Our parents were homesteaders, and engaged in mixed farming. Even when crops hailed or dried out, hand watered root crops such as potatoes, turnips, and farm animals kept the family fed.
My father visited us early in the 1960s during the time we worked in California. Reviewing events of the great depression, he said he had always thought I would do something special, perhaps even be a medical doctor. I felt sad about his disappointment but it was said without criticism. “I have always hoped that someone from our family would be a doctor and see from his report card that your son makes really good grades - perhaps he will be a doctor one day. Now wouldn’t that be nice to see an MD after his name,” he added hopefully. A scarlet fever epidemic in the mid l930s took the life of their four year old son, Harold, such a beautiful little brother who always had a smile handy. An unwilling tear would still roll down as he recounted the devastating event and the lack of doctors. I told him our son’s interest was in science and math and perhaps might work in that field and be of help to doctors. I found myself leaping into action to help when I heard of any of our descendants registering in pre-med courses. When my son called me on Christmas Day he mentioned he had bought a new computer and found its extra features very helpful in his daily research in the medical field. “We’ve both been so busy we forgot to sign our Christmas letter,” he laughed. I recall telling you and Dad that I enjoyed research so much I’d like to do it for the rest of my life. Now I am. After getting my University degree, I returned other scholarships offered me and married the girl I had met that year and seven years later our son Luke, was born. As Valedictorian of his class at graduation he is doing well and has his own dream of home and family to follow. We are very proud of him and his wife, the mother of our three wonderful grandchildren. Follow your own dream, Mom, you need not try to follow your father’s dream as well, he can still follow it now from his Heavenly home.”
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
GRANDKID'S GAZETTE, CHRISTMAS, 2009 - By Tianna
We always spend Christmas Day with just us five at home and were invited to Grandma Stewart’s house for Boxing Day with uncles and aunties and Gi-Gi was there too. There were lots of presents piled up under the tree and Milaya stumbled over one of them but forgot about the bump when Daddy held her in his arms to comfort her and pointed to all the little wind-up animals racing across the coffee table. Everyone received a gift and then my sisters and I had great fun when Uncle Roger took us for shoulder rides. We reached up as high as we could to see how many ceiling stars we could touch. Uncle Keith couldn’t be with us because he had a sore throat and thought he should stay home.
Uncle Roger and Auntie Cheryl often come to Vernon for holiday celebrations and sometimes for long weekends also. Grandma Stewart’s close friend, Leslie, formerly lived here and flew in from Ontario with some of her family to celebrate Christmas with us. We were served a big turkey dinner with cheesecake for dessert. Some of us only had space for a tiny piece. Grandparents Davis stayed in St. George for Christmas but will come here for the Easter season like they did last year.
Grandma recently completed renovations at her home here that included a pull-out solid drawer in the main bathroom so now we can step up on it to reach the taps and wash our hands more carefully. Today’s Morning Star featured an article by Dr. David Butler-Jones, MD, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, urging care during the flu season to Shake, Share, and Wash. “Shake hands and share a hug with family and friends being mindful of how flu germs spread fast. Wash hands often and avoid touching your face,” he added.
Uncle Roger and Auntie Cheryl often come to Vernon for holiday celebrations and sometimes for long weekends also. Grandma Stewart’s close friend, Leslie, formerly lived here and flew in from Ontario with some of her family to celebrate Christmas with us. We were served a big turkey dinner with cheesecake for dessert. Some of us only had space for a tiny piece. Grandparents Davis stayed in St. George for Christmas but will come here for the Easter season like they did last year.
Grandma recently completed renovations at her home here that included a pull-out solid drawer in the main bathroom so now we can step up on it to reach the taps and wash our hands more carefully. Today’s Morning Star featured an article by Dr. David Butler-Jones, MD, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, urging care during the flu season to Shake, Share, and Wash. “Shake hands and share a hug with family and friends being mindful of how flu germs spread fast. Wash hands often and avoid touching your face,” he added.
Monday, December 28, 2009
CHRISTMAS DINNER AT SCHUBERT CENTER
It was my first time to have Christmas dinner at Schubert Center. Tables were set with matching dinnerware and settings with red and green serviettes and wide candles that floated in glass bowels filled with water for safety. Efficient volunteers served shrimp cocktails followed by continual servings of coffee, tea, and juice. Plates arrived with turkey dinners included mashed potatoes and gravy and three different vegetables and all other trimmings. All this was available for only $15.00 per plate.
At the time of purchase tickets are cut in two and during the program the master of ceremonies called out half a dozen ticket numbers to receive a prize. A guitar player was accompanied by cheerful background music from an electronic player. A pleasant lady seated beside me asked that no one touch her left shoulder. She had been mugged on her way to work two years ago. Doctors were able to restore her shoulder into position. It is held in place with a stainless steel unit. She has to wear a warm patch when going outside because of the metal brace that cools the area, even during a short winter walk. Two witnesses from nearby balconies testified on her behalf and the thief served jail time. Only a single sandwich was in the bag he had snatched from her. “He may have served only a short jail term but you are left with a lifetime of pain, unless special extra warmth is applied,” one guest commented.
Schubert Center is a great place to network among retirees, to share experiences, have a regular lunch or just a sandwich with soup. Most attendees are over age 55 but sometimes a daughter comes for lunch with a grandchild and the three share a lunch together with Grandma. Computer classes as well as other studies are available at Schubert Center and Halina Senior’s Center in Vernon as well as in many other towns and cities in your area.
At the time of purchase tickets are cut in two and during the program the master of ceremonies called out half a dozen ticket numbers to receive a prize. A guitar player was accompanied by cheerful background music from an electronic player. A pleasant lady seated beside me asked that no one touch her left shoulder. She had been mugged on her way to work two years ago. Doctors were able to restore her shoulder into position. It is held in place with a stainless steel unit. She has to wear a warm patch when going outside because of the metal brace that cools the area, even during a short winter walk. Two witnesses from nearby balconies testified on her behalf and the thief served jail time. Only a single sandwich was in the bag he had snatched from her. “He may have served only a short jail term but you are left with a lifetime of pain, unless special extra warmth is applied,” one guest commented.
Schubert Center is a great place to network among retirees, to share experiences, have a regular lunch or just a sandwich with soup. Most attendees are over age 55 but sometimes a daughter comes for lunch with a grandchild and the three share a lunch together with Grandma. Computer classes as well as other studies are available at Schubert Center and Halina Senior’s Center in Vernon as well as in many other towns and cities in your area.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
HANDLE ELECTRICAL CURRENT WITH CARE
A friend in Phoenix sent a forward to me with a movie that showed an electrical worker restoring the current to fix a power outage. He was wearing a full bodied safe suit that covered his gloved hands as the helicopter raised him to the height required to reconnect the current with safety. It was nerve racking even to watch him from the safety of my desk chair as the wires sent sparks flying high.
That movie brought to mind an event that had happened to Luke’s great grandfather in the mid 1930s. He was installing an outlet in his parent’s kitchen that had the 32 volt system which was the only one available on the farms. He was about 15 years old and his mother and older brother were in the kitchen chatting and watching him complete the installation. His working hands paused in silence and his brother said, “Mom, Bob looks kind of strange, do you think he is okay?” His mother replied with complete confidence in his ability to handle the situation, “Oh, he can fix anything but enjoys giving us a scare once in awhile.” She continued with her ironing and carried the cooled flat iron to click its handle to its mate heating on top of the wood stove. During those moments Grandpa Bob heard what was being said by his mother and brother as a strange sensation moved from his hands in a seeming downward motion. He could not speak or move but with what strength he could muster managed to kick the electric cord with one foot and remove it from the plug in.
Later he told me that it would have been “curtains” for his life if he had been working with 110 volt system now currently being used. He also confided that for several weeks he could not handle looking at himself in a mirror. Apparently his nervous system required time to heal completely.
That movie brought to mind an event that had happened to Luke’s great grandfather in the mid 1930s. He was installing an outlet in his parent’s kitchen that had the 32 volt system which was the only one available on the farms. He was about 15 years old and his mother and older brother were in the kitchen chatting and watching him complete the installation. His working hands paused in silence and his brother said, “Mom, Bob looks kind of strange, do you think he is okay?” His mother replied with complete confidence in his ability to handle the situation, “Oh, he can fix anything but enjoys giving us a scare once in awhile.” She continued with her ironing and carried the cooled flat iron to click its handle to its mate heating on top of the wood stove. During those moments Grandpa Bob heard what was being said by his mother and brother as a strange sensation moved from his hands in a seeming downward motion. He could not speak or move but with what strength he could muster managed to kick the electric cord with one foot and remove it from the plug in.
Later he told me that it would have been “curtains” for his life if he had been working with 110 volt system now currently being used. He also confided that for several weeks he could not handle looking at himself in a mirror. Apparently his nervous system required time to heal completely.
Monday, December 21, 2009
A VIRTUAL VISIT TO BETHLEHEM
Several of the churches in Vernon invited anyone interested in experiencing a typical day at a Bethlehem market place during the Christmas season were invited to join in for a typical business day that resembled our own Farmers Market. We attended the nearest one held in the parking lot of Emmanuel Tabernacle. Two stern Roman soldiers in costume guarded the gates with pointed spears directed us through a gateway to sign in.
A straw path took us through this outdoor market where goats, sheep and donkeys offered friendly faces with opportunities for us to reach over a stave fence to pet them. The baby goats and lambs were a delight to the children. Continuing through the displays of crafts; gowns, hats, jewelry and other fashions of the day were offered. Flat breads baked on site in an open fireplace were there for purchase. Shekels, the only currency for payment a sellers spurned our master cards and looked questionably at us. One of the wooden stands showed small loaves of bread made with ancient grains. They looked so interesting but we had no shekels for payment. Later I met one of the youth pastors and suggested that next year they should have a money changer at the gate. He nodded with a smile. After our journey through the outdoor market we were invited into the tabernacle itself to enjoy a play about the Star of Bethlehem that featured duets by the Davison sisters. The excellent director of the play was assisted by members of the Youth Group. At the close attendees were guided through a path where cookies and hot cocoa were freely offered. We strolled past a tree faller who held his upright axe in silent stance of splitting logs, two children sat on a log, toasting marshmallows to pretend fireplace flames. Other silent figures affirmed their methods of shaping metals before a flaming forge and many other ways of earning and conducting their businesses each day.
A straw path took us through this outdoor market where goats, sheep and donkeys offered friendly faces with opportunities for us to reach over a stave fence to pet them. The baby goats and lambs were a delight to the children. Continuing through the displays of crafts; gowns, hats, jewelry and other fashions of the day were offered. Flat breads baked on site in an open fireplace were there for purchase. Shekels, the only currency for payment a sellers spurned our master cards and looked questionably at us. One of the wooden stands showed small loaves of bread made with ancient grains. They looked so interesting but we had no shekels for payment. Later I met one of the youth pastors and suggested that next year they should have a money changer at the gate. He nodded with a smile. After our journey through the outdoor market we were invited into the tabernacle itself to enjoy a play about the Star of Bethlehem that featured duets by the Davison sisters. The excellent director of the play was assisted by members of the Youth Group. At the close attendees were guided through a path where cookies and hot cocoa were freely offered. We strolled past a tree faller who held his upright axe in silent stance of splitting logs, two children sat on a log, toasting marshmallows to pretend fireplace flames. Other silent figures affirmed their methods of shaping metals before a flaming forge and many other ways of earning and conducting their businesses each day.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
HOW TO AVOID THE AFTER CHRISTMAS COLD
Yesterday we took a virtual trip to southern Alberta and learned how a farm family who became almost self sufficient by growing a large garden and keeping a few farm animals. With very few sweets in the diet, dental work was not required by any of the eight children until after they left home. Although fresh greens were not available during the winter months the root crops must have stored enough of the alkaline foods to get us through until fresh greens sprouted in the spring. When their seventh child, Harold John, passed away during a scarlet fever epidemic the mid 1930 the first five children had already left home to attend high school. They still had their little girl at home but Mother’s arms felt so empty, she decided they should have another baby and perhaps this new one somehow might contain the soul of the one lost. John told us last summer when he and his wife visited us that he always knew he was the replacement for Harold. After retiring from teaching he required heart bypass surgery and began to think about changing to the simple habits he learned on the Farm. He and his wife are spending their retirement volunteering in Kenya where all the vegetables and fruits as well as the farm animals are part of the enterprise. Each family encouraged to accept four needy children who do not have parents and are paid extra from the farm profits.
When 80 per cent alkaline foods (the fresh vegetables and fruits are consumed) and 20 per cent acid foods (meat, fish, beans and cereals are the other part of the diet) the ideal alkaline-acid balance is maintained at 7.5 per cent and optimum health is the result. The local library is very helpful on assisting with books on this subject.
For more details check the web site: simonegabbay.com. A book I recently purchased carries the title “Alkalize or Die” by Dr. Theodore A. Baroody.
When 80 per cent alkaline foods (the fresh vegetables and fruits are consumed) and 20 per cent acid foods (meat, fish, beans and cereals are the other part of the diet) the ideal alkaline-acid balance is maintained at 7.5 per cent and optimum health is the result. The local library is very helpful on assisting with books on this subject.
For more details check the web site: simonegabbay.com. A book I recently purchased carries the title “Alkalize or Die” by Dr. Theodore A. Baroody.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
FEELING FINE AFTER CHRISTMAS
The special joys of Christmas bring to memory the times spent with family and friends that continue to resonate in our hearts and minds for many years to come and bring their joys from where they dwell safely in our brain’s hard drive or memory box for review in the future. Travel to family events became difficult with the passage of time as health could present challenges for some. But we still have our mind’s hard drive, safe in our memory box to recall those great times together.
In the depression of the l930s our horse drawn sleigh took us to the home of Les and Alice Bennett, only a couple of miles distant. On New Years day we returned the favour and if weather permitted we spent time with Frank and Ida Weeks who also lived near. Our local school offered no more than Grade eight and more education required a 65 mile, three day drive to the city. Our older brothers always seemed to find a way to get us through all seven of those scary coulees to be with family for the two week Christmas holiday. At any time a blizzard could block the way.
Paul, the eldest, age 20 (of whom his wife later told me her mother referred to as him as “the Saint),” took charge of us when our parents were away. Second son, Fred was known as “Mr. Mischief” usually had a trick handy. Al kept busy figuring out ways of improving our country’s “Banking System.” Helen had her ear to the radio at all times to learn how she might improve the lives of people in Africa. Esther, four years younger than me, says Helen and I were always asking her to “run downstairs” for a jar of meat or other canned food items. I stayed in the kitchen, hoping to impress the family with my baking skills. Electric power was not available until much later in the mid l940s. Two more sons were born during the 1930s, Harold John and John Harold. There will be more on the subject of how to avoid the “after Christmas cold and other health problems” on tomorrow’s Blog.
In the depression of the l930s our horse drawn sleigh took us to the home of Les and Alice Bennett, only a couple of miles distant. On New Years day we returned the favour and if weather permitted we spent time with Frank and Ida Weeks who also lived near. Our local school offered no more than Grade eight and more education required a 65 mile, three day drive to the city. Our older brothers always seemed to find a way to get us through all seven of those scary coulees to be with family for the two week Christmas holiday. At any time a blizzard could block the way.
Paul, the eldest, age 20 (of whom his wife later told me her mother referred to as him as “the Saint),” took charge of us when our parents were away. Second son, Fred was known as “Mr. Mischief” usually had a trick handy. Al kept busy figuring out ways of improving our country’s “Banking System.” Helen had her ear to the radio at all times to learn how she might improve the lives of people in Africa. Esther, four years younger than me, says Helen and I were always asking her to “run downstairs” for a jar of meat or other canned food items. I stayed in the kitchen, hoping to impress the family with my baking skills. Electric power was not available until much later in the mid l940s. Two more sons were born during the 1930s, Harold John and John Harold. There will be more on the subject of how to avoid the “after Christmas cold and other health problems” on tomorrow’s Blog.
Friday, December 18, 2009
GREETING CARD WARNING
A CBC radio news item this morning aired a warning from a medical doctor concerning the damage that can occur when children are permitted to handle greeting cards that contain a battery that plays musical greetings. This medical doctor, who works in a children’s hospital, reported that he has treated children who have placed these batteries in various apertures of their body and has seen their health compromised that has at times resulted in loss of life.
If placed in an ear, and not immediately noticed and removed by a doctor, it can cause deafness. It can get stuck in the esophagus when attempting to swallow it and cause death. The breathing tube can also be compromised and the result can be the same.
The nose is another common area that can affect breathing and removing such and item requires immediate medical attention. If a parent or other family member attempts to remove any of these obstructions it can be pushed in further.
When any of these musical cards arrive place it out of reach of children, and at the end of the day toss it in the garbage after gluing it with tape to another larger item so it won’t roll out of sight and be found later by a child.
If placed in an ear, and not immediately noticed and removed by a doctor, it can cause deafness. It can get stuck in the esophagus when attempting to swallow it and cause death. The breathing tube can also be compromised and the result can be the same.
The nose is another common area that can affect breathing and removing such and item requires immediate medical attention. If a parent or other family member attempts to remove any of these obstructions it can be pushed in further.
When any of these musical cards arrive place it out of reach of children, and at the end of the day toss it in the garbage after gluing it with tape to another larger item so it won’t roll out of sight and be found later by a child.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
MY DREAM CHRISTMAS PARTY
Virtual Christmas parties are wonderful as friends and relatives join to celebrate together with their partners to bring past memories to view once again. You may say, “But I do not see my name on the list you posted yesterday.” Here is how you can be sure you are there. Choose all the letters from my list together with the rest of the letters in our alphabet as required, and put them to work. Your name will then be magically included. The details of how this happens is not known to me any more than how cyber magic happens when I screen up Blogs I posted several years ago.
Thoughts are indeed very powerful as they float from one mind to another presenting their gifts as they create new ones to include in your memory box for future viewing. A symphony of love imprints upon both hearts and joins all the other singers there to create more happy hearts. If past negative misunderstandings try to enter, remember they have disappeared into the sea of forgiveness and need no review.
The ephemeral beauty of these unseen gifts, although hidden from view reside in each heart to screen up as needed and bring cheer to each new day. If you need a little jump start on a cloudy day, recall one the greatest memories residing in your memory box. The one that always comes first to mind for me is the day our son and his buddy, Skeeter, were hiking in Hawaii during the l960s. They had descended stairs that led to a cement-encased water channel that gradually sloped downward. A powerful surge of water rushed from behind them. Skeeter was smaller and agile and managed to scramble up the vertical cement channel and shouted for help. A tree trimmer dropped his shears and threw his ladder in to rescue him. I thank him virtually every day and feel assured that his spirit feels my gratitude.
Thoughts are indeed very powerful as they float from one mind to another presenting their gifts as they create new ones to include in your memory box for future viewing. A symphony of love imprints upon both hearts and joins all the other singers there to create more happy hearts. If past negative misunderstandings try to enter, remember they have disappeared into the sea of forgiveness and need no review.
The ephemeral beauty of these unseen gifts, although hidden from view reside in each heart to screen up as needed and bring cheer to each new day. If you need a little jump start on a cloudy day, recall one the greatest memories residing in your memory box. The one that always comes first to mind for me is the day our son and his buddy, Skeeter, were hiking in Hawaii during the l960s. They had descended stairs that led to a cement-encased water channel that gradually sloped downward. A powerful surge of water rushed from behind them. Skeeter was smaller and agile and managed to scramble up the vertical cement channel and shouted for help. A tree trimmer dropped his shears and threw his ladder in to rescue him. I thank him virtually every day and feel assured that his spirit feels my gratitude.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
GREETING FRIENDS AT CHRISTMAS
What a great time of the year to take the opportunity to send Christmas greetings to friends, adding some family news and best of all including that part of the greetings that can include what a blessing it has been to have had them as friends or relatives. You may not have seen them for many years but when the music of Christmas bells ring, the memory box you hold in your heart also rings in joyful silence. Receiving them by postal mail, e-mail, texting or telephone, memories of their caring and love flood every part of your being. Sometimes pictures are included and that is always a bonus.
Messages of life’s special events ripple past in your river of life leaving in their wake the memories of the words of encouragement you received at that moment in your life. Knowing how it helped lead you on and how in turn you were then able to pass to others the hope they needed that would open new horizons for them.
Helen K in Phoenix, Arizona, Barbara M in Palm Springs, Anna E in Kamloops, Cindy W in Olds Alberta, Lin D in St. George, and Stephanie D in Vernon have popped from my memory box today bringing special memories. I think I’ll take you with me to dreamland tonight and we’ll have a Dreamland Christmas Party.
Messages of life’s special events ripple past in your river of life leaving in their wake the memories of the words of encouragement you received at that moment in your life. Knowing how it helped lead you on and how in turn you were then able to pass to others the hope they needed that would open new horizons for them.
Helen K in Phoenix, Arizona, Barbara M in Palm Springs, Anna E in Kamloops, Cindy W in Olds Alberta, Lin D in St. George, and Stephanie D in Vernon have popped from my memory box today bringing special memories. I think I’ll take you with me to dreamland tonight and we’ll have a Dreamland Christmas Party.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
MEMORIES - THE WHEELS ARE ROLLING NORTH
The year is 1969 and Ken has just graduated from Roosevelt High School in Portland, Oregon. He had chosen the University of Victoria to complete a degree in Math and Science. We were moving to Vernon where we had purchased a small property for our retirement home. He was able to take his first year of studies in Science & Math at the Okanagan Regional College. Continuing with your request Mr. Super Grandchild for more information about your father, it does get especially interesting for you when you arrive on Planet Earth in 1979.
He met your mother during his final year at the University of Victoria. They met at a church event held during the Christmas season. He graduated in 1973 on the same day as their wedding. The day before graduation I received a phone call from one of the university officials saying your Dad was slated to receive the Gold Medal in Science and Arts as the top student but had not registered himself on the list as being able to attend the graduation. I called your Dad and he said they could mail it to him. “We can’t proceed with our event without the star of our show, tell him he has to be there,” the university official replied. They were able to postpone the wedding ceremony for a few hours. He had already been negotiating for a position with a large firm in Calgary and was soon moved there. Meanwhile, packages of cookies and other sweets that had been coming to him from a high school friend in Portland had to be cancelled.
He told us later there were other graduates that he felt were equally qualified to receive the Gold Medal and our brother-in-law, George, replied, “But you were the one who received it.”
He met your mother during his final year at the University of Victoria. They met at a church event held during the Christmas season. He graduated in 1973 on the same day as their wedding. The day before graduation I received a phone call from one of the university officials saying your Dad was slated to receive the Gold Medal in Science and Arts as the top student but had not registered himself on the list as being able to attend the graduation. I called your Dad and he said they could mail it to him. “We can’t proceed with our event without the star of our show, tell him he has to be there,” the university official replied. They were able to postpone the wedding ceremony for a few hours. He had already been negotiating for a position with a large firm in Calgary and was soon moved there. Meanwhile, packages of cookies and other sweets that had been coming to him from a high school friend in Portland had to be cancelled.
He told us later there were other graduates that he felt were equally qualified to receive the Gold Medal and our brother-in-law, George, replied, “But you were the one who received it.”
Monday, December 14, 2009
HELPING THE HOMELESS CONTACT FAMILY
A lovely story came on an early CBC radio program this morning telling how some of the students at Okanagan Regional College are helping the homeless get in touch with their families. It started when a homeless man asked for a Christmas card to send home to his family to wish them a Merry Christmas. His wish was granted and since then a regular program invites more of the students to participate in creating these kinds of cards at home. Beautiful artwork together with Christmas greetings and messages of hope and love are mailed to the last known address of family and cheered the hearts of all parties concerned. If the addressee has moved they assist the person through phone calls and other ways to make the contact.
This also expresses the beauty and kindnesses of these students who are also very busy during the Christmas season with exams and other college activities. May this gift of your time and and hope bring many blessings to you as well this Christmas season and in all their future activities. A Merry Christmas to each one of you all throughout the New Year 2010 and all future years.
This also expresses the beauty and kindnesses of these students who are also very busy during the Christmas season with exams and other college activities. May this gift of your time and and hope bring many blessings to you as well this Christmas season and in all their future activities. A Merry Christmas to each one of you all throughout the New Year 2010 and all future years.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
THE ORCHESTRA AND THE GOLDEN RULE
Whenever we made a move to another place we usually found a nearby church whose members sought to follow the basic tenets of “The Golden Rule, Do unto Others as you would have them do unto you.” This embraces making the basic decision of acceptance of this Biblical scripture and daily learning to put into practice through each decision made in real life, that of “growing in grace and in the knowledge of God.” It might be compared to registering at Earth University and living out these words with each daily decision, having both fun and joy as we do it. As we are pleasantly connecting with others life takes on new meaning.
The pastor of our church in Portland had been raised in our own Alberta neighbourhood near Orion. It wasn’t long before the young people gathered one day each week to form a band. They tuned up their instruments at various church functions and sometimes at a restaurant especially during the Christmas season. One of the band members did not own an instrument but was great with the maracas as she bounced in perfect time with the other instruments and set feet tapping in the audience.
There was usually a collection plate passed around to be used for a future need. One evening the man with the offering plate mounted the stage and presented the plate to the band’s leader. Ken pretended he thought the offerings were being taken up to give to his excellent orchestra to be divided among them. He nodded and said, “Oh that’s okay, we won’t be charging for our music, it’s for a good cause.” The audience clapped their hands with delight especially since it came from the mouth of one who has often been called “a man of few words.” During the mid 1960s he learned to play the guitar by tuning to lessons being given on the TV. When he had another engagement we recorded it for him so he didn’t have to miss any of the lessons. Perhaps the learning channel in your area may still carry it.
The pastor of our church in Portland had been raised in our own Alberta neighbourhood near Orion. It wasn’t long before the young people gathered one day each week to form a band. They tuned up their instruments at various church functions and sometimes at a restaurant especially during the Christmas season. One of the band members did not own an instrument but was great with the maracas as she bounced in perfect time with the other instruments and set feet tapping in the audience.
There was usually a collection plate passed around to be used for a future need. One evening the man with the offering plate mounted the stage and presented the plate to the band’s leader. Ken pretended he thought the offerings were being taken up to give to his excellent orchestra to be divided among them. He nodded and said, “Oh that’s okay, we won’t be charging for our music, it’s for a good cause.” The audience clapped their hands with delight especially since it came from the mouth of one who has often been called “a man of few words.” During the mid 1960s he learned to play the guitar by tuning to lessons being given on the TV. When he had another engagement we recorded it for him so he didn’t have to miss any of the lessons. Perhaps the learning channel in your area may still carry it.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
VACATION VISITORS AVOID A NEAR TRAGEDY
One good thing about having family visitors with us on their vacation is that the cousins get to know each other better. Living many thousands of miles apart can make it difficult to agree on vacation times together. After we moved to a warmer area in the winter it was easier for those living on farms to come south for a little respite in the winter months. Our parents were always welcome and one winter Bob decided it would be good to take a short vacation to Hawaii to check out a possible move there for a transfer as a technical representative. We gave Ken the choice of coming with us or staying with his grandparents and keep the price of his ticket. Grandpa was teaching him to play chess and he opted to stay with them. Years later in High School, he was voted school president of the Chess Club. Bob had been having headaches and doctors could not help him. He thought a different climate might be of help. Later it was found to be the chemicals supplied at work as a technical representative and he brought his problem with him.
Another winter my brother with his wife and family came to California for a few winter months. This time their new son was with them. Since the guest room required making a left turn for a few steps Bob decided it would be a good idea to wire up a warning bell in case the baby had a problem and his call for help could not be heard above the regular family noise. He enjoyed making such items and only two days later we were all sitting at the dinner table when a struggle was heard from the baby’s room. With very fast footsteps Anne rushed in to find he had a plastic bag over his face. One of his very contrite siblings had been playing with him and been careless with a plastic bag. Handy, but also very dangerous and we now notice that all plastic wrapping bags with purchases have a printed warning that says “This plastic bag is not a toy – keep it away from children.” We were all very thankful for the warning bell Bob had installed.
Another winter my brother with his wife and family came to California for a few winter months. This time their new son was with them. Since the guest room required making a left turn for a few steps Bob decided it would be a good idea to wire up a warning bell in case the baby had a problem and his call for help could not be heard above the regular family noise. He enjoyed making such items and only two days later we were all sitting at the dinner table when a struggle was heard from the baby’s room. With very fast footsteps Anne rushed in to find he had a plastic bag over his face. One of his very contrite siblings had been playing with him and been careless with a plastic bag. Handy, but also very dangerous and we now notice that all plastic wrapping bags with purchases have a printed warning that says “This plastic bag is not a toy – keep it away from children.” We were all very thankful for the warning bell Bob had installed.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
EDUCATION BEGINS WITH KINDERGARTEN IN CALIFORNIA
We moved to San Clemente, California in 1955. Kindergarten was only a few blocks away and we soon registered our son for his first day of formal education. The couple next door, Bruce and Barbara Mueller had a baby son, and the father was stationed at the nearby Marine base. Barbara walked to school with our four-year-old “helping” with ‘one arm on the baby’s stroller’ as she worded it. Muellers have remained our close friends for over 50 years as we have exchanged visits with Christmas updates. A nice walk in the California sun was a pleasant way to start the day. Bob was familiar with all the General Motors parts and became the parts manager at a local dealership. I worked as a secretary at a local tool firm.
My brother and his wife Anne farmed in northern B.C. and sometimes drove south for a few months to escape the chilly northern Canadian winters. A note from the school said the kindergarten students were invited to bring a younger sibling or a cousin to school to be introduced to their classmates to get the feeling of what school was like. It was the usual workday for Bob and me but Barbara guided them safely to kindergarten. Ken was hesitant about bringing his Canadian cousin to school and the night before worried about what that word “introduced” meant. Alana was already the delightful person she grew up to be and charmed everyone. A brief introduction wasn’t so hard after all and when they returned Anne tells me he was so proud of his cousin and glad to have her with him. They have remained good friends ever since.
My brother and his wife Anne farmed in northern B.C. and sometimes drove south for a few months to escape the chilly northern Canadian winters. A note from the school said the kindergarten students were invited to bring a younger sibling or a cousin to school to be introduced to their classmates to get the feeling of what school was like. It was the usual workday for Bob and me but Barbara guided them safely to kindergarten. Ken was hesitant about bringing his Canadian cousin to school and the night before worried about what that word “introduced” meant. Alana was already the delightful person she grew up to be and charmed everyone. A brief introduction wasn’t so hard after all and when they returned Anne tells me he was so proud of his cousin and glad to have her with him. They have remained good friends ever since.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
MORE FAMILY STORIES
On November 28th and 29th I posted a Blog that told the story of how our son had come within seconds of drowning during the years we lived in Hawaii. It didn’t take long for my Grandson to phone me, “Why haven’t I heard about that close call my Dad experienced during that hike he had with a friend when you lived in Hawaii. I want to know all about my Dad’s early experiences.”
I tried to explain that after being transferred from his work with a Calgary firm to Louisiana and then to Texas we didn’t get much time together with you except during Christmas celebrations. Your Dad accepted the transfer when you were about two years old. Your Mom found out at the age of 37 that she was an adopted child and later you three did get to meet her biological Mom. Your Mom always felt it was important to have family near for Christmas and wrote great letters telling us all about the exciting places they would take us to. The first year we drove our van - it was over a thousand miles just to cross the state of Texas. Once there, your family took us to places like the Johnson Space Center - I believe the name of the space center has since been changed. We were given the opportunity with other visitors to a meeting room to hear about the wonders they were working with. After the lecture we were all invited to ask any questions we might have. Guess whose hand shot up within seconds. Your Dad tried to nudge you, hinting that you should let an adult speak first. The speaker pointed at your raised hand. It must have been a fairly intelligent question because you were given an answer. You will have to ask your Dad what your question was as well as the speaker’s answer since he is the one with the degree in Science and Math. You were in about the third grade. The next time we came for Christmas we bought plane tickets and had more time to visit with you. Another time I’ll tell about your Dad in kindergarten. We were living in San Clemente, California at that time.
I tried to explain that after being transferred from his work with a Calgary firm to Louisiana and then to Texas we didn’t get much time together with you except during Christmas celebrations. Your Dad accepted the transfer when you were about two years old. Your Mom found out at the age of 37 that she was an adopted child and later you three did get to meet her biological Mom. Your Mom always felt it was important to have family near for Christmas and wrote great letters telling us all about the exciting places they would take us to. The first year we drove our van - it was over a thousand miles just to cross the state of Texas. Once there, your family took us to places like the Johnson Space Center - I believe the name of the space center has since been changed. We were given the opportunity with other visitors to a meeting room to hear about the wonders they were working with. After the lecture we were all invited to ask any questions we might have. Guess whose hand shot up within seconds. Your Dad tried to nudge you, hinting that you should let an adult speak first. The speaker pointed at your raised hand. It must have been a fairly intelligent question because you were given an answer. You will have to ask your Dad what your question was as well as the speaker’s answer since he is the one with the degree in Science and Math. You were in about the third grade. The next time we came for Christmas we bought plane tickets and had more time to visit with you. Another time I’ll tell about your Dad in kindergarten. We were living in San Clemente, California at that time.
Monday, December 7, 2009
BOOK REVIEW REGARDING HEART ATTACKS
Every Sunday afternoon CBC Radio broadcasts a program called Tapestry. It is repeated again at 10:00 pm on the following Thursday. The host, Mary Hynes, interviewed the author of “My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal journey,” by Jill Bolter Taylor. Tuning into http://www.cbc.ca, the author spoke of her experience with what was later diagnosed as a stroke.
She tells of her collapse when she fell from her chair and realized a possible stroke might be happening. Slowly she managed to reach her telephone and the card that contained a phone number to call an ambulance. Her mind interpreted the telephone number on the card as “pixels” and it was with great patience that she was able to interpret each number and complete the call.
This is especially relevant for anyone who is living alone so they will be more able to handle such an event in case it happens to them in the future. Her whole body felt so weak, she felt a strong urge to go to sleep at that moment. She explained further: “A voice in my head said “If you let yourself go to sleep now you will never wake up.”
The way this Harvard lecturer explained the events that followed is better understood if you are able to hear her explain it herself on the repeat program next Thursday and could possibly save your life in the future. Mary Hynes, the host of the program mentioned that it also can be heard as a podcast. I plan to listen to it again myself next Thursday, December l0th at l0:00 pm. The way our brains work is so fascinating.
She tells of her collapse when she fell from her chair and realized a possible stroke might be happening. Slowly she managed to reach her telephone and the card that contained a phone number to call an ambulance. Her mind interpreted the telephone number on the card as “pixels” and it was with great patience that she was able to interpret each number and complete the call.
This is especially relevant for anyone who is living alone so they will be more able to handle such an event in case it happens to them in the future. Her whole body felt so weak, she felt a strong urge to go to sleep at that moment. She explained further: “A voice in my head said “If you let yourself go to sleep now you will never wake up.”
The way this Harvard lecturer explained the events that followed is better understood if you are able to hear her explain it herself on the repeat program next Thursday and could possibly save your life in the future. Mary Hynes, the host of the program mentioned that it also can be heard as a podcast. I plan to listen to it again myself next Thursday, December l0th at l0:00 pm. The way our brains work is so fascinating.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
WINTER WEATHER PATTERNS CHANGE QUICKLY
While I was enjoying a December sleigh ride with our family more than half a century ago, Robert, the person who would become my husband 20 years later was also having a sleigh ride home with his family. They lived near Calgary, Alberta, several hundred miles north of our town of Orion. Christmas celebrations included the concert that was held at Mount Olive School near Three Hills. The family had stayed for the dance that was held after the concert. Music was furnished by members of the community, including Robert’s elder brother, George. After midnight it became clear that the indoor revelry had masked the sounds of a rising blizzard. The wooden frame building began to tremble and the windows rattled a warning. It became clear that this was more than just the fast tapping feet on the plank floor. One of the men stoked the fire in the pot-bellied wood-burning stove as others lined up their horse drawn sleighs to load up their families.
This was not one of those Alberta Chinook that could change overnight to above zero temperatures. George had not worn his winter coat over his orchestra outfit. The weather had turned into a full-fledged blizzard. It was not more than two miles home. The horses tossed their heads and snorted. They too were anxious for their home stalls. Sleigh tracks on the road were not clear and the horses balked at the reins. Robert’s mother had wisely tossed a blanket in the sleigh before they left home and the parents with their four children huddled together for warmth. Finally the father realized they were lost and decided to trust the horses find the way. Within what only seemed a few minutes the tall clothes line posts appeared and the horses stopped at the welcome sight of home. With the horses safe in the barn the home fires were stoked for the night and a very grateful family appreciated the ancient wisdom of their faithful horses, proving to be smarter than any of our fancy cars. A similar blizzard has been going on during the last few days in the entire area around the Calgary area with police warnings to stay off the roads until the blizzard passes on. Friends in Olds, Alberta tell me that their blizzard will soon be passing east toward Saskatchewan. The wind chill there is now minus 27. Very cold weather will continue in their area for at least another week.
This was not one of those Alberta Chinook that could change overnight to above zero temperatures. George had not worn his winter coat over his orchestra outfit. The weather had turned into a full-fledged blizzard. It was not more than two miles home. The horses tossed their heads and snorted. They too were anxious for their home stalls. Sleigh tracks on the road were not clear and the horses balked at the reins. Robert’s mother had wisely tossed a blanket in the sleigh before they left home and the parents with their four children huddled together for warmth. Finally the father realized they were lost and decided to trust the horses find the way. Within what only seemed a few minutes the tall clothes line posts appeared and the horses stopped at the welcome sight of home. With the horses safe in the barn the home fires were stoked for the night and a very grateful family appreciated the ancient wisdom of their faithful horses, proving to be smarter than any of our fancy cars. A similar blizzard has been going on during the last few days in the entire area around the Calgary area with police warnings to stay off the roads until the blizzard passes on. Friends in Olds, Alberta tell me that their blizzard will soon be passing east toward Saskatchewan. The wind chill there is now minus 27. Very cold weather will continue in their area for at least another week.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
THE SEWING BEE AND CHRISTMAS CONCERT
The year is 1929 and I am six years old. Our nearest town is Orion, Alberta which is ten miles from home. It is early December and the ladies of the neighbourhood gather to sew the small red and green net bags that held nuts, candy and that once-a-year treat – a bright yellow orange at the top.
Each Friday the Canadian Pacific Railway train stopped at Orion to drop off the mail and other supplies for the two general stores in town. The post office was the general meeting place to exchange the local news including the date of the sewing bee and other general news. At the sewing bee the women exchanged family news that confirmed the date of the Christmas concert that was held at the local school. A treadle sewing machine turned out the bags to be filled with Christmas treats that would be placed under the tree at the concert. The grade school teacher had prepared a program for the evening entertainment. The children marched around in formation and I recall feeling honoured to lead the parade on the plank stage that had been erected that day after school by fathers. We each had memorized a recitation that made our parents proud as we delivered them flawlessly.
Gas lanterns hung from the ceiling as the mysteries of the evening unfolded. Sleigh bells jingled as teams of horse-drawn sleighs rattled their harness over snow clad trails and turned into the school yard. If it was one of those 40 degrees below zero evenings the horses were unhitched and tied up in the barn. A pot-bellied stove warmed our hands and threw enough heat to cozy up our small one-room school. After the program Santa arrived and called out the names of each child as they came forward to receive their gift. The men removed the make-shift stage and some families stayed for the dance after the concert. Those with small children climbed aboard their sleighs and the bells jingled us over the new-fallen snow to stoke up the home fires.
Each Friday the Canadian Pacific Railway train stopped at Orion to drop off the mail and other supplies for the two general stores in town. The post office was the general meeting place to exchange the local news including the date of the sewing bee and other general news. At the sewing bee the women exchanged family news that confirmed the date of the Christmas concert that was held at the local school. A treadle sewing machine turned out the bags to be filled with Christmas treats that would be placed under the tree at the concert. The grade school teacher had prepared a program for the evening entertainment. The children marched around in formation and I recall feeling honoured to lead the parade on the plank stage that had been erected that day after school by fathers. We each had memorized a recitation that made our parents proud as we delivered them flawlessly.
Gas lanterns hung from the ceiling as the mysteries of the evening unfolded. Sleigh bells jingled as teams of horse-drawn sleighs rattled their harness over snow clad trails and turned into the school yard. If it was one of those 40 degrees below zero evenings the horses were unhitched and tied up in the barn. A pot-bellied stove warmed our hands and threw enough heat to cozy up our small one-room school. After the program Santa arrived and called out the names of each child as they came forward to receive their gift. The men removed the make-shift stage and some families stayed for the dance after the concert. Those with small children climbed aboard their sleighs and the bells jingled us over the new-fallen snow to stoke up the home fires.
Friday, December 4, 2009
CUT BACK ON CHRISTMAS STRESS
A set of gentle bending and rolling exercises are highly effective in relieving muscle tension and increasing circulation to the head, brain, ears, and eyes: Sit erect and relax. Very gently, bend the head forward three times, to the back three times, to the right side three times, to the left three times; then circle the head each way three times. Don’t hurry through it, take the time to do it.
Long car or plane rides; speaking on the phone; poor posture; mental or emotional stress: hours spent sitting in front of a computer or TV screen; as well as any type of sedentary or repetitive activity that causes us to keep our head in the same position for extended periods of time – all put stress on the neck vertebrae and the muscles that support them.
In his book “Heal Arthritis: Physically-Mentally-Spiritually,” Dr. William A.Garey writes: “A head-and-neck exercise can be used to bring about greater flexibility in the cervical spine. If used regularly over a long period of time, it will correct the rigidity which sometimes comes about in certain types of arthritis. The hearing and visual acuity of the eyes are both sharpened by using this exercise.”
“It is important to do these exercises on a regular basis if results are to be achieved. Doing these exercises relaxes the body before going to sleep at night. It will keep the throat and jaw line firm, and prevent the formation of double or multiple chins.” It is also one of exercises in Tai-Chi, an ancient Chinese method of exercising. A number of studies have identified Tai Chi as an ideal type of exercises that can help older people stay active and free of pain. See Simone Gabbay’s website: www.simonegabbay.com.
Long car or plane rides; speaking on the phone; poor posture; mental or emotional stress: hours spent sitting in front of a computer or TV screen; as well as any type of sedentary or repetitive activity that causes us to keep our head in the same position for extended periods of time – all put stress on the neck vertebrae and the muscles that support them.
In his book “Heal Arthritis: Physically-Mentally-Spiritually,” Dr. William A.Garey writes: “A head-and-neck exercise can be used to bring about greater flexibility in the cervical spine. If used regularly over a long period of time, it will correct the rigidity which sometimes comes about in certain types of arthritis. The hearing and visual acuity of the eyes are both sharpened by using this exercise.”
“It is important to do these exercises on a regular basis if results are to be achieved. Doing these exercises relaxes the body before going to sleep at night. It will keep the throat and jaw line firm, and prevent the formation of double or multiple chins.” It is also one of exercises in Tai-Chi, an ancient Chinese method of exercising. A number of studies have identified Tai Chi as an ideal type of exercises that can help older people stay active and free of pain. See Simone Gabbay’s website: www.simonegabbay.com.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
HOLISTIC PET CARE
Your question regarding a natural remedy for your dog’s ear infection is very appropriate at this time of the year. A healthy lifestyle is the key to health. The basis for that way of life is diet. The makeup of a healthy diet for pets is different from that of people but the concepts are the same. Dogs and cats have evolved over millions of years eating raw game, plus some fruits and vegetables. Scroll down to my Blog of November 27th about toxins that can overwhelm pets. Conversing with friends at social events or while shopping at your pet store can yield pertinent information regarding the location of a holistic veterinarian. A friend at www.cicerosings.blogspot.com has recently acquired a puppy and done research along that line. “Total Pet” in Vernon will be of help in this aspect of pet care. If you have purchased a package of dried pet food and already opened it they will exchange it for one that will be more suited for your pet’s needs.
Herbs such as turmeric, Echinacea, garlic and Oregon grape can improve an animal’s immune function as can the mushrooms Reishi and Shiitake. Any of these supplements can be given orally, along with antibiotics, if necessary, to help a pet fight an infection. When a dog is fully healthy, an ear infection will no longer plague him. There is extensive information in this regard at www.ahvma.org.
Herbs such as turmeric, Echinacea, garlic and Oregon grape can improve an animal’s immune function as can the mushrooms Reishi and Shiitake. Any of these supplements can be given orally, along with antibiotics, if necessary, to help a pet fight an infection. When a dog is fully healthy, an ear infection will no longer plague him. There is extensive information in this regard at www.ahvma.org.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
QUANTUM SHIFT IN THE GLOBAL BRAIN
Twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, Ervin Laszlo, Hungarian scientist and author of 83 books says science now recognizes what it once considered delusional, “It is the confirmation of something people have always felt but could not give a rational explanation for, our connection to each other and to the cosmos.” Oneness.
“Admitting the intuition of connections to our everyday consciousness can inspire the solidarity we so urgently need to live on this planet – to live in harmony with each other and with nature.”
Six billion people interact with one another, a quantum shift that is a fundamental transformation to the nature of reality. He thinks we have reached a tipping point. Laszlo writes, “The Earth is literally transforming under our feet.” He notes that Russians celebrated NewYear’s Eve in 2008 without a trace of snow in Red Square and New Yorkers enjoyed Central Park in January in shirtsleeves. This world-class thinker cannot easily be dismissed when he warns that business as usual will lead inevitably to the extinction the human race.
The reviewer of Ervin Laszlo’s book, “Quantum Shift in The Global Brain: How New Scientific Reality Can Change Us and Our World,” is a contributing editor for the magazine “Venture Inward.” He is the author of “No Soul Left Behind.” A companion book, “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose” by Eckhart Tolle $14 became a best seller thanks to Oprah’s book club, and a 10-week on-line class hosted by the TV hostess and the author.
“Admitting the intuition of connections to our everyday consciousness can inspire the solidarity we so urgently need to live on this planet – to live in harmony with each other and with nature.”
Six billion people interact with one another, a quantum shift that is a fundamental transformation to the nature of reality. He thinks we have reached a tipping point. Laszlo writes, “The Earth is literally transforming under our feet.” He notes that Russians celebrated NewYear’s Eve in 2008 without a trace of snow in Red Square and New Yorkers enjoyed Central Park in January in shirtsleeves. This world-class thinker cannot easily be dismissed when he warns that business as usual will lead inevitably to the extinction the human race.
The reviewer of Ervin Laszlo’s book, “Quantum Shift in The Global Brain: How New Scientific Reality Can Change Us and Our World,” is a contributing editor for the magazine “Venture Inward.” He is the author of “No Soul Left Behind.” A companion book, “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose” by Eckhart Tolle $14 became a best seller thanks to Oprah’s book club, and a 10-week on-line class hosted by the TV hostess and the author.
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