Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation 3 Day 60 Mile Walk

Today I noticed groups of people walking near my home. Most were women; some were wearing pink sun visors. When I got closer to them, I wondered if they could be the Minneapolis walkers for the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, because they were wearing some type of identification tag. If they were part of this group, they would have already walked 1 day - for 20 miles, as part of the 3 day, 60 mile course - - each individual required to raise a minimum of $2200 just to qualify to partipate in the walk.

A couple of hours later while driving home from the Farmer's Market, I came upon even more walkers, and then a large "first aid" station. There were banners encouraging the walkers that confirmed my hunch about the purpose of their walk. I decided to pull over to a safe parking place and took a few pictures. I tried to tell those close enough to hear me that my daughter was going to be walking in the same event next weekend in Seattle, and inspite of tears in my voice (if you know me at all, you know how emotional I can get when talking about "my kids"), they seemed to understand me and told me to tell her "thank you." I managed to tell them Thank You as well. What an amazing act of selflessness for such a cruel disease!

The sister of a very good friend of mine was just diagnosed with breast cancer on Wednesday. To Nona, Heidi will be wearing a ribbon and posting a banner for you next weekend. She promises to send photos. Have a good, safe walk next weekend, Heidi and Janelle. God be with you.

Farmer's Market

It seems I have been meaning to go to a Farmer's Market most Saturdays this summer and today I finally did it. There are many around the twin cities, but none in my neighborhood. I know about the big one in downtown Minneapolis, but I wanted to go to one a bit closer.

My good friend Nancy had told me there is a very nice market in Richfield, and she told me the general location. I drove there and looked around but couldn't see it, so I took a chance and dropped by her house, unexpectedly of course. Well, it was 9:30, so I figured if she was home, she would be dressed. And if not, we are good enough friends that I didn't think she would mind if I caught her in her jammies. Her husband came to the door and said to come on in. They are such great people! In a few minutes I had talked Nancy into coming along with me.

It was so much fun! There were wonderful displays of vegetables, fruits, flowers, honey, cheese and nuts - all under a big pavilion. It took me only a minute to make my first purchase - little golden potatoes. I split a big tray of fresh green beans with a complete stranger; bought kohlrabi, sweet corn (yum), a lovely head of cabbage, and a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers - they were only $3.50! I'll be eating healthy vegetables and enjoying pretty flowers all weekend long.

Nancy and I may try to go again next Saturday. It was a very good time.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame. . .

Tonight I went to the Metrodome where the Minnesota Twins were playing the Cleveland Indians. It was an unusual circumstance for me, because I wasn't going there to watch the game, or to sing the National Anthem, or to hand out programs. I went there to WORK in a concession stand. And I mean WORK! The reason I went was to help out a friend whose son is volunteering there as a means to earn money toward his high school band trip coming up this next winter.

There were probably 35 or 40 people working at this concession stand, which would have been enough people, but turned out not to be as it was billed as "Dollar Hot Dog Night" and each customer could buy two at that price. Well, with a crowd of 42,000+ people tonight, we got "buried" and could barely keep up. My job assignment was to be a "runner" - yes, run for this, and run for that. Make up hot dog baskets; fill nacho trays with melted cheese and peppers - oh, and the nacho chips; grab a couple of bags of peanuts; pull 6 bottles of Coke out of the fridge; refill the potato chip bags; get a roll of quarters. Those are only some of the requests. One thing that pleased me a lot was the fact that the hot dogs and brats were Hormel products. I told my friend, "Be sure and tell the customers that they can also get wonderful Hormel products at their local grocers!" I could just see my stock going higher and higher!!

Finally around 8:30, we got to take a break. My friend and I went out into the dome and found a couple of empty seats and got to watch half an inning - the bottom of the 6th, I think. The score was tied 2 to 2. When we felt we had probably stayed long enough, we returned to the concession stand to find out they no longer needed us. So we went back to some empty seats and got to see the fantastic 8th inning where we went ahead, winning the game 7 to 2.

It was quite an experience - a one timer for me! Now I appreciate those hard workers lots, lots more.

Go Twins!!!

The Dreaded Mouth Surgery

***Don't read this post if you are at all squeamish.***

Today I was scheduled to have some surgery on my gum to determine what is inside the bulge in my lower gum, right next to my new triple crown that was installed in February - just days before my trip to Japan. It has been tender since March, and at my July check-up, my dentist looked at it and was stumped as to what it could be. So he sent me to the specialist who did my root canal in February. This Dr. looked at it last week and decided he should do surgery on it today, making a "flap" in the gum, taking some of the suspected tissue out and sending it to be biopsied. That dreaded surgery was scheduled for 8 am today.

Part way there, I started praying, "Lord, if this is cancer, please give me the wisdom to be able to handle this."

When they called my name, I went into the little room and sat in the reclining chair. The Dr. greeted me, and then started out by giving me all the novacaine that is legally allowed, and then "just a little bit more" per my wishes. Once numb, he inserted a camera into my mouth along the area in question and then looked very closely at the lump. He noticed two little dark spots, so he took a tweezers and pulled on what looked suspicious to him. He showed the particle to his assistant - and both of them exclaimed, "What could that be?!" He took a little tool and grabbed more of the purple substance and then declared that it was impression material - a rubbery substance used in a metal tray to make the impression of your teeth before the crowns are sculpted. Apparently some excess goop got under my gums back in February and I have been toting it around ever since! What a pleasant answer to my prayers!! The Dr. didn't have to make any cuts - thus, no stitches were required. And immediately when I ran my tongue over the area, I was pleased to no longer feel the bulge. Once again, I am saying, "Thank you, Lord."

County Fair

Today I traveled to my home town to see family and to go to the county fair. I already knew it could never compare to the Minnesota State Fair (Our state fair is the best state fair! Don't miss it; don't even be late.), but it has something our state fair doesn't have - history of our town, the trains, churches, schools, telephone company, and other things of interest to many. The item I was most curious to see is the pump organ I donated to the historical society in 1992 when Heidi and I moved to the twin cities. The organ was 103 or 104 years old at the time of donation - but in great shape. I hated to part with it, but I knew we would have a lot less room in our new living quarters. They have displayed a lot of other memorabilia on and around it, but it looks nice. Plus, it gives thousands of people a chance to appreciate it.

Some parts of the fair haven't changed since I was little - the petting zoo, the arts & crafts building, and the 4-H building. The rides in the mid-way may have changed, but I didn't check it out because those things do not interest me any longer. I wasn't even tempted to buy any Tom Thumb donuts! But they sure did smell good! I should have had a Spam burger, but decided to hold off and eat a nice dinner with family at a good restaurant in town.

I also made a stop at the local Dairy Queen where I watched them make one of my favorite treats: Turtle Bars. They are similar to a Dilly Bar, but start out by filling a metal frame (which has a stick in it), followed with a layer of hot fudge, then caramel, followed by lots of pecans, then topped with Dairy Queen icemilk (or whatever it is). This is then released from the form onto waxed paper and put in a freezer for 24 hours. The next day they remove the frozen treat and dip it into melted chocolate, top it with a pecan, and freeze it for another 24 hours. It is SO delicious! It's a very good thing for me that I have to travel about 90 miles to indulge in this sweet.

And They're Off. . .

When the day started, I had no idea that I would be sitting in the stands at Canterbury Park in the afternoon. . . but the chain of events happened like this: after church services this morning, Peder and Sarah came over to take me out to lunch for my birthday. It was so much fun seeing them again You'd think that I would see them more often than I do, but they are busy, and sometimes I am too, so I relish the times when it works out!

On our way to the restaurant, I mentioned that we would be very close to Canterbury Park, the home of horse racing in Minnesota, built in the area where Dan Patch was stabled in the early 1900's. That's when Peder and Sarah informed me that they were planning on going to the races in the afternoon. Well, that sounded like something I have wanted to do for a long time, so I asked if I could join them. Maybe they didn't know how to say "No" to me, but they didn't, and so the three of us novices went to the horse races together.

Not knowing how to wager, we looked at some of the stats of the horses and jockeys in each of the ten races. For the first three races, I based my bet on the horse's name and the color of the shirt of the jockey - not too smart, but like I said, I'm new at this.

By the end of the third race, I paid more attention to some of the stats, and moments before the fourth race, I changed my horse from Imitate to Attorney at Law. As "lady luck" would have it, Imitate won the race, but Attorney at Law came in second. Since my bet was to "place", I won anyway - a whopping $14.00. This was for a $5.00 bet - my highest of the day. Had I stayed with Imitate, I would have won $18.50. So I played one more race. In that event Peder's horse took first, Sarah's horse won second, and mine came in fourth (no money won on that one for me). So the afternoon cost me a total of $4.00 - - $3 for admission, and $1 in the loss column.

One of the best parts for me was the bugler. But as Peder said, "He should be good, he only has to know one song!"

Another Candle on My Cake

Today I add another candle on my cake. . . I wonder, will my cake hold more candles?!

Birthdays are funny things - some parts are sweet, some are not. There's the part where you reflect on years gone by, and the unknown future - - but the best part is sweet - hearing from family and friends, being honored by your co-workers, and eating out at your favorite restaurants.

My birthday actually started last night when I was wished a "Japanese" birthday by my daughter-in-law, Rachel, and my grandson Josiah. While he wouldn't actually take the phone in his hand and greet me, I heard him say it in the background - "Happy Birthday, Grandma!" That really melts my heart! I also heard little Annika's greeting, though it wasn't as "pronounced." I knew it was from her heart. ;-)

Arriving at my office this morning, I was amazed at the outpouring of my co-workers. Not only did they decorate my cubicle with banners and balloons, but they gave me 2 dozen gorgeous roses! I am so moved.

Oops. . . guess what? The operator just phoned and I have a package at the front desk. What can it be. . . oh my, a delivery of fresh flowers from Heidi, Chad and Brian. They are lovely too - lovely, light pink daisies! Thank you!

Praying for a Cold Front!

Well, it's official. . . we are now at 101 degrees! If you know me at all, you know that this does not make me happy. I drove home for lunch and had had my car parked under a big shade tree - but when I returned to the office, someone else had moved into "my spot." Now I'll be getting into a small, red, round oven when it's time to drive home again.

This follows the 18 days in a row that we have had temps in the 90's. Many farmers are experiencing a total loss in crops, and some have had to sell off 2/3's of their cattle. It's very sad. Closer to home, yards are parched - flowers are either drooping or have died.

As for me, I am fine. I spent almost all of the weekend indoors, sewing the fabric from Hans, Rachel, Josiah and Annika into a new blouse. Thankfully I don't have a job where I must be outdoors as some do.

Cubicle Life

For the past 10 years or longer, about 40 hours most weeks of the year, I have spent my time in a cubicle - a space of about 6' x 8'. It's an interesting setting. . . overhearing my next-door-neighbor's phone calls (every one of them) to his wife, his kids, and many others, plus the sounds of the other 6 people whose cubicles fill the room. I have very limited counter-space, which a couple of weeks each month becomes over-flowing with work - both for me - and for proofreaders and editors. I also have cover proofs waiting for the 2nd and 3rd proof to come to me from the designers - plus new books to be distributed, etc., etc.

But on my walls and shelf, I have photos of my 3 kids and their spouses, and my darling grandchildren. After all, this is my "home away from home." And on my desk, I have a fish bowl with a beautiful fringed male beta named Cleo.

Tonight I saw a very funny article on cubicles: http://dir.yahoo.com/thespark/926/cubicle-craze. Some of these photos make my cubicle look pretty ordinary.

Happy 93rd Birthday, Cassie

My dear little friend Cassie is 93 years old today. Saturday I drove to Rochester to celebrate with her. Joining us for dinner were here niece Sandra and her husband Jim - they are also good friends of mine. :-)

Following a nice dinner, Cassie and I joined her neighbors for a few games of Bingo. I'm not sure she had played it before, but she seemed to enjoy it. Several times she was close to having a "bingo."

As I mentioned in an entry about her in my earlier journaling, she and I were introduced on her 80th birthday and have been friends from then forward.

Happy, happy birthday, Cassie!

A Keepsake for My Birthday

A package arrived in the mail for me yesterday from Japan. I couldn't wait for my birthday to open it because I had been told what Josiah had made for me - - so I popped the tape and began unwrapping the contents. Joe Joe painted his Grandma D two plum trees on a grassy knoll. The fruit looks so real, I would love to pick it. I treasure this painting - an original from a master who is only 2 years old!

Moments later I got on the phone to thank him for my precious gift. When I asked Rachel if I could speak to him, I think I heard him say, "Not now, Mommy. I'm in a meeting. . ." or something like that. Anyway, after a pleasant visit with Rachel, I got to hear Josiah say, "Happy Birthday, Grandma!" This is the first time I have ever had those words spoken to me. . . (sigh!)

Thank you, Josiah. I love you!

Helpful Website to Save $$$

Last month I complained about the price of gas. Nothing has changed - I'm still not happy paying nearly $3/gallon. But today I found this website that may prove to be helpful: www.gasbuddy.com. I think it could be handy when getting ready to take a trip, as well as just plain daily living. I've marked it as one of my "favorites." Perhaps you might find it helpful too.

Another Thrill

Tonight the phone rang. . . it was Rachel on the other end, calling from Japan. It seems they'd been to the post office today and my package had arrived. Josiah was so happy because he had received some new pieces to his train - and he wanted to say, "Thank you, Grandma!" He said it about three times - clear as a bell. His voice is so dear to me. Then I heard what sounded like crying, but it was actually shrieking - delightful shrieking - coming from my darling Annika. Then I heard her giggle. Rachel and Josiah were playing with her and she was so happy. Rachel said she is rolling from front to back to front and back and forth, all over the room. She is even trying to get up on her little knees - and she is only 5 months old! Do I sound like a proud grandma? You bet I am!

I know this happens in families, and it is happening in Hans and Rachel's - the kids' voices sound just alike. When I hear a sound in the background, I ask Rachel, "Was that Josiah?" No, it was Annika. It is music to my ears!

Rachel and the kids are doing fine, in spite of Hans being, as Josiah puts it, far, far away. I'm so proud of all of them.

Josiah melted my heart at the end of the call when I heard him say, "Bye bye, Grandma." Oh, Josiah- you, your mommy and your sister made my day. Thank you! Thank you very much.

My Daughter Gets Her Wish. . .

On my last post, I reported that Heidi and Chad were going out to eat on Saturday in celebration of Heidi's birthday. They had done the same thing on Tuesday for Chad's birthday. Well. . . yesterday they phoned to tell me they had gone skydiving - dropping out of a plane at 13,000 feet! I guess they thought they should tell me after the deed was done! When I asked what would have happened had they both been killed, you know, like "Would I be taking care of Brian?", they responded, "No, Chad's father and sister get Brian if something happens to us." So, I inquired further with, "Well, what do I get then?" [I know, you're thinking that this is a dumb question - but you have to know our family to understand this humor (Is it humor, or are we just plain wicked?!)] To which they replied, "If we die together, you can have your dishes back," followed by lots of laughter.

Actually, they both loved it. I can't imagine doing that - - EVER!

Lazing About In My Cottage

I've taken a morning walk. Now with temps at or around 100 degrees predicted for this weekend, I have camped out in my cottage. Why not? It's a lovely place to relax -- no bugs, temperature controlled, peaceful, convenient, all the comforts of "home."

While reflecting on my past week, I realized I have had an excellent number of days:

• Last Saturday: a family reunion for my father's side of the family in St. Peter, MN.


• Sunday: time spent worshipping our Lord with my friends; phone conversation with my friend Lil.


• Monday: renewing my friendship with Sandy (see entry on 7/10).


• Tuesday: Chad's birthday (my son-in-law), and my annual singing of "Happy Birthday" to him. Phone conversation with my friend Cassie. Chat with my mother-in-law. She's thrilled to be leaving the nursing home and going home on Monday.


• Wednesday: My dear friend Florine's birthday; Rachel's parents' surprise visit to my office. How fun! I hope they come again. :-)


• Thursday: phone conversations with Florine and Peder.


• Friday: Lunch at the home of a choir friend, along with other choir friends; delightful phone call from Rachel, with sounds of my darling grandchildren in the background.


• Saturday (today): Heidi's birthday! She'll be walking 8 miles today as part of her training for the 3 day, 60 mile walk in August for breast cancer, then eating out with Chad at one of her favorite restaurants - Chili's. Happy Birthday, Heidi! Wish I could join you.

It's a good time to recount my blessings:

• My kids and their spouses, and my grandchildren.


• My brother and sister and her kids and her grandchildren.


• My two aunts, my uncle, and all of my cousins.


• My kids' spouses' parents and siblings.


• My friends.


• My pets (Tweety- a canary, and Cleo - a betta fish).


• My co-workers. My job.


• My dwelling and car.


• Travel I have been privileged to have.


• Good health, good attitude, my faith, and a hope in the future.


• . . . I know I'm missing some things, but may add to this list as I think of them.

Now, back to reading the paper, cross-stitching for awhile, watching a movie or two, and whatever else that comes to mind. I hope to stay cool and not fret about the heat outdoors!

Receiving Much Needed Rain

After more than 6 very dry weeks, or more, we are receiving a beautiful rain. It has been coming down for nearly an hour now, and most of the folks in my office are standing by the windows, watching in awe. For those who do not have an irrigation system, or have chosen to not run sprinklers, their lawns look like straw. So, this is a real blessing. Thank you, Lord!

Renewing an Old Acquaintance

Over a year and a half ago, a dear friend of mine suddenly moved away to live with her parents in another state, because her father was very ill. She left a "going away" message on my answering machine, but the phone number was unintelligible. I tired many ways to contact her, but was unsuccessful, until today.

Today my sister emailed me to tell me that my friend had stopped by to see her at the mall where she works. They got to chat just a bit, and then my sister had to wait on a customer, so my friend departed. Drat! I still didn't have a way to contact her.

Then Janet sent a second message, which included my friend's son's phone number, that she found in the Rochester phone book. I immediately phoned the number. Levi answered the phone. I told him who I was and he remembered me. I asked if his mom was there and could I speak to her. Sandy came to the phone. We talked about 3 minutes, when I asked if she could meet me for dinner tonight. Yes, she said. We met at a restaurant half way between Minneapolis and Rochester. It was so much fun seeing her again, and getting to meet her daughter-in-law and darling grand-daughter. So now, Sandy and I can communicate once again - even though she now lives in Oklahoma!

I should mention that Sandy's father passed away in November of 2004. I am very sad about that. Now she is helping her mother who was diagnosed with cancer last fall. God bless you, Sandy. I miss seeing you, but am very proud of you! Let's stay in touch.

Happy Birthday, America!

I went to the Bloomington Summer Celebration/fireworks last night. They always hold it on July 3rd, probably so those who care to can go to the Minneapolis or St. Paul celebrations on the 4th. My friends and I got there at 5 and brought along "boxed lunches," sat on blankets, listened to 3 concerts (one for children, one made up of jazz and rhythm and blues - not my favorite kind of music, and then a beautiful concert by the Bloomington Symphony. They played numbers like "Stars and Stripes Forever" and "The 1812 Overture," plus "America the Beautiful" and "God Bless America"). The fireworks started at 10, and they are the only ones in the twin cities that are choreographed with music. Talk about wonderful! It was the most stunning display I have ever seen in person - equal to the big displays we see on TV from New York or Washington, D. C. I would estimate the crowd numbered around 12,000. The reaction from everyone was delightful.

The only thing I would do differently next time is to bring a lawn chair. I'm getting a wee bit old to be sitting on the ground 5+ hours! ;o)

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

"Hi Grandma"

For several months now, my son and daughter-in-law have been prompting my grandson, Josiah, now 25 months old, to greet me over the phone. Since they live in Japan and I have only seen them on one visit since their departure from the U. S. over a year ago, we stay connected with the use of the internet, phone calls, and good old "snail mail."

Last night I happened to be up "way past my bed-time," so I decided to give them a phone call (they are 14 hours ahead of us so phone calls have to be planned). What to my surprise, I learned that Hans was home on a short leave! It was a delight to hear his voice again. But soon, I got a dream come true - - my grandson said, "Hi, Grandma!" He not only said that, but we "visited" together. I would say things like, "Josiah, can you say elephant?" To which he would reply: "elephant." The list went on with words like: giraffe, lion, monkey, daddy, mommy. But here's the best one (not counting, Hi, Grandma): "shinkansen." It sounds similar to Wisconsin, and it is the name of the bullet train in Japan on which they had just ridden to tour the castle in Odawara. It travels 150 miles per hour and Josiah absolutely loved it!

Josiah, you have made my day! I look forward to the next time we can "visit" again.

Independence Day Celebration

Part of my family gathered for a nice supper and visit at Aunt Liz's on Saturday, since Diane and Dave were in town from Pennsylvania. It was fun catching up on their news and seeing Pat and Aunt Liz again.

Freedom Celebration

Today my brother, sister, and I visited a church in my community that celebrates our national freedom and honors our men and women of the military, both past and present. The service opened with a 38 piece orchestra and honor guard and salute of the American and Christian flags, followed by a stirring rendition from the choir of the "National Anthem." Then the congregation joined together in singing "My Country 'Tis of Thee." Following that was the moment I was waiting for: the choir and orchestra performed the "Salute to the Armed Forces" and the emcee at the appropriate moment, called each sailor/soldier/marine/airman to stand and make their way to the front of the stage, to stand next to the flag of their branch. At the conclusion of the number, there were more than 120 proud veterans standing there and the crowd gave them a long, well-deserved standing ovation. My brother was one of those standing there. He served 21 years in our nation's Navy, and I am very proud of him. Thank you, Jerry!

[This is a good time to include other family members and close friends who have proudly served our nation: my favorite son-in-law, Chad, U. S. Airforce; my nephew, Keith, U. S. Navy; my cousin Pat's husband, Pudge, U. S. Air Force; My Uncle Allan, U. S. Navy; and my dear friend, Jim Mitchell, U. S. Army and U. S. Navy - who just this morning finished riding his bike 1,000 miles, which was his goal this year to reach by July 4. Jim, by the way, is 73 years old!]

I'm also extremely proud of my son, Hans, who this day, is serving on our nation's finest destroyer, the U.S.S. Lassen. He's in the Pacific, stationed in Yokosuka, Japan. Last week he was part of a huge naval excercise off the island of Guam called "Valiant Shield" which was the largest show of military presence in the Pacific since the Viet Nam war. For me, my son and brother are heros. And on this "Freedom" weekend, I salute you!

The Price of Fuel

Today I "bit the bullet" and filled up my car tank with gasoline. I have never spent $35.45 to fill up any car I have owned before! On Tuesday, when the tank was about 1/2 full and gas was costing $2.69/gallon, I thought about filling it up. But then - I procrastinated. Big mistake! The very next day it rose to $2.99. Well, today the price dropped to $2.89 and the needle on my dash was about to "beep" with the warning that I'd have only one gallon remaining.

Now, I realize that other parts of the country (and world) are paying much more than we, but somehow that didn't make me feel any better. I'm curious - - what is the going price where you live?

Back to the 50's Hot-Rod Show

Today my brother, sister, her son-in-law and grandson enjoyed the Back to the 50's car show in St. Paul. Can you imagine 11,000 gorgeous (well, not all were gorgeous - some were a "work in progress") restored autos that are all older than 1964? While most vehicles are parked along the by-ways of the State Fair Grounds, many are driving slowly through the crowds (easily 50,000+ people), revving their engines, causing many to "back-fire", which the crowds love! The men - and lots of women, are all smiling, taking pictures, and reminiscing about the car they once had that looked like this one or that one. I'm standing next to the copper-tone '57 Chevy that looks identical to the one our family once had. (photo #6)

I personally like the ones that are restored to their original look - right down to the original motor horsepower. My nephew and great-nephew like the ones that are really "beefed up" - with lots and lots of chrome. They also like the flames and lots of pin-striping.

This year there was a '38 Packard that took my breath away. It is the beautiful beige convertible shown here. (photo #5)

I saw only one VW - and the owner had drastically changed it. It's looks to be half the height of a "real" beetle, plus it has something "strange" done to the engine (in the back of the car). I think it looks hideous! (photo #4)

My friends Sandra and Jim show their vehicles there each year. Here is their '49 Ford pickup. It is painted beautifully. (photo #3)

Each time I attend this event, I tell those with me at the start that they can choose one car to "take home." This year I decided to take home this "Jaguar!" (photo #2)

It was a fun time - seeing so many quality automobiles - and eating a corn dog and greasy fresh-cut French fries and a real Coke (not Diet-Coke today, thank-you)! Oh, we ate at a table outside a shop - not from our car as you can see by the tray attached to a car window. (top photo) Another great element is the 50's music being played all over the fair grounds. If you like old cars, you ought to try to come to this event sometime.

My Daughter Makes Me Proud

All of my kids make me very proud, but today I would like to highlight Heidi, as she is about to take an incredible walk that will help many, many women who are cursed with that horrible disease - breast cancer. She has been training for over 10 weeks, along with her dear friend, Janelle, and many times, Brian, her beautiful Golden Retriever. Many people have helped her raise the required amount of money needed for her to be eligible to participate, and to you I say: "Thank you." Thank you for helping a very needy cause, and thank you for having faith in my daughter, of whom I am extremely proud. Thank you, Heidi. I will be cheering you on all the way from Minnesota.

The Robins Have Flown the Coop

I came home for lunch today, so anxious to see the little baby robins once more, and what did I discover? They have flown the nest! All I could see was one little one, and he was hovering under my window. One of his parent's was over-head and was cheeping and cheeping at me - or maybe he was cheeping at Junior. At any rate, once again I grabbed my camera and got this photo. He is sooooo cute!

Tonight he is gone. There is no sign of any of the family that lived outside my cottage for a little over a week. I had no idea they would grow up and leave so suddenly. But at least I got to see one of them one more time.

It reminds me of my kids. It seems like they were little, and all of a sudden they live in Japan, Seattle, and near downtown Minneapolis - - married to wonderful people, and one of them has given me two darling angels. I know just what Mr. and Mrs. Robin are feeling tonight.

My Babies Are Really Growing

While leaving my home this morning and passing the bush that supports the nest with my baby robins, I noticed they had grown so much that not only their heads were above the nest, but also their shoulders. They were packed in tighter than the folks flying "economy." I hurried back into my home and got my camera and took this photo. (Double click on photo to enlarge.)

Peder & Sarah's 1st Wedding Anniversary

One of my very favorite things to be doing is spending time with my kids. Last night was such an occasion - Peder and Sarah came to my home to have dinner and dessert. We had such a good time together - reminiscing about that special day, June 12th, a year ago when we gathered for what we thought was an "engagement brunch" but which turned out to be a ploy to get us together for their "surprise wedding!"

Last night they shared with me the details they had to accomplish well before the 11th of June, which was the big day for Heidi and Chad who were throwing a big family barbecue in celebration of their elopement in Hawaii in February last year. Peder and Sarah certainly didn't want to take away any of the attention due to Heidi and Chad, but knowing that the entire family would be gathered for this weekend, they thought "Why not? Let's just throw in a 'surprise wedding' that no one will have to get all stressed about. This way, all of our family can be in attendance." And so the plot thickened. The "surprise wedding" was just perfect! And now we can all laugh about it. Best wishes, Sarah and Peder!!!

Another Extraordinary Discovery

Sometimes it pays to take a different route home. Such a decision brought this treat to my eyes - 48 egrets in one marshy pond. The most I have ever seen in one place up to now is 2. I don't know if this happens to be an ideal place for nesting, or if they are migrating, but I do know the sight was beautiful. I have driven past this location for 4 days now and they are still there.

Wind, Rain, and Thunder

Last night we had torrential rain and strong winds, with lots of thunder. "Will my baby robins be safe? Will their mom and daddy be able to give them adequate protection? Should I go outside and stand with an umbrella over the shrub that supports their nest? What should I do?" Those were some of the questions that I mulled over and over last night. I went to bed, asking God to watch over the little family outside. The first thing I did this morning was open the blinds to check on them. God is good - my little family survived!

Delightful Discovery

Today I discovered a little family of Robins just outside my cottage window. There are 3 little ones and the mom and dad. I am just delighted that they chose to build their home so close to mine. :-)

50 Things turning 50 this year

1. My Fair Lady
2. Doris Day's "Que Sera, Sera"
3. Invasion of the Body Snatchers
4. The Hermes "kelly bag" (inspired by Grace Kelly)
5. The Interstate Highway System
6. Yahtzee
7. Colo, the first gorilla born in captivity
8. Plymouth Fury car (the star of Stephen King's Christine)
9. The Wizard of Oz on TV
10. Masters Tournament on TV
11. Jif peanut butter
12. Artificial intelligence
13. "In God We Trust" as our national motto
14. Elvis's hit "Heartbreak Hotel"
15. Pampers
16. Cytogenetics (look it up!)
17. First hard disk drive (from IBM)
18. "Dear Abby"
19. The Hundred and One Dalmations (the book)
20. Kim Cattrall
21. Toaster ovens
22. Peyton Place (the book)
23. First climate-controlled shopping mall in the world (Southdale Center, Edina, MN)
24. Queen for a Day
25. Mel Gibson
26. Certs
27. Transatlantic phone cable
28. Johnny Cash's "I Walk the Line"
29. Battery-run watches
30. Uncle Milton's Ant Farm
31. As the World Turns
32. Diorissimo perfume
33. First wireless remote control
34. Isolation of human growth hormone
35. Godzilla (U.S. version)
36. Martina Navratilova
37. The Hungarian Revolution
38. Pop art
39. Profiles in Courage
40. Four basic food groups
41. Tom Hanks
42. The Price Is Right
43. Videotape recorder
44. Nonstick frying pan
45. Chuck Berry's "duck walk"
46. The King and I (the movie)
47. NBC's Ann Curry
48. Scotchgard
49. Do-it-yourself haircolor
50. Play-Doh

2nd Viewing of "A Prairie Home Companion"

This afternoon I viewed the movie A Prairie Home Companion, for the second time, knowing I would be able to look at more details of the film. This time was magic - - I saw myself! Granted, the camera was not doing a close-up of me, but I saw not only my aqua sweater, but my face. A few seconds later, I saw myself clapping. This was so much fun!

Once again, I really enjoyed the film! I caught lines and actions that I missed at the first viewing. It was interesting listening to a different audience - just like when our choir sings the same numbers for two different services at church. Even when we sing them identically, one audience will erupt in applause at the completion of a number, the other sits like "stones." At the completion of yesterday's viewing, most of the audience applauded. This afternoon's crowd laughed at many more jokes and comments, but did not clap at the conclusion. Go figure.

The reviews I have read have been positive. They are from around the country - not just the prejudiced Minnesotans. :-)

A Prairie Home Companion - the movie

Yesterday I went to see the movie "A Prairie Home Companion" in which I was an "extra" during the filming in two of the audience scenes, and my review is: very, very entertaining! I was tapping my foot along with all of the songs, laughing at most of the jokes, and learning along with everyone else in the theater the story going on "back stage" during the final radio broadcast (which is a fictional story, I might add. The actual show which is broadcast on NPR on Saturday evenings is by no means ready to come to an end! Not to worry.).

Here are some of the things I loved about the movie: I loved that no "fake" buildings or backdrops were used. The famous Mickey's Diner in downtown St. Paul is the location used in the opening and in the closing scenes. The same little house with a front porch that one sees on the stage if attending a live broadcast is in its place. And most importantly, to me at least, is the use of the beautiful Fitzgerald Theater in downtown St. Paul, again - the location of most of the live broadcasts.

I was amazed at the singing ability of Meryl Streep- this was my first time hearing her. I looked forward to the few scenes of which I played a small part - (1) Garrison's opening of the live broadcast; (2) the death angel walking invisibly through the audience; (3) the singing of the song "Bad Jokes" by the singing cowboys, played by Woody Harrrelson and John C. Reilly; and (4) the scene with Tommy Lee Jones (the Axeman) conversing with Kevin Kline (Guy Noir) and Virginia Madsen (the death angel). It was really fun to see Garrison Keillor acting with such big name stars. During the couple of days that I witnessed the filming, Garrison pretty much stayed "in the shadows," often in the back of the theater within ear shot of the director Robert Altman, but NEVER interrupting him with suggestions or comments. Yesterday (in the film) I saw him singing and chatting with them. It was great!

I loved the way Robert Altman wove the story back and forth - from the "ON THE AIR" scenes to the sad reminiscing going on with the regulars who were in their dressing rooms or in the side-wings waiting to go on. Oh, and watching the "sound man" doing his "thing" during one of the numbers - well, you'll just have to go and see it for yourself!

My dear friend Cassie

It
will be 13 years on July 24th that I first met Cassie. The occasion was her 80th birthday. I went as a guest of a friend and was delighted to listen to her talk - her sweet Norwegian accent and her funny idioms. I can't recall how our friendship flourished, but I can tell you this - I am so glad it did.

Here's a little of her background: she was born the eldest of three children to a poor farmer and his wife who lived in Wisconsin. They attended a Lutheran church. Cassie's job on the farm was to stay in the house to help her mother with the cooking, baking, and laundry. Consequently, I have been treated to some of the best sugar cookies and apple pies imaginable! As a young woman, her favorite thing was going to community dances. It was at one such event that she tapped Warren on the shoulder during a "tag dance." That tap blossomed into marriage. The marriage came to a shocking end about 14 years later when Warren died suddenly of a brain hemorrhage.

Cassie had mourned Warren's death about 9 months or so when one morning she heard a knock at the door. She opened the door to see Warren's cousin, Russell, who asked, "How would you like some company for breakfast?" Cassie thought to herself: What could I serve him? So she asked him if he liked pancakes. "Do you have Log Cabin Syrup?" he asked. "I sure do!" she replied. You guessed it, Cassie and Russell were married not long after. If I have heard Cassie tell that story once, I have heard her tell it 100 times, and I never tire of it. Her face just beams!

A few years after Russell and Cassie celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, Russell became very ill with emphysema. Cassie nursed him the best she could, but in 1988 he passed into glory. [I didn't meet her until 1993 - so I never met him, though I think I would have liked him.]

Cassie has been a wonderful role model for me. I have only met a few others that are as generous as she - both with material things and compliments and encouragement. I have always admired her positive attitude. When her sister (age 91) is crabby to her, she says, "I just let it go over my head because she probably doesn't feel good." She loves the Lord and is always saying "God was with me..." She'll always have a special place in my heart.

I don't get to see her as often as I used to as she had to move from the twin cities about a year ago to an assisted living facility in Rochester to be nearer to her niece. We talk on the phone a couple of times a week, but it isn't the same.

About 3 weeks ago she had a nasty fall and broke her arm in two places. Now she wears a cast and is having to deal with eating with her left hand. But she is a trooper and doing the best she can.

If you get a chance to have an elderly person become your friend - take it. I am so blessed to have Cassie as one of my "girlfriends"!

Carlsen Twins

I have been watching what I deem a "miracle" in the news story of the sucessful separation of the conjoined Carlsen twins, Abigail and Isabelle, 5 month old little girls from Fargo, North Dakota http://www.mayoclinic.org/carlsen-twins/.Their young parents have shown a strong faith in God, never giving up, wanting only for their little girls to have a normal life. The latest report is the prospect of them returning to their home next week - two beautiful little girls with a great future. I want to add, "Thank you, Lord."