The aroma of roast turkey wafts through the house, family and friends are busily preparing their traditional side dishes and desserts. Wine is being uncorked. Laughter is a must-have ingredient to a tasty and satisfying Thanksgiving.
I wondered what foods the Wampanoags showed the Pilgrims how to gather in 1621, what to fish for, what they hunted. They surely showed what was good in their environment to eat and what wasn’t edible. What crops did the native people help the Pilgrims plant and nurture?
What food was at that first celebration? The Wampanoags usually celebrated their harvests with food and rejoicing. They probably had venison, wild turkey, rabbit, woodchuck, lobster, clams, mussels, sea bass, bluefish. They supposedly also had beans, potatoes, corn and squash. Hmmm, lobster for Thanksgiving! I’ll have a serving of that, if you please!
What foods are planted and harvested right in your own areas? I think of the blackberries, strawberries, apples, raspberries, marionberries, blueberries grown in this area. I know of local gouda and farmer’s cheese from our dairies here. There’s also a goat farm for goat milk and cheese. We have crab, mussels, oysters, salmon. I saw a pheasant dash across the street one night; geese, duck aplenty. Deer and rabbit I’ve almost hit a time or two driving through the woods at night. We could survive on local produce, and many people are getting back to working the soil and sharing their bounty in co-ops and truck farms.
Something to think about, eh?
Well, wherever you are, as you sit down to your turkey, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, Brussels sprouts, hot buttered rolls and pumpkin pies, let’s, like the Wampanoags and the Pilgrims, thank the Great Spirit for the bounty of our land and our many blessings!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Wow! Would you look at that sunset!
Eyes and attention fixed on my computer. Work--work--work! One of the other Realtors pointed out yet another stunning Birch Bay sunset. Pays big time to look up and out the window from time-to-time! Now THAT's what I'm talkin' about!
The second one was taken about 20 minutes earlier. Light changes so swiftly!
Loving it here in Birch Bay!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
An interesting time here in Birch Bay and in the world. Our country elects a new president, and in the process overcomes centuries of racial prejudice. We, and the world, cheer this milestone and hope for a new and better era.
Speaking of fighting for a new and better era, I’m reminded that November 11th is Veterans Day. I must admit that I don’t usually take note of this American holiday, except to silently thank my Dad, Captain Eugene M. Hinsvark (deceased) who served his country in World War II and in the Korean War; and to e-mail my appreciation to my ex-spouse SSgt Ronald E. West who served during the Vietnam conflict.
This year a couple of happenstances brought me to think more about Veterans Day.
For one, I came across an article written by Jack Kintner in The Northern Light, “On Veterans Day, a local veteran recalls a life of service.” Cory Swinburnson, who lives in Blaine with his wife, Julia, told of his years of service in the Navy. He mentioned the antiwar picketers he encountered and the harassment he experienced while traveling in uniform through Boston’s Logan Airport. I remember that era and although I was against the US being in Vietnam, I felt it was unfair to take it out on those soldiers bravely carrying out the orders of our Commander-in-Chief, and fighting for me and you.
Secondly, during a couple of killer games of Scrabble with a Birch Bay denizen, I found out he had been a Marine during Vietnam. He told me about a number of Vietnam vets he knows here on the bay. The barkeep told us about one of his regulars who gifted a young ex-Marine with a special cap with all sorts of cool Marine insignia. The recipient was cheered by the gift. The camaradarie touched me. So, I decided I wanted to know more about Veterans Day.
Did you know that following the end of The Great War (World War I) President Wilson, in 1919, proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words, "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations … "
That original Armistice Day was not only to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, their love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good, but it was also designed to perpetuate peace through goodwill and mutual understanding between nations.
In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed HR7786, changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Armistice Day was primarily a day to honor veterans of World War I, but after World War II required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the nation’s history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, “Armistice” was struck out and “Veterans” inserted. On June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor approximately 2.9 million U.S. veterans of all wars.
Speaking of fighting for a new and better era, I’m reminded that November 11th is Veterans Day. I must admit that I don’t usually take note of this American holiday, except to silently thank my Dad, Captain Eugene M. Hinsvark (deceased) who served his country in World War II and in the Korean War; and to e-mail my appreciation to my ex-spouse SSgt Ronald E. West who served during the Vietnam conflict.
This year a couple of happenstances brought me to think more about Veterans Day.
For one, I came across an article written by Jack Kintner in The Northern Light, “On Veterans Day, a local veteran recalls a life of service.” Cory Swinburnson, who lives in Blaine with his wife, Julia, told of his years of service in the Navy. He mentioned the antiwar picketers he encountered and the harassment he experienced while traveling in uniform through Boston’s Logan Airport. I remember that era and although I was against the US being in Vietnam, I felt it was unfair to take it out on those soldiers bravely carrying out the orders of our Commander-in-Chief, and fighting for me and you.
Secondly, during a couple of killer games of Scrabble with a Birch Bay denizen, I found out he had been a Marine during Vietnam. He told me about a number of Vietnam vets he knows here on the bay. The barkeep told us about one of his regulars who gifted a young ex-Marine with a special cap with all sorts of cool Marine insignia. The recipient was cheered by the gift. The camaradarie touched me. So, I decided I wanted to know more about Veterans Day.
Did you know that following the end of The Great War (World War I) President Wilson, in 1919, proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words, "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations … "
That original Armistice Day was not only to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, their love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good, but it was also designed to perpetuate peace through goodwill and mutual understanding between nations.
In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed HR7786, changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Armistice Day was primarily a day to honor veterans of World War I, but after World War II required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the nation’s history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, “Armistice” was struck out and “Veterans” inserted. On June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor approximately 2.9 million U.S. veterans of all wars.
I think it’s important to give credit to those men and woman who have served and currently serve in our country’s armed forces. But, I also think we, as a nation, need to remember that additional aspect of the original Armistice Day. The service and sacrifice are to perpetuate peace through goodwill and mutual understanding between nations.
Peace is the ultimate goal.
My thanks to all veterans everywhere!
If you’re interested in finding out about non-profit organizations who help support our troops, go to http://reconnectamerica.com/giveback/ and find links to Armed Services YMCA, Operation Gratitude, The American Legion, Sew Much Comfort, and others put together by The Military Channel and Military.com.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Ah, yes, the fun of genetics!
Just received a comment about Benito Bernardo from my youngest sister, Joan Ramsey. She's bested me with the following:
I would love to ride with you and Sr. BBBones, Sis! I'm sure the conversation would be spine-tingling.
Of course, you know I'm just a tad on the demented side, so what I have on my dashboard year-round probably wouldn't surprise you.
This is me ... my bobble-head skeleton (Mr. Spats) is dressed in a purple suit, being hugged by a baby pink teddy bear (Fuzzy-Wuzzy) holding a heart stating "I Love You" and a pink flower, with a ghost whose eyes flash blue and shrieks when you press his button, Horace, and Speedy Gonzales on their respective leashes.
Yes, this is me.
Don't know if there is any particular statement here ... even the ugly has its beauty, if you look for it; embrace the dichotomy of life; the scary/unwanted need love, too; don't speed through life so fast you don't see the beautiful details, but don't fear rushing headlong into the unknown ... Who knows?
This is me.
Love you, Sis!
-J
Ah, yes, the fun of shared genes!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Death 'n' Life
I thought Halloween would be an appropriate time to bring Señor Benito Bernardo Bones, dangling from my rearview mirror, to the blog, but Halloween came and went and no mention. Then November 1—All Saints’ Day and Dia del Muerto—and still no word about my resident skeleton. Today is All Souls’ Day and the End of Daylight Savings. It’s now or never, I tell you.
I’ve been asked from time-to-time, the significance of the glow-in-the-dark skeleton hanging within view as I drive down the way. I’ve learned it’s off putting to some people. Death comes to mind; fear of the unknown; perhaps even thoughts of painful death. Others look at it and think Halloween thoughts of witches and ghouls and goblins and spooky such. Some see him as comical; others consider the idea a little eerie.
It brings a number of considerations to my mind. I think Señor Benito Bernardo Bones helps me keep things in perspective. This life, too, will pass, so I don’t have to be so serious, enjoy the moment. I’m going to die, that’s a certainty, but I’m alive now so I welcome the reminder my traveling companion imparts to loosen up and make the most of what I can do now, while I have the choice. With that there is a deep reverence for LIFE.
I also think Sr. BBBones keeps an eye socket on the road for me, making certain I avoid death on the roadway. Silly, no? So far, so good!
When I’m driving with the convertible top down, BB Bones dances a most merry jig! We both so enjoy our roadtrips! We carry on insightful conversations, as we see interesting places or things along the roadside together. He has a (bone)dry wit and is quick to point out things I might have overlooked. He’s simply an excellent touring escort.
When I know I’ll have a client in the car, I’ll carefully place Benito Bernardo to rest in the glove compartment. But afterwards, I quickly bring him back to life dancing from the mirror. When he’s not there, I miss his silly bones.
Want to come for a drive with me ‘n’ BBBones?
I’ve been asked from time-to-time, the significance of the glow-in-the-dark skeleton hanging within view as I drive down the way. I’ve learned it’s off putting to some people. Death comes to mind; fear of the unknown; perhaps even thoughts of painful death. Others look at it and think Halloween thoughts of witches and ghouls and goblins and spooky such. Some see him as comical; others consider the idea a little eerie.
It brings a number of considerations to my mind. I think Señor Benito Bernardo Bones helps me keep things in perspective. This life, too, will pass, so I don’t have to be so serious, enjoy the moment. I’m going to die, that’s a certainty, but I’m alive now so I welcome the reminder my traveling companion imparts to loosen up and make the most of what I can do now, while I have the choice. With that there is a deep reverence for LIFE.
I also think Sr. BBBones keeps an eye socket on the road for me, making certain I avoid death on the roadway. Silly, no? So far, so good!
When I’m driving with the convertible top down, BB Bones dances a most merry jig! We both so enjoy our roadtrips! We carry on insightful conversations, as we see interesting places or things along the roadside together. He has a (bone)dry wit and is quick to point out things I might have overlooked. He’s simply an excellent touring escort.
When I know I’ll have a client in the car, I’ll carefully place Benito Bernardo to rest in the glove compartment. But afterwards, I quickly bring him back to life dancing from the mirror. When he’s not there, I miss his silly bones.
Want to come for a drive with me ‘n’ BBBones?
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