Yes, the hair is still red....not as bright and with a few blonde highlights.....I don't get gray...just white! My grandfather had beautiful white hair...but I think I'll be an redhead forever....if Lucy could do it, so can I! Glad your house is still intact! and hopefully someone else had more of a headache then you....And don't you know, its your JOB to embarress your children. Remember they embarressed you enough when they were young, its called payback time! Hope for good flying weather on Friday and that my husband will remember to come and get me at the airport!haha....Happy Thoughts to all.

A new grandchild, wow! That's great. I can't imagine all of that just yet- but it will be cool if it happens. I think news of grandchildren, trees falling, and large family occasions would all make kamikazes seem like a good option to me. And, let's see there is my dog's birthday. Fido and I always toss a couple back for that one. Just kidding. Karen you know when to be wicked. I love that!

Congratulations on your new grand daughter Kathi, but I want to know how you still get to have red hair ....... and not gray? My hair dresser is trying to perform miracles with foil and dye on mine!! As for exciting and eventful, do you count a tree coming down on our house on the 19th and piercing the roof as well as coming into the master bath ceiling?? Sixteen for Christmas was exciting. It all went well, except for the last night when I was coaxed into doing kamikaze shots with the young crowd! I did score some points with the cousins but embarrassed a couple of my kids! Oh well. Having some friends in for New Years but it will be low key. I have been watching some of the coverage of the Tsunamis today ... how horrible. Happy New Year to All!

Hi Everyone. Hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday. I have a new granddaughter. She was born 12/20 at 9:52 am and weighed 9lb. 5 oz., 21 in long. She has dark hair, which was a little disappointing because my year old grandson has red hair like Nana. Anyways, there is nothing like holding a grandbaby. I will be in Raleigh until Friday and I will fly back home....I will be happy to get home but will miss my daughter and the babies. I wish everyone a Happy New Year and hope that something eventful and exciting happen to each and everyone of you. Happy thoughts .

I finally went snowboarding today. What fun! I hope you are all gaining weight and having a chance to play with family and friends. No more cookies, please- ahh, maybe one more piece of chocolate.

Hi everybody, I'm back and I'm cold.

Hawaii was wonderfull, but I missed my kids so I spent a couple of hours everyday taling to them on-line.

Today I starting a group of 30 learning how to knit. I do have fun"~!!!!

Hi Everyone! I have ten from Rich's family coming here starting this Wed. I am really looking forward to it but I have been pretty busy trying to get ready. Beds for sixteen is a trick! It has been cold here for GA. We may see some flurries on Sunday or Monday. I hope everyone has a great time with family and friends. We can all commiserate when we get on the January diet and get healthy kick!

hi, it is cold here this morning but it will warm up and i will go do xmas shopping and ?? work is slowing down and people that i work with are disappearing until after the holidays. it seems early, but i think it is because the co. i work for did okay this year after 3 bad years. only one guy lost his job this year. i will be doing a new job starting jan. 1 (at the same place) and i will travel a little more. i will manage people again after a two year (very welcome) break. and snowbaording?? next friday for sure! sugarbush is selling tickets for $5.50 for xmas eve skiing. hope you are all getting ready for some relaxation with your families and friends.

Great Richard. Please send a cd. Would love to view it and give feedback to you. My address in in the note to Pat just before yours. If you miss it let me email you the address. Looking forward to it!

Sounds like everybody is busy, busy, busy. I am trying to get everything ready to fly down to Raleigh NC on Sunday for the birth of my granddaughter. My husband unfortunately couldn't get the time off during the holiday season to come with me. Hopefully, he'll miss me enough for 2 weeks he'll remember to come to the airport and pick me up! Luckily I will miss the last three days of hectic Kindergarten. The little darlings will be really wound up next week. We have been making and creating those lovely gifts that parents treasure for years.....hopefully. May everyone cherish your families and their memories. Happy thoughts to all of you.

Thanks, Roland. My woodworking method is especially good for wood from Georgia. Just kidding, it is good for any wood that can be glued. That means any wood from North America. There are qute a few tropical woods that are difficult to glue. My first target for a building project is something at the scale of a small cottage or large out building. If you have MS Powerpoint i can send you a cd that shows what it is about. We have snow, at last, in Burlington. I haven't made it out snowboarding yet but will go between xmas and new years and maybe a day before then. At times last summer, I thought it felt like winter (like the whole stinkin summer!!), but this is definitely different. Be good, have fun.

Richard.....awesome man!!!!!!! Go for it. Sounds exciting and very practical and maybe wil send you through the roof financially!!!! God Bless You!!! Keep us posted please. What kind of native woods? Could it be used here in Ga on some of ours?

Thanks Pat. It is music to my ears (love you too). I will be doing my presentation at the Forest Products Lab in Madison, Wisconsin on January 7th. I am pretty excited. Fortunately, I can add it on to a business trip that get's me all the way to Milwaukee on January 6th. The VT Natural Resources office has also gotten Pat Leahy's office interested in what I have been developing and I think I will be talking with them before Christmas. It is all about my basic scheme which is to be able to use native timber for a classic style of building- kind of like post and beam- smaller parts- assembly like legos- and making use of wood that is not being used now. I'm needing some good vibes out there guys!!!

Why Richard, I have loved you since 1971. Go figure........ - )

We're on Maui now, just a couple more days of surf and sand. I'm loving it. there is a band playing below us in the courtyard Lori. You'd enjoy it.
True is though, I'm getting homesick.

That's great, Richard. When do you think you might be going to Wisconsin? I hope the woodworking works out for you because it seems like that is where your heart is.

Have fun, Patti! Which island are you on? I love Hawaiian music. Something erotic about it.

yeah, whoops my new email is lovelessr@verizon.net. lori reached me a couple of times and that has been great. it has not been that satisfying an email connection but it seems to be working okay now. if you write, i promise to tell you the secrets for being a really boring engineer. some think it is all about mindless attention to details. i think it is about avoiding decisions. the truth is that i am going for it right now. i have a new patent in place that i hope will get me back into some woodworking that is cool. i think i will get invited to the forest products lab in wisconsin to present my ideas. that place is mecca for future wood tech. please wish me good luck. this means you too, pat!!! i am not asking you to understand me, i just want you to love me. is that so much to ask?

I'm enjoying Hawaii very much. Any place warm is great for me. 5 degrees back home yesterday a.m. Ouch....

Pat, thought I gave you my updated info but email is punchman@joimail.com and address is pob 2294 loganville, ga 30052. Enjoy Hawaii!!!!!!!

Hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving holiday.

I have a few names that need work so if you know what to do to correct their return of the new listing please let me know.

The following came back: Rick Fagan, Richard!!. Roland!!, Karen Hack, the Nancys Cordle, Yancy, and Bladyka, John LaPlante!!

We have heard from Dave Perrin and I can add him back in with his new address. Anything else you can tell me to help straighten this out, I will appreciate it.

Happy Thanksgiving from me, too, to all of you! We'll be having it at our house with all of Avi's family, plus boyfriends, girlfriends, and visiting cousins--so it might be a group of about 29 people. His sister helps me with the turkey, and another sister-in-law is bringing some vegetarian stuff. Otherwise I'd be panicking by now! Enjoy your families!

Limited rain up here in the north country. Kevin is driving home tonight about 5 1/2 hours so we're glad it's warm and not freezing on the roadways.

I left school about 2:30 and the pie baking began. It's fun to have the boys home to bake for. Kevin will stay maybe till Sat. Then back to southern Maine.

We leave right after school this coming Wed. for Boston. early flight to Hawaii TH a.m. Yummy!

Happy Thaksgiving everyone, may you all be with those you love - Pat

Glad there was no damage to your house. Its pouring rain here right now. The temp was very mild, its still 45 now at 5:30. There was no school today so it was cook and clean day. My daughter called last night and said she was taking Amtrack home and getting in Thursday at 5:00. That was a surprise, she usually doesn't make it home for Thanksgiving. She'll stay until Monday morning which is great since she has only been home once since last Christmas. It'll be a much smaller Thanksgiving with only six of us. Some change from the old days when all the in-laws would come and there would be at least 15 for dinner. I am most greatful for my wonderful family and good friends. Everyone have a wonderful holiday, wherever and whomever you are with.

Happy Thanksgiving and Gods Blessings to All!! PreThanksgiving weathere here is about par. We had tornado warning till 2pm toady and a few fronts come through and trees down, 2hr airport delays, and mucho freeway backups. Glad I did't decide to drive north this year. All I got was a limb on my roof and thankgoodness it is tin so no damage. Good weather for ducks though, ha ha. Cold front coming tomorrow night but supposed to be only into the 40's at night.

The very same to you Karen and to everyone else!
No snow here to speak of just cold and anticipating.

Hope you have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

No snowboards here Richard...... dips into the low 40's at night and will bounce back to mid 70's daily probably till after Turkey Day. We had to put down one of our prize show goats last night. It was sad but life on the farm. The Llama looks in on me eveynight through the window just to make sure I'n there. His name is Ghost (as he's all white and was born a year ago on Halloween). Hope all is well. Spending this Turkey Day here in GA at my friends sisters house.

Best Wishes to you Kathy and safe journey. Sounds like a wonderful Christmas present for a grandma. We will be driving to VT on Tu, picking up one of my boys in Winston-Salem, NC on the way. We will have Thanksgiving on Friday at my brother's in Southampton, MA and start the drive back on Sat. evening. I am a little worried about going to cold weather but glad to hear you have had 50's. My mom and dad said they have a momma bear and two cubs raiding their bird feeders ... yikes!

It was in the low 50s today in Springfield, so no snowboarding here. Neil and I will be celebrating our 32nd anniversary on Thursday. I always chuckle because all my male relatives had to miss deer hunting for a day to come to the wedding...they always reminded me of that even years later. Anyways, I hope everyone is well and getting ready for the holiday season to begin. Anyone have big traveling plans? I am going to Raleigh to my daughters on Dec. 19. She is having a baby on Dec. 20...a planned c-section. So I will get to be with Caleb my 2 year old grandson and a new baby for Christmas...

Hi, Can we go snowboarding yet? Real life sure has really hard experiences to get through. I like snowboarding because it gets me out of my head and into a world that doesn't freak me out. Maybe I'll get better at reality with a little more practice. I was in San Francisco for halloween. It was a blast. I also walked in a redwood forest for the first time. Wow. 2300 year old trees, 325 feet tall. Be good, have fun.

Wow, thanks Brian. I'd forgotten about someof those people. Springfield still lives!! Dick always made people happy and you're right, there's lots to live on the fun side and take all you can now because you can't take it with you.

Brian, thanks for giving us the details of the funeral--and for your reminder about not living "timid, uninteresting lives."

Got a note from Krishna yesterday asking for MaryAnne's address. I don't have it unfortunately but she did follow this a.m. with a copy of Nickki's letter to her following attending the service and gatherings for Dick. As Brian said an amazing tribute. Nicki didn't find the address either though.

My suggestion is that the Davis Memorial Chapel must have the family addresses on file and will forward messages to them.

We got snow starting lst Friday and it's cold enough that the ground is still white and there's a lot of black ice. I'm really having a little trouble with the idea that my son is on a bicycle in the dark of night wearing no helmet. I've got to convince him to start walking. For a smart kid he's not very bright. Parenting never ends..........

Did anyone get MaryAnn's address?
We just had the first ten minute snowstorm of the season. Tonight is suppose to be the coldest night of the fall. Makes you want to dig out your longjohns for recess duty tomorrow. We had a kindergarten come in late today minus a coat. "I forgot it". Imagine a parent bringing a 5 year old to school not knowing he doesn't have a jacket on. Anyone have big plans for Thanksgiving?

How great that the turnout was so large. I figured it would be. Wish I could have gone.

Wow! What an amazing time at Dick Tracy's Funeral Party!

There was an incredible gathering of the cream of the partying crews at the Elks Club. It was packed with so many people I haven't seen in so-o long. All the Vogels, the Goodrums, including Mrs. Goodie, Vegetable!, Carl and Paul Albanese, the Fielders, and of course all the Tracy siblings, and so many more.

The party at the Country Club the next day was even bigger. Dale Whitney, Jeff Lawrence, Bill Drake, Bob Hildreth, Leslie Bibbens, Linda LaBonte, Casey Spindler, Pam and Pete Wearing, oh the list is endless. The funeral itself was impressive. The Catholic Church was absolutely packed; standing room only.

Okay, I didn't take a lot of pictures.

The Tracy brothers Mark, John and Will gave eulogies that had everybody in tears (laughing, that is). it ended in thunderous applause, which blew a few Catholic minds. Hendrik family members were there, as well as the mother of Liz Morrison, Dick's co-pilot. The food was great (I'm still stuffed), and I came away with my head reeling with stories and catch-up tales from dozens of old friends.

Dick pushed the buttons that make living really fun, and it was a wake-up call for many of us to stop living timid, uninteresting lives. Don't avoid memorial gatherings, and say YES every time you can.

-=Wise Sage Party Animal Brian

Sorry to hear. My condoleances to the Tracey's and friends. Have sold my place in Lilburn so they can build a mini strip mall and temporary moved to a bunk house on the farm. The hurricanes damaged the houses too bad in Barnesville so we sold to a developer and are looking for something a bit further out and maybe even more land.

Thanks for the updates. I've sent sometihing along to the Davis Funeral Chapel. They'll see that it gets to the family. I didn't realize both the Tracey parents were gone already. Time really is going by quickly.

Here's some more Dick Tracy details. I'll be there, at least on Saturday, but Friday night will probably be the best tribute, after the viewing hours are over.
-=Brian

Visiting hours will be held Friday, November 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Davis Memorial Chapel, 99 Summer Street, Springfield, VT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Springfield, VT on November 6th, at 11 am. Burial will follow at the St. Mary's Cemetery. A reception celebrating Dick's life will then be held at the Crown Point Country Club following his burial. Davis Memorial Chapel, Springfield, VT is serving the Tracy Family. (802-885-3322) Published in the Charlotte Observer on 10/29/2004.

That list was with John I thought. Not sure though and it's somewhat incomplete. this is a tough one. Id like Maryann to know we're thinking of her.

Yes, I saw the obit. on line. I guess the Elm Hill house is rented out so that is not a good place to send any condolences. Who is it that has the alumni mailing list, is that John?

On a lighter note,

I'm helping a friend out (much younger friend) whose little girl is involved in a sticker club. It's a sort of chain letter with stickers. So if anyone has any little "friends", grandkids, neighbor kids or whatever, who you think would like to receive 72 packets of stickers from all over the place (one packet at a time) through the mail, just let me know and I'll send them the letter.

-Pat

Thanks Kathi, Just a street(home)address in Spfld. then I guess. Would you mind checking the phone book? thanks - Pat

The obituary was in the Springfield paper yesterday and listed her as living in Wilmington, MA. The funeral being next weekend here in Springfield. Friday night calling hours and St Mary's Church at 11am and reception at The Country Club after the service and burial.

Don't forget to turn your clocks back tonight! It will now be the official start of hibernation in Vermont.
Happy Thoughts for your weekend!

Karen, I'm glad you asked for that address, I'm hoping it will be posted here. I too would like to send a card. - Pat

If one of you has an address for MaryAnn Tracy Murphy could you send it to me? I would like to send a sympathy card. What a tragedy. When we think of Dick a story comes to mind that makes us smile. Rich was sitting in an airport several years ago waiting for a flight. He looked up as the flight crew approached the gate. Rich yelled "Scumbag?" and Dick saw Rich and yelled "Stovepipe!" They shook hands and caught up for a minute or two and then Dick said the crew needed to board. Rich sat back down and only then realized that people were looking at him strangely and one person finally said, "Did you just call our pilot SCUMBAG?" I think they made some comment like, can this guy fly a plane? and Rich had to laugh and thinking back on life in high school, that thought may have crossed his mind too!! He was a good guy and my sympathy to his friends and family. God bless.

Lori I'm so glad the leaves arrived. I'm surprised that any were intact. I had the feeling they would all end up crumbs over the journey. Tim, my mail-man things I'm nuts!

I'm sorry to hear about Dick (but glad to see Brian surface) and really sorry about your brother, Kathi. I wish I could say something to make you feel better, but I know there's nothing I can say.

On a lighter note, I got your leaves in the mail yesterday, Patti, and was really excited! I think they lost some of their vibrancy on the way, but that doesn't matter. What matters is that it's really exciting to get a whole envelope full of leaves in the mail from a friend in Maine--and that you went to the trouble to pick so many beautiful leaves for me and to actually bother to put them in an envelope and send them to me. I'm touched. I consider you a really good friend to do that for me. Thank you!

I remember Dick very well. He was a good friend of my brothers and spent a lot of time at our house. So sad. Thanks for letting us know Brian. I wouldn't have heard otherwise. thanks for the links also. - Pat

Loosing your parents is sad but loosing a sibling is devastating.

Hi Everyone,

My brother Pete called today to ask if I had heard that Springfield's Dick Tracy had died in an air crash Sunday. http://newsobserver.com/news/nc/ncwire_news/story/1765687p-8049789c.html
Darn. I hadn't seen Dick in quite a while, and was just wondering what had become of him. Actually, it was awesome to hear he had become a pilot, but this is sad. I hope to make it to Springfield for a service, if they have one there. He was living in North Carolina.

And Kathi, I am so sorry to hear of your brother. I never made a connection when I read about his death in the news, because he was from Milton, Vt. and so much younger than us. I visited the memorial site at http://www.fallenheroesmemorial.com/oif/profiles/sheehankevinf.html and I am deeply affected and saddened for your loss.

I love you all, enjoy every breath you take!
-=Brian

Kathi, do me a favor please and send me a quick e-mail message so I'll have your address again. I lost it when my hard drive crashed a while back and I'm in the process of re-building the list from an original copy I had . Some of these addresses will be invalid because folks change their addresses and don't notify me to update the list but you'll have quite a few that are correct.
Getting this list finished up again is my weekend project. When the a message come back as undeliverable, I'll remove the addresses from the list and re-send it to the names that are left as the most correct listing we have available. In the meantime, if anyone reading this has a "new" address send it along to me and I'll correct the list as much as possible before I send it out Sat.

Thanks - Pat

Kathi, I did know about your brother and I am so sorry. I can't imagine what you all have gone through. Your kids sound happy and successful ... you dun good girl! Enjoy your time off. We have 62 this morning but it has been rainy, so not sure we will see the sun today.

Patti: No, you did not send me the email list but it would be great if you did. Raw and chilly here today. It was 42 degrees at 8:30. No school for the rest of the week. Vermont Teacher Convention, so today was like a Friday. No big plans, probably the yard, garden cleanup for fall. Our leaves are just falling so we will probably still be raking in November. I don't think the leaves were that vivid this year, maybe from the wet summer. Thank you for the welcome. You all will have to tell me what you do, etc. It is nice to connect with you.

Hi, Kathi. Welcome to the blog from me, too! It was good to get caught up on your life. I have musician kids too--my daughter and my middle son. They're both in bands and have gigs around here. It takes a lot of persistence, maybe even more in L.A. where they're not so good about paying musicians. I've heard that they're better about that in other places. Maybe there's just too much competition here.

Patti, I'm looking forward to getting those leaves! I actually wrote a poem a few years ago called "Craving" cuz I had such a craving to see those beautiful New England leaves.

Hey Kathi, of course no one minds, WELCOME. The purpose of the site is to share and keep in touch and support each other. Not as many since the class reunion. I joined just after and its nice to hear about different lives etc. Its till warm here in GA. Mike Grahams bro lives only a town or two ovger from me and has for quite some time. A kid a went to kindergarden with in Ct lives just the other side of town. The net brings much together and the great thing is you can just listen in or participate.

Good morning all! Especilly hi to you Kathi, It's great to hear fromyou again. I can attest to how now her cards are because I was the lucky recipient of one some time back.
Hard to think of any of us having grandkids. I'm ready I think to be a grand parent but I know my sons are sure not ready to be parents. So I'm patient. None of us needs that added to our already complicated mix.
Did I ever send you a listing of the class e-mail addresses Kathi? I don't remember after I lost all the addresses if I ever re-built it?

How bout those Red Sox!!

Sending your leaves tomorrow Lori!!!! I picked some beauties yesterday and they are drying now.

Karen, I have been working for 18 years as a Para in Kindergarten. Now I am working with Angela Asermelly at Union Street School. I like working with the younger kids...they usually still like you at the end of the day! My oldest daughter, Suzanne, is 28 . She has been living in NYC since college. She is trying to get into the music business and has a band, or is in a band. She is very artsy and musical. My middle daughter, Amanda, graduated from BU, moved to Raleigh, NC, got married , has the cutest little redheaded 2 year old son and is expecting a baby in December. We don't get to see Caleb that often which is hard. And Andrew, having been to college in Maine, moved home this summer for a while to regroup. He is working at Best Buy in West Leb. for the moment. Its actually quite nice to have him home. Our schedules are so different that I really don't see him that often. It has been extremely difficult dealing with my brother's death in Iraq in May. I have been trying very hard to stay busy! I do a lot of creating. I like to make cards and have come up with some that I have been selling. The teachers like to buy them and there is always a birthday or some holiday to make new ones for. So between family, work, house, yard stuff (though I have a new mower back in the house!!! My Son.) I try to keep busy. Its a big production to go shopping from here as you know! Please tell your Mom hi for me. Thanks for listening and making me feel welcome. Happy thoughts, Kathi

HI KATHI! So nice to see you here! I drove by your house this summer when I was with my mom. Hope you are having a nice fall. How old are your kids now and where are they? Do you work? What do you like to do in your spare time? I would love to hear about YOU! Are you still funny and bubbly like high school days?

Hi. It is fun to get an insite into all your "exciting" lives. Traveling, redecorating, sharing ideas and thoughts, reaching out to your friends. It is nice that you still all share that friendship after 30 years. Hope you don't mind that I join you sometimes. Happy thoughts are sent to all.

Okay, Patti, now I'll be waiting for them!

Of course I'm serious Lori! I'll pick the biggest and prettyiest leaves I can find and send them to you. Right now, they're wet from the wicked rain storm we've just had but I'm gonna get you some as soon as they're dry. Count on it!

Of course I'm serious Lori!1 I'll pick the biggest and prettyiest leaves I can find and send them to you. Right now, they're wet from the wicked rain storm we've just had but I'm gonna get you some as soon as they're dry. Count on it!

don't know why it published twoice but lets take it as a sign of my sincerity.

Patti, are you serious? In case you are, it's 13913 Chandler Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91401. You may be kidding, but even now I can't seem to shake the habit of believing everything I'm told.

Not sure why that posted 3 times but lets take it as a sign of my sincerity.

Don't know why that published 3 times bnut I'll take it as a sign of my sincerity.

Richard dear, you read my mind.

Send me your address and I'll gladly send you some beauties!

Have a great weekend!! Maybe some (don't ever) Bloggers will return to leave some posts??? Please understand. I love the little notes from us and have many more that I will be posting.

I also recognize that I had a little shake out period when I started posting, but the blog helped me to find planet earth again. Being back on earth has been pretty special. I love you guys.

(Pat is saying, "It sure doesn't sound like he's on planet earth to me, but he seems harmless.")

I think you're right, Roland. It HAS helped me to share with people what's going on in my life. I think that Landmark Forum course I did helped me open up cuz I used to be much more closed about my personal life. Now I'm finding it helps me to share. The support I get from people gives me a lot of strength.

I'm getting jealous hearing you all talk about the colored leaves. There's some of that here, but nothing that compares to the beauty in Vermont. Or Maine, I guess. Send me some leaves!

Hey Lori, I have always believed that it is good to talk. Some of my friends say that they think I'm too open but as long as one dosen't share the gorey details I feel its ok to let people know and the ones who care will wish you well. Life is about sharing and helping or just sometimes listening and we all need to vent. Sooooo glad you are doing better......see it probably helped to hare it with us.

Hey Richard, last night I saw your pupeteering buddies on 20/20! That's quite a coincident since you just mentioned seeing the puppets. Or I should say I just read yesterday about your having seen the puppets.
It's pretty up here but cold in the mornings. Low 30's.BRRR. Should get up to 60 later though and it's mid 70's in the computer lab where I work so the air conditioner is always on to keep those old machines running. I guess I'm living in lots of seasons at once. The fall colors are wonderful this year, very bright.
Time to get my act in gear.
Take care all. - Pat

I am having lunch with Pete and Larry today at their timberframe shop. I only work about 20 minutes away and I love being in the mountains. Their shop has a perfect view of Madonna (the mountain, not the . . .) They are 5 minutes from the chairlift. I expect that the leaves will be peak colors for most of the ride. I will be on Pleasant Valley Road for most of my drive and it is always very pleasant!

Holidays? I'm not sure what I think. I guess it's time to form some opinions, again.

Hi Richard and Lori! Thanks for the offer of help Lori. And Richard, yes Nolan would really have loved to see the marionettes. You know the most interesting people. I only know store clerks and household handymen at this point. We are heading to VT for Thanksgiving. We will be at my sister's NH home for the feast. Its my parent's 60th wedding anniversary on Dec 7th so it will be a double celebration. At Christmas, we are having Rich's family here. Can you believe these holidays are just around the corner? I get tired thinking about it .........

Karen, it's nice that your son is in L.A., but it would be even nicer if YOU were out here. Then we could meet! If he needs anything, he can call me--but he'd probably be embarrassed to call someone he doesn't know.

Karen, It is great to hear from you. There is a lot going on in LA. I had a good time there. I hope that it stays fun for your son. Maybe Lori could start a mom away from home service for us easterners when we visit. Walks on the beach and eating at good restaurants is about all I remember at this point. The time I spent behind the Orange Curtain (in Orange County) has been wiped from my memory. Your son would have loved one of my visits with a friend who made all of the marionettes that were used for "Team America". I saw all 400 of them. "Team America" is a feature length film that is about to be released in the next couple of weeks. It's by the guys that do "South Park". It is pretty funny and equally offensive to everybody- they're putting the "F" back in "Freedom". My next trip is to San Francisco for halloween (some business, some fun). Anyone have any great ideas for costumes?

Hi Everyone! Not much going on here but just thought I would check in. I am enjoying fall in Atlanta. The temps have been in the low to mid 70's. I went to the GA mountains (Ellijay, GA) last weekend to our friends' cabin and while there we went to an apple festival. If you didn't listen to the southern accents it felt like VT. This weekend we are going to a wedding in the SC mountains near Greenville, it should be beautiful. My oldest son is having a great time in LA and at Warner Bros. I was worried that he would want to go back there after graduation but he says he is a northeasterner and his girlfriend longs to see New England. Guess it shouldn't matter since I am in GA. I have moved so many times that of the four children, two are drawn to the south, one to New England and the youngest is still longing to go back to MI. I am working on my house, painted and faux striped the dining room last week. Now I am moving on to papering the foyer bathroom. I got on a roll this week with cleaning things out and throwing away and you know, when a VT packrat feels that urge ... you had better go with it! Don't forget to vote and stay happy and healthy!

Yes, my brother and his wife tried that bike path and really liked it. I'll have to check it out sometime. I wish I could see those leaves!

Hi All, It is another beautiful day in paradise here. Big color day with gorgeous leaves, but it is starting to cool down. Lori, Gerda and I rode our bikes past your house by the lake on Sunday. There is a new bike bridge across the Winooski river so we are closer now than we have ever been!

Thanks, Roland. I'm doing much much better. We WILL be okay. Maybe I should have restrained myself and not written anything on the blog, but I guess that's what I needcd to do at the moment. And it helps to know that all of you care. So thanks again to everyone!!!!

Lori, sorry to hear about your mood. You have had and I assume still have alot going for yourself. Son't beat yourself up too hard. Life is constant change and sometimes we don't understand and worse yet want to understand but there is always light at the end of the tunnel if you look long enough. Hang in there and like Richard said be your own best freind and so what you must but just be careful and through with your thoughts as I know you will. We must go with the flow even when the water is just a trickle but we do have the power to alter the course if the present path is leading too close to disaster. You'll be fine!! Glad to see you back and writing!!

Thanks you guys. I appreciate your caring. I'm doing much better now. Check your e-mails.

Lori, You know how much luck and love I wish for you. There are no rules, only the ones that matter to you. What you believe in is precious. That's always a good place to start. Thanks for being a great friend! Please be your own best friend, you really need someone awesome like you.

Lori I'm sorry you have been unhappy. Check your e-mail, I'm writing there.

Yup Pat just peeking as I've been mucho busy cleaning up from the multiple storms and their aftermath of the tornadles, lightening etc. Temps still up there in the pm but nice and coold in the early evening and mornings. They say this "cycle" is what it was back in the 40's or so. Got a great new cook book and fixin to start in on some new recipies.

Hi Patti and everyone else. Yes, I've been out of it for a while. I've been going through a difficult time in my marriage, but am beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I haven't really been in the mood to write anything on the blog until today, and this isn't much but it's a start. Good luck to your friend, Richard, and wish me luck too!

Richard I do indeed send my best wishes to your friend - 100 days is certainly an amazing milestone.
Here in the county it's a interesting time of year. The leaves are lovely and strangely enough, my husband I noticed the same oddity in the geese the other night when we were out for a walk. Beats me. Road kill here these days is more likely to be a russet than a skunk. Which is good because the russet doesn't smell as bad, at least initially.
Tonight is the final soccer competition between our two middle schools. The one across town is blending with ours next year so lots of "lasts" are happening. This will be a very big night. We at Skyway intend to kick ass. Oops this is middle school so lets go with butt.
Dave and I have reservations for Hawaii. We leave here on the 1st of Dec. and return on the 12th. A few days on "The big island" and a few more on Maui. I'm really looking forward to it. I'm glad we finally decided one way or the other too.
Dad is in a hotel in FL. Third evacuation - jeez. The hotel they were in lost power and so they had to move across town to another that had power as Dad's oxygen tank requires electricity. I'm a little confused about why it isn't just battery powered> Possibly 3 weeks before they can get back into their home depending on wind and rain continuing to do damage through the damaged roof. Otherwise though they are fine. I sure wish they had moved up to Burlington .

Where is everyone?????? Lori, Kathy, Karen and the rest of you just peeking???

Hi Pat, It has been a little quiet on the blog site. Unfortunately, it is a little quiet in Burlington as well. After a cold and very wet summer, leaves are turning and are at about 25% of peak color. Geese are flying south, but don't seem to have the same tight vee formations that they usually do. What's up with that? We bought our ski pass and have moved into the "think snow" mode. So, that's what I mean by nothing happening here. The good news is that one of my friends has survived 100 days after a bone marrow transplant. That is an important milestone, but things still seem very uncertain. Please send good energy out to people who are sick. My friend needs some.

Richard, Come again? You lost me.

Nothing happening here either.

Pat, I'm not ther full time yet even. Your observations are intersting. People are afraid sometimes that someone will take what they have. I was in the restaurant business for many years and never feared competition as things always find their nitche. Its an open mind that wants to learn and I just don't understand these closed minded ostriches. People can't afford to be that way today but Oh well........ Global effects and economy are here to stay and effect us all everyday. Down here things are changing and people are doing just what you said. They are voting on their own for ANYONE who has the balls to run and upset are finally happening. That still dosen't help change the "old" thinking though. Just that we are getting some real justice and not the ol "potbellied" typical southern ignorance thing. That astounds me that PI has that mentality still. I love that country and went to college with a kid that potatoe farmed there. Growth is good as long as its monitered. I learned when I lived in CA for awhile that in order for all to survive we all had to give a little.

Roland how long have you been living in Barnesville? I ask because having been here in Presque Isle for only 13 years I still marvel at the intricacies of small town politics and the apparent power of the locals. 2 nights ago I watched our town council refuse to give a businessman from a neighboring town a provisional license as a hauler of construction materials (even though he had been hired to do so by the company doing construction on the new fitness center at the college); the reason given was that "the town of P.I. already has two companies who do that and we don't need anyone else coming in here". I remember several years ago a young man was starting up a busines(or thought he was) was refused a license for the same reason I mention above. No competition needed here I guess. the members of the council tend to run unapposed but I state categorically that I am not about to try to implement change by running. I will complain quietly from my sofa. I will also vote from someone else if they run. Other than that "You can't fight City Hall" continues to be the mantra of many towns and cities across the states. I rember the City Manager, who is also from away, explaining to me that the the family trees around here are shaped like telephone poles. Pretty scary stuff. But not at all uncommon anywhere in the USA that same thing can be said.

I am sitting at the Anaheim Convention Center at a trade show that is sooooooooooo boring. I had fun over the first three days that I was here, though. I had dinner with Lori on Monday night. It was great to see her and we both thought it was funny to connect in CA. We met near an abandoned carnival on a pier which was a little creepy. Maybe I've seen too many movies that use this for intrigue. We both felt better when we moved on. I spent the weekend with my room mate from college. That was fun too.

Richard, good advice and a bit of your humour you're so famour for. Yes, we have a direction and are headed FORWARD while keeping what is good in the old. Its a real experience and too much too tell here but it never ceases to amaze myself of the insecurities of some people that really have nothing to be insecure about. Oh well.........

Roland, All that good-ol-goy stuff is only one piece and I hope your elections help to clean house. If you have a fortune teller from the West Indies or Haiti in your new little town, go see her. Don't think what whe tells you is the final word. You can change it, but you have to know where you would be headed before you can know what to change.

Roland, All that good-ol-goy stuff is only one piece and I hope your elections help to clean house. If you have a fortune teller from the West Indies or Haiti in your new little town, go see her. Don't think what whe tells you is the final word. You can change it, but you have to know where you would be headed before you can know what to change.

Vermont behind? We thought so but actually they are an experimental state for most programs after they leave the CA theory stage. Ga has got to be the most behind state in the nation. I love the climate but their mindsets are still: Yankee leave us alone, we were fine till you came. Not refering to myself but just in general and if you think Vters are clannish you ain't seen nothing yet!! You know they still ran stills way into the 80's and some still but not as much gov't interference. Those Daisy Duke stories had to come straight out of here. Vt hasn't always had the funds available in the rural areas to keep up but down here they "just don't want to" and that attitude I have a problem with. Also, you know the 2 speeds in VT (ha ha) slow and stop, well here its slower and permanently head stuck in the ground. Oh well..... in the metro area its not visible with all the divirisity. Down in Barnesville we are having a real fight between the new and the old "pot bellied sheriff" ways. He seems to rule with an iron hand and with no real supervision. Its slowly going away but its like really stepping back into "Ol Dixie". He actually threatens people to get what he wants. Well, January is election time and as one of my friends says, they will actually find enough testicals to drag into the booths again and do the right thing. Interesting, or NOT.

E-mail for all it's spendor, can in fact be a real pain in the tushy. To put it politely.

We just discovered that a former co-worker of Dave's has been living in Hawaii since this past June and so our plans to go are looking better. We would be able to stay with her after the conference and Tamra would be a wonderful source of local information. tht would save us a huge bundle of $$. So Im trying not to get too excited but I am.

And Lori is Richard, you are wonderful.

Well you know, Vermont always has been a little behind! Gotta love it!

Pat, I am learning much about beauty and, as slow as I am to learn, I can assure you that beauty is not lost on me. Karen and Lori wrote to me at my knew address, made me feel awesome, and verified for one technological moment that my new **^#"/!_-+ f--king email is connecting some of the time. I am now hearing from my "server" that the Vermont connection will not be happening for the next five hours. I can only say that I am comforted to know that my future is five short hours away.

Patti, you must have written at exactly the same moment I did. Good luck with your vacation plans. Don't give up on Hawaii!!!

Patti, I was the one who wrote. But I forgot to tell him how wonderful he is. You're wonderful, Richard! Call me when you're in L.A. and maybe we can meet in the middle somewhere, wherever that is. I'll look at a map in the meantime.

Vacation Vacation where should we vacation.

Started with Mexico, then we thought we'd do an all-inclusive Sandals resort in the Caribean. OOPs. Then we had a Hawaii possibility. Still do actually. Dave has an early December conference to go to and I'd be going along so we'd stay a few extra days. After all it's 18 hours to get there. I'll need a day of rest before I go lay in the sun and surf. The trip is still up in the air because of the cost of the flight but we're working on it. I'd miss about 10 days of school. For me, that's the hard part. but it's an opportunity i hate to pass up. He's sure not going without me .

I'm not sure how well my home email address is working yet. I'll let you know in a few days

Richard is this your way of saying you have changed your e-mail address? I will change it on the list if you like.
I want to know who wrote and told you you were wonderful?

My email works, thanks!!

Can someone send me an email at lovelessr@verizon.net . I just set up a new email account at home and would like to see if it is working. Any message like "Richard, you are really awesome!" would be fine.

Gerda and I spent the weekend in Montreal. We did many fun things including a comedy club late Saturday night. Not so funny on Sunday morning was the smashed window on our car. A pair of sun glasses were all that was stolen, but what a hassle. Apparently it is a big problem in Montreal. The police won't even come to check it out. The Montreal Marathon was Sunday and 18,000 people ran in it. The Kenyans started to pull away from me at mile 23 (just kidding). We didn't run, just walked through the botanical garden Sunday Afternoon.

Hi Lori, Right now it looks like I will have a car and could get together Monday evening the 20th. Email me your phone number and I will call you: rloveless@hubersuhnerinc.com

Hi, Patti. So you ruled out Mexico? I think Hawaii is a good choice. It's beautiful there. I've been to Maui and Oahu. Both were nice. Honolulu is pretty touristy, but once you get out of the city, it's really nice.

It sounds like they're getting a lot of rain in Vermont, from what my brother says. Maybe not hurricanes, but he and his wife have been vacuuming water out of their basement almost non-stop for the past week. There were a few sunny days in between and then again the rain started seeping in. If they don't vacuum, they'll have a flood. They said it's been a nightmare.

Richard have fun in CA, it sounds like you have plans to have a good time regardless of what you do. Since Lori has gotten together with you in Burlington I definitely think you should get with her on the West Coast now.

right Lori?

Now that Ivan is getting set to attack the west coast of FL I'm after my dad to get the heck out of there. He's been lucky with the last two and although they had to evacuate to a hotel, enough is enough. We just have orange leaves, rain and the usual windyness up here in the County. Fall has arrived. The potato harvest begins soon.

Dave and I are talking about going to Hawaii this Dec. He has a business trip potentially and I'll go along. We should know after this weekend. We'll consider it our 25th anniversary trip. Anybody been?

Karen, the weather is HOT. Hotter than usual. Eventually, he might need a sweater in the evening, but right now that's the last thing you need in L.A. Will you be visiting him here?

Richard, what do you mean by north L.A.? Are your friends in the Valley? I think Anaheim is about 50 minutes from us. Will you have a car? Will you have any free time on the weekend or will you be busy working? If you see you have some free time, maybe you can call and we'll see what we can work out. Do you have my number here?

Karen, great to see that you are taking in most of the local colours etc. The taste of Atlanta is happening too and you might enjoy it. There is a "DaisyFestival" in Stone Mt in the spring is you like crafty stuff and too see the park. It is the largest deposit of granite supposedly in the world (exposed that is). Wake Forest is a great school. Hope your son likes it. As for the falling trees yes, lots of old oaks have fallen as the ground was so dry and then so wet that the roots were closer to the top of the ground and let go. We sometimes get bad tornadoes too.

I have my sister in law, her husband and son, my mother in law, her friend and friend's dog all coming to my house to escape Ivan tomorrow. The word is to get out of town early to avoid the crush of people trying to leave. They told me it looks like it will be Tu before it hits FL. Good thing I love my inlaws!! Gotta go, lots of beds to change!

Lori, I would love to visit, but I don't know how difficult it is to get from Anaheim to see you or to see my friends who are all on the north side of LA. I will either be spending my evenings drinking to excess with boring sales guys or I will figure out how to connect with friends after 5. Any thoughts?

Richard, have a great time on your trip to LA. Roland, good luck with the new place. Lori, nice to hear from you. What is the weather like out there right now? Want to help my son pack.

Richard, you're going to be in L.A.?!! Give us a call. Maybe we can meet if you have time.

Karen, I am arriving in LA on the 18th for one week. My trip will be two days of fun with an old college friend and four days of work in Anaheim. I hope that your son has a good experience at Warner Bros. Studios. I have friends that work at Disney, Jim Henson Company and some independents doing special effects.

Karen, I have friends that have been and like it much. I do the coffee house thing over @ Gwinnett Historical Society. Yes, I found another place and grabbed it. Thats how things go with myself, feast or famine, ha ha. I will be trading the suburban life for a more rural life where I can have my beloved critters at my side or at least close without neighbours objecting and also a nice 10 ac pond. I don't plan on living there permanent till early next year.

Roland, things are going okay. We had a big tree come down in our yard today with all the rain and wind gusts. I was just happy that it didn't fall on the roof or in the driveway. Rich's job takes up more of his time than we would like but he likes what he is doing. His company makes exhaust components and other parts for the automotive industry. On Sat. he is leaving for the plant in South Africa for the first time and won't be back until the 17th, so guess we won't be catching the jazz this time around. But thanks for the info, that sounds like a fun thing to do. We went into downtown Atlanta last Sat. My daughter went to the zoo with a friend and the rest of us did the CNN tour and walked around Atlanta Underground, Olympic Centennial Park and then ate at the Hard Rock. We were going to do the World of Coke but my son who had been, said it was not worth the long line. He is 15 and went to the High Museum on a field trip last week - Egyptian artifact exhibit I think. Of course, he said it was boring, and he was also disappointed at the Varsity ...... which we had read was a "don't miss" for best fried food high. I guess it is hard to impress that age bracket unless it has something to do with computers or video games. Richard, my 21 year old son is headed out to LA on the 17th for 12 weeks to do a co op quarter with Warner Bros. Studios. Thought that might entice your son who is interested in digital design to look at University of Cincinnati ... has he decided on a school yet? Actually Nolan says the program has been going through some rough times with the loss of some good faculty in the past year. My son Evan is a freshman at Wake Forest and we haven't heard much from him. He told me the last time I talked to him that he is going to sign up to do a one hour radio program where he gets to DJ and play his own choices of music with commentary that is received on campus over the internet (I think). Hope he finds some time to study! I am hoping that hurricane Ivan is going somewhere other than the US, too much for one month!

Karen, How are things working out at your new place? Does Rich like his job?

I was just snooping on-line for fun things to do in Atlanta and found Friday Jazz at the High Museum. It is an evening of art & music on the 3rd friday of each month. The next Friday Jazz is on September 17th from 5-10 p.m. It looks like a relaxed, fun thing to do. It appears that the jazz is free and they have dinner, desserts, and drinks for purchase. They say is was voted "Best of Atlanta" by Creative Loafing. The pictures of the museum make it look like a really interesting place. Let me know if you do it!

Roland, congratulations on your new place. Am I confused or did you buy another place just a short while ago? You must like to move more than I do. BTW, are any of our classmates in the path of this latest storm? We are keeping contact with my sister in law Kathy who lives in the West Palm area, but they are sure they will be fine. Here will just be rain at the beginning of the week, but yesterday we had traffic reports on the influx of people coming here from FL.

Pat, thankyou. It will be nice when I finish with it. We are going down this w/e for a big cook out and to plan fences for the critters etc. Its something I've wanted to do for awhile so I'm grabing the opportunity while I can. I'll send some pics of the Buggy Festival next month for you to see too if you're interested.

Richard, yes....its exciting. The town used to produce most of the buggies for this great nation of ours and yes, they have3 a big festival which we are planning on attending next month. In 05 I will probably have at least one entry in the parade. I'll see if I can take some pics and email them to you. We are going down there for a big picnic / cookout tomorrow and to plan the new fences etc for the critters.

Roland, I understand that your new town is the buggy capital of the south and that there is a big buggy weekend coming up in two weeks. I love old carriage building techniques and love to look at the carriages that have been built. I saw quite a few in a museum in the Stockyards in Fort Worth TX in June. I hope you check it out.

Congratulations Roland, your new home souonds terrific.

School stated this week. I'm tired. Labor Day Weekend is a welcome promise. Fall is in the air here. cool and Windy. Oh well, it was bound to come.

Richard, yes by the first of the year I plan to be there full time. I can't wait but have to work out all the details and finish the house too. I am already looking at employment prospects in the Macon area or communting say 3 say per week with a long weekend. We sign papers sometime this week I believe. Its all approved we're just waiting on the final writte contract.

Karen, yes....its very sad. In addition you have probably viewed the commentaries about the "good kids lies". We all did it and luckily never got hurt. They tell their parents that they are one place and then go another and then.......things like that happen. What upset me more was that there were two others in the car and they were found walking down the road away from the accident. Evidentally thwey pulled the couple out and left. Another story hit about two best friends that got totally wasted and while driving home one had his head out the door and it got decapitated and the other continued to drive home not even knowing spewing a blood trail. He awoke the next am to police surrounding him and he knew nothing. Eigh!!!!! As you know its really rough being a parent today. It IS the parents responsibility to know everything. You've got to be parent, friend, detective, and counselor all in one rounded package while probably holding a full time job. There are many good ones out there but the peer preasure today is sooooooo great it really has to start at home. But then again most of you reading this are doing the stink correctly and have not many problems. I think personally that in the metro areas like here the peer preasure is much more. Out in the country there are other activities to keep busy with and more room to "do your own thing".

Karen, That is really creepy!! It reminds me of when I lived in NYC. There were times when I would hear too much "news". It usually had the effect of keeping me out of the subway for a couple of weeks. Inevitably, convenience would overcome imagined risks and I would return to subterrainian travel.

Okay, here is a true story, that you can tell your kids to drive home the point of the evils of drinking and driving. Roland, I am sure you have heard it because it has been all over the news here. Two kids, 21 and 23 were out partying heavily and left a bar in the wee hours of the morning. The passenger was leaning out the window vomitting and the driver went off the road, hit a guy wire, decapitated his friend, then proceeded home, 12 miles, and parked in his driveway and went to bed. The next morning at 8pm a man was walking his one year old, saw a headless body hanging out of the truck and called the police. They came and got the guy out of bed, he was covered with blood and still drunk ... the story goes that he had no idea of what had happenned. Now is that the grossest thing you have heard in a long time? How sick! One thing about living in a big city, you can really get down listening to all the stuff that goes on in the course of a day ... accidents, murders, you name it.

Roland, the new place sounds great. Will this be your primary place to live?

50 acres pending about 80 miles so of here. I can finally have the horse there and my friends can have their criters too like llamas and exotic pigmy goats & chickens. Great to hear about Pete & Larry. Those are two I wondered about. Mom was friendly with Petes mom in church groups and Doc Noble asked about Larry as they used to be in contact. Oh, got a great 10acre pond on the property too so I can learn to fish for some brim. I want to create some nature trails and there is a garden plot with irrirgation too.

I stopped by to see Pete Kochalka and Larry Kruse at their post and beam company in Jeffersonville VT on Friday. For them, they come to work and see lots of work and projects that need their attention. For me, I saw great works in process, a dynamite business, and a couple of Springfield guys that have plenty to be proud of. I saw some wood that just about made me fall down and I also saw their awesome robot that makes complex joinery seem like child's play. It was better than a tour of the Ben & Jerry's Factory!!

School starts for us Middle school and Elementary on Tues. next. High School went in on the 16th. but the high school gets out in a couple of weeks for Potato Harvest. I start on Monday, staff only and then kids on Tues.

Colin starts college as a second semester Freshman on Monday.

The heat of summer always starts here the week that the High School students go back. The town pooll closes as the life guards are all students. Immediately the temperature go way up. Never fails.

We met Kevin's girl friend last weekend. She's a real beauty ( they would make pretty babies). Also and more importantly, she is a lovely person. We're hoping they'll be coming up for Labor Day Weekend.

Hey Richard schol has been in session here for almost a month!!!! I can't see it myself but they are really pushing to go year round here but as slow as some of them go........well. 10k condoms hugh? Wow!! Suppose it was a good thing though. Looking @ 50 or so acres about 80n mi so of here. It has a 10 acre pond, nice brick ranch, irrigated garden, and pastures. We'll see. If they take our offer looks like I'll be having a w/e spot. The full basement is finished and done with Japanese influence as the current owners spent lots of time in the orient. Even comes with an old Ford tractor. No traffic noise.....way out on the end of a road too. (Barnesville, GA).

I can't believe that school starts here next week! I am kind of sad because we never really got the heat of summer here this year. Rob Massoneau was visiting here from Texas last week. He was over for dinner on Saturday along with a few of my local friends. Rob and I lost two games of doubles in Ping Pong to a tennis instructor and "condom man" (my friend that handed out 10 thousand condoms at the Phish concert). It was a good time.

Thanks, Patti. Yes, I did notice that Kathy joined. Hi Kathy! I hope others will join, too.

Yeah, you never know what these kids will do. We're glad Omer found a job he likes after looking around almost all of last year. He's an assistant sales rep for a big company called BCBG. He works in their showroom at the California Mart. He's working hard, but seems to be okay with that. As long as he likes what he's doing and likes the people, he doesn't mind working hard. Right now they sent him to Dallas for the weekend to help sell the line there.

Maybe your reunion will bring about some positive changes! If they decided to have one, they must have some desire to see each other. For me it was really nice seeing family and friends in Israel. The only problem is I came back 5 pounds heavier. Avi's also on a diet after seeing pictures of himself in a bathing suit!

Hey Lori ! Welcome back!

After you get some rest you can tell us all about your trip. Did you see that Kathy Sheehan has joined us? Things have been a little quiet here but maybe we're getting back together again.

Dave and I are looking at a couple of trip options. Mostly rightnow the idea of an all - inclusive trip is appealing. When you arrive everything from soups to nuts is already paid for. No tipping even. So we're looking around. Probably won't do anything til Feb. vacation. Otherwise I have to take time off from school and I hate doing that. We don't really have a Thanksgiving vacation anymore. Just Thursday and Friday off. Certainly I don't want to go away from the boys at Christmas time.

Colin starts classes the 30th just like me. We're so relieved that he's going back to school. Hope springs eternal!!!

The Mahoney clan is getting together this coming weekend for a family reunion of sorts. Should be odd. We rarely see Dave's sisters and for good reason. They don't get along and togetherness is not something they like to do. Mostly I'm delighted that our boys are coming. That was a nice surprise. I haven't seen Kevin since June. He's bringing a long a friend he met this summer at work. Her name is Hannah. Oh my.

Bye for now everyone!

Hi everyone. I'm finally back home in L.A. We got back last night. We had a really great time in Israel and Turkey. I won't bore you with the details. (Actually, I'm too tired to go into detail right now.) By the way, Richard, I saw that Sweet Sixteen club you mentioned. Now I'm trying to get back into routine and reality, which is always the hard part for me. Not for Avi--he had a good time, but he always likes getting home, back to his (our) own bed, etc. I've been catching up on everyone's news on the blog. Sounds like you're adjusting to your new home, Karen. Good luck! As for Cancun, I haven't been there, Patti, but our friends have and they loved it. Roland, it seems like you've been everywhere! Janice and Butch also went somewhere near Cancun and loved it (can't remember the name of the place). Now that your father is moving back to Burlington, maybe we'll be able to get together one of these days.

Pat, I think Lori gets the world traveller award. I have not been to Cancun, but my running buddy goes every year with his girlfriend. (He is the same one that lived in your part of Maine when he was young.) I think Cancun is a good choice for beach, tennis, and other resort fun. Go for it!

Roland, it seems that's the case in most any of the island resorts. Nassau, Jamaica, MX the poverty surrounds the resort and hotel area. When I asked a resident of St Martaan if she minded all of us tourist types coming into her town and wandering around she assured me that without us coming and spending our money the local economy would be even worse. Even though the residents are paid below what many/most Americans are they would be worse off if they didn't have the jobs at all. I don't find that all that re-assuring but not going doesn't help either.

Karen, welcome!! You're correct. Most of metro you won't find accents but get just outside and you find wordings like "I'm fixin to go etc". I have always found people very friendly everywhere and if you get some "country" friends the food is fantastik. Try a good ol BBQ if you get the chance.

Pat, Cancon is great but just outside the "resort" areas its nothing but poverty. Kind of disapointing but the weather is great and the drinks are potent. We're having unusually cook weather but its great for a change. Actually turned the air off most of this week. Have a great w/e and good luck and Happy 25th!!

Hi guys, Dave and I are looking at a Club Med trip to Cancun, MX. We're celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary this fall. Looking for somewhere warm and wonderful to go. Any thoughts? Anyone been to Cancun? Richard, you seem to be the world traveler of our group, every been?

Hey Karen welcome back! So glad to hear that the move is over and you are settling in. the trip to Spfld. sounds like it was fun but like you said hard to leave again. The kids are getting busy it seems. That's helpful for you I imagine. Getting them settled too.
My dad is finally moving back to VT. He and his friend Rachel are moving into a new senior housing unit not far from St Mike's. For a while I was planning to go over and help him get settled in but the timing is off. I start back to school the day after their furniture is expected to arrive. So now I'm looking at the posibility of going down to FL to help with the packing. We'll see. It's a tough time to be off - with school so close and much to do to get ready. I'm really anxious to see Daddy though. At least now he'll only be an 8 hr. drive away.
Welcome to your new home Karen and Rich!

Hi Everyone! I am here, living in GA now, the move was bad but things are going better now, just very busy. My 15 year old started school on Monday. My 18 year old is getting ready to leave for college next week. My 23 year old is looking for a job. My 21 year old is hopefully coming to live with us for a co op quarter from college in September. The weather has been wonderful lately, low humidity and 80's. People are from everywhere, friendly, and not so many southern accents as when I lived in Lexington. While I was seeing family in VT I had a few blast from the past experiences. My mom visits the nursing home on the Chester Rd. everyday to see her brother. I went with her a couple of times. Lots of familiar names, including Ruth Henry (ninth grade English) and Nanci Brown's mom. Saw Stuart Stocker's mom at Market Basket in Claremont (my mom introduced me). Met Butch and Janice Stearns at the Summer Place in the "Plaz" for ice cream. Also saw lots of Springfielders at the memorial for Rich's dad - the Tafts, Lawrences, Chip Watson's dad ...... can't think who else. Also, went to Charlie Spencer's service as Larry ( ex Butch) is my brother in law. Was hard to leave my parents and family again. We all gathered for my mom's 80th birthday too. Went to Dunmore to see my sister Marleen's new little camp there and drove past my old house in Pittsford. It was pretty good weather in VT and ME but cool temps. The drive back was a killer, my 50 year old butt will never recover!

I will be in San Francisco on Halloween. That should be a trip!

Krishna is living in the San Francisco area now I believe. However, I think you have her latest e-mail address.

I had dinner with Krishna Khalsa the last time I was in Toronto, which was in 1982. Maybe I will be able to escape the tech nerds and find her or some of the other people I used to know, thanks.

Richard, Krishna Khalsa lived in Toronto for many years. You might snd her an e-mail. She could tell you all about the city.

Sorry Richard I've never been to Toronto. Krishna Khalsa lived there for many years but I don't think she's on line here. You might send her an e-mail though, she could tell you all about the city.

I'm headed for Toronto on business next week. Does anyone know how to have fun in Toronto??? I'm afraid my only option will be seeing lots of movies while I'm there.

Happy monday crew..... yes Richard I think you're correct in asuming its not happening for this year but I've made plans to visit next leaf peeking season (05). Heat in the 90's and higher hasw been the case for us this year. The ol electric bill hit 100 big ones last month and thankfully the gas only went to 1.68 /gal. We had our first bash this wekend. It went well. Seemed funny that most of us 50 something really hadn'd changed. Lots of good food, booze, flirting and of course the horseshoe pit and target practice with the pellets. Yup, a real Foxworthy event, ha ha. The komikozi shots did in a few but the hardy Nascar fans lived. Just practice for the big event this fall over in Talledaga. This year we'll be in style with a 45' Holiday 5th wheel though, talk about comforts, I'd just assune stay in in rather than our house. Course it dosent have a 30' kitchen that I'm used to. Oh well......

Pat, Sorry to surprise you so! The question is "Am I hot?" The answer is "Yes, I think I'll go swimming now!" 82 degrees and sunny here. Have fun this weekend.

Oh my god Richard!  I can't believe you said that!!!  Alright it's true by jeez.  so where ole Gus anyhow?  Rick Fagan, honestly I can't find photo of him in the yearbook.  A man of mystery.

So I need you or someone please please to send me a copy of your last received list.  I made so many changes to the last one and now that I've messed up my computer I want to send it out with  Kathi and Rick and the rest of the names and addresses being correct.  Ya know?  Thank you whoever takes pity of me. 

Roland you asked about the informal camping reunion the was being talked about the past spring.  I don't think John L has mentioned that for quiet a few weeks now.  Given how close to the end , I hate thinking that, of summer I sorta think that's not happening.  That's just my thought.

Hi Kathi, Great to see you connected.  Remembering your local veggies was a stretch, but I can remember.  I hope that life after veggies is OK! 

I visit Springfield rarely, but have liked the few new people that I have met and like the new things that some people are doing.  My Springfield neighbor, Melissa Lovell, is with a man that is harvesting unique timber and is pretty all-around clever.  Halley Whitcomb rules the recycling center with an iron hand, but probably has to with the SUV crowd.  She is otherwise a great spirit and living in a place that I miss.

Pat, You remembered Gus Morin because he was a "hottie", but not Rick Fagans?  Clearly, some local talent slipped under your watchful eye.  Rick had a good sense of humor and a "why not enjoy life" attitude.  I hope he still does.

Welcome Kathi!!!!  Great to hear from you and that you still have a garden. My mom used to get veggies from your familys stand and our relatives that visited from the "flatlands" too.  Wow,  32 years....... I just don't feel the years (yet ha ha) but times jsut keeps clicking away. 
 
If you're reading Rick and have figured this thing out welcome too.  Its great to keep in touch or just read the goings on after so many years!  I found this through classmstes and even went back to my gradeschool in CT and correspond with one of the kids from there!!
 
Any work on a reunion yet?  I might not be able to get back up that way until next fall now but I'd still try. I might be back on the road again but just in the SE. We'll see. 
 
A new house always gets you wondering and new experiences. I had one this am while making my coffee. Ilooked out the window over the sink only to find a HUGE doe staring back at me!!!!!!   I was excited. She preenede for a bit then grazed on the gras I should have cut last week and disappeared into the side woods. While walking around the "estate" this evening I found why they visit. I have a fruite bearing pear tree there I plan to uncouver and nourish

Hi Kathi, yes indeed you got it figured out.  I'm glad to see you here and the others when they come back from here and there will be as well. Did I mention in my last note to you that Sue Cass is Sue Goding? 
I'm working on sending out the new listing but having trouble with my computer and so I may be recreating the list.
take care - patti

Hi Everyone.
  Thank you for the invite.  I'm not exactly sure how all this works.  I appreciate the kindness shown since my brother Kevin's death in Iraq on May 25.  I am still living in Springfield.  I have 3 grown children, 1 grandbaby who is almost 2, all of whom live away from Springfield,  and the same husband of almost 32 years.  We do not have the Veggie business after almost 30 years but do have a huge garden.  I would like to hear from you.  Thanks again for the invite.  Kathi

Hello out there everyone!  I'm back.  We were on vacation camping for two weeks (I really recommend Prince Edward Island) then my poor computer went into the shop and came back some days later with my needing to put back all kinds of programming  and other stuff.  All my addresses are gone and messages I had saved in my e-mail probgram.  Lots of trouble and lots of frustration.
Oh well. 
Today I heard from Rick Fagans would wishes to be added to the class listing.  Consider it done.  I've sent both he and Kathi (Sheehan) Stern invitations to the blog site.  lets' hope to see them soon.  I'll admit I don't remember Rick Fagans at all.  There is no picture or other inf.  on him in the yearbook.   anyone????
Phish
We up here are not fans.  No everyone, just those of us who didn't enjoy the drug lifestyle that arrived with them and sadly took down  many of young folks.  I'm no innocent.  I did my thing at CSC and enjoy myself but as a parent I have a different take on it.  The trouble left behind by the concerts did not make the money made in the county worth it.   

Hey Pat, are you out there?  Phish is decending on Vermont this year instead of Maine.   I have a friend that works in public health who has been given the mission to hand out 10,000 condoms during the three day event.  I wonder if that would make it into the Guinness Book of World Records.

Yes, I know about the turtles.  I think they come out at night and people aren't allowed to use that beach at night.  We'll be staying in bungalows by the river.  If you go down the river in one direction, you come to a lake. If you go the other way, you come to the sea. It sounds nice.  We'll be doing mostly nature things on this trip.  Every time I get away from L.A.  I realize I don't have enough nature in my life there and how much I need it!

By the way, you probably already know that Dalyan is famous for the sea turtles that come once a year to lay their eggs in the beach.

Hey Lori, I just found a listing on the web for a Chinese Restaurant in Dalyan at Maras Mah. 40 Dalyan - Turkey, Tel: 252 - 284 42 62 and I saw a picture of the Sweet Sixteen Dancing Bar.  You should be all set!  The tombs carved into the rocks above the river look pretty impressive as well.

A lot of Israelis go to Turkey because it's a short plane ride from here. Everyone I know who has been there has really liked it--good food, friendly people, colorful, beautiful, etc.  We're going to a place called Dalyan in the southern part of the country. I'll let you know afterwards how it was.  I hope you're all having a good summer (where are the rest  of you?!).

Turkey is mostly poor and dry but there IS alot to see if you know a local, go for it Richard. As far as any cold goes..... not her in GA.  It was 103 the other day when I arived home. Last week averaged in the very high 90's!  Have a great summer all and be careful travelling.  Lori, enjoy your trip.

There is a forecast that indicates that summer may come to Vermont next week.  Also, I heard that it has been cold, windy and rainy in central Europe lately, but I have a feeling that Turkey will be beautiful.  I hope so!  In the past, I have never considered going there.  I recently met and have become friends with an architect from Turkey and now I would like to go.

I can't imagine anything cold at the moment! Maybe you'll have summer weather in the winter. Wishful thinking--but not something that ever happens in Vermont, I guess.

Having kids that are in their 20s sounds good to me! Hanging in the sun sounds pretty good too. It's still an "I've never seen a winter as cold as summer in VT" situation here.

Third place in the national tournament? He must be really good!!! I've been busy seeing family and friends here. Yesterday I was at the beach and burnt my legs. I used sunscreen but not on the bottom part of my legs. That was stupid. Now I'm staying away from the beach until my legs don't feel so stiff! My son Rafi and his girlfriend are arriving on July 21 and Avi and Danit are coming on July 26. Omer won't be able to come this year because he finally found a job that's connected to what he studied (merchandising) and that he's excited about. He'll miss the big family vacation to Turkey this year with my whole family. Oh well. I'm glad he finally found something he likes, though.

I was in Florida for my younger son to go to the National AAU Taekwondo tournament. It was pretty crazy with lots of kicking, punching, and yelling. My son placed third in sparring for his age, weight, and level. I think both of my sons are now big enough and capable of kicking my ass. I am brushing up on my diplomacy skills.

Thanks, Richard. What were you doing in Florida? Work or just a vacation?

Lori, Have fun with your family. The summer weather here has been so-so so far. I just returned from Florida yesterday and some very hot temps. I was a little stunned by the size of houses, boats, and cars there. People were friendly though. I sat in a bar & grill where many people were dancing on the sidewalk near a little Latin band.

Hi, everyone. I'm in Israel now. I got here last Friday. Right now I'm staying at the kibbutz where my parents live and my sister Amy and her family. It's good to be on vacation. No cooking, cleaning, shopping. Just relaxing, seeing my family, reading, swimming... I'll be checking the blog once in a while, but not every day. Hope you all have a good summer!

Talked to my dad down in Florida yesterday. He and his companion are moving back up to the Burlington area. They found a place for seniors (new construction) not far from St. Mike's . As long as their place in Plant City sells before cold weather up north, which for them is by Sept. they 'll head up.So all the more reason for me to come over.

Hey everyone. summer is starting slowly up here but hope to pick up speed shortly. Lots of rain and chilliness . Dave and I leave this Friday for week in Naples, ME camping on Long Lake and then a few days here and a few days there in Canada for another week. Then the thrill of jury duty starts on the 19th.
I'll be away from a phone, my TV and the computer for 15 days. Terrifying. I don't know what happened to the get together this summer. Maybe it didn't work out but maybe it still will. No word in over a month or 2. We shall see. Maybe I'll be over after all. See you in a few folks!

Great Richard! HJope everyone has a great long weekend and please stay safe, lots of crazies out there espically on the freeways here!
Anyone heard anything about getting together this summer or early fall?

Hope you are all starting to have some summer fun. I am. My forehand slam is finally coming together in Ping-Pong and there is a lot of summer left to go.

Thanks Roland, I'll get on it.

Pat,email Nancy Condele I believe she corresponds and I know Sue Goding would have an address too. Thanks for reminding me of the fruit stand. We used to buy lots there on the way home from church on sundays.

Roland, thanks for letting us know about Kathy's brother. If anyone out there has an address I'd like to be able to write to Kathy. I doj't remember him specifically but certainly remember Kathy and the family. They ahd a great fruit and vegie stand just next door to a fabric store on the the Chester Road.

A bit of sad news you all. A little while ago just after the change in format for Blog Nancy C tried to publish that Kathy Sheenans bro (only 36) had died in Iraq. I believe Sue G was at the funeral and her bro Chris Goding (a year ahead of us) was a palbearer. Maybe some of you know and maybe the rest of us can pause for a prayer or moment of silence. Todays world brings even us remote Vermonters or Transplants closer in one way or another. Wow.

The advanced course is probably good, but I'm not planning to do it. This was enough for me. I feel like I got my voice back!

Don't remember exact date but it was with / for a corporation that I was consulting for here. I am the kind that takes advantage of anything that comes my way and they paid. I didn't do the advance as they only sent their own there that they thought needed "more" or a refresh I guess.

When did you do it, Roland? Did you go on to the advanced course?
I'm not planning to do that.

Lori, so glad you sat through it. Yes, I forgot to say that with most people it dosen't hit you till the end. Maybe it planned that way? Just like life, it all comes together the longer we sit and work through things eigh.

Hi you guys. Well, I finished the Landmark Forum course. For most of the 3 days, I was sitting there feeling skeptical and critical and thinking it's all a bunch of bullshit. I almost felt like leaving Sat. night. I was also feeling uncomfortable being in a big group with people I don't know. (Luckily, I did the course with my friend, Levana, so that was a big help). Anyway, all of a sudden on the last night something changed for me. I don't know how it works. All I know is that I was laughing more than I've laughed in a long time and feeling really good. It's like something suddenly opened up inside me. Maybe this sounds weird. I didn't think I'd be recommending the course to anyone, but now I am! So if any of you can do it, I don't think you'll be sorry!

Karen, good luck with your move and congratulations on your anniversary!!! It's becoming rarer and rarer to find couples who have been together for so long. Happily together!

You really are a mom Karen. Jeez that's a lot going on. And all going on while you get ready for your move. You're a brave soul.

We're waiting to hear back from UMaine PI for Colin. It's time for him to get back to school and apparently he thinks so too. Here's hoping.

Thanks you guys! We went to a bistro in downtown Grand Rapids, a place I had always wanted to try since moving here. We didn't do gifts as there are several things we will need for the new house. Watched the service for Reagan when we got home, sad end to a happy day. And yes the champagne was good. My usual is Korbel but I watch the sales .... and don't forget the Chambord! Janice Stearns sent a nice email with anniversary wishes. I wish I was better about remembering people's dates. I have my daughter flying to Louisville for a wedding and one son having wisdom teeth extracted this week ... also the youngest son with a birthday sleepover here and my oldest son dealing with someone slashing his tires and ripping off his plates at his apartment in Cincinnati. I think I am a MOM!!! Sometimes one night of dinner and champagne doesn't cut it!

Karen, 27th anniversary! Congratulations!! It makes my 19 years seem so small.

Hey Roland, I'm interested in picking up a Honda Helix. They have re-released it, but I don't need to buy new. I heard about a guy that bought a '97 with low miles for $2100 locally, but this is not scooter country and Helix's are not growing on trees. I thought that maybe this is something that you see more of down your way. Let me know if you do.

Congratulation on your 27th wedding anniversary Karen and Rich! How was the champagne? I'm a fan of Freixnut myself. It's not officially champagne as I read that only wine coming from France is actually Champagne in the but we call it champagne here in the county. Comes in a heavy black bottle that frankly doesn't hold as much as you (I)sometimes think. Sometimes you (I) go to pour another glass and the bottle is empty. The weight of the bottle fools me. Life is tough.

Lori and Pat, about the time you two are "relaxing" I will be moving into a new house and lost in a sea of boxes. Having a garage sale tomorrow and it is going to rain! Tomorrow is also my 27th wedding anniversary .... I have a bottle of champagne in the fridge. Twenty days left to go in MI .... Happy weekend to all!

Hi Lori! Yup it feels great - just a little chilly today but by the weekend it supposed to be warm and wonderul. You must be looking forward to your trip. Give my regards to your family please. I have such good memories of time with you and them.
Nobodies been posting for a few days. I was glad to see your post as I began to think there was something wrong with the site or maybe everyone had taken a break from posting.

Well, time for lunch.

That message didn't disappear, so I'll write some more. I'm leaving soon for my usual summer trip to see family and friends in Israel. I leave July 1, and Avi and the kids will come later in July. My father organized another big family vacation for all of us, this time for a week in Turkey. I don't work, but I'm dying for a vacation! Just to get away from the routine for a while...

My message just disappeared, so I'm trying again. I just wrote that it must feel great to be on vacation, Patti--to get away from all those kids for a while! Just kidding. Hopefully, the work is okay, but vacation is even better!

School ended for me at l:30 this afternoon. I'm officially on summer vacation. Dave and I have rented a campsite in Naples, ME for July 3 - 10. time to relax.

Thanks for the encouragement, Roland!

Lori, thats great that you ALREADY seem to have a positive attitude and want to question things like the poem said. You'll do fine and I'm sure come out with a few new ideas on how to deal or better still how you want to deal with the 2n 50. Life is a constant learning experience and we all need to be flexible expically now in this age of instant everything. We need to be open and able to make whatever decision is for us individually while keeping in mind that most everything we do today had a much larger effect on others both in a mundane sense and globally.

I like the poem, Richard. And I'm glad you're giving me another 50 years! As for the seminar, I know it sounds like another weird L.A. thing, but I've done it before (a similar course) and survived, so I know I'm not very "brainwashable" and I'm not expecting to turn into a different person--and hope no one else is expecting that either! I'm just in the mood for something new. I like psychology.

Am I losing it? A 50 foot tall pink bunny flew by me this morning on my way to work. An equally large green alligator was flying right behind him. It looks like a hot air balloon weekend here.

This weekend seminar to get your head unlocked could be interesting. If you find yourself out there with LA movers and shakers, they may teach you more and give you more to consider than the facilitators. If they offer breakout sessions on power lunches and dealing with frenemies (1st coined for business enemies that you need to co-opt, then used in the movie "Mean Girls" as a friend who really isn't), WOW, you could come out of this as Martha Stewart redux(one brought back from imprisonment) and really turn your next 50 years into something. Here is a favorite poem that comes to mind:

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

A free bird leaps on the back of the wind
and floats downstream till the current ends
and dips his wing in the orange suns rays and dares to claim the sky.

But a bird that stalks down his narrow cage
can seldom see through his bars of rage
his wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing.

The caged bird sings with a fearful trill
of things unknown but longed for still
and his tune is heard on the distant hill
for the caged bird sings of freedom.

The free bird thinks of another breeze
and the trade winds soft through the sighing trees
and the fat worms waiting on a dawn-bright lawn and he names the sky his own.

But a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams
his shadow shouts on a nightmare scream
his wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing.

The caged bird sings with a fearful trill
of things unknown but longed for still
and his tune is heard on the distant hill
for the caged bird sings of freedom.

-Maya Angelou

Thanks for all the warnings everyone! But that Amway thing sounds like a different kind of group. Forum doesn't have anything to sell except the course itself. I know a lot of it is bullshit or mass psychology, but sometimes something works and something good rubs off on you. So I guess I'm hoping that will happen!

Because they are quite charitable and philanthropic. They sponsor everything and the family members are many. We have VanAndel Arena, DeVos Hall, Amway Grand Hotel, not to mention the money that they put into the parks, schools and town with the tax bill. Some are active in politics as well. They also employ a ton of people at the actual plant, laborers and technical staff. There is nothing wrong with the products that they sell and many people make a hobby of selling stuff, like Avon sales people. I think it is the promotional part of the business that is the misleading part, so it is not a totally corrupt operation. But people are gullible and willing to believe .......... so BE CAREFUL LORI!

Karen, I saw that expose and I thought they said Questar was Amway with a "new " name. that Amway itself was gone (sorta). It was very interesting and I agreed with all that was said about the whole pyramid thing. Very few actually made the money. It's interesting that you live in the home town of Amway. Why I wonder are those guys so well thought of in town?

Yes Pat. Amway is horrible to put it nicely. Years ago I looked into it and I had lots of trouble with their attitudes. Talk about tearing you down.... I told them to take a flying leap and NEVER contact myself again for ANY reason. They started out ok and as with any "multi" org you need to get in first, way before it peaks and thats the only way the average joe makes any REAL bucks. You can always "make a buck" or two but you really have to be the first on the block to make it big and also with the original attitude. Then people get their "own" attitudes into it and it gets ugly. I never cottened up to that and usually put those aside as politely as I could but there was a point in life when I became rather gruff about it as I had had enough and then got back to myself attitude of wantding to learn, take the good out of all and disgard the "bad" or "harmful" unuseful crap.

Great! Yes, Landmark is awesome. It will get you thinking and open your eyes. We all need it from time to time. We used them @ oone of the corporations I did consulting for.

Patti, just wanted you to know that Amway is alive and well. I live in Ada, MI .... the home of Amway. It is the conglomerate Alticor and has Questar as one of its companies. 60 Minutes or one of those shows just did an expose of them and it was all over the news here. Basically the jist of it was that the guys at the top don't make their money by selling the products but by selling the tapes and books to teach you how to make your fortune. Amway founders DeVos and VanAndel along with Fred Meijer of Meijer grocery chain have just about built Grand Rapids and lots of things bear their names here. They are stinkin' rich and highly respected in this town believe it or not. The plant is huge and spans practically the entire length of tiny Ada.

Sorry I got a little wordy there folks.

Congratulations on selling and buying Karen. When Dave brought home to Esex Jct. a video of the house he was thinking we should purchase here in P.I. I thought it was an amazingly different way to buy a house and we did buy that house. I'm really surprised to hear so many of you also had your house bought by way of a photo.

Has anyone heard from Nancy Cordle lately? Her e-mail came back when I sent out the last two lists. I need an updated address for her. If you're listening Nancy, drop me a line please.

Same for Roger Belville and Peter Bibens.

http://skepdic.com/comments/estcom.html

Well, I'd never heard of Landmark Forum before, but I've been through the mill with some other large group forums that train you to be a "better/different" person while dragging you through a knothole backwards, and you get to sell their product and the business as well. They're out of business now, but I actually ran into Neil Ginter at one of these meetings in Burlington one weekend. I'm talking about Amway. Dreadul group. Lots of large group pyscholgy and mass hysteria. I came terribly close to becoming a little wifey in apron, heels and a little hat, who deferred to her MAN at every turn. It was terrifying. Thank goodness Dave came to his senses and told me to knock it off. He'd married the person I was (no apron) and was perfectly content with that. I think the night I insisted that he say grace as the man of the house was the turning point.

Anyway, I went to the link shown above and read some really interesting and conflicting pieces from people who have attended and participated in the Forum. It didn't sound like anything terribly different from Amyway. (no sales) Tear you down and build you back up. We were all going to give up our families and friends for the time of a year or two and put every second into the business then, as millionaires we would have all the time in the world to be good parents and spend time with our families. There were lots of cassette tapes to purchase and listen to. We even drove to N. Carolina from Rutland to attend a meeting. The guy we were with (our sponsor)had left his very pregnant and ill wife behind. She lost their baby while we were away.

I don't like the jargon part of it either, Richard, but I don't think I can be brainwashed that easily. I'm not really sure what will come of this course. Maybe nothing. I'm just curious. Actually, I think these courses do help, but it's hard to put your finger on the change sometimes. Anyway, I'll let you know afterwards how it went.

Lori, I read some info on-line about Landmark Forums and have questions. It seems like Landmark is a rules based experience that will change (transform) you, but if it makes you learn a new language and jargon that is not well known- how does this really help? I think it will make you live more in your head.

My view of our challenge is that we just need to grab our spears and head into the jungle. Think about skiing. You can't ski in your head. See where your instinct takes you!