New Brighton, MN
Hello,
Lexi has spent play time with the great granddaughter of the next door neighbor. This girl told me she was going into 6th grade. On weekends she spends quite a bit of time with great grandma and other adult relatives. I am impressed at how well she has taken to Lexi considering the age difference.
Most of the people in the neighborhood seem quite friendly and ready to get to know people. One guy even walked across the street to introduce himself. Sometimes I think that people in the small towns believe people in cities are not friendly, but it is not true. Many people greeted us as we walked. Maybe it is that there are more people outside. Many walk or use public transportation so that gets them outside of their cars. Perhaps they do not even have cars.
There was one strong storm system while we were there. It blew down trees and power lines. When Sarah got to daycare she found that it was closed because they were without power. Luckily Leroy and I were home so we could have Lexi spend the day with us. Some things just work out for good.
We were able to help Sarah shorten her blinds in the basement. We also shortened the wand that is used to change the slat angle. The great thing is that it was simple to do. That is often true if you just know what to do. She was so excited about how nice it looked with the curtains that Stephen’s mother made from material purchased in Scotland. It feels good to be able to assist someone. We still have some value. I thought (at age 10) I would be old and barely alive by the year 2000 and now I am going into the second decade. And I still feel quite fine, wrinkled but fine.
Paula
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Coming back to MN on the plane
New Brighton, MN
Hello,
Sarah said, “The metro starts running at 5:15, but I think it would be ok to get there on the 5:35 am train so you would be there by six.” The plane was leaving at 7:00 am.
We planned on that when we went to bed. Even though we had set an alarm, I checked the time at 12:30, 3:30 and 4:00. Leroy was awake too so we just got up at 4:30 and got out of the house by 5:13. One of the gates at the Metro was locked so we had to cross the street and go down over there. We got on the Metro at 5:20 arrived at the airport at 5:45 as light was just coming to the sky. Then the search was on for the shuttle stop so we could travel to another terminal.
In the proper place we did not need to stop for the boarding pass because Sarah had printed them for us, but headed straight to the security check. There were a number of people ahead of us. After a while Leroy commented, “We picked the slow line.”
Others seemed to be zipping past while we waited patiently. It seemed that every flight attendant and pilot preferred our line. They go to the front of the line and that is ok, but I wish they had alternated lines.
Would you believe that as I left the security check I did not pick up one of my bags? Luckily Leroy was behind me and he took it as well as his own.
By the time we got up to the gate they were boarding the plane. I wear a belt bag, carry on a smaller bag that has reading materials and snacks, and have one larger, but not large, bag to put in the overhead bin. There was a woman behind me who was asked to take off her belt bag. She said my belt bag was larger than hers. How I got by with it I am not sure, but I have never had anyone comment on it. I will continue to wear it, and leave room in one of the other bags so I could tuck it in if needed. Only two bags are allowed, one in the bin and one under the set in front of you.
Paula
Hello,
Sarah said, “The metro starts running at 5:15, but I think it would be ok to get there on the 5:35 am train so you would be there by six.” The plane was leaving at 7:00 am.
We planned on that when we went to bed. Even though we had set an alarm, I checked the time at 12:30, 3:30 and 4:00. Leroy was awake too so we just got up at 4:30 and got out of the house by 5:13. One of the gates at the Metro was locked so we had to cross the street and go down over there. We got on the Metro at 5:20 arrived at the airport at 5:45 as light was just coming to the sky. Then the search was on for the shuttle stop so we could travel to another terminal.
In the proper place we did not need to stop for the boarding pass because Sarah had printed them for us, but headed straight to the security check. There were a number of people ahead of us. After a while Leroy commented, “We picked the slow line.”
Others seemed to be zipping past while we waited patiently. It seemed that every flight attendant and pilot preferred our line. They go to the front of the line and that is ok, but I wish they had alternated lines.
Would you believe that as I left the security check I did not pick up one of my bags? Luckily Leroy was behind me and he took it as well as his own.
By the time we got up to the gate they were boarding the plane. I wear a belt bag, carry on a smaller bag that has reading materials and snacks, and have one larger, but not large, bag to put in the overhead bin. There was a woman behind me who was asked to take off her belt bag. She said my belt bag was larger than hers. How I got by with it I am not sure, but I have never had anyone comment on it. I will continue to wear it, and leave room in one of the other bags so I could tuck it in if needed. Only two bags are allowed, one in the bin and one under the set in front of you.
Paula
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Driving Travel Tales
?Iowa
Hello,
Leroy is having an interview for an interim church position in Iowa. I believe that he does not want me to tell where it is so I am being circumspect. It is far enough that we are staying overnight and I just came along to help with driving. I am not so sure that I was much help. I missed the road in one city, thought I could go back the way I wanted by going around the cloverleaf, but the fourth loop was not there. Consequently we had to drive a little way to get turned around. Then at another point I realized I needed to be in the left lane, signaled, pulled in front of a semi, looked in the rear view mirror to see that this large red truck was bearing down on us. Luckily the brakes and driver worked efficiently. He managed to not get to know us more intimately.
Later on he passed me so I pointed out to Leroy that that was the truck I was talking about. Leroy commented, “It says on the door that it contains explosives.”
We could not imagine what type since it seemed to be a truck that would have liquids, but we are doubly grateful for all the good truck drivers out there. Our lives depend on others much of the time.
Leroy pulled off the divided highway to call the church contact person only to find that we could not be back on. Nervous Leroy yelled at me because he could not understand what I was saying about the map directions. He also does not know north and south, I do, but I switch numbers around. We make great travel companions. When we were back on the proper road Leroy quickly apologized. As I said, “Not a problem as I know you are tense.” We laughed a little and the air was cleared.
Paula
Hello,
Leroy is having an interview for an interim church position in Iowa. I believe that he does not want me to tell where it is so I am being circumspect. It is far enough that we are staying overnight and I just came along to help with driving. I am not so sure that I was much help. I missed the road in one city, thought I could go back the way I wanted by going around the cloverleaf, but the fourth loop was not there. Consequently we had to drive a little way to get turned around. Then at another point I realized I needed to be in the left lane, signaled, pulled in front of a semi, looked in the rear view mirror to see that this large red truck was bearing down on us. Luckily the brakes and driver worked efficiently. He managed to not get to know us more intimately.
Later on he passed me so I pointed out to Leroy that that was the truck I was talking about. Leroy commented, “It says on the door that it contains explosives.”
We could not imagine what type since it seemed to be a truck that would have liquids, but we are doubly grateful for all the good truck drivers out there. Our lives depend on others much of the time.
Leroy pulled off the divided highway to call the church contact person only to find that we could not be back on. Nervous Leroy yelled at me because he could not understand what I was saying about the map directions. He also does not know north and south, I do, but I switch numbers around. We make great travel companions. When we were back on the proper road Leroy quickly apologized. As I said, “Not a problem as I know you are tense.” We laughed a little and the air was cleared.
Paula
Life in DC
New Brighton, MN
Hello,
In DC, we went out for lunch with Stephen an Sarah on Friday. The falafel restaurant was close to both of their offices. Leroy and I did a good job making our way downtown to Sarah’s office. It was such a good job that we did not need to ask for directions. We have learned something.
This little restaurant is so popular that we had to stand in line in the heat outside the building before we could even order. Then we took it back and ate in Sarah’s office lunch room. The falafel was quite good. I have not had any in the last year or two so it was a treat.
From there Leroy and I went on to the National Geographic exhibit that had the theme of inventions for the 90% (or something like that). The idea is that most of the inventions in this world are for the 10% of the industrialized, rich portion of the population. This display highlighted what is being done in recent years for the 90%. Some of the things were excellent for improving the quality of life of many people in an inexpensive and doable manner.
There was another exhibit in the building on Leonardo Da’Vinci. We viewed that also even though we had gone to a similar, but different traveling exhibit in Bratislava. The differences were more than just the language. In Bratislava it was labeled with at least three languages including English, in the US there was only English. There was also a part that you could touch and try to operate the inventions in the DC show. All in all it was well worth the time spent for a repeat, but not totally recalled visit.
Paula
Hello,
In DC, we went out for lunch with Stephen an Sarah on Friday. The falafel restaurant was close to both of their offices. Leroy and I did a good job making our way downtown to Sarah’s office. It was such a good job that we did not need to ask for directions. We have learned something.
This little restaurant is so popular that we had to stand in line in the heat outside the building before we could even order. Then we took it back and ate in Sarah’s office lunch room. The falafel was quite good. I have not had any in the last year or two so it was a treat.
From there Leroy and I went on to the National Geographic exhibit that had the theme of inventions for the 90% (or something like that). The idea is that most of the inventions in this world are for the 10% of the industrialized, rich portion of the population. This display highlighted what is being done in recent years for the 90%. Some of the things were excellent for improving the quality of life of many people in an inexpensive and doable manner.
There was another exhibit in the building on Leonardo Da’Vinci. We viewed that also even though we had gone to a similar, but different traveling exhibit in Bratislava. The differences were more than just the language. In Bratislava it was labeled with at least three languages including English, in the US there was only English. There was also a part that you could touch and try to operate the inventions in the DC show. All in all it was well worth the time spent for a repeat, but not totally recalled visit.
Paula
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Lancaster Talk
New Brighton, MN
Hello,
We have returned to MN, but you will hear about one more things from PA. Our hosts had sponsored a family from Cambodia and we were privileged to meet them in their home. The woman showed me all of her plants; some familiar and some not. She includes more flowers, leaves, and stems in cooking than I would have thought possible. Her tip about the safety of a plant is that if it turns the rice yellow it is poison. Survival skill number 601? When our Laotian family was with us she smelled everything and declared it good or not good to eat. We are missing out on knowing how to get along in the world that we have been given.
Janet especially likes soft shelled crab. I think I would have liked it better if I had not had to see it being cooked. Leroy and I shared one and we did not quite get it all down. Such landlocked people as we are do not know how to appreciate the finer things in the sea. We did, however, enjoy the crab cakes. They were a remembered treat. Perhaps we like our meat disembodied and disguised.
Leaving these wonderful people was a bit hard. We might not get back for a long time or maybe not again, knowing that made it seem more permanent.
It was also hard to get on the bus as it was not on time. First a half hour delay was announced, then extended to one hour, and then cancelled. The next bus came in 2.5 hours. We were grateful that we had an air conditioned place to wait, a source of information, and a toilet. Our supply of reading material was quite limited so we had to seek entertainment from our imaginations, imperfections in the floor, or by observing the population around us.
Paula
Hello,
We have returned to MN, but you will hear about one more things from PA. Our hosts had sponsored a family from Cambodia and we were privileged to meet them in their home. The woman showed me all of her plants; some familiar and some not. She includes more flowers, leaves, and stems in cooking than I would have thought possible. Her tip about the safety of a plant is that if it turns the rice yellow it is poison. Survival skill number 601? When our Laotian family was with us she smelled everything and declared it good or not good to eat. We are missing out on knowing how to get along in the world that we have been given.
Janet especially likes soft shelled crab. I think I would have liked it better if I had not had to see it being cooked. Leroy and I shared one and we did not quite get it all down. Such landlocked people as we are do not know how to appreciate the finer things in the sea. We did, however, enjoy the crab cakes. They were a remembered treat. Perhaps we like our meat disembodied and disguised.
Leaving these wonderful people was a bit hard. We might not get back for a long time or maybe not again, knowing that made it seem more permanent.
It was also hard to get on the bus as it was not on time. First a half hour delay was announced, then extended to one hour, and then cancelled. The next bus came in 2.5 hours. We were grateful that we had an air conditioned place to wait, a source of information, and a toilet. Our supply of reading material was quite limited so we had to seek entertainment from our imaginations, imperfections in the floor, or by observing the population around us.
Paula
Monday, July 26, 2010
Amish Visit
Washington DC
Hello,
Another retrospective on Lancaster time is coming your way. Years ago Janet taught school, including some Amish children. She has remained friends with some of the families. So we headed deep into Amish country on winding, hilly, and narrow roads to spend a wonderful and interesting afternoon with one of their friends.
The home looked much like any single family home that you might be used to, just no electricity. In spite of the heat it was cool and dark with no lights on and clouds in the sky. She was working on the “ugliest quilt” she had ever done. It was composed of all the old scrapes that she and others had lying around. It was truly a crazy quilt. The colors were not ugly just disorganized, but the pieces fit together well making a nice rectangle.
Then she opened up a quilt that was more her specialty. It had a star pattern that, if I recall correctly, was called the broken star. It was quite beautiful. I believe it was going to be sold for a charity that they support.
These people were old enough that they were retired, but they still had a sizable garden from which they generously shared some corn and tomatoes.
They had a map on which they had marked all of the Amish settlements that they personally knew about. Chariton, IA was on there, but no mark was there for NE IA where I know there are a number of families. Perhaps they are from a different part of the family tree.
Talking, laughing, and finding commonality was the sum of the visit. I am grateful for this experience.
Paula
Hello,
Another retrospective on Lancaster time is coming your way. Years ago Janet taught school, including some Amish children. She has remained friends with some of the families. So we headed deep into Amish country on winding, hilly, and narrow roads to spend a wonderful and interesting afternoon with one of their friends.
The home looked much like any single family home that you might be used to, just no electricity. In spite of the heat it was cool and dark with no lights on and clouds in the sky. She was working on the “ugliest quilt” she had ever done. It was composed of all the old scrapes that she and others had lying around. It was truly a crazy quilt. The colors were not ugly just disorganized, but the pieces fit together well making a nice rectangle.
Then she opened up a quilt that was more her specialty. It had a star pattern that, if I recall correctly, was called the broken star. It was quite beautiful. I believe it was going to be sold for a charity that they support.
These people were old enough that they were retired, but they still had a sizable garden from which they generously shared some corn and tomatoes.
They had a map on which they had marked all of the Amish settlements that they personally knew about. Chariton, IA was on there, but no mark was there for NE IA where I know there are a number of families. Perhaps they are from a different part of the family tree.
Talking, laughing, and finding commonality was the sum of the visit. I am grateful for this experience.
Paula
Sunday, July 25, 2010
More Lancaster Tales
Washington DC
Hello,
Of course we had to go to church where Leroy Interned. The street looked much the same. We had lived in the house next door, so it was definitely going home. It is one of 12 homes that we have lived in during our 39 years of marriage. I think we should be turtles and just carry home with us. It would be easier, but not as interesting or exciting. We could not have learned so much about neighbors, plumbing, and ants.
Because it has been 36 years since we worshiped in this place the windows were the same but the people were mostly different. It was good to visit with those few who did know us. Lancaster is also under the 90 degree plus sunshine. It was hot in this large stone church without air conditioning. Do you suppose that heat did not bother me so much then? Or it was not so hot? Or we were more used to the idea of no air conditioning? I could not remember that it had been hot in church, it was just normal.
I realized that I seldom sat in a pew because I sang in the choir. Our spot was in the balcony. That certainly gives a different view to everything. Many of the people in the congregation would have not seen much of me since I was hiding out.
I guess many eastern US city churches are large buildings modeled after those in Europe. Sarah and Stephen’s church also had that look and feel to it.
I see that Iowa had some big rains. It is almost hard to believe such a thing since it is so hot and dry here.
Paula
Hello,
Of course we had to go to church where Leroy Interned. The street looked much the same. We had lived in the house next door, so it was definitely going home. It is one of 12 homes that we have lived in during our 39 years of marriage. I think we should be turtles and just carry home with us. It would be easier, but not as interesting or exciting. We could not have learned so much about neighbors, plumbing, and ants.
Because it has been 36 years since we worshiped in this place the windows were the same but the people were mostly different. It was good to visit with those few who did know us. Lancaster is also under the 90 degree plus sunshine. It was hot in this large stone church without air conditioning. Do you suppose that heat did not bother me so much then? Or it was not so hot? Or we were more used to the idea of no air conditioning? I could not remember that it had been hot in church, it was just normal.
I realized that I seldom sat in a pew because I sang in the choir. Our spot was in the balcony. That certainly gives a different view to everything. Many of the people in the congregation would have not seen much of me since I was hiding out.
I guess many eastern US city churches are large buildings modeled after those in Europe. Sarah and Stephen’s church also had that look and feel to it.
I see that Iowa had some big rains. It is almost hard to believe such a thing since it is so hot and dry here.
Paula
Friday, July 23, 2010
Around Lancaster, PA
Washington DC
Hello,
We have returned to DC, but I still want to report some things from PA. So is that confusing? I never seem to have enough time and energy to write in the spot I am in. This is retrospective; I can hardly tell you about the present.
Last Saturday we visited the central market where we used to shop there 36 years ago. It looked much the same inside even though they were renovating. There is certainly an old world feel to it including no air conditioning, but spoilable foods are refrigerated. We used to walk the mile from our home to the market so we approached it from a different side, consequently the outside did not look so familiar. I now wonder how did we haul our purchases home? Maybe that was training for grocery shopping in Slovakia.
Cup cheese was one of the unique purchases here. It is soft enough that when we bought it in the past it was in big tubs and they would ladle it with a soup ladle. No more is that the case, modernization has come with all available soft spreadable cheese packaged in plastic margarine type containers. No sampling types now. We purchased the medium but believe that in the old days we got the sharp. This was quite bland even though compared to Brie.
Most of the sellers are Amish or Mennonite, with women wearing skirts and small caps while the men would have black pants and beards. Our hosts buy produce from a stand that has served them for about 40 years so they have become friends with new members of the family who come work at the family business.
A tourist market was farther out in the countryside. It featured many of the same vendors, but some additional options for things that might appeal more to the casual visitor to the area. It was more spacious and air conditioned. Better place? I don’t think so.
Paula
Hello,
We have returned to DC, but I still want to report some things from PA. So is that confusing? I never seem to have enough time and energy to write in the spot I am in. This is retrospective; I can hardly tell you about the present.
Last Saturday we visited the central market where we used to shop there 36 years ago. It looked much the same inside even though they were renovating. There is certainly an old world feel to it including no air conditioning, but spoilable foods are refrigerated. We used to walk the mile from our home to the market so we approached it from a different side, consequently the outside did not look so familiar. I now wonder how did we haul our purchases home? Maybe that was training for grocery shopping in Slovakia.
Cup cheese was one of the unique purchases here. It is soft enough that when we bought it in the past it was in big tubs and they would ladle it with a soup ladle. No more is that the case, modernization has come with all available soft spreadable cheese packaged in plastic margarine type containers. No sampling types now. We purchased the medium but believe that in the old days we got the sharp. This was quite bland even though compared to Brie.
Most of the sellers are Amish or Mennonite, with women wearing skirts and small caps while the men would have black pants and beards. Our hosts buy produce from a stand that has served them for about 40 years so they have become friends with new members of the family who come work at the family business.
A tourist market was farther out in the countryside. It featured many of the same vendors, but some additional options for things that might appeal more to the casual visitor to the area. It was more spacious and air conditioned. Better place? I don’t think so.
Paula
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Skunks
Lancaster, PA
Hello,
Leaving the mall and almost hidden in the grass was a black and white animal. Looked almost like a cat. Then it became two animals that actually sported four tails when the group turned away. It was a mama skunk and three babies. They undulated under a fence and disappeared from view. What a treat to see them and not smell them.
In the course of the last few days we have seen three of them flattened on the road. These animals do not have much need to run since they can scare most opponents, consequently they are no match for cars.
In another spot in this beautiful Pennsylvania countryside we saw an Amish team of four mules pulling a machine that picked up the large round bales. After it was securely in place, the bale was wrapped in plastic. I had no idea that the Amish would use such a machine. They seem to just have probation against machine having motors for transportation. This could be a totally inaccurate guess. By the way I call this country beautiful, in part, because it reminds me so much of the NW Illinois landscape where I grew up.
It has been great fun to revisit this area and the people since we have not been here for almost 15 years. More people seem to be on the roads and building houses making it more crowded than we remember.
Paula
Hello,
Leaving the mall and almost hidden in the grass was a black and white animal. Looked almost like a cat. Then it became two animals that actually sported four tails when the group turned away. It was a mama skunk and three babies. They undulated under a fence and disappeared from view. What a treat to see them and not smell them.
In the course of the last few days we have seen three of them flattened on the road. These animals do not have much need to run since they can scare most opponents, consequently they are no match for cars.
In another spot in this beautiful Pennsylvania countryside we saw an Amish team of four mules pulling a machine that picked up the large round bales. After it was securely in place, the bale was wrapped in plastic. I had no idea that the Amish would use such a machine. They seem to just have probation against machine having motors for transportation. This could be a totally inaccurate guess. By the way I call this country beautiful, in part, because it reminds me so much of the NW Illinois landscape where I grew up.
It has been great fun to revisit this area and the people since we have not been here for almost 15 years. More people seem to be on the roads and building houses making it more crowded than we remember.
Paula
Sunday, July 18, 2010
In the Bus
Lancaster, PA
Hello,
In the bus station, just as we were ready to board the bus, an official police guy came up with a dog who sniffed our bags and then my hand. That was a new experience for me. Sometimes I think I will not find anything new and there it is just around the corner.
Considering the bargain this trip is I was saddened to see so few people board the bus, perhaps less than ten. Besides a great cost it only stopped once and would have been about the same two hour time in a car.
Thank goodness that the rain started just as the bus left the station. We had left umbrellas behind to cut weight and stuff to drag around. Why would we take things we did not need in the unrelenting heat and humidity?
We rode through lushly green beautiful rolling hills. I had forgotten how beautiful this area is. How do the trees stay so green when the grass is so brown? Reminds me of northwestern Illinois where I grew up. Just as we were getting close to our destination, “Move, move,” I told Leroy, “It is dripping on me.”
When he moved across the aisle I gratefully slid over beyond the reach of the drip from above. When we took my suitcase from the overhead bin, we could see a damp spot on it too. Poor bus, getting old, tired, and leaky!
What fun to get off the bus and see the Strubes. We did see them about four years ago just after we had returned from Slovakia. Our history together was that John was Leroy’s supervising pastor 36 years ago. We then thought we were striking out into the unknown wilds of the east without realizing that we would one day go even farther. It was a good push out the door of the Midwest even if it did take 25 years to go farther.
Paula
Hello,
In the bus station, just as we were ready to board the bus, an official police guy came up with a dog who sniffed our bags and then my hand. That was a new experience for me. Sometimes I think I will not find anything new and there it is just around the corner.
Considering the bargain this trip is I was saddened to see so few people board the bus, perhaps less than ten. Besides a great cost it only stopped once and would have been about the same two hour time in a car.
Thank goodness that the rain started just as the bus left the station. We had left umbrellas behind to cut weight and stuff to drag around. Why would we take things we did not need in the unrelenting heat and humidity?
We rode through lushly green beautiful rolling hills. I had forgotten how beautiful this area is. How do the trees stay so green when the grass is so brown? Reminds me of northwestern Illinois where I grew up. Just as we were getting close to our destination, “Move, move,” I told Leroy, “It is dripping on me.”
When he moved across the aisle I gratefully slid over beyond the reach of the drip from above. When we took my suitcase from the overhead bin, we could see a damp spot on it too. Poor bus, getting old, tired, and leaky!
What fun to get off the bus and see the Strubes. We did see them about four years ago just after we had returned from Slovakia. Our history together was that John was Leroy’s supervising pastor 36 years ago. We then thought we were striking out into the unknown wilds of the east without realizing that we would one day go even farther. It was a good push out the door of the Midwest even if it did take 25 years to go farther.
Paula
Friday, July 16, 2010
Getting to Lancaster
Lancaster, PA
Hello,
Sarah told us it would take 30 minutes getting from their house to the metro stop closest to the bus station. The bus was leaving at 8:15 am. Instructions from the bus were to be there an hour ahead of time to pick up the tickets. Leroy considered going down the day before so we would not have to go so early in the morning, besides he would then find the location of the station for sure.
With more checking he found that we are not guaranteed a seat, but it is better to come early to make sure of a seat.
Then we thought maybe we should leave their house at 6:00 giving time to just miss a train and wait for the next, go out the wrong side of the metro station and have to walk farther, get lost in the four blocks between the metro station and the bus station. Sarah thought that sounded ridiculously early so we dropped the plan back to 6:15 although I think it was really 6:30 by the time we left.
Even though everything went as planned it was 7:15 by the time we walked into the bus station, DC has long blocks or the Bradway walk is slowing.
The line for will call tickets was unmanned. There was a machine for will call tickets, but it did not respond so we waited in line for the lone agent. She thought we were plenty early. There was a line of suitcases in front of the door we were to go out, but not very many.
Now we could use forty-five minutes to walk, read, or talk. I do believe that homeless/destitute people use this place. In the bathroom there was a woman who was drying a bedspread under the hand dryer. Seemed like an arduous task to me. I prayed for her.
Paula
Hello,
Sarah told us it would take 30 minutes getting from their house to the metro stop closest to the bus station. The bus was leaving at 8:15 am. Instructions from the bus were to be there an hour ahead of time to pick up the tickets. Leroy considered going down the day before so we would not have to go so early in the morning, besides he would then find the location of the station for sure.
With more checking he found that we are not guaranteed a seat, but it is better to come early to make sure of a seat.
Then we thought maybe we should leave their house at 6:00 giving time to just miss a train and wait for the next, go out the wrong side of the metro station and have to walk farther, get lost in the four blocks between the metro station and the bus station. Sarah thought that sounded ridiculously early so we dropped the plan back to 6:15 although I think it was really 6:30 by the time we left.
Even though everything went as planned it was 7:15 by the time we walked into the bus station, DC has long blocks or the Bradway walk is slowing.
The line for will call tickets was unmanned. There was a machine for will call tickets, but it did not respond so we waited in line for the lone agent. She thought we were plenty early. There was a line of suitcases in front of the door we were to go out, but not very many.
Now we could use forty-five minutes to walk, read, or talk. I do believe that homeless/destitute people use this place. In the bathroom there was a woman who was drying a bedspread under the hand dryer. Seemed like an arduous task to me. I prayed for her.
Paula
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Pins At Smithsonian
Lancaster, PA
Hello,
After a good and refreshing lunch at the capitol, Leroy and I stepped out to wade through extreme heat making our way to the Smithsonian Castle. There was a tunnel inside the capitol that directed one to the library of congress. Since I thought the castle and the library were on the same side of the street, I suggested that we go that route.
At the library of congress we had to ask directions to find our way out of the building, but before we could leave they checked the backpack to make sure that we were not taking any books with us, little did they know that we had not even gotten close to any books. I think this was actually the long way outside. Whose dumb idea was this anyway?
On the street directions were not as clear as I had thought they would be, but with street signs, a map, and a question or two we slunk off in the right direction.
This collection of pins was quite interesting with a little expose about how it was acquired, where worn, and the value to Madeleine Albright. Even Leroy found the exhibit interesting. I really did not know much about her public life because I have not followed politics very carefully. Again we learned a few things. One unknown where does she store this extensive gathering of baubles?
Because it took longer to find the castle, blocks are long, heat was intense, and we had no idea of the Metro schedule we did not stay long, but maybe it was just right.
Finding the Metro stop took at least three inquires. We were close, but for some reason did not see the sign. Also at least two people sent us a bit in the wrong direction. At last we were on, got off at daycare, collected Lexi, and got on the bus for home. I thank god I can speak the language of this place.
Paula
Hello,
After a good and refreshing lunch at the capitol, Leroy and I stepped out to wade through extreme heat making our way to the Smithsonian Castle. There was a tunnel inside the capitol that directed one to the library of congress. Since I thought the castle and the library were on the same side of the street, I suggested that we go that route.
At the library of congress we had to ask directions to find our way out of the building, but before we could leave they checked the backpack to make sure that we were not taking any books with us, little did they know that we had not even gotten close to any books. I think this was actually the long way outside. Whose dumb idea was this anyway?
On the street directions were not as clear as I had thought they would be, but with street signs, a map, and a question or two we slunk off in the right direction.
This collection of pins was quite interesting with a little expose about how it was acquired, where worn, and the value to Madeleine Albright. Even Leroy found the exhibit interesting. I really did not know much about her public life because I have not followed politics very carefully. Again we learned a few things. One unknown where does she store this extensive gathering of baubles?
Because it took longer to find the castle, blocks are long, heat was intense, and we had no idea of the Metro schedule we did not stay long, but maybe it was just right.
Finding the Metro stop took at least three inquires. We were close, but for some reason did not see the sign. Also at least two people sent us a bit in the wrong direction. At last we were on, got off at daycare, collected Lexi, and got on the bus for home. I thank god I can speak the language of this place.
Paula
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Capitol Tour
Lancaster, PA
Hello,
You might think I have lost it listing a capitol tour and yet we are in Lancaster. We have traveled here to visit friends, Leroy’s internship supervisor and his wife. That goes back a long ways. We met them 35 or 36 years ago and have not seen them for four year, but it has been 20 years since we have been here.
We went on a capitol tour last Thursday. It was great as we had a personal guide who is on the capitol staff. Sometimes it does make a difference who you know. With Staff clearance I did not have to throw away my metal water bottle as she was allowed to carry it for me. We were cleared to see the excellent informational movie at the first available moment instead of the afternoon as I heard others speak of. We went up the back elevator and ended up in the speaker’s office area where we could view her press conference room. I was impressed that the room was small, but apparently they can squeeze a number of press people in there. After that it was on to the room where joint meetings of congress are held. It was the main floor for us instead of up in the balcony. She showed us where she sits. The head of the pages met with us for a while and in that conversation she suggested that we might like to see the chapel which is not open to the public. Because she has worked there for 20 years she knows a number of people who waved her on through after introductions. Instead of the hour tour we were there for three hours with some of that time spent visiting on the veranda overlooking the city. We have been blessed.
Lunch in the cafeteria was a little out of control. Everything looked good so I went overboard on salad paid for by the ounce. Learned again weights are deceiving.
Tomorrow I will talk about the pins of Madeleine Albright.
Paula
Hello,
You might think I have lost it listing a capitol tour and yet we are in Lancaster. We have traveled here to visit friends, Leroy’s internship supervisor and his wife. That goes back a long ways. We met them 35 or 36 years ago and have not seen them for four year, but it has been 20 years since we have been here.
We went on a capitol tour last Thursday. It was great as we had a personal guide who is on the capitol staff. Sometimes it does make a difference who you know. With Staff clearance I did not have to throw away my metal water bottle as she was allowed to carry it for me. We were cleared to see the excellent informational movie at the first available moment instead of the afternoon as I heard others speak of. We went up the back elevator and ended up in the speaker’s office area where we could view her press conference room. I was impressed that the room was small, but apparently they can squeeze a number of press people in there. After that it was on to the room where joint meetings of congress are held. It was the main floor for us instead of up in the balcony. She showed us where she sits. The head of the pages met with us for a while and in that conversation she suggested that we might like to see the chapel which is not open to the public. Because she has worked there for 20 years she knows a number of people who waved her on through after introductions. Instead of the hour tour we were there for three hours with some of that time spent visiting on the veranda overlooking the city. We have been blessed.
Lunch in the cafeteria was a little out of control. Everything looked good so I went overboard on salad paid for by the ounce. Learned again weights are deceiving.
Tomorrow I will talk about the pins of Madeleine Albright.
Paula
Monday, July 12, 2010
In the Neighborhood
Washington DC
Hello,
Leroy and I walked to the library, a grocery store, and a health food store. Now we have reading material that can keep us entertained and some more vegetables.
We braved the heat the next morning to walk to the Rock Creek Church National cemetery. It was disappointing that the office was closed so we could not learn if there was some information about the place. Washington, Grant, and several others are engraved on pillars, but no indication that they are buried there. This computer is moving slowly so I do not want to take the time to look up anything extra.
At any rate we wandered around and looked at dates. There were some old graves in this place. It was also interesting to note the country of origin.
On the way back to the house we stopped at the Old Soldiers home where Lincoln’s cottage, or summer home, is located. We decided not to spend the money to tour it, but went to the free museum instead. It was quite interesting and informative.
Something I learned is: Lincoln was not advocating for social equality of the races, but only economic or work related equality. He felt that there should not be slaves and that all people should be able to work for their own gain.
I will have to say this was a nice place for a summer home as there were freshening breezes on the top of the hill. As have been all of the people who answer our questions, the staff there was very courteous and helpful. This is a helpful, friendly city. People sitting on their porches greeted us as we went past. Happened almost more than in the small towns, maybe because people in the towns seem to be hiding in air conditioned buildings so they do not see us.
Paula
Hello,
Leroy and I walked to the library, a grocery store, and a health food store. Now we have reading material that can keep us entertained and some more vegetables.
We braved the heat the next morning to walk to the Rock Creek Church National cemetery. It was disappointing that the office was closed so we could not learn if there was some information about the place. Washington, Grant, and several others are engraved on pillars, but no indication that they are buried there. This computer is moving slowly so I do not want to take the time to look up anything extra.
At any rate we wandered around and looked at dates. There were some old graves in this place. It was also interesting to note the country of origin.
On the way back to the house we stopped at the Old Soldiers home where Lincoln’s cottage, or summer home, is located. We decided not to spend the money to tour it, but went to the free museum instead. It was quite interesting and informative.
Something I learned is: Lincoln was not advocating for social equality of the races, but only economic or work related equality. He felt that there should not be slaves and that all people should be able to work for their own gain.
I will have to say this was a nice place for a summer home as there were freshening breezes on the top of the hill. As have been all of the people who answer our questions, the staff there was very courteous and helpful. This is a helpful, friendly city. People sitting on their porches greeted us as we went past. Happened almost more than in the small towns, maybe because people in the towns seem to be hiding in air conditioned buildings so they do not see us.
Paula
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Harper's Ferry
Hello,
I am a little late writing, but on July 5th we visited Harper’s Ferry. It was quite beautiful in the Shenandoah River valley.
I personally learned a lot about John Brown and his philosophies. The culture changed because of him. Whether he did the right thing at the right time is still a matter of opinion. The US armory and munitions factory were there which lured Brown to this site. So I learned some things about that too.
In the afternoon we toured an old church. It was a Catholic church. As we were leaving the guide asked if we were Catholic or Lutheran. Now our question is, “How did he narrow down the choices to those two?” Do we ooze Lutheran philosophy from our pores? We did ask some questions, but it is not clear how those might have tipped him off.
The heat was quite intense so we did cut our visit a bit short as we were wilting. Heat is quite pervasive here. I had no idea I could sweat so much. May be unladylike, but there is no stopping it.
One of the bonuses of this stop was that it is a national park so I was able to get my senior citizens pass. Leroy is just a young thing so he could not get it. I had been wanting that so now it is in hand or rather in my suitcase. The hard part might be having it with me when I want to use it. Because I walk so much I like to keep the load that I carry with me as trimmed down as possible.
Stephen and Sarah thought of going on this outing and I am happy that they did. It was great.
Paula
I am a little late writing, but on July 5th we visited Harper’s Ferry. It was quite beautiful in the Shenandoah River valley.
I personally learned a lot about John Brown and his philosophies. The culture changed because of him. Whether he did the right thing at the right time is still a matter of opinion. The US armory and munitions factory were there which lured Brown to this site. So I learned some things about that too.
In the afternoon we toured an old church. It was a Catholic church. As we were leaving the guide asked if we were Catholic or Lutheran. Now our question is, “How did he narrow down the choices to those two?” Do we ooze Lutheran philosophy from our pores? We did ask some questions, but it is not clear how those might have tipped him off.
The heat was quite intense so we did cut our visit a bit short as we were wilting. Heat is quite pervasive here. I had no idea I could sweat so much. May be unladylike, but there is no stopping it.
One of the bonuses of this stop was that it is a national park so I was able to get my senior citizens pass. Leroy is just a young thing so he could not get it. I had been wanting that so now it is in hand or rather in my suitcase. The hard part might be having it with me when I want to use it. Because I walk so much I like to keep the load that I carry with me as trimmed down as possible.
Stephen and Sarah thought of going on this outing and I am happy that they did. It was great.
Paula
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
In Washington, DC
Hello,
We had an uneventful trip as all planes were on time, smooth skies, and friendly people all around. The only thing that I can say is that on the metro young people did not offer us older folks a seat. This is not Slovakia where I kept thinking, “Do I look so old that I need a seat?” Here I was thinking “I look old enough for you to let me sit, especially with the bags I have.” Some people are never satisfied.
It was no problem to follow directions from the metro to their house since it is just a few blocks away. We arrived in time to have supper, or dinner depending on your orientation, and then head off for the capitol mall for the fireworks. We took lawn chairs, but I learned that they were for sitting in before the show started as we would stand during the display. That is a first in my life since I have either sat or even lain down. The point of departure for the fireworks was somewhere close to the Washington monument and we were closer to the capitol consequently the light was more visible if standing. Also there was not much sense of the noise because of the distance. Considering my hearing that is not a bad thing, but it took a little adjustment as the noise seems to be a part of the experience in my mind.
Leroy commented, “I really enjoyed being down there, seeing the people, and seeing the fireworks at the capitol of the country.” There certainly were a lot of people. Before the show started it was a constant hum of talk, but much of it was on phones. Most people had some type of electronic devise that was in use a good bit of the time.
We have seen fireworks in Iowa, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Utah, Minnesota, DC, and Slovakia. I would have to say that Slovakia gets top billing in my book. They had some interesting shows.
By the way, four adults and one child in a car seat do fit in a Prius, snug, but not crammed.
Paula
We had an uneventful trip as all planes were on time, smooth skies, and friendly people all around. The only thing that I can say is that on the metro young people did not offer us older folks a seat. This is not Slovakia where I kept thinking, “Do I look so old that I need a seat?” Here I was thinking “I look old enough for you to let me sit, especially with the bags I have.” Some people are never satisfied.
It was no problem to follow directions from the metro to their house since it is just a few blocks away. We arrived in time to have supper, or dinner depending on your orientation, and then head off for the capitol mall for the fireworks. We took lawn chairs, but I learned that they were for sitting in before the show started as we would stand during the display. That is a first in my life since I have either sat or even lain down. The point of departure for the fireworks was somewhere close to the Washington monument and we were closer to the capitol consequently the light was more visible if standing. Also there was not much sense of the noise because of the distance. Considering my hearing that is not a bad thing, but it took a little adjustment as the noise seems to be a part of the experience in my mind.
Leroy commented, “I really enjoyed being down there, seeing the people, and seeing the fireworks at the capitol of the country.” There certainly were a lot of people. Before the show started it was a constant hum of talk, but much of it was on phones. Most people had some type of electronic devise that was in use a good bit of the time.
We have seen fireworks in Iowa, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Utah, Minnesota, DC, and Slovakia. I would have to say that Slovakia gets top billing in my book. They had some interesting shows.
By the way, four adults and one child in a car seat do fit in a Prius, snug, but not crammed.
Paula
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Seasoned Travelers
New Brighton, MN
Hello,
The e tickets are printed, Leroy’s bag is packed, Paula’s is in progress, the last decisions are made, and we will leave tomorrow at noon.
I should say that Brian gave us a list of jobs with the stipulation that we did not have to do them. It has taken more than a week to get most of them done. I weeded one day, but there are still some that I have not even looked at. We relaxed one day and spent much time with granddaughters and children. What could be a better way to spend time?
We even watched one movie, Slumdog Millionaire. We both thought it was good, but quite serious, certainly no laughing matter.
I think before I left Chariton I was depressed, had no energy, just read books, and sighed. I am sorry to say that I did not do as much cleaning as I should have or as much organizing ahead of time. It is so hard to think of leaving friendly people, places, and energy. Course there are those regular routines that life falls into such as church and quilting. To think they can quilt without me. That is not true, they can quilt without me as I only have the skills of tying and cutting.
Now I am reading a book by Dave Barry and that is helping me to laugh. Course anyone under four is good for one laugh or more per day.
Paula
Hello,
The e tickets are printed, Leroy’s bag is packed, Paula’s is in progress, the last decisions are made, and we will leave tomorrow at noon.
I should say that Brian gave us a list of jobs with the stipulation that we did not have to do them. It has taken more than a week to get most of them done. I weeded one day, but there are still some that I have not even looked at. We relaxed one day and spent much time with granddaughters and children. What could be a better way to spend time?
We even watched one movie, Slumdog Millionaire. We both thought it was good, but quite serious, certainly no laughing matter.
I think before I left Chariton I was depressed, had no energy, just read books, and sighed. I am sorry to say that I did not do as much cleaning as I should have or as much organizing ahead of time. It is so hard to think of leaving friendly people, places, and energy. Course there are those regular routines that life falls into such as church and quilting. To think they can quilt without me. That is not true, they can quilt without me as I only have the skills of tying and cutting.
Now I am reading a book by Dave Barry and that is helping me to laugh. Course anyone under four is good for one laugh or more per day.
Paula
Friday, July 2, 2010
Clean windows
New Brighton, MN
Hello,
It has been requested that I use the address of our current stay/home in the top lines. You all will know where we are on any one day. We will be leaving here on Sunday for DC. Can you believe that until I was 18 years old I had never spent a week away from home on the dairy farm? What a different life! Now do I ever spend a week in the same house?
For devotions we read the verse about the son of man having no place to lay his head. Is that us too? We have a place, but we do not presume to know where that place will be for the rest of the year or even in a month or two. Everyday I can say thank you that I am cared for on this day.
Today Leroy and I washed windows on one level in this house. I love to see the clean view. These are not easy windows to wash, but we did it by using an extension ladder, hanging out an open window, and getting muscles to work. Mostly all the hard work was done by Leroy while Sophia and I monitored progress as we worked on the inside.
If you want to hire window washers we think our fee would be about two thousand dollars for the upper level of the house. Not cheap, but clean for a day, guaranteed.
Later Sophia went in her little pool. She had on her swimsuit, but it was a difficult task. The first time both straps ended on the left side. The second attempt ended in a crazy type of twist that did not bother her. The third try was perfect. And I thought I had spatial skills. Somehow the straps of a little girl swimsuit were beyond my ability.
Paula
Hello,
It has been requested that I use the address of our current stay/home in the top lines. You all will know where we are on any one day. We will be leaving here on Sunday for DC. Can you believe that until I was 18 years old I had never spent a week away from home on the dairy farm? What a different life! Now do I ever spend a week in the same house?
For devotions we read the verse about the son of man having no place to lay his head. Is that us too? We have a place, but we do not presume to know where that place will be for the rest of the year or even in a month or two. Everyday I can say thank you that I am cared for on this day.
Today Leroy and I washed windows on one level in this house. I love to see the clean view. These are not easy windows to wash, but we did it by using an extension ladder, hanging out an open window, and getting muscles to work. Mostly all the hard work was done by Leroy while Sophia and I monitored progress as we worked on the inside.
If you want to hire window washers we think our fee would be about two thousand dollars for the upper level of the house. Not cheap, but clean for a day, guaranteed.
Later Sophia went in her little pool. She had on her swimsuit, but it was a difficult task. The first time both straps ended on the left side. The second attempt ended in a crazy type of twist that did not bother her. The third try was perfect. And I thought I had spatial skills. Somehow the straps of a little girl swimsuit were beyond my ability.
Paula
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Moved butnot settled
Hello,
We almost feel settled until I have to look for some object in six places, one of which is a suitcase, because I can’t remember were it is. Or it might happen that we want to fill some form out on the Internet and the worst line is address? What address? Where? Homeless is not an easy place to be. It may sound carefree, but that is an illusion.
Peace and quiet comes much closer when you subtract three from eight. It is especially valid if two of the three are under 3.5 years and slightly ill, which translates as fussy. This afternoon, Leroy and I went to bed when Sophia did. Leroy for sure beat her to sleep and I think (know but don’t really want to confess such) I fell asleep first too.
This morning a call told Miriam that their plane was delayed forty minutes. After consulting with the airline a later flight was booked out of Dallas. Then a second airline call indicated the flight would be an additional 20 plus minutes late. At least the first extra hour was spent here rather than in a plane or the airport. Miriam and girls left for Salt Lake with a stroller, two car seats, one large, carefully weighed check-in bag, an adult back pack, and a child back pack. She was going to use a redcap at the airport, but something was wrong with the system. Leroy reported that he dropped her off and a guy there said the check-in desk was just inside the door and he helped her slip all of this stuff up to the desk.
On the local front the park has wonders to behold. An egret stuck its neck up above the bushes and flew a little so we could get a good look at it. Then there were the two rushing baby ducks walking on water as they were startled by our presence.
Paula
We almost feel settled until I have to look for some object in six places, one of which is a suitcase, because I can’t remember were it is. Or it might happen that we want to fill some form out on the Internet and the worst line is address? What address? Where? Homeless is not an easy place to be. It may sound carefree, but that is an illusion.
Peace and quiet comes much closer when you subtract three from eight. It is especially valid if two of the three are under 3.5 years and slightly ill, which translates as fussy. This afternoon, Leroy and I went to bed when Sophia did. Leroy for sure beat her to sleep and I think (know but don’t really want to confess such) I fell asleep first too.
This morning a call told Miriam that their plane was delayed forty minutes. After consulting with the airline a later flight was booked out of Dallas. Then a second airline call indicated the flight would be an additional 20 plus minutes late. At least the first extra hour was spent here rather than in a plane or the airport. Miriam and girls left for Salt Lake with a stroller, two car seats, one large, carefully weighed check-in bag, an adult back pack, and a child back pack. She was going to use a redcap at the airport, but something was wrong with the system. Leroy reported that he dropped her off and a guy there said the check-in desk was just inside the door and he helped her slip all of this stuff up to the desk.
On the local front the park has wonders to behold. An egret stuck its neck up above the bushes and flew a little so we could get a good look at it. Then there were the two rushing baby ducks walking on water as they were startled by our presence.
Paula
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