Most of my end-of-the year-tasks are done. I've had the 2010 photos printed but I've left putting them in the scrapbook for last because tonight Gary and I are Evan-sitting. (At five, my grandson is NOT a baby, and would object to any term that would make him so.) I will have him sit beside me as we look at a year's worth of living.
I have 35 of these scrapbooks with the same imitation leather covers. Most of them cost me around $4. I don't "scrapbook" as a hobby so nothing expensive is required. These serve as records of my life and times, something that Evan can look at in years to come. They include my scribblings, maps, pictures, and various pieces of memorabilia. At the front of each one is a calendar with each day's activities briefly noted. I treasure them all.
However, the digital age has taken over and I can no longer find the same kind of scrapbooks. Perhaps the bad economic times put yet another company out of business. I watch rummage sales. That's where I found this year's. If I ever find a supplier, I will buy dozens. I intend to live a long, happy life with pictures to prove it.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Looking ahead
Eighty-one days until spring, but Gary and I can plan ahead during these frigid days of winter.
On January 21st, we'll be at the annual camping and recreational vehicle show at the Green Bay arena. We'll spend an afternoon wandering through campers and big RVs, comparing our little camper to the big guys. Gary will ask about gadgets he can add, but for me the highlight is buying our annual pass to the state parks. We make a big production of slapping it on his windshield.
About that time, we'll get our annual application in to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to work as guards for the annual sturgeon watch in mid-April. We always volunteer for the twelve hour night watch because it is our first chance to "camp" along the Wolf River as we watch the giant fish, some over a hundred years old, crash against the rocks on the shore. They and their ancestors have been doing this ritual since the age of the dinosaurs. We feel small compared to that.
Mid-February, we'll be back in Green Bay for the annual boat show. This year, we're considering kayaks. Around then, I'll sign us up for the crane count which also occurs mid-April.
Early March will take us to the Mosquito Hill Nature Center in Green Bay for a concert by folksinger Bill Staines. Then it's back to the arena for the Home and Garden Show mid-March to think about what we will plant in the gardens in late May.
The following week is the Spring Equinox and camping will start soon after. Meanwhile, Gary is finding campgrounds for my summer tour and making reservations as needed.
For the winter months, we can only think of the joys to come.
On January 21st, we'll be at the annual camping and recreational vehicle show at the Green Bay arena. We'll spend an afternoon wandering through campers and big RVs, comparing our little camper to the big guys. Gary will ask about gadgets he can add, but for me the highlight is buying our annual pass to the state parks. We make a big production of slapping it on his windshield.
About that time, we'll get our annual application in to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to work as guards for the annual sturgeon watch in mid-April. We always volunteer for the twelve hour night watch because it is our first chance to "camp" along the Wolf River as we watch the giant fish, some over a hundred years old, crash against the rocks on the shore. They and their ancestors have been doing this ritual since the age of the dinosaurs. We feel small compared to that.
Mid-February, we'll be back in Green Bay for the annual boat show. This year, we're considering kayaks. Around then, I'll sign us up for the crane count which also occurs mid-April.
Early March will take us to the Mosquito Hill Nature Center in Green Bay for a concert by folksinger Bill Staines. Then it's back to the arena for the Home and Garden Show mid-March to think about what we will plant in the gardens in late May.
The following week is the Spring Equinox and camping will start soon after. Meanwhile, Gary is finding campgrounds for my summer tour and making reservations as needed.
For the winter months, we can only think of the joys to come.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
End of the Year
For me, the period between Christmas and New Year's is an intense work time. My year end schedule includes:
-- putting the year's photos and memorabilia in the year's scrapbook. It's not a fancy scrapbook, just a record of what we did. I've placed an order for photos and will pick them up this afternoon. On New Year's Eve, as Gary and I babysit with grandson Evan, the final pictures and notations will be added. I have 35 of these scrapbooks.
-- sorting through the cards and letters I've received during the year and placing the most meaningful into the scrapbook. The rest are cut up as bookmarks, tags for presents, or simply put out for recycling.
-- writing all the birthdays, anniversaries and other special events on the new calendar.
-- paying the final bills of the year. I like to go into the New Year owing nothing.
-- making a list of goals. These are not resolutions, but specific projects. For instance, I may want to lose weight, but my goal will be to go to the fitness center three times a week. I set that up on the calendar.
-- sending all magazines and newspapers go to the recyling center at the end of the year. If I haven't read them by now, I never will.
-- going through the filing cabinets and finding more to recycle. Anything that I haven't looked at in three years is a candidate.
-- clearing out old e-mail. Delete, delete, delete.
-- Finally, making up a tax folder with everything I need to file listed. My accountant gives me a list of what I can deduct and I set about totaling mileage, accommodations and restaurant receipts.
All of this will be done by midnight of 2010. I will wake up on New Year's Day with a clear head and an organized life. Isn't that better than going out drinking?
-- putting the year's photos and memorabilia in the year's scrapbook. It's not a fancy scrapbook, just a record of what we did. I've placed an order for photos and will pick them up this afternoon. On New Year's Eve, as Gary and I babysit with grandson Evan, the final pictures and notations will be added. I have 35 of these scrapbooks.
-- sorting through the cards and letters I've received during the year and placing the most meaningful into the scrapbook. The rest are cut up as bookmarks, tags for presents, or simply put out for recycling.
-- writing all the birthdays, anniversaries and other special events on the new calendar.
-- paying the final bills of the year. I like to go into the New Year owing nothing.
-- making a list of goals. These are not resolutions, but specific projects. For instance, I may want to lose weight, but my goal will be to go to the fitness center three times a week. I set that up on the calendar.
-- sending all magazines and newspapers go to the recyling center at the end of the year. If I haven't read them by now, I never will.
-- going through the filing cabinets and finding more to recycle. Anything that I haven't looked at in three years is a candidate.
-- clearing out old e-mail. Delete, delete, delete.
-- Finally, making up a tax folder with everything I need to file listed. My accountant gives me a list of what I can deduct and I set about totaling mileage, accommodations and restaurant receipts.
All of this will be done by midnight of 2010. I will wake up on New Year's Day with a clear head and an organized life. Isn't that better than going out drinking?
Monday, December 27, 2010
Miles to go
I've totaled the miles I will travel during the summer reading program tour. It looks like the Mercury Sable will chug along just short of 6,000 miles and that doesn't include side trips to see scenic wonders. That sounds like too many, but they are spread out over forty days, so the most time I'll spend on the road on any given day will be five or six hours mostly on weekends with no performances.
I like driving, so it won't be all that bad. Gary wants to install a GPS system but more than that, I would like to get a workable CD player so I can listen to books. I have a small notebook computer, perhaps I can get a CD attachment for that. I am marking my maps wherever there are likely trails, swimming spots, laundromats, or Mom and Pop restaurants. I'll visit friends and make new ones.
Along the way, I'll take time out to journal, write articles, and check home via Skype. Being alone and loneliness are two separate things. These solitary days on the road renew my soul.
I like driving, so it won't be all that bad. Gary wants to install a GPS system but more than that, I would like to get a workable CD player so I can listen to books. I have a small notebook computer, perhaps I can get a CD attachment for that. I am marking my maps wherever there are likely trails, swimming spots, laundromats, or Mom and Pop restaurants. I'll visit friends and make new ones.
Along the way, I'll take time out to journal, write articles, and check home via Skype. Being alone and loneliness are two separate things. These solitary days on the road renew my soul.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Refreshed
There are two days, Christmas and my birthday, when I go nowhere, do no housework, put storytelling aside, don't scribble or edit a novel or short story. Those are completely lazy days.
Yesterday, Gary and I watched DVDs, snacked on leftover Christmas food, and read books. I left blogging alone other than posting something I had written the day before. For exercise, I turned on Christmas lights and walked to and from the refrigerator.
At the end of the day, I felt frustration and the urge to get out and do SOMETHING! Today, I go back to planning and scurrying, with my mind refreshed and re-activated. Sunday services and church and a drive to visit a friend will start me functioning again.
Happy Boxing Day to my British friends. How clever of you to add another day on to the festivities.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Christmas calories
On the first hour of Christmas, my kitchen called to me for a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (Dairy products contain calcium which I need for strong bones.)
On the second hour of Christmas, my kitchen called to me for a double Irish Cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (Caffeine will give me energy for the day ahead.)
On the third hour of Christmas, my kitchen called to me for three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish Cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese.
(Walnuts and chocolate may decrease the chance of heart disease, according the USDA.)
On the fourth hour of Christmas, my kitchen called to me for four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (Chex mix adds fiber to my diet.)
On the fifth hour of Christmas my kitchen called to me for five Christmas cookies, four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (Using lots of butter helps the dairy industry.)
On the six hour of Christmas my kitchen called to me for six ounces of apple cider, five Christmas cookies, four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (I was slowing down, but soon got my second wind...or had a second wind.)
On the seventh hour of Christmas my kitchen called to me for seven handfuls of corn tortilla chips with guacamole dip, six ounces of apple cider, five Christmas cookies, four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (A serving of corn tortilla chips has 79 milligrams (mg) of sodium, or 3 percent of the DV for sodium. It also has 7 percent of the DV for phosphorus and 6 percent of the DV for magnesium. Additional vitamins and minerals in corn tortilla chips include 3 percent of the DV for thiamin, vitamin B6, calcium, zinc and selenium...but who cares?)
On the eighth hour of Christmas my kitchen called to me for eight snickerdooles, seven handfuls of corn chips with guacamole dip, six ounces of apple cider, five Christmas cookies, four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (250 calories in each snickerdoodle, but I'll think about that tomorrow.)
On the ninth hour of Christmas my kitchen called to me for nine scoops of chocolate ice cream, eight snickerdoodles, seven handfuls of corn chips with guacamole dip, six ounces of apple cider, five Christmas cookies, four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (Dairy product, see first and fifth day.)
On the tenth hour of Christmas, my kitchen called to me for ten peanut butter chocolate kiss cookies, nine scoops of chocolate ice cream, eight snickerdoodles, seven handfuls of corn chips with guacamole dip, six ounces of apple cider, five Christmas cookies, four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (Peanut butter has protein.)
On the eleventh hour of Christmas, my kitchen called to me for eleven blueberry scones reheated in the microwave, ten peanut butter chocolate kiss cookies, nine scoops of chocolate ice cream, eight snickerdoodles, seven handfuls of corn chips with guacamole dip, six ounces of apple cider, five Christmas cookies, four cups of Chex mix, three cherry walnut fudge brownies, a double Irish cream cappuccino topped with whipped cream, and a bagel slathered in cream cheese. (Blueberries are no. 1 in antioxident effects, according to the USDA, so I will be very healthy...tomorrow.)
On the twelve hour of Christmas, my bed called to me, so I had a twelve ounce mug of hot chocolate (see dairy products) and was thankful winter days are short.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Christmas Eve traditions
The holidays are all about memories. Gary has been thinking about his father, who died over a year ago. Dwight made a fabulous meatloaf and Gary wanted it for our meal tonight. The problem was that Dwight never wrote the recipe down. We queried his relatives and came up with a list of ingredients which may or may not be complete and no instructions on how to put them together. I found a similar recipe on the internet and adjusted it with the list of ingredients.
Gary decreed that it would only be his father's meatloaf if it were mixed up in his father's "meatloaf bowl". He began to a frantic search for the bowl in the house and a storage unit. Nothing else would do. When he finally found it, I began to laugh. It's a cheap little blue plastic bowl, the color pretty much bleached out. But it's tradition so I will use it this evening. I hope it turns out well.
My son Chris, his wife Tisha, and the best grandson in the world, five year old Evan, are coming over around 3:00 pm. Tisha never had time to make cookies this year, so Grandma came to the rescue. I made the cookies yesterday and this afternoon, Evan and I will decorate them. Then he'll help me put battery operated tea light candles in holders all over the house and turn on the tree holiday decorations, as we do every year. I'll tell him about the ornaments on the tree and he'll look for the Twelve Days of Christmas. After opening presents and eating our meatloaf, we'll pile into the car to drive around looking at the lights throughout this little town. We'll wind up at the cemetery where we place a candle on my parents' grave to burn the night through. One year there was a snowstorm with high drifts. I thought, no candle this year, but Chris drove through the blizzard and bless her heart, Tisha leaped over the drifts and dug a spot for the candle out of the wind. It was still glowing the next day.
Finally, church services where I will direct the chancel choir through our favorite anthems and hymns.
I do love Christmas!
May all find their own traditions this season of joy.
Gary decreed that it would only be his father's meatloaf if it were mixed up in his father's "meatloaf bowl". He began to a frantic search for the bowl in the house and a storage unit. Nothing else would do. When he finally found it, I began to laugh. It's a cheap little blue plastic bowl, the color pretty much bleached out. But it's tradition so I will use it this evening. I hope it turns out well.
My son Chris, his wife Tisha, and the best grandson in the world, five year old Evan, are coming over around 3:00 pm. Tisha never had time to make cookies this year, so Grandma came to the rescue. I made the cookies yesterday and this afternoon, Evan and I will decorate them. Then he'll help me put battery operated tea light candles in holders all over the house and turn on the tree holiday decorations, as we do every year. I'll tell him about the ornaments on the tree and he'll look for the Twelve Days of Christmas. After opening presents and eating our meatloaf, we'll pile into the car to drive around looking at the lights throughout this little town. We'll wind up at the cemetery where we place a candle on my parents' grave to burn the night through. One year there was a snowstorm with high drifts. I thought, no candle this year, but Chris drove through the blizzard and bless her heart, Tisha leaped over the drifts and dug a spot for the candle out of the wind. It was still glowing the next day.
Finally, church services where I will direct the chancel choir through our favorite anthems and hymns.
I do love Christmas!
May all find their own traditions this season of joy.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Another tour to organize
Besides my own bookings, I occasionally work as an agent for performing artists from abroad. They do the same for me when I visit them. In February, Caim, a Celtic duo, will be here in Wisconsin. Heather Innes, from Stirling, Scotland, and Jacynth Hamill, from Belfast, Ireland, sing a capella in Gaelic. So far, I've arranged eleven bookings for them in three weeks.
Heather and Jacynth have adopted an orphanage in Thailand. I just found out about that and now am working on finding them additional benefit performances.
This is the third tour I've booked for Caim. Jacynth says that it is time for me to visit her in Ireland, a place I've longed to see. I've been to Scotland twice and treasure memories of the time Heather and I stayed at a bed and breakfast lighthouse at Gairloch. Now my dreams are about Ireland's Giant's Causeway. If I intend to leap from granite rock to rock, I'd best get there before I get much older!
Heather and Jacynth have adopted an orphanage in Thailand. I just found out about that and now am working on finding them additional benefit performances.
This is the third tour I've booked for Caim. Jacynth says that it is time for me to visit her in Ireland, a place I've longed to see. I've been to Scotland twice and treasure memories of the time Heather and I stayed at a bed and breakfast lighthouse at Gairloch. Now my dreams are about Ireland's Giant's Causeway. If I intend to leap from granite rock to rock, I'd best get there before I get much older!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
The Countdown Begins
Last year at the winter solstice, I began a countdown to the spring equinox on with a Facebook notation every day. My friends requested I do it again this winter. It gives us all a sense of hope in the darkest days of winter.
December 22 is the shortest day here in Seymour. The sun didn't come up until 7:28 and will leave us at 4:17 pm. That means we only have 8 hours and 49 minutes of daylight. It's not enough for me. I got up at midnight to watch the almost full moon reflecting on the snow. I could pretend it was sunlight, at least until the clouds came back with more snow. Earth moves slowly as she changes her direction. Our day will be a minute longer tomorrow, but then there will no be additional daylight time until the 28th.
The day after the 2010 spring equinox, Gary and I put our canoe in the Wolf River for our first cruise of the year. A few days earlier, the swans had returned. They are better forecasters of spring than any robins.
Eighty nine days to go!
December 22 is the shortest day here in Seymour. The sun didn't come up until 7:28 and will leave us at 4:17 pm. That means we only have 8 hours and 49 minutes of daylight. It's not enough for me. I got up at midnight to watch the almost full moon reflecting on the snow. I could pretend it was sunlight, at least until the clouds came back with more snow. Earth moves slowly as she changes her direction. Our day will be a minute longer tomorrow, but then there will no be additional daylight time until the 28th.
The day after the 2010 spring equinox, Gary and I put our canoe in the Wolf River for our first cruise of the year. A few days earlier, the swans had returned. They are better forecasters of spring than any robins.
Eighty nine days to go!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Thinking Ahead
The summer reading program won't begin until mid-June, but I am working on the itinerary now. Today, I'm nailing down the addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses and directions for each library. In some cases, I have to go back to the librarians to clarify the times of the performances.
Next comes figuring out the mileage between the performances and the time it will take. This means going back to the paper maps and checking mapquest.
Finally, I need to locate campgrounds along the entire route. In some cases, I will have to reserve sites ahead of time. That should be done in early January.
As we prepare for the long night of the winter solstice, it is pleasant to think of long summer days. We wanted to watch the lunar eclipse and the Uriad meteor showers tonight but it seems that Northeast Wisconsin is to be hit with yet another snowstorm. I guess we will watch NASA's live stream of the event at http://www.nasa.gov/topics/solarsystem/features/watchtheskies/index.html
As of tomorrow, the days will get longer. Equinox, here we come!
Next comes figuring out the mileage between the performances and the time it will take. This means going back to the paper maps and checking mapquest.
Finally, I need to locate campgrounds along the entire route. In some cases, I will have to reserve sites ahead of time. That should be done in early January.
As we prepare for the long night of the winter solstice, it is pleasant to think of long summer days. We wanted to watch the lunar eclipse and the Uriad meteor showers tonight but it seems that Northeast Wisconsin is to be hit with yet another snowstorm. I guess we will watch NASA's live stream of the event at http://www.nasa.gov/topics/solarsystem/features/watchtheskies/index.html
As of tomorrow, the days will get longer. Equinox, here we come!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Las Posadas
Yesterday, we at the Seymour United Methodist Church held a Las Posadas celebration, a Mexican Christmas tradition. It should be a nine-day celebration from December 16 to Christmas Eve, but the odds of Wisconsin having nine good days of weather in a row is a nil. Even the owners of our donkey decided that it was too cold for our little beast of burden.
Our version includes a journey following Mary and Joseph from house to house seeking shelter as we sing Christmas carols. We are always refused. Finally, we reach the church which is willing to let us all in and serve us a fiesta of Hispanic food followed by the smashing of pinatas, three of them for three age groups.
My five year old grandson Evan was there, waiting to take a "whack at that thing" with the youngest revelers. It took him three times through the lineup of toddlers, but he finally knocked the pinata to the floor, with candy and peanuts scattered all over. It takes a grandmother to be that proud of her grandson for violently knocking the head off a papier mache donkey. It takes an observant grandson to know that any Snickers bars are to be delivered directly to said grandmother.
Our version includes a journey following Mary and Joseph from house to house seeking shelter as we sing Christmas carols. We are always refused. Finally, we reach the church which is willing to let us all in and serve us a fiesta of Hispanic food followed by the smashing of pinatas, three of them for three age groups.
My five year old grandson Evan was there, waiting to take a "whack at that thing" with the youngest revelers. It took him three times through the lineup of toddlers, but he finally knocked the pinata to the floor, with candy and peanuts scattered all over. It takes a grandmother to be that proud of her grandson for violently knocking the head off a papier mache donkey. It takes an observant grandson to know that any Snickers bars are to be delivered directly to said grandmother.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
The One Size Fits All Sing for Your Supper Winter Solstice Party
My Annual One Size Fits All Sing for Your Supper Winter Solstice Party began decades ago in another house. It went on for almost ten years. I can't remember exactly why it stopped. It might have been that I was away from home that Christmas season. Was it the time I house sat in Colorado? Was it the year I was preparing to go to New Zealand and didn't have time to decorate for a gathering?
Last night, we revived the tradition. The rule is simple: attendees must bring something to eat or perform. So besides the bounty of food, we were entertained. Wade and I each read short stories. Doris read poems. From her newspaper column, Darlene read a story about her husband's youth. He in turn told a story about driving a team of horses when he was seven years old. Colette shared computer creations that won her a prize. Bridget's nature photography is on a YouTube video so we watched that. (Many of the photos were snapped at the places I will visit in 2011.) Susan told funny stories about her grandson, who is a real character.
Kim "Skyped" in from Ogden, Utah. I'm afraid Wade and I ate snickerdoodles in front of the computer's camera as we talked. Snickerdoodles are Kim's favorite cookies and she had none. I'll see her in person in July but I'll have no way to carry cookies that far.
I found offering from the first solstice gathering in my files. It was humorous parody of "A Visit from St. Nicolas" from Betty who now lives near Denver, Colorado. She typed it 25 years ago in pre-computer days, but it still holds up and had us all laughing. I'll see her in July, too.
Nature joined in the festivities with a northern lights display, putting us all to shame. How can anyone beat that?
And oh the food! There was far too much for us to finish, and most of it was left behind. What shall I do with the cookies, the candy, the chips, the ham, the shrimp, etc.? Gain weight, I'm afraid.
The guests voted to come back and do it again next year. Happy Solstice everyone.
Last night, we revived the tradition. The rule is simple: attendees must bring something to eat or perform. So besides the bounty of food, we were entertained. Wade and I each read short stories. Doris read poems. From her newspaper column, Darlene read a story about her husband's youth. He in turn told a story about driving a team of horses when he was seven years old. Colette shared computer creations that won her a prize. Bridget's nature photography is on a YouTube video so we watched that. (Many of the photos were snapped at the places I will visit in 2011.) Susan told funny stories about her grandson, who is a real character.
Kim "Skyped" in from Ogden, Utah. I'm afraid Wade and I ate snickerdoodles in front of the computer's camera as we talked. Snickerdoodles are Kim's favorite cookies and she had none. I'll see her in person in July but I'll have no way to carry cookies that far.
I found offering from the first solstice gathering in my files. It was humorous parody of "A Visit from St. Nicolas" from Betty who now lives near Denver, Colorado. She typed it 25 years ago in pre-computer days, but it still holds up and had us all laughing. I'll see her in July, too.
Nature joined in the festivities with a northern lights display, putting us all to shame. How can anyone beat that?
And oh the food! There was far too much for us to finish, and most of it was left behind. What shall I do with the cookies, the candy, the chips, the ham, the shrimp, etc.? Gain weight, I'm afraid.
The guests voted to come back and do it again next year. Happy Solstice everyone.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Shopping
I finished my Christmas shopping yesterday. I started yesterday, too.
When my son was little, I decreed that Christmas shopping would last exactly two hours. It worked out and I've stuck with that. I make a solid list that takes me to three or four stores on a specified morning when they are just opening. (Not Black Friday though. I would rather wait for a natural disaster and go out and loot.) A book store is one of the stops.
I don't search for the "in" thing. Often, I buy the same thing for everyone in the extended family. One year, everyone got a cup with a funny inscription. Another year, everybody got matching t-shirts. Everyone's favorite year was the time I found cookie jars at thrift stores and filled them with homemade goodies.
Each year, I talk more people into forgetting the gift thing entirely.
After two hours, my shopping is done with one last stop at a discount giant that has gift cards from various stores and restaurants. Those last hard-to-shop-for people get the cards. Then it is time to quit and go to out for lunch at a Chinese restaurant.
Do I save anything by shopping this way? Absolutely. I save my sanity.
When my son was little, I decreed that Christmas shopping would last exactly two hours. It worked out and I've stuck with that. I make a solid list that takes me to three or four stores on a specified morning when they are just opening. (Not Black Friday though. I would rather wait for a natural disaster and go out and loot.) A book store is one of the stops.
I don't search for the "in" thing. Often, I buy the same thing for everyone in the extended family. One year, everyone got a cup with a funny inscription. Another year, everybody got matching t-shirts. Everyone's favorite year was the time I found cookie jars at thrift stores and filled them with homemade goodies.
Each year, I talk more people into forgetting the gift thing entirely.
After two hours, my shopping is done with one last stop at a discount giant that has gift cards from various stores and restaurants. Those last hard-to-shop-for people get the cards. Then it is time to quit and go to out for lunch at a Chinese restaurant.
Do I save anything by shopping this way? Absolutely. I save my sanity.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Places I never miss
I've been to Arizona twice yet have never seen the Grand Canyon. I've visited Las Vegas, but did not have time to see Hoover Dam. I drove through Seattle on my way to Bellingham to catch a ferry to Alaska and never even stopped to drink cappuccino at a Starbucks.
That is the sad truth about being a touring artist. We rush from place to place to make our performances and pass by scenic wonders. That is why I have stopped setting up work after 23 performances. During those five weeks, I will make it a point to stop at Zion National Park to look at the canyons. I've rushed past Theodore Roosevelt National Park four times while driving through North Dakota. This time I intend to stop.
I want to see the California redwoods. Oddly, I once visited redwoods, but in Christchurch, New Zealand. Because things grow at an astonishing rate because of volcanic soil, the Kiwi redwoods had gotten mighty big in the 80 years since they were planted in the botanical gardens, but I still expect to be amazed at the California trees.
While I'm at it, I want to visit a few old friends. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in North Dakota has always been a favorite of mine. I want to camp in the Gallatin National Forest in Montana again.
Poring over the maps will be a pleasurable past time during a cold Wisconsin winter.
That is the sad truth about being a touring artist. We rush from place to place to make our performances and pass by scenic wonders. That is why I have stopped setting up work after 23 performances. During those five weeks, I will make it a point to stop at Zion National Park to look at the canyons. I've rushed past Theodore Roosevelt National Park four times while driving through North Dakota. This time I intend to stop.
I want to see the California redwoods. Oddly, I once visited redwoods, but in Christchurch, New Zealand. Because things grow at an astonishing rate because of volcanic soil, the Kiwi redwoods had gotten mighty big in the 80 years since they were planted in the botanical gardens, but I still expect to be amazed at the California trees.
While I'm at it, I want to visit a few old friends. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in North Dakota has always been a favorite of mine. I want to camp in the Gallatin National Forest in Montana again.
Poring over the maps will be a pleasurable past time during a cold Wisconsin winter.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Journalist on the road.
Now that the tour is well in hand, it's time to look for writing assignments, another way to make a trip profitable. I expect to write a travel article or two, but there are other possibilities as well. I once tracked down interesting log homes for a magazine. I even covered two log homes in New Zealand! There are blogs that need input and newspapers that may want to have a running commentary during my travels.
One Wisconsin librarian asked if I would consider doing an adult program when I come back, complete with photos. There should be a few libraries looking for programs in the winter of 2011-12.
Today, I'll be making lists of possibilities.
One Wisconsin librarian asked if I would consider doing an adult program when I come back, complete with photos. There should be a few libraries looking for programs in the winter of 2011-12.
Today, I'll be making lists of possibilities.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Filling the calendar
Today I am filling in dates on my itinerary, trying to nail down performances in Idaho, Washington and California. Where there are no libraries, I can usually find some nursing homes or day care centers. I've told in prisons, so those are a possibility, too. I am leaving some dates blank for exploration purposes. There is no point in going on a tour like this without spending time hiking along beaches, through canyons, or on mountain trails.
Twenty three performances so far in five weeks. Three states I've never been in. Adventures, adventures, adventures! I should come home with hundreds of photos and a few new friends.
Twenty three performances so far in five weeks. Three states I've never been in. Adventures, adventures, adventures! I should come home with hundreds of photos and a few new friends.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Bread, Snickerdoodles, and Candles
We're in the middle of a full scale blizzard in Wisconsin. Church has been cancelled, the grocery store closed. We aren't even shoveling yet because the wind pushes the snow right back at us. We'll wait until this afternoon for that.
We're going into the second day of being snowbound, so today is the day I start my Christmas baking. First I'll start with bread, since we're running low, a nice flaxseed bran bread. I'll make blueberry muffins, apple scones, snickerdoodles, and maybe some peanut butter cookies, too. I'm missing a couple of ingredients for decorated Christmas cookies, so those will have to wait.
Candles are burning in the living room, the stereo is playing the Messiah. Nothing better for the spirit than a white Christmas and the smell of baked goods.
We're going into the second day of being snowbound, so today is the day I start my Christmas baking. First I'll start with bread, since we're running low, a nice flaxseed bran bread. I'll make blueberry muffins, apple scones, snickerdoodles, and maybe some peanut butter cookies, too. I'm missing a couple of ingredients for decorated Christmas cookies, so those will have to wait.
Candles are burning in the living room, the stereo is playing the Messiah. Nothing better for the spirit than a white Christmas and the smell of baked goods.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Snowstorm
It's the first snowstorm of the season, the first of many for northeast Wisconsin. I casually mentioned to Gary last night that the neighborhood men already had their snowblowers out, even though there were only about two inches of snow on the sidewalks. He leaped into action and rushed out to get his going, too.
At 5:00 a.m. they were all at it again. It's a guy thing, I guess.
None of this obsessive plowing will make the sidewalks and roads less slippery, so we will have a day at home. I will bake bread and finish off the gumbo I started yesterday.
I am now up to 23 bookings for the summer reading program tour. Now I must start lining up some nursing home bookings for Florida in February.
At 5:00 a.m. they were all at it again. It's a guy thing, I guess.
None of this obsessive plowing will make the sidewalks and roads less slippery, so we will have a day at home. I will bake bread and finish off the gumbo I started yesterday.
I am now up to 23 bookings for the summer reading program tour. Now I must start lining up some nursing home bookings for Florida in February.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Yoga
I do yoga practice at a local facility twice a week. I am not terribly proficient. I struggle with the balance postures, and the lotus position is beyond me, but I persevere. I remind myself that this is yoga "practice" not a performance and ignore the lithe younger women beside me.
My daily practices at home are shorter but still beneficial. I insert a CD with waves crashing against a shore somewhere, or perhaps monks chanting in Latin, and for half an hour am lost somewhere inside myself.
My yoga mat comes with me on my travels. At the end of each day, I find myself in a national forest. Sitting under tall pines on a bluff overlooking a lake, I can meditate the day's stress away and stretch out muscles sore from driving. There is peace above me (the sky), peace below me (the lake) and peace all around me (the forest). They bring peace to my mind, body and spirit.
My daily practices at home are shorter but still beneficial. I insert a CD with waves crashing against a shore somewhere, or perhaps monks chanting in Latin, and for half an hour am lost somewhere inside myself.
My yoga mat comes with me on my travels. At the end of each day, I find myself in a national forest. Sitting under tall pines on a bluff overlooking a lake, I can meditate the day's stress away and stretch out muscles sore from driving. There is peace above me (the sky), peace below me (the lake) and peace all around me (the forest). They bring peace to my mind, body and spirit.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Maps vs. GPS
Gary loves his GPS and thinks I ought to have one in my car. His is on at all times, even for a two block drive to the grocery store. It amazes me that a guy who doesn't like a woman telling him how to drive can listen to an annoying electronic voice directing him at every turn. If the voice isn't activated, he is constantly looking at the computer.
On my travels, I have a simple system. Before I start the car, I take out the map and jot down the numbers of the highways I will be traveling on and how far between each turn. I note cities where I can stop for groceries, a quick meal, and e-mail access. The information goes on a clipboard beside me that gets perhaps ten glances a day. If I get confused, I can always pull off the road and look at the map.
I'll stick with maps.
On my travels, I have a simple system. Before I start the car, I take out the map and jot down the numbers of the highways I will be traveling on and how far between each turn. I note cities where I can stop for groceries, a quick meal, and e-mail access. The information goes on a clipboard beside me that gets perhaps ten glances a day. If I get confused, I can always pull off the road and look at the map.
I'll stick with maps.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Florida in February
I love Wisconsin, my home state. One quarter of the state is in forests. We have more lakes than Minnesota, over 11,000. (They thought of their motto,"Land of 10,000 Lakes" first.) There are pristine rivers to canoe, trails to hike, wildlife to observe. Yes, I do love this state, except in one month: February. That is a month of extreme cold, blizzards, and gray skies. It is during that month that I am beset with Seasonal Affective Disorder. I have no friends, I am suffering from some terminal disease (a new one each year), and life is horrible. Yes, February is the longest month, no matter what anyone tells you. Then comes March and I find that I have so many friends, I wasn't sick after all, and how can life be terrible when the daffodils come up?
That is why I try to think of ways to escape Wisconsin in mid-winter. Tours in New Zealand, Australia and southern state often happen in February as I search for the sun.
In mid-February, my friends Heather Ponting and Jacynth Hamill, Celtic a capella singers, will fly into Wisconsin from Great Britain.. From here, we'll go down to Florida to perform in the Gainsville area for over a week. We'll drive back here for their three weeks of performances. By the time they leave, it will be spring in Wisconsin and I'll have survived another winter. Bless them.
That is why I try to think of ways to escape Wisconsin in mid-winter. Tours in New Zealand, Australia and southern state often happen in February as I search for the sun.
In mid-February, my friends Heather Ponting and Jacynth Hamill, Celtic a capella singers, will fly into Wisconsin from Great Britain.. From here, we'll go down to Florida to perform in the Gainsville area for over a week. We'll drive back here for their three weeks of performances. By the time they leave, it will be spring in Wisconsin and I'll have survived another winter. Bless them.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Nerves, glory, and a case of the munchies.
I had the bouquet carefully hidden at home. At 5:30 exactly, I went to the church and unlocked the doors, bouquet in hand but who should follow me in but Vera and Alice, very early for the pre-concert rehearsal. I quickly covered the bouquet with my coat, hoping I wouldn't squash it.
The next hour was a flurry of getting everyone the information they needed, organizing two Sunday school choirs who had never rehearsed with us, warming up the chancel choir, finding locations in the church for the hammer dulcimer player, calming down the teenage trumpet player, and running from one end of the church to the other.
Finally, the audience assembled and we began with a trumpet call, a choral piece and the invocation and we were off an running. I found the one thing I had neglected was a chair for me, so I perched myself on a step beside the altar, hidden behind the piano.
The two combined children's choirs with 50 voices sang the chorus of "Halle, Halle, Halle" with the 30 voice chancel choir. One boy became so excited he danced. We were enchanted. During our finale, "Holy is the Newborn Child", Vera wailed out her solo to perfection. Then came the presentation of the flowers, thankfully un-squashed, for her 75 years of singing with a choir. I became quite emotional during it, but Vera was as calm as could be...but really surprised.
So goes another Christmas event. Parties, one mine, and Christmas Eve to go.
The next hour was a flurry of getting everyone the information they needed, organizing two Sunday school choirs who had never rehearsed with us, warming up the chancel choir, finding locations in the church for the hammer dulcimer player, calming down the teenage trumpet player, and running from one end of the church to the other.
Finally, the audience assembled and we began with a trumpet call, a choral piece and the invocation and we were off an running. I found the one thing I had neglected was a chair for me, so I perched myself on a step beside the altar, hidden behind the piano.
The two combined children's choirs with 50 voices sang the chorus of "Halle, Halle, Halle" with the 30 voice chancel choir. One boy became so excited he danced. We were enchanted. During our finale, "Holy is the Newborn Child", Vera wailed out her solo to perfection. Then came the presentation of the flowers, thankfully un-squashed, for her 75 years of singing with a choir. I became quite emotional during it, but Vera was as calm as could be...but really surprised.
So goes another Christmas event. Parties, one mine, and Christmas Eve to go.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Music!
Tonight is my church's annual Christmas concert. Besides the chancel choir, we'll have two Sunday school choirs, the Praise and Worship Band, a hammer dulcimer piece, and a sing a long of hymns. We've been rehearsing for weeks. As choir director, it was my job to select the music, organize the program and rehearse the chancel choir. As pianist, I play for soloists and ensembles. It meant practicing at the church daily.
One of the choir members is Vera, who will sing a solo part in one of the pieces. It required someone who could "wail" gospel. I tried younger members of the choir but only Vera could get that great African American sound. Vera is a 4'10" dynamo who has been singing with this choir for 75 years. At 86, she still babysits daily with grandchildren of the toddlers she used to watch. I hope to grow up to be like Vera.
Who cares about presents when we have concerts? My Christmas is all about family, friends, lights and music, music, music.
One of the choir members is Vera, who will sing a solo part in one of the pieces. It required someone who could "wail" gospel. I tried younger members of the choir but only Vera could get that great African American sound. Vera is a 4'10" dynamo who has been singing with this choir for 75 years. At 86, she still babysits daily with grandchildren of the toddlers she used to watch. I hope to grow up to be like Vera.
Who cares about presents when we have concerts? My Christmas is all about family, friends, lights and music, music, music.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Books
The day my grandson was born, I took him his first book and read it to him. It was Dr. Seuss's The Places You'll Go. Ever since then, I've been the Book Grandma, bringing him books for every occasion and sometimes just for the heck of it. He has three book cases.
On Thanksgiving, I brought him the illustrated Hobbit I used to read to his father, but five year old Evan looked at the pictures and told me, "We do chapter books now." He meant his mother read him longer books these days. I had to convince him that the Hobbit was indeed a chapter book. He read the first paragraph to me, carefully sounding out the words.
So, we enter a new phase. My grandson is now literate and I must adapt accordingly. I am scouring the bookstores for new titles. Elizabeth and Colette, our local librarians, give me advice about not only chapter books, but easy readers. I took a stack out home this morning to peruse. He will get the Guardians of Ga'Hoole. I think he will like reading the Junie B. Jones, Elephant and Pig, and Captain Underpants series for easy readers. He already has the Narnia series.
The word has gone out to my friends. I wait for more suggestions.
On Thanksgiving, I brought him the illustrated Hobbit I used to read to his father, but five year old Evan looked at the pictures and told me, "We do chapter books now." He meant his mother read him longer books these days. I had to convince him that the Hobbit was indeed a chapter book. He read the first paragraph to me, carefully sounding out the words.
So, we enter a new phase. My grandson is now literate and I must adapt accordingly. I am scouring the bookstores for new titles. Elizabeth and Colette, our local librarians, give me advice about not only chapter books, but easy readers. I took a stack out home this morning to peruse. He will get the Guardians of Ga'Hoole. I think he will like reading the Junie B. Jones, Elephant and Pig, and Captain Underpants series for easy readers. He already has the Narnia series.
The word has gone out to my friends. I wait for more suggestions.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Ice cream
As of today, I estimate twenty-two performances in eight states come summer. There will be more to come but for the moment, I work on logistics. No, not locating the best highways. Not finding camping sites. My number one problem when on the road is ferreting out good ice cream. I don't mean Dairy Queen type ice milk or Culver type custard. I want hand scooped ice cream in a variety of flavors. Where can I get Mackinac Island fudge? Where is almond amaretto? How about bear claw?
When I am in Upper Michigan, I can find Jilbert's ice cream, about the world's best. New Zealand has fabulous flavors in every little burg in the North and South Islands. China has the oddest flavors. Green tea ice cream anyone?
Where will I find ice cream in Utah, Idaho, Oregon? Does Moab have an ice cream parlor? What about Devil's Lake, North Dakota? This requires major research on my part. I feel I am up to the task.
When I am in Upper Michigan, I can find Jilbert's ice cream, about the world's best. New Zealand has fabulous flavors in every little burg in the North and South Islands. China has the oddest flavors. Green tea ice cream anyone?
Where will I find ice cream in Utah, Idaho, Oregon? Does Moab have an ice cream parlor? What about Devil's Lake, North Dakota? This requires major research on my part. I feel I am up to the task.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Snowfall
The first of today's snowflakes are twirling out of the grey skies, this first day of December. It seems I will be walking through a white world as I go downtown to hang posters for Los Posadas, our celebration of the Mexican tradition. This will be our third year going from door to door with Mary and Joseph and their donkey, asking for a place to stay. A local farmer provides a donkey each year. Last year's was an amiable soul called Moses, who loved having all the attention. Our first year, we had Lily, who wanted no part of us and dug in her heels. I was all on her side. We were dragging that pregnant donkey around. She had every right to complain.
We end the celebration with a fiesta with authentic Hispanic food and pinatas for the children. My grandson will be there because he likes to "bang that thing". Sounds nasty but he doesn't mean it that way.
We end the celebration with a fiesta with authentic Hispanic food and pinatas for the children. My grandson will be there because he likes to "bang that thing". Sounds nasty but he doesn't mean it that way.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
A Memory Tree
The Christmas tree in the living room went up three days ago. Decorating is slow going because each ornament has a story to tell. The oldest is a plain glass bulb I received from my grandmother when I was five. Each of my siblings received one out of a box of six but theirs were broken almost immediately. I treasured mine and there it is, Christmas after Christmas. It would shatter if dropped so I hang it high, away from the cat. Three plastic gingerbread men were the first I bought for myself, so old they were made in Japan. Then there are the stuffed toy-like ornaments I made when Chris was a toddler. Next to hang are all the craft projects he and I made in those years. The little teddy bears came from a art show I attended with my mother. My oldest sister knit tiny hats and mittens. My niece, today a university professor and renowned expert on potatoes, crocheted a heart when she was still in grade school. My youngest sister gave me the Twelve Days of Christmas. My grandson likes to find them on the tree. His photo is on an ornament that plays "I love you, Grandma. Mehhy Christmas." He was only three and I dread the day the battery wears out. Friends have contributed to the tree, too. Last year, a choir member gave me a bell from her collection. A friend from New Zealand sends me an angel each year. One by one, these treasures go on the tree. The first week in January, I reverse the process, each time remembering, remembering, remembering, as I put Christmas away for another year.
My decorations will never appear in Better Homes and Gardens, but I wouldn't trade them for the world. How could an interior decorator improve on a tree of memories?
My decorations will never appear in Better Homes and Gardens, but I wouldn't trade them for the world. How could an interior decorator improve on a tree of memories?
Monday, November 29, 2010
Time for a breather
I've now e-mailed all the libraries along my route. Now for a breather as the librarians think about summer and try to fit me into their schedules and vice versa. There are still some open dates, especially on the weekends. Gary is researching national forests for me, finding the best campgrounds and hiking trails.
Now I turn my attention to my good friends Heather (Scotland) and Jacynth (N. Ireland) who will be visiting me during Lent. They sing a capella Celtic music and will be performing in this area. I've found them a few bookings but they need more, so now the e-mails will go out each evening to churches and libraries here in Wisconsin. They have audio clips at their websites: www.myspace.com/celticcaim or www.cluniemusic.com
Tonight, the final rehearsal for our Advent Concert on Sunday.
The days speed by.
Now I turn my attention to my good friends Heather (Scotland) and Jacynth (N. Ireland) who will be visiting me during Lent. They sing a capella Celtic music and will be performing in this area. I've found them a few bookings but they need more, so now the e-mails will go out each evening to churches and libraries here in Wisconsin. They have audio clips at their websites: www.myspace.com/celticcaim or www.cluniemusic.com
Tonight, the final rehearsal for our Advent Concert on Sunday.
The days speed by.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Christmas Cards
Despite my love of the internet, I am still a friend to the post office, at least during the holiday season. I send out around 70+ Christmas and holiday cards in late November, starting the process on Thanksgiving Day. It is a once a year opportunity to catch up on the news from friends that I've met in my travels throughout the world, especially those who never have caught on to the idea of e-mail. Each card must contain a letter, note and/or photographs of my little family. It's a time consuming process but I enjoy reviving memories of times well spent.
And how I treasure the cards I get in return!
And how I treasure the cards I get in return!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Birding
Yesterday, Gary and I went out birding on the western shore of Lake Winnebago in bays at Oshkosh and Neenah. We found flocks of coots, buffleheads and tundra swans along with the usual mallards and Canada geese. We wondered why they were still hanging around Wisconsin after Thanksgiving. We've heard there are still flocks of sandhill cranes west of here, too. As we watched the swans, they suddenly took off, heading south. We won't see them again until the end of March.
This got us to thinking about what I will see when I travel to the western states. Once past the Mississippi, there are many species I've yet to observe. California condors have been sighted in Utah, for instance. My copy of The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America will be useless. I'll order a western version before the trip. My binoculars are always in my car, no extra packing there.
This got us to thinking about what I will see when I travel to the western states. Once past the Mississippi, there are many species I've yet to observe. California condors have been sighted in Utah, for instance. My copy of The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America will be useless. I'll order a western version before the trip. My binoculars are always in my car, no extra packing there.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Wyoming
The Wyoming dates quickly fell into place. I'll be in Circle, Montana on June 27, then in Wyoming June 28 to July 1. It looks like Colorado will be over the 4th of July weekend, so no performances there, but I will be stopping in to see friends and relatives before heading west to Utah where I have solid bookings through the 9th.
I've now finished the process of sending e-mails to all the libraries on my route. Now I wait for replies through January. After that, I set up nursing and assisted living performances, which nicely fit into the blank places on my calendar.
Putting a tour together is like doing a jigsaw puzzle, trying to fit everything together, but unfortunately, with a tour, there are always extra pieces. I can't see everything in five weeks. In Utah, I will be camping in the vicinity of Zion National Park, but with all the performances, an afternoon of hiking is the best I can expect. I do want to take some time to look at the California redwoods. In his last weeks, my father had one big regret, that he had never seen the redwoods. I will do this in his memory.
I've now finished the process of sending e-mails to all the libraries on my route. Now I wait for replies through January. After that, I set up nursing and assisted living performances, which nicely fit into the blank places on my calendar.
Putting a tour together is like doing a jigsaw puzzle, trying to fit everything together, but unfortunately, with a tour, there are always extra pieces. I can't see everything in five weeks. In Utah, I will be camping in the vicinity of Zion National Park, but with all the performances, an afternoon of hiking is the best I can expect. I do want to take some time to look at the California redwoods. In his last weeks, my father had one big regret, that he had never seen the redwoods. I will do this in his memory.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving
Last night we held an ecumenical Thanksgiving service at my church. I directed, the pianist was from the Catholic Church, and the speakers from each of the other local churches. My choir was joined by Lutheran and Catholic singers and the result was glorious. The pie fest after the concert was far too good for my waist line.
A happy Thanksgiving to everyone. May the roads be good, the traffic light and the drivers friendly. May you all find your way to a meal somewhere with someone you care for. May we all count our blessings.
A happy Thanksgiving to everyone. May the roads be good, the traffic light and the drivers friendly. May you all find your way to a meal somewhere with someone you care for. May we all count our blessings.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Thoughts of food
Thanksgiving tomorrow. Last night, our dinner; tomorrow, dessert with friends; Friday, another meal with friends; and Saturday, dinner with relatives. Today, I'm making turkey soup and freezing packages of left over turkey for future meals. The remaining bits of turkey will be made into frozen treat packets for Rascal the cat.
This is way too much turkey! I am off to the fitness and aquatic centers to wear some of it off.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The jigsaw puzzle.
The dates of the summer reading tour are slowly falling into place. I will be in Utah the week following Independence Day, with the weekend set aside for looking at the great national parks and visiting friends. Then I must scurry over the next week. I have set only one day aside for Nevada, one for California, then a week for Oregon and Washington before getting to Helena, Montana on July 19. I cannot book more than three performances in a day, so I sent 20 emails to Nevada libraries yesterday. Today I start the Wyoming and Colorado e-mails for the three possible dates there.
Fitting everyone in is much like doing a jigsaw puzzle, as I take distances and time into account. Still, it is coming along. The route will take me to some of the most beautiful areas of the country. My 2011 travel journal will fill up rapidly.
Monday, November 22, 2010
National Novel Writing Month
Only nine more days of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), and all I have is 25,000 words. The goal is 50,000 by the end of the November and it isn't likely I will make the count this year, unless I really push now. Still, 25,000 words are words I hadn't written at the beginning of the month.
I am working less on a novel than a book of short stories about depressing Christmases. I love Christmas, every part of it, but I know so many people who hate it. This book is a collection of stories for them. It began when I woke one Christmas Day, went out to get the newspaper and looked up and down the block and began to wonder how my neighbors were celebrating. I went back inside and wrote the first story, about a woman who had to do her son's newspaper route on Christmas Day. There are now stories about an old soldier, a minister suffering from depression, a boy exploring his sexuality, a little girl whose father tells her about the Rapture, ...well, you get the idea.
Today, I meet with my critique group for a writing session. I hope to have at least 2,000 words by the end of the two hours.
I am working less on a novel than a book of short stories about depressing Christmases. I love Christmas, every part of it, but I know so many people who hate it. This book is a collection of stories for them. It began when I woke one Christmas Day, went out to get the newspaper and looked up and down the block and began to wonder how my neighbors were celebrating. I went back inside and wrote the first story, about a woman who had to do her son's newspaper route on Christmas Day. There are now stories about an old soldier, a minister suffering from depression, a boy exploring his sexuality, a little girl whose father tells her about the Rapture, ...well, you get the idea.
Today, I meet with my critique group for a writing session. I hope to have at least 2,000 words by the end of the two hours.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Christmas is coming
The Seymour and Cicero United Methodists are having a joint advent concert in two weeks. As choir director, I have to rehearse the singers on Sunday mornings before church and hold a longer rehearsal on Monday nights. As the pianist, I have to rehearse with soloists, musicians and the organist whenever we can find time. As publicist, I write all the publicity, notify nearby churches, and design and put up posters. As logistics come into it, I must organize ushers and figure out if we want a post-concert reception and if so, who will be manning the punch tables. Every year I wonder why I am doing all this, then during the concert, I know why when those warm feelings rush over me. It usually happens during the candlelight sing along when the entire audience joins the choir in the traditional hymns. I look over at the choir in their blue robes and see tears in many eyes as they remember Christmases past. It is schmaltz, I know, but we can't help it.
This is much better than hearing music piped into stores during the Black Friday frenzy.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
The turning point
When planning one of these tours, I figure fifteen bookings as the "no turning back" point. I am committed. At twenty, I break even and from then on the tour is profitable.
Last night, I reached fifteen, with a booking at Circle, Montana. I usually don't reach fifteen until January, so I am way ahead of schedule, with more e-mails coming in daily.
The Utah bookings will be in the most scenic areas of the state. I look forward to seeing Arches, Canyonland and Zion National Parks. The only drawback is that I will be whizzing through Colorado without a stay at my cousin's or Betty's places. Maybe there will be time for lunch at a truck stop off the express way.
Last night, I reached fifteen, with a booking at Circle, Montana. I usually don't reach fifteen until January, so I am way ahead of schedule, with more e-mails coming in daily.
The Utah bookings will be in the most scenic areas of the state. I look forward to seeing Arches, Canyonland and Zion National Parks. The only drawback is that I will be whizzing through Colorado without a stay at my cousin's or Betty's places. Maybe there will be time for lunch at a truck stop off the express way.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Storytelling interrupted
It has been several years since I went out on a tour. First and foremost, the theme has to fit. Last year's theme was "Splash!" which meant the events had to do with water. Our Muehl Public Library had water games in the back yard and the special event was a pool party at the aquatic center. Splash! did not scream "Storytelling!" That was a summer to go camping and work on writing projects.
Then there was my accidental stint on the Seymour City Council.
I am a serial voter. I figure I can only complain when I have voted, so I vote in every election from Presidential to school board. In all my years as a voter, I've only missed five times, always minor elections and always because I was moving out of the areaa, and didn't feel I should have a say.
I am always annoyed when officials run for re-election unopposed. I want a choice so after the third election when a council member was running unopposed, I threw my name in. There was no charge, I only needed 20 names on a form that I passed around in church on Sunday. I turned it in and forgot about it. I never campaigned. On election day, I voted for myself, thinking no one else would. That night, I got the call: I won by one vote.
For two years, I had to stay put for the weekly council and committee meetings. In the election last spring, I left my name on the ballot but campaigned for the other guy, and successfully lost. Now I am free to travel.
Then there was my accidental stint on the Seymour City Council.
I am a serial voter. I figure I can only complain when I have voted, so I vote in every election from Presidential to school board. In all my years as a voter, I've only missed five times, always minor elections and always because I was moving out of the areaa, and didn't feel I should have a say.
I am always annoyed when officials run for re-election unopposed. I want a choice so after the third election when a council member was running unopposed, I threw my name in. There was no charge, I only needed 20 names on a form that I passed around in church on Sunday. I turned it in and forgot about it. I never campaigned. On election day, I voted for myself, thinking no one else would. That night, I got the call: I won by one vote.
For two years, I had to stay put for the weekly council and committee meetings. In the election last spring, I left my name on the ballot but campaigned for the other guy, and successfully lost. Now I am free to travel.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Oops. I forgot the maps.
I went to Illinois on Tuesday without taking the file for the summer reading trip that included the state maps and the dates I've already scheduled. Sure enough, I received a few e-mails about performances. Now that I am back and scrambling to figure out what I agreed to with the librarians. It now looks like I'll be leaving here about the 15th of June, doing a couple of performances in Wisconsin, at least one in Minnesota, heading south from Devil's Lake, North Dakota through South Dakota, Colorado and Utah before going west. Eventually, I'll reach Oregon and go back east for more performances in Montana and North Dakota before going home around the first of August. Six weeks away from home is the usual length of my tours, so this sounds right to me.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
More stories
Stories come whether we expect them or not. Yesterday, I had a long, long chat with Gary's 89 year old aunt Shirley, who told me some of the family history, and a lot of the family gossip. Gary's family has lived on the same farm since 1848 and in the same house since 1884. That's a lot of stories to digest. She has the genealogy, but that doesn't include the stories about each person listed, and those are what I wanted to hear.
There was the scandal of the hired man living in the same house as a spinster aunt. She was decades older than he (she was born in 1858) but in the early part of the 20th century, that was the neighborhood scandal. How times have changed!
There were stories about horses, because this was once a farm where trotting horses were bred. We talked about the German migration of the year 1848, which had to do with the European revolutions of the time. Young men migrated to escape being conscripted into the Kaiser's army. In other words, his ancestors, and mine as well, came to escape the draft.
This was a highly educated family for its time. Gary's great-great aunts were college graduates who became chemists and teachers.
I heard stories about Gary and the mischief he got into. I looked at a century's worth of year books, obituaries, wedding and birth announcements and more.
Some of what I heard will work its way into some of my novels and short stories, some will be written down for Gary and his family, and some will reside in my brain to be pulled out for farm stories to be told in nursing homes.
Nothing I learned will be wasted.
There was the scandal of the hired man living in the same house as a spinster aunt. She was decades older than he (she was born in 1858) but in the early part of the 20th century, that was the neighborhood scandal. How times have changed!
There were stories about horses, because this was once a farm where trotting horses were bred. We talked about the German migration of the year 1848, which had to do with the European revolutions of the time. Young men migrated to escape being conscripted into the Kaiser's army. In other words, his ancestors, and mine as well, came to escape the draft.
This was a highly educated family for its time. Gary's great-great aunts were college graduates who became chemists and teachers.
I heard stories about Gary and the mischief he got into. I looked at a century's worth of year books, obituaries, wedding and birth announcements and more.
Some of what I heard will work its way into some of my novels and short stories, some will be written down for Gary and his family, and some will reside in my brain to be pulled out for farm stories to be told in nursing homes.
Nothing I learned will be wasted.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Another State
We're off to the State of Illinois this morning, family business but I will look in at a couple of libraries to see what's going on. If I'd known about this trip beforehand, I would have contacted some nursing homes to see if they would like a story or two.
No camping this time, too cold, but sometimes motels can be adventures, too.
No camping this time, too cold, but sometimes motels can be adventures, too.
Monday, November 15, 2010
A new milepost
Last night, the counter moved past 999 "hits" to over a thousand, so this blog is being read. I'm hearing from librarians from all over the country.
I finished up with the Oregon e-mails yesterday and today start on Utah. I want to visit a friend in Ogden, see Zion National Park and camp in National Forests as I go. I've heard so much about the beauties of Utah but never visited it. I flew over it a few times but that doesn't count.
The trip is slowly changing shape. I'll be in Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota and eastern Montana before heading south through Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah. Eventually, I'll wind around to Oregon and go back through Idaho, western Montana and then home.
I read over the maps before bedtime and dream of new adventures.
I finished up with the Oregon e-mails yesterday and today start on Utah. I want to visit a friend in Ogden, see Zion National Park and camp in National Forests as I go. I've heard so much about the beauties of Utah but never visited it. I flew over it a few times but that doesn't count.
The trip is slowly changing shape. I'll be in Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota and eastern Montana before heading south through Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah. Eventually, I'll wind around to Oregon and go back through Idaho, western Montana and then home.
I read over the maps before bedtime and dream of new adventures.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Sunday morning
This morning I have the children's sermon at the United Methodist Church. I haven't a clue what I will do for it, except it must be a story. The children expect that of me.
Some of my best stories come to me when I am under pressure. Years ago, I was asked to do a special winter story for a carnival at a Green Bay Catholic church. I completely forgot about the request until I arrived, so on the spur of the moment, I thought up a story using my winter clothes. It was a hit, so I kept telling it. Finally, I wrote the story down and it was published as Jason Goes to Show and Tell. That led me to a second career in writing, mostly as a journalist.
I wonder what the story will be about today!
Some of my best stories come to me when I am under pressure. Years ago, I was asked to do a special winter story for a carnival at a Green Bay Catholic church. I completely forgot about the request until I arrived, so on the spur of the moment, I thought up a story using my winter clothes. It was a hit, so I kept telling it. Finally, I wrote the story down and it was published as Jason Goes to Show and Tell. That led me to a second career in writing, mostly as a journalist.
I wonder what the story will be about today!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Planting for the future
We on the Seymour Greenway committee are finishing our project. Three years ago, we began planting trees along the Newton Blackmour State Trail. The trail is a rails-to-trails project that goes through the heart of town. The trail is named for the cities it goes through, New London, Shiocton, Black Creek and Seymour. Eventually, the trail will extend to Green Bay where it will hook up with the Mountain Bay Trail. At New London, there are even more trails that connect Seymour to the world.
Our thought was that hikers should find a shady grove when they come to Seymour, so we began to plant with donated trees and a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Now the downtown area is planted with deciduous trees, the west section with conifers, and by the end of the year, a row of pear and crabapple trees will line the eastern stretch. I dream of the blossoms that will greet our city's visitors as they bike and hike through in the spring.
The trail leads through Nagel Park with picnic tables, water and toilets available for hot and dusty travelers. A Boy Scout working on his Eagle badge is building benches the length of the trail. One of the benches will be at the edge of a pond so that birders can get out their binoculars while they rest. Three of us prepared a checklist of birds that can we've observed in Seymour.
As a traveler and hiker, I am well aware of the joy in seeing a bench to sit on, a place to get fresh water and an actual toilet. When our group disbands, it will be with a feeling of great accomplishment.
Our thought was that hikers should find a shady grove when they come to Seymour, so we began to plant with donated trees and a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Now the downtown area is planted with deciduous trees, the west section with conifers, and by the end of the year, a row of pear and crabapple trees will line the eastern stretch. I dream of the blossoms that will greet our city's visitors as they bike and hike through in the spring.
The trail leads through Nagel Park with picnic tables, water and toilets available for hot and dusty travelers. A Boy Scout working on his Eagle badge is building benches the length of the trail. One of the benches will be at the edge of a pond so that birders can get out their binoculars while they rest. Three of us prepared a checklist of birds that can we've observed in Seymour.
As a traveler and hiker, I am well aware of the joy in seeing a bench to sit on, a place to get fresh water and an actual toilet. When our group disbands, it will be with a feeling of great accomplishment.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Walking around the world
Two decades ago, I decided to keep in shape by daily walking. To make it more interesting, I started marking my miles on the Wisconsin map, heading west on an imaginary hike. The first week, I walked to Black Creek, the village to the west of Seymour. My daily walks got longer and the miles added up. I soon was out of Wisconsin, into Minnesota. I took a turn in South Dakota and went down to Texas, then turned west again. At this point, I decided to walk around the world, all in my mind, you understand.
As of today, I've walked 17,382 miles, after going north along the western coast through Alaska and crossing the Bering Strait to Russia. I should reach Istanbul by the end of 2010.
This summer, I will be driving some of the same roads I "walked" on when I get to Washington, Oregon and California. Some of those cities, towns and scenic places will seem familiar because I always read up on the geography during my imaginary hikes.
In addition to the entertainment, I stayed in shape. I've avoided the family health issues of diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.
I encourage everyone to pick up a map and start walking.
As of today, I've walked 17,382 miles, after going north along the western coast through Alaska and crossing the Bering Strait to Russia. I should reach Istanbul by the end of 2010.
This summer, I will be driving some of the same roads I "walked" on when I get to Washington, Oregon and California. Some of those cities, towns and scenic places will seem familiar because I always read up on the geography during my imaginary hikes.
In addition to the entertainment, I stayed in shape. I've avoided the family health issues of diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.
I encourage everyone to pick up a map and start walking.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Telling the tales
This morning I sat down with my story lists and thought about which ones I would be using in 2011. I have songs and stories from England, Australia, Scotland, Jamaica, Haiti, Ireland, Russia and more, but I will have to make a stop at the Oshkosh public library to replenish my stock. The Oshkosh library is a grand storehouse of books of and about folktales.
I will sing the "Library Song" which I wrote with Seymour children decades ago. I plan on writing a new song: "One World, Many Stories". I'll make up a chorus and ask the children in each library to help with the verses. Perhaps we'll do "Tie Me Kangaroo Down," from Australia. There are Irish songs, too. I'll spend the winter singing around the house as I prepare for a golden summer.
I will sing the "Library Song" which I wrote with Seymour children decades ago. I plan on writing a new song: "One World, Many Stories". I'll make up a chorus and ask the children in each library to help with the verses. Perhaps we'll do "Tie Me Kangaroo Down," from Australia. There are Irish songs, too. I'll spend the winter singing around the house as I prepare for a golden summer.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
What to do in Oregon
This will be my first trip to Oregon, and I am thinking about where I want to go. Crater Lake is big on my list. I've been fascinated by that strange lake since I first got interested in National Parks. I want to meander along the Pacific Coast. There are the broad stretches of national forests along the Rocky Mountain ridge. Gary suggests the Malheur National Refuge as a good place for birding. I will pack my binoculars.
Most of the time, though, the work I do in the libraries is what mandates the routes I take. This leads me to rare jewels, locations far away from tourist areas. Oregon will likely be like that.
The ten bookings so far in Wisconsin, North Dakota and Montana, are leading me in those unexpected directions. What adventures there will be!
Most of the time, though, the work I do in the libraries is what mandates the routes I take. This leads me to rare jewels, locations far away from tourist areas. Oregon will likely be like that.
The ten bookings so far in Wisconsin, North Dakota and Montana, are leading me in those unexpected directions. What adventures there will be!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
A brief problem with audio
I found out yesterday that the server that had my audio clip is down. Until we can correct that problem, no audio, sorry. Anyone wanting to get an audio can e-mail me and I will send one as an attachment.
I spent Monday with Gary paddling down the Wolf River. It was beautiful weather, but we couldn't dawdle the way we usually do because of the short days. We went in at 10 and were done by 2. In that short time, we saw deer crashing through the forest, a blue heron, some sandhill cranes, frogs, turtles, eagles and more. Are the frogs and turtles not estivating or the cranes and herons not migrating the way they should because the winters are getting shorter? We likely won't get out on the water again until the end of March.
I spent Monday with Gary paddling down the Wolf River. It was beautiful weather, but we couldn't dawdle the way we usually do because of the short days. We went in at 10 and were done by 2. In that short time, we saw deer crashing through the forest, a blue heron, some sandhill cranes, frogs, turtles, eagles and more. Are the frogs and turtles not estivating or the cranes and herons not migrating the way they should because the winters are getting shorter? We likely won't get out on the water again until the end of March.
Monday, November 8, 2010
A day on the Wolf River
Just when I thought the season was over, nature turned a corner and went backwards. Today, with sun and temperatures in the 60's, Gary and I will canoe down the Wolf River. There will be few critters out there, but perhaps we'll see deer, eagles, and such.
I wish that I could take a canoe with me on my travels next summer, but I move around too much. A canoe is one thing too many to transport. Perhaps I will rent as needed.
In anticipation, I did my daily e-mail work last night and I am ahead on the National Novel Writing Month quota, so this is a free day.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Tenting in the national campgrounds
Since I am in a campground for only one or two nights during my tours, I need quick set up and take down, about fifteen minutes each. Minimal camping gear is all I need. Besides my little pop up tent, there's a sleeping bag, self inflating air mattress, pillow, fold up chair, one burner propane cook stove, a pot set, one plate, one set of utensils, water carrier, and two cups (one for possible company), and that's about it. In a downpour, I can always sleep in the back of the station wagon. I have some fire starters, but I usually am too tired or it's too late to bother with a campfire. In the summer, I warm myself to the glow of sunsets and sunrises over lakes and streams.
Then I move on.
Friday, November 5, 2010
The Road Goes on Forever
The bookings are coming in. The trip is a "go". By tomorrow, I will have contacted all the libraries I can in Idaho and will start on Oregon. It's a slow and steady process but enjoyable. "The road goes on forever," wrote J.R.R.Tolkien. I am right there with Bilbo Baggins when it comes to maps. Each state map is tacked on my bulletin board so I can circle the cities as the bookings come in.
Once the library performances are organized, I'll move on to churches, nursing homes, assisted living residences, and daycares. I tell to anyone from pre-schoolers to the elderly. I've told in prisons, group homes, hospices...anywhere people gather.
No stopping me now.
Once the library performances are organized, I'll move on to churches, nursing homes, assisted living residences, and daycares. I tell to anyone from pre-schoolers to the elderly. I've told in prisons, group homes, hospices...anywhere people gather.
No stopping me now.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
And now it's Idaho
Up until now, I've been sending out e-mails to public libraries in states I've already visited. I have a good idea of the kind of highways, scenery, and cities I will encounter and a good sense of how long it will take me to drive from one library to the next.
However this week, I am working on a state I've never visited: Idaho. I know it is a mountainous state. The Rockies' ridge runs through the entire state. If the place names are anything to go by, I will be visiting some of the most beautiful places in the United States. So many of them have "falls", "lake" or "mountain" as part of the city name.
The names are lovely, but mountain roads are often curvy and slow. I will have to rely on the librarians to tell me what to expect as I travel through.
However this week, I am working on a state I've never visited: Idaho. I know it is a mountainous state. The Rockies' ridge runs through the entire state. If the place names are anything to go by, I will be visiting some of the most beautiful places in the United States. So many of them have "falls", "lake" or "mountain" as part of the city name.
The names are lovely, but mountain roads are often curvy and slow. I will have to rely on the librarians to tell me what to expect as I travel through.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Moving along
Yesterday, I heard from the head librarian at Devil's Lake, North Dakota. I remember that strange lake well from a previous visit. The water level on this deep lake rises and falls dramatically, for no discernible reason. It isn't connected to heavy rain. In the last few years, there has been the threat of flooding. There are few buildings at the edge of Devil's Lake, no point in trying to build when the waters come to tear down.
A librarian from Ashland, Wisconsin wrote and we found out that she is a constituent of my brother, Rev. Carl Doersch, who sits on the city council. Ashland is situated on the shore of Chequamagon Bay in Lake Superior. It's a beautiful, progressive city with murals painted on walls all over town by the art students at Northland College. Nearby Washburn and Bayfield have artists' colonies. The Apostle Island National Park lies across the waters. I haven't been there....yet.
Each e-mail reminds me of the dramatic geography and personalities in this nation. Indeed, One World, Many Stories.
A librarian from Ashland, Wisconsin wrote and we found out that she is a constituent of my brother, Rev. Carl Doersch, who sits on the city council. Ashland is situated on the shore of Chequamagon Bay in Lake Superior. It's a beautiful, progressive city with murals painted on walls all over town by the art students at Northland College. Nearby Washburn and Bayfield have artists' colonies. The Apostle Island National Park lies across the waters. I haven't been there....yet.
Each e-mail reminds me of the dramatic geography and personalities in this nation. Indeed, One World, Many Stories.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Election Day
We will soon be going to the polls. Vote everyone!
Last night, I finished sending e-mails to North Dakota. Today I start Montana, another beautiful state. While I am working out routes, I learn geography. I always figure two possible routes per state since I am never sure until spring which I'll take in the summer. I include places I've never been visited.
Yesterday was the beginning of NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month. The goal is to write 1,667 words a day for a total of 50,000 words. When I'm done I'll have a short novel in rough draft shape. Yesterday, I wrote 1,765 words, a good start.
This is my third time around. Last year's NaNoWriMo novel is now in the second draft. I will work on it again in January and February and finish it by May.
Last night, I finished sending e-mails to North Dakota. Today I start Montana, another beautiful state. While I am working out routes, I learn geography. I always figure two possible routes per state since I am never sure until spring which I'll take in the summer. I include places I've never been visited.
Yesterday was the beginning of NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month. The goal is to write 1,667 words a day for a total of 50,000 words. When I'm done I'll have a short novel in rough draft shape. Yesterday, I wrote 1,765 words, a good start.
This is my third time around. Last year's NaNoWriMo novel is now in the second draft. I will work on it again in January and February and finish it by May.
Monday, November 1, 2010
North Dakota
I'm midway into contacting the North Dakota librarians.
North Dakota is one of my favorites among the states. For those of you who don't know:
North Dakota public schools usually score the highest in tests among all the United States. When I am performing there, I urge the kids to study less so that Wisconsin can have a chance. (We usually come in second or third, depending on Iowa.) They laugh at me and keep right on studying.
The North Country trail runs from Lake Sakakawea to Crown Point, New York. I've hiked some of the Wisconsin stretches and want to add some from North Dakota this time around.
North Dakota has some of the cleanest campgrounds anywhere. I like Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Turtle River State Park and many more. The Peace Garden goes over the border to Canada and is maintained by students from both countries. There are good campgrounds on either side.
North Dakota has spirit. When the Red River overflows, students and adults are out manning the banks, sand bagging the levies. One of my fondest tee-shirts was "Fargo, where the beach is in a bag." Fargo is cosmopolitan, with its own ballet troupe and fabulous restaurants. Also of note, they saved their elm trees on either side of the river, so Moorhead and Fargo have giant groves.
The libraries are fantastic, well stocked with enthusiastic children. What more do I need?
North Dakota is one of my favorites among the states. For those of you who don't know:
North Dakota public schools usually score the highest in tests among all the United States. When I am performing there, I urge the kids to study less so that Wisconsin can have a chance. (We usually come in second or third, depending on Iowa.) They laugh at me and keep right on studying.
The North Country trail runs from Lake Sakakawea to Crown Point, New York. I've hiked some of the Wisconsin stretches and want to add some from North Dakota this time around.
North Dakota has some of the cleanest campgrounds anywhere. I like Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Turtle River State Park and many more. The Peace Garden goes over the border to Canada and is maintained by students from both countries. There are good campgrounds on either side.
North Dakota has spirit. When the Red River overflows, students and adults are out manning the banks, sand bagging the levies. One of my fondest tee-shirts was "Fargo, where the beach is in a bag." Fargo is cosmopolitan, with its own ballet troupe and fabulous restaurants. Also of note, they saved their elm trees on either side of the river, so Moorhead and Fargo have giant groves.
The libraries are fantastic, well stocked with enthusiastic children. What more do I need?
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Hallowe'en
Oh dear! The Hawaiian library sites do not include e-mail addresses, only phone numbers and snail mail addresses. I will call the Hawaiian library association and see what I can do about that. So far organizing this trip hasn't cost me anything but a $5.95 blogging class.
As well as being a storyteller, musician and writer, I am the choir director at the United Methodist Church here in Seymour, Wisconsin. Sunday mornings are taken up with preparing, choir practice, and the service itself. This afternoon, I will help decorate the church for this evening's Hallowe'en party. Tonight, a community party with free food, snacks, and a movie for the munchkins. With all that, I won't be home for trick-or-treaters this year. In previous Hallowe'ens, I sat on the porch with my one time neighbor Traci who brought a barrel of candy. We caught up and roared with laughter as we remembered our days together, old pets, and ex-husbands. Now she lives in another town.
Oh well, I've missed before when I've been out and about telling ghost stories.
As well as being a storyteller, musician and writer, I am the choir director at the United Methodist Church here in Seymour, Wisconsin. Sunday mornings are taken up with preparing, choir practice, and the service itself. This afternoon, I will help decorate the church for this evening's Hallowe'en party. Tonight, a community party with free food, snacks, and a movie for the munchkins. With all that, I won't be home for trick-or-treaters this year. In previous Hallowe'ens, I sat on the porch with my one time neighbor Traci who brought a barrel of candy. We caught up and roared with laughter as we remembered our days together, old pets, and ex-husbands. Now she lives in another town.
Oh well, I've missed before when I've been out and about telling ghost stories.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Hawaii possibility
The Hawaiian tourism board is sending me a map and a list of the libraries in each island. I'm not interested in tourist spots so the nice thing about library bookings is that they take me to odd, out of the way places. I don't usually bother with big cities. They're too confusing to drive in and too expensive, requiring motel stays. Small town libraries are often near campgrounds. I can find Mom and Pop restaurants and shops where I can pick up on the latest gossip.
I'm almost done notifying the Minnesotan libraries. Tomorrow, North Dakota, one of my favorite states.
I'm almost done notifying the Minnesotan libraries. Tomorrow, North Dakota, one of my favorite states.
Friday, October 29, 2010
On my way.
I have my first booking!
The different way libraries work in each of the states is interesting. Washington State librarians are telling me they don't book for the summer reading program until January. In Wisconsin, I have to get my information out earlier than that because the librarians usually book by the end of November. Hence, my rush in preparing for this tour.
I've decided to throw Hawaii into the mix. You never know.
The different way libraries work in each of the states is interesting. Washington State librarians are telling me they don't book for the summer reading program until January. In Wisconsin, I have to get my information out earlier than that because the librarians usually book by the end of November. Hence, my rush in preparing for this tour.
I've decided to throw Hawaii into the mix. You never know.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Today, Minnesota
Yesterday, I finished e-mailing all the Washington State libraries I could reach. Today, I start querying Minnesota. Why not Oregon? I am still waiting for a map from the Oregon tourism bureau. I will need 12 or 13 maps for the states I will be traveling through and some haven't arrived yet. I will be at this until Christmas.
This is the system I use. The map of each state is propped up beside the computer. First I work out the probable routes I could take through the state. I circle the cities along those routes and begin the process of finding them on the internet. In some cases, that is easy. Wisconsin, for example, has all the public libraries in one site in alphabetical order. In some states, I have to look up each city individually.
Sometimes, I have to go to the city government to find the library and through the staff listings to find the proper person. Sometimes, I have to go through a form site, and each of those is different. One regional library system in Washington would not allow me to put a link to my blog. That required some re-writing to get the information out there.
The system may seem arduous, but it is an improvement on printing up a costly brochure, hand writing each address, and paying for postage. Most of those brochures would be tossed in a waste basket, a waste of paper. I figure 90 percent of my postings are deleted, about the same rate as the loss of brochures. This seems a better option from an environmental standpoint.
So, I keep going. By the end of today, I will likely have close to 300 people looking at this blog. That gives me hope.
This is the system I use. The map of each state is propped up beside the computer. First I work out the probable routes I could take through the state. I circle the cities along those routes and begin the process of finding them on the internet. In some cases, that is easy. Wisconsin, for example, has all the public libraries in one site in alphabetical order. In some states, I have to look up each city individually.
Sometimes, I have to go to the city government to find the library and through the staff listings to find the proper person. Sometimes, I have to go through a form site, and each of those is different. One regional library system in Washington would not allow me to put a link to my blog. That required some re-writing to get the information out there.
The system may seem arduous, but it is an improvement on printing up a costly brochure, hand writing each address, and paying for postage. Most of those brochures would be tossed in a waste basket, a waste of paper. I figure 90 percent of my postings are deleted, about the same rate as the loss of brochures. This seems a better option from an environmental standpoint.
So, I keep going. By the end of today, I will likely have close to 300 people looking at this blog. That gives me hope.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
High winds and frustration.
Extreme wind has hit the Midwest, including Wisconsin. I expect the power to go out any minute. Sure enough, this is the day when we are switching telephone companies. Will that go smoothly when the guy doesn't go up the telephone pole? I may well be without phone service, too.
I sent out twenty more e-mails last night. I don't have any bookings yet, but my counter says people are looking at this blog. Hang in there, West Coast. I am coming your way!
I sent out twenty more e-mails last night. I don't have any bookings yet, but my counter says people are looking at this blog. Hang in there, West Coast. I am coming your way!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Letting the World Know
Last night, I sent out the first forty e-mails to Washington State libraries. This morning, I have my first response!
The plan is to send out 20 e-mails each night, which would mean around 3,000 by the end of December. Most summer reading programs/performers are selected by then, hence the rush to get the word out that I am coming. After December, I'll fill in with churches, daycares and nursing homes. I hope to have at least 30 performances for the tour. I expect to be gone at least a month.
The last time I found a good theme, "Reading Road Trip, USA", I wound up in Alaska. I wrote the "Reading Road Trip Song" with a verse for each library. It had 24 verses! I intend to do the same this time around. "One World, Many Stories" needs only a tune and a chorus, then the children can add the verses. I wonder what they will come up with.
The plan is to send out 20 e-mails each night, which would mean around 3,000 by the end of December. Most summer reading programs/performers are selected by then, hence the rush to get the word out that I am coming. After December, I'll fill in with churches, daycares and nursing homes. I hope to have at least 30 performances for the tour. I expect to be gone at least a month.
The last time I found a good theme, "Reading Road Trip, USA", I wound up in Alaska. I wrote the "Reading Road Trip Song" with a verse for each library. It had 24 verses! I intend to do the same this time around. "One World, Many Stories" needs only a tune and a chorus, then the children can add the verses. I wonder what they will come up with.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Improved Profile
This morning, I added my resume to the blog. It's difficult with only 1,200 characters. I've done so many crazy things in my career. In the next day or two, we'll add some sound clips. This evening, I will begin the long process of notifying libraries about my summer reading program plans. As I work on this, summer doesn't seem so far away.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Day Off
After directing choir at church, I came home in another downpour. Can't walk, can't bike, can't swim. Gary and I have decided on a non day, which means this non post.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Figuring things out
Today I am trying to add audio to this blog, using a CD I made several years ago. For someone as inept as me, this is no easy task. I would like my readers to hear my voice doing stories and songs I've written. I find I can get music off the internet, but not off the CD. I could put it on YouTube and download from that, but that is even more technology to master. Where do I go from here?
I expect to have the profile improved by Monday.
I expect to have the profile improved by Monday.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Clearing out the stack
This week, I am clearing my way forward by resigning from volunteer work. I am no longer on the farmers' market committee. I informed the Friends of the Library last night that I won't be doing publicity for them after December 31. Before the snow flies, the trees along the trail will be planted. Once we have put in $3,000 in trees, that is done. I exited from the Behrendt Park planning.
On November 1, I begin the wild ride that is NaNoWriMo. Before that, I must finish the rough draft of the novel. Then the winter will be spent polishing novels and getting them to publishers. All of that and preparing the Oregon trip.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Another day with the library
Today, I'm working on publicity for the Muehl Public Library Wine Tasting Event on November 6 and setting up performances from Caim, my friends Jacynth and Heather, from Northern Ireland and Scotland respectively. They will be performing our library on St. Patrick's Day, 2011. Seems that libraries are always in my life, one way or another.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Working toward June
Yesterday I took a course on blogging from Nikki Kallio at Fox Valley Technical College and set up this site. I ordered maps from most of the states I plan to visit so I can plan my route. (Sadly, not from California. They don't do paper maps any more, sign of the times. You can't pin a web site to your bulletin board.)
Today, I am writing the e-mail I will send to libraries from here to Oregon and will work with Deb Marsh down at Express Printing to sketch out a postcard for those libraries without internet access. There are still a few out there. If I send out 20 e-mails or postcards a day from now through the end of the year, I should get enough work to pay for the trip, provided I pitch my tent in the national forest campgrounds.
What fun this is going to be!
Today, I am writing the e-mail I will send to libraries from here to Oregon and will work with Deb Marsh down at Express Printing to sketch out a postcard for those libraries without internet access. There are still a few out there. If I send out 20 e-mails or postcards a day from now through the end of the year, I should get enough work to pay for the trip, provided I pitch my tent in the national forest campgrounds.
What fun this is going to be!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Traveling the World
Colleen Sutherland has been a traveling storyteller for 30 years, telling from Scotland to Australia, in 26 states and three Canadian provinces.
Next year's children's summer reading program theme in in 48 states, "One World, Many Stories," is setting Sutherland off on yet another tour, this one to the Western states. She'll start in Wisconsin, travel through Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and Idaho to Oregon. From there she will travel south through California then back through Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Iowa, and home.
Next year's children's summer reading program theme in in 48 states, "One World, Many Stories," is setting Sutherland off on yet another tour, this one to the Western states. She'll start in Wisconsin, travel through Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and Idaho to Oregon. From there she will travel south through California then back through Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Iowa, and home.
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