President Jimmy Carter, who was President from 1977 to 1981, celebrated his 95th birthday this week.
In 2015, he was diagnosed with stage IV melanoma, highly aggressive. He spoke for almost 40 minutes at the press conference where he announced his cancer diagnosis, dressed in blue jeans and a blazer. But he is still with us.
Which leads me to how I blew my chance to see Jimmy Carter back in 2009.
I had gone to Americus, Georgia to visit the nearby Andersonville Civil War POW site and Plains, Georgia, the birthplace of Jimmy Carter.
While staying at a B&B, I was told that Jimmy Carter taught Sunday
School every Sunday he was in the area. He was still doing extensive
travel for his charity and foreign relations work, and, when I looked up
his schedule, it said online he wasn't going to be at church that
Sunday.
I felt a little uncomfortable, being of a different faith, and decided
not to go to the service. The set up was: service first, then the
Sunday School. You had to go to the service to go to the Sunday School.
If I had gone, I would have seen him, because, as it turns out, he did teach that Sunday.
We had talked about going back to Americus this past April (2019). Jimmy Carter is
still teaching Sunday School, by the way. What a lesson in Profiles in Courage.
So the obvious lesson of this moment is: Grab the moment. Don't let
the discomfort of a new experience keep you from a once in a lifetime
opportunity.
But there's one more thing I wanted to blog about.
At the 2015 press conference, there was one last surprise. I have blogged about my family history of pancreatic cancer (on both sides of my family) - an aunt, an uncle, and a great aunt. It turns out
that Jimmy Carter may have the most extensive pancreatic cancer history
of any living person.
Pancreatic cancer killed his father, brother and two sisters (all of his
siblings). His mother died from breast cancer that spread to her
pancreas.
But, despite all this, he plans to continue working as long as he can. And, as of right now, he still is.
While I, drawing closer to age 67, waffle about retirement.
I am in awe of Jimmy Carter. No matter what your politics, this man deserves our respect.
Due to circumstances, I still may not be able to get away from Americus until next year. And then - will I try to see President Carter teaching?
We'll see.
Day 5 of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost
Saturday, October 5, 2019
Friday, October 4, 2019
Sliding Away #SkywatchFriday #blogboost
Oh, such sweet sky memories.
Two weeks ago, I was watching a beautiful sunset over Lake Ontario in Oswego, New York, wearing shorts and a short sleeved shirt.
And, on the last day of September, this sunrise awaited me. I was wearing a short sleeved shirt and capris in the early morning warmth. Two days ago, it was in the 80's. (27.2 C)
Fast forward to last night. They put the wrong slide up on the weather channel. Right?
Right?
Someone tell me it's a mistake, and our growing season isn't sliding away.
Hopefully you aren't shivering as I join Yogi and other sky watching bloggers today, and every Friday,on #SkywatchFriday.
Day 4 of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost.
Two weeks ago, I was watching a beautiful sunset over Lake Ontario in Oswego, New York, wearing shorts and a short sleeved shirt.
And, on the last day of September, this sunrise awaited me. I was wearing a short sleeved shirt and capris in the early morning warmth. Two days ago, it was in the 80's. (27.2 C)
Right?
Someone tell me it's a mistake, and our growing season isn't sliding away.
Hopefully you aren't shivering as I join Yogi and other sky watching bloggers today, and every Friday,on #SkywatchFriday.
Day 4 of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost.
Thursday, October 3, 2019
The Photo Hoarder #Blogboost
Am I the only one who has 9,000 flower pictures on her Iphone?
I am a photo hoarder. I admit it. But when I scroll through the over 9,000 (yes, you read that right) photos on my phone, I remember why I keep so many of them. Seriously, not all of them are flower photos.
There are the pictures of people I knew who have died in the past year - the next to last Mother's Day spent with my mother in law, a reunion of cousins pictures that includes a cousin's wife who passed from brain cancer earlier this year.
There are unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Strange things I've seen around time.
And about those flowers. There's a growing season's worth of flower pictures, from the first crocuses to the Japanese anemones that will close out the flowering season - possibly as early as Saturday morning, when we are expecting (boo....) our first frost, after days of unseasonably warm weather. Wait, what?
There are pictures of my garden (where the two zinnias above are). There are pictures of a red dahlia whose tubers were given to me by a friend who died from cancer in 1998. We kept them going until last fall - in the last days of my mother in law, who died the day after Thanksgiving, we were so consumed by the events that we forgot to dig them up. The tubers died over the winter.
There are pictures taken of my travels, and there have been a lot of travels this past year, including travels to three funerals and a wonderful two weeks spent in Florida in January.
I hope to share some of those pictures with you this coming October as part of a new Ultimate Blog Challenge.
And I thank you for checking me out.
I hope you will join me on this October blogging journey.
Day three of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost
I am a photo hoarder. I admit it. But when I scroll through the over 9,000 (yes, you read that right) photos on my phone, I remember why I keep so many of them. Seriously, not all of them are flower photos.
There are the pictures of people I knew who have died in the past year - the next to last Mother's Day spent with my mother in law, a reunion of cousins pictures that includes a cousin's wife who passed from brain cancer earlier this year.
There are unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Strange things I've seen around time.
And about those flowers. There's a growing season's worth of flower pictures, from the first crocuses to the Japanese anemones that will close out the flowering season - possibly as early as Saturday morning, when we are expecting (boo....) our first frost, after days of unseasonably warm weather. Wait, what?
There are pictures taken of my travels, and there have been a lot of travels this past year, including travels to three funerals and a wonderful two weeks spent in Florida in January.
I hope to share some of those pictures with you this coming October as part of a new Ultimate Blog Challenge.
And I thank you for checking me out.
I hope you will join me on this October blogging journey.
Day three of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost
Wednesday, October 2, 2019
The Pink Tsunami of 2019
It's October. It's time to wear pink and support the fight against breast cancer. Also, it's time for what has become, for me, an annual rant.
The Pink Tsunami makes me wince, even as I wore pink to work yesterday and put on my pink socks with the breast cancer "loop". I knew I would be in a meeting with a former co worker who's spent a lot of this year battling (and I have no other word for it) breast cancer. She wore pink, too.
I will say up front; I have never had cancer. I have been a bystander and, at one point in my life, a caregiver to someone who was undergoing cancer treatment.
Don't get me wrong. I know there is a history behind the pink tsunami. I know some of the details of what my mother in law went through battling her two distinct breast cancers during the 1970's (more on that a little later). So many people alive today do not know the horrors of breast cancer back then - how women were given no support, how women would be put under while a "frozen section" was run on their tumor. The woman would not know, when she woke up, if she would awaken with their entire body intact or not. Cancer in those days (not just breast cancer0 was something you fought privately, with little or no support.
My late mother in law, to be blunt about it, was butchered by a well meaning surgeon and had an extensive scar on her chest to prove how men treated the removal of a breast in the bad old days.
So what is my issue? And do I have a right to even have an issue, given I have never had cancer?
Well, yes.
I think the "pink" campaign trivializes breast cancer. How many of you are aware, for example, that there is no such monolith as "breast cancer" but instead a whole spectrum of cancers affecting the breast? My mother in law had two different types. One was a tumor. The other manifested itself as a discharge. Her doctor "poo pooed" the discharge but finally an instinct told my mother in law that she had a problem and had to seek help elsewhere. Even after the cancer diagnosis, it was diagnosed incorrectly. Fortunately, Memorial Sloane Kettering in New York City (the same hospital where the woman I wrote about above is being treated) made the correct diagnosis (so correct treatment could be given). There is nothing cute or pink about this killer.
And, not everyone survives. Not only that, but sometimes there is a tendency to "blame the victim": those with Stage IV, well, they didn't eat the right foods, or they didn't exercise enough, or they didn't do their self exam well enough, or they didn't get enough mammograms or...they didn't fight hard enough. Really? I know I still don't understand as I've never faced cancer and a part of me hopes I never have to understand. But blaming the person in treatment I do understand. It's wrong.
There is no cure for breast cancer. You are in remission, or you are not.
This one is really important.
Men can get breast cancer too! I worry about my dear husband - with his family history-mother had it twice, and three of her sisters had breast cancer also. Yes, he's at risk.
Did you know that men have breast tissue? I read a statistic online saying that one out of every 100 breast cancers is diagnosed in a man. These men are drowning in the pink tsumani of misunderstanding.
There is a high risk breast cancer clinic in Binghamton, New York (where I work) and I've talked to my husband about calling them just to talk. So far, he won't, despite his family history. He is scared off (or so he says) by the sea of pink.
Why not read the story of a man who lives an hour or so from here, Bob Riter. In his 60's he's a survivor and an advocate.
4. I believe the pink tsunami of breast cancer funnels money from other cancers. Maybe breast cancer gets the publicity because there is a test for it or because of the horrible past history I touched on above. Let's face it, there are no reliable tests for many cancers. But women (and men) die from other reproductive cancers. My former neighbor did, leaving a 12 year daughter and a 6 year old developmentally disabled son and a grieving husband to raise them.
Or let's think about pancreatic cancer. Alex Trebek thinks about it daily.
A cousin's wife died from brain cancer earlier this year. Not too many people survive the cancer she had.
A co worker's brother died of colon cancer. He was in his 20's. His sister fights to get insurance to pay for colonoscopies for her two grown children, both now in their 20's. Rates of colon cancer are increasing among young people, according to the New York Times.
There are all the 9/11 first responders and civilians who have passed on from 9/11 cancer. They will be passing for years to come. Where are their canned soups, marches and colored clothing?
For this coming October, why not forget the pink and raise money for research into fighting all cancer, and raising awareness and funds for the support of family and friends?
Day 2 of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost
The Pink Tsunami makes me wince, even as I wore pink to work yesterday and put on my pink socks with the breast cancer "loop". I knew I would be in a meeting with a former co worker who's spent a lot of this year battling (and I have no other word for it) breast cancer. She wore pink, too.
I will say up front; I have never had cancer. I have been a bystander and, at one point in my life, a caregiver to someone who was undergoing cancer treatment.
Don't get me wrong. I know there is a history behind the pink tsunami. I know some of the details of what my mother in law went through battling her two distinct breast cancers during the 1970's (more on that a little later). So many people alive today do not know the horrors of breast cancer back then - how women were given no support, how women would be put under while a "frozen section" was run on their tumor. The woman would not know, when she woke up, if she would awaken with their entire body intact or not. Cancer in those days (not just breast cancer0 was something you fought privately, with little or no support.
My late mother in law, to be blunt about it, was butchered by a well meaning surgeon and had an extensive scar on her chest to prove how men treated the removal of a breast in the bad old days.
So what is my issue? And do I have a right to even have an issue, given I have never had cancer?
Well, yes.
I think the "pink" campaign trivializes breast cancer. How many of you are aware, for example, that there is no such monolith as "breast cancer" but instead a whole spectrum of cancers affecting the breast? My mother in law had two different types. One was a tumor. The other manifested itself as a discharge. Her doctor "poo pooed" the discharge but finally an instinct told my mother in law that she had a problem and had to seek help elsewhere. Even after the cancer diagnosis, it was diagnosed incorrectly. Fortunately, Memorial Sloane Kettering in New York City (the same hospital where the woman I wrote about above is being treated) made the correct diagnosis (so correct treatment could be given). There is nothing cute or pink about this killer.
And, not everyone survives. Not only that, but sometimes there is a tendency to "blame the victim": those with Stage IV, well, they didn't eat the right foods, or they didn't exercise enough, or they didn't do their self exam well enough, or they didn't get enough mammograms or...they didn't fight hard enough. Really? I know I still don't understand as I've never faced cancer and a part of me hopes I never have to understand. But blaming the person in treatment I do understand. It's wrong.
There is no cure for breast cancer. You are in remission, or you are not.
This one is really important.
Men can get breast cancer too! I worry about my dear husband - with his family history-mother had it twice, and three of her sisters had breast cancer also. Yes, he's at risk.
Did you know that men have breast tissue? I read a statistic online saying that one out of every 100 breast cancers is diagnosed in a man. These men are drowning in the pink tsumani of misunderstanding.
There is a high risk breast cancer clinic in Binghamton, New York (where I work) and I've talked to my husband about calling them just to talk. So far, he won't, despite his family history. He is scared off (or so he says) by the sea of pink.
Why not read the story of a man who lives an hour or so from here, Bob Riter. In his 60's he's a survivor and an advocate.
4. I believe the pink tsunami of breast cancer funnels money from other cancers. Maybe breast cancer gets the publicity because there is a test for it or because of the horrible past history I touched on above. Let's face it, there are no reliable tests for many cancers. But women (and men) die from other reproductive cancers. My former neighbor did, leaving a 12 year daughter and a 6 year old developmentally disabled son and a grieving husband to raise them.
Or let's think about pancreatic cancer. Alex Trebek thinks about it daily.
A cousin's wife died from brain cancer earlier this year. Not too many people survive the cancer she had.
A co worker's brother died of colon cancer. He was in his 20's. His sister fights to get insurance to pay for colonoscopies for her two grown children, both now in their 20's. Rates of colon cancer are increasing among young people, according to the New York Times.
There are all the 9/11 first responders and civilians who have passed on from 9/11 cancer. They will be passing for years to come. Where are their canned soups, marches and colored clothing?
For this coming October, why not forget the pink and raise money for research into fighting all cancer, and raising awareness and funds for the support of family and friends?
Day 2 of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost
Tuesday, October 1, 2019
Banned Books #blogboost
Should a book ever be banned? I asked this question in 2013, again in 2018, and again today. This year, Banned Book Week was September 22-28, and I somehow (big oops) managed to miss it. Again.
So, for my first post of the October Ultimate Blog Challenge, I want to talk about banned books.
Some people do a lot for Banned Book Week. Some write more elegant blog posts.
This is a topic that deserves to be discussed more than one week. It should be discussed every time someone wants to ban a book. That would result in a lot of discussion. Why?
You might be surprised at the lists of books that have been banned, at least once, somewhere, by a government, a school. They include such classics as:
The Giver
The Absolutely True Story of a Part Time Indian
Black Beauty
To Kill a Mockingbird
Flowers for Algernon
Where's Waldo?
The Call of the Wild
The Kite Runner
The Hunger Games
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
Even if you don't believe books should ever be banned (I am one) some books make you think hard. How about Mein Kampf, written by one of the most evil men who ever lived? In this day and age, this type of hatred is on the rise. Yet, I don't think that book should be banned.
I think, if you hide evil, you increase its power. The spotlight of discussion should be focused on hate.
Violence? Just think of all the mass shootings, almost every week now. Think of active shooter drills our children must endure.
Think about the fact that one of the sleeper music hits of 2011, Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People, was about a school shooting. What if this song had been a book, instead of a song with a great beat that many listeners never even realized was about violence?
If you hide books that discuss bullying or mass shootings, in my view, you ignore a problem that has gripped our nation.
How about "foul" language? Or teens who are attracted to teens of the same sex?
Even memoirs get banned. How about the Diary of Anne Frank? Yes, it has been banned, along with number of other memoirs over the years.
Do you think there is ever a reason for a book to be banned?
Day One of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost
So, for my first post of the October Ultimate Blog Challenge, I want to talk about banned books.
Some people do a lot for Banned Book Week. Some write more elegant blog posts.
This is a topic that deserves to be discussed more than one week. It should be discussed every time someone wants to ban a book. That would result in a lot of discussion. Why?
You might be surprised at the lists of books that have been banned, at least once, somewhere, by a government, a school. They include such classics as:
The Giver
The Absolutely True Story of a Part Time Indian
Black Beauty
To Kill a Mockingbird
Flowers for Algernon
Where's Waldo?
The Call of the Wild
The Kite Runner
The Hunger Games
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
Even if you don't believe books should ever be banned (I am one) some books make you think hard. How about Mein Kampf, written by one of the most evil men who ever lived? In this day and age, this type of hatred is on the rise. Yet, I don't think that book should be banned.
I think, if you hide evil, you increase its power. The spotlight of discussion should be focused on hate.
Violence? Just think of all the mass shootings, almost every week now. Think of active shooter drills our children must endure.
Think about the fact that one of the sleeper music hits of 2011, Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People, was about a school shooting. What if this song had been a book, instead of a song with a great beat that many listeners never even realized was about violence?
If you hide books that discuss bullying or mass shootings, in my view, you ignore a problem that has gripped our nation.
How about "foul" language? Or teens who are attracted to teens of the same sex?
Even memoirs get banned. How about the Diary of Anne Frank? Yes, it has been banned, along with number of other memoirs over the years.
Do you think there is ever a reason for a book to be banned?
Day One of the Ultimate Blog Challenge #blogboost
Monday, September 30, 2019
Songs of 1958 - #MusicMovesMe
It's the last day of September!
It's Monday and it's time for #MusicMovesMe.
Who are the #MusicMovesMe bloggers? We are bloggers who blog about music each Monday and if you have music to share with us, you are most welcome to join! (Music Posts Only, please! Non-music posts are subject to removal or labeling as "No Music".) First, there is XmasDolly. Her chief co-conductor is Cathy of Curious as a Cathy. Her other co-conductors are Stacy of Stacy Uncorked, and me.
This month, our guest conductor was Mary from Jingle Jangle Jungle. (Thank you, Mary!) For today she has picked "First Grade Songs - Songs that were popular when you were in first grade (or six years old).
Now, I didn't enter first grade until September of1958 and didn't turn six until later that year, but what I am going to do is use all of 1958 because it was such a fun year for music.
Don't believe me? Let's start with a couple of novelty songs.
Witch Doctor - David Seville (yes, that David Seville, who created "The Chipmunks".
Sheb Wooley and Purple People Eater
But seriously, there was a lot of good music out there in 1958. How about this almost-instrumental, with easy lyrics to learn - Tequila by The Champs?
Although this next song was released in September of 1957, it was one of the hottest singles of 1958. (Anyone remember "singles"?) Danny and the Juniors with "At the Hop".
Speaking of Danny and the Juniors, they were part of a music trend that was popular in 1958 - doo wop music. As someone who grew up in the Bronx, I would be drummed out of the Bronx if I did not include a song by Dion and the Belmonts - so here goes, with their first hit (yes, in 1958), I Wonder Why.
This next song charted several times, first in 1957, again in 1958, and has been covered many times. The woman who the song was named after made national news when she passed away in 2018 - that is how beloved this song was. Despite the initial 1957 release, I am including it due to its greatness.
Buddy Holly with "Peggy Sue".
This next song has quite a history. Tommy Edwards had a hit in 1958 with "It's All in the Game" but the melody for this song was actually written in 1911 ( called "Melody in A Major) by Charles Dawes, who was later to become Calvin Coolidge's second term Vice-President. Dawes also co-won the Nobel Peace prize in 1925. The lyrics were added in 1951.
For my final selection, I the Platters and Smoke Gets In Your Eyes.
Oh, they don't make music like this anymore....
And it's a modern day wrap!
See you next Monday for more music - same time same place.
It's Monday and it's time for #MusicMovesMe.
Who are the #MusicMovesMe bloggers? We are bloggers who blog about music each Monday and if you have music to share with us, you are most welcome to join! (Music Posts Only, please! Non-music posts are subject to removal or labeling as "No Music".) First, there is XmasDolly. Her chief co-conductor is Cathy of Curious as a Cathy. Her other co-conductors are Stacy of Stacy Uncorked, and me.
This month, our guest conductor was Mary from Jingle Jangle Jungle. (Thank you, Mary!) For today she has picked "First Grade Songs - Songs that were popular when you were in first grade (or six years old).
Now, I didn't enter first grade until September of1958 and didn't turn six until later that year, but what I am going to do is use all of 1958 because it was such a fun year for music.
Don't believe me? Let's start with a couple of novelty songs.
Witch Doctor - David Seville (yes, that David Seville, who created "The Chipmunks".
But seriously, there was a lot of good music out there in 1958. How about this almost-instrumental, with easy lyrics to learn - Tequila by The Champs?
Although this next song was released in September of 1957, it was one of the hottest singles of 1958. (Anyone remember "singles"?) Danny and the Juniors with "At the Hop".
Speaking of Danny and the Juniors, they were part of a music trend that was popular in 1958 - doo wop music. As someone who grew up in the Bronx, I would be drummed out of the Bronx if I did not include a song by Dion and the Belmonts - so here goes, with their first hit (yes, in 1958), I Wonder Why.
This next song charted several times, first in 1957, again in 1958, and has been covered many times. The woman who the song was named after made national news when she passed away in 2018 - that is how beloved this song was. Despite the initial 1957 release, I am including it due to its greatness.
Buddy Holly with "Peggy Sue".
For my final selection, I the Platters and Smoke Gets In Your Eyes.
Oh, they don't make music like this anymore....
And it's a modern day wrap!
See you next Monday for more music - same time same place.
Sunday, September 29, 2019
Baking and Repairing
In just a couple of hours, it will be the year 5780 in the Jewish calendar, and the High Holy Days will begin. We start at sundown tonight with Rosh Hashanah and end 10 days later with Yom Kippur.
Where I live, it has been an almost perfect day, with temperatures in the 70's and low humidity. My last large yellow daylily flower has unfolded - unbelievable that it it still blooming this late in the year.
I prepared to bake an apple honey cake for Rosh Hashanah, using local bamboo honey and eggs.
But there is also a lot of sadness.
During the year 5779, my mother in law passed away, along with the wife of one of my cousins and one of my husband's cousins. Someone at my job was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer that has a high mortality rate. I went on vacation and he was rushed into surgery because of a serious physical issue caused by the chemo he is undergoing. A couple of my cousins are going through hard times, physically. The saying "aging is not for sissies" is a true one.
So what.
I am here.
I am healthy.
The world is waiting for my next move.
It's time to bake that cake.
One thing at a time.
It's time to help repair the world.
Where I live, it has been an almost perfect day, with temperatures in the 70's and low humidity. My last large yellow daylily flower has unfolded - unbelievable that it it still blooming this late in the year.
I prepared to bake an apple honey cake for Rosh Hashanah, using local bamboo honey and eggs.
But there is also a lot of sadness.
During the year 5779, my mother in law passed away, along with the wife of one of my cousins and one of my husband's cousins. Someone at my job was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer that has a high mortality rate. I went on vacation and he was rushed into surgery because of a serious physical issue caused by the chemo he is undergoing. A couple of my cousins are going through hard times, physically. The saying "aging is not for sissies" is a true one.
So what.
I am here.
I am healthy.
The world is waiting for my next move.
It's time to bake that cake.
One thing at a time.
It's time to help repair the world.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Local Saturday - A Taste of Apple and Honey
It's time to bake my annual apple honey cake, courtesy of Tori Avey.
Tomorrow at sundown begin the Jewish New Year observances (further explained in Tori Avey's blog post I've linked to above, and here). There are traditional foods we eat, include apples and honey. The honey symbolizes the sweetness of the New Year.
The apple symbolizes the Garden of Eden and also our love for the Creator.
Today, I celebrate apples. I'm fortunate enough to live in an apple growing area.
Until you taste apples side by side, you don't realize how they differ in texture, sweetness, mouthfeel, crispyness and more. There are apples for eating, apples for cooking, and all purpose apples. Some apples have great storage qualities.
For my apple cake, I selected Pippins and Zestar. And then, fate intervened - someone, apparently, tried to hack into my email account, and I had to change my password on all my devices. That, and other shopping I did today, also left me a bit behind on what I needed to do today.
For the honey, it will be local buckwheat honey from a couple of hours away. It's a dark honey and full of flavor.
So instead of tonight, I'll be making it tomorrow (with some minor changes from Tori Avey's recipe, including not adding the glaze topping, as I don't like those kinds of toppings.)
And, as far as the self reflection required as part of this time of year, I will be joining in on the Ultimate Blog Challenge on Tuesday. I have decisions about where my life will go in the coming year, and how I can best serve humanity and our planet Earth.
But first, some apple cake is in order.
Tomorrow at sundown begin the Jewish New Year observances (further explained in Tori Avey's blog post I've linked to above, and here). There are traditional foods we eat, include apples and honey. The honey symbolizes the sweetness of the New Year.
The apple symbolizes the Garden of Eden and also our love for the Creator.
Today, I celebrate apples. I'm fortunate enough to live in an apple growing area.
Until you taste apples side by side, you don't realize how they differ in texture, sweetness, mouthfeel, crispyness and more. There are apples for eating, apples for cooking, and all purpose apples. Some apples have great storage qualities.
For my apple cake, I selected Pippins and Zestar. And then, fate intervened - someone, apparently, tried to hack into my email account, and I had to change my password on all my devices. That, and other shopping I did today, also left me a bit behind on what I needed to do today.
For the honey, it will be local buckwheat honey from a couple of hours away. It's a dark honey and full of flavor.
So instead of tonight, I'll be making it tomorrow (with some minor changes from Tori Avey's recipe, including not adding the glaze topping, as I don't like those kinds of toppings.)
And, as far as the self reflection required as part of this time of year, I will be joining in on the Ultimate Blog Challenge on Tuesday. I have decisions about where my life will go in the coming year, and how I can best serve humanity and our planet Earth.
But first, some apple cake is in order.
Friday, September 27, 2019
Canandaugua Lady
Last week, I watched the sunset over Canandaigua Lake (one of the Finger Lakes of New York State) with my spouse.
Although I wasn't looking in the direction of the sunset for this shot, I fell in love with this vessel in the water, awaiting nightfall.
It was like gazing at a painting, don't you think?
Join Yogi and other bloggers who watch the sky each Friday at #SkywatchFriday.
Although I wasn't looking in the direction of the sunset for this shot, I fell in love with this vessel in the water, awaiting nightfall.
It was like gazing at a painting, don't you think?
Join Yogi and other bloggers who watch the sky each Friday at #SkywatchFriday.
Thursday, September 26, 2019
First #ThursdayTreeLove
It isn't often that someone can tour the boyhood and young adult home of someone who impacted history.
On the family farm of Joseph Smith, near Palmyra, New York, there is something called the Sacred Grove. All (there is no admission charge) are invited to visit the Sacred Grove for meditation and/or prayer. (If you want to find out more about Joseph Smith, do a search on his name.)
On a tour of the homestead I took a week ago, I found this tree that was already starting to turn color in preparation for fall.
I don't know how old this tree is, but it has been, in its own way, a part of history.
Do you love trees? Why not join Parul and the other tree loving bloggers each second and fourth Thursdays at #ThursdayTreeLove.
On a tour of the homestead I took a week ago, I found this tree that was already starting to turn color in preparation for fall.
I don't know how old this tree is, but it has been, in its own way, a part of history.
Do you love trees? Why not join Parul and the other tree loving bloggers each second and fourth Thursdays at #ThursdayTreeLove.
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Monarch Butterfly #WordlessWednesday
It wasn't this butterfly. No doubt this butterfly from last year is now residing in Butterfly Heaven.
But I was eating my lunch yesterday, outside in downtown Binghamton, New York, when I saw a bird fly by. It was windy and cool.
Right behind it, an orange and black butterfly sped by, and I do mean "sped by" heading west.
A few minutes later, a similar butterfly flew past. Same flight path.
Shortly thereafter, two more.
And, later on, another one. Like it was flying on a road.
The monarchs are migrating. I've seen fewer this year than last. But they are there. Not the clouds of butterflies some see, but still thrilling.
Once again, I look at that little scrap of energetic beauty and wonder: how do they know where to go? And when?
Join Esha and Natasha for #WordlessWednesday.
 |
| Monarch Butterfly, Binghamton, New York, September 2018 |
But I was eating my lunch yesterday, outside in downtown Binghamton, New York, when I saw a bird fly by. It was windy and cool.
Right behind it, an orange and black butterfly sped by, and I do mean "sped by" heading west.
A few minutes later, a similar butterfly flew past. Same flight path.
Shortly thereafter, two more.
And, later on, another one. Like it was flying on a road.
The monarchs are migrating. I've seen fewer this year than last. But they are there. Not the clouds of butterflies some see, but still thrilling.
Once again, I look at that little scrap of energetic beauty and wonder: how do they know where to go? And when?
Join Esha and Natasha for #WordlessWednesday.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
My Blog Through Another's Eyes
Last month, a cousin who lives in another state texted me, asking if she could call me and talk about blogging. She had retired earlier this year and I believe she is attempting to re start up a business she had done part time while teaching for a living. She knew I blogged, but was not a reader.
After a couple of false starts we made contact, and I answered some of her questions. The most interesting part, though, was when she asked to see my blog. We both surfed over to it, and it was interesting to see my blog through someone else's eyes.
I explained each of the elements, and we talked about different blogging platforms - not a long conversation, as I only am familiar with the one I used.
Meanwhile, last week, I received an invite to join the October edition of the Ultimate Blog Challenge. One thing I suggested to my cousin is that she join a blogging challenge.
What else would I recommend to her, as someone who has been blogging for over 10 years now?
Not that I'm any kind of expert, mind you. Just because you do something thousands of times doesn't make you an expert.
Just as me taking snapshots doesn't make me a photographic expert.
I would tell her, and you, APPRECIATE YOUR READERS. There are millions of blogs out there (I've seen a figure of between 500 and 600 million. Blogs. That's right.). You've come to my blog. You've gotten to this paragraph. Thank you!
But for her, that means there is an awful lot of competition out there. Which leads me to point #2:
I would tell her don't bother blogging if the idea doesn't excite you. I still love blogging. I don't try to earn money. I do what I like to do and hope my valued readers (and I do value them, and their comments, more than you'll ever know) like what I am doing. Having said that, what I am going to say next may surprise you.
I tried, gently, to discourage her. Well, not discourage her, but I told her about some of the downsides. Fighting spam. Ignoring trolls. The world of social media can be rewarding, but it can be a place of pain and, sometimes, danger.
And third, a lesson hard learned for me back in April: don't depend on Facebook to publicize your blog. Someone (a troll, who knows?) reported me as a spammer, which led me to some interesting experiences. Overall, it turned out to be a positive experience, not that I am going to thank said troll.
Why? Because it taught me a valuable lesson. Be prepared to walk away from Facebook. I lived without social media for most of my life (I'm a senior citizen) and could do it, I know now. Social media has its place in my life, but that's all it is - a tool.
Despite having to drop out of the July UBC because I couldn't post on their Facebook page, I plan to join the October Ultimate Blog Challenge, now that I am in (I hope) Facebook's good graces again. In the meantime, my cousin hasn't created her blog. Yet.
But one day she might.
It would be fun to watch her grow and bloom, wouldn't it?
After a couple of false starts we made contact, and I answered some of her questions. The most interesting part, though, was when she asked to see my blog. We both surfed over to it, and it was interesting to see my blog through someone else's eyes.
I explained each of the elements, and we talked about different blogging platforms - not a long conversation, as I only am familiar with the one I used.
Meanwhile, last week, I received an invite to join the October edition of the Ultimate Blog Challenge. One thing I suggested to my cousin is that she join a blogging challenge.
What else would I recommend to her, as someone who has been blogging for over 10 years now?
Not that I'm any kind of expert, mind you. Just because you do something thousands of times doesn't make you an expert.
 |
| One of my zinnias, September 21 |
I would tell her, and you, APPRECIATE YOUR READERS. There are millions of blogs out there (I've seen a figure of between 500 and 600 million. Blogs. That's right.). You've come to my blog. You've gotten to this paragraph. Thank you!
But for her, that means there is an awful lot of competition out there. Which leads me to point #2:
I would tell her don't bother blogging if the idea doesn't excite you. I still love blogging. I don't try to earn money. I do what I like to do and hope my valued readers (and I do value them, and their comments, more than you'll ever know) like what I am doing. Having said that, what I am going to say next may surprise you.
I tried, gently, to discourage her. Well, not discourage her, but I told her about some of the downsides. Fighting spam. Ignoring trolls. The world of social media can be rewarding, but it can be a place of pain and, sometimes, danger.
And third, a lesson hard learned for me back in April: don't depend on Facebook to publicize your blog. Someone (a troll, who knows?) reported me as a spammer, which led me to some interesting experiences. Overall, it turned out to be a positive experience, not that I am going to thank said troll.
Why? Because it taught me a valuable lesson. Be prepared to walk away from Facebook. I lived without social media for most of my life (I'm a senior citizen) and could do it, I know now. Social media has its place in my life, but that's all it is - a tool.
Despite having to drop out of the July UBC because I couldn't post on their Facebook page, I plan to join the October Ultimate Blog Challenge, now that I am in (I hope) Facebook's good graces again. In the meantime, my cousin hasn't created her blog. Yet.
It would be fun to watch her grow and bloom, wouldn't it?
Monday, September 23, 2019
Fall of Another Artist #MusicMovesMe
It's Monday. It's the first day of autumn and it's time for #MusicMovesMe.
Who are the #MusicMovesMe bloggers? We are bloggers who blog about music each Monday and if you have music to share with us, you are most welcome to join! (Music Posts Only, please! Non-music posts are subject to removal or labeling as "No Music".) First, there is XmasDolly. Her chief co-conductor is Cathy of Curious as a Cathy. Her other co-conductors are Stacy of Stacy Uncorked, and me.
Each month we have a guest conductor. This month we have Mary from Jingle Jangle Jungle and she has declared a "Your Pick" week.
Originally, I wanted to blog about autumn, which starts today.
It's become a fall tradition to post this song on my blog: More Than This, by Roxy Music, which has references to fall in the lyrics. Bryan Ferry has such a wonderful voice.
So does Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues: Forever Autumn. (Although You Tube's uploader labeled this as Moody Blues, I believe it is a solo performance.)
But this autumn we are facing more than autumn leaves falling.
In the past 10 or so days we have lost two great rockers: first, Eddie Money (I blogged a short tribute to him last Monday because I intend to include more of him in a future post) and, right afterwards, Richard Theodore Otcasek, better known as Ric Ocasek, of the Cars. His September 15 death, at age 75, was not expected. The cause of death was found quickly - heart disease.
It's just as well - his death broke many hearts, including mine. His songs were the soundtrack of my life in the late 70's and part of the 1980's.
Here are some of my favorite Cars songs: Ric doesn't sing the lead in all of these, but his guitar and songwriting are there.
Dangerous Type.
From 1984, Heartbeat City.
My Best Friend's Girl
Drive.
Moving in Stereo/All Mixed Up
Now Ric is reunited and jamming with Benjamin Orzakowski (Ben Orr), perhaps seeking out Eddie Money and his tickets to paradise, and hopefully is enjoying himself in an increasingly crowded Rock and Roll heaven.
It's a sad wrap today, but I'll be back next week with more music.
Who are the #MusicMovesMe bloggers? We are bloggers who blog about music each Monday and if you have music to share with us, you are most welcome to join! (Music Posts Only, please! Non-music posts are subject to removal or labeling as "No Music".) First, there is XmasDolly. Her chief co-conductor is Cathy of Curious as a Cathy. Her other co-conductors are Stacy of Stacy Uncorked, and me.
Originally, I wanted to blog about autumn, which starts today.
It's become a fall tradition to post this song on my blog: More Than This, by Roxy Music, which has references to fall in the lyrics. Bryan Ferry has such a wonderful voice.
So does Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues: Forever Autumn. (Although You Tube's uploader labeled this as Moody Blues, I believe it is a solo performance.)
But this autumn we are facing more than autumn leaves falling.
In the past 10 or so days we have lost two great rockers: first, Eddie Money (I blogged a short tribute to him last Monday because I intend to include more of him in a future post) and, right afterwards, Richard Theodore Otcasek, better known as Ric Ocasek, of the Cars. His September 15 death, at age 75, was not expected. The cause of death was found quickly - heart disease.
It's just as well - his death broke many hearts, including mine. His songs were the soundtrack of my life in the late 70's and part of the 1980's.
Here are some of my favorite Cars songs: Ric doesn't sing the lead in all of these, but his guitar and songwriting are there.
Dangerous Type.
From 1984, Heartbeat City.
My Best Friend's Girl
Drive.
Moving in Stereo/All Mixed Up
Now Ric is reunited and jamming with Benjamin Orzakowski (Ben Orr), perhaps seeking out Eddie Money and his tickets to paradise, and hopefully is enjoying himself in an increasingly crowded Rock and Roll heaven.
It's a sad wrap today, but I'll be back next week with more music.
Sunday, September 22, 2019
Colors of the Seasons
Tomorrow, fall begins.
But where I live in the Southern Tier of New York, the trees are starting to turn, and the fall produce is bringing the colors of the season all over our state.
Ontario Orchards, in Oswego, New York (north of Rochester) chimes in with apples and crabapples.
In Victor, New York (about 30 miles from Rochester) mums and pumpkins dominate garden centers.
Where I live, in the Southern Tier, cauliflower delights with its colors (yes, these are real, and not manipulated).
Gourds.
What we used to call "Indian corn", now we call it Flint Corn.
It's a beautiful season.
And it's only just begun.
But where I live in the Southern Tier of New York, the trees are starting to turn, and the fall produce is bringing the colors of the season all over our state.
Ontario Orchards, in Oswego, New York (north of Rochester) chimes in with apples and crabapples.
What we used to call "Indian corn", now we call it Flint Corn.
It's a beautiful season.
And it's only just begun.
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Local Saturday - Grape Pie Season
I am not going to be anywhere near Naples, New York this weekend for their Grape Festival. I can not lie, it is too crowded for me.
But that didn't prevent my spouse and I from being in Naples this Tuesday, because the concord grapes are ripe and ready for the eating and pie making.
That's right. Grape pies. I love them and I can't lie. Don't laugh if you've never had one. And don't tell my Weight Watchers leader..um, coach...what I've been up to.
I live only an hour or so from one of the Finger Lakes, and almost no one here has had a grape pie. They are a true regional specialty, taking a lot of work to make (although you can get premade pie filling for them in the Naples area, in addition to the pies.)
Monica's Pies in Naples, some say, makes the best grape pies. Actually, they make a number of different pies, depending on the season - apple, cherry, and even quiches (they are delicious) and chicken pot pies. (I've not had them).
But their fame is based on grape pies, which they carry all year round.
Their theme color (no surprise) is purple.
More purple.
Let's take a walk up her driveway.
When you walk into her store it smells like grape jelly heaven. There are lot of pies to choose from, plus T-shirts, grape soap (yes) and other grape related products.
Your grape pie choice is small or large, pastry top or crumble top. We chose both a small pie and a large, and a crumble top.
And no, I'm not sharing.
Grape pie recipe? You'd better be an experienced pie baker and be able to set aside a lot of time.
Me? Maybe one year I'll brave it and attend the festival.
Happy grape eating!
But that didn't prevent my spouse and I from being in Naples this Tuesday, because the concord grapes are ripe and ready for the eating and pie making.
That's right. Grape pies. I love them and I can't lie. Don't laugh if you've never had one. And don't tell my Weight Watchers leader..um, coach...what I've been up to.
I live only an hour or so from one of the Finger Lakes, and almost no one here has had a grape pie. They are a true regional specialty, taking a lot of work to make (although you can get premade pie filling for them in the Naples area, in addition to the pies.)
Monica's Pies in Naples, some say, makes the best grape pies. Actually, they make a number of different pies, depending on the season - apple, cherry, and even quiches (they are delicious) and chicken pot pies. (I've not had them).
But their fame is based on grape pies, which they carry all year round.
Their theme color (no surprise) is purple.
More purple.
When you walk into her store it smells like grape jelly heaven. There are lot of pies to choose from, plus T-shirts, grape soap (yes) and other grape related products.
Your grape pie choice is small or large, pastry top or crumble top. We chose both a small pie and a large, and a crumble top.
And no, I'm not sharing.
Grape pie recipe? You'd better be an experienced pie baker and be able to set aside a lot of time.
Me? Maybe one year I'll brave it and attend the festival.
Happy grape eating!
Friday, September 20, 2019
Sunset Over Lake Ontario #SkywatchFriday
Where are the best sunsets?
Do I dare say the beautiful sunsets are found on SkywatchFriday, all over the world.
But are there really spectacular sunsets near to where I live, in the Southern Tier of New York State?
I decided to find out for myself. It turns out that, by sheer luck, I've taken sunset pictures at some of the best sunset spots in upstate New York, my native state.
Now, I've added sunset over Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes. These were taken earlier this week in Oswego, New York.
Enjoy!
These are taken at Breitbeck Park, near Ft. Ontario, in Oswego.
The tall structures, I believe, belong to an electric power plant.
Down the sun goes.
But wait, there's more! Patience is rewarded a few minutes later.
Spouse and I traveled here to see a particular museum (I'll about that next week, hopefully) and were rewarded with natural beauty. But, remember, beauty is all around us. All we need to do is look, with an open heart.
Join Yogi and other Friday skywatchers at #SkywatchFriday.
I guarantee you there will be one or more sky pictures you will just love.
Do I dare say the beautiful sunsets are found on SkywatchFriday, all over the world.
But are there really spectacular sunsets near to where I live, in the Southern Tier of New York State?
I decided to find out for myself. It turns out that, by sheer luck, I've taken sunset pictures at some of the best sunset spots in upstate New York, my native state.
Now, I've added sunset over Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes. These were taken earlier this week in Oswego, New York.
Enjoy!
These are taken at Breitbeck Park, near Ft. Ontario, in Oswego.
But wait, there's more! Patience is rewarded a few minutes later.
Spouse and I traveled here to see a particular museum (I'll about that next week, hopefully) and were rewarded with natural beauty. But, remember, beauty is all around us. All we need to do is look, with an open heart.
Join Yogi and other Friday skywatchers at #SkywatchFriday.
I guarantee you there will be one or more sky pictures you will just love.
Thursday, September 19, 2019
The Sequel
I originally wrote this blog post when Harper Lee, author of To Kill a Mockingbird, died at age 89 in 2016. I am repeating it (with some edits and editions) because of my belief that writers can make a difference.
I am thinking of the publication of Margaret Atwood's The Testaments last week. Her classic The Handmaid's Tale has become a must-read book.
We never expected a sequel, but we received one last week.
Some years ago, there was another unexpected sequel by someone else, a sequel to a beloved book.
My tribute to Harper Lee (with some edits), who wrote one of the most beloved books of the 20th century, follows:
Few things in life are simple.
At first, it was a legend written so perfectly. If she had tried, she couldn't have written it more perfectly.
The story seems simple on the surface A woman grows up in a small Alabama town, the daughter of a lawyer. She is the youngest of four children. She had an older sister who becomes, herself, a prominent lawyer in Alabama and lived to the age of 103.
Working in dead end jobs, she writes a book. An editor works with her, and after much hard work and rewriting, it is published in 1960. The book is an immediate classic. It wins the Pulitzer Prize. It is made into a hit movie.
In the years after it was published, it is called the book that unites Americans. It is read and enjoyed year after year. It becomes required reading in many high school classes, including in Alabama.
People name their children after the main characters: Atticus, Scout.
We all know that books can, and have changed the world.
Many authors can aspire to be the writers of one of those books. Few succeed.
The author becomes a recluse, rarely giving interviews. She spends her life in that small Alabama town. Her sister, the lawyer, becomes her spokesperson.
She was so protective of her privacy she would rarely give interviews. She never published another book...until she did.
Her story was neatly tied up and presented to an adoring public. It made sense-if you write a classic as your first book, how can you follow with something even better?
The book, which took place in the Alabama of the 1930's (during the Depression), can be enjoyed on so many levels. On the simplest level, it's the coming-of-age story of a young girl being raised, with her brother, by a single father, a lawyer. He takes on the case of a black man accused of raping a white girl. Her life is changed forever.
And then, last year, it all changed. An announcement was made that there was a second book - and it would be published later in the year. It was a sequel to the first book, the American classic. But, once the first chapter was released, many people were stunned. The book, many believe, was actually an early draft of the classic. And, still others believed that the author, then in her late 80's, was being taken advantage of. She was, after all, in assisted living, having suffered a stroke almost 10 years ago. She was said to have been nearly deaf and blind.
The neatly tied box of the author's life reopened. Things were no longer neat and clean. Her literacy legacy would now be complex. Perhaps it always was - we just liked to hear the legend we had become used to hearing.
Yesterday, the author died.
I am talking, of course, of an 89 year old woman, Nelle Harper Lee, of that small town in Alabama. Harper Lee, as she was known to the world, has left a complicated legacy. (I suspect it may get even more complicated in the coming days. We'll see.)
All of us who write hope to write THE BOOK, the book that will change the world for the better.
What we don't realize is that the book changes us just as much.
But still, I can wish to write that book one day.
In the meantime, I will content myself with my love of To Kill a Mockingbird. And if you wonder, why the title, it is explained in the book like this to the main character, the young girl Scout:
“Remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” That was the only time I ever heard Atticus say it was a sin to do something, and I asked Miss Maudie about it.
“Your father’s right,” she said. “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy . . . but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”
So that I what I blogged in 2016. Now, an update.
Once again, we have a sequel to a beloved and important book.
One book takes place in the 1930's. Another one takes place in our future.
Today, I root for Margaret Atwood, and The Testaments. We live in dangerous times once again. I can hope that the pen is mightier than the sword of ignorance and hate.
Will The Testaments be that tool? Will it be a sequel never meant to be that fulfills its mission?
Only time will tell.
I am thinking of the publication of Margaret Atwood's The Testaments last week. Her classic The Handmaid's Tale has become a must-read book.
We never expected a sequel, but we received one last week.
Some years ago, there was another unexpected sequel by someone else, a sequel to a beloved book.
My tribute to Harper Lee (with some edits), who wrote one of the most beloved books of the 20th century, follows:
Few things in life are simple.
At first, it was a legend written so perfectly. If she had tried, she couldn't have written it more perfectly.
The story seems simple on the surface A woman grows up in a small Alabama town, the daughter of a lawyer. She is the youngest of four children. She had an older sister who becomes, herself, a prominent lawyer in Alabama and lived to the age of 103.
Working in dead end jobs, she writes a book. An editor works with her, and after much hard work and rewriting, it is published in 1960. The book is an immediate classic. It wins the Pulitzer Prize. It is made into a hit movie.
In the years after it was published, it is called the book that unites Americans. It is read and enjoyed year after year. It becomes required reading in many high school classes, including in Alabama.
People name their children after the main characters: Atticus, Scout.
We all know that books can, and have changed the world.
Many authors can aspire to be the writers of one of those books. Few succeed.
The author becomes a recluse, rarely giving interviews. She spends her life in that small Alabama town. Her sister, the lawyer, becomes her spokesperson.
She was so protective of her privacy she would rarely give interviews. She never published another book...until she did.
Her story was neatly tied up and presented to an adoring public. It made sense-if you write a classic as your first book, how can you follow with something even better?
The book, which took place in the Alabama of the 1930's (during the Depression), can be enjoyed on so many levels. On the simplest level, it's the coming-of-age story of a young girl being raised, with her brother, by a single father, a lawyer. He takes on the case of a black man accused of raping a white girl. Her life is changed forever.
And then, last year, it all changed. An announcement was made that there was a second book - and it would be published later in the year. It was a sequel to the first book, the American classic. But, once the first chapter was released, many people were stunned. The book, many believe, was actually an early draft of the classic. And, still others believed that the author, then in her late 80's, was being taken advantage of. She was, after all, in assisted living, having suffered a stroke almost 10 years ago. She was said to have been nearly deaf and blind.
The neatly tied box of the author's life reopened. Things were no longer neat and clean. Her literacy legacy would now be complex. Perhaps it always was - we just liked to hear the legend we had become used to hearing.
Yesterday, the author died.
I am talking, of course, of an 89 year old woman, Nelle Harper Lee, of that small town in Alabama. Harper Lee, as she was known to the world, has left a complicated legacy. (I suspect it may get even more complicated in the coming days. We'll see.)
All of us who write hope to write THE BOOK, the book that will change the world for the better.
What we don't realize is that the book changes us just as much.
But still, I can wish to write that book one day.
In the meantime, I will content myself with my love of To Kill a Mockingbird. And if you wonder, why the title, it is explained in the book like this to the main character, the young girl Scout:
“Remember it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” That was the only time I ever heard Atticus say it was a sin to do something, and I asked Miss Maudie about it.
“Your father’s right,” she said. “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy . . . but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”
So that I what I blogged in 2016. Now, an update.
Once again, we have a sequel to a beloved and important book.
One book takes place in the 1930's. Another one takes place in our future.
Today, I root for Margaret Atwood, and The Testaments. We live in dangerous times once again. I can hope that the pen is mightier than the sword of ignorance and hate.
Will The Testaments be that tool? Will it be a sequel never meant to be that fulfills its mission?
Only time will tell.
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
The Center of the Rebellion - #WordlessWednesday
Such an unassuming house, this house on Washington Street in Seneca Falls, New York, a short walk from some canal locks.
But consider who lived in this house from 1847 to 1862 - a woman by the name of Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
Born in 1815, this woman, like all women born in our country at the time, could not vote. Despite being the mother of seven, she decided to do something about that. She called this house "The Center of the Rebellion".
Today, too many of us ignore what our foremothers (and the men who supported their efforts) had to do to win us the right to vote.
Voting is a right, for many in our country (not just women). I ask that you consider that in November -then get out and VOTE.
Join Esha and Natasha for #WordlessWednesday.
But consider who lived in this house from 1847 to 1862 - a woman by the name of Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
Born in 1815, this woman, like all women born in our country at the time, could not vote. Despite being the mother of seven, she decided to do something about that. She called this house "The Center of the Rebellion".
Today, too many of us ignore what our foremothers (and the men who supported their efforts) had to do to win us the right to vote.
Voting is a right, for many in our country (not just women). I ask that you consider that in November -then get out and VOTE.
Join Esha and Natasha for #WordlessWednesday.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Hidden But Not Dry
I first wrote this post in 2013, and repeat today with some updates.
Thursday concludes Restaurant Week in Binghamton, New York.
Since I first wrote this, Restaurant Week has spread into a lot of cities, both large and small.
For us, this started out in 2010 as a once a year promotion, and is now twice a year, in the spring and in the late summer. It is a win-win for both restaurants and their patrons.
It works like this:
Participating restaurants offer either lunch or dinner, or both. These are prix fixe meals.
Lunch is three courses for $10/$12 or $15 - an appetizer, a main course and a dessert. (some restaurants offer a wine or beer in exchange for the appetizer). Dinner is $20 or $25 with a couple of $30 rsestaurants. Most restaurants chose to charge either $20 or $25, and the dinner prix fixe menu consists of three or four courses. For lunch it's usual to offer a choice of two appetizers, three main dishes, and two desserts, but this can vary.
They can, at their option, also offer their regular menu.
This is the caring part - a portion of the proceeds go to charity. In 2013 the charity was CHOW, our Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse. Our Binghamton community suffers from higher than average unemployment and underemployment, and an important thing to remember (this was related to me by a person who volunteers at a local food pantry) that a high percentage of those who use those food pantries are working poor.
This summer the proceeds are going to LUMA, the light festival I blogged about a week or so ago.
I work in downtown Binghamton, and I can testify that the restaurants are packed during Restaurant Week. It's a good time for chefs to highlight their creations and gain new customers. It's a good time for people (who can afford to eat out) to try new restaurants out and eat out for a good cause. And, a good time for both businesses and customers to reflect on their good fortune in being able to participate.
This is where I went this year. A bookstore?
More books? Yes, but let's look up before we do something with that bookcase.
Now, if you know how to swing open that bookcase (and I couldn't figure it out - my spouse finally did) you will find yourself in a speakeasy. Well, let me rephrase that. Something that looks like a speakeasy.
It's a restaurant called 205 Dry (it's located at 205 State Street, downtown) and it has a Roaring 20's theme - waitstaff are dressed in appropriate dress and you are asked to keep the noise level down so the "coppers can't hear us".
What do they serve? Lots of craft cocktails. Fried chicken sandwiches. Salmon served on farro. Burgers. Food I'm not sure a true speakeasy would have had but who cares?
Nice theme. Nice cause.
Does your area have a similar restaurant program or a special business event in your area that raises money for local charities?
Monday, September 16, 2019
Farm Aid and Eddie Money #MusicMovesMe
It's Monday and it's time for #MusicMovesMe.
Who are the #MusicMovesMe bloggers? We are bloggers who blog about music each Monday and if you have music to share with us, you are most welcome to join! (Music Posts Only, please! Non-music posts are subject to removal or labeling as "No Music".) First, there is XmasDolly. Her chief co-conductor is Cathy of Curious as a Cathy. Her other co-conductors are Stacy of Stacy Uncorked, and me.
Each month we have a guest conductor. This month we have Mary from Jingle Jangle Jungle and she has picked for us: Farm Aid was founded in 9/22/85. In honor of Farm Aid, build a playlist featuring artists that have performed at the anual event. If you need help, visit Farm Aid.
But, on Friday, the music world lost another great -Eddie Money.
I'll get to three Farm Aid regulars in a minute, but first, a short musical tribute to Eddie Money. I had been intending to blog about him next week, when I was going to start a series on "Rock Stars I have seen live" but Money, who announced he had stage 4 esophageal cancer not long ago, didn't live long enough. Sadly, Money was a heavy smoker.
Between 1978 and 1992 Money had 11 hits in the top 40.
For now, a couple of songs. First, "Two Tickets to Paradise", his first hit, from 1977.
And my personal favorite (well, a tie with "Gimmie Some Water"), his 1986 duet with Ronnie Spector "Take Me Home Tonight".
RIP, Eddie Money.
And now, onto the Farm Aid regulars:
Neil Young - Keep on Rockin' in the Free World, performed in 1990.
Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds - Ants Marching, Farm Aid 2018. Watch what happens when Matthews breaks a string about a minute in.
John Mellencamp at Farm Aid doing "Little Pink Houses", also a 2018 performance.
So, what is Farm Aid? You could say it's an annual concert, held this year on September 21 in Wisconsin. For over 30 years, Farm Aid has existed to support the family farmer.
To quote from the website:
"Farm Aid is an all-day festival that brings together incredible music, good food and hands-on activities to get folks in touch with the roots of our food. Since 1985, Farm Aid has raised $57 million to help family farmers thrive all over the country while inspiring millions of people to take part in the Good Food Movement."
The need is there, more than ever, especially due to the massive flooding in farm communities earlier this year. Even up here, where we didn't flood, many farmers couldn't work their wet fields and had to plant late. And if farmers don't grow our food...yes, that food comes from somewhere other than the supermarket. Someone has to grow it.
And that is an (edible) wrap. Support your local farmer, even if it is in the smallest way you can. Visit a true farmers market. Buy local, if you can.
Thank you, Mary of Jingle Jangle Jungle, for allowing me to get on my soapbox.
Next Monday, I'll be back - same time, same place.
Who are the #MusicMovesMe bloggers? We are bloggers who blog about music each Monday and if you have music to share with us, you are most welcome to join! (Music Posts Only, please! Non-music posts are subject to removal or labeling as "No Music".) First, there is XmasDolly. Her chief co-conductor is Cathy of Curious as a Cathy. Her other co-conductors are Stacy of Stacy Uncorked, and me.
Each month we have a guest conductor. This month we have Mary from Jingle Jangle Jungle and she has picked for us: Farm Aid was founded in 9/22/85. In honor of Farm Aid, build a playlist featuring artists that have performed at the anual event. If you need help, visit Farm Aid.
But, on Friday, the music world lost another great -Eddie Money.
I'll get to three Farm Aid regulars in a minute, but first, a short musical tribute to Eddie Money. I had been intending to blog about him next week, when I was going to start a series on "Rock Stars I have seen live" but Money, who announced he had stage 4 esophageal cancer not long ago, didn't live long enough. Sadly, Money was a heavy smoker.
Between 1978 and 1992 Money had 11 hits in the top 40.
For now, a couple of songs. First, "Two Tickets to Paradise", his first hit, from 1977.
And my personal favorite (well, a tie with "Gimmie Some Water"), his 1986 duet with Ronnie Spector "Take Me Home Tonight".
RIP, Eddie Money.
And now, onto the Farm Aid regulars:
Neil Young - Keep on Rockin' in the Free World, performed in 1990.
Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds - Ants Marching, Farm Aid 2018. Watch what happens when Matthews breaks a string about a minute in.
John Mellencamp at Farm Aid doing "Little Pink Houses", also a 2018 performance.
So, what is Farm Aid? You could say it's an annual concert, held this year on September 21 in Wisconsin. For over 30 years, Farm Aid has existed to support the family farmer.
To quote from the website:
"Farm Aid is an all-day festival that brings together incredible music, good food and hands-on activities to get folks in touch with the roots of our food. Since 1985, Farm Aid has raised $57 million to help family farmers thrive all over the country while inspiring millions of people to take part in the Good Food Movement."
The need is there, more than ever, especially due to the massive flooding in farm communities earlier this year. Even up here, where we didn't flood, many farmers couldn't work their wet fields and had to plant late. And if farmers don't grow our food...yes, that food comes from somewhere other than the supermarket. Someone has to grow it.
And that is an (edible) wrap. Support your local farmer, even if it is in the smallest way you can. Visit a true farmers market. Buy local, if you can.
Thank you, Mary of Jingle Jangle Jungle, for allowing me to get on my soapbox.
Next Monday, I'll be back - same time, same place.
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