10.23.08
Where to Start???
Hello readers! In this weblog, I’ll be sharing some thoughts on personal growth as well as some interesting tidbits. Welcome Aboard!!!
The way my blog is set up, with the exception of this post, the most recent entries are at the top . One way to access the older entries is to click on a particular month in the Archives section. There are some interesting stories in there, so be sure to take a look! You may click on a category in the box to your right and it will bring up all posts in that category — for example- recipes or swifts. Or… you may type a topic in the search box and that will bring up any post related to that topic — such as skin care.
For those of you who have been directed here because you or someone you know has cancer, there is an easy way to read only the articles relating to cancer. Simply type ‘cancer’ in the search box and it will bring up all of my posts that have the word cancer in them. You then just roll the cursor over the title of the article (which should highlight the title) and then click to read the entire article. You then click the back button to return to the other articles. My personal odyssey with cancer began in my 3/14/2009 article “Under the Weather”. You can also access it by clicking on March 2009 in the archives section and reading back from there. You may also click on ‘Health’ under the categories heading to the right.
And so, readers, I welcome you to Portland Firefly and I look forward to your comments. If you do write a comment, be sure that you click on “submit” to send it to me. I must approve all comments before they appear on the blog, so it is possible for you to send me a personal note stating that you don’t wish it to be made public.
Now, “Buckle your seatbelts for takeoff!!!”
11.12.09
The Flight Over
For my recent trip to Spain, I left Portland early on a Tuesday morning and was given a seat in First Class. It was nice to have the extra leg room and the hot breakfast was delicious. The smooth 4 hour flight to Dallas was just the precursor of my fabulous flight to Madrid. I was able to get 2 good naps on that first short leg out of Portland.
Business Class Media Center by PDXFirefly
Out of Dallas, again I was able to sit in Business Class on the new wide-bodied aircraft. OK… Have you ever seen those seats? They have about 15 different positions to which they can be adjusted. The seat adjustment controls are the little fan shaped blue buttons in the center armrest. Then each passenger gets their own TV monitor and you can choose the movies you want to watch on the 9 hour flight. It had been many years since I had flown internationally in First Class and I was like a kid in a candy shop. I had no idea how to operate any of these wonderful gadgets but I had a delightful seat-mate and he kindly showed me how to operate everything.
The fun of flying Business Class is all the amenities that are part of the service. Waiting for me at my seat was my warm duvet and fluffy pillow. Not the little ones the airlines used to have in coach, no this pillow was just smaller than a bed pillow and very comfy. They actually made me look forward to my nap-time later on in the flight.
The Flight Attendants start out with “May I hang your coat?” and continue with the welcome-aboard champagne, juice or water. I took the champagne! (Did you have any doubt which one I’d choose?) The airlines have a reputation for serving extremely high quality ‘beverages’ on board and I was not going to pass up this opportunity to try what was available. I was not disappointed in the least.
Just as I started sipping my champagne, the Captain came on the intercom and said that due to a mechanical problem, everyone would need to gather all of their belongings and deplane while the mechanics ran a few tests. So… that is what we all did. I missed my glass of amber bubbly while waiting on the hard seats in the terminal.
Soon the problem was fixed and everyone re-boarded the aircraft. Waiting for the Business Class passengers at our high-tech seats were the special Bose ear-phones ( on tray table in photo) for our use during the flight. Also there was a small navy blue amenities kit (also on tray table) that contained a toothbrush, toothpaste, Burt’s Bees hand lotion and chapstick, eye shades and in-flight socks along with a few other items. I was feeling fairly pampered and the charming Flight Attendants didn’t let up on the pampering! That was just fine by me!
Next the In-Flight Menu was handed to us so we could make our entree choice. After the safety demo, seat belts were checked and it was time for take off and we were on our way to sunny Madrid just 9 hours away.
I’m not going to go into all the details of the wonderful service, but just say that from the appetizers to the salad to the entree to the ice cream sundae for desert, it was all delicious, well-prepared and beautifully served. Portland Firefly did her best to sample some of the bountiful array of ’beverages’ that are served on board. She couldn’t consume alcohol while undergoing Chemo these last eight months and didn’t really miss it at all, but this was a very special trip and the Spanish Sherry and Spanish wine were perfect compliments to my appetizers and meal.
My seat mate was a real pro at flying and had it figured out to where he could watch three movies and get a decent nights sleep as well. I was a little bit slower on my learning curve and only watched 2 1/2 movies and really couldn’t quite figure out the seats well-enough to get really comfortable, but I did sleep a little bit.
Sleeping Firefly by PDXFirefly
Here is a picture of me sleeping on the flight. Well, feigning sleep for the picture is actually more accurate. But notice that the airline seat is so reclined with the footrest up that it is almost like a bed. I am wearing the soft sleep cap that my neighbor knit for me along with my AA eyeshades.
My flights were wonderful ! I still can’t believe it. I guess I’ll just have to take another international flight soon to make sure that it really is a wonderful as I remember it to be!
11.11.09
A Big Thank You to AA Flight Attendants
Now it can be told… Portland Firefly has not been writing recently for several reasons… The best of which is that she has been traveling for the last two weeks. Yes, I have felt well enough to take a well-planned, wonderful trip to Spain. Soon you will have the opportunity to read of some of the beautiful places we visited, but this post has a more current message to convey.
As most of you know, I am a retired Flight Attendant. And part of my benefits is that I am able to fly for a very low-cost. I took advantage of this benefit and flew in the equivalent of first class for all four legs of my recent trip to Spain and back home again. Wow, what a wonderful experience!
I took the opportunity to speak to the lovely, professional Flight Attendants of American Airlines who were working the flights I traveled. You may recall that part of my ‘mission’ is to educate women about the subtle symptoms of the type of cancer that I have — primary peritoneal carcinoma , the deadly step-sister to ovarian cancer. I carried cards that list the symptoms and passed them out to the Flight Attendants after they had completed their service requirements. There were two who had friends with these symptoms and even though we hope that they have something else, at least they have a direction to check out the unexplained symptoms that their friends are having.
And talk about a fabulous service! These veteran Flight Attendants knew what they are doing and did it very well. As one who has walked in their shoes, I was especially appreciative of the excellent service provided on my flights from Portland to Dallas and Dallas to Madrid and back to Dallas and Portland again.
And so…. to all of my Flight Attendants, Portland Firefly sends a great big THANK YOU for four very memorable flights. You do make the difference and, of course, you know it. Keep up the good work and fly safe.
If you are interested in reading my post about the 9/11 terrorists that I had on board two of my flights prior to the terrorist attacks, just put 9/11 into the search box.
Thanks again from Portland Firefly.
11.10.09
Veterans Day is November 11th!
This is to remind all of my faithful readers that tomorrow, November 11th is Veteran’s Day. Earlier today, President Obama spoke at Fort Hood, Texas at the memorial service for our soldiers who were gunned down by one of their own last week.
I normally fly my American Flag on special holidays and tomorrow will be no exception. However, after the Memorial Service, I decided that I would honor those fallen heros from Ft. Hood by putting my flag out a day early. And so, that is where I am headed – to fly my American Flag for all of our Veteran’s and to honor those killed in the Ft. Hood terrorist attacks.
Another ‘tradition’ that Portland Firefly started last year is to call one or two veterans that I know personally and to thank them for their service to our country. I intend to make those calls this evening. Won’t you call one or two of our valiant service men or women and just say “Thank You”?
By the way, on my way through the Dallas airport last week, I took the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to several of the uniformed service men that I saw while I was in the process of changing gates. I noticed that there was another who did the same thing. Please take the time to honor those who make our everyday freedoms possible.
11.05.09
Things to know about Ovarian/Peritoneal Cancer
Here are some things that every woman should know about Ovarian and Primary Peritoneal Cancer.
Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian/Peritoneal Cancer
- Vague but persistent and unexplained gastrointestinal complaints such as gas, nausea,and indigestion.
- Abdominal bloating, pelvic and/or abdominal pain, and/or feeling of fullness.
- Unexplained change in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea.
- Unexplained weight gain or loss.
- Frequency and/or urgency of urination.
- Unusual fatigue.
- Shortness of breath.
- New and unexplained abnormal postmenopausal vaginal bleeding
- Risk Factors for Ovarian/Peritoneal Cancer
- Increasing age, with highest occurrence in women over 50.
- Family or personal history of ovarian, breast, endometrial, or colon cancer. However only 10% of cases are linked to family history.
- Uninterrupted ovulation such as having no pregnancies; infertility, or low parity.
- Presence of BRCA1 or BRCA 2 gene mutations.
- Prevention and Risk Reduction
- Use of oral contraceptives for more than five years can reduce your risk by approximately 50%.
- Multiple pregnancies and having first full-term pregnancy before the age of 25.
- Breast feeding.
- Hysterectomy/Tubal ligation substantially reduces risk.
- Removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes (oopherectomy) dramatically reduces, but does not completely eliminate, risk of developing ovarian/peritoneal cancer.
11.04.09
Hello Readers!
Hello to all of my faithful readers. Portland Firefly has been on a little writing hiatus which I shall explain in greater detail hopefully next week. Suffice it to say that my sweet Daughter-in-Law has been unable to care for my Grandson for the last many weeks and Nonni has been called into caring service. There are no complaints from me here and I’ll let you know more as I am able.
In the meantime, please take this opportunity to get caught up on my past writings. “Talk” to you soon.
10.30.09
Personal Message to Dallas…
To my friends from Dallas that I keep running into …. Please email me so I can give you some more info… See you soon!!!! ~~~~ Portland Firefly
10.24.09
Fall Colors
It’s a leaf peeping week-end here in Portland — well at least Saturday will be. With no rain in the forecast, it’s a good day to pack up Mamma , Grandma and the kids and take a little picnic lunch (sandwiches) and go for a little drive.
Murray Blvd is always spectacular at this time of year. And Boone’s Ferry Road between Terwilliger and Kruse Way is a beautiful ‘rural’ drive in the city. Also Barnes Road up and over the hills is pretty delightful. Then there are many ways to drive near one of our beautiful tree-lined rivers. Don’t forget to stop and visit one of our many beautiful parks…. a good place to eat those sandwiches you brought along!
I hope you enjoy this dry Saturday and don’t have so many errands to do that you can’t take time to enjoy the beauty of this season. Rain is scheduled for Sunday!
10.23.09
Self-Defense for Women
Every woman needs to have the emotional and physical resources to protect herself. Portland Firefly came across this web site for a school that teaches several different classes on self-defense. A class such as this will give one the tools to help fend off an attacker.
As a disclaimer, I have never been to this school, nor attended any of their classes, but for $45.00 for a 3 hour class it certainly sounds reasonable.
“Real strength is having the confidence to be who you are in the world. Tulen self-defense builds strength from the inside out. You learn to set boundaries and to respond to any situation with calmness and confidence. You gain a sense of power and competence that will benefit all aspects of your life.
Tulen self-defense is simple to learn and highly effective. Inspirational and experienced martial arts instructors teach how to live strong, assertive lives and prepare participants to respond to real life situations. We offer dynamic, practical skills for all ages and abilities. Our courses affirm the limitless power and potential of each individual.”
10.21.09
Symptoms of Ovarian & Peritoneal Cancer
Many of you have asked me to devote one post to the symptoms of ovarian cancer and primary peritoneal cancer. This is the answer to that request.
First of all I want to stress that it is possible to get ovarian cancer even if you have had a total hysterectomy (including removal of ovaries) as I did. As women, we MUST learn to listen to our bodies and to be able to describe the changes we are feeling in them. WE must be pro-active and assertive in seeking medical care. Portland Firefly was very fortunate that her inital doctor (at the urgent care center) immediately suspected the possibility of a cancer diagnosis and he ordered many of the tests that led to that eventual diagnosis by my primary care physician after a hospital stay for many more tests.
I was very ill and I knew it. I was sick in a way that I have never been sick before. I had been experiencing more and more fatigue over the previous two months. My waist and abdomen were getting larger (bloating, but I didn’t ‘feel’ bloated) but my jeans were still loose around the hips and thighs. I started feeling a little queasy, then the diarrhea started. I noticed that my skin color was very bad ~~ I was ashen grey. It was only after staying in bed for three days that I drug myself to the Urgent Care Center three blocks away where I was sent to the hospital for admission. I was too sick to be home alone and I knew it.
The following is copied from the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition website: http://www.ovarian.org/
“Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, especially, in the early stages. This is partly due to the fact that these two small, almond shaped organs are deep within the abdominal cavity, one on each side of the uterus. These are some of the potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer:
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
- Feeling the need to urinate urgently or often
- Fatigue
- Upset stomach or heartburn
- Back pain
- Pain during sex
- Constipation
- Menstrual changes
If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, consult your physician.
Persistence of Symptoms
When the symptoms are persistent, when they do not resolve with normal interventions (like diet change, exercise, laxatives, rest) it is imperative for a woman to see her doctor. Persistence of symptoms is key. Because these signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer have been described as vague or silent, only around 19% of ovarian cancer is found in the early stages. Symptoms typically occur in advanced stages when tumor growth creates pressure on the bladder and rectum, and fluid begins to form and accumulate in the abdomen (bloating).”
Portland Firefly wants to add that these symptoms may also include:
An unexplained weight loss or gain of 10 pounds.
Constipation or diahrrea
Pelvic, back or leg pain
Initially, I thought that I had the flu, and so with the flu season upon us, please do not mistake ovarian cancer symptoms for the flu. Remember run, do not walk, to your doctors if you have a few of these symptoms. Do not wait. Insist on a complete pelvic exam, a transvaginal ultrasound and a CA-125 blood test.
This is the website of The Ovarian Cancer Alliance of Oregon and Southwest Washington: http://www.ovariancancerosw.org/
The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition web site: http://www.ovarian.org/
10.19.09
Mount Hood
Did anyone else notice how extremely beautiful Mt. Hood looked on Friday morning? I have seen this mountain looking very beautiful on many occasions, but this one was the best.
Earlier in the week, Portland was very cold and we had some rain…. that means snow on the mountains! Prior to that time Mt. Hood had been almost totally brown due to the void of snow, so it was a dramatic change to see it snow covered.
But it was not just the snow that created the magical effect I noticed. It was the fact that there was a huge cloud shrouding just the top fourth of this majestic peak. But then the sun was shining brightly on it. It was truly as though someone had painted an ethereal scene for us to view. And I guess God did do just that!!!
10.17.09
Hanna Anderson Outlet Sale
Portland’s local Hanna Anderson Outlet store in Lake Oswego is having their special sale now through Sunday, November 1st. If you have a little one, this is the place for high end clothes.
This doting Nonni (Grandma) was there along with young Mother’s and other Grandma’s and even a few tag-along Grandpa’s when the sale started on Friday morning. It was crowded, but not too bad, it was probably much worse on Saturday.
http://www.hannaandersson.com for more information.
10.15.09
Star Wars Concert
Portland Firefly had the opportunity to attend the Star Wars Concert here in Portland last night. It was totally awesome!! I loved it and I would encourage my readers in other parts of the country (are you listening Kansas City?) to get their tickets for this spectacular event.
The show actually begins immediately after you show your tickets at the door and walk into the outer areas of the venue. The excitement and energy level is through the roof! There are displays of some of the original Star Wars costumes. But that is not enough…. throughout the outer arena areas there are costumed characters who are very happy to pose with you or your child for picture-taking.
Here in Portland where drivers are noted for allowing other drivers to transfer lanes politely (cut into another lane), most everyone was respectful of allowing each family to have their moment with Darth Vader (yes, Darth Vader in person!), as well as other costumed charcters, for a special once in a lifetime photograph. Darth was very accommodating either choking your throat, or battling you with a light saber or just standing next to you looking tall and menacing!!! Your choice!!! Star Troopers were aplenty as were other notable characters.
Portland Firefly felt that these exhibits were worth the price of admission. But wait…. she has yet to enter the arena and take her seat….
The show consists of a full symphony orchestra with choir performing the music from the six Star Wars movies all composed by one of my favorite screen composers John Williams. Then you add an enormous high definition movie screen behind the orchestra and project scenes from the six movies that accompany the music.
The lights dim, and the orchestra plays the THX theme and a brief overture. The audience applauds wildly. We loved it.
That was the expectation but that wasn’t enough for the show’s producers…. Oh, no. The show had not really begun yet because the narrator was yet to be introduced. When the narrator was introduced, the crowd really went wild. It was Anthony Daniels –The actor who played C-3PO!! What can I say? A beloved character anyway, he was the perfect choice to narrate each upcoming vignette.
Portland Firefly did happen to notice that as the audience was applauding the orchestra after their superb playing of the ‘cantina’ theme that the Conductor was also applauding the orchestra. That was the only time I saw him do that. So he was pleased as well and I couldn’t help but to wonder that they must have had a difficult rehearsal!!
No one was ready to go home after the performance and the deafening applause was rewarded with a wonderful encore! We left satisfied but still wanting more!!! It was a wonderful event ~ not perfect, there is some room for improvement~ totally suitable for children of all ages –well maybe over 5.
My advice is … if you are even thinking of getting a ticket, just do it! You will not regret the decision. May the force be with you……
10.13.09
Highest Duty
William Morrow, 340 pp., $25.00
Captain Sullenberger, the pilot who safely landed the plane on the Hudson River on January 15, 2009 has written a book which was released today. His book is titled ‘Highest Duty’ and is autobiographical as well as telling the remarkable story of Flight 1549. I think that it is a must read for anyone who flies regularly. But Portland Firefly wants to read because, lets face it, Sully is just such a likeable person and I want to read his story.
10.11.09
Columbus Day ~ October 12th
Tomorrow, Monday, October 12th is Columbus Day. The United States celebrates this anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in America, (which occurred on October 12, 1492 in the Julian Calendar and October 21, 1492 in the modern Gregorian Calendar) as an official holiday. The day is celebrated as Columbus Day in the United States and as Día de la Raza (Day of the Race) in many Latin American countries.
This is yet another reason to proudly fly your American flag all day long.
10.09.09
Craig’s Listings
Occasionally, Portland Firefly will look at the offerings on Craig’s List. The other night, I decided to look over the Best of Craigs List. I was not disappointed….
If you want a few good laughs, go to these posts. Since I strive to keep my blog clean I have only included posts that I feel would be inoffensive. They might offend someone, but not anyone that reads this blog!!!! FYI, there are some crude posts on CL, so beware. But if you click on just the following links you will avoid the crude ones …. so enjoy!
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/pdx/1260502759.html Ashley’s bike
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/phx/1258405496.html pope hats
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/nsh/1211169953.html Yard Swing
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/boi/1216927732.html cockroaches
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/den/1182988320.html free
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/hou/1290743016.html chickens
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/mad/1299168393.html pet ad
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sfo/1288922120.html Prius
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/stl/1279187759.html Garage Sale etiquette
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sea/1264528443.html apology to seniors & veterans
http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/lou/1270822318.html Whale-mobile
I hope some of these make you laugh as they did Portland Firefly. Enjoy!!
10.08.09
Great News
Portland Firefly has some very good news ….. in fact Portland Firefly has some great news to share with everyone!!!
This week, at my regularly scheduled appointment, my Doctor gave me the option of not having any more Chemo at all or continuing with what is termed ‘maintance Chemotherapy’. In any event I have at least one month without Chemotherapy to think about it. Yea!!!!!
I was so nauseated last session with just one drug, and every time I have Chemo, the side effects become more intense. I am so-o-o-o happy to have the option of not having to put poison into my body for a while.
Right now I would like to think ~and sometimes I do~ that I am cured. But intellectually I know the cold hard facts of this horrible cancer and I know that the possibility of recurrence is very real. The only variable is when…. it decides to come back. I have put myself on the 7 year (or longer) survival plan. I would be so happy with seven more years. But right now I am thrilled with the fact that I’ll most probably definately have the next year!!!
10.05.09
Chemotherapy Room Mural
Chemotherapy Room Mural by PDXFirefly
This is the beautiful mural in the light airy Chemotherapy Room that Portland Firefly has been ‘visiting’ for the last six months. I usually try to sit where I can look at it and relax and contemplate or sleep. I find it very soothing to look at.
10.02.09
The Best of Beauty
Every year Allure Magazine publishes an issue with what they call “The Best of Beauty”. These are new products that the staff and editors at Allure magazine have tried themselves and voted on for inclusion in this annual issue. If you are looking for … say … a new mascara, body lotion, nail polish, etc. you can check their website for their recommended products. At the store, if I see the round red Allure symbol on a product that I am considering purchasing, I always buy it because I feel it has been road tested by my peers and must have a degree of quality to make the cut.
Some of the awarded products that I may purchase this year include the Sallie Hanson Insta-dry nail polish (drys in 1 minute); The Dove Body Wash with Nutrium Moisturizer (people undergoing Chemotherapy have dry skin) and the Georgio Armani Beauty lasting Silk UV foundation
10.01.09
A Strange Dream
This morning I slowly awoke with the remembrance of an unusual dream. In fact I think I was still dreaming as I was coming into consciousness. Maybe I just wanted the dream to continue because it was such an interesting story.
Well, it was interesting to me, because it was about me and I was in the dream. The scene opens in a lovely grassy field where you might have a picnic . Except the feeling was that of a festival. Pretty soon a group of people came into view — they were the festival . The best way I can describe them is that they were like a band of gypsies in appearance – with colorful clothing, dark hair and having strong interesting features. Not fine features that made them pretty, but chiseled, then rounded features that were varied and almost ugly, but not. Their features were strong and rugged and pleasant; the word that best describes them is swarthy. They were dark, strong, rugged and exuding strength. All of which made the men handsome in an extreme way, not in a pretty-boy way.
And they were very strong. The men formed two towers; but towers of men with only one man on the bottom supporting each tower of men. Not only that….the men on the bottom were bent over backward to support the others! I was impressed with their strength! I had to talk to them. And just as our conversation began, I woke up! No, that’s not the whole truth. I woke up just after one of them kissed me on the cheek! Maybe he is my Prince Charming and I am Sleeping Beauty. After all, I did wake up after he kissed me
Ok, I don’t think I even want to know what it means, but you are free to give your opinion! I actually think that they may represent my Nobles, which is what I call my Chemo drugs because my Nobles are strong and powerful and effective! And they are killing my cancer and I love them for that!
09.30.09
Tsunami Advisory
Well, there was an 8.1 earthquake near the island of Samoa in the South Pacific this morning, Tuesday. Now our local Portland news channels are telling us that the Oregon Coast has a Tsunami Advisory in effect until midnight .
They are expecting just a wave increase of only 1-2 feet and strong currents and rip tides along the coast but there can be greater swells in the coves and bays. After the tsunami in Indonesia several years ago, Oregon instituted a method of warning it’s citizens if there was ever the possibility of a tsunami here.
The levels go from the lowest of an Advisory, then a Watch,to the highest and most sever of a Warning.
09.28.09
An Award for Portland Firefly
The other day Portland Firefly received notification that this website received an award! www.PDXFirefly.com was voted by its readers as one of the top 100 blogs in Portland. WOW!!!!
I now have my evening gown on and I am “all dolled up” so I can give my acceptance speech.
” I want to thank everyone who voted for me. This award means a lot to me on several levels. First of all, Portland Firerfly was nominated and balloted by my readers. What a complement that is! Second of all, the people at The Daily Reviewer Selection Committee had to agree with my readers that my blog was worthy to be included in the list of the Top 100. I didn’t even know that balloting was going on but I do strive to have an interesting website of quality articles. I strive to have proper grammar and correct punctuation as I think those are often missing in todays fast-paced world. I also strive to have a ‘clean’ website; there are no ads, no pop-ups and no bad language. Portland Firefly is in very good company because the blogs of two of the local televison station are also included. Portland Firefly is in the same class as the “big boys”!! Again, THANK YOU so much for recognizing my writing as something you enjoy reading. That means a tremendous amount to me. You can see my award at the top of this post. And again, thank you for reading my weblog and I hope you come back frequently.”
The following is a direct quote from The Daily Reviewer website home page.
“The Daily Reviewer selects only the world’s top blogs (and RSS feeds). We sift through thousands of blogs daily to present you the world’s best writers. The blogs that we include are authoritative on their respective niche topics and are widely read. To be included in The Daily Reviewer is a mark of excellence.”
09.27.09
A Healing Crane
Origami Crane by PDXFirefly
A few weeks ago I had another little problem and needed to go for a mammogram and a special sonogram . Everything turned out OK.
The sonogram technician felt compassion for me and made this healing origami crane for me while I was waiting for the results so I could go home. Wasn’t that sweet of her?! I just wanted to share it with you.
09.25.09
Swifts Picnic
Wednesday night, the first full day of Fall was THE perfect time to go and see the migrating Swifts as they flew into the chimney at Chapman School.
We packed up a delicious easy picnic dinner and took our blanket and went to the school in Northwest Portland. There were probably about 1,000 people there. It was a community picnic with blankets spread out everywhere and visitors talking and enjoying their friends and food.
The children were sliding down the very steep hill on cardboard pieces, laughing and interacting with each other in a loving careful way. Young Daddies were helping their little ones slide down the hill and have a good time with the other kids. Other timid or tiny ones just stood at the top of the hill and watched the action, learning how to do the cardboard sliding when they grew bigger!
We arrived early so we could enjoy visiting and dinner well before the swifts arrived to go to sleep in the chimney. About 7:00 pm the birds started arriving and kept flying around the area. One of the more dramatic events always is when “the predators” show up. It was closer to 7:15 when the hawks showed up and provided the crowd with thrilling moments as they flew into the flying flock finding their dinner! The crowd reacts as one person as oohs and ahs escape everyone lips at the same moment as we watch the un-choreographed show. Then all of a sudden the aerial acrobatics cease and the swifts make a last circle around the area and then they just DROP INTO the chimney as they fly over it. It is spectacular to watch and some in the audience even applaud the performance!
Soon it is 7:30, the sun has just set, the last of the birds have gone into their sleeping place and several of us turn our eyes toward the North West sky; you see, on Wednesday night, the International Space Station did a double flyover. The first one was at 7:35 pm and lasted 4 minutes. It only takes a few people to start looking and pointing and soon everyone else is looking skyward too. Another skyward event for the crowd to enjoy ! It was so totally cool.
It is the special moments in our lives that we remember.
This evening was one of those memorable moments for me.
All in all, it was a perfect Portland event on a perfect Portland evening.
http://www.audubonportland.org/local-birding/swiftwatch/swift-watch
10.06.09
The Kindness of Strangers
Posted in Life, Personal, story tagged kindness of strangers, scarf comments at 12:21 am by pdxfirefly
While shopping last week, Portland Firefly was wearing her comfortable scarf wrapped around her head. It is an especially pretty scarf ~ long and soft and muted in color. She was also wearing her newly Saturday Market purchased necklace.
I was concentrating on searching the aisles of Marshall’s ~ a store I had not been in months ~ and I was just enjoying being able to get out again even though I was starting to get tired. A man walked by me and did a casual double take ( I am getting used to them) and said “Your scarf is beautiful.” As I turned full face to look him right in the eyes he said “The way you have it tied is unique and you look stunning, absolutely stunning.” I thanked him and as he was walking away, through the tears in my eyes, I told him “Thank you. You made my day.” As I continued my browsing, the tears came and I thought that he seemed so kind and genuine. I was reminded of the phrase from the play “A Streetcar named Desire” where the heroine says something about relying on the kindness of strangers.
Since I live alone, there is no one around to give me compliments. And I do try hard to look nice whenever I go out. Usually I will get surreptitious stares ~ not malicious~ and wondering looks because of my turbaned head. Little girls especially find looking at my scarf irresistable – turning their heads around even as they are pulled along by their parents. Occasionally a woman will comment on how my scarf has been interestingly tied. But I don’t think I have ever been stopped by a stranger and told that I look stunning.
I thank the kindness of that stranger for that special compliment.
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