not be more than one every two weeks or so!! I took a picture of my buns but I can't find the camera cord--story of my life, always something lost. And Janet, stop making those caramels, they are making you sick!!! And fat!!!!
Tonight I paid the price of my wacky diet. I had a huge fat intolerance or processed hot dog intolerance reaction tonight...evidently I couldn't digest so much accumulated fat with no veggies or anything else...
But the buns are good!!! Just remember, Janet, you have to eat sensibly and if you indulge in a huge hot dog it will not be more than one every two weeks or so!! I took a picture of my buns but I can't find the camera cord--story of my life, always something lost. And Janet, stop making those caramels, they are making you sick!!! And fat!!!!
Thursday, March 08, 2012
American Idol
Little Jessica Sanchez sang "I'll Always Love You" and made us all cry. She is another Whitney--so amazing.
It is going to be hard to choose this year. There are many good ones!!
It is going to be hard to choose this year. There are many good ones!!
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Seventeenth Summer
While looking for new books on my audio "Library to Go" I couldn't believe I saw " Seventeenth Summer", a book I had read when I was around 14 or 15. There were only two book titles I remembered from my teen age years. This was one and the other was "Men Are Like Streetcars".
I was curious to see if it would be as interesting to me now as it was then. And it was. Evidently a well-written book can be for all ages. I tried to go to sleep last night and finish it the next day but I had to keep turning it on until I was finished. It was so very nostalgic to me. So much like my high school life. However, I had read it before my 17th summer. And strangely enough my 17th summer was the most fun of my high school days so this book was even more nostalgic now than it was at 14. It is a story of first love and I could very well relate to all those new feelings and shyness and concern for the future.
My family was not as formal as this family but many other things were similar. My 17th summer was the summer before I was a senior and my boyfriend would be heading for college in the fall. In the book the girl was headed for college and the boy was moving to another state.
From a blogger I read that the book was originally written in 1942 by Maureen Daly before she was 20 years old. I read it in 1947-48. It was made into an audiobook last year and the book was reprinted in 2010. I don't know that teenagers of today would really wade through the book. It was such a different time and circumstances, I doubt they could relate at all. This particular blogger was a teacher of 7-8 graders and quite enjoyed it herself but also wondered if her students would feel the same. The only thing I thought was a little strange is that it was written in 1942 during WWII and that was not a part of the book at all. I assume the author did not want to date the book by that fact or muddy the theme of the book.
It reminded me so much of my hometown and my sister just sent me a poem written by a classmate of the class of 1950 about our hometown Glendive, Montana. He was the brother of my friend Carla and Hubert had written it for the '49-'52 years class reunion last year (which I did not attend). I hope he won't mind if I put it in my blog as a good memory.
Sandwiched between the Yellowstone and "Hungry Joe"
Our town bears witness:
To those who lived here long ago
To those who live here still
To those of us who were nurtured here and thus can call it our childhood home.
Our town provides a legacy:
For strong, resilient folks
Surviving in a tough, demanding land
Where heat in summer has reached 110 degrees,
Where days have reached to 40 below in a crisp, snowy, winter freeze.
Before us, the Indians called this land "Makoshika"
Yet, for those of us who call it home
The "badlands" has a beauty of its own.
We who are privileged to come together in this place
To renew our spirits, can say:
We have been here and shared our love and laughter
And will strive to leave it better
For those who come here after.
Hubert Carl Huebl,MD 7-9-2011 Class of 1950
I was curious to see if it would be as interesting to me now as it was then. And it was. Evidently a well-written book can be for all ages. I tried to go to sleep last night and finish it the next day but I had to keep turning it on until I was finished. It was so very nostalgic to me. So much like my high school life. However, I had read it before my 17th summer. And strangely enough my 17th summer was the most fun of my high school days so this book was even more nostalgic now than it was at 14. It is a story of first love and I could very well relate to all those new feelings and shyness and concern for the future.
My family was not as formal as this family but many other things were similar. My 17th summer was the summer before I was a senior and my boyfriend would be heading for college in the fall. In the book the girl was headed for college and the boy was moving to another state.
From a blogger I read that the book was originally written in 1942 by Maureen Daly before she was 20 years old. I read it in 1947-48. It was made into an audiobook last year and the book was reprinted in 2010. I don't know that teenagers of today would really wade through the book. It was such a different time and circumstances, I doubt they could relate at all. This particular blogger was a teacher of 7-8 graders and quite enjoyed it herself but also wondered if her students would feel the same. The only thing I thought was a little strange is that it was written in 1942 during WWII and that was not a part of the book at all. I assume the author did not want to date the book by that fact or muddy the theme of the book.
It reminded me so much of my hometown and my sister just sent me a poem written by a classmate of the class of 1950 about our hometown Glendive, Montana. He was the brother of my friend Carla and Hubert had written it for the '49-'52 years class reunion last year (which I did not attend). I hope he won't mind if I put it in my blog as a good memory.
Glendive-2011
Sandwiched between the Yellowstone and "Hungry Joe"
Our town bears witness:
To those who lived here long ago
To those who live here still
To those of us who were nurtured here and thus can call it our childhood home.
Our town provides a legacy:
For strong, resilient folks
Surviving in a tough, demanding land
Where heat in summer has reached 110 degrees,
Where days have reached to 40 below in a crisp, snowy, winter freeze.
Before us, the Indians called this land "Makoshika"
Yet, for those of us who call it home
The "badlands" has a beauty of its own.
We who are privileged to come together in this place
To renew our spirits, can say:
We have been here and shared our love and laughter
And will strive to leave it better
For those who come here after.
Hubert Carl Huebl,MD 7-9-2011 Class of 1950
Girl only house party at 17 in Glendive. As I say we were not as formal as the family in the book.
I told Melissa today that I was surprised the author had the characters doing so much smoking in high school and one even a pipe!!! In our school it was not so prevalent, at least until they went to college or started working.l
Monday, March 05, 2012
San Diego trip Needed?
Last week I went in for another zap on the cancerous looking spot on the side of my head. Dr Marc made an appointment for my annual this month but he took the opportunity to listen to my carotid artieries.
The one on my right was "wide open". That is the one I had surgery on in 2010. But he said the one on the left is sounding strange and he said I should make that appointment for a revisit to my surgeon. They called in January and I said I had no idea when I would be down again. Guess I better make that appointment and also one with my dermatoligist and then head South and pray that neither of them finds anything remotely dangeous this time.
I read an article on 'being prepared' for death at anytime. Guess I better get busy on my To Do list. In 1997, after Richard died, I made my 25 list and there are only a few things left to do
Here they are:
So what were the other 16 I did: Remember Richard had just passed away a few months earlier. I was still resolving all the business problems and was living in an apartment at James and Camber's Pacific Beach home and Camber encouraged me to write this and put it on my fridg.
The one on my right was "wide open". That is the one I had surgery on in 2010. But he said the one on the left is sounding strange and he said I should make that appointment for a revisit to my surgeon. They called in January and I said I had no idea when I would be down again. Guess I better make that appointment and also one with my dermatoligist and then head South and pray that neither of them finds anything remotely dangeous this time.
I read an article on 'being prepared' for death at anytime. Guess I better get busy on my To Do list. In 1997, after Richard died, I made my 25 list and there are only a few things left to do
Here they are:
- Get physically fit to where I can run a mile or longer and feel OK (don't want to take the risk of falling, this will never happen)
- Get down to 140 lbs...(that will never happen).
- Get rid of my spare tire...(ditto).
- Read all the classics. (what are all the classics?) I have read alot and really have enjoyed them!)
- See the Palmyra Pageant.
- See New England in the fall.
- Go to Branson and see lots of shows. (Not now, just had tornados)
- Be a good missionary.
- Exercise every day.
So what were the other 16 I did: Remember Richard had just passed away a few months earlier. I was still resolving all the business problems and was living in an apartment at James and Camber's Pacific Beach home and Camber encouraged me to write this and put it on my fridg.
- Own a home again--English cottage or Mountain Home. (the latter I do, since 1999)
- Feel happy.
- Feel joy.
- Feel contented and secure (it comes and goes like the ebb and flow of the sea).
- Go on a Cruise (Did the Mediterranean, Norway to England, Vancouver and Ensenada)
- Feel love and loved.
- Feel of worth.
- Enjoy talking and listening to people again.
- Enjoy dancing again (Ok, it is by myself but that is something. I did dance with two guys though and had fun for a few minutes)
- Be able to stop working (Well I did, but it wasn't because I had enough money).
- Have enough money to live comfortably. (I am surviving, given up a lot)
- Travel to Sweden (Actually have done it twice!!!) Plus London, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Croatia, Maui, Hong Kong, Singapore, Guam, Germany, Maryland, West Virginia, Texas (several times and places), Florida, Louisiana, Delaware, New York, Colorado, Utah, Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, Mississippi, Tennessee, Sacramento, Las Vegas, Tahoe, Park City, Rancho Santa Fe, El Cajon, Pacific Beach, Carlsbad, Seattle, Vancouver, Canada, San Jose, Napa Valley! Life is good.
- Read Scriptures everyday (doing pretty well on that--helps to be able to listen sometimes)
- Meet Barbara Striesand (No, I didn't but I crossed it off my list as not wanted after all)
- Look in the mirror and like who I see. (I've grown comfortable with that old face)
- Visit Switzerland (No, I didn't, but I flew over the Alps and crossed it off my list)
Sunday, March 04, 2012
A Time To Kill
The best thing about having a bad memory is you can watch an old movie and not remember what is going to happen at all.
The thing I do remember is reading the book and the emotion it evoked in me. A good writer can do amazing things to your feelings. I loved this book and what it helped me visualize of a place and events I was not really a part of. Great job John Grisham.
The thing I do remember is reading the book and the emotion it evoked in me. A good writer can do amazing things to your feelings. I loved this book and what it helped me visualize of a place and events I was not really a part of. Great job John Grisham.
Seven Dwarfs
What was fun is living at the Hardy home while I worked on them and having Kelsi enjoy each new thing I did and having such fun playing with them. It was funny, too, that the dolls disappeared for the longest time and no one could find them. I had let Kelsi take them to bed with her one night. Long after I had gone home, I got the word they had finally found them in an obscure place. Such is family life.
Oh, yes, and a few years ago when Kate was here (she was about 2) Snow White disappeared. We never have found her but Carole sent me duplicates so now I have spares to lose which I keep in a big hat box by the couch. Maybe when Keira comes there will be someone to play with them.
Melissa's Wall Creation
Wow, I am flattered that my granddaughter Melissa would use a picture of me from May 1959 on her wall arrangement about the sea. She also used John, the picture we are all familiar with and which I love.
The pictures are taken about 20 years apart. I remember well when mine was taken. Bill and I had gone to the beach for one last time.
Bill and I had been planning marriage but now were breaking up. I went off to BYU for the summer soon after this picture was taken. That is when I took my great Speech class and private singing (it didn't help me much but it was fun).
Richard came up and introduced himself after Church just before Labor Day 1959, the first weekend I was back in San Diego, and we were married six weeks later.
Bill and I had been planning marriage but now were breaking up. I went off to BYU for the summer soon after this picture was taken. That is when I took my great Speech class and private singing (it didn't help me much but it was fun).
Richard came up and introduced himself after Church just before Labor Day 1959, the first weekend I was back in San Diego, and we were married six weeks later.
Saturday, March 03, 2012
For the Boys
Last night one of my favorite Bette Midler movies was on. 'For the Boys' was about two peformers who entertained the troops in WWII, the Korean War, and Viet Nam. Besides loving her singing it was very interesting to see how differently they portrayed the three wars and the soldiers in the wars. It was a very sad commentary on the last two events especcially.
My memory goes back to age 8 years old when I walked home from school with my neighbor Shirley sometimes. Her parents must have discussed the presidency of the US alot because Shirley was always a fountain of information about such things. I remember so well that we thought the leaders of the nation really were amazing and knew so well what they were doing.
I wonder how soon those illusions passed.
I would love to have the respect for the leaders that I had then. Now it is very difficult to find even a few that you look to for wise leadership.
My memory goes back to age 8 years old when I walked home from school with my neighbor Shirley sometimes. Her parents must have discussed the presidency of the US alot because Shirley was always a fountain of information about such things. I remember so well that we thought the leaders of the nation really were amazing and knew so well what they were doing.
I wonder how soon those illusions passed.
I would love to have the respect for the leaders that I had then. Now it is very difficult to find even a few that you look to for wise leadership.
Friday, March 02, 2012
Gluten Free Bread
Insight into Isaiah
I found a wonderful site on byutv.org. It is 30 episodes of 'Insight into Isaiah' as in 30 half hour discussions of Isaiah in the Old Testament. It is wonderful, lots of visuals, so interesting and you can learn so much. It helps, of course, with Isaiah in the Book of Mormon.
Naturally since I have Roku I can watch it on the big TV rather than my computer. Life is good.
The sun is shining, walks and roads are melted and it is beautiful to behold. No mud, yet, either.
Naturally since I have Roku I can watch it on the big TV rather than my computer. Life is good.
The sun is shining, walks and roads are melted and it is beautiful to behold. No mud, yet, either.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Poor Bandido
We all know Bandido has poor eyesight. Today he almost froze because of it.
I let him out on the back deck where I had shoveled a nice snow free area for him to go pee. Since there was so much snow I did not hook him up to his leash for a run (slow walk) to the backyard.
While I was busy at the computer at the dining room table I soon wondered why he had not come back to the door to be let in.
Lo and behold he was nowhere to be seen, until I noticed a wandering trail of a paw marked tunnel in the snow that went round and round below the deck and then trailed off in to the side yard. I ran to the front door and looked out to see if the trail led to the front of the house. Not so. I ran back and peered over the side of the deck and there was Bandido wandering around in the deep snow in the neighbor's yard.
I let him out on the back deck where I had shoveled a nice snow free area for him to go pee. Since there was so much snow I did not hook him up to his leash for a run (slow walk) to the backyard.
While I was busy at the computer at the dining room table I soon wondered why he had not come back to the door to be let in.
Lo and behold he was nowhere to be seen, until I noticed a wandering trail of a paw marked tunnel in the snow that went round and round below the deck and then trailed off in to the side yard. I ran to the front door and looked out to see if the trail led to the front of the house. Not so. I ran back and peered over the side of the deck and there was Bandido wandering around in the deep snow in the neighbor's yard.
 |
| All tuckered out after his snow trip. |
He had so many balls of snow stuck to him I had to put him in the bathtub and warm his legs with warm water and melt the snow.
Poor thing, this is the first time in a year or so that he stepped off the deck by himself. With the snow about the same heighth I am sure he just went the wrong way. What if I had forgotten I let him out???? I shudder to think. With his bad eyes and deaf ears and my bad memory, we are a dangerous duo.
Poor thing, this is the first time in a year or so that he stepped off the deck by himself. With the snow about the same heighth I am sure he just went the wrong way. What if I had forgotten I let him out???? I shudder to think. With his bad eyes and deaf ears and my bad memory, we are a dangerous duo.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Fear Thou Not!
As I was listening to the TV today I heard someone say "I have never seen so much fear in the faces of the people as I followed the campaign trail this year." And then he listed all the reasons we have to fear and I understood well what he was saying. And then I turned to the Church News and on the back was an editorial 'Fear Thou Not'.
I quote "In these times, many people are pessimistic toward the future...and then a list of all negative things going on and then "However, as valid as these issues may be, we do not need to lose hope. The adversary would seduce us into pessisism for, with that attitude, he has greater control."
And then a list of suggestions of how to avoid this fear and finally a quote from the best example of optimism President Thomas S. Monson. This is what he said in October 2011.
I quote "In these times, many people are pessimistic toward the future...and then a list of all negative things going on and then "However, as valid as these issues may be, we do not need to lose hope. The adversary would seduce us into pessisism for, with that attitude, he has greater control."
And then a list of suggestions of how to avoid this fear and finally a quote from the best example of optimism President Thomas S. Monson. This is what he said in October 2011.
"In
this world where nearly everything seems to be changing, His constancy is
something on which we can rely, an anchor to which we can hold fast and be
safe, lest we be swept away into uncharted waters.
Some
of you may feel restricted by the code of conduct to which we in the Church
adhere. My brothers and sisters, I declare to you, however, that there is nothing
which can bring more joy into our lives or more peace to our souls than the
Spirit which can come to us as we follow the Savior and keep the commandments.
That Spirit cannot be present at the kinds of activities in which so much of
the world participates.
We
must be vigilant in a world which has moved so far from that which is
spiritual. It is essential that we reject anything that does not conform to our
standards, refusing in the process to surrender that which we desire most:
eternal life in the kingdom
of God
As
the winds of change swirl around us and the moral fiber of society continues to
disintegrate before our very eyes, may we remember the Lord’s precious promise
to those who trust in Him: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed;
for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will
uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10."
What a Promise! How great to have a consistent light of hope in this dark world.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
A Train In Winter
I just finished the book Maria sent to me 'A Train in Winter'. It is the story of 230 women who were a part of the French Resistance in WWII and who were hunted down and imprisoned and eventually sent to Auschwitz.
Only 49 survive and return to France after the war. The saddest part to me is that these 49 who survive do not really have happy lives after the war. It is as if they cannot get the horror of what they went through out of their memories or out of their physical health. They feel they cannot really put into understandable words what they went through either.
I myself had not read such personal descriptions of life in Auschwitz. I did not know there were many others there besides the Jews. Although the mission was to exterminate the Jews, many others were there to work for the Nazis, but they were horribly treated and most of them died also. (Actually the Nazis had these women sign papers that they would not tell what went on in the camps.) How could they ( the Nazis) who were losing the war at this time, expect them to honor that?
I cried for awhile after I finished. I felt so ashamed of my every feeling sad about any experiences I have had--they cannot, of course, be even a particle of what these women had gone through.
One thing that was interesting is this quote: "Their own particular skills as women, caring for others and being practical, made them, they told themselves, less vulnerable than men to harsh conditions and despair. Adaptability was crucial, resignation fatal. The inability to undo a vision of life as it should be and not cope with what it was, led, as they had observed. to apathy and the condition of musulmans, those more dead than alive. They did their best to stay clean, to wash their faces in the snow or icy brooks, believing that it made them both healthier and more dignified. And they wanted, passionately, to live, to survive the war, and to describe to the world exactly what they had been through and what they had witnessed."
Also interesting was that the older women (30-50s) could adapt more than the younger ones (20 and younger who were healthier). They also knew they needed each other and so kept that friendship and caring throughout their imprisonment. You could not survive alone.
Toward the end, the Nazis were speedily trying to get rid of the emaciated bodies before the Yanks would discover them. "One night, Marie-Claude heard terrible cries; next morning she learnt that because the gas chambers had run out of Zyklon B pellets, the smaller children had been thrown directly on to the flames. 'When we tell people,' she said to the others, 'who will believe us?' The Gypsies had many babies while at Auschwitz and the Nazis would bash the baby heads to the wall to kill them. If a mother fought them, they beat her to death also.
'A Train in Winter' is written from interviews with these women and their families; German, French, and Polish archives; and documents held by WWII resistance organizations to uncover a dark chapter of history that offers an inspiring portrait of ordinary people, of bravery and survival--and the remarkable, enduring power of female friendship. This was written by Caroline Moorehead.
I had to ask myself. Would I have been brave enough to be a part of the Resistance or would I have fled to the country with my children?
The saddest line was "Didn't we pray enough?" asked by one of the younger women.
Only 49 survive and return to France after the war. The saddest part to me is that these 49 who survive do not really have happy lives after the war. It is as if they cannot get the horror of what they went through out of their memories or out of their physical health. They feel they cannot really put into understandable words what they went through either.
I myself had not read such personal descriptions of life in Auschwitz. I did not know there were many others there besides the Jews. Although the mission was to exterminate the Jews, many others were there to work for the Nazis, but they were horribly treated and most of them died also. (Actually the Nazis had these women sign papers that they would not tell what went on in the camps.) How could they ( the Nazis) who were losing the war at this time, expect them to honor that?
I cried for awhile after I finished. I felt so ashamed of my every feeling sad about any experiences I have had--they cannot, of course, be even a particle of what these women had gone through.
One thing that was interesting is this quote: "Their own particular skills as women, caring for others and being practical, made them, they told themselves, less vulnerable than men to harsh conditions and despair. Adaptability was crucial, resignation fatal. The inability to undo a vision of life as it should be and not cope with what it was, led, as they had observed. to apathy and the condition of musulmans, those more dead than alive. They did their best to stay clean, to wash their faces in the snow or icy brooks, believing that it made them both healthier and more dignified. And they wanted, passionately, to live, to survive the war, and to describe to the world exactly what they had been through and what they had witnessed."
Also interesting was that the older women (30-50s) could adapt more than the younger ones (20 and younger who were healthier). They also knew they needed each other and so kept that friendship and caring throughout their imprisonment. You could not survive alone.
Toward the end, the Nazis were speedily trying to get rid of the emaciated bodies before the Yanks would discover them. "One night, Marie-Claude heard terrible cries; next morning she learnt that because the gas chambers had run out of Zyklon B pellets, the smaller children had been thrown directly on to the flames. 'When we tell people,' she said to the others, 'who will believe us?' The Gypsies had many babies while at Auschwitz and the Nazis would bash the baby heads to the wall to kill them. If a mother fought them, they beat her to death also.
'A Train in Winter' is written from interviews with these women and their families; German, French, and Polish archives; and documents held by WWII resistance organizations to uncover a dark chapter of history that offers an inspiring portrait of ordinary people, of bravery and survival--and the remarkable, enduring power of female friendship. This was written by Caroline Moorehead.
I had to ask myself. Would I have been brave enough to be a part of the Resistance or would I have fled to the country with my children?
The saddest line was "Didn't we pray enough?" asked by one of the younger women.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Shingles are On!
I'm finished working on my Seven Dwarf House for awhile. I can't find the furniture I made in San Diego though. But Matt is here and we are going to clean the garage tomorrow so maybe I will find them. Oh, well, I think this view is prettier anyway.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
All in a Day's Work
If I get nothing else done in the day, at least if I did my hour of family research indexing I can feel I have accomplished something.
Today I also completed one half of the shingling on the doll house.
And I tested the Gluten free Snickerdoodle recipe. And amazingly they are the best Snickerdoodles I have ever tasted. Who needs wheat? And only 65 calories in a cookie!
Furthermore I watched "Breaking Dawn" and although I still don't think the star is much of an actress I must say it was filmed pretty much as I imagined it. I really like it when the movies follow the books. It is not a film series of much depth but I was amazed to hear it had won a British Award for Best Child (Teen) movie of the year. Really? The photography is great, anyway.
Bruce continues to be downhearted because I never take him for a walk. I think my throat is getting better, maybe next week, Bruce.
Today I also completed one half of the shingling on the doll house.
And I tested the Gluten free Snickerdoodle recipe. And amazingly they are the best Snickerdoodles I have ever tasted. Who needs wheat? And only 65 calories in a cookie!
Furthermore I watched "Breaking Dawn" and although I still don't think the star is much of an actress I must say it was filmed pretty much as I imagined it. I really like it when the movies follow the books. It is not a film series of much depth but I was amazed to hear it had won a British Award for Best Child (Teen) movie of the year. Really? The photography is great, anyway.
Bruce continues to be downhearted because I never take him for a walk. I think my throat is getting better, maybe next week, Bruce.
Silver Gate Cabin 1963
This is a picture of Carole a year before she married. At the cabin, of course.
Happy Birthday Keira!
Here is Keira dressed in the Raggedy Ann dress I made for Meagan on her first birthday and holding the Raggedy Ann doll I also made. I had no idea Meagan still had this.I love it. Now If I can only find a picture of Meagan!
Here is Keira with her Birthday Girl Hat but no birthday smile!!Friday, February 10, 2012
Island at War
Today I watched all six episodes of "Island at War". At times I wondered why I suffer through these WWII movies because the mean German soldiers get me so upset but... There were also some very nice German soldiers that made you realize they did not want war either. They were forced to do what they had to and after all they are all just people, no matter whose side they were on.
The human dynamics were so interesting. It was very well done and I wished there had been more episodes!!
A side note of interest was the Grandma making potato flour from potatos and commenting on how many potatos it takes to make flour. Until I started making gluten free pancakes and such from cornstarch and potato starch I was not even aware there was potato flour.
The human dynamics were so interesting. It was very well done and I wished there had been more episodes!!
A side note of interest was the Grandma making potato flour from potatos and commenting on how many potatos it takes to make flour. Until I started making gluten free pancakes and such from cornstarch and potato starch I was not even aware there was potato flour.
Thursday, February 09, 2012
Swimming Pool in Glendive in 1924
One of my childhood friends, George, sent me some pictures of my hometown. This was taken in 1924 and I did not move there until I was 15 months old in 1934.
This is a picture of what was called the Heights and was the North Side of town. The swimming pool, which later had walks and diving boards and a lovely grass park built all around it with a lovely building with rooms to change your clothes and etc., was just down from our house.
In fact, I can see the Northern Pacific Hospital in the top right and right in front of it was the big house we bought in 1940. I had heard it was about 50 years old when we bought it. We had it remodeled when I was in high school. On the left side of the chimney was a small garage only wide enough for a horse and buggy.
The swimming pool was all cement and had lots of cracks that would be tarred over every year. It was deep enough that we later had a 10 foot diving board, a 5 foot diving board and a big slide.
Below is a picture of my friend Carla and I with some of the boys from our class. We were sitting at the edge of the pool. This was probably about 1947 or 8 or so.
This is a picture of what was called the Heights and was the North Side of town. The swimming pool, which later had walks and diving boards and a lovely grass park built all around it with a lovely building with rooms to change your clothes and etc., was just down from our house.
In fact, I can see the Northern Pacific Hospital in the top right and right in front of it was the big house we bought in 1940. I had heard it was about 50 years old when we bought it. We had it remodeled when I was in high school. On the left side of the chimney was a small garage only wide enough for a horse and buggy.
The swimming pool was all cement and had lots of cracks that would be tarred over every year. It was deep enough that we later had a 10 foot diving board, a 5 foot diving board and a big slide.
Below is a picture of my friend Carla and I with some of the boys from our class. We were sitting at the edge of the pool. This was probably about 1947 or 8 or so.
Shingling
The other day on Dr. Phil the psychiatrist tried to tell these fat ladies that they ate too much because someone made them feel unloved. I do not believe that at all. I had a sweet tooth when I was young, skinny and loved just as much as I do now when I am alone. I do not believe that is why some people like to eat and some others are so disciplined.
Dr. Phil did not let Donny Osmond finish telling about why he has so much energy today. Donny said he had been taking protactim for two years and really believed in it. Dr. Phil did not let him elaborate but I looked it up on the internet and it is very expensive. $40 for a 30 day supply and it looks like you have to commit to having it shipped every month. Not for me even if it would be give me more energy and new cells.
Today I made pancakes again even though I thought I was going to stick strictly to protein for awhile and drop some winter weight. I just can't commit to giving up the comfort foods.
One positive thing, the moon has been spectacular the last few nights. It is so big and bright through the trees, very beautiful.
For some reason I have been filling out my timeline on Facebook. Why??? I don't know, but it is a nice program to remember the important things in your life. What I will ever do with it, though, I cannot imagine.
Sunday, February 05, 2012
Being Chosen
Today I really enjoyed the Sunday School Lesson on the Atonement given by Jane. And one point was made so well about receiving tender mercies from the Lord.
It was taken from a talk David Bednar gave at Conference in 2005 just six months after his calling to be a General Authority. He was talking about how some us feel we are not privileged to be the chosen by the Lord. And then went on and used scripture to explain who the chosen are. It was quite enlightening.Who Are They Whom the Lord Has Chosen to Receive His Tender Mercies?
The word chosen in 1 Nephi 1:20 [1 Ne. 1:20] is central to understanding the concept of the Lord’s tender mercies. The dictionary indicates that chosen suggests one who is selected, taken by preference, or picked out. It also can be used to refer to the elect or chosen of God (Oxford English Dictionary Online, second ed. [1989], “Chosen”).
Some individuals who hear or read this message erroneously may discount or dismiss in their personal lives the availability of the tender mercies of the Lord, believing that “I certainly am not one who has been or ever will be chosen.” We may falsely think that such blessings and gifts are reserved for other people who appear to be more righteous or who serve in visible Church callings. I testify that the tender mercies of the Lord are available to all of us and that the Redeemer of Israel is eager to bestow such gifts upon us.
To be or to become chosen is not an exclusive status conferred upon us. Rather, you and I ultimately determine if we are chosen. Please now note the use of the word chosen in the following verses from the Doctrine and Covenants:
“Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen?
“Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men” (D&C 121:34–35; emphasis added).
I believe the implication of these verses is quite straightforward. God does not have a list of favorites to which we must hope our names will someday be added. He does not limit “the chosen” to a restricted few. Rather, it is our hearts and our aspirations and our obedience which definitively determine whether we are counted as one of God’s chosen.
Jane also gave "the Bicyle" story from Robinson's book "Believe in Christ"or something like that. It was the book Roddy read just before passing away and he challenged everyone with "I know you believe in Christ but do you believe Him?" I am glad he received that testimony of understanding the atonement before he passed away. It was a good reminder that it is not working to do our best everyday that makes us worthy for the atonement but our realizing the need for the Savior in our life no matter how much we do.
Saturday, February 04, 2012
Favorite Picture
I love this picture taken in the backyard of our Pacific Beach home in about 1964.
Maria, Johnny and Linda already to go some place, Church, probably.
Johnny liked to sit on the front row and Linda with him.
Joan Allen was usually liking to have Maria sit on her lap throughout Sacrament Meeting.
Woe is Me...
My sore throat and earache have returned--why? I had antibiotics for five days which was supposed to be good for 10 days but I figured it was the night of the 10th day when the sore throat returned, so what is that all about?
Today I watched "Edward VIII" miniseries, in preparation for watching Madonna's W.E. I am also interesting in watching Madonna at the SuperBowl tomorrow. I think she is an amazing intelligent and creative person who works very hard to do what is important to her. Lots of discipline I think. Will be interesting to see how she does on both counts.
I was interested in some Widipedia info about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor--they were called the greatest parasites of the 20th Century. She had jewels worth millions and their furnishings ended up selling for millions. They were obviously supported by the British Government--but she stated it was very difficult to keep the "great romance" going. It was obvious from what I read and saw that they did not really think the Brits would make him abdicate and I am sure it did not make Mrs. Simpson happy at all. Also they may have been sympathetic with the Nazis. There have been so many movies and books written about them, how would you know what was really true.
Since I will be watching the Super Bowl alone tomorrow as Mike has to work (doubt he would watch it anyway) I had him bring home some Buffalo Wings and Nachos stuff and I made a gluten free chocolate cake.
Oh, yes, more gluten free excellent recipes. Yesterday I tried the Raised Doughnuts and today I tried the Chocolate Cake. Both excellent, which is not really a good thing for me. The recipes are so simple and so delicious, it is a good thing I am out of potato starch.
I always want to spell potato with an e on the end...spellcheck does not like that. Where did I learn that?
I talked to Myrna for a long time tonight. Her daughter wants her to make decisions about what to do with her Manhattan Beach house and all her collections and furniture in it. It makes Myrna very sad, though she realizes she is very lucky to have those kind of decisions to make. She had spoon, special plates, and Merrry Go Round music box collections. It is so hard to know what to do with all those treasures and whether to rent or sell her house. I don't envy her decisions.
Today I watched "Edward VIII" miniseries, in preparation for watching Madonna's W.E. I am also interesting in watching Madonna at the SuperBowl tomorrow. I think she is an amazing intelligent and creative person who works very hard to do what is important to her. Lots of discipline I think. Will be interesting to see how she does on both counts.
I was interested in some Widipedia info about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor--they were called the greatest parasites of the 20th Century. She had jewels worth millions and their furnishings ended up selling for millions. They were obviously supported by the British Government--but she stated it was very difficult to keep the "great romance" going. It was obvious from what I read and saw that they did not really think the Brits would make him abdicate and I am sure it did not make Mrs. Simpson happy at all. Also they may have been sympathetic with the Nazis. There have been so many movies and books written about them, how would you know what was really true.
Since I will be watching the Super Bowl alone tomorrow as Mike has to work (doubt he would watch it anyway) I had him bring home some Buffalo Wings and Nachos stuff and I made a gluten free chocolate cake.
Oh, yes, more gluten free excellent recipes. Yesterday I tried the Raised Doughnuts and today I tried the Chocolate Cake. Both excellent, which is not really a good thing for me. The recipes are so simple and so delicious, it is a good thing I am out of potato starch.
I always want to spell potato with an e on the end...spellcheck does not like that. Where did I learn that?
I talked to Myrna for a long time tonight. Her daughter wants her to make decisions about what to do with her Manhattan Beach house and all her collections and furniture in it. It makes Myrna very sad, though she realizes she is very lucky to have those kind of decisions to make. She had spoon, special plates, and Merrry Go Round music box collections. It is so hard to know what to do with all those treasures and whether to rent or sell her house. I don't envy her decisions.
Friday, February 03, 2012
Happy Endings Please!!!
I just enjoyed watching another BBC Masterpiece Series "Downton Abbey" but there was no happy ending. I don't like that. It is so amazing how they were able to carry out those class distinctions for so long in Britain...and maybe they still do.
Last night I finished the audio of the "The Shaken Earth" and I skipped some of the middle cds as it was just too long as they looked for the daughter's mother after the earthquake. I just couldn't take it anymore as she talked about her "mama" so I put on the 10th CD and at least there was the happy ending finally.
I just don't have any energy for completing any of my projects right now, not sure why but I am spending too much time reading, listening to cds and watching TV!!! And even then it takes a lot to hold my interest--I must have the winter boredom blues or something.
The sun has been shining but there is a chill in the air and I build a fire about 4 every day amd keep it going til 10 or 11. Very comfy.
Yesterday I went back to Shelley to cut my hair. I showed her what I wanted and after giving me a hard time about the fact my hair was nothing like the ladies in the pictures she did a super job of cutting it just the way I wanted. Of course, next month I may want it all different but she is very good.
She was telling me she sold 17 houses last year which is truly amazing. She has learned how to sell the short sales and foreclosures. The last one on the peninsula she sold for $375,000 right on the lake!! Good deals out there for those with money. Wish I had the ambition to learn how to do it but I don't.
Surprise, surprise, the last two days Bandido has run as fast as he can and loved it. Mike spoiled the dogs by putting something delicious on their dry food and now they beg every day for more.
Last night I finished the audio of the "The Shaken Earth" and I skipped some of the middle cds as it was just too long as they looked for the daughter's mother after the earthquake. I just couldn't take it anymore as she talked about her "mama" so I put on the 10th CD and at least there was the happy ending finally.
I just don't have any energy for completing any of my projects right now, not sure why but I am spending too much time reading, listening to cds and watching TV!!! And even then it takes a lot to hold my interest--I must have the winter boredom blues or something.
The sun has been shining but there is a chill in the air and I build a fire about 4 every day amd keep it going til 10 or 11. Very comfy.
Yesterday I went back to Shelley to cut my hair. I showed her what I wanted and after giving me a hard time about the fact my hair was nothing like the ladies in the pictures she did a super job of cutting it just the way I wanted. Of course, next month I may want it all different but she is very good.
She was telling me she sold 17 houses last year which is truly amazing. She has learned how to sell the short sales and foreclosures. The last one on the peninsula she sold for $375,000 right on the lake!! Good deals out there for those with money. Wish I had the ambition to learn how to do it but I don't.
Surprise, surprise, the last two days Bandido has run as fast as he can and loved it. Mike spoiled the dogs by putting something delicious on their dry food and now they beg every day for more.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Yippee!
My credit union has my tax refund already. Mike won't have his for another week and he completed his about a week before I did mine. I think the difference is that I paid for my costs out of a credit card and he is having his costs deducted from his refund.
Smile as Big as the Moon
This recent show by Hallmark was so touching. It is the story of a teacher of a Special Ed group who gets permission and money to take them to Space Camp and spends seven months preparing them to be able to handle it. Up until that time only advanced students were expected to handle the technical difficulty of it. I really admire teachers who can inspire and lead. This was a true story and quite remarkable.
It was also very touching and the acting of the students was superb. It reminded me of one of the few Special Ed students I had in second grade. At that time they did not separate them in Montana. He called me "Sandra" because that is what he got out of Miss Anderson. He was the one who dumped water on the new wooden floor to help me clean. The janior was not happy.
Then there was the little boy I had in kindergarten who told incoherent stories with his colored scraps of paper on the flannel board juist as he saw the other children do. To the children's credit, they took my lead, and patiently listened to him and clapped for his performance.
Both of those little boys were extremely affectionate and sweet. They were not yet old enough to be treated cruelly by the other students or understand how different they were. They were just full of love.
It was also very touching and the acting of the students was superb. It reminded me of one of the few Special Ed students I had in second grade. At that time they did not separate them in Montana. He called me "Sandra" because that is what he got out of Miss Anderson. He was the one who dumped water on the new wooden floor to help me clean. The janior was not happy.
Then there was the little boy I had in kindergarten who told incoherent stories with his colored scraps of paper on the flannel board juist as he saw the other children do. To the children's credit, they took my lead, and patiently listened to him and clapped for his performance.
Both of those little boys were extremely affectionate and sweet. They were not yet old enough to be treated cruelly by the other students or understand how different they were. They were just full of love.
Bruce and I Communicate
It was a warm sunny day and Bruce wanted to lay down in the middle of the road because there was lots of sun there.I enticed him over to the bottom of the steps where there was plenty of sun. However the walk was peppered with cat litter (used on the ice before it melted so I wouldn't slip). I knew it was uncomfortable to lay on so I grabbed the rug off the nearby freezer and put it down.
However when I looked out again he had moved off the rug but he saw I was looking at hin.
He quickly moved back on the rug as if he was trying to please me.
He tries so hard to please but sometimes when he does not want to come in he looks the other way, as if to say.
"I don't want to c ome in yet."
When we walk, he expects me to put the leash on him like I do Bandido. But he really wants to run free and he does. I couldn't keep up with him even if I tried. But he is quite respectful and always comes back and lets me pick up the leash again for a few minutes and then he is off again on his own adventure before coming back to the driveway just as we turn in.
His favorite thing right now is chasing the deer away every morning from the backyard. He gets so excited, he can hardly wait until I open the door and let him run.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Old picture found...50s or 60s? Homemade...
and this was the kind of dress I
wore to teach kindergarten or to
church or anywhere. I didn't wear
jeans as I recall anyplace but
I know I had capris in several
colors (which I also made). I loved
the prints like this with the
rick rack trim.
But I am not really sure if this was
before babies or after??? I just
recognize the homemade dress.
Wonder if that spot under my chin
was on the picture or me???
Good Eating.
What is the Matter with Aunt Jane?
HBO had free service this weekend and I watched the documentary "What is the matter with Aunt Jane?" or something like that.
A family had gone camping for the weekend and taken their three nieces with them. The father and dog drove the truck and the mother with two children and the three nieces was in the borrowed van.
The father and mother said goodbye to each other after cleaning out the camper and each getting into their truck and van. On the way home one of the older girls called her parents and told them something was wrong with Aunt Jane. She was in pain and could not see well and was driving erratic. They later found her cell phone on a cement ledge on the side of the road. And they had a video of her going into a store, looking for a pain pill the store did not have. It was later determined she could have had an abscessed tooth she had not had treated. The mother had a $100,000 job and was amazingly organized. She evidently did all the organizing for the family and treated the father like another child,
In her own personal family her mother had left them when the girl was 9 years old and she had taken over the responsibility for that family also. In other words she was a highly responsible person who was known to smoke marijuana on occasion when she wanted to sleep and having an occasional drink.
Bottom line she was reported as driving at a high speed with intense concentration as she whizzed by other vehicles on the highway and eventually she was driving like this in the wrong direction going south on a north bound lane and drove head on into one vehicle causing a crash that killed eight people including herself, one of her children and the three nieces. Her alcohol level was reported at .19 with traces of something from marijuana. Her relatives could not believe she would drink and drive and she was cold sober when they left around 9 in the morning, the crash was early afternoon after the father had already arrived home much earlier.
The family, of course, wanted to understand what had happened and felt the tests must be wrong. They wanted to clear her name. They spent over $30,000 to an investigative firm. It was all for naught. No conclusions, no understanding what happened, no disproving the tests were wrong.
The relatives who had lost all three of their daughters feel their life is over. The five year old son who lived could not give any explanation for what happened. The children on one phone call were heard to be crying in the background but the relatives had received about three other phone calls earlier just saying they were running late and then the one call from the daughter in which she said something was wrong with Aunt Jane.
They surmised the pain in her tooth was so bad she may have smoked a marijuana at some point and she drank from the vodka bottle in the car and since she didn't usually do both at the same time she had a bad reaction. But there is not proof.
I think the only thing to be gained from this story is to not let your children ever be driven by anyone else. If there is an accident, it will be almost impossible to ever forgive that person.
I remember one time when I was driving some of my grandchildren at night and I wondered why I was being trusted on the freeway at my age with such precious cargo. Not a good thing. Mike recalls his mother entrusting them being driven with a young relative. He observed that you think you are going to be so protective of your children and yet, it is such a relief when someone offers to take them for awhile that you let them go. I am not sure but in the long wrong, I would say in this uncertain world, do not let other people drive your children anywhere, anytime, anyplace.
As for the cars that were hit and four people died, this is the unfortunate chance you take when you drive our freeways. Better start every trip with a prayer. I have had some close calls.
And just yesterday 10 people killed in Florida because of poor visibility on the freeways. As I drive the freeways in the Los Angles areas I always imagine what could happen if just one person makes a mistake...it is a miracle we survive the freeways at all. But we can never be too alert or too careful as we travel up and down the world byways. And...don't let anyone drive your children.
A family had gone camping for the weekend and taken their three nieces with them. The father and dog drove the truck and the mother with two children and the three nieces was in the borrowed van.
The father and mother said goodbye to each other after cleaning out the camper and each getting into their truck and van. On the way home one of the older girls called her parents and told them something was wrong with Aunt Jane. She was in pain and could not see well and was driving erratic. They later found her cell phone on a cement ledge on the side of the road. And they had a video of her going into a store, looking for a pain pill the store did not have. It was later determined she could have had an abscessed tooth she had not had treated. The mother had a $100,000 job and was amazingly organized. She evidently did all the organizing for the family and treated the father like another child,
In her own personal family her mother had left them when the girl was 9 years old and she had taken over the responsibility for that family also. In other words she was a highly responsible person who was known to smoke marijuana on occasion when she wanted to sleep and having an occasional drink.
Bottom line she was reported as driving at a high speed with intense concentration as she whizzed by other vehicles on the highway and eventually she was driving like this in the wrong direction going south on a north bound lane and drove head on into one vehicle causing a crash that killed eight people including herself, one of her children and the three nieces. Her alcohol level was reported at .19 with traces of something from marijuana. Her relatives could not believe she would drink and drive and she was cold sober when they left around 9 in the morning, the crash was early afternoon after the father had already arrived home much earlier.
The family, of course, wanted to understand what had happened and felt the tests must be wrong. They wanted to clear her name. They spent over $30,000 to an investigative firm. It was all for naught. No conclusions, no understanding what happened, no disproving the tests were wrong.
The relatives who had lost all three of their daughters feel their life is over. The five year old son who lived could not give any explanation for what happened. The children on one phone call were heard to be crying in the background but the relatives had received about three other phone calls earlier just saying they were running late and then the one call from the daughter in which she said something was wrong with Aunt Jane.
They surmised the pain in her tooth was so bad she may have smoked a marijuana at some point and she drank from the vodka bottle in the car and since she didn't usually do both at the same time she had a bad reaction. But there is not proof.
I think the only thing to be gained from this story is to not let your children ever be driven by anyone else. If there is an accident, it will be almost impossible to ever forgive that person.
I remember one time when I was driving some of my grandchildren at night and I wondered why I was being trusted on the freeway at my age with such precious cargo. Not a good thing. Mike recalls his mother entrusting them being driven with a young relative. He observed that you think you are going to be so protective of your children and yet, it is such a relief when someone offers to take them for awhile that you let them go. I am not sure but in the long wrong, I would say in this uncertain world, do not let other people drive your children anywhere, anytime, anyplace.
As for the cars that were hit and four people died, this is the unfortunate chance you take when you drive our freeways. Better start every trip with a prayer. I have had some close calls.
And just yesterday 10 people killed in Florida because of poor visibility on the freeways. As I drive the freeways in the Los Angles areas I always imagine what could happen if just one person makes a mistake...it is a miracle we survive the freeways at all. But we can never be too alert or too careful as we travel up and down the world byways. And...don't let anyone drive your children.
Time Flies
So over a week has passed and I have not written in my blog. What's up? One thing bad I did is to reorganize my pictures and now several pictures in my blogs are in a different location on my computer and I have to go back and retrieve them so they will show in my blogs again. Why do I always forget that that will happen???? I did get a lot more pictures scanned though. With my printer I bought this last year, scanning is very easy...
I did turn 79 and had several reports that I look great for my age--that is very uplifting but, of course, I know I could look better if I would change a few bad habits and employ a few new ones. Nuff said.
But I did have a great birthday this year. Lots of calls and gifts. On Sunday I stayed home because of a lot of congestion, later in the week I ventured to the Doctor and found I really do have a sinus infection and antibiotics do work!!! Who knew. Jean and Ron stopped by after church and brought me beautiful purple tulips from Maryanne. I hope I can make them grow in one of my pots next year.
Mike made a cheesecake for my birthday and we had the same problem as before with leakage from even a different pan in the oven. We MUST buy a new cheesecake pan!!!
I made a gluten free pizza crust and Mike took it to work at Buffalo Chips and brought me home a gourmet pizza with Stuffed Mushroom and one side and Jalapenos on the other. That lasted me for three days. Excellent!!!
I also made a gluten free sponge cake which was perfect with lemon frosting.
Besides going to the Dr this week I also have watched several British miniseries. I love them!
Finished "The Grand" about hotel life at the turn of the century. Excellent! "Bleak House" by Charles Dickens which was also great. And a real winner in only three episodes "The Politician's Wife" What a study in revenge, loved it. I also finished listening to the Nicolas Sparks book "The Best of Me".
I read the reviews on "The Best of Me" and many people had complaints about it being too cliche but I loved it. So many situations I could relate to the characters and/or the moments and I cried and cried. He is the ultimate romantic writer and I like that he leaves a lot to the imagination and I am ok with his delving into paranormal, I believe in that. Anyway it was a very poignant, sad, and moving book, I thought.
Finally, I have another new gluten free pancake recipe. Maria gave me this book that is over 10 years old but it has the best recipes all made with cornstarch and potato starch so they are a few more calories, I suppose, but light as air and delicious!!!
And yes, I experimented again, and yummy fresh white bread and licorice cause me tremendous stomach upset so I must stick with my gluten free diet and licorice is not gluten free, for sure. If only I had known that when I was living at the Marriott in 2008...
Lastly, it has been fun to watch Bruce enjoy the snow. He likes to plow through it and make tunnels, roll in it, eat it and just sit in it. He likes me to take him walking so he can run as fast as he wants up one bank and down another (I let him fly with the leash tagging after him) but he always come back eventually. I can only hope he doesn't get picked up by the Security Guard before Matt comes to get him. He was meant to roam free, but he does condescend to let me walk him on the leash from time to time and he is very careful to not go too fast as we go down the steps together. He is a very smart dog. Bandido could care less but he does still run from time to time. Most of the time, though, he just eats and sleeps. He is getting very rolley polley as he likes to eat his food and then walk over to Bruce's and eat his food as well. It will be good for Bandido when Bruce finally leaves. Maybe then I can clean all the lose hair and footprints off the floor, too. Dogs are messy in the winter...and summer...and fall...and spring.
I did turn 79 and had several reports that I look great for my age--that is very uplifting but, of course, I know I could look better if I would change a few bad habits and employ a few new ones. Nuff said.
But I did have a great birthday this year. Lots of calls and gifts. On Sunday I stayed home because of a lot of congestion, later in the week I ventured to the Doctor and found I really do have a sinus infection and antibiotics do work!!! Who knew. Jean and Ron stopped by after church and brought me beautiful purple tulips from Maryanne. I hope I can make them grow in one of my pots next year.
Mike made a cheesecake for my birthday and we had the same problem as before with leakage from even a different pan in the oven. We MUST buy a new cheesecake pan!!!
I made a gluten free pizza crust and Mike took it to work at Buffalo Chips and brought me home a gourmet pizza with Stuffed Mushroom and one side and Jalapenos on the other. That lasted me for three days. Excellent!!!
I also made a gluten free sponge cake which was perfect with lemon frosting.
Besides going to the Dr this week I also have watched several British miniseries. I love them!
Finished "The Grand" about hotel life at the turn of the century. Excellent! "Bleak House" by Charles Dickens which was also great. And a real winner in only three episodes "The Politician's Wife" What a study in revenge, loved it. I also finished listening to the Nicolas Sparks book "The Best of Me".
I read the reviews on "The Best of Me" and many people had complaints about it being too cliche but I loved it. So many situations I could relate to the characters and/or the moments and I cried and cried. He is the ultimate romantic writer and I like that he leaves a lot to the imagination and I am ok with his delving into paranormal, I believe in that. Anyway it was a very poignant, sad, and moving book, I thought.
Finally, I have another new gluten free pancake recipe. Maria gave me this book that is over 10 years old but it has the best recipes all made with cornstarch and potato starch so they are a few more calories, I suppose, but light as air and delicious!!!
And yes, I experimented again, and yummy fresh white bread and licorice cause me tremendous stomach upset so I must stick with my gluten free diet and licorice is not gluten free, for sure. If only I had known that when I was living at the Marriott in 2008...
Lastly, it has been fun to watch Bruce enjoy the snow. He likes to plow through it and make tunnels, roll in it, eat it and just sit in it. He likes me to take him walking so he can run as fast as he wants up one bank and down another (I let him fly with the leash tagging after him) but he always come back eventually. I can only hope he doesn't get picked up by the Security Guard before Matt comes to get him. He was meant to roam free, but he does condescend to let me walk him on the leash from time to time and he is very careful to not go too fast as we go down the steps together. He is a very smart dog. Bandido could care less but he does still run from time to time. Most of the time, though, he just eats and sleeps. He is getting very rolley polley as he likes to eat his food and then walk over to Bruce's and eat his food as well. It will be good for Bandido when Bruce finally leaves. Maybe then I can clean all the lose hair and footprints off the floor, too. Dogs are messy in the winter...and summer...and fall...and spring.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Happy Birthday to Me!
I have already had such a wonderful birthday and it is not even my birthday yet. Linda made a birthday viedeo of my children and grandchildren talking to me and included lots of pictures, many of which I have never seen, and lovely music to accompany it all. It is just so special, I am sure I will play it many times!
I also received neat presents. What a great 79th birthday. What a wonderful family I have.
I also received neat presents. What a great 79th birthday. What a wonderful family I have.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Heritage Halls Being Demolished
I was just a sophmore but in a picture here with some pretty important senior girls. Not sure why they asked me except that I was available that summer. Fun summer, working at the Dairy Queen, working as a telephone receptionist, working in Testing of new students and moving into these new units at the end of summer (as well as taking classes).
In the summer of 1953 I was doing Summer School at BYU to make up for the quarter I stayed home and organized Dad's office at Anderson's Store. I also trained my friend Lorraine to run the office.
The Family Living Units (as they were called then) were being built and I was able to move into the first one. Our Unit #19 became the model that was always displayed to dignitaries. We had a wonderful system of showing it off at it's best and were able to meet some very important people.
I have wonderful memories of those units. They were not named until a year or so later to Heritage Halls and names were important Latter-day Saint women. At that time only girls lived in the units. Now some of them are designated for men also. I believe the first one to be demolished and rebuilt is the one I was living in.
And why are they being demolished????
This was put out by BYU yesterday:
Four of the Heritage Halls, which have been home to thousands of students since 1956 — were turned into a pile of rubble Wednesday. (actually it was 1953, I was there!)
More of the residence halls will soon be coming down and replaced with new buildings that will give students more electrical capacity and space.
"Today's students come with much more equipment than students have in the past," said university spokeswoman Carrie Jenkins.
Some of the bedrooms have only a single electrical outlet. Students often have to use extension cables and extended power strips to accommodate computers, cell phones, iPads and entertainment systems.
Jenkins says the new buildings will have plenty of outlets, as well as other updates to better suit student needs, such as more closet space. The new housing will have a living area and the kitchens are big, allowing the students to come together to socialize. Ten of the 24 Heritage buildings will be taken down by March. All the stuctures will be replaced as resources become available.
So the kids today have more clothes and more toys...of course.
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