Random Finds

Somewhere in France?

2012-01-25T08:58:00.000-08:00

I found a box of old negatives of pictures taken in Europe ... We were stationed in Germany from late 1986 until late 1989 ...

I have been converting the negatives to digital, and find that I sincerely wish I had labeled all of these negatives! I think this picture was taken on a trip to France, mostly because of the "sign" that reads "creche du soleil". If anyone recognizes where this was taken, please leave a comment - I would be overjoyed!

If you are wondering just HOW I am converting these negatives, check out my post HERE.
I've been having so much fun with this - and it's FREE (not to mention EASY)!

To see signs from around the world, visit Lesley's "Signs, Signs"!

A Negative Experiment ...

2012-01-24T06:09:00.000-08:00

So ... how many of us have negatives ...
I know I have a whole file folder full!
I've always wanted to have them developed, to replace so many of my pictures that were ruined when the roof leaked ...
The process is something I've had to put on hold, due to lack of funding for this project.

Then I had an inspiration!!!

I cut down an old soda box, cut a small square hole in the front, and taped on a small piece of cardboard to each side of the hole to hold the negative in place.

The negative slipped right in!
I set the gizmo in front of a lamp, but the lighting was too strong.
So I diffused the light with a piece of white paper taped to another box behind ...
I propped my camera up on a pile of books, set it on "Macro" about an inch from the negative, focused my camera ...
"Click"!

And took a picture of the negative!
(Sorry about the cat hairs, this is a re-take of the shot - the original didn't have the hairs).

I used "Gimp" (colors/invert) to make the negative a positive ...

Then played with the colors and levels.
It's not the best, but I will keep trying!

In the meantime, this is a photo of my mom, my brother and his wife ... that I haven't seen in years - and probably would never have seen again!

The Problem with Processed Photos ...

2012-01-21T18:06:00.000-08:00

This is a photo from 1982 or so ...
I remember picking up the pictures, and realizing the negatives didn't look like this at all!

I brought them back to the store, and they re-processed the lot.

With much better luck!

The thing is ... I kind of like the weird one!

It is with a heavy heart that I am NOT linking this post with Al's "Sunday Scans".
Alas, Al has decided to devote his time to his main blog, "Al's Photography Blog", where he will continue to delight us with his wonderful photography, and an occasional scan.
Thank you, Al, for taking the time and effort to run this meme.
I will miss linking in!!!

Pear Avenue

2012-01-18T18:06:00.000-08:00

This is another photo (Polaroid this time!) that I found in Grampa and Grandma G's old photo album from their Western US road trip back in the late early 1980's.

The tiny sign in the middle of this barren looking area reads ...

"Pear Ave".

I don't see any pear trees ...

But then it doesn't look much like an "avenue" to me either!

If you have scanned something, be sure to link it up to Al's "Sunday Scans"!

To see signs from around the world, visit Lesley's "Signs, Signs".

Misc. Gnomes???

2012-01-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

I was out this morning, taking pictures of my cold world.
As I walked up our country road, I noticed a bit of paper curled up next to the ditch, and of course I had to see what it was.

Turns out it was one of the oddest notes I've found to date ...
Miscellaneous garden gnomes?
On MY street???

Be sure to link up YOUR scans to Al's "Sunday Scans"!!!

Ann Onymous Visits the Facilities ...

2011-12-04T08:27:00.000-08:00

To kick off Al's December "Sunday Scan's" postings, I present to you "Ann Onymous".
I found this delightful photo tucked into a photo album at the Goodwill (I ALWAYS thumb through these, you'd be surprised how many people leave a page or two of memories!).

If you have scanned something, please join us!!!

Did He Make It Big???

2011-11-23T08:31:00.000-08:00

I found this entry on a Facebook page ... Josh Wagner was coming to Portland for a book reading and signing ... Note the only person who commented saying he was going to be there was one "Draven Ames" (this is important!).

This is the cover of a book I found written by Josh.

Signed to "Draven".

I somehow think maybe Draven didn't "make it" after all.

I found this book at the Goodwill Outlet Store!!!

To see all things scanned, visit Al's "Sunday Scans" - you still have a week to enter YOUR November scans!!!

My Favorite Halloween Photo ...

2011-11-21T12:14:00.001-08:00

This was taken around 12 years ago ... and is one of my all-time favorite photos.

Yep, that's me (boy was I young looking then) and my twins (all growed up now, sniff).

Georgia is the vampire about to bite my neck.
Victoria is the lovely princess about to swoon.

Wonderful, isn't it?

To see wonderful and evocative scans, visit Al's "Sunday Scans" - there is still time to submit your November scans!

Tiffi Shares Her Heart Art

2011-11-19T07:22:00.000-08:00

I was visiting my nieces and nephews last week ...
As I was getting ready to leave, Tiffi pressed something into my hands ...
When I looked down, I found this beautiful artwork!

With a wonderful heart nose!

Thank you, Tiffi. I love you.

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

To see scanned stuff from around the world, visit Al's "Sunday Scans"!

To see beautiful art, visit Beth's "FATuesday Artist Spotlight"!

Cleeburg, Germany - Gasthous

2011-11-16T08:19:00.000-08:00

I found this old picture of a sign in my Germany photo album.

I even remember why it was so important to me!
The first year my (ex) was stationed in Germany was spent in a downstairs apartment of a house in the tiny town of Cleeburg. The house was almost directly across the street from the local gasthaus!
This sign helped to guide me home in those first few months of driving in a strange country when I couldn't read the signs, and didn't know my way around (let alone knowing the language to stop and ask for directions)!

Have you scanned something lately? If so, be sure to link up with Al's "Sunday Scans" - there are still two more weeks to post your November scans!

To see signs from around the world, visit Lesley's "Signs, Signs".

Halloween Bash Game Card

2011-10-31T09:46:00.000-07:00

Someone had a lot of fun at the Halloween Bash.
Too bad they donated their game card,
along with their cool 1970's style costume ... to the Goodwill!

Not TOO bad, though, because now it's MINE!!!

Happy Halloween!
Enjoy YOUR Bash!

Wild Wild West - Friday's Fences

2011-10-28T09:01:00.000-07:00

I was entranced by this picture I found in Grandpa and Grandma G's photo album from their trip through the US Southwest in the early 1980's.

Don't you just love this fence and gate?

It's Friday's Fences time - join us over at "Life According to Jan and Jer" to see interesting fence pictures from around the world!

Church Library Builder With Hearts

2011-10-27T10:09:00.000-07:00

Years ago the local Christian Supply Centers joined a program whereby people would "earn" a stamp worth 5 cents for every dollar they spent in the stores. They would save the stamps in a special "book" and, when it was full, their church could redeem it for free books for their libraries!

I found this partially filled out Savings Stamp Book in a drawer of clippings and miscellaneous papers that mom asked me to help clean out.

While this was a wonderful program, and an interesting piece of ephemera, my REAL thrill came when I realized I finally found some of mom's "41 heart" doodles!!!

Let me explain about the "41 heart" doodles ... ever since I can remember, my mom would draw the number 41 with a heart around it. On church bulletins, on little bits and pieces of paper ... while she was talking on the phone, while she was in the mood to doodle. I remember when I was maybe 10 years old I asked her "why". I remember her answer distinctly. She said, with all of her motherly authority "something very BIG and SPECIAL is going to happen on my 41st birthday."

Mom's 41st birthday fell on Sunday, May 18th, 1980.
Does that date sound vaguely familiar?
It is the day Mt. St. Helens in Washington state erupted.
We drove to the top of the hill behind our house and watched it - in stunned disbelief.

And told mom she was NEVER to doodle again!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

To see other fun things found and scanned, visit Al's "Sunday Scans" - this monthly link is closed for October - but November will be here soon - and we want to see what you have scanned!!!

A Different Kind of Mad Hatter!

2011-10-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

I found this wonderful drawing while doing a transfer from an old hard drive that I was getting rid of.

It is titled "Mad Hatter".

It was drawn by my daughter, but sssshhhhh please don't tell her! She doesn't know I found it!
And she doesn't think she's talented!!!!!!!!!
CAN YOU BELIEVE IT???

Kay Windsor Clothing

2011-10-22T08:24:00.000-07:00

I am fascinated with old advertising ...
Like this fashion ad I found in a pile of magazine clippings in the recycle bin at my old storage unit - a long time ago ...

I had to laugh at the description ...
"Gay-as-a-musical clothes whirl you into fall and winter at the drop of a tiny (bank) note!"

Mickey Mouse - Found at Goodwill

2011-10-19T06:25:00.000-07:00

I couldn't believe it when I found this wonderful comic book in one of the bins at the Goodwill Outlet Store (gosh how I LOVE that place!). It was in a plastic sheet protector, and I'm shocked that someone hadn't grabbed it before I got there.

It is dated August 1965, and is in perfect shape.
SCORE!!!!!

Found Art ...

2011-10-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

Mom was at a writers conference last month at Camp Wainema along the Oregon coast ...

During her free time, she was free to wander along the beach ...

Something caught her eye - a piece of paper tucked under a rock.
It had been there a while ... it's ragged edges fluttering in the wind.

When she picked it up, she was surprised at what she found.
Not trash as she first assumed ...

But a beautiful pencil sketch.
Of mountains, trees, clouds, wind.

Who drew this scene?
Why did they leave it behind?
Who knows - I think it was meant for mom to find.
An inspiration.
A mystery.

Rag Doll Sheet Music

2011-10-15T19:08:00.000-07:00

Look what I found at the Goodwill (LOVE that store!) just yesterday ...
Sheet music!
Rag Doll
by Nacio Herb Brown

Featured by
Constance Mering & Muriel Pollock
Recording Artists

Published by Sherman, Clay & Co.
San Francisco

copyright MCMXXIV (1924)

I was caught by the wonderful picture on the front - the rag doll on the wooden car being stopped by the toy policeman!
It's adorable!

And it's another delightful scan to add to Al's "SUNDAY SCANS"!!!
If you have scanned something, come join us for scanning fun!

"Payne" at Goodwill ...

2011-10-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

I took some time off this week, while waiting for my brother to get out of an appointment, to do some "bin" shopping at the Portland Goodwill Outlet store.

As usual, I ended up spending more time than I anticipated, and was late picking up my brother. Sorry, Bro, but you just couldn't compete with the STUFF I found!

Scattered about one of the bins were bits and pieces of the life of one
"Bill Payne" - mostly surrounding Andrew Jackson High School (graduated 1981) and Ricks College (commencement announcement 1983 - Pre-Dentistry).

I couldn't help but pick up this wonderful memorabilia!

I looked up "William Payne Dentist Oregon" online ... and there is one ... in Salem.
I may try to contact him, if only to get the story of how this stuff (if it is indeed his!) ended up in an Outlet store in Portland! If I do, I will let you know!

This is my third entry to this month's "SUNDAY SCANS".
If you have scanned something, please join us for Scanning Fun!!!

Blue Swan Minikins - Sunday Scans

2011-10-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

I found this unique advertisement in a bunch of old magazine clippings I picked up out of a dumpster at my storage unit years ago.

I don't know what amazes me more ... the style of the ad ... or the fact that the 'undies' are just 79 cents!!!

This is my first post to this month's "Sunday Scans"!!!

If you have scanned something, please link up to Al's monthly meme, and join the scanning fun!!!

Ppppplay Ballll!!!! - Found Photos for Sunday Scans

2011-09-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

I found a package of slightly damaged photos in a bag of mostly garbage beside the road a while back.
I was dismayed to find someone's precious memories inside.

Someone who got to see a very special ball game ...

With players I don't recognize (sorry, I don't watch baseball).

Someone whose memories apparently included a photo op with at least one of the players!

It must have been a team much admired ... someone had a wonderful time!

It breaks my heart when I see photos like this thrown away.
That's why they end up in my "found photo" file ...

Now they will also end up being part of Al's "Sunday Scans"!!!

P.S. - Do you recognize any of these players? If you do, leave me a comment! These photos intrigue me!!! Also, if you have scanned something, be sure to join us over at "Sunday Scans" - it is a monthly meme now, and that gives you several more weeks to SCAN IT!!!

I Heart Gift Bags

2011-09-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

I love gift bags. Some of them are so much prettier than any wrapping I could ever come up with - even if I had the time!

The only problem with gift bags is that sometimes they are just way too cute or pretty to give away! I guess I'm not alone ... I found a stash of brand new gift bags at a thrift store at one point, and bought a few of them.

Can you guess why I grabbed this one?
Um, could it be because of the HEARTS?
Of course!!!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

Grandma's Photo Journal - Found at Goodwill

2011-08-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

I couldn't believe it when I found a small "Photo Journal" at the Goodwill Outlet Store - with pictures still inside!

The photos were taken in the spring and summer of 2006 ...

As the grandkids went about their summertime activities.

Like playing in the pool ...

Those who know me are not surprised that I had to save these wonderful photos, even though I have no idea who these people are, or where they live. I just can't stand seeing these beautiful memories shredded and sent to the dump!

1943 Found Photo

2011-08-27T06:47:00.000-07:00

My friend Randy is helping a lady move out of an old farm house. Since he is a truck driver, she asked him to bring a load of garbage to the dump.

After dropping off the load, he looked in the back of the truck and found this photo that had fallen out of one of the bags (the back is stamped "1943").
When I showed it to Dad, he exclaimed "Oh! That looks just like one of the Army barracks I stayed at before I went overseas during WWII!"

He pointed out the bedrolls ("we ALL had to roll them just like that"), and the helmets at the ends of the cots ("where we hung our rucksacks"). He also pointed out the old stove ("boy did that stove pipe get hot") and the cots themselves ("they were the most uncomfortable beds I ever slept on - metal mesh stretched over frames. Sometimes the mesh would break, and you would get poked all night by the sharp ends")

I can't believe someone would throw away this bit of history, but I'm ecstatic that Randy found it and thought of me.

And I am even more in awe of those military veterans who endured so much and gave so much.
Thank you to ALL veterans.
Even though Thank You is not enough ...

Vintage Cigar Bands - Sunday Scans

2011-08-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

Each year a small town just to the northwest of us hosts a large "yard" sale in front of their middle school. The object is to raise funds for their high school dance team.

I hadn't thought about the sale in years, but last Saturday I "accidentally" found it while on my way to our family reunion. I just HAD to stop.

One of the small treasures I found was a tiny plastic bag filled with 80+ cigar bands. I was intrigued, and dug to the bottom of my purse (AKA 'the black hole of the universe') to find two quarters.

I took my find home and did some research ... I had no idea there are people who collect cigar bands! And this must have been part of someone's collection - they are all quite old, and some of them have never been used to wrap a cigar!

As with most of my finds, I am intrigued by these beauties. Who used to collect them? Why did they get rid of them? Is this their whole collection or just duplicates?
How did they end up supporting a dance team?

Once again, I will never know. But they are now part of my ephemera collection, and this sampling is this week's addition to Al's "SUNDAY SCANS". If you have scanned something, please share it with us! Al has decided to make this a monthly theme, so you have plenty of time to join us each month!

Western Union - Sunday Scans

2011-08-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

I snuck off by myself to Goodwill yesterday - I found a few treasures, but mostly I just had fun.
I was overjoyed to find this wonderful telegram, it sparked my curiosity completely!

Apparently "John" was in Germany when his wife experienced a life altering event, and he was unable to be there.

Did she graduate from college?
Did she have a baby?
I'll probably never know!

I am submitting this wonderfully tantalizing Western Union telegram to Al's "Sunday Scans" - and I encourage everyone to join us - and show us what YOU have scanned!

Another Found Family Photo

2011-08-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

I found this adorable picture in the stuff my uncle brought over after Grammie went to heaven. This is my dear darling sister - back in the 1st grade!!! She would have been about 6 years old.
Isn't she cute? I was always jealous of her long flowing hair (still am!), while mine was dry, frizzy and short. Sigh.

And don't you just love the outfit she was wearing?

I missed last week's "Sunday Scans", but now I am back! I am so thankful to Al for hosting this wonderful meme! Like I said last time, it would probably have been years before I looked in the box that held so many wonderful family treasures and photos. Thank you, Al, Thank you!!!

P.S. Al, Sissie Beth's computer up and died, and she wanted you to know she will be back to Sunday Scans as soon as possible!

Found at Goodwill - Old Photo

2011-07-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

I was browsing through the books at the Goodwill Outlet store on Friday (the next stop for this stuff is the shredder and/or shipment overseas).

I found a series of books of "classics" (maybe 15 of them) published in 1910. I wanted so badly to buy them, but even at $2 each, it was beyond my limited budget. Sigh.

As I flipped through one of them, this photo fell out, and I was entranced.
So many unanswered questions ... who took it? Where was it taken? When was it taken? How did it end up as a bookmark?

I will never know the answers to those questions. But I know that from now on, this beautiful old snapshot has a history - with me!

Join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" - and show us what YOU'VE scanned recently!

Found Family Photos!

2011-07-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

When I was growing up, I always thought my Uncle Lawrence was the most handsome man in the world - even better looking than Elvis!
I also thought my Aunt Barbara was a queen - she had such a regal aura!

The baby in their arms is my cousin David ... the picture would have been taken in 1957 or 1958.

I love this picture strip of Uncle Lawrence and baby David.

Thank you again, Al for hosting "Sunday Scans"!
Without you, it would probably have been YEARS before I looked in that box of papers my uncle brought me after Grammie passed away - and these wonderful family treasures would still be hidden!!!

Donnie and Marilynn - Sunday Scans

2011-07-11T15:03:00.000-07:00

This is one of a group of old photos I found in a photo album at the Goodwill several years ago. Most of the photos had been removed from the album, but I found 2 pages that were stuck together - pictures intact between them!

The picture is titled "Donnie & Marilynn".

I love the look on Donnie's face, and how Marilynn is standing on the upended log, not even noticing that her photograph is being taken - she's more interested in playing with the dog!

Please join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" to show us what you have scanned lately!

How Many Tires???

2011-06-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

These are more pictures I found in Grampa and Grandma G's travel album from a trip they took to the US West back in the early 1980's. I wasn't sure why they took a picture of this heavy equipment truck ... maybe it was the stark shadows???

Then I realized their interest. The large truck was catching up to this convoy of vehicles moving what appears to be a massive tank of some kind. There are at least 3 people visible in the photo.

Look at all of those tires!

Join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans", as we share all things scanned ... we want to see YOUR old stuff!

To see shadows from around the world, visit "Hey Harriet" for Shadow Shot Sunday!

Grampa Lester

2011-06-20T17:32:00.000-07:00

Grampa Lester was born in 1894 in St. Johns, Portland, Oregon.
This photo was taken in June of 1912, when he was 18.
The "small lad" is John McCormick (a cousin).

This picture was probably taken on a rare family trip to the Oregon coast - via horse and wagon, over non-paved roads up and over the Coast Range. The entire trip took 2 months, camping the entire time! The extended family would caravan together, and share chores. Once they took a milk cow with them!

Can you imagine taking that kind of "vacation" now?

Join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans", as we share all things scanned ... we want to see YOUR old stuff!

Germany photos, 1987

2011-06-15T15:46:00.000-07:00

We lived for a year in a tiny town in Germany (1986-1987) ...
Cleeberg. Such a beautiful place!

The best part was the drive to work, where we passed sleepy little towns, and beautiful German countryside.

This is the house we lived in ... we rented a tiny apartment in the basement.

And frequented the "Gasthaus" just down the street.

Best of all was the castle in the middle of town ...
(A private residence, so we never got to go inside -- but that's okay, I could see a glimpse of it from my little kitchen window, and dream big dreams!)

To see scans from around the world, visit Al's "Sunday Scans" - and show us YOUR old stuff!

To see signs from around the world, be sure to join us over at Lesley's "Signs, Signs"!

Fire Lookout Tower - Snake River

2011-06-05T07:39:00.000-07:00

Back in the early 1980's, my ex and my brother-in-law took a road trip to extreme Eastern Oregon.

One of the stops they made was a fire lookout tower (I believe it was Hat Point, but I'm not positive).

The pictures were taken by my ex.

View looking down from the tower.

View of the Snake River canyon far below ...
I like the shadow of the fire lookout tower - to give you an idea of how tall it is!

Another view from the top of the tower, looking over the parking lot to the valley beyond ...

The Snake River far below looks like a mere thread!

To see shadows from around the world, visit "Hey Harriet", and join us for Shadow Shot Sunday.

To see wonderful scanned items, join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" - and show us YOUR old stuff!

Frankfurt (Germany) Zoo, 1980-something

2011-06-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

A group of military family members decided to take a day trip to the Frankfurt Zoo ...
(we were stationed in Germany in the late 1980's)

I got a kick (not literally, of course!) out of this sign, which needed no translation.

And carefully watched for dangerous critters on the prowl ...

This is the only one I found!

In fact, most of the critters were down right lovable, right mom?

The End.

To see signs from around the world, join us over at Lesley's "Signs, Signs".

And if you scanned something to post, be sure to link it over at Al's "Sunday Scans".
Because we love to see YOUR old stuff!

Ahhh the memories ...

2011-05-28T19:29:00.000-07:00

Who could this cute little kid be?
Yep, it's me!!!
1964 ... I would have been 3 years old.
I don't think I was reading that book, I must have been looking at the pictures.

I treasure this picture.
What joy on my face!
That cute little boy is my brother Dow.
He would have been about 5.
He is wrapped up in so many of my childhood memories ... we were best friends.
He died when I was 40.
I still miss him -- every day.

Ooh, I was such a ham!

Flash forward to me at age 11.
That's when my wonderful little sister Leola was born.
I call her "honey". She calls me "honey". Her daughter calls me "Auntie Honey".
I love her so much!

I have to stop here, I can't see the monitor anymore through my tears.
And I have to say "THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU"
to Al over at "Sunday Scans".
He's the reason I dug out my old photo albums ...
My wonderful old memories ...
Of times and people long gone.
Please join us at "Sunday Scans" - and show us YOUR old stuff!

And Tina over at "Goodies For a Pleasant Life" is hosting a month-long meme called "Memories". So post a memory, and join us as we share what has made us who we are today.

Grampa Hugs a Tree!

2011-05-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

This is another of Grampa and Grandma G's photos from their early 1980's Western US Road Trip album.

I had to giggle to see Grampa being silly - hugging the only tree around!
And check out those desert shadows!

Please join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" to show us YOUR old stuff (and new stuff, just as long as it is something scanned)!

And join us over at "Hey Harriet" to participate in Shadow Shot Sunday!

Heineken Brewery Photo

2011-05-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

I swear I did NOT take this picture!
After all, we were on a tour bus in Amsterdam (back in the late 1980's) - we should be taking pictures of windmills and tulips, right? - Not a Heineken brewery!!!

Oh well, it was a fun trip with lots of good memories.
For me anyway ... the rest of the passengers I can't be certain of.

You see, I don't drink beer.
Heineken or otherwise ...
But I can't say the same for the rest of the group!

To see fun signs from around the world, visit Lesley's "Signs Signs".

And join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" - a new meme for all things scanned!

Big Horn Restaurant

2011-05-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

This is yet another wonderful Wild Wild West photo I found in Grampa and Grandma G's old photo album ... I believe it was from a road trip in the early 1980's.

The picture is a little blurry, but the sign on the restaurant reads
"Big Horn Restaurant".
Now I wonder why they named it that???

To see signs from around the world, visit Lesley at "Signs, Signs"!

And join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" to link up anything you've scanned -- play along, and show us YOUR old stuff!!!

Grampa and Gramdma in the Wild Wild Wet

2011-05-09T06:35:00.001-07:00

Wild

WET

These are some more photos I found in one of Grampa and Grandma G's old photo albums.
Location: Somewhere in the US Wild Wild Wet ... er, West!

If you have something you have scanned, come join us over at Al's "Sunday Scans" - and show us YOUR old stuff!!!

Trees of Mystery ...

2011-05-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

This is another picture I found in Grampa and Granda G's travel album.
As before, I don't know the date this was taken ... sometime in the 1970's or 1980's.
But this time I do know WHERE it was taken -
Do you see the little sign peeking out between the legs of the statue?
"Trees of Mystery" - Northern California US.

To see signs from around the world, join the fun with Lesley over at "Signs, Signs".

To see old scans from around the world, visit Al's "Sunday Scans" - and show us YOUR old stuff!

Wedding Cake with Heart, 1983

2011-05-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

This beautiful cake was made by a very special person - my Aunt Donna.
I had no idea, until she volunteered to make it, that she was so talented!

The beautiful heart-shaped glass topper was found at a little shop on the Oregon coast.

The marriage lasted 17 years ...
But the good memories will last forever.

To see old scans from around the world, visit Al's "Sunday Scans" - and show us YOUR old stuff!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday (links open through Sunday!)

Carriage House Cellars ...

2011-04-27T13:55:00.000-07:00

Another Grampa and Grandma G picture taken sometime in the 1970's to 1980's ... somewhere in the Western US.

How's this for tacky touristy fun?

Although I do wonder why they advertise "Ice Cold Beer" -- at a wine tasting room ...

To see more wonderful scans, join Al for "Sunday Scans" -- and show us YOUR old stuff!

To see fun and interesting signs, visit Lesley for "Signs Signs"!

Found Photos ...

2011-04-22T06:42:00.000-07:00

Some years ago I found a package of photos in a box near the trash can at my storage unit.
They had been left in the rain ...
I couldn't resist looking through what was left of the pictures, and realized this was someone's European vacation!
So I salvaged what I could of the group ...

Some of the photos were completely destroyed.
In this one, though, a tiny piece of the picture was left untouched ...
In the shape of a heart!

To see hearts from around the world, visit "Random Hearts" - and share YOUR heart on Guest Heart Thursday!

Oooh, I just realized this is a perfect post for Al's "Sunday Scans"!
Where we link up our posts of anything scanned.
In other words ... "Show us YOUR Old Stuff!"

Eavesdropping Gnomes - Sunday Scans

2011-04-13T19:52:00.000-07:00

This is another of Grandpa and Grandma G's photos taken on one of their many road trips throughout the US West during the 1980's. I recognize these ladies as being friends of Grandma G's, but I don't remember their names.

I thought it was cute that they were so intent on their conversation that they failed to notice those eavesdropping gnomes right behind them!

Join us over at Al's for Sunday Scans ... and show us your old stuff!!!

Amsterdam Tour Boat and Bridge

2011-04-06T18:01:00.001-07:00

I finally unearthed one of my old photo albums from Europe - from the mid- to late-1980's.

One of the trips we took was to Amsterdam, where we took a boat tour of the canals ... I was a little nervous of going on the boat after seeing the one ahead of us heading for this very low bridge.

It ended up being one of the highlights of the trip!

Perry over at "My World" is starting a new meme - it's called "Bridges Weekly".
Come join in the fun!

Old Advertisement - Sunday Scans

2011-04-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

I found this wonderful advertisement page in a ripped up old magazine in a dumpster, and I just had to have it!

It is so huge, I couldn't scan it all on one page, and had to make it in two parts.

Don't you just love this gorgeous old Packard convertible?

Have you scanned something lately? If so, link it up with Al's new meme - "Sunday Scans"!

Oooooh, and guess what? I see a heart - a late addition to "Guest Heart Thursday"!

Grampa G - Sunday Scans

2011-03-31T14:01:00.000-07:00

Al over at "Al's Photography Blog" is starting a new meme!
It's called Sunday Scans, and will be for all photos scanned ... they can be old prints or slides, or even new scanned shots if you still shoot on film.

This is going to be so much fun!
Now we will have a place to share these wonderful old photos ... other than in a box, drawer, or dusty photo-album-on-a-shelf!

Oh yeah, about the photo ... this is one I found in a box of pictures from one of Grampa and Grandma G's many adventures on the road. Since they traveled all over the US, Canada, and Mexico for many years ... this could have been taken nearly anywhere, at any time.

Maybe the car is a clue???

Reflections of a Bridge ... Weekend Reflections

2011-03-25T12:15:00.000-07:00

This is another of Grandma G's pictures from a road trip she and Grampa G. took back in 1981. I don't know where this picture was taken ... and since they traveled through at least 5 Western US states, it could pretty much be anywhere!

But I can still appreciate the beauty of the reflections ... no matter where or when they were found!

To see reflections from around the world, visit James at "Newtown Area Photo", and join us for Weekend Reflections!

Elkins Family Bible ...

2011-03-18T14:05:00.001-07:00

I was shopping at the Goodwill Outlet store in Hillsboro, Oregon, when a bin full of books was brought out. There were many old books, and I grabbed some that caught my eye.

I saw an old tattered and falling-apart Bible, but passed over it ... until my daughter opened it and made me realize what a treasure it was ...

On the inside cover were four tags ...
"Rev. JT Elkin, TUSCOLA, Douglas co Ill"
"Rev. JT Elkin, WAXAHACHIE, Ellis co (worn off)"
"Rev. JT Elkin, MARION, Marion co Oregon"
"Rev. JT Elkin, CORVALLIS, Benton co Oregon"

Also a sticky note as follows:

"BIBLE - 1856

"Belonged to my Great-Grandfather (my Dad's Grandfather) used as he rode horseback through the countryside, as a Methodist Circuit Rider.
Lois Harvison"

The Bible itself is labeled "New York - American Bible Society" 1856

Between the Old and New Testaments was a section titled "Family Records"

Marriages:

James T. Elkins & Jennetta F. Gardiner was married by Rev. Benjamin Darlington October the 27th 1859
Simon N. Grizzell & Nannie J. Elkin, January the 18th, 1882, Waxahachie, Tex {daughter}
George R. Maple & Ella E. Elkin, January the 18th, 1882, Waxahachie, Tex {daughter}

Births:
Kanawha co West Va, James T, son of Edley & Francis Elkin was born October the 31st AD 1826
Montgomery co West Va, Jennetta Francis Elkin, daughter of Alaxander & Nancy Gardiner was born December the 9th AD 1840
1. Putnam co West Va, Nancy Jane, daughter of James T. & Jennetta F. Elkin, was born August the 30th AD 1860
2. Camargo Douglas co Illinois, Emily Ellen Elkin, daughter of James T. & J. F. Elkin, was born April 3rd AD 1864
3. Tuscola, Douglas co Illinois, Leonard Haddington, son of J.T. & J.F. Elkin was born April AD the 10th 1867
4. Tuscola, Douglas co Illinois, Euretta Candace, daughter of Jas. T. & J. F. Elkin was born December the 16th, AD 1868
5. Tuscola Douglas co Illinois, Infant son - J.T. & J.F. Elkin, born July 22nd AD 1871
6. Tuscola Douglas co Illinois, James Clark, son of J.T. & J.F. Elkin born January 8th AD 1873, 8 oclock 15 min

Deaths
3. Leonard A. Elkin, September the 2nd AD 1868 12 oclock 25
4. Euretta C. Elkin, September the 4th AD 1869 7 oclock 35
5. Inf son of J.T. & J.F. Elkin, July 22nd AD 1871
Mrs. Jennetta F. Elkin, July 14th AD 1875, Marlin Falls co Texas, 8 oc 13 min
Rev. J.T. Elkin, ded, January 3rd 1889, Corvallis, Benton co Ore.

Tucked between the pages of Family Records, was this well worn bookmark. It appears to be a peachy pink ribbon with scalloped edges, and a cross-stitched (on heavy paper) saying - "the blush of modesty" and a flower.

There was also a newspaper clipping about the Elkins family ...
including family crest and family history from medieval times through the 1600's.

Someday I will get enough information about this family to be able to track down the Reverend's descendants ... and return to them his Bible.

Until then, I am grateful that it ended up in our shopping cart ... instead of being sent off to be shredded and recycled (as do many of Goodwill's books that don't sell) ...

Found ... Sunglasses

2011-03-12T06:05:00.001-08:00

When I walk, I look down a lot. The things that catch my eye are things that don't seem to belong in the setting. Like these broken sunglasses ... discarded on a bed of moss.

Sometimes even trash, tossed away as useless, can be beautiful.

To see reflections from around the world, visit James at "Newtown Area Photo" - and join us for Weekend Reflections!

Googling My Name ...

2011-02-27T10:01:00.000-08:00

USS Clytie ... 1943

# Aegir Class Submarine Tender: Laid down, as a Maritime Commission, type (C3-S-A2) hull under Maritime Commission contract (MC hull 861) at Ingalls Shipbuilding Co., Pascagoula, MS.
# Launched, 26 November 1943
# Acquired by the Navy, 26 February 1944 and placed in temporary commission for passage to her conversion yard at Hoboken, N.J.
# Decommissioned in March 1944 and turned over to Bethlehem Steel Corp., Hoboken, N.J.., for conversion to a Submarine Tender
# Placed in full commission, as USS Clytie (AS-26), 18 January 1945, CDR. C. H. Walker in command
# During World War II USS Clytie was assigned to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater
# Decommissioned, 5 October 1946, at New London, CT.
# Laid up in the Atlantic Reserve Fleet, New London, CT.
# Struck from the Naval Register (date unknown)
# Transferred to the Maritime Administration (MARAD) for lay up in the National Defense Reserve Fleet, James River, Lee Hall, VA.
# Final Disposition, scrapped in 1971

USS Clytie ... 1945

This is what I get for Googling my name.
It's kind of interesting ... being a submarine tender!
I'm not so sure about the being "scrapped in 1971" part though.
I think I'm now a reef!!!

Found Outside a Local High School ...

2011-02-25T14:18:00.001-08:00

I found this paper on the ground outside Tigard High School while I was waiting for my brother and his wife to get out of a meeting there. It had rained overnight, and I saw a moist piece of paper with must have been a specially designed drawing for snow goggles for the school's snowboarding team.
There was what appeared to be a short order list on the back.

I know "Steeze" is a term related to snowboarding ... and that's all I know!

But I learned something today - which is part of the reason I pick up weird stuff like this!

Fart Light Track

2011-01-29T16:35:00.000-08:00

When the huge building across the street was being gutted down to the cement walls, many of the original construction notes were revealed.

Including this one. I know, I know, it was probably supposed to be "Far +" and "Light Track" ... but I think I like it better as "Fart Light Track"!

Vern's final letter ...

2010-12-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

This is the final letter from Vern to his parents.
I will miss them.
Thank you for letting me share this delightful family.
I hope you have enjoyed this series as much as I have!

2/9th/69th

Hi - folks.

I got here (just) fine. got here 7 in the moreing (morning) left there about 3'o clock yestery (yesterday) evenney (evening).

Got in Colfax washington then Pullman and just started to storm hard I mene it just come poreing down, no not rain, I mene snow.

Im sure glad now I left when I did, huh.

I never used them chang (chains) at all tho other then that the car whent very slow but studdy (steady) thought (through) about 6 inch of dampa kind of snow.

All the way to Colfax. from Kingston, the hi-ways
(over)

where all nice and dry. Like smer (summer?) Hi-ways, olny then the wind just blue and blue relley hard I had a sacso (?) the weel a lot, from Spokane to Colfax. and just as soon as I got to Plomer it just started to began to storm.

So I got a little bitt scook (shook) up about then. that snow makes me disze (dizzy) you know, to drive in it anyway.

So I was scooh-up about then. and (dead mans fase) was allso bad at that time. Nampa, hasent got any snow to spek of oanlee little paches here and there. you got some more to huh I herd on the readeo (radio) just now. My garsh what wheather you've been geting gee whose.
Well thats all now.
Vern Meligan

Such a happy guy - cute smile!
He did really well with the car in the snow though, I think.

Introducing Vern's Mom ...

2010-12-12T07:17:00.001-08:00

I found this note tucked into the old dictionary along with the letters from Vern to his mom. It is a note written regarding a phone conversation they had. It is adorable ... read on - and get to know more about this delightful family.

Vern called Tuesday around nine. They are re-trying to buy them a trailer house two bed roomed just right for them. They are putting in a new Trailer Court real near to the State School where he works, the cost per mo. I believe he said would be $55 a month and has everything new stove is heated by gas & can in time if natural gas comes in, converted into that type. He said mom, if you come we will get you a peice of plyboard to sleep on, as we've gotten a Deveno bed for $10. When you come will you bring us at least a dozen of your ginger cookies

then we'll feast on them and milk or coffee. He seemed real pleased at the thought of us comming even. We talked 25 minutes but so worth it. I ask how are your feet? He said Oh! I get around. Yes I'm working. He called from that neighbors place Collect of course.

So it was a rewarding day got my S.S. straightened out and so we trust it will keep straight from now on.

Eugene's teeth got repaired once more, we had a nice lunch at Toper in Coeur D'Alene got home around four. Found 4 loaves of bread 2-2# bags of rains + a bag of brownies.

Bread is for a bread pudding I was informed by Zelda + Loran get some also.

I so much love this family! Don't you?
Alas, there is only one more letter from Vern to his mom.
I will post it tomorrow - it's the best yet!

Vern - Letter #2

2010-12-11T06:04:00.001-08:00

This second letter from Vern to his mom and dad is not dated. But it was lovingly tucked into the same envelope with the first letter, dated December of 1968, and mentions some of the same things ...

Hi - folks hows the volks ha ha. Guss what? It snowed thats what about 5 inch of that white stife. the most snow all at onece Nampa ever had for a long time they say. they only have about one inch at a time then it males (melts) before noon. this time four inch last all day 9:30 P.M. now and most of it is gone tho.

Boy some good news they are going to fix the Volks folks. only $400 Dollars to fix it too. It will be tomorrow when I fine out when it gets fixed Reddy to drive. they seem to think it just might be reddy by JANUARY somethings. mybe the firest of the week of JAN.

Gee every thing is Happypenny when I'm not thare, how about that? Glen Bys (buys) a truck Loran

(over)

sells her House.

Whars Loran moveing to now. Gee a could a or a can a you spar a mybe $10. Dollars this a month mybe I'm a little shot of cash funes (funds) moneys Dollars perticharly this month.

So if you might just have some money ling (lying) around and looking kind of sad would plese spar about $10. Dollars. mybe. you see Don and I have'nt been able to fine a bitter (better) or chiper (cheaper) place lattly.

Well thats all I can think of for this time by for now.
Vern poor Meligan

Isn't this another adorable letter from Vern?
I love how he writes the way he talks. I think he's awesome!

Introducing Vern ...

2010-12-10T13:55:00.001-08:00

Yesterday while at the Goodwill Surplus store, I came across two tattered old books in a plastic bag. They intrigued me, so I paid the $1 to buy them.

One of the books was a family Bible - it's leather cover coming apart in chunks. Oh the treasures tucked within - old postcards, letters, pressed flowers ... but more on that later.

The second book was a battered dictionary, with no cover, hand written notes scattered throughout. Treasured letters were tucked between it's pages. It was owned by someone (I get the impression of an old lady, but that's just me I think) who loved words.

Several of the letters tucked into the dictionary were written by "Vern". As I read through these letters, I fell in love with his country charm. He wrote as he spoke.

12/25/68

Hi VOLKS OR I MIGHT FOLKS

I'm not going to write or see you anymore this year. So thar. Gee I Dissaponted' you never seent (sent) me my bannanes insted you cut them up in my frute cake Boy what a dretty (dirty) truck (trick) you pauld (played) on me.

I was So! dissaponted I Had "cry just a little bit, Geech. Boy when I get Home when I get home you've! just Had it thats It, I'm telling, you thats it now, youve just had I now. Well for instenes (instance) I was and stell am so mad I ate some of that bannana furt grade and to Eat any thing with bannanas in it will it (halps). Makes you get over being made (mad)
(over)

Gee I worked today 25th. Allday too. Boy its some-things to see them sapost (supposed) to be helpless poeplo (people) open gifts well! hell thare not acctcherly (actually) Helpless to a sertten (certain) point, you might say only there handy capt (handicapped) is about all I guss. two feelows that careral, they where ones that opened Gift like a eez you might say or go a Head and say I sure wont stop you that for sure! Im here.

Oh yes they will fix my car only $400. Dollars to get it fix is about all too.

I stell dont know when I'll get fix tho, soon tho, the way he talked. So looks like I might just see you soon like (maybe) I'll see yous soon. So well see you sometimes soon. Well that's about it now. Might see you or write soon.

V E R N

Isn't this the most delicious letter you've ever read? Apparently Vern worked at a State School for handicapped people somewhere in Idaho in the mid to late 1960's ... and was possibly a bit handicapped himself ... his view of the "handy capt" people he worked with is adorable.

There are 2 more letters from Vern, as well as a note from his mom to herself about a phone call they had. I can hardly wait to share more from this delightful family!

To see all things postal, including delightful old letters, visit Gemma at Greyscale Territory - and join us for Weekend Mailbox!

Shadows on Rocks ...

2010-09-26T07:24:00.000-07:00

Another picture I found in Grandma G's travel album, from a trip they took sometime in the late 1970's or early 1980's. The trip took them from Oregon to Idaho and on to Arizona.

Even though the photo is old and the location obscure ... it is still beautiful.

The rocks are probably still there ...
Only the shadows will be different.

To see shadows from around the world, visit Hey Harriet, and join us for Shadow Shot Sunday.

Military Training Journal ...

2010-08-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

I found a journal at the Goodwill some time ago ... only a few pages had been used.
I tore them out, setting them aside, and used the journal for other things.

In fits and starts I have been trying to go through my mounds and piles and boxes of paper stuff, and in one of my searches I found the journal entries.

This time I read them.

There is no name to my mysterious soldier. Just a vivid description of what it was like to be training for war. Some of the wording makes me think the time frame is the Viet Nam era.

Did this soldier fight there? Did he ever have to throw one of those grenades for real? If he did go over there, did he make it home okay?

I will never know .....

And look at the date. February 14th. Valentines Day.

Old Photo - electrical hearts!

2010-07-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

In January of 1980 ... several years before they welcomed me into their family ... Grampa and Grandma G took a trip from Oregon to Arizona, with many stops in between.

At one of the campgrounds, they took pictures of this electrical box ...
Probably because it scared them!

But guess what ... up in the corner of the photo ... I spied a pair of ...
Electrical Hearts! Do you see them?

To see hearts old and new, from all over the world, visit Random Hearts and participate in this week's Guest Heart Thursday!

Old Photo - Shadow Shot Sunday

2010-07-24T08:34:00.000-07:00

I found this shadowy picture in an old photo album packed away ...
Grampa and Grandma G.
They must have been fascinated with this bird - there were several shots of it.

January, 1980 - Two years before they came into my life, they went on a trip - from their home in Oregon to Arizona - with many stops along the way.

They loved to travel. I miss them so much.

To see amazing shadows captured around the world, visit Hey Harriet - and join us for Shadow Shot Sunday!

Something Mailed ...

2010-07-15T08:34:00.000-07:00

I found this in Ivor's papers (rescued from dumpster some years ago) and decided it was worth keeping. What originally caught my attention was the phone number.
167.
That's it. No area code, no prefix number ...
I think the world was smaller when this was mailed.

I'm not sure why Ivor kept it, except that he kept EVERYTHING.
I'm glad he did!

I like that it was postmarked
Independence, Oregon -
where my sister Beth lives!

What are the odds???

Caution - Thistles!!!

2010-07-14T07:12:00.001-07:00

One of those things that make you go Hmmmmm???!!!
Maybe too many people have hit the sign.
Or maybe we're being protected from the thistles peeking out from the cone ...

Keep Portland Weird! - Weekend Reflections

2010-07-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

I took this picture because I LOVE these Keep Portland WEIRD bumper stickers I keep seeing around town.

I didn't realize until later just how many reflections I caught in the shot!

To see reflections from around the world, please visit James at Newton Area Photo - and join us for Weekend Reflections!

Depreciation

2010-06-25T19:09:00.000-07:00

I was walking around the abandoned church when I saw something in the grass. I picked it up, and found this $1 bill. It was crinkly from the rain, and tattered from both weather and insects.

How long had it sat there? Who dropped it? I'll never know.

My silly side tells me ... maybe someone dropped a $10 bill, and it shrank in all that rain we had this Spring!

What stories do YOU think this $1 would tell?

Four Leaf Clover!

2010-06-18T10:41:00.001-07:00

A truly random find - I happened to look down and find this four leaf clover!

Maybe it's time to go buy a lottery ticket!
NOT! (Can't push my 'luck' too far, eh?)

Old postcard, Long Beach, California

2010-05-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

The Municipal Auditorium and Rainbow Pier, Long Beach, California

Another of the Goodwill finds I made a while back ...
I just don't understand how someone could
Give these beauties away!

I'm just glad they found their way to my collection.

Where Were You When The Mountain Blew???

2010-05-18T09:58:00.001-07:00

I came across this brochure a while back ...
It brought back so many memories ...

Of that day in 1980, May 18th, 1980 to be precise ... when the beautiful and pristine Mt. St. Helens in Washington exploded ...

30 years. That's a long time. But I still clearly remember the day - a Sunday morning. My drive home from church included a hill overlooking the Willamette Valley. Usually I could see Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Jefferson - and a good portion of the Cascade Range.

On that day I stopped at the top of the hill in awe - as I watched this once-perfect mountain blow her top.

It was my mom's 41st birthday.
What an interesting way to celebrate!!!

Remember that Old Laptop???

2010-05-16T11:32:00.001-07:00

Rescued from the garbage, the old laptop has become ...
altered ART! A work in progress, because it will probably NEVER be finished.

Above is the cover -

Page 2

Page 3 -

Pages 2 and 3 together -
(With Mika's approval)

And the back cover!

My daughters and I had so much fun altering this book, er, "notebook".
Now we are looking for other things to embellish ... to beautify ... to save from the garbage for art!

Old Laptop ...

2010-05-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

Look at what I found in the garbage.
It doesn't work - its guts are gone,
it's glory days have passed.

OR HAVE THEY???

Stay tuned ...

Recipe - Oatmeal cookies ... I think

2010-05-06T07:42:00.000-07:00

I got a kick out of this recipe I found in some paperwork at the Goodwill Surplus Store.

1 c sortening (shortening?)
1 c white S (white sugar?)
1 c brown S (brown sugar?)
Cream till fluffy.
1 Egg
1 teasp vanilla
Stir well.
Add
1 1/2 c white flour
in which you have mixed
1 teaspoon soda
dash of salt
3 c oatmeal
Mix well
350% drop

I think they end up as cookies - don't know how long they are supposed to bake.

Memaloose Airport ...

2010-05-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite pictures of all time ...
My wonderful B-I-L Alan ...
And the Memaloose Airport sign ...

A Classic!
(So is the sign!) :=)

Tree Identification Tags Gone Wrong

2010-05-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

The city sent out a crew to the property across the street - 42 acres - of which half is covered with green space and wetlands - lots and lots of trees. It took a 2-man crew 3 weeks to find, reach, tag and catalog (complete with GPS for each tree!) all of the trees on the property of a certain "age and size".

If I were a tree, and had to be 'labeled', though, this would NOT be the label I chose!!!

Dark Smooth Ale

2010-05-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

So this is what appeals to the young people now ...
They must be very brave!
I'm not sure I would drinking something ...
With a skull and cross bones on the front!!!

Jeep Smiley Face

2010-04-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

He was next to me in the parking lot,
This cute little smiley face dude.
I drove off as soon as I saw him -
I could tell he was up to no good!

My Steve Morse Autograph and How It Happened

2010-04-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

I've always thought Steve Morse was the best guitarist of all time. We were stationed in Kirchgoens, Germany in the late 80's, and heard that Kansas (the group) was to be performing there while on a USO sponsored tour. Steve Morse was the lead guitarist!!! They were going to spend the night at one of the guest houses on post.

The morning of the concert dawned cold and wet, yet I was determined to get the autograph of Steve Morse! I stood outside the guest house just after light, drenched in the freezing rain, holding my precious album and CD. Time passed. The door opened! It wasn't Steve Morse. It was a guy with really long hair in a pony tail, dressed in running gear. We talked for a moment, I told him the most scenic run around post ... he loped away. I waited. More time passed. Finally, the door opened again. STEVE MORSE!!!!! Would you please sign my CD and my album? He was most gracious and friendly. And he signed. Then he left. I went home to change my cold drenched clothing.

That evening, at a sparsely attended concert (seriously, there were only like a hundred people there!) - we had front row dancing seats. As the band came onstage ... remember that guy with the long hair? The one that wanted to know about jogging trails? The one I ignored so I could get to STEVE MORSE??? He was the lead singer. Yep, and I didn't even get his autograph! Silly me. Of course my teenage sister Leigh (she lived with us in Germany for a time) jumped on stage and got hugs from the entire band.

The only song I remember clearly is when we all held lighters and swayed with "Dust in the Wind" - which is still one of my favorite songs of all time.

Tag/Tag-Back #6

2010-04-22T07:11:00.001-07:00

Oh yes, Jeff Rules indeed!

Or maybe Jeff Drules.

Either way, he's a wiener! Er, winner!

Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my (Goodness)!

2010-04-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

Be afraid.
Be VERY afraid.
Tiger Car is on the loose!
Prowling the streets of Salem,
Seeking fresh prey!

Fortunately, I was safe,
In my (very dirty and pollen coated) cage ...

I don't think it saw me.
I must sneak away slowly,
Always on the lookout.
For the Tiger Car.

Skateboard Art

2010-04-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

Look at what I found at the Goodwill surplus store ...
Not to ride, I have enough issues, thank you very much!

I just liked the dragon on the bottom
Scratched and worn,
A life well lived.

Now it will be ART!
Once I find a way to hang it on the shed.

It will remind me that a life well lived,
Is a thing of beauty.

Prom Request - Weekend Reflections

2010-04-17T10:16:00.001-07:00

I was sitting in traffic when I saw this wonderful sign.
It wasn't until I looked at the picture closely that I noticed
The beautiful reflections in the windows of the
Office building behind it.
If you click to enlarge the photo, you will see what I mean!

Now the only question remaining ...
Did Kendra say yes?????

To see wonderful reflections from around the world, please visit Weekend Reflections.

Who Finds Clothing in a Bag? I do!

2010-04-14T20:12:00.001-07:00

I was taking a walk along the trail at the Fanno Creek Nature Preserve in Tigard (Oregon). The day was warm, sunny and perfect.

Through the air wafted the heady scent of newly mown grass. Soon I could see a giant industrial sized lawnmower coming towards me - it's giant insect-like appendages outstretched, mowing and shredding everything within reach.

I looked to the side of the trail, hoping there was nothing in it's way. There was - a white grocery bag, full of something.

I picked it up and carried it back to my car. By now I was curious. What was in this bag?

Well, 3 pairs of pants (the exact size for my niece, who needs them!), a catalog, a used Tri-Met bus ticket, a pair of trendy shoes, and some little tiny hotel soaps and shampoo.

So I took it home, to distribute to those who need it. I'm sorry someone lost their clothes and things, but I don't feel guilty about taking them. After all, they would have been shredded in a few minutes anyway.

Tag/Tag-Back #5

2010-04-12T15:24:00.000-07:00

Once again let loose, pen in hand ...
To the place where the Graffiti is ...

Snicker.
This is just way too much fun.
Right sissie?

What they do at the abandoned church at night ...

2010-04-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

I wonder if the "Weejie" told them anything, since they lost the instructions.

They'll never find them, I threw this paper into the fire and burned it.

There's enough craziness in the world without trying to bring more from the 'other side' - imagined or not.

Bored Outside Costco ...

2010-04-04T15:45:00.000-07:00

What else could I do???

Tag/Tag-Back #4

2010-04-03T12:58:00.001-07:00

Tag!

Tag Back!

Isn't this what happened to the Unicorns???

1950's era Odorono deodorant advertisement

2010-04-01T18:01:00.000-07:00

"Odorono cream deodorant"

Don't you just love the name?

Odor - Oh no!!!

Stay Out While Running

2010-03-30T08:51:00.001-07:00

I was caught behind this hopper truck at the road construction area.
For some reason the sign on the back tickled my funny bone ...

Stay Out While Running!

Does that mean when I'm running?
Or the hopper?

Oh well, I don't run much anyway.

Tag/Tag-Back #3

2010-03-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

Tag
(sorry about the language ...)

Tag-Back!!!

(I like this language better!)

Tag/Tag-Back #2

2010-03-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

"I Love Haters"

I have been let loose in the abandoned church, sharpie in hand ...
(See previous post - Tag/Tag-Back #1)
Having fun with the taggers ...

So ... "I Love Haters" should really be, in my warped mind ...

"I Love Potaters!"

Tag/Tag-Back #1

2010-03-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

The walls at the abandoned building are full of graffiti.

Rumors of ghosts and "shadow people" abound.

Obscure messages and warnings lurk on the walls everywhere.

I had a sharpie in my pocket, quite by accident. I couldn't help myself. I had to tag-back the taggers! My first tag-back
is
Below ...

Snicker.

Jon's Art

2010-03-24T06:09:00.001-07:00

A new artist has hit the scene!
His talents are amazing.
His use of color is spectacular!

His name is Jon.
He is my nephew.

He's not quite in high school yet.
And already he's doing THIS!!!

Keep it up, Jon.
You'll be famous someday!!!

Railroad Stuff - Portland to Washington DC, 1960

2010-03-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

It took 3 days, in 1960, to go by rail from Portland, Oregon to Washington, DC. What a ride it must have been!

Railroad Stuff - Empire Builder

2010-03-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

Stationery - To write a note while on your railroad trip ...
Maybe to brag about the scenery?

I know this is a little ragged, but it apparently was a well used ticket envelope.
The picture on it is quite detailed and colorful.

All Abooooooard!!! 1945 Railroad Ticket

2010-03-14T12:24:00.000-07:00

I found this old 1945 Philadelphia & Western Rwy. Co. ticket in (Uncle) Ivor's stuff.
I'm so glad he kept things like this.

More railroad items to come!

Kahlua, Klua, Kalua, Kalhua, Khalua - KAHLUA!

2010-03-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

My friend Mona left me several cookbooks.
When she moved away.
I haven't seen or heard from her since.

But I think of her when I look for a recipe ...
Especially when I find little slips of paper
Tucked inside.
That make me smile.

Miss you, Mona.
Hope you're okay.
And still enjoying that homemade Kahlua!

And She Calls it "Trash"

2010-03-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

I found this scanned into the computer, then forgotten.
The original is gone, as far as I know.
She thinks it's not good enough
For other people to see.

I DISAGREE.
And she will probably kill me if she sees this post!
But it is worth it.

Hello, My Name Is ... ?????

2010-03-07T10:06:00.001-08:00

No wonder this generation is so confused ...
I would be too!!!

In fact, I quite often AM!!!

Gleaner Confusion

2010-03-06T08:32:00.000-08:00

I found this note in a box of cucumbers while unloading a delivery at the Canby Gleaners site. I guess I'm not the only one who gets confused by Arizona Tea and Gator Aide!

Snicker.

Love the Guy in the Green Shirt!

2010-03-05T11:51:00.000-08:00

I love this old-time ad for Spry "Triple Creamed" shortening.
Especially the guy in green at the top.
Reaching his teeny tiny plate towards
that GREAT BIG CAKE.