Children's Museum in Providence, RI

This morning we took a little trip to Providence to tour the Children's Musuem there. Believe it or not, this was my first trip to such a place! It was really full of curious kids. I enjoyed watching their enthusiam.

Josiah and Annika have been to the one in Boston, which Rachel said is much larger with more space for the activities, but this one was okay. Josiah took me by the hand and off we went. He wasn't afraid of trying anything. But the first thing that really attracted him was a building site, complete with hard hats, florescent vests, a crane, beams (styrofoam), and other tools. He climbed up the ladder and joined about 15 other kids and immediately found a beam that he wanted to bring with him down the ladder. Once on the floor again, I explained the beam should be attached to the crane (with a Velcro strap) and raised up by the crane to the building site. He complied and watched another boy raise it up with the crane. He seemed to like it.

Another room had a slide, tunnel, and lots of little animals. Annika loved the slide and running through the tunnel. She also climbed into the little teeter-totter rocker. Josiah was compelled to line up all of the animals. He has such organizational skills!

Probably the most fun room for both of them was the water room. Many pools of water filled this room and they had balls, boats, watering cans, and other toys that the kids could play with. Both Annika and Josiah spent lots of time adding balls to the tubes where water moved them down to the bottom. The museum supplied some plastic aprons; Josiah was one of the lucky ones to get one. But by the time we were ready to leave, their sleeves were soaked. They had fun, and grandma had a good time too. :-)

Photos of Josiah and Annika

Worshipping with the Episcopalians

I'm so glad that Hans and I went to the Trinity Church today. It was a very nice experience. First of all, the people were so friendly. The usher who greeted me when I came into the sanctuary asked if I was a visitor, and I told him yes and that my son and I were there to attend the worship service. Apparently many come just to tour the building when the doors are open and then choose to leave. We were very early, so I asked him in which pew box George Washington had sat, and he immediately ushered me there and asked if we wanted to sit in that box for the church service. Well, I took him up on that! It was actually located right to the left of the triple-decked pulpit. To our surprise, not only had our first President sat there, but also Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Andrew, Princess Margaret, and Desmond Tutu - at separate occasions, of course. The kneeling benches had needlepointed royal insignia on them.

The order of service was more familiar to Hans than I, but pretty easy to follow. The lady in our next door pew box was very cordial, and after the service shared with us that she and her husband, a retired physician, used to live in Rochester, Minnesota. She told us only one person in the church currently owns a pew box, and she hardly attends as she is elderly. Her pew box remains vacant until 5 minutes before the service begins.

At the conclusion of the service, the priest came to our pew box to greet us and find out where we were from. Again, he was very friendly. We joined up with the tour group that had begun and learned that two of the stained windows were made by Tiffany and Co. The others were made in France.

This church is not only historical, but vibrant. Not long ago, their youth group had a sleep over in the church and put together 29,000 paperclips that are draped around the pillars in the narthex. Each paperclip represents the 29,000 people who are hungry around the world each day.

(Note: The top photo (on its side) is one of the Tiffany windows.)

Vacationing in Rhode Island

Early Friday morning (5:30 - yes, that's early) I boarded a plane and took off for 9 fun-filled days in Rhode Island, visiting Hans, Rachel, Josiah and Annika. The flight routed me through Philadelphia, with 10 minutes to get from my arriving gate to my departure gate. Thankfully these gates were in the same concourse, so I hurried from B13 to B6, making it just in time. I was the last one to board, found my seat, and the door was closed. Whew!

Landing in Boston gives an amazing experience of flying low on the Atlantic coastline, viewing interesting islands with vacated, or seeminly so, once populated areas. When it feels like we may skim the water, we touch down on the runway which commences right at the coast. Hans was already waiting for me, so that was a highlight. We made our way to baggage claim, to wait for my bag. All the bags came out, but mine and that of another passenger who boarded in Minneapolis. Ours never showed up, so we both made a claim at the office. Guess when mine was finally delivered to the De For household? Saturday - 5 :15 pm. Oh, well. At least I got it.

Josiah and Annika are such great grand children. Annika has changed the most since I last saw them in late December. She walks all over and loves to sing. Her hair has little soft curls. She has three new front top teeth. Josiah is very bright, still loves Thomas and Friends. He and I have played trains, read stories, watched some of his favorite programs. (photos to follow)

Yesterday Rachel, Josiah and I toured the Blithewold Home/museum in Bristol, just about 20 miles from here in Newport. It is a beautiful home and acreage (about 70 acres) that a Dutch family, the Blithewolds, bought when they immigrated from The Netherlands in the late 1800's. It is on the coastline so has a gorgeous view. Talk about wonderful! I loved all of the Dutch influence. The huge dining room had a plate rail around the perimeter of the room (about 40' x 20') and on it were the most wonderful Delft plates and platters I have ever seen. I wanted so much to take pictures, but the tour guide had said none were allowed. It was a self-guided tour. That didn't keep me from sneaking a few pictures (without my flash) in some of the other rooms. I know, I should have followed the rules, but it was just so lovely. They had a greenhouse with a couple of lemon trees and had huge lemons hanging from them. After touring the buildings, we wandered around the grounds. The reason we were there was to see the daffodil show, but with the cooler temps here, they were just beginning to open. I imagine by next week they should be just gorgeous!

Today Hans and I are going to Trinity Episcopal Church in Newport. It dates back to the late 1600's and has the oldest organ in the US. In December around Christmas, Rachel sang in a community choir there. The whole service was done in candlelight. The interior has the family-owned boxed pews. I guess one box was used by George Washington. I'm very anxious to go there. I'll probably be able to add to this entry later.

Easter Sunday

Now that I have recovered a little bit, I can give a small summary of the Easter services I was involved in over Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

First of all, I was very surprised to see so many people come out for all of the services. My early estimate of 11,000 plus was most likely surpassed. The grand total won't be told until Wednesday night at choir rehearsal. The temperature was only 15 degrees when I drove to the church building Sunday morning a little after 7, but the sun was shinning and there were no clouds in the sky. Perhaps people thought it was too cold to be outside at the parks or lakes, so decided to go to church.

The music was just wonderful (and not because I was participating). Everyone was "right on" with the director and the audience seemed to really enjoy it. The audience participation was super! I know the Lord was pleased and praised. It was truly a blessing.

I shared this with Rachel already, but on Easter Sunday we do not have classes for the young people to attend, so they are in the service with their parents. It is a real treat for me to see them. Some try to sing along, others are being held. They're all adorable! I usually see a little family that reminds me of Hans, Rachel, Josiah and Annika. I have to be careful not to watch them too much during the congregational singing, or I tear up. Oh, how I miss those little angels!

One would think sitting through the same sermon 7 times would be boring, but our pastor has such a unique way of mixing things up each time, that I would find myself really paying attention to see how he was going to present it each time.

At the conclusion, two friends and I went to a lovely restaurant and had some of the best food I have ever tasted. I even took our waiter up on the complimentary glass of champagne. It was fun to sit with these gals and just take our time to eat and visit. Following that, I went home and crashed.

Choir Rehearsal for Easter Services

I attend a large church and am honored to be singing in the choir. I've been part of this group since February of 1993. What a neat bunch of people. Some of my best friends are in the soprano section.

This morning was our final rehearsal, preparing us for two services later this afternoon and five more tomorrow morning. It may sound like a lot of work, but here's how I feel about it: I consider it a pleasure. It is wonderful witnessing around 11,000 men, women, and children coming to commemorate the risen Christ! For some, it is the first time they have ever heard the Gospel.

The full orchestra, pipe organ and herald bugles are incredible. It's really a privilege to be part of this big event.

Once Upon a Palm Sunday

‘Tis the week before Easter
the malls are all stuffed
with bunnies and baskets,
chocolate and fluff.

The spring greens are sprouting
as daylight increases.
Some daring, young crocus
are unfurling their leaf-es. [or leaves]

The mannequins are sleeveless
flaunting spring wear
in hopes that the shoppers
are keen to be bare.

And cashmere and car coats,
mittens, wool dresses
are marked "last chance clearance"
at 70 percent less.

So the mood sure is festive
but I am unmoved
‘cause pastels and tulips
just aren’t my mood.

What do I have to complain of
with all of my gifts?
My home? My car?
My overbooked kids?

I’ll tell you what, buddy,
now that you’ve asked
this Easter-ish holiday
just isn’t my bag.

Oh, it’s pretty and harmless
with its pleasant church service
but the rest of my life
is making me nervous.

For instance, my job
can Easter cure that?
With the threat of new layoffs
and departmental spats?

My office is toxic
my boss has her quirks.
She’s really perfected that
part of her work.

I worry about money—
how far can it stretch?
Just how many groceries
can one paycheck fetch?

There’s the mortgage, the car loan,
the medical bills,
the groceries, electricity,
anxiety pills.

More work than is possible
few moments to spare.
No wonder I’m finding
there’s grey in my hair.

The state of the world
winds my nerves up tight
as I think of the things
folks aren’t doing right.

Manners are slipping.
there’s a complete lack of grace.
A woman last week
slammed a door in my face.

You think that’s bad?
Drive Highway 5.
Road rage and tailgaters
keep my terror alive.

How dark it all seems
--our civility is wearing—
with murders and drug busts
and 10 year olds swearing.

And across seas, just look,
how the world seems to fester
with famine and street bombs,
wars and disasters.

My neck feels like iron,
my eyes always burning
as I watch evening news
with my poor stomach churning.

But Easter is coming,
a time of rejoicing.
A day they say cures
some of the ills I am voicing.

So tell me once more
why the death of one man
could change history’s course
and these worries I have.

I want to be lifted
From reality’s hurts.
Can Easter’s true meaning
transform times at their worst?

Yes, Easter is coming, and He is risen!

(This was part of our worship service today.)

Bocelli

I am happy to introduce a new member to my family~ his name is Bocelli. I picked him out from 10 beautiful canaries this morning. They were each auditioning, but he took the prize. He came with a 30 day guarantee, but so far, I think he is wonderful. While I was phoning Heidi to tell her about him, he started singing and singing. I hope you got to hear him Heidi. His song is delightful.

One of My Favorite Hobbies Is Cross Stitch

Thankfully I have many interests ~ therefore, I do not get bored. Among them is cross stitching. When I lived in Austin, I actually took some classes from an expert stitcher. It was really good for me to be exposed to unusual stitching and ideas. Consequently the trunk in my cottage is nearly full to the top with threads, fabric, patterns, finished and unfinished projects. I used to tell my kids to toss all of these things into my casket when I die so I will have something to do after I get to heaven. [This is a joke! ;-)]

About three weeks ago I finished a bird project which was really fun to stitch. I picked it up from the framer yesterday and am quite pleased. The angels in the smaller frames on the table are Josiah and Annika, my darling grandchildren!

Thank You

I have been amazed at the outpouring of support I have received from family and friends in the death of my dear pet, Tweety. Thanks to everyone who called, sent emails, and gave hugs. It really helped me.

I have decided to get another canary just as soon as I can.

Tweety Is Now Flying with the Angels

Yesterday Tweety, my dear canary, died. I loved his singing and the cheery attitude he had. He was such a nice companion for me. Often when I played the music of Andrea Bocelli, Tweety tried to out-sing him. I loved his warbling and trills. A high C was no problem for him!

He used to sing in the mornings even before I removed his cover, but over the past 10 months or so, he was beginning to show signs of old age, and he only chirped occasionally.

Tweety and I had many great conversations. He knew when I was happy and when things weren't going so well. He joined in song when I would play the piano. He chirped when I would read my Bible or morning devotions aloud.

This morning my Aunt Ginny comforted me with these words, "Pets are such good friends. . . they just don't live long enough."

I shall miss him terribly. But it pleases me to know he is singing and soaring with the angels.

Family Get-together

Saturday evening things were hopping at Aunt Liz's! Seated around the table were 16 family members, which is a good percentage of our small family. All three families (my mom, Aunt Liz, and Aunt Ginny) were represented. It was kind of neat how all of that came about: Diane flew here from Philadelphia for the weekend to help Jill and Jake with their wedding preparations (they are getting married in Minnesota on June 29, and Linda had made plans to drive from Chicago to Minnesota just to hang out with the Minnesota cousins. So, rather than going out to eat where it would be noisy, etc., Aunt Liz offered to let us gather in her home. One more thing — it was also Janet's birthday! So we got to help her celebrate.

I was so happy that Peder and Sarah wanted to be included. Peder hadn't been to Aunt Liz's for many years and Sarah had never been there. It was a good time for them to get acquainted with cousins on my side of the family. And, Sarah helped Aunt Liz set up a blog! It's called "Read Reed." I think between Aunt Liz and Aunt Ginny, they could fill us in on a lot of our family history. [This is just an idea, Aunt Liz.]

Plus, an opportunity came for Peder to tell everyone about the "All-family" cruise to Alaska he is putting together for August 2008. There will be more to follow about this, but not until April or May of this year.

I treasure these family times. We sure have a good time when we get together!!!

Boss' s Birthday Bash

My boss Paul had a birthday recently. This is how we celebrated.

At the table are Paul, Princess Bella, Snowball, and Cow. These huge, stuffed animals, hang out in our office and at times appear in someone's office, sitting at their computer, lounging in a side chair, hanging over the top of a cubicle, and once Princess Bella was up in the ceiling tiles!

Should you be getting the impression that I work in a kindergarten, I can assure you I do not. Rather, I work in an office where creativity is encouraged. Most of the time I really enjoy it.

Farewell

Yesterday a dear family friend, Sharon (Tiny) Smith died after battling lymphoma and leukemia for about five years. I have known Tiny nearly all of my life. She came into our family by being a next-door neighbor to my Aunt Liz and Uncle Vic. She and her daughters, Rhonda and Robin, were often included in our family outings - to places far away, such as Holland, Michigan; Chicago; Lowell, Indiana; Seattle, Washington; and even in 1982 when we flew to Ireland, Scotland, England, Belgium, The Netherlands, and Wales. She was so close to us that I think my kids must have thought she was an aunt, rather than a family friend.

Life became very difficult for her after her husband, Dean, died unexpectedly in November 2005, a couple of weeks after we had spent a fun-packed week in Seattle with Heidi and Chad.

I will miss Tiny very much, but am so happy that she will no longer be suffering. Rest in peace, Tiny. May God be with you.

2nd Snowstorm in 6 Days!

Wow! Mother Nature really packed a wallop this time. Adding to our 12 inches of snow from last weekend, we now have about 36 inches of snow on the ground. They are saying (WCCO radio, the good neighbor of the Northwest) this is the most snow we have had in one week's span since 1982. Yesterday my neighbor and I were recalling this as reminiscent of when we were kids. Oh, how much fun we had sliding down the huge mounds from the shoveling and plowing!

Here are some of the photos I have taken both yesterday and this morning. I think it is really beautiful. They are basically of my front and back yard. You'll notice, I can no longer walk on my sidewalk to my front door, but have to walk out in the street past the huge hill. If you compare these photos to the ones on my last post, you will see quite a difference.

I need to give some credit here to the Minnesota Department of Travel - - they have done an incredible job of keeping our streets plowed and sanded where necessary!