Friday, October 31, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW CHAPTER 8

Sparkie remained balancing on his branch while all the other birds on the Tree Helpers Committee flew away to relieve their nest mates. Sparkie confided, "Dr. Ole, did you know that there is a Web Cam spying on your family's nest all day long?" "Hoo-hooo-hoo, yes our family knows about it and we are all pleased with the attention, and it is apparent they mean no harm. Our babies think they'll soon be ready for flying lessons and like to show off. Humans think we are interesting. Our fledglings will soon acquire the feathers necessary for flight. As they become expert fliers they will be important helpers in carrying out our future plans. They'll have all the rest of the summer to practice. They're growing fast and always hungry as they watch Mother Owl deftly zero in on a rat for the family dinner. Rats can be very harmful to humans so we are helping them and able to feed our family at the same time. One time a lady drank from a can of pop without washing off the top of it and died within a day of Leptospirosos. While the pop was being stored in a warehouse some rat urine remained on the lid and there was no medical help for her. She should have washed the lid off first. Nature protects us with an antiseptic we hold in our systems so we are not harmed when eating rats.

Sparkie continued his interview with Dr. Owl, always addressing him formally when carrying out his reporting duties. He wondered about the rumor going around that some officials are planning to tap into nuclear power and start to build more reactors. "It's more than a rumor and we are watching their plan carefully. Our nesting mothers often pick up information from cyberspace during their quiet hours on the nest and tune into many interesting things. It is sad that humans do not realize that every day they are walking over the best source of energy available. They are aware of the fact that there is heat within the Earth but to many scientists the nuclear way sounds more modern and exciting," concluded Dr. Ole. No doubt they both were visualizing how proud parents will be as their fledglings would soon be expert fliers - perhaps dive bombing the towers they were beginning to construct since it may take a dozen years to put them into action. History has proved that amazing things have happened when a few kind, caring, and willing hearts have changed the course of history.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW, CHAPTER 7

As Ole and his helpers paused to consider what the next step might be for each of them the man thought about the time he was trimming one of his large trees in the early spring and spotted a tiny nest in a fallen branch. It had been delicately fabricated together by the small mother, all from recycled material from the yard. He trimmed the branch and carried it inside to show his family. He guessed from the fallen shells that it had held four baby humming birds who with others were now likely on their way back from the south to build their new nest in the spring. He held the nest in the palm of his hand, trying to imagine how tiny the little birds must have been.

Ole raised and lowered his wings, ready to speak after their quiet time. Thought pictures were streaming through their minds, perhaps trying to grasp the enormity of the loss of twenty five million huge trees that had been destroyed, one bite at a time by the small rice-sized beetles, according to a CBC radio news report.

There are many families of owls ranging in size from six to thirty inches in length. Great Horned Owls like Ole are among the larger ones with the Grey Owl and the Arctic Snowy Owl. Ole and many others have key-shaped eyes, ready for all to unlock wisdom for those who wish to tune in, according to ancient lore. What appears to be horns are merely tufts of feathers that lead past great wise eyes to immerse in depressed circles of plumage. Owls are often seen perched silently in their tree-home for hours but can be quite vocal when necessary.

"Since trees have no gift of wings for flight or feet to flee like we have, I sense that each one of you is expressing a desire to help, in line with your gifts bestowed at birth, according to your abilities in either size or salary. I sense that Kn, has formulated a plan and believe I can speak for him. My minds-eye sees him with his mate Ln, family and friends taking flight, then descending at top speed whenever they see any of the scientists or researchers. At twenty kilometers per second, each would pause in front of any researcher for a split second, then dart toward the windmill in the nearby yard to perch on one of the crossbars. By the time a researcher's hand is extended inviting a landing spot, Kn is already at the crossbar awaiting each of his family and others as they repeat his performance in relay form. Another relay of other birds might wish to join in this action as a long formation of birds speed in the direction of the nearest grove of trees that is calling for help. Yes, it has been determined by scientists that trees produce chemicals that can carry warnings to other trees so they get the urgent message in time to produce an antidote to frighten enemies away. Without a beetle scout nearby for direction, the beetles cannot proceed and fall in the grass and die. Researchers will soon get the message for their research. Excellent plan," said Ole.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW, CHAPTER 6

Scroll down for earlier Chapers dated October 16, 17, 19, 21 and 24

Tara, the family dog always followed the farmer around. The day before he was digging post holes to fix his fence behind the barn. With one post short, he drove to town for the post and other supplies. When he returned darkness had fallen so he decided to finish the job in the morning. Early next next day Tara went outside through her "doggie door" to make her usual rounds and sniff out her territory. She heard faint sounds behind the barn. Knowing it might be urgent, she ran to the house door and scratched but when the man came she refused to enter. He sensed it was important or she would have used her own door. Tara pointed her nose in the direction of the barn and eagerly led the way, pausing at intervals to look back to be sure he was following her.

The man reached down the hole with a gloved hand and pulled up a soft ball of fluff. He placed a cover over the empty hole and decided to go back for a bowl of water. When he returned he found the ball of fluff had a visitor - the mother bird. She sensed telepathically that the man meant only good as he placed the baby back into its nest. She chirped her thanks. The parent birds had been out gathering harmful but edible bugs for breakfast. Their growing babies would soon be ready for flying lessons and able to collect their own breakfast. No doubt the parent birds would be reminding their brood to be more careful and the man would be telling himself he must always place a cover over any vacant cavity.

Downy's idea was to get the attention of some forward thinking scientists who would be willing to work on this project in a similar manner. Many farmers had windmills in their yards to pump water from their wells. By determining the time migrating beetles were set to form a cloud to be blown to the next grove of trees their scout had found for them, the windmills would blow the cloud off course into a lake or grasslands with no trees to eat. When their last last grove of trees lay dying, scientists would be able to determine when the cloud of invading beetles were ready to invade their next healthy grove of trees.

Just then the air was split at the speed of a bullet as a streak of green flashed into the bird's brainstorming session. All eyes turned toward Ole and Downy as they tuned in to what message might be forthcoming telepathically. "Here comes Kn, a hummingbird of the Annus family - the dictionary translation is 'wonderful' Ole observed in his silent way. They can speed at nearly 20 kilometers per second. What they lack in size they make up for in action. His mate Ln is completing their nesting routine." A quick note rang forth from Kn as he landed, that sounds like a 'high-e' note of human music. Males of the Annus family have an extra tail feather they use for fast flight take-off as well as braking when landing. This feature will turn out to be very helpful in the next step of the plan.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

PRAYER SHOWN TO BE EFFECTIVE

In a study published in "Research on Social Work Practice" the investigator, David H. Hodge, assistant professor of social work in the College of Human Services at Arizona State University, compiled all available studies on the use of prayer in aiding patients of either psychological or physical problems. He combined their statistics into one large body of data. The evidence was significantly in favor of the power of prayer.

He notes that an earlier meta-analysis conducted by Herbert Benson of Harvard Medical School included only those involving patients undergoing heart surgery and was felt to be inconclusive. The one by David Hodge included all other studies as well. This may indicate that the patient is less involved. A praying doctor might make a difference.

Monday, October 27, 2008

FAREWELL BETTE

Family, friends, extended "family" here, many from the Davidson Lawyers Team that Betty worked with for 28 years, as well as others who had helped her with many volunteer projects in the community, assembled here at the Fireside Lounge for a Celebration of Life for this most worthy soul. Fond memories of the warmth of her presence guiding other volunteers in the community and here as well as our Strata Council President, diffused itself throughout the gathering. Our large patio provided the extra space required to move with cautious ease as choices of foods from a long table offered every variety of cuisine with coffee, punch and teas. And no dishes were broken.

Sunny skies cheered the day as we listened to the remembrances from many who had been a part of her sixty seven years of fruitful living. The gratitude expressed sometimes mingled with unwilling tears that silently found a way to blend with the nearest handy tissue. I feel that Bette herself (her real spirit and soul) seemed to be with us. Just how cyber space carries this along has not been scientifically proven but it resonates through the feelings in hearts. One person opined, "I could phone Bette about any problem and always felt comforted and encouraged, now who can I go to." Many others felt that way.
One hundred and twelve signed the condolence book and several dozen we chatted with did not get to the guest book. The following quote is from an ancient unknown author:
"I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength, and I stand and watch her until at length she is only a speck of white cloud, just where the sea and sky meet and mingle with each other. Someone at my side exclaims, 'There, she is gone!'
"Gone where?" Gone from my sight, that is all. She is the same size in hull and mast and spar as she was when she left my side, and just as able to bear her load of living freight to the place of her destination. Her diminished size is in my mind, not in her. And just at that moment when someone at my side says, 'She is gone,' there are other eyes watching for her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout, 'There, she comes!' "And That Is Dying."
Many thanks to this Unknown Author for this lovely analogy. SD
http://stayingintouchblog.blogspot.com.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

CONCEIVE, BELIEVE AND ACHIEVE

What you CONCEIVE and then BELIEVE,
Together practiced, you will ACHIEVE.
How and when it will be,
Take baby steps and you will see.
A monster FEAR, can make you fail,
But trust and faith sees through life's gales.

And since your goal is peace and love,
You'll get guidance from above,
Tune to Spirit's light within,
You'll reach your goal and you will win.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

SLEEP MORE TO LOSE WEIGHT

New research has uncovered the basis of the relationship of sleep to loss of weight. It turns out that sleep deprivation creates an imbalance in certain hormones that govern appetite.

Dr. Shahrad Teheri, an endocrinologist at Bristol University, found that with less sleep, there is more ghrelin in the blood, a hormone secreted by the stomach that creates hunger sensations. He also found less leptin in the blood, a hormone created by fat cells that send satiation messages to the brain.

In another study, conducted at the University of Chicago's sleep laboratory, it was found that after a single night of insomnia, folks showed this same pattern of hunger-making hormones in the blood. When volunteers were made to sleep only four hours a night for three nights in a row, they would awaken with complaints of being hungry.

Friday, October 24, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW, CHAPTER 5

The head of every bird in the group tilted to one side as each tuned in to Sparkie's news. According to his cousin Barney, a generous early morning breakfast buffet went on in the farmyard and he joined them. It was like rice-sized manna from Heaven and sound like small rocks raining down on the tin roof of the barn. An unusual storm had blown in a cloud of pine beetles and all the neighborhood birds had a feast. He said the beetles had been on their way to a nearby grove of trees. A beetle scout had found this new healthy grove to feed upon since the forest where they now lived was almost dead. The thirsty beetles had consumed all the moisture that contained the nourishing foods the trees needed for life itself. With no feet to run away nor wings like birds to flee to another place they had been left to die, and could no longer grow and supply homes, shade, and food for all living things. Facing a gradual death each tree left a red flag of warning. Deprived of nourishing moisture required, it discolored, turned red, died, and became a desolate place for all life. A careless cigarette ash or any other spark could start a forest fire that could race through nearby lands, destroying people, wildlife, homes and businesses. Dr. Ole's head seemed to almost turn a complete circle as he listened carefully.

Downy, one of the smallest in the woodpecker family raised a wing and Dr. Ole raised both wings to signify silence and gave Downy the nod to speak. He had noticed before that although small in size, her clever mind had come up with very interesting ideas at times.

"What do you think about having windmills placed not too far from the stands of trees to blow away the clouds of invading beetles? As the velocity of the wind acts on the oblique vanes radiating from a horizontal shaft, this power could supply all that is needed for the lands below. People would be more willing to give up the fossil fuels used for cars, heat required in winter and other necessary power needs. This must sound like a 'tall' order - realizing she had made a pun - but I have an idea about how to begin implementing it. The windmills need not disturb the birds or other forest dwellers when placed at a safe distance. I was watching a dog speak to his master last week, not in words, but his master clearly understood.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

WALKING IS THERAPEUTIC

According to research conducted at Britain's Essex University and reported in "The Week" it showed walking can reduce depression, and thus is considered therapeutic. Of course we know we feel better when we have a walk. However, it turns out that where we walk makes a difference. A walk in nature is felt to be twice as effective a therapy than a walk in a shopping mall.

In this study, adults suffering from depression were asked to walk briskly for 30 minutes in either a wooded park or a shopping center. Afterward, 90 percent of those who walked in the woods reported feeling better about themselves. On the other hand, of those who walked in the mall, only 45 percent felt better, and 22 percent felt worse!

I believe that Cicero Sings at: http://cicerosingsblog.blogspot.com. has demonstrated that walking in general is beneficial in many ways. That day they had just returned from a four hour walk. The above research included just a 30 minute walk. Either way it keeps the body tuned up with the cells nourished - the cleaner the air the better.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

HONEY PROVES HEALING ABILITIES

According to Peter Molan, director of the Honey Research Unit at the University of Waikato in New Zealand, and published in the International Journal of Lower Extemity Wounds, honey is very healing. When a diabetic ulcer resisted all medicines, and amputation seemed inevitable, honey came to the rescue. Honey is an ancient antiseptic and is used today in Europe. American medicine sees no value in it.

When chronic wounds and burns respond poorly to other treatments, honey works very well according to this study done in New Zealand. It seems impossible for bacteria to develop a resistance to honey's antibiotic action, presumably because honey's antibiotic agents are too varied and complex.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW, Chapter 4

While Dr. Owl was busy with his committee members formulating further plans the little mother birds stayed with their nests. When each egg is turned over every day they did it with great care. Did Mother Robin remember that all her babies were lost last year when the egg shells were too thin from the harmful sprays and other pollution that often caused eggs to break before their time to hatch? Did she think how the melodies hidden in their little hearts would be lost forever and their performances in the Sky Dome would never be seen? Perhaps at some level a gene of special caution was slipped into her cells and so she happily took special care and listened with hope for that first little peep still within the egg that is sometimes heard by the mother bird even the night before they hatch.

Time seemed to wrap around itself as the future became the present. Dr. Owl had just announced to his group that good progress was being made for preserving the trees. The "Good Question" segment of the CBC Daybreak radio program invite listeners to present their questions and usually within a week or so the CBC research staff will have an answer. Today's question asked on March l, 2008 was answered this morning. "What predators can be relied upon to diminish the pine beetle numbers?" The scientist answered that the woodpeckers have been the most helpful predators so far. The territory required for these wonderful birds is diminished as the voracious beetles destroy local forests. The trees become dry, turn red and die. They become a fire hazard that has destroyed homes, businesses and wildlife. With Global Warming keeping them cozy through winters and not the usual below zero temperatures, the beetles increase in huge numbers as they work their way into Alberta and other eastern areas. There aren't enough woodpeckers for such a massive job.

Just then Robbie flew in with special family news. But before he could relate his dispatch Sparkie wheeled in at wing edge, barely able to balance himself on a branch and spun a remarkable tale he had just heard from his cousin, Barney Sparrow, who lived on a nearby farm where they had borrowed a barn hayloft to nest in that year.

Monday, October 20, 2008

THOUGHTS FOR TODAY

Edward R. Murrow: "A great many people think they are thinking when they are really rearranging their prejudices and superstitions."

Emmons: "Habit is either the best of servants, or the worst of masters."

Emmons: "What a curioius phenomenon it is that you can get men to die for the liberty of the world who will not make the little sacrifice that is needed to free themselves from their own individual bondage."

H. W. Shaw: "It is easy to assume a habit; but when you try to cast it off, it will take skin and all."

Sunday, October 19, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW, Chapter 3

Robbie shook himself awake, adjusted his wing flaps and prepared for fight or flight. Mother Robin remain still to keep their eggs warm until a signal might come from her mate. It sounded like a signal from Ole the Owl whose home was above in the same grove of trees but this time it carried a note of desperation. Perhaps he was aware of the unusual cloud that appeared during the day - yes, owls do see in the daylight as well as night. He was fondly known in the community as Dr. Ole Owl because of his wisdom. He had already been in touch with his bird committee and was preparing to make an announcement about what the next step would be to save the trees. They had decided to drop the BOMB.

This type of BOMB would harm no one physically but would create great joy for all Earth's people and creatures. The BOMB, an acronym for Birds Offer Musical Balm would be put into action. Birdsong with Performance art was already being being prepared. Included in the project were lilting dances that demonstrated their skills at catching harmful insects on the fly. The more birds that could be saved from the harmful sprays, the more grasshoppers and other harmful insects would be eaten. The first birds to be contacted were bluebirds, not only because of their beauty but also their aerial performance in the Sky Dome. People would notice the rapid decrease of their numbers and how the shells of their eggs were often so thin they broke before they hatched with none surviving. With the length of the season diminishing there would not be time to build a new nest and raise another family. Dr. Owl suggested that the mother bird flutter at a nearby window and when the human family noticed her they might go outside and follow her to see what had happened to her nest.

People would soon begin to miss the absence of the rhythmic songs and performances of the bluebirds, robins, and many other favorite songbirds. Some have compared them to the gentle melodies of the spheres and begin to realize how much they would be missed and make the necessary effort to have them placed on the endangered species list.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

STAR DUST

A typical fall day with sun and cloud and time to drain the hoses with winter in mind. Oh that's right, one of the many advantages of living in a condo. The men on the Council will take care of that.

I check my "To Do" list that says to post Blog and get another ready for tomorrow. At my computer, with thinking cap properly adjusted - I hear strange sounds in the back yard. Time to investigate. Tilting the blind, it looks like a person is hiding in the bushes. Then a haystack propelled by what appears to be human feet moves toward the west gate. Two more follow. I hesitate, then go to another room and look through the window. I hear more swishing sounds. Now three men are pulling a long tarp piled with more hay. I should call one of the men on the Council to check things out. But no one answers, they must all be away.

Am I in a time warp? This looks like old prairie days. I look more carefully and see the three men are Council members busy with one of the many volunteer jobs to keep everything safe and in order. They are working with "Fall cleanup." The man hiding in the bushes turns out to be the coat and cap of one of the men that was hung up on a bush when the sun came out. Whew! What a relief. Don't tell anyone I thought they were visitors from outer space.

This reminds me of how great it is to note the wonderful cooperation and help from our "family members" here as we volunteer and help with details here and there to make things go smooth. Our Council President, Bette has been ill and Bill (we call him "Mr. Computer") has agreed to take care of her computer social duties and Frances M. has offered to do the social bookings for the Lounge get-togethers with friends and relatives. Connie is already planning the Christmas banquet, like buying the turkeys when they are on sale and kept in the freezer of someone who has space. Heidi, Rita and Karen usually each roast one on that day. Other volunteers offer their help in other ways. Like the men who have "exercised" with snow removal to keep our outside walks safe. We're all so grateful - more about them later. Each one is like star dust that scatter gifts of "Star dust" along the way. Get well Bette, we all love you, hope to see you soon.
Suzie Q (my Blog name."http://stayingintouchblog.blogspot.com)

Friday, October 17, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW, CHAPTER 2

He had noticed the exhausted robin tugging at the string, and walked toward Robbie who flew to a nearby post, perhaps wondering if the man was going to steal his prize. The man gave several jerks at the sturdy string, left it on the lawn, saw the strange cloud, turned on the bird bath, and walked back to his house. Robbie seized the string flew it to Mrs. Robin. She had found the bird bath and was delighted to see the string. Choosing a hidden forked branch she used her beak for a tool and pasted small twigs together with the water/mud mix and smoothed it against the inner side of the cup-shaped nest with her side feathers. Together the birds interwove the string through the twigs and let it dry in the sun. Then Robbie flew in some soft new grass to line the nest.

Sparkie came over and with excited chirps announced that his mate had just laid six eggs and was going to keep them warm so they could hatch within two weeks and in another two weeks they would be ready to fly.

The man in the big house, came out again and looked at the strange cloud that was moving east. Sparkie zoomed in with another news flash, showed a beetle in his beak, gulped it down and gasped, "That strange cloud might be a beetle migration and we must warn the nearby trees. They may have time to produce some chemicals to frighten them off." Robbie agreed, and suggested all birds begin sending warning bulletins through cyberspace. Robbie's mate had laid five pale blue eggs and like Sparkie's mate would cuddle them warmly for two weeks, turn them over each day for even warmth as all birds do until babies tap against the shell with their beak tooth and struggle free.

Robbie took a shift to keep the eggs warm so his mate could exercise, get a drink, and find some favorite bugs for lunch. During the night he perched on a nearby branch to protect Mother Robin from predators. If a squirrel or other thief came by to steal their eggs he attacks them with screeches and dive bombing. After l000 miles flying to their northern home, then building a nest to raise their family, the possibility of bugs eating their tree home called for immediate planning. Within his computer brain, he sensed that a plan to help the trees would mean protecting the whole wonderful creation that was entrusted to all living things. He thought of bluebirds, considered the best song birds in the world, inspiring all with their loving gentle warble. Perhaps human leaders will realize how these birds and all songbirds are diminishing in number because pesticides cause their egg shells to thin and break before they hatch. People as well, were suffering with cancer from spraying and other pollution. Finally falling asleep at dusk he began to dream when a haunting call broke the night silence. Hoo-hooo-hoo-hoo.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

THE ROBIN AND THE SPARROW

In the following weeks we will be exploring how these birds helped solve the pine beetle problem.

Said the robin to the sparrow
I would really like to know
Why these anxious human beings
Rush about and worry so.
Said the sparrow to the robin,
I think that it must be
That they have no Heavenly Father
Such as cares for you and me.

Do you wonder what these two birds might have said or done next, if they were alive today? This eight line poem was written more than a century ago and first published in England, dateline l859. Some records said it was written by an unknown author but the always helpful library assisted in helping determine the real author was found to be Elizabeth Chaney. It seems that human beings are even busier than ever and all with with our computers and other modern conveniences. Let's tune in to find what might have happened if these birds were alive today.

These two birds were busy gossiping about the arrival of many birds from the south and noticed a sudden darkening of the sky.

Together as they chattered,
About what could be done
A dark cloud crept across the sky
And blotted out the sun.

A man whose large home was situated above their nesting area had noticed that Robby Robin was tugging at a long string buried deep in the ground. Sparkie Sparrow, who seemed to be a reporter for the Bird Gazette asked Robbie Robin what he thought about the strange cloud. He paused for a rest and chirped, "It doesn't smell or look like rain. We could use some moisture to soften the ground so I could pull this string out. Mrs. Robin has been wishing for rain to mix the mud to line our nest." Sparkie chirped that he had found a hole in a tree that had been left by a woodpecker from last season and decided to claim it for his own. Robbie thought about local gossip that said sparrows could be pretty aggressive at times but said nothing. Sparkie may have sensed his thought and added. "I'm the early bird who gets the worm and the first here to claim this vacant nest. He's much larger than me and can tap out another hole in a hurry and I'll spar away at him until he leaves." Just then a man came out of his large home above and walked down the stair.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

SAYINGS OF THE SAGES PORPHYRY

Porphyry, 233 AD - 304, Greek Scholar

"As long as any one injures another, though he should possess the greatest wealth, and all the acres of land which the earth contains, he is still poor."

Well spoken centuries ago and still remains a challenge today.
Only in recent centuries were more than Christian names given
to persons. The family names were chosen to match their work
in trade.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

TUMMY TUNEUPS

When holiday temptations hit, That leave the tummy groaning,
It's time to give a comfort touch, And stop the constant moaning.
An answer could be found among, The herbs in garden bowers,
There's camomile and lemon balm, And touch of passion flower.

Blend equally when water's hot, With maple syrup for sweet,
If indigestion causes stress, This brings a fast retreat.
Licorice tabs are found by some, A loving touch can bring,
In early times it worked for all, For peasants or for kings.

If taste of licorice doesn't fit, There's always slippery elm,
For taste, may need a touch of mint, To please the tummy's helm.
Then make a list for future days, Of foods that irritate,
Keep them off your menu list, The tum' regenerates.

Monday, October 13, 2008

SILENT SPRING

MOTHER NATURE SOUNDS FORECLOSURE

Winter's past - Spring should be here, But where is spring of yesteryear?
No V-line flocks of water birds, That lined the sky, can be heard,
Brittle leaves from last year's drought, Rattle past - confirming doubts,
Next season be a silent spring - No sights or sounds of birds on wing.

No butterflies that once were part, Of springtime's great performance art,
That decorated land and sky, Confirming spring would soon be nigh.
Our honey bees - their usual deeds, Silent, absent for foods need.
Starvation stalks both land and sea, This thing man caused, could this be?

Man's silence in their ivory towers, No sight of season's springtime flowers.
To cheer the empty soul of man, Or help the lifeless barren lands.
Will Creator make a plan, On breezes float to other lands,
To planets that may then sustain, A form of life of unknown name.

Is there yet a chance to save, The Good Earth that Creator gave?
Hearts and minds may lead the charge, To save the Earth as minds enlarge?
Yes, we could change our social ways, Still celebrate Thanksgiving Days.
Grateful for Creator's plan, And rise to honor Earth's gifts and span.

Sunday, October 12, 2008

THE COUNTERPART

The body's counterpart, the soul, Dwells silently within,
Apart from ego's limiting, And outer body's din.
A place that knows no boundaries, Of limitless design,
A spirit infinite and free, Immortal and refined.

No hookups with a power grid, Or source of earthly power,
The lamp of inner soul lights up, Through meditation's hour.
When binding customs say, "I can't," Try "Yes" instead of how,
When tuned to spirit's energies, Can manifest right now.

Aligning these new concepts now, Beyond accepted mores,
No fame or wealth is needed, Through faith it's mine and yours.
No cause to flaunt abilities, Connection with Divine,
Combines its lovely "Peace Be Still," With calm and patient times.

Surrendering the mind as judge, To wisdom of the heart,
The trust in God replaces doubt, When union plays a part.
All functions of the physical, Move subconsciously,
And in like manner, soul within, Unites these energies.

For every need - desires too, This inner, knowing heart,
Will find that space is limitless, As truth joins for its part.
This wave of energy that moves, Throughout all living things,
Is ours to claim - already there, As part of everything.

Saturday, October 11, 2008

MOTHER'S MONDAY

Mother has packed school lunches for my three brothers and sister and sends them off to school. I'd like to go along but Mother tells me I have to wait until I'm older. She is checking the rain barrel to see if there is enough water to do the wash. Her narrow aluminum copper-bottom boiler with the water is placed on our wood-fire stove. There is no bleach to remove the printing on the recently emptied flour sacks so they have to be boiled for an hour to bleach out the print. Hung on the clothes line for an afternoon will finish bleaching them. Two round aluminum tubs are placed on a bench and she carries the boiler of hot water over to proceed with the wash. She tells me I can play outside to get me out of the way when hot water is involved. The washing machine has a vertical handle that is pulled back and forth to agitate the wash. A washboard rub will take care of any stubborn spots. She will have to buy more lye to make soap for next week's wash. I go to the pasture and pick some yellow buffalo beans that carpet the pasture. and present Mother with a bouquet and recall the joy of her smile. She tells me about a little girl who saw her mom's lye jar open and decided to sample it. Her mother had been distracted for a moment with one of her other eighteen children. They lived about 20 miles away and when I saw her later at our country fair noticed her mouth was badly scarred. Later they moved away and I always hoped they had found a doctor who could give her more help.

The water from our well contained alkali and was declared unfit to use. It soon had only a few inches of water in it with the gradual mineral buildup. A neighbor a mile north and west was able to dig his well beside a rushing creek and we could haul it home with our wagon team in 45 gallon drums whenever the rains did not come to fill the barrels. There was plenty of snow melt for the winter's water supply. Several years later our parents were able to buy their first vehicle - a truck. One Saturday morning I begged to go along for the ride. My oldest brother was l3 years old and could handle the team of horses well. He had finished loading the last barrel that banged against another one and the sudden noise caused the team to bolt. They slowed up when crossing a steep dike. As the barrels banged each other I had to make my first major life decision. I jumped from the tailgate as the team headed for home. The barrels had not yet been roped together. My brother ran to meet me. Mother dropped everything and ripped a dish towel into bandages to patch me up. For several weeks she daily tended my fancy head gear.

Friday, October 10, 2008

ALPHABET LETTERS

ALPHABET LETTERS

Letters are lonely when standing alone,
But when joined together can form lovely tones,
New meanings emerge as each takes its place,
Uniting in harmony - beauty and grace.
To print up a story or make a new rhyme,
Enlightening the reader through history's time.
They tell about history, science and games,
Of countries and cooking and old famous names.

Inventors, musicians, from far away lands,
Each story helping minds to expand.
Of folks who spread kindness, beauty and love,
Whose names are rememered and blest from above.
But sadly words tell us of wars new and old,
Pollution trashing our planet - all must be told.
Marching through time into more history's pages,
As new ways emerge to change future ages.

Attuned to each heart, these changes will win,
With love's way of living, new change can begin.
Then letters can join, using words old and new,
Giving justice for all, when honest and true.
Since letters say little, 'till formed into words,
With peoples uniting, then truth's voice is heard,
And into the chapters of history's book pages,
Write of Love's Golden Rule, that enlightened the ages.

So don't let those letters keep standing alone,
But bring them to life in strong vibrant tones,
Folks who'll be honored in years yet to come,
Have valued our planet over pleasure and fun.
Then histories will tell how wars finally ceased,
And record this new change With heart songs of peace.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

THE TREE

Hello there, I am a tree,
Extending a branch, Come visit with me,
I'm welcoming flowers, After winter's chill night,
And birds from the south lands, Back safe from their flight.

Apartments I let, simple and free,
Boughs for resting and nesting, Charging no fee.
My produce in season I share with you all,
Berries in summer, fruits in the fall.

Do you wish to return a small gift to me?
Then share in my mission, Help keep our Earth free,
From pollution and poisons that harm one and all,
By living more simply, So we both can stand tall.

Thank you for caring, Thank you for sharing,
With relationships safe, So fruits we'll keep bearing.
My lumber is yours, For building most things,
For our future descendants, And to health and wealth bring.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

VOICE FROM THE EARTH

A continent both bold and new, Through voyagers came into view,
Soaring mountains sent their falls, Of clear and sparkling streams for all,
Flakes of gold gleamed from her sands, Sparkling diamonds shone through lands.
Fertile soil their bounty shared, As Mother Earth her secrets bared,
Plants for food and plants for health, Enough for all, she shared her wealth.
A Pipe of Peace with burning fire, In symbols spoke of man's desire,
To live with care and harmony, And share this bounty equally.

In gratitude Thanksgiving Day, Throughout the land helped show the way,
To share a bounty each year new, All nations now included too.
Mother Earth supplied it all, Heaven's bounty there on call.
But Pipe of Peace in time was turned, To Pipe of Pleasure - Peace was spurned.
And in return for gifts of worth, Man pillaged and ransacked the Earth,
With chemicals he mixed her foods, Laughed at Earth's warnings, acted rude.

And from this Mother, we asked for more, Of all her inner oil stores,
Preserved through time and centuries old, "But use with care," Her warning told.
"Your wasteful ways - polluted air, Will harm my quality of fare,
My air and food cannot sustain, When streams are fed with acid rain.
Now in the crossroads, my voice must speak, Hear the rumblings from my deep."

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

A PRAIRIE MOTHER, Page 1

My mother's small feet keep the treadle moving quickly. I sit on the wooden plank floor watching this wonderful machine sew its way through the sturdy cotton fabric that she has recycled from the twelve one hundred pound sacks of flour that once held our year's supply for baking bread. She pauses only to remove the 14 loaves of bread from the wood stove oven. Breadmaking is repeated several times a week. The hum of her Singer sewing machine continues to fashion the underwear for her five children. I am number five, the eldest, a son will soon be thirteen. She hopes there will be enough fabric for hemming some needed dish towels. The old towels will soon be needed for diapers. Another baby will arrive the day after Christmas, 1927.

My three brothers and a sister, two years older than me will soon be walking the mile home from our one room prairie school. Our father will return from delivering a load of wheat by horse and wagon to one of the two elevators in Orion, some ten miles distance. Her mind is also on gathering eggs needed for preparing supper, first counting out a dozen to trade in at the grocery store in the town. The eggs with several pounds of butter she churned the day before will also be taken to the town grocery store for credit to buy cocoa, one of the few things she cannot grow in her large garden. There is enough milk to make up a kettle of cocoa, a favorite drink on a cool fall day when the children return from school. At three years of age I am not much help but follow her around the yard and pet our black border collie. With no refrigerator she keeps the extra milk for supper in a bucket in our unheated entrance shed. Milking our three cows can wait until after supper.

Monday, October 6, 2008

THE CHANGING SEASONS

One by one leaves waved goodbye, As thunder struck its gong,
Lightning flashed from everywhere, Fall's orchestra of song.
Discharge of atmospheric power, From one cloud to another,
Sounded like cloud families, Were boxing with each other.

Lyrics told of summer's shade, Of pilgrims restful way,
Of energies from earth and air, And sunshine's gentle rays.
In final dance of pure delight, Their brilliance swept the sky,
As summer flowers bowed to earth, With promise and goodbye.

The promise of the spring to come, New life once more to rise,
Again to grow and gladly serve, Now waiting winter's guise.
Tuning to each challenge new, Man too may serve and grow,
Fulfilling plans, true heart's desires, Each soul in secret knows.

Within the heart there dwells a light, That waits through winter's sleep,
To spring to life when called upon, A gentle heart's call deep.
Attuning to what soul has planned, And feel life's purpose here,
No more to dwell in winter's chill, We cast away our fears.

Sunday, October 5, 2008

MOUSE, CHAPTER 5

Michael Mouse found his cell, Forbidding and so dark,
Hollowed straws beamed some light through, But all felt cold and stark.
From a wider straw on top, Dropped the same old food,
He tried to chew the straws apart, But together all were glued.

How did the jailers make that glue, It's hard just like a rock,
Seems I never will escape, For all the doors are locked.
One day a brighter shaft of light, Framed a different scene,
A hatch of baby spiders, He viewed in this light beam.

He watched in fascination and, Reasoned that somehow,
He might from them learn something new, As sunlight would allow.
Michael did not know the Boss, Could not find his trail.
That led into the yard's big house, Boss ordered "Gang prevail!"

Boss had to keep his prisoner safe, To guide them to the trail,
And take them to the owner's house, Mike must be kept in jail.
Plants near the jail had grown so high, Mike might attempt escape,
Pretend he couldn't find the trail, For Boss, a chance to take.

A hatching spider felt herself, Locked in a small gray box,
As she grew, the box broke through, She heard some spider talk.
And asked another spiderling, "Please don't think me rude,
Where is the food for all of us, Hundreds in our brood?"

They watched an adult spider's work, As he spun a fancy web,
Half became his dinner plate, His stem withdrew some bleb.
From the fly that landed on his plate, Most of it he ate.
Then rested on plate's safety side, Filled up, and felt so great.

The hatchling babe saw some blood left, And decided to excise,
With her stem she sucked some out, And thankful for this prize.
That gave a new idea to Mike, He might work something out,
If there were just more flies around, Now what's that all about?
(Make a guess - what did Mike do? Tune in next week and see)
Give the winner extra points, Have fun with family.

Saturday, October 4, 2008

THE FLOOD

'Twas spring and the snow was melting, The river began to swell,
The Council gathered to decide, How best the word to tell.
The houses would soon be flooded, And lives might soon be lost.
Action was needed urgently, To save them at any cost.
At the farm of Henry Edgar, Flood water had reached the barn;
"Release the horses," he shouted, "Before they come to harm.
"Harness the best team," he ordered, "We'll head for higher ground,
No room for extra baggage, Liz, We leave right now for town."
One of the team was a mother, Of a fine young frisky colt;
But to fight his way through the water, For him there was little hope.
They guided the team and the wagon, Up high on safer ground;
And hurried down in a rowboat to, Rescue people in town.
A day and a night they labored, As the waters continued to rise,
Then the order was issued from council, To flee the countryside
"Just one bundle allowed per person," An official ordered one wife,
So she tossed back the bundle of clothing, Worth so much less than a life.
They leaped from housetop to lifeboat - Watched homes disappear in the surf, Then a glimpse in her tied up bundle showed, The loss of her greatest of worth.
In the moment of panic at rescue, In the confusion of whirling scud,
The bundle that held her baby had, Disappeared in the swirling flood.
The wagon - axle deep in the water, Henry Edgar's team pressed on,
The ration of hay growing smaller, 'Ere long it will soon be gone.
As they headed north and westward on, They took a last look at the farm,
And noticed the baby colt had left, The knoll nearby the barn.
In the wake of the trail of wagons, Many animals faltered and died,
In their struggle through the deep waters, That flooded the countryside.
High spots on the passing landscape, Held the remnants of horses and cows;
Where they'd fled from the rushing waters, For safety to hill's brows.
From one such group of animals, A bobbing head appeared -
Swam straight for Henry's wagon, The family stared as it neared.
A whinney from the team's leader, Made every hope leap high;
Yea - her colt had found her, Brought a tear to every eye.
The plains of Kansas behind them, A homestead led them up north,
They praised and named him "Highwater," For his courage in going forth.
For many a year on the prairie, A horse of distinction was he,
After that fateful trip to Alberta, In nineteen hundred and three.
(This poem was created by a Grade 12 student in response to a class
assignment. This story is based on his grandfather's experience.)

Friday, October 3, 2008

OCTOBER TIME CHANGE

One day this month, things will change, And office clocks be rearranged,
They'll give you back an hour of time, So seize your quill and write a rhyme.
"My feather asks to write more prose, But best for now, this teacher knows.
Rhythms will save your readers time, And jogs the mind in pantomime."

But please my teacher let me try, My feather wants to know just why,
"Now for today my class is closed, Later on we'll use more prose.
For centuries old, the quill was fine, So honor them one more time.
Computers can shut down at times, Then pen or pencil comes to mind."

Thursday, October 2, 2008

FALL IS HERE

The warmth of this fall day tried to disguise iself as summer but the calendar had been reminding us that fall was here and time to prepare the fireplace for winter. The possibility of a visit with a fellow blogger (also a favorite relative) and her husband kept me close to home as well. One of the members of the Strata Council came yesterday to light the pilot on the fireplace but it kept blinking off after a few hours. So I called a man from Seymours Plumbing and Heating who was able to work us into his schedule to fix it. A new thermocouple was needed. We are told that it saves the building (65 units) more than two thousand dollars a year in heating costs when the pilot is not turned off for those six months of summer. It keeps the strata fees from rising higher as well. Just that small pilot light left on all summer would also boost each monthly electric bill to run the Air conditioner longer. I'm sure we all have the same idea of helping save our planet by reducing the use of electricity.

Our relatives arrived and we had such a pleasant visit while Len Seymour was working on the fireplace. While having tea we caught up on family news, summer projects and preserving food for the winter. With other places to visit, more pictures to take of our valley with visits to tourist spots including the early days in the valley, they had to move along. I still needed my daily walk so strolled down to Natures Fare and picked up a few groceries. Back to basics. The laundry was reclining on the bed and needed folding but seemed quite willing to wait here for my return. Even the ironing board hinted that it was best to do the ironing in the cool of the morning anyway.

Flashing their vibrant fall colors, the trees were inviting the breezes to tune up for their dance to spread their winter's quilt. Sooner than we wish the snow will complete the protective ground cover for winter. People who have lived here all their life tell us that September is usually the best month of the year and many tourists often plan their visits here as well to enjoy the fruits of fall. Of course the ski group eagerly look forward to winter at Silver Star. Have fun watching the dance of the leaves.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

THE EMPTY PAGE

Each day an empty page unfolds, And says "Please place some words,
Upon this blank inviting space, To soul and body gird."
Today will be a lovely day, It starts at breakfast time,
Reviewing dreams and prayers again, Often comes to mind.
For as the physical re-boots, Its cells throughout the night,
The soul has sorted things to be, Confirming what is right.
Perhaps conveying needed change, Glad for what's been learned,
Courage make to fix mistakes, And thanks for courage earned.

A smart one says, "I'm fixing things, Bringing forth a point.
Busy days, reviewing ways, For healing every joint."
Then the body cells speak up, "What do we eat today?"
Every cell is calling out, "Whole grains and fruits relay.
And we could use some exercise, We love that clean fresh air,
Each cell conveys a thanks to all, For each one we have cared."
And as the voice breaks into song, An ancient chorus rings,
Thank you Lord for everything, My heart its music sings.