Ultimate Restaurant Decor Part Dos!

Previously, I wrote about eating at the "light and tinsel show." (Note that I spelled tinsel correctly now. Thanks, Mel.) Well here's living proof (or almost living in the form of photos that I went back and took the day before I came home) that I wasn't just "shining you people on."

Here's the entrance doors!


This is one end of a 30 foot bar!

Aisle way to dining areas in either side!

Exiting was just as exciting!

So, see, my loyal readers, I wasn't kidding at all, was I?

Peace (and light,)
JE

The Ultimate in Restaurant Decor!

The other evening my sis-in-law and I went out for supper. We visited a local Mexican restaurant close by. Bro didn't want to leave the house with workmen still there, so we brought his supper to him. But I digress.

This place looked small from the outside, but upon entering, I found it to be quite large. It was divided into dining areas by walkways with railings and posts. Each dining area had maybe seating for 25 to 30 people. It sort of seemed like a maze, but was well tended, so you didn't mind walking to a certain area.

Now, let me tell you about the decor. And I am not stretching the truth here at all. Once inside the first set of doors, the next set entering the restaurant were coated, inside and out, with tinsel. Yet, you read right, tinsel. Like we use at Christmas time. Garish, silver, gold, red, blue and green tinsel, covered the doors, along with lights...colored lights. (the small ones we use on our Christmas trees.)

Then inside, it was like entering a fairy land of tinsel and lights. Every surface, pole, railing, light fixture, and door way was covered in brightly colored tinsel and then topped with lights. Millions of lights! And here and there were mirrors placed strategically to reflect the millions of lights. From the ceilings, which were painted black, there were string after string of icicle lights and more strings of multicolored twinkle lights. Some of them even blinked!

It was a sight to behold. You really "had to be there" to believe it. I have never seen so many lights in one place. And this was not for Christmas and they hadn't taken it down yet. No, it's like this all the time. I remarked to the cashier upon leaving that this was certainly not only a culinary experience (the food was excellent) but a visionary one as well. She replied, Oh, you get used to it after a while, and think nothing of it!" Sis-in-law has a retired friend who worked there as a waitress for over 30 years, and that was her only job. The place was packed, so I know that the decor didn't "turn people off." In fact, the light show probably has something to do with stimulating the appetite. Who knows! All I could say when we walked out was, "WOW!"

Peace,

JE

God's Plan or Problem, take your pick!

Sometimes someone sends me a "funny" that seems like it really hits home. I think this is "freakin" hilarious, and so true in my case. (Except I would change "little old man" to "grieving husband.")

God's Problem Now.

His wife's graveside
service was just barely finished, when there was
a massive clap of thunder, followed by a tremendous
bolt of lightning, accompanied by even more thunder
rumbling in the distance. The little, old man
looked at the pastor and calmly said,
'Well, she's there.

Sunset Over Texas

I thought it was time to bring everyone up to date with my "goings on." I am vacationing in Texas right now with my brother and sister-in-law. It is beautiful here. Not like back home in the Midwest where they are up to their whatevers in snow and slush and rain and gray days. Since I arrived via American Airlines on January 10, it has been warm and sunny. One day it was too cool to be out because of the wind, but otherwise it's been comfortable. And I am enjoying it to the fullest. I am eating well, and healthy, and resting well in a California King bed where when I stretch out both arms, I can't reach either side of the bed from the middle. (Alone, unfortunately!!) But I am having fun and relaxing. I go out on the deck and enjoy the sun, watch a little TV, (or a lot) and visit with Bro and Sis. It's fun. I do have pangs of homesickness once in a while, but they pass. Especially when I hear from the kids and friends back home.

Too soon, I'm sure, it will be time to board the big silver bird and head home, but until then, I intend to really soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the beautiful sunsets over Texas!

Rambling On!

These are observations, thoughts, and points of view that come to mind as I sit here trying to write a blog that sounds somewhat interesting before I leave on my "vacation." (My kids claim I can't call it a vacation because I'm retired, thus on a permanent vacation.)

• I looked the house over for a instruction booklet to a piece of electronic gadgetry and couldn't find it. Prof leafed through the magazines on the coffee table and "voila" there it was. I had been through that pile of stuff at least a dozen times.

• I had a huge suitcase packed to go on my trip (when I thought about driving) and am now trying to repack into a carry-on size bag because I am "cheap" and don't want to pay American Airlines the $25.00 to check a bag. Personally, I think that for the price I paid for the ticket, I should be able to check the first bag for free. Evidently, "Full fare" doesn't cover a ticket for the over 65 generation.
  

• My brother simplified my packing by sending me a list of stuff that I left there the last time I was there so I didn't have to bring so much stuff the next time. Good for him.

• I wanted to take my crochet hooks on the plane, but I don't know if they are allowed. (and I can't find a phone number to call to find out.) If not and I pack them, they will just toss them. So, I guess I will wait until I get there and go to a Hobby Lobby and buy still another set.

• I hate the fact that, even though she's willing, Prof has to take time off her job to take me to the airport. Her idea, not mine. She has to work an extra hour the rest of the days this week to make it up in order to get paid. Sucks!

• Why are my hands always cold? The only time they are really warm is in the middle of the night after they have been under the covers for a few hours.

• This winter has been kind to us midwesterners so far. Maybe I should knock on wood. Of course, wait until sectional tourney basketball time. It always gets in its last "nasties" then.

• Two years ago, I installed (well, Alan, my handyguy, installed) a ventless gas fireplace in my living room. I love it. The only drawback is that when I have the gas turned on, even with the pilot light burning, Prof is plagued by headaches. I swear there are no fumes, and I even bought a new carbon monoxide detector and have it going 24/7. So we turned it off and haven't been using it since Christmas, and her headaches are gone. It doesn't bother me or Kiddo, but I don't want her to be ill. Strange!!!

• We still have the Christmas tree up. No ornaments on it anymore, just the tree and lights. Prof and Kiddo promised to take it down while I am gone. I am going out and take the wreath down and remove the red bows from the lights today!
  

• My house needs a thorough cleaning. You know, the move the furniture, sweep everywhere, remove dust bunnies, mop the kitchen an bathroom floors on hand and knees instead of the "swiffer" job that usually suffices. I had planned to have a cleaning lady twice a month to do the "deep" cleaning and maybe I could keep the rest nice. That plan got dashed in a hurry!!!

• I spend entirely too much time on the computer. And crocheting. And reading on the Kindle. But all are fun. Maybe that's why there's dust bunnies, dirt, and stuff that needs to be cleaned.

That's all folks! Have a good week.

Peace,

JE

A Christmas Thought

"I’ve always pictured Mary in her “blue Mary outfit” with the angelic halo around her head, the animals standing in the silent reverence. Joseph standing beside Mary, and the shepherds kneeling in front of the newborn child. Isn’t that what the nativity scene on our courthouse lawn depicts? But I doubt that is the way it really was. Mary had to deliver her firstborn into the world with as much straining, blood, and afterbirth as the rest of the mothers who had given birth before her. She didn’t have the luxury of an epidural, heart-monitoring machines, and forceps. There were only an few barn animals and her husband Joseph to witness the birth of our Savior.
I’ll tell you whom I feel sorry for--all the people in the inn who missed it. They were there! There were in the same time period. They didn’t have to learn of this event 2000 years after the fact…like we did. While they were lying in their beds, trying to get some rest…they missed it! They could have just walked right out to the stable behind the inn and witnessed the coming of the Messiah! But, no, they were too busy with the mundane to notice the Eternal!"

(by: Mark Lowry, author, singer, Christian comedian.)

Made me stop and think.

Peace,
JE

This is just plain FUNNY!

No matter how you feel about your faith, this is just too funny. Compliments of my own son! He cracks me up sometimes. This was one of those time. Enjoy!

Peace, (when I'm not still giggling!)
JE

Flat Tires!!

What a way to start the new year! Last night Prof offered to buy my dinner at an Applebees in the next city south of us. We dropped off Kiddo at a buddy's house, then took off for the city. We had a wonderful dinner at Applebees. I had ribs, she had steak. Then, after stopping in at Starbucks, where I had nothing, she had her vinte peppermint mocha, we started home. We were almost back to Our Town when I heard a not so familiar rumble. Prof said, Daddy-O, I think we have a flat tire. Damn! She was right. I just had that slow leak fixed in that tire two weeks ago, too. So we slowly limped into the nearby Builder's Mart parking lot, parked and got out to inspect. Same tire...flat again. We called my daughter-in-law who came to our rescue. It was about 8:00 PM and about +15 degrees with snow flying and wind gusts up to 40 mph and dark! I left my car sit in the parking lot, under a flood light and came on home. The tire shop where I trade all the time was closed for the night.
This morning I arose around 6:45 after a restless night's sleep (knowing I have to get up at a certain time sure puts a kink into my sleeping since I retired.) I took Prof to work so I could use her car. I then went to the tire shop. I know the owners well, and have traded there for about 40 years. They agreed to send someone to do what ever was needed to get my car to the shop, fix the tire and call me. I am waiting on their call now.
When I had my car serviced last month, the 16 point inspection showed that my back tires were in the yellow "caution" area and they even told me how much tread was left. Since I only drive about 10,000 miles or less yearly, I wasn't too concerned. But, I guess I should have been. I am expecting that when Scotty, the tire guy, calls me, I will need two new tires. This wasn't in the financial plan for this month since I just bought a plane ticket to Texas and plan to be gone a month. But I also can't rely on shoddy tires in the winter.
I have had very few flats in my 50 years of driving. Most of them have been in the dead of winter. When I was young, I would hop to it and get it changed, but now, with the new style of jacks, and having it placed just so, and the new fangled lug wrenches, I don't know where to begin. And, I have arthritis in the knees, ankles and hands. It's just easier to call Scotty, the tire guy, and let them do it. I am thinking about joining AARP's Auto Club! At least if I get caught out of town, I would have someone to call!

Peace,
JE

Another New Year

Happy New Year!

Blessings to all my readers and followers. May you all have a healthy and prosperous 2012. Keep the faith, seek the silver lining, and be happy!

Peace,
JE

"What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?"

No loud parties. No noise makers. No crazy party hats! I am going to stay home out of the way of the "buzzed" drivers. I will have a roaring fire in the fireplace, maybe mix up a pitcher of something containing a little NYE cheer, and will be comfortably ensconced in my recliner by said fire. I will watch a little TV, read a good book on my Kindle, and maybe crochet a few rows.
What a "party animal" I am! Well, I have done the party routine many times. I have "tied one on" many times, too. I can remember New Year's Eves spent in the Big City going from bar to bar, getting smashed, and then feeling like a polar bear is lying on my tongue the next day. I can also remember standing in LONG lines to get into movie theaters on NYE. One year we went to see "Where Eagles Dare" and another year "Swiss Family Robinson." Both times were with my wife, and my favorite uncle T and aunt K, along with various other members of the family. Those were the fun times and fond memories abound.
I guess I am getting old! But I refuse to consider myself lame or any other adjective used to describe the fact that I would rather be at home on NYE. Prof said she doesn't have concrete plans for the evening, and may be at home, too. We'll see.
This is the first year that I haven't been invited to go somewhere. And the thought of having a bunch of people in for a party is not a pleasant one. Call me an old fogie, but I really would rather do my own thing tonight. In out of the cold, and safe at home.

Happy New Year!
Peace,
JE

Plaid!

Many years ago, an uncle of my late wife did some research on their family tartan. He tracked it down, found it was no longer being woven, but he could order up a bolt or two for over $100.00 per yard. He sent out correspondence to the family members wanting us each to buy a yard or two. We didn't! I was snooping on the internet the other day and found a place that you could order family tartans. Lo and behold, there was my wife's family tartan listed. Here's what it looks like. The price is now $280 a yard. No, I don't think I will!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #87

The Guilty Plea by Robert Rotenberg: An okay read. Nothing exceptional, but worth the time.

Happy Reading,
JE

Paper or Plastic?

Due to the kid's work schedules, we had our family Christmas celebration yesterday. It was so much fun watching the "baby grands" unwrap their stuff. Little R.J. finally got the tissue out of his one gift bag and discovered that there was a "sock" monkey in there. He pulled it out then put it back in the bag...several times. The "Divine Miss K" helped us all unwrap our gifts, plus spent many minutes hugging her new 40" teddy bear. I unwrapped my new Kindle.
After dinner and peace and quiet finally descended once more, I began the journey into e-books. There was a lot to do before I can begin downloading books, but I persevered, and got my Amazon account set up, and logged on to the Kindle, and then started perusing the many thousands of books available.
While I was sitting there in my chair learning away, Prof was sitting on the couch studying the new Nook she got last week. She had to set up an account with Barnes and Noble for hers. And so on.
I sampled a couple of books just to see what my Kindle would do. She did the same on the Nook. After a while she said that she wasn't sure she was going to keep the Nook. She is a complete bibliophile and loves books. She said that she felt like some sort of traitor to her many books, and that plastic could not take the place of paper in this instance. I laughed, but understood. She, who when she moved back from Montana, had a U-Haul trailer containing, along with her other stuff, 48 boxes of books! She loves books! So, the jury is still out on whether or not she is returning the Nook. I, on the other hand, love the small hand-held Kindle. I can store books on it so I don't have to have loaded book shelves in my house that collect a lot of dust. A Kindle is lighter to hold in my arthritic hands, and I don't have to keep track of a bookmark. Today, I am going to our local library and signing up for "Overdrive." That is an online service provided by libraries now that lets you borrow books for up to two weeks on your "e-reader" free of charge as long as you have a valid library card from your local library. There are lots and lots of free titles available and the list is growing daily.
So, as for me, I will choose plastic (or whatever the Kindle is made from) while Prof could very well choose paper!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #86

The Drop by Michael Connelly: Excellent read! I highly recommend you suspense/mystery readers don't miss this latest Harry Bosch novel. It's a good one.

Happy Reading,
JE

My Early Christmas Present

I received an early Christmas present today. I was leaving Walmart and as I walked past the checkout stands, there stood Tyler. Now, let me explain. My first year at the school that I retired from, Ty was in the sixth grade. He was a special little guy. He had a hard time sitting still, and didn't learn too well, but he put forth so much effort. He and I connected that year. I helped him with his math and English. He rewarded me with effort.
When Tyler moved up stairs to the 7th grade hall, he and I became closer because he spent time in my study hall. He continued to struggle with English, but math finally started making sense to him. He also got interested in origami. He devoured book after book about the subject and became proficient at many of the harder folds. He was always stopping in my room to show me his latest creation. (His biggest feat was making a crane with a 36 inch wing span. It hung in my room for two years, until the fire Marshall deemed it unsafe to have it hanging so close to the ceiling. Prof took it to Montana when she moved there and it hung in her room until it was so faded that it just needed to be pitched.)
As Tyler matured, he became tall and thin and turned into a natural runner. During his career in HS, he set records in cross country and track. He also told me that he finally discovered that the words on the pages in the textbooks finally meant something.
Ty's mom and dad were divorced many years ago, and he lived with his mom and two sisters. His family was one of the first families to have a home built by Habitat for Humanity. I got well acquainted with Ty's mom during his high school years. They had no car, and she was a regular rider on our transit bus when I drove for them.
Tyler graduated on time from HS, and even tried community college. He finally joined the Army. I have kept track of Tyler through his mom and sisters. He is doing well in the Armed Services. Which brings me back to the present situation.
Tyler saw me and came at me with arms extended. I stuck out a hand to shake his, but he said,"I want more than a hand shake. I want a hug!" There in Walmart, in front of many passersby, Tyler gave me the most heartfelt hug. He towered over me by about 6 inches, but the smile was still the same.
As we walked out of the store together, I turned to Tyler and said to him, "Thank you for serving our country and keeping us safe."
Tyler, said to me, "Mr. F, I am the one who should be thanking you. Without your friendship and guidance, I wouldn't have been able to do what I am doing. So, thank you."
Like I said, Christmas came early for me today.

Peace,
JE

There's a Blog in here Somewhere!

I taught English for several years, both on the college level and in public schools. (In the public schools, I team-taught with a seasoned English teacher.) After retirement, and much time to think about the reasons that students of every age and learning ability have such a hard time with our "written" language, I have concluded that it is because English requires too much memorization.

Think about it, we have, "there, their, and they're," and "bear and bare" (I have friends that spell their last name "Bair" and another friend who's maiden name was "Baer.") We have to deal with "to,too, and two," "sit, set, sat," and the whole (hole) "whom, who, who's, whose" thing is really confusing.

Years ago, we had an exchange student from Japan. She spoke English, but when she had to write it, she was a mess. In Japanese, there is a special or separate word for everything. Spanish, which is what I took in HS, is much the same way. Why didn't the creators of the written English do the the same thing? It would have made teaching it so much easier.

We confuse the issue even more by using same spelling but different pronunciation of many of our words. Such a, "I read the paper this morning," and "What do you like to read?" Oh my. The list could go on for a long while.

As a student and teacher of the English language, I have come to the conclusion that it's much easier to speak it than it is to write it. But, we must continue to teach our students to be good writers as well as readers. (And I am saving the new "text-speak" for another blasting blog!)

I think I will go read from my red reader which I have already read.

Peace,
JE

Reading goes on but reviews stopping!

This year I have been reviewing what I read. And keeping track of how many books I have read. Well, I am behind with the reviews, having read more books since the last review. I am not going to review them. I returned them to the library and I can't remember all the character's names and so on. But I can tell you titles and authors.
#84. Faith by Jennifer Haigh
#85. Old City Hall by Robert Rotenberg

Both were excellent reads as I recall.

I have other things going on in my life right now that are taking up my blogging and reading time. Getting ready for the Christmas holidays, and preparing for my vacation, and getting my craft projects done are all on my agenda right now. The only time I have to read is after I retire for the evening. That about says it all for now.

Peace,
JE

Christmas on Elm St.

Many years ago, when my late wife was still with me, she painted this Christmas village. It consists of about 60 different buildings, plus trees, a gazebo, a skating pond, and people, animals and sleighs, etc. We had an old cabinet that every year we would empty out all the dishes and " stuff " that was in it, take off the doors, and set up shelf after shelf of village.
This year I decided to take six of my favorite pieces that she had painted and display them on a shelf in my living room. It is lighted, which you probably can't tell from the picture. There are two trees that she painted, too. Somewhere in the boxes are some people and accessories, but I didn't dig deep enough to find them. Included in this display are two houses, a fire station, a book store, a church with Nativity, and a school. The red and white house with the black roof is similar to the style of house we owned while raising our children.
This brought back lots of memories of "Tilly" sitting at the card table hour after hour on weekends and evenings after work painting away, and of the pride we felt displaying her work of art.
Note: She also painted a complete village set for Prof, and had started one for Lil Bro, which she never completed. Some day he will get this one.

Peace,

JE

UGH!

This morning I got up with the sunrise (which here is about 7:00AM.) I made a pot of coffee and ate a bowl of cereal. Kiddo had fallen asleep on the couch in the living room last night. (The poor guy has a bad cold and is taking Nightquil.) So, in order not to disturb him, I took my coffee and went into my room and huddled under my covers and read on my novel. Sometime later, I fell asleep and woke up around 10:20AM. Now I feel like something the cats dragged in!
I hate feeling like this. Sluggish and like every move is an effort. And how does getting a few more winks of sleep make you feel this way. Is it a natural phenomenon or is it something that is only designed for me personally? Anyway, it's gross!
In the meantime, Prof got up and sent Kiddo up to his bed to sleep off his cold-meds induced "coma" condition.
I just hope I am not catching his cold.
Maybe the phrase, "getting old is not for sissies," is true. Some days it is just hard to get out of bed!

Peace,

JE

In My Room

"There's a world where I can go and tell my secrets to
In my room, in my room
In this world I lock out all my worries and my fears
In my room, in my room

Do my dreaming and my scheming
Lie awake and pray
Do my crying and my sighing
Laugh at yesterday

Now it's dark and I'm alone
But I won't be afraid
In my room, in my room
In my room, in my room
In my room, in my room."

These lyrics to the famous Beach Boy's classic have always been a favorite of mine. They have always spoken to me in a special way. We all need a place to go where we can be alone sometimes. I think that's what this song says to me.

For the first 10 years of my life, my brother and I shared a room. It was small. Just wide enough to house two twin beds with Mom's cedar chest inbetween. There was a super small closet at the end of the room and just enough room for a tiny chest of drawers to the left of the door. It was the classic "attic" room with the steeply pitched ceiling. One window faced the north. It was papered in "fake" wood look wallpaper.

When the parents built the new house, they said two bedrooms was enough, so brother and I still shared the same room. It was larger, but still had the same twin beds, cedar chest and chest of drawers. It didn't take too long for Mom and Dad to realize that their bedroom wasn't big enough to house them, their furniture and their clothes. So, they built on another room for themselves, with two large closets, lots of floor space and a wonderful picture window facing the lake. All of a sudden, I had a room of my own. It became my private sanctuary. I could sit in there and read, draw, or just daydream. It was always a mess, but I liked it that way.

In college, I lived in a variety of apartments, coops, and rooming houses. Usually I had a roommate. That worked pretty well most of the time.

When I married, of course I shared. Some of our houses had large bedrooms, some very tiny. When we bought this house, it wasn't finished inside, so we could decorate our room from top to bottom. Tilly chose "mauve" (a dusty pink) carpet, white walls and curtains, and then accented it with blues and white and pink. Very feminine, but she had a right to do her thing. I didn't really care. Until she passed away, it was "her room" so to speak. Since her passing, I have made that the one room that is totally mine. I ripped up the carpet and put down a neutral tone, yet on the gold side carpet. I painted three walls of the room what I call "milk chocolate," with the fourth wall a deep red. White woodwork and ceiling. I moved the queen sized bed upstairs and put a twin bed in my room. I have a TV, a CD player and a good reading lamp in there along with an antique sea trunk and an amoire. I made my own window treatments, and have accented the walls with some "music" art. This is where I go when the world seems to be closing in around me. This is where I do my sighing and my crying, my dreaming and scheming. It's also where I go to watch TV when Prof and Kiddo what to watch something I don't want to watch. It is also where I go to read and think.

I am not antisocial at all, and I love having my daughter and grandson here! But there comes a time when all of us need a place and time to be quiet and peaceful. I have it "in my room." Cool huh?

Peace, (when I want it)
JE

"Roll Out The Holly!"

Yes, we need a little Christmas now! I have had the blues this year more than most, about the holiday season. I just can't get in the spirit of the Season of Light. I am not sure why, but I know a lot of it has to being older, and alone. No, I don't live alone. Prof and Kiddo are here, but I am still alone.
There are a lot of festivities going on that I used to attend, but it's just not fun to go alone. And, there is another side to that coin, I haven't found anyone that I really want to ask to go along.
There's the bi-annual Madrigal Dinner. I used to perform with the Madrigal Singers. Now, I don't, and I don't attend the dinner anymore either. I don't attend the Christmas party at our church, and I probably won't go to the Choir Christmas party either. This is no one's fault but mine, and I know I'm whining, buy I just don't do alone very well.
I am not in the mood to shop this year. I don't know what to get anyone, and it seems like all my family has everything they want or need, so what fun is "more of the same." I asked for lists, and most of what the family wants is gift cards. What fun is watching them opening a gift card. And, I never see what they bought with the gift card. I hate to give money,too, for the same reason.
So, call me Scrooge! I have a few more days to get with the program. Today, I got outside in the 50 degree weather and put up some outside lights and wreaths. That was fun, and believe it or not, it helped. I have my tree up inside, and partially decorated. Lil Bro said not to overdo the tree in case the two baby grands decided to touch and feel on Christmas. He just did not want any of the old family heirlooms to get broken. So I bought some less expensive (can we say cheap) ornaments this year. It looks fine. There will plenty of years to have up the big tree and the old ornaments.
So, I am trying to think more positive and get more into the spirit. Maybe more snow will help. That is what the weatherman is predicting for next week. We'll see what happens.

Peace, not Bah Humbug,
JE

What I Read #83

Save Me by Lisa Scottoline: I have been a reader of Scottoline's novels for several years. I was not sure about this one. I thought it might be more geared to the ladies, but was I wrong. Yes, the story line is about a mom who goes to school as a volunteer lunch room mom, but it turns into a suspense-packed story when the lunch room kitchen explodes.
Rose McKenna is forced to make decisions that affect she and her daughter, Melly. In the aftermath of the explosion and devastating school fire, Rose begins to investigate just what happened. What she finds could get her killed.
Scottoline takes a normal school day and turns it into a nightmare. Beware! This could really happen. That's what makes it so scary.

Winter came early to our neck of the woods.

Yesterday, what started out as rain, and I mean "ark building weather" ended with winter arriving in my neck of the woods. About 2:30 pm, I looked out the window and it was snowing great, big wet flakes. This kept up the rest of the day and was still snowing and blowing at 11:00 pm when I turned off my light to go to bed.
I awoke to about 5 inches of snow this morning and a two-hour school delay.The plows had gone and the streets were clear. The wind had laid and the sun was shining.
It seems like winter came early this year. But it is beautiful out there. Especially since I really don't have to go out in it unless I really want to. And I don't want to.
It does put me in the holiday spirit, though. That's a good thing!

Peace,

JE

An Item on my Bucket List

For years I have loved opera. We don't have opera around here. I would have to travel at least 4 hours to Chicago to see an opera. But I have had the privilege to see "Madam Butterfly". I was fascinated and loved every minute.
When I was in college, I took some voice training, and have been singing ever since. It has been my desire to learn a tenor aria (solo) and perform it at least once. Recently, I heard David Phelps perform "Nessun Dorma" from the opera, "Turandot." It was wonderful. I, again, was fascinated. I found his performance on Rhapsody and downloaded it to my MP3 player. The more I listened to it, the more I liked it. It is short (2:38) and it is in my range.
So I started searching for the music. I found it online and downloaded it. For you sheet music lovers out there, musicnotes. com is a wonderful source. You have to join and pay for what you download, but it's cheap by today's prices for sheet music. And they have all kinds of music. BUT, I digress.
I talked to my friend at church who directs our choir, and who is also the person who accompanies my two quartets, and she agreed to work with me to learn the music. I am challenging myself to learn it in Italian, which, of course, was the original language in which it was composed.
I am not in a hurry to do this. I don't care if it takes several months to learn it, but I am enthused. It gives me a goal.
My voice coach in college always told me that I could sing anything I wanted to sing, so I am going to give this a shot.

Peace,
JE

What I Read #82

Damage Control by Robert Dugoni: I cannot say enough good stuff about Robert Dugoni. His novels are superb. And Damage Control is no exception.
Former lawyer now law-school teacher James Hill is murdered. His twin sister, Dana Hill, also an attorney, is determined to find out not only why her brother was murdered, but who was the murderer. Accompanied by Detective Mike Logan, Dana finds clues that lead to an surprise that no one would believe, yet it was true.
You don't want to miss this novel. I give it a big "thumbs up."

Happy Reading,
JE

Ah, Bliss!

Yesterday was, of course, Thanksgiving Day. For the first time, Prof, Kiddo and I trekked to the southern part of the state to my cousin 007's house for the special day. According to MapQuest, it was supposed to take 2 hours and 27 minutes to get there. We stopped for coffee once, and missed a turn once, and still made it in 2 hours and 31 minutes. Go us!
When we got there, we were greeted at the door by my Cousin 007 and her partner Miss Marple. They welcomed us all with a hug and let us know how glad they were that we made the trip. Miss Marple's family was there, so we got to meet them. Later on, Cousin 007's brother, my cousin Big D and his lovely wife GG (stands for Good Gramma) arrived. I hadn't seen them in a while, so it was nice to spend time with them.
We had a glorious day. 007 and MM had cooked all day Wednesday and it showed. I don't think there was anything that wasn't on the buffet. Turkey, ham, chicken and noodles, mashed and sweet potatoes, corn casserole, and the list goes on and on. We ate, we laughed, we reminisced, we looked at old pictures, we caught up on happenings within the family and generally had a wonderful time.
It was great to be together, counting and recounting our blessings together. Meeting new friends and relatives, and just relaxing with all made for a perfect day. It was a foggy dreary trip down, and even had a mist in the air that resembled snow flakes, but on the way home, it cleared and the sun peaked out for a bit as darkness settled in. It was a safe trip. Prof drove my car, and I went along for the ride, so to speak. Kiddo caught up on napping in the back seat and I even got in some crochet time. Though she drives too fast to suit me, Prof is a good driver and I wasn't worried at all. (I warned her ahead of time, that if she got a ticket for speeding, it would be hers to pay even if she was driving my vehicle. LOL)
We arrived back home full and happy. It was a day to be remembered. Even Kiddo, who usually isn't "into" that kind of stuff remarked on how good a time he had and that my side of the family "rocks." I guess that's a good thing!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #81

The Fifth Witness by Michael Connelly: Banking tycoon and master of foreclosure, Mitchell Bondurant is found face down, dead, in a parking garage. Foreclosure fighter Lisa Trammel is accused of his murder.
Enter attorney Mickey Haller. He has been taking cases of foreclosure in his practice for a while, but now Lisa Trammel wants him to defend her against the charge of murder.
Faced with a hard-nosed prosecutor, Mickey has his work cut out for him. The Fifth Witness takes us both inside the court room and the judge's chambers as the two adversaries battle the case.
I would estimate that 85 to 90 percent of this gripping novel takes place inside the court room. Both fast moving and interesting, this novel will hold you in its grip until the last page. If you like legal suspense and court room drama, this is the novel for you.

Happy Reading,

JE

What I Read #80

Imposter by Davis Bunn: In this "absorbing suspense thriller," Senatorial candidate Paul Kelly's wife is brutally murdered. Kelly's son, Matt, just back from a federal training academy, is "possessed" with finding his mother's killer. This was no ordinary attack. This was "war."
Another good read from Bunn.

Happy Reading,
JE

All I can say is "WOW"!

This might be a long post, but I have something to share with you. Many years ago, in 1952, I had either the chickenpox or measles. I don't recall which, but I was in school and missed a lot of school that winter. It was then that I began losing my hearing. I guess that was not uncommon then. Then, at age 9 or 10, I had a tumor on my left eardrum. I didn't understand why Mom and Dad were so upset about that, because at the time the word "malignant" meant nothing to me. I just remember Mom shedding tears, Dad being worried, and them taking me to a ENT who treated my ear with some stuff called "radium" on a thin stick. I had to go twice a week. I remember Mom talking to me about a "growth" about the size of a pencil eraser, and that Doc. Seward was treating it to make it go away.
After that, I could not hear well in the left ear, but the right one compensated for the loss, and life went on. At age 20, I was having drainage from the left ear, so I went to another ENT Dr. He said that infection was eroding my mastoid cavity on the left side, so I had what was called a "modified-radical mastoidectomy" which robbed me of even more hearing. But it also made my left ear "safe." I always wore earplugs in swimming and whenever water might come in contact with that ear. Many years later, I had to have another mastoid surgery and the Dr. that did that one said that I had scar tissue built up that caused my ear to be infection prone. Then he tried a cochlea implant. he hoped that would improve my hearing. Alas, my body rejected it and it had to removed. I have worn a high powered hearing aid in that ear since 2001. It helped, but since so much of the inner ear was damaged through the years, there isn't a whole lot to work with.
Now, I am losing the hearing in my right ear just due to old age, I guess. I have had some problems with that ear, too. But nothing super major. I have allergies and stuff and my internal drainage tubes (I can't spell them) don't work any more. That all works to make the hearing loss. BUT, I have new hearing aids. They were a gift from my dear brother. I went to the Beltone office and had them programmed just Tuesday and all I can say about this experience is "WOW!" I am hearing things that I don't think I ever have heard, or at least not for a very long time. I can hear the fridge running, clocks ticking, and the furnace. Birds were chirping this morning and I was marveling at how much noise traffic makes. Even the mouse on my computer makes a clicking sound that I have never heard.
Last night at choir practice I was astounded by how good we sound. I knew we were good, but I never realized that we were wonderful!
And you know that little dial on the TV that has numbers from 0 to infinity for volume? Well, usually I watch TV on about 28 to 32. Last night we watch a show and the volume was set on 17. And the commercials were too loud. How great is that!! It's like getting a new lease on life. I am gonna like this a whole lot!

Stuff and Such

What a weekend this was. Our county hospital put on their annual fund-raising Gala on Saturday night. They had a talent competition for entertainment. There were four different acts scattered throughout the evening. Votes were $1.00 each. There were other ways of voting, too. There were pre-voting jars scattered around the community for each act, and also there were $5.00 and $10.00 voting "chips" at the gala. I was in one of the acts. My men's quartet, The GBQ, was joined by two Dr.s and an LPN from the hospital. We performed a comedy parody of Neil Sedaka's song, Breaking Up Is Hard To Do, called "Waking Up Is Hard To Do." We dressed in scrubs, and used gurneys from the surgical dept, and went all out. We really sounded good and guess what...we WON! I don't know the total dollar amount, but it was the winner. It was fun, too. We spent many hours practicing and working out the choreography and etc. It was worth every minute for the fun we all had, and getting to know the two docs and the nurse was a hoot. They ARE human, just like the rest of us!!! One of the docs can't carry a tune in a bushel basket, so we assigned him a "dead" microphone. He thought that was a hoot. But he sure could act and dance. He really made the act, in my opinion! The gala itself was quite an affair with a live auction of several nice things, and then a silent auction that went on all evening in another room. The goal this year was to raise enough money to buy a super type of scope for the early detection of colon cancer. I certainly hope they got the funds they need. That type of cancer is on the rise in America.
The affair was "black tie optional." I wore my tux with a black shirt, black tie and a black vest with some silver stripes. I will post a picture when it comes available. Right!! The food was wonderful and I sat at a table with several good friends. A nice evening all in all...and WE WON!!
Yesterday, GBQ sang at a memorial service. It was sponsored by one of our local funeral homes and they honored all the families that have used their services for the loss of a loved one the past year. They do this every year. It is a nice gesture by them and much appreciated by the honorees. After the service, they serve light refreshments and they also give each family a beautiful Christmas ornament inscribed with the name of their loved one. GBQ sang an arrangement of "It is Well With my Soul." and closed the service with Mallott's "The Lord's Prayer."
Then, my good friend Curley and I went to WalMart shopping and had a few laughs. (No, not at other people, but that's hard sometimes!)
Today, I am taking it easy. With the rehearsals, and performances, plus church choir, I am tired. These old bones and body don't take that much exercise as easy as they used to. I decided to do my laundry and can relax between loads. It's raining outside, so the leaves and stuff will have to wait a few more days.
Let's see...what's on my schedule for this week...

Peace,
JE

*Note: The purple ribbon on my lapel is in honor of two very sweet little old ladies that made a definite impression on my life, and now suffer from Alzheimer's Disease. It seemed like a good night to remember them.

What I Read #79

The Great Divide by T. Davis Bunn: Gloria Hall, a young activist, is missing in China. Her family wants her back. They hire attorney Marcus Glenwood to file suit against the American company, New Horizons, who are doing business with China. It seems there was a collusion and a kidnapping involved.

Like I have done many times, I started reading Bunn's works with his latest novel, and decided to go back and start with his first one. Today I am starting the second one.

Happy reading,
JE

What I Read #78

The Jury Master by Robert Dugoni: Some of the novels that I read are "smart" and some of them are just entertaining. This one was both. Dugoni's first, but certainly not his last, The Jury Master introduces the reader to David Sloane, attorney extraordinaire. David can feel a jury's emotions, their shortcomings, and knows how they will decide before the verdict is in.
Joe Branick, a special assistant and personal friend to the president is found dead of an apparent suicide. Joe's family says "no way." David is asked to look into the matter. What he finds is scary and even dangerous to him and those around him.
For his first novel, Dugoni really has it together. I highly recommend getting hooked on his works, and the ongoing life of David Sloane.

Happy Reading,
JE

Thought-Filled Thursday

An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day. ~Irv Kupcinet

Christmas Shopping in 2011

My wife had this very special cousin with whom I still keep in contact. She sent me a LONG forward about shopping this year for Christmas, and as I read it, I had to agree.

It's about time we buy American. I know, I know, another blog harping about cheap stuff made in China, Taiwan, or Mexico! Well, here's a bit of news. Look around your area at the locally owned businesses that need your support.
Give your loved ones who still have hair a certificate at a locally owned Hair Salon or Barber Shop. If you have hair, you need a haircut and/or style once in a while. Everyone would enjoy having their car washed and detailed, and there are lots of enterprising local businesses that do that very thing. Look for products that are made in the good ol' US of A when buying gifts. There are American artisans that actually raise, dye, spin the wool, and weave, knit or crochet beautiful garments right here in my area of the Midwest. I know there are woodcrafters around who make beautiful bowls, boxes and even furniture. Yes, they cost more than the products you will find on sale at WalMart, but they are more unique, and will last longer.
There are many young entrepreneurs who are struggling to get their own businesses off the ground. I have a dear, quirky friend who makes the most gorgeous jewelry and craft items. She is a divorcee trying to make it on her own. Another is a young man who can repair your computer, and will even clean it for you. If you have anyone in need of this kind of service, look around your area for some local person who does it, and get a certificate for your loved one.
Take your family out for a meal at a locally owned eatery and leave the waitperson a nice Christmas tip. You will not only be helping the restaurant owner, but the service person, too. Their Christmas might just be a little merrier because of you.
How about giving some homemade things this year. What person wouldn't enjoy a nice batch of cookies or fudge. Or a cake or a pie, maybe. Or if you are a crafter, make your loved ones something.
I know I have enough sweaters, socks and underwear to last me the rest of my natural life. What I would like is a gift card for a service on my car from the dealer where I trade. I would like a gift of a neck and shoulder massage at a local salon. I would like to have a cleaning lady come into my home and clean it well. Then maybe I could keep it that way.
I am making my Christmas cards again this year. Maybe I won't send as many, either. I plan to deliver them personally to the local friends and family. I will mail them to folks far away. I like to send cards because I enjoy getting them, and it's a way to keep in touch with those friends in far-away places, but, I won't be spending a lot of my hard earned cash on them. I enjoy making them, and I consider them a small gift of myself for the person I am sending them to.
If I do buy things that are non-American this year, I think I will go to the stores that sell hand-made items. These stores are designed for and usually are church-based, to help people rise above poverty by giving them an outlet for their wares. Look around you for these stores. They are in most towns, and they have some amazing, beautifully unique things.
So, fellow Americans, this year, keep it simple, keep it useful and keep it local. Our local businesses and our nation's economy will thank you!

Peace,
JE

T V Time

I liked this list so I thought I would share my views:

1. Name a TV show series in which you've seen every episode at least twice: Designing Women

2. Name a show you can’t miss: Big Bang Theory

3. Name an actor that would make you more inclined to watch a show: Chris Meloni

4. Name an actor who would make you less likely to watch a show: David Spade or Charlie Sheen

5. Name a show you can, and do, quote from: Designing Women

6. Name a show you like that no one else that you know enjoys: Wings (in reruns)

7. Name a TV show which you’ve been known to sing the theme song: Designing Women

8. Name a show you would recommend everyone to watch: Mike and Molly

9. Name a TV series you own: None

10. Name an actor who launched his/her entertainment career in another medium, but has surprised you with his/her acting choices in television: Dixie Carter

11. What is your favorite episode of your favorite series? Designing Women: EP Phone Home

12. Name a show you keep meaning to watch, but you just haven’t gotten around to yet: None

13. Ever quit watching a show because it was so bad? LOST; it ran too long and got more stupid the longer it was on.

14. Name a show that’s made you cry multiple times: Hallmark Commercials

15. What do you eat when you watch TV? Vanilla Bean ice cream with Chocolate syrup.

16. How often do you watch TV? Not a lot, but I try not to miss Jeopardy

17. What’s the last TV show you watched? Biography: Johnny Cash

18. What’s your favorite/preferred genre of TV? Drama: Crime/cop shows

19. What was the first TV show you were obsessed with? The Loretta Young Show: circa late “50’s

20. What TV show do you wish you never watched? Days of our Lives

21. What’s the weirdest show you enjoyed? American Pickers

22. What TV show scared you the most? A show on which Charles Manson was being interviewed

23. What is the funniest TV show you have ever watched? Will and Grace

24. What show was canceled too early into its run? Saving Grace

What I Read #77

Shelter by Harlan Coben: This Young Adult novel is fantastic. Young Mickey Bolitar comes to live with his Uncle Myron Bolitar (who is an ongoing character of Coben's novels). He befriends Ema, a typical "goth" teenager and nerdy "Spoon," who wants so badly to be "one of the in crowd." Together, they go hunting for Ashley, Mickey's new girlfriend, who has mysteriously vanished.

Coben does a fine job making this novel both exciting and age appropriate, without being "corny." The dialog is up to date, as are the actions of the young people.

Though you adult readers probably wouldn't find this an interesting read, as a former educator and an avid proponent of reading for all ages, I would recommend this as a good read for any teenager, both male and female, though I think it would appeal especially to the guys.

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #76

Lion of Babylon by Davis Bunn: As far as I am concerned, this novel should be on everyone's reading list. Especially if you like political thrillers.

Marc Royce, a former State Department employee, is reinstated and sent to Baghdad on a special assignment. What he finds there is a miracle. The Shias and the Sunnis all coming together for the betterment of Iraq. But there is a mission to be accomplished. The Iranians continue to kidnap children of influential Iraqis to keep them suppressed. Also, a good friend of Marc's and three others have been kidnapped and it is up to Marc to bring them back alive.

He enlists the help of Sameh, a Baghdad lawyer, and Hamid, chief of Baghdad police. Working together, they set of into Iran to recover those who have been taken from their families.

What I found most interesting was the way Bunn wove the differences and similarities of Christianity and Muslim into this story. The coming together of the different religions for a common good was fascinating.

Happy Reading,
JE

Check it out!

Check out my new pics on my other blog, "Back Home Again in Indiana." Finally, something new!

Peace,
JE

Back From Oz

The Witch, not Glenda, the other one, and the tin man arrived at my house last night. They seem to be on a "sugar high." Gee, I wonder why.
The Divine Miss K looked adorable in her gleaming witch's costume, and RJ was hilarious as the tin man. They had been trick or treating around their neighborhood before they came to Papaw's house, so they were primed for treats. Also lots of pictures and laughs. Miss K serenaded us on the keyboard, and RJ entertained us by dancing and eating cookies. A good time was had by all. Aren't grand children "grand!"

Peace,
JE