October 4, 2011
Drug Shortage Petition
Some of you may know that there is a drug shortage for many cancer treatment drugs. Here is a petition if you want to sign it. After you sign on the petition, it will take you to a page where they ask for a donation. Just close out the window and your petition will be accepted without a donation. Thank you.
Drug Shortage Petition
Many women in treatment for ovarian cancer have been affected by the drug shortage.
In an effort to foster action, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance has put together a petition.
Please click on the link below to view and sign the petition.
October 2, 2011
The Hungry Hawk
As you know I love to go and watch the Swifts at Chapman School. The nightly show is a Portland exclusive and a special tradition! Every fall, I try to go at least once; and it is usually only once a year. But this year it is different. My PEO Chapter attended earlier in September however my family couldn’t come that night. So last night the family (and a few friends) went to see the spectacular air show by natures creatures.
There were a lot of birds early in September, but not as many as there were last night! Also the first time we went this year, we never saw one raptor (hawk) getting his dinner. But last night was a different story! It was more fun last night because there was more action.
The Vaux Swifts were just beginning to fly down the famous Chapman School chimney when the crowd saw the big black bird come swooping into the flock of Swifts. The crowd ‘oohed’ in unison as the flock scattered in the air. Disoriented, the hawk kept flying then disappeared. But only for a while. Soon he was back for another try. No luck this time either. And it actually looked as if the flock of tiny Swifts were chasing that big old black hawk away! They circled and dodged each other for many enchanting seconds. Then nothing and the crowd went back to watching the birds fly into the chimney.
And then I felt it…. at the same time I saw it … the Hawk was on a diving run and just a few feet right over my head! Zoom! I think I heard the rush of wind on his wings he was so close to us on this dive bomb run! Again it looked as if he missed.
Ah. But Mr. Hawk was still hungry and was not about to give up. The crowd was in for two or three more thrilling hunting passes. The flock scattering each time. Finally the hawk gave up (did he get his fill?) and the last of the little Swifts went into the chimney for their nightly rest. The crowd applauded in joy and appreciation and collected their picnic baskets, blankets and trash and headed home with smiles on their faces.
September 29, 2011
Coffee Day
Today is National Coffee Day. Several chains including 7-Eleven and Krispy Kreme are giving away free coffee today. Enjoy!!!
September 28, 2011
The Quarter under the Hedge
Early in the summer, one of my neighbors had a garage sale. Of course I attended and actually purchased several boxes of beautiful note cards since I write a lot of thank you nots. As we were leaving the sale , I noticed something shiny in the gravel next to the hedge. As I looked at it more carefully and intently, I realized that it was half of a shiny quarter ticking out of the gravel/dirt. Since my arms were full of my new purchases, I told the owner about the quarter. As she came over to look at it, I left assuming that she would pick it up. A few days later, I saw it again; I guess she didn’t pick it up. Now on my daily walks, I try to look for the quarter at least once a week. After several months, it is still there!!! It is sort of like a treasure hunt on my walk, just to look and see if it is still in its special spot!
September 23, 2011
Doggie Diary – Dog Sharing
Since I have been feeling well these last several weeks, I have tried to get a lot done. This often means going to stores and (since I am looking to change my living situation) and apartments/condos. It is difficult to get much done with doggie in tow. Two weeks ago I had a conversation with my neighbor where he indicated to me that they would love to adopt a little dog, but because his wife is blind ( and some other items) this particular shelter refused!!??? They are a wonderful retired couple and so I asked if they would like to have Mercedes for a few hours while I went to the store or other errands where she couldn’t ride along. They were really excited at the idea and so Mercedes has been at their house several time the last few weeks. It is a win/win/win situation as far as I am concerned! And all this came from a casual conversation between neighbors!
September 14, 2011
Arsenic in Apple Juice
Today, Dr. Oz’s show focused on the amount of arsenic in Apple juice. Yes, the poison ~Arsenic~ in the juice that we give to our little ones!
The results are astounding! Most of the juices are made from apple juice concentrate. And the majority of them use concentrate from CHINA, which has no controls over the amount of arsenic allowed in products. The concentrate is shipped to the US in big barrels and the US companies are mixing it up with water. After it is boxed up it is sold in our grocery stores and served to our children. It is not tested by the FDA to my knowledge.
Arsenic is a toxic poison. Extreme amounts can cause death. Smaller amounts can damage individual DNA, cause cancer, brain problems, and other things. Not what we want for our children!
Usually apple juice that is made from concentrat from the United States is safe. Be sure to do your homework regarding this issue…
10 parts of arsenic per billion parts is what is allowed by the USDA. Dr. Oz had several products tested from grocery stores all over the US. I know that you have had at least one of these and most probably so has your child!
Minute Maid 2 – 3 parts
Apple & Evie 3-11 parts
Motts 4-16 parts
Juicy Juice 2 – 22 parts
Gerber 6 – 36 parts
For more info go to: www.doctoroz.com
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September 8, 2011
Fly Your Flag September 11
This Sunday is the 10th anniversary of September 11th. I already have my American flag flying.
Today, I went to Dollar tree and purchased 8 small flags on a stick. Tomorrow, we will put them in the front yard of my neighbors houses. I want everyone to remember and honor the lessons of that day! The Portland Port of Authority has lined Airport Way, the road leading to the airport, with large American flags. I bet it is beautiful!
Fly Your Flag!
Swift Watch 2011
Well, September is the time of year to pack up a picnic dinner, take the kids and head out to Chapman School in NorthEast Portland to watch the swifts as they perform their aerial show before they go to roost in the school’s old chimney. Now through the end of September is the best time to go….
Will you see me there???
September 6, 2011
Nostalia Gum
OK, so I am checking out at Bi-Mart after getting my 30 Seconds Cleaner and I am just about finished with my transaction when I see it. The little cardboard display stand focusing my attention on Nostalgia Gum! Yes, there they are … the burnt orange colored wrappers of Clove gum, the blue wrappers of Black Jack gun and then the white wrappers encasing (my favorite) Beamens! I purchased one of each and had black gum in my mouth before I exited the check-out stand! Mu-m-m-m, it had the same licorice flavor that my 7 year old brain remembered! This non-gum-chewer will treat herself to a piece every day!
Do you remember Black Jack, Clove & Beamens?
September 5, 2011
Labor Day, 2011
I hope that you all enjoy this National Holiday and that you are flying your flag today!!!!
July 15, 2011
Sand in the City
Sand in the City, sponsored by Koin chanel 6 is underway at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland, Oregon! It starts today ~ Friday~ and continues through Sunday afternoon, 7/17/11. There is a small admission charge which benfits Impact Northwest.
Friday, July 15th, 9:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, July 16th, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday, July 17th, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For more information go to: http://www.sandinthecitypdx.com/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=462136&lis=1&kntae462136=985942A9029643B593E9E9C728CBF238
July 5, 2011
Happy Summer
The weathermen here in Portland have a saying: “Summer doesn’t begin here until July 5th!”
This year the saying proved to be ture. Well actually it stopped raining here around June 3oth; July 1st was beautiful and it stayed a little cloudy on July 2nd. By the Fourth of July we were at 80+ degrees and today, July 5th, it’s back up in the 80′s.
And now comes the complaining…. Portlanders are so used to cool cloudy days that we complain when it gets about 78 degrees because now it is — you guessed it –TOO HOT!
I remember something that occured just after I moved to Portland from the midwest which is famous for its seasonal weather extremes. I was waiting in line at the checkout counter at my local grocery store . The clerk at the checkout counter had initiated a conversation about the weather by stating to the man in front of me in line “Everyone is wearing coats and hats and gloves today. Is it cold out?” His comment was “Yes, it is really cold out. I hope it doesn’t last long because everyone is freezing.”
I was wearing my lightweight midwest winter coat and didn’t feel the need to wear gloves or a hat for this trip to the grocery store so I was interested in the comment. As I went outside into the 38-40 degree air I remember thinking ”if this is freezing cold here in Portland, I am really going to be happy here!” And I have been.
Except now I have become used to the mild temps here and so the heat today (84) is hotter than I like. Well, I do have another reason to not like the heat. It is this new Chemo drug that I am on. Doxil. I cannot go into the sun at all without sunscreen on or my skin will blister. This has presented a challeng when driving, so I keep a quilt in the car and use it to cover up my arms when I am driving if the sun is shining on my hands and arms. But at least I am not over fatigued as I was with the Carbo/taxol drugs.
And so Happy summer! Be sure to wear susnscreen!!!
June 24, 2011
Portland American Idol Auditions
Season 11 American Idol Auditions will be held in Portland, Oregon on July 2, 2011 at the Rose Garden Arena. No Overnight Camping Allowed; but Transit/Max service available.
Registration is on Thursday, June 30th and Friday, July 1st, 2011. Wristbands will be distributed to auditioners during pre-registration (tables open Thursday and remain open until Saturday morning). Once auditioners obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to the stadium early morning Saturday, July 2 to line up for their audition.
Two valid forms of ID are required (see rules) and must be shown every time i.e. registration & actual audition. Those under 18 MUST have a legal parent or guardian present in addition to the valid ID.
You have less than one week to get your wonderful voice in ‘audition shape’, so get practicing!!!
FAQ: http://media.americanidol.com/forms/season_11/ai11_faqs.pdf
Required Release Form (print, fill out and bring with you): http://media.americanidol.com/forms/season_11/ai11_releases.pdf
Read the Rules: http://media.americanidol.com/forms/season_11/ai11_rules.pdf
Public Transportation Info: http://trimet.org/ Rose Quarter Transit Center. The Rose Quarter Transit Center is located across from the Rose Garden Arena. It is in Zone 1.
Please note that Portland is considered the City of Roses due to the many beautiful rose gardens in our city. The auditions are held at the Rose Garden ARENA. If you search Rose Garden, you will end up at one of our illustrious city’s beautiful Rose Gardens, but will not be at the AI Auditions! Stop and Smell the Roses!
And GOOD LUCK, PORTLAND!!!!
June 2, 2011
Dog vs Cat
Why are the rules different for dogs and cats? When I walk my dog, I always take a ‘poopy bag’ with me and I pick up after my dog. But all of my neighbors are allowed to let their cats (about 6 of them) roam around in my yard and ‘do their business’ in my yard without even the slightest twinge of conscience. I am sick and tired of smelly c-s on my property! And they upset my sweet little dog!
May 28, 2011
Happy Memorial Day Weekend
This is the weekend to break out the barbeque grill and lawn games. Be sure to fly your American Flag as well!
March 27, 2011
Shop for a Cure
March 18, 2011
Abby’s Closet
The mission of Abby’s Closet is to inspire confidence and respect in high school women by providing free formal gowns for prom and other memorable events.
The “7th Annual Abby’s Closet Prom Gown Giveaway” will be held on April 2-3, 2011 at the DoubleTree Hotel Exhibit Hall-Lloyd Center. All high school women are invited to attend to receive a FREE gown (just need to show a high school ID). Hope to see you there! For more information, click HERE.
By the way, Abby’s Closet also accepts donations of wearable gowns of all styles and sizes. Go to the website to donate. http://www.abbyscloset.org
March 16, 2011
St. Patrick’s Day
Ah, tomorrow morning is the day to say, “Top o’ the Morning to ye.” I hope you all have a very Happy St. Patrick’s Day and enjoy the parade and the corned beef and cabbage and colcannon.
Here is the link to a colcannon (mashed potatoes & cabbage) recipe: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tylers-ultimate/colcannon-recipe/index.html
March 15, 2011
KGW Raptor Cam 2011
The Hawks laid their eggs on March 6, 2011. Their nest is on a ledge of a downtown Portland building and this can be pretty cool to watch especially after the chicks hatch. Here is the link to their live web cam: http://www.kgw.com/lifestyle/raptor-cam
Enjoy!!
March 11, 2011
Daylight Savings Time 2011
Daylight Savings Time begins tomorrow on Saturday night, March 12, 2011. This is when we turn our clocks ahead one hour. Spring Forward, Fall Back.
So before you go to sleep on Saturday night, move all of your clock ahead 1 hour. So, if you are changing your clocks at 10:00 pm, you will move them to 11:00 pm. You moved the clocks ahead 1 hour and you just lost an hour of sleep! So get in bed and sleep fast!
March 10, 2011
Renovation & Remodeling Show 2011
The Portland Renovation & Remodeling Show is this weekend March 11 – 13th, 2011 at the Portland Memorial Coliseum.
Fri. 2pm-8pm, Sat. 10am-7pm, Sun. 11am-5pm
Portland Renovation & Remodeling Show is the premiere event in the building and construction industry dedicated solely to the remodeling industry. This is the only national event that brings remodelers, custom builders, residential architects, and designers together to meet face to face with top manufacturers to preview innovative products, information, tools & services.
March 9, 2011
Lent Begins
“Ash Wednesday” by Carl Spitzweg: the end of Carnival.
Today is Ash Wednesday — the end of Carnivale and the beginning of the Lenten season. The word Lent comes from the idea that the days are now begining to ”lengthen”. And here in Oregon, that is only good news!
Lent is the 46 days prior to Easter — 40 days if you do not count the Sundays – and is actually determined by the date of Easter. Now…determining the date of Easter… that is a complicated and interesting formula which I’ll go into in a later post.
For more than you ever thought you wanted to know about Lent go to these two web sites! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lent and http://www.cin.org/users/james/files/lent.htm
March 8, 2011
Shrove Tuesday
Today is Shrove Tuesday also known as Mardi Gras and is the day before Lent starts on Ash Wednesday.
Mardi Gras Masks by PDXFireflyMardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday and it is the day before the Lenten Season begins with Ash Wednesday.
March 4, 2011
Doggie Diary II
Back home on Monday afternoon, I decided to take a little rest after my long trek over the hill. “Well, I’ve been gone all day,” I thought. “So I’ll just check my email real quick before I lay down.” Nothing there so I decided to look at the Oregon Humans Society’s web site to see if perhaps a cute little ball of fluff came in.
I actually had my hand on the mouse to close out the site as I was quickly scrolling to the bottom of the last page – disappointed but glad to be able to take a little rest. AND …. there she was ! ….. second from the bottom. Suzy. A ball of white fluff with two eyes in there somewhere behind the cute little black nose. My heart started beating faster, my mind racing, trying to figure out if she really was available and now what do I do to get her?
I went back and reread her bio, jotted down her ID number, clicked around the site to find the phone number and called the shelter. Yes she is available, just came in today, there are no holds on her. I decided to go and see her, but the shelter is on the other side of town and now it is rush hour.
Grabbing a very quick bite of early dinner, and refilling my water bottle, I rechecked the directions and got in the car. She was still available when I arrived and she & I had a ‘meet and greet’ in a large private room designed for just that purpose. She was perfect! Since she had not been spayed yet, I couldn’t take her home that day but I could put a non-refundable deposit to hold her until she could go home. I knew that I would change her name since she was going to have a new life . I watched her carefully during our time together and when I called out the name ‘Mercedes’ she stopped her explorations and looked right at me! So that was settled, her name is Mercedes. She is a Bichon Frise which is the breed of dog that the Spanish explorers would take with them on long voyages and they are often pictured in Goya’s paintings of Spanish Royalty. And so my new little doggie has a beautiful Spanish name to go with her beautiful spirit. I immediately paid the additional $15.00 fee and signed the papers and told her that I’d see her the next day. And I left. I was tired when I arrived home.
The next day, Tuesday, I kept my promise and drove the 60 miles to see her again. But she wasn’t in her kennel when I arrived. My Motherly instincts kicked in and I went back to the front desk to find out where she was. She was on a ‘meet and greet’ with another family! I was so upset… She is my dog! They informed me that until she is formally adopted after her surgery that they can still continue to ‘show’ her and can also put two more ‘holds’ on her. When the attendant opened the door to the room that she was in (with the other family!), I said “There she is; that’s her!” Guess who came trotting over to the doorway? Mercedes. Yes, I am sure that she remembered my voice from the day before! She is a very smart dog! I told the attendant “Please tell that family not to get too attached to her. She is my dog and she WILL be going home with ME as soon as she can leave.” That dog was not going to go home with anyone but me!
I waited for the other family to be finished with MY DOG, and then I got to sit with her again and hold her and sing to her and talk to her. We had some more bonding time together and I got a lot of my questions answered. I told her goodby and the next time I’d see her, she would be going home with me. “Now get in your bed and go to sleep, Mercedes. I’ll pick you up on Thursday.” She had surgery scheduled for Wednesday and I would not be able to see her that day as she would need to rest quietly ‘in the back’ that day and night. I could complete the adoption process when I came to get her on Thursday.
March 1, 2011
Free Pancakes
Today, March 1, 2011 is National Pancake Day. To celebrate this day, IHop is giving away a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes until close tonight 10:00 pm. They are asking for a donation to Dornbecker Children’s Hospital in Portland and I believe that they will be taking donations for other childrens hospitals throughout the United States.
For the location nearest to you go to : www.ihop.com
