Cold Comfort Farm … | thoughts from the farm.

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Wilma

This is another “early” post. Tomorrow, George and I will spend the day at the annual training session for all those who volunteer to do lookout duty during the summer fire season. It will start at 1000 and last until it’s done following the potluck at noon, probably around 1600. I plan to take beef-rice piroshki this year.

We may be the oldest ones there. Nancy H, who had been a lookout for 50 years, retired last year. She had broken an arm and shoulder and decided the climb every day was too difficult. I don’t remember how old she is.

The CalFire lookouts are no longer manned (or womanned) 24-7. Fiscal concerns. So now CalFire calls when the danger is high and folks stay in the lookouts until the danger is over.

Last year there was a discussion about automating the lookouts. Some folks were of the opinion that machines can’t be relied upon even if their “eyesight” is keener. They don’t know the territory (apologies to Henry Hill) and can’t distinguish between safe smoke and danger. Hence, they’re used most of the time and people fill in when there is real danger.

We still volunteer for Paradise Craggy. It’s been a couple of years since I’ve been up there. We get called only when fire danger is high and, at those times, one of us needs to be at home on watch. And since George’s radio savvy is better than mine, he goes and I stay home.

We’ll see what happens this year. This is probably our last year. We’ve reached the point where I fret about George doing that climb etc. alone. Too bad there’s not an available kid who is interested in either CalFire or USFS I could send with him. Oh well …

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Francis has done it again …

“In a biblical reference, the pontiff said the ‘worship of the golden calf’ of old had found a new and heartless image in the current cult of money.”

“People struggle to live … under the dictatorship of an economy which lacks any real human goal.”

” ‘I would like a Church that is poor and is for the poor,’ he said following his election as head of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics two months ago.”

The Vatican bank will be creating a website where its books will be available for everyone to see. Wonder what would show up if all banks everywhere were to do that?

This Pope rocks. But he is in such contrast with the policies of the previous two, I wonder how much longer than that of John Paul I his papacy will last before someone takes him out.

~~~

Had a down day last week following the glorious day of giving away flowers. That had been tuesday. Wednesday (my real birthday anniversary) was a good, normal day. Then thursday the muscle that attaches on my left occiput started acting up and I just didn’t give a ding about anything. I wound up sleeping most of the day.

Dame Edith Sitwell once said something to the effect that every woman should occasionally spend a day in bed for the good of her soul and the instruction of those who depend on her.

Those days don’t happen to me very often and they make me crazy. Being ill is really hard for me. I don’t like being a burden in any form. It’s not a role for which I’m prepared.

Fortunately, I have a mate who nurtures me when I need it. He fed me Ramen, held me when I began to unravel, and let me sleep.

And, whether it was a “bug” or a Sitwell day … I’m much better now.

~~~

Sunday we went on a tour of the route planned for the new bike event.

As we started out, the Mountain was nowhere to be seen. Clouds were moving south to north.

As we got onto the route the clouds cleared. The bike event main route is 95.5 miles and goes through three counties. At one point on the route we could see into all three counties … Trinity (through the notch and to the right), Shasta (to the left), and Siskiyou (where we were).

George was checking radio reception at each of the rest stop sites. All seems to be fine, i.e. acceptable reception and transmission everywhere. At this time I am assigned to ride one of the SAG wagons, but that could change depending on the number of volunteers. One of our regulars was taken out in an accident a few days ago.

When we had nearly finished the first loop of the event (approximately 46 miles), we stopped for dinner/lunch at the local brewery http://www.dunsmuirbreweryworks.com/ Brats and stout. Good meal. And nice people. Two of those working on the bike event plan to be married during a later bike event this coming autumn. No decision on whether the bride will wear a veil while cycling.

The Local event is being sponsored by the Mt Shasta Rotary. For more information, and some pictures, check out http://www.castlecragscentury.com/

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The view out the front this morning was just as it is supposed to be.

We are indeed blessed.

~~~

This is a difficult time of year for me. The urge to get out in the dirt is strong. However, getting out too early is futile. The ground is not yet welcoming. Plants out too early are doomed. Yet the urge to start is strong.

I started some plants early and set them out early. And lost about half of them. Time to start again.

It’s just that during this time of year, sitting inside doing other things somehow seems wrong. There are things out there worthy of appreciation … lilacs full of aroma,

the BRIGHT tips on the firs,

the first iris blooms, the sound of chicks in the brooder, a salad of green volunteers from last year’s garden, the first potato shoots showing, leftover cosmos and chamomile to transplant to new beds, incipient fruit on plum and apricot and peach,

the crabapple tree blossoms, new buds on the catalpa,

… wonders without end.

~~~

The keyboardist for the Doors died yesterday. I recall hearing “Light My Fire” the first time back in the 60s. George came in from work one evening glowing and speechless, directing me toward the local pop-rock music station. Morrison was good, but that keyboard line was magic. And the magic didn’t stop there. I still prefer acoustic instruments … mostly … but Manczarek made miracles. Want to hear some of them? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbFxzb-YIxE

He saw life as ” … an infinite voyage of joy and adventure and strangeness and darkness and wildness and craziness and softness and beauty.“

Word on Facebook said he will be cremated while “Light My Fire” is played. Way to go …

~~~

I forgot to mention the shooting stars are back in the meadow.

And now to the kitchen …

‘Til next week …

Posted on May 15, 2013 by Wilma

May is Get Caught Reading! Month …

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Actually … for me, every month is “Get Caught Reading” month, although through the summer my reading time is diminished somewhat. Am currently rereading the first Harry Potter and just started “House of Secrets”.

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William Eggen, son of one of George’s nephews, arrived last wednesday afternoon. It was raining so a tour of the farm wasn’t an option. In spite of that, we had a lovely evening.

Thursday it was still overcast, but Willie and George were able to make a tour of the hydro system and the ram pump operation before Willie had to leave.

Thank you, Willie, for visiting. Come back whenever.

~~~

Have I told you about the ram pump? It is the piece of George’s equipment by which the water in the creek below the barn is raised to the 5,000 gallon tank on the upside of the driveway where we store water for the gardens and as protection for when the fire comes (each year it becomes more “when” and less “if”). I don’t understand all the physics, but it raises water over 200′.

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Götterdämmerung was exciting in spite of the fact that two of the leads, which had been sung consistently by the same tenor and a bass baritone during the 2012-13 season, were sung by others. The replacement tenor had a bit more vibrato than I enjoy, but he wasn’t too bad.

Of course, the finale (of this opera and of the entire Ring cycle) sounded spectacular. I posted some shots of the set last year. It was almost beyond belief. Since the Met’s season ended last saturday, and therefore this was the last time the sets would be used (I haven’t checked, but I would doubt they’ll be doing the Ring again for a while), they called the entire backstage crew out for a bow … the 50 people who managed those balanced beams. The house went wild. Must have been something to see.

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We have been watching “Call the Midwife”, a BBC production about being a nurse in the East End of London in the 50s. I had a penpal in the East End during that time period (26 Pembroke Road, Lower Clapton, London E5). Seeing what that area was like during those days is a trip. There was still rationing in effect (England recovered more slowly from WW II than we did). The show is based on a diary, so television writers can’t futz with the story line. Good show.

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The lilacs are blooming and just stepping out the front door is a olfactory excursion.

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“The greatest of teachers won’t hesitate to leave you there by yourself.”

Those of you who know me personally have already been regaled with stories of my “teacher”. For the rest of you … when I was in high school a teacher took an interest in pushing me to use what intelligence I had. He didn’t teach me dates or names or events or any of that sort of rote, prepare-to-vomit-it-back-on-a-test learning. He taught me how to actually learn. Dates etc. can always be found in books or on the net. Learning is harder to come by.

When I came across that quote, followed closely by a TED presentation about education, naturally my thoughts kept returning to Mr. Edgar.

I’m still learning. Thank you, Mr. Edgar.

~~~

Speaking of learning …I learned a lesson last sunday. It was Mothers’ Day and I posted a note about Mama on my Facebook page. I thought it was very nice and it made my eyes weep a bit. By the end of the day only 6 people had read it and commented (“liked”). I felt a bit let down.

Then, with the help of time and a cup of tea, I realized my impression was the only one that counted. I did it because, in spite of differences growing up, I love my mother and miss her. Wanting others to tell me how great the post was was merely selfish. Sort of like writing poetry because I just have to and then being disappointed if no one reads it and tells me it’s good. Oh well … a lesson is a lesson is a lesson is a …

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This has been a week for lessons …

Amazon.com is not for me.

Last week I went there to order some paperbacks I want to read before I read the book I have (the No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency books are written chronologically). I went through the site, ordered the books I need, went to the order page to check out, gave them all the information they asked for, and never once saw a total order. Instead, I saw a list of what I was ordering without any money totals.

Trusting my confusion was all because I hadn’t done it in a long time … and on the net things change overnight … I hit the finish button. It turned out I had ordered five books from five providers and was paying five shipping charges.

It might have cost me less, even figuring gas cost, to have gone to Oregon and hit the book stores in Medford and Ashland … and George would have taken me out to dinner.

Another lesson learned.

~~~

Genealogy update …

Made contact with another cousin … this time a fifth cousin once removed (according to his calculations … I didn’t take time to figure it). It will take me some time to sort out all the information he has provided since his pedigree charts (remember them from last week?) came without sources. He has since sent sources. He is so meticulous with his information.

One really interesting note … he has traced the family to the Boone family in Kentucky (that of the famous Daniel) through my mother’s paternal grandmother’s line. For many years, my Aunt Grace (Tyler Small Brown) tried to make the connection with Daniel Boone’s family, but that was through my father’s paternal grandmother’s line. Later, I”ll go back and recheck Aunt Grace’s work. That is going to be an interesting search. As is not unusual, there may be a connection. Onward …

~~~

Note for the week …

“Being content doesn’t mean everything is perfect. It merely means you’ve decided to live with the imperfections about which you are unable to do anything.”

I turned 83 today and the Mountain is helping me celebrate.

Yesterday, George and I went to town to give away flowers (I have to uphold my reputation as the crazy grandmother/aunt about whom they warn you).

The adventure began when I went to buy the flowers to give away. The florist asked how much I wanted to spend and I told her $10 or $15. She showed me a big bunch of white flowers and another of lovely purple ones. I said I’d take the whites and she said “No. It’s your birthday … you can take the whites for $10 or you can take them both for $12.”

As a result, I walked down the street with an armful of flowers. As people went past I told them it was my birthday and I would like to share it with them. Here’s what happened.

One of the first was a young man who was obviously traveling. He gave me a hug and when we saw him later the flowers were sticking out of his backpack like an antennae.

Another was a lovely Hispanic lady who reached for her money and, when I told her “No … no money”, had a smile as big as the sun.

Then came a young woman, who is also a Taurus, who sang to me and shared a dance.

We then met an older couple who would not make eye contact and pushed past us with the woman shaking her head. I guess they were city people, used to panhandlers, who thought I was trying to sell the flowers. Too bad. They missed out on a smile and flowers.

A lady who was sitting in the City Hall Plaza, reading, said “How Nice.”

A young man came out of the computer store and edged around us shaking his head, but he was followed by a woman who sang to me, gave me a hug, and said “What a great idea.”

At the end of the block was a man who had trouble registering the idea that I wanted to give him a flower. But he finally accepted and smiled as we left.

Another hug with “Blessings” came next.

Then a couple who started to go past us (expecting panhandlers?) but finally accepted a flower and a handshake and told me I’d really made their day.

Two men were chatting in front of the bookstore. They both accepted flowers and one noted he’d never been given flowers by a woman before. The Irish Setter belonging to one of them came over and sat on my foot so I petted Katie and accepted her handlick.

A storeowner sitting in front of his shop wouldn’t take a flower, but he said “Happy Birthday” and told me to give the flower to someone else since he had no way to keep it fresh.

The tour ended with a nice lady whose 86th birthday had been last week.

I saved the last flower for the waitress at Casa Ramos, where George took me to dinner.

These pictures are just a sampling (George’s forte is not as a street photographer), as is the narrative. It was an adventure. I was a bit afraid of reactions, which gave me a dry mouth. However, the kid coming out of the computer store was the only one who looked at me as if I was crazy. I collected a lot of smiles and hugs, some songs, a dance, and a free flan dessert. Good return on time and money.

Now … what “crazy” thing can we do next year?

Another thought on aging … when you reach my age, everything reminds you of something or someone. I was minding my own business a few days ago when all of a sudden a recording of Chopin’s Polonaise in A Flat Major (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ty34FKp5hGk … if you’re interested) came on the NPR classics station and instantly I was 16 again, at the movie with my girlfriend (who was in love with Cornel Wilde) watching “A Song to Remember”, and anticipating the treat at the sweet shop next door. Ah, youth …

~~~

That’s all there’s time for today. I hereby offer my Birthday Blessings to all as I move

Onward … into a new year …

Posted on May 8, 2013 by Wilma

Note on my calendar says … “May is God’s apology for February.”

Interesting, since I kind of enjoy Februarys.

Rain started on monday afternoon … gentle at first then increasingly heavy. I had hung clothes out on the lines. I was able to get them in before they got too wet and hang them in the living room, like I do in winter, to finish drying. We could hear the thunder rolling off to the east-northeast. It didn’t quite make it here. Oregon was getting lightning strikes. Total precipitation for monday was 0.55″ … not too bad.

George had just finished laying a water line to the garden which will give me more pressure, and then the rains came. Sort of like washing the car or taking off your winter underwear.

Interesting aside … the puddles were rimmed with the yellow pollen of the sex-crazed cedar trees.

It is raining again this morning. The lilac is almost bursting.

There are apricots set. Can you see them? Surprise! We thought they’d have been gobsmacked by that snow while the tree was in bloom.

A bit early to see if plums set. The apple still hasn’t come into bloom. But the peach is knocking itself out.

We are hoping frost time is past. If so, this should be a good peach year. Next chore, rig the peach to keep the squirrels off it.

~~~

Yesterday, we picked up this year’s chicks.

We got 4 reds and 4 barred rocks. They are now living in the brooder in the solarium.

On the way home from Dancers’ (the pellet mill and feed store up in Grenada owned by the Dancer family), I rode with the box of chicks in my lap and my hand in the box. We’ve discovered that doing this starts the process of making the hens open to being touched and picked up. That in turn makes it easier to collect eggs and to move hens between summer and winter quarters.

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On our way to get the chicks we were blessed with views of blooming dogwoods. This year is a bit different than this event has been in the past. Usually the trees take turns blooming so the display lasts for a time. This year they all seem to have come into bloom at once. The show is spectacular, but my guess is it won’t last too long. I’ll enjoy it while I can.

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My volunteer day at the Family History Center last week was not one of the better days I’ve had there. Most of the reason was a very young woman who came in wanting to find her father’s family. She arrived with a thick book published about 30 years ago detailing the family from her great-grandfather forward in one hand and a clutch of papers in the other. She wanted to go backward. So far, so good.

She told me she is a teacher, and she was very adept at computer surfing. BUT when we started doing basic research, she would pull up a window and before I could show her what was available on (in?) that window, we would have been through two or three other windows. Then when we did find something, and she hesitated long enough for me to show or say anything, she would answer with that wasn’t what she needed and off we would go again.

When I asked if she already had some piece of information, she would thumb through her pile of paper until she found something. I watched her behavior and thought “I’m glad this isn’t a teacher of my children.” I shudder to think of her lesson plans.

So I put on my teacher hat and said “Wait … we need to get organized. Where is your basic pedigree chart?” Those of you involved in genealogy know a pedigree chart is where you start, right? Her response (as you have guessed) was “What is a pedigree chart?”

She arrived about half an hour after we opened and stayed until we closed, so that’s how it went all day right through the topics of family group sheets and sourcing and organization and …

The other volunteer, and another researcher who was there, stayed way out of it. At one point the young “teacher” told me the family history book she had with her mentioned a will and she wanted to see it. I went to one of the other computers and found it (I offered to show her how but she was off on her round of windows). I printed it out, complete with source information (it took three pages), and handed it to her. Big mistake! I failed to staple the pages together. She accepted the pages, said “Thank you.”, and shoved them into the clutch of papers. I don’t know if the pages even stayed together

Then shortly before closing time she announced that she wasn’t a member of the LDS church. I told her neither was I, and the other researcher there told her neither was he.

She then turned to the other volunteer, who is a member of the church, and started asking pointed question about church ordinances, prefacing it with the information that she attended the Baptist Church and didn’t mean to be demeaning (great word, eh?) or disrespectful, but …

I listened through a short exchange and decided I’d had enough, so I announced that religion and politics were forbidden topics in the Center and that I had to do my shopping for the week so it was time to close.

I was worn out by the time I got home. I honestly hope she learns how to do genealogical research and makes some headway, but I’m not sure I’m the one to guide her.

Kvetch … kvetch … kvetch …

One good result of the day was that I went to bed at 9 pm (about an hour early for me) and slept soundly until 0530.

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The local amateur radio operators recently began meeting with the planners for the annual 4th of July blowout. I’ll keep you posted as to our involvement. For information about the event, here’s the link … http://www.mtshastarunners.com/

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NPR has started a new 3-minute Fiction contest. I really enjoy working on those. Brain teasers. Exercise for grey cells. This time the story is to be about someone who finds something and decides to not return it. We’ll see …

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A nephew is arriving for an overnight this afternoon. Pictures next week.

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J. Hunter Morris won’t be singing Seigfreid in “Gotterdammerung” this coming saturday. I didn’t recognize the name of the tenor who will be singing. Guess we’ll see how good my ear is.

And that’s it for this week. Stay tuned …

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Wilma

Charles R. Beye (an author) is now over 80, and, looking back over his long life, he admits that the question he often asks himself is,

“What was that all about?”

Ever feel that way? Me too …

~~~

Didn’t post the weekly picture out the front door last week … Old Timers’ ???

It had been a nice day, getting warmer all the time. That red vehicle in front of the walk is George’s “mule”. It gets him all over the acreage whenever and wherever needed.

This week it is warm … warmer … and dry.

The plum tree and the sweet cherry tree put off blooming while the apricot was glorious, but are now in full showoff mode.

Day length is approaching its maximum. It is light when we have breakfast at 0600 and still light at 2100.

This was 8:30 (2030) last evening just out the front door.

Time is moving more and more rapidly. I keep thinking it can’t go any faster, and then it goes faster. Tomorrow we’ll be back to dark mornings and evenings if this time rate continues.

But for now … the first of the hummingbirds for this summer is here. And I’ve been hearing the one’-two-three bird for about a week.

Tyler‘s violets are blooming all over the place. Tyler was born at home in Groveland, New York … the first baby born in that town in over a hundred years. All around the front stoop were lovely, little white violets. When I returned to California, following the birth, I brought some root stock with me. Now, every spring when they bloom I am reminded of my grandchild’s birth.

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More thoughts about opera … this time about staging. They’re doing one about the French Revolution this coming saturday. It’s called “Dialogues des Carmelites”. The Carmelites are an order of nuns. In the opera, their monastery (they don’t call them “convents”) is taken over by the revolutionaries and the nuns are condemned to death.

The ending of the opera is the Carmelites walking offstage one by one (of course singing as they go) to be beheaded, with a whomp, by Madame Guillotine.

My idea would be to have the opera just end as the last nun’s voice is silenced. Those left on stage (townspeople and revolutionaries) would look at each other, turn away (maybe with shame), and leave the stage without looking up or saying anything. The orchestra would get up, take their instruments and leave the pit. The house lights would come up … and it would be done.

No bows … just an empty stage.

I think it would be very powerful. But I can’t imagine any diva agreeing to give up her bow, can you?

Oh well …

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Have you ever noted that even old, bumpy legs look good in black tights?

~~~

Some time ago I happened to visit two large churches in the same day. There were many differences between them, but one I remember quite clearly.

In one church there was an unobtrusive small box with a sign saying something to the effect that they were a small congregation and any donation would be greatly appreciated. In the other, collection boxes were scattered all over the entire area requesting donations for various projects and suggesting the proper amount to put in each box.

Guess which felt more welcoming, accepting, and comforting.

~~~

As a gift to myself, I’ve decided I’ll try to redo the north end of the pergazebollis. I want to see how much like the Lady Well at Madron in Cornwall I can make it. I even have a tree in the area which will become a clootie. We’ll see … and I’ll post pictures.

~~~

Last week there was an interchange on Facebook which set my teeth on edge. It was composed of a reaction to a stated opinion and reactions to that reaction, all full of name calling and finger pointing.

I was reminded of a couple of ideas which seemed to apply. The first (I don’t recall the source of this quote) was …

The wise man is the individual who does not compare his wisdom to that of others, but because of his love for wisdom he chooses to learn from everyone, for each person has wisdom to share.

The other was one of my Nana’s sayings …

There’s so much good in the worst of us, and so much bad in the best of us, that it ill behooves any of us to try to put blame on the rest of us.

Differences of opinion don’t mean good, bad, evil, hate, or anything other than that people see things differently. Even if, as one person wrote, “… you have used the resources available (brain being one of them), to make an intelligent decision …” you might be in error or not fully informed. Communication goes in at least two directions (if not, it’s a monologue), and as long as communication lines stay open and you are sharing, each continues to learn.

I think a reasonable reference for this is genealogy. I am often reminded that I never know all the truth (the proverbially bat-upside-the-head). For instance … a few years ago I had been involved in finding the sisters of one of my great-grandfathers. I spent a lot of time on the six of them and was confident I knew all there was to know. I was even a bit smug about my ability to research and make knowledgeable decisions about their lives. I “shared” my “knowledge” everywhere.

Then, a few weeks ago I made contact with a couple of other genealogists who have ancestors in those lines. Revelation !!! Opinions changed. Now I have to remember there is always more to learn and when I share my “truth” I must always try to do it with qualifications … and also try to remember that

“The wise man is the individual who does not compare his wisdom to that of others, but because of his love for wisdom he chooses to learn from everyone, for each person has wisdom to share.”

~~~

Those crazy Scots went and did it !!!

http://www.earthtechling.com/2013/04/whisky-by-product-powers-new-scottish-biofuel-plant/

And you thought there was only one thing to do with whiskey.

At the turn of the century a small company in Idaho was experimenting with fuel cells for houses. I was excited. It seemed each house would be able to provide its own power, heat, etc. with oxygen and water as byproducts. Then somehow (should we think big oil here?) it all got sidetracked. Oops … there go the Scots right past us.

~~~

First of the summer events in which the local amateur radio operators will be involved will be the Castle Crags Century. If there are any bikers (not motorcyclists) out there, and you want a scenic challenge, check them out at

http://www.castlecragscentury.com/

And if you decide to take the challenge, look for George and me along the route. I’ll post particulars closer to the actual date.

~~~

I forgot to tell you the fresh asparagus is still going strong.

And before I close … I apologize for the blur in some of this week’s pictures. The ESSENTIAL tremor has been acting up since I began working in the garden.

Oh well …

‘Til next week …

Posted on April 24, 2013 by Wilma

Our older granddaughter will be 19 next tuesday.

The younger one turned 16 just a month ago.

Sunrise, sunset, swiftly move the years …

~~~

This summer looks to be turning into a busy radio season. Last year our amateur radio cub was involved in four events including the last minute autumn marathon. So far, this year the count is five … two bike events, two run events, and a triathlon … one in June, one in July, two in August, and one in September. Haven’t heard from the autumn marathon people yet. If they do that one again, it will be in October. I’ll try to remember to keep my camera handy.

No wonder we’re ready to hole up come winter. But lots of good practice for any possible emergencies.

~~~

On my trip out to the Family History Center last week, there were clouds nestled in the folds of the Mountain.

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Interesting note from genealogy … ever notice how many surnames in a family tree indicate occupations? I have Tyler (tiler), Shoesmith, Miller, Messenger, Bailey (prison guard), Barber, Brewes, Butler, Carpenter, Cartwright, Churchman, Collier, Cook, Draper, Filer, Fisher, Foresman, Fuller, Gardner … and that’s not even halfway through the list … not far enough to locate a Hooker (tip of the hat to Redford’s “Sting” character).

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The manzanita (little apple) is in bloom. Both the blossoms and fruit are quite small. The fruit is supposed to make a good jelly. I tried one year and either I did something incorrect or our manzanita berries don’t have enough flavor. I’ve not tried again. Seemed like a waste of time. But I do enjoy the blossoms.

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The first of the sand cranes is back in the near meadow. We saw him on our way out to the radio club meeting last week. And wouldn’t you know … I hadn’t brought the camera with me.

But I went out for a stroll friday evening and voilà … his (mating?) call chased off a herd of over two dozen deer. Ever heard a sand crane’s call? It’s distinctive.

Also friday evening I checked the garden soil. It will be ready to start working out there next week barring any further heavy weather. While there, I checked the asparagus bed and had two wonderful spears … fresh. Anyone who hasn’t tasted asparagus fresh, after having brushed off any residual soil, hasn’t tasted asparagus.

~~~

I finished the Tobacco Education inspections of local multiple unit housing complexes. The contrast in managers was interesting. One was RUDE and pushy and refused to answer even simple questions such as how many units were in the complex. Another was overly helpful giving me information which was interesting but not pertinent to what I needed to know (we got onto her Irish heritage and the potato famine). Another said she had been getting complaints about second hand smoke but the owner is a smoker and ignores them.

Conclusion … Dealing with the “public” is never boring.

But at least, now the inspections are done so my friend can get her report off to the state on time.

~~~

This was posted by my son John on Facebook last week.

“After a friend’s recent post on the topic, I find I have changed my position in the debate over posting armed guards in elementary schools. The point of schools is to teach our children how to live in the world they will inherit from us. Since these children will be living in a police state, it now seems reasonable to me to believe they should be prepared early to consider armed guards a normal part of daily living. Eventually somebody’s kid will be shot to death by accident in front of the principal’s office but hey: that’s the price we pay for freedom, right?”

I am reposting because with further thought, it is beginning to make sense. Orwell was right … just off by a couple of decades.

~~~

I missed the meteor shower display last monday. The moon was so full and set so late I wasn’t able to get outdoors at the correct time. I guess my meteor days are over. The granddaughters and I used to spread blankets in the back of the pickup truck and park out in the meadow to watch the August meteor shower. But that was a long time ago.

~~~

Last saturday was number three in the Ring cycle. JMo was back as Seigfreid.

~~~

I was encouraged to hear about an event at USC in Los Angeles not too long ago. There was a “Book Fair” held on campus. It was crowded by bibliophiles … people who love books. Not eBooks or audio books … but books you can hold in your hands and fondle while you read and travel wherever the book takes you.

Up with REAL Books !!!

~~~

It seems Shakespeare (or whomever) “invented” several words which we now accept as just part of the language. Among them are: bedazzled, foul-mouthed, bedroom (!), swagger, well-bred, champion, droplet, pageantry, inaudible, and eyeball. The site where I found this information challenged “Do you know the Shakespeare plays that use these [words]?”

Guess I have something to look forward to next “quiet” season … chasing down the references. That should fill a few hours and the well-thumbed Asimov reference book will be useful.

~~~

The Brits have done it again. Love mysteries? The Bletchley Circle … on PBS’ Masterpiece.

~~~

Found another recipe for quick bread to go with either soup or salad (last monday we had both … Ruby’s and pineapple-cottage cheese on romaine). The recipe is in the 2004 compilation of recipes from the Light and Tasty magazine.

2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, jack, or a combination), 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon each rubbed sage, thyme, and dill weed … mix together.

3 tablespoons cold butter cut into chunks … cut into dry ingredients.

1 egg and 1/2 cup milk … mix well and stir into dry mixture.

Spread in 9 inch, well-greased round pan and top with poppy seeds.

Bake at 400° for 20 minutes or until golden. Serve warm.

I plan to try it with other herb combinations (maybe oregano, thyme, and rosemary with fresh grated parmesan cheese) and probably later with chopped chives and maybe pepper jack … as soon as I have some fresh chives.

~~~

Finished off a doll dress last week. When the girls were little, each of us had matching baby dolls for whom I made matching outfits. Of course, the girls outgrew their dolls. I still have mine and recently came across some dresses which were started and never finished and a clutch of material in amounts useful for only doll clothes or patched quilts. I will be working on the dresses periodically until either they are all finished (at which time I will find something to do with the doll, whose name is Diana, and her wardrobe … the girls’ dolls were named Isabelle and Gabriella), or until I give up on getting things finished.

~~~

The following is a fascinating collection. Dates are approximate, but the resemblances resonate …

Hurt not others with that which pains yourself. Udanavarga, 560BC (Buddhism)

Love thy neighbor as thyself. Leviticus, 1300BC (Judaism)

One should always treat others as they themselves wish to be treated. Hitopadesa, 3200BC (Hinduism)

What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others. Analects, 557BC, (Confucianism)

Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.’ [Matthew 7:12] Jesus, 30AD (Christianity).

Worth contemplating …

~~~

The birch trees are putting on their spring show including leaf buds.

Tomorrow I start transplanting some cool-tolerant starts into the garden.

So … ’til next week …

Posted on April 17, 2013 by Wilma

Domestic terrorism … in Boston and Louisiana and so many other places. I have no adequate, non-cliché words.

I admit that following Boston I did think of the 4th of July event here in Mt Shasta when the size of the town doubles or triples, and of the increasing number of increasingly “crazy” people in the world. My granddaughters will be here (I think) for this year’s walk-run. And George and I are planning to do our radio thing. We are probably too small to be bothered, right?

~~~

Got several comments about property taxes following last week’s blog. One friend pays $4,500 a year in the Pasadena area. He obviously bought before the recent housing boom. I can’t imagine the taxes on houses which sold for three quarters of a million just a few years ago.

~~~

Also got comments about the direct link to the blog via email. Thank you again, all my children. I may be an old dog, but I did learn a new trick.

~~~

Last wednesday, after sunset, we had a roarer of rain. It was hitting the cap on the kitchen stove pipe so hard it could be heard all over the house. And it was rain, not hail.

Sunday night, it started to snow and continued all day (on and off) monday and tuesday.

We may not get any apricots this year. Fortunately, the plum blooms have not opened yet, the apple has not yet set blooms, and the peach tree is slow.

~~~

I can’t recall where I found this quote … “lateral thinking being generally saner than the logical kind”. Obviously not from Mr. Spock. The more I think about it, the truer it rings. Then last wednesday (after posting the blog) I came across a TED talk which proves the point. A truly lateral thinker … meet Ron Finley … http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEsS_YvudEE

~~~

We think there’s a raccoon in the barn. There had been a mother raccoon with kits in there a couple of years ago. Last week the garbage can where George stores the cat food was opened twice. So he put an electric charge on it. He also set a trap … and caught one of the barn cats. Now the cats won’t go into the lower section of the barn. Gotta catch that critter and get the barn environment back to normal.

~~~

Remember the “bucket” check off list from a few weeks ago? Another item on it was “ Rode on a snowmobile“ . My response was “Often … on the way home from work … in full nurse’s uniform (back when nurses wore white) … at 0600.”

Those were the days. It was when we were the only ones living this far out and so, when the snow was deep, we would leave the car much closer to paved road and travel the rest of the way on snowmobile or in a cart behind the tractor.

Nowadays there are some folks out here who have to go to town every day, two or three times a day (I’m not sure why they live out here instead of in town since they have to be there so much). They keep their part of the road open so we are able to get much closer to our driveway … only a quarter mile of closed road instead of the two or two and a half miles we used to face. No more need for snowmobiles. We can hike that quarter mile if necessary. Fortunately, at our ages, it is not often necessary. We belong to the Air Ambulance service and they can land in the meadow if we ever need them.

~~~

Last saturday would have been my mother’s 105th birthday.

~~~

More thoughts about cleaning out some of my “collections” … if you are ever visiting and see something you like, ask. You just might end up taking it home with you.

~~~

In the past I had bouts of cellulitis in my lower left arm and on my face for which no cause could be found. It recurs periodically. Last sunday I woke with an itchy spot on the right side of my lower lip. I thought it was a herpes (which I have had in the past).
I started treating it as herpes, but monday morning it was swollen, red, and itching like crazy but without blisters and I realized it was the cellulitis coming back. It had been nearly a year since the last outbreak. I started the meds which, in the past, had been able to keep the cellulitis in check and by tuesday evening it was receding. Fortunately, my GP is willing to trust me with prescriptions and I can get treatment started right away. Now I’ll get the meds renewed next time I’m in Yreka and hope it’s another year before I need them again. At least this time there won’t be any interference with the summer radio events (one of the meds requires I stay out of the sun).

Big problem is that, until the meds kick in, I swell up and look really scary. Anyone want to photograph a “monster” for a movie or some such … I’ll let you know the next time it starts.

~~~

Spent time during the snow (and ugly face days) researching some female relatives. I had made contact with a third cousin and she gave me a lead. In the process I found a site on the web with completely erroneous information about one of my great-grandfathers. Lesson? Be careful what you copy off the web.

But what an interesting bunch the Lawhorn women from the late 19th century were. Found one whose older son did time on Alcatraz when it was a military prison. That will be worth further research. And found an entire family for one of my great-grandfather’s sisters whom I had thought was lost.

Such fun.

Now I need days enough to get all the new information organized and into a book … the Lawhorn Ladies.

~~~

This morning seems nice. The robins are back. There were twenty-three deer in the meadow near where the driveway meets the road a few days ago. As I told, you last sunday, monday, and tuesday we had snow. The does and some of the yearlings took refuge in the backyard. But this morning the snow has melted and the day promises to be nice.

We may be on our way to spring.

So … ’til next week …

Posted on April 10, 2013 by Wilma

Just after I posted the blog last week, I got a note with a suggestion from one of my granddaughters. She taught me how to add a hyperlink to an email. Both of my sons have probably tried to teach me this lesson, but for some reason, this time it took. Their efforts must have prepared the ground. So now those of you who get a noodge from me each week will be able to just click and be at the blog. No more copy and pasting. Thank you to John, Mark, and Mikayla.

As the teacher, Missus Anna, said … By your pupils (children) you’ll be taught.

~~~

I don’t think I’ve ever shown you the mountain to the west of us … the one on whose lower slopes we live.

It is named Mt Eddy after a logging pioneer.

~~~

The Met’s production of the Ring cycle started over last saturday morning with Rheingold. The sustained E at the beginning of the overture was a belly vibrator this time.

Next saturday … Walküre.

On PBS last week I watched two of Michael Feinstein’s “American Songbook” shows. It brought home to me how much those songs were a part of my youth. My particular favorites were the Gershwin brothers. I remember having a blue canvas covered looseleaf notebook (back in the days before plastic) on which I had written the name of every song George Gershwin wrote for Broadway or Hollywood. I knew the words to all of them (and can still remember a lot of them). I owned records of most of them.

I wonder how many “old” people in the future, who are growing up with today’s “music”, will have those kinds of memories?

I didn’t see a Broadway show until I was 72. It was fortunate I lived on a farm in southern California while growing up rather than somewhere near Manhattan. Had I lived in Brooklyn or the Bronx or Queens I would most likely have been spending every penny I could earn, steal, mooch, or whatever going to see shows. And my truant record at school would probably have been extensive.

Thank you, Mr. Feinstein, for good memory time.

And more about music … any Stones fans out there? The oldest Bad Boys in the biz will be in LA on their next tour. George and I love “cheek”, but we won’t be in LA. I can no longer face crowds.

Q: What kind of music is your favorite, Wilma?

A: What am I listening to right now? That’s my favorite … for now.

~~~

As anyone who has been with me for a time knows, I serve on the county Tobacco Education Advisory Board partially because I dealt with the results of smoking more than once while I was an RN in the Emergency Department. The “results” which hit me most were the children’s illnesses traceable to familial tobacco use (second and third-hand smoke).

The current fiscal cutbacks hit the TE department rather severely, so I volunteered to help with one of their state requirements.

There are laws in California which deal with tobacco use in multiple housing complexes. Those complexes need to be surveyed at regular intervals. So I was out tuesday looking for butts in play areas, laundry rooms, offices, entry areas, etc. and inquiring about the availability of “Non-smoking” units at the two Mt Shasta complexes. They both were remarkably clear of tobacco residue.

Next week I’ll get the three in Weed checked.

~~~

The new Pope strikes again … Did you see the picture of him directing those in responsible positions to get tough with child molesters? If not, find it and look at his right hand.

~~~

We’re supposed to be moving into Spring.

We did have some April showers and the apricot burst forth …

but monday morning we woke up to a fresh covering of snow which didn’t last too long.

Yesterday afternoon I noticed the red maple is showing buds.

This morning there are fresh blooms on daffodils and narcissi …

and it is clear. Looks like we are in for a nice day, although still a bit chilly.

Current count of the deer population at Cold Comfort is the return of four regulars plus eight others for a total of twelve two evenings in a row. They are all still wearing their winter coats, mostly. They look a bit raggedy what with shedding.

~~~

NPR’s Backseat Book Club’s read this week is the original “Wizard of Oz”. If you’ve seen the movie (and who hasn’t?) … good for you. But you don’t know the real story. “Wizard” is sort of like “Frankenstein” that way. The movie is good. The book is better … and has a lot more to say.

I first read Wizard after I found it in my mother’s cousin’s bedroom when I was about 12. Sometime I’ll tell you what I was doing in Patty’s bedroom. But for now I’ll just tell you I’ll be rereading Wizard.

~~~

About a year ago, I broke my sewing machine trying to sew material too heavy for it. I haven’t done any real sewing since. And I want to get back to it. George had gotten me another machine which was supposed to sew heavy stuff, but it doesn’t and in addition it makes an annoying click-click-click.

So last sunday we got out my first machine and he worked at it until he repaired it. Seems a spring got bent when I tried to put a hem in jeans.

And during the repair process, I started going through the collection of material I’ve hoarded over the years (yes, I said “hoarded”).

When we lived in the city, and I wore dresses, I sewed most of my own clothes. Then we moved to the backwoods and I started wearing jeans. Haven’t sewed much since except for the sessions of doll clothes when the grandchildren were small. But since I’ll never see those little girls again, that’s not likely to be a concern anytime soon. I’ll give some of the good pieces of fabric to my friend in McCloud who quilts. Maybe, I’ll finish off the doll clothes I’ve already started and give them away. I might even make myself a dress or two with matching aprons (shades of the 50s and 60s).

~~~

And more about words … words … words …

Watched the Leslie Howard movie of “Pygmalion” a few nights ago. Then this morning I read a post about negative words which don’t seem to have a positive version. One of those was “impeccable”. I learned the word once meant “not liable to sin” probably derived from the Latin “peccare” meaning “to sin”.

That lead to the name “peccary”, one of two pig-like mammals which are probably forbidden food sources.

Interesting …

~~~

Made a trip to Yreka yesterday after George’s planning meeting for one of the summer Radio events and my inspection visits to multiple unit housing sites.

Property taxes are due. We pay a bit less than $1,500 a year for Cold Comfort Farm.

That got me to thinking about what we used to pay when we lived in Northridge. When we bought that house in the mid-60s we had paid about $35,000 for a 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 2-car garage house on a third of an acre at the end of a cul de sac to which we had added a swimming pool. Taxes were about $1,000 a year. They are probably closer to $2,000 now, unless the house has been resold, since the folks who bought from us paid more than twice what we paid. But because of California’s property tax law, can you imagine if we had stayed there and were still paying our original tax? I wonder how many of the people who bought in that development about the same time we did are still there and still paying 60s taxes.

~~~

Roger Ebert (who died of thyroid cancer last week) once said “We must try to contribute joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances. We must try. I didn’t always know this and am happy I lived long enough to find it out.”

May we all live so long.

And that’s it for now. Chores are waiting. So … ’til next week …

Posted on April 3, 2013 by Wilma

So far, we’ve had days and days of April showers beginning the last full week in March. Fewer than sixty days left before time to start the outdoor work. I’m hoping I can do a bit in the garden before then.

I took a chance and set out some potatoes in the area by the solar dryer. I put them, and a clutch of hostas, in the ground last saturday. They are in areas which are fairly protected. We’ll see what happens.

The oriental greens and the peas which I started in the solarium are up. No sign yet of the melons or cucumbers. I will be transplanting any plants which have reached a suitable size to larger containers as soon as the Moon turns, i.e. after the dark of the moon on the 10th. If all goes well, I should have a bit of a start on the growing season.

Daffodils are showing …

and the sand cranes and Canada geese are back, so it is beginning to sound like Spring in addition to looking and feeling that way.

The maple tree is showing buds. The blooms and leaves will show soon.

The apricot is blooming both indoors and out. But that could be bad. We are scheduled for below freezing temperatures next week. Maybe the weather prognosticators will be wrong and the buds will have a chance to set fruit.

Regardless, it is time to think about welcoming Spring …

“The trees, though not fully clothed, were in that delightful state, when further beauty is known to be at hand, and when, while much is actually given to the sight, more yet remains for the imagination.” … Jane Austen

~~~

I did a stint at the Family History Center last thursday. It was raining and lightly snowing (the kind of spring snow which melts as it hits the ground) and no one showed up. So my partner and I had a gab fest and did some research of our own.

She has a grandfather who ran away from home when he was about fourteen to join the circus (yes, there actually were people who did that) and she is trying to track him. There is a place in Barbaboo, Wisconsin which has an archivist and genealogical reference service. So if you too have one of those runaways in your family, check out this site … http://circusworld.wisconsinhistory.org/Library/AboutResearchCenter.aspx

~~~

We went to Oregon last friday. George had taken off the snow tires when the rain started. We didn’t put much wear on them last winter. Another perq of being prepared to be snowed-in.

It was a good day.

We shop up north because there is no sales tax and gasoline tends to be from 30 to 50 cents a gallon cheaper. Besides, we enjoy the all-you-can-eat salad bar at the local Sizzler. We usually go through three times (twice for veggies and once for fruit) before we hit the frozen custard dispenser. When we leave we are stuffed, but with fresh stuff (except for the custard) and for less than $10 each.

It makes a long (for us) drive, but we actually save money since we don’t go very often … maybe five or six times a year. There is a CostCo and a restaurant supply outlet very close to each other which makes shopping for the 7-11 easy.

As I am learning to look more closely at the ingredients list, shopping is becoming more time consuming. I wish food producers were required to list ingredients on the net so I could do a lot of that research before I left home. GMOs are sneaky. And does anyone know if there are soy products in baking cocoa?

Of course, another solution is to more and more make my own mixes and other food stuff from scratch. That would insure we would be healthier and probably keep me busy (since I’d not only have the mixing to do but have to check all ingredients for additives unless I grew it myself). Busy would keep me out of trouble, right?

~~~

I finished reading the Templar book. I offer my usual excuse for reading “adventure” … the author delivers a lot of interesting side data (if you enjoy history and collect trivia) as well as providing an enjoyable time filler. “Order in Chaos” fit that requirement, and not just Templar history. The 14th century was a truly chaotic time for Europe, and for England and Scotland in particular. If you like history, as well as a competently written story, try Whyte’s book (and read about an early first kiyi party).

Am currently thinking of rereading one of the series I enjoyed when it was first released. The “Dune” series came to mind when I saw an article last week about a university in Peru (in the high, dry desert) which constructed a billboard, at a cost of about $1,200, which distills water from the relative humidity in the air which is clean enough for drinking … http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2013-03/24/utec-billboard

Does anyone believe there is no big corporation which will oppose this and prevent the world’s desert areas from benefiting?

And at CostCo, I added the newest No.1 Ladies Detective Agency volume to my reading pile only to discover I’d missed three, so I have to go find them before I can read this one.

~~~

Speaking of trivia … next door to Sizzler in Medford is a day-old Franz store, so after we eat we go there to stock up on sandwich bread for George. Last week, when we were there, I noticed a series of questions posted on the wall in back of the cash register and asked what I got if I could answer them. The answer was “free items”, so I drew on my trivia cache and answered.

The questions were: “What do people get to see only every 76 years?” “By what other name is Princess Aurora known?” and “What sense is most closely associated with memory?” I was right three times and got three free packs of English muffins … just add bacon and eggs and we’ve got several breakfasts.

A cluttered mind does have some value.

~~~

A bit ago, Mark sent me a recipe, from a West Virginia cookbook, for Vinegar Pie. I’d heard of it, but never tried it. I checked my collection of cookbooks and found more than ten recipes ranging from custard types to a meringue. We agreed we would both bake one from his recipe last sunday and compare results.

I had been resistant to the idea of a “vinegar” pie, but as I made it I was thinking … this is very like a lemon pie. Conclusion? If you lived in the Appalachian area where citrus was in short supply, especially when you needed ascorbic acid to prevent scurvy, why not use vinegar.

Results were … the recipe was scant (it seemed to need doubling, but maybe a meringue topping would fix that), filling colour was a soft ecru (nice), taste was more sweet than tart and very bland (as opposed to our regular lemon pie). Mark agreed. Recipe worth saving, but not to be filed under “regular”.

~~~

Speaking of Mark …

My older granddaughter is in college fairly close to home, so her father hid an Easter basket on campus with hints and sent her on a treasure hunt. Although the clues are meaningless to those of us with no connection to the campus, they were interesting.

Only drawback … some critter found the basket first and ate all the candy.

~~~

Leftover from last sunday … what is the difference between rabbit, bunny, coney, and hare? Why is Easter Island named Easter? What is the origin of the word Easter? Questions to which we all know the answers … don’t we?

~~~

And still speaking of words … a friend posted this link on Facebook. http://www.deathandtaxesmag.com/195348/18-obsolete-words-which-should-have-never-gone-out-of-style/

If you like words … check it out.

~~~

I’ve spoken before about my theory that a rift is building in Southern California between the Salton Sea area and the Gulf of California. Each morning I look at a site showing earthquakes. Each day it shows that area to be busy. No really big ones … yet. Just constant.

I’ll continue watching because I find it really interesting.

~~~

Another session at the Family History Center tomorrow.

And some work for the County Tobacco Education Department in a day or so.

And begin work on arranging the summer radio events.

Keep busy. No time to be bored.

So … ’til next week …

Posted on March 27, 2013 by Wilma

March seems to contain several birthdays. I hadn’t noticed it before … but …

Last thursday a cousin in Idaho had a birthday …

Last sunday our younger granddaughter turned 16 and celebrated by attending “cons” which seem to have something to do with animated television series (but don’t quote me on that) …

And next saturday my son and my chosen sister’s daughter gain a year each …

Happy Birthday all !!!

~~~

But death is still with me. Last week, mezzo Rise Stevens died a few months short of 100.

I’ve talked here about mezzos and how they are most often relegated to “pants” roles. Stevens was the one who proved mezzos could be sexy females. She sang “Carmen” more than 120 times. She retired at her peak in 1961.

I saw/heard her once when I was young (in the late 40s). She did a concert in Redlands, California. I wasn’t able to buy a seat out front. I was on the stage behind her. Her voice was clear, even though I was in back of her and hearing reflected sound. It was thrilling when she turned her back on the money audience and sang to us.

Rest easy, Diva.

~~~

Passover began at sunset last monday. So here, for your enjoyment, are

TWO PESACH JOKES (borrowed from the Aish website)

1) A Jewish man was waiting in line to be knighted by the Queen of England. He was supposed to kneel and recite a sentence in Latin. Comes his turn, he kneels, the Queen taps him on the shoulders with the sword … and in the panic of excitement he forgets the Latin line. Thinking quickly, he recites the only other line he knows in a foreign language which he remembers from the Passover Seder: “Mah nishtana ha-lailah ha-zeh mi-kol ha-leilot.” The puzzled Queen turns to her adviser and asks, “Why is this knight different from all other knights?”

2) The supply of ch’rain (horseradish — used by many for the bitter herbs at the Pesach Seder) being off-loaded at the Madrid airport was stopped by a freight handlers strike. It seems that the ch’rain in Spain stayed mainly on the plane.

To my Jewish friends … Chag Sameach !

~~~

On another religious note …

Pope Francis is still giving the old-liners apoplexy. There are reports he has chosen to live in a small, two room unit in the guest house with “lesser” church people and visitors rather than in the ostentatious Papal apartments, that he greets visitors at the door and offers embraces rather than extending the Ring of the Fisherman for obeisance, and that he even helps departing visitors with their coats. Poor Swiss Guards. I’ll bet there aren’t any protocols in their job descriptions for situations like those.

His safest foray may be into a prison to wash the feet of inmates. In the past, special people (often Cardinals) were selected to have their feet washed by the Pontiff inside the Vatican. Somehow, I feel this Maundy Thursday excursion into prison will change more lives (even if only one) than the previous rituals ever did.

I wonder what the cooks and the table servers must think when he enters the common dining room for a meal and sits in whatever place is empty.

Saving and returning the rubber bands off his newspaper and personally calling a news vendor in Buenos Aires, introducing himself as Cardinal Jorge, to cancel his newspaper subscription … what kind of Papal behavior is that?

This man of the people may actually be the end of the Roman Catholic Church as it is currently known. Although the name was off (Francis rather than Paul), the prophecy may be correct.

I’m pretty sure I know what the Curia thinks. I wonder what Benedictus, the Pope Emeritus, thinks … if he is paying any attention. News report is that his retirement quarters will outdo even the regular Papal apartments.

The Pope Emeritus may not be paying attention. I am. Francis is a good read.

~~~

While we had company last week, we watched a couple of Rogers and Astaire movies, “Top Hat” (with the “Feathers, I’m in feathers ” dress) and “Follow the Fleet” (with the breaded dress that gave Fred a concussion … and all those sailors, as well as the wonderful take on a Harpo Marx routine … anyone remember Harpo Marx?). What fun.

We have the DVDs, but I had never watched the added attractions. I finally did and now I have a heightened respect for Ginger Rogers as an entertainer. I learned that Astaire and his choreographer partner, Hermes Pan (dancing the Rogers part), would work out all the dance routines over a period of several weeks. Then Rogers would come on set, memorize the routine and they would film it. No weeks of rehearsal for Ginger. Remember … she did everything Fred did but she did it backwards and in high heels. That’s not an original observation, but it’s true.

Another thought while watching those movies … during that depression, Hollywood gave the people fun and adventure and fantasy. During this depression we get blood and violence and mayhem. Yes, movies were fairy tales back then and the current ones are mostly fantasy. Still, those in the 30s glorified fun and love and dance … not killing. And we wonder where the mass murders come from. Oh well …

~~~

Weather is still doing the March thing … in like a lion and change every few minutes … while teasing with hints of warmth.

Today it is raining.

George has pruned the fruit trees. I brought boughs of plum and apricot into the house where the buds opened into flowers.

Beautiful !!!

The ground out in the garden is almost workable … but it is still too cold (and a bit damp) for these old bones to spend much time out there. Another couple of weeks should do it.

I’ve started some seeds indoors (the peas are already showing). I’ll start more week after next, as soon as the Moon waxes again.

Mark, our younger son, and I will be sharing seeds and starts so we can compare growing results between his part of New York state and here at Cold Comfort. I will be sending him seeds for short season melons. Comparing notes as the growing season develops promises to be interesting.

~~~

I started reading a couple of books last week. I had been feeling a bit lost without any reads awaiting. Then two books arrived at approximately the same time.

I have been interested in the History of the Knights of the Temple for quite some time. Lots to think about there … beginning of modern banking, deMolay and the Shroud of Turin, the Priory of Sion, Friday the Thirteenth, the Treasure of Solomon’s Temple, the Albigensians, the Freemasons, the Sinclairs, the Merica legend …

One of the books, written by Jack Whyte titled “Order in Chaos”, is about the destruction(?), begun by Philip the Fair of France, of the Order of Knights Templar. It is the third in a series expanding on the Templar story which begins in a Crusade and ends who knows where.

The other book is one I heard about on NPR. They do book reviews which often leave me feeling I think I’d like to read that. This time I mentioned the book review to my older son and a couple of days ago a package arrived with “Wool” by Hugh Howey. It is a first novel based on a post-apocalypse vision.

I’ll write critiques when I finish.

~~~

Monday afternoon, as I was reading while listening to the local classical music NPR, the radio host played a vocalise which pulled me away from my book. Vocalise is a piece of music using the human voice as an instrument … i.e. hummed or with vowel sounds only, without words.

I was introduced to vocalise many years ago by Edie Adams, an attractive blonde entertainer who was also a more than competent coloratura. It was on early television (before colour). The show was “the Ernie Kovacs Show”. Kovacs happened to be Adams’ husband.

He also happened to be one of the most intelligent funny men ever. Some of his bits have become classics … the girl in the bathtub, the Nairobi Trio. He died in 1962 and he can still make me laugh … out loud.

What a string of thought, all from a piece of music.

~~~

Has it occurred to anyone that the argument in front of the Supreme Court in support of California’s Prop 8 (in re Federal vs State decisions) could be used almost word for word against DOMA? I wonder if it will occur to one of the Justices.

~~~

First of the gravid does, plus a yearling, showed up in the backyard monday.

The doe seems to have a white nose. That will make her easy to track.

And that’s it for now. So … ’til next week …

Posted on March 20, 2013 by Wilma

We had visitors last week. Older son John and da Kumu (Emery Aceret, teacher of hula and culture from Hilo) arrived thursday evening and were able to stay until saturday. Wednesday had been Em’s birthday and, as is this family’s tradition, the birthday person gets to plan the celebratory meal.

We had Nuna style ribs, Papa’s potato salad, sauteéd vegetables (a nod to my motherly instincts as in “Eat your vegetables. They’re good for you.”), and Forrest Gump’s Chocolate Fudge Cake.

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Equinox today.

I had poured some special candles and was able to burn them for prayers and blessings for a full five days, one of which was my Grandmother Tyler’s birthday anniversary … 167 years … Civil War era.

She had been a beauty. Supposedly she had a 17″ waist. Of course, by the time I knew her, she was a grandmother. Now I occasionally meet her in my mirror.

Back to Spring … it’s coming. Time soon to get out the rake and begin the clean-up of winter trash. I found a lesson about planting peas in the snow for early fruit (which I may try depending on what I find out in the garden). Another note said to plant early corn when the lilacs begin to bud. I’ll be watching so I can give that “hint” a try.

The lemon balm at the base of the fig tree is doing its thing. I’ll soon be able to start drying it for tea.

And the first deer showed up in the driveway shortly after John and Em left last saturday.

Weather has been March-type. Rain and wind yesterday. Arthritis has been flaring up in my left long finger and right thumb. I found a recipe for a pain relief salve which I will try as soon as I get to town to get the ingredients. I use Tiger Balm a lot, but this recipe should be as good and it will be homemade. Didn’t mean to whine. Just a note of fact.

No Equinox sunrise picture this morning. It’s still raining … with wind.

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Movie reviews … last week we watched “From Time to Time”. I can’t remember why I ordered it from NetFlix, but I did … and we are glad I did. It is a low key ghost story. We recommend it (although we needed to use the closed captioning for one sequence because it went so fast and was quite noisy). Julian Fellowes and Maggie Smith … for Downton Abbey fans, I need say no more.

And two nights ago we rewatched “Weekend at Bernie’s”. If you’ve never seen it, there is a treat in store for you. BONG !!!

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It appears the amateur radio club will be adding two new radio events this summer. One is a bike event which will go up and over the ridge between Gumboot Lake and Castle Crags (which will route it through at least three counties). Then through Dunsmuir and up to Edgewood to return to the park in Mt Shasta via Hoy Road in Weed. Radio contact over that route may be a challenge.

The other is a Marathon for which we don’t yet have the route.

The bike event will be in June and the marathon in August. That means events for safety and welfare practice will take place in June, July, twice in August, and finally in September. No word yet about whether the half-marathon through Dunsmuir will repeat this year.

When you add in Railroad Days and family visits and time with neighbors and the garden … it looks like a busy season. Good. Being busy keeps the body going.

Reports will follow as the events occur.

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I am still clearing out books. Sent off most of my vampire collection last week. I found it works best if I collect the books just as it’s time to send them out the door. That way I don’t have time to leaf through them and decide I can’t part with this one or that one. At the rate of twenty or so books at a throw, I should have the collection down to a manageable size in not more than five years.

Want some?

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The new pope sure has been getting a lot of air time. I’m not Catholic (although there are time I think I am probably catholic) but he has my vote … so far. I would imagine he is keeping the Swiss Guards and the Vatican version of Secret Service bodyguards going crazy. Paying his own hotel bill? Taking taxis and riding in an open convertible rather than the popemobile? Living in quarters much more austere than the Pope’s suite? Touching common people, especially crying babies and those who are not perfect? Refusing to don over-the-top vestments or wear a jeweled crucifix?

Who does he think he is?

So far, Francis, you rock.

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Found a digitized copy of a 1979 book about Virginians in the Revolutionary War (did you know that Virginia once had a state navy?) … but so far nothing new about Cuthbert. How can you know so much about someone and still lack vitals such as parents and marriage and children? Cousin Merna and I will keep looking. He can’t hide forever.

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Finally, here’s a thought for the coming season …

Happiness sneaks in through a door you didn’t know you left open.
~John Barrymore

May Spring bring you joy.

Tapa plate and fresh tamales for dinner today, so …’Til next week …