Bum Knee

Several years ago I was in a car/pedestrian accident. I was the pedestrian. I was in Glendive, MT on my way to visit son Jimmy and started across the main street in a pedestrian walkway. The cars in three lanes had stopped and I didn't notice the one in the inside lane - on my blind side. The driver didn't notice me either untl to late. She slammed on the brakes, but I was hit on the left knee and sent flat out landing full body to the pavement. X-rays at the local hospital were taken and nothing was broken. I drove on to Dickinson, ND, bought a cane, and completed my visit. In the summer of 2005 Betty and I drove from Bilings to Lake George, NY. Along the way I began to feel real pain in the left knee. It didn't get any better over or back. That summer I had an X-Ray taken and it revealed that the knee was bone on bone. We were busy the rest of the summer and I thought that I might have surgery in the winter. Sadly, Betty died in early December so there would be no one at home to look after me so nothing was done.

This Spring I decided that the knee wasn't getting any better and that I might as well explore surgery. I went to the surgeon I had talked with before. More x-rays and same results. We decided to go ahead with an operation. Turns out that Dr. Fischer has as his primary physician the same guy I go to. He talked with Dr. Gerstner who suggested that it might be wise to have me checked out by my Cardiologist since I have a histoy of two by-pass surgeries and had just had stents placed last September. The Cardiologist is new to me having replaced my previous doctor who has retired. She immediatly ordered an Echo Cardiogram and a Nuclear Stress Test with an Angiogram to follow. I got the impression that I had done pretty well on each of these. On the treadmill I got my heart rate up to over 120 before there was any Angina. It was interesting to hear what the man who was to do the Angiogram said when he heard who his next patient was to be. "What's he doing back here?" I felt that it is good to be known.

Tuesday morning, with Surgery schedule for Wednesday, Dr. Fischer called me at home. He had had a conversation with Dr. Zirpoli about the Angio. Zirpoli told him that my chances of sigificant heart problems consequent to such surgery were about 1 in 4. Fischer then told me that any decision about proceeding was up to me. I am not immobile. The main problem is getting down on my hands and knees (something I seldom have to do) and putting a sock on the left foot. I decided that I could continue to live with that and told him I'd prefer to cancel. It was than that Dr. Fischer was able to say that that was a wise decision.

I cannot thank these people enough for their care and evaluation of my condition. Other people may have problems with their medical situations. I haven't found that to be the case ever during my 45 plus years of being a patient at the Billings Clinic - formerly the Billings Deaconess Hospital. I know that this a long recital, but it has really been for my own benefit. If you have finished it - thanks.

Busy sort of day

Well, maybe not that busy. I saw my new Cardiologist this morning. She was scheduled at 8:20 a.m. and showed up about 8:40. We had a nice talk, she listen to my heart and made the usual comment of one listening for the first time. There is one heck of a murmer due to some opening in an aortic valve. I remember my Internest saying some time ago: " I wish I had a student with me now." Any way the visit was scheduled by my orthopedic surgeon who wanted approval of the heart people before committing knee surgery. I had an echo exam this morning and will have a nuclear stress test next Tuesday at 7 a.m. The results to be reported to me by Dr. D . . . on Wednesday.

I came home, had some breakfast, did some work on the computer and then went shopping for some stuff to help fill the larder for when I am gone from June 13 to ??? for the new Knee. Or is that "knu knee"?

Pete and I have now gotten the freezer in the basement empty and all our appropriate goods are in the new Refrigerator/Freezer. There is a bit less room now for frozen goods, but it will be enough for the two of us and the occasional guest.

I just read the Sunday sermon from a Pastor in Iowa that I find very thoughtful. He calls attention to the fact that in the Church Year June 3rd in Trinity Sunday and he quote a couple of ancients who had their own idea of the difficulty of dealing with the concept of "God in three Persons, blessed Trinity." To wit:

It is possible to ruin a perfectly good worship service by talking about something like the Trinity. The British preacher Colin Morris once said, “Any preacher with good sense will call in sick on Trinity Sunday.”

John Wesley once said, "Show me a worm that can comprehend a human being, and then I will show you a human being that can comprehend the Triune God."

Martin Luther's comment was even more to the point. "To try to deny the Trinity endangers your salvation,” he said; “To try to comprehend the Trinity endangers your sanity."

It's a great sermon if you are interested. Here is his URL; http://www.geocities.com/fbcames/

Memorial Day 2007

Watching TV tonight (May 27, 2007) I have had some angry and some tearful thoughts about the United States involvement in the War against Iraq. When we first went to war in that area there seemed to be some legitimate reason to be so involved. Iraq under the leadership of Saddam had invaded another small country. Our President, George H.W. Bush, was able to get the backing of many other countries and an all out, well planned, assault took place with the Gulf War soon over - mission truly accomplished.

Our current attack quite apparently was ill conceived and little if any thought was given to the possible outcome of such attack. Some have suggested that the current President was angry at Saddam because his father had possibly been threatened by that regime. The thinking was expressed that Iraq was in the process of going nuclear. It is not clear that this was all made up “out of whole cloth.” Among those on the National Memorial Day Concert on PBS tonight was Gen’l Colin Powell. I have often felt sorry for the part he played before the United Nations with a lot of false information he was fed by Rumsfeld and others.

Most of all what has got me “ticked off” tonight was a story on 60 Minutes about the National Guard troops of Iowa (I lived in that State for four years) who have been in Iraq expecting to be home by now and who are now required to spend another three months on foreign duty because of the Surge. A defence posture that our President now feels will lead to victory. He declares that he wants to spread democracy. My question is what gives him the audacity to believe that he can determine what sort of government people want to live under. For my part, I’d like to live under the kind of government I grew up with in my youth - the 1920’s, the 1930’s, the 1940’s. Not the kind of government that decides whose house might be searched with impunity, or whose name can be put on a “no fly” list because it resembles that of another who is a suspected terrorist.

The other thing that touched my heart tonight was the story of Jim and Sarah Wade as told during the Memorial Concert. Jim’s crew was ordered to turn around and retrace the path they has just come. His Humvee set off an IED which they had passed over safely the first time. He lost an arm and a leg and had severe brain injuries. Fortunately prompt medical care and relocation to Walter Reed was positive. The most positive thing, however was the continual care and protection provided by Sarah. Some sort of clerical error considered him dead and he was cut off the pay roll for a couple of months. Sarah got him well enough that they were finally married in the Court House rather than the wedding she had dreamed of. They were at the Concert this night. I could not help but think of how many other wounded veterans have been inadequately treated both physically and monetarily.

How long, O Lord? How Long?

Past History

I had occasion yesterday to clean out my bedroom closet. There were some shoe boxes there with a lot of past corresspondence. The first envelope I saw was addressed to "James R." I know immediately who that was from. Only one person has ever addressed me in that way. Probably from my addressing her as "Harriet C." I first knew this lovely young lady in College as "Harriet". Her family called her "Betty" since there was a grandmother (Mom) called "Harriet". When we were married I suggested that Clarkson was to good a name to lose completely so instead of Betty her legal name should be "Harriet C. Taylor". We weren't into hyphens back in 1949. Any way, the letter to James R. was a birthday card in October 1980 when I was still in the hospital from my second heart by-pass surgery. This sweet thing had written on the card: "To my next to new Husband from his old wife: and signed it Betty which she scratched out and wrote "Harriet."

Among the keepsakes were several letters addressed to Betty Clarkson from various guys who were in the military during WW II. One of them had the temerity to address her as, "Dear Sweetheart". Another talked about what a great gal she was. She did do her part during the war by keeping in touch with the military. I've seen these letters before so it was no big deal. The picture is from 1943 so one can easily see how guys might be enamored by such beauty. I'm glad she matured and saved all that for me. And is it any wonder that I still miss her.

Joke?

For lack of anything else of importance at this time here's a joke from The Huffington Post

Bush at the Pearly Gates

Einstein dies and goes to heaven. At the Pearly Gates, Saint Peter tells him, "You look like Einstein, but you have NO idea the lengths that some people will go to sneak into Heaven. Can you prove who you really are?"

Einstein ponders for a few seconds and asks, "Could I have a blackboard and some chalk?"

Saint Peter snaps his fingers and a blackboard and chalk instantly appear. Einstein proceeds to describe with arcane mathematics and symbols his theory of relativity. Saint Peter is suitably impressed. "You really ARE Einstein!" he says. "Welcome to heaven!"

The next to arrive is Picasso. Once again, Saint Peter asks for credentials. Picasso asks, "Mind if I use that blackboard and chalk?" Saint Peter says, "Go ahead." Picasso erases Einstein's equations and sketches a truly stunning mural with just a few strokes of chalk. Saint Peter claps. "Surely you are the great artist you claim to be!" he says. "Come on in!"

Then Saint Peter looks up and sees George W. Bush. Saint Peter scratches his head and says, "Einstein and Picasso both managed to prove their identity. How can you prove yours?"

George W. looks bewildered and says, "Who are Einstein and Picasso?"

Saint Peter sighs and says, "Come on in, George."

George Bush and the Queen

While visiting England, George Bush is invited to tea with the Queen. He asks her what her leadership philosophy is. She says that it is to surround herself with intelligent people.

Bush asks how she knows if they're intelligent.

"I do so by asking them the right questions," says the Queen. "Allow me to demonstrate."

Bush watches as the Queen phones Tony Blair and says, "Mr. Prime Minister, please answer this question: your mother has a child, and your father has a child, and this child is not your brother or sister. Who is it?"

Tony Blair responds, "It's me, ma'am."

"Correct. Thank you and good-bye, sir," says the Queen. She hangs up and says, "Did you get that, Mr. Bush?"

Bush nods: "Yes ma'am. Thanks a lot. I'll definitely be using that!"

Bush, upon returning to Washington, decides he'd better put the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to the test. Bush summons Jesse Helms to the White House and says, "Senator Helms, I wonder if you can answer a question for me."

"Why, of course, sir. What's on your mind?"

Bush poses the question: "Uhh, your mother has a child, and your father has a child, and this child is not your brother or your sister. Who is it?"

Helms hems and haws and finally asks, "Can I think about it and get back to you?"

Bush agrees, and Helms leaves. He immediately calls a meeting of other senior Republican senators, and they puzzle over the question for several hours, but nobody can come up with an answer. Finally, in desperation, Helms calls Colin Powell at the State Department and explains his problem.

"Now lookee here, son, your mother has a child, and your father has a child, and this child is not your brother or your sister. Who is it?"

Powell answers immediately, "It's me, of course."

Much relieved, Helms rushes back to the White House, finds George Bush, and exclaims, "I know the answer, sir! I know who it is! It's Colin Powell!"

And Bush replies in disgust, "Wrong, it's Tony Blair!"

View from the kitchen

For the last several days as I have stood at the kitchen sink this apple blossom has called to me. All of the other blossoms have long since dropped off, and I assume are about the business of "making apples". I can only think of how much joy this single beauty would have brought to Betty. Now that she is gone I'm the one who spends time at the sink washing up yesterdays dishes. And enjoying its purity. Long may she bloom.

We were young & carefree - Once

I've always loved this picture. It was taken somewhere at a reststop/picnic area on the Oregon Coast as we were traveling to Bandon for a visit in the summer of 1985. Betty would have been 59 and I would have been 60. We were, indeed, still young and carefree. We took the hats with us as they somehow spoke to our joy together. That beautiful smile of Betty's is in nearly every picture I have of her including all of the pictures taken at our wedding and reception.

Ancient Letter

May 1, 2007

The stuff you find when going through old files. E.g. this letter to my mother on Air Corps stationary over 63 years ago. And I have one written a year earlier while I was still in High School just before turning 18. It pretty much decried the War. Here’s the later one.

Hamilton Field
11 November 1943

Dear Mother:

Armistice Day! That strikes a familiar tone doesn’t it? No School. Banks closed. Stores closed all or part of the day. But not so on Hamilton Field. Work goes on just the same in striving for another day. Not an Armistice day, but a day of unconditional surrender. On this day twenty-five years ago the order to “cease firing” went down the line, but not today. The order is fire and fire again. Push the enemy back relentlessly until he gives in to utter defeat. Twenty five years ago the munitions factories began to shut down; their task done. Now the order is to “work harder” and increase production towards victory. Still we paused today for a minute to pay tribute to those who lost their lives over two decades ago that there might not be another war, and, ironically, to those who have given their lives in this war the result of the last. At eleven o’clock every man and woman on the post stood at attention while taps was played and then went back to work to help bring about a day of peace. One short minute of tribute and many days of sweat to resolve that those “dead shall not have died in vain.”
Chaplain Shiery got his orders yesterday and moves on to the Chaplain’s replacement pool at Lowery Field, Denver, Saturday.
Everything has been distressingly quiet around here today,. Fred is still in the hospital and Chaplain Close is out on a trip to the satellite bases. Chaplain Smith has been in and out all day and Chaplain Burke (Catholic) is in “frisco so his ass’t isn’t here either. I’ve just had the Chapel to myself most of the day. There hasn’t even been many calls, although I did take a call from a woman who is the head of the Christian Endeavour for Marin County and she wants me to see if I can get some fellows to speak at the 1st Congregational Church for a special program for Service Personnel. I may do it myself if I can get out. It’s been so long since I spoke before a group that it would be a pleasure to do a little something. The trouble is getting a pass. I may be able to get one through the Chapel.
Well, I don’t have any more news and I really should go up to visit Fred so I’ll close for now.
Love,
James


Fred was a fellow from Little Washington, PA. Not sure why he was in hospital. I was at Hamilton for over seas replacement, but by the end of the Month had been discharged and sent home. I got duty as a Chaplain's Assistant. It beat the heck out of other kinds of KP, etc. one had to do while waiting decisions.

On Eating out

Tonight I was by myself since Pete was out to a Bar-B-Cue with friends. K-Mart had a special on soda (Pepsi) and also had advertised Turf Builder +2 in this morning's paper. I thought to buy that stuff and go on out to dinner. The fertilizer was not available so I went down to Lowe's and found that they had the stuff in a spray bottle. Much easier to use than getting out the spreader. Since I was in the territory I decided to go to Red Lobster and try the shrimp special. It was very filling and good.

The only thing wrong with the evening is that I was alone. The last time I was there was a couple of years ago with Annie, Pete, and Betty. The last time I was out to eat was with David and Pete at Famous Dave's. Before that it was nearly a year ago at Perkins with Willie and Karyn and David following Jimmy's funeral and I had driven them to Billings to catch a plane. I'm here to tell you that eating out alone is not pleasant. I kept thinking of how long Betty took to eat her salad. The meal always came before she had finished. I kept looking across the table and there was nothing but empty space. Supper at home by myself isn't so bad. It is unlikely that I will go out on the town soon for supper. Guess I should have just gone to Arby's for take out and brought it home.

Waiting

I've sent this out recently to family, but thought to share it again with any who happen to read this Blog. April 14, 2007

I have a lot of correspondence and stuff from years past that I look at once in a while. Here’s another stab at poetry. It is dated 5/17/51: I was at Penn State and Betty was in Ceredo with her parents and our first son, Kenneth. She joined me toward the end of June. We moved to Davenport, IA later that summer.

Darling,

We wait for a lot of little things.

Wait for subways, busses;

Wait for phones to ring;

Wait for the cloudy day to pass.

Wait for night to come, and

Wait for it to go.

Wait for summer’s sun, and

Wait for winter’s snow.

Wait for things that matter;

Wait for those that don’t.

Wait with anticipation,

Wait with aching heart.

Wait, and curse the waiting

Wait for you.

Wait!

Fifty eight years ago this day I was privileged to marry this lovely young lady. We shared our life together for just over 56 years when she died after a brief battle with leukemia just a few short weeks after her 80th birthday. I will be forever grateful that all 7 of our children were with us when we celebrated the birthday. A number of them were here for the Thanksgiving that followed and 3 of them with spouses and childrenn were with us in ICU when her gracious heart stopped beating. Just a few months later I lost a son who had been fighting lung cancer for a number of years. It is a good feeling to know that he was with us for the Birthday and Thanksgiving, and that he is now with his Mother. It is also a source of strength to know that I still have a big, loving family of children, daughters and son in-law, and grandchildren. I cherish them all, and I cherish life.

US Constitution

I saw an interesting bumper sticker this afternoon as I was coming out of the grocery store parking lot: "Repeal the 17th amendment". I had to admit to myself that I surely did not know what the 17th amendment was all about. Putting US Constitution in Google brought up multiple sites. No problem, but the problem of why one would want it amended. It simply says that Senators shall be elected by popular vote.

Amendment 17 - Senators Elected by Popular Vote. Ratified 4/8/1913.

The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, elected by the people thereof, for six years; and each Senator shall have one vote. The electors in each State shall have the qualifications requisite for electors of the most numerous branch of the State legislatures.

When vacancies happen in the representation of any State in the Senate, the executive authority of such State shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies: Provided, That the legislature of any State may empower the executive thereof to make temporary appointments until the people fill the vacancies by election as the legislature may direct.

This amendment shall not be so construed as to affect the election or term of any Senator chosen before it becomes valid as part of the Constitution.

The only reason I can think of as to why there might be such a movement is the obscene amount of money being raised by
Senators and Representatives to "buy" their way into office. In particular PAC money.

Doctor's Visit

I've just returned from a visit with my Internist. All the stuff about Medicare and uncaring doctors is given the shift by my man. He was originally Betty's doc and I started going to him when my Cardiologist suggested it might be well to have a "regular" doctor. My appointment was for 9:30 a.m. and I was called into the office on time. Instead of the 5-10 minutes often mentioned by others I was tested throrougly and passed pretty well. I left the office around 10:10 a.m. My Cholesterol was a total of 157. These are better figures than ever before. The LDL was 110 with a reference range of 0-159. HDL was 34, in the low end of the range. Trilycerides were at 65 which is in the middle of the normal range. The results in total blood work were all within normal range considering I had fasted for 14 hours. Lungs sounded good and BP was 120/71. I see him again in October.

Actually I do feel good health wise, and am glad to be able to do my every day activities inspite of the knee conditions. I started to say "knee pain", but that would not be quite true. It is periodic and not severe and it is a rare occasion when I take acetominophin.

Two Lips

After Pete shoveled the 8 plus inches of yesterday's snow off the driveway we drove to Mark's and Rosanna's place in the hills south of the Yellowstone. I had been hesitant about this drive earlier because of the snow, but brother John called and offered us a ride. Well, if he can make it so can I. Actually the snowplows had been out, it was warming up, and the drive was basically without consequence. We had a good visit with family and by 11 o'clock as we headed home the snow was pretty much gone from the roads, and some were actually dry.

When we got home as I got the mail I noticed the above tulips in bloom next to the house. What to do, but to get a picture to share with all.

I am not a gardener!

I am a Canna What Flower Are You?

If this thing works you will see what kind of flower I am although the quiz philappa posted is obviously for the opposite sex. At least the Canna post says something about my curmudgedness. The "preview" shows that it works.

"You stand up for what you believe in, even if it gets in the way of what other people think. You are proud of yourself and your accomplishments and you enjoy letting people know that."

Snow

It was i the mid-70's in Billings, MT last Sunday when a friend asked if we were through with snow for the year. I reminded him that we still had to get through April. My memory goes back several years to a truly heavy snowfall in mid-April which covered most of Eastern Montana, and with a temperture in the sub-zero range, much of early Spring growth had to start all over again.

Well, we didn' t have to wait for April, of course. When I got up this morning the ground was white and it was snowing heavily. Now, about noon, the sun is shining and the snow is not long for this land. At least it was a wet one and so the promise of using the lawn mower in late April has some merit. It has been pretty dry around here for much of the Winter and any moisture is welcome - especially when we don't have to shovel it.

Peace

For the last several years I have been a member of the Board of the Institute for Peace Studies at Rocky Mountain College. I have served as Secretary for the Board since 2002. Tonight we will be having a Spring Fling banquet as a money raiser to benefit our various projects such as an annual Festival of Cultures on Peace Sunday in June to celebrate the diverse population of this area; an annual Peace Camp for youngsters who need to learn how to deal with conflict in their lives; a mid-winter symposian for women in the area so that they can learn to deal with finances and live comfortably even though their wages are often less than that of men in comparable jobs. We have also held periodic Symposia dealing with understanding international conflict -such as the Palestinian problem. This is a part of our educational focus. We attempt to educate and not "take a stand".

This Blog all started bcause I have been thinking of how Jeanette Rankin of Montana voted against the US going to war both at the time of WW I and again WW II. That was during in epoch when the Congress could vote on whether or not we go to War. Rankin was, of course, outvoted, but each year the Institute has awarded a Jeanette Rankin Peace award to some person with close ties to Montana. The first to receive this award was Sen. Mike Mansfield. Most recently it has gone to a local lady who has worked diligently for fellow black citizens in Billings including serving as a prison chaplain. A couple of years ago I was able to nominate Sen. George McGovern who has a home in Stevensville, MT as well as in South Dakota. He was a gracious recipient. The Billings Gazette has declared this Award as one of the most prestigious in Montana.

My own prayer is for Peace. Several years ago I was asked to lead the Invocation at one of our Board Meetings. It went like this:

God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; God of Jesus, Mary and Joseph; God of Sharon and Arafat; Almighty God, maker of heaven and earth; we pray for your presence in the lives of all, and we pray that the peace that passes understanding might prevail in our lives, and in a world torn by war and genocide. We seek your blessing and your guidance in our work as an Institute for Peace. In the Spirit of the Christ we pray. Amen.

Update

But not much to update. I suppose one does not have to add a title. I spent most of the morning in West Billings doing some shopping. Some coupons to cash in at Costco. And a need to stop off to get some milk. Went past the Par-3 golf couse where I've spent a lot of time in past years, but not since my left knee went bad. That showed up mostly on our trip to upstate NY for the Taylor Family Reunion in 2005. Anyway - the parking lot at the course was pretty full. It seemed that most of the players were on the driving range warming up. I did my chores yesterday by raking the evergreen cones off the front yard. The neighbors have a really big evergreen which gives me a lot of shade in the late afteroon so raking is not to bad in recompense. This afternoon it is Coffee with my Democrat friends and then to the Court House to liscence the car. One of my fondest memories is Betty and I each writing a substantial check for the '05 Honda Accord two years ago for the trip east. the '95 which we had bought 12 years ago this month is still running in good order.

Lent and Easter

Dave Russell is an American Baptist Pastor in Ames, Iowa. He publishes his sermons regularly on Geocities at the following address: http://www.geocities.com/fbcames/ I look at them regularly because he typically follows the Lectionary which my own Pastor does not. I'm not sure he even knows that there is one.

For the 1st Sunday in Lent Russell calls our attention to Jesus' temptation in the wilderness for 40 days. He points out a fact of interest that it is the Devil who tempts Jesus. The middle temptation is for power. It is suggested that we Americans often fall short here because we think of our selves as a powerful nation. Jesus, of course, turned the Devil down. He would not be the "decider" and at the same time worshp at the shrine of evil. Makes one wonder as to what temptations to power our own President has.

Another thing Russell said of particular interest to me was that Jesus never told his Disciples "what to believe". He simply asked them to "follow me!" Our newly proposed by-laws at First Baptist talk at length about what to do with those whose beliefs may differ greatly from the majority. I can accept the fact that my own beliefs (for example about "gay unions" and "abortion") probably differ from the majority, but I'm not going to get in a big fight about it in the congregation. But I can't see "churching" a person because his or her beliefs are outside the main stream.

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!

A good visit

This picture was taken Saturday February 3, 2007. Left to right are Annie, David, Ken, Jim and Pete. David came for a visit the previous Monday night and left for Texas early Sunday morning. He works with Sally Beauty in Denton, TX. Ken came down from Helena on Thursday for a couple of nights. Annie came in Saturday morning with husband, Bill, and Pete lives with me at the present time. The cause for this Saturday gathering was a promise to take them all to Lunch Saturday so we could be together for at least a brief time. We did all get to lunch after which Ken left for home. Annie took David and me and Bill to supper that evening. Pete was working at Jake's Restaurant recently mentioned in TIME magazine as one of Montana's finest steak restaurants. I took most of them to Famous Dave's for David's birthday dinner. He will be 51 come Saturday - a birthday he shared with his older brother, Jimmy, who succumbed to lung cancer last August. Jimmy would have been 53 this week. David took Ken and Dad to dinner at Santa Fe Red's Friday night. That's a fairly new place in town. We'd call it "West-Mex." It is no stretch of truth to state that I ate to much.

Now they are all gone, but it was a great week and Mom would have loved it.

Bible Quiz

As did Annie, Ken, Pete, and David - I also took the challenge. Here's their answer:

You know the Bible 100%!

Wow! You are awesome! You are a true Biblical scholar, not just a hearer but a personal reader! The books, the characters, the events, the verses - you know it all! You are fantastic!

Ken credits Handel for his 100%. I guess as a Seminary grad I had better scored high. I remember answering a question to identify various OT people on the final in Old Testament that the guy whose donkey spoke as "He road a smart ass." No response from the Prof, but I did pass the course.

Fuel Prices

I filled up my 2005 Honda Accord the other day at COSTCO at $1.949 per gallon. Lacking little else to do this evening I looked at some notes about vacation travels in the recent and not so recent past. First was a trip to Cacapon State Park in eastern West Virginia the summer of 1993. We put 5763 miles on our 1987 Honda and paid an average of $1.16 per gallon for gasoline. In the summer of 2005 we drove 5656 miles in an almost new '05 Honda and paid an average of 2.223 per gallon. At least the price has come down from 2 1/2 years ago, but it is a long way from cheap - as least what we citizens would tend to think of as cheap.

It has been a fairly busy day for a change. A 9 a.m. Church Endowment Committee, a noon Seniors Lunch at the Church, the class I am auditing this semester from 3-5 pm, a quick visit to a funeral home to visit with long time friends at the death of their mother, and the annual Candle Light dinner at Rocky Mountain College in celebration of the first meal on campus when someone forgot to turn on the electricity so the students as cold meat and potatoes by candlelight. It is celebrated every year in late January and is probably the only time students get to sing the Alma Mater - "Rocky Mountain we all love thee, Alma Mater of the West. We raise our cry to glorify the College we love best."

It's now been over 12 years since I retired, but this Dinner is always a chance to greet friends of yore. (None of us are "old friends")

Please address me as:

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: The Most Honourable Jim the Inchoate of Chignall Duntisbourne Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

Tag, You're It

Thursday January 18, 2007
I've Been Tagged!

Philippa tagged me with this: Seven Things.

1. Name a book that you want to share so much that you keep giving away copies:
“Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albon - if I had them. I refuse to give my only copy: or even lend it.

2. Name a piece of music that changed the way you listen to music: Overture to 1812

3. Name a film you can watch again and again without fatigue: Not a movie goer.

4. Name a performer for whom you suspend of all disbelief: Judi Dench

5. Name a work of art you’d like to live with:

Michelangelo's The Pieta. Having seen this piece of work in real life, it is nothing short of miraculous in its beauty.
It works for me. I saw it many years ago at St. Pats in NYC

6. Name a work of fiction which has penetrated your real life:
The Da Vinci Code - It’s fiction. Let it rest.

7. Name a punch line that always makes you laugh: I laugh a lot.

Heart Surgery

Last night David Letterman was bragging about how he had survived 7 years since major by-pass surgery on his heart. It seemed to me that 7 years wasn't really that long. I had my first go-round of by-pass in the summer of 1973 - seven years. It was done again in October 1980. I thought at the time that 7 years wasn't very long. The second procedure did well for past over 25 years. I did have a couple of stents put in last September as a result of some pressure and angina. The symptoms at the time were not life threatening, but it seemed wise to the cardiologist to do something. So far - so good. I look forward to many more years with family and friends.

Snow Day

Well, it was only 5 inches here in Billings. We all went to school anyway. Even I, myself, went to the class I am auditing at Rocky Mountain College. It is sponsored by the Institute for Peace Studies of which I am a Board member and Secretary. The lecture today was entitled "Whose Tomorrow" and dealt with problems in the past such as the Great Depression and what was done in the face of despair and controversy to make sure that there would be a "tomorrow". Now, what is to be done to assure the people of Iraq that they may have a tomorrow?

The title of this muse has to do with the fact that one of our 4 major high schools has had to cancel classes today and on Friday because of a busted water main that flooded the boiler room and other areas of Skyview High. And these days are traditional end of semester test days. Oh well. Somebody will figure it out. I don't have to.

How about that? I checked the spelling and the only word highlighted was "skyview". Spellcheck wanted to hyphenate it. As if I know how to spell - hyphenate.

What a week!

Well, not quite a week yet. It is only Wednesday. Pete and I watched the Championship Bowl game Monday night. Even tho' it was the so-called top two college teams in the nation I found that I was actually bored. Nothing has really lived up to the Fiesta Bowl with Boise State's last second comebacks both in the 4th quarter and in overtime. Of course there was Romo's faux pas when the Cowboys got beat at the end of the game because of a failed field goal. (Try saying that real fast.)

I did watch our President tonight. The most exciting part of this night was when I finally got out of my chair and found that the ground outside had turned white. And I've spent way to much time trying to get my picture back on this page that Google has really screwed up for us "Blogspotters". And my MAC doesn't want to deal with Picasa at all.

At least maybe the cold for the balance of the week will slow down the Lilac bush from bursting forth with leaves.

JT

Funerals

This has been an interesting week-end. I've spent an inordinate amount of time in front of the TV watching the loading and unloading of a casket and observing the scenery around DC and Grand Rapids, MI - and in listening to the eulogies for Jerry Ford by various dignitaries. As I have remarked to some friends, as much as I dislike Dick Cheney and Don Rumsfield I have gained a new appreciation of them as they delivered their remarks about their friend. And I have gained an appreciation of President Ford which I did not really have during the time he was in office. I have felt that Betty Ford has to be a very strong woman as she has seemed to bear up under the multiple services at the Rotunda, the National Cathedral and the final service today in Grand Rapids. But, then, I was myself married to a strong woman named Betty. And I have, of course, thought often of her these last few days. Actually, these services have had their own healing benefit.

And, of course, I've spent a lot of time this week-end watching professional and college football. West Virgina won, and the Fiesta game with Boise State was not to be missed. Those last second come-backs are what makes the game interesting.

-J-

I saw Mama kissing Santa Claus

I was serving as Interim Pastor at the First Baptist Church in Billings, MT, and the Choir Director and Organist were producing a Christmas play of sorts with the members of the Children's Choir. That was in December 1999. I was playing Santa Claus. What else is Santa to do when Mama shows up under the Christmas Tree? And, besides that, she was always ready for a kiss. And so was I.

I was stitting in Church Christmas Eve when a young lady came up behind me to wish me a Merry Christmas and then said that she had a picture for me. When she brought it back I was easily reminded of that happening - and one of the last things I remember her saying to me a year ago while she was in the hospital. At the end of a visitation I always kissed her with the promise to be back. Just a day or two before she died she said with some force: "Do you call that a kiss?" And then we did it right. Last year at the traditional New Year's Eve gathering at brother John's I clearly recall my feelings of loss. There was no one there for me to hug and kiss and wish a Happy New Year.

Real Money

Ever since the headlines declared that W would be asking the Congress for another 99 BILLION for the so-called war in Iraq an old phrase has been going through my mind. At first I was attributing it to Arthur Vandeberg late of the US Senate, but after a bit of research I find that it was allegedly a quote by Edward Dirksen, Senator from Illinois. "A billion here and a billion there and pretty soon you are talking about real money." Further search states that Dirksen never said it, but someone quoted him as the source. He told one reporter that he never remembered saying it, but that is sounded so good he never bothered denying it. Regardless of where the phrase came from it certainly rings true in ths time of Republican "rule". One can only trust that the incoming Congress will be much more judicious in spending my money.

It's Expensive

So much for the idea of possibly getting a new computer when Apple finally comes up with its new OS. The Water Heater developed a leak over the week-end and needed to be replaced. Since I didn't have any idea of where to turn off the water at the heater I turned off the water at the central valve. It is amazaing how much one depends on having a ready supply of water, not necessarily "hot" water. Being without leaves on in "hot water" with the dishes and dirty clothes piling up. I checked prices Sunday at Sears, Lowe's, and Home Depot and after talking with Pete about a friend of his who might get us a discount, I went with Home Deport with the promise of prompt installation. We did get lucky there. Monday morning the company who does their installation had a cancellation and I was able to contract the installation for Monday afternoon. Job accomplished with all of the required safety updates. The old heater was put in probably 18-20 years ago after a major leak with a flooded basement. This time the leak was a slow one and not much of a problem cleaning up. I guess that the thought of this kind of thing happening had been on my mind for sometime since the heater was getting along in years. My own joint fluids are giving me trouble as I get along in years. The final cost will be in the neighborhood of $800. So much for a new computer anytime soon.

Prsidential Liars

The other day I began to wonder what it is about the U.S. Presidency that causes the office holder to become a liar - at least a mis-informer. W has almost begun to tell the truth about Iraq after leading us into that mess with lies about WMD's. Bill Clinton became well known for his statement "I did not have sex with that woman." Southern boy believes that "sex" is coitus and not fellatio. Regan kept us in the dark about the Iran-Contra affair as long as he could. Even Eisenhower lied to the Russians about the over-flight of spy planes until one was brought down over Soviet territory. Do you suppose that we will every be able to elect a thoroughly honest person as President? Not that many of us ordinary citizens would meet that standard.

God's timing

Today is the one year anniversary of Betty's death. I keep wanting to say things like "passing", but let's face it, it was death. I had a giant poinsettia put on the Baptistry opening at Church in memory, and numerous of her friends commented on how beautiful is was and how they missed her. The Pastor spoke on the birth of John (the Baptist) and of how God acts in His own good time and not always in ways we understand. It made me think of Betty's sentence to me when I came home from Church a year ago: "Take me to the Clinic." She had not gone that day nor two or three Sunday's prior. I just thought she was having trouble with her leg and the ortho she had been wearing. The diagnosis that day was - leukemia. Room was made for her on the Cancer Ward and we made the decision to begin treatment. Little did I suspect that she had probably been developing this condition over a period of time. The 80th Birthday Celebration in early October did not portend such a problem. All of our Children were with us along with a number of grandchildren and brother John's family. Those from out of town had long since gone home. My perception of the Hospitalization changed today. What if she had died at home? We would have been pretty much alone,. As it was when she went into the Hospital the children began to come back - this time with spouses and grandchildren. A rich time of visitation went on for two weeks and when death came she was surrounded with family. God's timing was right. And there is at least some comfort in knowing that she did not die alone. The tears do not come as often as they once did, but the heart still feels its loss. TIME magazines recent article on the death of the spouse said that where there is true love over many years that grief is not as devastating. My own experience would attest to that, but I now know what Jake Otto meant when he told me time and again long after his wife had died: "I still miss her."

God

46 years ago I wrote the following poem. I didn't plan it or give it a lot of thought. It was one of those things that just "came to me". Today I shared it with my senior citizen friends at Church at our fairly regular last Thusday luncheon.

Advent I

GOD
Enmanned,
Is often more than I
can understand.
And, yet at Christmas
time each year the
beauty and the wonder
of His birth ignites
my heart and in that
Holy fire, once more,
I am a child myself
and do believe the
Mystery -- Emmanual!!
God with us!

JRT 11/29/1964

One More Tme

See below. I'm still learning this stuff.The guys are Caleb, Lukas and Zackary.

Readers All

I looked forward with some trepidtion to the anticipated visit of three young grandsons who were coming to visit the week of Thanksgiving. Life has been pretty quiet around here since this time last year while Betty was in the hospital and I was pretty much livng alone. Nothing to fear. As you can see they have been good citizens. Reading much of the time and helping their Uncle Pete clean up the leaves from the apple tree in the back yard. Caleb even produced his famous pasta dish for supper one night. Now they are out with their parents for lunch with an old college buddy of their Dad.

Now I'm looking for forward to Jimmy's family coming in tonight and Annie and family tomorrow. We'll have 19 for Thanksgiving Dinner.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Turkey Day 2006

Last year we had Thanksgiving dinner at my brother John's house with Jean and many of the family. My dear Betty kind of looked forward to that gathering, but she was in the hospital with advanced leukemia and died on Dec. 3rd. Son Jimmy was with us with his family from North Dakota and he died in August after a long battle with lung cancer. (A non-smoker.) This year I am blessed with the gathering and look forward to Jim's family along with 4 of my remaining 6 children and the families of those who are married: Annie and Bill from Ashland, MT with Andrew and Willie with Karyn and their three sons from Portland . Also Ken in from Helena and Pete who is now living with me. John and Jean will be represented with Mark and Rosanna and his son, Ambrose.

This past week while watching the food channel on how to deal with the Turkey I noticed the use of a meat thermometer which can be inserted in the meat and the "read-out" on the outside of the oven. So today I went shopping and got one. That means I won't have to be opening the grill and letting out the heat from time to time. Yes, that's right. I said "grill". Two years ago I cooked the bird outside while the oven was used for other preparations, and it was well received. With 19 people expected - mostly adults - I have a 23 pound turkey not thawing in the fridge. I've read that it takes 24 hours per 5 lbs for the bird to thaw,. That means it should be ready for preparation on Wednesday and then to the grill on Thursday while the visiting ladies take their turn in the kitchen. It should be a glorious reunion with a touch of sadness.

Peace!

OOPS!

Yesterday I tried to share a list of things I have done in life. The idea first came from a blogging neice. Unfortnately the items which I had bold faced on my original list did not show up as BF in the blog. So - it has been deleted.

Another problem in my life has arisen. My MasterCard account has been delivered to Bank of America and I cannot any longer access it. That means I'll have to be sure to send them a check when the statement comes. AND the card will no longer be used. I certainly do not like the games some of these outfits play.

j curmudge

Genetics at work

So much for IQ tests. Three of my children have taken the test spoken of below, and all three have higher scores than mine. The all have that extra X Chromozone from thier Mom. I was particulary taken with the notice that the daughter scored well in the Math area since her mother was a Math student in college.

IQ Tests

Yesterday as I read some familiar comics in the Houston Chronicle I noticed a tag that promised a FREE IQ score. I went to it and it was page after page. When I got to the familiar pictures and which one came next, etc. I went quickly and got it over with. That only partially explains the results which are:


Your IQ score is:
You scored 118 on Tickle's IQ test.

There's more to intelligence than a single number, a single score or a single label. Tickle uses four distinguishable Intelligence Scales in the Ultimate IQ Test. By analyzing your individual scores on those four scales, we are able to look beyond the raw IQ score into how you process information and thereby determine your Intellectual Type.
How do you relate to other IQ test takers?

Your Intellectual Type Is: Word Warrior
You are equipped with a verbal arsenal that enables you to understand complex issues and communicate on a particularly high level. These talents make you a Word Warrior.

Whether or not you recognize it, your vocabulary is your strongest suit—use it whenever you can. Since your command of words is so great, you are also a terrific communicator — able to articulate big ideas to just about anyone. Your wordsmithing prowess will also help in artistic and creative pursuits. The power of words translates to fresh ideas off paper too. Since you have so many words at your disposal, you are in a unique position to describe things in an original way, as well as see the future in your mind's eye. In short, your strengths allow you to be a visionary — able to extrapolate and come up with a multitude of fresh ideas. And you are in good company — bask in the brilliance of Word Warriors who have walked before you. William Shakespeare let loose the power of his pen. His ability to articulate the most subtle nuances of human nature and to create colorful characters are why his stories still have a major impact — even 400 years after he first wrote them. Whether you put pen to paper or use your understanding of the words around you to come up with creative approaches to problems, your potential as a Word Warrior is terrific.

The Cookie thing

You Are a Fortune Cookie

You're a rather normal person, except that you have extraordinary luck in life. People want to be around you (even when they're a little sick of you), in hopes of being lucky too!

What Kind of Cookie Are You?

The program said to copy this and post it. Maybe the "nuts" won't show, but th words are there.

JRT

Musings

So, last night after my typical 1 1/2 hours of 5-6:30 TV with the news and Jeopardy I turned to FOX-TV to watch the World Series. Rain Delay. I read some in the latest issue of TIME and turned the TV back on to watch the game. Rain Delay. The Weather Channel made it look as if it would be more than a delay. I came downstairs to the MAC to write up the minutes of an afternoon meeting of the Peace Studies Executive Committee. It is always easier to interpret my “scratches” if done soon. Back up to the TV and there is regular programming. A good chance to finish Bob Woodward’s “State of Denial”. I’ve been reading it since the beginning of the month. Finished. Now there will be time to get at Grisham’s latest which I got from some birthday money.

At some point yesterday there was a call from my Doctor assuring me that the sonogram of my aorta showed no change in the small aneurysm first discovered 4-5 years ago. Now the only medical thing I have on the horizon is to check in with the surgeon who placed a couple of stents near the end of September. I see him Nov. 13th. Then it is time to get ready for Thanksgiving here with about 20 relatives.

Thanks to philippaalan

***You Have Your Sarcastic Moments***


While you're not sarcastic at all times, you definitely have a cynical edge.
In your opinion, not all people are annoying. Some are dead!
And although you do have your genuine moments, you can't help getting your zingers in.
Some people might be a little hurt by your sarcasm, but it's more likely they think you're hilarious.


How Sarcastic Are You?
http://www.blogthings.com/howsarcasticareyouquiz/

The Birthday Boys

We had a great time Saturday night with the rest of the local Taylors plus a Meeker: John and Jean, Jim w/ Pete, Mark and Rosanna, Ambrose, and Dennis and Lisa Meeker. Dinner at one of our finer restaurants courtesy Mark and Rosanna, and dessert later to John and Jean's: berry pie and chocalate cake. We, of course, missed Betty who would have been 81 today. Lisa had just turned 49 on Columbus Day (the real one), and Pete turns 45 on the 26th. He plans to play all of his old 45's at a party just as he played his 33's 12 years ago.

Blessings to all for your remembrances

Friday the 13th

Somehow or other I fell for the Google thing and it remains to be seen if I stay. I got an e-mail from them asking me to respond if I wanted to stay. I didn't respond, but the thing still required me today to sign in to Google. We'll see!

It's a beautiful day here in Billings, MT. Tonight is the annual Democrat Steak Fry at a new location. There will probably be a big crowd as most local and State candidates will be there as well as the Party faithful and the usual "hangers-on". Last night I went to a Church function to discuss a new set of by-laws. They seem to do the job pretty well, but spend a lot of words talking about how we will go about reconciling friction. "Do unto others . . . " seems to be to weak. At least the document requires a 2/3ds vote of those present and voting to change any denominational affiliation. I guess I'd rather it was set a 3/4ths, but there is probably little danger of First Baptst ever leaving the ABCUSA. At least I won't be around. In a couple of days I turn 82 which is really old age for a Taylor male.

Saw a cardiologist the other day and he suggested increasing my Lipitor from 40 mg to 80 mg per day, and to come back in 6 weeks. A date was set and I find that I am scheduled to see the Surgeon who dd the stents a couple of weeks ago on the very next day. I'll cancel the Cardiologist, as it seems a bit ridiculous to be seeing so many doctors back to back. I have an appointment with my Internist (annual visit) next week.

So much for "musing"

Comment

Growing older certainly is interesting. Last night I had dinner with a couple of former Rocky students who entered the College the same year that I went to work there - Fall 1961. He majored in Business and made his “fortune” in the market while working in the Twin Cities. At this time he is back in Billings and teaches a course on investing at RMC. Both are in their early 60’s. It was great fun talking over old times. Sunday morning if read with sadness of the death of a former student who died in an accident when she apparently overcorrected and rolled her car on a highway just north of Billings. Punky (Marianne) Wesbrook was 61. I remember her as an accomplished pianist who studied with Jean Lawson back in the early 60’s. The point is that I am 20 plus years older than these students, but they are also at retirement age - or close thereto. I guess that one just has to get use to the fact that “young” people do pass on while some of us are stll “hanging on.”

Party Time

This weekend last year we were all looking forward to a big family party celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. It all started when Paul and Louise wrote that they would be coming to Billings to celebrate their 10th Wedding anniversary and Louise's birthday. The next thing we knew as that Willie was also planning to come. Jim and family would be here as their 20th Anniversary was also in October. Ann and Bill would come as many of the rest would be here as would Ken. They are all in Montana already. Since all of the rest were coming I made it possible for David to come as well That way all of the kids would be here for their mother's 80th birthday. In less than two months time she passed away from acute leukemia and septic shock. Ten months later Jimmy would succumb to lung cancer which he had fought for a long time. My memories remain deep for the good times we had and the fact that all could be together for that one last time. With us as well as our kids were all of twin brother John's family with their daughter Lisa also having an October birthday. Louise's parents also came up from Colorado. It was a time of great celebration. Let's see: Birthdays; Louise, Cecilia, Lisa, John, James R., and Pete. Anniversaries: Paul and Louise (10), and Jim and Cec (20). What a great time!

What a week!

It has been an interesting few days this week. I’m copying some e-mails which tell the story better than I could just blogging.

September 25, 2006

Dad had a heart attack this afternoon. He is doing well as is at Billings Clinic Room 2204 ATU. There was some blockage in the grafts from the by-pass surgery. They put in a couple of stents and he is doing well. He has good color as was talking to us before we left. He'll be in for a couple of days
He had gone shopping this afternoon and a had little pain and thought it was gas since he had just eaten. KMart was having a sale on soda so he was hoping to get some but they were out  so he went to Target . The pain wasn't getting better so he went home. When it still didn't pass he called 911. Before he knew it there was a fire truck  at the house followed by an ambulance. I was at a movie,  So up until I got home it was a normal Monday.
The neighbor motioned to me when I pull up the street and told me that the grandfather who lived in that house had a heart attack. I said, "you mean my Dad!?" " He wanted to let you know was a Deaconess"  The calm in her voice told me that Dad had talked to her so I wasn't in a panic. I just went in the house grabbed my cell phone and went to the hospital.
Please keep Dad in your prayers

Pete (Son)

September 26:

Your dad does indeed look good. When I arrived, he was sitting in his chair watching TV. He was unplugged from the monitors around the bed and they had him hooked up to a radio telemetry gizmo that he had stuffed into the pocket on his gown. This allows him to walk around freely while they monitor him remotely. He had still not seen the surgeon, so no decision had been made with respect to a time for release. He looked ready to go home, as far as I could see, but the hospital was being cautious. From what he told me, your dad was not feeling any significant discomfort from the procedure, and he was probably feeling better than before because he is now getting better circulation to his heart.


Mark Taylor (Nephew)

Hi Everybody,
 
We just got back from Billings and a visit with Dad.  He seemed in good spirits and not incapacitated at all.  In fact before we left he was yawning and I said "You look like you could use a good nap."  He replied that with not much to do but walk around and lie in bed it was pretty boring.  Sounds good to me.  Can't be bored if you're in pain.  
 
Anyway, I called the hospital as soon as we got home to see if he's getting out tonight because when we left he wasn't sure.  He said they decided that they would keep him overnight for "some reason," but he will be going home tomorrow morning.   He said to be sure to tell everyone that he is all right. 
 
EVERYONE, DAD'S ALL RIGHT! (add as many Praise Gods or Hallelujahs as you want)
 
Love always, Annie (daughter)

Finally got the doctors at the Clinic to release me this morning.   Blood pressure, heart rate, etc. were all in good order.  The Emergency people took good care of me and so far I am walking without  any angina.  The surgeon is muttering something about an enlarged  opening in the Aortic valve.  I am to see Dr. Zirpoli in about a  month to discuss that situation.  Last December Dr. Burg, my cardiologist since retired, didn't think it was bad enough that  surgery would be needed at my age - soon to be 82.  We'll see.  I 
certainly want to get the best input possible before going back to the hospital.

I want to thank all for the telephone calls, the e-mail notes, the prayers, and the good thoughts.  I am particularly in debt to Pete for handling things so well.

Love to all,  Jim, Dad, Grandfather, etc.

Books, Books, Books

As an old man with bad knees and a history of heart trouble I find that reading is a good way to pass the time. When I get up in the morning I take a couple of pills and read the paper for a while giving them a chance to go to work as directed. After eating I finish up the paper and then go check a couple of newspapers on line. Who am I kidding? I read the hometown WV paper to see if any of my classmates have passed on and then some funnies which are not in the Billings Gazette. I tend to check the financial market sometime in the morning and get my "Sue Fix." Betty let me do that. Sue is Sue Herrera on CNBC. Pete will often bring in a copy of USA Today after lunch and I peruse that for a while. When things "slow" down I'll pick up a book. In the last few weeks I've finished the following:
Hillerman Skeleton Man
Javier Sierra The Secret Supper
Wangerin The Book of God: The Bible as Novel
Lescroart The Motive
Lescroart A Certain Justice
Friedman The World is Flat
Elias Chacour Blood Brothers
Goodwin Team of Rivals
David McCoullough 1776
J & F Kellerman Double Homicide

Currrently I'm reading a fascinating book about Red Auerbach, noted Coach of the Boston Celtics. It is by Feinsten and is entitled with on of Red's favorite phrases: Let Me Tell You a Story

O.K!? It may not be as many as the current resident of the White House claims to have read, but has good variety. Who knows what is next?

Go Herd!

Last Saturday we watched as my alma mater, Marshall University, got thoroughly beaten by Kansas State. This week they take on Tennessee. Doesn't look good as far as gridiron history at Marshall goes. On Sunday we watched as Chad Pennington of the New Yori Jets football team won their game, and Monday Brian Leftwich of the Jacksonville Jaguars won. Both Chad and Brian are former quarterbacks of the Big Green Thundering Herd. It was an interesting week-end.

Age doesn't matter

What a "gas". I'm out to lunch with two of my sons. The oldest (mid-50"s) and the younges (mid-40's) and what do they begin to talk about. Their aches and pains. Here am I - low 80's - and they want to talk about how shoulders and arms hurt. My only response to such talk by younger people is to assure them that it doesn't get any better with age. Actually about the only problem of that type that I have now is in finger joints. And that typically comes and goes. And, of course, there is the question of "is it angina or is it gas?"

Political Polls

It’s Saturday afternoon. I had just got up from my afternoon nap when the phone rang. The caller indicated that he was calling for some sort of Public Opinion Poll and would like to ask my opinion on some things. I told him to go ahead. The last time this happened it was a Friday night in the middle of Monk and I hung up. The previous Friday there had been a call about the same time and I had missed most of the episode. Any how, this caller had better “luck”. The first question had to do with which did I think was most important, the education of our children or health care for seniors. Ridiculous! I said that I could not answer that question as they were both important. He final moved on after trying to get me to make a choice. The second question was easier. Do you intend to vote in the November election. I told him that I always voted. Next: Will you vote for John Tester or for Conrad Burns? “i’ll vote for Tester.” Do you consider yourself a Democrat or a Republican. When I commented that I had been a Democrat all my life the pollster wanted to know if I were a strong Democrat, moderate Democrat, etc. I again responded that I had been a Democrat all my life. I assume he marked his paper “Strong Democrat.” Who knows. Such a stupid way to seek the answer to people’s politics. Why not simply ask are you Democrat, Republican or Independent? And, who do you intend to vote for as Senator in the next election? Makes one wonder about the validity of such polls as they are reported by so-called independent polls or those solicited by political parties.

Tennis anyone?

So? What do you think Pete and I have been doing these past few days? It was great fun to watch Agassi defeat Baghdatis in the first round. I kept wondering, though, how come he couldn’t put away a guy who was obviously having physical problems. It was just as much fun to watch most of the match again as it was played over and over again due to rain delays for the rest of the matches. Then to watch again as he took on Becker (not Boris), and survived for 4 sets before the back finally gave out and he made his last appearance on the Arthur Ashe Courts. It certainly is exceptional when the guy who loses the match gets more applause and cheers than the guy who wins. I haven’t caught Lindsey Davenport yet, but I’ll cheer for her every time. I guess that a lot of people are sorry that Serena Williams was beaten, but we won’t have to listen to her “grunts” any longer. And I can spend some time tonight at the Computer since there is more rain in The Big Apple.

Of course, I did catch the last few minutes of the Miami-Florida State game last night before Becker came on. That’s the nightly 9:30 p.m. ritual before the 10 O‘clock News and then to bed.

Well, I tried to upload a tennis ball here, but it didn't work from the image I have.

Musings

Annie and Bill came in today from Ashland (Eastern Montana) for overnigt. I had bought hamburger and stuff for a cook-out so that was all accomplished with no trouble. I also tried out a new recipe from Mr. Food called Million Dollar Potatoes. They turned out well. The Recipie is on his web site which I get at KULR.com. I suspect there are copyright stipulations so will not give it away. Pete had made some cookies Friday night so later tonight we will have some ice cream and cookies.

While talking together the phone rang. It was Grandson, Christopher. He wanted me to be among the first to know that Kristi (the wife) is pregnant and had just confirmed that news this afternoon. I was more than please that they thought of me for this great news, and I can only wish for them the very best. I performed their wedding post-Christmas 12/27/2003 in Texas. Both Chris and Kisti are finishing up their Bachelor's degrees this semester at U. of Texas, Tyler. Me, a great grandfather. What next. I can only grieve that Betty is not with me to share this news, but I'm sure she knows and is pleased.

Farmer's Market

Brother John and his wife, Jean, have been having Saturday morning coffee and rolls for quite a while now. It is basically a gathering of family in Billings, and occasionally Lisa and Dennis from Red Lodge. (Lisa being john and jean's daughter.) Today I invited them over for sourdought waffles. Mark brought along his waffle iron (just like mine) and I was able to keep the group of 6 satisfied with warm waffles and coffee. There was 2-3 cups of batter left and a little coffee. Guess that no one went away hungry.

This has been a good happening as we sit around and reminisce (What do you know? I spelled that word correctly.) I'm sure that it is one way the younger generation(s) learn about our past, and we learn something about their experiences growing up. The "s" after generations is to indicate that Ambrose, Mark's son is often with us. So there are 3 generations.

Incidently, it is called "Farmer's Market" because it started a Summer or two ago when the other Taylors began to delay their Saturday breakfast until they had been to the local Farmer's Market in downtown Billings.

Compulsive Buyer

O.K. I have to admit it. I went to Costco yesterday to use a $3.50 coupon for Kleenex. We seem to use a lot of it. As I went in I was handed one of those perpetual sheets with more coupons. This one promised an extra $10 off an Epson Photo copier which was already reduced $40. I have been thinking of replaciny my copier for some time and this seemed to be the right time. I have an older Epson printer and it has worked quite well so I tend to trust Epson. This Epson Stylus Photo RX620 will copy text and graphics, photos, slides and negatives It is supposed to do 35 mm Slides and well as 35 mm film strips, In addition to copies it is also a printer. All this for $150. And it will fit in the vacant space on my table. I intend to take my time setting it up as there is no particular hurry.

Speaking of Rocky

Rocky Mountain College made the top 10 of the first tier of Best Comprehensive Colleges.

Rocky is listed in the top 10 for the Comprehensive Colleges in the Great Schools, Great Bargains category in the latest issue of the US News and World Report.

Comprehensive colleges are those in which a liberal-arts education is complemented by professional programs such as Rocky's aviation, equestrian and physician-assistant programs.

The Best Schools, Best Bargains category is for those colleges that offer high quality academic programs compared to the net cost.

This is the 10th consecutive year that Rocky has been ranked in the first tier, top 10 in the West by the magazine in both the best academic and best value categories.

"We are immensely proud of this accomplishment and hope Montana will share in the accomplishment of being so highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report," Rocky President Michael Mace said.

Rocky was ranked highly for its student-retention rate, small class size (averaging 14.5 students in a class), student-faculty ratio of 13-1, alumni support, percent of faculty who are full-time, and freshmen entering who are in top 25 percent of their class.

Fair Time

After my Wednesday Coffee Klatch with a group of Democrat friends (One of whom was having a birthday so we had cake), I went to the Montana Fair. Last summer I was there with my wife, and we didn't quite get to everything because of problems she was having with walking. We did the 4-H exhibit and saw some of the animals and the "Quilt" show. That one includs a lot of beautiful quilts along with other household decorations and the Jam, Jelly, baking, etc., entries. One of or our long time friends was always winning blue ribbons in that sequence. Both she and Betty are now gone to a greater reward. This time I managed to get my weary knees around the whole fair ground. I fully intended to eat some high cholesterol food as my supper, but the prices were obscene. I did have an icecream cone at the 4-H exhibit. They charged only $1 and the cup was full. On the grounds I would have had to pay at least $1.25 for a single dip. I came home and had a microwaveable Healthy Choice. And then watched Boston finally win one.

While walking the midway at the Fair I saw a former student from Rocky who began working at the Metra arena while still in college. He had transferred to Rocky from another Church related college where he had had some problems. I worked with him from time to time to make sure that he was satisfied with us and that the graduated. Since I last saw Bill he has moved up in the organization and now is General Manager of Metra. For those not in the know Metra is a large building which hosts indoor football, high school basketball, high school graduations for Billings' 3 public high schools, has concerts, rodeo, etc. It is always to see one of our graduates succeed, especially one I had a role in. Another winner is the current Chief of Police who has often sought me out for any kind of help I might be able to give. Our recent Superintendent of Schools is also an RMC grad. The School Board did not renew his contract after 3 successful years as superintendent. He apparently worked more in the District with teachers and on behalf of students that giving guidance to the Board. They hired someone who will tell them what to do.

Broken Circle

Jim Ken Annie David Willie Paul Pete

This last week had been one of mixed emotions. My son, Jimmy, died last Monday at the age of 52 after a four year battle with lung cancer. I spent most of the week in Dickinson, ND with his family. There was great joy as the Taylor's and the Hellman's got together; and there were many tears and much grief as we all remembered what this man has meant to us over the years.

For the last several years when the Taylor clan has been together we have managed to get a picture line-up of the oldest to the youngest. The above picture shows what a space is left. Both Jim and his mother are absent from us and together in heaven. It may be a long tme before we are all together again.

Life is Good

It's been family time the last few days. Pete and I went out Saturday to a new Mexican restaurant (Santa Fe Red) on Saturday night for supper. Ken came in on Sunday from Helena to be in Billings for a week. I unfroze some salmon and cooked it in the ne Rotisserie for Sunday supper. Annie came in on Monday so I took them all out to Cactus Creek (a western type steak house) that night. Pete doesn't work Monday nights so there was four of us. Annie stayed over and cooked up some Taco Salad for supper last night before she left for home. Tonight Ken called (he's in town as a part of his job evaluating drug treatment programs) and took me out. He was interested in trying the Santa Fe Red place so we went there and had a nice sandwich along with fried onions and pickle. Amanda was a most gracious waitress and a lovely young lady. When we got back to the house we turned the TV to PBS for Mostly Mozart. It is a real pleasure to have a chance to visit with the family. I never quite know whether to say "with the kids" or "with the children" all of them being in the so-called middle years whether they want to hear that or not. BUT they are family. And I love them all.

Learner Type

This is Trudy's fault!
***You Are a Visual Learner***


You tend to remember what you see, and you have a good eye for aesthetics.
You excel at art, design, and computer programming.
You would be an excellent film director - or the next Bill Gates!


What's Your Learning Style?
http://www.blogthings.com/whatsyourlearningstylequiz/

Capital Punishment

The ACLU of Montana has itself all in a snit about Capital Punishment. There is some feeling among them that if a man is to be put to death it ought to be “humane”. They seem to be saying that there is no proof that the criminal does not feel pain before death occurs. That, in some way, the barbiturate which is supposed to deaden pain is not sufficient and is not administered by someone qualified in medicine. The case in point at this time is that of a man who has been on death row for many years and has given up the battle to delay his execution further. I say, “Let him die.” I asked a medical friend who is a member of ACLU the other day about their position and he said in effect that he was not a part of that action. My point is that the ACLU doesn’t seem to take into consideration the suffering the murderer placed on the three he killed and the continued pain to those who survive. Maybe leathel injection is to kind for a guy like this. Even Saddam has asked for the firing squad.

Reading

I’ve been reading “The Book of God” (The Bible as a Novel) by Walter Wangerin, Jr. Daughter, Annie, gave me this 10 years ago as a Father’s Day present. I know that I have read it before because there are familiar markings in it. It is an interesting read for while the typical Biblical language isn’t there the stories ring true. Last month as I was reading Philip Yancy’s “Disappointment With God” he frequently talked about taking time off to reread the whole Bible from cover to cover. Been there, done that. This seemed to be a better way to approach such a venture. My reading today has dealt with the Exodus from Egypt and the time of the Judges. In light of the present history of Israel it is quite interesting. Time and time again we read that the people strayed from their covenant with Yahweh and were in big trouble until they repented.

I have mixed feeling about what is happening in Lebanon , in Gaza, and throughout the Middle East. Who started it, and how long ago. Is the bombing of civilian targets in order to kill an enemy justified. Is this “an Act of War” or is it a malignancy? And what is the response of the United States if in this indiscriminate bombing an American citizen is killed or injured?

Unfortunately the United States government doesn't have a leg to stand on. How can we decry what Israel and the Hezbolla and Hamas are doing in light of our own behaviour? For example the alleged mistreatment of suspected terrorists.

Sunday doings

Church this morning as usual. Pete didn’t get in until late last night (early a.m.), so he was still asleep when I left. A lovely young lass who now teaches at Rocky Mountain College in the Theatre Department has been siting with us. She is originally from Beaumont, TX and has been home visiting the last couple of weeks. Actually Linaya Leaf, who is a long time friend and colleague at the College invited Sarah to worship with us. It is obvious that she was brought up in the Church. She knows the hymns and she finds the passages in her Bible that the Pastor is reading from very easily.

When I got home from Church I turned on the TV to watch the finish of the British Open, finished the morning paper and made my usual sandwich for lunch. I had to take care of some financial things related to the Endowment fund of the Church (I’m Treasurer), and then did some Internet searching of no consequence.


By keeping windows shut during the day it has actually stayed pretty comfortable in the house. That ended today with our 101 degree temperature. It was warm enough that I suggested to Pete that we go out to some place with air conditioning to have dinner. He mentioned a new Mexican place just a few blocks from home so we went there. It WAS cool, and it seemed that many people had the same idea as it was crowded. Nevertheless we had quick seating and good service. The waitress’s name tag said “Steevie.” I asked her what her real name was and she said “Stephanie”. She didn’t like the “Stephie” bit so had gone with the other. Now we are home and I am blogging so that I can be downstairs where it is much cooler.

Life is for the Living

This country is in deep trouble because of unwise moves insisted on by our current President. Nevertheless as I watched the Senate and the House yesterday two items were being argued neither of which are of earth shaking importance. The house defeated a Resolution calling for a Constitutional amendment to ban same-sex unions. The Senate and the House have both agreed to the use of frozen embryo’s for stem-cell research. So today Bush vetoed legislation which a majority of our Congress approved. I find it hard to accept a man talking about protecting life of the embryo as if it were already a living being when he sends young men and women into harm’s way on the false belief that the US is in danger from a foreign power.

Early in our marriage my wife had a miscarriage before the 2nd month. I can’t tell you what happened to the lost tissue, but we never thought of it as losing a child. At about the 8th year of marriage she lost twins at 6 months. They survived about 24 hours and were properly buried with Christian burial conducted by a Pastor friend. These two had breathed the breath of life. I guess that my belief is that LIFE begins with that first breath. In Genesis we read: “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” (Gen. 2:7 KJV) Up to that point there is only possibility. I admit I was a bit surprised yesterday to hear Orrin Hatch supporting the Bill. Basically he seemed to be saying that we need to deal with life as we here on earth have it. Children and others who have need of great medical discoveries are certainly as important as an embryo which may end up discarded. To call for the “adoption “ of thousands of such cells is preposterous.

Mr. President, let science and medicine alone.

Love Letter Number One

Last night I looked through some old letters Betty and I had saved over the years. Here is the first one I wrote to her from Cincinnati, OH after I had gone to the University for some graduate study - pre-planned. This picture was taken that same time period by her cousin. Good things do happen on first dates. (Betty and Harriet are the same gal - Harriet Elizabeth)

July 26. 1948

Dearest Harriet:-

Here I am the 1st day after our 1st date a thousand miles away and only the opportunity to write you. But letters are better than nothing; and after all two weeks are not really such a long time except in a relative sense. And relatively speaking it ‘peers like about an eon or two.

It was wonderful being last night with you and learning for sure that which I’d already suspected. Honestly, I didn’t think it could happen to me. Since a none to happy high school experience I’d tho”t myself immune. Women were lovely playthings, but, oh, the change a wonderful girl like you can bring about,. To toy with you would be sacrilege, to forget you would be akin to forgetting that there is a God, or that I had a mother. And I don’t forget important things easily. (Of course I locked the car last night with the key in-side. I left the house today without my checkbook, and it’’s a mile and a half from here to the University. ) It’s pretty big, but at least the Psychology Dept. will know me. Also left my pen at home - or lost it so this is a 98 cent Special ball point. (I’m in the bathtub under water writing this.) [Joke]

Classes start tomorrow - if I start writing Psychology to you it’ll just be an excuse to review the stuff while also writing you. Conscientious Student, you know. Besides there’s a greater incentive to make good now.

Oh, Harriet, Harriet, I love you
Love you more than pen and ink can tell.
Love that smile, those bright and
sparkling eyes.
Love the things you stand for,
purity and light
And love you because of them.

And when your soft, low voice,
The voice angels must speak with,
Says “Jim” I thrill within my soul
For low and sweet it says also
“I love you.”

Well, that wasn’t supposed to be a poem, but it expresses me tho’ts to youward.
I’ve written John & Jean and told them that we plan eventually to be wed, but told them to keep it under their hats for a while; not that I care who knows, but would like to hear your reaction to any publicity.

Am enclosing a picture I happen to have with me, with the fervent hope that you will do the same. It isn’t to good. I think it flatters me, but Aunt Bertha says I’m better looking that that. (God bless her.)

It’s 5 PM and I must shower and shave before 6 as Joe Litchenstein is coming by for dinner. He’s my colleague at Marshall in Psychology. So I’ll close for today.

Love you, Jim

A Poem

I was looking for something else months ago and found this poem. I think it might have been something to do with Grant Wood. Anyway the thing takes true meaning for me now.


A World of Seeming

It is a world of seeming:
The changeless moon seems changing ever,
The sun sets daily, but sets never.
So near the stars and yet so far;
So small they seem, so large they are;
It is a world of seeming.
And so it seems that she is dead,
Yet so seems only; for instead,
Her life is just begun; and this -
Is but an empty chrysalis
While she, unseen to mortal eyes,
Now wins her way in brighter skies -
Beyond this world of seeming.
- H. A. Blood in the Century.

DAILY NEBRASKA STATE JOURNAL, LINCOLN, SUNDAY 5 JUNE 1887

Musings

Well, it has been a tough week here both in regards to the heat and the bullish attitude in the Stock Market. The former has been well above average all week, and the latter has sunk. I really only keep track of the Market on weekend my portfolio is down about $3400 since last Friday. Interestingly enough it is slightly above what is was 2 weeks ago. This afternoon the temperature was at 96 with humidity at 11%. I’ve spent most of the week in the basement, and for the last couple of nights I’ve pull the light cover up before morning.

I’ve just finished watching the evening news, got some supper (do I ever miss the cook), ate while watching Jeopardy and then turned to the Seattle Mariners baseball game until Monk came on. Now I have an hour or so until Becker. Don’t really watch much else on TV these summer nights.

Between bouts of updating my Quicken data I have read further in Yancy’s “Disappointment with God.” His main point at this time seems to be that in our hurt it is not that God is not fair, it is simply that life is not fair. Good people die sometimes painful death and good people have their houses burn down as we are witnessing now in much of the West including Montana. Years ago I was teaching a class which I labeled Healthy Personality. One Spring Semester there was a hugh fire just north of Billings in the Roundup area. One of the students had her house and all her belongings destroyed. After dealing with the shock of the loss she told me that it was the best thing that ever happened to her. “Now I don’t have any reason to stay . I have the freedom to move on with my life.”

I suppose that that is the attitude we all need to have. --Move On --

Live Baseball

It was a good outing last night with Pete. We went to one of his favoriate eateries - the Rock Pile, and then to the Mustangs baseball game against Idaho Falls. (Free tickets from the Manager of the restaurant) It was a close game and tied at the end of 9. We left at that point, but listened on the radio as the Ponies got the win in the bottom of the 10th. Billings leads the Northern Division of the Pioneer League and Idaho Falls leads the Southern Division. Pete saw a number of people he knows, I saw only one. I had pretty much forgotten about all of the young kids who are at these games with their parents and in some cases Grandparents. And I found out that I am not able to follow the ball as well as I used to. Probably to much TV and instant replays.

I am still having trouble with my Quicken software. After re-entering all my 2006 data for both checking accounts and for the credit cards the damn thing screwed up again and I am not able to find the update. Maybe I’ ll give it one more try and then try some other program. It does fill in the hours - and I do mean hours.

Maddening Monday

Now to more mundane matters. Last night I found a skinless chicken breast in the freezer. That in the rotisserie plus a can of green beans, some lettuce/tomato salad and some packaged rice made dinner for Pete and myself - with his help. Tonight we are planning on going to watch our local pro-baseball team. For those who who don't know the Billings Mustangs are a farm team of the Cincinnati Reds. They are playing some pretty nice winning ball this season.

The most mundane is the fact that I somehow screwed up my financial program again and have spent most of the day re-entering date from hard copies. I have the checking accounts up to date at least.

Oh well. So much for the computer age!!##**@@@!!^

I wrote something the other day about how some of the songs from South Pacific had reminded me so much of the loss of my wife, Betty. My brother-in-law responded later that this also happens to him in remembrance of his sister who had died 25 years ago. Its only been 7 months, so it doesn’t take much for me to remember the good times and all that we meant to each other. Near the end of Tim Russert’s book about his Father and his own journey into TV he tells of the death of the 17 year old adopted son of his former boss at NBC. Russert called the man to express his sympathy. The father is reported as saying: “I don’t know how to deal with it. I had a wonderful, robust, healthy boy on Tuesday he got sick on Wednesday, and he died on Thursday.” Since the lad was adopted Russert at one point in the conversation said: “What if God had come to you and said, ‘Michael, I’m going to make you an offer. I will give you a . . . son for 17 years then it will be time for him to come home.” You would have made that deal in a second, right?”

I then thought of the over 56 years of the gift of love which was mine, and I wouldn’t exchange them for anything. To quote Russert further (he had a strong Roman Catholic upbringing) death “is God’s design, God’s plan.” He blessed me for longer than the lifetime of many including two of my own brothers. Today I picked up Philip Yancy’s book “Disappointment with God”. He starts with a visit with a young man who is giving up on God because “life isn’t fair.” I will have to admit that in my grief I have had the same thoughts. I remember being reminded of the wedding script where the clergy says “What God has joined together let no man put asunder.” And I railed within myself to the effect that while no man should separate the two God had, himself, done it. “It is God’s design, God’s plan.” I find it hard to believe that this old guy lives on in spite of having had a heart attack at 33 years of age and by-pass surgery twice. And Betty says to me one Sunday morning “Take me to the Clinic”. And in two weeks she is dead. My comfort is that she did not suffer long and most of our family were here to visit her at the hospital. 80 beautiful years and including our engagement over 56 of them I was privileged to share.

Sesame Steet

This is supposed to come up readable. Let's see!

You Are Bert

Extremely serious and a little eccentric, people find you loveable - even if you don't love them! You are usually feeling: Logical - you rarely let your emotions rule you You are famous for: Being smart, a total neat freak, and maybe just a little evil How you life your life: With passion, even if your odd passions (like bottle caps and pigeons) are baffling to others

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

Another Monday

Not a lot going on in this life since brother Lee and his wife visited in mid-June. It was good to see them again this summer after our periodic Family Reunion last Summer. I am reminded that this time last year I was on the road coming back to Billings with Pete and Betty after the Reunion and a short visit with her family in Ceredo, WV. Traveling across the West on a holiday week-end did not prove to be all that bad. We stopped in Des Moines, IA one night, visited the Amana Colonies on the way there. The next night we were in Mitchell, SD and visited the Corn Palace. On the way to Gillette, WY we stopped at Rapid City for a short trip up the mountan to visit the "Presidents". What a rude awakening. The place has now been throughly commercialized.

The last few days I've managed to finish "The Secret Supper" by Javier Sierra and the "Wisdom of our Fathers" by Tim Russert. I am also almost through "Big Russ and Me" by little Timmy. It is amazing how much the upbringing of that kid in an Irish Roman Catholic setting reminds me of my own childhood in a Conversative West Virginia Baptist environment.

Tonight Pete is getting supper. I took him out last night rather than do the cooking myself.

Peace!