Low Key Sunday

Today this cold is better but I'm not well enough to go to church. I'm missing another music day since none of us here are going to be able to sing with the choir. Really, with our voices sounding so rough, they wouldn't want us there. Let alone contagion! Hope they have a complete group otherwise. The cello, music stand and music itself are still out, ready for me to practice. I do feel well enough to do that. My mind is beginning to get around the process, and hopefully the fingers will get more agile and accurate as time goes by. I trust in the work of learning, anyway. One really good thing with playing in a group is that other, more experienced, people make you feel almost good. Art is my biggest fan--he tells me everyday that I am getting a better sound. Love that encouragement from wherever it comes and he is so constant. My teacher was pleased with my progress and told the music director I will be ready very soon. Hope so. I love the thrill of improving through practice. It's harder to persevere through plateaus, as I know from previous experience, but that's not an issue yet. The woman who lent me her old cello has also let me purchase an easier lesson series which starts out with open strings, and uses the actual staff. There does not have to be a transition from numbers to the real thing. Since she is a school music teacher part time, she has tried a lot of them and this one has worked best for her. I like it very much; still I'm planning on switching back and forth during this time when there are no rehearsals. I think I can learn from both books. Christmas has never been so far off my radar. Good thing Chris and his family are planning the Christmas Eve festivities. They always make it a highlight of the season. We have a few pre-made food items for Christmas breakfast. I still have to address cards. (Will they get there on time? Maybe or maybe not!) Our decorations are in a cupboard so high that we haven't even tried to get them down. We have a few nativity sets and an artificial tree which is up year-round. Never thought I'd be so lackadaisical but this year it has to be okay. I know the day itself will be fine and hopefully we will try to remember to feel the spirit of Christmas year-round.

New Horizons Orchestra

Today is the day I would have been attempting to play the cello part on four out of twenty-eight Christmas pieces in the first concert for this new orchestra. But I have a cold and can't be there.
This is how I happen to be a part of this group. I have had a secret wish to be able to really and truly play the cello. In high school, our band teacher, Mr. Cox, wanted to start an orchestra and since there were two cellos belonging to the school, my friend Gerrie Taylor and I decided to jump in and give it a try. I don't remember taking the cello home to practice and much of what we did must have been open string, but it was a fun experience and I loved the sound, especially when it was played as well as I heard on records. Of course, we never got even close to that level! My memory is pretty shaky on the details but I think the teacher left after that year so we didn't continue. About 3 or 4 years ago I heard that there was something starting up in the Provo area for adult beginning string players. I even contemplated busing down but it didn't seem feasible at the time. This fall, there was an article in our little Midvale paper telling about the same program having been started in here in Midvale, of all places. One morning as I was lying in bed thinking about it I had quite a breath-taking confirmation that let me know I was to do this. It was very strong, like a testimony experience. Even though the group was nearly through with the semester, I decided to check it out. I went to the violin shop which is partially sponsering and it was suggested that I just go and observe. I was hooked almost immediately. Another cellist was there for the first time. She volunteered an old cello she owned as a loaner to me, since I didn't have an instrument. The adventure has gone on from there. During rehearsals, I have had two private lessons from a fellow who works at the shop. He is a good and patient teacher and encourages me. I love to practice and have even begun to tentatively play a little bit with the orchestra. We only have 15 members so far but I believe it will grow. I am excited to be a part but sort of bummed about not being able to practice yesterday and play in the concert tonight. Oh, well. I will be much more prepared next time. To be continued...

Untagged But Playing Anyway

I wasn't actually tagged but these were ideas on a blog I read recently, so here's another list posting.


10 years ago I was...

getting acquainted with toddler Stephanie, getting ready to celebrate age 62, re-evaluating my life's direction, still integrating the experience of visiting NYC, going on spontaneous trips* to Cedar City or Moab with (mostly) our daughters.

The to do list...

Doing what I can to get over the first cold I've had in over two years, Christmas gifts wrapped,addressing and mailing cards, I hope. (At least they are all made.) And then hopefully, practicing on my loaner cello, putting laundry away, and most important, Taking a nap!

Snacks I enjoy...

Swirl pops, Healthy Choice or Swiss Miss Chocolate Ice cream bars, graham crackers with jam, popcorn. That's all I care to confess today.

Places I've vacationed...

England, Wales, NYC, Colorado, San Diego, Yellowstone and see above*.

Jobs I've had...

Kindergarten teacher, child care, picking peaches, baby-sitting, sada fountain at drug store, delivering phone books, delivering newspapers

Pet peeves...

Having a cold, trying to put things away when I haven't decided where they belong. being told what to do, books or movies with excess violence and/or sex, not being accepted or understood & the times I forget to be grateful for what I do have.

Things that bring me joy...

Going to our grandkids activities, hearing the little kids sing quietly along with Steffi's school orchestra, playing the piano or cello, working with my hands, laughter, listening to birds, and all the other things I have on my 100 favorite thing list, plus more!

Anyone else want to share?

Update on Baby Evy

Evy is home! She has gone from 1 lb. 3 oz. to 6 lbs. 10 oz. and growing! All seems to be well with her except a little more eye development is needed. Keep up the prayers!

Playing with Words

My friend and I walk today,

the path drowsy with threatened rain,

bushes flattered into aspen brightness

or avocado-skin green, briers brown

as leather, crowding west toward

a white fence pointing the way

to the distant Cinderella highway.



When Joan dropped me off after our walk she said, Go write a poem. This is a five minute draft, not off the subject technique or other layers. I have no idea how it will or will not develop. My walking partner, Joan, is in Colorado with her son's family now. Anyway, this post is weeks after that walk. Whoops, there is more...



A pied-billed grebe disappears

in murky stream, waters low,

a stop sign surrounded by dry bushes

appears for us to puzzle over until we remember

high water in spring, low bridge ahead.

Concrete tunnel beneath the road

echoes with our footsteps

and a Halloween screech.



Downstream, the grebe emerges

shakes a drop from its bill

and submerges again.



I forgot that I had added on to the thing so I guess it was more like 15 minute draft. It needs a lot more revision but it is a start. Thanks Joan, for the challenge. You do that for me a lot and I appreciate your caring.

Eight is Enough?

Can't believe it's been so long since I posted. How easy to get out of a habit, even a good one. Thanks to Kimberlee (again) I decided I would write today. Her tag makes it easier to get with it!

8 TV shows I love to watch...

Jon and Kate plus 8
Little People
The O'Reilly Factor
Professional Bull Riding
Joseph Smith Papers
Any Jazz game or tennis broadcasts
American Experience
Keeping Up Appearances

I watch HGTV, Create, and PBS programs, too. I used to watch American Choppers. I could never figure out why I was so fascinated by it. My favorite was a week when they were tearing down their old garage and moving to a new one. They drove into sheetrock partitions, crashed around like crazy with stuff flying around like an explosion. I laughed my head off. I didn't like the way relationships were handled but I did like seeing the soft side of the dad. The language finally got to be too much and it was broadcast somewhat late, so I gave up watching it.

8 things that happened yesterday...

I went to the dentist and got a way to go, keep on doing what you are doing.
We had hot dogs and Bush beans last night for dinner.
I was still cutting 6 inch squares for I Spy quilts.
I didn't find athletic shoes at Nordstrom Rack because I am fussy about fit.
I picked up a gorgeous red maple leaf in the parking lot. (Love the smell of autumn!)
I read two pages of Dick Francis' new book, Silk, before I feel asleep.
Art showed me a weather site on his computer.
I got a book in the mail from PaperBackSwap.com. It was mailed from Syracuse Utah.


8 places I love to eat...

El Farol, Fazoli's, Sweet Tomatoes, Golden Corral (Saturday breakfast), Chuck-a-Rama, Poetry party potluck at Marillyn Johnson's, (how's that for alliteration?) Navajo tacos at BYU food court, and Lone Star. Oh, I forgot hamburgers, fries and shakes at Woody's. Just plain old food!

8 things I look forward to...

Going to a memory writing class taught by my cousin Carol.
Maybe playing the cello again if my arthritic shoulders will cooperate.
Thanksgiving at Kimberly's.
Helping Alyssa's little dog Cupid know I am his friend.
Making new Christmas memories.
Having Nick, Brittany and Stephanie over.
Going to NYC in January to visit my dear friend Royce.
Getting acquainted with Evy after flu season is over.

That's it. And thanks again Kimberlee for the motivation to get on this blog again!

"To A Hip Couple"

This is what one of our fun friends wrote on a little card to be put in the guest book at our anniversary party. I guess it's true. We also thought of our old notion that this party gave a whole new meaning to "Hip, Hip, Hooray!" The party was so much better than we even imagined. And it was wonderful to be able to walk around without limping. There was a steady stream of our friends and relatives and everything was taken care of by someone else! We felt so blessed. Once in a while we even caught ourself looking around at what we needed to do but there wasn't anything except to visit and feel grateful. One of the special things for us was getting to see the friends of our children. We realized again that everybody has a special place in our heart. Another thing that struck me was how comfortable people were and how much like a reunion it was. I really enjoyed watching people visit with each other. The thought also kept coming to me that there were those who were not able to come who were sending love our way. It's hard to describe what a good experience we had. Thanks to everyone!

September 11--seven years (or fifty) later

Today was my last day with the physical therapist who has been coming to our home. We've gotten fond of her; between her visits to both of us, we've gotten quite well acquainted. Anyway after the door closed, I started to cry. I didn't feel that way until it was final. Of course, it is a day of reflection with feelings close to the surface anyway. We are keenly aware of how blessed we are, particularly since we will be given the gift of a small celebration of our anniversary--3 months and 2 days after the fact! It is an amazing thing to have a friend do all the preparations for us--we just have to show up. It was decided on such short notice that we couldn't even do invitations but if anyone reading this would like to join in, you are invited to a backyard party, Sunday, Sept. 14 from 4-6:00 PM. The address is 6822 South 300 East. Art and I are blessed to have had all these years together. 50+!!!

Fuzzy Brain

Again today I am noticing that my thought process feels somewhat like my thigh--sort of bandaged when it is not and flickering with nervous energy then lethargy (or numbness) settles in again. I feel it particularly when there is a decision to be made. I think anesthetic must be exaggerating a tendency that is already somewhat habitual. Decisions. I can think of 25 different possibilities for any given problem. It makes settling on one idea feel impossible. I know it's not true but with this habit, I think I need help. Or the calmness that comes when I pray in a serious way. A good thing to do on a Sunday, right? Or any other day, for that matter!

Where did the summer go?

Where to begin...my hip surgery was incredibly successful! The recovery has been fast, the pain minimal, our hospital, rehab and home care people have been easy to work with and I now walk without walker or cane--for the most part. (Cane is a security thing in case I walk further than I thought and still have to get back home!) At my visit to the Dr. he said the x-ray indicates that the hip is "perfect" and I have no reason to think otherwise. We have an excellent Dr. and love his nurse, Portia. All in all, I had a good experience. I went to church last Sunday--Art had a cold so he stayed home. I did notice that I had a slightly harder time following lessons and talks. Just not as alert as usual, which I attribute to the residual effects of anesthetic. Now it's time to continue to walk and use stationary bike, slowly building up to more and more time. I don't know if you have seen the TV ad with the coach of Duke University. The particular brand of prosthetics he touts is the same brand used for Art and I. So I rather like watching the ad. For some time, Art has wanted to replace our driveway and extend it over to the fence so that we could have the cars side by side rather than rearranging them all the time. We just had it done last week. Midvale City will put in sidewalk and gutter for us in October, although we will pay half of the cost. Our tomatoes and squash planted for us by our next-door neighbors are doing well. We both cried when we saw that someone had put them in for us, as early in the summer we could not have done it for ourselves. Good neighbors are invaluable! I don't know why I haven't updated before now. Somehow, the day to day things were just hard enough that I didn't have the inclination to add one more thing, I guess. Anyway it's good to be back--and even on a new computer!

Today

I'm going to post a "today" message although Marilee posted it as another today a few days ago. As you will see, I was very happy to receive the notice of an update on Evelyn's blog. "Today is Evelyn's 1 month birthday. She has grown quite a bit in this time. As reported to us yesterday, she weighs 1 lb and 11 oz and she eats 1.5 oz a day. Her digestive system is working great, her heart is strong, her brain is looking good and her lungs are beginning to heal. We would like to take this time to thank you for all your thoughts, prayers and deeds...comments on this carepage give us strength and help remind us we are not doing this for ourselves and Evelyn alone. We are also doing this for you, her friends and family." The miracle continues. On this, my today, I'm finishing up items on the list and will be at St. Mark's hospital at 11:00 this morning. Mostly I am feeling calm. especially after a blessing given to me yesterday afternoon when I was surrounded by Art and our two sons. It was a reassurance of love and a verification that this day will bring about a good result. After going 2 weeks without Aleve-type pills and looking one more time at my X-ray (my hip reminded me of scrambled eggs, but maybe that's because we had them for breakfast at a restaurant recently) I'm more than ready. The ball and joint do look distorted and scrambled! Soon we will be off to the hospital. I carry with me your love, prayers and blessings. Art and Tracy have the hardest part--waiting around a few hours, fully conscious. I guess my job is to be there and sleep through it. It will probably be a week or two until I get back to this blog. In the meantime, I send love your way, too.

Graduation

I graduated from hand therapy! My progress has been steady and healing will continue on. I am to keep doing all my hand and wrist exercises until the 12th. When I am back home after hip surgery I can switch to 3 times a week for a month. I do have to make one more appointment with Dr. Heiden. Finally the plan is to live life, doing normal everyday activities. That should complete the process. What a process it has been, all due to the slip of a paring knife!

Countdown or (better yet) One Day at a Time

This morning Heather asked me how I was feeling about my upcoming surgery to replace my left hip. Mostly I am attempting to stay in the current day. Right now, Art is helping me in my room. I have a new laptop. (Art is using the Toshiba. I think it buys him time to keep looking around for that computer with all the features he wants, so he is taking over my "old" one.) The guys are moving my desk from one room to this one. It is quite an undertaking but satisfying. I'm in more of a consultant mode. The prep for surgery has included a hold on taking Aleve-type medication. Now I know just how much pain those four pills a day were masking. It's hard to get anything done that requires being up and yet there is stiffness and pain when I sit down too long. This morning I made a vow to quit whining (again) so that's all I'm going to say. Anyway, the countdown, if I admit it is going on, is 5 days until the day(August 12). Tracy is taking the week off work as he did when Art had his operation. He's really a good cook and supportive so Art has a lot of help. I'm sure others will step up as they can, to lend love and support. Bless them! And the Olympics will be on. Hope I can be alert enough to enjoy the TV coverage!

At Sara's Wedding

I love this picture of Cindy and her granddaughter, taken a couple of years ago. She, along with Sandy, Julie and Kristi are my other sisters through Marilee's mom, Winnie. We are all pulling for Evelyn!

Stonehenge

When I was at hand therapy a couple of weeks ago and was having the hand warmed for 20 minutes, I saw a National Geographic magazine with the cover story featuring Stonehenge. For the next couple of times, they brought it back to me so I could finish the article. As well as being a distraction, the article was fascinating as it presented this theory and that regarding the construction and significance of this "national treasure". Actually, I think it is considered to be one of the treasures of the world. The article also reminded me of this day when Alice, Debbie and I were actually in the very place. It still amazes me to have been there. This photo of Alice and I was on a sidewalk which circles Stonehenge. This is as close as tourists are allowed. Stonehenge is not only a world treasure, it is a treasured memory for me.

Correction...and Update

In an earlier post I said that the hands holding her head belonged to her dad. Wrong. They are Marilee's. Yesterday we visited again (without my camera). She has noticeably grown. Amazing that there are ventilators and so much other equipment that can give a little one like Evy a chance to finish the work begun in the womb. She is still making progress each day. There are a lot of miracles involved with more to come. Heather and I each only got a glimpse. One as little as she is can't filter out all the stimulus so a covered incubator is the norm. She is being fed her mother's milk now, a big step!

Here She Is!

Miracle Girl

Tiny (and I mean tiny) Evelyn Maddison Forrester has been born. She is the daughter of Nate and Marilee Forrester (Marilee is my sister), a much awaited child. I had hoped to post photos from Evysblog a resource of Primary Children's Hospital but as usual I am still experimenting with how to get photos from one place to another. Maybe before long I will be able to post her little self so her size can be seen in comparison to her dad's hands. For now, suffice it to say that she weighed 1 lb. 3 oz. at birth. You see why she is a miracle. I saw her at Intermountain neonatal ICU, where she was born. This week I hope to see her again at Primary, where she has been transferred. The plan is that Heather will push me in a wheelchair again (no, I'm not really that bad off, but it is harder to walk any distance and Heather from childhood wanted to push me in a wheelchair, for some reason or another. Belatedly she has had the chance, but only in this circumstance of visits to Evelyn.) The baby is doing remarkably well but prayers and good thoughts are always welcome!

Break Through, I Hope

Excuse the near duplicate of a previous picture. At least I had my eyes open in the other one. But I wanted to see Megan's smile which reminds me of the excitement we felt yesterday after she had worked hard on my index finger. It has been very stiff. During our time together Thursday, I heard a pop and suddenly the finger could curve down into my palm which it had not been doing before while working with hand therapy. We surmise that I had scar tissue around a 30+ year-old injury to the palm of that hand and finally something gave way which allowed more flexibility. At last! I was getting pretty discouraged about things but something did happen in that moment and I almost got tears in my eyes. Well, truthfully, I did have tears in my eyes but hid them pretty fast. We were both happy! This weekend I get to play with clay. It takes me back to childhood fun which isn't a bad thing to focus on while doing hand exercises!

Visitor

When Chris and his family came over to prune some shrubs for us they brought along this little friend. She was in the road near their home so he rescued her from passing traffic. You can see her little tags. They say her name is Princess and there was a phone number for the owner. Chris left a message then they all came over here. I was smitten instantly. One of the kids wondered aloud what they would do with her if they went on vacation and hadn't been able to make connections with the owner. I told them that if we weren't looking at health things, I would love to tend her. Someone else said, "See, what did I tell you!" My reputation as an animal lover, even on a part time basis is solidly intact. While they were here, Chris got the important call on his cell, so I was only able to enjoy Princess for less than an hour. But what a delight. She was obviously well trained, didn't bark at all during her stay, and I am very glad I got to experience this little dog even for such a short time. Princess is another of my "part-time pets".

Nick with Princess and his cash for a job well done.

Ready to Blog Again!

Funny how being either a caregiver or receiver of care takes so much energy. Even though intellectually I thought it would be good to get back to this, on other levels it was impossible. Not that things are going badly. Far from it. But it seemed to take everything I had to stay afloat. Today is different. It seems that one more thing can be added and this blog is it! I was startled while playing around with loading photos into the computer (which will end up who knows where) to see that the web cam was doing its thing. So this photo is minutes old. I used Skype twice with Heather who now lives not quite an hour away. It is disconcerting enough to see yourself right in front of you (but with a delay in the image) when you are expecting it. Anyway, today I moved up/down, back/forth to try to center the image and smile instead of having my mouth open in surprise. Art is doing well even without using a walker. Today he even vacuumed the front room using our lightweight "Shark". I guess it served as a crutch. Each day still is better than the last. My hand isn't recovering as fast as I'd like. I'm not sure at this point how much flexibility I will get back, but I can type, drive, crochet slowly, play the piano (I can do an octave but tend to hit more than one note with my thumb. I've had the benefit of good hand therapists. Didn't know there was such a specialty before now.

Massage, the best part of hand therapy! This is one of the Megan's who have worked with me.

She is physically tiny, but a powerful woman. Nikki, the receptionist, took the photo.

And here's my guy a little over a week ago before he left rehab to come home. I don't know how he feels about it but I love this photo! He was actually using a walker very efficiently at this time but was pushed down to occupational therapy where he got to do bowling with a Wii! It was a balance thing. He ended his turn with a strike! Too bad we don't have one here. He would probably challenge me to a game.

Off the Roller Coaster?

I had no idea what would be waiting for me when I got to rehab last Saturday morning. Art was looking sort of lost and the people asked me if he was usually this confused. No, he isn't. Turns out he had a not too uncommon UTI probably from the use of catheter in the hospital. I was scared especially since his reactions reminded me of the stroke he had last year. Fortunately, it was not so. It also is not uncommon with this infection, particularly in older men, for confused beliefs and perceptions to occur. He is doing well now, thank goodness. But he lost a day from memory--fortunately for him, I guess--and I got to see how concerned the workers at Health South can be. I am glad, now, that we got our third choice rehab facility. He had a fever as high as 103.2 before a high-powered group of antibiotics began working. Because he was dehydrated, his veins collapsed and they had to call in a specialist to insert a Pik-line (sp?)to get the antibiotics into his bloodstream. Pretty scary, all the way around. It took a few more days before he was himself again. Now, at last, he is making the nurses, PT and OT folks and aides laugh with his sense of humor. Sarah, his aide has been terrific. He recognizes the staff as friends and no longer feels betrayed. Funny, though. I wouldn't trade the experiences we have had together and with our family for anything. And I sincerely hope that my operation proceeds with fewer gliches. The odds are in my favor, they tell me. Perhaps soon we will know when he will be coming home. He's anxious to get here. With all he has had to endure, the blessing? He has no pain at all with the new hip and the incision. I have taken a few photos but again, I lack a step or two in being able to post new ones here. That inexperience too will pass. And each "tomorrow is better than today."

Heather on the Hill

Heather got her name because Art loved the musical "Brigadoon". This photo reminds me of that as well as of my trip in 2006. Although Art is rehabbing now at Health South (phone number: 801-565-6650, Room 1012, Bed 2) his music means so much to him that I am sure he will be listening with earphones to his favorites. I'm not sure if that will be as he is doing physical therapy (probably not) or when he is resting afterwards. So far, he has been well taken care of which is a relief to me. Today when I go there I expect he will be cracking jokes with those who are helping him. It has been a bit of a roller coaster of emotions. Fortunately he is resilient, inclined to make the best of things. Sure makes it easier for his worrier of a wife! He will be in rehab at least until next Thursday, the 28th, when the staff will evaluate progress. Speaking of Heather, she will probably be visiting today when Jake comes down to Salt Lake for his soccer match. Art will be glad to see them. We were lucky to be able to go to their new home for a Father's Day dinner with Jake's parents there as well. We got a vicarious look at their trip to Guatemala by way of DVD slide show. Travel is wonderful. What a beautiful country the four of them were able to experience.

Make A Wish

I don't know about his wish here, but mine has come true. Art did very well with hip surgery. Yesterday he used a walker to move down the halls of St. Marks hospital. All has gone well, so today he will be going to rehab at Health South. (Our third choice of places, but oh, well. It's close to home and the other two choices had no rooms available.) The kids have all been great to provide transportation for me. And yesterday (Surprise!) I was given permission to get rid of the splint! Ta-da!!!

(Stephanie's feelings at the moment of winning Bingo pretty much express how I feel about it!)

I am actually typing with two hands this morning. It is a bit awkward as now the tendons in the other fingers have shortened by being immobilized for so long. So now it's on to more physical therapy (ouch!) to stretch them out. The thumb is still healing on the inside although the incision is totally healed at this point. As soon as I have a good left hand grip, I have permission to drive. Freedom! The picture at the top is a birthday photo from 2006! In 2008 I will be in the hospital for his August birthday and it will be two days after my surgery on his special day. He has been a good model for me. He's been patient, has had very little pain, is following instructions so his progress has been steady. I suspect it won't be long before he will be home. We're so blessed.

Singin' In The Rain

Art had his surgery yesterday, his hip is now bionic, and the Dr. said he did "very well"! We were concerned because of his being on Coumadin (blood thinner) and his heart is still irregular. But, as we were assured, all went well. When he was being wheeled away to surgery and was told to say goodbye, he began moving his arms in a windshield wiper motion, back and forth. The attendant said, "That's a first!" Kimberly, Tracy and I knew he was being funny for us, imitating actions from the old Gene Kelly/Debbie Reynolds movie. We laughed as we went into the waiting room then again at his semi-coherant witticisms after surgery. What a guy!

The Sun is Always Shining

I once read a book which reminded the reader to hold onto the fact that above the storms of life, the sun is always shining. I've been noticing that no matter how achy my left arm and hand get before bedtime, in the morning it feels so normal, I almost begin to take the splint off as if it were a no-longer-needed glove. Then I quickly remember that, no, I am stuck with it for at least two and possibly as much as four more weeks. I didn't know how much of a relief it could be to drop off a couple of pounds (maybe I only imagine it is that heavy). I can take it off briefly 5 times a day when it is time to do my wrist exercise and to massage the incision. And when I go to the hospital clinic, even though sometimes my muscles and tendons complain, it is heavenly to have the hand therapists work with me. I get heat and cold as well as someone else to massage. It makes it worth it. Since I have never had a broken bone, maybe this process approximates that effect. I've been thinking that my granddaughters might have fun decorating this splint. The hard white plastic is beginning to look dingy to say the least. And I always did want to experience an autographed cast!

It's a Dog's Life

I'm not sure why the phrase Its a dog's life kept coming to mind this morning. And I'm not even sure if the phrase is meant to describe a negative or positive life. When I "googled" the phrase I didn't get much help. I get it that it must have begun as an English proverb because Google sent me to sites mainly in the UK. The National Library of Australia was mentioned as well as a newspaper in Canada. But nowhere did I find an explanation. The closest was a vague reference to the notion that whoever coined the phrase was not familiar with 21st century dogs. Anyway, it's another opportunity to post photos of the family Bassett Hounds. (Does "Bassett" have one "t" or 2?) If the phrase means you lie around all day, that could apply at times. If it means hard stuff, that could also apply. Maybe it's best to say, It is what it is and let it go at that! And say thank you to all the folks in our "pack". Your good wishes make a palpable difference!

HAS IT REALLY BEEN THAT LONG?

We're not quite sure we recognize ourselves here. It's like looking in the mirror and saying to yourself, "That couldn't be me! I'm way younger than that!" With a little more skill than I have today, I wish I could scan in how we really look (or is it how we feel inside?). I would upload a picture of the Art and Janet of fifty years ago. Today is our anniversary. These particular pictures were taken almost two years ago, the best I could do today. Maybe, by the time we celebrate "for reals" (after surgeries) we will be able to have more then and now pictures to post. In the meantime, it has been a day when much has been unspoken and we both know we would make the same decision all over again. The highlight of our low-key day so far has been opening a package together from Joan and Howard. We received it a few days ago but saved it for THE DAY. We both shed tears at the love and thoughtfulness which went into the exquisite embroidered and framed announcement of our 50th. It is beautiful.

The Piano

The camera caught him in a reflective moment, sitting in front of the piano which was in his childhood home. In a way, this piano was central to life in that home. His dad was a musician who practiced and taught in the room by the piano. We are incredibly blessed to have it in our home now. The first time I sat down to play it after it was in our living room, I was startled by the intensity of feelings which rose inside me. I couldn't believe how lucky I was. Having the piano here is a gift. I can hardly wait until my hand has healed and Art's hip as well. His surgery to replace the damaged right hip is coming up soon. We've looked forward to it for so long. Now, next Tuesday it is going to happen. We both have good feelings about it. At the same time we are buoyed up by the faith and prayers of loved ones. When recovery is well on its way, I am imagining him sitting nearby to listen as I play some of his favorite hymns on this beautiful piano.

"Steph cam here"

I am always glad when Stephanie comes here. Her little note on our dry erase message board by the front door gave me a flashback to my own childhood when the phrase 'Kilroy was here' was often seen. It was sort of the graffiti of the 40's. Kilroy was a World WarII character. Just for fun go to: http://www.kilroywashere.org/001-Pages/01-0KilroyLegends.html
But back to the present: I left Steph's message there for a long time and it gave me a chuckle each time I walked by.

What a Woman!

This is a photo of Marsha, my absolutely favorite daughter-in-law. She is energetic, wise, accomplishes her goals, is spiritual, kind and generous. I love the way she mothers our grandchildren with a balance between being strong and firm and also nurturing and understanding. Marrying her was the best gift Chris could have given us. Happy Birthday, Marsha. You have so many good qualities I admire. I am remembering many special times we have had together and all the laughs and shared tears. Thanks for once in a while letting me be a small part of your school papers. Love you lots! Maybe you would like to listen to the song "Miracle" on my playlist. I think it was written about Celine Dion's little baby. On Mothers Day I listened to it and cried. Happy tears.

Calling Home

While I was in England and Wales, each phone booth I saw was like a connection to home. I knew that given time, I could enter, use my international calling card and like magic, Art or one of our children would be there on the line with me, available to talk. Linking the telephone and prayer as a metaphor has been used so often it might be called a cliche. I prefer to think of it as a truism. During those moments of uncertainty, crisis, or even pure joy, it is wonderful to be able, in an instant, to make a connection with a loving God.

Hebrew Alphabet

Some years ago, after viewing on television the results of another in a long line of horrific events in Jerusalem, I sent away for this quilt kit. For me, quilting, along with most other forms of handwork, is a way to comfort myself in a troubled world. That's one reason why being unable to use my left hand has been a trial to my patience. It has been a temporary loss of several activities which release my tension in a constructive way. Making the quilt was symbolic of my hope that someday Israel will be a peaceful homeland for all who live there. In the meantime, I suppose my energy is best spent in making this place more peaceful. In finding new ways to seek comfort. Or maybe the old ways will be enough, like saying prayers and reading scriptures. And remembering this quote from Rabindranath Tagore: Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings while the dawn is still dark.

London Times...(and I don't mean the newspaper)

Photos taken on the fly while touring London on the top level of a bus are often not quite squared up. The tops of buildings are the images you snatch with the camera, and at that, the very top was often cut off. This is also true of the ones (at least mine) taken from a boat on the Thames.

When not focusing on images, there was a certain unreal feeling. It was hard to take in the reality that I was actually seeing London, really walking on the streets I had heard about ever since I could remember. Travel serves a dual purpose for me. It opens my eyes, in a way nothing else can, to the joy of iving in the now moment and it serves to remind me that there is beauty no matter where you go. We, who live under the same sky, are very much alike, no matter our location.

Brittany in the Almond Tree

She is a climber, so it is not surprising that on the day of the Easter egg hunt a year ago this is the place she chose to go. I have been pleased to be a part of Brittany's circle of family and friends. I have watched as she has used her considerable talents to improve and grow in skills and character. Keep on climbing Brittany. Don't let the challenges of life hold you back! The sky's the limit! Remember that no matter where you are or where I am, I will always be praying for you and cheering you on.

Amazing Photographer!

I can't wait any longer to share this website. Please check it out. You won't be disappointed! http://kimberleeadamsphotography.blogspot.com/

For those of you who are artistic and/or crafty (in the good sense of the word), you might like to check out http://rebeccasower.typepad.com/ I discovered her work through Alyssa who had a wonderful book on journaling by Rebecca. The woman used to write for scrapbooking magazines but has gone on to other things. I have liked her books so much that I "googled" her. In that way I found her website. She is beginning a new feature called Handmade from Home. The first project is windchimes from junk, with photos as well as clear instructions. I suggest you try it...(the webpage) you might like it! Our ancestors worked with their hands out of necessity (note grazing sheep at Avebury in England). The desire to make something new from the materials at hand is in our DNA, I think. Is that why I can hardly wait until I can get rid of this hard plastic splint? Four and a half more weeks!

Thoughts on Jake's Birthday...After the Actual Day

Because of this in between place I am in, I can't post a picture of Jake. They are in this computer, but I don't yet know how to get them from where they are now, into this post. But if you want to see great pictures of him, check out Heather's blog (http://mtgratitude.blogspot.com/) in the post titled "He". My favorite of all her beautiful photos is the one with his nephew because you can feel the strong bond between them. My other in between place has to do with wearing a splint on my left hand. It's still one-handed typing for me, so my entries are shorter lately. But I wanted to tell you, Jake, that I am so glad that you joined our family. It is good to read Heather's blogs and as I talk with her, I realize just how much you give to her. And I am missing our good conversations, too. You have added more goodness than you know to our lives in this family. Happy Birthday, son.

Brace Yourself!

The bands on Nick's teeth are gone now, but I am still bracing myself. At 16, there are so many decisions ahead for him to make--important ones. This Grandma has a lot of love and trust regarding this grandson. Still, figuratively speaking, I hold my breath a bit. One reason: Nick is a driver now! (And I really know he'll do just fine.)

So Very "England"

It was almost exactly two years ago when I stood outside our borrowed car and took this photo. I had taken one before, accidentally changing the setting to video. In that shot, you can almost hear the trees rustling. But I don't yet know how to bring it into the blog, so this one will have to do. The next two are so very Wales, at least in my mind.

I was so struck by all the moss and a dandelion growing out of the top of a fence post. If two photos could symbolize Wales to me, these would be my choices. Today I choose to add in a celebration of the anniversary of this trip, even as we are making one more trip to a doctor's office.

And the next thing that happened was...

One of the Bassett pups was enjoying the attention given by Alyssa. He even climbed on her lap to lick her face. After he and his brother left, along with Chris and family, I noticed her face--it was covered with hives. I'm so sorry Alyssa, that you have to pay that allergy price when interacting with animals. What a bummer!

Surprise!

Don't you love how perception of mood changes according to even small variations in placement of button eyes or other features?

Even though she is allergic to cat dander, Alyssa bought this funny plaque to go with our wall quilt. I've been amused by the expressions on the feline faces for quite some time. And cats definitely do have attitude. Sometimes I do, too. And it is variable as well. For three years now, we have been going on the assumption that Art had a hip problem and that my knee was getting increasingly worse. Neither of us was aging particularly gracefully. So what do you do when you discover that all my symptoms have been caused not by a knee but by a severely damaged hip? Knee, lower back, left leg (side and front), the pain has been referred from my hip. You scramble to believe the changed diagnosis but the x-rays are right in front of you. After a while it settles in as reality. Then, I guess what you do is count your blessings. We are seeing the premier hip surgeon in the state and hip surgery has a much shorter recovery time. During this adventure, I have discovered that I have the stamina to do physical therapy. We have found out how much people care and formed new bonds. My attitude now is this: we are both feeling that no experiences are wasted. So what's next? Art and I both have summer appointments for surgery. For now, we will both have time to recuperate from some other nagging health issues before surgery. Eventually, we'll be able to celebrate mobility, as well as the longevity of our marriage. Hip! Hip! Hooray!!!!!

Art Dances

Ever since I have known him, Art has used the expression "Might as well. Can't dance!" It got to be a family joke. If you said "Might as well..."someone was sure to complete the sentence. But no matter how many times I asked, he couldn't remember where he first heard the phrase. One day, an old movie was on TV and I heard someone say that very sentence. I got pretty excited and thought I would remember the movie and who said it. But, guess what...I don't remember. Help, anyone? Anyway, for once in Art's life he really can't dance at this moment. But someday maybe he will be moving freely again--even more than the man in this newspaper ad for Ballet West!

All she wanted for Christmas was a puppy...

Stephanie got double her wish and she loves the "boys". But look who gets to help take care of Major and Lieutenant!

Pink Foam Like a Cat Condominum

Today it is definitely hunt and peck mode for typing. Although four fingers are free of constraint, from thumb to mid-forearm I am swaddled in a splint covered with rib knit fabric. The tape looks like grograin ribbon. Now about the pink foam: for 48 hours I must keep the hand raised above the level of my heart. Day and night. It would be hard to remember to do this even during waking hours. And at night, nearly impossible. So enter a rectangular pink piece of foam with seven round holes in it, just the size for a small cat to slip through or, in my case, for a bundled up hand. On one end there is a slit to make the opening easier to access and also a strip of velcro to keep it all in place. There is room inside the soft-splint/cast to wiggle my thumb the amount that is allowed. By the way. Dr. Karen Heiden was able to reattach the tendon. No graft required! I've had no nausea and very little pain. Wow! I am blessed! Next week, I hope to have a smaller wrapping and soon be able to move the thumb a little more. I've done physical therapy before, I can follow instructions again. I think I will have to wear a splint for six weeks. Good thing a person can learn to do things one-handed!

Thumbs and Other Digits

The past few days I have been fumbling as I type. The reason? My left hand is splinted (or maybe I would call it soft-splinted) in preparation for a surgery on my thumb which will take place in the early afternoon today. Nothing like not having normal use, to notice the many and varied ways having a fully functional thumb is helpful. For instance, it is pretty hard to open a cracked egg when the knuckle joint will not bend. And removing earrings? Forget about it. How did this all happen? A month or so ago, I was chopping vegetables (can't even remember what) with an especially sharp paring knife. I was in a hurry, not paying the usual attention. Yes, I did cut the back of my thumb knuckle. It was pretty deep but not wanting to go to emergency or anything, I just cleaned it and put a band-aid on. It was tender for a while but seemed to heal quickly and well. Fast forward to three weeks later. Another afternoon, more preparations for dinner. The ice in a flexible tray was sticking so I twisted it. Suddenly, the thumb felt funny. Not painful. Just different. Shortly thereafter, I noticed that it would not bend, no matter how much concentration I put on trying to make it do so. Well, I could make it bend manually, but not by thinking "bend" and having it happen. It just (excuse the cliche) stuck out like a sore thumb! Art had a Dr. appointment in two days. Our primary care doc thought I had probably nicked the tendon with the knife then finished the job with the twisting motion. He was right. I went to a hand surgeon so here we are today, awaiting another life adventure. I have felt a sense of rightness in having the reattachment done. No doubts as to going ahead, although other options were discussed. Even now, I feel no panic, which is somewhat surprising to me. Anyway, I know I will be fumbling around at the computer for whatever time recovery takes. And then, hopefully, nearly normal full use will be the result. (BTY: When in doubt and it is after hours, go to emergency!) As to the other digits (not fingers and toes) we are attempting to keep track of Dr. appointments. The numbers keep adding up. I haven't actually made a count, but it seems to be a big part of our life together now!

Birthdays and Michelle

One of her siblings' birthday was being celebrated on the evening I took this picture. I posted the photo because seeing Michelle's face, her clear complexion, and dark hair and eyes brings not only the moment back but a lot of memories. People used to ask Art and I the question, "Where did you get this child?" meaning that neither of us had quite the same coloring as Michelle did. Many since then have told me what a beautiful woman she has become, and I agree. Michelle was our first born and the day of her birth created a big shift in my life. I remember being in awe of our baby and more thrilled than I have words to describe. The depth of my emotion astonished me. I also remember how frightened I was. To be so completely responsible for another human being was new to me. So, yes, I was scared. Fortunately, Art was there to listen to my feelings. He comforted and reassured me. Still, I don't think it was easy being daughter to such inexperienced parents. Fortunately, she has survived us and our mistakes as well as other difficulties which have come her way. Michelle is an extraordinary person. This photo only gives a small glimpse into who she is and what she brings to life and to the people around her. Even when she was a baby, she had this same alert, curious way of looking at things. She has been able, from a young age, to be analytical and discerning. She is a cat-lover, resident family expert on many subjects and a sensitive and compassionate woman. Actually I can't begin to describe the qualities I admire and love in her. We've had a lot of adventures together. I always think of her when I open my blog because we share a love of red rocks and petroglyphs. Happy Birthday, Michelle, on this your special day. It is a special day to me, also. P. S. From Dad: I recall when Michelle was very young she would speak the french words she knew. She even would sing the song the little children sang in French in the musical South Pacific. Although she was young, I knew she had a special gift with language. And by the way, Michelle, know you are loved!

Emptying My Purse

It must have been at least 3 months ago when Charnae tagged me to do a "contents of my purse" post. I didn't write it all down or count the number of cards and other like items, so I can't give you a total number on what was inside. But as you can see, this was a lot to fit into a VERY small shoulder bag. It is the purse I used to have. I saw the "Buxton Bag" organizer (another purse) advertised on TV. It was one of those ads that run over and over again and, of course, was designed to be very enticing. Art ordered it for me as a belated birthday gift. And then we waited and waited. When it didn't arrive within the promised time, we checked again and were told it was on backorder. We would receive it in one-two weeks. Five weeks later, it finally arrived. I like my new purse with its multiple zippers and pockets. But when I saw this letter to the editor in the newspaper, it brought the whole process back to mind. Don't get me wrong. I really like the new one and so far I haven't loaded it down too much. But doesn't this letter by Jane Randall put ads in perspective? Jane happens to be a member of the Utah Poetry Society. As you might surmise, she writes humorous but very pointed poems.

"I just want to gripe at all advertisers vying--ever more shrilly--for my money. Once upon a time, commercial breaks on TV included two or maybe three advertisements. Now it's 10 to 15. Once upon a time, a billboard was an occasional incursion in an otherwise pleasant road trip. Now billboards are the scenery. Once a single set of yellow pages was sufficient. Now there isn't enough drawer space in my house for all the phone books. Advertisements dog me everywhere. My mailbox is full of them. My newspapers. My telephone is used for them. I see them on buses and watch them at the movie theaters. And guess what every advertisement aims to do? It aims to convince me that I'm not good enough, not happy enough, not smart enough, not pretty enough and not enlightened enough. Billions of dollars are being spent just to tell me I'm inadequate! One wonders where the madness and the greed of free enterprise gone berserk will end." Enough said!

Class Reunion: the oldest dad with his youngest child.

Well, actually he probably wasn't the oldest dad. But here's the story: When we were at Art's last class reunion from Murray High school, one of the activities was passing out certificates for the member with the most children, married longest, etc. We didn't figure he'd get anything, especially after someone had...I can't remember how many, maybe 40 grandchildren, and we have three. (They are VERY special ones, I must admit.) Then the group was asked who was the classmate with the youngest child. Compared to others, Art got a bit of a late start, as we didn't marry until he was almost 28. So Heather turned out to be the person who let Art win a certificate (Woo-Hoo!) for having the youngest child. Here they are celebrating that fact!

Like Father, Like Son

During the 70's, Art noticed himself making judgments of people solely on appearance. It was the hippy era and was easy to fall into that sort of thinking. So one summer, he decided to see what it felt like from the other side. We already were driving a VW bus, so that was in place. That was the summer he began growing a beard after school was out and his teaching duties were temporarily over. It was a good experience for him to see how others might feel, as he fielded the questioning or downright negative stares in his direction. However, we both liked the new look, so it became a pattern set for summertime. Chris, too, seems to like a vacation from shaving. This photo reminds me that the two of them are alike in many other good ways, as well.

It all depends on your perspective...

Last evening we celebrated Stephanie’s birthday as a family. Those who could make it went to Chris and Marsha’s at 7:00. We had the usual cake and ice cream, sang Happy Birthday, blew out the candles, Stephanie choosing to blow them out a few at a time. Her decision made for pretty good photos! There was jumping on the trampoline, playing with the pups, almost full-grown now, sitting around talking, catching up on each others’ lives. It was a pleasant evening, although Alyssa was sick, Tracy had a rehearsal, and Heather and Jake couldn’t make it, either . Low-key, just as I like it. Stephanie and I checked out her latest picture on this blog. We both remembered the night it was taken. Brittany and I talked about books and friends.

And I got one more in a series of photos of Nick from (shall we say) unusual angles. Last night’s was lying on his back with his legs up on the wall by the window. In the one I posted here he was sitting in old furniture, which used to be in our living room, during family home evening. It's really hard to tell that the shoe and the face were both from the same person. But no matter the angle, this is one fine young man. And I am hardly biased at all. Last night, I also got some straight on pictures of him smiling, with a cute haircut from Supercuts. From my perspective, you look great, Nick. And I suspect there are a quite a few younger females who would agree with me!