tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77998642051762163182024-03-05T07:17:36.277-08:00Mary E. TrimbleMary E. Trimble is the author of 3 books, Tenderfoot, McClellan's Bluff and Rosemount, and 400+ destination articles and articles of interest to homeowners.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.comBlogger156125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-2469412570109757732012-04-22T11:01:00.001-07:002012-04-22T11:01:24.489-07:00New Website!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong></strong> </span></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-85452266663570525482012-04-16T11:07:00.000-07:002012-04-16T11:07:07.735-07:00Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: Making a positive out of a tragic and violent negative<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Field of Empty Chairs, a reminder of each life lost. In the background: The Reflecting Pool with a Gate of Time to the right. Photo by Bruce Trimble<br />
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It was a normal Wednesday morning under a clear blue Oklahoma City sky on April 19, 1995. Workers made their way to offices, dropped off children at the building’s day-care center, perhaps poured themselves a cup of coffee to get a jump-start on their day. Then, at 9:02, America’s innocence changed forever when the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building was bombed, killing 168 people and injuring more than 500.<br />
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How could such a horrific thing happen on American soil? Timothy McVeigh, a former decorated United States Army soldier, claimed that the bombing was revenge for “what the U.S. government did at Waco and Ruby Ridge.” McVeigh and accomplice Terry Nichols, used readily available toxic industrial chemicals, ammonium nitrate, an agricultural fertilizer, and nitromethane, a highly volatile motor-racing fuel, to accomplish their despicable deed.<br />
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The attackers parked a rented Ryder truck in a loading area with a timer set to explode about 5,000 pounds of the highly combustible material. The explosion resulted in the worst terrorist attack on United States soil prior to the September 11, 2001 attacks. McVeigh was executed and accomplice Terry Nichols was sentenced to life in prison. A third party, Michael Fortier received a 12-year prison sentence plus a $200,000 fine for failure to warn authorities about the attack.<br />
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The blast tore away more than a third of the Murrah Building, but destroyed the entire building. In addition, fourteen buildings in the vicinity had to be torn down due to extensive destruction and another 312 buildings within a sixteen-block radius were damaged.<br />
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More than 12,000 people participated in relief and rescue work, including twenty-four canine units. Prompt investigation gave vital clues to the complexity of the crime and early leads on a suspect and accomplices led to extraordinarily quick arrests. Visitors watch news clips and special bulletins televised from around the world.<br />
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From April 20 to May 4, 1995 rescue and recovery operations poured into the area. Professional rescue workers, volunteers and canine units from all over the country clawed through the rubble to help dig out survivors and recover the dead. In the children’s day-care center directly above the mobile bomb, devastation was horrific. Upper floors collapsed onto those beneath them, crushing everyone and everything below.<br />
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Although the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building was born of hatred and violence, visiting the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is an uplifting experience. Poignant sights and artifacts of the bombing are in plain view, but also evident is what this sacred ground has become: a monument of hope and faith, of remembrance of loved ones lost, of human spirits rising above this inhumane act.<br />
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Three distinct components comprise the memorial: the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial, dedicated on April 19, 2000, the fifth anniversary of the attack; the Memorial Museum, dedicated one year later, April 19, 2001; the Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism, a concept founded by families and survivors during the writing of the Mission Statement in 1995.<br />
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Wandering the grounds where the building once stood, visitors soon see that every exhibit is a vital symbol of this experience. One of the most poignant, the <b>Field of Empty Chairs</b> is a reminder of each life lost. The chairs, including nineteen smaller chairs representing the children who died, placed in nine rows, represent the nine floors of the building. Made of bronze, stone and glass, the chairs are placed in the row according to what floor the person was working or visiting when killed. <br />
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For more information, visit <a href="http://www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org/">www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org</a> or call 1-888-542-HOPE (4673).<br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-17517819881833343402012-04-09T09:05:00.000-07:002012-04-09T09:05:11.824-07:00Book Review: Gold Under Ice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Carol Buchanan’s <i>Gold Under Ice</i>, set in the 1860's, draws the reader into the lives of Dan Stark, Martha, the woman he loves, and her children. Daniel and Martha have entered into a common-law marriage, not knowing where her missing, abusive husband is, or whether he is still alive.<br />
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Dan has come to the wilds of Montana Territory to work the gold mines in order to help his New York family, his widowed mother and his siblings, recover from a devastating and humiliating financial setback. A lawyer, he leaves his New York practice, but finds his knowledge of the law an asset in Alder Gulch, a rough, lawless town with few comforts. Life is hard, not only contending with harsh weather, but dealing with the insanity of gold fever.<br />
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Dan’s autocratic grandfather dictates Dan must return to New York with his accumulated gold and resume the family law practice. He hasn’t enough gold to both repay the bank and reinstate his New York family’s financial situation. Dan is torn between his New York family who is relying on him, and his Alder Gulch family and their safety in his absence. He promises to return to Alder Gulch, but they all know any number of things could prevent that from happening.<br />
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In order to secure his own future, he returns to New York, a trip that takes several weeks by stage coach and train, carrying the gold he has accumulated.<br />
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On the surface, the difference between Montana Territory and New York in the 1860's is stark. Dan is determined to retain custody of his gold, denying the bank control of it. Instead, he meets with an old friend who tutors him in the ways of Wall Street and gold trading. He finds life in New York as threatening as in the wilds of Montana Territory and fights for his life on many levels.<br />
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<i>Gold Under Ice</i>, available both in print and ebook format, is a compelling novel. Buchanan’s impeccable research not only entertains, but educates. Her characters breathe life into the story as it carries the reader along with Dan’s compelling need to make things right for both families. It kept me pressing the “page turn” on my Kindle long into the night.<br />
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<i>Gold Under Ice</i> is a sequel to <i>God’s Thunderbolt:The Vigilantes of Montana</i>, winner of Western Writers of America’s SPUR award. Each book is a satisfying read and stands alone. Recently released, <i>The Devil in the Bottle</i>, is the next in the series. For more information about the author, visit <a href="http://www.swanrange.com/">http://www.swanrange.com/</a><br />
<br />Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-43943495511391694342012-04-02T09:13:00.000-07:002012-04-02T09:13:38.697-07:00Book Review: Settler's Chase<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Settler’s Chase</i> by D. H. Eraldi brings the Old West to life. Eraldi’s rich descriptions of people, Montana’s landscape and bitter winter weather, transport the reader to this 1880's gritty time and place.<br />
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Sett Foster’s plan of setting a trap in a box canyon for wild horses was falling nicely into place. He’d break these horses and sell them for a good price to the Army. But suddenly a strange sight comes into view. A spotted Indian pony happens along, causing a disturbance among the small wild herd. But wait, the pony is wearing a crude saddle of some sort with a blanket flopping off to the side. As Sett watches the horses he almost has trapped run away in fright, he spots a cradle board swinging from the saddle with a tiny face peeking out of the tight laces.<br />
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In the meantime, Sett’s half Blackfeet/half white wife, Ria, is at their cabin alone, struggling with yet another miscarriage. Heartbroken, she knows she will never bear Sett’s child.<br />
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When Sett returns to their cabin with the infant, Ria is thrilled. Finally, a child! Sett knows it isn’t as easy as that. This is a white child and people will be looking for it. Stricken with more dashed hopes, Ria obeys her husband and they set out for the closest town to find the child’s family. She fiercely protects the baby and forms a strong bond; so strong, Sett dreads the time when she’ll have to relinquish the child. It’s an arduous trip with the weather turning colder and threatening snow.<br />
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Finally arriving in town, they find doing the right thing doesn’t always bring the desired results. Although they are met with kindness by some, others are suspicious and hostile toward Ria. Sett Foster’s tainted background arouses suspicion. The baby’s family has offered a reward for his safe return and there are townspeople who will stop at nothing to get that reward money.<br />
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<i>Settler’s Chase</i> is a fine western and a WILLA Literary Award Finalist. The author excels in portraying realistic, believable characters and bringing landscapes to life. I could feel the bitter cold during the desperate chase into the Montana wilderness.<br />
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<i>Settler’s Chase</i> is a sequel to <i>Settler’s Law</i>, another well-written and suspenseful western. Both novels, published some years apart, stand alone. For more information about the author, visit <a href="http://www.eraldi.net./">visit www.eraldi.net.</a><br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-57837695037032799362012-03-26T09:20:00.000-07:002012-03-26T09:25:31.013-07:00Walking Toward a Longer, Healthier Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Walking is riding a wave of popularity with many health-conscious people. Its pleasures, utility, and health-giving qualities are many. And, unlike the jarring effects of long distance jogging, its risks are minimal. Walking, combined with exercises designed to increase flexibility and strength, gives your body the exercise it needs to improve and maintain good health.<br />
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Some of the facts researchers have found include:<br />
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<u>Longer, healthier life.</u> The Institute on Aerobics Research in Dallas show that people who walk vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes each day live significantly longer, healthier lives. When done briskly and regularly, walking lowers the resting heart rate, reduces blood pressure, boosts levels of the heart-healthy HDL cholesterol, increases the efficiency of the heart and lungs, and burns calories.<br />
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<u>Better mental health.</u> Exercise stimulates the short-term release of endorphins, chemicals that promote the perception of "feeling good," resulting in noticeable improvement with a sense of well being, better family relations, less loneliness, better moods, and greater self-confidence.<br />
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<u>Increased stamina. </u>If you don't exercise after the age of 25, your ability to do aerobic activities will drop by 10 percent every 10 years. If you have a sedentary lifestyle, your body is slowly deteriorating as it ages. But this trend can be reversed by beginning an exercise program.<br />
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Begin now to gradually and systematically regain your stamina. Experts say that it takes a month of reconditioning to make up for each year of physical inactivity. Begin by walking at a comfortable pace for 20 minutes four or five times a week. If that proves too tiring, or too easy, adjust your time accordingly.<br />
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<u>Restored energy.</u> When you feel tired, resting isn't always the answer to restoring energy. The body has a nearly infinite amount of energy, but you need to exercise regularly and eat properly to make that happen. There's no magic pill for it, you have to work your heart, lungs, and muscles to increase energy levels. It’s true: Energy begets energy.<br />
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<u>Keeping off unwanted pounds.</u> A study at Stanford Center for Research in Disease Prevention found that among people who had dieted, the group who went back to eating more but exercised gained back less weight than the group who ate less but didn't exercise. Exercise is crucial to a weight control program.<br />
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Brisk walking helps burn excess calories. According to the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, increasing walking speed does not burn significantly more calories per mile, but a more vigorous walking pace will produce more dramatic conditioning effects. Muscles in better shape burn more calories, even at rest, than muscles in poor shape. In addition, after a dynamic workout, metabolism levels remain elevated above normal which results in additional calories burned.<br />
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<u>Disease prevention.</u> In addition to the benefits of reducing blood pressure, attaining healthy cholesterol levels, and increasing the efficiency of heart and lungs, walking significantly shields against other diseases:<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>– Osteoporosis. Strength-building exercise, such as walking, is critical in maintaining or increasing calcium levels in the bones of postmenopausal women. Bone, like muscle, is living tissue. When bones are exposed to the stress of physical activity, they become stronger, just as muscles get stronger when demands are placed on them.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>– Intestine and colon disorders. Evidence indicates that the intestine and colon muscles are improved and remain in better shape when other body muscles are exercised.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> – Blood clots. As we age, the protective protein, TPA, which dissolves stroke and heart attack causing blood clots, drops. Regular exercise can increase TPA levels. In addition, the levels of fibrinogen, another protein that creates the clots, are reduced.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>--Respiratory infections. Extra lung power, enhanced by regular exercise, keeps minor respiratory infections from turning into pneumonia.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>--Diabetes. A study done by the Harvard School of Public Health and published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that being overweight and obese was the single most important risk factor that predicted who would develop Type 2 diabetes. During a 16-year follow-up period, study results showed that regular exercise--at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week--and an improved diet low in fat and high in fiber significantly helped to avoid Type 2 diabetes.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>--Colds and flu. A study at Loma Linda University in California reports that people who walked briskly for 45 minutes a day, five times a week, experienced half as many days with cold and flu symptoms as sedentary people in the study.<br />
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Although walking shares many benefits of other sports, it offers many advantages. Almost anyone can do it, though it is best to consult your physician before beginning any exercise program. Because walking is virtually injury-free, it has the lowest drop-out rate of any form of exercise.<br />
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You need very little equipment other than sturdy shoes. Walking is inexpensive compared to health club fees. You can set your own schedule and not depend on others' timetable. Weather is no obstacle; simply dress accordingly. Walking is not a seasonal activity. You can exercise in temperatures that might rule out other activities. You can walk almost anywhere--sidewalk, street, road, trail, park, field, or even shopping mall. If you walk in the dark, it’s a good idea to wear reflective clothing.<br />
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Join the many who are walking toward a healthier, longer, and more satisfying life. Each step you take will improve the quality of your life.<br />
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Now, where are my walking shoes?<br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-42027999721311315502012-03-15T08:53:00.000-07:002012-03-15T08:53:37.040-07:00Book Review: What Lies West<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Carolina (Lina) Clark has to get out of town, and fast. Recently widowed, her husband had drunk or gambled away the meager assets in their little general store. If she leaves immediately, she can stay ahead of the creditors and salvage a few personal items. She manages to team up with two unlikely characters, strangers, who intend to travel west from Westport, Missouri. One, a young woman, Josephine, is a high-class madam. The other, a young man, Henry, dreams of joining the cavalry out West. They agree to pool their resources, join a wagon train, and team up as “family.”<br />
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The way west is rugged, full of hardships and danger. The three work together, meeting challenges with strength that surpasses their own expectations. They reach an Army post and Henry stays. When Josephine and Lina reach the diggings of the California Gold Rush, they see a future for themselves. The two woman manage to eke out a living among the rough miners and grimy surroundings.<br />
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When an opportunity to work in San Francisco is offered, the two women find themselves in comparative luxury; Josephine doing what she does best, and Lina working in a warehouse under the supervision of a cold, calculating boss, Edward Haarten. It doesn’t take long for Lina to prove herself worthy of important responsibilities. Haarten has more than a good accountant in mind and makes advances in that direction. Lina flees on a ramshackle cargo vessel that’s bound for a tiny Puget Sound settlement in Washington Territory.<br />
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Starting over yet again is harder with fewer opportunities in this small community, but Lina again finds her niche with a growing family-owned lumber company. In addition to finding a way to make a living, she also finds her heart’s dream in Robert Marr, the head of the family-owned company. Lina’s past catches up to her when Haarten’s long reach from San Francisco threatens to destroy not only her life, but that of the struggling lumber company.<br />
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<i>What Lies West</i> by LaDene Morton is a well-written historical novel with believable characters and realistic settings. It’s a large volume, but its 618 pages kept me captivated throughout. The novel was a well-deserved WILLA Finalist and is available as a trade paperback or ebook. To learn more about the author, visit <a href="http://www.ladenemorton.com/">http://www.ladenemorton.com/</a><br />
<br />Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-33899615796860900882012-03-05T10:42:00.000-08:002012-03-05T10:42:23.455-08:00The Snow Geese Are Back!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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They’re back! Thousands of them! Each winter our Northwest Washington community celebrates the arrival of snow geese. The migratory birds have flown about 3,000 miles from Wrangel Island in the Arctic Ocean, north of Siberia.<br />
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Here on Camano Island, and across the Skagit delta, several thousand snow geese migrate annually. At least 35,000 of the waterfowl winter in Washington and in the Frazier Valley near Vancouver, B.C. before returning to Wrangel to lay their eggs.<br />
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The large birds, up to 33 inches tall, are usually grayish white with pink bills and feet, and have wingspans of four and a half feet. When traveling distances, they often fly in formation, forming huge V’s in the skies. While feeding, they’ll sometimes fly up in noisy flocks, as shown in the above picture my husband Bruce took.<br />
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Huge groups can be seen feeding in farm fields on winter wheat, cover crops, or in pastures. The birds are very vocal and often can be heard more than a mile away.<br />
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In spring, as the days grow longer, snow geese migrate back to their Arctic tundra breeding areas. Courtship and pairing take place in their second year, although breeding does not usually start until the third year. Snow geese mate for life. The females are strongly philopatric, meaning they will return to the place they hatched to breed. The birds nest in colonies. The female selects a nest site and builds a shallow depression lined with plant material. The nests may be reused from year to year.<br />
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Females incubate three to four eggs for 22 to 25 days while the male guards the nest.. The goslings, born covered with down with eyes open, can scramble out of the nest within hours of hatching and have the ability to swim and forage for food. Both parents protect the young birds from predators such as Arctic fox, snowy owls, hawks and eagles. Parents stay with their young through the first winter. Families travel together on both the southbound and northbound migrations, separating only after they return to the Arctic breeding grounds.<br />
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We enjoy watching these beautiful birds during the winter, then say farewell to them in the spring as they fly north in V formations, calling to one another. Or who knows? They may be bidding us farewell. Honk!<br />Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-90473936069596666512012-02-27T09:49:00.000-08:002012-02-27T09:49:43.251-08:00Book Review: The Photograph<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>The Photograph</i> by Penelope Lively is a sensitive and complex novel written with an elegant flair. The novel is a skillful study of accomplished people who are suddenly aware that something is missing in their lives.<br />
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Much of the story involves Kath, a beautiful woman who has touched many lives, but who died a few years previously. Her husband Glyn finds an upsetting photograph showing his wife with a group of people, her hands obscurely entwined with her brother-in-law’s. Glyn, an archaeologist, obsessively begins systemically researching the possibilities of the story behind the photograph.<br />
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As the book progresses and introduces us to Kath’s circle of friends and relatives, we begin to appreciate her quest for acceptance and love. Admiration and desire aren’t enough, she needs to be accepted on a deeper, committed level.<br />
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The author portrays the believable characters as complex and knowledgeable in their various professional fields, specifically Glyn’s scientific background and Kath’s sister, Elaine, a highly accomplished and sought-after gardening specialist. Beyond relatives are others who have been touched by this charming woman who appears so casual and carefree, yet who needs what others seem incapable of giving.<br />
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<i>The Photograph</i> is a profound novel of depth. I enjoyed the English setting and language and Penelope Lively’s elegant writing style.<br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-26255114347375876442012-02-20T09:22:00.000-08:002012-02-20T09:22:21.391-08:00Book Review: A Gift of Puppies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Carolyn Wing Greenlee’s latest release,<i> A Gift of Puppies, Getting Them Ready for a Life of Service and Love</i>, is worth the price of the book for its puppy pictures alone. Compiled from actual words from Guide-Dogs for the Blind puppy handlers and edited by Carolyn Wing Greenlee, A Gift of Puppies is a treasure of stories about families giving their time, energy and love to puppies, only to turn them over to someone else for their permanent homes. How can people give these puppies up after devoting so much time and love? This book answers that question and more.<br />
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A puppy raiser serves a vital role in the eventual success of the partnership between a visually impaired person and a guide dog, allowing them to navigate with confidence and independence.<br />
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<i>A Gift of Puppies</i> has many touching stories of puppy raisers. Some of the volunteers are teens or younger, who, with their families, have given their time and love to prepare a puppy for a life with someone else. One of the stories is in the voice of the puppy and the adventures (and misadventures) of being raised in this environment.<br />
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A guide dog is bred and whelped at the Guide Dogs for the Blind training center in San Rafael, CA. Most guide dogs are either Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever (or a mix of these two), or German Shepard. Between six and eight weeks, the puppy is placed in a home that has been thoroughly scrutinized for safety and compatibility. No prior experience is necessary to become a puppy raiser. <br />
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A puppy raiser is responsible for teaching the pup good house manners and basic obedience, and most importantly, socializing them to the world. In addition to exercise and the exposure to a variety of scenarios, puppy raisers must agree to participate in puppy raising clubs where they learn training techniques and where the pups can socialize with other dogs.<br />
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I was impressed with how much time puppy raisers spend with their furry charges. These dedicated people take socialization seriously as they include their pups on trips using various means of transportation (cars, trains, buses, planes), attend school, church, meetings, movies, restaurants, even dentists. All this helps the pups adapt to the different environments to which they may be later exposed. While working, the pups wear green jackets labeled “Guide Dog for the Blind, Puppy in Training” which should be a signal to onlookers to not touch or distract the animal.<br />
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Between 13 and 18 months old, a puppy is returned to the Guide Dogs for the Blind training center for six months of advanced, specific training.<br />
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Not all puppies become guide dogs for various reasons such as health issues, fears that cannot be conquered, or head-strong tenancies. Sometimes these dogs are “career changed,” which might involve becoming breeder dogs, companions for people with special needs, search and rescue, hearing dogs, or dogs that can detect certain diseases.<br />
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In one story, a woman raised a puppy who couldn’t make the grade to become a guide dog, but was welcomed back into the home as a breeder. This dog had three litters, totaling 22 puppies. Of these, 12 later graduated as guide dogs, and 1 became a breeder.<br />
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<i>A Gift of Puppies</i> is an enlightening book with first-hand stories told by people who have given of themselves so that others might benefit. This is the third of Greenlee’s guide dog books. The first,<i> Steady Hedy</i>, deals with the author’s terror of going blind and her eventual sojourn to Guide Dogs for the Blind and the acquisition of her guide dog, Hedy. The second book, <i>The Gift of Dogs</i> is a compilation of stories about blind peoples’ journeys and the blessings of receiving their guide dogs.<br />
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Carolyn Wing Greenlee is the author of fourteen books and has edited more than twenty other books from “poetry to pioneers.” As a Third Generation Chinese American from a California Gold Rush/Railroad family, she has brought to print many stories of her clan who would not speak for themselves. Now she is helping others, the blind and visually impaired, tell their stories,. For more information about the author, please visit <a href="http://www.carolynwinggreenlee.com/">www.carolynwinggreenlee.com</a><br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-20055806433554721422012-02-13T10:11:00.000-08:002012-02-13T10:11:12.901-08:00Book Review: Mountains Beyond Mountains<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tracy Kidder’s <i>Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, A Man Who Would Cure the World</i>, is a powerful testimony demonstrating how one person can make a difference in treating global health problems.<br />
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Paul Farmer’s greatest love is practicing medicine in Haiti where his emphasis has been the treatment of tuberculosis. He walks miles, often on mountainous trails, to remote villages to see patients who live in small huts with dirt floors and roofs made of banana fronds. Dr. Farmer learned Creole so that he can converse without an interpreter. His clinic, Zannu Lasante, is miles away from where official business is conducted in Port-au-Prince, involving hours on National Highway 3 which sounds traversable, but is actually dangerous and as rough as a riverbed.<br />
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Dr. Farmer, an American medical anthropologist and physician, didn’t have a typical childhood. His large family lived in non-traditional environments, but Paul thrived and used those experiences as stepping stones to his later life. In medical school he found his calling to cure infectious diseases and to bring lifesaving tools of modern medicine to places that needed them most, primarily among the poor and disadvantaged. In 1983, while in medical school he cofounded Partners in Health, an international non-profit organization that provides direct health care services and undertakes research and advocacy activities on behalf of those who are sick and living n poverty. He holds a professorship at Harvard and is Chief of the Division of Global Health Equity at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.<br />
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In order to advance international health, he frequently travels to Peru where high incidence of TB prevails. He learned Spanish to heighten his effectiveness there. He regularly goes to Russia and visits prisons where TB is rampant. Dr. Farmer’s main focus is eradicating pandemic diseases primarily TB and MDR (multi-drug resistant)TB, HIV, AIDS, and the prevention and treatment of malaria. In addition, he accepts invitations to speak world-wide, always with the idea of furthering education and soliciting donations to fund these efforts. He has written books and dozens of medical journal articles.<br />
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Author Tracy Kidder, a Pultzer Prize winner for his nonfiction narrative, The Soul of a New Machine, accompanied Dr. Farmer over a period of years, even trekking with him to remote villages. In one case they walked for a total of eleven hours in order to visit one TB-affected family. Kidder calls the act the “Farmer method.” First you cure a patient and then you change the condition that made them especially vulnerable to TB in the first place. In this case, the plan would be to get the large family into a home with a cement floor and a metal roof, improve the family’s nutrition, and provide school tuition for the kids.<br />
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It’s hard to imagine one man doing all that Paul Farmer has accomplished. Kidder has done an outstanding job of letting us peek into the soul of this inspiring complex man with a passion so great he has truly affected world health and enriched mankind. I highly recommend <i>Mountains Beyond Mountains</i>.<br />
<br />Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-60799749847560763532012-02-06T09:31:00.000-08:002012-02-06T09:54:46.721-08:00Wilderness Fun, NOT Wilderness Tragedy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every winter we read about it in the paper or see it on TV news. A hiker has been separated from his group, or a group has been cut off by an avalanche or delayed by a storm. Any number of things can happen to dampen the spirit of winter hikers or cross-country skiers. Worse, unpreparedness can kill. Your life may depend on what you have with you.<br />
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What is known as the “Ten Essentials” is applicable for year-around use, but the risks of winter skiing and hiking are greater with colder and wetter weather, plus shorter hours of daylight.<br />
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Here are the bare essentials every wilderness hiker should carry. The couple of extra pounds they represent are critical to outdoor safety.<br />
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<b>Maps and Navigation Equipment</b> It’s not hard to get lost in the wilderness, even when following a well-used trail. Sometimes there’s an unmarked fork, or you step aside to take a picture and get turned around. A GPS is a valuable tool as long as the battery is charged. It’s always a good idea to carry a map. Topographical maps are the most useful. If you get lost and see a peak, you can more easily determine where you are on a topographical map. Study the map before you go so you have a mental picture of the terrain. Carry a compass. It’s easy to get turned around and on a cloudy day you can’t always see the sun to determine your direction. A simple compass–that you know how to use–can save your life.<br />
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Don’t expect the map on your cell phone to work when hiking, even if your phone has GPS. No cell phone service means your map is a blank screen since the maps aren’t preloaded as in a dedicated GPS unit. Some smart phones allow you to “pre cache” small map areas so they are available without cell service.<br />
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<b>First Aid Kit</b> Prepare a kit with a few bandaids, a small tube of antibiotic ointment, some gauze and adhesive tape, an elastic bandage for knee or ankle sprains, and a small bottle of aspirin or other pain killer. Your first aid kit doesn’t need to be elaborate, but a simple kit can go a long way toward alleviating discomfort. <br />
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<b>Extra Clothes </b> Waterproof rain gear is a good idea all year long, not only to keep you dry, but to block out cold, harsh winds. Include a weather-proof hat. You can lose 35 percent of your total body-heat through your head. In the winter that amount of heat loss can be a matter of life or death. Pack an extra pair of wool socks. You’ll be glad you have them if your feet get wet. Consider carrying disposable hand and toe warmers in your pocket. You could save digits from frost bite.<br />
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<b>Sun Protection</b> Take along dark sunglasses. Even on cloudy days, sunshine reflected off snow can be blinding. Sunscreen and SPF lip balm will protect your skin from sunburn, summer or winter.<br />
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<b>Shelter</b> Even if you don’t plan to spend the night, take along a tent, tarp, emergency blanket, or even a large plastic trash bag. Just to have a dry place to sit and rest is important in conserving or restoring energy. If you do have to spend the night, a shelter can save you many miserable, long hours.<br />
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<b>Illumination</b> Even if you’re planning only a day trip, take along a flashlight or headlamp, plus extra batteries and a spare bulb. It gets dark early in the woods and walking along even a well-used trail can be dangerous in the dark.<br />
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<b>Extra Food</b> “Extra” implies that you have some food with you. Even if you hadn’t planned to eat on your outing, always carry some form of nutrition. A body can last for days without food, but it provides energy and warmth.<br />
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<b>Hydration</b> Each hiker should have two quarts of water per day. It’s a good idea to have a means to purify water, either with a compact filter or with chemical tablets.<br />
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<b>Tools</b> For winter hiking, take along a light, compact <u>snowshovel</u>. Using a shovel to dig yourself out of a tight spot is better than digging out with your hands. A simple two-blade <u>knife</u> will come in handy to shave wood or cut fabric. A one-burner backpacking <u>stove</u> is a good thing to have along. Hot liquid will bring comfort and warmth. In rainy weather, it’s easier to start a small butane stove than a fire. Invest in <u>waterproof matches</u> and carry them in a waterproof container.<br />
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<b>Good Judgement </b>There’s no substitute for common sense. Before you leave home, check the weather forecast and avalanche centers. Take along items for your own comfort–cell phone, toilet paper, insect repellent. Before you leave on a day trip, stop to think whether or not you’re equipped in the event your trip turns out to be an over-nighter. Be prepared to turn back if the weather gets nasty.<br />
<br />Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-47021201059484585372012-01-30T09:49:00.000-08:002012-01-30T09:49:50.357-08:00Book Review: In Search of America's Heartbeat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>In Search of America’s Heartbeat:Twelve Months on the Road </i>by Robert H. Mottram is not only a fun read, it’s an eye opener. Mottram and his wife Karen did what many people only talk about. They spent a year on the road driving more than 30,000 miles, discovering and chronicling their trip along the way.<br />
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Mottram had just retired after more than 30 years as a journalist. Karen, as a registered nurse working in public health, was ready to retire, too. One week after they walked out of their respective offices, they climbed into their diesel Dodge Ram pickup truck pulling a 32-foot fifth-wheel trailer, and set out on a memorable adventure.<br />
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Mottrams tour America in a rough horseshoe pattern. Leaving Tacoma, WA, they drive south along the West Coast, then enjoy the winter warmth of the southern states, find spring as they make their way north through the Appalachians to New England, then zig-zag west across the continent during the summer season, returning to the Pacific Northwest in the fall.<br />
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The extreme spectrum of life happens while on their trip: Mottram’s father dies and a grandson is born. For both events, they take leave of their trip and fly to the source of the events, then resume their journey. The trip is a series of travelers’ delights, mixed with a few inconveniences, such as biting flies and inclement weather. The Mottrams take the bad with the good and as a result, experienced a memorable journey. They poke into obscure corners of our country and come up with amazing tales of yesteryear balanced with how it is today. <br />
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Along the way the Mottrams discover the heartbeat of America. Though each region has its peculiarities, America’s strength is found in its differences, strengths that weave the resilient fabric of our nation.<br />
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<i>In Search of America’s Heartbeat </i>has many poignant stories, both historical and current, that make for a fascinating read. Told with humor and keen observation, Mottram’s journalism background serves him well. It’s obvious he not only knows how to write, but how to observe.<br />
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I heartily recommend this book to anyone who enjoys travel or reading about our nation’s wonderous diversities.<i> In Search of America’s Heartbeat</i> is told by a master story-teller. You’ll find it hard to put this book down. I didn’t want it to end.<br />
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<i>In Search of America’s Heartbeat</i> may be purchased through your favorite bookstore, Amazon.com, or through the author’s website, <a href="http://www.rvacrosstheusa.com/">www.rvacrosstheusa.com</a><br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-58240035459705311312012-01-16T09:38:00.000-08:002012-01-16T09:38:19.603-08:00Book Review: Unbroken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Jamie Lisa Forbes’ debut novel, <i>Unbroken</i>, is a WILLA Award recipient and worthy of this prestigious honor.<br />
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Gwen Swan’s life is an unbroken chain of cooking, helping her husband on their family cattle ranch, managing their children, Rory and McKenna, juggling finances, and working through Wyoming’s harsh winters and sweltering summers with seemingly few days of reprieve between seasons. Gwen’s hard-working husband Will centers his life around the ranch. His father John, a widower for most of Gwen and Will’s married life, lives in his own house, but takes his meals with his son’s family. John still calls most of the shots on the daily ranch activities. Will occasionally takes his own initiative, but when he does his father can be counted on to share his opinion.<br />
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It’s up to Gwen to deal with her son’s teachers and their disapproval of Rory’s behavior at school. When Will becomes aware of Rory’s trouble at home, his impatience is obvious, but Rory’s grandfather helps smooth over hurt feelings. Rory especially basks in his grandfather’s love.<br />
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Will’s brother, long estranged from the family, appears and old bitterness and resentments resurface, further straining their lives.<br />
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Meg Braeburn and her young son Tim have broken away from her family’s ranch. She’s made mistakes but is determined to make a good life for them. She’s hired as a hand on a ranch neighboring Swan’s. The absent owner leaves all the work to her, with a stringy, unkept horse, rusty equipment and unrealistic expectations. Meg surprises them all with her ability and drive, and her resoluteness.<br />
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Before long Gwen and Meg become friends, their children play, though Rory often bullies Jim. The ranchers support and help one another with time, equipment and friendship.<br />
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The isolation and closeness of the two families begins to take their toll and boundaries are crossed. The dynamics of splintering families is painful and everyone’s way of life is affected.<br />
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<i>Unbroken</i> is a powerful, absorbing book from the first page to the last. Forbes’ Wyoming ranch background adds rich flavors to the story. The author draws realistic, complex characters. <i>Unbroken</i> is an unvarnished testimonial to a way of life that few of us know.<br />Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-6568204174678598612012-01-09T10:09:00.000-08:002012-01-09T10:09:04.945-08:00Soar On Wings like Eagles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It’s time again to view majestic American bald eagles along Pacific Northwest rivers, particularly the Skagit. The Skagit River hosts the largest wintering population of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. Most of these eagles spend their summers in northern British Columbia and Alaska. In the late fall, they migrate to the Pacific Northwest to feed on spawned-out chum salmon carcasses and waterfowl.<br />
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Eagles feed along river gravel bars in the morning usually between 7 and 11. In the afternoon, it is common to see eagles perched on tree branches, resting for long periods of time. They seem to prefer well-spaced branches, heavy enough to accommodate their weight and large wing span.<br />
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For its size, the eagle is surprisingly light, yet it is very strong. The average adult bald eagle weighs nine pounds, with a height of three feet and a wing span of five- to seven-and-a-half feet. The bald eagle is strong enough to swoop down with incredible speed and carry away prey that weighs more than the bird does.<br />
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Bald eagle nests, which can weigh hundreds of pounds, are typically six feet wide and two to four feet tall. Nests are often located very high in tall trees with broken or deformed tops, with a view of the water. The nesting period in Washington begins around the last week of March to the first or second week of April. Although some eagles stay in the Upper Skagit River area, most find nesting sites around the shores of Puget Sound, San Juan Islands, or other coastal areas in Canada or Alaska.<br />
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Eagles are generally ready to mate at the age of five. It is believed that eagles mate for life. Females lay two to four eggs and the thirty-five day incubation duties are shared by both female and male.<br />
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Eaglets are fed by their parents for the first six to seven weeks and then sporadically while they learn to feed themselves. By the time young eagles emerge from the nest, they are almost as large as their parents.<br />
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The familiar coloring of white head and tail does not occur until the birds are four or five years of age. Juvenile birds are mostly brown and gray with varying amounts of white on the underside of their wings and back.<br />
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The word “bald” is simply an evolution of the Middle English “balled,” which meant “shining white.” Adult bald eagle plumage is characterized by a dark brown body with a bright white head and tail, yellowish beak and eyes.<br />
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Few animals, if any, can match eagles ability to see great distances. Generally, eagles can see distant objects three to four times better than humans.<br />
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The life span of an eagle in the wild is up to twenty years. The bald eagle was almost driven to extinction as the result of eggshell thinning caused by the pesticide DDT. After DDT was banned in the 1970s, the eagles, as well as other birds of prey, have made an amazing comeback. In 1995, the bald eagle status was upgraded in the lower 48 states from “endangered” to “threatened,” and in 1997 Department of the Interior took the American bald eagle off the endangered species list.<br />
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The bald eagle was chosen in 1782 as the emblem of the United States of America because of its long life, great strength and majestic looks. It’s an honor to view these birds and it is our duty to ensure their preservation by giving them the space, privacy and environment they need.<br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-9755758108063519472012-01-02T07:57:00.000-08:002012-01-02T07:57:41.836-08:00Book Review: Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Room</i> (Back Bay Books) by Emma Donoghue could have been taken from today’s headlines. Its gripping drama is as real as an interview with actual victims of captivity.<br />
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Jack, five years old, doesn’t know he’s been held captive all his life. He believes his life is normal. Jack and his mother live in an 11-foot-square soundproofed cell in a converted shed in the kidnapper’s yard. Jack’s mother whom he calls Ma, has been there seven years–she was a nineteen year-old college student when kidnaped.<br />
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The marvel of this story is the balance Ma has maintained in giving her child a rich, loving life, filling his days with exercise games, reading and math lessons, with limited television and unlimited love.<br />
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The entire book is Jack’s voice of heartrending innocence, wisdom and love. But there’s harrowing terror, too, and you realize the precarious tight-rope Ma must balance to keep them alive and together.<br />
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Even their captor, Old Nick, is seen through Jack’s eyes, or really through his ears, as Ma never wants Old Nick to actually see Jack when their captor visits in the night.<br />
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Through a child’s eyes, the reader absorbs the mother’s monumental task of raising a child under these circumstances. Old Nick, evil and unrelenting, is terrifying in his obsession.<br />
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<i>Room</i> is an amazing examination of two lives lived in captivity. It’s a testament to a mother’s love, a novel of astounding depth.<br />
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<br /></div>Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-8794431793803701642011-12-29T10:44:00.000-08:002011-12-30T15:07:57.863-08:00Book Review: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you’re looking for a fun, charming experience, pick up <i>The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society</i> (Dial Press) by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows.<br />
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The novel consists entirely of letters centered around writer Juliet Ashton. The book takes place in 1946 as Great Britain recovers from World War II. A unique relationship between Juliet and her publisher, Sidney, and Sidney’s sister Sophie, shows unique friendships that date back to their childhood, allowing the reader the benefit of insights into Juliet’s character.<br />
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Juliet receives a letter from farmer Dawsey Adams, who lives on Guernsey, Channel Islands, in the Atlantic Ocean’s channel between the United Kingdom and France. Dawsey is in possession of a book formerly owned by Juliet and, from her name and address written on the inside cover, writes to her asking for a name of a bookstore so that he can get more information about the book’s author.<br />
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Dawsey explains that The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society came into being as the result of neighbors gathering to roast a pig which they had to keep secret because of the German occupation.<br />
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As letters fly back and forth, it occurs to Juliet that there are rich stories to be written about the war years on Guernsey. By this time she has heard from many of the island’s citizens and there is much excitement about her arrival.<br />
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As Juliet weaves her way into the hearts of the Guernsey people, a spark ignites between her and Dawsey. At least from her perspective. Dawsey’s quiet reserve make his feelings and/or intentions difficult to read. Juliet befriends a young girl, an orphan, whose parents were war victims.<br />
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Through this charming book, readers learn about the German occupation and the ingenuity of the British people to cope. The many diverse characters manage to pull together during tough times.<br />
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<i>The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society</i> is a charming book, one I couldn’t put down. It’s beautifully written with British flair, understatement and subtle humor. I heartily recommend this delightful and satisfying novel.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-60632771456847899462011-12-19T09:32:00.001-08:002011-12-19T09:51:56.656-08:00The Heroes Among Us<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1sBI7OxUnFww8Jh7dgWw4mfJrIfcsp9JrC147YNiu07xPW-JxKiCM2qaxIwFoJAlE9T-ukZSpfVQxYtYahCbIoV_f7DCMNrDrMZsX2sysCYqTqsn4zFjbZh6JHQy76YoAv69z55FmxHo/s1600/RealHerosMenuButton.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 257px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1sBI7OxUnFww8Jh7dgWw4mfJrIfcsp9JrC147YNiu07xPW-JxKiCM2qaxIwFoJAlE9T-ukZSpfVQxYtYahCbIoV_f7DCMNrDrMZsX2sysCYqTqsn4zFjbZh6JHQy76YoAv69z55FmxHo/s400/RealHerosMenuButton.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687894522153065586" /></a><br />Most people don’t set out to be heroes. Their day starts out like any other day, but somewhere along the way, an incident happens and they respond. Sometimes these heroes-to-be have taken time from their busy lives to become trained to save a life if faced with such a choice. Most say they don’t consider themselves heroes. But they are heroes, and the world is a better place because of them.<br /><br />It was my pleasure to be among more than a thousand attendees at the 2011 Real Heroes Breakfast held at the Tulalip Resort Casino, sponsored by the Snohomish County Chapter of the American Red Cross. In addition to a delicious breakfast, the morning was filled with moving, heartrending stories of real heroes, of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.<br /><br />Pat Cashman emceed the event with his unique style and brought levity to the sometimes teary stories. It was an uplifting morning and the annual event has become a “won’t miss” on my calender. <br /><br />Following are this year’s amazing stories. All these honored heroes live in Snohomish County Chapter’s jurisdiction.<br /><br />DALE ASCHENBRENNER, a water inspector for Snohomish County PUD, was on his way to work, when through the fog he saw tail lights coming from a large swamp off the side of the road. He turned his vehicle around and as he got closer saw a woman’s hand waving out the window and heard her screaming, “I can’t swim!” Dale called 911, flagged down another car, got a tow rope from his vehicle and waded into the muddy waters. Just as he pulled the woman through the window, the car slid completely under water. He carried the woman through the water and up the hill, wrapped her in a blanket offered by a passerby, and they sat in Dale’s PUD vehicle until the paramedics arrived.<br /><br />MELISSA KEATING: For some time Melissa had thought it would be wonderful to be able to save someone’s life through an organ donation. In good health, the timing was right for her to act on her heart’s desire. She contacted the University of Washington and began the process of becoming an anonymous kidney donor. The surgery was successfully performed. Melissa doesn’t know the person who received her kidney, but she has the satisfaction of knowing she made a difference in someone’s life.<br /><br />GERRY ERVINE / BRANDON KLOES: A group of friends play Ultimate Frisbee at Garfield Park in North Everett twice a week at lunchtime. During their game, one of the players suffered a massive heart attack and collapsed on the field. Gerry and Brandon immediately began CPR, alerting other players to call 911. EMT’s arrived within minutes and, after administering shocks from their Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), transported him to the hospital. Gerry and Brandon had the skills to successfully perform CPR and because of their quick action were able to save their teammate’s life.<br /><br />JOANNE VANLEUVEN: As JoAnne climbed out of her car and gathered materials for her day-care kids to make mother’s day gifts, she realized she didn’t have arm space to grab her purse, so she left it in the car. A co-worker noticed a thief carrying JoAnne’s purse away. While the co-worker called 911, JoAnne followed the thief. Physically fit, she hoofed it down a path through the woods to a motel parking lot. The thief slipped around a corner and disappeared into one of the upstairs units. JoAnne waited for police and told them approximately where the “two-bit thug” was. The policemen were able to recover her purse and arrest the thief as well as another man wanted on warrants.<br /><br />OFFICER BRENDA GREENMUN had just completed a traffic stop when she observed a woman high above I-5, trying to climb over the railing of an overpass. After calling dispatch and asking for backup, Officer Greenmun walked toward the woman. The woman shaped her hand like a gun and gestured that she wanted the officer to shoot her. She was attempting suicide. They were able to save that woman’s life, but also prevented what could have been a fatal traffic accident had the woman been successful in jumping into the busy eight-lane freeway below.<br /><br />DAVID ROBINSON and his three-year-old granddaughter Angel have a special bond. David had taken Angel to a swim lesson and then were going to a restaurant for dinner. As David carried his granddaughter across an intersection, he was struck by an SUV making a right-hand turn. At the moment of impact, Robinson lifted his granddaughter above his head to protect her from being hit. When they crashed to the street, Angel landed on top of him. With his body breaking her fall, Angel suffered only a bruise on her bottom. David’s injuries were severe with a fractured skull, two broken legs, internal damage and a fracture to a bone around the eye socket. <br /><br />ED GRAVES, a Port of Everett part-time Security Officer, heard a 911 call that a vehicle had driven into the water at a boat ramp. Just as he arrived and saw a mini-van bobbing in the water, another car sped past him, sliding down the slick ramp several feet into the water. Ed thought, “This can’t be happening.” He quickly looked around, expecting to see lights and find himself in the middle of a movie scene. As the driver of the second vehicle pulled himself out of his vehicle, he yelled, “My parents are in the sinking van!” Ed helped the man ashore and together they approached the parent’s van as its front sank deeper and its rear-end bobbed on the surface. Together they used Ed’s “access tools” to break the rear window of the mini-van and pull the elderly couple to safety, just as the van completely submerged. The son and his parents were meeting at a restaurant for dinner and the son, following his parents, was giving his father driving directions. Instead of turning right, the man turned left and into the water. The son followed, at first not realizing they were driving into water.<br /><br />CHAD DECROW / JORDAN LAPIER / CHRIS WALTER: Zamboni driver Chad, security personnel Jordan, and hockey team trainer Chris came to the aid of a heart attack victim during a recreational hockey league game. They immediately put their CPR/AED training into action using the arena’s defibrillator. The 56-year old man was revived and the three men took turns administering CPR until paramedics arrived. These heroes proved that quick action, proper training and willingness to act saves lives.<br /><br />BENJAMIN KING / BEKAH STAUDACHER: While best friends Bekah and April Lutz’s put on makeup in the Snohomish High School girl’s bathroom, a fellow 10th grade student attacked the two, stabbing April more than a dozen times and slashing Bekah’s arm. Bekah ran outside the bathroom to call for help, then returned to the bathroom to help her friend. Classmate Benjamin ran inside the bathroom, saw April slumped to the floor, covered in blood. He held her in his arms and pressed paper towels to her wounds until paramedics arrived. These two students put themselves in harm’s way to save a fellow student’s life.<br /><br />SNOHOMISH FIRE & RESCUE, called to Snohomish High School with the stabbing incident, were a critical part of April’s amazing survival. Their first instinct was to call for a helicopter that would have carried her to Harborview Medical Center, the region’s trauma hospital. But they quickly decided April would not survive the flight and instead rushed her in an emergency response vehicle to Everett’s Providence Regional Medical Center. Paramedics worked to keep the girl’s heart beating en route and delivered her to the emergency room 24 minutes after they reached her.<br /><br />PROVIDENCE TRAUMA TEAM made the difference between life and death for stabbing victim April. When she was wheeled into the emergency room, she had only a 20 percent chance of survival. One of the stab wounds to her heart came close to being fatal. April’s heart stopped three times. In all, six doctors operated on April. Between these dedicated doctors and April’s own incredible will to live, she survived. April and those many heroes who worked to save her life received a standing ovation at the Real Heroes Breakfast.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-14011887580741628492011-12-12T10:48:00.000-08:002011-12-12T10:52:57.574-08:00Book Review: The Glass Castle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlN5KCZMvlmcfdGD58xjzU5kyHyCZQTcebViRKQnrZHE-fQap7toA7X6M0AdA6iuVWA8Yh9o8CvmljXje3VPb06aSPo6BOfkfsYvg4yeQlDLxqT74tql32RhEQLsXE3zDkwsljxy08bUk/s1600/The+Glass+Castle.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 128px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlN5KCZMvlmcfdGD58xjzU5kyHyCZQTcebViRKQnrZHE-fQap7toA7X6M0AdA6iuVWA8Yh9o8CvmljXje3VPb06aSPo6BOfkfsYvg4yeQlDLxqT74tql32RhEQLsXE3zDkwsljxy08bUk/s400/The+Glass+Castle.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685315907096545426" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Glass Castle</span> (Scribner) by Jeannette Walls is an extraordinary book about a dysfunctional yet captivating family. Captivating because despite the flaws these parents have, they have managed to raise children with spunk, imagination, and determination. This memoir, <span style="font-style:italic;">The Glass Castle</span>, is named after the home Jeannette Walls’ father promised to build for his family.<br /><br />Rex and Rose Mary Walls have four children. Life in the beginning was fun–Jeannette who narrates this memoir, loves living in the Southwest and living a fun, nomadic life. Rex is a brilliant man and teaches his children physics, geology, and from him they learn to embrace life and to use their imagination. Rex’s drinking problem accelerates as the story progresses, but from their father the children learn many of life’s truths.<br /><br />Rose Mary prefers to spend her time painting and writing. She resents having to cook a meal or do housework when she could be spending time at her easel. Her children cook for themselves, when there’s food on hand. Meals could be nothing but popcorn three days in a row. Jeannette learns early in life that “to do the skedaddle” means when the family can’t pay their bills, they move on.<br /><br />Rex’s drinking affects his earning power and the family moves to a West Virginia mining town where his mother lives. The mother takes the family in for a short while, but that doesn’t work out and they soon move to a dilapidated house in the hills. Rex still has grandiose plans of becoming rich, but the reality is that the kids have to fend for themselves to get their basic needs. Jeannette describes spending her lunch hour in the restroom, going through garbage bins to eat what other children have thrown away. In the winters, their rickety house is freezing cold with no fuel to burn. Keeping warm is a daily challenge with shoes held together by strings, thin, inadequate clothing, and thrift store coats with no buttons. Kids at school mock and tease them and the Walls have few friends, but the siblings are fiercely protective of each other.<br /><br />Still the children excel at school, are in the top of their reading groups, and Jeannette’s work on the school paper is exemplary. Rose Mary has a teaching degree, but doesn’t have the heart to work full time and makes a mess of grading papers and keeping her students in line. To keep a paycheck coming in, the kids chip in and help their mother grade papers. But there comes a time Rose Mary refuses to go to school to teach; she wants to attend to her own needs to paint and write.<br /><br />The Walls story is remarkable in that Jeannette has the determination to become successful on her own terms, yet still holds unconditional love for her parents. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Glass Castle</span>is a tribute to love, fierce determination and triumph.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-28286660640132474442011-12-05T09:10:00.001-08:002011-12-06T16:38:58.468-08:00A Visit with Beverly Hooks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZmWJuT7wlLwu6Cc5qvZRYiFZoaVr2o-_K15d10qmfjdiYJByBEGTuX-SKVPkhD_o6EX9Jl6vO2CGa_7wGcds6w6OkcP1VoeadveY0Qd3pRvUupr6t7Xb32O0lIa_wYDoHnDPeKT_BAU/s1600/Beverly+8x10+high_res.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZmWJuT7wlLwu6Cc5qvZRYiFZoaVr2o-_K15d10qmfjdiYJByBEGTuX-SKVPkhD_o6EX9Jl6vO2CGa_7wGcds6w6OkcP1VoeadveY0Qd3pRvUupr6t7Xb32O0lIa_wYDoHnDPeKT_BAU/s400/Beverly+8x10+high_res.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682693049023298994" /></a><br />Recently, it was my pleasure to meet Beverly Hooks at the Pacific Northwest Writers’ Association Cottage at Gilman Village in Issaquah, Washington where she showcased her newly released <span style="font-style:italic;">Come Walk with Me - A Poetic Journal</span> (Tate Publishing).<br /><br />Q: Beverly, I noticed your elegant book, <span style="font-style:italic;">Come Walk with Me - A Poetic Journal,</span> has wide appeal. Do you find a commonality in interests among those who buy your book?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Yes, I find much interest from art lovers, other artists, poets, writers and journalists. I also enjoy speaking with those who purchase my book as a gift. I find a definite commonality with those who have visited the location of my paintings. I particularly love the responding resonance of internal peace. <br /></span><br />Q: It’s a small book, easy to carry in a purse or pocket. It appears that its size is part of the book’s charm.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Thank you, the size is 5x7.</span><br /><br />Q: How do you describe yourself?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">I am thankful for the gift of creativity. I am an impressionist, landscape/garden painter. I enjoy commissioned paintings, which involve my clients’ homes/gardens and special venues. I have sold my work for over twenty years. <br /><br />I am classified as a Romanic Impressionist which pretty much describes my writing style. For me, the combination of art and poetry comes as descriptive interpretive thought. I am extremely dedicated to both my art and writing, and pursue to insure peace to all who view my work.</span><br /><br />Q: Many of your paintings and their accompanying poems have roots in the English countryside. Tell us how that came about.<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">My husband Michael and I spent almost a year in Northern England. We lived in the beautiful village of Lytham. While Michael worked, I joined the Lytham Art Society and met wonderful artists who included me in many art related and family outings. On Friday afternoons through Sunday evenings my husband and I traveled the length and breadth of the British Isles, along with other European jaunts. <br /><br />This opportunity brought much joy with en plein air painting excursions as well as hours of studio time flooding my canvas with cherished memories. <br /></span><br />Q: Tell us about some of your other artistic and/or writing projects. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">I enjoyed a commissioned trip to Austria & Germany. The painting Schloss (Castle) Mitersill, a ‘hunters castle’ turned resort can be found on my website. The painting Silent Night Chapel, Oberndorf, Austria and poem can be found in my Poetic Journal and website.<br /><br />September 2005, I was juried by the US National Park Service as the “Artist-In- Residence” for Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. I spent the month painting the beautiful Park, concluding with a permanent painting in the Park Museum.<br /><br />My website contains an art gallery of both sold and available paintings. I am an avid journalist in that as I paint or finish a painting, I write about the inspiration of the experience and location. My new blog consists of a journey to the actual painting locations and the particular situations prompting the memory. I share actual events and happenings driven from the selected painting on my blog via my website, www.beverlyhooks.com</span><br /><br />Q: The day we were together, I noticed many people earnestly sharing their thoughts with you. What sort of feedback do you normally get after people have viewed your work?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Most identify with the painting locations and share their visits and inspired moments. Some seem to enjoy the rhyme and rhythm of the poems while others want more information and viewings of my art.<br /><br />It is my pleasure to spend time visiting, listening and sharing the many stories and experiences with such interesting people.<br /></span><br />Q: Was writing this book something you had longed to do, or was it a sudden inspiration?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">My personal note taking and journaling paved the way for the ‘sudden inspiration.’ I find my peaceful time in poets such as Yeats, Tennyson, and Frost along with many other classic and contemporary poets. <br /></span><br />Q: How long did it take you to create your book? <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Painting selection and writing took approximately six months.</span><br /> <br />Q: What challenges did you face as you wrote <span style="font-style:italic;">Come Walk with Me</span>?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Time is my constant constraint. I paint for gallery, invitational art shows, and commission work. I teach beginner/advanced painting lessons here in Poulsbo. On March 7st I will be begin teaching every Wednesday at An Artful Touch in Kirkland, WA.<br /><br />I, as many passionate artists and writers seem to add to a brimming plate. Why? Because we love what we do! <br /></span><br />Q: Do you have a work-in-progress now?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Yes, and thank you for asking! I have written two children’s books that I thought ready for submission until I spoke with a literary agent, who suggested that I illustrate in my style of fine art painting. I am excited about spending the next several months focusing on a new adventure of fine art illustration.<br /><br />The smaller in text of the two books is focused here in the Seattle/Olympic peninsula area. The longer book is of a descriptive journey from the beautiful Florida Everglades to the Great Pacific Northwest.</span><br /><br />Q: You mentioned to me that you do commissioned work. Tell us about that.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">I especially enjoy commissioned paintings and working with new clients. I love the opportunity to step into another’s world soaking up the reason and passion for the painting. It is a tremendously satisfying accomplishment to experience a pleased and happy client.<br /></span><br />Q: Where can people learn more about your work? <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">My book is available through Bookstores nationally; if you do not see it shelved, just ask, it can be ordered for you.<br /><br />For a personalized signed copy of <span style="font-style:italic;">Come Walk With Me ~ A Poetic Journal,</span> visit my website <a href="http://www.beverlyhooks.com">www.beverlyhooks.com</a>. My original art, giclee prints, and note cards, are also on my website. <br /></span><br />To commission a painting, contact Beverly: (360) 649-453, beverly@beverlyhooks.com <br /><br />Thank you, Beverly. I appreciate your taking the time to be with us today.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-63615087509546357212011-11-28T10:27:00.001-08:002011-11-28T10:33:26.480-08:00Book Review: The Girl with No Shadow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1ART5wJ0zOwRYhwxkq14Hs8MfJN5PCXX7nSLoBpom9MRupJewLUSaKz1UeQWvHrPbM-E-IEQQgTJwBun17Xlu81TLXXXF1_y0HrZ2ve_ZxMg_fS1e47CPgJ8h_b2M-Txxiu2rT6mr7M/s1600/Girl+with+no+Shadow.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 90px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1ART5wJ0zOwRYhwxkq14Hs8MfJN5PCXX7nSLoBpom9MRupJewLUSaKz1UeQWvHrPbM-E-IEQQgTJwBun17Xlu81TLXXXF1_y0HrZ2ve_ZxMg_fS1e47CPgJ8h_b2M-Txxiu2rT6mr7M/s400/Girl+with+no+Shadow.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680116022408118786" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Girl with No Shadow </span>(Harper Perennial) by Joanne Harris is a magical book. Literally. Its magic is in the form of witchery in three of the main characters. A sequel to Chocolat, the book’s main character, Yanne Charbonneau has changed her name from Vianne Rocher. Her daughter now nine, also has a different name, Anouk. Added is another younger daughter, Rosette, who is possibly autistic. The little French family has been forced to leave their former home and is starting over in Paris.<br /><br />Yanne continues her vocation as a maker of exquisite chocolates. It’s a drab life she leads, but at least she and her daughters are safe. Her shop barely ekes out a living. If it weren’t for Thierry, her staid landlord, who has provided living quarters, she wouldn’t be able to care for her family. <br /><br />Thierry asks Yanne to marry him and although she’s not in love with him, a solid family life is tempting. But she can’t bring herself to agree to marriage. Undaunted, he continues with plans to renovate one of his houses for them.<br /><br />Along comes Zozie de l’Alba and we know from her first words that she is up to no good. Beautiful and charming, Zozie is an attraction to impressionable Anouk. Although for some time Anouk has realized she’s different from other kids, her exposure to Zozie helps her to define her special talent. She, too, is a witch.<br /><br />Zozie manages to become part of the family, turns the chocolate shop into a bright, sunny place that draws customers in droves.<br /><br />Just when Yanne least expects it, Roux appears from her past. Although he doesn’t know it, he is Rosette’s father. Even after four years, he stirs up feelings Yanne has tried unsuccessfully to bury.<br /><br />Zozie’s true colors emerge. Pending danger and ruin become obvious. What tactic will she use this time to alter the lives of those who have trusted her?<br /><br />If you’re a chocolate lover, you’ll enjoy the many descriptions of making exotic confections. Joanne Harris uses an interesting technique to spin her tale in that the story is told in three voices, all in first person. It was a bit confusing at first, but I soon noticed each of the three had a unique symbol at the beginning of a chapter. <br /><br />Though my reading pleasure is normally stories with realistic plots, Harris spins an intriguing yarn. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Girl with No Shadow</span> is a fairy tale for grown-ups. The author’s knowledge of chocolate is impressive and the Paris setting extraordinary. Harris’s lyrical writing style is a joy and keeps the reader engaged.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-25286771406134636052011-11-21T09:02:00.001-08:002011-11-21T09:09:56.170-08:00Book Review: Cold River<a href="http://sezlizadair.blogspot.com/p/lizs-books.html"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoF609i1iSxWZnumSaUuk1ONXF8bQpHC4ne6RreM2dWtmOmaS4z6xBFxHgtvoPqGgado-buBNYwdIlrpAFFOwPVmh99JceC9nPdninVu299Ie-nqHXjsGjD37AY5X6J7M07j3q87dWgCU/s1600/Cold+River.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 260px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoF609i1iSxWZnumSaUuk1ONXF8bQpHC4ne6RreM2dWtmOmaS4z6xBFxHgtvoPqGgado-buBNYwdIlrpAFFOwPVmh99JceC9nPdninVu299Ie-nqHXjsGjD37AY5X6J7M07j3q87dWgCU/s400/Cold+River.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677495725896324690" /></a><br />For a chilling Pacific Northwest experience, <span style="font-style:italic;">Cold River</span> (Walnut Springs Press) by Liz Adair will keep you wondering about who’s putting a damper on the efforts of the new school superintendent.<br /><br />When Mandy Steenburg accepts the job of Superintendent of Schools in Limestone, Washington, she feels confident her doctorate in education will be a valuable asset. She arrives in early spring, which in the foothills, is still very cold and rainy. The weather isn’t the only thing that dampens her spirit. The town’s chilly reception is less than welcoming. Limestone is a community with tarheel independence and these folks like their town just as it is. <br /><br />Mandy’s younger sister Leesie appears, a senior in high school, hoping to live with Mandy in the A-Frame house she’s rented. Although Mandy’s pleased to have the company, it is one more responsibility to take on.<br /><br />As superintendent, Mandy struggles to make improvements, but meets resistance. Although the former superintendent has been demoted to assistant superintendent, the town still looks to him for leadership. Organized and efficient, Mandy is determined to make a difference, but it seems the only change she makes is in her own well-being. Incidents begin to happen, dangerous, life-threatening events. After a nasty case of food poisoning, a mysterious house fire, a wheel spinning off her car, she realizes someone is serious about getting rid of her.<br /><br />Along the way, Mandy does make friends, even experiences the beginning of a romance, but she’s getting a strong message that she’s not accepted professionally and she considers accepting another job. She stumbles upon a secret and in trying to get away finds herself in deep water in a very real sense.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Cold River</span> is a suspenseful novel written with insight of the inner workings of a school district. Of particular interest to me was the correlation between music and mathematics, as the author depicts Limestone’s exceptional and unusual high school music program. Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries will enjoy this book. To read more about the author, visit http://sezlizadair.blogspot.com/p/lizs-books.html<br /><br />NOTE: For those who live in the Pacific Northwest, Liz Adair invites you to a <span style="font-style:italic;">Cold River</span> launch party, 7:00 p.m., December 8 at the Sedro Woolley Library, 802 Ball Street, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284-2008. Door prizes will be books and home-made apple pies!Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-81532957293500805072011-11-14T09:13:00.001-08:002011-11-14T09:18:21.464-08:00An Inspirational Visit with Michael Lienau<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugdg2gwJWYQetI9jcrDJGbfWReaGGYaKmnYQo4fACVLmqmSlyp4j71sfOVNmNwj_ekYXJnyJKszLfib0rZbXHbnuHRvooxauVxNQZXMSCiOLr6Py0AfB5kI-3JiB-h7hwu7gNQfZDZRI/s1600/Michael+Lienau.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 293px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugdg2gwJWYQetI9jcrDJGbfWReaGGYaKmnYQo4fACVLmqmSlyp4j71sfOVNmNwj_ekYXJnyJKszLfib0rZbXHbnuHRvooxauVxNQZXMSCiOLr6Py0AfB5kI-3JiB-h7hwu7gNQfZDZRI/s400/Michael+Lienau.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674901076494690194" /></a><br />After a life-altering experience, Michael Lienau is a firm believer in emergency preparedness. I recently attended a presentation of Michael Lienau’s in which he spoke of personal and business emergency preparedness. <br /><br />Lienau was a close observer of Mount St. Helens during its second eruption on May 25, 1980. Too close. At age twenty and a life-long film buff, he’d planned to go to film school in Northern California. His plans were waylaid when Mount St. Helens erupted May 18, 1980. He made his way to the Mount St. Helens area to film the rivers that swelled with volcanic sediment. He joined a Seattle production company and flew through black clouds of ash, filming the blast from above.<br /><br />When the second, smaller blast of May 25 occurred, Lienau and the production company were at the base of the mountain. The sky rained ash for seven hours, trapping the party in the backcountry for four days. They were unprepared for such an emergency and fought fatigue, hunger and turmoil.<br /><br />It was a life-changing event, both professionally and spiritually. There was a strong possibility they might lose their lives. “It was one of those things that shaped my life,” he says. He began freelancing film work, inspired by his experience and the people whose lives were affected by the blast.<br /><br />Lienau filmed “The Fire Below Us: Remembering Mount St. Helens,” which was first aired in 1994 on National Geographic television. He later made “Fire Mountains of the West” and “Cascadia: The Hidden Fire,” two films examining the present geologic and volcanic dangers of the Pacific Northwest.<br /><br />Today, still an active cinematographer, Lienau encourages people to be prepared for disaster. “Preparedness is easy, inexpensive and you’ll never regret it.” Lienau’s particular concern is the strong possibility of a disastrous earthquake in the Northwest. The Cascadia Subduction Zone is one of the largest geologic faults in the nation, capable of generating a truly catastrophic 9+ earthquake.<br /><br />By following FEMA’s recommendation--Make a plan, Make a kit, and Be informed--we can ensure preparedness. FEMA suggests a minimum 3-day Disaster Supply Kit that includes:<br />– One gallon of water per person per day, plus regular chlorine bleach for purifying more water<br />– Non-perishable food for each person per day<br />– Medications / first aid supplies<br />– Flashlight / extra batteries / light sticks<br />– Toiletries (including toilet paper, feminine supplies, soap, personal hygiene supplies)<br />– Important documents (wills, insurance papers, etc)<br />– Money, including small bills and change<br />– Multi-Purpose tools, garbage & zip lock bags<br />– Radio (battery or wind-up) / extra batteries<br />– Special needs for elderly, baby, pets<br />– Extra clothes / shoes / blankets<br /><br />Lienau emphasizes the need to have food and supplies on hand. “If we give some time to preparedness in our families, neighborhoods and communities, it alleviates fear and strengthens our response systems.”Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-30148306465945696282011-11-08T06:08:00.000-08:002011-11-08T06:12:40.856-08:00Book Review: Loving Frank<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXS9qv3UkVAloDESUXdXw7U3i0n75Y5hwmGv3tKfRnT6djUnfYMsBqCb1mZIvkLDDQm_qfV7XoVyOqAuOSrGoSrt3INJPM6G7EeqtqO-PC6NrjSZl80pc1gaa8rmqlZ0Y-j4STIj5C7Pk/s1600/Loving+Frank+cover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXS9qv3UkVAloDESUXdXw7U3i0n75Y5hwmGv3tKfRnT6djUnfYMsBqCb1mZIvkLDDQm_qfV7XoVyOqAuOSrGoSrt3INJPM6G7EeqtqO-PC6NrjSZl80pc1gaa8rmqlZ0Y-j4STIj5C7Pk/s400/Loving+Frank+cover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672626872939572114" /></a><br />Loving Frank by Nancy Horan (Ballentine Books) is an exquisitely written novel based on the world-renown architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mamah Borthwick Cheney.<br /><br />In 1903 Mamah and her husband, Edwin, commission the locally famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, to design a house for them. Mamah and Edwin become friends with Frank and his wife, Catherine.<br /><br />During the construction of the house, a powerful attraction develops between Frank and Mamah, a force so powerful they leave their spouses and children to live clandestine lives. They travel to Europe and Japan, following Frank’s quest for international architectural supremacy. Along the way, highly educated Mamah finds her intellectual fulfillment when she meets the Swedish feminist, Ellen Key and is commissioned to translate Key’s books and essays. When the truth about Frank and Mamah is exposed, their affair shocks Chicago society and brings shame and grief to their families.<br /><br />Loving Frank is much more than a love story. It reaches into the possibility of freedom for woman and the cost and consequences of realizing those freedoms. Horan provides insights into the ambitions and quirks of Wright, an eccentric genius. <br /><br />Loving Frank is a well-researched story of great passion, compassion, and timeless truth, an unforgettable historical novel.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-87622598542655517852011-10-31T10:29:00.000-07:002011-10-31T10:42:06.260-07:00How Important are Personal Appearances for a Writer?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VeyHp0PE17XDXQOZt_c_SwSiECmz5RbxHETK5GElmcmw0Et1nGm14Ka9wMgGkg1l5t-yXeF-Kz76QQ_krResC-DyjXrjC6ZVswWuCAPAXnz0CD_7v4fk1-Qynu8VCMN9wYaUcIWZ6TI/s1600/Mary+at+Poppyseeds.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VeyHp0PE17XDXQOZt_c_SwSiECmz5RbxHETK5GElmcmw0Et1nGm14Ka9wMgGkg1l5t-yXeF-Kz76QQ_krResC-DyjXrjC6ZVswWuCAPAXnz0CD_7v4fk1-Qynu8VCMN9wYaUcIWZ6TI/s400/Mary+at+Poppyseeds.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669710084099359058" /></a><br />Mary at Poppyseeds, Stanwood, WA<br /><br />I have found that a big part of promotion is making personal appearances. Look around for opportunities to make this happen.<br /><br />– Call on stores in person. Always have your books with you when you’re out and about. In my car, I keep a good sampling of my books in a wheeled carry-on. If you see a store that might feature your books, don’t hesitate to go in, introduce yourself and show them your books. Many times I have shown a store owner or manager my books, even though they currently don’t have books in their inventory. I’ve been gratified by their interest. For sure, call on bookstores, but broaden your scope to other stores your readers might frequent, such as drugstores, gift stores, tack shops, etc.. Non-book stores most often pay up-front rather than on consignment, and pay a higher rate than bookstores. <br /><br />– Take advantage of writer group events. In the Northwest, Pacific Northwest Writers Association has a Cottage Event where members are encouraged to appear with their books. If you belong to a writers group (and you should!), help organize an event that will draw the public.<br /><br />– Participate in community events. On Camano Island, where I live, an annual Women’s Expo draws a large crowd. Vendors display their wares at tables featuring health items, jewelry, gifts, clothing, seasonal items, hand-crafted goods....and my books. Often, I am the only vendor with books and I enjoy being a novelty. It’s gratifying when people stop by to tell you how much they enjoyed your book and will now buy another title, and perhaps one more as a gift. Watch for opportunities in your area–there are bound to be Christmas events, fall festivals, public markets, even flea markets. Sometimes there’s a fee to have a “booth.” You have to weigh the cost against the profit. But, if nothing else, your personal appearance has added to your name and face recognition.<br /><br />– Become known at your local library. Inquire about the library carrying your books. Donate a copy of your book to show your good will. In my area, Friends of the Library has invited me to speak and it is expected that I will bring my books to sell to attendees. Friends of the Library regularly host writer events–readers love meeting authors. They also hold an annual book sale for which proceeds go back into the library fund. I save my slightly shop-worn books to donate to this cause.<br /><br />– When we take a road trip, I always take an extra supply of books and call on stores along the way. I have found small town drugstores to be among my best customers. I don’t make a big thing of this–it is our vacation, after all. Sometimes I’ll explain we’re visiting the area and thought I’d pop in and introduce myself. The response has been gratifying. Throughout the year, especially at Christmastime, I follow up these visits with a phone call and often replenish their book supply.<br /><br />– Team up with a friend. It’s fun to make personal appearances with a friend. I often team up with a writer from another community, giving us a wider selection of venues. Sometimes it’s fun going solo, but other times it’s good to share the cost of a booth with someone else.<br /><br />– It’s always interesting to people to have a book written about where they live. Canvas that area, looking for stores or other possibilities for personal appearances. <br /><br />As you make your personal calls, be professional. Be prepared to leave a brochure or at the very least a business card. Sometimes people need time to think new ideas over. Follow up with a phone call soon after your personal visit. You are unique. Show enthusiasm about your product.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7799864205176216318.post-49914955942573280322011-10-24T11:36:00.001-07:002011-10-24T11:42:34.335-07:00Book Review: West With the Night<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziRBK4bDo396i8XGiWmSD27pRYIFWeezHjTLl5g1ujMvU4yPPzWSAx7GIQdIxKCLjmqu5wUHxEaHcSqUYWZpC8guOXsaqQrU2ugnYS81dXwM4ntQwnBkKKFU7Au-ELS8AJmYOnx5nffI/s1600/West+With+the+Night.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziRBK4bDo396i8XGiWmSD27pRYIFWeezHjTLl5g1ujMvU4yPPzWSAx7GIQdIxKCLjmqu5wUHxEaHcSqUYWZpC8guOXsaqQrU2ugnYS81dXwM4ntQwnBkKKFU7Au-ELS8AJmYOnx5nffI/s400/West+With+the+Night.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667129589628092162" /></a><br />West With the Night (North Point Press) by Beryl Markham was first copyrighted in 1942, so don’t look for this gem on the just-released shelf. Since I’m researching memoirs and am always interested in all things African, I found this book extraordinary. Markham, born in England but raised in British East Africa, shows a powerful command of the English language.<br /><br />In her childhood Markham hunted with tribesmen, endured the same discomforts, ran the distance with the best of them. Later, she followed her father’s passion for horses, raising thoroughbreds for the track and keeping them for her own pleasure. <br /><br />In the mid-1930's, Markham became enchanted with flying and learned from a master flyer, Tom Black, who taught her in a D. H. Gipsy Moth. She achieved her “A” license, then later, her “B” license which entitled her to earn a living flying. In the early years, she carried mail, passengers, supplies to safaris and occasionally joined in a search for a downed plane. Often, her destination was marked by a single column of smoke, or at night, a row of small fires or lanterns.<br /><br />Hunting bull elephant for their ivory was popular in the 1930's. As I read these encounters, I simply had to put aside what we know now about extinction and the injustice of killing an animal for a single feature of its body. Markham became enamored with the sport of spotting herds of elephant, working with one of Africa’s best known white hunters, Baron von Blixen, whom Markham called Blix.<br /><br />In 1936, Beryl Markham met head-on a challenge of a trans-Atlantic solo flight, east to west, England to America. She would fly non-stop a night and a day. However, somewhere off the coast of Newfoundland ice lodged in the petrol tank’s air intake, partially choking fuel flow to the carburetor. The engine failed, caught, failed again and again, but finally would not restart and, after twenty-one hours and twenty-five minutes, Markham had to force-land in a Nova Scotia bog, burying the plane’s wheels and tipping it head-first into the mud. Markham managed to crawl out of the plane and wandered in the muck for an hour before being rescued. <br /><br />Beryl Markham was a remarkable woman and West With the Night a memorable accounting of her life. Ernest Hemingway said of this book, “...[Beryl Markham] can write rings around all of us who consider ourselves writers...” I won’t argue with that. It is an engaging, elegant book.Mary E. Trimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967336870794374746noreply@blogger.com5