*** Many Thanks to Fran for the link and her very sage answers ***
I'm posting these here for two reasons, one - to pass them along, as well as a referral to Murderati, and 2- to save to answer later.
(I haven't been blogging lately for a variety of reasons, but commit to getting back to these this week.)((Updated 1/04/2010))
1) Who's your hero?
I have had different answers to this over the years, and I don't know if I can narrow it to one now. I have often said either my Mom or my Dad, and perhaps the truest thing I can say right now is both of them. They have not only persevered and overcome a number of challenges, which is why I have named them before, but they continue to provide a great example. They have really mastered the "aging gracefully" thing, and continue to be productive and self sufficient now at 82 and 87. Dad still mills lumber and builds cedar chests and other beautiful wood items. Together they put in a big garden and harvest and Mom cans and freezes the results. I hope that I can be as good at life as they are.
2) What was the very best day of your life? (Aside from significant others/ marriages and births of children.)
The best day? Boxing Day 2009 maybe? We had a gathering at Mom and Dad's that inlcuded my sibs and their children, unfortunately the steps weren't there, but all the rest and Andy's wonderful Miranda. It was a real blessing to see all of them all together, from my son, who at 29 is the oldest grandchild, to my sister's 6 year old.
Or maybe the Spirit of Grace concert before Christmas - part of the day went south, just the interpersonal relationship stuff, but he rest was splendid, and the concert was a huge success, even raising $700 for Chrissie's school.
It appears that I have a lot of best days.
3) If you could go anywhere, right now, obligation-free, without stress, etc., where would you go?
I would go to Australia. I loved going there with my daughter's band and would like to see it without benefit of the whole 150 members of our party. Melbourne, which reminds me so much of Victoria and Vancouver, really warrants more time to explore and so does Sydney, and everything in between :-) I loved the people, who remind me of my Canadian cousins, fun and much less inhibited than us (their country wasn't founded by Puritans - it shows). It was pretty amazing to stand on a glorious golden sand beach watching the waves splashing in the sun, wrapped in coats and hats, to realize that the only thing between us and Antactica was 2,000 miles of water.
4) Which two characters would you love to see meet up for a road trip? (can be anyone in literature... anyone at all)
OMG - Claire and Jamie, and that way for sure I'd know that among the 3 of us there would be 2 super adaptable, creative and inventive survivors in any situation.It doesn't hurt that one is a Dr. and the other a Scot.
5) If you could pick the traits of a favorite character to adapt in your own life, which character and traits would those be, and why?
Right now my favorite character is Clair Frazer - she is smart, inventive, adaptable, a capable survivalist and according to her creator, tall and beautiful (I've got the tall part already). For the folks who only read mysteries, you probably won't know her, but she's a good person to read about, and I can't wait until the next installment, which is much like being on a road trip or equivalent with her and her family.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The on-set of the Christmas season.
SO, this was Giving Tree Sunday. A practice we started a few years ago to help our teen groups get to know each other better and help out some kids in the community. What we know is that the tags on the trees in the mall that are least likely to get taken are those for teens, so it seems logical that if we give a group of teens sufficient funds they would be able to pick out a selection of age appropriate gifts. This was one of our most successful trips yet, we had 18 young people, who we divided into 5 groups, each with $100 to spend, and gave them 45 minutes to come up with as many gifts as they could.
Of course, there were moments of typical teen-ness, the analysts ended up in the same group and got a little bogged down by possibility, they just needed a little extra push to remember the purpose of the trip and their goal, then they went off very successfully. The group of boys who discovered a place to get "really cool" shirts that came with headphones for only $12.99 were the efficiency pros for the day. In all there were 20 or so gifts (it depends on how the Rotary sorts them out) and they donated about $2 of left over cash. A pretty fun and successful project!
The best part about the trip today for us, maybe not for the mall merchants, was that it was not a zoo as it has been so many times in the past. We actually drove right there and found parking really easily.
I sang in my first concert of the season last night. In many ways I am glad that I'm not a church musician anymore and don't have to prepare for service every week with special events and services concentrated this time of year. Other times, I'd like to be back in the organizational side of it, maybe if I didn't have to work full time too, because then I'd be in the rhythm of the church calendar and be more "Tuned up" all the time.
The concert went well, although some anticipated performers were unable to attend and the audience was pretty sparse. It is a recurring one, we do the reading of the Christmas story interspersed with songs - maybe people figure they have seen it before, so why bother. I like to be there each time because I want to see how the other participants have changed, and for many of them, grown. We don't meet ahead of time, we each rehearse our own pieces and so it's always a surprise to see what other folks are doing. Our fearless, peerless, leader manages to pull it all together pretty well. Even when it isn't seamless, no one who isn't a participant does.
Next Friday is our BIG concert, the quartet has been working on this 1940's radio show that should be a knock out. We have actually been promoting it,Dunny put it on a web site and submitted it to the local paper, and we both made it events on Facebook, so who knows what might happen? The ideal would be to fill the room, since we are going to contribute any funds we bring in to Chrissie's school, I'd love to see a crowd.
Of course, there were moments of typical teen-ness, the analysts ended up in the same group and got a little bogged down by possibility, they just needed a little extra push to remember the purpose of the trip and their goal, then they went off very successfully. The group of boys who discovered a place to get "really cool" shirts that came with headphones for only $12.99 were the efficiency pros for the day. In all there were 20 or so gifts (it depends on how the Rotary sorts them out) and they donated about $2 of left over cash. A pretty fun and successful project!
The best part about the trip today for us, maybe not for the mall merchants, was that it was not a zoo as it has been so many times in the past. We actually drove right there and found parking really easily.
I sang in my first concert of the season last night. In many ways I am glad that I'm not a church musician anymore and don't have to prepare for service every week with special events and services concentrated this time of year. Other times, I'd like to be back in the organizational side of it, maybe if I didn't have to work full time too, because then I'd be in the rhythm of the church calendar and be more "Tuned up" all the time.
The concert went well, although some anticipated performers were unable to attend and the audience was pretty sparse. It is a recurring one, we do the reading of the Christmas story interspersed with songs - maybe people figure they have seen it before, so why bother. I like to be there each time because I want to see how the other participants have changed, and for many of them, grown. We don't meet ahead of time, we each rehearse our own pieces and so it's always a surprise to see what other folks are doing. Our fearless, peerless, leader manages to pull it all together pretty well. Even when it isn't seamless, no one who isn't a participant does.
Next Friday is our BIG concert, the quartet has been working on this 1940's radio show that should be a knock out. We have actually been promoting it,Dunny put it on a web site and submitted it to the local paper, and we both made it events on Facebook, so who knows what might happen? The ideal would be to fill the room, since we are going to contribute any funds we bring in to Chrissie's school, I'd love to see a crowd.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Random thoughts
What a week!! The surgery went well, they were able to do everything and I don't have to go back except for a check up in 4 months. Of course, now I'll have to get crowns, but that can wait until the next insurance round or two, Thank God!!
I got really tired of the pain meds and think I learned that if I need them again I'll switch to tylenol sooner. It made me feel really antsy and sometimes kind of skin crawly.
I went back to work today. No, I didn't really need to stay home yesterday, but I have so much vacaiton time on the books I'm going to lose it if I don't take it before the end of the year. I would like staying home more if I could get something done here, but that is not in the cards right now so I'm back at work trying to sort out everything that went on while I was gone for a week.
Rehersal last night and today went well, so I am looking forward to our recital and our concert. I am always so impressed by the people I sing with, they are so talented, and seem to learn things so easily. They certainly bring me to a level I never thought I could achieve.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
So, watching my regular post choir Tuesday TV show and the statement just made was "Feel the fear, and do it anyway". That's what I used to tell poeple in my public speaking classes, and other groups I facilitated. That and, "The worst thing that can happen is you will screw up, and you will at some time screw up royally, but you won't die". Or, "There is nothing you can do that can't be done...". The little trick phrases we use to encourage ourselves and others.
Maybe it's time to reinsert that into my daily self talk. It worked really well the first year I did Weight Watchers, but this last year and a half has just been a holding pattern. I need to re-tool/re-boot/get it in gear.
A lot of weight loss has been about feeling fear and getting to the roots of unhappiness. Obviously I haven't got there yet, and I have been letting the frustration with that contribute to getting in the way of progress.
I didn't work out for a week after my surgery, partly because I didn't feel well and partly because youngest child was camped out in my work out room. I rode my bike for 4 miles this morning and did an almost full complement of stretching and the light lifting that I do, and it felt good! Starting tomorrow I'm adding another workout session into my day somewhere.
I got really tired of the pain meds and think I learned that if I need them again I'll switch to tylenol sooner. It made me feel really antsy and sometimes kind of skin crawly.
I went back to work today. No, I didn't really need to stay home yesterday, but I have so much vacaiton time on the books I'm going to lose it if I don't take it before the end of the year. I would like staying home more if I could get something done here, but that is not in the cards right now so I'm back at work trying to sort out everything that went on while I was gone for a week.
Rehersal last night and today went well, so I am looking forward to our recital and our concert. I am always so impressed by the people I sing with, they are so talented, and seem to learn things so easily. They certainly bring me to a level I never thought I could achieve.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
So, watching my regular post choir Tuesday TV show and the statement just made was "Feel the fear, and do it anyway". That's what I used to tell poeple in my public speaking classes, and other groups I facilitated. That and, "The worst thing that can happen is you will screw up, and you will at some time screw up royally, but you won't die". Or, "There is nothing you can do that can't be done...". The little trick phrases we use to encourage ourselves and others.
Maybe it's time to reinsert that into my daily self talk. It worked really well the first year I did Weight Watchers, but this last year and a half has just been a holding pattern. I need to re-tool/re-boot/get it in gear.
A lot of weight loss has been about feeling fear and getting to the roots of unhappiness. Obviously I haven't got there yet, and I have been letting the frustration with that contribute to getting in the way of progress.
I didn't work out for a week after my surgery, partly because I didn't feel well and partly because youngest child was camped out in my work out room. I rode my bike for 4 miles this morning and did an almost full complement of stretching and the light lifting that I do, and it felt good! Starting tomorrow I'm adding another workout session into my day somewhere.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Poetry, Senseless Anxiety, Cats and other thoughts
This poem was written by one of my youth group.
The Power of One...
One song can spark a moment, One flower can wake the dream. One tree can start a forest, One bird can herald spring. One smile begins a friendship, One handclasp lifts a soul. One star can guide a ship at sea, One word can frame the goal. One vote can change a nation, One sunbeam lights a room. One candle wipes out darkness, One laugh will conquer gloom. One step must start each journey, One word must start each prayer. One hope will raise our spirits, One touch can show you care. One voice can speak with wisdom, One heart can know what's true. One life can make the difference. Dont you see? IT'S ALL UP TO YOU!
This is one of the reasons I love working with young people. It brings me delight.
~~~~~~~~~~
On to anxiety. I have a dental surgery tomorrow, and while I am anxious,this time I am not climbing the walls. I was really concernd earlier, because I thought I couldn't eat dinner or have anything to drink from now until after, but I re-read the instructions and am free until 1 am - whahoo! Of course, now that it's OK, I am not craving everything, funny how that works.
I don't know what to expect. I hope that my normal rapid recuperative powers are active and I can eat something by Thankgiving and sing by Saturday's rehearsal.
Anxiety is very strange and in the past I have had panic attacks just worrying about having a panic attack. Fortunately, the dentist has them, so knows what may happen and that is reassuring to me.
~~~~~~~~~~~
A few minutes ago, Ransom the cat, jumped onto the keyboard, editing my post and generally helping. He has been curled up in the top desk drawer which I had left open while looking for something - typical cat, he takes advantage for his own benefit.
There is a little confusion in cat-dom this evening. My daughter came to visit for the Holiday and brought her cat, Buddy, so that makes 3. Buddy used to live here, but seems to be having a little adjustment problem, he's curled up on the recliner, trying to watch everything at once.
My daughter dropped her computer case and luggage on the floor and Slash, the senior cat, decided that would be his perch for the evening.
One cat can take up a lot of space, three is an occupation.
~~~~~~~~~~
This week is Thanksgiving. Several friends have been trying to post something they are thankful for every day this month, as have I. I also started a gratitude journal last month when I returned from Retreat. The last thing I do before I go to sleep is write at least 5 things I'm grateful for. It really does help focus my mind and seems to set my sleep "theme". I seem to be sleeping better and have more optimism in my days.
~~~~~~~~~~
The lost are found!! My keys came home after being gone for a month. They somehow ended up in a bag of groceries sent home with youngest child. The costs of care packages :D.
This is really a ramble tonight. I don't see much connection, I hope that's OK, it's just the way things are showing up.
Happy Thanksgiving, One and All.
The Power of One...
One song can spark a moment, One flower can wake the dream. One tree can start a forest, One bird can herald spring. One smile begins a friendship, One handclasp lifts a soul. One star can guide a ship at sea, One word can frame the goal. One vote can change a nation, One sunbeam lights a room. One candle wipes out darkness, One laugh will conquer gloom. One step must start each journey, One word must start each prayer. One hope will raise our spirits, One touch can show you care. One voice can speak with wisdom, One heart can know what's true. One life can make the difference. Dont you see? IT'S ALL UP TO YOU!
This is one of the reasons I love working with young people. It brings me delight.
~~~~~~~~~~
On to anxiety. I have a dental surgery tomorrow, and while I am anxious,this time I am not climbing the walls. I was really concernd earlier, because I thought I couldn't eat dinner or have anything to drink from now until after, but I re-read the instructions and am free until 1 am - whahoo! Of course, now that it's OK, I am not craving everything, funny how that works.
I don't know what to expect. I hope that my normal rapid recuperative powers are active and I can eat something by Thankgiving and sing by Saturday's rehearsal.
Anxiety is very strange and in the past I have had panic attacks just worrying about having a panic attack. Fortunately, the dentist has them, so knows what may happen and that is reassuring to me.
~~~~~~~~~~~
A few minutes ago, Ransom the cat, jumped onto the keyboard, editing my post and generally helping. He has been curled up in the top desk drawer which I had left open while looking for something - typical cat, he takes advantage for his own benefit.
There is a little confusion in cat-dom this evening. My daughter came to visit for the Holiday and brought her cat, Buddy, so that makes 3. Buddy used to live here, but seems to be having a little adjustment problem, he's curled up on the recliner, trying to watch everything at once.
My daughter dropped her computer case and luggage on the floor and Slash, the senior cat, decided that would be his perch for the evening.
One cat can take up a lot of space, three is an occupation.
~~~~~~~~~~
This week is Thanksgiving. Several friends have been trying to post something they are thankful for every day this month, as have I. I also started a gratitude journal last month when I returned from Retreat. The last thing I do before I go to sleep is write at least 5 things I'm grateful for. It really does help focus my mind and seems to set my sleep "theme". I seem to be sleeping better and have more optimism in my days.
~~~~~~~~~~
The lost are found!! My keys came home after being gone for a month. They somehow ended up in a bag of groceries sent home with youngest child. The costs of care packages :D.
This is really a ramble tonight. I don't see much connection, I hope that's OK, it's just the way things are showing up.
Happy Thanksgiving, One and All.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Being in the land of Overwhelmed
I apologise for not writing for a few days. I have been so tired. I have finished the class I was teaching, and I am sorry to say that it kind of fizzled out. We started with a group of 5, the second week there were 5 again, but a slightly different group, the next week 3, and then 3 for the remaining classes, but each week it shifted through the cast. It was very strange and I am still wondering if it was me or the weekday, or what. Possibly, they are as busy as I am and 7 consecutive weeks was really too much to expect, although I managed. We had a really pretty good curriculum, a little over written for me, but still good, but I think it may have been too elementary for the folks who came to my class, all of whom were long time students.
I would like to do it again, but would like to maybe do it in another setting. We'll see.
I realized the other night - oh, a week or so ago - that I am gone 3-4 nights a week because being home is so depressing for me. Yes, himself is recovering pretty well from his last series of illnesses, but the house is still a disaster, and he keeps bringing more stuff home. Now that he's well enough to get about some on his own, more and more Goodwill stuff is landing at my house.
And, it's raining, and that means there is water in the basement. I am so sick of dealing with water damage and mildew and mold. If I bring up anything about getting repairs done he throws his hands in the air and walks away. I don't know what to do at this point, maybe move out, I can't go on in a wet, dirty, cluttered mess where I have no space of my own and no place that's peaceful or nurturing.
If it weren't for the quartet and other music stuff, and I suppose the youth group, I think depression would be overwhelming.
Time to shake it off and do my gratitude list for the day.
Say Good-Night now, D.
I would like to do it again, but would like to maybe do it in another setting. We'll see.
I realized the other night - oh, a week or so ago - that I am gone 3-4 nights a week because being home is so depressing for me. Yes, himself is recovering pretty well from his last series of illnesses, but the house is still a disaster, and he keeps bringing more stuff home. Now that he's well enough to get about some on his own, more and more Goodwill stuff is landing at my house.
And, it's raining, and that means there is water in the basement. I am so sick of dealing with water damage and mildew and mold. If I bring up anything about getting repairs done he throws his hands in the air and walks away. I don't know what to do at this point, maybe move out, I can't go on in a wet, dirty, cluttered mess where I have no space of my own and no place that's peaceful or nurturing.
If it weren't for the quartet and other music stuff, and I suppose the youth group, I think depression would be overwhelming.
Time to shake it off and do my gratitude list for the day.
Say Good-Night now, D.
Monday, November 9, 2009
A One Woman Show
I have reached a point, says my music teacher, that I need to put together and perform a one woman show. A culminating recital if you will. This is a difficult concept for me, I have had a variety of music teachers over the years, all different and contributing wonderful things to me, but none of them made me do recitals until this one. Imagine, to be 50, a life-long musician and do your first recital, it was very odd, and I was totally into stage fright.
Part of it is that what came so easily for most of my life is no longer - I cannot memorize a piece in 3 readings and while it is coming back, I struggle reading with music (funny, for someone who was in high school before she realized that not everyone could read music at all).
Entertaining the thought of this full length recital has brought several things to mind. Most interesting is my memory of Christopher, my Heartsong friend, who was a wonderful, talented young man with dreams of making it on Broadway or in LA. He reached a point, after two trips to the USSR with the troupe, travelling concerts and many guest spots, local theater and years with SMC , when he realized that he was on the stage and this would be his place to star.
He crafted a really fine show, filled with song and stories from his life, and we baked for the refreshments and sold tickets by the handful, filling the Nippon Kan Theater with friends and family and lots of local musicians. And it was great, he shone and sparkled, cracked wise and brought us to tears.
And not too long after that, he died. It happened a lot then, promising young men, and a few women, left us too soon. Taken by "the virus".
He left a lot of great things behind though. He was a good friend, loved my children, was generous and funny, and gave me the inspiration for my own show. So now, I have to pull out all the music, relearn a few things, put it in order, find a venue, invite a few folks, and then sing for a couple of hours. Easy-peasy, right?
I'm sure this is the first installment of a long term story, 'cause I think it's going to be a year or so. :D
Part of it is that what came so easily for most of my life is no longer - I cannot memorize a piece in 3 readings and while it is coming back, I struggle reading with music (funny, for someone who was in high school before she realized that not everyone could read music at all).
Entertaining the thought of this full length recital has brought several things to mind. Most interesting is my memory of Christopher, my Heartsong friend, who was a wonderful, talented young man with dreams of making it on Broadway or in LA. He reached a point, after two trips to the USSR with the troupe, travelling concerts and many guest spots, local theater and years with SMC , when he realized that he was on the stage and this would be his place to star.
He crafted a really fine show, filled with song and stories from his life, and we baked for the refreshments and sold tickets by the handful, filling the Nippon Kan Theater with friends and family and lots of local musicians. And it was great, he shone and sparkled, cracked wise and brought us to tears.
And not too long after that, he died. It happened a lot then, promising young men, and a few women, left us too soon. Taken by "the virus".
He left a lot of great things behind though. He was a good friend, loved my children, was generous and funny, and gave me the inspiration for my own show. So now, I have to pull out all the music, relearn a few things, put it in order, find a venue, invite a few folks, and then sing for a couple of hours. Easy-peasy, right?
I'm sure this is the first installment of a long term story, 'cause I think it's going to be a year or so. :D
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Health Care for Everyone
Fran asked today, "if you could enact one bit of social reform, what would it be?"
For me, today, it's health care. Single payer, medicare for all or whatever you want to call it. I want full blown equal access for everyone to medical treatment and no overpaid manager who has no medical degree deciding who gets what treatment based on the shareholders report of dividends.
Yes, I come from Canada, so I know what guaranteed coverage means, and it is not the travesty that the health care industry here would have people believe. So much so that the big insurance companies currently have law suits going in several provinces to force them to offer to all Canadians the kind of "care" we have here. The Canadian system works, and big health care is trying to break it like ours. It isn't because they want to provide for the people who need treatment, since under the Canadian system everyone gets treated, it's so they can get a cut like they do here, so they can insert themselves between the person and the health care provider. Well over half of what we pay for health care goes to the insurance companies and their huge corporate machine, not to the medical providers.
Up until the current economic crisis, most personal bankruptcy in this country was because of medical costs, it may still be. None of my Canadian family and friends face losing their homes to cover medical costs. For that matter, none of them have to stay in a particular job to keep medical benefits, their single payer coverage is the ultimate in portable.
There are so many egregious examples of people who have their insurance denied or coverage dropped because of their illness going on too long or being too costly. Just Google insurance coverage denied or something like that and you'll get over 2 million hits.
I just know, as the parent of two young people who don't have coverage, and senior parents on a fixed income, life is very difficult out there for a lot of folks. Not getting prescriptions filled because of costs, not using the emergency room because the co-pay is too high, waiting to go to the Dr until after the last visit is paid off, even if really ill, etc. And, the one child just got a raise, (.08/hour) so is now no longer eligible for the assistance program he had used that allowed a graduated scale of payments.
I have excellent health insurance, and we have used it quite a bit over the years, since my husband has managed to experience a wide variety of medical conditions. It has been a blessing, and has necessitated my staying in a job that where for several years conditions were so miserable that if it weren't for the medical coverage I'd have been long gone. But, we had already discovered what happened without coverage.
Himself became ill when we were living in the mid-west, I had been paying premiums, but the coverage mysteriously disappeared when his pneumonia became something much more serious. He was in a "charity" ward in the hospital for 17 days, 3 beds in a 2 bed room, no visitors, and never received proper treatment. Rather than pursue what he really had, his Doctor put him on a drug for something he knew he didn't have as part of a trial. Needless to say himself got sicker and sicker and we finally gave up the "good" life of welfare care and moved home.
He was on Medicaid here when we first got back, but here he got the treatment he needed, including surgery to remove half of one lung and a huge growth (non-cancerous). It was many years before there was a definitive diagnosis of what he had, but he got life saving surgery under government health care in Washington. (Which also says to me that leaving health care management to individual states is folly, or everyone will move to the states with good coverage).
We had another opportunity to experience medical treatment without insurance when the second child was born. I was working s a consultant and had no benefits - the "If-you-don't-work-you-don't get-paid" style. We prepaid as much as we could, but it took almost a year to pay of everything and that was for a well child and a short hospital stay. (I knew I should have done it at home).
So, I pass on the request: if you could enact one bit of social reform, what would it be?
For me, today, it's health care. Single payer, medicare for all or whatever you want to call it. I want full blown equal access for everyone to medical treatment and no overpaid manager who has no medical degree deciding who gets what treatment based on the shareholders report of dividends.
Yes, I come from Canada, so I know what guaranteed coverage means, and it is not the travesty that the health care industry here would have people believe. So much so that the big insurance companies currently have law suits going in several provinces to force them to offer to all Canadians the kind of "care" we have here. The Canadian system works, and big health care is trying to break it like ours. It isn't because they want to provide for the people who need treatment, since under the Canadian system everyone gets treated, it's so they can get a cut like they do here, so they can insert themselves between the person and the health care provider. Well over half of what we pay for health care goes to the insurance companies and their huge corporate machine, not to the medical providers.
Up until the current economic crisis, most personal bankruptcy in this country was because of medical costs, it may still be. None of my Canadian family and friends face losing their homes to cover medical costs. For that matter, none of them have to stay in a particular job to keep medical benefits, their single payer coverage is the ultimate in portable.
There are so many egregious examples of people who have their insurance denied or coverage dropped because of their illness going on too long or being too costly. Just Google insurance coverage denied or something like that and you'll get over 2 million hits.
I just know, as the parent of two young people who don't have coverage, and senior parents on a fixed income, life is very difficult out there for a lot of folks. Not getting prescriptions filled because of costs, not using the emergency room because the co-pay is too high, waiting to go to the Dr until after the last visit is paid off, even if really ill, etc. And, the one child just got a raise, (.08/hour) so is now no longer eligible for the assistance program he had used that allowed a graduated scale of payments.
I have excellent health insurance, and we have used it quite a bit over the years, since my husband has managed to experience a wide variety of medical conditions. It has been a blessing, and has necessitated my staying in a job that where for several years conditions were so miserable that if it weren't for the medical coverage I'd have been long gone. But, we had already discovered what happened without coverage.
Himself became ill when we were living in the mid-west, I had been paying premiums, but the coverage mysteriously disappeared when his pneumonia became something much more serious. He was in a "charity" ward in the hospital for 17 days, 3 beds in a 2 bed room, no visitors, and never received proper treatment. Rather than pursue what he really had, his Doctor put him on a drug for something he knew he didn't have as part of a trial. Needless to say himself got sicker and sicker and we finally gave up the "good" life of welfare care and moved home.
He was on Medicaid here when we first got back, but here he got the treatment he needed, including surgery to remove half of one lung and a huge growth (non-cancerous). It was many years before there was a definitive diagnosis of what he had, but he got life saving surgery under government health care in Washington. (Which also says to me that leaving health care management to individual states is folly, or everyone will move to the states with good coverage).
We had another opportunity to experience medical treatment without insurance when the second child was born. I was working s a consultant and had no benefits - the "If-you-don't-work-you-don't get-paid" style. We prepaid as much as we could, but it took almost a year to pay of everything and that was for a well child and a short hospital stay. (I knew I should have done it at home).
So, I pass on the request: if you could enact one bit of social reform, what would it be?
Friday, November 6, 2009
Pets, family, and vermin
We have pets, currently two cats. One is old, 13, and has some bad habits, but is pretty much himself's lap warmer. the other is 3, and a rescue from NOAH, where he had a pretty interising history, havving been cound stray and taken in to the shelter, then adopted by a family who kept him a little less than a year and took him back.Evidently has didn't do well with the kids, he would run when they chased him, go figure. He is evidently mine, I get most of the attention and lap time. He has some weird habits, and is frightened of some very odd things, so I can only imagine what he has gone through in his life. He's still a big love and trusts us both now, so that is a good start.
At one time we had 9 cats and a dog, but that was an aberation becaue the neighbors kid brought home a stray kitten that was pregnant and chose to live with us. We had 2 cats and the dog, and she had 6 kittens - it was a fun summer. We found homes for her and 4 kittens and then had 4 cats and a dog.
The next summer my daughter found a baby crow, still not fledged, and "please, can we keep him safe from the cats and dogs in the neighborhood" turned into a 4 year adventure. It was fun and messy, and we all learned a lot. My daughter, having just seen "The Birdcage", named him Aguidar Sparticus after the maid (the person of inderterminate gender). He bit bare toes, stalked the cats, woke us with the sun (yes, we learned to cover his cage at night) and ate everything until we found out that they really do need a particular food. After about 4 years other crows started coming around and he hid from them at first, then he started leaving food for them and just staying shorter distances away, and then he he started flying around a little and one day he flew off to be a real bird. He did come back once to visit and eat, which the wild bird vet said he would, and then he was gone. Now we know a lot jmore about crows than we would have otherwise and I think of all of them as Aguidor, and feed them.
Our dog, who joined us in 1988, was a wire fox terrier and a hard won family member. I have always had cats and dogs, particularly terriers, and other animals in my life. My husband was reaised in a house that considered all animals dirty, his dad had spaniels (for hunting?) but they weren't pets and weren't allowed inside. It had taken me a while to work him around to getting a dog "for the kids". He was a great dog, and when he died, himself was devestated, so much so, we still haven't replaced him and it's almost 10 years.
I just realized how long this is, and it is getting somewhere, I think.
Getting to the vermin part - - last night I went downstairs to check on how to get the inspector in to see the furnace and water heater and totally freaked out at evidence of rodents. Gross, disgusting, etc, etc. So, my weekend got revised, and I want another rat dog!!
All the neighbors had rats and mice over the years and I always bragged that we didn't because we had such a great little deterrant. Ah hubris, thy bite is great.
And, I want a dog, but do I want to take on another obligation? it's not like I'm the queen of spare time - yes this takes time, but it's therapy. Yep, I want a dog - and there is one on Craigs list.....
At one time we had 9 cats and a dog, but that was an aberation becaue the neighbors kid brought home a stray kitten that was pregnant and chose to live with us. We had 2 cats and the dog, and she had 6 kittens - it was a fun summer. We found homes for her and 4 kittens and then had 4 cats and a dog.
The next summer my daughter found a baby crow, still not fledged, and "please, can we keep him safe from the cats and dogs in the neighborhood" turned into a 4 year adventure. It was fun and messy, and we all learned a lot. My daughter, having just seen "The Birdcage", named him Aguidar Sparticus after the maid (the person of inderterminate gender). He bit bare toes, stalked the cats, woke us with the sun (yes, we learned to cover his cage at night) and ate everything until we found out that they really do need a particular food. After about 4 years other crows started coming around and he hid from them at first, then he started leaving food for them and just staying shorter distances away, and then he he started flying around a little and one day he flew off to be a real bird. He did come back once to visit and eat, which the wild bird vet said he would, and then he was gone. Now we know a lot jmore about crows than we would have otherwise and I think of all of them as Aguidor, and feed them.
Our dog, who joined us in 1988, was a wire fox terrier and a hard won family member. I have always had cats and dogs, particularly terriers, and other animals in my life. My husband was reaised in a house that considered all animals dirty, his dad had spaniels (for hunting?) but they weren't pets and weren't allowed inside. It had taken me a while to work him around to getting a dog "for the kids". He was a great dog, and when he died, himself was devestated, so much so, we still haven't replaced him and it's almost 10 years.
I just realized how long this is, and it is getting somewhere, I think.
Getting to the vermin part - - last night I went downstairs to check on how to get the inspector in to see the furnace and water heater and totally freaked out at evidence of rodents. Gross, disgusting, etc, etc. So, my weekend got revised, and I want another rat dog!!
All the neighbors had rats and mice over the years and I always bragged that we didn't because we had such a great little deterrant. Ah hubris, thy bite is great.
And, I want a dog, but do I want to take on another obligation? it's not like I'm the queen of spare time - yes this takes time, but it's therapy. Yep, I want a dog - and there is one on Craigs list.....
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Love and be Loved
Every day I get a couple of inspirational messages in my email box. "Daily Word" which has been going out from Unity Village for about 120 years now, and "I Believe God Wants You to Know" from Neal Donald Walsh who wrote Conversations with God. Today's messages follow:
Today's Daily Word - Thursday, November 5, 2009
Guidance
Spirit guides and directs me in all my choices.
Just as a hiker following a map aligns the arrow of a compass with true north, I align myself with the Christ within to discern my way. While I may weigh my choices, research and consider options, or seek to make informed decisions, I turn to Spirit as my unfailing guide.
Making a wise choice is of benefit to me, whether it's a small matter or a life-altering decision. The Christ Spirit is my internal guide supporting my highest good. I create times of quiet listening and know that guidance will come. I have but to seek, to ask and to listen with my mind and heart.
I live confidently, knowing Spirit guides and directs me in all my choices.
May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.--2 Thessalonians 3:5
On this day of your life, dear friend, I believe God wants you to know...
...that your security is guaranteed through the sharing of your love.
The peace and safety for which you yearn is not a matter of food, clothing, and shelter. It is a matter of love. Love and be loved, and all else will be added unto you.
The world will perform its magic when you step into yours. That is the promise of God, and it will be kept.
I find it interesting to read these today. Earlier in the day I had a conversation with someone at work about the local regarding a veteran who died in an altercation with police and how we don't treat vets very well in this country. We also talked about the apparent execution of a Seattle police officer. Then I came home and discovered that I had missed the huge story about the shootings in Ft. Hood. After a while, having talked about it some with himself, and at class tonight, I realized that in all the loss there is love in these things. I see the postings of support for the survivors and the family members. I know that people really want to do something, and they reach out by writing letters on web pages of the newspaper or FB or blogs and that is love. Compassion is what makes us humans special, it is the love for the rest of humanity that moves mountains and fords rivers, and offers a kind word at the time of profound pain and grief.
Because I believe in the power of prayer, affirmative prayer, I see those messages as energy and can imagine the "light" cocoons surrounding the grieving and injured, not to mention all of those who were survivors, traumatized but not injured.
Science has now "proven" that people who are prayed for, even by people at a distance who don't have a personal acquaintance with them, recover from surgery faster, with more ease, so it is very well within reason to me that prayers and good wishes for strangers near or far is comforting. So, pray, or say thank you , or just wish other folks well, it's all an expression of love which changes the energy level of the universe.
OK, now here's the song lyric (those of you who know me, know I think in song lyrics a lot of the time):
"I see friends shaking hands, saying "How do you do?", they're really saying, I Love You" from What a Wonderful World.
Really musings tonight, bordering on just plain random.
Today's Daily Word - Thursday, November 5, 2009
Guidance
Spirit guides and directs me in all my choices.
Just as a hiker following a map aligns the arrow of a compass with true north, I align myself with the Christ within to discern my way. While I may weigh my choices, research and consider options, or seek to make informed decisions, I turn to Spirit as my unfailing guide.
Making a wise choice is of benefit to me, whether it's a small matter or a life-altering decision. The Christ Spirit is my internal guide supporting my highest good. I create times of quiet listening and know that guidance will come. I have but to seek, to ask and to listen with my mind and heart.
I live confidently, knowing Spirit guides and directs me in all my choices.
May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.--2 Thessalonians 3:5
On this day of your life, dear friend, I believe God wants you to know...
...that your security is guaranteed through the sharing of your love.
The peace and safety for which you yearn is not a matter of food, clothing, and shelter. It is a matter of love. Love and be loved, and all else will be added unto you.
The world will perform its magic when you step into yours. That is the promise of God, and it will be kept.
I find it interesting to read these today. Earlier in the day I had a conversation with someone at work about the local regarding a veteran who died in an altercation with police and how we don't treat vets very well in this country. We also talked about the apparent execution of a Seattle police officer. Then I came home and discovered that I had missed the huge story about the shootings in Ft. Hood. After a while, having talked about it some with himself, and at class tonight, I realized that in all the loss there is love in these things. I see the postings of support for the survivors and the family members. I know that people really want to do something, and they reach out by writing letters on web pages of the newspaper or FB or blogs and that is love. Compassion is what makes us humans special, it is the love for the rest of humanity that moves mountains and fords rivers, and offers a kind word at the time of profound pain and grief.
Because I believe in the power of prayer, affirmative prayer, I see those messages as energy and can imagine the "light" cocoons surrounding the grieving and injured, not to mention all of those who were survivors, traumatized but not injured.
Science has now "proven" that people who are prayed for, even by people at a distance who don't have a personal acquaintance with them, recover from surgery faster, with more ease, so it is very well within reason to me that prayers and good wishes for strangers near or far is comforting. So, pray, or say thank you , or just wish other folks well, it's all an expression of love which changes the energy level of the universe.
OK, now here's the song lyric (those of you who know me, know I think in song lyrics a lot of the time):
"I see friends shaking hands, saying "How do you do?", they're really saying, I Love You" from What a Wonderful World.
Really musings tonight, bordering on just plain random.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Thoughts on books, bookstores and stuff
Many years ago, in the days of albums and cassettes, my father told me that copying a song from someone else's record instead of buying my own was stealing a nickle or dime from the performer - somehow the same principle applies when I read Fran's blog about indie bookstores closing. If we don't support local businesses, how will our local economy survive.
I know, it's hard, but it is a matter of priorities like everything else. I buy at Costco, yes I do, because it is local and my kids went to school with one of the owner's kids. I buy at the local Top Foods because the company started in Bellingham and I shopped at their first store (trained to be a cashier there too). I do shop at other places, but I really try to prioritize the local guys.
I prefer local booksellers to big boxes, I can find things that big boxes don't carry, and there is an ambience that is lost in the order and precision of B&N or B. Daltons. Probably because the biggest treat in my young life was a trip to the used bookstore owned by a realtive in Vancouver BC. We would get 50 cents or so, a lot for kids who got a nickle a week for allowances, and could pick out what we wanted. Somehow that translated into a grocery bag of books each, comics were severely limited but we usually managed the Classic Comics and a few Marvels, and she made sure we had the Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew, all of Walter Farley, etc., even the latest Mad Magazine. I love the smell of books in one of the stores that specializes in something (usually mysteries) and has used books as well as the latest thing, the crush of the stacks of books overflowing shelves, the chair stuck in a corner that isn't quite out of the way, but everyone respects the reader, the clerks who not only know what they sell, but can recommend authors based on who I usually read.
That's service isn't it? Almost a totally lost art. In writing this I realize that I shop places because of the service I get. We recently changed pharmacies because one of the pharmacists was rude for the last time (no, I don't know how many times that was, but I recongnized the last one). I actually buy gas at Costco partly because I watched the attendant do a fill up for woman who was probably 90 and he was so sweet and solicitous to her - of course I can get the same price at AM/PM, but they charge extra if I use a debit card (not service?) and I'm at Costco to get the best, biggest $5 rotissourie chicken in town anyway.
I know, it's hard, but it is a matter of priorities like everything else. I buy at Costco, yes I do, because it is local and my kids went to school with one of the owner's kids. I buy at the local Top Foods because the company started in Bellingham and I shopped at their first store (trained to be a cashier there too). I do shop at other places, but I really try to prioritize the local guys.
I prefer local booksellers to big boxes, I can find things that big boxes don't carry, and there is an ambience that is lost in the order and precision of B&N or B. Daltons. Probably because the biggest treat in my young life was a trip to the used bookstore owned by a realtive in Vancouver BC. We would get 50 cents or so, a lot for kids who got a nickle a week for allowances, and could pick out what we wanted. Somehow that translated into a grocery bag of books each, comics were severely limited but we usually managed the Classic Comics and a few Marvels, and she made sure we had the Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew, all of Walter Farley, etc., even the latest Mad Magazine. I love the smell of books in one of the stores that specializes in something (usually mysteries) and has used books as well as the latest thing, the crush of the stacks of books overflowing shelves, the chair stuck in a corner that isn't quite out of the way, but everyone respects the reader, the clerks who not only know what they sell, but can recommend authors based on who I usually read.
That's service isn't it? Almost a totally lost art. In writing this I realize that I shop places because of the service I get. We recently changed pharmacies because one of the pharmacists was rude for the last time (no, I don't know how many times that was, but I recongnized the last one). I actually buy gas at Costco partly because I watched the attendant do a fill up for woman who was probably 90 and he was so sweet and solicitous to her - of course I can get the same price at AM/PM, but they charge extra if I use a debit card (not service?) and I'm at Costco to get the best, biggest $5 rotissourie chicken in town anyway.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
My GOD is a Loving God
I saw a really neat comment today posted on the Ref 71 site of FB. A woman posted "I voted yes because my marraige is not threatened by a lesbian taking me away from my husband". I could only agree. But, to me, it really is more that Government has no business creating artificial standards that discriminate. If churches want to that is their perogative. I personally prefer to attend a church that is open and affirming, but I really believe in "to each his own" provided people don't try to legislate my beliefs.
I know there are some people who feel that their religion is the base for their anti-gay feelings, and there are people who feel like any deviation from "normal" is wrong. I know that the loving Spirit, God of all Names, accepts everyone for what they contribute and who they love, that all paths lead to God/Spirit and that we are better doing good than finding fault.
That said, the theme song for Biggest Loser is "What Have You Done Today to Make You Feel Proud", which applies to so much to me, besides working out and eating right (mostly).
Where have I said the right thing, eased some discomfort, remembered to praise, corrected gracefully, taken the extra step?
How have I made someone's day better?
What have I approached with optimism for the opportunites that might be hidden in the problem?
What will I record on my gratitude list at the end of the day?
What have I done today to make me feel proud?
Hmm - mostly questions today....
I know there are some people who feel that their religion is the base for their anti-gay feelings, and there are people who feel like any deviation from "normal" is wrong. I know that the loving Spirit, God of all Names, accepts everyone for what they contribute and who they love, that all paths lead to God/Spirit and that we are better doing good than finding fault.
That said, the theme song for Biggest Loser is "What Have You Done Today to Make You Feel Proud", which applies to so much to me, besides working out and eating right (mostly).
Where have I said the right thing, eased some discomfort, remembered to praise, corrected gracefully, taken the extra step?
How have I made someone's day better?
What have I approached with optimism for the opportunites that might be hidden in the problem?
What will I record on my gratitude list at the end of the day?
What have I done today to make me feel proud?
Hmm - mostly questions today....
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Political Stuff - Ref 71
So today there were demonstrations against Ref. 71 in several places. We went by a couple to show support for the Vote Yes on 71 crowd. There are a lot of vote no folks out, with a lot of hate based signs. Later this evening, following the comments on line about the reactions of the Vote Yes folks, I am compelled to write about social action.
First of all, you should know that I have been involved in a heterosexual relationship for over 30 years, more than 28 of which under the blessing of a legally sanctioned marraige. Perhaps if I had realized the scope of the issue I would have held off that official sanction until everyone could enjoy the priveldge. I also can perform marraiges, and have. I think that marraige is a contract, and the state should not discriminate against anyone in their civil rights. The whole religious issue is not the state's business and needs to be hashed out in the various churches. If some churches don't want to marry certain people, so be it, others will.
Today people talked about "flipping off" the vote no side, yelling back and such, which was commented on as "sinking to their level", and really doesn't encourage people to sway to our side.
There has been a lot of on-line reporting about Focus on the Family and other out of state organizations ouring money into Washington to defeat this referendom, and I think one of the biggest steps we can all take is very simple. Find out who is putting up the $$ and boycott them. Randall Terry's group has put tons of money into Operation Rescue and other anti- abrtion campaigns, so I have boycotted his business, Dominos Pizza, for years.
A small thing perhaps, but I know that at least I won't be contributing to the forces of hate in that way.
That is also why it is so important to follow the Supreme Court hearings on releasing the names of those who signed the petitions to put the Referendum on the ballot. If we can no longer know who is proliferating these things, we have no ability to make informed decisions about it. Part of the actions we can take is to notify those who contributed and signed the petitions that we won't do business with them, that is an action that does change minds and behaviors. And, the weird and senseless inititatives will proliferate because they can be conducted secretly. I always have considered signing a petition to be putting my pen and name out there, taking a stand, and knowing me, ususally as an act of defiance.
I truely do believe in the words of old spiritual:
None of us is free
None of us is free,
None of us is free
If one of us is chained
None of us is free.
First of all, you should know that I have been involved in a heterosexual relationship for over 30 years, more than 28 of which under the blessing of a legally sanctioned marraige. Perhaps if I had realized the scope of the issue I would have held off that official sanction until everyone could enjoy the priveldge. I also can perform marraiges, and have. I think that marraige is a contract, and the state should not discriminate against anyone in their civil rights. The whole religious issue is not the state's business and needs to be hashed out in the various churches. If some churches don't want to marry certain people, so be it, others will.
Today people talked about "flipping off" the vote no side, yelling back and such, which was commented on as "sinking to their level", and really doesn't encourage people to sway to our side.
There has been a lot of on-line reporting about Focus on the Family and other out of state organizations ouring money into Washington to defeat this referendom, and I think one of the biggest steps we can all take is very simple. Find out who is putting up the $$ and boycott them. Randall Terry's group has put tons of money into Operation Rescue and other anti- abrtion campaigns, so I have boycotted his business, Dominos Pizza, for years.
A small thing perhaps, but I know that at least I won't be contributing to the forces of hate in that way.
That is also why it is so important to follow the Supreme Court hearings on releasing the names of those who signed the petitions to put the Referendum on the ballot. If we can no longer know who is proliferating these things, we have no ability to make informed decisions about it. Part of the actions we can take is to notify those who contributed and signed the petitions that we won't do business with them, that is an action that does change minds and behaviors. And, the weird and senseless inititatives will proliferate because they can be conducted secretly. I always have considered signing a petition to be putting my pen and name out there, taking a stand, and knowing me, ususally as an act of defiance.
I truely do believe in the words of old spiritual:
None of us is free
None of us is free,
None of us is free
If one of us is chained
None of us is free.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Joy
Today's Daily Word - Saturday, October 31, 2009
Joy
Divine power fills me with joy today.
Like waves in the ocean or birds in the sky, I am uplifted by divine power expressing through me. As I pray and go about my activities, God is the power that fills me with joy. Just as energy moves the waves and wind lifts the birds, this joy radiates throughout my being, filling me with energy and enthusiasm for life.
I find joy in simple things like spending time with a friend or enjoying the beauty of nature. I am aware of the simple, joy-filled moments and collect them as treasures. Joy shapes my thoughts and flows out into my conversations and actions.
I experience joy as the truth of my being and the divine energy in my life.
"For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I sing for joy."--Psalm 63:7
What a great thought for the day. I should have read it this morning and maybe I'd have had a sunnier outlook.
Joy
Divine power fills me with joy today.
Like waves in the ocean or birds in the sky, I am uplifted by divine power expressing through me. As I pray and go about my activities, God is the power that fills me with joy. Just as energy moves the waves and wind lifts the birds, this joy radiates throughout my being, filling me with energy and enthusiasm for life.
I find joy in simple things like spending time with a friend or enjoying the beauty of nature. I am aware of the simple, joy-filled moments and collect them as treasures. Joy shapes my thoughts and flows out into my conversations and actions.
I experience joy as the truth of my being and the divine energy in my life.
"For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I sing for joy."--Psalm 63:7
What a great thought for the day. I should have read it this morning and maybe I'd have had a sunnier outlook.
Hallowe'en Thoughts
No Trick or Treaters this year. Probably because the lights were out and drapes closed and we don't have any decorations up. I am very appreciative of the folks down the block who decorate for every season, and each year add something. We did when the kids were still at home but the last couple of years there have been so many distractions and the access to the porch has gotten more overgrown, and it just seems to be too much. Maybe between now and Christmas I can find the decorations and put something up so I don't feel like such a slacker. I want to put up a sign or something that says "I love holidays, all of them, REALLY!!!".
This is my first post on my first blog, and I see I've already started in the musing mode.
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