COBBLESTONE FARM

I May Live in Michigan...but I Bleed GREEN & GOLD

2012-01-21T17:10:00.003-05:00

My beloved Green Bay Packers lost last week and I am in major mourning. Despite such a disappointing game, details not to follow, I proudly hung my Clay Matthews picture on the library wall today. Somehow, it made me feel better looking at the old pictures of Brett, Aman and the rest of the guys, to know that we can still beat the Lions.
I have such fond memories of working the parking lot detail at the Silverdome, drinking my coffee proudly out of a rather large PACK mug. Needless to say, I received many offers to join the grillers for a brat or two, eh. Back in those days, it appeared there were more PACK fans at the game than Lions fans.
Now, that I am an owner of one share of PACKERS stock, we would give up the season to the sorry New York Giants.
I had the opportunity to visit PACKER fans Mecca a couple years ago. For those who are uninformed, Mecca is Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin. While touring, I met Lousie, an owner from New Jersey. We had lunch, shopped at the gift store and exchanged E-mail addresses. Since then, on game day, we E-mail and enjoy sharing the game. Sometimes, Louise doesn't have televised coverage, so I become the play-by-play broadcaster person. Included in our viewing is Tina and a guy named, Steve. Tina lives in Appleton, Wisconsin and has her picture in a book titled, "For Packers Fans Only". She is famous! Steve, who I've never met lives out west somewhere and worked with Lousie. We have fun bantering back and forth without any expletives. I'm sure going to miss those guys, but there is always next season.
GO PACK GO!!!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-21T14:47:00.002-05:00

I hope that everyone has a blessed Christmas and enjoys good health and happiness for the New Year.

Rebecca Woodburn Age 10

2011-11-03T20:05:00.002-04:00

On October 28th, while travelling to a softball tournament in Myrtle Beach, S.C. I became forever affected by Rebecca Woodburn. She and her aunt were northbound on I-77, between mile markers 6and 7, north of Marietta, Ohio, when the aunt lost control of her vehicle, apparently hydroplaning on the wet roadway crossing the median into the path of a southbound semi tractor trailer.

The aunt was ejected from the vehicle and little Rebecca Woodburn, age 10, was hopelessly trapped in the Mitsubishi convertible. I was stopped about 30 cars back from the accident unaware of how my life would be impacted by such a young child.

The sirens came and went, while we waited for the wreckage to be cleared from the roadway. Most of the people were out of their vehicles. With my police experience in accident investigation, I knew within a few minutes this would be a long wait and many people would be affected by this tragic event.

There was a nice couple in a van next to me and we talked about what little we could see from our vantage point. The man in the truck parked in front of me could do nothing but complain about his delay. I prayed that I wouldn't just go over and slap him stupid. Instead, we talked about how thankful we should be and how we all needed to think about those who were involved.

It was through Google, I learned that the accident was a fatality. Not until later that evening, did I find out that the fatality was Rebecca Woodburn, age 10. She was trapped in the car and died as a result of the accident. A little girl who will be mourned by her classmates, never go to a prom, marry, have children and all because of this accident. A needless loss of life.

Further follow-up reading about the accident, I was disturbed by comments made in response to the article. One woman wrote that she had been on the telephone with a witness who indicated that the woman driving the car in which little Rebecca Woodburn was riding was "texting" when the accident happened. Surely this can't be true. Could Rebecca Woodburn have lost her life because of a text message?

I pray that the families of those involved will find comfort in their faith and know that others are thinking about them as well. Travelling on I-77 SB near Marietta, Ohio will always remind me of how precious life is and how quickly it is lost, Rebecca Woodburn, age 10.

The Huntsman World Senior Games 2011

2011-10-15T16:00:00.003-04:00

The Huntsman World Senior Games was on my "Bucket List". This year, I had the opportunity to fulfill a dream. Competing in softball with ladies who hold this sport near and dear.
St. George, Utah is the site for more old person sports activities than anyone can imagine. Everything from pickleball to 3 on 3 basketball. The scenery is spectacular.
Our team, The Golden Girls from Virginia, managed to seat ourselves in Division II and capture the GOLD after three days of softball competition. Thankfully, we didn't play like Betty White!
That's me, front row, second from the left with no cap and slightly gray hair!

Gone, But Not Forgotten

2011-04-03T20:30:00.002-04:00

Never thought that I would sell the Ultra, but the time came, the decision was made and the bike went to a new and loving home in Indiana. I only rode 18,000 on this one, but more miles will be coming on the old 1999 Road King...my old horse. The Byron of Harley Davidson motorcycles. The one you can go anywhere on and do anything with and never lose your smile, bugs and all. The CD player will be missed, but the sound of the Road King is better than any Joe Cocker, Janis or Stones tune...well, maybe not quite. Old 99 has 54,000 plus on her old bones, but I hope she will still take me the long way home for many more years. Hurry up spring!!!

GOLDEN GIRLS ~ GG55's

2011-02-20T14:28:00.004-05:00

February is a great month for a trip to Florida, even if I have to fly. The senior softball Tournament of Champions was being held Feb. 11th - 13th in Lakland, home of Tigers Spring Training.
The first day of the tournament was a bit chilly and overcast even by Florida standards. The fields were in a very rough looking part of Lakeland. Our first game was against our sister team GG60, which we spotted five runs. The bats rocked and we won 22-10. The second game was against The Village Vixens (55's), a rival we played last October at the Villages, Florida. We were trounced in October by their super hitting and fielding. Not unlike October, The Village Vixens were a tough opponent and despite our hitting, we were defeated 17-14. That left us 1 - 1 for the day!
Aunt Phyl, who lives in Florida, was our #1 Fan for the weekend! Each day, she ventured to the fields to root us on.
The evening activities included a dinner at the Fantasy of Flight Museum. Unfortunately, it was only about 50 degrees and the crowd was enormous. After listening to a few of the speakers, it was time to head out to a restuarant for a warm dinner.
Saturday began with a game against the youngsters of Sunny Beaches, Florida. We like to call the youngsters the Title 9 Teams. Needless to say, we lost, but gave them a run for their money.
Once back into double elimination play, we were able to come back and beat the Village Vixens by a score of 7-2. We had a knock-down drag out game with our sister team and it was Cheryl's single that broke the tie and we ended up on top.
Sunday, we were rooting for the GG60's to beat the Village Vixens for the chance to play us again. We watched an awesome game, with our sisters coming out on top!
We were very pumped for a "sisters" game. We had to spot them 5 runs again, but we managed to pull it out 16-7. We were all winners!!!
A wonderful group of gals and a most enjoyable weekend!
(I am in the back row, third from the left)

Spring Training

2011-02-05T23:21:00.003-05:00

The training facility is called "Spring Training" and it's about an hour from the house. There you can throw, hit and field to your heart's content. This winter, I was fortunate enough to be involved with the trainer and receive lessons in softball. Sounds a bit strange at my age to be taking lessons in softball, but it has been invaluable.

This week, I leave for sunny Florida to play in a tournament. Our team, called The Golden Girls, based out of Virginia plays in the over 55 bracket. I am hoping to put my recently acquired skills to the test. I'm learning to be a "rotational" hitter and put the power to the ball...sound impressive, let's hope it works!!!

Fire

2011-02-03T18:52:00.002-05:00

The day of the big snowstorm, a friend lost her home to fire. The family lived on Groveland Road in a lovely log home some 1000 feet from the road, nestled in the woods. According to the local fire department, the cold weather held the smoke down near the ground and it was not easily visable. By the time a neighbor saw smoke and the fire department arrived, which was only minutes, the home was fully engulfed by the fire. It was a total loss.

Thank God, no persons were in the house, but their two beloved dogs were missing and presumed killed in the fire.

I never have personally known someone who has lost their home and pets to fire. I have investigated fires, found charred remains, yet this really made my heart ache
for the family.

No cause has been determined and that might take some time, if a cause can be determined at all. Often the cause of a fire will remain a mystery.

BOB CAME OUT

2011-02-01T12:09:00.003-05:00

HE CAME OUT! We went out to put the chains on the Kubota tractor and when I went in to check Bob's burrow, he had moved the stick in front of his entrance! He had even gone to the other entrance and moved one of his toys too.

Bob is smart enough to realize that we have a severe winter storm warning in effect and tomorrow, he would need his shovel to dig his way out to see his shadow. So, why not check it out today? I wish I would have seen the Bobster come out, as I miss him so much during the winter hibernation. That little turd (affectionately) is so much fun and I just can't wait to see him in the spring.

(The picture is a felted Bob, made for us by a gal in California)

2011-01-31T21:19:00.003-05:00

The television displays the WINTER STORM WATCH and there are only two more days until Groundhog Day, it's just not right! We are supposed to get the mother of all winter storms beginning tonight and reaching its peak on Groundhog Day. The news broadcast indicated that we might have as much as 12 to 15 inches of the white stuff.
Unless Bob has a shovel, our Cobblestone Farm groundhog is not going to come out to see his shadow. Just because he is a groundhog, this is no dummie. Our Bob has it all over that Punxsutawney Phil.

michael vick gets first endorsement

2011-01-26T18:30:00.002-05:00

Between 2002-2007, michael vick and his co-conspiring cronies killed 13 dogs while operating a dog fighting organization. Today, he is not only back playing NFL football, but he has received the endorsement from "Unequaled Technologies" a footwear insert company!

michael vick went to prison, paid his dues to society and is now a revered professional athlete, again. It is easy for some sports fans to look away and believe that michael vick's puppet-like, orchestrated apology was "fo-real".
Keep in mind, using this man for product endorsement is like using Jeffrey Dahmer to endorse Cathlon cookware!

In case you think that michael vick's crimes were not worthy of attention, please take a moment to understand the extent of his involvement in the killings. According to information released from the prosecution, michael vick was DIRECTLY involved in the killing of at least 13 dogs. Dogs were wetted down and electrocuted with jumper cables, hung by the neck and strangled, slammed to the ground, shot and drowned. He even threw family pets into the ring with the fighting dogs.

This is the behavior of a sociopathic predator. His alleged statements of remorse are lies, pure and simple. I beleive that if he were to suffer a career ending injury or some event that would end his professional football career, he'd be back with his "homeys" acting like a thug and we would read about him involved in a shooting or other violent activity.

What in the heck is wrong with this picture. I cannot image that any responsible parent would want their child to look up to and admire the likes of michael vick!
Sure he did his time, but that doesn't excuse his behavior and certainly doesn't make him a role model...remember he went to prison because he got caught! Now, he's a sorry "mo-fo" because he did get caught!

Finally, don't buy or support ANY company that would endorse ANY person like michael vick...that goes for those trash talking Jet players too!

Go Pack GO!

2011-01-23T18:48:00.001-05:00

Super Bowl XLV, here we come!!!

Rat #15

2011-01-15T19:37:00.002-05:00

In the last 30 years here at Cobblestone Farm, I can only recall one rat infiltrating the horse barn. That particular rat ran into the tack room, where Floyd and Peggy lived and was promptly cornered. It was at that point, I gave the rat a swat with the broom, grabbed it by the tail and took him outside.

Y.C. was an outside cat back in the day and he eagerly watched as I walked the rat out to the fence row. "Hey Puddy" I hollered. "Look at what mom has for you."
Thinking our large yellow cat might take the bait, the rat was placed clearly where could pounce without much effort. Not. "Yeow", he looked as me as though I were crazy. Oh well, the rat was free at last and on his way to another barn.

In 2010, it was a different story. There were buildings torn down at a neighboring farm, resulting in a sudden jump in the rat population here. Over the past few months, I have LIVE trapped 15 rats and taken them up the road to a local wetland park. Put them in the rat ride (1990 Plym Acclaim) and take them down the road.

In November, I was seated in the barn petting BOB the whistlepig, when he and I both observed rat #14 come out, stroll over to Bob's dish and remove a peanut. That was the last straw. Out came the Nilla waffers and peanut butter for super bait. Rat #14 was on his way!

Rat #15 was a memorable guy. The trap was sitting next to the hydrant when he became captive. I felt sorry for #15, as he was the only rat who squealed! He squealed so loud, I thought he might have been hurt. I picked up the trap, consoled him for a minute and he actually stopped squealing. He calmly rode to his new home in the park, where he joined the rest of his rat family.

Bakersfield Blogger

2011-01-09T16:59:00.006-05:00

Several years ago, I rode my motorcycle to Athens, Georgia for a Woman's Motorcycle Conference. It was there, I met a gal from Bakersfield, California. She is a life coach, writer and speaker. Recently, I came across her blog. The first topic was
forgiveness. "It is the hardest thing to forgive ourselves", she wrote.

Maybe it was the time of day or the mood, but it really took my thoughts rushing back. Over a lifetime, so many decisions are made in haste, for selfish reasons or without concern for their impact on others. Those hurtful decisions are the ones which make it nearly impossible to forgive ourselves. No matter how much time has passed, there is no repair kit available to "fix" things when other people are hurt. We live with the results of our decisions and hope we learn.

Forgiving others does seem so much easier.

I guess I'll have to wait for the next installment on her blog to see how a person can forgive themselves for things that really seem unforgiveable. How are we worthy of forgiveness for ourselves?

94

2011-01-09T15:48:00.002-05:00

On January 7, 2011, Mother turned 94 years old! She enjoyed opening her presents, a bit of cake and ice cream (which I managed to resist) and a few laughs. We put the number 94 on her cake, but when the mention of lighting the candles, it was Mother who reminded me of the oxygen use on her floor! Her faculties are pretty much intact and she sure does enjoy having visitors. I am always amazed when she will tell me who was there, what they talked about and sometimes, what they were wearing. The clothing part usually refers to her sisters, who always dress the the "nines". It's cute how much attention Mother pays to these details.
With my Mother's family longevity, I hope to celebrate many more.

A letter to Ma

2010-12-17T21:29:00.002-05:00

The letter was addressed to Lois V. Brown with the return address, PFC Walter Brown 36500163 Hq Det 2nd Bn 87 Mtn Inf Regt US Army Amphibian Training Force 9, Fort Ord,
Calif.

The letter read:

July 1, 1943
Dear Mother & All,
Received your letter and every thing is O.K.
We got our new dog tags today and we are still getting more
new equipment.
I got a letter from Dad the other day with a five in it, today
is pay day but we won't get paid for a few days. I'm allright I've
got some money.
Ma, Amphibian Training is training on land and sea. What we
probably will be doing is attacking islands that the Japs have taken
from us, and were going to get them back, and again we may go to Europe
we don't know yet. We have been practicing attacking our own bech out
here, we go out in small barges or attacking boats then attack at
a certain time and things like that, we went out the other day and
the other night and went under heavy artillery fire, boy is it
noisy. It sure makes a guy feel funny with those big shells going
over head and landing close by.
We got some new over seas fighting clothes coming but dont' worry
about me I'll come back.
Ma, I feel good about going across because some one has to go,
even fellow in here with children feel the same way.
And after I get out I wouldn't want people saying I was a
draft dodger, that one thing I'll be able to say.
Tell Jack to keep out as long as he can because there are to
many draft dodgers in that town yet.
Well Ma, I'll close.
Love,
Walter

This is the second Christmas I spend without my Dad. I've been cleaning up papers and I came across this letter. Unfortunately, my Mother never kept one letter from Dad that he wrote while in the service. I have only found two letters and it is sad to think she didn't keep these reflections of the war and the times. I suppose, since Mother had a large family, she might have been afraid her sisters or someone else might read her love letters from my Dad.
I miss my Dad and I cherish all of the fond memories. Discovery of this letter makes me feel close. Sometimes, I just pick up his "rule" or his hammer and it somehow brings me peace to know how much we loved each other.
So often I think WWWD? Dad was so filled with common sense and grass-root knowledge of how to do or figure out anything. He was and will always be my hero.

Field Trip

2010-12-16T20:26:00.003-05:00

It was Tuesday, December 7th, Pearl Harbor Day and the day my Mother went on a field trip. The nursing home schedules a variety of field trips for the residents and Meadowbrook Hall was today's destination.
Upon arrival at the nursing home, we found Mother wasn't ready, thought the trip was cancelled and it was my fault. O.K. Let's rewind a minute and start over.
After much persuasion, a change of clothes, make-up and lipstick, she was ready to get on the little short bus. Toni, the nursing home activities director, drove the bus and somehow managed to load and unload this precious cargo.
Once inside the mansion, I spoke with Doug Thorpe, who was a greeter. I told him that Mother had worked for Mrs. Wilson in the 1930's and she was going to take the tour. Mr. Thorpe thought that my Mother might remember his wife, who was born on the property, Barbara Gay. The Gay family had the family farm on Squirrel Road and raised cattle at that time. Unfortunately, Mrs. Thorpe passed last year.
When Mother came in, I asked her about remembering the Gay family and she promptly recalled Barbara and said,"They were a nice family". Where was the bit of dementia from about an hour ago?
I pointed to a large oil painting of a young lady on a horse and asked, "Mother, who is that?" Again, a prompt reply,"Oh, that is Francis on one of her horses".
"Over there", I asked, again pointing to a larger oil painting. "That's Danny and Francis", she replied.
We took a small group photograph in front of that fireplace. That is Mother on the left, seated in the wheelchair, wearing the maroon jacket. Mother doesn't really smile for pictures.
I wheeled Mother through the entrance to the right of the fireplace (the only area where pictures can be taken)and she told me we were going to the living room and the sun room was on the other side. So much for needing the tour person.
"They have changed a few things here", she said. "Mrs. Wilson didn't put the tree (Christmas tree) over there".
Mother remembered the beautiful organ and the tiffany lamp, as we rolled by and went into the library area. This room contained and large table, which Mother remembered, but added, "Mrs. Wilson would not have had this rug on the floor."
As we proceeded through the mansion, there were areas where I could feel the presense of my Dad, whose hammer and hands touched many a piece of wood in the mansion.
Mother's job for Mrs. Wilson was the switchboard and other secretarial tasks she requested. We have photographs that Mother took in the late 1930's of the mansion, Mrs. Wilson's deer and horses. She worked there about five years.
The area of the mansion referred to as "Danny Dodge's wing" was intersting, as well.
When the man stationed in the upstairs area pointed to a bedroom and said, "This was the room where Danny Dodge's friends would stay when they spent the night." Quietly, Mother replied, "He didn't have many friends". This drew a facial expression of question from the tour person. I then told him that Mother had worked there. He was impressed.
Mother told the tour guides how nice Mrs. Wilson was to work for and each morning she would come to the "morning room" and have her coffee and discuss things with the staff. This was a room unknown to the tour guides, but Mother said it was off from the kitchen.
As we went down the elevator, Mother wanted to go down to the Ball Room. I think she must have seen many functions in that area during her time. Remembering as she did on this day was so much fun for those who were listening to this bit of history.

I was amazed how the tour guides and staff at Meadowbrook Hall treated Mother. She could have been the Queen Mum.

Lili Von Shtupp

2010-11-30T21:04:00.003-05:00

She is a funny little 6 pound cat my friend Donna and I trapped outside her door in Washington Township. This little black and white cat looked as though someone put a blob of black dirt on her nose and slapped it sideways. Dear Donna thought she might find a good home for this kitty and our barn tack room was a "holding facility" until such time as a new permanent home could be located. That was three years ago.

We needed a name for this tall thin cat with her black hosery covered legs and slinky walk. A flashback to the movie Blazing Saddles came to mind and a scene where Harvey Korman (Hedley Lamarr) walked into the dressing room (or dwessing woom) of the femme fatale, Lili Von Shtupp. All Lemar could say was "Lili, Lili, legs Lili". So, our sultry kitty took that name Lili Von Shtupp.

We learned that Lili had at least two ferral litters in her short life, so the name seemed even more fitting for this four-legged seductress-for-hire.

Tomorrow, Lili goes to Cat Care for her yearly check and as always, a few laughs from the staff.

Almost Done

2010-11-16T19:06:00.003-05:00

The restoration of "Big Red" is nearly complete. The Ziebart store in Utica gave the underside a nice coat of protection as well as the addition of a Rhino Liner spray-on bedlining. Greg, their ace at Ziebart, came up with a great idea for the nerf bars, which were slightly pitted with rust and chips. Why not give them a coat of Rhino too? After much strain to remove the bars and lots of sanding, the nerf bars were ready for their coating. The original paint was spruced up with a paint protector and we were getting closer to completion before the weather turns cold.
A new truck cover was ordered, since the original one was shredded to pieces by our "boys" in the vehicle storage building. Upon arrival, it was unveiled only to find it was a "cab forward" cover. O.K. Who in the heck orders a truck cover for JUST the cab? The order form asked the size of the truck, bed length and the other important questions. Back went the cover and "Big Red" had to sit outside.
Next it was time to mount the spare wheel. Do we put it on the front, in the bed behind the driver or just forget carrying the extra wheel altogether. While discussing our dilemma with our neighbor and his wife, who are extreme mudboggers, the wife made a comment which put to rest the problem. She suggested that if we were to mount the tire in the conventional manner, "it would look like an old person's truck". As a result, a "Fabtech" angle bed mount was ordered. Those who know me, can understand why it took three hours to drill four holes into the bed of "Big Red". Sweating bullets and making darn sure not to hit either gas tank, made for some white knuckles. There is no feeling quite like drilling that hole in the bed of a truck. Whew. It was worse than drilling for the gigantic mudflaps!
Today, we drove to Lake Orion Truck Accessories to pick up a crossover style tool box for the truck bed, just behind the cab. The color needed to be black diamond plate with a low profile, as not to block the rear window. Ron had ordered the perfect fit and carefully installed it. This was the second trip for the tool box, as the first one arrived with a small dent. It was noticed prior to the installation and Ron was happy to take care of the return. The new tool box looks great. (not pictured)
Tomorrow, just might be the day that "Big Red" gets tucked in for the winter. This time, I hope the cover fits. Afterall, why would anyone want to drive a 4x4 F250in the winter and get it dirty.

Deer Rescue?

2010-09-26T21:38:00.002-04:00

Today we drove the MINI over to Lexington just to give her some exercise and us a break. Upon arrival, we were delighted to see a small local classic car show closed off the main drag. It was fun to see the 1959 Edsel Wagon and the 1960 Chevy, both classics in their own right.

A walk on the breakwall seemed like fun and then we heard sirens. Despite the fact that it was Sunday, I looked at my watch and thought it just couldn't be the first Saturday of the month, so the fire department must have a run.

A woman standing next to us pointed to a small fire department boat with one of the crew hanging from the port side holding what I first thought was a dog. It was a deer. The crewman had the deer by the horns and was attempting to get this poor creature to return to shore. It appears the deer ran out into the water and was headed for Canada!

The boat headed in, but they were only able to come in aproximately 200 feet from the shore. The waves had a pretty good swell and we hoped the deer would simply surf his way to shore once they set him free.

Unfortunately, people gathered along the breakwall close to the area where the deer needed to go. The members of the FD on shore did not take charge and direct the morons to a location where they would not disturb the rescue. The deer actually came close to the rocks along the breakwall, where it may have been able to make his way to shore, BUT along comes the young fireman with his girlfriend up the breakwall to gauwk causing the deer to head back out toward the Canadian side! It was really a cluster. Meanwhile, the deer is cold and nearly drowning!

Finally, the poor creature manages to get to shore where one of the firefighter pulls him by the antlers and drags him onto the beach. The deer held his head up, but he was so tired. I only pray the people left him alone so he might have gained back his strength.

I'm normally not one to Monday morning quarterback, but this really upset me. No one took charge, cleared the people back or made an attempt to come from the shore to get the deer. The water was not over waist deep where the deer had been freed and it seems as though a rescue donut could have been used or something similar to pull him in from the shore. Heck, a rubber raft or a small row boat would have really been the best.

Deer are very dangerous to rescue, but this deer was clearly very tired and didn't seem to be much of a risk. I was so happy he finally made it to shore. The Lexington Fire Department needs additional training for this type of rescue.

BIG RED

2010-09-26T20:30:00.003-04:00

The old red truck came out of the "weakie barn" (named after the kittens who reside inside) last week. Nicknamed Big Red, he hauled our beloved Byron to Mackinaw Island and Apple Pi Sir Joshua to Virginia, both trips filled with cherished memories.

Never driven in the snow and garage kept, he just turned over 16,270 miles...not bad for a 1988. Removing the old Duraliner was filled with suspense since we were a bit worried about the condition of the truck bed underneath. It was great, just some scuff marks.

New tires was the first expense for Big Red, since he still had the original "shoes", which are no longer in production. They still held air, but looked a bit dry. Down to Belle Tire and we replaced the 16" with 18" chrome. Wow. Instead of "lfiting" the truck, the new wheels and tires or "tars" if you are from Virginia,
make it look very tough.

Driving BR home, he didn't feel right. A trip to Fix n' Go was my next stop. Told Joe that it felt like the rear brake calipers were not working. Sure enough, not bad for a girl, right on the money.

It's Sunday and two drive-by welfare checks have been made to be sure my truck is safe at the repair shop. I can't wait to get him back.

2010-08-25T23:24:00.002-04:00

Motorcycles have become a large part of our lives over the past few years and now we have decided to make a few changes. Since every inexperienced driver in the world has decided that "texting" is the most important thing and no call can wait, riding a motorcycle has become a real challenge. Just last week, I had a young gal bring her entire "mom's" SUV into my lane. She made no effort to move until I nearly beat my truck horn into submission. I'm not thrilled about selling my 2006 Harley Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic, with more chrome doo-dads than anyone should have, but it's time. I'll miss him! This does not mean that I will no longer be part of the Ray C's Harley Davidson family, no way. They have done so much for us over the years and we are so very greatful.
I will always have my awesome 1999 HD Road King, the old police bike, with lots of fringe! This bike has a real personality. I have been all over the United States with this one and he is really a great partner. (pictured on the face page of this blog)

All Star Game

2010-08-07T23:51:00.002-04:00

What in the world was I doing playing shortstop? Derek Jeter I am not, but it was such an honor to have the ladies on the church team select me to represent our team! We are undefeated and third base is my usual spot. I've never played short in my life...what a thrill. Shannon and I had such fun as our coaches and team members came to cheer. It was such fun, reminding me of many years ago when I played and neighborhood folks came to watch at the old Halbach Field in Rochester.

No Hoarding Here!

2010-08-02T20:32:00.003-04:00

On Thursday evening, July 22, we were on the way to another softball game. Less than three miles from the house, a small yellow kitten ran out in front of our Escape.
He darted out, saw the car and ran back into the grass where I found him crying.
He weighed 1 pound, when we took him to the vet the following day. Seriously dehydrated, the vet was doubtful of his survival. We prayed.

After fluids and some TLC, we brought him home. For the near future, he is quarantined to the barn tack room until he receives a clean bill of health. Now, almost 2 pounds, he's a wild man! His name is Christian, after the famous lion who was returned to the wild after he was purchased from a London department store.

We now have a dozen kitties, each with his/her story of rescue! I AM THE LITTER BOX QUEEN mum.

(Google: Christian the lion and see the video...bring a kleenex, it's awesome)

2010-07-18T21:36:00.001-04:00

Olivia has been swimming with her new vest at the Bark Park and loving every minute?
I keep telling her to think of her swimming as if she were crossing the Rio Grande.

Olivia is a star

2010-07-12T20:23:00.003-04:00

I took Olivia to the Oakland County Bark Park in Orion where they have a dog dock for the poopers to go for a swim. The retrievers were jumping, splashing, fetching balls and shaking off the water. Olivia took a jump into the water by accident and like a yo-yo, she was plucked from the water by her leash/harness.
Now, we have a swim vest for her. She is placed in the water and looks like a Mexican crossing the Rio Grande...afterall, she is part chihuahua!The leash snaps on the vest and it's a great way to help her swim.
I sent a picture of O. in her new vest to the web site and she is now in their ad.

http://www.hunterk9.com/site/870877/product/590

CHECK HER OUT !

Some Justice for Ruby!!!

2010-06-16T19:10:00.005-04:00

Finally, Ty-Shawn Bost is sentenced to jail for the burglary of a Roseville home, where he murdered a helpless kitten named Ruby. In September, 2009, Bost broke into a home and while searching for valuables, he placed Ruby in the washing machine and started the cycle. The kitten didn't stand a chance and died as a result.
The miniscule amount of jail time this worthless piece of crap will spend in jail doesn't even begin to meet what I would like to see happen to him. It is somewhat of a surprise that he received any time at all for this crime. Most burglaries are treated as harmless property crimes and probation is the sentence. Let's hope that the media attention this case received caused the judge to take notice!
The coverage of the Ty-Shawn Bost case was carried by Channel 7 and when I saw it this evening, there were tears of joy! She was not just a kitten!

God Bless You Ernie Harwell

2010-05-04T21:20:00.002-04:00

Anyone who has grown up listening to Tiger baseball is in mourning this evening at the passing of a legend, Mr. Ernie Harwell. I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Harwell at Oakland Schools a few years ago when he gave one of his inspirational talks. What a wonderful man. He autographed a picture for my Mother, which is proudly displayed on the shelf in her schoolhouse. It reads, "To Eva, with Love, Ernie Harwell".

The tears we shed, we have lost a legend. God Bless You, Ernie Harwell...you will never be "long gone" from our hearts.

Wish Me Luck

2010-04-05T19:27:00.003-04:00

Last week, I had the opportunity to practice with a local church softball team. As the manager introduced me, I realized that I am old! He asked what number I wanted on the back of my shirt and after looking around, the only number I could think of was my age! These "girls" were all young enough to be my daughter and had played some serious competitive softball from high school through college. Wish me luck...

Last week, our co-ed team practiced. Guys filled with testoserone and girls who just want to have some fun. Heck, last year a guy on the opposite team was a bit dramatic with his slide into home plate and broke his leg. They slide, jump and give it all they have to make a play. It's a fine way to spend a Friday night. Wish me luck...

This week, began with a practice for the 55+ men's team. I'm not sure some of the fellas are sold on the idea of a woman playing on THEIR team, but I was recruited. For the most part, I felt welcome, having played pick-up ball with the fellas last fall for fun. Now, it is different, since I was recruited. Wish me luck...

For years my search for over 50 softball was unsuccessful, go figure. :-) Thank goodness my husband likes softball...he's a world class spectator. Wish me luck...

Next Saturday, it's the 50+ ladies team. I love this, since I finally have the opportunity to play 3rd base!!!! Woohoo...I get to take a spot on the field and not be Ms. Utility! I can't wait. Speaking of weight...OMG I hope this will help me with some weight loss. Wish me luck...

2010-04-04T18:32:00.002-04:00

Bob Awakens

2010-04-03T21:32:00.002-04:00

Finally, Bob has decided to come out on a regular basis. He has been coming out periodically for a couple of weeks, but we didn't get the chance to see him. This is a part of his hibernation ritual. This is Bob's 4th winter and each year his behavior is slightly different.

This video is my first contact with Bob this year. He was certainly excited and played as though he did miss me this winter. He likes to nibble on my hands and he will put my fingers in his mouth and try to pull me to the burrow. Last season, we started a little game where he will roll over on his back like a wrestler...what a character.

I thank God every year in the spring that he has made another year and will give us so much enjoyment. Phil has nothing on BOB !

Easter Bunny Captured

2010-04-03T19:52:00.004-04:00

Today, the Easter Bunny was captured outside the horse barn at Cobblestone Farm. Mistaken for a wayward woodchuck, the bunny trespassed into one of the tunnels already the private property of unnamed whistlepigs.

Lured by an apple, the Easter Bunny's attorney, maintains this was entrapment and those officials responsible should be charged, rather than his client. At this time, the bunny was released on his own recognisance.

Batteries for Bikes

2010-04-03T19:34:00.003-04:00

The weather is beautiful, just the kind of day you want to hop on the bike and go for a spin. Motorcycles were everywhere! I went to the barn hoping to just take a quick trip to town on one of the bikes and not one would start. What a disappointment, since each bike had a battery tender attached to it, but these batteries were old.

So, off I went to Ray C's and bought three new batteries! Yikes, these things ought to install themselves. Some gal needs to invent a "tool" that enables easy removal of the battery from its cramped quarters. The darn thing is just heavy enough that with the arthritis in my thumbs, it's a tough cookie to lift it up and out. This might be a future project.

Apple Pi

2010-04-01T20:28:00.004-04:00

Apple Pi Sir Joshua is almost 25 years old now and I thought it fitting for a tribute. Not wanting a memorial, Joshua became a portrait "in the flesh", so to speak while he is still around to see it.

The new tattoo is on my lower right leg, so not to be conspicuous. The artist, Matt Hockaday, is truly a very gifted young man. He painted Medusa in the image of his girlfriend, his daughter riding a rocking horse with wings and has a picture on President George Washington on his wall. His creativity is amazing.

It took over four hours to create Joshua in ink. (Ouch) For the first time in my life, I was happy to have "thunder legs" enabling proper display of this rather large portrait. Just don't tell my Mother!

"Bury me out back"

2010-03-25T22:06:00.004-04:00

Shopping for a grave monument is something that I never gave a thought. Dad always said, "Just dig a hole and bury me out back with the critters". He would add that he wanted to be together with my Mother, who wouldn't want to be "buried out back", since she isn't an animal lover.
In order to make this work, we purchased cemetery plots up the road from the house where there are three lovely pine trees. Dad planted over 100 pine trees on our little farm. He loved to cut wood and having his resting place near the trees seems fitting.

We received the veteran's bronze marker, which is very beautiful, but I wanted something special for my Dad. A local monument maker went with an idea and the draft is pictured above.

Since Dad was a ski jumper and served in the 10th Mountain Division during W.W.II, it seemed appropriate.I hope that Dad will like this when it is done.

Sandra & Jesse

2010-03-23T19:33:00.002-04:00

Sandra Bullock is a class act and Jesse James is such a disappointment. Their marriage might survive his affair with the tattoo model, Michelle "Bombshell" McGee, but doubtful. The trust Ms. Bullock had for her husband went right out the window once the affair was exposed. No matter what Jesse does or says, this is not something that will be forgiven or forgotten.

Another celeb marriage bites the dust. Sad.

AVATAR, A Love Story

2010-03-13T20:15:00.002-05:00

Science fiction movies are not on my list of favorite movie categories and AVATAR was not on the viewing list. After much convincing, I went kicking and screaming with my friend Pat to the Trillium Theater in Grand Blanc to see this phenomenon.

Complete with the 3-D glasses we settled in for one of the most unbelievable movies I have ever seen. With my contraband popcorn and my bottle of tea the journey to Pandora began.

This adventure takes the viewer to a place where simple cat-like creatures live. It is a love story and it is a war. I fell in love with these beings and even held back some tears.

I will be attending this movie again, for the third time, in the very near future.
(See it in IMAX)

3/12/2010 Groundhog Day?

2010-03-13T19:41:00.002-05:00

Bob has come out of his burrow, but only for a brief look at our weather. I had left a corn cob in front of his burrow entrance about a week ago, just in the event that Bob might come out and I would miss him. When I noticed the cob had been moved, it was time to check on Bobster. I stuck my hand down the burrow to see if Bob had left his door open. He had and when I reached inside, I found one nice toastie woodchuck. He took my fingers in his mouth and nibbled on them, as if to say, "Hi mommie."

The door, is really bedding that the woodchuck pushes up to block his burrow entrance and keep him warm and free from the drafts as he is in hibernation. I checked on Bob again today and his door was closed. Perhaps it still is not Groundhog Day.

Nicknames

2010-03-09T13:45:00.002-05:00

A long time co-worker and E-mail compadre sent me a list of police deparmtment retirees and wanted assistance to fill in the blanks for nicknames. This was truly a trip back in time. Starting with the letter A for Adams, I began to laugh out loud with my recollection of the names and why they were assigned to a particular person.

My old squad car partner, John was known as "Troll", since his stature resembled that of a troll. Then came Jim, who had a rather long face and was called, "horse-face" and "Mr. Ed". My dear friend, Bobbie, was called "Mobie", after that large whale of folklore origin. A detective named, Al was known as "Idiamin"...well, he did long like him!

One of the school officers who was folically challenged and decided to get a perm was called, "Bozo". There is Leo the Lip, Shorty-hog, Humma, Asa, Abie, Smokey, Two-dogs, Bear, trooper shoes, God (given with respect) and the list goes on. The scary part, I didn't have a nickname or did I ?

Our African Queen

2010-02-28T10:07:00.002-05:00

Since Mother doesn't drive anymore, we have taken over the 1991 Plymouth Acclaim and all of the idiosyncrasies that go with her. The steering wheel squeals when you turn it, various pieces of trim are flapping, she has a bad left ball joint and the brakes failed last week.

When I look out to the driveway, I can't help but think of her as the "Queen" that wreck of a boat in the 1951 film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. Mr. Allnut, played by Bogart, has to constantly make repairs on the boat as he and Miss Sayer make their way down the river. His repairs included forging a new prop, "kick her in the slats" and tying rags to keep her steam up.

Last week, the role of Mr. Allnut was played by "Pete" who worked his magic on the brakes.

We can only hope that our "Queen" will fulfill her mission and get us through the winter.

Wayward Rodent

2010-02-28T09:58:00.002-05:00

A pound of peanuts were included with my Mother's laundry in the trunk of the car. It seems that someone has decided that his/her nuts should be stored in the laundry!
We had purchased a large bag of peanuts in the shell and forgot to take them out of the passenger's compartment of the car. The peanut bag was raided and most of the contents found their way to the trunk, some left under the driver's floor mat and I hate to look under the hood.

Toothless

2010-02-25T17:27:00.002-05:00

In the last three weeks, Olivia has been losing her puppy teeth! I've recovered several and figure that if we find enough of these teeth, place them under her pillow, she might receive 25 cents from the Tooth Fairy.

The Graduate

2010-02-10T17:22:00.003-05:00

Our little Olivia graduated from Puppy Education at the Pet Smart Store in Washington Township on Saturday, Febuary 6, 2010. She and her buddies, Dino, Mika, Bella and Peggy received a certificate after eight weeks of training and puppy socialization. Olivia will truly miss Dino, the largest dog in the class and Olivia's playmate. Our little beaner dog picks the biggest dog in the class to befriend. Her actions remind me of an old Warner Brothers cartoon featuring Spike the bulldog and Chester the terrier!
I'm proud of Olivia, she's a great little gal and hopefully, she will ride on the Harley with me. (Yes, she will have ear protection!)

Cobblestone Bob

2010-01-28T19:50:00.002-05:00

It is almost February 2, Groundhog Day and I'm very sure that Cobblestone Bob will not even open one eye, much less actually come out of his burrow. He is a true hibernator and once he "taps out" for the season, he will not emerge until his body is ready. It will not be ready this GHD ! This is our Bob's third season of life on the farm. I so miss him while he's sleeping, but I mark the front of the burrow to determine when he does actually come out to see us. I'll have a large bowl of peas and grits waiting for him.

Pickleball Junkie?

2010-01-15T20:11:00.003-05:00

April 5th, is the beginning of softball season and I'm not in shape. I have been trying to get rid of what I call, "Dad passed away/Mother's in the nursing home stress weight", and at the same time get my arm in shape to play 3rd base. Not ready to panic yet, I have embarked on a new adventure in sports with the purchase of a pickleball racquet or perhaps it is really a paddle.

Since I have now played twice, I'm hooked. This funny tennis-like, badmitton-like,
racquetball-like, ping pong-like game is something that anyone can play and enjoy.
Whether you are 50 or 80 years young, you can learn this game, I think.

Convinced by a couple of ladies on our "Over 50" softball team, I thought I'd show up see what all the hype was about. It cost $3.00 to drop-in and play at the local church gym. It is always fun to meet new people and everyone was so very helpful to the newbie. After several minutes of instruction I was paired with one of the older gentlemen and we began hitting the baseball size whiffleball over the net in preparation for our match.

Easy, so I thought, until the other team proceeded to clean our clock. This is a sport of finesse. As I watched these players guide the ball with ease incorporating spin and some english, I was reminded of the story of the old bull and his triumph over the inexperienced youngster in the pasture as he went after the cows.

After two hours of play, I realized that pickleball is something that will get the old arm in shape and perhaps the bootie too! I'll keep you posted on my new addiction.

Mother is 93 !

2010-01-11T20:00:00.003-05:00

On January 7, 2010, my Mother celebrated her 93rd birthday. The eldest daughter of Frank and Martha Rewold, Mother was born at their home on Griggs Street in Rochester.
In her early youth, they moved to a new home on Ludlow Street, which backs up to Avon Park and the Paint Creek River. Mother spent her school days in Rochester, where she graduated in 1934 from the old Rochester High School on Fifth Street (University Drive).

Her Father, Frank Rewold, was a general contractor and Mother was his bookeeper from the time she was in high school until she was in her 60's. He was the founder of Frank Rewold & Son General Contractors. Mother also worked at Meadowbrook Farm as the switchboard operator and secretary to Mrs. Matilda Dodge Wilson during the mid 30's.

Mother and Dad met at school and were childhood sweethearts. Dad often recalled lacing Mother's ice skates at the mill pond. He loved my Mother from that day until the day he passed.

I never thought that Mother would be in a rehab/nursing facility, but she is safe and I am not having my heart jumping out of my chest every time the telephone rings!
I always felt sad when Dad would call me crying and telling me that Mother had fallen. He would cry because he just wasn't strong enough with his bad knee, to lift Mother himself. He was always glad his daughter was strong!

A vivid Kodak moment was when Dad called crying that Mother had fallen and when I arrived to help, I found them sitting on the floor holding hands. Now, I had two old folks to pick up...priceless memory!

Counting Down to Groundhog Day

2010-01-02T18:56:00.003-05:00

Each day I check the area of Bob's borrow in great anticipation of Groundhog Day, Feb 2nd. I know that he won't really be out that day, but I can tell you he has been pretty darned accurate with his forecast of the weather this winter.

He went into hibernation a little over a week early this fall, which is probably a good indicator of a cold or long winter. I sure do miss the little guy.

3 STOOGES MARATHON

2009-12-31T15:30:00.001-05:00

Yes...I'm going to ring in the New Year with the 3 Stooges!!!! This beats the heck out of those singers and variety acts of years past. I'm ready!!! Nuk, nuk, nuk...Niagra Falls...slowly I turn, step by step, inch by inch....

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T13:52:00.002-05:00

It's safe to say, I'm not really in the spirit of Christmas this year, since it will be my first Christmas without Dad. He was always fun during the holiday. The tradition of chocolate covered cherries and something for him to wear will certainly be missed.
Here it is Christmas Eve and I'm having to work real hard to even turn on the small battery powered tree which sits in the kitchen window. I need to get over this feeling real fast.

O.K.

We are truly blessed with our health, our freedom and our faith in God. There...now I feel much better. God Bless our troops who are spending their Christmas away from their families to keep us safe.

Happy 93, Dad

2009-12-13T22:11:00.002-05:00

Today would have been my Dad's 93rd birthday. Sadly, he didn't quite make it, but we ate some of those chocolate covered, liquid filled cherries in his honor. As far back as I can remember, Dad always got a box of those for his birthday and another box for Christmas. I guess we will continue this fine family tradition.
Sure miss you Dad.

Thinking about Dad today, I remembered one of his stories he told from his tour in Italy during WWII. He drove truck and carried ammunition to the front lines. Since he was a truck driver, he had access to gasoline, which he shared with an Italian man named Leo. During the war, the Nazis took vehicles from the locals and every other thing they could get, as well. So, Leo placed his car in the basement of his home, blocking it into the basement where it couldn't be found. He had barrels in the basement where he would store fuel, when he could find it. He and Dad struck up a friendship and despite the language barrier, talking with their hands (which if you stereotype, Italians do talk with hand gestures) Dad was able to supply Leo with "extra" gasoline he didn't need.

As a result of this friendship and international good will, Leo made a wood carving of a blacksmith and gave it to my Dad. He carried that carving back home to the U.S. as a cherished reminder of his friend, Leo. I have that statue now and it means so much to me to know what effort Dad went to in order to pass this on.

I plan to give this to a museum in Rochester Hills one day along with Dad's medals as a part of the skiing exhibit. I don't want my Dad's things to end up on Ebay!

My rant, so there...

2009-11-17T19:05:00.000-05:00

If you didn't raise an eyebrow at the latest information pertaining to the use of the mammogram...you had better! I was watching Good Morning America this morning and the government is now questioning the use of mammography for those women under the age of 50 !!! I don't know about you, but I know of women under the age of 50 who have had breast cancer and if it had not been for the use of this diagnostic testing procedure, they would not be with us today.
The excuse is that there is the possibility of side effects from using the mammogram each year, which was the earlier recommendation for those at higher than normal risk. Well heck, I'd rather take that chance than not find out about breast cancer until it was too late for any treatment.
With the trend toward government control of the health care system, is this the beginning of selection ?
This also reminds me, I don't qualify for the H1N1 flu vaccine ! That's because I'm not considered "at risk" and I'm not old enough...and so on. But hey, I don't want the damn thing anyway, it's not been proven effective.
It you don't think this might be "only the beginning", you might want to reconsider.

That's my rant for today...don't get me started.

Dad made me do it

2009-11-15T20:35:00.003-05:00

Her name is Olivia. She is 8.5 weeks old and a rescue from Pet Friendz in Caro. She is a miniature pinscher chihuahua mix, no bigger than a minute. Even our smallest cat, now appears like Hulk Hogan.

It all began not long after Dad passed away, I kept feeling as though I was compelled to have a dog. My Dad always loved his dogs. There was "Fat Jessie", "Ruby Begonia" and most recently, the stray elderly, "Jake Russell".

For fun, I looked on the pet finder site and found this little girl. I just kept going back to her. Next thing I knew, we were filling out the application for adoption. Again, it was as though my Dad was there directing this entire show.

She's now part of our family.

Thank you James L.

2009-10-29T14:08:00.003-04:00

A finer tribute to my father could not have been written and I am so very grateful to Jim of L-Town.

My former father-in-law, Walter "Walt" Brown, died Saturday at home in Addison Township. He was 92.During the time I was married to his daughter, Susan, Walt and I spent many hours together. Because I worked nights in Flint, my days were free and Walt loved to cut wood, do projects around his and our house and generally kept himself busy. It was my joy and honor to spend all those many hours with him outdoors.I learned more from Walt in those few years about wood working, tree-cutting, cement mixing, roofing and life than pretty much the sum total of all my years in school. He was a reservoir of common sense in a world where it is very scarce. There's a morning room built on to the back of my house today that is a testament to what I learned from Walt about carpentry and roofing.Like all three of my father-in-laws, my father and stepfather, he was a survivor of the Depression and World War II. For Walt the Depression was the defining time of his life. He was a believer in not paying for something unless you could pay cash for it and he conserved energy by burning the wood available to him for free.He taught me the importance of checking the wind before falling a tall tree and the ins-and-outs of a chain saw. He taught me that sharp was safer than dull and that you always "measure twice and cut once." He taught me that a man was judged by the neatness of his woodpile.Walt also taught me that there was no such thing as a mistake, but just "errors." He also told me that a good spoken "sonofabitch" would fix most carpentry problems. Well, that and a well timed and aimed hammer stroke.If he spoke the word "politician" it came out sounding like a curse word. He had no use for those who couldn't relate to people who worked hard and broke a sweat to make a living.He built Susan's house with his own hands, each nail lovingly driven in by himself. Once after the house was more than 10 years old, we called after one of the windows fogged up during the window. The call was made not to ask him to fix it, but just in passing the time of day.About 1/2-hour later (this was about 8 p.m. at night) we heard Walt's truck pull into the driveway and he emerged with his toolbox and came into the house and fixed the air leak that caused the fogging.Walt joked that not many builders would come back and fix the house they built ten years after it was finished. But then not many builders were Walt.At one time he worked for Mrs. Wilson of Dodge-Wilson at the Meadowbrook Mansion in Rochester Hills. it is now a tourist attraction but he remembered the days that Mrs. Dodge-Wilson would call out for "Walter" to fix this or that.During the time I knew him he was only rarely without his beloved retriever by his side. That dog followed him everywhere and it was rough when I had to ride in his truck to a woodlot because Jesse didn't like sharing the front seat with anyone but Walt.He and his dog shared his lunch and his love. I've never met a man with a closer touch to nature than Walt. He loved animals. He had the rare ability to coax a wild chipmunk into his hand the first time he saw it.But he also loved to hunt deer. Although it was more about the sitting in nature than it was in the taking of the deer. I recalled this story recently about one of Walt's hunting "trips."Susan and I lived on 7-8 acres in Oxford Township. The back lot was a stand of pine trees - all planted by Susan and Walt, by the way - and when they were mature enough he would make a deer blind in the back and during hunting season it was not uncommon to hear his military truck pull into our driveway and head back to the woods about 5 a.m.While Susan was at work during the day I usually did chores around the property, but when I knew Walt was back "hunting" I stayed up near the house so as not to spook the deer.One day, I was watching out our back picture window when I saw a big 10 to 12-point buck that Walt had been eyeing for months, walk to the pile of corn and apples in the back lot. I watched for several minutes waiting for the inevitable blast that would take down this prize buck. It never came.A little while later I heard the truck driving up the path next to our horse pasture and met Walt in the driveway as he headed home for lunch."Why didn't you shoot that buck?," I asked him"Please don't tell me the buck was there, I fell asleep for a while," Walt said. We both had a good laugh about the 'one that got away.'Like so many of his kind, Walt is in that disappearing group of heroes from World War II. During his youth around Rochester, Walt made a name for himself ski jumping and he had the newspaper clips to prove it.When World War II came those skills were in demand in the Army's 10th Mountain Division, which Walt proudly served both in Europe and the Pacific. He came home and never left after the war. He was married to his childhood sweetheart, Eva, for 68 years. She used to kid that he loved his dog and spent more time with it than her, but she was wrong.You can read the whole obituary here. There's a nice photo of Walt there as well.He once told me a story about a German soldier that was shot in the heel someplace in Italy and when they approached him with guns drawn the German spoke in good English, "don't shoot, I'm from Detroit."In recent years he made one of the "Honor Flights" to visit the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., one of the very rare times he left his home.There are many great stories he told that would fail in my telling here because they were good because of the way he told them.Walt, you will be missed.
posted by Jim of L-Town at 7:13 AM on Oct 29, 2009

Dad is gone

2009-10-26T17:11:00.003-04:00

I'm sad to report that my Dad passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2009 after a very brief fight with cancer. I have not been able to put my thoughts down yet...but that will come after the dust settles. ..

Byron is with me forever

2009-10-20T21:51:00.002-04:00

Today, October 20, 2009, is the one year anniversary of Byron's death. I miss him so much. The sorrow never fades, but my wonderful memories of Byron will live on forever.

I tend his grave as though it were my own. In some ways, a piece of me was buried that morning with Byron.

Often when I am in the barn, I see the white plastic bags of bedding stacked in his stall and see him instead. Visions of him running out of the corner of my eye catch me daydreaming and smiling at the wonder of his antics.

I miss the smell of his skin when I would press my nose against his neck...it was sweet. He and I had a very special bond.

After much thought, I wanted to have him with me always, so why not a tattoo. He is there on my left leg. The same leg that ultimately cost Byron. The shooting star is significant of the only registered marking listed on his papers. His true name was Nebula , like the stars! He was and will always be my star.

A Poem for Byron

2009-10-19T21:32:00.009-04:00

Don't cry for the horses
that life has set free
A million white horses
forever to be

Don't cry for the horses
now in God's hands
As they dance and they prance
to a heavenly band

They were ours as a gift
but never to keep
As they close their eyes
forever to sleep

Their spirits unbound
on silver wings they fly
A million white horses
against the blue sky

Look up into the heaven
you'll see them above
The horses we lost
The horses we loved

Manes and tails flowing
they gallop through time
They were never yours
They were never mine

Don't cry for the horses
they'll be back someday
when our time has come
they will show us the way

Do you hear that soft nicker
close to your ear?
Don't cry for the horses
Love the one that are here.

(I wish I had written this poem, as it
is fitting for Byron)

Tomorrow

2009-10-11T21:13:00.002-04:00

Dad has been in the hospital since friday with some lower abdominal pain. His color was yellowish and the doctors were testing him for liver related problems. We have eliminated hepititus, which I thought was a bit weird, since we couldn't figure out how he might have contracted it. They eliminated gall bladder and apendix problems too.

The doctor suspects cancer, but we will know more tomorrow.

I'm scared, I love my dad and I don't want him to suffer with cancer. We always imagined that he would be cutting wood and drop from a heart attack...which his brother did at 85 years of age.

Whatever the test results reveal, we will deal with it and keep our faith.

It has been a long day...

It came from his stash

2009-10-08T19:57:00.003-04:00

While driving home from the airport today, I heard a revelation on the radio. A woman was interviewed at Cobo Center, while she stood in line for an application to receive stimulus money from the government. The interviewer was Ken Rogalski of WJR Radio and the interview went like this:

KR: Why are you here?

W oman: To get some money.

KR: What kind of money?

Woman: Obama money!

KR: Where's it coming from?

Woman: Obama.

KR: Where did Obama get it?

Woman: I don't know, his stash, I don't know...

I don't know where he got it from,but

he givin it to us, to help us

2nd Woman: We love him.

Woman: We love him, that's why we voted from him...

Both are chanting: Obama, Obama...

Yikes ! This woman has no clue that the money she is about to apply for as "Obama Money" is OUR money. This is the money you and I have worked for that Obama is handing out to these sad, ignorant, uninformed voters! What better audience could Obama have? These people think

he has come to their rescue. How sad this is, that people would actually think the money comes from Obama and do not have a clue that it's the money us working folks have made and are now giving up! God help us. How can people be this stupid. This interview gained national attention for the City of Detroit...isn't that special?

Susan in Glendale

2009-10-02T14:55:00.002-04:00

Susan in Glendale, California had passion, almost to tears while speaking with Rush Limbaugh, September 30, 2009. Speaking without any interruption, without a teleprompter, or notes, she made such an impact on those who listened. Rush's E-mail lit up with phrase for this woman.

Take 23:40 and give her a listen at Rushlimbaugh.com.

Susan speaks for many of us out there who feel this country is heading in the wrong direction.

Leave a Note

2009-10-01T12:15:00.004-04:00

The woman driving a Toyota Tundra extended cab pick-up truck backed into her brand new car. We watched as the driver of the truck struggled trying to back into the parking space. Silly, since there were several other slots with easier access in the lot. Oh, but they were further away from the building.
As she jockeys the vehicle around, actually using both of her mirrors, we heard a "bump". Yep, she backed up until she hit the vehicle behind her, then moved up away from it as though nothing happened. She got out of the truck, never even looking to see if the impact from her truck had caused any damage to the other vehicle, and walked away.

I wanted to say something and bring this incident to the woman's attention ( in a subtle manner, of course) , but the little voice said, "check it out first". Yep, the Toyota Tundra's trailer hitch extension had made a crease in the plastic bumper of the new smaller Chrysler SUV. We left a note.

Upon returning hoome, we found a message on the answering machine from the owner of the new small Chrysler SUV. Her name was Sheryl and she left us the nicest message one could imagine, complete with blessings! Such a nice message, with such kind thoughts for us, I couldn't help but share this in my blog. I hope she has good luck with the car repairs and I can't thank her enough for making my day. :-D

Harvey's on his ride!

2009-09-26T20:48:00.003-04:00

Flint Street was lined with over 100 Harley Davidson motorcycles from the Lapeer and Shiawassee H.O.G. Chapters. Sparks Griffin Funeral Home was standing room only for our beloved Harvey Gauthier. Black leather vests proudly displaying the H.O.G. Chapter patch could be seen from every viewpoint.

As the service ended with eulogies by Past H.O.G President, Mike Plaza and President, Jim Bailey, the roar of "THUNDER FROM THE THUMB" began its echo throughout the downtown area. The pealing of the church bells could be heard between the pops of loud pipes as they rumbled for Harvey. Rolling on the throttle was our way of starting Harvey on his ride with the angels.

Harvey, we miss you!

2009-09-23T16:05:00.005-04:00

Harvey J. Gauthier was killed Monday, September, 21 at approximately 16:30 hours while riding his Harley Davidson near Cincinnati, Ohio. He was riding with two other motorcycles, when he apparently struck a tow truck stopped in the left side emergency lane. According to investigators, the tow truck was partially in the high-speed lane of I-71/75 when it was struck.

Harvey was thrown from his motorcycle and struck by another vehicle. No one else was injured in the accident.

The long time member of the Harley Owners Group, Lapeer Chapter, was a fixture in the H.O.G. community. Always a smile, hugs or handshakes came from Harvey. His loss will be felt by this member of the H.O.G. community for a very long time.

Harvey, may you ride with God...we love you!!!

Wassup now, kitten killer?

2009-09-17T18:42:00.003-04:00

Ty-Shawn Eric Bost is the accused tough thug that murdered Ruby in her Roseville home. He admitted killing the kitten because, "it was bothering me," police said. Wait until this thug gets out of jail, fathers a few children and the children "bother" him. Will he put them in the microwave oven?
The article in the Detroit News indicated that Bost did not know the family he "allegedly" (oh please) victimized, yet it's difficult to believe it was random. Perhaps my having been retired for a number of years makes me a bit rusty, but call it a gut feeling.
The police have not revealed how they linked Bost to the crime yet, but I'm thankful for the help the police received and that Bost is off the street. Hats off to the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office for issuing warrants in this case.
It would be great if William "Cat"aldo, Chief of Homicide, Macomb County Prosecutor's Office could handle the case!

Sick Bastards

2009-09-15T19:32:00.002-04:00

The Roseville home of the Ross family was burglarized and Ruby, their 6 month old kitten, was murdered. The theives ransacked the home and then placed the kitten in the washer and turned it on, leaving the kitten to drown. Apparenlty, the machine was still spinning when the mother and her 13 year old daughter returned home and the kitten was found.

Items stolen from the home included video "stuff", jewelry and small items easy to carry and conceal.

The fact that a 13 year old lives in the home might just direct your attention to persons of interest acquainted with the daughter. Not necessarily friends of hers, but certainly anyone who has been in the home previously, lives close by or attends the same school. The term "random" doesn't seem to fit, if what has been in the news is factual.

Let's hope these sick bastards (yes, there was more than one) are caught.

Anyone who is able to do such a thing to a helpless animal will eventually occupy a prison cell. It has been proven time after time that persons who end up in our prison system for violent crime, begin with attacks on the helpless amoung us...animals.

God Bless You little Ruby kitten.

I LOVE ERNIE

2009-09-11T21:55:00.001-04:00

Ernie Harwell will always be the "voice" of the Detroit Tiiiiiiiiiigers! He is 91 years young, but now is battling an incurable cancerous tumor in the bile duct. Wow, I love this guy. He walks the walk and talks the talk of a true man of faith.

A couple years ago, Tom & I went to see Ernie at the Oakland County Complex, where he was speaking. He even autographed a picture for my mother. It read, "To Eva, With Love, Ernie". The picture is proudly displayed on the shelf in the dining room. I'm always careful when I refer to him as Mother's boyfriend...it makes her blush.

May God bless you , Ernie.

I'm working on a picture of Derrick Jeter. Although not a Tiger, he's Mother's favorite player.

Haunting Silence

2009-09-11T21:28:00.000-04:00

Yes, I remember where I was on 9/11, just like recalling where I was when J.F.K. was assassinated. On 9/11, i was in my car on my way to the gym at Brandon High School to work out with my friends. Dick Purtan was on the radio and I thought when I turned in on, "Big Al" was in the midst of a skit. He said something about a plane crashing and I realized this was no joke.
The loss of life and the heroes born all in a few moments of time.

It was so hauntingly quiet on the farm, as no airplanes were flying and traffic was all but stopped. The horses even sensed the change in the air, it was very scary. We were just waiting to see what was next. The U.S.A. was vulnerable and a high price was paid that day. Never forget!

The Wedding

2009-09-07T20:24:00.000-04:00

The date, September 5th is now an even more significant day in our family. Not just that it is MY birthday, but now it will also serve as the wedding anniversary date for the new Mr. and Mrs. Austin Lee. My husband's youngest daughter, Kara, was a stunning bride, as Austin was the handsome groom.
Can't wait to see the wedding pictures and video.
The kids are off to Hawaii for a honeymoon and some relaxing before returning to their home in California. May they enjoy many years of love, health and happiness.

MGM Puddy

2009-08-31T21:24:00.001-04:00

Metro Goldwyn Mayer had several different lions throughout the studio history. The first was "Slats", who graced the original logo designed by Howard Dietz from 1916-1924. (That may be that same Howard Dietz who designed carousel animals.)

Since that time, five lions have represented the MGM studio. The last was a lion named Leo. His roar is still heard today!

Each time we watch an MGM production and see that wonderful lion and hear his roar, I can't help but think of our old cat, Y.C. (Yellow Cat). With the roar of a lion, he could beg with the best for any type of food. He was the man of the house, king of the beasts, man in charge of everything when it came to his "Puddy-dom". He wandered into our lives from the south fence row and graced our home for 20+ years. Although he's gone, he still continues to make his presence known when I find that occasional Puddy hair. He was our MGM lion.

Am I too old for softball...

2009-08-29T14:46:00.000-04:00

Finally I found an "over 50" ladies softball team. Woohoo, we won a couple of games and it's great meeting new friends and playing again. During the serving & protecting playing much wasn't really an option. One injury might have put the job at risk, but now, I'm back!

Today I practiced with my husband and now I have the ball seam impression on my chin and a swollen left knee! (The knee with the new ACL) Nothing that some ice and a few episodes of N.C.I.S. won't cure!

After Labor Day pick-up games with the "over 50" guys are going to help our ladies team keep that edge of the fine tuned machine (?).

First Cat

2009-08-28T21:39:00.000-04:00

He just appeared on the shelf in the garage. A small gray and yellow cat looking very frightened, as though someone had just dropped him off.
The next day, we were on our way to the veterinarian for a check-up. Since he didn't have a name for registration, Dr. Mike, just decided to call him "Toes", due to a couple extra digits.
Once we got rid of the dirt, our little yellow and white cat had a new home.
Toes became a fixture, transferring my position as homeowner to staff, plain and simple. Rattling the cupboard announcing his food demands, only to enhance his physique with each mouthful. I never knew that a cat could have a dust ruffle for a stomach, sweeping the floor as he walked.
Each Christmas, Toes would squeeze himself in the middle of a pine cone wreath, just daring me to try and hang the thing. The wreath became the December bed for Toes-master.
Our beloved cat lived for 12 years, only to develop an inoperable tumor. Sadly, he died in my arms and now rests "out back" in the cemetery with Chester, the goat.

A children's book?

2009-08-27T15:51:00.000-04:00

This is "Bob", he's a whistlepig, marmot, groundhog and even some would call him a pest. He wants to be the subject of my dreams...a children's book.

A kind little man, he's spoiled with peanuts and has his very own burrow in the barn. If you are not careful, he might just take hold of a finger and guide you to his burronw, like Alice in Wonderland. I'm too big to fit, but I can only imagine what life might be like for Bob in his burrow. I need to give that some thought.

Animal stories from this little farm are many and create the best of memories.

The Man in the Mirror

2009-08-26T14:11:00.000-04:00

In 1977, Byron (keft) was shown at the Michigan State Fairgrounds as a registered Half-Arab by his owner, Kelly. His first show. Kelly was kind enough to respond to my letter, which was a stab in the dark, and provide pictures him in his youth.

The second picture, in all of his greyness, was taken in 1987 at his first carriage driving show at the Bloomfield Open Hunt Club. Two blue ribbons in his first two classes!

Mary Jo

2009-08-26T13:58:00.001-04:00

Ted Kennedy was responsible for the death of Mary Jo Kopechne forty years ago at Chappaquiddick. May she now rest in peace.

Missing Byron

2009-08-23T08:14:00.000-04:00

The past few days have brought back many memories of my cherished horse, Byron. I've been cleaning an untidy barn and have come across many horsie items belonging to my dearest friend. Those lost leg wraps, a driving bit and a couple extra brushes misplaced over the years. Even a "cigar" or two on the floor in his stall... the cigar is that matted grass that old guys chew and it eventually falls out of their mouth to the ground...looks like a cigar. Although the barn is a cleaner place, it will neer be what it once was without Byron.