SPLIT IN TWO

On the edge, ready to jump off

2012-01-26T04:30:00.000-06:00

1-26-12 absent brain

I am having a fantasy this week:

Greg takes an early buy out from his Federal job, I retireand we live a simple, relaxing life back in Des Moines. What would we do? We’d stayin bed as long as we want, we’d hug a lot, we’d read, we’d go for walks, we’deat healthy cheap meals at home, we’d clean our own house, we’d have time tovolunteer. I’d work on that children’s book and do some art.

Well my fantasy is telling me that:

1) I have brain overload and can’t handle the fast pace ofmy current life,

or 2) I am feeling the effects of the Dragon new year alreadyand I am looking for a change,

or 3)Solar flares are affecting my thinking.

My conclusion this week:

After 3 years of writing this blog, I need a sabbatical. Ialso will be unplugging from Facebook for the month of February. Sad to say myfriends will not be able to see where I check in to eat, and they won’t be privyto my random thoughts…. and I won’t be tracking their every move either. Thinkof the freedom that will bring us all!

I’ll be willing to keep posting Ann’s GUEST Blogs onWednesday and I also would be happy to post any other guest blog posts from myfriends who want to fill in for me.

Can I do this? Can I unplug from this communication overloadand focus my energy in places which need more of my attention? Let’s see.

“jump”

Wednesday GUEST BLOG

2012-01-25T05:30:00.000-06:00

1-25-12 hungry brain
Ann is one of the best cooks I know! ~ Judy

MemorableEvening - Dinner For Twelve

Like Judy,this girl has her hands full with winter projects. There’s #1 healthy habit-week 3, #2clean sweeping- yet to be started, #3project woolly(mittens)- in high gear,and #4dinner for twelve for a great friend.

Long storyshort, I work for a utility company (x 14 years) and my co-worker has workedhere for 42 years. Yes, you heard me, 42 years and she works in Davenport. Sheis my right and left hand and really, the brains of the operation. I couldwrite a ton more, but she’s very humble and wanted to sign off without a bighurrah. Rats, no balloons, tea or cookies. Then came my ah! moment, have adinner for her at my house. I asked and she agreed, just keep it simple.

Now, how tomake this special? I could cater (too expensive), ask everyone to bring a dish(not special) or just cook a good meal and make it special. Yep, that’s what Idid. Well, I had 2 weeks to get this done.

The guestlist was thinned down to twelve, twelve good friends who have worked with herover the last 20 years. Then the menu, make it like a menu with choices andhave help serving it. That’s where Judy and Sue come in. I knew if I wasserving and running around, it would not be special. Sue and Judy agreed and Ican’t thank them enough.

While themenu looks complicated, it really wasn’t’ that hard to make.

JuliaChilds French Onion Soup – made from scratch with a ton of onions, brandy andwine.
Cranberry n’ Pear Green Salad – very yummy with chocolate balsamic vinegar
Fresh Green Beans Bacon Bundles – made ahead and baked before dinner
Georgia’s Meatball Pasta – thanks to my friend Georgia for making the pasta n’sauce, I added the pasta n’ cheese and cooked it in the crockpot.
Steak in Mushroom Sauce – minute steak browned, browned mushrooms n’ onions,then cooked onion soup in the crockpot.
Grandma Bonnie’s Apple Pie – yep, grandma Bonnie Longaberger and I finally gotto use my pie crust shield.
Tyler Florence Four Layer Coconut Cake – made from scratch with cake flour,baked, cut, assembled with rum sauce and butter cream filling, frosted andcovered in coconut.

Icooked/baked everything on Wednesday evening and by my calculation, I neededthree hours to finish up for 6 pm serving time on Thursday. I ended work at2:30, rushed home to turn on the crockpots, warm up the soup and hang my signs(coats here, bathroom there, do not enter here and there, food station signs).

Yes, I’m a bit detailed.

We ate inthe living room (I moved the furniture to the bedroom), with party lightsoverhead, jazz music on. The dinner called for chargers and I was able tolocate my read chargers along with a matching set of dinnerware for twelve (thanksto my Target after Christmas sale last year). The table looked very nice.

Sue and Judywere excellent, tended to our needs and served the dinner to a tee. I madedinner menus with their names on them so it would be easy for serving.Additionally, I had a nice table map for them to remember who was who. Can’tsay enough, they were terrific HELP!

To end thespecial evening, I got out the karaoke machine for 30 minutes, a lot of laughson my behalf. And as a parting gift, all the girls got to pick out a specialgift, a sweater mitten I made, aka “project woolly”. This was a major hit, eachone got to try on and select the one that fitted them best. Darn, I should ofgotten a group shot.

Congratulationsto my good friend on her 42 years of service. I’m sure she will remember thisevening for a long time. Like I said … ING… The beginning of a new adventure for Joan!

Chat Later,

That Girl,Ann Marie

Tuesday part 2

2012-01-24T12:30:00.000-06:00

1-24-12 over worked brain

My father called to give me a hard time about not blogging this week..... So a quick note at lunch:

Today the sun came out and I have started to gain backsome energy. Work the last few weeks has been draining…. Trying to juggle toomany projects at once, plus missing my “revival” time with Greg (and Clover).
I love this picture Greg sent me.

However, this week...., I AM celebrating the start of a new ChineseYear of the Dragon. I remember my acupuncture friends warning me last year to “hang on”…cause the Rabbit year would challenge everyone. This has proven to be true whenI look around me and see many of my friends or friends of friends struggling inmany different ways last year.

I ran into my friend Mark at church Sunday, after not seen him for months. He said this last year was the worst in his life. His marriageis ending. This really makes me sad since that family was one of my favoritefamilies. So after receiving this news,which punched me in the stomach….. I decided to lay low the rest of the day….And ride out the last day of the Rabbit year on the couch watching TV. Hey, Ieven took an afternoon nap. This was something that rarely happened in 2011.This made me realize I have been pushing myself way too hard in 2011. Time fora change- and I really enjoyed being lethargic all day Sunday.

I got out my CD’s of Northern Exposure (one of my favorite TVshows from the early 90’s) and started a marathon watching of season Five.This was perfect viewing for me on a gloomy winter’s day.

Not to say that I wasn’t out socializing at all this lastweekend..... Friday night Sue took to over to the Drake fitness area and we walkedthe track for an hour. Saturday nightwas a long planned Progressive Party on my street. Luckily I was not hostingand only had to walk a few houses away to have some fun.

House one (Amy and Jon) had great appetizers…. So manyto pig out on, which was my dinner. House two (Tamara and Doyle) was desserts. And as usual IF there is a piano around….Steve started to play, along with Marilyn- and we were all entertained withlovely background music and even did a sing-along.

My one neighbor, Jenny, owns a coffee shop down in the EastVillage area of Des Moines and we talked art. I now have my next place to exhibit my Peace Art come this spring- which I am very excited about. The East Villageis a perfect spot for my art, since a lot of hip, young people live and workthere.

So all in all….

Life is going along pretty well, and gee- Ishouldn’t even complain at all about this winter’s weather, it has been so easywhen compared to the winter of 2009 into 2010, although I know my parents inNorthern Iowa have received a lot more snow than Des Moines has so far thisyear.

Peace Out everyone!
Ann has a blog for tomorrow, but I won't commit to writing on Thursday- sorry.

Happy Peace

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-06:00

1-24-12

VTGIF! .....Very thankful!

2012-01-20T07:30:00.000-06:00

1-20-12 frazzled brain

So glad it is Friday..... my short work week has proven to be stressful..... or I suppose I let it become that way. I've been trying to work with a committee to set up our Fall Workshop and Banquet Dinner. It is hard to please everyone and hard to get all the pieces lined up in a row.

A light dusting of snow today, but I believe the heavier snow will be north of here. I guess I am now in the snow mood and not stressing about shoveling so much. Yet that is easy to say with only a few inches on the ground so far this year.

Last night Sue and I when over to Ann's house to help her with her "over the top" project for THIS week. Ann was hostessing a retirement dinner for 12, in honor of a co-worker. Man, she spent all week cooking and baking... and cleaning... to the extreme- but the food was fabulous. I sampled most of it. Sue and I became "the help"... serving the food and working the kitchen.

Holiday weekend report II

2012-01-19T04:00:00.000-06:00

1-19-12

Holiday weekend I am thinking every week needs a three dayweekend. It would be nice to only work a 4 day work week. I guess I couldeasily do that by putting in FOUR- ten hours days. Some people do that.

Last Sunday I got out of bed earlier than I really wantedto, (since I was up until mid-night)….. but at 8:30 Sue and I went over theChefs to have breakfast together, which was fun to have time to visit with herone on one. Then I went home to shower in time to attend 2^nd serviceat church.

After church I helped set up my art display panels for the ArtReception at being held later Sunday afternoon. With the panels, the artistswere encouraged to bring more of their work to display- beside the large pieceshung in the sanctuary. I also had lunch with a few church friends.

Sunday’s Art Reception turned out very nice. There was atrio playing music, and some delicious fancy finger food served with punch.

I had many positive comments about my large pixel art. Oneguy- a friend of a friend of a friend- who collects art…. Thought my pieceshould sell for $800 to $1,000 ! Wow I wonder if I will ever get into thatmarket? I suppose if I move to KC and startrunning in the art circles that my KC artist neighbors do….. Their art sellsfor that much.

Anyway, you know me…. I’m not ready to give up my creationso easily… as long as I still have my “day job”…. The money doesn’t mean thatmuch to me. The process of creating and the journey I take as I create is thesignificance I attach to my art.

Late Sunday night, Greg did take the northern route backfrom Detroit car show, so he came through DM and spent the night here with me. Youthink that would make me feel better, but actually it made me miss him more-since he took off again in the morning to drive to KC.

I decided I needed to relax on Monday, so I watched TV andplay around with a small pixel art piece.

Since the sun was out, I did get offthe couch and go for a 60 minute walk- otherwise I really just vegged out…. Whichwas nice so I’d be fresh for the work week ahead.

Guest Blog from Ann

2012-01-18T04:00:00.000-06:00

1-18-12 mid-week brain
I am impressed with Ann's passion! I won't get out of bed early for too many people.... Ann is quite a "mover and shaker" here in Des Moines!

MorningCoffee With Morning Joe

Yes I’m inwithdrawals right now, the road to the White House has moved down South and I’mstill questioning the vote count in Iowa. The GOP gave the nod to Mitt by 8,but I say Santorum won by the mere fact that not all precincts used the samecounting method. After watching my precinct count, I’m sure we were off by afew. I hope there’s a group of aged citizens counting the 125,000 plus paperballots somewhere.

While I lovemy politics to the right, I enjoy watching one MSNBC news program “Morning Joe”with former congressman Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzenzinski (5-8 am daily).Like they say, a good offense is a good defense, and why not hear what theother side is saying. So for the caucus, Morning Joe aired pre and post caucusshows live from a local coffee shop, Java Joes. I debated, on New Year’s Day, doI really want to get up at 4:30 am to drive 20 min to a packed coffee shop?Well I did, and not for one day, but for three days. It was so well worth it.(for a full view, click on the pictures).

Monday, thecoffee shop was packed at 5:30, so I stood in the back of those seated. To geta seat, the patrons came at 3 am to see the 4:30 am show. Wow, and I thought Iwas a nut. Tuesday “caucus day” jammed pack and Wednesday, still a good crowdand I got a front row seat at 5:30 am.

If you watchcable news, the usual suspects showed up including David Greggory, Tom Broakaw,Chris Matthews, Andrea Mitchell, Michael Steele, Caty Kay, Willie Giest and twocandidates, Michele Bachmann and Mitt Romney.

I had agreat time and there is so much to a live show. The crew of 20 or so with twodozen or so guests, spending the New Year in Des Moines, Iowa. Thank you Joeand Mika for bringing the crew and Lewis, thanks for the mug!

Chat Later,

That Girl,Ann Marie

Holiday weekend report

2012-01-17T07:30:00.000-06:00

1-17-12 tuesday brain

It’s been three whole days away from my computer and since Istepped into my home office. That was a needed break thanks to the three dayweekend- I kept busy with other activities.

Friday evening I was feeling sorry for myself, since Iwouldn’t see Greg. He was off to the Detroit Car show, meeting up with hislong-time friend Tom. It’s nice of them to have that annual activity together.

I had planned to use Saturday to clean, but I started Fridayevening…. And finished Friday evening- took about 4 hours to get my art room inorder… AND get the guest room in order again. That was a great feeling!

So on Saturday, now being ahead of schedule, I decided to goshopping for some material to recover the pillows and do a little “make over”in the living room since I brought in that new coffee table last week.

It took a couple of trips to the fabric store and Pier 1before I got sometime I liked. I spend $30 dollars on fabric to cover 6pillows, and I spend $30 on one decorative pillow on Pier 1, which I hopedwould tie everything new together. Lucky I have a pretty neural/pain couch,walls a sage green, and can make only a few small changes to get a new lookeasily.

Before:

After:

A lighter fabric

Saturday evening, Ann didn’t want me to be alone, so sheplanned a small karaoke party at my place. Ann, Sue, Mary, and Kelley came over AND some “white Russians” where also invited in. Even with the addition of the whiteRussians, our vocals didn't improve, but we did have fun.

To be comminuted…..

PS: we got snow last night, 2 to 3 inches maybe- but the nice and pretty fluffy light kind of snow.

TGIF the 13th

2012-01-13T12:15:00.000-06:00

1-13-12 non-superstitious brain

This morning, my Internet seemed to be moving as slow as Iwas, or was it only AOL I was having trouble with? This drastic change inweather really zaps my energy. I believe it could be the low humidity in thehouse. I’ve been running my humidifier nightly, but in the bedroom can barelyget it much above 12%. Just a few days ago it was 25 to 30%.

I’m moving stiff and slow…. Of course some could be theexercise and light shoveling I did yesterday.

In spite of the cold north wind, which blew for a good 36hours here, I did venture out Thursday night to walk over to my local restaurantwith Ann. Sue and Carolyn also met us there. I did feel empowered by facing thecold…. But then I also wanted to test out my new winter coat which Greg gave mefor Christmas. It’s two layers and yes it was very warm!

Here I look and felt Kenny from South Park!

This morning, when I saw a squirrel out back begging, I didventure out with some sunflower seeds. I got seven showing up.... here you can see 5.

2012-01-12T04:30:00.000-06:00

1-12-12 winter brain
Not much going on this week except work..... and the weather has turned from spring-like.... back to winter. The cold wind started blowing Wednesday afternoon and snow started about 6 PM.

In the evenings this week, I've been working on art projects. Last night I finished the pixel art I showed you Monday, but I ended up changing it up and putting it on a black canvas. It measures 12 x 12 inch.

FYI to friends who are in the central Iowa area. Sunday there is an Art Reception to open up the Westminster Fine Art's Show, which my large pixel piece is hanging in the sanctuary. Come see me. There is music and food.

2012-01-11T04:30:00.000-06:00

1-11-12 happy brain
I'm happy that Ann has a goal to get more healthy. I couldn't imagine my life without her and I want her around as we age! We can do this together.~Judy

HealthyHabits 2012

My turn tochime in on getting healthy. Yes, 2012 is my year to be more active and unlikeNewt Gingrich, I plan on losing the baggage I’ve packed on over the last 10years. Sorry no pics here, but I’m sure there is an error or two in my writing.

I wasthinking how to do this, Molly has a challenge to walk via miles and nowminutes. She has done and excellent job in 2011 w/ her activity and pounds. Sueis swimming and walking, string bean Judy is shedding the pounds that I hope tolose … haha. New habits, well it reminded me of a class that I took in college,1984, developing new habits.

In anutshell, the new habit was wearing my seat belt. Back in the 80’s, dideveryone wear seat belts? I devised a plan that I would use the radio button asmy reminder switch. I would turn on the radio after I buckled up and when Iunbuckled, turned it off. If I found myself without the tunes on, more thanlikely, my seat belt wasn’t fasten. I gave myself 30 days and for the mostpart, it worked. I was driving my little blue Subaru Bratt at the time, oh howI loved that mini-truck. I remembered from the class and from nursing school,it takes 30 days to develop a new habit.

So for 2012,my new habit is to be more active and eat smarter/healthier, which in turn, Ishould shed some pounds. That got me thinking of the keys to developing ahabit. Here are a few key points that I found on the web with someadjustments.

>30 days, focusing on small changeinstead of large ones.

>Using a trigger to help condition the newpattern.

>Use the KISS method, keep it simplestupid!

> Write/log down the commitment to the habit.

>Use check points/milestones along thejourney, readjust as needed.

>Make a public commitment, post changessomewhere.

Goal - create the habit to increase my physical activity, walkingand eating are the keys to success.

Activity – daily walking then after 2 months, group activity, hopefully Zumba.

Trigger – my radio which is set to NPR. Can’t listen unless I have walked.

Since I spend more time at work that I would like to admit, thedetails:

>Arrive at work 7 am, 30 min walkbefore 8:00

>Drink water/ice tea before my am coffee

>Oatmeal for breakfast, take amulti-vitamin

>5 min walk at 10:30

>30 min walk at 12:30

>15 min walk at 3:00

>Limit my sugar intake, wont’ be that hard

>Limit pop/soda to, no more than 2 xper month

I’m off andrunning, started the walking on January 5^th, adjusting my foodintake on a daily basis, ginned up for Get Health America and Molly’s challengeand have put the walking time on my outlook calendar at work. As for pop/soda,I’ve only had 2-3 diet coke’s since my December 1, 2011.

And today isJanuary 11^th, happy birthday to my little brother who is turning abig milestone this year. Let’s all make2012 a good year.

Chat Later

That Girl,Ann Marie

Fun food in 2012

2012-01-10T04:00:00.000-06:00

1-10-12 healthy brain

HERE is an interesting recipe for my foodie friends. Not sure I could pull this off, but I do have agave in the house now, thanks to Molly.

Johnna is quite adventurous with food!

http://52sweets.blogspot.com/2012/01/520-sweets-chocomole.html

Monday in the mood to blog

2012-01-09T06:30:00.000-06:00

1-9-12 happy brain

I enjoyed my week in KC with Greg and Clover cat, but due tothe warm weather, it was hard to believe this was only the first week of the NewYear….. i t sure seemed like March!

Last week in KC I did a lot of walking, also due to the warmweather, and due to one of my goals for 2012 is to get more active. I’m alsogiving up sugar as much as possible Monday-Friday. (Eat more vegetables!) Only on the weekends will Iallow myself to have dessert or a sweet something or other. Maybe with thesetwo things I can finally firm my middle age belly fat.

For 2012, I’m also continuing my Peace Art. HERE >>> http://onesmalldailypeaceofart.blogspot.com/

I decided I just had to- because, not only was I have fundoing it, but I also believe this daily time creating made for one of the mosthealthy years I’ve had in the last 20 years. It could be the creative outlethelped me deal with stress and/or the fact I was focusing on spreading somethingpositive out into the universe- PEACE!

Besides the Peace Art, I’ve also been playing around withmore pixel art. Here I had one laid out, but I think I will move it onto abigger canvas so I can use more of the bright pixel pieces I’ve created….. anywayyou get the idea.

On Saturday, Molly and I went shopping, as Greg enjoyed timeoutside washing his car…. That is his therapy. I was looking for something newfor the DM living room, since I had moved the large ottoman down to the KChouse, which matches the loveseat in the KC living room. I found an “artsy-fartsy”table at TJ Max. Molly gave it a “thumbs up” when I was unsure. Now that I haveit back home in DM, I really think I’m going to like it. Now a new project-find some fun material to sew some new pillow cases which will help blend thetable colors into the rest of the room.

There is close up of the finish/paint job on the table.... interesting huh?

TGIF

2012-01-06T07:17:00.001-06:00

1-6-12 January brain?
During our walk yesterday after work, Greg and I came upon what I think might be crocus coming up in a yard? We enjoyed the 65 degree, sunny day!

If you want other surprising sight, take a look at the Iowa Caucus process.

The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Moving my body in January

2012-01-05T06:15:00.001-06:00

1-5-12 awake brain

Today's weather is suppose to be warm again, expected in the 60's today...... so I got up early in order to have time to walk after work in the daylight. This will be day three of walking. Molly has started a "walking challenge" for her friends all over the country. She is challenging us to walk 500 miles in 2012.

This idea came from my God-daughter Chelsea, who last year set a goal of running 1,000 miles in 2011. Chelsea achieved this. I'm glad Molly decided on 500 miles instead of 1,000. The goal of 500 is obtainable if I walk 2 miles a day; 5 out of the 7 day week.

Otherwise, not much new going on here. Having a good week with Greg and Clover. Reading the Steve Job's book at night and just relaxing. No big projects here this week.

Wednesday GUEST Blog from Ann

2012-01-04T08:00:00.001-06:00

1-4-12 missing brain
I was not in town to attend the Iowa Caucus this year, but I learned, via Facebook from a neighbor, that my precinct when 33% with Romney. Of course many of my other neighbors were at the Democrat side of the Caucus. Here is Ann's experience this week. ~Judy

WHY IOWA MATTERS:

What an exciting time to be an Iowan. Did you caucus last night? Did your candidate win, show or place? Was the pundits right? Well you know I’m a Perry supporter and was asked to be a precinct leader, which means you help out on caucus night and speak on behalf of Gov Perry. To get my mojo set, I took time over the weekend to follow Gov Perry in Central Iowa.

First up, 12:30 rally at Boomers Coffee shop in Fort Dodge on NYE. Before the rally, I dropped in at the local drug store and struck up a conversation with the druggist. I tried to negotiate off a $1 item, only to have him roll his eyes, then we talked politics. I walked away with a beautiful decorated Christmas tree. I made a friend there.

The rally started on time, 50 media and 100 supporters. I had a close up and personal view of the Governor. Yep I chatted with him and took a picture with his lovely wife Anita. Then it was off to the Giggling Goat in Boone. The crowd was much bigger and he delivered a good stump speech.

Monday evening, I drove to Perry, Iowa for a great rally at the Hotel Patee. Larry Gatalin was the warm-up act with Gov. Bobby Jindahl and Gov Sam Brownback saying a few good words to the large crowd. I left the event feeling inspired, just maybe … just maybe I can convince a few to vote my way.

We caucused at a Baptist church with 328 voters showing up. I followed a surrogate for Ron Paul, his grandson Ben, age 15. He was very cute and said a lot of nice words about his grandfather. How do I follow that?

Here’s my speech:

We have an important decision tonight. Like many of you, I have followed the candidates closely, I was looking for a candidate of faith, family, executive leadership, a person of moral conviction and of good character, one that will be consistent and job ready the first day in office.

I found that person in Gov Rick Perry, and I saw that over the weekend while he was in Fort Dodge, Boone and Perry. I’ll give credit to one of the candidates wives saying “if you want to know what a person will do in the future, look at their past” That is so dead on.

Gov Perry came from humble beginnings, grew up on a farm, studied animal science in college, joined the Air Force then went back to Texas to farm before entering state politics. He has walked the walk.

Gov Perry is a proven leader, with real-time executive leadership, a fiscal conservative who has the experience of creating jobs, balancing state budgets, working hand-in-hand with elected officials to get the job done. He has a track record of growing the economy in Texas while protecting the citizens of Texas and the border. This is why I am caucusing for Gov Rick Perry.

Day one in the oval office, Gov Perry has committed to, by executive order, eliminate regulations and red tape so that business owners can do what they do best, build and create. (This includes repealing of mandatory healthcare), This translates to jobs, goods and services moving, money in our pockets, real commerce. That is job one in my book.

Gov Perry will work to make government work for you, reduce the size of the government, balance the budget, eliminate the agencies that are inefficient and/or obsolete (energy, commence, education), work to make congress accountable for their actions. ( I rather like the part-time congress), allow states to make the laws that work best for that state, update the tax code, protect life and marriage.

One size does not fit all – and that is what we have in Washington. It’s time for a new leader that is from outside Washington, one that does not have a record for supporting this, voting for that and now have to explain. With Gov Perry, the democrats will not be able to use that line.

Tonight, Iowa matters, your vote matters. Look beyond the rhetoric, the polls, the pundits. I ask that you join me in casting your vote for a great American, a true conservative, a proven leader, Gov Rick Perry.

The results in my Ankeny 12 precinct (didn't quite) mirror the state-wide outcome: Romney and Santorum tied at top with 25% each, Paul close with 21%, Gingrich 13%, Perry 10%, Bachman 5% and Huntsman 1%.

I’ve had a lot of fun over the last few days, on the campaign trail and at a coffee shop downtown. Morning Joe was live at Java Joes . Oh how I had fun and will write more later with a few pics. That’s a wrap!

Chat Later,

That Girl, Ann Marie

Happy New Year

2012-01-03T12:17:00.001-06:00

1-3-11 refreshed brain

I've been off work for only a week, but today as I started back to work- it felt like I was gone for at least two weeks. I guess I packed a lot of activities into that week, so it felt like more time off than just a week.

Ann will be filling me in (and you) on the Iowa Caucus activities tomorrow, since I chose to stay in KC this week and miss all the excitement. My brain is still really relaxed and thus I am not all that motivated to blog, but I suppose it will just take getting back into the groove.

For today, I'll just post a few pictures.

My New Years Weekend included NY Eve at the neighbors for dinner and game night. I also got to have lunch with my God-daughter Chelsea, along with Teresa and Molly. Chelsea is doing well with her new job.

I also agreed to attend a football viewing of his Cleveland Browns game on Sunday at the usual Browns Backers Club bar: Buffalo Wild Wings. I drank 1/4 of a beer.... really living it up !

Other pictures I saw on Facebook where pictures from my sister's family.... which gave me a smile.
CJ's girlfriend came for a first visit to their family..... this could be serious?

I guess Catherine handled the dog better than I would! I don't think Chunks was happy in his hat.

TGIF heading into the New Year!

2011-12-30T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-30-11 productive brain

Wednesday, I started cleaning and I begun with my bedroomnight stand- stacked full of books. I hadn’t planned to continue in the bedroom, but I ended upcleaning my dresser off, and two big baskets of books and stuff, along with a thoroughdusting in all corners and under the bed. I filled 3large kitchen sized wastebaskets of recycling….. I don’t understand why Icollect so much paper and magazines. I found my red scarf I have been looking for and a fewother odds and ends. I found 4 different journals in which I had started a GratitudeJournal, all 4 from different years and at various stages of completion.

I picked one which only had a few pages used, and decided tostart again.

Thursday, I was MOST grateful for the warm 50 degree weatherand sunshine. (We haven't had this warm of Christmas since 2002, when I was able to go rollerblading and broke my elbow).... This warm weather allowed me to stay motivated to get more cleaning done. Mydinning room table is now cleared off for the first time in months. The kitchen is back in order.... and I delivered mypainting for the January Art Show at Westminster…. But first I wanted to seehow it will look over the fireplace. I like it! I can’t wait to work on anotherpixel piece of artwork- small one though.

I also went to the bank and opened up an accounteddesignated for my art, in hopes that the coming year I will get more involvedwith a few art shows and try to sell some art on the Internet.

There is still several closets left to clean in 2012…. And thebasement….and the need for several trips to Good Will...... but for now- I have to appreciate all that I did get accomplished onmy two days off work.

Christmas Report

2011-12-29T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-29-11 cleaning brain
Greg and I got back into Des Moines Tuesday afternoon from our Christmas break up at Mom & Dad's. We unpacked, went out to eat, and saw a movie (The Descendants). Wednesday, Greg headed back to KC and my plans for the next few days were to use my time off work to do some deep cleaning of excess crap I have collected over the years.

I did start Wednesday afternoon, after I rewarded myself (in advance).... by have a leisurely lunch with Kelley. We hung out at Grounds of Celebration for about two hours. I'm happy to report that some of my Peace Art has sold there. 5 Peaces total so far.

Today, as I continue cleaning, I'll just post some of our Christmas pictures. I must also note that the weather in Iowa has been mild (40's and 50's) which made for some good travel weather, but it really didn't feel like Christmas without snow on the ground.

We started out on DEC 23nd, celebrating Sarah's 24th Birthday.

Christmas morning..... I had to share my peace outfit which was a gift given to me by Vivian and Clyde... so I got to be the Christmas Peace Elf and handed out the presents this year.

Hey, not bad for age 56! ?

Dad had a special gift, I made him open first.

Ann had taken his Marine picture and photo-shopped a flag in the background.

Dad happily hung this up in his office later that day.

Greg and I cooked the eggs and sausage for Christmas breakfast.... and we turned the kitchen over the Christopher and he was in charge of cooking and cutting the turkey later in the day.

We all over ate.... why do we do that?

Since we couldn't go sledding this year-..... we went bowling the day after Christmas. Hunt scored the highest with the two games combined. Greg bowled 170 on his second game..... Sarah and I had more gutter balls than we care to admit.... but my first game was my best at 92, and I did have ONE strike.

This picture cracks me up. I call it "watching Sarah bowl"

Monday we started the day off with the number one task to complete- trying to get a decent family picture!
The picture in the middle here is my favorite, since we actually got Jan to smile..... she hates getting her picture taken.

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-12-28T12:05:00.001-06:00

12-28-11 vacationing brain....
BUT Ann is not on vacation! ~Judy

Keepin’ the Flame Lit

Time toclose out 2011 and for many, there are a lot of great memories and a few sadone. No matter how much I try, at times I find myself incredibly sad. Soprojects, road tripping and running around with friends have helped immensely.

On theupside, I’ve accomplished a lot. Mended fences with my sister, glad to see mysiblings watching after each other, got to see my beautiful niece Sunita andher adorable son, Gabriel. I remember flying home mid-March 1980 to be therefor her birth, only to miss it by a week. Love you Sunita and Gabriel, you tooAmanda and Eric! I made this doll for Sunita back in 1985.

My road tripto Toronto via NYC-Hartford- PA was so much fun and I got to see singer MichaelFranti. And the best concert of all time, Maroon 5 and Train at the Iowa StateFair, seeing Janet Jackson was pretty neat too.

After saying goodbye to Dad, I said I would purchase a bench for him at theFair. Well I finally got around to purchasing the bench. For $1,200, you get a new wooden bench with a nameplate.We’re finalizing the nameplate, but it will looking like this and say somethinglike this

InMemory of our Dad

Matthew Chee You, 1931-2011

Love and miss you Dad

Tony, Sandra, Glen, Charmaine

Instead ofseeing the glass half empty, I’ll see it half full and will be looking forwardto the construction of the bench (June ’12). I’ll call it a living memorial toDad, where I can go anytime I want to. When the ’12 Fair rolls around, you willfind me there almost daily. I will look forward to a few road trips, maybe outWest to San Francisco, Treasure Island (FLA), see the Lake house in Maryland,backpacking (via train) in Europe and maybe … just maybe …. A trip to Trinidadto return my Dad to his beloved home.

And can’tforget the race to the White House. No doubt I will be caucusing on January 3^rdand if my candidate does not win the nomination, hopefully I’ll be as egg-citedto support the GOP nominee.

Have a greatNew Year everyone, if you enjoyed my posts and want to see more, drop us a line(Judy or me).

Chat Later
That Girl, Ann Marie

BIRTHDAY Girl

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-06:00

12-23-11 happy brain

God willing and the creek don't rise- my family will all be meeting up in northern Iowa later today. Of course Christmas will be on our minds and hearts.... BUT FIRST we will be celebrating Sarah's 24th birthday this evening.

Last year we also all got to be together. These are pictures from then- Sarah wanted a Hawk-eye cake. This year I'm not sure what is planned. Grandma Jean is in charge of the cake, Jan is suppose to be cooking dinner.

Happy Birthday Sarah!

This and That Thursday

2011-12-22T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-22-11

Yea! It’s winter solstice day and I’ve reached the “valley”of the year (the low point) … now I can look forward to the daylight starting to get longer.It’s a psychological marker for me and I now know that the earth will beworking its way back towards spring.... and that makes me happy.

(Also Happy Anniversary to Jean and John)

Yes, its been a busy week… but then it has been a busy yearfull of busy weeks-

Monday evening for a few hours I was at the neighborStacey’s house. She hosted a Caroling Party for our street. The usual jollygroup attended this year and we had so much fun singing while Steve playedpiano and Marilyn play her banjo.

Tuesday I finished my big church art project which is dueJanuary. So happy to finish a bit ahead of schedule and I don’t have to worryabout it next week while on Christmas break. See write up below.

Wednesday evening Sue suggested we go to the Drakebasketball game.... Since the students aregone on break, they have “buck night”. We met up with Ann and Carolyn at Haikufor appetizers and by the time we were done there, we lacked the interest in thegame and just went over to Sue’s house for awhile. I should have been home trying to get thehouse put back in order, but without a refrigerator until sometime Friday- thekitchen will remain chaotic. Greg comes in town today, so he’ll be around tohelp when the delivery comes.

I believe I’m all ready for Christmas weekend up north andthat everything is all organized in a pile to load into the car.

Next week I’m off work and hoping I can stay motivated to dosome cleaning out of old stuff, to make room for new opportunities in 2012.

NOTE:

Westminster Fine Arts 2012

will have open house for this exhibit Jan. 15th at 4:00PM- come check me out.

“Epiphany- my soul’ssunrise”

by Judy Sebern Beachy

(Acrylic pixel art 4 x 3.5 ft)

The divide between body & spirit, life & death,earth & heaven, and night & day- is not a distinct black and whiteline. Rather, it is a gap: a space of mystery and an area where allpossibilities exist, creativity is born, and colors dance together. I inviteyou to view my painting close-up as well as from afar. Judy Sebern Beachy is a Beaverdale resident and member ofWestminster.

PS: gluing pixels together was like putting a jigsaw puzzle together!

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-12-21T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-21-11 vacant brain

Ann's turn this week..... Hey- Robert's B-day (what a cutie) and Jean & John's 62nd Anniversary both tomorrow 12-22! ~Judy

Christmas Memories

Oh joy, today is December 21^st and my head is in CostaRica. See I had an opportunity to tag along with my East coast family for aChristmas trip but decided I needed to be home. So wishing my sister andbrother Feliz Navidad, safe journey and bring me back a little somethingsomething.
'
So what’s your favorite Christmas memory or Christmas tradition? I know one ofJean’s is her “grasshopper pie” yum yum for sure. Judy, well I do admire herfor her fabric gift bags. I so love that idea. And Marine dude John, I’m surehe has a few.

Growing up, my parents played a lot of Christmas music, much like me.I must have at least 50 CD’s and on the 26^th, I head over to Targetfor two CD’s at ½ price. Then there’s homemade bread, baked salty ham andcheddar cheese. Another tradition was black fruit cake made with a host offruits, wine and run. I do miss that darn fruitcake . Oh my, where has 50 yearsgone.

My tradition has been celebration my son’s birthday, December 22^nd.I did whoop it up back in the day, and it was always the coldest day of themonth. Now he’s off and a “cash n’ carry” kid. Happy birthday Roberto’. Here’sa pic I made for him last year.

Four days till Christmas and I just don’t have the joy joy In my heartthis year for obvious reasons and after cleaning the shopping mobile (my van)out, I got a bit sadder. See the last time I drove the van was two days afterDad passed. Not sure what was wrong with it but it was not running right. Rickfixed it last month and now after eight months, I cleaned it out and wouldn’tyou know it, found some of Dad’s stuff in there. He was reminding me to cleanout the Jeep, and so I did.

I’ve got four days to get the Christmas Sprit. Game on and I betterget to it. Merry Christmas everyone.

Chat Later,

That Girl, Ann Marie

Next Project

2011-12-20T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-20-11 cleaning progress brain
AND my next cleaning project is........ getting ready for a new refrigerator! So everything needed to come off the outside and inside of this last night.

Today at some point Mid-America Energy comes to picks up our old refrigerator (energy hogs).... and I will have to live without a frig until Friday, when my new one gets delivered.

I'll put a few things in a cooler out the back door in the mean time. Now I'm hoping we don't have more 50 degree days like we did this past weekend. Well, maybe I'll take the nice weather- over cold milk.

Weekend Report

2011-12-19T07:11:00.001-06:00

12-19-11 productive brain
Poor Greg has been sick most of last week and sad to say I was not in KC to take care of him, but on the other hand, glad I was not there to get exposed. Greg decided to stay in KC over the weekend since he'll be coming north for Christmas break later this week. So far I've stayed healthy and I've been fairly productive, considering it's December and the shortest daylight is coming this week.

Today, I walked into a half cleaned office..... this is the part I work in, so I'll have a nice start to Monday.

Over the weekend, Ann joined me and while I worked on my large pixel art project due in January..... Ann was working on her wool mitten project.

I really wanted to complete my art project this weekend so I wouldn't have to worry about it over the holiday. However, come Sunday evening at 8:30 PM, I was ever so close, but discovered I didn't have enough yellow pixels to finish.... Here in the lower left corner of my canvas!This sent me into the art room to try to create a few more pixels which I will attempt to blend in with the rest...... some evening this week.

Imagine Peace

2011-12-16T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-16-11 somber brain

Yesterday, much of the news centered on the end of the IraqWar. Sure a small part of me is very happy, but mostly I’m left with a sad soberfeeling…… much like I felt back in 2003 when the “Shock and Awe” was started….To me it felt like a bad decision which wouldn’t lead to any good.

And I still feel that way today.

However, I am proud of the way most American people didrealize the huge sacrifice our military families were making, and I am proudthat our solders became our respected heroes even in a war which half of us couldn't support the cause, due to the false lies which took us into Iraq.

Of course the train wreck really isn’t over….just because weare pulling out. The war, which was not paid for, has been a leading factor inour country’s money problems, which has left us weaker and unable to take careof our own people. Iraq itself.... are they better off? Only they can answer that.

Given the chance, yes- I’d go back in a time machine if Icould and ask for a re-do on all of this!

"An eye for an eye will make us blind"

Mahatma Gandhi

Politics in Iowa

2011-12-15T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-15-11 apologizing brain
I'm going to publicly apologize to my friend Ann for teasing her - and joking with her on Facebook this last week, when I commented on her choice of GOP candidates- Rick Perry. I had suggested that Ann needed to "jump off of that sinking ship".... as Perry's polling numbers have declined.

But as I listened to some Rush Limbaugh the last two days on my drive up to northern Iowa and back for work- I learned that there are really only THREE true conservative candidates: Bachmann, Perry and Stantorum. So in that case, Ann - being a conservative, has made the best choice of GOP candidates from that group. :)

What do I really know about the GOP candidates? I have watched some of the debates, but not like Ann.... she has been actively participating in the many campaign speaking engagements in Iowa and met all of the candidates in person (but probably not Rommey). She has educated herself and made her decision on who she will caucus for in a few weeks. I can respect that.

However, I can't respect the Perry's ad that Ann had posted on her Facebook page. If you are on FB, you probably know the one getting all the heat, since there have been several parodies of this ad which are being shared on the Internet.

The script talks about faith, religion, gays in the military, lack of being able to pray in schools, and blames "Obama's war on religion" for all our countries problems..... (really? I'm pretty sure Obama wasn't President back when school prayer was challenged)... In my opinion this ad does nothing for Perry- he is just playing the tune the Christian Right want to hear. This same ad could of been done by Backmann, Stantorum, or even Sarah Palin herself.

This ad makes Perry look anti-gay.... oh- ya maybe he is. (?) When will the Religious Right understand their own individual church does not have to accept gay marriage if they don't want to- they have that freedom of religion to decide. However, our country's laws are promises to be equal for everyone. Gay rights is about Civil Rights.

So Ann and I are agreeing to disagree.... and happily so, knowing our country is big enough and great enough to provide the freedom of having different opinions and the freedom to speak our minds!

GUEST Blog Part 2

2011-12-14T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-14-11 vacant brain

Sin City ~ Las Vegas for Birthday Celebration! Part 2

Final day inLas Vegas, Boulder City, Hoover Dam and birthday cake was on tap. I was verysurprised that after a long night on the strip, we were up and out the door by10 am. Amazing girls!

First stop,early lunch in Boulder City. What a neat little town with a lot of history.Boulder City was the home of the many builders of the Dam back in the 1931.When I go back to Vegas, I will definitely browse this lovely town.

Off toHoover Dam we go, but first a U-turn on the highway as we missed the exit andbefore you know it over the border to AZ. We took advantage of the scenicoverlook above the dam and took some great pics.

Then to thedamn Dam, parking a ½ mile was the thing to do. All I can say about the Dam, amodern marvel, human engineering at its best. Of the many pics we took, I likethis one of me straddling two states, NV on the left and AZ on the right.

Then wedebated on hiking up to the new bridge and I’m glad we went. A short hike towalk over the Mike O’Callaghan PatTillman (AZ NFL/Army who died of friendly fire) bypass bridge (beganconstruction in ’05 and opened in ’10). Here’s some interesting facts about thebypass bridge from USA Today, along with a link to a time lapse video. http://tiny.cc/tk999

•The highest and longest arched concretebridge in the Western Hemisphere.
• The second-highest bridge of any kind in the United States and 14th in theworld.
• The world's tallest concrete columns of their kind. perched 890 feet abovethe Co. River.

I can’t say enough about the Hoover Dam, Boulder City, Red Rock Canyon and theVegas Strip. To think, 75 plus years ago, this was just a canyon and a desert.

Last itembefore my red-eye flight back to Des Moines, birthday dinner n’ care.Everything was very yummy and a big thank you and hug to mom Clark.

Happybirthday to me, Natalie and Lexi. Thank you for letting me part of your bigbirthday celebration. I love you guys to pieces. Did I mention they areidentical twins? And yes, I can tell them apart.

Chat Later,

That Girl,Ann Marie

GUEST Blog Part 1

2011-12-13T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-13-11 vacant brain
Two from Ann this week~ Judy

Sin City ~ Las Vegas for Birthday Celebration! Part 1

Birthdaygift number two, five-day trip to Las Vegas, this time road-tripping by airwith the Clark sisters (now living in KC), celebrating a birthday milestone intheir hometown. The sisters are good friends from ’05 and ’06 Drake trip. Here’s a pic of thesisters, Judy and me in ’06.

The lasttime I went to Vegas was a family road trip 15 years ago. Other than staying atthe Mandalay Bay, not much was done with two small kiddos. This time, on theto-do list: eat, see the lights on the strip, shopping, a Vegas show, Red RockCanyon and Hoover Dam.

I flew downon Friday after work and the Kansas City gang came in at noon on Saturday.Geez, I haven’t flown in a long time and with a late night arrival, I decidedto rent a car and arrive at the Clark home by 12:30 am. Flight went well andwhen I arrived at the car rental, I got an upgrade, Fusion or Caravan? Takinginto account five of us, I chose the soccer mom van and left the airport atmidnight for the 25 minute drive. Well, who doesn’t get lost coming out of theairport, then go South instead of North, then exit and not find the house. Itried so hard not to call anyone, but ended up calling Natalie at 12:30 am.Geez, I was within a block. It’s been a long time navigating without my GPS.

Saturdaymorning I ran around with mom Clark, while marveling at the mountains, the viewwas simply breathtaking. The rest of the day was spent relaxing before a greathomemade dinner. Sunday morning we drove to Red Rock Canyon. What a beautifulplace and I could of stayed there for hours. However, we were strapped fortime, so only went on one very small hike. Again, amazing and these photosspeak for themselves.

After lunchand some homemade “toxic” margaritas, we regrouped and headed out to theH’haus, old fashioned German beer hall. We have fond memories of the H’haus inMunich.

Mondaybreakfast at “Hash Hash A GoGo” (with a name like that, I had to go), shoppingat the outlet mall, specifically the Coach store. My, these girls really knowhow to pamper themselves. Monday night was reserved for the birthdaycelebration dinner at the Stratosphere “Top Of The World” restaurant, then tosee David Copperfield and the lights of the Vegas Strip. Thank you parents fortreating the birthday gang. The view was fantastic and the dinner, yummy!

The VegasCopperfield was good, but really, would not see another one. There’s only somuch you can do on a small stage. To round out the night, you can’t beat thelights of Vegas. Tomorrow, Boulder City and Hoover Dam.

Chat Later,

That Girl,Ann Marie

2011-12-12T04:00:00.000-06:00

12-12-11 birthday brain
Today is my nephew's birthday! For the occasion I was looking back at some old pictures. Back in the mid-80's when CJ was the most important guy in my life! We had some fun times playing together, which sadly, he is too young to remember, but I'll treasure these memories....... back when we all looked young and thin....and we didn't even know it!

Love you CJ...... see you soon!

Four years later a sister arrived to double the fun in our lives!

This picture from 1989?

Last year in December

Corruption

2011-12-10T07:00:00.001-06:00

12-10-11
This is the point I was trying to make yesterday, although I was trying to make it in a quieter manner :)

"Congress is bought".... get the money out of politics!

TGIF and WW(J)D ? (I mean John)

2011-12-09T06:00:00.002-06:00

12-9-11 remembering brain
This week I have been working out of the KC home, less distractions here has meant a very productive week and this too has given me more time to think. I’ve been thinking about the month of December. It seems if I take a full life view of my time on earth, December has been the month which holds the greatest excitements and the lowest-darkest of times for me. For example- just to name a few- not all of them: Greg and I met in December and a year later were engaged; both my nephew and niece were born in December…. Contrast this to my heart being crushed by my first love (back in 1974)….. and another love lost in 1980…… which I’ll never forget since this also was right at the time of John Lennon’s death. (31 years ago yesterday).

Blogger California Girl writes about John Lennon here:

http://womenofcertainage.blogspot.com/2011/12/john-lennon-its-been-31-years.html

I do love the artist, activist, flawed human and seeking spirit of John Lennon. Often in the last 10 years, especially around 2003 as our country was led into war, I did wonder what John Lennon would be saying and doing about the way the world was heading. I’ve tried to tap into his creative spirit many times……

AND THIS WEEK it really hit me!

How both sides of the political machine are using us! ….. playing us off each other….. distracting us, dividing us…. and having us waste our time arguing about issues that can’t be solved, or aren’t really an issue: like Pro-choice or Pro-life; Pro-gun or Pro-gun control; Taxing the poor or Taxing the rich; Capitalism or Compassionate Society….. we divide up and fight each other over our passionate beliefs, all the while those that have all the governing power, all the wealth- follow a different set of laws (conduct insider trading, become super rich, get mega benefits and perks, lessen regulations on business to favor themselves and friends…. Live in some isolated bubble, high above the rest of the working class).

I witness this daily with my emails. I’m on both the GOP and DEMS mailing list….. and as soon as some issue swings one way, the other side sends out an email call to “fight this” and ask for donation to “the cause”….. the HOTTER the issue (they are happy)… the more anger and then the more Money will be raised.

So THIS December, I decided it’s time to think more like John Lennon….. It is time to talk of UNITING against the bigger problems- The Corrupt System based on GREED- we call our government…. Where the laws have become slanted in favor of a few at the top, while the rest of us work hard and are falling backward.

PS: Yes, I agree there are some “greedy/lazy” people who do not work hard and use the current system…. That is another reason the current system does need to be changed.

I'll be trying to wave that olive branch in one hand...... while I carry a protest sign about our corrupt government system in the other hand.

"I hope someday you will join me, and world can live as one" ~ John Lennon

GUEST Blog part 2

2011-12-08T04:00:00.001-06:00

12-8-11

Honoring The Greatest Generation - World War II Veterans – Part 2

My second inspiration, exhibit of WW II living veterans.
I ran across an interesting article last month and I had to see this. Bill Schaefer, retired professor from Grandview University, wrote a book about living WWII veterans in Clarke County (Osceola). He took an oral history of 38 veterans (two of them women) and included a picture of the veteran holding their service picture. These pictures were being displayed at Grandview University for five days and I had to see it.

While this was a simple display, it was very moving. After reading a bit of their bio, I was compelled to do some tallying. Of the 38 living veterans:
~ 11 were drafted, the rest enlisted.
~ 3 were officers and 35 were not.
~ 23 joined the Army, 11 the Navy, 2 the Marines and 2 the WAVES
~ 14 served in Europe, 17 in the Pacific, 3 States-side, the rest in Central America, Italy and Africa
~ 4 saw action on D-Day
~ 13 of the 38 are widows
~ The average age of the veterans when they joined was 19 and their average age today is 85

Mr. Schaefer had some interesting facts that I’d like to share:
In 1939, the U.S. military had 190,000 soldiers and ranked 17th in world power just behind Romania. By the end of the war a total of 16 million Americans had served, including more than 60,000 Iowans.
Almost 100 percent of American industry was geared to the war effort. In 1941, the U.S. built 3.5 million private cars. For the rest of the war, it built only 139.
WWII was a huge agent of social change. When the war started, fewer than 4,000 blacks served in the U.S. armed forces. By war’s end, 750,000 had served.

After seeing the exhibit, I asked Judy if her dad had a like picture. She said “probably not”, and I asked her to take one for me “so we could write about him”. Judy wrote about him on Veterans’ Day and now, it’s my turn.

Here’s a bit about John as if he would have been interviewed for the book.
John graduated high school at the age of 16, enlisted in the Marines at the age of 17. After basic training, John went right to the Pacific and served from 1942 to 1945. Why the marines? He wanted to fight the “enemy”, he wanted action. And action he saw, for three years all over the Pacific Islands. As Judy previously shared, he fought a many of battles and was at Iwo Jima when the American flag was raised, February 23, 1945. Can’t get any more memorable than that! He was in the Pacific on D-Day, June 6, 1944 and when the A-Bomb was dropped, August 6, 1945

A big salute to John and all the rest of WWII veterans, for their service and love of this country.
Semper Fidelis marine dude John!

The Marine Corps adopted Semper Fidelis as its official motto in 1883. Translated from Latin, Semper Fidelis means "Always Faithful." U.S. Marines use an abbreviated verbal version, "Semper Fi," to voice loyalty and commitment to their Marine comrades-in-arms.

Chat Later,

THAT GIRL

Wednesday GUEST Blog: part 1

2011-12-07T04:00:00.002-06:00

12-7-11 vacant brain
Ann has been inspired to write two blogs for me this week. ~ judy

Honoring The Greatest Generation - World War II Veterans

Today I’m inspired to write about December 7, 1941 and honor all World War II veterans, especially John Sebern, husband to Jean, father to Judy and Jan, grandfather to Christopher and Sarah, and friend to me- That Girl, for several reasons.

First inspiration, veterans – past and present.
As the country draws down the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, I hope we all take a moment to remember those killed in action, those returning wounded, and those still on the battlefront. Yes the debate will go on how we got there but one thing is for sure, no declaration of war was made. So that got me thinking of President Roosevelt’s speech after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Here’s a snippet:

Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, members of the Senate and the House of Representatives:
Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. The United States was at peace with that nation, and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. …………………….. It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago……….Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack against Malaya, Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong, Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam, Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands. Last night the Japanese attacked Wake Island, And this morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island…………..
President Franklin D. Roosevelt - December 8, 1941 (http://www.historyplace.com/speeches/fdr-infamy.htm)

I found this picture of the draft of the speech with the many corrections. Very interesting, I’m wondering who made the corrections. I trust it was President Roosevelt.

Here’s a clip of the President Roosevelt giving the speech. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VqQAf74fsE

Then I wondered, what was everyone doing on Sunday, December 7^th , what time was the attack and so forth? Well, the bombing started at 7:55 am Hawaii time = 11:55 pm Central time. My Dad would have been 10 and I’m sure, it was days before he knew about it. At the time, Trinidad was under British rule and Britain was already in the war. His brother Mervin had enlisted and was stationed in England. Dad never saw his brother again.

So what was John and Jean up to December 7, 1941? Only way to find out is to call, so I jingled them up at shortly after 0700. Here’s what they recall. Jean was age 13 and at home in Charles City. Her memory was very close to home. She had a relative who was on the USS Arizona. When the news broke on the radio, they were very worried. He served, died and is buried on the USS Arizona.

John was 16 y/o, senior in high school (Cedar Rapids) and was ready for a January high school graduation (somebody is a smarty pants). He was at home listening to the Redskins vs Eagles football game. The news broke of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Fast forward four months, John turned 17 in April, 1942 and enlisted in the Marines the very next day, and shipped out on his Mother’s birthday, May 1, 1942. Gee whiz, we have something in common. I too graduated high school at 16, joined at 17, shipped out in 60 days and love the Redskins. Haha hehe everyone.

Tomorrow, I have a special report on living WW II veterans, one you may know.

Note to self: personal map art

2011-12-06T07:30:00.000-06:00

http://personal-geographies.com/

http://judywise.blogspot.com/ (12-4-11 post here at this blog)

12-6-11 forgetful brain

I'm not blogging today, but saw this interesting blog from artist Judy Wise and wanted to make a note to go back and look at this again.
Making a "personal map" and using mixed media sounds like a fun project for a girls-weekend, or women's retreat at church.

So here I am using my blog as a reminder slip..... sorry!.....Been busy at work and last night working on Christmas cards.

Ho Ho Ho!

Peace Art Exhibit

2011-12-05T04:00:00.001-06:00

12-5-11 creative brain
Sunday after Thanksgiving, when Greg and I got back to Des Moines- I had a project in need of Greg's help. We had to hang my Peace Art up over at Westminster Church, in this great little gallery area. At first I was going to be ambitious and hang 16 small peaces and 5 large on the long wall, but we settled for 5 large and 8 small. This was enough to have to line up straight..... and then we didn't have to add so many new nail holes into the wall.

I'm excited to have this exhibit hung in the month of December!

My next project, with my friend Lori's help is to get my Peace Blog set up for PayPal in preparation for my 2012 PEACE HUG project. I don't plan on making much money, but excited about helping others spread Peace and Joy to their friends! I've been practicing sending a few PEACE HUGS during the last few week. More on this as it develops.

Check out Peace Blog here: http://onesmalldailypeaceofart.blogspot.com

Thanksgiving part 2

2011-12-02T04:30:00.000-06:00

12-2-11 reflecting brain
I am so happy that I (along with Greg) got to see my two closest high-school girlfriends over Thanksgiving, Jean Ann and Robin, AND an added treat of seeing Steve and Vanni, who usually only come back to Charles City in the summer. Often in the summer all of us friends who stay in contact from class of 1974 get the chance to be together: Jean Ann, Steve, Robin and Tom, but it is getting harder to get all of our schedules together. So I do feel fortunate that it took me eating out three different times to visit with everyone.

Me making Jean Ann laugh..... that's my role.

Robin and daughter Taylor- sorry I didn't take picture of Tom and Greg at this meal.

Steve in from Alaska!

Greg and Vanni put up with our hometown talk.

I am Thankful for LONG-term friendships!

Thanksgiving part 1

2011-12-01T06:25:00.001-06:00

12-1-11 reluctant brain
I wasn't going to post today, but woke up early, 5:00 AM-
WOW! I made it through November in pretty good shape! This time a year I never know I how my body will react to the dark and cold...... but so far I have stayed healthy. We did have a pretty nice weather this last month- more sun than usual and warmer temps. Some snow is predicted for the weekend, so our luck might be running out soon.

Thanksgiving with Mom and Dad (and Bunny) was nice. We ate the full Turkey dinner twice, both Thursday and Friday evenings, so I got to the point of not being interesting in food in general..... but we found ourselves eating out most of the rest of the weekend with friends!

On Friday we did chores, helped decorated the house for Christmas (inside and out); and we did some Christmas shopping at a few local stores to support our hometown local businesses.

Trey the cat was happy to have us visit, so he could have someone to play with.

To be continued.....

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-11-30T04:00:00.000-06:00

11-30-11 vacant brain
Ann filling in again, for me, as I am holding a training session this week at work~Judy

Fall Road Trippin’ – Des Moines to NashVegas

My friendsask me “Ann do you work, you always seem to be on the road?” Yes I work and YesI always seem to be going somewhere and when it’s to visit family, that’s’doubly sweet. For my 39 + 12 birthday, I gifted myself two road trips, FortCampbell and Las Vegas.

My nieceSunita and her Army husband moved to Fort Campbell in October (from Maryland n’her first military move) and when I heard they were moving, I immediatelyplanned this trip. The last time I saw her was on her wedding day in 2008.Here’s a pic of Dad, Sunita and husband, Sebastian.

The drive to Fort Campbell was beautiful and not really that long, 600 miles in10 hours. I took the diagonal from Des Moines, to Hannibal, to St Louis, toPaducah, to Fort Campbell with one minor pit stop to see the Arch and BuschStadium in the shadows of Game 6 of the World Series.

Fort Campbell is home of 101^st Airborne and longstory short, when Iwent to Tech School in Rantoul, IL, I met an Army dude and we became very goodrunning buddies. I’ve lost track of him and I hope to one day locate him,Daniel P. Matthews from South Amboy, NJ. Okay, sorry for the digression. I arrived in time for Sebastian’s officeHalloween party for the kiddies. Oh, did I mention in three years, Sunita andSebastian are proud parents of Gabriel. He’s just about two and as cute as abug on a rug. He’s dressed up as Oscar, which I got confused with cookiemonster, bert/ernie … haha.

My five day trip went by fast and we got a lot of partying/eating accomplished.First up, Flamingo Friday (neighborhood party) in which I asked her “I thinkyou live on Lysteria Lane”. The house party was fun and the food was yummy.Next up was a Halloween bash at cousin Michelle’s house, fried fish, chickenwings, collards greens and jerk chicken, along with a lot of sweets. Sebastiandressed as a Farrow, Sunita as Queen of the Nile, son Alex as a Creeper and me,well my first official costume, drum roll ….Smurf Girl. Yep that’s me in Judy’sblonde wig. Oh did I say, I made the outfit myself.

My only request while I was in TN was to drop by the Antique Archeology (akaAmerican Pickers) store in Nashville. While we were there, ran into a Zombierun. Yes, I know a little about Zombies. Back to Pickers, I’m a groupie and Ishould write about why I love this show. The store was amazingly cute, notinglike the LeClaire, IA store. Too bad I missed Mike Wolfe by two days. On my wayout, I noticed a meet-up of scooters (Vespa and others). Mike Wolfe is a big Vespafan. I dared myself to ask to get on one of the scooters, and yep I did. Cometo find out, this was their first meet-up. When I have some discretionary cash,I’d like to get a little scooter.

I got a lot accomplished in my short visit and it was nice to be around theChee You family. On my way home, made one pit stop, Eldon, Iowa to get my pictaken at the American Gothic House. The blue wig was a bonus. Go big or Gohome!

Chat Later

That Girl,Ann Marie

Ann's Birthday

2011-11-29T04:00:00.000-06:00

11-29-11 over-scheduled brain
Much to write about, but not much time today. I will have to play catch-up later in the week with news from Thanksgiving weekend.
Monday night my "Peace Sisters" took Ann out for her birthday.

I gave Ann a PEACE HUG and bought her dinner.
See HUG here for 11-29-11: http://www.onesmalldailypeaceofart.blogspot.com/

Ann ordered the "Benny Burger", not knowing it was a 20 oz. stuffed burger. The waitress added the candle for us. She ate half.

2011-11-28T04:00:00.000-06:00

11-28-11 thinking brain
Worth the 2 minutes of your time!
"WE THE PEOPLE"....... what are "we" going to do?

New blog reading!

2011-11-25T04:00:00.000-06:00

11-25-11 absent brain
While I am taking a blog break..... and IF you really need something new to look at- Please note I added two new Blogs to my List on the right side panel. You can "click" on them and go visit.

52 Sweets is great for those of you "foodie" people out there.

AND

Flower Patch Farmgirl was recommended by Kelley. I've started following for a few weeks and this blogger is on some type of faith journey..... which sounds like it was due to the same book I read last year. "Radical" by David Platt.

Enjoy!

Thankful for.....

2011-11-24T10:00:00.001-06:00

11-24-11 impatient brain
This morning I am waiting for Greg to drive to DM, then we are off the "Grandmother's House" for Thanksgiving. Who really cares about the food....... I am most thankful that I still have a warm, loving, childhood home to go visit and thankful to share this day with my parents, Greg, and friends I will see there!

I'll post pictures next week.

PEACE OUT!

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-11-23T04:30:00.000-06:00

11-23-11 vacant brain
Ann has Thanksgiving reflections she wanted to share today. I'll be on a blogging break for a few days. Happy Thanksgiving ~Judy

Thanksgiving 1968 ~ Thank You PanAm

Wow, what atitle! While everyone is thankful for family, health and a job, I will alwaysbe thankful for PanAmerican Airlines (PanAM). Some backstory on PanAm, began in1927 as mail carrier (Key West to Havana), they quickly began flying passengersall over the world. Despite major advances in air flight, PanAm declaredbankruptcy in 1991. Will there be a comeback? Perhaps the TV drama PanAm, islaying the groundwork. Here’s a pic of their route back in the day.

PanAm popped in my head as I was listening to NPR today, which reminded of myflight to the United States. My, that was a long time ago and what anadventure. Dad moved to Washington DC around June and our big move was onNovember 28, 1968. It was Thanksgiving Day (new holiday to us) and one daybefore my eight birthday (my birthday is never on Thanksgiving). I wish I had aphotograph of that day. Here’s the closest, a picture of me at age nine.

Picture this, my mom shepherding six kids ranging from 5 to 15 (the oldest wasmom’s sister) on our first ever plane ride. I vividly remember the airlineattendants in their blue suits and cute hats, pinning “wings” on us. We leftTrinidad in summer-like weather and landed in New York in winter-like weather.Of the many rules mom gave us, one was to eat everything on our plate andthat’s where my love-hate relationship with blueberries began. We arrived inNYC and Dad greeted us (he came up from DC) with coats. I was given a blue coatwith shimmery lining. We all flew to DC and on the flight given a meal thatincluded peas and blueberry pie, both new to us. Remembering the rule, I barelyswallowed down the peas. However, the texture of the blueberry pie just wouldnot go down. So I carefully covered the pie in napkins and stuffed it under mycoat sleeves. Two hours later, after arriving in DC, the pie was smeared all upmy sleeves. Let me say, I’ve never eaten a blueberry pie since and that thingabout texture, it goes for yogurt/cottage cheese and in general, all smellycheese. However, I do love blueberry cakes/muffins and jam. I found this treatin the breakroom today.

There’s a new show on ABC about PanAm which I always forget to watch. The plotof the show moves rather fast, so I’ll make it a point to give it another try.But when I see it, it puts a smile on my face and I immediately go back toThanksgiving Day, 1968.

So on this Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2011, while I watch the Macy’sThanksgiving Parade, cook my butt off, I am thankful for the sacrifices myparents gave to bring us to the land of opportunity, the many friends andfamily who have supported me with their love and friendship this year and to mysister Charmaine and brothers Glen and Tony who are watching after me as my Dadwould of. And of course, Rick and Robert!

Chat Later,Gobble Gobble

That Girl,Ann Marie

2011-11-22T04:00:00.000-06:00

11-22-11 busy brain
Last night was a gathering at my house for viewing the Dancing of the Stars final dance challenge between the last three couples standing. I don't care who wins, I've just enjoyed watching and laughing with some girlfriends each week. Often, we also had dinner together Monday nights. Last night I made some squash soup in the crock pot.

Other news, I have been busy updating my Peace Blog, at the encouragement of my fellow blogger friends Lori and Renee. I'm gearing up for 2012, and I have decided to continue the "one small daily Peace of art" another year, and adding a new twist.

It you haven't visited that blog lately, check it out:
http://onesmalldailypeaceofart.blogspot.com/

I've posted the Back-story of this Peace Blog, and my plans for "spreading Peace in 2012".

Here is the story for my Mom and Dad who don't have access to the website.
Back Story I created my first Peace Art in the early fall of 2009, almost by accident. I had finished creating a project for the Westminster Fine Arts Series late summer, which was an experimental piece, an abstract- of splattering and pouring paint which centered on a large heart. I like it, so I wanted to experiment more. “Peace Head” was born using similar free silliness with no paint brush involved.

In 2010, I continued making a few small abstract Peace Art, on 4 x 4 pieces of foam core- when framed; I thought they look pretty cute.

Then in November/December of 2010, I read a book by Pastor David Platt, called “Radical”, which challenges Christians to do something different- bold, radical…....... and by “taking a leap of faith”…. this would give God the opportunity to show up in amazing ways with small and large miracles for the world to experience.

Since I wasn’t yet ready to get “too radical”….. I had the idea of pursuing a daily period of reflection and meditation, which in turn might lead me to greater discipleship. This is when the idea to combine my love of creating art and my desire to change my busy chaotic life into a more peaceful existence, came together in the creation of this blog “one small daily Peace of Art”. I was committing to show up everyday and let God do something radical with me.

Small miracles did happen! My life did take on a more positive vibe, and a new lightness/joyfulness surrounds me now, even in my chaotic busy of life. I learned that Peace doesn’t just happen- one needs to focus on creating this peaceful environment in small ways each day; for example- smile more, take time to hug someone, slow down the pace of your life, do one “good deed” for another person each day.

When I started to share my Peace Art with others, I also witnessed a few small miracles happening which had me smiling. Once, when I was hanging up some Peace Art at the Iowa Acupuncture Clinic waiting room, a woman saw the back side which was dated, this happened to be her birth date, and when I turned if over to show her the art, she burst into excitement seeing the pink Peace Art- her favorite color. She bought this Peace right then and there. In a similar story, a person really liked a specific Peace of Art I had on display and needing a small gift for a friend, she bought it and afterwards, when she turned it over, she realized the date was the birthday of her friend who would be receiving this as a gift.

These two “miracles” pushed me towards the decision of what to do with my Peace Art in 2012. Read about this under the next TAB “Spreading Peace”!

Another miracle to me is the fact that in December 2011, I will have my Peace Art displayed in three places in Des Moines.

Good FuD

2011-11-21T04:00:00.000-06:00

11-21-11 food brain
Each year, I let myself have one BIG MAC Hamburger, Sunday was the day I chose to eat one. I was on my way back to Des Moines from spending the weekend in KC with Greg. We had a fun weekend in which I was able to relax and get away from work, and get away from framing any more art.

Friday night Greg took me on a real date night- we went to the Chris Isaak concert at the Uptown Theater. After 20 years, Chris still looked good and sounded great!

Saturday evening we were invited to eat dinner with some Mini Cooper friends John and Johnna. Johnna is a total "foodie"- hard cord creating and learning about food, and she writes a blog.
Go here:
http://52sweets.blogspot.com/

So we met up at a new restaurant (FuD) Greg and I had not been to before - it was vegan, locally grown, organic and gluten-free upon request.... AND it was really good food! I can't wait to go back.

I have been meaning to share Johnna's link to Chai Spice Sugar Cookies, which sound so good to me. Can someone make me some? Molly or Ann?
http://52sweets.blogspot.com/2011_06_01_archive.html

This week will be the usual Thanksgiving week to splurge on food. I am looking forward to Mom's stuffing, and sweet corn; along with Bunny's pies!

Fashion Do or Don't

2011-11-18T07:30:00.000-06:00

11-18-11 busy brain
I wasn't going to post today, instead I was busy last night creating my parents Christmas photo letter.... Greg agreed to work on ours- so that was one less thing on my "to do list". It's been a busy week at work, but Tuesday night I agreed to get out of the house.

I attended a benefit for an organization (GEEZ LOUISE) which helps girls and women deal with life, supports the idea of sisterhood. Women should be lifting up each other rather than acting like most of the roles you see on TV these day. I know I am sure blessed by a group of women who do our best to support each other. My life wouldn't be to same without them.

My "sisters" will even accept me when I am in my "artzy fartzy" mood. Tuesday evening as I was dressing I was reaching for a familial scarf to wear, but instead I went into Greg's old tie area and came out wearing this. My sisterhood group won't be afraid to tell me the truth. Was this look a fashion "DO" or "DON'T"... for the crowd I was hanging with that night, it felt OK to me.

Unexpected Art Exhibit

2011-11-17T04:00:00.000-06:00

11-17-11 surprised brain

I have a story to tell about how my Peace Art was started back 11 months ago, but I don't have the time or energy to write it down at this point, But I'll work on that. For today, here are pictures of my Peace Art hanging in the local coffee shop (Grounds of Celebration) in my neighborhood of Beaverdale. Thanks Ann for helping me. It really isn't about selling the art..... for me it is just joyful to know that my Peace Art is being shared out into the world!

PS: I am struggling to get use to the new blogger update. I was resisting and Renee told me to use it.
I suppose I'll love it after a bit, but right now I can't figure out how to do the things which were just a habit for me. So bare with me...... later.

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-11-16T04:00:00.002-06:00

11-16-11 vacant brain
It is fun to get Ann's tales of all the action on the GOP side of things. So glad she dressed properly for this venue. No cleavage shown here, thank goodness! A quick reminder to Kelley and Molly that they are working on upcoming GUEST Blogs too! (?) ~Judy

Heatin’ Up – Road to the White House 2012
Iowans get ready for two months of heavy politicking as the Iowa Caucus is less than 60 days away, January 3rd. Democrats can relax and watch the propaganda geared towards independents and Republicans. The TV ad’s are up and running and my mailbox will soon be flooded with fliers. While I do watch the TV ad’s (remember this is revenue) do people read the mailers? Frankly, I pitch them without reading them. Which begs the question, what motivates a person to vote for one candidate versus another – print ad, TV ad, debates, TV/radio sound bites, in-person forums or friendly debating with your friends?

Judy and I do our share of debating. Here’s a pic of us holding our respective party's mug, a gift given (to us Friday evening) by Molly. Will the day every come that we exchange mugs?

I prefer to get my opinions right from the candidates and boy, I got a great opportunity last month at the Iowa Faith and Freedom Collation Dinner in Des Moines (October 22). Yes yes, a conservative and evangelical organization, right wing bible thumping group. And no, no bibles needed for this dinner.

My connection was a friend of the Perry campaign and I was very honored to be the guest of Gabe and Carolyn Haugland. Longstory short, not only does Gabe work for Perry for President, he’s a Drake Law graduate, US Army Guard, infantry and now a JAG Officer. His wife is not only a Drake graduate, she is Miss Iowa 2004 and her sister Emily is Miss Iowa 2006, hailing from Clear Lake. I felt special sitting at a VIP table. The Nicholas sisters were singing the national anthem. They were very good and as they told me, they perform as a duo all over Iowa.

The dinner was very good (fried chicken, potatoes, beans) then the candidates spoke for 10 minutes then answered four questions from a two-person panel, total of 20-25 minutes. It was great to hear the candidates “unfiltered”. Herman Cain went first, Gov. Perry in the middle and Rick Santorum was last (felt bad for him).

Here’s my take of the evening:
Cain- gave a good speech and all I can say, he can hold a room (pre-scandal speech).

Paul- just when he sounds sensible, he says something really odd. However, all can agree “time to get the troops home.”

Bachman- her story is old, born in Iowa, foster parent, tax lawyer. I’ll give her credit for winning the Iowa Straw Poll but that’s all.

Gingrich- smart man, maybe too smart to be President. His baggage will hold him back.

Rick Santorum- very informed but not enough traction in Iowa. Credit him for his personal pro-life position.

Gov. Perry- yes he’s my candidate, yes he does not come across “bright/smart” on TV but in person, he comes across very clear.

I was able to see all the candidates, shook Gingrich’s hand and got my picture taken with Governor Perry, sweet for me!

Now move to the debates, two in the last two weeks and one scheduled in Iowa next week. Yes Yes, even Perry admits he’s no debater and about the “oops” moment, I really felt badly for him. Yes it can happen to anyone, but not when you’re trying to dig yourself out of a ditch when on “live TV.” Well after a day of “mea culpas”, he was back on track at the GOP debate in South Carolina.

So get ready Iowans, for two months of political theater. The world will be “watching”.

Chat Later
That Girl, Ann Marie

Freak out into outer space and back

2011-11-15T04:00:00.001-06:00

11-15-11 freaked out brain
So Saturday evening Molly and I met up with Kelley down town at a great french restaurant, Django, which is located in the Fort Des Moines Hotel. Yes, it was a little more upscale than my usual favorite restaurants in Beaverdale, but we were celebrating after all.... a successful day of Peace Art.

When Molly and I got back to the house, we decided to try to stay up and watch part of Saturday Night Live, although Molly was falling asleep on the couch. I was tired too, so I was hoping for a wonderful night sleep and planned to sleep in. Well...... instead- my brain started to freak out..... thinking about all the tasks I have to get done between now and Christmas. It was all swirling in my head and I felt like I was floating helpless into outerspace.....and I started praying hard for some peace.

Finally, I fell asleep about 1:30 AM or so...... in the morning I got up and starting making lists and writing down a schedule of when certain things needed to get done. I felt better since my mind now didn't have to keep juggling the information in my head- and worrying that I would forget something. After a good breakfast over at Chefs restaurant (we skipped church).... Molly helped me get more organized with my art and she did some Christmas shopping at my "peace art store". I got in the mood to get some things checked off my November list. Molly helped me get a few outside lights put on the house, and after she left I decided to decorate the living room mantle. WOW- now I starting feeling "a head of schedule" for once! That does not happen very often.

Molly had given me this Peace wall decal for my birthday! I've added a few more starts since this picture was taken. It's from a line called "Wall La La"

I think you can find some here: http://www.wallstickershop.com/oh-la-la-wall-stickers.html

Then Sunday mid-day, I went to visit a lady I use to work with at the VA Hospital Cancer Registry. Rita was one of the gals who helped set up an introduction between Greg and I. It was so wonderful to see Rita again. We had lost tract of each other last year since her health took a bad turn and she was forced to move from her great retirement apartment. Now it was so good to learn that she has improved so much she has found a new assistant living home in the Drake neighborhood.... so not too far from me..... and I can visit more now!

PS: Even Rita is buying some of my Peace Art for her door. She will be the most hip 75 year old in the place! Rita still has and is using a computer, which I always admired her fearless transition into computers back in the 90's. I might have to introduce Ann to Rita, since Rita is also a political news junkie.... and leans towards my beliefs.... I'll have some back-up in my political discussions with Ann and maybe even Teresa.

Peace and Mixed Emotions

2011-11-14T04:00:00.002-06:00

11-14-11 confused and tired brain
WOW.... a fun and busy weekend. Greg was out in Ohio for a football game- the timing was perfect on this.... since I was busy with a Church Holiday Bazaar of sorts.... OK- a craft sale. This was the first time I have attempted to actively sell my Peace Art.

I'm happy so many of my girls friends turned out to support and help me.... which of course meant we also had fun eating out, drinking a little, shopping....etc.... everything girlfriends do together.

Long Story Short......
I actually sold quite a bit.... not necessary at the show itself, but friends and friends of friends heard about it on Facebook and I had a lot of pre- and post- orders. Two Peaces are going to California and one of those is a gift for someone in Australia (Molly says that makes me an International Artist now!)

Of course I had some separation anxiety with my favorite Peace Art.... but it is nice for me to think much of my art is now at home with many of my friends at this point. I had mixed emotions about selling.... it was work preparing..... it went OK, but I'd much rather spend my time just creating art than selling. This experience does have me thinking about another venue I may try next year. I think I am now ready for a real Art Show.... rather than a craft show with mostly old ladies... whom my Pastel Flower Notecards where the biggest hit with this crowd.

Here are the pictures:

Molly, Carolyn and Ann helped with set up and take down.

I'm so grateful for all that support!

Friend Kelley came to pick up her pre-order of Peace Art and she brought along my God-Son....... wow Ben is getting so tall and is only in 8th grade! OK he might be going through that awkward puberty phase- but still SO CUTE to me! I love those curls which came out of no where!

It happened to me too at age 13, but I recovered by aged 16.

I was also so happy my co-worker friends Renee and Lori drove into town and came to support me!

Wow- I am truly blessed. Thanks everyone!

PS: It looks like PEACE will be spreading across Des Moines in December. I will be having a small show in the Westminster gallery area (Greg you have to help me hang this Sunday afternoon Nov 27th).

Also the owner of the local Beaverdale coffee shop has interest to hang some Peace Art there. I'll be showing her some of my stuff this week.... and my art is still hanging at the Iowa Acupuncture Clinic and I am selling a few there from time to time.

PEACE OUT!

Service and Honor

2011-11-11T07:20:00.001-06:00

11-11-11 gratitude brain
It's Veteran's Day, and it is nice to see all the comments posted on Facebook thanking veterans for their service. Seems like there is more awareness of Veteran's Day now, or is it just that my friends and I are at an age we can really appreciate what service and sacrifice is all about?

I sure became more aware back in the mid-80's when my job took me to regular visits at the VA Hospital here in Des Moines. And as it turned out- that is the place where I met Greg. (He was a building manager there)

Of course today, the ONE Vet that means the most to me is my Dad....."the Marine Dude", as Ann likes to call him. Dad experienced unimaginable challenges when he was in WWII, from age 17 to 20(?). He was over in the Pacific swimming to islands to do recon-missions which help plan attacks. Once he was the only man to survive an attack while in a rubber boat. He rolled off the side and swam in the ocean until he was picked up next the day by a submarine.

Growing up, we didn't know any of Dad's stories, it wasn't until 1995, the 50th Anniversary or so that Dad began to talk at the urging and curiosity of my high school classmate friend- Steve. And of course I can't remember all the details like I should... but I got the feeling of the great endurance he and the other men when through. Thus I am in AWE of not only what Dad did in WWII, but what he has done as a Husband, Father, Teacher, Coach, Civic Leader.... those challenges of daily living also show me that he is a true HERO.

Sometimes I wonder what made the "Greatest Generation" great? I believe it was their challenges which strengthen them and made them tougher. They learned about how to sacrifice and give service to others both on the battle field and at home. I think us Baby-boomers just had it pretty darn easy growing up..... our time of challenges and sacrifice - - now - might be upon us. Hope we can rise to the challenge and change our paradigm.... cause our country can't continue the status-quo.

Here is Dad with some of his fellow serviceman at a Marine Reunion a few years back.

More Peace

2011-11-10T07:00:00.001-06:00

11-10-11 busy brain
The last few weeks, after work in the evenings, I have felt like I've got myself a second part-time job. I've been working hard on getting ready for this Holiday Craft Bizzare over at Church on Saturday. There has been framing, creating notecards, organizing, getting the display layout set up, deciding on pricing.... and other odds and ends.

Here is one of my newer favorite PEACE created this week, not yet framed

Saturday should be a fun day, despite the work, since Molly is coming to town to help me at my booth, and Ann has volunterred to help and I am looking forward to other friends who said they are coming to shop. However, I'll admit, I'm looking forward to next week, after this show- to be able to kick back a little more in the evenings. (except to work on my large pixel artwork for January deadline)

All this busyness had me thinking about a poem I wrote back in 2002 and the feelings of peace I am now longing for- especially this time of year as the days get shorter.... I need more sleep and I'd rather be curled up in front of the fireplace reading a good book.

Time to Be Happy

To be happy-
I need time on my hands,
Thick, sticky time that doesn’t slip through my fingers,
Solid time that won’t evaporate into haste.

Time to look beyond the busyness-
Time to study the birds gathering at the feeder,
Time to gaze at the lingering sunset,
Time to lie back in the grass staring up at the stars,

Not time to think, or even the time to dream-
But time just to let my mind wander closer to heaven.
Time like now, listening to these quiet words in my head,
And the silent peacefulness in my heart.

God is here-
Trying to come though,
If only I take the time-
Time to be happy

Judy Sebern Beachy
Thanksgiving 2002

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-11-09T04:00:00.002-06:00

11-9-11 vacant brain
Here is more interesting facts from Ann this week ~Judy

Veterans Day ~ 11.11.11

Of the many federal holidays, Veterans Day is near and dear to my heart. I am one of four Chee You’s who served proudly: brother Tony (Navy), Glen (Army), Larry and me (Air Force) and husband Rick (Air Force), not to mention lots of friends and the newest family member, Sebastian (Army). So on this special day, amongst the hustle and bustle of shopping, working, remembering, thank a veteran for their service. Here’s how the day was formed, from the Department of Veterans Affairs website.

World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” - officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”Sweet to say, I’ve been to the Versailles.

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…"

The original concept for the celebration was for a day observed with parades and public meetings and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The United States Congress officially recognized the end of World War I when it passed a concurrent resolution on June 4, 1926, with these words:

Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.

Yes, if you remembered Veterans Day was on a Monday. Government work at it’s best, read on.

The Uniform Holiday Bill (Public Law 90-363 (82 Stat. 250)) was signed on June 28, 1968, and was intended to ensure three-day weekends for Federal employees by celebrating four national holidays on Mondays: Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Columbus Day. It was thought that these extended weekends would encourage travel, recreational and cultural activities and stimulate greater industrial and commercial production. Many states did not agree with this decision and continued to celebrate the holidays on their original dates.

The first Veterans Day under the new law was observed with much confusion on October 25, 1971. It was quite apparent that the commemoration of this day was a matter of historic and patriotic significance to a great number of our citizens, and so on September 20th, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed Public Law 94-97 (89 Stat. 479), which returned the annual observance of Veterans Day to its original date of November 11, beginning in 1978. This action supported the desires of the overwhelming majority of state legislatures, all major veterans service organizations and the American people.

Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. (Source: Veterans Administration)

Happy Veterans Day to all veterans, to me and to marine dude John. And if you can remember, take a picture of what you are doing at 11:11 am on 11.11.11.

Chat Later

That Girl, Ann Marie

Juggling Act

2011-11-08T04:00:00.006-06:00

11-8-11 busy busy brain
Monday night I was all alone as I watched Dancing with the Stars.... everyone else was BUSY.... as was I.

I am happy to say it was raining while I watched TV, and I was busy framing. This week much to still get done to be ready for my first day of trying to sell my Peace Art this Saturday. I was also making Peace Note Cards.

Since I'm too busy to blog, here is a copy of what is posted over at my Peace Art Blog.... called

"One Small Daily Peace of Art"

Found at:

http://www.onesmalldailypeaceofart.blogspot.com/

Peaceful Decorating Idea

11-7-11
My neighbor Deb purchased three of my large Peace Art. At first she just was going to hang them on the wall without a frame, but later changed her mind and found inexpensive black frames at the craft store and just tacked them to the outside of the glass.

I really liked the look without the fancy matting which I had been using to frame the larger Peace Art.

A reminder for those of you in the Des Moines area- This Saturday will be my first attempt at selling my Peace Art!

The annual Westminster Holiday Treasures Craft Fair is happening on Saturday, November 12, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Shop for hand-crafted items, original art, Christmas ornaments, fair-trade gifts, baked goods, gluten-free products, and more!
Free admission! All are welcome -- so bring a friend or two!

Westminster Church is at the corner of Beaver and Franklin in the Beaverdale!

PS: I am not set up to take Credit Cards yet; so cash or check please. If sales go well, I will be getting set up for Credit Cards for my future Art Shows in 2012!

Weekend Report

2011-11-07T04:00:00.002-06:00

11-7-11 slow Monday brain
A week of November gone already and today I just remembered to turn my wall calendar over to November. I still have a few clocks to turn back also..... Gee.... I'm struggling to keep up.... and November does look to be a challenge with several big commitments to occupy my after work hours.

So today, just a few pictures from the weekend. I was in KC, just a weekend trip, but fun. Friday night Greg took me out to one of my favorite KC restaurants at the Plaza, the Grand Street Cafe. Our KC neighbors Kim and Terry came along which made the evening extra special.

Saturday early afternoon I got to hang out with Molly for a few hours, then Greg and I went to a potluck bonfire with the Miata Car Club. We only lasted less than 2 hours, cause the smoke was hurting our eyes.

I didn't feel the Oklahoma earthquake Saturday night, since I was pretty much dozing from the very beginning of Saturday Night Live. I was already for my extra hour of sleep, in fact I took at least two extra hours of sleep that night. Molly, however, did post on Facebook that she felt the earthquake which was a little before 11:00 PM, but she is 30 minutes south of us.

Sunday, I arrived back in DM about 2:30 in the afternoon to give me enough sunlight to tackle the leaves and lawn. It was a nice day for November, sunny and 60, so I worked until 4:00 PM and looked forward to a hot soak in the tub to sooth my aching muscles.

The trees are still pretty in KC, glad I don't have to rake much there.

Here was view in my backyard in DM as I was finishing up I noticed how pretty the yellow mums still look out back. There is talk of rain on Tuesday.... slight chance of snow.

Abundance

2011-11-04T04:00:00.002-05:00

11-4-11 blessed brain

The other day, when I was looking for a pair of white sports socks to wear, I became frustrated..... and at the same time acutely aware that I have been blessed (and cursed) by ABUNDANCE.

Finding a pair of white shocks was impossible. Everyone I pulled out did not match any of the others. This was crazy! My sock drawer really reflects my life right now.... FULL and ABUNDANT, but very chaotic.
Not much I can do about it for the moment, so I just decided to find a colored pair that was matched up.

My Birthday reminded me how blessed I am by an abundance of friends. I have a variety of friends in all shapes and sizes.... some I drink wine with, some I am able to unwind with, and others I can just "whine" with. Kelley took me to lunch for my Birthday this week and we had fun doing the later..... we know we are blessed, but we both were experiencing small frustrations in life, but by sharing them with each other- we were able to laugh, and they seemed to become less important.

Saturday Report

2011-11-03T04:00:00.001-05:00

11-3-11 motoring brain
Saturday, as part of my birthday and Halloween weekend to celebrate..... Greg and I took part in the Annual Iowa Mini Cooper Fall Drive. This was the 9th year. My car, a 2002, was the oldest Mini out of 27 who attended.... and got to be in the lead, since Greg had organized the route this year and decided to drive my car instead of his. As for my part, I came dressed for the occasion: "mini" mouse.

Look close in the side mirror and you can see the line of Minis.

Here Greg is making announcements as I do some sign language.

(Well, not really, but this picture made it look like I was)

We started in Pella, a wonderful Dutch Village, and we had lunch there.

Then we wound around some hilly and curvy roads over to Winterset with a stop in St. Charles at one of the famous covered bridges of Madison County.

Here in Winterset- is the birth place of John Wayne. We took the short tour of the house.

Gift Shop

Our last stop was at the Des Moines Mini dealer (Willis) who provided us with dinner and drinks, and we all hung out for awhile there.

On some related CAR News; peace sister Carolyn got a new car this week. We tried to talk her into a Mini Cooper, but she wanted a Beetle, since she had one in her youth. I must admit her new car is sweet!

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-11-02T04:00:00.001-05:00

11-2-11 vacant brain
This is one of the interesting activities Ann did in October ~Judy

The World Comes to Iowa

I’m always amazed at the people who come to Iowa, so before I forget, here’s my ground report of the World Food Prize Program. In case you did not read the first part, here it is
http://tiny.cc/0aixx

I decided to stop by the Iowa State Capitol on October 13th after seeing several stretch limos at the Marriott to catch a glimpse of the “pomp and circumstance” of the festivities for the official “Food Prize” ceremony.

First, the attendees (approx 800) were greeted with an array of music by the Southeast Polk marching band. I absolutely love marching bands, so this was an unexpected treat. Then came buses of guests at the midlevel of the grounds and then …. Drum roll please … the black limos and SUV’s started coming at the top level. Wow, I got to see the Prize winners and former Presidents Kufor( Gahna) and Lula daSalva (Brazil) and many more that I would not even know. This is President Kufor.

Here’s something that wasn’t reported, President Lula got out of his limo and greeted a group of guests … wow, what a security nightmare. He was very kind and posed for pictures for five minutes. I quickly went home and watched the ceremony live on IPTV, it was really a first class program, showcasing Iowa and of course, Norman Borlung. Thank you Iowa Public TV.

The following day, I was able to hear both Prize winners speak. Both men are impressive, rising from nothing to the Presidencies of their countries. President Kufor spoke English and President Lula spoke Portuguese, which meant the attendees were given a headset to hear his speech in English. Sweet, this is how it’s done at United Nations.

On Saturday, I made a point of touring the home of the Food Prize, Hall of Laureates. This is a spectacular restoration of the 1903 Public Library building. The Hall celebrates the importance of agriculture in redefining how you feed the world in the harshest of conditions and its’ pioneers: Norman Bourlung, Henry Wallace, George Carver Washington to name a few. Cleary, the Hall is an “all Iowa tribute”. In addition to the paintings, murals, sculptures, the public garden with two stunning statutes of Boulung and John Ruan (major sponsor) are first class.

The Hall is a private building and will be closed to the public until ’12 Summer. So glad I took the time to take a peek. I hear approximately 3000 people came to the two-day open house.I’ll leave you with this quote by President Lula.

“I am happy to receive the World Food Prize in a state where the statues are not of war heroes, but of heroes that fight hunger …. this is the true war that all leaders need to learn to wage. …. hunger is the most powerful mass destruction weapon … hunger kills children, sometimes in the womb of the mother herself.”

Chat Later
That Girl, Ann Marie

Creativity brings smiles

2011-11-01T04:00:00.005-05:00

11-1-11 feeling special brain
Creativity comes in all forms Lori..... take my Dad for instance. He started stamping note cards well into his 70's.... and now has quite the reputation for those of us lucky enough to be on the receiving end.

Cards are even more special to receive these days, since not many people take the time to send the old fashion letter or card through the US mail.

This is my special Birthday Card I received this weekend. Notice that even the cat signed the cat!

This picture is from around 1994 I believe, (Dad must be going through the old picture albums) and I know some of you who didn't know Greg back then are probably giggling about his dark hair..... and skinny legs. To me, Greg gets more handsome with his grey hair, while I struggle to keep from looking too much my age.... I least I don't have to act my age- which I get to prove every Halloween.

Here Friday night dinner out, I had my hair sprayed orange as we attended the Hoot and Howl event at Westminster. A fun evening of scary organ music, skits and silly costumes.
More about all my weekend birthday fun will be reported this week, as I catch my breath.

My life isn't complete with out my ART!

2011-10-31T04:00:00.002-05:00

10-31-11 artistic brain
Last week I didn't take the time to blog much, sorry.... there are just so many hours in the day- and I need my beauty sleep, unlike some people I know. My excuse was that I was working on several ART projects- one being, getting a good start on my entry in the Winter Fine Arts Show at church (Westminster Presbyterian here in Des Moines). The project is due January 1st.

Well there is much to do in December, just to keep up with all the Christmas preparations, so I knew I needed to get started on the art project as soon as possible. I'm excited to do this large piece: 3 by 4 foot, since I've had the idea in my brain for a few years..... now it is coming together.

Here are some pictures to show my steps to far. Later I will tell you what it is all about- if it comes together as I am hoping it will.

I've been cutting "pixels" (one inch squares of paper I've painted) for several months now.

I hope I have enough to fill the canvas!

This will be an abstract piece- I hope will look a bit like a sunrise. (Not a rainbow)

Although the idea of a rainbow could work too.

I'll have to see how this creativity evolves!

Halloween Birthday Weekend

2011-10-28T04:00:00.006-05:00

10-28-11 grateful brain
Ann is off on a 5 day trip, but she sent me this blog to post this weekend...... what a wonderful birthday gift- Thank you crazy, wonderful, fascinating friend Ann! I'll cherish your words always! ~Judy

PS: OK the secret is out, I am the type of person who gets excited, and jumps with joy when I see a rainbow. One afternoon Ann caught me with her camera.

Hoot n’ Howl, Happy Happy Birthday Judy!

Where do I begin chatting about Ms. Independent … Judy.

The beginning: Drake University, January 2005. The big Drake Europe Trip, Dublin to Paris. I remember Judy coming to class with Greg, sitting attentively in the back row. I’m sure we exchanged a few words but that was the extent of it. This was the year that I also met my good buddies Lexi and Nat Clark (more about them later).

Then the trip: my third with Drake University. Having gone on eight trips, the 19 day journey is a study of not only public policy but of human nature. First, the make-up of the travelers are from all walks of life. Then where they sit on the bus may tell a little about them: the front passengers are normally to themselves with nose to grindstone with an occasional chatter. The back of the bus, party central travelers, singing and drinking their way through Europe, the middle of the bus, those who want to be serious while living vicariously through the chatter of the back. I like sitting in the middle, Greg and Judy sat in front of me most of the way. I can’t say we did anything memorable, but somehow, I kept running into Judy here and there. This is the beginning of a great friendship.

After the trip, we chatted every now and then and got started with the Drake Alum booth at the Art Fair. Then on occasion, we would do something together and then I got to share in Judy’s world.

There’s the Peace sisters, Sue and Carolyn. They are a hoot and when we are all together, we do our own hootin’ and howlin”. Then I met Molly, just as fun lovin’ as Judy, and might I say, a wonderful hostess, cook, wife and animal lover. I love going over to Molly’s, she a great in more ways than one.

Then the family, her dad John, mom Jean, sister Jan and her kids Sarah and Christopher. What a great family and something I’m a tad bit envious of. In 2009, Judy took me see her parents and I instantly fell in love with marine dude John and his lovely wife. I get a kick out of his home made “stampin’ cards” and for John calling me on my birthday. Here’s what he said … in the middle of my big party … he called and said “this is the Charles City police department, I have a report of noise at your house”. It took me a few seconds to realize it was him .. haha … funny funny.

It’s not all “whine and roses” with Judy. While we are like “peas and carrots” we look at social and political issues with two different lenses. At times, I shake my head and bite my tongue and on a rare occasion, I do let loose, respectfully of course.

So on Miss Judy’s birthday, I want to let her know that she has colored in the lines of my life more than she will ever know. Have a great birthday friend, hoot and howl it up this weekend. I love this picture of you!

Chat Later

That Girl, Ann Marie

Visualize this?

2011-10-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

10-27-11 dreaming brain
When I saw this video below, the words of the John Lennon song "Imagine" came to mine.

You may say I'm a dreamer

But I'm not the only one

I hope someday you'll join us

And the world will be as one

I know some of my friends will think these ideas are totally silly, but I already have friends who live like this. They have chosen to given up some income.... in order to spend more time with their kids,..... to have more time to cook home meals.......... to have time to enjoy nature. They are some of the happiest people I know.

http://www.youtube.com/user/centernewdream#p/u/1/HR-YrD_KB0M

Guest Halloween Blog

2011-10-26T04:00:00.002-05:00

10-26-11 spooked brain
After spending time with Ann over these last 6 years, it is revealing to learn more and more about her challenging childhood. I'm so glad she can enjoy life now, in ways she was not able to in her younger days. We both do enjoy dressing up and acting silly! ~Judy

Happy Halloween

Oh my … Halloween time again or as I call it “merchant’s holiday”. Halloween comes with mixed feelings for me. See we did not celebrate Halloween in Trinidad so on our first trick or treat in ’68, I’m sure I was puzzled on what to do. Other than knocking on doors for candy, our costumes consisted of mask only or paper bags decorated. If my memory serves me correctly, I only tricked or treated for five years. Darn, no pictures of me as a young trickster.

Fast forward 40 plus years, Dad mentioned something to me in 2008 that I will remember for a longtime. He told me one time with brother Glen, they stopped at a store and he wanted a pumpkin. Dad did not have any money for a pumpkin and he felt guilty all these years. So when we went to Washington in 2008, he specifically bought a pumpkin for Glen. I know that cleared him of his guilt. Whew, misty right now. Here’s a pumpkin for my brother from Dad and me!

On the bright side, I attended my first Zombie Walk and boy was it a hoot. To think, 1000 people got made up in the middle of a Saturday to walk a mile. Well I can say, it was well worth it. Here are a few pics of the Zombie Walk. Next year, I’m walking. As I’m writing this, thinking of Jan’s daughter Sarah and her work as a makeup artist. Wow, Sarah and Judy in the art business.

Brush your teeth after eating all the sweet treats.

Chat Later
Ann Marie

In my world-

2011-10-25T07:00:00.002-05:00

10-25-11 gratitude brain
In my world today- things are starting out warm, sunny and peaceful!

We planted this tree- well... maybe 10 years ago or so, and it has grown nicely. It is now the only "big" tree in our front yard. Each year I have noted that it is the most beautiful the last week in October. It is an "Autumn Blaze", rightly named maple.

Weekend report

2011-10-24T04:00:00.002-05:00

10-24-11 blogging brain
Fortunately, Greg and I discovered before we were married that our tastes, our likes and dislikes, lined up most of the time. However, when we got married and finally lived together, we discovered one area of tension- our weekend schedule. Greg liked to sleep in on Saturday and have the day to relax- by Sunday afternoon then he was ready to do the house chores. I however, wanted to get our house work done and out of the way on Saturday, then have all day Sunday to relax and play.

So rather than choose a “his” or “her” way, we found a 3rd way- we decided to hire a cleaning gal. My point in telling this story is that often there are more than black and white answers to life’s challenges. Look for a 3rd option.

This last weekend, it turned out that we did managed a “her” schedule. Saturday we got our work done and Saturday evening we played. Sunday, of course I relaxed on my 3 hour drive back to Des Moines and Greg relaxed while watching his football team.

The fun evening started down at the Plaza with the Water Fire show. I met up with William Shakespeare……

……then we headed over to the KC Mini Cooper Dealer’s big Halloween Party. This was our first time attending, but I believe this event has been around for a number of years- and growing- as more and more people now own Mini Coopers.

There was a contest for best Mini costume. Here are a few of my favorites. The “Gaga” car won this year.

Besides free food and drink, there was entertainment consisting of some aerialist and some amazing dancers (B-boys, I think you would call them). We meet up of several KC Mini Club members which we know and had fun.

The next week in DM will be a Mini Halloween Party; however I don’t believe the event will be on the same level as the KC dealer. I do plan to dress up this time around.

What's new?

2011-10-21T04:00:00.002-05:00

10-21-11 nose to the grind stone brain

What's new with me? .....NOT MUCH, how about you?
This week Greg has been out of town for work, and thus I have been spending most of my week in KC alone with the cat. This was suppose to be my week to re-connect with Greg.... so I was feeling a bit lonely the first part of the week. It was cold and gloomy outside and I didn't leave the house for 3 and a half days...... just was getting a lot of work done... and reading.

Wednesday night, Molly came to the house for awhile and we did some Zumba exercise together. This is kind of a Latin dance music type of exercise. I have a DVD. It was a good work out for us. Molly and I realized we didn't move like we use to move back in the mid-80's when we took aerobic exercise dance classes together, back when Molly lived in DM.

I am also a bit bummed that I didn't get to see my sister and niece during their Iowa visit this week, so I will just have to look forward to our time together over Xmas break.

This week I did finish a book I had started a few weeks ago.... I really got into it, and several nights was awake past my bed time reading this fascinating story. Book called "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan". This was a story set in the past in China and showed how the women lived..... back when foot binding was the culture for women. Google "foot binding" to learn more about this and see pictures! Wow- so bizzare to think this was highly valued.... but women were not highly valued except when they gave birth to a son...... we've come a long way baby..... but I think we still have a ways to go.

Not much else exciting to report here- my blog's are getting boring it seems, so unless I have something exciting to write about, I won't be posting every day.

I should have a blog on Monday to report on some fun Greg and I hope to have this weekend. The weather is suppose to warm up in KC to 68 degrees this weekend. I'll be thinking of my sister and niece at the Iowa Game on Saturday!

Peace Out!

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-10-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

10-19-11 slow brain
The temperatures have finally dropped to normal autumn weather (low 30's this morning), which means my blood is thickening up and I'm moving slow this week. However, Ann is as busy as ever and keeping me informed while I am at the southern "estate". ~Judy

Occupation ….. GO FOR IT!

For those supporting the occupation movement, I say “Go For It”. You have the right to protest and if you follow the law/ordinances, I see no problem. That’s something Judy and I can agree on and for the most part, I think we can all agree on. If the “Occupiers” can translate their passion to reforming the political system, I’ll be the first one to cheer them on.

I made a point to walk by the Capitol last week and was impressed with the protesters. They appeared committed to their cause and I’ll give them credit for that. So what if they got off to a bad start (no permit for overnight campout) and a few got arrested. On day two, they got smart and got their permit = no one got arrested. Then the permit was not renewed on Friday and walla … the mayor granted them “occupation rights” to a park up the street (14^th and Grand). This is a win-win for both the City and the Occupiers. Here’s a pic of the park with at least 20 tents on a wet, cold and gloom Monday.

Here’s where the saying “one bad apple ruins the barrel” …. While I was taking in the festivities of the Food Prize at the Capitol last week, one lone protester thought it was his right to come up to the area where “heads of states” and onlookers were waiting for the guests to arrive. The protester started shouting, holding up his sign only to be booted away by a state trooper. While he had a right to be there, he did not have the right to protest in that spot but really, protesting in the middle of a dignified ceremony, that’s where the movement lost my respect. Note to management, if you want to be taken seriously, fire those who discredit your cause.

On a brighter note, I felt compelled to reclaim my kitchen last week. See, my junk was occupying it and if only for a few days, I’ve claimed victory!

Lastly, while I dream being part of the 1%, I’m proud of being part of the 53% of those paying taxes.

Chat Later

That Girl, Ann Marie

I've been Miss represented

2011-10-18T07:00:00.001-05:00

10-18-11 tuned out brain

This is part of the reason I gave up cable and don't watch TV these days. It's 99% sickening.

Weekend report

2011-10-17T17:51:00.000-05:00

10-17-11 worn out brain (and body)

Greg and I had a busy and productive weekend down at the KC house. Last weekend we dug hosta plants from the DM house, and so we had to plant these this weekend at the KC house.

Greg dug about 20 holes along the front bushes. Our landscape design for the front will be evolving over the next few years. I believe at some point these "too high" bushes will be gone and we will have filled in with other plants.

I also did some bush trimming, and Greg finished painting the shutters. It was nice having good weather the last few weekends to get some of this house work taken care of before the snow flies.

Ann should have been down here this weekend- there was a great garage sale in the neighborhood and I scored a draft's man type of table I can use for my art (48 x 36 inch size). Greg looked up the original price which was close to $200 and I paid only $13. This will be perfect for me to set up for my next BIG art project for Westminster which is due Jan 1st. I need to get moving on this soon.

The neighbor across the street, who is a renter, is also moving and thus he put out a lot of good stuff by the curb for "free". Greg took some good lawn chairs and a hose.

Sunday was a more relaxing day: we had lunch with Molly and then I did some shopping errands while Greg watched football. Good news Dad, I now have a new printer, so I can create your Xmas letter. Please get working on that for me so I can print and have to you by Thanksgiving!

Occupy Iowa

2011-10-14T04:00:00.003-05:00

10-14-11 curious brain
I've had a busy week at work, traveling some- so no time to take part in the Occupy Iowa, like I would have liked to do. Some are questioning what this is all about. Really, it is not so different from the tea party who took to the streets to get attention, and voice concerns.
This video gives you an idea of some of the thoughts coming from Occupy Iowa.... but each person comes with their own reasons.

Here you can see pictures of a few more who make up 99%. It's more than just the young people.
http://front.moveon.org/what-does-i-am-the-99-mean/#.Tpd3TaqovuE.mailto

Smart Women can change the world

2011-10-13T04:00:00.001-05:00

10-13-11 delighted brain

This smart women- I'm so glad she is speaking out!

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-10-12T04:00:00.001-05:00

11-12-11 working brain
I'm off in Iowa City today getting an update to my laptop software for work, so thanks Ann for filling in ~Judy

Feeding The World – World Food Prize

Happy 25th Anniversary

Des Moines might sit in the middle of the country, but you wouldn’t know that with the many national and international conventions that come and go. I see this first hand weekly as most of them are hosted either at the Marriott Hotel or the Polk County Convention Center. This week, The World Food Prize will be handed out along with a symposium and a weekend food festival. Here’s a pic of the many flags of the 30 plus countries at the Prize Symposium.

First, some background. The Food Prize is an international Prize (somewhat like the Nobel Prize) created by Nobel Peace Prize winner Norman Borlaug (1914-2009). Borlaug, a native of Cresco, Iowa is known as the “father of the Green Revolution” for his work in increasing agriculture production around the world. He was a plant breeder who developed a high yielding wheat plant while he was in Mexico (1944-1963) that saved millions around the world. For his efforts, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970.

Fast forward to 1986, Borlaug created the World Food Prize to recognize those who significantly contribute to the world’s food supply. The prize is worth $250,000 and some years, two Laureates are chosen. Like this year, the two are past Presidents of their country, Ghana and Brazil.

Second, The Prize is kicked off with a weekend “world food festival” in the East Village. On Friday, as part of “Walk America” I trotted down to the village to scout out the vendors. Boy, what a surprise, a vendor selling “Trinidad” food. Seriously, this is so wicked to find roti (type of flat bread) chicken and to boot, the family lives in Ankeny. Okay, I got my fill, roti chicken x 3.

Lastly, the Prize has a new home, the former Des Moines Central Library (circa 1903) with a $30 million dollar face lift. What’s more fitting for home of The World Prize to be located in the “heartland of America”. I can’t wait to see the building next week, open house set for October 15th and 16th. I’ll report later on the beauty of this building and the grounds.

Thank you Norman Borlaug for feeding the world ......

“Food is the moral right of who were born into this world.”

Chat Later

That Girl, Ann Marie

19 years happy in love!

2011-10-11T04:00:00.008-05:00

10-11-11 celebrating brain

Greg and I celebrated our 19th anniversary yesterday (and over the weekend).... the highlight being a night at the newly opened, newly restored Frank Lloyd Wright Hotel in Mason City, Iowa. The only Wright designed hotel still standing... and it is right here in Iowa!

I was so cool! There are 27 rooms to choose from, ranging from $100 to $250. We took the modest queen bed room for $100 and it was awesome! The hotel is on the south side of the downtown central park.

Here is some of the exterior detail.

Greg and I both love the style of Wright's designs in buildings and furniture too.

Our neighbor friend here in Des Moines, Carolyn- her brother Randy Cram, who lives in Clear Lake, was part of the foundation who worked on this project-he is an architect.

There is soon to be a restaurant opened, and there also is a ballroom. Great for a wedding reception!

I can't rave enough about this place! Treat yourself sometime and spend the night. Mason City also has the Music Man Museum, a most wonderful art museum, and also a few other Wright houses in town.

Well worth a trip to north central Iowa!

PS: Since Mason City is only 30 miles from my hometown, we did drive over there first to have lunch with Mom and Dad. What a gorgeous day with temperatures in the low 80's. Mom and I went for a nice walk by the river enjoying the trees and sunshine.

Anniversaries

2011-10-10T04:00:00.004-05:00

10-10-11 celebrating brain

My friend Ann likes FOX news (among other news channels) and she informed me that Fox is celebrating 15 year anniversary, while Greg and I are celebrating our 19th anniversary.

So this video goes out to Fox news, and to the 99% of us our there. Many of us who are scratching our heads over Fox news.
A shout of to Columbus too!

The Daily Show
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September Vacation Ends, GEE- it's October already!

2011-10-07T04:00:00.001-05:00

10-7-11 sister 's birthday..... happy brain

After 5 days with the Beachy family out east, Greg and I started the trip back home on Thursday last week...... BUT the fun was not over, since we had plans to visit friends in Columbus OH.

We had dinner with Pastor Amy and Julia Thursday night, which meant we would have to drive 11 to 12 hours on Friday….. but that was the price to pay to have an enjoyable fun evening catching up with old friends.

Julia introduced us to a fun card/board game called “Apples to Apples”. I can recommend this for everyone, probably age 7 and up, since it is educational as well as fun, and a good way for kids to learn the meaning of words. AND it is fun for adults as well.

Since we had time to spare on Thursday, we took the long way from Pennsylvania to Columbus and explored an area of Ohio which I had never been, but heard about from fellow blogger Susan. Hocking Hills was this very cool place just SE of Columbus.

We took the time to do some hiking and saw some incredible rock formations.

This one area called “Rock House” was so cool…. Kind of like caves in the rocks, but with several opening. People over the years have carved their names in the soft rocks. We found several names from the 1880's and 1890's like this one.

We finally made it back to the KC house Friday evening and Clover was very happy to see us.

Saturday night we had a fun evening eating dinner down on the Plaza with neighbors Kim and Terry. Kim was Clover's loving baby-sitter while we were away. Sunday, as Greg watched football, I played tennis with Molly late morning, then headed home to Des Moines for the work week.

Boy the weather here in the midwest has been awesome, warm and sunny. Des Moines currently is very, very dry which hasn't help allergies.... but the trees are changing colors with great beauty this year.

October is a special month for me, my sister's birthday, my birthday later in the month, along with Halloween and this coming week will be Greg and my 19th wedding anniversary. Thanks Mom and Dad for the card and money for a special dinner "out on the town" for us this weekend.

Pennsylvania Day: part two

2011-10-06T04:00:00.001-05:00

10-6-11 continuing brain
So after our visit to Flight 93 Memorial in the morning, we drove south in Pennsylvania to almost the Maryland boarder near a small town called Spring. Here we were tracking down an old Amish Beachy cemetery plot. Greg's brother Tim had been researching this.

Turns out a dirt road ended at a farmstead which had once belonged to the Beachy's (Peter) and the small cemetery was out in the back pasture. We asked permission of two Amish women who were out in their garden and they pointed out the way.

We parked the cars and walked carefully through some turkey's just hanging out in the yard, and walked past a young Amish man cutting wood.

The site was just beautiful from this hillside. The stones however were all illegible except for one.

Next we went to an historic Castleman's bridge in the area, which Tim's research indicated this Peter Beachy helped build. I'm not sure if I got the whole story correct, something about laying the cornerstone.

This bridge was awesome and the Spruce Forest Artisan Village sits on the river bank now next to the bridge. I worthwhile place to visit and I am so glad we did.

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-10-05T04:00:00.002-05:00

10-5-11 listening brain
Ann has some random thoughts today.... she's been busy as usual doing this and that! ~judy

Random Thoughts

Goodbye Summer, hello Fall. I’ve got some random thoughts that I’m putting on paper:

I’ll miss my weekly outing to Des Moines for breakfast and my walkabout at the Farmers’ Market. Of the 20 markets thus far, I’m sure I got to at least 15. I ran out of time last weekend. Why grow a vegetable garden when you can get all you need and more at the market? Not to mention, seeing my favorite singer, Bonnie Finken at the market.

I’ll miss bargain shopping at garage sales. I love looking but I’m getting good at picking up an item then putting it back down. Last weekend, my finds included a “to go” blanket, Train CD (drops of Jupiter), a cool cookbook “recipes from B & B’s across the USA, several DVD’s including “De-Lovely” the music of Cole Porter, bin full of mason jars and a very cool purse for two bucks.

What is it with men and their machines? I was hooked on watching the big equipment in action over the last two months while they worked on the massive “Ravine Project” out back. The work clearing the trees, grading, installing steel grates, filling in huge rocks and making part of your property a natural “prairie” walkout was amazing. I can’t wait to see the beauty of the foliage as it grows in next year. Yes, our tax dollars at work.

Why is everybody down on Gov Rick Perry and what happened to Michele Bachmann? If you’re a democrat, you should be jumping for joy. That is, unless you don’t think the president will not get re-elected. The next three months, we will be seeing the candidates all over Iowa. And once again, Iowa voters may just pick the next POTUS (president of the united states).

Government, why are you messing with my light bulb? The infamous “light bulb law” going into effective in Jan. ’12. My gut reaction, really ……….. government regulating health care, how much and what I can eat, the capacity of a toilet, now what kind of light bulb to use? I understand this is good thing, but outlawing the light bulb as we know it, well that draws the line. Lastly, two things we can all count on. death and taxes. Time again for property taxes and of course, Dad. It’ll be six months on October 6th. Thanks everyone for cheering me on with my posts. Oh well, happy Fall everyone. Enjoy it!

Chat Later
That Girl, Ann Marie

Pennsylvania Day: part one

2011-10-04T04:00:00.002-05:00

10-4-11 vacation reporting brain
Greg and I spent a few days in Ohio, then we went over to Pennsylvania, just south of Pittsburgh where Greg's brother's family lives..... so we could have more family time together. We had an interesting day on Wednesday of last week.... we all went over to the Flight 93 Memorial Crash Site, since this was only about an hour away.

This memorial, out in a Pennsylvania field, has been evolving over the last 10 years, and continues to evolve. Currently there is a long walkway out into the field and a white wall with names of plane passengers, this wall built along the flight path. The crater itself was been filled in and now has prairie flowers and trees planted, and only family members are allowed out in that area. Their are plans to build a Visitor's Center on the hill which overlooks the field.

This is a beautiful memorial site, run by the US Park Service.

Large Rock marks crash site

Look above my head, I left one of my peace art magnats, as others also left personal memorials.

Catching up from time away

2011-10-02T19:42:00.001-05:00

10-3-11 Sunday night brain

Much to write about, but not feeling in the mood too much. I’m watching Prohibition tonight …. You gotta love Ken Berns on Public TV. This is an interesting topic for him to tackle, and a topic I don’t know much about. The larger question is can we make laws to dictate how people live their lives? Inebriation was a big problem….. and some Christians got a bit “preachy” with their temperance…. This is fascinating.

Back to my life: over the last week, I’ve spent about 3000 miles in the car…. A vacation to visit Beachy family in Ohio and PA….. and special time with our 5 year old nephew, Brennan.

Last Sunday I spent the day with Brennan, Greg’s mom and Greg’s aunt at the Akron Zoo, while Greg and his brother went to the Browns football game. Bren is a good kid, but it took us three women to keep up with his energy.

Greg and Tim

Greg's Aunt and Uncle

Duo Celebrations

2011-09-30T05:00:00.005-05:00

9-30-11 reminiscing brain
Not a God-daughter, but an important girl none the less. Elizabeth age one in 1991. This "Top Cat" sweatshirt is the first thing Greg ever bought me, in 1991 was we were dating.....funny to think now that this cat looks like our Clover cat!

Not sure- but think this is 1992.

Just found these in my picture closet.... which is totally unorganized, but once in awhile something pops out at me when I'm looking for something else. Happy Birthday to Elizabeth who's birthday falls on her parent's Wedding Anniversary, one year later. How cool is that.... making September 30th a very, very special day.

GUEST Blog II

2011-09-28T04:00:00.002-05:00

9-28-11 judy still vacation brain

Toronto, Final Leg of the ’11 Road Trip

Dateline July 30, 2011, the finale of my summer road trip, the big Caribana parade. Caribana is a three week festival held every July celebrating Caribbean culture. It ends with a humongous, a million plus, masqueraders dancing down Lakeshore Blvd. The parade runs about ten hours with “bands” split up in several sections. Each band and section have their own music and hundreds of “players” dancing in masquerade costumes. There is a rhyme and reason for the set-up, but in the end, thousands of people walking miles and miles, dancin’ with each other in formats that you will not believe.

Pre-parade events included an “all white” boat cruise around Lake Ontario. So glad I packed a white top/skirt, just need to buy the white shoes (found in Chinatown). Before the cruise, I had my first “trunk-orama” party aka “tailgating”. So funny, we went to the nearby grocery to pick up a few things, and we looked so “Miami Vice”. The food was de-lish, the drinks, well mix it up and drink it. Then we went to the boat for some bumpin’ and grindin’. Let me just say, I’m not a bump n’ grind girl, but it was a ton of fun. It was a long night, well early morning before we got home.

I got to do something fun on parade day, take a boat ride to the harbor, what fun! It didn’t take us very long to meet-up with the family and as usual, my aunt packed a great lunch (roti chicken) for us. The parade started somewhere around 11 am and we left at 5 pm. The day was really fun; eat, drink, eat, drink… and they sure like to see me drink (when they are not looking, the drink is poured out).

To wrap-up the trip, day 1- drove to Punxustawney, PA (900 miles), Days 2-4 NYC (200 miles), days 5-6 New Britain, CT (100), days 7-11 Toronto (500), day 12 back to Iowa via Michigan, Indiana and Illinois (900). I left at 4 am and was back in Ankeny at 6 pm with one pit stop, Michigan to pick blueberries. Not sure what I’m going to do with the berries, but for now, it’s in the freezer.

I got a lot accomplished in 12 days, saw a lot, did a lot, mended fences, secured a few fences all while thinking of Dad and wishing for just one more trip. Honestly, this trip was Priceless. Thanks everyone for cheering me along the 3000 mile journey.

Chat Later,
That Girl, Ann Marie

GUEST Blog

2011-09-26T04:00:00.001-05:00

9-26-11 vacation brain
As I spend time with Greg in Ohio visiting his family, Ann will fill in a few days...... and who knows I might even post from the road one day this week.
PS: Greg and I were in Toronto 10 years ago and these pictures make me want to go back.

Canada or Bust, Eh?

I know a lot of you have been to Canada, but have you really been to Canada? Yes, yes, I know a lot of you go for the “amazing fishing” but the major cities have so much to offer. Say like, Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

My Canadian connection goes back to the 70’s when my Uncle Frank moved to Mississauga/Toronto (from Trinidad). Since Trinidad has British ties, entry may have been easier back in the day. With 5.5 million living in the GTA, it is one of the most multicultural areas in the world and I can attest to that. Mississauga is one of the cities, with a diverse mix of people. In addition, it has a new claim to fame with the Absolute Towers (5 buildings). The newest towers are 50 and 56 floors tall and the tall tower is nicknamed “Marilyn Monroe”, I wonder why? These buildings are gorgeous, that is if you like buildings.

Over the last few years, I’ve renewed my love for this city and the annual Caribbean festival “Cariabana”. This year I added a few more sights to get accomplished in six days. Daily, I made the drive to Toronto although I really did want to take the train in from Mississauga. Traffic was a nightmare and what would you expect from a city of 5.5 million. The value of mass transit cannot be understated. Some travel 2 hours to get to work (bus to train to subway then back to bus).

I made three trips to Chinatown and I am amazed at the people, the food and their shops. I got caught up at a movie shoot in Chinatown and stood in the drizzle for two hours, just people watching. I forget now who was in the move, but it was so much fun to watch.

I got down to the CN Tower, St Lawrence Market and got a nice shot of their version of the “flatiron” building. I drove up and down the streets of Toronto, in-between, cars/cycles/bikes/electric trams, crazy just crazy.

Then there’s Casa Loma, house on the hill (overlooking the city of Toronto). I’ve been wanting to tour this house-like castle for a long time. Built by Sir Henry Pellat in 1911, it was the largest private home in Canada, boasting 98 rooms, with a cost of $3.5 million dollars to build. And like all good things, he had to leave his dream home due to financial woes in 1923. Today, the Kiwanis Club operates the home. Let me tell you, it’s a beautiful home with lush gardens. Touring the house reminded me of the Biltmore Estate in Ashville, NC (250 rooms) and many of the castles in Europe.

Other than the sightseeing, I enjoyed spending time with Uncle Frank (mom’s brother), Aunt Sheila and my cousins. They are great people, always welcoming me. Aunt Sheila is an amazing lady, street smart for sure, and what a cook. If I lived at her house, I’d never eat out. Of the many things I wanted to buy, I bought 50 pounds of rice. Don’t ask me why, just can’t pass up a good deal. (Aunt Sheila and g’daughter Bella)

Up next, the pre-festival activities and the big A$$ parade. If only I looked this good.

Chat Later,

That Girl, Ann Marie

Celebrating TGIF

2011-09-23T04:00:00.003-05:00

9-23-11 excited brain

I realized that I’m really getting use to my split life as my new normal, but THIS month, since Greg and I have been off schedule….. I’ve been missing Greg a lot this week. This is probably just due to the fact that we haven’t gotten to spend as much time together as we usually do. Life has been busy for both of us- my out of town work meetings, him going to Ohio to football game, and me not getting to spend my usual time in KC this month.

This week I’ve been feeling a little bored by living alone so much… but I can’t really see what the next step would be for us. It is hard for either of us to consider giving up a good job when you have one these days. The good news is that Greg and I will be spending the next week together again….. and that makes today a great TGIF. Also I'm excited today because I made my work deadline this week! My 2010 cancer cases are complete! I'll be getting new software in October and a new case-year will begin for me!

Fun Memories

2011-09-22T04:00:00.008-05:00

9-22-11 reminiscing brain
I'll answer Ann back..... What is a special Birthday memory for me?

Well, they do tend to run together, but I guess my birthday age 11 (I think) ??..... I was in love with the TV show "the Monkees" and my birthday present that year was a unicycle, since the Monkees rode unicycles.

I collected all their albums for those few years in the late 60's and had them displayed in my room.

Here is me learning to ride my unicycle by using the walls of the hallway. I know I put black marks on the wall, and Dad had to repaint. This was in our old house on 8th street.

I was still pre-puberty then and not in my ugly-duckling phase yet. (6, 7, 8th grade) I did master the unicycle and even rode it in parade when I was 12.

Also this outfit I"m wearing was new and very groovy.. it was yellow and orange.

Wednesday GUEST Blog

2011-09-21T04:00:00.002-05:00

9-21-11 sharing brain
Thanks Ann for sharing those memories, I enjoyed your guest blog today!.~Judy
PS: I thought YOU were in the clown outfit! ?

Birthday Memories, You Have a Special One?

Last week while watching the Jackie Kennedy tapes with Diane Sawyer, I recalled the tape of Marilyn Monroe singing “happy birthday Mr. President” (May 19, 1962) and wondered if John and Jean can remember what they were doing that evening. Judy was probably in 2nd grade and me, well I was two and back on the island.

Most will remember their 16th, 18th, 21st then the ones ending in 0’s. At 16, I graduated from high school, got my license, started community college and did not have a car to drive. At 17, I flew the coop and joined the US Air Force shortly after my 17th birthday. My life really began on my 17th birthday.

At 21, I got remarried at St Mary’s Church in Waverly (we married a year earlier in Idaho) and started nursing school. Then I turned 25 and Robert was born. These years were a blur and I never stopped to have that “big party.” Maybe that’s why I decided to have one when I reached the big one, which I termed “39 + 11”. Here’s a few pictures of these milestones.

I always felt cheated with my birthday being so close to Christmas (November 29th), I vowed not to pass this on with my son’s December 22nd birthday, always wrapping his gifts in non-Christmas gift wrap, mostly the Sunday funnies. For his first birthday, I cringed when he ate his chocolate cookie monster cake, messy but very cute. When he turned three, I wanted to do something fun as this would be the first birthday he could or should remember. I hired two clowns to come to the house and as usual, the coldest day of the month. I hope I accomplished my mission. At five, I took him to see “Hoppy” at the Ingersoll Children’s theater.

Then there’s Dad’s birthday. Today, September 21st is Dad’s 80th birthday. I’ll go out on a limb here, Dad probably never had an “official” birthday party until he was 65. He moved to Iowa at 64 and when he turned 65, we went on our first road trip to St Louis to see the Redskins vs Rams. We celebrated his 65th birthday at Friday’s then went to the game (Redskins won!), which he thoroughly enjoyed as well as my father in-law. Here are some pictures of the day.

Last year we made a special trip to Toronto during his birthday week, his 79th, for a family funeral, where he insisted on going to. Looking back, he was able to say his goodbyes to most of his family. I especially remember Dad thanking a family friend for helping him back in Trinidad, he was so emotional when he saw him.

So for his 80th, I’m hoping we would of made a special road trip, maybe to see his granddaughter in Tennessee. He would of loved it! Dad would be looking forward to road trips, watching Nancy Grace on Dancing With The Stars, watching college and pro football games cover to cover and preparing for American Idol.

Oh well, on behalf of my brothers Tony, Glen and sister Charmaine, we’ll wish him a happy 80th birthday and remember him by lighting his memory candle.

Love you DAD and go Redskins!
Chat later!
That Girl, Ann Marie

Monday fun TV night

2011-09-20T04:00:00.006-05:00

9-20-11
I baked lasagna, Ann made brownie dessert.... and Monday night was the kick off with Dancing with the Stars. It almost felt like Renee was watching with us, via FB, but she had the nerve to drive to the store right in the middle..... but then she has a Tevo or something. Carolyn came over just in time for the first dance. Sue missed out since she was at an important church meeting.

Ann made us score cards and we rated most dancers a number higher than the judges it seemed.

Who do I want to leave the show? Ron, since I don't really know him at all.

Ann was loving Nacy Grace, and me I guess I got the biggest laugh out of Carson.

He'll be like a Cloris Leachmen type of dancer with a high entertainment value.

Weekend Report

2011-09-19T04:00:00.001-05:00

9-10-11 worn out brain
I have things to write about, but not much energy at this point. Sunday afternoon, after encouragement from friends Ann and Roy, whom Greg and I had dinner with Saturday evening, I headed to the basement in hopes of working for 2 hours to finally start to put things back in order after the sump pump work in April. I decided to start with the laundry room. I believe Ann and Roy are tired of hearing me always talk about my messy basement when we see them every few months or so…. So they said just start and do what you can in a few hours.

Well, once I did get started, after having lunch with Vivian and Clyde after church, I actually worked for 4 hours and thus I’m exhausted….. but I did make great progress in the laundry area. I now have a place to hang, fold and iron. There was this layer of fine dust everyone due to the sump pump work- a blessing and curse all in one.

The real fun of the weekend was on Saturday at the Beaverdale Fall Festival. Greg and I joined friends Friday night to listened to a few bands…. It was chilly, but dry. Now Saturday morning for the parade, we did get a sprinkle half hour before the parade, but it wasn’t bad at all….. just cloudy and a bit chilly… I was prepared with many layers of clothes on.

This year my church did Theme of “All under God’s Umbrella”….. so we had an umbrella brigade, and we did a “march” type of routine along the way. It was fun. Greg took these pictures.

PS: tonight I’m hosting a Dancing with the Stars “party” for those of us who get a laugh out of this show. It’s that time of year when the new TV season is kicking off. It will be interesting to see who I decide to cheer for this year.