Recognition

A tidbit from today's team meeting at work...

It's been odd, being back to work and having another entire Microbiology department sharing our space. And, that space is now at a premium. Lordy are there a lot of people and cultures! But, this too will abate once Histology/Cytology/Pathology move to the Mercy campus. (Two months is the projected timeline. Oh how I hope.)

But, the part about the recognition...you see, I was the person on our campus who measured, surveyed, planned, and tried to coordinate the move. I went across town, measured their equipment, took copious notes, returned to our space and plotted it all out. Also, tried to anticipate the issues that could arise as well as helped negotiate a phone line that links us transparently to the other campus. Then, with the help of a couple of my teammates, we purged four rooms and moved things around for the final move date.

The move happened when I went on vacation this past week and today, my supervisor acknowledged all the hard work I'd done in front of all of my co-workers. She was more than pleased that everything was essentially in place and that it flowed despite both Shauna and I being on vacation. Oh, there were little gliches, but nothing major. And for now being a week into the merge, we're moving around, readjusting and redefining, and still turning out all the work without issue. Impressive.

For me, it was just nice to be recognized for the kind of thing I do so well. Ok, I'll toot my horn. I'm one kick ass Microbiologist and one hell of an organizer. I just need the motivation. Just ask my kidlet. She'll tell you.

Ok, no resting on my laurels now. I have some organization to get done at home ...
Dawn

DS Fest/ Grayson book

Because Heather is dying for a full report...

This past weekend was the Dark Shadows festival in NYC and yes, yours truly trucked up to NY for the event. (Yes, Dark Shadows as in the gothic horror soap from the 60's and 70's.) I've been a DS fan since original runs and a fest attendee since 2002. This year, however, was special because my friend RJ released her biographical accounting of actress Grayson Hall's life and was there promoting the book. Needless to say, the group fondly known as Grayson's Legion showed up to support our girl RJ and see some long overdue recognition of our favorite star, Grayson.

I left on Thursday, flying to Dulles where I hooked up with my friend Evelyn from Atlanta, and then we scooted off to our friend Wanda's home in VA. After settling in, we visited with Michael and Mama, and then enjoyed a wonderful steak dinner before adjourning to the spa with drinks in hand. Could not have asked for a more gorgeous night or better company. Needless to say, it was well past 1 before we turned in for the night.

We were packed and on the road, Starbucks in hand, shortly after 10:30 for the drive north. Yes, I could have flown to LaGuardia or JFK, but where is the fun in that? Spending time with the girls is a rare treat and the drive gives us ample opportunity to reconnect and to muse some new story material.

Bobbi actually beat us to the hotel (Brooklyn Marriott) on Friday. So did the rest of the gang, for that matter. We settled in, checked the fest schedule, and then proceeded to formulate our own agenda. We decided on dinner at the hotel since it was late and the weather was not looking promising. Then, there was the requisite bar visit. Hey, it's tradition. Wonderful visit with actress Marie Wallace during that time. Amazing woman and quite congenial. Tells some wicked stories too.

Saturday was breakfast at the hotel's buffet and goodbye to Bobbi who had to scoot back to Philly in preparation for an upcoming hearing. But, as I told her, I'd take whatever time I could get!

There were a couple of events that we caught during the afternoon, but most of our time was spent inside due to rain. The good part is that offered prime reading time of the biography. I understand that Jonathan Frid called in during the cast reunion to wish everyone an enjoyable weekend. Nice touch. Oh, and during the afternoon, Lara Parker and Katherine Leigh Scott stopped over to question RJ about her book and how she got involved in doing the project. Great photo op. (Way to go Nancybe.)

That evening, we watched the video sent in by Jonathan Frid, and then we adjourned to our favorite spot in the lounge and made plans. Ended up with a private room for pizza and wine and some private group time. Thanks Wanda. (During this time, my daughter and her boyfriend arrived from Philly. Good to have them there too since Laura is an honorary Legion member, despite her personal inclination to be a Frid Kid.) Then it was off to RJ and Nancy's room for a video screening and question and answer time on the book.

Sunday was rather gray and gloomy. But, that didn't stop our trek to the bakery around the corner for breakfast or our trip into the city to see the Empire State Building. This little adventure was only Laura, Dan, Evelyn, and myself. We went to the top of the ESB and got some great pictures despite the cloud cover and the winds. Had to bust back by 2pm in order to be there for RJ's presentation on the book, but that was no problem. Had time to spare.

RJ's presentation went very well as did Nancy Barrett's readings from the book. I think that really lent a great amount of support to RJ's efforts. Having one of the stars and one of Grayson's dear friends being up there lauding the effort and participating in the Q/A time was perfect. And, of course, the Legion had front row seating if they chose. I even got up and participated in the question and answer session. (Yes, some of us had been primed just in case there were not questions forthcoming from the crowd. But, that was really a non-issue. Folks did participate freely.) It was nice to see that there is still a great following for the woman, outside of the Legion, despite the fact that she's been gone for 20 years.

I managed to catch David Selby during some down time and get a copy of his new book autographed for my girlfriend's daughter. She's a big Selby fan and his inscription was so typically David. Lovely man.

Sunday evening was spent with the group at a restaurant named Garage in the Village. Food, drink, live jazz, and great company. The great fun of the evening was Jonathan Frid calling NancyK during dinner and all of us saying hello. Hey, while the rest of the people were eating overpriced rubber chicken at fest and enduring visits by some 'less stellar' stars, we were dining well and had a cameo appearance by JF. How many people can say they had fest dinner with JF? The Legion can.

Monday morning rolled around too fast. I managed breakfast with Laura and Evelyn before the kids left to return to Philadelphia. Then, we packed to head off to VA, but not before RJ popped in with bottles of Grayson Cellars wine. A thank you for Wanda securing the room for our private use on Saturday and for me getting up and asking questions at the mike. We also went out of our way to make sure she got fed and had drinks during the weekend chained to her table. A trip to the bar or a Bucks run always included RJ's order too.

The trip to Virginia went smoothly. Ev got to the airport in time and then, her flight was delayed. Breather room. I went back to the house with Wanda and chilled out with her for a while. Then, Michael ran me over to the airport to catch my flight. Great guy, that one. I really like Michael. He's easy to talk to and we have one major thing in common...we adore that crazy wife of his.

Flight home was fine. Flew out of DC knowing there were tornado watches and warnings in my area. Flew through lightening the last 10 minutes in, but the turbulence was really minor on the descent in to Dayton. Glassy smooth landing too. The only delay was in getting baggage. Took longer than normal due to the electrical storm, but even with that, I was back home by shortly past midnight.

So, another festival comes and goes. Another too short vacation. Always the way. But, there's always October and the gang's gathering at Niagara on the Lake. Something else special to look forward to with the group. Between these events will be a whirlwind weekend to Philly for Laura's graduation.

Can you say, frequent flyer miles?
Dawn

In Memory of Grayson Hall (1923-1985)
To live in the hearts we leave behind, is not to die.
Yes dear, your fans ARE Legion.

Springfield part 1/ The Westcott House

Prompted by a drive down East High Street ...

This is a picture of the Burton Westcott house as it presently stands, a fine museum that in the early part of the nineteen hundreds, was a private home built for the creator/builder of the Westcott automobile. The house is a prairie style Frank Lloyd Wright home that fell into disrepair for many years and has since been restored to its original grandeur. In October of 2005, it opened as a museum, complete with restored gardens and reflecting pool. It is truly a sight to behold.

This piece of Wright's historical architecture is merely three blocks from my home. No, I've not yet toured it, but I intend to when my daughter returns in September for a visit. Seems a good time to hit some of the historical sites since she's bringing her boyfriend home and he's never been to Ohio.

My son has been a fan of Wright architecture ever since visiting Wright's Falling Waters in Pennsylvania during his middle school Washington trip. He took such a magnificent picture of it that I had it enlarged, matted, and framed. I confess to loving the clean lines of his style and the liberal use of art glass/leaded glass windows. Hey, for someone who does stained glass, it's a pleasure to see well designed and implemented glass features.

This is the first in a series of visits to local sites that I see, pass, hear about, but never really gave much thought to until now. It's high time I let my historical buff out to play for a while...
Dawn

Different styles

Prompted by my Mom and Dad buying a new car...

In recent months I've reflected on just how different my husband's and my modes of operation can be. Heck, just how different our families are in general. You see, my husband is an analyzer. Probably due to the fact that his primary career has been in manufacturing engineering. He also tends to be a motorhead and loves to tinker with cars and engines. But, he's also rather s-l-o-w in these processes of analyzing. He ultra analyzes.

Case in point would be the recent car quest. Or not so recent. Our T-Bird bit the dust in a deer hit back in October. Yes, ten months ago. My husband can still not make a decision about the car or suv he wants. He just can't make a decision. That's the key. It's easier to think and think and rethink without making it permanent.

I was raised far differently. 1) You decide what you like. 2) You shop and test drive. 3) You decide what color you like and what options you want (in a day's time, not months) 4) You visit the dealership and haggle the price to your satisfaction and sign on the dotted line.

This long time decision making process drives me nuts.

I said our families are different. Some other aspects:
1) The fact that my in-laws are chronically late where I was raised to be ten minutes early or on time at the very latest.
2) My in-laws are pack rats to the nth degree. I have already refused any assistance in clearing the 60 years of accumulation in my mother-in-law's place when she passes. Now, I admit to certain sentimentalities, but I don't even hold a varsity letter compared to their olympic gold medal in the event.
3) If something appeals to one of my in-laws, no matter how frivolous, it will become your Christmas present.
Personally, I would prefer to gift someone with something they'd particularly like to have and want rather than something that will get stuffed away unused.
4) Dillies are late starter whereas Giffords tend to be up and on the stick pretty early of a morning. (I hate it, but both of my kids seem to have inherited that 'I want to sleep until noon' trait when they're off.) Even on my day off, I'm up and going by 6 or 7. If I'm in bed past then, I'm probably ill.
5) I tend to have a bad procrastination habit, but my husband, he just ignores things that plainly need done, as if 'I don't see it so there's nothing to be done.' Only when I light fires do things suddenly seem to come into sight.

I've adapted after 26 years, but I can't say I've accepted it all with good grace. Seeing my mother's new car today, one she picked out and bought in less than five days, reminds me again of how differently I was raised, my thought processes compared to my husband's, and why things sometimes set me off or rub me the wrong way. And that's probably not a good thing because Gifford tend to have pretty bad tempers, unlike the Dilly side of the family. Don't light my fuse....

Sigh...
Dawn
(have fun with this one Lars)

Media Feeding Frenzies

Sparked by the 24/7/365 news network on downstairs...

I am so sick and tired of the news media. What happened to responsible new reporting? Factual reporting? Thorough reporting? My husband says that went out with Walter Cronkite and I think I'd have to agree.

When I was younger, I actually enjoyed listening to the local 6pm news and the national at 6:30. That hour of news along with the morning radio broadcast as I ate breakfast or drove to work, was all I needed to know what was going on in the world. I truly believe I was better versed in the happenings of the world back then than I am now. Why? Media overload.

Ever since the inception of the 24 hour news stations, news reporting has become more and more sensationalized and less and less about the news. It's all about the hype, the morbid, and the grotesque. Face it. That's what pays the salaries of the broadcasters. What's horrible, is that it's the same thing repeated over and over and over ad nauseum. Their motto seems to be 'if you don't have anything new to report, recap what you've said until you DO have something new.' Gag.

I'm so sick of hearing about this reported JonBenet Ramsey killer being found. It's almost as sick an obsession as the child's murder was ten years ago. And what do I think? I think the guy was in deep trouble in Bangkok and was looking for a way to save his skin and get out of the country. He has the knowledge due to supposed research on the case, cop a confession, get extradited, and then when safely back in the good old US, get exonerated. I got that idea from reading two columns in the local newspaper (which is generally only good for lining your cat box.)

I'm also sick of hearing about Mel Gibson and his 'woes'. Please! He got drunk, made anti-Semitic comments, and made and ass of himself in the media. And I could care less if Kate Hudson is getting divorced. And one more interview with Lindsay Lohan or Hilary Duff might send me over the edge.

I think the thing that drove this home this week was the emergency plane landing at Logan. All we heard, just minutes after it occurred, was that a plane was taken down with AF escort and that it was a potential terrorist attack. Nothing about point of origin, destination, nothing. My heart fell because my best friend was flying from Philly to Hartford that morning. A quick look at the clock and I half-way relaxed. It was too early for her scheduled flight. Then I discovered it was a UK/DC flight. Of course, I do have a good friend who could be on one of those if she's been to the UK to see her brother and is returning home to Virginia... My point is that the media loves to incite panic. They cast the bait, hook you, and then slowly and painfully take hours to reel you in. And all of that is done not by responsible investigative reporting, but by speculation and conjecture.

Remember, it's all about 24 hours coverage of news. Anything to keep talking. Anyone to talk to. Whether they have anything valid to say or not. Just keep talking. Or, keep showing archived film footage. Or, as I said early, oh excuse me, this is about the news media..."Let us recap..."

Dawn

The Long Awaited Book

The biography I've been waiting to read is finally published...

My friend RJ just finished an extensively researched book on the late actress Grayson Hall. Some would remember Grayson from her theatre days if they grew up in the New York area. Others would possibly remember her as the abducted woman in the original Disney "That Darned Cat" movie. Some would know her as Judith Fellows in Night of the Iguana. But, I think most of my generation would probably connect Grayson with her performances in the gothic soap opera Dark Shadows.

I've long been a fan of the actress' works and have followed RJ's progression with this book for well over two years now. We've called it everything from an obsession to a labor of love. My personal feeling is that it was a hefty dose of both.

RJ is a wonderful researcher and totally dedicated to doing justice to the memory of a fine actress who graced theatre stages, television, and movies, but who was also a wife, mother, and a uniquely brassy broad. I am certain that this will be a book I will find interesting and enlightening given our prior insights into GH's life as well as those 'missing pieces'.

Want to take a look? Visit www.graysonhall.net.
Thanks RJ for this massive undertaking. The Divine One must be having a ball with this.
Dawn

Coffee

Day off and first stop, Java House...

Anyone who knows me knows that I love coffee. And not just one cup but multiple cups of java. My first order of business upon getting to work is put on the coffee. I've often said that our Microbiology department runs on coffee. That's not so much the case these days as many have sworn off the brewed bean. But, I still have my coffee companions who will share a pot of the brew and savor it with me.

Now, I like a good, robust cup of coffee, but I also have a weakness for blended espressos and once in a while, a latte. And if it's got caramel or white chocolate, we're good to go. Make mine a venti. Add a good biscotti and I'm one happy camper.

When I travel with my friend Wanda, we do what is affectionately called the Starbucks tour. I have to start rehearsing her order again for our trip to NYC next week. Let's see...venti hazelnut skim latte. Yeah, I remember. (The Prez will be happy with the AA.)

My youngest is my coffee companion. She and her brother will both join me in the winter, when I break out the Baileys to add to it too. Cask and cream caramel isn't a bad option either.

My late father-in-law use to say that a cup of coffee was perfect if it could stand on its own without a cup. Now, I'm not one who likes it quite that strong, but don't give me brown water either. I don't go looking for decaf. I prefer high test and drink it with no adverse affect. I've been known to drink a cup before bedtime and sleep like a baby.

Yes, I love my coffee. Now, I better check how much I have on the Starbucks card before I make that trip...
Dawn

Blessings

Somewhere in my youth...or childhood...

Yes, I must have done something good. Somewhere. I am truly a blessed individual.

I have a job that, despite the merger and headaches, I still love doing.
I have my health. (Ok, fibromyalgia aside, I'm still a force to reckon with.)
I have a wonderful husband...who for 26 years has had to put up with a hell of a lot.
I own my home and have for 20 years.
I have two wonderful children who happen to no longer be children. Rephrasing, I have two adult children of whom I could not be prouder. I work in the same hospital with the eldest, my son, and my youngest, my daughter, graduates next month from college in Philadelphia. Both are lovely people whose company I enjoy.
I'm blessed in that my parents are still alive and vital people. I tell people my father is too ornery to grow old and my mother moves around too much.
I have a circle of dynamic, wonderful friends around the nation and I value their love and support.
Although I was born an only child, I do have sisters. Admittedly, the eldest, Bobbi, is the most special. We adopted each other several years ago and the days are strewn with emails about everything and nothing. But, I don't think I can go a week without chatting up the youngest, Evelyn, either. We share a special bond in medicine.

This list could go on for some time, but I just felt like reminding myself just how fortunate I really am. I realize how much I have and how little I need and the world becomes quite bright indeed.

Ever taken the time to 'count your blessings?' Me...I'm still counting.
Dawn

Working Weekends

Yes, I worked this weekend...

I know there is a solid portion of the population that works on weekend. Firefighters, police, sales staff, restaurant employees, and hospital staff quickly come to mind. Yet, it amazes me the number of people who seem incredulous that people actually have to work on weekends. I suppose most of those are business people, teachers, or the unemployed segment of Americans. That or they all work at home and don't have a set schedule of any sort. At any rate, it still gets me.

I've worked for my employer for thirty years and in this entire career I have always work some weekend combination. It's either been every third weekend or every other Saturday and every fourth Sunday, or some odd arrangement or another. Still, it's been commonplace. And I still get...'you poor thing' and 'what a pity' from well meaning folks.

But is it a shame or a pity? I think not. When you are in a wreck (God forbid) on a weekend and the paramedic (who is at work) and the police office (another working stiff) bring you to the hospital for treatment, you ought to thank God that people like nurses, doctors, radiology staff, and lab techs, are there to greet you. It wouldn't be any fun to get a recording at 911 and be told to call back between the hours of 9-5 Monday through Friday, would it? And if you did make your way to the hospital on your own, would you relish waiting until the doors opened during 'Normal' business hours? No.

The populace takes all of this for granted. Just like going to a restaurant after services on Sunday and not having to cook. There was a time when that was unheard of and the Sabbath was kept holy and such places were closed. Not in the modern day, though. Remember, that pastry chef in the kitchen is working an eight hour day. She's on the clock. (Just like her mother was today...)

My point being...don't frown or grimace when we say we're working this weekend at the hospital...or the firehouse...or whatever. Be thankful that we are working. Leave the frowning to us... that's our job on the weekend.
Dawn

Preserving History

Prompted by a trip to the historic Clifton Mill...

I have a great deal of respect for those who preserve pieces of history for generations that will follow. The Clifton Mill would be one example in my area.

I grew up less than 10 miles from the mill and the Clifton Gorge area. It holds many fond memories for me as it was the home of my husband's late grandmother and to this day remains the halfway point between my current home and that of my parents.

The Clifton Mill is a landmark. It's an operational gristmill that has been around since 1802, offers tours, has a gift shop, a restaurant, and at the Christmas holidays draws people from far and wide with its phenomenal lighting displays. It also hosts the owner's incredible Santa Claus collection. It's the holiday lights Mecca of Ohio.

I take a personal interest in these preservations due to my love of history. I commend the current owners who have restored the minute details and added a wonderful twist with a miniature village layout along the millrace and a restored covered bridge that spans the gorge to allow incredible vistas that would otherwise by obscured due to the old growth trees.

My area is rich with these priceless treasures. Another such venture to recently be completed is the Westcott House. It's a prairie style Frank Lloyd Wright house that is just two blocks from my home and an incredible restoration project that is now a museum.

If you ever venture to this part of Ohio, you ought to experience some of these incredible sights. You can help me applaud the visionaries who care about preserving our past for our future.
Dawn

New Fetish?

Sparked by a new set of novelty scrubs...

It's long been common knowledge that I have had a fetish for novelty socks. I buy them. My Mom buys them for me. My son's girlfriend has been known to add to the collection. My friend Wanda brings them back for me from her travels. I have a raft of different socks with unique sayings, designs, and for most holidays. Hey, for some men it's ties, for me it's socks. I've also been recognized for my fancy hosiery collection...

(My other fetishes such as anything Dark Shadows or Gunsmoke would be known to my family and closest friends. Although, I think those border on hobbies, I can be a bit obsessive in that arena too. That's far more private though.) But my socks and hose, those are just out there on display. Right there with the ankle bracelet collection.

Ok, so I have a leg thing. But when you've got nice legs, you flaunt them. Thinking back, I use to be this way about workout gear too, until I had to give up teaching classes. I had quite a collection of colorful bike shorts and tops. Hmmm....

This new fetish though is for colorful scrubs and novelty scrub tops. I like all of the bright colors and pick-me-up designs. They give me a real boost to get through some very trying workdays. I have quite a collection going and you know what? I have socks to go nicely with nearly every set...
Dawn

Mental Health Day

My day off. :)

Although, most people who know me would say I am off most days, this was a day off from work. Yes, a mental health day. I can fully relate to that concept with the merger issues I've previously mentioned. The physical stresses are essentially the same, although we are pressing to do more with less people. That takes a toll. But it's the mental gig that really wears on a body. You don't realize just how much one little rumor can spark such unrest within a community such as the hospital. And, after a while, every email, every memo, every comment seems to carry an underlying current or ulterior message. People start reading something into everything. It's miserable.

I hate buying into that mentality, but I find myself as prone as anyone else. We live in a constant state of anxiety which is clearly not healthy. Although the migraines have not been an issue with all this stress, the exzema on the other hand is out of control. A sure sign of stress. Ugh.

So, now I understand why people refer to these days as mental health days. I ran errands, did chores around my house, went out for lunch with the hubby, and then, late this evening, crashed for about three hours at Barnes and Nobles with coffee and skimmed Lara Parker's new book. (No, I'm not going over to the other DS camp, I was just curious. And for the record, she's obviously got a spy on the JList and most of the list writers DO write better.)

But I digress. The mental health comes from not thinking about work, about the issues swirling around like an ominous fog, and the ever present sense of impending doom. Uh, yeah, reading a DS novel and driving home in the fog has put me in the mood to write...another sure way to improve your mental health. :)

Dawn

Reality TV

Sparked by hearing my husband channel surfing...

What is there that is real about reality tv? It's as hoaky as televised wrestling. I mean, really. A group of women auditions and then finds themselves vying for a bachelor and the wedding of their dreams? A group of people audition for the chance to compete to be the newest 'find' for the musical scene? And, who could forget those castaways who are forced to survive and not get voted off the island? Oh, and let's not forget 'Real World' and its clones. Yeah, that's a real world all right...getting picked to go live with a big group of strangers in some multi million dollar mansion while you're 'suppose' to be fulfilling some 'job'. Like you ever saw them doing this job! It was all about screwed up relationships and who was drinking too much and who was a bitch and who was boffing who. Sound like your college dorm?

Face it. Reality tv is Unreal. It's all about media marketing. It's about what sells on tv. What's hot. The media moguls know that sex, drugs, and rock and roll still sells and sells big.

As for me, I don't watch tv hardly at all. I'll break down and watch Food Network or Gunsmoke reruns or an old classic movie, but not very often. I'm just not in to watching other people's disfunctionality. It's depressing, disgusting, and boring. It's a waste of my time.

Whoever named it the 'boob tube' was right on target in my book.

Dawn

Migraine Headaches

Prompted by my first migraine in nearly 5 months...

Let me start by saying that migraines are an absolute bitch. Childbirth carried less pain than a migraine is capable of producing. Trust me here, I've given birth twice without drugs, the last child weighing in at 9lbs 5oz. Oy. Even the twenty one hours of labor with my first was a piece of cake compared to the duration that some migraines can assume. My personal worst was 5 days. April 1979. Yeah, you do NOT forget.

I've suffered with migraine headaches since I was about 3 years old. Ever since I was old enough to tell my Mom that my head hurt. I went through all the tests when I was about 5. The diagnosis really was no surprise given that my mother and grandmother are also sufferers. My Grandma Currey had HORRENDOUS migraines that always lasted several days. Fortunately for me, mine tend to be fairly short lived in nature and will abate if I can get the drugs on board soon enough and get to sleep for a while.

Since March, I've been on prophylactic treatments with Topamax. I admit, I've been a bit lax in taking the meds this month and that could have been what allowed this latest attack to sneak through. Fortunately, there is a newer, high dose, rapid release Imitrex that is kick ass when it comes to knocking a migraine. I have taken the inhalant version of Imitrex for several years with wonderful results, but this new oral is great. Now if that would come out in the inhalant, I'd say sufferers such as myself would have the miracle cure. You see, the orals still leave you with the nausea issue and the kickback headaches the next day. Two side affects I could live without, thank you.

But, for all these years with this cross to bear, I've been fortunate. I'm a very functional migraine sufferer by most peoples' standards. Yes, I can often work with one. It isn't pleasant, but I can do it if the pain is below a 6 on the Richter scale. Above that and I'm looking for a brick wall to run my head through.

So, my migraines are better than they've ever been in my life. I'm thankful for small favors.
Drugs are my friend...
Better health through pharmaceuticals...
Dawn

The Jewish State

Sparked by a recent email concerning the fighting in the Middle East...

This post may be a bit disjointed due to a migraine and my own less than congealed thoughts, but I'm giving it a stab anyway. Bear with me please.

I have a confession to make. Many of my friends will believe it absurd when I say that I'm not overly political, but it's true. Only in the past few years have I taken any interest in world affairs. Call me a late bloomer.

Until just a few short years ago, I would have ignored the unrest in Israel and paid little attention. I can no longer do that. You see, I've had my eyes opened. My best friend is Jewish. I've had an education these past few years in her faith and in the process have come to a new place within my own. How could I not? As a Christian, if I am to develop a personal relationship with God, through his son Jesus, I need to understand the tribes of Israel and the origins of Christianity. And folks, those origins sit right smack dab in the middle of all this bombing.

Here's what I see from my Midwestern Christian perspective. Folks saying, 'There's always some Holy War over there.' Folks are thinking...'it doesn't affect me.' Oh, but it does. This is the defacing and defiling of the Holy Land. Again with the driving out of the Jews from their lands.

Look folks, Jews aren't our enemy. We come to the same house but through different doors. We worship and honor God. Our Christian celebrations clearly mirror Jewish holy days. Yet, you would be surprised by the number of disparaging comments I hear about Jews. Makes my blood boil. Especially the misinformation of some of the young 'Christians' who don't get it that Jesus was a Jew. Hello, Jewish law 101, child of a Jewish mother is Jewish.

I'm not really sure where I want to go with this discussion other than to say that I'm unsettled by the news out of Israel and I'm disheartened by the lack of concern and care from this side of the Atlantic. I'm also upset by the notions of my fellow Americans,heck, some of my bigoted coworkers, who make derogatory remarks about members of the tribe. My best friend is Jewish. My daughter's roommate is Jewish. A girlfriend on Long Island and one in Texas...yep, you guessed it. They're all beautiful people. They're like you and me.
And their homeland, ours really, is under attack.

Something to think about...
Dawn

Parents and Children

Spawned by time spent today with my parents and my son...

It's great being this age where you have the perspective of being a parent and a child. Especially when your folks are in great health and vital people and your children are fun adults to be around.

As the kid, I hear the folks voicing their concerns about this or that, questioning how the kids are doing, how work is going, how Wally is doing, when I'm going to write down the details of my upcoming vacation and so on. They hunger for the details about Laura's new job, Joe's work, what he's doing to his car now, how the dog is doing, and anything else they can think of to induce conversation and keep me around a bit longer. Then, they spoil me by sending me home with fresh sweet corn and other goodies. Gotta love parents.

As the parent, I pass that culture on. I chat my daughter up and ask about work. Same with my son or his girlfriend. I make sure that someone has cared for the dog's needs. (Laura, you're off the hook on that one.) Then, I turn around and pack a box off to Laura or, as in the case of this evening, cook up that fresh sweet corn and slice those ripe tomatoes and take them to my son at work where he's logging some overtime. Yeah, perpetuating that spoiling thing. You just gotta love parents.

Now, I know, not all people have this kind of situation. I know a gal whose mother died yesterday and they've never had a good relationship. That happens too. Sad, but true. But for me, and my friends, this is pretty much the norm for those with living parents. I know it won't be that way for a lot longer, but for now, I'm loving it. And someday, I'll take Mom and Dad's places, Joe and Laura will take mine, and ... the next generation of Giffords/Dillinghams will be thinking...you just gotta love parents.

I advocate spoiling kids, to a degree...
It's called love.
Dawn

The Ohio State Fair

At the right is an image of the famous butter cow...cows...

It was a wonderful day at the state fair. You'd think I'd tire of this endeavor after some 26 years, but I don't. It seems like there is always something new to see or do. And, of course, there are all of the prerequisite sites that one must visit as well.

For me, no visit is complete without a visit to the dairy barn to see the butter sculptures. This year we have the butter cows as well as the northern and southern tier rival football teams depicted. I think this was the first year I didn't have ice cream at the dairy building. Opted for an apple dumpling with ice cream earlier for a change of pace.

I also have to make a pass through the antique and collectibles building. Hit the jackpot today on one of my favorite collectibles. :) Love when something unexpected like that happens and at a fabulous price too.

Of course, there was a ton of fair food. I was really good this year. Ate lunch at the commercial building and actually ate healthy. Imagine that. Splurged on the shared apple dumpling with Wally instead of my usual caramel apple. No elephant ears or other naughtiness either. Boring aren't I??

To close out the day, it is a tradition to ride the sky glide across the fairgrounds. This year, I rode round trip, solo. The hubby isn't one for the skyrides and my ride partner is in Philadelphia, so I was left to my own devices. Psychic link must have been working though because I received a cellphone call from her while I was on the ride. Way to go Lars!

In all, it was a perfectly delightful day at the fair. We were on our way out and stopped to watch a dog show at the wildlife/nature area. Retrievers doing what they do best...retrieve. Made me want to come home and work with our young Black Lab because it looked like they were having so much fun! Yep, a fun and educational day at the fair.

Dawn

Drive-ins

Sparked by a trip down the highway past our last remaining drive in...

Did you ever go to the drive in theatre with your parents as a kid? Or with a date on Saturday night? Did you ever pull an all nighter at said theatre and then drive home at dawn? Oh my, those were the days. In the years before VCRs and DVDs and home movie theatres, the only time you got to see a show was at the local cinema or on Sunday afternoon matinees. There were only a handful of stations, evenings were dedicated to dramas, variety shows, and westerns, and nighttime movies were reserved for late Friday or Saturday.

As a child in the sixties, it was not uncommon to go to the drive in. I can distinctly remember loading the cooler with pop (a rare treat), Mom popping a big pan of popcorn, and then telling my to hop into my pjs and grab my pillow. Hey, I was a kid. I fell asleep long before the grownups. The back seat was my haven. :)

I can remember Dad parking the car just right so that you were angled properly to see the screen without straining and so that a speaker would reach from both the driver and passenger sides for stereo sound. That was quite a trick as I later learned. I was all excited as I waited for the opening cartoon. Remember, back then, cartoons were seen on Saturday mornings. No Nickelodeon or Cartoon network back then.

Remember the old concession stand with its yellow lights rimming the roofline? As I recall, the film frames of the popping corn and sales counter were a bit dated, even back then. Can you recall the countdown during intermission with the dancing drink cups, hot dogs, and candy bars? Oh, and let's not forget the countdown clock and the announcer proclaiming "It's ONE MINUTE til SHOWTIME!"

In my high school years, the drive in occasionally ran all night beach bikini flicks where girls got in free if wearing a swimsuit. Now, the year I graduated, '74, was the height of streaking and that year, guys got in free by ... you guessed it...wearing only their birthday suit. I can still remember sitting just off to the left rear of the concession stand in my friend Lynn's big truck with the ah-oooo-gah horn. We preset the lights to brights and then shut everything down, just in anticipation of what was sure to be the main entertainment. Our competitor track team had already streaked the high school more than once and this seemed an open invitation. We were not disappointed. After it was fully dark, just as the second movie started, a magnificent male specimen came straight toward our vantage point. Lynn, who was poised and ready, hit those brights and the horn. Talk about a deer in the headlights! Oh the cat calls. That fellow got one heck of a standing ovation but didn't stay around to accept the accolades. All we got was a full moon...

Submarine races anyone?

Those were the days.
Dawn

Family

There's more ways to build a family than through blood...

My girlfriend Bobbi advocates that after the age of 20 or so, we should be allowed to choose our family. Amen. I whole heartedly agree. Frankly, I have quite a bit more in common with these post-20 friends than I do with most of my extended biological family other than those I've spawned or the fella I married. But, in truth, I think this concept of my friend's originates far earlier in our lives.

Do you have a dear friend that you made in elementary or middle school that is still vital in your life today?
I do. We met in 6th grade. Our daughters who are several years apart in age have, in fact, bonded in the same manner. I would note that my girlfriend lived out of state for the first few years of her daughter's life, moving back to Ohio several years ago. I took Kim (my friend's daughter) to Philadelphia with me this summer to visit with Laura (my kidlet in college). Not sure who had more fun with that.

I also have a wonderful friend from college who is like a sister. We don't get to see much of each other, but we have a grand time when we do. For years, we were closer than she and her own sister were.

Now, to that extended family that we adopt. I've adopted Gina's Kim, my kids' friends, my son's girlfriend Crystal, my daughter's boyfriend Dan, and her roomie, Krystle. (Crystal A and Krystle B) I'm Mom. Oh, and I don't dare forget my young friend Heather. I'm affectionately called Mom2. :)

I've also adopted a host of sisters. Bobbi, Evelyn, Lorrie, Wanda, RJ, Nancy, Cath, and the list goes on. These are my post-40 friends/family (those I made after the age of 40, not who are over 40, thank you.)

I'd have to say that Bobbi's theory about adoption is wonderful. Hey, she's become my wise older sister and someone I could not fathom living without. I really love having her in my life, even if we are separated by 500 miles. But, the good thing is that my daughter lives only a mile from her.

This Mom can rest easier because the kidlet has some extended family, an adopted aunt and uncle that love her, right down the street.

Dawn

30 yrs today

Happy Anniversary to me!

Yep, it's official. Thirty years ago today I started working at Community Hospital. Egads that's a long time. And I thought it was bad 5 years ago when our VP announced our group as 'those people who have worked at Community for a quarter of a century.'

Have I seen change? Oh heavens YES. The most change outside of actual technology has been in the past two years. We're merging/merged with another hospital in our city and therefore a part of a huge conglomerate. Am I happy about it? Not particularly. And it's sad because the initial premise could be sound in the face of ever rising health care. Unfortunately, much of what is wrong needs to be addressed with a corporate reorganization by an outside group. When people have been in power for too long, doing things as they've always done them, and still losing money, that needs to be addressed. Not gonna happen though. So I plug on and smile.

Where's my cousin, the corporate reorganizer, when you need him??

Have I liked my job? Yes, most of the time.
Do I like the people I work with? Generally. There are a few I could as soon do without. For the record, they do not work in Microbiology or Hematology. :)
Have I been challenged? Frequently. Hence my extreme knowledge base that people tease me about...
What have I done that I'm proud of? I'm proud that people feel that they can approach me and ask me a question about just about anything lab related and know that I will have the answer or be able to get it for them.
My hats...I've been a bench microbiologist nearly my entire career. Along the way, I have had other assignments. I supervised the clerical and phlebotomy staff for a few years as well as ran the reference lab for over 5 years. I don't miss any of the headaches associated with the clerical/ phlebotomy area. That will always be a mess. I admit that I miss the autonomy and variety of Reference testing, but I don't say I miss being out of there with all of the mess the merger has caused to that section. I'd just as soon be right back where I am, at the Micro bench, swamped with cultures and happy as a little clam. Funny how I can walk out of that area on a frantically crazed day and feel absolutely wonderful about what I've accomplished.

I just hope I survive the next set of changes coming down the pike in the weeks and months ahead. I've lost some really good friends to this merger. Tensions are high. For the first time in my career, I wonder just what the future will truly hold in store.

Dawn

Reconnecting

I've reconnected with an old friend in California this past week...

Life has a way of getting in the way of some friendships. In our case, time difference is a royal pain in the rump. Diana and I work off hours from each other anyway and my being three hours ahead in time zones doesn't help. Good thing we both tend to be rather insomniatic.

Time difference aside, it's just been one of those things, I guess. We've not been involved as much on the same internet lists and that lessened our daily contact. Since I don't turn on AIM regularly, I have no way of knowing she's online at the same time unless I happen across an email post. Plus, I'm just not online as late as I use to be...most days...now that the alarm sounds at 5:30 for work. Even insomniacs need some sleep.

Anyway, this weekend, I saw an email pop up and I signed into AIM. I think she probably fainted when she saw me online. But it was nice. We chatted a long time. Played catch up. Spent more time online together tonight. Nice.

It's a shame that we let real life get in the way of relationships. Especially those we really don't want to lose.
I'm making a conscious effort to correct that in my own life.

If there is someone you've neglected to write to lately...try reconnecting. I would wager it will brighten your day.
Dawn