Yeah Lori, there really isn't any good way around consistently failing at resolutions. Just kidding! Karen's approach has virutue, though.

I also want to wish you all a Happy New Year! We'll probably just stay home, as usual. Avi's not really in the mood to go out with his mother still in the hospital. She's improving, I think, but she's still in intensive care, connected to oxygen. Haven't thought about my resolutions yet! They always seem to be the same, though--shows you how successful I am in keeping them!

HappY New Year to you all..........have been in the process of planning a "nifty to be fifty" party sometime in the summer of 2004.........everyone that is turning 50 in 2004 is invited, and also some "honary members". We need to pick a time and place, but already have some willing attendees. Hard to imagine that I am going to be 50, the time does seem to slip away, but I have enjoyed most of it. Good Luck to you all in 2004...

Roland, we will probably live in Alpharetta, the job is in Cumming. Have to consider schools as I have one still in school, a freshman. My senior got into Clemson which is only two hours but he is leaning toward U of Michigan. Will also have one at the U of Cincinnati, and my daughter may be with us or go back to KY. That is the hard part for me, scattered family, my own children and my parents, siblings, etc. Richard, no resolutions for me this year. Last year I vowed to clean up my potty mouth and the kids got a real kick out of how that DIDN'T work! Mom of the year here! Best Wishes to everyone for a good 2004!

Hey all, yeah, the moving thing is like traveling, gets old after too much of it but it sure does make life interesting and throws us into situations in which we are forced to learn. Plans for my "little" businesses" are off and running and I have only two weeks left of this silly road thing. I'm in Hilton Head probably for New Years unless I get enough done and then I'll be on the water in J'ville or at my favourite paino bar in Tallahassee. Resolutions........well, may not as much procrastination with things I really want to do. Always sounds good. Going to ATL Karen? Would love to see you. There isn't that much culture but lots of shops and some history but lots of activities. I live a little east of there what used to be country. I have 4 acres with woods protecting myself against the neighbours so I like it now. Its really convienient for travel to most all sections of the country in some mode of trancprtation. The climate is almost perfect. Not to warm, and not too cold but after almost 10 years now I get cold when it drops into the 40's and bitter when it occasionally goet into the 30's. Hope all of you have a grand New Year and maybe I'll get to see some of ya'll this year.

Any resolutions?? Last year John Laplant made a resolution to post a karaoke performance for us all to check out. Without any evidence to view, I can only assume that he sang the year away.

One of my resolutions for '04 is to do more woodworking, part-time. Hope the New Year brings goodness to us all!

Good luck, Karen. We've moved quite a lot, too, but not to as many different places as you--just back and forth between here and Israel. That was enough to kind of screw up the kids' education, but I can't say I have any regrets. There are always advantages and disadvantages. I think the experience gave them enough to make up for what they lost in school. When I was a kid, we also moved a lot, but mostly to different places in Vermont. The worst was a year at school in Hanover, N.H. I hated that place. Really snobby. I was always with the rejects there.

An "organ recital," Richard? I like that!

Geez Karen, you definately win the moving prize. That's way more than us!! We talked about it every few years but I held firm and so we didn't make the move as often as we might have. Luckily for Dave's position in the government it hasn't kept him back at all.

Atlanta is a beautiful city and I do love the warmer climates. The airport is certainly accessible for anywhere you'll want to visit. To come back to the coast for a summer visit, you may have to fly into Boston and drive up. Though Portland airport is opening itself up to more flights. Maybe sometime when you're in the state we can visit.

Richard, please do visit, I should be there by July. Our moves include, a year in Enfield, CT, 10 years in the Schenectady, NY area (three houses), 7 years in Pittsford, VT, 7 years in Lexington, KY and almost two in Grand Rapids, MI ........ does that add up to 26+ years of marriage? I am experienced but not energetic!!!! Thanks for commiserating Pat!

`Moving is hard Karen, we've done it more often than I like to think. This is the longest we've ever lived anywhere and Dave has been talking about moving for the last couple of years. He still talks about Bangor, which is only about (just under) 3 hours south and frankly that's not far enough south for me. The fact that he will retire in 5 years makes me wonder what the point of the move is. As a kid we moved every 3 years until my senior year when mom finally put her foot down and said no, but then we moved when I was a sophomore in college. I never really felt that I lived in the Milton house, just a summer and a couple of school vacations.

Our boys spent a rough 18 months when we moved from Rutland, to Essex, and then to Presque Isle. Now that they are both back living here I want to be close to where they are. I've dug in my heels I guess but I know that Dave doesn't want to be far from them either. It's his call to make.

It took him so long to assemble my new computer desk yesterday that I doubt I'll ever have to move again. He certainly won't want to repeat that experience!

Having a child in school will help though Karen. Our kids have always been our entre into society. And you've always got us here to talk to!

Karen, I know what you mean about sadness, but we are also all involved in incredible things as well that really are miracles and gifts with only an occasional fondue that is unclear if it is either one.

On the topic of fondue, I have to say that the mixture of ementhaler, gruyere, white wine, kirsh, and garlic can be a little hard on anyone that is not in the mood. My favorite fondue is done with long thin strips of beef that you roll up on a skewer and cook in a broth that has oriental flavors. Then dip it in a curry mayonaise, horseradish sauce, or some other fabulous flavor. At the end you can eat the broth (although this was never my favorite part).

On the topic of sadness, the bad news is that our peers will soon be starting organ recitals, where we hear the current state of affairs with everyones' internal organs. Somebody shoot me if I ever start!!

Please deliver my best wishes to Rich on his new job! The best man at my wedding now lives in Atlanta. I would love to come visit y'all sometime. Maybe I can swing it as a business trip!?!?

Lori, I hope things get better soon. Is it me, or our age ........ I feel like there is constant sadness and trauma all the time ...... of course it could be menopause! Richard, about the fondue ........ it was not that big a success. The kids didn't appreciate the tanginess of the wine in the cheese. We have only done cheese and chocolate but there must be others. Guess I haven't told you all that Rich is starting a new job north of Atlanta in January and we will move down after my number three child graduates in June. We have been here less than two years so I feel like it is too soon to leave, and my freshman doesn't want to go either. But we hear good things about the area and if we can't be close to family then I am glad to go somewhere warm. I will be here with three of my kids for the next 6 or more months so I will probably be communicating with you all alot ........... sanity! Happy New Year!

I wouldn't want to be going off to any war. I love Israel, but when my kids got close to army age, we left. I didn't want them fighting in any wars, and especially not because I was the one who wanted to live there (though that wasn't the only reason we left. Avi was travelling back and forth at that time, and it was hard to manage his business here with all that travelling.)

Boys in the class of '72 were very aware of the possibility of going to Vietnam and I was very releaved when my number was 229 in the draft lottery. Then it turned out that none of us would get drafted as they changed to an all volunteer army. The guy in the room next door to me in my college dorm was #1.

On the topic of fondue, I think that this can be a really fun tradition. I used to work at a restaurant called the Swiss Pot. This has a different meaning now that the Swiss have legalized marijuana, but at the time it only meant fondue. We served cheese fondue, beef fondue with either oil or broth for cooking and interesting sauces for dipping, and a chocolate fondue served with fruit. I do not know if there are any others. . . are there??

Tough week Lori. I hope everyone comes through all right. Like much of America right now we are enduring the time of friends and loved ones leaving with the military. Both of the boys best friends, Kevin's current roommate and Colin's roommate last year when he was living away; are leaving. One is with the National Guard and is being deployed to Iraq leaving here today. The other is a 20 year old who joined the service 6 months ago and expects to be in Iraq within a few months. He leaves for basic training Monday and then is being sent to Germany, the expectation is that from there he will be shipped to Iraq.

When we were in high school and our brothers were going off to Vietnam were we too young to really understand the ramifications. I remember missing Hal terribly but I don't remember fearing for his safety and wondering if he would survive. Maybe it was too long ago to remember the feelings or maybe it was just me and I was too naive. I certainly have strong feelings about this war and my son's are very frightened for their friends.

It's a rainy rainy Christmas here in L.A. It's also been a week of hospitals. Avi's partner had an operation to unclog an artery in his leg. He seems to be recovering pretty quickly from that, but 2 days later, he had a terrible toothache and had to have 2 teeth removed. And Avi's mother has been in the hospital since last Saturday night. She had stones in her gall bladder and had her gall bladder removed yesterday. She'll be all right, I think, but she's in intensive care right now. It's supposed to be a simple operation, but wasn't so simple in her case. Avi and his brothers and sisters are taking turns sitting with her. And besides all that, a friend of my daughter's was in a car accident yesterday. He had head injuries and is still unconscious. His family is in Israel, but he's not on such good terms with them. I hope the New Year will bring better days. Happy holidays to all of you.

We also have fairly mild temps and no snow, might get a dusting tonight. We are possibly starting a new tradition ......... Christmas Eve fondue! Have done fondue some over the past year and the kids really enjoyed it. As I sit here in the kitchen typing the deer are about 30 feet from my back deck having their Christmas Eve feed, seven of them right now. We are allowed to feed them and I buy 6-8 forty pound bags of feed every two weeks. I just love them. Hope everyone has a great holiday season!

You won't find me out in the cold if I can avoid it. Which frankly is a challenge up here. though not today. It was so warm I didn't even zip my jacket. The snow is melting and the rain is raining.

"I'm dreaming of a White Christmas."

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah everyone, may you all enjoy the holidays.

You won't find me on a double black diamond trail. Maybe the bunny slope...

I just got back from snowboarding. I tried a double black diamond trail today that I had not been on before. Steep and narrow is tolerable and pretty fun if the snow is good. Bumps can put it over the top because they are difficult on a snowboard. Rocks, roots, stumps and ice make it impossible. I saw all of the above when I had my eyes open.

I'm feeling comfortable and warm now, kind of like an old slipper I guess.

Oh yum, I love those only now when they serve them at school I call them dogs in a condom. Times have changed.

Swapping boys and girls classes in Shop and Home Ec. was an early and practical adjustment to changing roles. For me, it was where I learned how to wash my hands and make pigs in a blanket. There have been so many times in my life when I have thanked my lucky stars for this experience. As I sit here now with five sparkling fingers wrapped around a Pilsbury covered Oscar Meyer dog, I can only say have a great holiday mates!!!!

Hey Everyone, I hope everyone has a great holiday season and a even better New Year. It is hard to imagine that another year has gone by so fast and so much has happened in this one. I have enjoyed trying to keep up with you on blogger and staying tuned to old high school and college friends. Best wishes and be safe.

Hi Robin thanks for catching us up on your exploits. It's fun to hear about the folks just dropping by.

What grade was it in Jr. High that the shop boys and the home ec girls traded classes? Anyone remember that? The guys made pot holders and we made little wooden pot holder handing thingys. I remember a bunch of us girls got our photo in the local paper working down in the shop.

Greetings from the great white north. In chapter 7 of "I wonder what the hell ever happened to:______" , an elderly gent stopped one of my buses dropping off a client at THE doctor's office up here in the Islands and asks the driver if he's "Robin Way". Driver says "no, he's the executive director and works in the office." Turns out its William Cerauskis, of eighth grade shop. I have nightmares of working hopelessly on some lawnmower engine with Brian King. Perhaps its due to too many years of rock and roll. Mr. Cerauskis and his wife live in South Hero. Diane...ahh...something Polish...who was a year ahead of us also lives in So. Hero...works for the Visiting Nurse. Susan Ainsworth stopped by my office today. The non-profit housing agency that she works for is buying one (of two) senior/low income apartment complexes "The Round Barn"(and it was...)where in a number of our clients live. Happy Holidays all...Robin

Welcome home Lori. Glad you got out before the deluge. Can snow be considered a deluge? Now we're talking about 30 inches before it stops. Already well over the minimum they had predicted and still coming hard and fast. The sound of snowblowers is all around me as people stry to stay ahead of it. The gentleman across the street is struggling with the snow being almost deeper than his machine can handle. It's his first time today though so next time will be easier.

Well, here I am back in L.A. I had to change my flight to fly back through Cleveland instead of Newark. I probably wouldn't have gotten home if I had flown through Newark cuz there were delays and cancellations because of the snowstorm. It's hard coming home after a vacation--even though it was sort of a working vacation this time (getting the house ready to be lived in). Now it's back to the bills, etc.

I haven't had to parent my parents yet. They're relatively young --70 and 71--and still doing okay. Luckily.

You know the old saying: "Be good to your kids, they'll be picking out your nursing home."

It's a snow day here. Just got back from a week in Las Vegas and was really anxious to get back to school but you can't see an inch in front of your nose so that's that. I'm dreaming of a White Christmas - Tra la la la la la la la la !

Pat, I like your point about parenting our parents. To think that my boys might one day be parenting me is a little disconcerting. I am sure that tying me to the roof of the car and taking dad for a Sunday drive is well within the realm of possibilities.

I'm glad your mom is happier now, and not a bit surprised. We moved Dave's up here to PI a year after we arrived. She was only in her 60's but her "lifestyle" had created an old women in a young body. Dave's sister, living in Belmont, MA just an hour away was unwilling to step in. Anyway, Roberta has been here with us for 11-12 years and decling so we have had to move her here and there depending on her level of capability and just recently found a beautiful, loving, small home for adults about 20 minutes from us where she has probably never been happier. The staff is wonderful and there are only a total of 6 people in residence. It's the kind of place that I would choose for myself if it came to it. She had resisted this move right up to the last minute, in fact her belongings had already been moved when she sat down and said she wasn't going. But we knew the neighbors and staff where she was living were enabling her lifestyle and we weren't going to let it continue. Cool heads prevailed and she can't say enough about how happy she is. It's an awfully tough time, parenting your parents.

My dad on the other hand is not incapable of taking care of himself but his companion is allowing her very strong willed and possessive children to make this decision. they've been pressing for this for 5 years now. Dad doesn't want to live down there without Rachel though. It would be terribly lonely. The years after mom died were very hard for him. I guess my concern as long as he is willing to make this move is how much decision making will be done by Rachel's family. What personal decision making will be giving up. But he's a big boy and I'm struggling not to say too much.

Pouring rain, I'll say! I had to be at work at 7:00 this morning and would have made it, but the river had flooded the road on my final leg of my commute. One ten mile detour later, I made it to work- ten minutes late for a conference call with big Swiss bosses.

Bi-coastal? Sounds like bi-polar. Maybe that's what I'll be if I go back and forth too often!

I'm still getting used to the cold here. I have to force myself to go outside. It's so warm and cozy inside, and if I have a good book, I never get bored inside. But yesterday I was out all day in the pouring rain buying silly things like coasters and sugar cannisters.

The west coast of Vermont is warm and soggy today with below zero temps expected tomorrow night. . . and the west coast of California must be a whole lot better than that right now!?! I did go snowboarding on Tuesday in some big powder but . . . now, oh well.

Congratulations Lori! You are now officially bi- coastal!

Well, maybe not ALL of Karen's ideas! But a lot of them.

The Vermont native in Lori is still evident. When I arrived at Lori and Avi's new place on the shores of Lake Champlain, I found Lori knee deep in icy waters as she caught a northern pike with her bare hands. Lori, are you sure that all of Karen's ideas sound good? It appeared to me that you are into more of a bear-skin rug phase of life.

Just kidding! Lori and Avi have a nice place with beautiful sunsets out the living room window. It was fun to spend time with them.

I think audio blog is like a shared voice messaging thing. I am not really sure though.

Hi. I've been away from the blog for the past week, but now I'm back and enjoying all your comments! I'm still in Vermont. I guess I didn't mention that last time we were in Vermont, we bought a small house in Colchester right by Lake Champlain. We plan to rent it out for short-term vacations so that we'll also be able to use it ourselves. We've been busy all week buying furniture, kitchen stuff, etc. etc. so that the house will be ready to be lived in. We got a computer, too, so I'm sitting here in Vermont writing on the blog, and it feels different writing from here! Anyway, we got a lot done. Avi went back to L.A. yesterday, and I'll be here until Sunday finishing up. Richard stopped by to see us on Monday while we were waiting for the cable guys to come. It was nice to see him again! And, Patti, maybe I'll get to see you on one of your visits to your father once he moves to Burlington. We'll be here more often now that we have this place. I know what you mean, Karen, about the heart being in Vermont. I think my heart is split between Vermont and Israel. And by the way, I wouldn't mind getting all those presents you mentioned!!! I talked to Janice on the phone yesterday and Brian a few days ago, but I probably won't get to see them on this visit.

Richard, what's that audio blog you mentioned? You can't hear me talking, can you?

I am thankful everyday that mine are both still alert and active. Good luck to you both, these things are so hard.

It's good to move your parents while they can still be a useful part of the transition. I have not had this luck and my sister and brother have been useless. After 6 years of remotely managing my mother's life in Spfld from Burlington, including having people at her house seven days a week; I got court appointed guardianship and moved her to an elderly care living situation. Now, almost one year later I have finally sold her house. What a relief! The kicker is that my mother is happier where she is now.

Well it's Saturday night and my dad just called from Florida. Seems he is moving back to the Burlington area. His companion, Rachel, has children living there and they have convinced Dad and Rachel that they can no longer take care of themselves and need to "come home" and be taken care of. So when the house sells that's what they will do. It would never have occured to me to tell my dad that he couldn't take care of himself. At least not at this point. He's only 75. But he doesn't want to live alone and so he is going along with this plan. At least as he says, he'll be closer. Guess I'll be over in northern Vt sooner than I figured.

Jeez I'd like to be able to walk away from my monitor and go for a drive. Sounds wonderful. Think my students would notice I wasn't in the room? Maybe not.

Next week I'm traveling with Dave to Las Vegas. He's on business and I'm tagging along. Unfortunately it's cold there too. I was hoping to be poolside with a good book. Oh well. I'll find something to do I'm sure. I'll be staying at the Paris Hotel in case anyone wants to call or come by.

Well, if it reminded you of driving the backroads in Spfld, then you must have been drinking, smoking or looking for a place to go parking! Hope you didn't throw your empties out the window! HAHA!

I just took a drive up around the western side of Mt. Mansfield. It's cold, snowy, and really beautiful today. After lunch, I couldn't stand the idea of being back here staring into my computer monitor, so I decided to drive until I felt like turning around. It reminded me of driving around the back roads of Spfld during high school. It also reminded me of what a drag it is to be staring into this monitor. I think I need a ripping day on a snowboard to make it all right again.

Karen I'd love to pop over and do your decorating. I enjoy it actually and miss having people around to do it for. The "guys" expect to have it done but are too old to participate anymore. All busy with work and that sort of thing. They certainly notice when I don't do the usual overwhelming do over the entire house thing. I tried just not bothering, kinda went on strike a couple of years ago. I'm the one who missed it the most though so back to it I went. This year I'm having a bunch of my gal pals from school over for a cookie exchange on the 22nd so there will be someone to ooh and aww over my efforts.

On a whole nother topic: I'm not a fan of wings. Any wings.

I do make a terrific pumpkin pie and I'm not sure how it can screwed up. Although I don't like to cook particularly I do great deserts and volunteer for that part of most get togethers. Dave has a gluten allergy so 20 years ago I found I needed to come up with some creative cooking when it came to deserts. I make a spectacular gluten free chocolate cake. It's surprising actually how many people find they are gluten intolerant.

wings are only good on maxi pads ........... sorry!

Are the seven foot wings that the Victorias Secret models wear on the runway considered "actually wearable". Gerda would look very good with seven foot wings. Thanks for the ideas! I will get busy now before it's too late.

A massage, a great bottle of champagne, some aromatherapy or massage oil, a certificate for a weekend get away, JEWELRY - anything but especially diamonds, a manicure, pedicure or facial, a good book, actually wearable items from Victoria's Secret, gift cert. to a class of interest to her (cooking, computer, crafts, MASSAGE!), a family portrait sitting before your first one leaves home, perfume, warm fuzzy stuff like slippers and robes, gourmet coffee, anything that you make yourself (maybe woodworking in your case) kitchen gadgets from Williams Sonoma and ......... naughty stuff from that store with the black paper on the front door!!!!! Hope this helps, now go take a cold shower!

I like the honesty of "Your cooking sucks". It reminds me of the hunting camp where anyone who complains becomes the next cook, though. My theory with my sister in law has always been that I am dealing with an iceberg, where most of the story is hidden under water. I guess I have wanted to keep it that way and haven't really been very honest. And, I really think I could maintain my dishonesty if that pumpkin pie would stop popping out of the water like a penguin with a gas problem.

A Southern Living magazine subscription would be a very unexpected present to slip into, my wife, Gerda's Christmas pile. Any other ideas for that special someone?

A tatoo was the best present that I never had to actually get for her. The fact that I suggested it made her feel like a wild woman. My boys called it off, because they couldn't handle the idea of having a mom with a tatoo.

Twelve hours of driving time Pat, and with the stops about 14. We are used to it now after being away for the last 10 years. When we lived in KY it was a 14 hour driving trip. The older my parents get the more I would like to be back closer. I like things about everywhere that we have lived but in the end the heart brings you back. Glad you have the holiday spirit Pat. Would you like to come do my decorating? Richard, don't you think at almost 50 that we have the RIGHT to speak up and say "Your cooking sucks"? Okay, well then buy her a subscription to Southern Living magazine or the food channel........ Just trying to help!

I had 3 wreaths delivered to me at school today by one of my students so I have a fun project tonight decorating them. Hope to put up our tree later this week. Awfully cold here too, like most of the north east low temps and windy. Guess fall is over. It's too cold to string lights on the house. Our neighbors are way ahead of us in the decorating department but we'll catch up bye and bye.

Glad to hear Janice and Butch are doing well. Sounds like a good trip Karen. How long a ride is it for you?

Hi, we also made it back safely and had a good time with family. Saw Janice and Butch for a little while too. They are great. Here it is quite cold, low 20's this morning and we are expecting snow for Fri. and Sat. I guess I will have to try to get in the spirit and put up a tree this weekend. Just really wishing we could skip right over it all. Bah Humbug!!

Hey ya'll, made it back to GA safely and only saw three accidents on the way. One was the usual HUGE. Took a side road and stayed out in the country in VA then arrived back here early afternoon yesterday. Mom had me bring furniture back this time so good thing I drove and had the Grand Caravan. They had a few cdold nights while I was gone so the impatients finally bit the whatever and its time to plant the winter stuff. The dog and cat were sure glad to see me and I played with them the rest of hesterday aftermoon. Back to work tomorrow. Got to finish unpacking today and maybe get the rest of the leaves up in the yard.

And once again, my sister-in-law brought new life and meaning to the words "truly unremarkable".

Did you see the "Audio Blog" option on the http://new.blogger.com/ web page? You can connect to our blog account from your cell phone and listen to voice messages. Gee whiz, I have trouble leaving a message that I can live with on my voice mail and it usually takes me 4 tries. I think that this dinosaur is not ready to audio blog yet. Note to self: I bet Dale Carnegie can help me.

You're welcome Roland but all I did was get some e-mail addresses together. The credit for the work on the reunion goes to John LaPlante and countless others living in the Spfld. area. They did all the real work and it was a great event! The blog idea came from Brian and although we never see him here anymore, the credit for all our continuing conversations certainly goes to him.

I hope everyone had a safe Thanksgiving and a great visit with family and friends.............yes, Roland and I "made it happen", by getting together and having lunch.............a very long one, I can say, the dinner people were coming in when we finally decide to leave. the atmosphere was very nice, it was a victorian style house and they converted it into a eating establishment. Restauraunt is not a good work for it and doesn't do it justice. The atmosphere was very nice and they had decorated it for Christmas already. The mantel where were (may have been back parlor) was really nice. I even think the music they played was 70s-80s. Very fitting...........It was great talking about old times, catching up on our individual lives over the past 30 years, and what our goals for the future are...........

Hey all! I finally got up to CT for Turkey and Nancy & I went out to lunch. I took her to the Victorian House here in Cheshire and we had a very LONG lunch, afterall it was 30 some odd years of cathching up. I really enjoyed it and hope to be able to meet more of you next time. Seems that Nancy's mom and mine have mutuall friends and we hope to get them together on the net soon. Hope all had a great day and arrived safely. It didn't snow heree this year and my trip up through the Blue Ridge Mts was relaxing. I stayed over in VA and drove through via the sunrise, so beautiful all those colours and shades. It rained today but Nancy and I had a great time remembering all the "good ol times" in VT. Did someone say something about getting together in a few years for our 35? I'd be willing to help. That sure was alot of work you did Patti for the 30th and sound like everyone enjoyed it. Nancy said something about trying to get some friends together to all celebrate our half century of experiences this summer or fall, that would be great too!! Well, looks like we all have lots to be thankful for and have basically turned out ok and looks like most of the kids are doing as well. I enjoy hearing about how well they are doing even though I don't know them. Carrying on the spirit of creativity and individuality to follow in our footsteps but a notch higher or two eigh? Yes, Patti, I know about those long commutes. GA is a VERY large state land mass wise although the HD is much close than yours.

Hey Lori 8 hours ain't nothin to us backwood northern Mainers. Actually, it sucks to have to drive to get anywhere. Tomorrow Dave and I are driving about 2 3/4 hours south just to get to the nearest health food store and Home Depot. So relatively, 8 hours to visit a dear friend isn't that bad. Unfortunatly, I'm back to school Monday until the 22nd of Dec. which means I don't have an 8 hours to use. One of these trips east for you I'm coming over. I told Karen I wanted to get "us girls" together for a pajama party. Wouldn't that be a blast!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Patti, I'll be in Burlington until Dec. 14. If you're going to be in the area, I'd love to see you. I like the way you say ONLY 8 hours! That's no big deal for you??? I'm pretty ignorant about Maine. I've never been to any part of it--north, south, or coast.

It's surprising actually how many of our students have never been south of Bangor. There's really an unfortunate north south condition of living in Me. I've never spent time on the coast as an adult, though Kevin lived there for about six months. I worked with Jane at a restaurant in Old Orchard Beach right after graduation.

People up here like to refer to the coastal areas like Kennebunkport and the "Bush Compound" as parts of MA because the Bush family doesn't do ME particularly from their lifestyle. I guess that's the argument. I don't really think of myself as being from Maine either so there you go.

No offense intended.

Excuse me, we go to Bar Harbor, MT Dessert Island and it is definitely part of ME, but there sure are tourists there from everywhere!! Rich's parents grew up in Bar Harbor so he has family there and a family camp. We love it. No offense taken, haha!

Lori how long will you be in VT? I wish it was a trip closer to Christmas then I would dirve over and meet you somewhere. I have time off then. One of your trips east we have to meet! It's only about 8 hours or so from here to the greater Burlington area I guess. It seems like about 8 hours to almost anywhere from here some days. Spfld. is a little longer I think. Its easy to go downstate but over to get through NH is where we run into some interesting roads. Jerry probably knows the best way. I think we need a mini winter reunion. Of course everyone is welcome to come to the beautiful state of ME to visit. I know Karen goes to the coast in summer, right? Up here we don't really think of that as ME. It's often called part of MA actually by the financially disgruntled. (snicker)

I wish Happy Thanksgiving to anyone who doesn't get back on here before then. Please everyone, travel safely. Enjoy that pie!

Enjoy your pumpkin pie, Richard!

Maybe you should drive, Karen! Then you can go as slow as you want. I feel safer in the driver's seat most of the time!

Good one Richard! Don't get too cocky all of you east of here ......... Minneapolis got it yesterday, we are getting it today (only 3 inches so they say) and guess who is on the track after NY? My prediction, not the weather man's ......... but never say never. I will be sure to pack my nerves of steel for the drive and the phrase my husband loves to hear "Would you please SLOW DOWN!!!

It will be 60 degrees and sunny here today. For you travellers coming through the NE, there is only a little rain or snow expected on Thanksgiving.

We are doing Thanksgiving at our house for the 1st time. Gerda's mom hasn't got another bird in her (we have always gone to her place in the past). The rumor is that she is bringing something chocolate for dessert though! It will also be one more year of the scourge of my sister in law's pumpkin pie. Like turning gold into lead, she has mastered making cardboard out of whole wheat flour and, hey, the pumpkins are in her garden, "You have to eat those!" Maybe this year I will tell her that we have slugs in our garden, but we don't eat them.

Happpy Thanksgiving to all of you! We'll be having it at our house with all of Avi's family. And 2 days after that we'll be having a big barbeque here for Avi's mother's 70th birthday. We'll be traveling the following week, though--back to Vermont on Dec. 2. I'm looking forward to that.

No snow here and nothing expected. I was shopping this weekend and startled by the Christmas and winter type decorations. It's like early fall here still. Tons of rain and wind but no snow in sight. Hard to believe the first of December is just around the corner.

Dave's sister is here from Belmont, MA for a couple of days. We've recently moved "mom" into a group residential home and this is her first opportunity to visit.

The boys will be over for Thanksgiving Dinner, veggie burgers for Kevin. Ketchup on my Thanksgiving Table, what a sight. Dave and I are headed to Las Vegas on Dec. 6. Warm weather - yum!

Thanks Roland, I will be cautious! I did the trip once in the snow and it wasn't fun. Have a good one .......... everyone!

Would love to meet for coffee or somthing if you are back on fri. My cell is 770.401.9686 and I'll have it with me. I also travel with the laptop but mom has a new pc too. She lives in Cheshire. My cell has called id so give me a buzz and I'll give you her number or you can give me a number to reach you at. Got to bring a camera if we do so we can post it. Yes, I hear the weather is supposed to be good this time. I usually drive through the Blue Mts and that can get icy or snowy but its beautiful, no tolls, and cruise control crusing usually. Everyone else, please have a great day and be careful,espically you Karen, that can be a LONG trip if it snows.

Have a safe trip all you travelers..................and a Happy Thanksgiving!!

Here in Grand Rapids, MI they are saying measurable snow for Monday. We are leaving on Tu to drive to VT. My two oldest are flying in from college to Bradley on Wed. night. We will all be with my older sister at her vacation home in NH for a big feed on Sat. Then the drive back on Sunday. Lots of driving but worth it for family time. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

No snow here yet, Roland, your Turkey day should be okay. I am going to VT for the day.........am off Friday. How long are you going to be here, mayb we can meet for coffee or something?

Ah, another scotch drinker. My favourite winter libation. I used to drink J&B my parents staple but I have moved up to the Glen, Glenfittish that is. Its smooth and not bitter. Had to go back over to AL this week and the weathers REAL bad. Saw an entire block just disappear in about 10 seconds!!!! Luckily I was up the hill and it didn't touch us but it also blew a few tractors off the freeway and one was a tandem!! Whats worse is that I am fairly blazee about such things as real black clouds and greenish skys..... They say this is going to be a violent November for us. Headed to a warmer place (Destin) tomorrow though. Hope everyone's well and busy getting those turkeys either shot or thawed out for the big day. I hope to be in CT for it with my mom. Easter I'll go visit dad in Prescott Valley. Any snow yet people?

Roland, that sounds fun. If I were going to "retire with a baby grand" it wouldn't be a piano and it wouldn't be lighting up a fat one. Maybe it would be a turkey and the Scotch and a little singing and a nap. I can't believe that T-day is almost here. I guess it's going to be a while till summer comes back. I was just starting to enjoy it. Oh well.

Talahassee tonight folks and its cold here, ugh! But it goes back up tomorrow. Found a great place for steak and retired to the piano (baby grand) after dinner with a few Glenfiddish's. They even got me to sing a few tunes and applauded. It was fun. Haven't done that in years. Home tomorro and then AL next week and hopefully I will be on my way to NewEngland for Turkey the following week.

Some great family chat and insights everyone! I too believe in communication. It is the key to insight. It has taken myself many years to learn that my mom wasnt being a nag, she just truely wants the best and most of all wants me to be happy. As you said Richard, as soon as I understood that I could communicate better and let her realize that I have lead a VERY good life in spite of some downs. I feels quite lucky and am happy and am told that I bring happiness and understanding to others too. That makes me feel good. In Hilton Head tonight. I decided to work part time (with full benies) until my ohter business does well enough to pay the insurances etc. Besides, I like to travel and without management responsibilities its fun to go "visit" clients and see how they are doing. After I was away for about 3 mos its nice to have them receive me with positive manners. So, to you moms, variey to certain individuals is happiness. I found a great card to send to my dad for Vets Day. It thanked him for fighting in WW II to so that I may have the continued freedom that I value so highly. Dads need to be told too, in a different way that we matter.

consultant. Excellant, a new job title. I like the sound of that. You're right Richard. when we get to that point things become much easier.

I like what you wrote, Patti. That's really good advice. And Richard summed it up. I think good communication is really important. I see my kids a lot, even though 2 are out of the house, so I'm pretty involved in the details of their lives. Maybe too involved. I always have to remind myself to step back a little. I guess we're not doing too bad cuz Danit and Rafi, at least, have told us a few times that we've been good parents. Omer's not as verbal, but I hope he agrees. I'm sure they all have criticism too! I'm trying to be a "consultant," as Richard says.

I think your allowed to be a consultant. If you try to be a manager the rubs can be pretty severe.

Happy Veteran's Day everyone. Just in case you want to know: it's 19 degrees here. The beginning of the end.

That must have been a nice time in your relationship Richard. The times when we come to understand each other can be so revealing and can open up communication about so many things. I know the boys think we worry over much and we probably do. But they do know that we're crazy about them and want them to be happy doing whatever they choose with their lives as long as it's not something that will hurt them or some one else.

We don't push them to go back to school but they both know that if they make that choice our help is there as though they went when they graduated high school, like most of their friends. They have good jobs and live resonable lives and though it's not what we figured on it's not for us to decide or make those plans for them. Boy did that take a lot of painful time to figure out.

Growing up in a household where your parents made all the decisions including what your future would be, made for a rude awakening when I tried to raise my own children using my childhood as a guide. I had to learn that it's actually better all around when you let them make their own mistakes and wait to asked for help. Not that I have always done that by any means. I'm still learning but our communication has always been good. I sometimes lean more than I really want to know!

Good idea, Richard! I know Omer hates when I worry about him. It makes him feel like I don't trust him and like he's a little kid. I'm working on it, but it's not easy sometimes.

It took me a long time to realize that my mom was just worried about my happiness. Once I knew this I was able to tell my mom about how happy I was doing whatever and everything went a lot smoother.

Richard I can promise you that your mother is worrying about you. It genetic. We can't help it. It makes up feel needed and keeps the lovely people at Pfizer, Bristol Meyers Squibb, and Merck in business.

All we really want is your happiness. Right Ladies?

I wonder if my mother is worrying about me?

We're really alike. I'm always praying too! I don't worry about Danit and Rafi so much. Mostly Omer, I guess because he's given us some surprises in the past. And he's the one who surfs and snowboards and has to go down the hill as fast as possible and jump and do tricks, etc. He's fallen a few times and hurt his back, but nothing serious luckily, and nothing slows him down. But I guess you're talking more about the nighttime activities!

My Kevin still does that. Nothing starts til around 10:30 11:00 at night. I'm hopefully sleeping by then and I hear him go out. It's frustrating. I'm getting better and just saying my prayers for his well being and going back t o bed. Then when I know he's back i say my prayer of thanks.

Yeah. In the beginning, I couldn't fall asleep until I knew they were home (and in Israel you only START the evening around 11:00 or 12:00 at night, and that's where we were when they first started going out). Now at least I've learned to fall asleep no matter what time they get home!

You have it exactly Lori, I just need them to come home to sleep. All the rest of the day, I'm fine. Once they come in (wee hours or whenever) I can finally rest and know they'll be alright.

Omer, our youngest, has also been back and forth. Now he's out of the house again. He moved out last week into a studio apartment in Santa Monica. He likes being closer to the beach, since he's really into surfing. He's looking for a job connected to what he studied (merchandising), but in the meantime he's helping promote a club his friend organizes and is earning pretty good money from that. Danit, our daughter, has been living on her own for a few years already, but Rafi, the middle one, is still at home and not really in a hurry to move out yet. I know what you mean, Patti--I want them to be independent, but I still keep doing things for them and sometimes I'm glad when they come home to sleep and I know they're safe. I worry too much!

Up here in the north it's called Boy Be Gone. Same basic principle though. We still have one "boy" left. Though he says he's looking for a apartment. We'll believe that move when we see it. It's a double edged sword, you know? You want them to grow up and be "a man" (what does that mean?) but on the other hand sometimes I think I'm not ready to stop being mom. Though when they don't live at home all the terrible things they do are unknown to me so I don't worry so much. Even though I just know they are doing those terrible things. It's a pickle.

We're about 21 months away from getting a room back and we are counting the days. It used to be an art studio, but now it is computer, PS2, and TV central with a luxurious display of papers, CDs, comic books, and occasional food artifacts. Unfortunately, our boys clutter spreads from every foot hold that it gets. Do they sell "Boy-Off" in a spray can?

Well, things are changing in the Mahoney household. Kevin, our eldest just moved into a house across town on Sunday. He's been back home with us since last April. It's quite an adventure. He starts a new job soon so that's going to keep him busy. Now I have "my room" back. So I just set up my computer and sewing equipment in his recently vacated space.

We're using a wireless network so that I don't have to run a bunch of wires upstairs. It's pretty cool how easily that works.

Dave and I started a digital photography class this evening. It's looking pretty interesting. Nice group of people. We're looking for things to do together since our interests are pretty much oposites. Anything computer related seems to peak our interest.

Hope everyone is well out there. Stay warm!

Hey everyone, sounds like everyone is quite envolved and thriving. Thats great. The creative always find a way don't they? Yes Richard, you must stop and smell the roses once in a bit and sounds like you survived the worst crunches yet. One of my offices is in RanchoCucamonga Ca and the fire came close but didn't hit and luckily enough most of our people out there managed to stay safe also. My cousin out in the high desert says it was awful and my other cousin in Vegas reported too. I remember back in the early or mid 70's I was out there and woke up to ash all over my white Delta 88's convertable top but it never came to our house. That did scare me enough to move back to VT at that time. Thinking of making another NE tour for Turkey Day but not sure yet. Depends upon the weather. Got lots of irons in the fire too so must just put aside the time. Nothing much creative here but am drawing up plans for relandscaping my "new to me" ranch house. Would like to have both the inside and outside finished for my annula Christmas tree decorating bash. I have collected ornaments for years and usually invite some close friends over to help decorate and the requirement is they bring a unique to them ornament for the tree. I call it my friendship tree. I in turn put on a gourmet buffet and some wine tastings. I should be able to have a good size tree this year as my living room is 32' long. The house had been added onto and they built an old fashioned properly pannelled "den" which I use for a guest room / extra living room. It opens onto a back patio but no one ever put a door there so I plan to put in a single french door.

Richard, I don't know what kind of art your son is into but my son Nolan is a digital design major at the University of Cincinnati and he loves it. They have a school of DAAP (design, art, architecture and planning) there that is well respected and competes with RISD and the Purdue program. Nolan's major has co-op as part of their training, its a five year program and he hopes to work in animation and illustration on the computer. Of course the programs in CA are probably the top of the line for that.

Lori, I probably sound excited about the travel stuff because I get to go so seldom that I remember every detail and it doesn't take much to please me!

I will be going on college trips too for child three, but we are waiting to see where he is accepted and then will do a whirlwind trip. His first choice is University of Michigan but he is not black, female, or "other" ......... so no extra points on the MI app!! I just love quotas!

Pat we went to Portland to look at Maine College of Art for my son Milan and to check out the town. It was fun, but maybe Milan needs to be around more people?

I think Providence has become what Portland would like to be- not sure, but we will check it out and going on to Newport is a great idea. Last time in Newport for me was in 1978 and I am overdue for seeing old and new things there! I did a sketch of a roof line from one of the mansions in Newport for friends building a new house here a few years ago. I would love to go and see the real thing.

On my 5th day without coffee. I think I'm okay.

Karen that sounds like such a wonder place to visit. Very relaxing with no motor vehicles. Bet it pretty.

Lori I'm glad you are far enough away from the fires to be safe. The smell is terrible though isn't. There were fires in Montreal last year that were so bad we could hardly stay outside the house or car but we were in no danger otherwise.

Happy Halloween everyone! Do you have your costume on? I still have my orange and black spirit day at school clothes on. So I have pumpkins hanging from my ears and a pumpkin decorated vest on.

Karen, you should be a travel agent. You always seem to have good travel advice.

The fires are still raging here--not right near us, but you can smell it in the air and see it in the sky from some places. They're having a hard time controlling it, but the weather seems to be changing now so hopefully that will help.

Richard, how about trying Newport, RI? We went there and stayed at a B&B several years ago, toured some of the mansions, had dinner at the warf and also went to the Kool jazz/food festival. Saw Hammersmith farm where Jackie grew up and she and JFK were married, Rosemont (I think) cottage where the Great Gatsby was filmed. The shore walk is beautiful. I love Newport! Don't know much about Providence, sorry. In PA, we have friends in Bucks County, near Philly. Stone farms, cute villages, very picturesque. Good luck in your travels! We went to Mackinac Island, MI a couple of weekends ago. No motor vehicles are allowed so you walk, bike or ride horses. We took a carriage ride around the island. The views were beautiful and most of the village is Victorian homes, lots of B&B's. Its great and only about 4 hours from us.

Wow, long quiet break here in the Blog. Richard may I ask what you did in Portland? We don't get there often as it is a good 6 hours or so drive. I know people who go down and back in a day trip but not me. We're more likely to drive through on our way somewhere else, like NH or MA. We go maybe once a year if there's a weekend concert and we can plan to stay the night. Last time we did that we heard Ray Connick , Jr. perform. He was amazing. That was a couple of years ago.

We've moved back into fall. There is no more snow and the rains just keep coming. In fact with temperatures in the 50's it's almost like spring. I'll tell you, I wouldn't mind if we were already on the other side of winter and getting the screens back in the windows. I love Summer Time. I'm afraid we may have to mow soon!

Be well everyone - for those out west in CA - please be careful

Hi Bloggers, I feel like I just pulled my finger out of an electric outlet. I have been working non-stop since Jan '03 trying to stay employed (that is the electric outlet in this story) and forgot to take vacation. Now I have a lot of vacation time saved up and the company has a "use it or lose it" policy. I will be taking many weeks off between now and Jan '04. I went to Portland ME last week- I had never been there and I had a pretty good time. I am calming down, it feels good! Anyone have travel tips for Providence or Philadelphia? These are on my quick-trip, check-em out, try to have fun list.

Snow.......ugh......its still in the 80's here during the day but does get a bit chilly going into the high 50's and dewy at night.

So you have to get out the boots for a while?! Soon you'll all be freezing and I'll remind you how warm and sunny it is out here!

Lori it's funny you would mention walking barefoot in my garden. Last Sunday I was doing exactly that and this Sunday we are expecting SNOW. Boy how things have changed over the week.

Its always uneasy when making changes, espically big ones. Lots of umemployment in ATL also. Lots of people don't want to learn a new trade or change where they live. Got to these days or at least be willing to do so. My company is trying to "smooze" me into staying but I told them they now have to show myself what THEY have to offer as I have certainly shown what I can do and I am in the drivers seat to an extent. When I resign in a few weeks it will take them time, effort, and $$ to keep up what I built. If they totally go down the road which they appear to be doing they will loose all advantage over the competition and loose all within a few years. Oh well.............can't tell some people anything and thats a motivational item pushing myself to make money for myself now. I try to keep abreast of the markets and open to suggestions within limits or should I say perimeters. I am trying to do more with my church and also donate more usable items and now food items as much as possible too. CT has been through hard times for a few years and they just seemed to recouver and then this. 911 has also given the greedy CEO's an excuse not to take responsibility for their own actions to an extent. Like KMart, they didn't listen to their customers and employees........Oh well....... as my bro used to say, "Roland, always remember, nothings permanent."

Hi Lori............maybe we can all start on the next one..............35? I know what you mean, Roland. So many companies we reveiw have gone through such drastic changes and it all started with 9/11..........we had whole companies close down..........it was so sad to see, and still is. I hope that the economy does move upwards, as some people say.........I still can't see much improvement at my level. I am the Combined Federal Campaign lead for our district in Hartford, and going to the United Way and talking with others is a indicator............the food shelves in the area are already limiting the hours they are open and the food they can give out..............so I have encouraged all to donate food to them if they do not want to donate to a charity................too many people are unemployed. Good luck with your business, Roland, it sounds like you have your feet firmly on the ground and should do well..................

Hey all, Really nice pic! Been real busy starting another business and buying back another small one I had. The company I have done so much for in the past year is going through a rather hostile take over with lots of politics. I can play the game and win but decided it just isn't worth it so.......back to making money for myself. Got a partner I can trust and hopefully more freedom too. Tying up loose ends for the other company for a few weeks then I hope to be out early next month. I am looking forward to spending time around the new to me house I just moved into and also the cats and dog will see more of me now. I plan also to actually put some permanent roots in and get envolved with the Elks and other local orgainzations as well as my church. Been selling off some physical toys to raise some immediate capital but kept my 86 Volvo. Just can't part with it. Good ol faithful. Was going to just keep the cells but finally installed a landline last week, meanwhile I'm in Al having some fun and heading to FL next week to visit friends.

Hi Nancy. Yes, it was nice to have a mini mini reunion since I couldn't make the big one last June.

Nice picture, you all!! It is good to see you Lori after all these years!! It was good you all could get together. I was surprised at how many at the reunion were still in the Burlington area as well as the Springfield area. Ssome are coming back after being gone for a bit......It is interesting to see that we all age well and don't seem to have changed much after all these years. Glad you got a hold of a passerby..............I was supposed to go to Burlington to give a seminar and supervise a new employee brief as well, but my supervisor decided he wanted to go instead.........he is from NYC and can't get over that it will take him 4 1/2 hours to get there............not sure how close he thought Burlington was to us here in CT. Hope everyone is doing well and can get a rest this extra day off we have (if you have it off). The leaves are beautiful down here already.........one of my favorite times of the year in NE. Take care all........

Karen, I like the way you call us 49 year olds. Somehow that sounds much younger than 50!

Sounds like you have a nice place there in Maine, Patti. I can just see you walking around barefoot in your garden.

Geez Lori I wish I did but no we pretty much are never back in VT. We've moved so many times now I've gotten used to looking forward and not back. We were only in our last home in VT for 18 months. I've lived here longer than I've lived anywhere else. never though that would happen. We looked at moving back to the Burlington area a couple of years ago. The cost of housing was so bad that we would have had to completely change the way we live. Much smaller house, year round work for me. I like having my summers off and we like where we are now. Though we may still move again. Who knows. I would sure love to see you though.

You know, you all look pretty damn good for 49 year olds!!! Keep up the good work!

Save your questions for next time, Brian. There WILL be a next time, right?!

Patti, I hope I get to see you sometime, too. Do you ever get down to Vermont?

Hey folks, I'm back in the groove as it were. Much family stuff good and bad going on up here and it's been very distracting. I'm on a forced unpaid day off today though I'm playing catch up.

Your trip to Burlington sounds like so much fun Lori, I'm envious. I'm awrfully glad that we still have the blog to turn to. We all live so far away from each. Well some of us.

Hi Janice, I know you're out there! Thanks for the anniversary card. I lied though. I told you it was 25 but it was 24. Math and history were never my strong points. Dave says I should send it back and you can up-date it next year!

Fall is falling and with it the temperatures. I might have to put my sandals away soon. I hate the thought of socks and coats. Ick. Our boys are good but still living at home. That's starting to get old. Kevin starts a new job in early Nov. and we're hoping he gets settled into an apt. real soon. Colin is still hiding out in the kitchen as a short order cook. Wish he'd go back to school but that's not lookin too likely right now. At least they're here in town so we get to see them. When they live away we miss them terribly.

Nice to see you again Brian. Great that the three of you were able to get together. I loved Carbur's. Does anyone remember the Black Cat? You could get yards of beer. It burned down a bunch of years ago. I used to love drinking there. It was challenging not to hit somebody in the head with your glass! I've never seen another place where you could buy your beer in a yard long glass.

Hey look! A photo!
We snagged a passerby to hold our cameras. Thanks to PhotoShop, this one was salvageable.

It was a blast, but there are still so many questions. I really only wanted to talk about the East School/High School experience, and not to reminisce, but to figure it out. Wouldn't it be great to really find out what your classmates were thinking, and thinking about in those crazy days? We did cover some ground, and for that I am deeply grateful. More!

I agree, we had a great time. And Richard and Brian look great, too. I'm glad we had a chance to get together after all these years and that we cared enough to arrange a meeting. I won't wait 30 years for the next meeting! And it was fun seeing Janice, too. We did a lot of talking and laughing.

East School was a popular topic. Lori' and Brian's memories were better than mine. I had forgotten about redistricting. It was sort of an intermediate step to being with more kids like the way it would be at Riverside. Lori certainly has dealt with moving around- first coming to East School and then heading to Israel during college. It sounded like it was hard but also a chance to experience new things.

I saw Shorey Wilson from my car just a few days ago. I waved, but she didn't see me.

Did you talk about the old days at East School? I was there for fifth and sixth and had Mrs. Woods and Mrs. Wilson (Shorey's mom). I was redistricted from South to East, that was a very big deal for me......... now I have moved my kids around and I think of that and can relate to how they must feel. So glad you had a chance to get together.

Brian and I had dinner with Lori last night. Lori looks great and is great. Between the three of us, we have 60 years as happy married couples. Who would have thought it possible?

I'm feelin the love, Bri! I still see the kid that was at my 5th birthday party whenever you and I get together. I think the real wisdom is being OK with 5 for life. I know you prescribe to that.

Karen, I was Pete's room mate at the time and he and I also had a woodworking shop together, then. Pete is in Cambridge Vermont where he runs a (post and beam) timber frame and stress skin building company. Larry Kruse is his partner.

Jeez, that was an interesting story, Richard. I wish it WAS Macs that I had to spend all this time with. Actually, my work is done on Bill Gate's money maker. I would like to work less, but our company is struggling in this economy, and we all put in many extra hours a week unpaid, just to survive as a company. It's challenging work, I enjoy it, as well as the time I spend with my family, but that often leaves too little time for anything extra, like a social life. Luckily, I am simple-minded enough to find delight in all my moments on earth, so no harm done.

It's always a pleasure to see you, and I think it is so cool to see Lori again after all these years spent in other worlds. This really is fascinating, to look at a 50-ish former classmate with the reference of a sixth grader's impressions. I mean more time has passed since the school days than we ever spent there, and our real wisdom has formed in the years we have been apart. But not too many people will see that little child in you that is still there, and it's kind of wonderful to have that perspective. Well, I think so anyway.

And for that reason, dear classmates, I love you all.

Great trivia, how do you know so much about Pete's love life? Do I detect some jealousy? Where is Peter now?

It's right next to what was Carbur's. It used to be a Swiss place called Edelweiss or something- you know expensive little sandwichs etc. Carbur's is now the Biltmore Grill. Pete Kochalka used to work at Carbur's during what I call Pete's Summer of Love. It seemed to me that all the women in Burlington loved Pete. His kitchen manager status is probably what made him sooooo attractive. He had great personal control- escaped unscathed- and in many cases unkissed, but he was happy every single day. There were even some really gorgeous twins that were digging him for a while.

I wish you could come too, Karen!

Wish I could come. Did that used to be Carber's (sp?) at the time that we would have been in college? Seems like a hundred years ago.

It's on City Hall Park. It's a right hand turn onto St Paul St. off of Main Street (if you are going toward the lake, one block after Church St). Pacific Rim is 3/4 of a block up St. Paul on the left, just before the open lot that once was Ben & Jerry's original gas station. Let's talk before then (802-764-4353 is work for me).

That sounds good. Where is it? Yes, if anyone else out there wants to come, come!

If there are other Burlingtonians looking in, maybe you can come to dinner with Lori too! One good idea is Pacific Rim- it's kind of a small place, with an eclectic atmosphere, and has Asian noodle things.

Brian!!

Who??!!!

So Lori, guess who is coming to dinner?

Good question, Karen. Unfortunately, there is a very sad answer. There once was a "Brian King", but his demise (ultimately total) was long and slow. First, he was fooled (like most of us) by the Devil's greatest trick, which was to get everyone to believe that the Devil is not real. Then, the Devil incarnate, appeared as Steve Jobs. The rest is obvious, but I'll tell the story. The Devil made Apple computers. Brian took a bite. His desent from the garden was underway and unstoppable. Since that time Brian's lust for the latest Devil-Box has only been matched by the sleepless nights he spends being consumed by them. The Brian we loved eventually lost touch with the consious world and was being exclusively tube fed.......... and that's right- in the end Apple Computers completely devoured Brian. They didn't even spit out the pit. Ahhh, but he was a good lad!!! Never mind the settings Brian, the Devil has got you now.

Hi Karen, yeah, sorry to submerge for so long. I tend to simplify my life by focusing on only the immediate peril. It is nice to be here among friends, though.

Hmmm. Where are the settings? I really should change that 15 Basin St. thing.

Do we know a "Brian King"??????????? Let's see, its coming to me slowly............. wasn't he ........... uh, no that's not it. Never mind!

15 Basin Street? Well that's new. It's really me, Brian King. I guess there are settings to check over. You check yours, and I'll check mine, okay? It's nice to see this is working, finally.

Hey, check it out. The site works at http://www.shs1972.blogspot.com!
I'll have to add in the secret photo link (and add a bunch of new photos I've had for a while). But Hooray! This is good. Thanks for keeping this blog alive, good people!

Hi Karen and Richard--and everyone else out there. Sorry about your brother, Richard. Hope he'll be okay. Thursday night might be a good night to meet--but that would be without Avi. He's joining me there on Friday. Maybe Friday would be okay, too. I'll be in touch.

Hi Lori and all! Meeting anywhere in the Burlington area would be fun. Let me know what your schedule looks like (at rloveless@hubersuhnerinc.com). I just got back last night from working in Switzerland and having fun in Munich, Zurich, and London. I saw so many things that were new and wondeful for me. I went to see "Phantom of the Opera" Monday night in London. It gave me chills at times- with spectacular voices and amazing production work.

It sure has been a bad spell for peoples' health. My brother fell from a ladder 3 weeks ago and was in a coma for a week. He is now able to speak and it is clear that his thinking abilities are pretty good. He has a lot of rehabilitation left to go though. Be good- have fun- all for now.

Hi Lori! You will be leaving soon I guess. Hope you have a good time with your family. Hope some friends are able to take you up on the offer to meet ........ wish I could. Here in MI it has turned quite fall like this week. The highs are only in the 60's and some trees have started to turn. We are visiting the Univ. of MI on Friday with my senior, Evan, but then over the weekend we might drive up north and see some of the state. I have been waiting to see Mackinac Island. So much to do ......... so little time.

Hello???? Did I scare you all away?!!!

Just finished reading through all the blogs I missed while I was in Israel. Patti, that was interesting what you wrote about seeing your mother in the mirror. I haven't seen my mother in the mirror yet. Maybe cuz I look more like my father. But I do find myself behaving like my mother. The older I get, the more I seem to be like her.

I guess Richard is still away. Sorry to hear about Hans, Richard.

Hi Lori great to see you back. I'm amazed that Janice told you what was up with the site. Has anyone ever seen her here?? Janice are you looking but not talking? If so, Happy Anniversary!! I sent you a card but I'm just doing it today so it'll be a little bit late.

Roland, they are doing it because of the storm surge that is expected. thank goodness the storm is now a strong cat 2. You have no idea what they can be like. I sat through many a storm in FL when we were there. I can imagine NC coast is getting pretty scarce..............saw on the news that they evaked the planes already............I was on Okinawa when a typhoon struck there and they didn't have enough time to get the jets out...........some had some bad damage................the SR-71 was still around then and they had a special hanger for that one, but they even evacked that one to CA...........I think alot of the boaters are taking their boats out of the water as a precaution...it isn't manditory, just recommended at this stage.......

Hi everyone! Yes, I'm back from Israel. I got back Aug. 7, but haven't managed to get on to the blog until now. I finally asked Janice what I'm doing wrong, and she told me how to get on to the site. Did you guys change something while I was away or is it my memory?! I haven't had a chance to catch up on all the news, but I read the latest messages. Karen, I'm glad your mother's doing okay now. I've been really busy with guests since I got back from Israel. My niece and nephew have been here since July, and a friend of mine from Israel came for a week at the end of August. It was a bit too much all at once and not that long after I got back from Israel, so I didn't enjoy my friend's visit as much as I did her last visit. In fact, I was totally stressed. Oh well, maybe it will be better next time. My nephew left last week, so now just my niece is here. She's an easy guest. By the way, Avi and I will be in Vermont the first week in October at my brother's house. My parents will also be there, visiting from Israel. Anyone want to meet me in Burlington one day?

Hey Nan, is Ct boarding up? They usually don't get it that bad. Our employee in Wilmington has already evacuated with their family. Awful thing hurricanes when they are that big. Was going to go to SC and then FL next week but think I won't. Had a great dinner meeting with my boss and another guy we hired to help him tonight. I think I am going to opt to go onto the sales side and do a bit of all. Mostly liaison work. I like that and its needed. They want me to stay here and do more but I need something more and I like constant change. I am getting into a rut but then isn't that what ones does when we're looking at the half century mark? ha ha.

Hi Roland, I can still hear my dad as well..........try having to live with that. He used to get us all around the dinner table at night. I know sometimes he must be sighing a big sigh with the things I write...........have to take remedial grammer lessons some time. People are boarding up places on the coast, the storm surge expected is going to be a big one.

Karen, hope things are going better now. Keep us posted. Nancy, Atl area usually dosen't get afected except for deluges of rain. The city itself floods out in places as its systems are old and the true southerners believe totally in if it ain't broke don't touch it. They pocket the money instead but that is coming to a screaching hault with so many Yanks moving in and replacing the corrupt locals in politics. I thought Ct & RI were corrupt. Here ii is more of a silent "club" Billy Bob thing, ha, ha. Presently still in Memphsis and the first time I was here back in Dec we had tornadoes plus the equivalant of typhoons then ice!! What an intro eigh? The only people out were myself and the cops and they couldn't handle the roads. Yes, those cameras are popping up everywhere. Good or bad I'm not sure. Some areas here they put them in and the people screamed so loud that they took them out. GA passes a rule years ago that it is illegal to ticket someone unlessw they are going more than 10 miles over as they really did have some bad reps of speed trap towns and it was killing the tourist industry. Course then they put in the interstates and people didn't have to drive on those roads anymore. The worst was on the way to FL. We did have one just outside of ATL and they wound up firing the entire police dept including the chief!! So.....in the end justice DOES reign, ha ha. We are restructuring the management hierarchy (sp) of the company and I have a meeting today to start that. I am excited that we are finally getting some actual order. We have been small enough that everyone knows everyone but that can create some confusion with the new guys as to whom they report to etc. I don't know exactly how much "headaches" I want to manage. There is something to be said about being on the bottom as long as your future is secure but somehow I always wind up in the upper third or more as I can't slow down and they seem to recogonize my organization and pr abilities. I do enjoy it. I am trying to get to where I have those areas of responsibility but in a non management capacity. I like and am good at the retraining and trouble shooting areas. I don't really like teling people WHAT to do but I can. I usually set a schedule, describe the job or position and give it to someone to own and let them go and just checque on them from time to time to make sure we are on target and it usually works. Windy today aren't I. (cuse the grammer, I hear your dad talking Nancy)

Karen, I'm sorry to hear about your mom but glad that she's recovering well. Yes Vermonter's are tough and they weather well. I think Lori is back but not talking here yet. I'll check with her today and see.

We had a 32 degree morning this week and 37 right after. Some plants are down even though they were covered. 80's yesterday and this weekend too. Fall in the county is always all over the weather map! Great soccer weather though and the nights are cool for sleeping.

Karen, Sorry to hear about your Mom.........but glad she is doing okay................I just got back from Baltimore and Brandon.........my sister had a water gusher at 2:30 am in the morning and Mom and I went to clean up...........not sure what the insurance will cover............I think I got "shot" at by VT DMV on 91 coming back from Spfld............I think it is one of those new picture ones...............they have them all over England, was wondering when they would do it here...........I was going 70, will see if I get a post card from the VT DMV (wink), of course those Ct plates don't help, either.........have a good weekend................Roland, I see a storm a brewind down your way.........how far are you from the coast? I remember our days with hurricanes and am glad I don't have to deal with them any more..............we never evacuated, always rode it out................take care all.................

Sooooooo hard to believe its fall already. Having fun here in Mamphsis for a few weeks. Jaunts out into Ar and out lying towns close here in TN and MS. Still in the high 80's and about 70 something at night. Looks like rain coming in from TX. I'm lucky. Both my parents are in their mid 80's. Mom still travels and uses her computer. Dad's in AZ and loving the weather. Course the true French and Irish are just stubborn you know, ha ha. Found out my Caravan will be slightly over 100 the other day by mistake. Drafting a truck while coming back from Jackson, oops...... very smooth ride. Technology really IS good. Still running the ac on high due to the himidity. Finding some great places to eat and meeting some really nice locals and learning the REAL places to go when I have spare time. MS has casinos which are only 8mi away. I'm not much of a gambler but like to eat and people watch.

I miss Lori, too!

Hi, spent the last 10 days in VT. My mom had a heart attack, angioplasty, and two stents. She is doing very well and early thoughts are that the damage was minimal. Both my parents are 79, still in their home and taking care of 6 acres, gardens and snow removal. Mom was digging out a stump on their property when this happenned. Vermonters are great, aren't they?????? Sure did feel like fall up there at the end of my stay. Does anyone know when Lori is returning to the US?

oops, very tired and the message shows it. Night all........

So glad you are getting the opportunity se view Geiger. Its awesome!!!!!!!!!!!! Had dinner tonight at my favourite Italian sopt in Memphsis. No desert needed and the cappicino (sp) is supurb. So Richard, enjoy.... you only go arond once dude. Also so glad you appreciate such creativity. I had my start at Gazelle Institute at Yale and a good foundation it was to build on.

I leave a week from this Saturday, spend a week in Switzerland, and then 4 days in London. I am very psyched. Switz will mostly be business but I will get away for a couple of days. I plan on checking out the Geiger Bar in Chur. Geiger is the artist that did the artisitic stuff for the Alien movies and his bar is also "out of this world". I will be in Zurich for a day and maybe one other day I can schedule.

Richard, you are so correct. That is exactly how I manage to do so many tasks and stay sane and focused. Sometimes it seems like I'll never finish a single thing but then by your 5 min theory it all comes together and the finale is all worth it. Right now things are going so fast at work I wonder if we will implode but I am managing to keep everyone on an even keel and my department (operations) is the only one functioning without hitches so we get saddled with lots of tasks BECAUSE we get them done. Its that ol 5min thing again. Just keep pecking and before you know it you've got that hole dug. Crazy like a fox.....you've got alot of common sense AND a creative mind. So....... are in in England yet?

Roland, it sounds like you can keep up with your younger friends and that you will run them over if they pause too long at a light. Kind of reminds me of a woman I know who said, "I'm not intense" as she was straining every muscle in her neck. I guess its modern. Better hope that CD player doesn't break.

My salvation has been my "5 minutes of freedom program". It is something that I thought of about 18 years ago- not coincidentally when number one son was on the way. I was pissed that I had lost my freedom and realized I needed a new view or I was't going to make it through the next 20 years. What I realized then was that I have total freedom to do whatever I want to do as long as it doesn't take more than 5 minutes. Of course, only having 5 minute intervals limits your choices. I quickly realized that mind-based travels and adventures are the most practical alternative. Then I thought, "What if I link all of these moments of freedom together by using them to contemplate one idea that is a true passion?"

Do the math. 5 minutes- 2 or 3 times a day for the last 18 years adds up to about 9 months of focused effort and freedom to follow my passion. It's kind of a Birdman from Alcatraz approach, and it's been productive. I think my thoughts are really going to come together if I can just keep it up for about 5 or 10 more years. Stupid???? I say, "Stupid like a fox."

Ya'll are so amuzing. I only feel old when I get sick or have a slight pain from overdoing and still thining I am 18, ha ha. Yes that mirror does reflect my dad some days so I can relate but I have friends of all ages and my younger friend seem to relate well and I can still keep up with them so..........Age is a state of mind as long as we don't go into total denial, eigh? ha ha. I keep quite active in both work and home and it helps. Yes, remembering old times keeps a part younger too. I also think that my moving around has helped as I had to adjust and had to meet new challenges. Its rotten to say but many of my piers that I went to college with are REALLY feeling their age with pains, aches, etc. Kind of makes me thankful for being in good health and basically happy most of the time. I still hike, water ski, and landscape. plus travel. I tend to travel too heavy too and that in itself is an arobic exercise these days. Well.... I sure know school is back in session and has been since mid last month here. The traffic is impossible!! Slide a good CD in and slip into another world instead of my usual road raged self. Was talking to my mom today and found myself spewing out some words for someone who was dreaming away a short green and having to wait through another LONG red. Oh well......... Don't know about where ya'll are but they decided a few years ago that to better manage traffic they would lengthen the time of the light and get more through.......dumb. No more 1, 2, 3, 4 @ intersections and kept everyone happy now its sit and yell............and the fools wonder why everyone is in a bad mood. Another oh well........
Back up to Memphsis after Labour Day to roll out some more products for a large theatre chain. I found some more great places to eat and have made a few local friends. I like it there now. Hope all is well with everyone and all had a great summer.

Richard, you may have already taken off but just in case, I'll say bon voyage!

School started today. It was hard to get up and go. I'm all pooped out from my first day and we didn't even have students!! Dave just gave me a yummiy pineapple slush so I'll feel better shortly. Either that or I'll be in bed early. It's a scrumpscious (that's not spelled right) concoction made from pineapple juice, cream of coconut, and vodka. freeze it and add ginger ale as you spoon it into your glass. We had a frost this morning and we're drinking hot weather relaxing on the patio cocktails because we're in denial. Delish.

As to being 49 I've been living that lie since since early last January. I have to keep reminding myself that I'm a grownup. Looking in the mirror helps. Except that lately I've been noticing my mother looking back at me. It's a very unnerving sensation. I told my Dad and he said he wondered when I'd notice. Wonder what he meant by that? Speaking with all of you helps me retain my youthful vigor. Honestly though it does help me remember being a kid and the fun I had. It doesn't really see that long ago.

Well I am not going to wax poetic. Being 49 sucks. I feel like a penguin in bondage and not the same way that Frank Zappa meant it back in 1974. In fact there are penguins that are much better looking than me. My bondage is to every responsibility known to man, woman, and beast (two cats anyway). Thank God my kids are going back to school tomorrow!

Wow, I think I'm losing my sense of humor faster than I am losing my hair. Gone are the days of reckless youth.

Have a grand trip Richard. Have some stout for me if you like. I like England but prefer Ireland as I have family there. They have a working farm in County Claire. Thank you for the info on the other tours Karen, I will. I purchased some the that special stock while @ Jack Daniels and we tried it tonight, VERY smooth. They have a new tour center now and lots more displays with history. I never realized what a small person Jack was (in stature) and that he was a diabetic. Love the countryside there. Much like VT. I'll be on the web pic site at JD in about a week taken with my biker friends from Germany & Australia. My boss wants to post it in our company rag.

Welcome to the club, Karen............it isn't so bad, just another year. Anything past 35 for me seems to be a bonus..........I saw Polly and Sue over the weekend and found out that I am the oldest (Jan.). they are still babies.............but I plan on having a great 50th......need to start planning now......have a great trip, Richard. I really need to be back in the UK. I miss it and my friends are wanting me to visit. Don't over do the bourbon too much, Roland...........I guess you are in the right area.

Richard, have a great trip! Roland, try Maker's Mark Distillery in Bardstown, Ky. Its a fun tour and so much better than Jack Daniels. Another good bourbon is Woodford Reserve in Versailles, KY. Have a good end to summer. I turn 49 next week........ouch!

Blogger logistics- Those buttons on the right side of my screen got set to a position that kept me from seeing the blogs. All better now.

My finish to (what has been a pretty nice) summer is looking up. After surviving furious bouts of tech head cutting for the last 12 months (500 more at IBM on Monday), I am now headed back out on the road to see customers and some sights. Northeastern US for the next 3 weeks, then I go to Switzerland for a week followed by a week in London to party on the way back. Time to pack the camera and say "cheese".

well all, sitting here in Memphsis after a frustrating day but a successful one. Sold a chain of theitres on our products and hope to institute a program in early Sept. When I arrive the hotel had given my room away. I complained as I have a direct bill account and national too.... they only bothered to call back when I registered a complaint with corporate so........guess we are in the process of dropping them and I sit at the Holiday Express. Had my meeting here today too and they, for a fee of course, provide anything I need. I was too lazy to fire up the lpa top so I'm in the business ctr at top speed and enjoying it. Weather is REALLY hot and humid. The place where I was supposed to present my programs had a mega power failure. Well, we sold the program so thats got to be a couple of mil anyway. I leave tomorrow and hope to stop over at the Jack Daniels Distillery on the way back. I chose to drive this time. My newGrand Caravan is great. Not snazy or a truck but comfortable , ecomonical, and roomy. Its a metallic red and for a van kind of sharp looking. Got plenty of power and those infinitys crank! The 2 sliding rear doors plus hatch make it really versatile. So.........whats everyone else up to. Gearing up for school and Fall?

hellllllllooooooooo! to you too!~

I can only see you from my home computer. Another beautiful day in paradise here.

hellllllloooooooo!

Pat, you are correct again. We ARE the greatest society that ever was but.....we know it and aorse than that flaunt it to the point we no longer realize what we do. There is much good and Ihate to dwell on the bad but I prefer to say I emhazise the positive and deal with the negative. We shouldn't wear blinders when it affects so many and todya with the net et el we are going to have to learn to deal with the rest of the world and sometimes it WILL be on THEIR terms.

Wow, I didn't realize the Meadowland had that many complaints. Maybe when I was younger and went to a few concerts there it WAS because I was on MY time off and didn't bother to care either eigh? Ozzy can get pretty heavy. The dude can't talk but he CAN perform and sing!!

Richard lots of people don't like us and with good reason don't you think? As a society I don't think we're very nice. though we think we're pretty special.

Off to East Grand Lake camping for a few days. Leaving tomorrow. the rain has finally stopped. Our water tables here in northern Maine has run over. No drought for us but the rest of the state is still down. 2 weeks til school -- ick!!!

We have the same problems with the Dave Mathews crowds and the Ozzfest people. I heard this last weekend that people near the Meadows were complaining about the noise the Ozzfest bands were making............12 hours of heavy rock and roll on a hot, humid summer day is too much for some....................but, as one individaul said, it is their way of enjoying their time off and it is thier hard earned money that buys the tickets...........................

Patty, I lived in Laconia, NH and also Daytona Be, Fl and the kinds of events that used to be allowed are toned down and should be. Yes, there is alot of money coming in but I think people finally realize that its just not worth the aftermath. The Job Corps kids should have been sent home as they usually have enough of their own problems but unfortunately where you are there isn't much "extra" income and money talks. I know that Northern Vt got a tad disgusted with the Dead Concerts and a few others. I'll bet if it were put to a vote in your town it might not happen or be allowed to happen.

Had a great experience today. I'm getting envolved with one of the compaines that we are going to partner with and I had to give a presentation at their R&D center. Wow, talk about the 9th degree of technical questions. I learned much and am going back on fri to finalize the product. Its exsciting actually being envolved with creating new products and not just the liaison problem solving.

I guess the Phish heads found their soup. Tell me again why the Taliban don't like us.

Well Richard Phish is finally over and many of us are grateful and hope it never happens again. For all the lovely "flower child" types who follow Phish around you have too many drugs and inconsiderate people. I am not one who follows the thinking of all the money it will bring into the area. I don't like turning a blind eye to the negative element that accompanies this concert venue. 75,000 people in an area as small as our community is, creates problems we don't need. There is a serious drug problem up here and bringing more of it in for this concert doesn't help. The first year they were here my husband I worked at a booth for our son's senior class, selling ice cream. We were so stoned from the smoke in the air we had trouble getting home. I'm not kidding. In the morning it was something to see the drug paraphenalia left on the ground over night . It was just left there to be used by someone else the next day. We never volunteered again for either of the other concerts. Lot of people didn't. Including local community organziations. but the almighty dollar allows for a lot. The kids who attend the Job Corp school at Loring were all sent home to keep them away from the infuence and temptations of this concert. if they should be protected why don't we feel that way about our own kids. There's my sermon the day. Thanks for asking.

Patty, how was the Phish concert? You must know people who went. I was reading about the Stones concert at Altamont Speedway back in 1969 recently. That was the one where the Hell's Angels went brutal on the crowd, and deaths occurred. I am sure that 34 years later, Altamont is still at the front of the minds that organized Phish at Loring Airforce Base.

Your weather sounds like ours and look like you've had some high temps too but probably without the standard a/c we all have here. Huge oak trees 30 or more years old in Buckhead have toppled over as the gound is too saturated so I can relate a bit. However the upside is the folliage hasn't been this great in over 30 years here. Some wild flowers in the woods have just come from nowhere and are striking, but.....so have the pesky bugs, slugs, and slimy crawly things as well as the everything else trying to come in an avoid the rain. I've had to really keep up on the pesticides. Thank goodness I don't have any little ones runnig around. Yankees don't do the cockroach routine you know, we hate bugs. Lately if you don't wash you vehicle every 3 days or so its get this black mold on it, ugh!! My vehicles are all white too so it shows. Well, have fun before going back to school. Sounds like you have a good summer anyway. One county here has been back to school for a few weks already and most go back next week!!!! Wow, but they say it help keep the city kids busy and out of the kind of trouble that leads to bad stuff. You know, latch key kids et al. We have many gangs forming here and most don't occupy their time with constructive activities either. The city is encroaching quicker that I'd like. We had a shooting in our little town last week and a back robbery yesterday!! We are protected here by good ol Smith & Weston and noone bothers to come down my drive anymore. Well, talk about rambling eigh..... ciao

Roland, I appreciate your thoughts. Didn't mean to avoid getting back to you but I've been wallpapering and sewing and otherwise generally doing summer projects now that my summer vacation is almost over.
So much rain here that our plants have toppled over with the weakened ground. Flood warnings are commonplace. Everything we do is indoors for the the time being. With school starting the 25th I hate to be stuck inside. Oh well.

Point well taken. And you ARE correct that most people in positions of "lesser authority" won't ever really give and honest answer to fear of many things. And, you are also correct about titles. Big business has known for years but not always instituted that. Believe it or not most people would rather have a position title that sounds better than to have more money. I have made a rep on that I judge on merrit and progress rather than title, gender, etc. It takes people that work for myself (or I like to say, with myself) awhile to figure it out but generally less than I year to find out I'm fair and that they can trust me. But, there is always the occassional person that just always wants their own way no matter what and, well.......they usually wind up leaving on their own accord. Enough said and your point well taken. We all seem to get into ruts sometimes. I enjoy be enlightened and try to use info for a middle of road or "flex schedule" type of management. I take the attitude, this is the position, this is what we need accomplished and this is the time frame. Then....whomever owns the position and I checque in from time to time to have them report progress or questions and its the results that I look for. Again, as long as the results don't harm another in the process.

Roland, good to see you back. I'm smiling while I write this you won't think I'm angry. :-)

I appreciate your comments and I'm sure you mean them in the very best of ways. But honestly, and this is not meant to criticize but to enlighten; very few working women who value themselves as employees actually like to be referred to as the girls. (even though if asked they may say it's not a probelm, they aren't likely to tell a man in a position of rank in the business world, but in the ladies room you'd hear a different story) It may seem PC to even consider this but guys and girls are different terms with one potentially just a little demeaning however unintentionally. This is one reason why you don't see stock boys, bag boys and the like; you see Associates. It may seem trite but the "title" of one's position can be very important to a person's self esteem. It's isn't at all about being too sensitive about one's own feelings as much as being sensitive to the feelings of others.

See what I mean? Now if you'd want to talk about Guys and Dolls, I'll sign you a song!

Ok, got it to work and found your comments. I could be really tersh and state that some people are just too sensative but....... it simple means the girls (and they don't mind being called that) that work in my office in CA. They are invaluable and I make sure they know it. If anyone was ever sensative it was the people in the office at GSC when I was in VT and they didn't mind being called that either. Its just like saying "the guys" but the "girls" DID complain when we called them that. Its just a generic term and I treat them as equals and take things as they are. Now if others can't, oh well.....sorry. Again this form of written context has to be taken and read generically otherwise we all would be mad at each other. So Pat, hope that explains it. I value them and it just so happens to be women (oh, I see thats the term you want eigh, ha ha) that work in my office. Have a good rest of the w/e all.

sorry gang, been on the road with no service. Sprint is like that and I'm too cheap to pay long distance. Now, whats up. There appear to be three forms of the format here and for some reason my puter reverts sometimes to the second revision and this one won't let me see past the past 5 posts so........no reactions.

Still waiting. I'm wondering if Roland is "on the road and unable to respond"? Guess I'll go mow my lawn while I wait. I'm really looking forward to some lively reparte here. (probably spelled that wrong - oh well)

Looks like "girls just want to have fun" and that a great round of pin the tail on the donkey is underway, Roland. Good luck.

Guess so.

What happened, I am not on for a while and I hear this contraversy? I should have tuned in to blogger sooner..........Guess we need to get him up to speed, huh Pat?

I'm still waiting. This could be interesting. Care to weight in Karen??

Uh oh, look out! You've done it now Roland!

O.K. I'll bite. "Office Girls" My flesh is crawling. What do you mean when you use the term "Office Girls" ?

Lets see, gardening and food seem to draw to most responses. I still whip up a few goodies and send them to my office girls in CA. They love it. Sometimes I send flowers. I can do tha office stuff but hate being inside the walls for so many hours so I try and send appreciative notes, etc. I also found it makes for good field / office raltions.