Bellarmine House - Cohasset, MA

November 6, 2008

Last week-end I had the opportunity to ‘get away’ with over twenty friends. We all belong to a small faith community called the People of the Promise. We started our journey at the Paulist Center in Boston and have been celebrating Mass together for over thirty-six years.

Every Autumn we try to go on a retreat at this amazing Jesuit property with spectacular views on the Atlantic Ocean. It is always a time of renewal. The quiet reflection, the animated conversations, the meaningful sharing all contribute to a joyful, peaceful experience. I cannot forget the fun-filled ‘happy hours’ or the delicious meals we enjoy together with everyone contributing their specialties.

This year we were guided by the words of St. Paul and his instructions in the form of letters written to the early Christians. Emphasis was on the power of God’s love, the gifts of the Spirit, and the hope of reconciliation. A new understanding of reconciliation as reconnecting with the broken parts of ourselves and others emerged.

Our priest shared this thought about God:
You loved us into being like a mother. You walk with us as a friend. You are able to accomplish in us far more than we can ask, imagine, or dream possible…

The luxury of being able to get away, to appreciate the stillness, to be thankful for the friendships and to know that nothing can separate us from the love of God was not lost on me.

A Carrie Fisher Moment

When I learned several weeks ago that Carrie Fisher would be bringing her one woman show to Boston’s Huntington Theatre I hastened to get a ticket. My fast action was rewarded with a third row, end seat – heavenly. Then when Carrie began her show by singing “Happy Days Are Here Again” and walking into the audience, there I was as she sprinkled glitter (mostly in my hair) and I mouthed the words, “Love you!”

Talk about a special moment - that was one. I have long admired Carrie Fisher as a survivor, talented actress, brilliant writer and most of all a very funny lady. She has cleverly mined her, as she says, “all too eventful life.” A life always lived in the public eye. Born to celebrity parents, Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher, her father left her mother for Elizabeth Taylor when she was two years old. Her mother took her out of high school and put Carrie in the chorus of her Las Vegas show. By the time she did Star Wars at the age of twenty she was having addiction problems. In and out of rehab her struggle continues.

Not being a fan of Star Wars it was not Carrie Fisher’s movie career which got my attention but rather her books. As an author she uses words very cleverly and almost never fails to get a laugh in very depressing circumstances. This I enjoy.

Her first marriage to singer Paul Simon ended in divorce. Her second marriage to talent agent Bryan Lourd ended when he left her for another man. From this union she has a daughter, Billie, whom she clearly adores. She continued to live in the Los Angeles area so that her daughter would have a father’s love and influence. Something Carrie herself didn’t have. Her Dad’s most famous song is, “Oh My Papa” or as Carrie likes to say, “Oh My Faux Pa.”

Her manic personality eventually meant a bipolar diagnosis. She is very open about her mental illness and says that doing her show has helped her to own her problems rather that the problems owning her. Clearly her sense of humor and brilliant wit have helped her to survive a dysfunctional childhood, her alcoholism, the drug addiction, mental illness, marriage to a man who, as she says, “…forgot to tell me he was gay.” and most recently the accidental death in her home of a very dear friend. The latter event sent her into a deep depression. She created her show as a way to help her out of the doldrums.

Regarding Carrie’s one woman show, “Wishful Drinking”, I was very moved by it and don’t think I ever laughed so much - simply genius. Thank you Carrie for taking us away from our every day problems while at the same time dealing with your own. I won’t soon forget my special Carrie Fisher moment.

Ancestry and St. Augustine Cemetery Chapel

Last Saturday, September 20th, I had the opportunity to attend a noon Mass, concelebrated by three bishops, at St. Augustine’s Cemetery Chapel in South Boston, MA. It was held in honor of the first Catholic priest in Boston, Rev. Francis Anthony Matignon who died on September 19, 1818. By all accounts Father Matignon was much loved and even revered. After bravely fleeing France , he came to America in 1792 and faced a great deal of difficulty trying to establish the Catholic Church in Boston.
There were at that time about one hundred Catholics who would occasionally receive the sacraments from a visiting priest. With the arrival of Father Matignon these early Catholics finally had a priest. I am thrilled to be able to say that one of my ancestors, Stephen Roberts, was part of that original congregation. After much sacrifice the first Cathedral of the Holy Cross was dedicated in 1803. Records show that even President John Adams donated to the building fund. After helping to spread the faith and to oversee the growth of the Church in Boston, when Father Matignon died part of his obituary read: “…his memory is cherished by all who value learning, honour genius, or love devotion.”
I spoke to Bishop Dooher prior to the Mass as I wanted to tell him that one of my ancestors was a part of the early Catholic Church in Boston. I was very happy when in his homily the Bishop mentioned how one of the attendees had an ancestor who was a member of that first flock served by Father Matignon. It was a joy to know that Stephen Roberts was remembered and honored in this way. My heart is full of gratitude for the gift of faith and it is a gift so freely given by one generation to the next. To stand on the sacred ground of St. Augustines’s Cemetery and to try to remember and honor one’s heritage is a humbling experience.

As pleased as I was to attend the Mass I was even more anxious to investigate the cemetery and to see if I could find any memorials to several relatives who are buried there. These include my great, great grandfather, Owen McCabe, and my great aunt, Elizabeth McCabe, better known as Auntie Lizzie. I was not successful but I am hoping to find the location of their graves when the Archdiocese of Boston again makes its archives available sometime soon.

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

Seldom have I read anything as compelling as this first time novel of David Wroblewski. I simply could not put it down. I consider myself a slow reader so for me to finish a 500 page plus book in less than two weeks was an accomplishment. This is a wonderful story of a boy, Edgar, his parents, Gar and Trudy and his mysterious uncle Claude. But most of all it is about the amazing ‘Sawtelle’ dogs. The story is both unique and electrifying.

The setting is a farm in Wisconsin where Edgar’s family raises to yearlings their very special ‘Sawtelle’ dogs. These dogs clearly learn from as well as teach the humans around them. Edgar’s dog, Almondine, seems to be an extension of him as Almondine has been Edgar’s protector and companion since he was an infant. Edgar is a brilliant boy who was born mute and with the help of his mother perfected sign language and developed much of his own. He communicates flawlessly. But sadly there is one time when things go horrible wrong and he is unable to get help.

Every good story has a suspicious character and features the usual battle of good vs evil. In this case Edgar’s uncle, Claude, provides these elements. The barn on the Sawtelle’s farm is a character unto itself for this is where the dogs are born, cared for, trained and given that special treatment resulting in their uniqueness. The final scene in this dramatic story is played out in the barn as well as many other turning points in this remarkable tale.

It has taken me several days and lots of book discussion moments to finally accept the ending of this story. At first I was disappointed as it seemed to be so unfulfilling given how utterly taken I was with the story. Then, I was angry how could the author do this to his readers!?! I had actually closed the book at one point about 50 pages from the end and contemplated whether to finish it. Imagine being that emotionally involved that you just didn’t want to confirm the ending you feared.

I will not forget this novel and I can only hope to read something else this outstanding sometime soon.

Ordination and Celebration of Women Priests

Two weeks have passed since I attended an extraordinary ordination. Yes, three remarkable women felt the call to the priesthood one as early as six years old. This elevation to the Roman Catholic Priesthood took place at the Church of the Covenant in Boston, MA. The ritual included the calling, the presentation, the examination and the election of the candidates for ordination to the priesthood.

Family and friends provided witness to the calling while the candidates were presented in turn one by her husband, another by her daughter and the third by a friend. The election included the laying on and anointing of hands as well as the investiture with stole and chasuble. There were two presiding bishops – one from America and the other from Germany.

I truly never thought I would witness such a powerful ceremony. These three women finally had the support and affirmation to answer their faith and love filled calling. All of the women will serve in the United States outside of Massachusetts.

In the early days of the Church many women bore witness to the Christianity Jesus Christ called them to spread and participated in priesthood as well. In fact the first person Jesus appeared to after His Resurrection was Mary Magdalene. It is no coincidence that the ordination took place on the Sunday closest to her feast day of July 22nd. I felt privileged to be there on the historic moment when three amazing women answered the call to ministry. The celebration was wonderfully heart-felt. May every grace, good wish and God’s blessings be theirs, Amen.

The Letter

July 11, 2008

Yesterday I came upon a sacred letter. Yes, it is a fragile treasure. Written 101 years ago by my paternal Great Grandfather to his dear daughter Catherine, it is an heirloom. Upon the urging of my niece and family historian, Kristin, I scanned it for her and I’m sure that it will help further her research as she lovingly explores our family’s ancestry.

I have often said that my paternal relatives are priests and teachers. It was my Grandfather's wish that my Father would become a priest. Fate intervened when my Grandfather died when Dad had just turned thirteen years old. Strange to imagine that one might not have been born.

It continues to amaze me when I ponder this heritage. Another interesting fact is that until fairly recently there was a Keveny Memorial Academy in Cohoes, NY. As a retired school teacher, thirty-six years in the classroom, there is something very thrilling about knowing that a school once bore your name.

I look forward to learning more about such a rich legacy one that deserves to be acknowledged and revered.

Please note that the photograph is of Catherine, a teacher and her brother Charles, a priest.

Part Two: Ultimate Dining Experience

June 28, 2008

It was my good fortune to dine for a second time in a restaurant I had previously tried and written about. My review had been mixed. It was not so much the food which was wonderful but the pace of the meal, the feeling of being rushed and the fact that it colored the experience in a negative way. Well, much to my surprise and delight I received an invitation from the owner to come again and really experience fine dining.

This past Wednesday my sister and I had the opportunity to do just that and did we ever dine in style. From the warm welcome of the host to the amazing expertise and professionalism of our waiter, we enjoyed every minute of the evening. A drink before dinner set the pace for a leisurely meal. Then, for starters we had perfect Cotuit oysters and delicious Maryland crab cakes. My entrée was the fabulous grilled veal sirloin with a butter basted lobster and corn salad while Regina had the restaurant’s, some say, most acclaimed dish of North Dakota buffalo tenderloin. I must say it was far tastier than any prime beef I’ve ever had. Our waiter had recommended just the right wine to accompany our dinner choices and it surely enhanced the dining experience.

The featured dessert had house-made ice cream on a walnut fudge brownie with, of course, warm chocolate sauce and cream. Are you hungry yet? I hope you will find your way to Heather’s Restaurant in Mashpee, MA on Cape Cod. If you do, your palate is in for a treat and your spirit will be buoyed as well. My special thanks go to Heather, chef/owner and Matt, general manager/owner for providing that so seldom, if ever, ultimate dining experience.

My Tribute to Stevie Nicks

June 23, 2008

What can be better than a 13th inning walk off homer by the Red Sox Kevin Youkilis? In this case it’s an unforgettable Stevie Nicks concert at the Bank of America Pavilion on June 22nd. Both were on the same day to boot and it was an amazing one at that. On a beautiful summer evening when Stevie took the stage in Boston, she owned it. From the intoxicating opening sounds of Stand Back to the plaintive ending sounds of Has Anyone Ever Written Anything For You, Stevie gave her all to each and every song – not bad for someone who turned 60 years old on May 26th. Her commitment to her music and her intensity delivering it are unparalleled.

Stevie Nicks is a survivor one who battled serious addiction to both cocaine and prescription drugs and came out victorious at the other end. I’ve always admired people who overcome their demons. At the same time I’ve loved Stevie’s voice since her days with Fleetwood Mac when I first heard Rhiannon, “Would you stay if she promised you heaven; will you ever win…dreams unwind; love’s a state of mind.” Rhiannon is just one of Stevie’s many alter egos. These include my favorite Sara, “Stay with me awhile said you’d give me light but you never told me about the fire…all I ever wanted was to know that you were dreaming…” My other favorite Gold Dust Woman, “Heartless challenge; pick your path and I’ll pray…is it over now – do you know how; pick up the pieces and go home.” Then there is Gypsy, “She is dancing away from me now…and a memory is all that is left for you now…” From Tusk the haunting Angel, “Sometimes the most beautiful things, the most innocent things, and many of those dreams pass us by…and to those that I love like a ghost through a fog, like a charmed hour and a haunted song and the angel of my dreams.” From the only number one song Fleetwood Mac ever had Dreams, “But listen carefully to the sound of your loneliness, like a heartbeat drives you mad, in the stillness of remembering what you had and what you lost…it’s only me who wants to wrap around your dreams…”

For ever so many people their best loved song is Landslide, “What is love, can the child within my heart rise above, can I sail through the changing ocean tides, can I handle the seasons of my life, well I’ve been afraid of changing ‘cause I’ve built my life around you…” If anyone remembers when the band reunited for The Dance in 1997you’ll know how unforgettable Stevie’s performance was of her break up song with Lindsey Buckingham called Silver Springs, “Time cast a spell on you, you won’t forget me…I’ll follow you down ‘til the sound of my voice will haunt you, you’ll never get away from the sound of the woman that loves you…” Chills!

It’s easy to recall all these memorable poetic lyrics. Here are some from Stevie’s solo career. From her 1981 break out album Bella Donna we have After the Glitter Fades, “We all chase something and maybe this is a dream…even though the living is sometimes laced with lies it’s alright, the feeling remains even after the glitter fades…” The song Stevie ends her concerts with and greets her fans at the stage with is Edge of Seventeen, “And the days go by like a strand in the wind in the web that is my own I begin again…with the words from a poet and the voice of a choir and a melody nothing else mattered…” The song Stevie wrote when her best friend, Robin, died of cancer was Nightbird, “And when I call will you walk gently through my shadow…and the darkened eyes through the net of the face in the darkness it’s hard to see her face…” My favorite song from The Wild Heart album is Sable on Blond, “What was it that fell, was it one fallen leaf like the feather that it was, was it freedom by choice or… was it love, was in thorn in your side, something that you hide, something you can’t touch because it hurts too much…just how deep do you hold that dream in your hands each night…” Stevie has many fans in the military and has often visited the veterans at Walter Reed Hospital. She ended her encore last night with a montage of emotional scenes from the Iraq War and with the singing of the remarkable Has Anyone Ever Written Anything For You, “In all your darkest hours have you ever heard me sing, listen to me now, you know I’d rather be alone that be without you…and the rain comes down, there’s no pain and there’s no doubt, it was easy to say I believed in you every day…” The last eleven words were often posted in my classroom of 4th Graders for inspiration as were other lyrics such as, “All I ever wanted was to know that you were dreaming…”

It is truly mind-blowing to be able to sustain two careers simultaneously, one solo and one with Fleetwood Mac. Such is Stevie’s devotion to her fans and that love is returned to her in kind and more. I will not soon forget Stevie’s heart-felt, joyful performances and her ethereal, thought provoking and yes haunting lyrics. Having seen her, I imagine one hundred times or more, I always appreciated how her music could take me away. I recall a concert in Atlantic City just a few days after 9/11 and how we her fans were helping each other through the pain of that catastrophic event with the beauty of her songs and the magic that is Stevie Nicks. That evening I was fortunate enough to be at the stage and to have a little moment with Stevie when she shook my hand. Thank you, Stevie Nicks for the timelessness of your songs and the wonder of your presence on stage. "You're the poet in my heart, never change, never stop..." You are a true and brilliant artist.

Post Script: About the photo of Stevie Nicks - I took it at an outdoor concert outside of Seattle, WA on May 27, 1990. I love the wistful look on Stevie's face as she greets the audience.

CBS Sunday Morning

June 22, 2008

I have been watching CBS Sunday Morning for as long as I can remember. It is as close to ‘appointment television’ as it gets. Why, with so many news magazine type programs is it so important to me. Well, I never cease to learn something, to appreciate a new twist on a story, to revel in a unique perspective, to wonder at the brilliant writing and the creative producing. The program has been on nearly 30 years and has enjoyed a seamless transition from its original host, Charles Kuralt to its current host, Charles Osgood. One of my favorites is correspondent, Bill Geist. With his human interest stories he never fails to thrill me with his original, witty and even ‘off the wall’ pieces.

This morning's program featured a story about the GI Bill focusing on how it helped World War 11 veterans to adjust back to civilian life. Unlike the World War 1 veterans who had trouble finding work and subsequently endured the Great Depression, WW 11 vets were given help in all the areas that ensure a successful absorption back to society. Help was forthcoming in completing their education, finding jobs and financing homes. Although these benefits are available today to veterans their value is watered down. Currently a bill before Congress is attempting to right this wrong.

In addition there was a remembrance of Judy Garland on the anniversary of her death at the age of 47 as well as a profile of financial advisor, Suze Orman. I must make mention of a fascinating story about Bill Berloni, animal trainer for Broadway shows including the original Annie as well as the current Legally Blonde. Noteworthy is the fact that all his dogs are rescue animals.

Two other program features should be recognized. How about the sun logo – my, how that has evolved through the years! Then there is that peaceful photographic essay seen at the closing of the show. With your feet up and a cup of coffee it doesn’t get any better. Such programming as CBS Sunday Morning is rare and much enjoyed and appreciated by me.

Duck Boats Revisited

For the sixth time in the 21st century we here in Boston are having a Rolling Rally. Yes, it’s three times for the Patriots, twice for the Red Sox and now our beloved Boston Celtics today was your turn. Pride is alive and well in Boston and would Red Auerbach be ever so proud. These Celts are his kind of players from the tenacious defense of Kevin Garnett, to the sixth player exploits of James Posey, to the unselfish play of Rajon Rondo, to the big man prowess of Kendrick Perkins, to the pure shooting ability of Ray Allen, to the veteran presence of BJ Brown, to the three-pointers of Eddie House, to the pure fun of rookie ‘Big Baby’ Davis and most of all to the consummate Celtic of them all, Paul Pierce.

Pierce stuck with the team that drafted him out of Kansas State through the dreadful lean years and those eighteen straight losses last year to the MVP trophy of the 2008 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. How very appropriate that Paul, who grew up in the shadow of the LA Forum, a huge Laker fan who would sneak into the Forum as a kid to see his hero Magic Johnson, would be the one to lead his team to glory and to keep Red’s record of nine championships as a coach intact.

I remember when the Celtics won their 16th championship. There was a bumper sticker that Summer of 1986 which I loved and which said 16 Going On 17. Who knew that it would take 22 years to reach that goal which seemed so doable at the time! I had season’s tickets in those days and reveled in the original Big Three of Bird, McHale and Parrish. My favorite, other than Larry, in those days was DJ who always did anything it took to win. Paul Pierce is in that tradition with his ability to drive to the basket, pull up and shoot, nail a three-pointer when needed and perhaps most importantly play great defense. Did you see him shut down Kobe Bryant , as much as anyone can, in that unforgettable come from 24 points down victory in Game 4 of the Finals?!?

I can not resist revealing that I have something in common with Pierce. We both owned a Datsun 210 hatchback. Mine in the 70’s while teaching 4th Grade in Massachusetts and Paul when he was at Inglewood High School using his to pick up friends at 5:30 AM in order to work out at the high school gym. That intense drive and commitment to hone his skills served him well on Tuesday June 17, 2008 when he and his Celtic teammates secured their place as World Champions. Thank you, Paul and all your teammates for giving us back our Celtic Pride.

Pray Paul Pierce Doesn't Get Hurt

That was the final announcement given by the new pastor at the 10:30 Mass this morning. We have come a long way when we get to hear just what is on the minds of the parishoners. I am a forever Boston Celtics fan. I even got to see Cooz, Tommy, Russ, Havlicek etc. play. I was fortunate enough to be at the triple overtime game between the Celts and the Suns. I saw people leaving thinking the game was over. Good for us as we moved into the better seats. Then I had season tickets for a decade. Yes, it was during the fabled Bird/Magic Era. We had great seats third row to the right of the basket looking over at the Celtics bench. I can still see ML Carr waving that towel and Larry stealing the ball right in front of us with DJ getting the hoop. Those were the glory days of the big three, Bird, McHale and Parish. Now we have another marvelous three, Pierce, Allen and Garrett with a chance to win our 17th championship. Happy days are here again – GO CELTS/BEAT LA!!!

Courage Personified

Much has been written and more has been said in recent days about the twenty-four year old Boston Red Sox pitcher, Jon Lester. His is an uncommon story of courage and inspiration. Lester came to the majors with great promise and a better arsenal of pitches. He won his first five games handily, the first left-hander to do so with the Sox. Then he began to struggle both on the mound and with back and neck pain. In September, 2006 Lester was diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma, a blood cancer.

The dreadful diagnosis was shocking especially to Jon and his family. Treatment began in Boston and later continued in Lester’s home state of Washington. None of us had any way of knowing what the outcome would be but we knew that Jon was a fighter and he vowed to lick it and get back on the mound.

Sure enough Jon Lester was declared cancer-free and back pitching for the Sox a little over a year after his diagnosis. Then in Game 4 of the 2007 World Series, Sox/Rockies, there was Lester the winning pitcher. The Red Sox were world champions again and Lester was able to celebrate much more than a ball game. His courage and tenacity in beating back the cancer have been an inspiration to more people than he will ever know.

The rest reads like a Hollywood script. For on Monday, May 19, 2008 Jon Lester carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning of a game at Fenway Park between the Red Sox and the Kansas City Royals. After walking the first batter he induced two infield ground outs and then the final out, fittingly his ninth strike-out of the game. Of course he smiled and celebrated with his teammates and the fans. But it was the emotional hug between Sox manager, Tito Francona and his ‘other son’ Jon Lester that brought tears to my eyes. Lester has often said that Francona was like a ‘second father’ to him especially during his recovery. So, all the best to you Jon Lester as you continue your career in baseball and more importantly as you continue to inspire those who have their own struggles with catastrophic illness.

Unfortunate Dining Experience

I’m sure we all have moments when we feel like or wish we were a restaurant critic. I had just such an experience on Friday, May 16th. With a good deal of anticipation I made a reservation and went to a much hyped restaurant on Cape Cod which opened about a year ago. I had heard so many good things about it and my sister had gone the first week it was in business as well as many times thereafter. The restaurant itself is very tastefully decorated, even classy. I was looking forward to the early menu which I had heard so much about. You get three courses, appetizer, main and dessert for a very good price. This is a nice marketing touch giving most people a chance to experience fine dining. The owner/chef was previously at a highly regarded upscale restaurant of long-standing on the Cape.

Well, my friend and I ordered the fancy pear martini special. We were just about to take a sip and relax when our first course soup arrived literally simultaneously – not acceptable. We immediately felt like we were being rushed and that reality increased as our dinner progressed. We never had a chance to enjoy our cocktails but I will say the soup was a cut above. Now maybe I could have let go of the unfortunate beginning I’ve described but not after what happened next.

I was still enjoying the soup course when the main course arrived. I think the waiters could see the look on my face as they began to set the food on the table. It was then that they offered to take the main course back to the kitchen. This was done without any prompting. Let me tell you I wasn’t inspired with confidence as I finished the first course and wondered how the main course was faring staying warm in the kitchen.

When my steak dinner arrived I will say that the meat was tender but the sauce it was served with was awful. It was tart and reminded me of A1 steak sauce. I tried to avoid it on the plate. Now, I realize that the latter is a matter of taste unlike the previously described shortcomings relating to the pace of the meal and the service. Dinner ended with a tasty dessert. Sadly, the overall experience at Heather’s Restaurant in Mashpee, MA was very disappointing - another case of the anticipation surpassing the realization!

PS Please read my second review written on June 28, 2008.

Unceremonious

Unceremonious! That is how I would describe my final day on a part-time job I held for almost a decade. It happened this past Wednesday, May 14th. The first five years I worked only once a week for a few hours. After I retired from my real job, as an elementary school teacher for 36 years, my work week would vary from three to as many as fifteen hours. The work was enjoyable with the opportunity to meet with and to help people. In addition to this interaction certain tasks would involve balancing funds and completing paper work. I must say that I met some wonderful people along the way. Will I miss anyone? Not really!!! So there you have it a few reflections on a second job and how I chose to leave it.

Castle Island - A Tradition Continues...

April 20, 2008

Gwendolyn Lillian, named after her great-grandmothers, is a force of nature. Gwen is a bright, charming, loving, and full of fun two year old. It was my distinct pleasure to spend some time with her this weekend. Our destination was South Boston specifically Castle Island. Whether walking around watching the airplanes come and go from Logan, enjoying the sailboats on the water, or just riding those swings you know it’s an exciting time. Then to top it off you must have an ice cream at Sullivan’s.

My memories, at a young age, of the same kind of fun day at Castle Island are vivid. Later in life as a fourth-grade teacher for years I would take my class on a field trip to the John F. Kennedy Library/Museum and follow it up with a picnic lunch at you guessed it – Castle Island! I’m certain that Gwen’s first experience at the Island was just one of many more to come.

Forty-Nine Dollars and Ninety-Six Cents ($49.96)

April 5, 2008

I try to write from emotion and or respond to events. Well yesterday provided such a forum. I was cents shy of $50.00 to fill my gas tank. That most certainly got my attention. I am required to use the 91 or above grade of gasoline. How convenient that the grade goes from 89 to 93 with a $.10 or more increase thrown in. Now my automobile gets 26 mpg and has a 16 gallon tank. I use a gas station whose charge averages $.10 a gallon less than the other local stations. It’s not a name brand but performance is great nonetheless.

After filling-up as I was getting back in my car another customer in disbelief, as we all are, was muttering words to the effect that the people must do something, this must stop. My sentiments exactly - can’t help wondering what the summer will bring. Is the dreaded $4.00 a gallon just around the corner!?!

Boston Red Sox - Looking for 3 Titles in 5 Years

March 27, 2008

Now that the baseball season has officially opened with a split decision in Japan, what now!?! Will my beloved Red Sox regroup and get their internal clock adjusted? Time will tell but the party line is NO EXCUSES.

It was clear to me that spring training was very much in evidence in both games the Sox and A’s played. The pitching was spotty given Dice-K’s slow start and Paps shaky relief in the opening game. It was thrilling to see a rookie, Brandon Moss, with a 9th inning game tying homer. That extra inning victory was a great and exciting way to begin the season.

Kudos to Jacoby for a great catch robbing the hitter of extra bases. Manny is off to a roaring good start and could have a monster year (let’s hope). Rich Hardin and the A’s pen (those ex-Sox) were the story of game two with Jon Lester having an uneven performance. Yes, we have a long, long way to go and I, for one, plan to enjoy the ride. GO SOX!!!

One South Florida Experience

March 20, 2008

It was my good fortune to visit a dear friend in Jupiter, Florida. Despite the fact that it was but a week, was it ever jam packed. I now ‘get it’ having long wondered exactly what the attraction to Florida was for so many. I think it can be summed up in a few words: sun, sand, surf and of course a legendary friendliness. Now I’m a new convert to the winter South Florida experience.

I’ve long gone on family vacations to the Orlando/Disney area and that was about what I knew of Florida. My eyes are now opened. Folks in the Sunshine State are fond of saying that it adds ten years to your life span, perhaps due to good old vitamin D in the form of sunlight. Another notable was the obvious camaraderie of the people I met as well as the religious faith which has so many at daily Mass - Lent or not!

That week in March included the finest seafood, a reunion with my first principal in Milton, a casino trip to Pompano, an Irish Festival in West Palm, an Irish Revue with Tony Kenney and most significantly on March 17th a St. Patty’s Day party to rival all others.

So there you have it my little oasis retreat enjoyed in a bit of sun-trenched paradise.

Virtual Waiting Room

March 8, 2008

Here I am in the Boston Red Sox virtual waiting room pining for an opportunity, by invitation only, to buy Right Field Roof Deck seats. One hour and 10 minutes has passed much like those long waits in the doctor’s office. Two games are now sold-out and most have only standing room remaining. Since I don’t know how many games have been made available for sale, I’m not sure how serious the rapidly diminishing seat situation is. But I must confess as a die-hard Sox fan I’ll wait out the situation and hope for the best. What if everything is sold out when I get in there? I refuse to entertain the thought that I am wasting my time.

I can’t help thinking about when my obsession, for it is that, with the Red Sox began. My father was a fan, especially of Ted Williams, so I came by this love naturally. From the time I was about six years old and went to my first game at Fenway, I was hooked. Later my favorite player was Jackie Jensen just to be different from all the Williams devotees. I remember the Wednesday Ladies Days and the $.50 bleacher seats. I do love the bleachers. Although my worst bleacher memory is of the Sox in 1978 being swept by the Yankees late in the season. Thereby blowing a huge lead. You know the rest, a one game Boston-New York playoff and Yaz pops to third for the final out. Sad to say these days, even for a lot more money you can not get bleacher seats. So, here I wait hoping for success some 90 minutes later and counting…

PS Alas, after a wait of 2 hours and 15 minutes I was only able to get standing room 'seats'!

A Friend

March 4, 2008

There is no friend like an old friend – trite maybe, true definitely! Today I was reunited with a long time dear friend. A friend I had not seen for some time, who did not answer my many telephone calls and about whom I was very concerned. You see in a period of less than three years she had lost her soul-mate, her husband of 36 years and the love of her life. In addition she had battled breast cancer and had buried her mother. How much can one little heart endure? So when life’s burdens weight you down, sometimes you just don’t have the energy or the desire to connect with others.

But, the human spirit is nothing if not resilient and in time one begins to reach out again. I was the happy recipient of a phone call yesterday and that led to a get together today. We shared some sadness, many laughs and an all around good time. I am thankful for a friendship renewed.

Laptop Lunacy

February 28, 2008

There is an old saying claiming that the anticipation is better than the realization. In my experience often it is. Not in this instance. As far as my new laptop is concerned the realization is indeed even better than the anticipation. I have wanted a laptop for quite awhile now. Finally I have my first one and I love it. It was ordered on February 18th and delivered on the 26th. What a thrill it was to open that box and set it up! It felt a little like that magic of Christmas morning for children. Coincidentally, it happens that my Dell XPS is a product red. That charity Bono of U2 is so involved with and which helps to fight AIDS in Africa. A donation is made each time this product is sold.

A lot of the fun for me is in having a clean slate and being able to make decisions regarding various programs and ways to operate them. I am very excited about all the possibilities. For the first time I have a built-in camera with video capability. Not only that but none of my photos or music are on the computer yet. So, I look forward to making it my own with favorite photos, websites, music and more.

Also, I’d like to give a thumbs up for Windows Vista Ultimate. I was so used to XP that I wondered how I would react to Vista. Well, I am enjoying the heck out of it. Ease of use, sharp graphics, soft music tones are just some of the features to recommend it.

Any Soldier

February 23, 2008

Recently I became aware of a wonderful program. I must credit a radio show called Whatever with Alexis Stewart, yes Martha’s daughter, and her friend Jennifer Koppelman Hutt. I don’t have Sirius Satellite Radio but I do check their website and there I get a synopsis of what they and the callers talk about daily. I investigated further and thought I must participate in this program. It was so easy!

The website is www.anysoldier.com. There I read some stories including what the various men and women of the military would appreciate in a “care package”. Then I found myself at CVS since most of the requests were for toiletries. Magazines, DVDs, snack food and photo paper are also sought after commodities.

I returned to the website, since you must check to be sure that the person you will send a package to is still listed. With troop movement and the end of a tour of duty you wouldn’t want to send a package to someone who was no longer there. After securing the package and writing a little note all that remained was to mail it. The cost for 5-6 pounds ends up being about $8.00 – so worth it. If you think you might want to participate or if you are just curious, please visit http://www.anysoldier.com/. The brave men and women in uniform will surely be grateful!

Customer Service

February 19, 2008


I’m quite certain that we have all experienced exceptional as well as ‘much to be desired’ service. In my case both occurred within the past week at the same electronics chain but in two different locations. In Braintree a young fellow asked if I needed help and I inquired about printers as well as laptops. Let me tell you how congenial, knowledgeable and helpful he was. Kevin spent at least 45 minutes with me and I was truly impressed with his expertise and his ability to share what he knew. I wasn’t buying on that day just gathering information for an imminent purchase. Upon completion of his demonstration and our conversation, I asked to see his manager to compliment him. Unfortunately, he said they were all at a meeting and no one was available. I thanked Kevin and left the store with very positive feelings about both the store and the associate.

Later in the week I'm in Dedham and I decided to buy a CD which was on sale. In the meantime I wanted to get information about a router I will soon need. I asked for help and the associate walking by said he’d be right back. Needless to say after 5 minutes there was no sign of him or anyone else for that matter. I was in the store for at least 40 minutes and was unable to get any help although I was looking for an associate. I didn’t need any help finding the CD I wanted but at the checkout I was charged full price – a difference of $5.00. I pointed out the incorrect price to the cashier. He seemed annoyed but after putting in some code was able to correct the price. He never said ‘sorry about that’ or anything in fact. Since I know that accuracy in pricing is a matter for customer relations to say nothing of the Better Business Bureau and the Attorney General’s Office, I mentioned the error to the person/greeter at the door as I exited. Without saying anything he rudely pointed to the return desk. I said,” No, I don't need a refund the price was corrected by the cashier after I spoke up.” He muttered something about letting them know with the same disinterest the cashier had exhibited. I left that store with rather negative feelings between being ignored and treated rudely.

My mistake was not asking to speak with the manager. I just did not think of it. Curious, because I did when I wanted to give a compliment earlier in the week. There you have it - two completely different experiences in the same chain store but in two different locations.

~~~Clutter~~~

February 16, 2008

Recently I heard that we consumers use only 20% of what we buy. Who knows if that means in the course of the year or on any given day. It certainly doesn’t mean consumables. Regardless, even adjusting for the inherent flaws in statistics,that is startling! It sure got me thinking. What do I use consistently? What do I literally never use? And just what falls in between?

So, it begs the question. Just when and how does one declutter? A suggestion is made that if you collect books, as I do, one of every five books you have could be given away. For me that would surely create needed space in my bookcases. The old adage, if you haven’t worn that item of clothing in a year, you should probably toss it, is still in play. How about all those old computer parts? What about cellphones and digital cameras? All seem ripe for recycling.

Looks like it’s time to do my part, no matter how small, in this battle with clutter.

One Week Later

After what you ask – why Super Bowl XLII, of course!!! It has taken that long for me to gain some perspective, to finally congratulate my nephew, a rabid New York Giant fan, and to be able to say that the New England Patriots did not lose – they were beaten. Yes, in every phase of the game the Giants outplayed the Patriots. Our offensive line was consistently being blown off the ball at the point of attack. Our defense, while playing valiantly most of the game, could not make that final stop in the last two minutes. That said, although quarterback Tom Brady did not have a good game overall, we still had a chance to win when we took the lead with two and one-half minutes to go in the fourth quarter. Not taking anything away from Eli Manning, who led his team down the field for the winning score while leaving just thirty seconds or so on the clock, but really just how many Hail Marys can you have answered in one game?

For me the most telling comment came from Randy Moss after the game when he spoke about how the Patriots from the outset failed to match the intensity of the Giants. Is it possible that the strain of being the perfect 18-0 team with all the hard work that went into it had finally caught up with the Pats? I don’t know. I only know that when the Giants kept the ball for the first ten minutes or so on the opening drive of the game I never had a good feeling about the outcome. The win I hoped was inevitable after such a great season, in the end just wasn’t meant to be.

Simply the Best

February 8, 2008

Today would have been my mother’s 93rd birthday. She is gone now - fifteen years next month. It’s hard to believe it is that long and then sometimes it feels like last week. My mother, Lillian Madeline, was an amazing woman. She was all about family. Lil had five brothers and five sisters. All were very close. They loved family gatherings, harmony singing, playing cards, supporting each other and just plain having fun together.

You know that unconditional love we all crave. Well, my mother gave that to me, my sister, my brother and of course to my father. My father was always star-struck in love with my mother. He lived for her and together they were fortunate to have almost fifty-two wonderful years of marriage. It is with a loving and grateful heart that I say, ”Thank you, Mama, for always being there for me, for your unwavering support and your boundless love. So it is that today I imagine you in heaven laughing, dancing and singing what became your song, “Hello Dolly”!

You were – Simply the Best…

Bank of America and Customer Towing

February 6, 2008

This long time Bank of America customer learned a valuable lesson today. Here’s a rule I did not know. Be sure to complete any banking in 30 minutes or you may run the risk of having your car towed. I parked my car and, since it was Ash Wednesday, first I went to the nearby church service. Less than forty-five minutes later I emerged from church only to find my car in the process of being towed from the parking lot. I immediately asked the tow person to please give me back my car since it was already on the lift. He was on the phone, presumably talking with the bank, and so I waited. You can imagine how high my stress level was. Have you ever been there with your car on a lift and the truck about to drive away with your car in tow?

When the tow gentleman got off the phone he informed me that for a fee he would take my car off the tow lift and I could go on my way. I asked him if this was a bank policy and he told me he did not have to offer to free my car. Since I didn’t have enough cash I then went to the ATM machine. Seeing a bank employee I informed him that my car was being towed and I asked how they knew I was not in the bank. It seems they announced my car registration number in the bank and got no response. Undoubtedly right about that time I was making my way to my car after church. I asked the bank employee, “Is this the way Bank of America does business?” I was contemplating pulling all my accounts from the bank. It was then that the bank employee quickly made his way to the bank parking lot and arranged to have my car released from the tow truck.

Needless to say, I was most grateful. I thanked the gracious bank employee and the polite tow truck person. After a very harrowing experience I can certainly say,

"Lesson Learned!"