Enough about twitter, flickr, and widgets. Let's talk flesh and blood. We just adopted a puppy recently on a Sunday morning when defenses were down with the parental units. We could not take day of, " PLEASE, can we get a dog?????? " So, Lucy has arrived about a month ago. My recent observations of ownership of a labradoodle:
1. Energy abounds. Often times when the energy has a chance of building up without release, she runs amok. Lamps fly, pillows are tossed, rugs end up bunched at the end of the hallway. I feel for my cat...
2. The Mouth. it should be her nickname. She gnaws, licks and bites anything that is in her range. She carries laundry, specifically underwear and socks, and drops them when she grows bored-usually at the front door where visitors come in. Other items might include shower puffs, large tree branches, dead birds, shoes (a given), and sunglasses.
3. Eating Habits-wow this is a scary thing. She has the dog food thing down pretty good. Then evening arrives and its time to forage. First, we make a trip to the cat littler box and have a snack. This produces thirst, so we are headed to the toilet for a refreshing drink in the porcelain god. Now its time to walk, so great opportunity to hunt crickets, eat them alive; then if we are really fortunate, there might be some rabbit terds in the grass for a night cap. Moral: never let the dog mouth near you...
4. Training. Needs to be slow and steady. She hasn't been thrown out of Puppy Kindergarten yet, so thats a plus. Things we need to work on-Come! (this is a complete joke), no jumping, stay, and leave the treat until I say you can have it. She can sit. And lay down. Not even on demand. All you need is a food product-peaches, carrots, tomato....
So, life has been altered as we once knew it. I have no more crickets in my yard. I never have to clean the cat litter box. The baby gate is back up. Sigh.....
Saturday, November 24, 2018
puppy updates 10/20/08
Another past posting....
I suppose its a good thing to update the growth of our furry member of the family. Not good things and not so good things.
SHe has graduated from puppy training. However, it was suggested she repeat. Where did we go wrong?
We are getting a little more frisky. Tree branches are getting biggeras she drags them into the house. I came home one day after crating her-she greeted me at the door. She turned her crate over. The big escape.
Couple of shoes have bitten the dust.
THe up side-we put an electric fence up and its working very well. No more bolting to the neighbors. It must be that pain factor.
I suppose its a good thing to update the growth of our furry member of the family. Not good things and not so good things.
SHe has graduated from puppy training. However, it was suggested she repeat. Where did we go wrong?
We are getting a little more frisky. Tree branches are getting biggeras she drags them into the house. I came home one day after crating her-she greeted me at the door. She turned her crate over. The big escape.
Couple of shoes have bitten the dust.
THe up side-we put an electric fence up and its working very well. No more bolting to the neighbors. It must be that pain factor.
kudos to my nephew 6.28.11
Originally published 6/28/11 on another blog site I had..I am putting everything in one location..
Okay, so i did go off a bit about those dang kids not sending me a thank you for grad money. Since then, my nephew has given me a very nice written thank you note and a pic of him from his prom. And I understand a friend's son is working on his-might take him a while, but that okay. I take back my whinin...partially...still haven't heard from 2 others.
To change topics, perpetual issues at the library. I really do think the powers above me would love to shut the doors of this building because of the rental issues we see everyday. Ideally, we need to be in our own building and get out of here.
Friday afternoon was full of new and favorite patrons. Our regulars appeared. The complainer who never has her holds waiting for her because we lose them (amazing, I say to her, that you are the ONLY person this happens to). Sit down man, who wears the same outfit every day-bathing trunks, button up shirt tucked in the suit, tennis shoes. The woman who claims to belong to the Mensa group (which I highly doubt), and a new person. She needed to tell me that the summer reading list publication had a GLARING editing mistake and what am I going to do about it? After all, she was editor of not one, but TWO new york newspapers and this was simply unacceptable. Perhaps she could just make paper airplanes out of those publications. And the roof continues to leak. Despite no rain in 2 weeks.
Perhaps its time for a vacation.
Okay, so i did go off a bit about those dang kids not sending me a thank you for grad money. Since then, my nephew has given me a very nice written thank you note and a pic of him from his prom. And I understand a friend's son is working on his-might take him a while, but that okay. I take back my whinin...partially...still haven't heard from 2 others.
To change topics, perpetual issues at the library. I really do think the powers above me would love to shut the doors of this building because of the rental issues we see everyday. Ideally, we need to be in our own building and get out of here.
Friday afternoon was full of new and favorite patrons. Our regulars appeared. The complainer who never has her holds waiting for her because we lose them (amazing, I say to her, that you are the ONLY person this happens to). Sit down man, who wears the same outfit every day-bathing trunks, button up shirt tucked in the suit, tennis shoes. The woman who claims to belong to the Mensa group (which I highly doubt), and a new person. She needed to tell me that the summer reading list publication had a GLARING editing mistake and what am I going to do about it? After all, she was editor of not one, but TWO new york newspapers and this was simply unacceptable. Perhaps she could just make paper airplanes out of those publications. And the roof continues to leak. Despite no rain in 2 weeks.
Perhaps its time for a vacation.
coming back....
Yep, been a long time. I lost my mojo when mom headed to the next world. I need to wake up some creative juices and share my words of fun. Maybe not wisdom..just observations. And after all, I work in a public library which is always good for some interesting stories.
It's Thanks giving weekend and always brings back my memories of early family days. My mother WAS Thanksgiving. She ate and breathed the whole holiday. It was always a big production involving multitudes of food prep, family, ex-husbands, and friends. Turkey was always on the menu, but it really was all about the side dishes that have been on the table for 3 generations. Over the course of growing up, some were updated and some were just crossed off the list. Celery Salad was just that. It landed on the table every year. No one ate it. My mother swears it is a German dish my great grandmother made. Perhaps it was the same celery salad every year-just resurrected. Mashed rutabagas was an update to Winter Puree. It really didn't increase in popularity however.
My mother made is happen. One year the oven was broken and she simply asked to use the neighbors oven. That was the same year dinner guests sat under the table to drink stingers after the meal.
We open our doors to anyone. Nick was especially kind hearted and brought the entire Hispanic kitchen staff of the Brass Elephant to dinner. He also brought a nursing home resident one year, followed by a homeless woman a couple of years later. It was always a surprize-
And who could forget our game playing after each meal, where mom gave a great rendition of a beluga whale. She was ALL in.
It's Thanks giving weekend and always brings back my memories of early family days. My mother WAS Thanksgiving. She ate and breathed the whole holiday. It was always a big production involving multitudes of food prep, family, ex-husbands, and friends. Turkey was always on the menu, but it really was all about the side dishes that have been on the table for 3 generations. Over the course of growing up, some were updated and some were just crossed off the list. Celery Salad was just that. It landed on the table every year. No one ate it. My mother swears it is a German dish my great grandmother made. Perhaps it was the same celery salad every year-just resurrected. Mashed rutabagas was an update to Winter Puree. It really didn't increase in popularity however.
My mother made is happen. One year the oven was broken and she simply asked to use the neighbors oven. That was the same year dinner guests sat under the table to drink stingers after the meal.
We open our doors to anyone. Nick was especially kind hearted and brought the entire Hispanic kitchen staff of the Brass Elephant to dinner. He also brought a nursing home resident one year, followed by a homeless woman a couple of years later. It was always a surprize-
And who could forget our game playing after each meal, where mom gave a great rendition of a beluga whale. She was ALL in.
Friday, December 16, 2016
Happy Holidays!
Happy end of 2016!! I am actually relieved to see this year come to an end, mostly due to a miserable election process with an ending I had not seen coming. I am hoping for a better 2017, but time will tell on that with our new administration. As I have said many times-my desire to be well informed is currently at odds with my desire to remain sane.
Onto to happier moments-Alan and I took a cruise out of Baltimore to the Caribbean in February-perfect timing. Warmth, sunshine, umbrella drinks, great company, cheesy entertainment. A much need break.
Maddie finished her first year at NC State with great success. She joined the Rugby team and we were all introduced to a whole new language-scrums, line outs, rucks, trys, knock ons....yeah, definitely a learning curve to understand this game. They pass backwards, they wear silly scrum caps, push people into the air and huddle in large groups with heads between thighs. Those are tough girls. Until the game is over. Then the opposing team is invited to a rugby 'social', where they sing dirty rugby songs and drink. The appeal is the non competitive spirit off the field and the social connections among team members. Kinda like a Rugby sorority, where everyone is welcome. As a mother, it is hard to watch-you hope your off spring will avoid injury and simply run away.
Andrew continues to live in Baltimore and juggle 3 jobs, two of which are at 2 different county libraries. His goal is to find full time work at just one library. Going back to school is also in his mind. He has also taken a liking to cooking and his new endeavor is Korean. He did find out that one can be a bit heavy handed with the Korean peppers and hot sauce-all at one time. Not recommended.
Lucy the dog is working towards being a therapy dog, where she can visit nursing homes, hospitals, and libraries. This is more challenging than one might think-she is still very much a dog with springs on her paws. No command is completed without huge enthusiasm. She jumps into a lay position, if that is even possible. She sits, but she twitches until she is released. Patience is a challenge.
Alan hasn't given up the job yet, although he could walk away tomorrow. And I could as well. Just got to get through college tuition...
Rest of the family is doing well-Abby is at Towson working towards her 4 year degree. Conor has finished his degree and deserves a huge pat on the back! Katie is living in Annapolis and doing very well in her job. Nick is working towards becoming a limo driver, with an official hat. Tim might be getting involved with the medical marijuana business with Sophia in the next year.
Wishing everyone good health and prosperity in the coming year!!
The Adams
Onto to happier moments-Alan and I took a cruise out of Baltimore to the Caribbean in February-perfect timing. Warmth, sunshine, umbrella drinks, great company, cheesy entertainment. A much need break.
Maddie finished her first year at NC State with great success. She joined the Rugby team and we were all introduced to a whole new language-scrums, line outs, rucks, trys, knock ons....yeah, definitely a learning curve to understand this game. They pass backwards, they wear silly scrum caps, push people into the air and huddle in large groups with heads between thighs. Those are tough girls. Until the game is over. Then the opposing team is invited to a rugby 'social', where they sing dirty rugby songs and drink. The appeal is the non competitive spirit off the field and the social connections among team members. Kinda like a Rugby sorority, where everyone is welcome. As a mother, it is hard to watch-you hope your off spring will avoid injury and simply run away.
Andrew continues to live in Baltimore and juggle 3 jobs, two of which are at 2 different county libraries. His goal is to find full time work at just one library. Going back to school is also in his mind. He has also taken a liking to cooking and his new endeavor is Korean. He did find out that one can be a bit heavy handed with the Korean peppers and hot sauce-all at one time. Not recommended.
Lucy the dog is working towards being a therapy dog, where she can visit nursing homes, hospitals, and libraries. This is more challenging than one might think-she is still very much a dog with springs on her paws. No command is completed without huge enthusiasm. She jumps into a lay position, if that is even possible. She sits, but she twitches until she is released. Patience is a challenge.
Alan hasn't given up the job yet, although he could walk away tomorrow. And I could as well. Just got to get through college tuition...
Rest of the family is doing well-Abby is at Towson working towards her 4 year degree. Conor has finished his degree and deserves a huge pat on the back! Katie is living in Annapolis and doing very well in her job. Nick is working towards becoming a limo driver, with an official hat. Tim might be getting involved with the medical marijuana business with Sophia in the next year.
Wishing everyone good health and prosperity in the coming year!!
The Adams
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
summer reads
Boy, I have really lost my mojo since my mother died. I have no desire to write for the longest time-maybe the tides are turning. So, I thought I could start with a simple blog item about good summer reads. I was just asked for some suggestions, so this might be a good place to share. So, here ya go...happy reading!!
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J.Ryan Stradel A story of Eve, who is born into a foodie family of the Northern Midwest, and we follow her life as she makes food her passion. Chapters are written like vignettes, all tied to Eve in some fashion as the sotry moves forward. And there are great recipes in there as well...
All Things Cease to Appear by Elizabeth Brundage. Book opens with a father and his 3 year old daughter standing on the doorstep of a neighbor to announce his wife was murdered while he was at work and the 3 year old was present when the murder occurred. Great Psychological thriller.
Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson. Liked Gone Girl? You will like Kind Worth Killing. Fast paced with ruthless characters.
Book of you by Claire Kendal. A great stalker story. And a perfect summer read.
Light between Oceans by ML Stedman. A young couple live on an island to care for the lighthouse hundreds of miles from the mainland, where a boat, a dead man, and a very alive baby, wash ashore on their island. There are great moral questions with this story.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara This is a heavy but well written story of four men who meet in college and remain friends thorughout their lives. The story focuses on one character, Jude, who probably has had more heartbreak and tragedy than anyone could imagine. A beautifully written story, but a long one..700+ pages.
Enjoy!!
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J.Ryan Stradel A story of Eve, who is born into a foodie family of the Northern Midwest, and we follow her life as she makes food her passion. Chapters are written like vignettes, all tied to Eve in some fashion as the sotry moves forward. And there are great recipes in there as well...
All Things Cease to Appear by Elizabeth Brundage. Book opens with a father and his 3 year old daughter standing on the doorstep of a neighbor to announce his wife was murdered while he was at work and the 3 year old was present when the murder occurred. Great Psychological thriller.
Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson. Liked Gone Girl? You will like Kind Worth Killing. Fast paced with ruthless characters.
Book of you by Claire Kendal. A great stalker story. And a perfect summer read.
Light between Oceans by ML Stedman. A young couple live on an island to care for the lighthouse hundreds of miles from the mainland, where a boat, a dead man, and a very alive baby, wash ashore on their island. There are great moral questions with this story.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara This is a heavy but well written story of four men who meet in college and remain friends thorughout their lives. The story focuses on one character, Jude, who probably has had more heartbreak and tragedy than anyone could imagine. A beautifully written story, but a long one..700+ pages.
Enjoy!!
Monday, March 14, 2016
the political climate
There is a new series running on HBO called the Circus, which is a documentary showcasing the current presidential race to the White House. And it truly reflects the insanity..it is like watching a 3 ring circus before our very eyes.
I am starting to believe the GOP is going to implode on itself with the direction it is going. It has no one to blame but themselves, when the Tea Party reared its ugly head a few years back and splintered the Party. So now the price is being paid. They have Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and Donald Trump as their front runner candidates. Who exactly is the better choice among these folks? Ted Cruz, who is a stanch Evangelical, who touts far right positions in abortion, gun ownership, and gay marriage. Marco Rubio, a youngster, who lambasted Trump with a reference to how small his hands are and 'we all know what means'. This topic of interest came up at the Republican debates, where Trump declared that there was nothing wrong with his anatomy-he was good down there. Yes, a presidential debate where we are discussing your penis size. That is found in ring number 1. In Ring number 3, we have Ted Cruz, who says he will support Trump if he gets the election-UNLESS HE SHOOTS SOMEONE. Obviously, Cruz has a very strong morality line he will not cross.
And then in the center ring, is Donald Trump. The reality star/businessman, who is a racist, a bigot, and a bully. All illegal Mexicans will be deported. Muslims will be required to register in this country. He is arrogant and has the mentality of a 13 year old. He makes false statements, lies, and says what his people want to hear. This week, there has been some very ugly protesting going on a Trump's rally's, in which Trump feels they need to be thrown out or better yet, beat up.
Is this really where the GOP party wants to go? Because if, god forbid, he is elected, it will be the end of the Republican party as we know it.
Someone better take the reins, before this horse race is completely out of control for years to come.
I am starting to believe the GOP is going to implode on itself with the direction it is going. It has no one to blame but themselves, when the Tea Party reared its ugly head a few years back and splintered the Party. So now the price is being paid. They have Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and Donald Trump as their front runner candidates. Who exactly is the better choice among these folks? Ted Cruz, who is a stanch Evangelical, who touts far right positions in abortion, gun ownership, and gay marriage. Marco Rubio, a youngster, who lambasted Trump with a reference to how small his hands are and 'we all know what means'. This topic of interest came up at the Republican debates, where Trump declared that there was nothing wrong with his anatomy-he was good down there. Yes, a presidential debate where we are discussing your penis size. That is found in ring number 1. In Ring number 3, we have Ted Cruz, who says he will support Trump if he gets the election-UNLESS HE SHOOTS SOMEONE. Obviously, Cruz has a very strong morality line he will not cross.
And then in the center ring, is Donald Trump. The reality star/businessman, who is a racist, a bigot, and a bully. All illegal Mexicans will be deported. Muslims will be required to register in this country. He is arrogant and has the mentality of a 13 year old. He makes false statements, lies, and says what his people want to hear. This week, there has been some very ugly protesting going on a Trump's rally's, in which Trump feels they need to be thrown out or better yet, beat up.
Is this really where the GOP party wants to go? Because if, god forbid, he is elected, it will be the end of the Republican party as we know it.
Someone better take the reins, before this horse race is completely out of control for years to come.
Friday, March 4, 2016
library musings...
Never drink and read....
At around 3:15, a customer at the public PC exhibited trouble handling her belongings. I was unable to have a coherent conversation with her and could smell the odor of alcohol from her, just as another staff member had alerted. She was a customer familiar to me from past visits -- first name Heather -- and I asked if we could call anybody to assist her. She could not give me a straight answer and her attempts at communication trailed off into mumbles, although she periodically began to yell and also tried to get the attention of the customer on PC 14. I told her we needed her to leave the library until she felt better, but she did not comply. I called 911 for assistance and an officer responded after about 15 minutes to assist. The officer tried as I had done and called for backup when her first several attempts did not result in any voluntary movement by Heather. Eventually, Heather was gently escorted out of the library by two officers and she sat on the curb a while. A staff member saw the officers hand cuff her a while later.
Meanwhile, in a bathroom near you...
An occasional customer notable for his missing teeth and his difficulty communicating used the restroom prior to closing and required repeated encouragements to vacate the restroom after 9 pm. We are simply recording this incident in case it becomes a habit, as we suppose he may be homeless and we wish staff to be alert to him. He carries a strong odor of infrequent bathing mixed with heavy tobacco use. He was responsive but unintelligible to staff speaking to him through the closed door, and he did exit before 9:10 pm without further incident.
Another Trump supporter...
Around 12:00 or so this afternoon, a slender black adult male presented himself to the info desk and launched into an aggressive speech, advocating for votes for Donald Trump by everyone 18 years or older in order to rid the country of bleeding heart liberals. He went on a little bit about getting rid of illegals, and we were taken aback by his extremely aggressive speech.
It was unclear what he had come to the library for, but as Kelly and I engaged in a little back and forth conversation, we did not meet his standards in any way. He accused us of looking like bleeding heart liberals whom he continued to spew hate speech about. He ranted offensively about Hispanics not paying their bills and working the system. We also listened to him tell us that we did not know who we were speaking to and he reached into his jacket.
He pulled out an ID, which we were really hoping for, given the obvious alternatives and his obvious disgust with much of humanity. He is a "frickin' Inspector with the State of MD" and he is "in the courts" all the time (watching dishonest illegals abuse the system) and we better "watch what you say" because "you never know who you're speaking to". Also: "You better be careful because you don't know who you're speaking to."
We agreed to his wise advice, and I apologized for any offense, so that we could diffuse the situation and end the connection, withdrawing the audience for his rants.
Holly witnessed most of the exchange and kept ready to call 911 and will attach his picture. She says he has been in before and responded angrily and inappropriately to being advised that we are not part of Baltimore City Library. Her perception is that he was extremely threatening to the staff and we want to alert staff that you might find yourself unable to communicate rationally with him if he visits you.
He went on to seat himself at a PC assigned to another person and left our "stupid library" when Holly advised him of the signup procedures.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Tribute to Mom
I had to share this, as it was a tribute to my mom from Alan at her service. I was really touched by it, and so spot on:
Monday, December 14, 2015
Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays to everyone!
Have to say, the creative juices have been on a hiatus since the death of mom, but I am slowly coming around. It might be due to the holiday spirit, despite the very large void we have now around this time of year. However, I remember good times and a happy memory of our trip to Vegas this time of year. She always embraced the experience in front of her, which made travelling so much fun. We hit a happy hour at a posh hotel bar the first night we were there. She immediately made friends with a young couple from England, where we shared many adult beverages and became friends on Facebook. The difference is she can hang for a while and then has to call it quits. She was in bed by 8 and here I was, feeling pretty good and no partner in crime. But what a great time we had....
On to some wonderful news. Maddie began her freshman year at North Carolina State University this past fall and is loving it. Big school with division I sports-lots of school spirit and very close to Raleigh, a small city with a great arts community and great restaurants. We visit as often as we are allowed. Academically, she is doing very well in the engineering field. It was an adjustment not to have her in the house, but after I realized we no longer have a trail of clutter, I am kinda liking it. And thank god for technology-communication is only a text away.
Andrew has also made his move and is living in Baltimore in my mother's coop apartment. he moved in at the beginning of December, thanks to my mother ensuring he would get the apartment. His cousin Abby will be moving in in January, as well as his best friend Kelly. The apartment is huge-it has 3 bedrooms and located walking distance to Fells Point.
Additionally, he is working a second job at Anne Arundel County libraries as a circulation assistant. His hope is to continue down this path and make libraries a career. Third generation.
Alan is still working-likes his job too much to leave it. I am also still working, although I can retire if I wanted to. College needs to be paid for however...
We took a fabulous Mediterranean cruise in June, as a graduation gift to Maddie. We visited FLorence, Rome, and Naples, as well as the south of France and Spain. We stayed a few extra days in Barcelona, which was wonderful.
We are wishing all of you a wonderful holiday and healthy new year!
The Adams
Have to say, the creative juices have been on a hiatus since the death of mom, but I am slowly coming around. It might be due to the holiday spirit, despite the very large void we have now around this time of year. However, I remember good times and a happy memory of our trip to Vegas this time of year. She always embraced the experience in front of her, which made travelling so much fun. We hit a happy hour at a posh hotel bar the first night we were there. She immediately made friends with a young couple from England, where we shared many adult beverages and became friends on Facebook. The difference is she can hang for a while and then has to call it quits. She was in bed by 8 and here I was, feeling pretty good and no partner in crime. But what a great time we had....
On to some wonderful news. Maddie began her freshman year at North Carolina State University this past fall and is loving it. Big school with division I sports-lots of school spirit and very close to Raleigh, a small city with a great arts community and great restaurants. We visit as often as we are allowed. Academically, she is doing very well in the engineering field. It was an adjustment not to have her in the house, but after I realized we no longer have a trail of clutter, I am kinda liking it. And thank god for technology-communication is only a text away.
Andrew has also made his move and is living in Baltimore in my mother's coop apartment. he moved in at the beginning of December, thanks to my mother ensuring he would get the apartment. His cousin Abby will be moving in in January, as well as his best friend Kelly. The apartment is huge-it has 3 bedrooms and located walking distance to Fells Point.
Additionally, he is working a second job at Anne Arundel County libraries as a circulation assistant. His hope is to continue down this path and make libraries a career. Third generation.
Alan is still working-likes his job too much to leave it. I am also still working, although I can retire if I wanted to. College needs to be paid for however...
We took a fabulous Mediterranean cruise in June, as a graduation gift to Maddie. We visited FLorence, Rome, and Naples, as well as the south of France and Spain. We stayed a few extra days in Barcelona, which was wonderful.
We are wishing all of you a wonderful holiday and healthy new year!
The Adams
Friday, October 16, 2015
Mom
I have spent the last few days gathering up my strength to put this entry out, as i continue to realize my emotions are very close to the surface still. Mom died October 5th, well really the 4th, but declared on the 5th. This morning i went to mail her application for copies of the death certificate and actually came back to work and smiled, despite being close to tears when in front of incompetent service people. I turned into her. Me at the post office, "I need stamps for this envelope-it has to be self addressed and there will be 10 pieces of paper in it." "Post office worker' "I can't tell you that-it needs to be weighed". Me, "Well, i can't really weigh it, can i??? There are no papers in there yet." "How bout you put a slew of stamps on there and call it a day?"
Yeah, they say she is always with you. Those moments make this true. I heard her yelling after Ben Carson said the people of Pompeii should have run away from the lava and they could have saved themselves. I opened a package that contained special scissors to assist you in opening a package, yet you can't open the package to get to the scissors. She purposely left the package closed. I smiled.
The thought of not being able to pick up the phone everyday is overwelmingly sad. I need to tell her how Andrew's job interview went. Or Maddie's experience with 3D printing. Or just to bitch about neighbors who ask the board to do impossible things. Or to simply help me deal with this grief and sadness. She was my go to person for everything. She was my best friend, my confidant, my biggest supporter. It's a bitch to lose your mother.
I try to focus on the happy memories. her quirky habits-she had plastic boxes and pretty hat boxes for everything. We found her box of ornaments for her Queen Elizabeth tree she put up in the dining room every year. And I don't know what we will do at Thanksgiving-no one has the celery salad recipe. Nor will we be able to share her silliness when we played Quelf. I have to find that video of her acting like a whale.
So, this might not be the last of my entries of Mom. But this is all the strength I have for today. I look forward to an afternoon of celebration for her lust of life, her incredible humor, her intelligence, and telling it like it is. Especially on the streets of New York.
I love you Mom.
Yeah, they say she is always with you. Those moments make this true. I heard her yelling after Ben Carson said the people of Pompeii should have run away from the lava and they could have saved themselves. I opened a package that contained special scissors to assist you in opening a package, yet you can't open the package to get to the scissors. She purposely left the package closed. I smiled.
The thought of not being able to pick up the phone everyday is overwelmingly sad. I need to tell her how Andrew's job interview went. Or Maddie's experience with 3D printing. Or just to bitch about neighbors who ask the board to do impossible things. Or to simply help me deal with this grief and sadness. She was my go to person for everything. She was my best friend, my confidant, my biggest supporter. It's a bitch to lose your mother.
I try to focus on the happy memories. her quirky habits-she had plastic boxes and pretty hat boxes for everything. We found her box of ornaments for her Queen Elizabeth tree she put up in the dining room every year. And I don't know what we will do at Thanksgiving-no one has the celery salad recipe. Nor will we be able to share her silliness when we played Quelf. I have to find that video of her acting like a whale.
So, this might not be the last of my entries of Mom. But this is all the strength I have for today. I look forward to an afternoon of celebration for her lust of life, her incredible humor, her intelligence, and telling it like it is. Especially on the streets of New York.
I love you Mom.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
library stories
NEAR BEER???
At approximately 3:00 Meg reported to me that there was a Solo Cup sitting on the grate by the entrance with a suspicious liquid in it. I walked over and the red solo cup was filled to the brim with a yellow foamy liquid...either urine or beer. I put on gloves and took it into the bathroom to dispose of it. The smell indicated it was beer. I poured it down the toilet and threw the Solo cup into the trash.
A few minutes later the patron checked out his items and asked the circ staff what had happened to his cup. They told him it had been disposed of, as alcoholic beverages were not allowed in the library. Mr P. became very upset and I was asked to come out and speak to him. I reiterated that alcoholic beverages were not allowed in the library and neither were uncovered cups. He asked for his cup back and I told him that it had been disposed of. He got very belligerent with me at this point and said that the cup contained "near beer" and that it was my responsibility to go to the liquor store and replace it. I informed him that I have no way of telling if something is "near" or "real" beer and that it was still an uncovered container in the library. At this point he started yelling at me directly, said "Fuck You" and I asked him to leave. He refused to leave and Don dialed 911. he kept disputing the rules and I asked Leslie to print a copy of the library Rules and Regulations for him. I told Mr P. I would highlight the rules he had broken and he needed to leave.
Mr P. said "You can highlight my ass!" and left. A few minutes later Officer Connor responded. He had seen Mr Pastor walking down the street and asked if we wanted him brought back to the library. We said no. Officer Connor left to speak with him.
Cowboy stops by the library
At approximately 2:20, a cowboy named Doc stopped off at the library during his excursion towards downtown on West St. When we discovered his presence, he had hitched his two horses to a light post on the front lawn. A Capital reporter was interviewing him and several people were gathering and taking photos. Several staff went to check it out – it was very exciting! I was on the desk and asked for help from Kate and Heather. They went out to observe. A few minutes later, I noticed Heather at the main doors telling Mr. Mishler that he couldn’t leave his horses unattended. Mr. Mishler started asking staff if they would stay outside and watch them for him and was told that we can’t do that for him. Mr. Mishler said he would find someone to watch his horses because he wanted to come in for a minute to check Facebook.
I went inside to phone Dana and she gave me guidance on asking him to leave the grounds. We could allow him to complete the interview, but then he would need to leave because the horses were blocking the path to the library and we had concerns about safety of library customers. It turns out that while we were on the phone, he had successfully found a volunteer to watch the horses and came inside and briefly used the computer. By the time Kate, Heather, Evelyn and I returned, he was back outside, finishing up with the Capital Reporter. He mounted and rode off down West St. As he was leaving, Heather said “Thank you for stopping by” and he responded “Sorry for breaking the rules, but we need to keep our hearts open and let go of our fear.”
Intoxicated Half Naked Man
On Monday, Sept. 21st., at approx. 3:23 pm a gentleman came up to me to tell me there was a man on our property showing his genitals. I went outside and saw this for myself. I phoned 911 and a policewoman and then 3 more officers came out to this police call. While I was waiting for the police to come, a father was going to have a chat with the disoriented man and I explained to him that I had called police and politely advised him that he might just want to let the police handle the situation, so he listened and left. The middle school age children approx. 7 - 8 of them came down the small path through Rose's parking lot to our parking lot like they do everyday after school. The intoxicated man dropped his pants and was yelling at the children, who inturn started screaming. Another gentleman who saw the nudity came and stood with me, while waiting for police to come. The policeman had mentioned that the intoxicated man will probably be banned for this incident from school, library areas. Police took the intoxicated half naked man in handcuffs with them. I and the other gentleman as witnesses, may be called to court for this man's indecent exposure. The half naked man's name is Wilson.
Monday, September 21, 2015
changes in life
It's quiet. There are many moments of silence. Other than Lucy snoring. Maddie has been in North Carolina for about 6 weeks. I am getting used to it, as long as I get thrown a bone and she calls me on occasion. I know she is happy there, but at the same time, feels claustrophobic at times-despite the size of the campus. Your world kind of closes in-classes, library, sleep, eat. And despite all the campus offers (especially this size), there's never time. An added bonus-being in the backyard of Raleigh is a wonderful thing.
So, I keep myself very busy with house projects, adult coloring, and more socializing. I also have Andrew, who has been a joy to have around and will help me in any way I ask. And he's funny-
I suspect we will see less of her as she continues her pursuits. She is talking about an apartment next year. She wants to study overseas. All the things you should do at the age of 17 almost 18. I miss her, yet know this is where she wants to be.
One down. One to go.
So, I keep myself very busy with house projects, adult coloring, and more socializing. I also have Andrew, who has been a joy to have around and will help me in any way I ask. And he's funny-
I suspect we will see less of her as she continues her pursuits. She is talking about an apartment next year. She wants to study overseas. All the things you should do at the age of 17 almost 18. I miss her, yet know this is where she wants to be.
One down. One to go.
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
and our final stop....Barcelona pt 2
Let me count the ways I love Barcelona! Our hotel was situated right in the heart of the city-a half block from Las Ramblas on a foot traffic only wide alley (there are a lot of these in the city). Our first day we hiked up to the park and finished the day off with the Picasso Museum. Little did I know Picasso painted simple portraits before he became famous with his Cubism art.
Monday was Sagrada Familia, which was as grand as I expected it to be. They continue to build it (have been since 1926) and hope to finish in 2026, the anniversary of the architect's death-Antoni Gaudi. Beyond crazy can describe this monstrosity, which can offer mass for 6500 people. It has tree looking columns, christmas trees, fruit scruptures, a giant Jesus on a cross...pretty much everything. Gaudi's style is gingerbread house influence. Or castles that look like they were poured out of sand.
We followed that with a walk to Park Guell, which required a massive hike up a hill to the top. Despite the work out (just about killed me), the view was spectacular. And of course, the park was designed by Gaudi, so lots of ice cream sand castles and beautiful mosaic work. Dinner was a recommendation from the hotel clerk (I take my grandmother there). Spectacular. Delicious. And authentic.
Tuesday, Alan headed home and Maddie and I headed to the funicular of another beautiful fort looking over the city, Montjuic. Think we hit every form of transportation in barcelona-subway, metro, cab, bus, and cable car.
We walked down the national Museum, where we thought we could lunch in a beautiful room overlooking the city. Until we sat down and discovered the cost of lunch. We almost had to sneak out without paying for our 3.00 soda, as the server was pissed we refused to order food.
That night, we arranged flamingo dancing and Paella. Lots of fun, despite the effort to try and get the audience up and dancing with them. We looked the other way. And we sat next to a texan family, who were the epitome of obnoxious Americans. Wouldn't try and speak even a thank you in Spanish. And don't they live in a Spanish speaking state???
That night, we had our upscale dinner at a place called Pla. It was classy, yet unpretentious. Plating was stellar and the waiter comes to your table and sits down to discuss today's specials. Lovely on all levels.
Our last day was on a Barcelona beach amongst the naked Europeans. You get used to it..a way of life. And Americans can be so prudish. Our Victorian heritage i suppose.
Trip home was uneventful. However, Alan had a trip from hell. A large Nigerian woman in full Nigerian garb, sat across the aisle from him, and after an hour, started throwing up. She ended up laying in the aisle of the plane due to illness. No where to put her, as the plane was full. They got to baltimore and could not land thanks to severe thunder storms. Then they started running out of fuel and had to fly to Norfolk to refuel. Came back to Baltimore 3 hours late, only to be quarantined because of this woman's illness. finally got home at 1 30 AM. After being up for 30 hours.
college bound
Tomorrow marks the day where Maddie moves into another phase of her life. I can't say I am handling it well, but I am so excited for her and know this is what we do as parents...push them out of the nest. And she is leaving for such good reasons..as some of my friends say..its notlike she is going to jail or something.
North Carolina State will be lucky to have her. I know she will make great friends, learn many new things, and hopefully curb the party time to handle the rigorous major (environmental engineering). The house won't be the same..quiet and no trails of belongings throughout the house. Who will I share new restaurants with? Ravens games won't be the same. Catching up at the end of the day a thing of the past...
But I can't wait to hear about new adventures and new experiences. She will do great once the jitters settle. I can remember my first few weeks when I moved to Baltimore to go to school and it was unsettling and nerve wracking. It gets easier. As any new experience becomes routine.
I will miss you, but know you are ready to be launched.
North Carolina State will be lucky to have her. I know she will make great friends, learn many new things, and hopefully curb the party time to handle the rigorous major (environmental engineering). The house won't be the same..quiet and no trails of belongings throughout the house. Who will I share new restaurants with? Ravens games won't be the same. Catching up at the end of the day a thing of the past...
But I can't wait to hear about new adventures and new experiences. She will do great once the jitters settle. I can remember my first few weeks when I moved to Baltimore to go to school and it was unsettling and nerve wracking. It gets easier. As any new experience becomes routine.
I will miss you, but know you are ready to be launched.
our final chapter..spain pt 1
Barcelona. A beautiful city with fantastic food and over the top churches. It is a walking city, with many streets closed to autos, littered with cafes, sidewalk restaurants, and designer shops. I loved the ambiance of the tourist district..you walk everywhere and as you round a corner, there is a beautiful cathedral or groups of men and women dancing the Sardana, Catalonia's national dance.
Being in the city for 5 days gave us a great sense of its people and culture. Above is a charming selection of barnacles that are sold in the open market that has been in existence since the 1100's. I might need to skip that. However, Iberico ham is a delicacy there..and incredibly tasty.
Barcelona has beautiful beaches on the Mediterrean and mountains a short distance away to the west. There foods are influenced by their specific region-Catalunya. It consists of cured hams, lots of seafood (fresh fish, octupus, squid), fresh veggies, rice dishes, and tapas. We consumed copious amounts of sangria and tapas dishes (some we liked better than others). And they eat alot of tomato bread..toasted artisan bread where you squeese the juice of tomato on it.
obviously, its all about the food. But the city is beautiful, clean, and despite the warnings of pickpockets, no issues for us. Recommend to anyone.
Being in the city for 5 days gave us a great sense of its people and culture. Above is a charming selection of barnacles that are sold in the open market that has been in existence since the 1100's. I might need to skip that. However, Iberico ham is a delicacy there..and incredibly tasty.
Barcelona has beautiful beaches on the Mediterrean and mountains a short distance away to the west. There foods are influenced by their specific region-Catalunya. It consists of cured hams, lots of seafood (fresh fish, octupus, squid), fresh veggies, rice dishes, and tapas. We consumed copious amounts of sangria and tapas dishes (some we liked better than others). And they eat alot of tomato bread..toasted artisan bread where you squeese the juice of tomato on it.
obviously, its all about the food. But the city is beautiful, clean, and despite the warnings of pickpockets, no issues for us. Recommend to anyone.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
finally...a continuation...Palma Mallorca
The cruise ship pulled into Palma de Mallorca for only 5 hours, but Maddie and I took full advantage and took a quick tour of this small island off the coast of Spain. Charming and beautiful describes this piece of paradise. We wondered the streets and eventually landed in a sweet outside cafe for tapas. It was some of the best small plates we have had so far. We only saw a small slice of this beautiful island and worth another visit.
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Cannes france
Ah, now I am with my people! My peeps, who drive Maseratis and Porshes and own yachts. Who wear linen all the time. And, by the way, had more police presence than other city. No riff raff here. Or you are kicked to the curb.
Its a small town with designer shops and a large theater for the Cannes Film Festival. I made sure I have my very best hat from Marshalls and our beach bag from a tourist shop. Chic. Sophisitcated.
I will say this-we use our sunscreen. Thank God. Cause this was a typical look:
Sitting on the Mediterranean Sea for the day was just what the doctor ordered. Despite having to hang around with the common folk. Topless beaches are a norm here. I commented how comfortable Europeans are with their bodies as opposed to Americans. There are men in bikinis with large bulbous stomachs stretched out above the bikini line. And women whose breasts have embraced gravity and swing in the breezes, with no care in the world. You don't like what you see, too bad.
Great lunch at the beach..all in French. God thing we have Google translator. Ok, back on my yacht. Well, Norwegian's yacht.
Its a small town with designer shops and a large theater for the Cannes Film Festival. I made sure I have my very best hat from Marshalls and our beach bag from a tourist shop. Chic. Sophisitcated.
I will say this-we use our sunscreen. Thank God. Cause this was a typical look:
Sitting on the Mediterranean Sea for the day was just what the doctor ordered. Despite having to hang around with the common folk. Topless beaches are a norm here. I commented how comfortable Europeans are with their bodies as opposed to Americans. There are men in bikinis with large bulbous stomachs stretched out above the bikini line. And women whose breasts have embraced gravity and swing in the breezes, with no care in the world. You don't like what you see, too bad.
Great lunch at the beach..all in French. God thing we have Google translator. Ok, back on my yacht. Well, Norwegian's yacht.
Florenzia
This was a city I would love to revisit. The architecture alone was breathtaking and a smaller city feel to it. It was packed with tourists, as we suspected. We did do a tour of this city and it was a quick and dirty one. We lunched at Sabastiani, a old restaurant in the heart of Florence, where we dined on pasta, meats, and lots of wine. Dessert was Limoncello cake. I really have to shake my head sometimes at tourists we were travelling with, as a couple around my age had nothing positive to say about anything on the tour. They wanted to be able to shop and take pictures of the architecture. And they couldn't understand anything the tour guide was saying. People, read the descriptions. We are n Florence for 4 hours, then off to Pisa.
Pisa I could easily pass by. It is a leaning tower. And alot of street vendors. Not much else.
Marathon walking for 3 days. It would be nice to give my feet a break.
Monday, June 22, 2015
Rome
I have always had a romantic vision of Rome. Sidewalk cafes, sipping Italian coffee, everyone looking very cosmopolitan on quiet streets. This is so not the case. We did Rome on your own and was promptly dropped of at the Colliseum with a map and some general warnings and information. Now, we have been able to get around most European cities we have visited and this one proved to be the most challenging.
No street signs on many of the streets. Bad enough they are in italian, but some don't exist. I asked a vendor what street we were on, he vaguely pointed to my map and mumbled and answer. I asked a police office f he spoke English-he said no and turned away. Not very helpful. FInally, after an hour, we got our bearing sand set off to see all the highlights of ZRome in 6 hours or less. not an easy task. Street sellers are aggressive and pushy...and they are everywhere. I think i was asked to buy a selfie stick 87 times.
Everywhere was crowded..and again,m people trying to sell you tours to see the sites you are standing in front of. That cost no money to see. We did have a good lunch of Pizza and fresh pasta before we tackled the Vatican.
We were told the subway system was extremely simple-only 2 lines. They started a third line, and got to the third station and discovered ancient artifacts and construction has halted indefinitely until archiologists can study the area. So, yes, good news-2 lines. Bad news-don't ride it. Pick pockets everywhere. Someone tried to get into my purse, but I was on high alert and noticed and shooed this your 20 something girl away.
Vatican was a version of Rome on crack. We did make it to St. peter's square, but thats about it. Too much for Maddie and too much for us.
An overwhelming place that is better done in an off season in at least 4 days.
No street signs on many of the streets. Bad enough they are in italian, but some don't exist. I asked a vendor what street we were on, he vaguely pointed to my map and mumbled and answer. I asked a police office f he spoke English-he said no and turned away. Not very helpful. FInally, after an hour, we got our bearing sand set off to see all the highlights of ZRome in 6 hours or less. not an easy task. Street sellers are aggressive and pushy...and they are everywhere. I think i was asked to buy a selfie stick 87 times.
Everywhere was crowded..and again,m people trying to sell you tours to see the sites you are standing in front of. That cost no money to see. We did have a good lunch of Pizza and fresh pasta before we tackled the Vatican.
We were told the subway system was extremely simple-only 2 lines. They started a third line, and got to the third station and discovered ancient artifacts and construction has halted indefinitely until archiologists can study the area. So, yes, good news-2 lines. Bad news-don't ride it. Pick pockets everywhere. Someone tried to get into my purse, but I was on high alert and noticed and shooed this your 20 something girl away.
Vatican was a version of Rome on crack. We did make it to St. peter's square, but thats about it. Too much for Maddie and too much for us.
An overwhelming place that is better done in an off season in at least 4 days.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)