Hi A!
This is one of those "WHAAA?!?!!!" comments.
According to the Associated Press (AP) article today on the UN Security Council at odds over Iran:
"US Ambassador John Bolton said Friday that 'the IAEA report shows that Iran has accelerated its efforts to acquire nuclear weapons although, of course, the report doesn't make any conclusions in that regard.'"
WHAAA??!!??!!??!!!
Even by UN standards that is some really insane backwards* double talk.
Hmmmmm.... can we say there is an *agenda here for oh, someone? ... Mr. Bush? Mr. Bush? Exxon? Exxon?
Yah.
Oh well,
TTFN
Kissy Kissy
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Hi Adri!
Well, I guess one of the benefits of being dead is that you can hang out with other cool dead folks. Hey, what did happen to Elvis by the way? Have you seen him around there?
Actually what brought this to mind is that the famous economist John Kenneth Galbraith died today, and as I was reading his obituary in the New York Times, it occured to me that you guys would get to hang out together. Damn. You get to have all the fun...
I know if I could have a more open two way conversation, it is something we'd discuss. I always liked his stuff, and I seem to recall that you did to. Even though you weren't crazy about economics, his work spanned into political and even philosophical. That whole political economy thing I did with the PhD was part and parcel of that, and I always enjoyed chatting with you about it. I think folks would impressed by your grasp of it. I know I was. For instance:
From his obit in the Times:
"The Affluent Society" appeared in 1958, making Mr. Galbraith known around the world. In it, he depicted a consumer culture gone wild, rich in goods but poor in the social services that make for community. He argued that America had become so obsessed with overproducing consumer goods that it had increased the perils of both inflation and recession by creating an artificial demand for frivolous or useless products, by encouraging overextension of consumer credit and by emphasizing the private sector at the expense of the public sector. He declared that this obsession with products like the biggest and fastest automobile damaged the quality of life in America by creating "private opulence and public squalor."
Anticipating the environmental movement by nearly a decade, he asked, "Is the added production or the added efficiency in production worth its effect on ambient air, water and space — the countryside?"" Mr. Galbraith called for a change in values that would shun the seductions of advertising and champion clean air, good housing and aid for the arts."
I mean DAMN!! And this was almost 50 years ago!!
He was a student of John Maynard Keynes, an advisor to FDR, JFK and LBJ. He was Ambassador to India, a prolific scholar and author and in 2000 Clinton gave him the Medal of Honor. I have to admit, I'm jealous you get to hang out with him. Please thank him for the great stuff he's done. And I think he'll enjoy your sense of humor. If you have internet access there, you might want to read his full obit from the NYT before you guys meet. I'm guessing he'll be busy with orientation for the first few days there anyway.
In the meantime, things are okay here. We went to the Twilight Criterium tonight. It's a neat tradition, and all of Athens turns out for it. Granted we didn't hang out down by the bars, because it gets too crowded and the stench of sorority girl vomit just doesn't please me. So instead we enjoyed sitting at the other end of the course with friends we've known for years. It was a lovely way to spend the evening...
And, so... it's late, I need to get to bed, and dream of hanging out with you and John Kenneth Galbraith, and maybe Attila the Hun, just for kicks? I mean come on, ya'll are already dead, what's Attila gonna do? I think it sounds like a great time to hang out and share a giggle between great minds.
Much love to you,
Kissy kissy,
Mary
Well, I guess one of the benefits of being dead is that you can hang out with other cool dead folks. Hey, what did happen to Elvis by the way? Have you seen him around there?
Actually what brought this to mind is that the famous economist John Kenneth Galbraith died today, and as I was reading his obituary in the New York Times, it occured to me that you guys would get to hang out together. Damn. You get to have all the fun...
I know if I could have a more open two way conversation, it is something we'd discuss. I always liked his stuff, and I seem to recall that you did to. Even though you weren't crazy about economics, his work spanned into political and even philosophical. That whole political economy thing I did with the PhD was part and parcel of that, and I always enjoyed chatting with you about it. I think folks would impressed by your grasp of it. I know I was. For instance:
From his obit in the Times:
"The Affluent Society" appeared in 1958, making Mr. Galbraith known around the world. In it, he depicted a consumer culture gone wild, rich in goods but poor in the social services that make for community. He argued that America had become so obsessed with overproducing consumer goods that it had increased the perils of both inflation and recession by creating an artificial demand for frivolous or useless products, by encouraging overextension of consumer credit and by emphasizing the private sector at the expense of the public sector. He declared that this obsession with products like the biggest and fastest automobile damaged the quality of life in America by creating "private opulence and public squalor."
Anticipating the environmental movement by nearly a decade, he asked, "Is the added production or the added efficiency in production worth its effect on ambient air, water and space — the countryside?"" Mr. Galbraith called for a change in values that would shun the seductions of advertising and champion clean air, good housing and aid for the arts."
I mean DAMN!! And this was almost 50 years ago!!
He was a student of John Maynard Keynes, an advisor to FDR, JFK and LBJ. He was Ambassador to India, a prolific scholar and author and in 2000 Clinton gave him the Medal of Honor. I have to admit, I'm jealous you get to hang out with him. Please thank him for the great stuff he's done. And I think he'll enjoy your sense of humor. If you have internet access there, you might want to read his full obit from the NYT before you guys meet. I'm guessing he'll be busy with orientation for the first few days there anyway.
In the meantime, things are okay here. We went to the Twilight Criterium tonight. It's a neat tradition, and all of Athens turns out for it. Granted we didn't hang out down by the bars, because it gets too crowded and the stench of sorority girl vomit just doesn't please me. So instead we enjoyed sitting at the other end of the course with friends we've known for years. It was a lovely way to spend the evening...
And, so... it's late, I need to get to bed, and dream of hanging out with you and John Kenneth Galbraith, and maybe Attila the Hun, just for kicks? I mean come on, ya'll are already dead, what's Attila gonna do? I think it sounds like a great time to hang out and share a giggle between great minds.
Much love to you,
Kissy kissy,
Mary
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Hi Adri!
How's it going? Is it going? Hmmmm... I guess that's one of those hard ones to ask and to answer, isn't it? Well I guess you aren't going to answer that one right now, either, are you? Oh, there I go again...!
I spent a lovely day working out on the back porch. The weather was bright and breezy and only a little warm. The bright blue of the sky, the fresh green leaves in of the trees. It was a nice to be there.
And I managed to get some good work done. I'm putting together a public involvement strategy for the Kura Aras River Basin. It's got all these rather complicated components I've developed that I'm linking together. If it works, it will be really great. If not, I'll have to retool and try again. It's got me thinking about how much I really like my job. I get to do the sort of thing I always dreamed of doing when I was younger. I have the kind of job that makes people say "WOW!!" you really get to do that?
Yeah. Sometimes more than others, I was to giggle and say "OH MY GOD!! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT??" And other times, I just want to crawl under a rock.
But I've been thinking about all the jobs I've had in the past. Most of them are not the kinds of jobs people are very interested in, much less would ever want to do.
I'll do a post on that in a few days.
Right now I'm enjoying hanging out with Bill and James. James and I made dinner together tonight. We were thinking about the time I called and left a message for my dissertation director, Markus Crepaz, asking him to return a call to "Amanda Huggenkis" and Markus went nuts trying to find out who "Amanda Huggenkis" was, asking if anyone knew where he could find "Amanda Huggenkis" and got all the women in the office tickled pink. Of course, he was pretty pissed when he found out it was me, but you'd think if he really liked the Simpsons so much, he'd like get it...!! And besides, it was funny. I wonder if he'd laugh about it now? I bet he would. I still do.
James and I also got to ask each other deep philosophical questions like "Who would you rather spend the day with - William Shatner or Arnold Schwartzenegar?" or "Who would you rather be stuck on an island with Denny Crane or Dr. House?" and "What is the definition of 'is'?"
Over all, it's been a nice day.
Ta ta!!
Kissy kissy!
How's it going? Is it going? Hmmmm... I guess that's one of those hard ones to ask and to answer, isn't it? Well I guess you aren't going to answer that one right now, either, are you? Oh, there I go again...!
I spent a lovely day working out on the back porch. The weather was bright and breezy and only a little warm. The bright blue of the sky, the fresh green leaves in of the trees. It was a nice to be there.
And I managed to get some good work done. I'm putting together a public involvement strategy for the Kura Aras River Basin. It's got all these rather complicated components I've developed that I'm linking together. If it works, it will be really great. If not, I'll have to retool and try again. It's got me thinking about how much I really like my job. I get to do the sort of thing I always dreamed of doing when I was younger. I have the kind of job that makes people say "WOW!!" you really get to do that?
Yeah. Sometimes more than others, I was to giggle and say "OH MY GOD!! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT??" And other times, I just want to crawl under a rock.
But I've been thinking about all the jobs I've had in the past. Most of them are not the kinds of jobs people are very interested in, much less would ever want to do.
I'll do a post on that in a few days.
Right now I'm enjoying hanging out with Bill and James. James and I made dinner together tonight. We were thinking about the time I called and left a message for my dissertation director, Markus Crepaz, asking him to return a call to "Amanda Huggenkis" and Markus went nuts trying to find out who "Amanda Huggenkis" was, asking if anyone knew where he could find "Amanda Huggenkis" and got all the women in the office tickled pink. Of course, he was pretty pissed when he found out it was me, but you'd think if he really liked the Simpsons so much, he'd like get it...!! And besides, it was funny. I wonder if he'd laugh about it now? I bet he would. I still do.
James and I also got to ask each other deep philosophical questions like "Who would you rather spend the day with - William Shatner or Arnold Schwartzenegar?" or "Who would you rather be stuck on an island with Denny Crane or Dr. House?" and "What is the definition of 'is'?"
Over all, it's been a nice day.
Ta ta!!
Kissy kissy!
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Hi A!
Okay, Dad is back in Cleveland. He took the red eye. He had Nikki call me this morning to tell me he'd made it. I talked to him for a minute and he sounded exhausted. But he did say the conference was very worthwhile. I guess there will be more on that soon.
In the meantime, I got a frantic e-mail from a guy in the UK we are submitting a bid with. He was trying to track down Tim. I didn't give away his super secret number, but instead called Tim. Guess what? I got to do the work. Really it's no problem. Strangely, once I get into the groove of it, I really enjoy it. Who knew? Yeah, writing up summaries of projects for other project bids. But with the right music it is actually a lot of fun.
Anyway, that's been the majority of my day.
I was productive, I got it done and so I'm going swimming. I NEED to, I DESERVE to, and by-gosh, I'm GOOD ENOUGH to! (Yes, I am know. Stuart Smiley. I know.)
Anyway, I'm off to the pool before Bill gets home from work with his mother in law, who is spending the night here. Why isn't that nice?
Oh, and working to the blues makes the world a better place.
TTFN
Kissy Kissy!
Okay, Dad is back in Cleveland. He took the red eye. He had Nikki call me this morning to tell me he'd made it. I talked to him for a minute and he sounded exhausted. But he did say the conference was very worthwhile. I guess there will be more on that soon.
In the meantime, I got a frantic e-mail from a guy in the UK we are submitting a bid with. He was trying to track down Tim. I didn't give away his super secret number, but instead called Tim. Guess what? I got to do the work. Really it's no problem. Strangely, once I get into the groove of it, I really enjoy it. Who knew? Yeah, writing up summaries of projects for other project bids. But with the right music it is actually a lot of fun.
Anyway, that's been the majority of my day.
I was productive, I got it done and so I'm going swimming. I NEED to, I DESERVE to, and by-gosh, I'm GOOD ENOUGH to! (Yes, I am know. Stuart Smiley. I know.)
Anyway, I'm off to the pool before Bill gets home from work with his mother in law, who is spending the night here. Why isn't that nice?
Oh, and working to the blues makes the world a better place.
TTFN
Kissy Kissy!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Hi A!
Okay, where ever you are, I hope you are watching Boston Legal. Denny Crane (William Shatner) just shot his therapist.
I can head your wonderful cackling giggle.
Busy day today. Sam's wife Dorothy's son Stephen's maternal grandmother is coming to Athens tomorrow. She wants to buy a new laptop computer (no, I don't know) and wants to talk to Bill about which model she should get. It looks like a busy day.
I'm making progress (finally!!) on the public involvement strategy. No word on my visa. . . This wait is getting well... no point in bitching about it.
Dad called from San Fran last night. He's had a stomach bug. Doesn't sound pleasant. Poor Pappy Wappy. . . Yeah. I know. I'm working on it.
Okay, well back to it. I bet you even know how this ends, AND what happens on Lost tomorrow. So NOT FAIR!!
Oh well. C'est la vie,. . .or would it be C'est la morte?
Okay, Kissy kissy
Mary
Okay, where ever you are, I hope you are watching Boston Legal. Denny Crane (William Shatner) just shot his therapist.
I can head your wonderful cackling giggle.
Busy day today. Sam's wife Dorothy's son Stephen's maternal grandmother is coming to Athens tomorrow. She wants to buy a new laptop computer (no, I don't know) and wants to talk to Bill about which model she should get. It looks like a busy day.
I'm making progress (finally!!) on the public involvement strategy. No word on my visa. . . This wait is getting well... no point in bitching about it.
Dad called from San Fran last night. He's had a stomach bug. Doesn't sound pleasant. Poor Pappy Wappy. . . Yeah. I know. I'm working on it.
Okay, well back to it. I bet you even know how this ends, AND what happens on Lost tomorrow. So NOT FAIR!!
Oh well. C'est la vie,. . .or would it be C'est la morte?
Okay, Kissy kissy
Mary
Monday, April 24, 2006
Hi Adri!
James asked me to give you the following message:
NASA's plan to sending things to the moon is the put a shirt on a dog, or kitten or anything and tying helium ballons to it. This is also how they well get things to Mars.
He said you would understand.
Is he on drugs or what? Actually, I think he just misses you being on drugs.
Much love!
TTFN
James asked me to give you the following message:
NASA's plan to sending things to the moon is the put a shirt on a dog, or kitten or anything and tying helium ballons to it. This is also how they well get things to Mars.
He said you would understand.
Is he on drugs or what? Actually, I think he just misses you being on drugs.
Much love!
TTFN
Hi A!
Okay, I get it, you still have your wicked sense of humor and irony and you got me again tonight. Very funny.
It was about 89 degrees today, and the house was warm tonight. But I decided to finish your knitting project. It was toasty under the afghan as I knitted the last row, cherishing the incredibly nice wool between my fingers. Then as I started to cast off from the knitting needles. I was feeling quite melacholy about "casting off" and musing about the meaning of the term, about letting go, about finding the end of the project. Of course, I was sweating at this time because the house was so hot, and here I was under this thick wool thing. I wished I had thought to finish before the weather turned. I stoically maneuvered the last few stiched off. And then the weather man came on and said: Tomorrow's cold front will make the day cool and rainy, so be ready!
Ha ha ha.
Well, I'll just sit under it tomorrow while it's cool and then send it off. Still I could hear you giggle as I was sweating and being all dramatic and emotional, only to realize I was a day early. I guess timing hasn't always been more forte.
More updates tomorrow. (and once the camera will speak to the computer, I'll update with photos too.)
Kissy kissy.
Okay, I get it, you still have your wicked sense of humor and irony and you got me again tonight. Very funny.
It was about 89 degrees today, and the house was warm tonight. But I decided to finish your knitting project. It was toasty under the afghan as I knitted the last row, cherishing the incredibly nice wool between my fingers. Then as I started to cast off from the knitting needles. I was feeling quite melacholy about "casting off" and musing about the meaning of the term, about letting go, about finding the end of the project. Of course, I was sweating at this time because the house was so hot, and here I was under this thick wool thing. I wished I had thought to finish before the weather turned. I stoically maneuvered the last few stiched off. And then the weather man came on and said: Tomorrow's cold front will make the day cool and rainy, so be ready!
Ha ha ha.
Well, I'll just sit under it tomorrow while it's cool and then send it off. Still I could hear you giggle as I was sweating and being all dramatic and emotional, only to realize I was a day early. I guess timing hasn't always been more forte.
More updates tomorrow. (and once the camera will speak to the computer, I'll update with photos too.)
Kissy kissy.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Hi A!
I was down for the count yesterday with the stomach flu. Aren't you glad you never have to deal with that again? See, I guess there are some perks to being dead.
It reminded me of years and years and years ago, when you and Dad were first dating. I had been sick with mono for most of the school year, and I was hit with some strep type infection in the spring. I was running a high fever and feeling really miserable. You offered to come sit with me while Dad was at work. I remember really wanting my own mother to come from DC to take care of me. She wouldn't, for whatever reason. At the time, I was too sick to even be bratty. I remember you sitting next to my bed, while I shivered and slept and generally felt miserable. And I remember thinking that is what a mother is supposed to do when her child is sick. I wasn't really thrilled it was you, (and as a 13 year old, I wasn't about to let you know it,) but I felt really cared for that day. I felt like someone was there with me who would make sure I was okay.
I didn't feel like I could get a lot of that mothering from my own mother at that time, and since it was before Dad was on happy pills it was hard for him too. I don't know that I ever told you how much that day meant to me. I knew you needed to be home with Caryn and Margie and Mike and Tom, but instead you were sitting with the kid of some doctor you were dating who felt really miderably horrible.
Of course, once I recovered, I returned to being the brat I was, trying to protect my dad from what I thought was another woman out to ruin him. I'm glad I was wrong about that, and if I didn't tell you before now, I really appreciate you taking care of me that day too. It was an island of peace for me in a very trubulent time. Thank you.
On a brighter, somewhat related note, after reading Tom's latest posting about him mooning over Polly, which is very sweet, but a bit nauseating, and this weekend's fun here, I was reminded of that wonderful cheer you taught us all:
Re-gurge! Re-gurge! Re-gurge-i-tate!
Throw up! Throw up! Every thing you ate!
V-O-M-I-T! (blech)
V-O-M-I-T! (blech)
VOMIT! VOMIT! YEAH!!!!
What a weekend!!
Love you!!
Kissy Kissy (or "vomit vomit" as Dad liked to say)
Mary
I was down for the count yesterday with the stomach flu. Aren't you glad you never have to deal with that again? See, I guess there are some perks to being dead.
It reminded me of years and years and years ago, when you and Dad were first dating. I had been sick with mono for most of the school year, and I was hit with some strep type infection in the spring. I was running a high fever and feeling really miserable. You offered to come sit with me while Dad was at work. I remember really wanting my own mother to come from DC to take care of me. She wouldn't, for whatever reason. At the time, I was too sick to even be bratty. I remember you sitting next to my bed, while I shivered and slept and generally felt miserable. And I remember thinking that is what a mother is supposed to do when her child is sick. I wasn't really thrilled it was you, (and as a 13 year old, I wasn't about to let you know it,) but I felt really cared for that day. I felt like someone was there with me who would make sure I was okay.
I didn't feel like I could get a lot of that mothering from my own mother at that time, and since it was before Dad was on happy pills it was hard for him too. I don't know that I ever told you how much that day meant to me. I knew you needed to be home with Caryn and Margie and Mike and Tom, but instead you were sitting with the kid of some doctor you were dating who felt really miderably horrible.
Of course, once I recovered, I returned to being the brat I was, trying to protect my dad from what I thought was another woman out to ruin him. I'm glad I was wrong about that, and if I didn't tell you before now, I really appreciate you taking care of me that day too. It was an island of peace for me in a very trubulent time. Thank you.
On a brighter, somewhat related note, after reading Tom's latest posting about him mooning over Polly, which is very sweet, but a bit nauseating, and this weekend's fun here, I was reminded of that wonderful cheer you taught us all:
Re-gurge! Re-gurge! Re-gurge-i-tate!
Throw up! Throw up! Every thing you ate!
V-O-M-I-T! (blech)
V-O-M-I-T! (blech)
VOMIT! VOMIT! YEAH!!!!
What a weekend!!
Love you!!
Kissy Kissy (or "vomit vomit" as Dad liked to say)
Mary
Friday, April 21, 2006
Hi A!
Well, I think of everything that you left behind I've inherited your migraines. It was wierd, just before you died we went through this whole nonesense of me being diagnosed with migraines, including the MRI and various drug regimes. The day before you died I went off the meds. It was the decision that if the side effects are worse than the condition it's treating, I ought to stop. I think you thought I was a little whack-o. As usual. Thank you. You were probably right.
On the other hand, I now know what the headaches are (not a tumor) and I know when they are happening - blurring in the left eye, light distortions, and then BANG they hit. I hope I've managed to catch this one today. I'm drinking my Earl Grey tea and waiting for the Excedrine to kick in. (Soon.... please?)
I didn't mention that when I took Dad to the airport in Atlanta the other day the whole airport was shut down for about 2 hours. Shutting down the Atlanta airport is quite an event. My mother called to warn us as we were arriving. There had been a possible explosive device spotted. It was very exciting. Dad and I stood in the parking garage over looking the North Terminal and watched the crowd on the curb and the fire trucks and such. Turned out it was a false alarm. oh well. All that waiting and then only a delayed flight. hmph!! you think we could have at least gotten something more exciting than that. Oh well. But everyone kept their sense of humor, which was nice.
I talked to Carol today, the Director at Dad's clinic. She is a piece of work. And I've been on the phone ALL day trying to figure out what is going on with Dad's liscence. I'm beat. It's no wonder I have a headache. But the folks I talked to were all very helpful. Monday I'll hopefully have some more answers.
Dad goes to San Fran tomorrow. He's there for a conference and I think that will be good for him. He'll see folks he's known forever.
In the meantime, James has finally gotten tired of being on restriction. He's spent the whole day (his day off from school for teacher planning) getting caught up on homework and working ahead. I'm impressed. He's really getting through it and has a good attitude about it. It's especially good since he could really be bringing his grades up. (INSHALLAH!)
No news on the visa. Should know something next week one way or the other. I'd like to go. I need to go. fingers crossed I'll get to go. I miss travelling. It's been 5 months since a long trip, though really the timing, between Vienna in January, you dieing in February, and Mexico in March,and Cleveland again right afterwards... okay, so maybe I've gotten my travel fix. Still, I want to finish out this part of the project, I want to be at the meetings in Tehran, and I want to do my work. I'm not freaked out about going. I would like to. Every Iranian I've ever met has been very kind and generous, and I would love to visit their country. Plus, IT IS MY JOB. INSHALLAH, Fingers crossed, I hope to go one day. Soon. I have other work to do, but this is one project I am especially devoted to.
I had good chats with Mike and Tom yesterday, and today is Caryn's Birthday!! (I think!) I called earlier, but she wasn't in. I'll try again in a bit. Maybe she took the day off and is unwinding.
Speaking of which, I would love to do that. I need to go out and putter in the yard. We have a bllueberry bush that needs to be put in the ground, as well as a number of other lovely things. We are expecting storms tonight and tomorrow, so perhaps I'll go get to it quickly. Perhaps Bill will get my camera and computer speaking to eachother this weekend. If so I'll come back in and update posts with pictures.
But I think for now, I ought to get a few things planted, or take a nap. See, I did learn something from you after all!!
Much love,
Kissy kissy
Well, I think of everything that you left behind I've inherited your migraines. It was wierd, just before you died we went through this whole nonesense of me being diagnosed with migraines, including the MRI and various drug regimes. The day before you died I went off the meds. It was the decision that if the side effects are worse than the condition it's treating, I ought to stop. I think you thought I was a little whack-o. As usual. Thank you. You were probably right.
On the other hand, I now know what the headaches are (not a tumor) and I know when they are happening - blurring in the left eye, light distortions, and then BANG they hit. I hope I've managed to catch this one today. I'm drinking my Earl Grey tea and waiting for the Excedrine to kick in. (Soon.... please?)
I didn't mention that when I took Dad to the airport in Atlanta the other day the whole airport was shut down for about 2 hours. Shutting down the Atlanta airport is quite an event. My mother called to warn us as we were arriving. There had been a possible explosive device spotted. It was very exciting. Dad and I stood in the parking garage over looking the North Terminal and watched the crowd on the curb and the fire trucks and such. Turned out it was a false alarm. oh well. All that waiting and then only a delayed flight. hmph!! you think we could have at least gotten something more exciting than that. Oh well. But everyone kept their sense of humor, which was nice.
I talked to Carol today, the Director at Dad's clinic. She is a piece of work. And I've been on the phone ALL day trying to figure out what is going on with Dad's liscence. I'm beat. It's no wonder I have a headache. But the folks I talked to were all very helpful. Monday I'll hopefully have some more answers.
Dad goes to San Fran tomorrow. He's there for a conference and I think that will be good for him. He'll see folks he's known forever.
In the meantime, James has finally gotten tired of being on restriction. He's spent the whole day (his day off from school for teacher planning) getting caught up on homework and working ahead. I'm impressed. He's really getting through it and has a good attitude about it. It's especially good since he could really be bringing his grades up. (INSHALLAH!)
No news on the visa. Should know something next week one way or the other. I'd like to go. I need to go. fingers crossed I'll get to go. I miss travelling. It's been 5 months since a long trip, though really the timing, between Vienna in January, you dieing in February, and Mexico in March,and Cleveland again right afterwards... okay, so maybe I've gotten my travel fix. Still, I want to finish out this part of the project, I want to be at the meetings in Tehran, and I want to do my work. I'm not freaked out about going. I would like to. Every Iranian I've ever met has been very kind and generous, and I would love to visit their country. Plus, IT IS MY JOB. INSHALLAH, Fingers crossed, I hope to go one day. Soon. I have other work to do, but this is one project I am especially devoted to.
I had good chats with Mike and Tom yesterday, and today is Caryn's Birthday!! (I think!) I called earlier, but she wasn't in. I'll try again in a bit. Maybe she took the day off and is unwinding.
Speaking of which, I would love to do that. I need to go out and putter in the yard. We have a bllueberry bush that needs to be put in the ground, as well as a number of other lovely things. We are expecting storms tonight and tomorrow, so perhaps I'll go get to it quickly. Perhaps Bill will get my camera and computer speaking to eachother this weekend. If so I'll come back in and update posts with pictures.
But I think for now, I ought to get a few things planted, or take a nap. See, I did learn something from you after all!!
Much love,
Kissy kissy
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Dear Adri,
(I wrote this yesterday, but only had time to put it on today.)
I am sure you are sleeping in right now. It's that kind of day. Dad is too. He's snoozing away. He woke up about an hour ago, and asked me about his medical license. It expires July 1, 2006. He has to make up some continuing education hours to renew the liscence or it will lapse. If it lapses he can't be a doctor any more. And POOF!! Instant Retirement!!
He seemed to really like the idea yesterday. This morning though he was worrying it like a dog with a bone. So I called the State Medical Board again. They essentially said he may be able to renew after his upcoming trip to San Francisco for the meeting there. But that gives him a little bit more time until he retires, if he wants it. I think they may have found someone to take over for him (and possibly replace him as Medical Director)at the clinic. I guess we'll know that in a few days.
Dad really wants to retire. He really needs to retire. He absolutely deserves to retire. We all want him to retire. I've never seen him as ready to retire as he is now. We had some good talks about it when he was here, and he said he's ready to be free of the responsibility and daily grind of the clinic. He enjoys being back in Georgia, and told me he wants to move down here. Athens is a great place for folk musicians, and I know he will be able to be part of that community here as well.
Of course, once he retires, and until the house in Ohio sells, he's going to be very, very, very low on cash. Like lower on cash than most of us kids ever are. He'll have social security, and his retirement income but he once he pays his mortgage payment on the Beachwood house, pays for his medicine, and makes his credit card payments, he won't have much spare change. Really he may have very little at all, if any. Until the house sells, then he'll be okay because he'll be out from under the mortgage. He won't be swimming in cash like we've all been used to, but he'll be able to support himself living modestly, and that's good.
He can save some money now, and that will be good. He needs to do that, and we all want him to so he can not worry quite so much about money. Every penny counts.
While he's waiting for the house in Beachwood to sell, it will have to be empty. The realtors said they won't show it in that neighborhood with people living there unless it is absolutely immaculate all the time. The realtor essentially said having other people's stuff in there will be too distracting to potential buyers. Even if nothing is done to fix it up, it still can't be full of stuff and people and critters.
Bill, James and I would love to have Dad down here and live with us while he waits for the house to sell. We'll help to support him while he's here. He would do the same for us of course. If it sells quickly, great, and if it doesn't that's okay too. It will be snug in the house here, especially with his additional beasties, but that's fine. The rest of the world lives on low income in tight spaces. We can too.
Bill and James really like having him down here. Me too. It will be a bit of money out of pocket for us, but honestly, that is just fine. I'm so proud of him, of all he's done and how generous he's been to everyone his whole life. Now it is my turn to be generous to him while he's in a bit of a squeeze. And I think the house in Beachwood will sell fast enough, once it is empty and on the market.(Fingers crossed)
Lots of other things going on at the moment. But that can wait, I've got work waiting to be done. More on that in a bit!
Kissy Kissy!
(I wrote this yesterday, but only had time to put it on today.)
I am sure you are sleeping in right now. It's that kind of day. Dad is too. He's snoozing away. He woke up about an hour ago, and asked me about his medical license. It expires July 1, 2006. He has to make up some continuing education hours to renew the liscence or it will lapse. If it lapses he can't be a doctor any more. And POOF!! Instant Retirement!!
He seemed to really like the idea yesterday. This morning though he was worrying it like a dog with a bone. So I called the State Medical Board again. They essentially said he may be able to renew after his upcoming trip to San Francisco for the meeting there. But that gives him a little bit more time until he retires, if he wants it. I think they may have found someone to take over for him (and possibly replace him as Medical Director)at the clinic. I guess we'll know that in a few days.
Dad really wants to retire. He really needs to retire. He absolutely deserves to retire. We all want him to retire. I've never seen him as ready to retire as he is now. We had some good talks about it when he was here, and he said he's ready to be free of the responsibility and daily grind of the clinic. He enjoys being back in Georgia, and told me he wants to move down here. Athens is a great place for folk musicians, and I know he will be able to be part of that community here as well.
Of course, once he retires, and until the house in Ohio sells, he's going to be very, very, very low on cash. Like lower on cash than most of us kids ever are. He'll have social security, and his retirement income but he once he pays his mortgage payment on the Beachwood house, pays for his medicine, and makes his credit card payments, he won't have much spare change. Really he may have very little at all, if any. Until the house sells, then he'll be okay because he'll be out from under the mortgage. He won't be swimming in cash like we've all been used to, but he'll be able to support himself living modestly, and that's good.
He can save some money now, and that will be good. He needs to do that, and we all want him to so he can not worry quite so much about money. Every penny counts.
While he's waiting for the house in Beachwood to sell, it will have to be empty. The realtors said they won't show it in that neighborhood with people living there unless it is absolutely immaculate all the time. The realtor essentially said having other people's stuff in there will be too distracting to potential buyers. Even if nothing is done to fix it up, it still can't be full of stuff and people and critters.
Bill, James and I would love to have Dad down here and live with us while he waits for the house to sell. We'll help to support him while he's here. He would do the same for us of course. If it sells quickly, great, and if it doesn't that's okay too. It will be snug in the house here, especially with his additional beasties, but that's fine. The rest of the world lives on low income in tight spaces. We can too.
Bill and James really like having him down here. Me too. It will be a bit of money out of pocket for us, but honestly, that is just fine. I'm so proud of him, of all he's done and how generous he's been to everyone his whole life. Now it is my turn to be generous to him while he's in a bit of a squeeze. And I think the house in Beachwood will sell fast enough, once it is empty and on the market.(Fingers crossed)
Lots of other things going on at the moment. But that can wait, I've got work waiting to be done. More on that in a bit!
Kissy Kissy!
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Dear Adri,
Well it *feels* to me like you are here. I like that. Dad hasn't mentioned it, but maybe he feels it too. Having him here for the last several days has been like watching a plant that got too dry start to come back after a good long soaking. He really seems to feel better. His color is good and he seems much clearer and more relaxed. He's singing and making jokes and being a dear. Thank you Adri for helping my Dad be a happier man than he ever was without you.
Speaking of making happy men, today your boy Michael Andrew has another birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIKE!!! I think Mike is 42 now. Wow. Where does the time go?
He should be on his way back from Israel right now. We tried to call him this morning to wish him a happy birthday. But we couldn't get through. Alas.
In the meantime, Dad and I have had another nice day. The weather was cooler and we got out and looked around the neighborhood a bit. He's been reading one of my favorite books from my teaching days. It's called How to Lie with Statistics
He seems to be enjoying it.
He'll head home tomorrow. I'll miss him a lot.
Work is definitely picking up, and that's good. Another Central Asia project is budding and if that comes through that could be up to 3 projects. The Tims and I would like that.
Anyway, chicken, pasta, salad etc. for dinner. James is in the kitchen grazing at kids his age are want to do.
And strange, no word from Tom. I'm guessing he's preoccupied. But I am a little concerned. I want to call but don't want to, um...interupt....? Maybe we'll here something soon? Tom?
Until then,
Kissy kissy!
Mary
Well it *feels* to me like you are here. I like that. Dad hasn't mentioned it, but maybe he feels it too. Having him here for the last several days has been like watching a plant that got too dry start to come back after a good long soaking. He really seems to feel better. His color is good and he seems much clearer and more relaxed. He's singing and making jokes and being a dear. Thank you Adri for helping my Dad be a happier man than he ever was without you.
Speaking of making happy men, today your boy Michael Andrew has another birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIKE!!! I think Mike is 42 now. Wow. Where does the time go?
He should be on his way back from Israel right now. We tried to call him this morning to wish him a happy birthday. But we couldn't get through. Alas.
In the meantime, Dad and I have had another nice day. The weather was cooler and we got out and looked around the neighborhood a bit. He's been reading one of my favorite books from my teaching days. It's called How to Lie with Statistics
He seems to be enjoying it.
He'll head home tomorrow. I'll miss him a lot.
Work is definitely picking up, and that's good. Another Central Asia project is budding and if that comes through that could be up to 3 projects. The Tims and I would like that.
Anyway, chicken, pasta, salad etc. for dinner. James is in the kitchen grazing at kids his age are want to do.
And strange, no word from Tom. I'm guessing he's preoccupied. But I am a little concerned. I want to call but don't want to, um...interupt....? Maybe we'll here something soon? Tom?
Until then,
Kissy kissy!
Mary
Monday, April 17, 2006
Dear A.,
A quick update. Bombing in Tel Aviv. Just talked to Mike. He's okay and in Jeruseleum. He'll be back to New York/NJ Wednesday AM.
Haven't heard a peep out of Tom. Either he and Polly are completely absorbed in one another and not surfacing to let us know what's up, or Polly is a serial killer who preys upon former high school crushes. Either way, I hope they got Buster at the airport Sunday.
And if Polly turns out to be a serial killer, I so get to write the screen play!!
Dad and James are playing math out back.
Kissy!
A quick update. Bombing in Tel Aviv. Just talked to Mike. He's okay and in Jeruseleum. He'll be back to New York/NJ Wednesday AM.
Haven't heard a peep out of Tom. Either he and Polly are completely absorbed in one another and not surfacing to let us know what's up, or Polly is a serial killer who preys upon former high school crushes. Either way, I hope they got Buster at the airport Sunday.
And if Polly turns out to be a serial killer, I so get to write the screen play!!
Dad and James are playing math out back.
Kissy!
Dear Adri,
Hi There!! How are you? Dad keeps wondering. So do I. well... sort of.
Dad's here, taking it easy. It sure is nice having him around. We went to the coffee shop - Jittery Joe's this morning and they had FIG SPICE SCONES!!! Heaven in a scone. We didn't see my friend Scott the guy who worked there, but we both picked up copies of his book titled "Dear Al-Queda". It's just been released and the publishers are marketing it to larger publishing houses. I must admit I'm impressed with it.
We came home, worked on things, talked about stuff, made phone calls etc. It's nice to have his company and just hanging out. He seems to be unwinding a good bit. He's clearer than he's been. More focused. I'm glad for it. And he's getting a lot of sleep too.
We were out cruising around the neighborhood and met a friend of ours. His name is David and he's on the math faculty. David was miserably depressed for years. Until he was diagnosed with an odd combination of fatal cancers. Odd thing, he's the happiest person I know now. His doctors keep extending the time he'll live, but he's so happy. He's doing all the things in his life that he'd never done and always wanted to. It was nice to introduce him to Dad. I think they'd enjoy each other's math-i-ness.
Of course the humor of the neighborhood cruising is that my car refused to start. No problem. We walked home, and enjoyed the good breeze on the 88 degree heat of the afternoon.
Oh, also today is my pal Teyyub's 40th Birthday!! Dad and I called to wish him a happy birthday! Teyyub was so funny. He was very excited to get to talk to my father, and so happy that Dad wished him a happy birthday. It was really cute.
Well Dad is immersed in reading letters to Al-Queda, and I'm enjoying the quiet time here. I think I'll go start on dinner. And maybe Dad and James will get to work on homework soon? INSHALLAH!!
That's all for here at the moment!
Mike is back tomorrow from Israel, and it's his birthday too!!
Kissy kissy!
Mary
Hi There!! How are you? Dad keeps wondering. So do I. well... sort of.
Dad's here, taking it easy. It sure is nice having him around. We went to the coffee shop - Jittery Joe's this morning and they had FIG SPICE SCONES!!! Heaven in a scone. We didn't see my friend Scott the guy who worked there, but we both picked up copies of his book titled "Dear Al-Queda". It's just been released and the publishers are marketing it to larger publishing houses. I must admit I'm impressed with it.
We came home, worked on things, talked about stuff, made phone calls etc. It's nice to have his company and just hanging out. He seems to be unwinding a good bit. He's clearer than he's been. More focused. I'm glad for it. And he's getting a lot of sleep too.
We were out cruising around the neighborhood and met a friend of ours. His name is David and he's on the math faculty. David was miserably depressed for years. Until he was diagnosed with an odd combination of fatal cancers. Odd thing, he's the happiest person I know now. His doctors keep extending the time he'll live, but he's so happy. He's doing all the things in his life that he'd never done and always wanted to. It was nice to introduce him to Dad. I think they'd enjoy each other's math-i-ness.
Of course the humor of the neighborhood cruising is that my car refused to start. No problem. We walked home, and enjoyed the good breeze on the 88 degree heat of the afternoon.
Oh, also today is my pal Teyyub's 40th Birthday!! Dad and I called to wish him a happy birthday! Teyyub was so funny. He was very excited to get to talk to my father, and so happy that Dad wished him a happy birthday. It was really cute.
Well Dad is immersed in reading letters to Al-Queda, and I'm enjoying the quiet time here. I think I'll go start on dinner. And maybe Dad and James will get to work on homework soon? INSHALLAH!!
That's all for here at the moment!
Mike is back tomorrow from Israel, and it's his birthday too!!
Kissy kissy!
Mary
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Dear Adri,
Just to let you know, (like you didn't already) Dad arrived here safe and sound. He seems glad to be here, though the Atlanta airport was a standard bitch. It can be, even for me, and I'm there ALL THE TIME, or so it seems.
Anyway, Dad's been here, and just waking up. He slept about 11 hours. I think he needed the rest. Bill, James and I are watching "Connan The Barbarian". WOW!! What a terrible movie!! But fun to watch it with them, and it's so politically incorrect it's silly. Not to mention - when was there an ocean in the middle of Central Asia?? Like really. Probably when there were snake gods and Arnold was not bo-toxed.
"He won't cry, so I cry for him!" Geee....
Okay, need to make some coffee or something. We'll go to brunch today at Big City Bread and then from there maybe wander the botanical gardens?
We'll see.
I'll keep you posted.
Kissy Kissy!
Just to let you know, (like you didn't already) Dad arrived here safe and sound. He seems glad to be here, though the Atlanta airport was a standard bitch. It can be, even for me, and I'm there ALL THE TIME, or so it seems.
Anyway, Dad's been here, and just waking up. He slept about 11 hours. I think he needed the rest. Bill, James and I are watching "Connan The Barbarian". WOW!! What a terrible movie!! But fun to watch it with them, and it's so politically incorrect it's silly. Not to mention - when was there an ocean in the middle of Central Asia?? Like really. Probably when there were snake gods and Arnold was not bo-toxed.
"He won't cry, so I cry for him!" Geee....
Okay, need to make some coffee or something. We'll go to brunch today at Big City Bread and then from there maybe wander the botanical gardens?
We'll see.
I'll keep you posted.
Kissy Kissy!
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Dear Adri et. al.,
A follow up to last night's e-mail. Photo's Gerry posted on his webpage of fire damage. Looks bad. Very sad. I am sure Nikki and Jeremy will be a lot of help to Gerry and Mandy and the boys. Still so lucky no one (other than the lizard) was hurt.
Nothing in the news about it that I could find. I hope the insurance was up to date!
(If they had a mortgage, I am sure it would be.)
Best of luck to all.
Kissy kissy
A follow up to last night's e-mail. Photo's Gerry posted on his webpage of fire damage. Looks bad. Very sad. I am sure Nikki and Jeremy will be a lot of help to Gerry and Mandy and the boys. Still so lucky no one (other than the lizard) was hurt.
Nothing in the news about it that I could find. I hope the insurance was up to date!
(If they had a mortgage, I am sure it would be.)
Best of luck to all.
Kissy kissy
Friday, April 14, 2006
Hi A.,
Just a quick note. Dad is coming down tomorrow. I talked to him tonight. He said Nikki and Jeremy have gone down to Cincinnati. Evidently someone fire bombed Gerry's house. I haven't been able to find any details in the news, but perhaps they will be forthcoming. I'll keep you posted.
Dad seemed to think it was because Gerry's "status" was published in the papers. Who knows?
I have no idea. I hope it all works out, and most importantly, no one was hurt. (Except for a lizard?)
It does bring back memories from the 1986 bombing at the clinic. But different, of course.
TTFN
M3P
Just a quick note. Dad is coming down tomorrow. I talked to him tonight. He said Nikki and Jeremy have gone down to Cincinnati. Evidently someone fire bombed Gerry's house. I haven't been able to find any details in the news, but perhaps they will be forthcoming. I'll keep you posted.
Dad seemed to think it was because Gerry's "status" was published in the papers. Who knows?
I have no idea. I hope it all works out, and most importantly, no one was hurt. (Except for a lizard?)
It does bring back memories from the 1986 bombing at the clinic. But different, of course.
TTFN
M3P
Dear Adri,
I've been thinking about you a lot lately. Not sure why. Maybe because I really miss you? But other than the obvious, I had a friend who's had some health stuff going on. Yesterday I got way too worried because she'd been back in the hospital and then wasn't answering the phone when I called. I was nearly frantic, but managed to track down another friend who had talked to our friends husband and told me not to fret, our pal is going to be okay. It's made me realize how much more fragile I feel sometimes after losing you. I'm not ready to lose another special person. EVER.
On the other hand, you and I always had such a neat connection. That we knew we were calling each other before either picked up the phone, or how the other was feeling about whatever it was. I guess I thought it had ended. But last night in a dream you told me it didn't have to and I really enjoyed our visit. And I woke up this morning feeling worlds better. Thank you.
Speaking of visits, Dad will be coming down to Athens tomorrow. He's really looking forward to it, and we are too. He can help James with his algebra II work, and we can hang out. I have some light yard work to do so maybe he will enjoy puttering outside with me. And more than anything I hope that he will really be able to unwind and relax a bit. I think he will. He hasn't had a "break" since you left, and really as you and I both know, before that, he hadn't had one for a long time before either. He's due for it. I hope we can do that for him while he's here.
It's hard to stop working even for a little while, and honestly sort of scary. I have the same challenge. But I'm learning. Or at least aware that I need to be. But the work is a comfort, predictable and something familiar. On the other hand, he wanted a break for a long time. Any sort of change can be stressful. But that doesn't mean it's not needed and often it is needed more than ever. Facing the stress and the challenge and over coming that is immensely empowering too. No one should let themself be a victim of circumstance. And stepping up to the challenges before us is so worth it! Accepting an unsatsifactory stasis can be tragic and in this case, perhaps espcially so.
On a lighter note, since Tom has finally outted himself, I have to tell you A, he is so smitted with Polly Luke it's adorable. A little nauseating, but still, very sweet - kind of like circus peanuts covered with caramel. I have the feeling you would approve. I know we all worry about Tom, mainly because he's been so royally screwed by Moo-rah. But this new budding romance is lovely to watch. I didn't know Polly well, though I knew who she was. She always was very sweet and demure, and a bit lost maybe. I seem to recall that you liked her a lot. She's now down in LA, and perhaps she and Tom will have a good visit. I hope so!!
Other news? I talked to Tim today. Things are snapping along. He's optimistic about my visa situation with Iran. (INSHALLAH!) and the Arctic project is picking up again. (GO ANATOLY!!) and we've got several other projects bubbling up. It's good. I'm happy. I guess with this line of work chaos is the new stasis?
Anyway, on that note, I'm heading to the Y soon to swim. It feels good to do it, and then I'll be back to...um... do more work.
Miss talking to you on the phone. Love talking with your boys though, and thanks for the dream last night. I feel much better.
Kissy kissy
I've been thinking about you a lot lately. Not sure why. Maybe because I really miss you? But other than the obvious, I had a friend who's had some health stuff going on. Yesterday I got way too worried because she'd been back in the hospital and then wasn't answering the phone when I called. I was nearly frantic, but managed to track down another friend who had talked to our friends husband and told me not to fret, our pal is going to be okay. It's made me realize how much more fragile I feel sometimes after losing you. I'm not ready to lose another special person. EVER.
On the other hand, you and I always had such a neat connection. That we knew we were calling each other before either picked up the phone, or how the other was feeling about whatever it was. I guess I thought it had ended. But last night in a dream you told me it didn't have to and I really enjoyed our visit. And I woke up this morning feeling worlds better. Thank you.
Speaking of visits, Dad will be coming down to Athens tomorrow. He's really looking forward to it, and we are too. He can help James with his algebra II work, and we can hang out. I have some light yard work to do so maybe he will enjoy puttering outside with me. And more than anything I hope that he will really be able to unwind and relax a bit. I think he will. He hasn't had a "break" since you left, and really as you and I both know, before that, he hadn't had one for a long time before either. He's due for it. I hope we can do that for him while he's here.
It's hard to stop working even for a little while, and honestly sort of scary. I have the same challenge. But I'm learning. Or at least aware that I need to be. But the work is a comfort, predictable and something familiar. On the other hand, he wanted a break for a long time. Any sort of change can be stressful. But that doesn't mean it's not needed and often it is needed more than ever. Facing the stress and the challenge and over coming that is immensely empowering too. No one should let themself be a victim of circumstance. And stepping up to the challenges before us is so worth it! Accepting an unsatsifactory stasis can be tragic and in this case, perhaps espcially so.
On a lighter note, since Tom has finally outted himself, I have to tell you A, he is so smitted with Polly Luke it's adorable. A little nauseating, but still, very sweet - kind of like circus peanuts covered with caramel. I have the feeling you would approve. I know we all worry about Tom, mainly because he's been so royally screwed by Moo-rah. But this new budding romance is lovely to watch. I didn't know Polly well, though I knew who she was. She always was very sweet and demure, and a bit lost maybe. I seem to recall that you liked her a lot. She's now down in LA, and perhaps she and Tom will have a good visit. I hope so!!
Other news? I talked to Tim today. Things are snapping along. He's optimistic about my visa situation with Iran. (INSHALLAH!) and the Arctic project is picking up again. (GO ANATOLY!!) and we've got several other projects bubbling up. It's good. I'm happy. I guess with this line of work chaos is the new stasis?
Anyway, on that note, I'm heading to the Y soon to swim. It feels good to do it, and then I'll be back to...um... do more work.
Miss talking to you on the phone. Love talking with your boys though, and thanks for the dream last night. I feel much better.
Kissy kissy
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Dear Adri,
Just had to share this. My buddy Robb Holmes, the Music Director here at WUGA FM is doing an interview with some Indian students about an upcoming event. He's so cool. He was asking a question and in his typical self depricating style prefaced it by saying: "Forgive me for wandering around in ignorance here, but that's just what I do." I do so adore this man!!
I know you always felt a bond to him after his daughter Amanda died. He's seems better some 10 years later, but he's still fragile. And as kind as always. He's a good friend to have.
Okay, back to work. work. work.
TTFN
MMMP
Just had to share this. My buddy Robb Holmes, the Music Director here at WUGA FM is doing an interview with some Indian students about an upcoming event. He's so cool. He was asking a question and in his typical self depricating style prefaced it by saying: "Forgive me for wandering around in ignorance here, but that's just what I do." I do so adore this man!!
I know you always felt a bond to him after his daughter Amanda died. He's seems better some 10 years later, but he's still fragile. And as kind as always. He's a good friend to have.
Okay, back to work. work. work.
TTFN
MMMP
Good Morning Adri!
Yeah, like you ever believed that there was such a thing!! Well at least it is almost 11:00.
Just had an internet conference with Teyyub. He's helping with some of the questions for the NGO led demonstration project proposals. Unfortunately, the internet cafe he uses in Imishli lost power about 30 minutes ago. Either that or he was just fed up and decided to leave. But I suspect really, it was loosing power. He's a good worker, and the internet makes it very cost effective to work with him.
Of course, the question is where would we all be without this World Wide Web/internet thing?
The obvious answer: Not here!
Off to a meeting on campus. And then back to work do more work. Always. Gotta love it.
Missing you a lot A.
Much love,
Mary
Yeah, like you ever believed that there was such a thing!! Well at least it is almost 11:00.
Just had an internet conference with Teyyub. He's helping with some of the questions for the NGO led demonstration project proposals. Unfortunately, the internet cafe he uses in Imishli lost power about 30 minutes ago. Either that or he was just fed up and decided to leave. But I suspect really, it was loosing power. He's a good worker, and the internet makes it very cost effective to work with him.
Of course, the question is where would we all be without this World Wide Web/internet thing?
The obvious answer: Not here!
Off to a meeting on campus. And then back to work do more work. Always. Gotta love it.
Missing you a lot A.
Much love,
Mary
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Doobre Dyen Adri!!
Kak fso? Oo tebya otlichno vremena gde ti seychas?
Okay, enough. This morning I was awoken by the cell phone ringing. Loudly. Persistently. Never a good sign, I crawled out of bed. The home line started to ring. Oh crap. That is never good. At this hour. No one who calls me on these numbers calls me with good news at this time in the morning. Ever.
Fortunately, my early morning misapprehensions were exactly off the radar. It was Christy. CHRISTY WOLF!!! SEA WOLF!! My dear friend who lives in California and I NEVER get to talk to often enough. Christy! who joined me in Italy last year! Christy! who has an absolutely absurd sense of humor! Christy! My college room mate! CHRISTY!!! Who didn't want to listen to NPR as she commuted into San Diego this morning for a meeting of WACKOs (I can't tell you) so she decided to call me!! She knew calling anyone out on the West Coast at this hour would be completely offensive and she'd loose friends over it. So she called me instead. Gotta love time zones.
It was such a rare treat! I really did enjoy it. Of course I spent most of the conversation gripping about a situation at work, but having her silly slant on things made it completely worth IT!!
Here is a picture of Miss Chris from Italy. We were at the Coliseum scoping out Russel Crowe wanna-be's. I think she had just spotted one when I took this!!
After talking to her, I went to the Y, swam half a mile and talked to a guy named "George Fox" in the jacuzzi. (FYI - George Fox is also the name of the guy who started Quakerism, so that was sort of an odd epiphanic moment. Still a nice guy with a Harley - outside, not in the jacuzzi, because that would be SO VERY wrong.)
Worked at the coffee shop - Jittery Joe's Eastside.
Very hip. Good coffee. Chatted with Tom, ran to a Parent Teacher Conference. James is a lucky kid that people like him as much as they do. Even if he does make me crazy at times, I really am proud of him. (James would scowl here, appropriate to 16 year-old protocols)
Home, work to do. Work work work.
And so it goes. Not too exciting at the moment. But a good day so far...
What's new and different with you?
Waiting to hear.... really....oh, and when you can, please visit Dad in his dreams. He really wants you to.
Kissy kissy,
M3P
Kak fso? Oo tebya otlichno vremena gde ti seychas?
Okay, enough. This morning I was awoken by the cell phone ringing. Loudly. Persistently. Never a good sign, I crawled out of bed. The home line started to ring. Oh crap. That is never good. At this hour. No one who calls me on these numbers calls me with good news at this time in the morning. Ever.
Fortunately, my early morning misapprehensions were exactly off the radar. It was Christy. CHRISTY WOLF!!! SEA WOLF!! My dear friend who lives in California and I NEVER get to talk to often enough. Christy! who joined me in Italy last year! Christy! who has an absolutely absurd sense of humor! Christy! My college room mate! CHRISTY!!! Who didn't want to listen to NPR as she commuted into San Diego this morning for a meeting of WACKOs (I can't tell you) so she decided to call me!! She knew calling anyone out on the West Coast at this hour would be completely offensive and she'd loose friends over it. So she called me instead. Gotta love time zones.
It was such a rare treat! I really did enjoy it. Of course I spent most of the conversation gripping about a situation at work, but having her silly slant on things made it completely worth IT!!
Here is a picture of Miss Chris from Italy. We were at the Coliseum scoping out Russel Crowe wanna-be's. I think she had just spotted one when I took this!!
After talking to her, I went to the Y, swam half a mile and talked to a guy named "George Fox" in the jacuzzi. (FYI - George Fox is also the name of the guy who started Quakerism, so that was sort of an odd epiphanic moment. Still a nice guy with a Harley - outside, not in the jacuzzi, because that would be SO VERY wrong.)
Worked at the coffee shop - Jittery Joe's Eastside.
Very hip. Good coffee. Chatted with Tom, ran to a Parent Teacher Conference. James is a lucky kid that people like him as much as they do. Even if he does make me crazy at times, I really am proud of him. (James would scowl here, appropriate to 16 year-old protocols)Home, work to do. Work work work.
And so it goes. Not too exciting at the moment. But a good day so far...
What's new and different with you?
Waiting to hear.... really....oh, and when you can, please visit Dad in his dreams. He really wants you to.
Kissy kissy,
M3P
Monday, April 10, 2006
Hey A!
A glimpse of my domestic life this afternoon:
Music playing, with NPR News...James sitting in my office working on homework. (Or trying not to.)
James: Mom, why do you always have the radio on? You aren't even listening to it.
Me: I know. It's back ground noise. I like it.
James: But why? Why is it you like it? Were you raised in a city or something?
Me: Well, Cincinnati. It's a city, you've been there. Recently.
James: Yeah, but which part?
Me: Near the ice cream place.
James: THAT EXPLAINS IT!! You need noise to feel comfortable. Background noise that you don't really listen to.
Me: (Trying to work) Yeah, I guess so. (turning off radio)
James: Well, it's a good thing you have me! (Continues to play paddle ball and rustle papers.)
And so it goes... back at it.
M
A glimpse of my domestic life this afternoon:
Music playing, with NPR News...James sitting in my office working on homework. (Or trying not to.)
James: Mom, why do you always have the radio on? You aren't even listening to it.
Me: I know. It's back ground noise. I like it.
James: But why? Why is it you like it? Were you raised in a city or something?
Me: Well, Cincinnati. It's a city, you've been there. Recently.
James: Yeah, but which part?
Me: Near the ice cream place.
James: THAT EXPLAINS IT!! You need noise to feel comfortable. Background noise that you don't really listen to.
Me: (Trying to work) Yeah, I guess so. (turning off radio)
James: Well, it's a good thing you have me! (Continues to play paddle ball and rustle papers.)
And so it goes... back at it.
M
Dear Adri,
Funny dream last night. First I was at a meeting with donors for the projects, including a number of high level State Dept. folks I know from way back. I was dazed and confused and even though I was supposed to be chairing the meeting, I had no idea what I was doing. Then these African American women observing the meeting wanted to ask question, and did so in Russian. I couldn't understand a thing they said though, and could barely follow any of the discussion, which was all in Russian. Then we took a break and Teyyub, who was at the meeting with me, took me aside and started speaking to me again in Russian, asking what was the matter. I knew what he wanted to say, but didn't understand the words or how to respond. So what does it mean to be dreaming in a language that you usually understand, but suddenly don't? Hmmmm that's an odd subconscious feedback loop for you, huh?
Anyway, then I was at my grandparents house in Decatur, GA (De-kay-tah! spelled just like it is pronounced!!). I there with Dad and then went into another room. You were there next to a closet, except you were Nancy Marchand the actress who played Anthony Saprano's mother, Livia from the HBO series. (We both got a giggle out of that!) You apologized for dieing and leaving everything in such a mess. But told me you are doing okay and hanging out with Mrs. Saprano, and that you know how the series ends. When I asked what happens, you smiled, and touhed the tip of my nose. And then vanished.
Oh well... so much for clarity. I woke up in a daze and have been there since. Yes, working. Yes, getting stuff done. But still a little confused by the dreams.
Nonetheless, I know I can still speak Russian bez problemma, and so I'm not too worried there. But what will Matt Bryza think? I'm at a loss!!
By the way, that hairstyle really doesn't suit you.
We are still working on the camera software.
And in the meantime, meant to tell you, it seems that the Russian Arctic project may be thawing, as well as some other potential projects budding out. Spring is in the air. (And yeah, all the pollen too!!)
TTFN, Kissy Kissy etc.
Mary
Funny dream last night. First I was at a meeting with donors for the projects, including a number of high level State Dept. folks I know from way back. I was dazed and confused and even though I was supposed to be chairing the meeting, I had no idea what I was doing. Then these African American women observing the meeting wanted to ask question, and did so in Russian. I couldn't understand a thing they said though, and could barely follow any of the discussion, which was all in Russian. Then we took a break and Teyyub, who was at the meeting with me, took me aside and started speaking to me again in Russian, asking what was the matter. I knew what he wanted to say, but didn't understand the words or how to respond. So what does it mean to be dreaming in a language that you usually understand, but suddenly don't? Hmmmm that's an odd subconscious feedback loop for you, huh?
Anyway, then I was at my grandparents house in Decatur, GA (De-kay-tah! spelled just like it is pronounced!!). I there with Dad and then went into another room. You were there next to a closet, except you were Nancy Marchand the actress who played Anthony Saprano's mother, Livia from the HBO series. (We both got a giggle out of that!) You apologized for dieing and leaving everything in such a mess. But told me you are doing okay and hanging out with Mrs. Saprano, and that you know how the series ends. When I asked what happens, you smiled, and touhed the tip of my nose. And then vanished.
Oh well... so much for clarity. I woke up in a daze and have been there since. Yes, working. Yes, getting stuff done. But still a little confused by the dreams.
Nonetheless, I know I can still speak Russian bez problemma, and so I'm not too worried there. But what will Matt Bryza think? I'm at a loss!!
By the way, that hairstyle really doesn't suit you.
We are still working on the camera software.
And in the meantime, meant to tell you, it seems that the Russian Arctic project may be thawing, as well as some other potential projects budding out. Spring is in the air. (And yeah, all the pollen too!!)
TTFN, Kissy Kissy etc.
Mary
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Dear Adri,
It's been a quiet day for the most part. Bill and I slept in until 10:00 despite the occasional clap of thunder and rumbling rainstorms. We went to breakfast at our favorite cafe like we do every Saturday I'm in town. http://www.bigcitybread.net/breakfast.html
We've done it for about a year now, and it is something we always look forward to. We get to see friends, and folks from around town and enjoy wonderful food too.
Then we were home for a while, puttering and working on various things.
The afternoon we went to the Y. It's good to do, and I always feel better when I've been. The good news is that Bill has started to join me!! That man always told me he was allergic to exercise because he always breaks out in a sweat when he does works out!
A quick cheap semi-healthy Dinner at Barbaritoes, and then a quiet evening at home. A sweet conversation with Tom. He sounds good, though tired. Life makes us weary and rainy days expecially so.
I think the plan is to watch Memoires of a Geisha tonight, though SURPRISE!!! the boys don't seem to excited by the prospect. They seem more interested in drilling holes under the house to run wires. Gosh!! And I thought they'd want to see some historical novel, heart wrenching rendered with a magical score. Yeah. At least it isn't subtitles.
All's well, and that's good to know.
Oh, one stupid stupid thing I did. I banged the explative out of my ankle bone on a rokcing chair rail last night. It looks like I have an eyeball hidden in my ankle and hurts like all get out. But dah... maybe it's a sign to SLOW DOWN!??!?? Or just to move the damn rocking chair? Yah. I'll do that.
My camera is being odd, and hopefully it will be fixed soon- and finally make a connection with my computer. Really, yesterday's picts are great. I'll let you know what I manage to load them.
More soon!
TTFN!
Kissy kissy et al.
M3P
It's been a quiet day for the most part. Bill and I slept in until 10:00 despite the occasional clap of thunder and rumbling rainstorms. We went to breakfast at our favorite cafe like we do every Saturday I'm in town. http://www.bigcitybread.net/breakfast.html
We've done it for about a year now, and it is something we always look forward to. We get to see friends, and folks from around town and enjoy wonderful food too.
Then we were home for a while, puttering and working on various things.
The afternoon we went to the Y. It's good to do, and I always feel better when I've been. The good news is that Bill has started to join me!! That man always told me he was allergic to exercise because he always breaks out in a sweat when he does works out!
A quick cheap semi-healthy Dinner at Barbaritoes, and then a quiet evening at home. A sweet conversation with Tom. He sounds good, though tired. Life makes us weary and rainy days expecially so.
I think the plan is to watch Memoires of a Geisha tonight, though SURPRISE!!! the boys don't seem to excited by the prospect. They seem more interested in drilling holes under the house to run wires. Gosh!! And I thought they'd want to see some historical novel, heart wrenching rendered with a magical score. Yeah. At least it isn't subtitles.
All's well, and that's good to know.
Oh, one stupid stupid thing I did. I banged the explative out of my ankle bone on a rokcing chair rail last night. It looks like I have an eyeball hidden in my ankle and hurts like all get out. But dah... maybe it's a sign to SLOW DOWN!??!?? Or just to move the damn rocking chair? Yah. I'll do that.
My camera is being odd, and hopefully it will be fixed soon- and finally make a connection with my computer. Really, yesterday's picts are great. I'll let you know what I manage to load them.
More soon!
TTFN!
Kissy kissy et al.
M3P
Friday, April 07, 2006
Dear Adri,
Once I get my software for my camera to behave, I'll get photos from this morning.
In the meantime, here is an incredible picture my friend Sue sent to me of sunset at the North Pole!! (And good news, our Russian Arctic project may be picking up again!! I knew I bought all that long underwear for a reason!! will keep you posted)
Ta ta!!
Love, M
Once I get my software for my camera to behave, I'll get photos from this morning.
In the meantime, here is an incredible picture my friend Sue sent to me of sunset at the North Pole!! (And good news, our Russian Arctic project may be picking up again!! I knew I bought all that long underwear for a reason!! will keep you posted)
Ta ta!!
Love, M
Dear Adri.,
Good morning!! You know, one thing we could always count on from you is that you were NOT a morning person. I hope where ever you are, you are sleeing in, and free from any compunction that you should do anything else!!
I decided this morning to have tea on the back porch. It is the time of year that I migrate out here. The morning sun is gentle enough not to be uncomfortable, and the redbud is in bloom. The birds have been serenading me, or rather each other. There's the territorial cardinal sitting in the sweetgum tree crying out for everyone to "look-look-look-look-at-me!! look-look-look-look-at-me!!", the chattering of the chickadees, the squeal of the tit-mice, the ranting of jays, and the base lowing of the mourning doves. And the distant roar of the occasional airplane.
The dogs and cat love it out here too. The damned cat is 17 years old now, and still going. Or at least we think she is. She really is too evil to die- even if she does resemble a deflated soccer ball.
There is a cool breeze up from the stream - and the sky has the milky hue it gets when the sun is rising on what will be a hot day. Yesterday the skies were a beautiful clear blue all day, but today will be warm, and judging from the high clouds from the west, we'll have storms this afternoon. It's just the way it is supposed to be.
My azelea is also rioting right now. If they were french students, they'd have been arrested at this point.
Maybe I will work out here all day. With wireless, I can, and I can figure out what to do for the call for proposals for demonstration projects for public involvement in the Kura Aras basin to be implemented by the NGOs partnerships. Yah...
oohh... and there is one of the little anoles/lizards that live on my porch. They are sweet little things- they are generally quite shy and eat various bugs. I know. You HATE lizards, but these guys are actually very cute. See:
Oh stop cringing A., I don't think it is going to get you.
And then there are the bee's hovering around the camelia... this little guy has been busy (as a ....?) All that pollen on his back legs will eventually become honey somewhere. Did you know that honey bees are a domestic stock and that there are no surviving honey bee colonies in the US that are large enough to fertilize our crops. (See what you learn on the shuttle to the airport with a guy who studies honey bees?)
Okay, enough of my pastorale reverie, work is calling, e-mail is ringing at me, and the world needs attention. Still, it's been lovely. Thank you for letting me share it with you.
Kissy kissy,
Mary
photos forthcoming....
Good morning!! You know, one thing we could always count on from you is that you were NOT a morning person. I hope where ever you are, you are sleeing in, and free from any compunction that you should do anything else!!
I decided this morning to have tea on the back porch. It is the time of year that I migrate out here. The morning sun is gentle enough not to be uncomfortable, and the redbud is in bloom. The birds have been serenading me, or rather each other. There's the territorial cardinal sitting in the sweetgum tree crying out for everyone to "look-look-look-look-at-me!! look-look-look-look-at-me!!", the chattering of the chickadees, the squeal of the tit-mice, the ranting of jays, and the base lowing of the mourning doves. And the distant roar of the occasional airplane.
The dogs and cat love it out here too. The damned cat is 17 years old now, and still going. Or at least we think she is. She really is too evil to die- even if she does resemble a deflated soccer ball.
There is a cool breeze up from the stream - and the sky has the milky hue it gets when the sun is rising on what will be a hot day. Yesterday the skies were a beautiful clear blue all day, but today will be warm, and judging from the high clouds from the west, we'll have storms this afternoon. It's just the way it is supposed to be.
My azelea is also rioting right now. If they were french students, they'd have been arrested at this point.
Maybe I will work out here all day. With wireless, I can, and I can figure out what to do for the call for proposals for demonstration projects for public involvement in the Kura Aras basin to be implemented by the NGOs partnerships. Yah...
oohh... and there is one of the little anoles/lizards that live on my porch. They are sweet little things- they are generally quite shy and eat various bugs. I know. You HATE lizards, but these guys are actually very cute. See:
Oh stop cringing A., I don't think it is going to get you.
And then there are the bee's hovering around the camelia... this little guy has been busy (as a ....?) All that pollen on his back legs will eventually become honey somewhere. Did you know that honey bees are a domestic stock and that there are no surviving honey bee colonies in the US that are large enough to fertilize our crops. (See what you learn on the shuttle to the airport with a guy who studies honey bees?)
Okay, enough of my pastorale reverie, work is calling, e-mail is ringing at me, and the world needs attention. Still, it's been lovely. Thank you for letting me share it with you.
Kissy kissy,
Mary
photos forthcoming....
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Hi Adri!
Working hard today, it's going well. I had a good conversation - via internet with Teyyub. He's a real trooper and given me some very good feedback on some project ideas. I'm grateful to have him working with me.
Teyyub and Sabuhi - Sabuhi, you'll remember, is the one who resembles Sam and visited over Christmas a year ago. Teyyub is the taller of the two. They are my buds!! I love this picture here in Baku. They were posing as my body guards, since I was nearly robbed by some very clever young gypsy girls. But the guys had my back!!
And I'm listening to WUGA my FAVORITE radio station and constant source of information and entertainment. You can listen on line and really the station is excellent!! www.wuga.org
Okay, back to work on trying to get money from the OSCE Environmental Security Initiative for the Kura Aras NGO Forum.... See darned exciting stuff for a spy. NOT!!!
Much love,
Kissy Kissy
Working hard today, it's going well. I had a good conversation - via internet with Teyyub. He's a real trooper and given me some very good feedback on some project ideas. I'm grateful to have him working with me.
Teyyub and Sabuhi - Sabuhi, you'll remember, is the one who resembles Sam and visited over Christmas a year ago. Teyyub is the taller of the two. They are my buds!! I love this picture here in Baku. They were posing as my body guards, since I was nearly robbed by some very clever young gypsy girls. But the guys had my back!!
And I'm listening to WUGA my FAVORITE radio station and constant source of information and entertainment. You can listen on line and really the station is excellent!! www.wuga.org
Okay, back to work on trying to get money from the OSCE Environmental Security Initiative for the Kura Aras NGO Forum.... See darned exciting stuff for a spy. NOT!!!
Much love,
Kissy Kissy
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Dear Adri,
Well, it's been an interesting day. It's so pretty down here it is really hard to believe. I love Spring in Athens. My yard really takes off. You all were down here once years ago in the Spring. It was fun... those many years ago...
The view from my office window is really wonderful when my Japanese Magnolia is in bloom. It's nice to see from my desk as I'm working.
On the other hand, in recent conversations with YOUR SON Tom, I've realized sometimes I need to slow down and give myself a bit of a break from time to time.
So today at about 3:30, after working on a dozen different things, I decided to give myself a break. Tom has taken it upon himself to be my Slackology 101 tutor. Evidently he's got advanced degrees in it. Said he taught a class in slacking, but didn't show up for it. I did, as a student. Though the instructor didn't show, it was okay because I brought extra work to do...
Anyway, I decided to take a couple of hours to read a novel, sit on the swing on the back porch and appreciate the day. It actually felt quite good. I'll get back to work tomorrow. And the camillia bush is really breath taking.
I talked to Dad tonight. He's asked me what we need to do to get the house on the market, and how soon it can be done. He wants to retire. And he deserves that. I think we'd all agree that he's entitled to retire, take it easy and enjoy himself. Adri, I know that's what you wanted for him. We talked about it so many times. And he has told me this too. I want to help it happen for him.
I've dealt with cleaning out and sale of the homes of his mother, my Great Aunt Mel, my grand parents in Decatur and again my grandfather's home 7 years later. While Dad will have a household and all that requires after he sells the house and retires, he'll have to downsize a good bit.
Getting the house on the market may require some work on it. We'll need to figure it out. And I am always glad to do that. Especially since he has asked me to. It's another project for me, and one I am happy to do to help him. Projects like this really are right up my alley.
Okay, enough slacking... lots to do tomorrow. Business is going well. I'm involved in a bunch of bids for projects and I always enjoy that. Plus some good work with the folks in the Caucasus, who are all so very dear.
Back to it!!
Good night, and good luck!
Kissy Kissy
Well, it's been an interesting day. It's so pretty down here it is really hard to believe. I love Spring in Athens. My yard really takes off. You all were down here once years ago in the Spring. It was fun... those many years ago...
The view from my office window is really wonderful when my Japanese Magnolia is in bloom. It's nice to see from my desk as I'm working.
On the other hand, in recent conversations with YOUR SON Tom, I've realized sometimes I need to slow down and give myself a bit of a break from time to time.
So today at about 3:30, after working on a dozen different things, I decided to give myself a break. Tom has taken it upon himself to be my Slackology 101 tutor. Evidently he's got advanced degrees in it. Said he taught a class in slacking, but didn't show up for it. I did, as a student. Though the instructor didn't show, it was okay because I brought extra work to do...
Anyway, I decided to take a couple of hours to read a novel, sit on the swing on the back porch and appreciate the day. It actually felt quite good. I'll get back to work tomorrow. And the camillia bush is really breath taking.
I talked to Dad tonight. He's asked me what we need to do to get the house on the market, and how soon it can be done. He wants to retire. And he deserves that. I think we'd all agree that he's entitled to retire, take it easy and enjoy himself. Adri, I know that's what you wanted for him. We talked about it so many times. And he has told me this too. I want to help it happen for him.
I've dealt with cleaning out and sale of the homes of his mother, my Great Aunt Mel, my grand parents in Decatur and again my grandfather's home 7 years later. While Dad will have a household and all that requires after he sells the house and retires, he'll have to downsize a good bit.
Getting the house on the market may require some work on it. We'll need to figure it out. And I am always glad to do that. Especially since he has asked me to. It's another project for me, and one I am happy to do to help him. Projects like this really are right up my alley.
Okay, enough slacking... lots to do tomorrow. Business is going well. I'm involved in a bunch of bids for projects and I always enjoy that. Plus some good work with the folks in the Caucasus, who are all so very dear.
Back to it!!
Good night, and good luck!
Kissy Kissy
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUSTER!!
Hi Adri,
It's the kind of day I really could use a call from you. So, like, if you are inclined. You could even reverse the charges and I wouldn't even try to see what the area code was....?
Not likely, huh?
My brother Sam's wife Dorothy's mother-in-law is in the hospital. Her heart if fibrillating. Yep. It's a trend.
I could be my own friggin' Jerry Springer episode "Overloaded adult children of parents with irregular heart rythms - Strokes for Folks!!"
Good Lord, help me... please...?
Well if either of them croak, it becomes YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!!! HA!! Didn't think I could do that to you did you?? It makes the prospect of loosing either one of them vaguely more palatable...but not really, no.
In the meantime, talked to Tim Turner - he's in good humor, and I am always glad for that. He's a sweetie. Looks like I'll be bouncing back and forth a bit this summer - Meetings in Tehran (Inshallah) in the end of May, and in Tbilisi, and then Tehran the end of June. Home in between. Or at least state-side.
But like everything else, that can shift like the wind.
It really is a day I'd enjoy talking with you. Through the mania, my giggles are not as appreciated by anyone else as they were with you. But, we'll give them time.
Tom sounds reasonably good. It's Buster's birthday!! Hard to believe that one!! He's a good kid. I like him a lot. Here is a picture of him from your memorial service - he was filling in for Tom. Don't worry - the Crown Royale is on my kitchen counter - still full. Mostly.
Maybe a bit less so after today...hmmmm... sounds like an idea.
Wish you were here with the Manischevitz!! Now that would be a party!!
Love you!
Mary
Hi Adri!
It's a busy busy day!! I like it that way, but some days it's a bit challenging.
I think that the Iranian meeting is being delayed until Mid May, so my plans are continually in flux. Still, I'm glad. I worry about being gone while Dad is so depressed.
Tim is heading to Iran next week, so he'll figure out what is going on. (Thank heavens!!) But I'll miss being in the Caucasus. I really like it there.
On a brighter side, I'm not being courted by a couple of USAID oriented firms as projects are being released from the region. So who knows? Of course I'll keep you posted.
In terms of Dad being depressed, I think it is usual, but he's having some trouble coping. I was thinking it was just disorientation, but the more I learn about it, the more I think it's his depression hitting hard. I know you dealt with it, and thank you for all the conversations about how you did that. It helps.
I had a good conversation with the attorney about sorting out your estate. That looks like we can get it done fairly soon. Marcia's store is doing the valuation on your jewelry, so maybe we will be able to get everything for your estate settled before I leave...? That would be nice.
Okay, gotta dash - need to call Tim in UK, and other sorts of things- receipts, getting paid etc. etc.
Wish you'd call. I always felt better when I heard your voice and knew I'd get a short break from all the insanity which is my work.
Miss you.
Love,
Mary
It's a busy busy day!! I like it that way, but some days it's a bit challenging.
I think that the Iranian meeting is being delayed until Mid May, so my plans are continually in flux. Still, I'm glad. I worry about being gone while Dad is so depressed.
Tim is heading to Iran next week, so he'll figure out what is going on. (Thank heavens!!) But I'll miss being in the Caucasus. I really like it there.
On a brighter side, I'm not being courted by a couple of USAID oriented firms as projects are being released from the region. So who knows? Of course I'll keep you posted.
In terms of Dad being depressed, I think it is usual, but he's having some trouble coping. I was thinking it was just disorientation, but the more I learn about it, the more I think it's his depression hitting hard. I know you dealt with it, and thank you for all the conversations about how you did that. It helps.
I had a good conversation with the attorney about sorting out your estate. That looks like we can get it done fairly soon. Marcia's store is doing the valuation on your jewelry, so maybe we will be able to get everything for your estate settled before I leave...? That would be nice.
Okay, gotta dash - need to call Tim in UK, and other sorts of things- receipts, getting paid etc. etc.
Wish you'd call. I always felt better when I heard your voice and knew I'd get a short break from all the insanity which is my work.
Miss you.
Love,
Mary
Monday, April 03, 2006
Dear A.,
Some times a guest posting is the most bitter sweet. This from your boy Tom, who brightened your days even when no one else really could.
Letter to my mom
Dear Mom,
Things just aren't the same since you left us. I inquired about a refund on the new heart as the guarantee implied you would have an extra 10 or 15 years of use with it. No such luck. I guess you get what you pay for. I knew a retread was a bad idea when it comes to body organs.
Anyway, I guess things are about as good as can be expected. I know I miss you an awful lot and wish I could hear the sound of your voice. As for your face and smile, I see it in my minds eye every day and night. That was pretty funny the way you croaked without a will. It has proven to be an interesting challenge to deal with your piles of crap post you. Ha ha ha, I knew you'd get the last laugh.
Wanna hear something funny? I have been discovering that I am not as funny as I thought. I think I will partially blame you for this unfortunate turn of events. You see, you laughed at everything that I ever said or did. It gave me the feeling that I was funny. Now that my best audience and biggest fan isn't around, the painful truth is becoming evident.
I remember how the other kids were always jealous of my ability to make you laugh when you were yelling at us or trying to discipline us.
You always let me off easy trying desperately to hide your smile and leaving the room so that you could go laugh.
God I miss you. I knew this day would come, and I mentally prepared myself for it for years. . . but alas. . . nothing prepared me for the reality of losing my best friend.
I miss you mom, we'll talk later -
Some times a guest posting is the most bitter sweet. This from your boy Tom, who brightened your days even when no one else really could.
Letter to my mom
Dear Mom,
Things just aren't the same since you left us. I inquired about a refund on the new heart as the guarantee implied you would have an extra 10 or 15 years of use with it. No such luck. I guess you get what you pay for. I knew a retread was a bad idea when it comes to body organs.
Anyway, I guess things are about as good as can be expected. I know I miss you an awful lot and wish I could hear the sound of your voice. As for your face and smile, I see it in my minds eye every day and night. That was pretty funny the way you croaked without a will. It has proven to be an interesting challenge to deal with your piles of crap post you. Ha ha ha, I knew you'd get the last laugh.
Wanna hear something funny? I have been discovering that I am not as funny as I thought. I think I will partially blame you for this unfortunate turn of events. You see, you laughed at everything that I ever said or did. It gave me the feeling that I was funny. Now that my best audience and biggest fan isn't around, the painful truth is becoming evident.
I remember how the other kids were always jealous of my ability to make you laugh when you were yelling at us or trying to discipline us.
You always let me off easy trying desperately to hide your smile and leaving the room so that you could go laugh.
God I miss you. I knew this day would come, and I mentally prepared myself for it for years. . . but alas. . . nothing prepared me for the reality of losing my best friend.
I miss you mom, we'll talk later -
Hi A.,
I know you are with us still as I listen to the Public Radio Show "To the Best of OurKnowledge" at http://wpr.org/book/
They are currently doing the interview on Southern Funerals:
Charlotte Hays is co-author of "Being Dead Is No Excuse: The Official Southern Ladies Guide to Hosting the Perfect Funeral." She tells Jim Fleming what mourners really want to eat and why she's not in favor of long eulogies. Also, Marilyn Johnson tells Anne Strainchamps why obituaries are the best stories in the paper. She's the author of "The Dead Beat: Lost Souls, Lucky Stiffs, and the Perverse Pleasures of Obituaries."
FINALLY!!! We could teach you how to cook good Southern Food!!
The show today is "Laughing at Death"
LAUGHING AT DEATH
Program 06-04-02-A
Listen!
To The Best of Our Knowledgefrom Wisconsin Public Radio
Oh, A! THANK YOU for your wonderful sense of humor!!
I'll have to make some of these recipes for you.
Much Love!
Mary
I know you are with us still as I listen to the Public Radio Show "To the Best of OurKnowledge" at http://wpr.org/book/
They are currently doing the interview on Southern Funerals:
Charlotte Hays is co-author of "Being Dead Is No Excuse: The Official Southern Ladies Guide to Hosting the Perfect Funeral." She tells Jim Fleming what mourners really want to eat and why she's not in favor of long eulogies. Also, Marilyn Johnson tells Anne Strainchamps why obituaries are the best stories in the paper. She's the author of "The Dead Beat: Lost Souls, Lucky Stiffs, and the Perverse Pleasures of Obituaries."
FINALLY!!! We could teach you how to cook good Southern Food!!
The show today is "Laughing at Death"
LAUGHING AT DEATH
Program 06-04-02-A
Listen!
To The Best of Our Knowledgefrom Wisconsin Public Radio
Oh, A! THANK YOU for your wonderful sense of humor!!
I'll have to make some of these recipes for you.
Much Love!
Mary
Sunday, April 02, 2006
Dear Adri,
Happy Sunday! Yesterday was crazy!! I ended up planting 5 trees and shrubberies in the yard. Major pain this morning, but a hot bath helped a lot. I love working hard like that, so a few aches and pains are absolutely worth it.
Speaking of helping a lot, I want to thank everyone who has been so supportive of things with Dad. He needs all the help he can get, and I know we are all concerned about him, his welfare and his future. For everyone who has been there, offering support and encouragement, thank you. I appreciate it. It means a lot to me, and I know it means a lot to him too.
I'm still waiting on the Iranian visa. When we know what is happening with that, we will know more about what's next. . .I'll keep you posted.
Off the grocery store to stock up for the week, work for work to do this afternoon/evening and more work around the house... and then back to work work tomorrow!!
More in a bit,
Kissy kissy,
Mary
Happy Sunday! Yesterday was crazy!! I ended up planting 5 trees and shrubberies in the yard. Major pain this morning, but a hot bath helped a lot. I love working hard like that, so a few aches and pains are absolutely worth it.
Speaking of helping a lot, I want to thank everyone who has been so supportive of things with Dad. He needs all the help he can get, and I know we are all concerned about him, his welfare and his future. For everyone who has been there, offering support and encouragement, thank you. I appreciate it. It means a lot to me, and I know it means a lot to him too.
I'm still waiting on the Iranian visa. When we know what is happening with that, we will know more about what's next. . .I'll keep you posted.
Off the grocery store to stock up for the week, work for work to do this afternoon/evening and more work around the house... and then back to work work tomorrow!!
More in a bit,
Kissy kissy,
Mary
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Dear Adri,
As you know, inconsistencies have always been interesting to me. My friend Sue sent this to me this morning. It seems apt. I'm off to work in the garden!! What a joy!!
Things you have to believe to be a Republican today.....
As you know, inconsistencies have always been interesting to me. My friend Sue sent this to me this morning. It seems apt. I'm off to work in the garden!! What a joy!!
Things you have to believe to be a Republican today.....
- Jesus loves you, and shares your hatred of homosexuals and Hillary Clinton.
- Saddam was a good guy when Reagan armed him, a bad guy when Bush's daddy made war on him, a good guy when Cheney did business with him, and a bad guy when Bush needed a "we can't find Bin Laden" diversion.
- Trade with Cuba is wrong because the country is Communist, but trade with China and Vietnam is vital to a spirit of international harmony.
- The United States should get out of the United Nations, and our highest national priority is enforcing U.N. resolutions against Iraq.
- A woman can't be trusted with decisions about herown body, but multi-national corporations can make decisions affecting all mankind without regulation.
- The best way to improve military morale is to praise the troops in speeches, while slashing veterans' benefits and combat pay.
- If condoms are kept out of schools, adolescents won't have sex.
- A good way to fight terrorism is to belittle our long-time allies, then demand their cooperation and money.
- Providing health care to all Iraqis is sound policy, but providing health care to all Americans is socialism. HMOs and insurance companies have the best interests of the public at heart.
- Global warming and tobacco's link to cancer arejunk science, but creationism should be taught in schools.
- A president lying about an extramarital affair is an impeachable offense, but a president lying to enlist support for a war in which thousands die is solid defense policy.
- Government should limit itself to the powers named in the Constitution, which include banning gay marriages and censoring the Internet.
- The public has a right to know about Hillary's cattle trades, but George Bush's driving record is none of our business.
- Being a drug addict is a moral failing and a crime, unless you're a conservative radio host. Then it's an illness and you need our prayers for your recovery.
- You support states' rights, but the Attorney General can tell states what local voter initiatives they have the right to adopt.
- What Bill Clinton did in the 1960s is of vital national interest, but what Bush did in the '80s is irrelevant.
Feel free to pass this on. If you don't send it to at least 10 other people,we're likely to be stuck with more Republicans in'06 and '08. Friends don't let friends vote Republican.
(Of course chances are we will be sending this to people pre-disposed to not vote Republican anyway... but who knows...? Do you A.?)
And for now, ta-ta!!
Love you,
Mary
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)