09.29.11
Posted in Miscellaneous at 9:38 PM by Ann Hornbeck
The season of fall brings many changes. Yesterday it was 93 degrees with the air conditioner running full force throughout the day. And then today, temperatures barely reached the low 80′s. Next week, a few days of rain! That means lots and lots of leaves to rake and fun times for the little ones, assuming they get over their fevers and colds! Some things never change and thank God for that!
I am disappointed, disillusioned and deranged(!) after listening to NPR this morning. First on the list, it took five minutes for the Senate to pass a spending bill to keep the government afloat for another New York minute. But what truly angered me was the piece on corporations looting pension funds in order to show higher earnings. Ok, so pensions are now becoming something of the past, but many in my age group stashed their future away in corporate pension funds, assuming and trusting that they would work hard and create a nest egg that would supplement their retirement. Currently, “many companies are struggling to pay both their pensions and these unexpectedly high health costs for retirees. What isn’t known is that companies were well prepared for this phenomenon. The plans were significantly over-funded. They had more than enough to pay every dime for every person currently employed and already employed.” So what happened? Corporate executives raped and pillaged the pension plans to record higher earnings. Then, they forced employees to opt out via “early retirement” with a lump sum that is “beneficial to the company but detrimental to the individual.” And of course, any measure taken to file a lawsuit would never rule in favor of the worker, because corporations never lose.
Remember “Atlas Shrugged.” Yep – she had it right all along. If you rely on anyone except yourself, it will never happen. And, if you succeed, you better watch your back because someone is going to try to take you down. Most times, they win, and sometimes you walk away with something in your pocket – but usually, it’s just the bone.
I remember one particular meal with my mom and brothers. I’m sure I’ve probably written about this before. The boys had arrived home, hungry and tired from their football practice, their homework untouched, and their bodies sore from excessive exercise. The meal consisted of a small ham steak, some kind of potatoes, and some greens of one sort or the other, and of course, bread. It was meager by most standards, but typical for our family. As the dinner conversations continued among them, I noticed a little round bone left on the meat platter. I noticed it had a little bit of fat attached to it, and there was something in the middle that caught my attention. So, I took the little bone off the meat platter and popped it in my mouth, all the while realizing that it tasted pretty good. But, I also noticed my mom looking across the table, watching me suck on that bone. For me, it was “what’s for dinner.” But, I know she realized ”THIS is what’s for dinner.” Later, she would tell the story of Little Ann going without as David and Bill emptied the platters, bowls and glasses faster than I could reach across the table.
I was lucky. No one tried to take anything from me. I didn’t have to struggle very hard for anything. I didn’t have to fight for anything. I could easily reach out and whatever I was reaching for was usually there for me. My mom bought what she could afford to buy to feed a family of four in the 1950′s and 1960′s. When someone brought us vegetables and fruits from the surrounding gardens, she accepted them graciously. When the neighbors invited me over for dinner, she gladly let me go. And my brothers, they are as gentle and giving as they ever were. My mom and my brothers were my only heroes. We were lucky to have each other. At any moment, I can put myself right back there in that kitchen, and it brings me joy and comfort every time.
The truth is, I don’t like bones. I would never accept a bone from anyone. I would never try to take your bone. But, the mere thought of corporate executives raping and pillaging pension funds makes me want to find a big dinosaur bone and bonk someone on the head with it. But, I won’t. I’d rather focus on the blessings life brings. They sure do keep rolling in.
Peace out!
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09.25.11
Posted in Just Me at 8:45 PM by Ann Hornbeck
It is Sunday evening, and here I sit after a dinner of pizza with the family – yummie! My trip home from the East Coast was easy, schmeasy, except for waiting for the shuttle at the airport for over an hour, but all is good. It took me a full day to recover(!!!), but on Saturday, I did a 5k in the early morning with the group. It was a good feeling and I am looking forward to running more often now that the Season of Fall is officially here, although, here in the Bay Area, you would never know it. We had some relief yesterday, some welcomed rain today, but the rest of the week will be back up into the 90′s.
I love this season – big sky country with the planets, stars and meteors sharing their light and positions, cool weather and leaves falling to the ground, creating hues of red, gold, yellow, green and brown everywhere, and sweaters replacing tank tops, and the holidays just around the corner. It’s actually only a month and a half away from our 3rd annual Solano Turkey Trot 5k Run/Walk, 10k Run on Thanksgiving Morning. My, how time flies.
Last night, I went to one of the local bars as a family friend was the lead singer for the band. It was so much fun, especially because my daughters and their husbands were there, too. It was a late night but I danced the night away – sometimes with one of my son-in-laws, with my girlfriend and her husband, or just with her, and even with myself. I am never afraid to dance by myself, but for some reason, I can never quite figure out how to slow dance with myself! Maybe, I’ll figure that one out someday! We didn’t get home until late, so today was calm and it even rained, so I made much progress with the book that I started reading while in my hometown. I am glad to be home.
I think of those who struggle, especially the children and families who are living on the streets, unable to provide food, shelter and comfort for their loved ones. I think of those who suffer physically and mentally, and the elders and others who continue to slip through the cracks. I embrace this moment and pray for a more passive and supportive future for all to live the lives they are meant to live – a life of peace, and an end to all wars. Anything is possible.
Peace out!
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09.20.11
Posted in Just Me at 6:26 AM by Ann Hornbeck
Wow, wow, wow – what a wonderful vacation! Today, I am still standing after 5+ hours of hiking and 7 miles of up and down one route of the Dolly Sods wilderness area. Amazing! We forged rivers and streams about eight different times, witnessed the roar and flow of two different waterfalls, found Shangri-la(!), climbed and tripped over rocks galore, and even walked around, and sometimes through, bogs that many times sucked our shoes into the ancient soil that continues to bubble to the top.
The “bad” news is I did not get to sit on the top of the mountain on that rock that I posted a while back, because it was 18 miles and we were not prepared for an overnight in the wilderness. But, next year, we plan to do a 3-day trip. The good news is, we made it to the plateau before our final descent.
(This is me.)
I could not have had a better mountaineer in my presence than Becky. Becky was married to my cousin Brad. They divorced in the 1990′s but remained good friends, and both were part of the ski patrol at Snowshoe for 30+years. Brad helped build that resort and he was very respected at Snowshoe for his abilities on many levels. Eventually, Brad became the person in charge of the EMT and Ski Patrol, but after he died in 2003, Becky was asked to take Brad’s place.
Here is Becky sitting at a campground we passed along the way. When Becky and I met up in Elkins yesterday, she was carrying a backpack full of bandages, stints, medications, ice packs, etc., etc. So, I felt really, really safe, to say the least. Lucky for us, we did not need them, nor did anyone else that we ran into. Of course, we only saw three couples along the way. I did hear some heavy hooves pounding through the woods, but lucky for us, they were running away, not towards us!
Last Saturday, I went to my 40th high school reunion. It was so much fun!!! We danced, and danced, and danced. I came from a small high school, so I think we had about 1/3 of the class at the reunion. There were people I hoped to see, but perhaps the next time! I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Aunt Dorothy, although I know I have been flitting around a lot and missing out on one-on-one time. She is a beautiful and patient woman, that much I know is true!
I must admit, it was pretty tough hiking through all of those ancient rocks while trying not to trip over them! If you have never hiked Dolly Sods, you might want to put it on your bucket list! It sure is worth it! I have always wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail. Yesterday, I realized that NOW is the time, because, those mountains might look like “hills” to you, but they are steep, treacherous and ancient, and time for me to get serious if it is ever going to happen.
Peace out!
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09.15.11
Posted in Just Me at 6:56 AM by Ann Hornbeck
I finally went for a run yesterday, the first since my arrival in West Virginia. Not only was it greatly needed, it was worth every step. I ran past the city park, then down to the college where I ran the trail next to the river. It felt really good, and I am glad that I brought the “Gu” with me ‘cuz I saw a big difference in my pace. Yesterday afternoon, my Aunt and I went to one of the local restaurants for lunch and conversation. One of the ladies is 90 years old and sharp as a tack! She was the Kindergarten teacher for many, many years in our hometown. Unfortunately, I moved here too late to attend, but she was a very special lady in the community. Of course, she filled her friends with great stories. In fact, she could have been the female version of Art Linkletter who wrote, “Kids Say the Darndest Things” back in the early 60′s. I don’t know anyone who would have a bad thing to say about Mrs. Reger! She is a charm! Later in the day, I visited with Carla for a while, and then I visited with her mom. She is doing well and we were able to talk about a lot of people and stories. Afterwards, I went to visit with Mrs. Hiner, and her daughter and son-in-law, Ricki and Danny.
Mrs. Hiner is the wife of “Hiner,” who was the city photographer that worked closely with my mom throughout her years as a reporter and columnist for one of the local papers, and at the college when mom worked for Jay Rockefeller as the PR person. Mr. and Mrs. Hiner became great friends with my mother, but now she is the only one left. So, I sat with her for a while, taping her stories of her and Hiner’s travels through England, France and Germany before and after the war, and into Mexico and other faraway places. I sent the recording to Danny and Ricki so they can add it to the huge library that Hiner created based on his legacy.
I remember when I was five years old, witnessing the hustle and bustle going on as my mom rushed from our home, leaving me with my older brothers so she could report on the big fire that destroyed the local Opera House that had been a staple in the community since the 1800′s. I was so scared as I could see the reflection of the flames in the sky and it seemed to me that the whole downtown was ablaze. Of course, Hiner was snapping photo after photo, his photographs plastered across the front page of the newspaper next to mom’s story.
My mom used to say: “I sure have lived an interesting life.”
Here’s a toast to that one!
Peace out!
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09.12.11
Posted in Just Me at 6:18 AM by Ann Hornbeck
I think, therefore I am. But, who am I? And, if I exist, do I also not exist? What is non-existence? I just read an article in The New Yorker and I found it quite interesting because it was about a modern-philosopher who many believe has “correctly” unraveled the question of morality as it applies to philosophical “isms.” Well, it interested me, and right now, that is all that matters! Ha!
I have been enjoying my visit in WV. David’s induction ceremony was fabulous. The family was very excited to see him accept his award and to hear his “speech.” He is a good man and everyone of us were proud to have witnessed this moment in time – it was a long time coming, that’s for sure! The hardest part for me was putting names to faces as I scanned the room. I would find myself recognizing someone but the name would not come. Of course, I had not seen them for about 40 years so I’m sure no one expected otherwise. It was equally great to see my niece and nephew and their spouses and children. It seems the only time we gather any more is at funerals, so I hope we can get a mini-reunion started for next summer. Aunt Dorothy and I were TIRED on Sunday, so we pretty much spent a quiet day in recovery mode, except for our visit to the Historical Society on Main Street.
I had just looked at a couple of Civil War exhibits when Aunt Dorothy said: “Ann, have you seen this one yet?” I turned around and there was my mom’s enlarged photo from a 1967 book signing. It was so unexpected to see her that I burst out crying! I stood there for a while, and then as I walked through the rest of the exhibit, I would find various quotes from her book describing the historical facts of the exhibit. She sure made us proud!
It was also nice to run into two old friends that I had not seen for 40 years – Pat and Suzy Long. I remember them moving out into the country in 1971 or 1972 to live off of the land. I was always so proud of their choices and they did it for a long time before moving back into town as their children aged. Suzy still teaches and Pat being who he is, took a position with the city but I believe is now retired. I’m sure they have not changed a bit – similar to Mark and Carla – still growing their own organic foods and remaining aware beings!
Aunt Dorothy and I also drove to the cemetery to visit our loved ones. This week, I will visit my friend whose son is dying of cancer with no hope of recovery. I also plan to visit her parents assuming they are in town. It will be a tough visit, but necessary.
Yes, love is my religion. (Thanks, Lenny!)
Peace out!
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09.04.11
Posted in Politics at 8:02 PM by Ann Hornbeck
Well, it’s Sunday already and almost time for Acoustic Sunset! I did not have a chance to listen to the radio this morning, but I know whatever they play tonight will be perfect. I am still tired from two days of go, go, go! Yesterday I went to the King’s Mountain Art Fair on Skyline Drive above Woodside, a benefit for the Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade. The venue was really, really nice as each booth was nestled in between one or more redwood trees along a path that wrapped up and down through the groves of trees. It appeared to be a great turnout. My friend had a booth, promoting his works of drawings, paintings and metal. He sold three items and was very, very happy. Here is the link to the venue: www.kingsmountainartfair.org/. Didn’t see Neil Young walking around, (darn it), but I know someday our paths will cross.
After the art fair, my friend and I went for a glass of wine at the Mountain House, then off to La Honda to meet up with Louise. I had a good dinner and glad to see everyone. Of course, we got to hear some music before I opted to leave for home. I was so tired on my drive home that I had to roll down my windows to keep me awake – not good!
Today, I ran some errands and then verified my suitcase is packed and ready to go! One of my errands was to stop by AT&T. I changed my AT&T plan (which means my grandfather clause is now expired) and once home, configured my iPhone as a hotspot. That means, “no matter where I go, there I am!” – on the internet even when I’m sitting in Aunt Dorothy’s house that doesn’t include wireless connectivity or even a computer. Modern technology – a necessity and a curse!
I heard an interview on NPR with Lenny Kravitz regarding the release of his newest album. The story headline was: Lenny Kravitz – Choosing Optimism. (http://www.npr.org/2011/09/04/140094335/lenny-kravitz-choosing-optimism.) I have always loved his music and his style. And, how wonderful to hear him speak about something that truly matters – racism.
“Kravitz says he wrote the title track in response to a TV documentary about negative reactions to President Obama’s election. It was addressing the fact that these people, these Americans, did not like what America had become — they wanted America to be back the way it was 100 years ago,” Kravitz says. “It was quite intense. They even spoke about assassination plots.” So what does he do? He collaborates with other musicians to share their wisdom and voice regarding racism, hoping for the zillionth time to raise awareness and build hope for a better world.
Choosing optimism is always the best approach. The faster we can see the glass half full, the faster we can find solutions. (OMG- KFOG just started playing an acoustic version of “Don’t let me down.” done by the Bartron-Tyler Group. I used to see them play in a little venue in Palo Alto when I lived there. A blast from the past for me! Funny how the universe works.)
So much has changed for the better when it comes to racism, but, choosing optimism is certainly worth the effort, no matter what we are trying to tackle. I am optimistic that we will continue to create a better world. We are blasted with negativity minute by minute. Everything we read is only the tip of the iceberg, never the whole story, and always written to change the readers’ minds about something – for better or for worse. The amount of data coming at us every moment is overwhelming and causes fear, distress and confusion. And, the only way to repair is to turn off and turn in.
Our voices must always speak optimistically and peacefully. Change the language and change the world.
That much I know is true!
You might like to read this link too: http://www.dalailama.com/messages/world-peace/a-human-approach-to-peace.
So, now Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young are singing “Helpless.” We are not helpless, but we are definitely being bombarded.
Time to go, so, rock and roll, twist and shout, don’t let it get you down, smile and the whole world smiles with you! You get the picture.
Peace!
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