Monday, March 14, 2011

Book 6 and sunshine

I often read more then one book at a time. Usually one is nonfiction or short stories. I like to pick it up when I just have a few moments to read. It takes me much longer to read them this way but I like having a little change of pace sometimes. I just finished David Sedaris's When You are Engulfed in Flames, I have read this before but as I ate my lunch one day I picked it up and started reading. It became my lunch book for a while then my breakfast book. I kept it downstairs so I read it when my other book wasn't near.

I also know I said I was going to start Turpentine by Spring Warren but it has been pushed back a bit. I traveled to visit my sister in Moorhead and as a bed present I got The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt by Edmund Morris. I have been looking for this for a while! I had just had a conversation with one of my nieces about how much I hate E readers and once I picked up this book and felt its weight the texture of its paper I declared "No e-reader can compare!" I am head over heels in love with this book! Not only its content, the early years of Theodore Roosevelt's life but also its whole being. I feel silly to admit this but I find myself stroking the pages loving how they feel in my hand. I have already bent several pages marking interesting facts or phrases. I hate to think books will not mean the same to my young nieces and nephews.

About half my siblings are readers wavering between avid and occasionally. As I have said before I had fallen into the "occasional reader"category but am determined to immerse myself again this year. A couple of my siblings read no books at all only a magazine once and a while. My Father was not a reader until he retired then he would read a book a day almost. During my trip to Moorhead my brother and I discussed our love of books. He said there were really no books in our house when he was a kid. My mom got the readers digest but that was it. Because my family is so large the older siblings often have a different experience, I can remember shelves of books in the living room. Of course many were the Readers Digest Compilations but at some point my mom must of joined a book club she got hardcover books in the mail. I remember sneaking North Dallas Forty off the shelf to read the naughty parts. I still lived with my parents when my Father began his veracious reading. Maybe it was my older siblings who were off to college that got my Mom reading.

I do hope to always have access to books and am lucky that my brothers have books stores. I have watched several bookstores close including my beloved Hungry Mind aka Ruminator. Currently I go to Common Good Bookstore which is owned by Garrison Keillor. Mostly from my brother though and never NEVER EVER AMAZON OR BARNES N NOBLE! I will gladly give you my rant about them anytime in person but spare you this now.

Read On!

Keep Smiling!

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

reservations recommended...

I would have reservations about recommending the 5th book in my quest to 50 Reservations Recommended by Eric Kraft
While I loved his book Herb and Lorna I did not love this it did not seem to have enough....hhmmm I think "kindness" is the word. The main character is Matthew is a reviewer of restaurants in addition to his career as a toymaker. He is recently divorced and trying to remake himself into someone his x would come back too. He points out how insufferable he finds other diners but seems blind to the fact that he is exactly like them. Krafts writing is really good and easy to read thus helpful to getting through the book. I suppose the fact that he can write well enough to get me invested in disliking Matthew is a plus but overall the story was not appealing to me. I may reread Herb and Lorna just to help push this one out of my head.

Next up is a book called Turpentine by Spring Warren. I picked it up initially because of the cover featuring a buffalo drew me in, now I have noticed the authors name and am trying not to be prejudiced by it. This is her first novel and she is compared to Larry McMurtry in the cover reviews. This could be a good thing but also mean that its a lame attempt at a cowboy book. Guess I will find out soon enough!

Keep Smiling!

Monday, February 21, 2011

Family





I am thankful that I have such an amazing family.



Sunday was my fathers birthday, we lost him in 2007 and still miss him very much. We all have our way of honoring him whether it be pancakes for breaffast (yes i meant breaf not break), cherry pie, or a shot of crappy Canadian whiskey. I was lucky to get to see a lot of my siblings because we had a baby shower for my niece Z! This will be our third grand niece! Medora and her lovely partner have adorable twin girls!


Being among my brothers and sisters I can see so much of my Father. His humor - I think most of us at one time or another sing silly made up songs. His integrity - We all strive to be good people. His love of family- There were 3 generations at this baby shower all interacting with each other.


I know I can call anyone of my 8 siblings at anytime, for that matter anyone of my wonderful nieces or nephews. I wish that all the grandkids had gotten to know him better but I believe that older ones will share stories as well as us siblings. He was very important to all of us and taught us so much about being a good person.


Though each year it gets a little easier, I still find myself hit by this loss at unique times. Occasionally its watching my nieces or nephews do something or seeing him in my brothers as they talk. I was hit deeply by losing my Mother and my Fathers passing came too soon after. I count myself lucky to have had such wonderful parents and that they created this marvelous crazy family. I have 14 nieces and nephews and soon 3 great nieces, 8 siblings, 6 in laws and many cousins and friends!


My Father rarely was without a smile. He was the one who inspires me to Keep Smiling!



Keep Smiling!

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Year of books..

I have decided to try an dread 50 books this year, spurred on by my librarian nice Madeline. I have always liked to read but the last few years I do it in streaks. It sort of is one of those things like workouts that you have to just schedule doing. The more you do it the more you want to do it.
My brother Greg probably easily reads 50 books a year. He is a voracious reader and loves to collect books. Aside from visiting my family my next favorite thing to do when I go to Fargo Moorhead is look at his book collection. He is extremely generous with his books and often loans special ones to me. He also sells books (a rarity now a days) so he often gets books from publishers. I try my best to but books from him whenever I visit. Since we no longer have the great Hungry Mind (Ruminator) in St Paul I go to the Common good bookstore(G Keillor owner). I will never order a book from Amazon and I will never use a e reader. I love the feel of books in my hand. You can't write in the margins of ebooks or fold back pages to mark great passages.

I am already a bit behind but I just finished my 4th book.
1 Absolutely true Diary of a Part-Time Indian
Sherman Alexie illustrated by Ellen Forney
Loved this book! Sherman is a great story teller and the comics added to the humor. Though the book does have some tough moments it is a hopeful and uplifting tale.

2 Empire Falls Richard Russo
The book is a Pulitzer Prize winner. While it is a good book it really never drew me in til the last couple chapters. I didn't connect with any of the characters and found them too passive. I was glad to finish it.

3.Red convertible Louise Erdich
Short stories Overall this was good and I like mixing in a book of short stories once in a while. I have a love hate relationship with Louise Erdich. There were a couple stories that just stuck in my head with their colorful strangeness and a few others that I couldn't wait to finish. Most of the stories had been published previously in magazines or collections.

4. Stolen Horses Dan Obrien
Dan is a friend of mine and I have always loved his books, most of which are nonfiction. This book takes place in a small Nebraska town that has evolved from a shrinking ranch town to a growing boutique town of transplanted west coasters. I enjoyed this book because of the detailed descriptions of the land and elements. I am a huge fan of hunting dogs and there are several passages describing one working a field. I felt like Dan portrayed the beauty of a dog doing what it loves.

I have pulled a book from my shelf to read next its older and I have had it for a while. Reservations Recommended by Eric Kraft who wrote an old favorite Herb n'Lorna.

Feel free to give me some recommendations.

Keep Smilin'

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Happy 4th of July

Miss the kids!
Enjoyed camping!
Legs ache and it gives me satisfaction. Trying not to have expectations for fireworks...doubt they can even come close to "the" fireworks.
Enjoying lazy day.
tomorrow something new...a new book, mow the lawn ride my bike?

Keep Smiling

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Ride that wave...

Doing my best to stay on the wave of positivity that has hit. The sunshine is helpful! I had fun tuesday hanging with my nephews and cute little niece. I am always rewarded with their antics and love.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Monday Monday!

There is something to be said for pretending Monday is Sunday. Thats what I did today I slept in, made a big breakfast and took my time reading the paper then I switched to a Monday. I got my errands done then went hardcore with yard work! Mowed, edged, pruned and pulled weeds! It was nice to be physical and have a sunny day.
I enjoyed a beautiful actual Sunday yesterday, though I did not do the regular routine. I got up early and golfed surrounded by fluffy white clouds trimmed with brilliant blue sky and lush green fairways. I golfed my best score of the year thanks to a fabulous back nine. Felt good to be active and was the first day that my mouth wasn't forefront in my mind. I feel good continuing the activity with my yard work and an awkward bike ride. It was awkward because I am out of shape and haven't rode a bike in a couple years. But its just like riding a bike....heehee.

I have no doubt I will be sore tomorrow -price I am willing to pay to feel as good as I do right now.

Keep Smiling.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Little kids!

I was lucky to have my sisters kids over last Saturday as well as my good friend Mikes family. We spent the afternoon in the back yard running around and swinging on the hammock. I laughed a lot and couldn't stop smiling. I am so lucky!

fun pictures and such of the Saturday afternoon at this blog:
http://www.chezdeux.blogspot.com/

Keep smiling!

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

so long ago....

Finally an update about damn time!
Yeah I know its been a while...
Its just so hard to log in and well there have been so many other thigns to distract me...
yeah yeah yeah excuses excuses...
Thats all I got are excuses...I sure dont have any idea for what to write. I suppose I could speak of the horrific pulling of teeth or perhaps the family fun in Milwaukee or the family sadness...perhaps spin tales of my yard work adventures...but a lass I have been way to lazy to write all those things on this blog.
Gosh I am lame!
Doesn't matter I am writing now and hopefully I will write again soon. Its all about baby steps. Got to get back into the groove and strive to be more productive. I am done with the beating myself up thing i accept that sometimes I am just plain lazy. An underachiever! Though it is not exactly true to say I have been doing nothing because I have had lots of fun in the last month and a half but I just haven't had the gumption to write it down when I am done.

i shall strive to report better!

keep smiling!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Wednesday.

It has been non stop today feel good that i was busy all day! Though I do not feel like I got enough done. Rather I shall hold onto the feeling of being active and do it again tomorrow.

Thrifting again tomorrow! Also some tile work then a movie...that sounds good doesn't it? Last time I thrifted I got this wonderful piece...



Its a water color...18" by maybe 30" guess I should measure it...has a date in the lower right corner and a name. It is a find just from sheer coolness but then I think what if this is from someone who is someone...? Why not? right you hear about that kind of thing all the time.

Doesn't matter I like it!

Keep Smilin'

Hump day!

Halfway thru the week and it feels like its been a long week - in a good way! I have been somewhat productive and have had fun! Worked on my yard most of Monday weeding what I hope are weeds and mowing. Need to do a lot more work but am enjoying it!

Also got to spend time with my sweet niece and her brothers and that just always makes me smile! Lots of time outside though it is chilly the sun is shining.

Going to move some rock today changing out the ugly pinkish rocks around the bushes in the front yard to pretty bluish rocks.

Won't you agree these below are much nicer looking rocks?

It is fun to do these simple little changes to make our house "our" house! Who would have thought digging rocks out could be so fulfilling!

Keep Smilin'!

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Love you sweet girl!

Sad that my little friend maddie, a very sweet dog, has passed away. She lived a long very pampered life and brought much joy to her moms. She had lots of doting friends that she greeted with her toothy smile.
I am going to miss you maddie!!!
ox

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

A good day!

Though it was rainy and gray it was a good day. I got to see Boo, Z, the boys, coocoo, Z's sweetie and handsome! A burger at Matts, too many fries and making robot noises. Think that can't be topped yea I know its already an awesome day- but there is more...
Got kisses for good luck, played cards and did well...cherry on top..the TWINS WON!

All in all a really good day. I wanted it to keep going but going to sleep hoping tomorrow rocks in its own awesome way.

Lets go Wednesday!!

Monday, April 5, 2010

Monday Monday!

How I love that day!!!
Baseball has officially started and the Yankees are 0-1, can it be any sweeter?! Sure the Twins can make it better by winning their game tonight. Sunshine and baseball it is truly spring!!

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Sunny days and rain!

It seems that spring has sprung! We have gotten a little rain and lots of SUN!! So looking forward to getting outdoor projects done. Also got my bike ready for riding! Should be a fun summer!!

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Melting Snow...

The lovely sun is gracing us again for the third straight day. I feel so much better after a dose of sun. There is actually a spot of grass showing through in the front yard. Funny how spotting that this morning made me smile so big!!

I have noticed as the snow melts the huge snow banks are making fun shapes. Near my gym was one that looked like a cow - really sucks that I don't have a picture! Just take notice of the curb banks as you drive around the next few days I am sure you will see cool things!

When I was at my brothers a few weeks ago he had a little nest in the tree outside his window and a small plop of snow sat in it looking just like a small white bird!

Notice things!

keep Smiling!

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Songs

What songs make you smile?
What songs make you cry?
I am watching John Prine sing on TV. He sings a simple song about regular things and he makes me cry. Is it the song that makes me cry or is it him? Or is it the mix of the two? Maybe the addition of the time and place is really what evokes the mood.
If I am having a bad day or am grumpy I can play the song Domino and it will make me smile. Something about the horns in it just picks me up. I also love Van Morrison and his voice.
Perhaps it is my the sentimental side of me, that comes from my Dad. I connect songs to people and moments. Domino forever will be connected to the remodeling of my brothers store. Working with my sisters and brothers the difficult times and the fun of cranking Domino in the big empty store and every single one of us breaking into song.

Music is so wonderful!

keep smiling!
k

Simple words

It is important to remember the power of words. A simple word can cause a lot of heartbreak. This connects to my previous post about how we can so easily affect a young person with one simple interaction. We forget that even though we may being saying something with no malice in our hearts it can cut like a knife to someone else hearing it.

Recently I read some postings where a couple of friends were going back and forth giving each other the business. In this particular back and forth they refered to each other as "gay" saying they needed to test anyone who had come in contact to make sure they didn't become "gay" too. I know these people, they know I am gay and I assume they are not homophobic. I realize lots of people raz each other like that and that dont really mean they think gay people are lesser people or that they hate gays. That doesnt make it OK to say such things. Because growing up gay is hard and if your peers are using the term gay as a slur it makes it harder. Sure they didnt say fag or dyke but that doesnt matter. Just like it doesnt matter if you use the word retard in satire or as a putdown.

A young person who is figuring out they are gay is already struggling. Its hard enough just being a teen and dealing with sexual feelings. Suicide attempts in gay teens is 4 times higher then in heterosexual teens. If your friends use the term gay to razz each other it really makes it more difficult for them to see themselves as normal. Being Gay is hard but it does not make you a bad person, a diseased person or a lesser person. Try to remember how hard it was being a kid in high school now imagine if you were part of a smaller group like the only black kid or only muslim or only jew or disabled. You sure wouldnt accept hearing kids using any of those differences to razz each other. It is highly unlikely any kid would think of calling another kid jew in jest, yet they do use gay that way. I surely hope no one would stay silent if a kid said the n word, why is it just boys being boys when they tease each other about being gay. Sure if they pick on a kid who might be gay something might be said. But if its a group of "regular" guys just joking with each other its ok? Its not!! Maybe one of those "regular" guys is gay and doesnt know it yet or hes hiding it cause well his friends obviously think if your gay your sick or a wussy. Esera Tuaolo, Greg Louganis, Rock Hudson, Glenn Burke and John Ameche just to name a few "regular" guys who are gay! Sorry there is no such thing as gaydar. Gay people are just like any one else some are jocks some are smart some are tall some are fat some are artistic some are carpenters some are democrats some are republicans

Please don't be afraid to speak up! Its not ok and its not overreacting! Don't be afraid to speak up when people say hurtful things. The only way to change things is to do something!

Keep smiling!

Monday, February 22, 2010

Sometimes you should keep it to yourself

Recently John Mayer has done a couple interviews where he shared a little too much. I am not judging his point of view I say to each his own. I do have a problem with him sharing so much with the whole wide world. Mostly the parts that involved other people namely exgirlfriends. Where is his sense of decorum? Gentlemen do not kiss and tell.

I wish we as a society didnt enjoy the media circus so much. From Britney to Tiger we seem to wallow in their trials and tribulations. Frankly if camaras were on the average person constantly we would see much the same. Everyone has their weaknesses and foibles. We all do things, say things, text things etc. that in the wrong hands would be misconstrued or seem disgusting or preverse.

I honestly did not think Tiger owed any of us an apology. Yea I know he is considered a role model blah blah blah. Well stop having athletes, rock stars and movie stars for role models. Lets be role models for the kids in our lives. My biggest role model growing up was my Dad. I learned how to be a good person from him. He taught me to be honest, to treat others, kindly to be fair to appreciate my family. He did this by example as well as taking time to talk to me. I know I was lucky growing up with lots of extended family, great siblings and involved parents.

I ask that you be mindful of the young people you interact with daily. The smallest moment can have a profound effect on a kid. Think back at moments that stand out from your childhood. You probably will find that some of the smallest interactions had a profound efffect on you positive or negetive.

keep smiling

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Happy Valentines day!

I wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day! I feel lucky to say I have all my siblings, nieces, nephews and friends for valentines. Please spend the day with those you love. Forget about all the commercial aspects and remember the love!