MOVE THE MOSQUE!

Of course it's constitutionally allowed  Absolutely it's legal.  Certainly, they have the right--but is it the right thing to do-- to build a mosque over looking  Ground Zero? What are they thinking?  Do they really imagine most Americans are going to say---yes, oh, yes, please build your mosque which will also double as a  wonderful cultural center.  We know you must have only the purest of thoughts in mind and have no inclination whatever to hurt or offend those of us who were very offended on 9/11. Never mind that you as a people have never really officially apologized or stood up to your own Muslim brothers who continue to wage terrorist warfare all over the world.  Yes, we realize the perpetrators of 9/11 were rogue members of your faith, and that your religion does not condone what was done.  Still, peace and understanding between us starts with sensitivity and empathy.  You are showing neither by daring to locate this conspicuous reminder so close to the raw hole that even we have not had the heart to re- build upon.

 The name of the mosque/center is to be "Cordoba House", a symbol of Muslim conquest over Christianity once upon a time in Spain. Some view this move to be one of military victory, not of peace. Disturbingly, something called " Shariah Law" is also part of this controversial dialogue, which is the belief that the Muslim faith should supercede any governmental laws. It has been said  by Mr. Rauf, the founder of the proposed center, that we Americans need to be more Sharian in our thinking----  and that it is his hope that the center will help promote Sharian tendencies. Excuse me?  It is hard to believe the audacity of these supposed motives, but that is precisely why the advocates of this project should choose another location.  It is simply too provocative.

But build it the people behind this project, probably will.  After all, New York city's Mayor Bloomberg has given his unctuous blessing.  And last weekend, our President did the same when he spoke not for the majority of  Americans, but certainly for himself, as he stated boldly  that this group of people are entitled to build their mosque too near our symbol of national sorrow and anger.  Technically, he's right--but we did not need the President to inform us of the basic tenets of our constitution.  That isn't the issue, and he knows it. It would seem that President Obama was more concerned about appearing so very globally sophisticated and above the fray to the political world at large, than demonstrating a little empathy for his own countrymen. Mr. Obama is increasingly appearing as though he is at his roots a "One World Order" kind of man. Principally, he's on the wrong side of the country he represents.  No surprise there--- he is the same man who has been  known to apologize for America, and has said that no nation should be more powerful than another.  Really?  What if other nations feel differently about that?  And what if there are those who have outwardly claimed they wish to hurt us?  At what point do we as a country stop making an exaggerated mockery  of our freedoms?  It seems we are willing to kneel before the alter of tolerance and political correctness---even if it means humiliation, heart break, and degradation of our national pride, and even our very security at times.

Of course, there are those who agree with the President-- at  all costs, they feel we must defend the rights of others. But is the cost too high this time?  And do we not have a right to just say "no" in this case?  No, you may not build a mosque next to our national wound, legal or not, because we simply cannot swallow our pride, forget our memory of what happened there. Would we not gain just a little respect from the people who, if they had any, would not even be requesting to build their monument to the religion in whose name we were attacked? And would we also not gain just a little respect from the world in general?   It's called "drawing the line" .And that line is called self respect.  When are we going to stand up and say, "no more---you may live here, you may worship here, you can even  build your mosques here---but you cannot, regardless of what may be the best of intentions, disregard our feelings and trample on our dignity.  No, and no.  You may be within your rights, but this is just wrong, inappropriate, and insensitive. Go back to the drawing boards--and while you're at it, think about what you can do to stop the Jihadists among you from embarassing, shaming you and your religion--- and killing innocent people in the name of your God.  Then, maybe we'll begin to believe your protestations of peace and love.  We are happy to have you here and are willing to share our country and its freedoms with you. We respect you and your religion,but what still needs to be made clear is whether you  respect us, accept our basic constitutional concepts, wish America well----and put us and our welfare above your allegiance to Islam and those in it who wish to destroy us. It could start with an offical apology, made loud and clear to us and the world for what happened on 9/11, followed by a  consistent manifestation of  a peace loving religion----one that  would gracefully back off and move the proposed mosque to another location---in the name of peace, reconciliation, and honoring our dead. There is another religion in this country who espouses a certain rule---it's golden, and it states---do onto others as you would have them do onto you.

WHAT DO YOU DO??

What do you do? Don't you just love that party question? Even if the person in question, is retired, the question still comes up---"And what did you say you did?" "I didn't, but I don't anymore", you could say, but never mind---people have to know--- your answer will immediately provide information that will most probably enable the inquirer to file you into a neat little category. As though what "you do" identifies your very soul. Never mind that what you do or did, may have little or nothing to do with who you really are as a person. In a recent movie, one of the characters replied to the "what do you do" question with "nothing". He became quite well respected and admired for his perceived Zen-like reply. But real life society demands an answer and it does say what socio- economical class you probably belong to, and something about your abilities and interest---so the question is pertinent, if not somewhat qualifying.. I am sometimes tempted to say, I breathe, I think, I eat, drink, and sleep for starters---then, I play tennis, Bridge, read, travel, write a blog, and on the side I work a little,---oh, and I earn x amount of money---what do you do? But that might sound slightly off-putting and unfriendly, so I usually answer the question in conventional career form--"I own a music store. We sell pianos and keyboards." That leads to" Oh, and how many pianos do you sell a day? Or "Do you play the piano"? These are good and honest questions---it's just that they have little to do with what really runs the business. What really matters is the presentation or merchandising of a good product, good service, and competitive prices. It isn't so much about how many we sell, or how well we play,---as much as day in, day out committment to be the best at what we do, which is that, plain and simple, we sell pianos---lots of them. Have for years. We are the proverbial small business,founded over fifty years ago by my parents. I started helping out in the family store when I was a teen-ager---but "doing it" as a career never crossed my mind. To sell anything, much less pianos, was not going to be my "gig"--- I was bound for bigger and better things, thank you very much.

When you think about it, someone is always selling something, whether they realize it or not. The doctor is selling himself, as the best one to administer treatment for an illness. The lawyer is selling himself and his services. The teacher is selling the value of education. The piano instructor is selling her ability to teach piano lessons. All of us are always selling ourselves, trying to make a good impression, or at least not a bad one. But me sell pianos? When pigs fly. Pigs never did, but I flew, high and wide, as a flight attendant. One day, after I left my career in the sky, had three children, a husband and still time on my hands, I returned to the family business. Just part time, mind you--funny how life turns out. That was thirty-six years ago. I now own the business with my husband. It's what we do----

If you're going to spend your time selling something and be successful, it's essential to believe in the product. We have been fortunate to have had the great Yamaha line of pianos---excuse the plug. Their reputation as a world class piano is well established. Still pianos are not easy to sell. It is a product, while admired and beloved by most people as an old and traditional instrument,it is not familiar, in terms of what makes one different or better than another. It remains shrouded in mystery, hearsay, myth, and a good deal of romantic nonsense. People will often buy a piano based on emotion, rather than fact. So, here for your consideration and reading pleasure are some facts about one of the least understood of instruments---- the majestic,mystical, marvelous piano.

To begin: The piano has 88 keys, 52 white ones and 36 black ones---just a bit of trivia for your next party. Each key is connected to a hammer, which then strikes either 2 or 3 strings. The sound then travels through the sound board ---the result is a symphony of strings vibrating and resonating throughout the piano---hopefully all in perfect harmony.

Pianos, like humans, do not necessarily improve with age. They wear out eventually, and in most cases, unlike humans, are not worth restoring. While pianos are a good investment, because they last many years, they do not do well in the antique (over 100 years old) market. They are meant to make beautiful music, and that becomes difficult as they reach old age---unlike some wonderful older pianists who play beautifully. I know a man who says he can't remember anything beyond a month, but still plays professionally---his music and the capacity for it has never aged.

While the sound is of course important, the construction of the piano is of paramount importance to the overall durability.,

The touch, or action, how a piano responds to the player and the dynamics of the music, are just as important as the sound---it is the only physical connection between the player and the instrument and must provide a sense of control and mastery.

Good used pianos are certainly available, but are often hard to find---they are the exception, not the rule, for most really good pianos are kept or passed down to family or friends.

What your friend, teacher, or neighbor likes is fine. But most do not have a true understanding of what makes a good piano. There is much subjectivity to most people's opinions, and little true knowledge. I'm sorry, but it's true. Remember, it's what I do---they do something else. This is my profession, and what I say or advise lives on long after the sale.

Reputation counts---it doesn't come cheap or easily with pianos. Longevity and use by artists should mean something. And it doesn't take an artist to benefit from a good instrument.Most pianos being made today are reasonably well made, or they could not hold up in today's market. But you still get what you pay for. Quality of workmanship and parts come at a cost, like anything else, and they do make a difference.

Your mother was right---you need to practice. Most children will not continue with lessons unless they have parental committment---Asian families seem to "get this" more than our more free-wheeling American cultured families.Talent is great, but practice makes up for a lot.

Your mother was also right when she said, "you'll thank me for this someday". We rarely hear someone complain about being able to play the piano.

Most piano dealers are nice people---and work very hard. Take one out to lunch today! They are usually very good company---they like music and people who play an instrument. Many of today's remaining music stores are to coin a phrase, "Ma and Pa" operations, meaning they are privately owned by a wife and husband. It's called a "big ticket" business, meaning the product is expensive and that means there is a fair amount of attempted negotiating that goes on in the business. Beware of too much discounting-----and remember that the best price isn't always the best deal. The "big boxes" so far have not managed to penetrate this "cottage industry", though they have tried. It has been predicted that "brick and mortar" stores will become a thing of the past, as the consumer relies more and more on the internet to research and purchase. If stores who exist so that the consumer can see and try many choices before buying, do fade into the mist of the past, the piano store may still survive, as pianos are hard to mail, expensive to ship, and almost insist upon being listened to and played before purchasing. They are not recession proof, as most people consider the piano, a luxury, but they continue to be a sign of culture, accomplishment, and elegance. They have been in existance for over 300 years and have changed and improved, but are basically the same instrument as when they first blessed the halls of royalty. Long may they live---

Call me biased, but the piano is truly the grandest instrument of all and those who play have always and will always lend a sweetness to the cacophony of life. To play is to slow your life down and be immersed by the sound of strings rippling and singing ,soothing the spirit like no other instrument. It is, after all, a revised harp--and we all know that's what the angels play. To be part of that melody is to connect with the song of life---and He who created it . It is said that music is the universal language. All humans seem to respond to music, as though we are encoded to do so. Most of us listen appreciatively to music, but those who can make their own are, indeed enriched and blessed. Mamas don't let your kids grow up without some kind of musical education!

So, that, my friends is what I do, how I roll, and what I became---but it's not what I really am ,what makes my heart sing, or makes me dance. Those things have nothing to do with business or money--it has a lot to do with loved ones and friends. Nevertheless, it has been satisfying to take on the reigns of a long family business. It is not what I planned to do, yet like most of us, it is where my abilities and fate led me. I am grateful for it and all who have supported us through the years. But if ever we meet, kindly mention my blog, ask how my tennis game is, or who I think is going to be the next President. And maybe the next time someone asks you "what do you do?"----just for the heck of it, tell them you sell pianos. You'll have all the answers! As for me, I'm practicing on " well, I do---just as I please!" What do you do??"

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THESE UN-UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Do you ever get the feeling that we are drifting on a sea of uncertainty? Does anyone really know where we are going and have the knowledge to bring us safely ashore again? Or are we just pawns in a political game being played out by politicians who really have no idea of how to sail a distressed ship of state, and are more interested in keeping their "mates" happy than finding a way home. America's ideals were built upon the concept that we are all created equal, and we have welcomed every culture that came aboard our ship----we were to be one big, tolerant, if not always harmonious, family---a sort of Noah's Ark, that floated above the problems of other countries, because we pulled together toward one goal. But it seems these days that just the opposite is happening in this country----instead of blending and mixing, we are cracking and breaking apart from each other---into political, religious, racial, and cultural divides. We hear a lot about how how one group should gladly pay more taxes on money earned for those who have less---"spreading the wealth" is the rallying cry used to engender support from all who believe the rich should share more of their profits with their less fortunate citizens. Or is it meant to deliberately divide and create a culture of class warfare and therefore garner more votes for those who promise more and more government benefits? Some are calling the government the "ruling class", as they seem to be taking charge of more and more of the country's businesses and instigating ever more regulations, fines, and stipulations. Even our private lives are being scrutinized and then influenced by government mandates as they tell us what our children will be exposed to in school, what we eat in some cases, and now even whether we should have health insurance.States such as Arizona are discovering that they don't have, as previously thought, the right to protect themselves from illegal immigrants---even if it's simply to enforce federal laws already on on the books. President Obama, who has done his level best to not only discourage Arizona from pursuing their new law, has had no problem making them the butt of jokes and discouraging others from supporting their efforts---where is the magnanimous man who promised to bring us all together? The ugly and over- used charge of "racism" is hurled against anyone who dares to support Arizona. He and his administration have succeeded in getting an injunction against the state, disabling them from proceeding with enacting their law---under the premise that thou shalt not assert authority over the almighty govenment, even if the latter is refusing to do its legal duty. This is chilling behavior for a country whose original responsibility was to protect its own citizens first, and allow states to protect theirs. And now, we  have the state of Virginia suing the United States government, contesting the validity of the new heath care bill, and stating that that the govenment has overstepped its bounds in forcing Americans to buy insurance. Other states will follow. It seems that rather than bringing us together, this administration has rendered us outraged and divided, as the states fight back, boycott each other, and confront the race card at every turn.

Are we coming apart at the seams here, or are these just symptoms of growing pains as we evolve into a very different country? There are those who think we are sailing through some rough waters, but that we will be just fine if we just hang on long enough---and believe in the man who promised change. They are happy with the current administration and feel that his philosophy of higher taxes and more government control are necessary for this sinking ship of state to hold all of us and keep us healthy and happy. Contrarily, there are those who think this is a very serious crossroad of time and that it is imperative for all of us to take much more notice than usual so that those who would change the very fiber and soul of our nation will not do so without resistance from those who do not want to be radically changed. Even more interesting is that there are those who believe there is a sort of an underground movement, financed by big money within political , private, and even corporate circles by people who believe in a global government, and are working with all the power brokers in this country and elsewhere to shift America from its original position of a democratic, military, economic super power to become more of an equal player on the world's stage. Their objective is to finance, mold and shape us without our even realizing it into a more socialistic government, one that, in their view, has fewer enemies, more empathy for others, and will show the world how to live in peace and harmony, sharing the profits more with the workers and the government, using less energy and acceping a less luxurious life style--- a simpler but more noble life, if you will. These changes will come stealthily and slowly in some cases, and mind bogglingly fast in others You will not read about these groups of people or their efforts in the newspapers or magazines---might rock the boat. Do these people really exist? And are we the unwitting victims of a slow and deliberate takeover? It is thought provoking. But always having believed in the inherent goodness of people and our country, I find this shocking, disconcerting, and difficult to believe. I don't think it will take a conspiracy to take this country and turn it upside down, shaking out the pockets of all who earn the most, spreading the wealth, and supposedly creating a virtual utopia where everyone has enough, but nobody has an abundance----it could and is happening, not by conspiracy, but perhaps by complacency. But, wait---hasn't this been tried, and proven to not work? Yes, many times. We have been the antithesis of those types of government---we exist because of the failure of those governments to breed robust economies, strong military, and a people free of government's yoke.

I am not a conspiracy believer---our ship is too big and smart to be steered and manipulated by just a few people. But there is reason to believe that if we, the passengers on the ship, don't watch where we are being led, our destination is in grave danger. If this great nation is to remain so, we must allow it to breathe freely without excessive government restraints invading, impinging, and finally suffocating the very life force that made it great in the first place---freedom from the boot of an over bearing government . The flaw, of course, is that there are those who cheat, lie, and cause greed to glut and make a mockery of the system. But as we have seen this past week, even politicians who would preach ethics and accountability to us, while creating laws for us to live by, have their feet of clay. They will always be with us--unfortunately, we cannot rid greed out of the human DNA by over regulating and over taxing, any more than we can rid the society of folks who could easily do for themselves, but who prefer to game the system and ride on the welfare of others. Utopia we are not, but we are a huge,fabulous nation of many tribes, beliefs, and cultures, with one burning passion--- freedom from oppression and love of a country which is still the envy of the world for its tolerance, its multi- culturalism, its generosity, its strength, and its richness of ideas and intellect.

We are indeed the United States of America, but our very diversity demands and encourages many different opinions and our liberties allow us to express them within a framework of constitutional laws and without reprisal or prison. What a country! Our differences are at the same time our strength and our weakness. Hopefully, our saving grace and one common denominator is our united voice which speaks loud and clear---don't fence us in! We are of the people, for the people, and by the people---not of the government, for the government, and by the government. If we lose sight of that one thing, then we will have lost our way, our identification ,and our reason for being.

Our ship sails on---keep an eye on the steering wheel, and those behind it.

SUMMERS AT THE DRIVE-IN MOVIES

As the summer sings its sultry July song, my thoughts meander to other long ago summers. First there were those spent discovering the delights of cooling off in the sprinklers, the neighbor's pool, the public "Plunge".Then there were the long, hot cross- country trips in the family car with no air conditioner. My brother and I would keep our baseball hats on as long as we could stand it, then whip them off and enjoy the sensation of wind blowing through our hot, dampened hair--our own method of air conditioning. Then came the days of beach and sand---these were among the best in my memory. Our bodies, shiny from a generous coating of baby oil, would bake till "done" and then we would race to the water, swim out to the bouys, and finally stumble up from the shore to dry and dream of the summer nights to come---which could be a drive-in movie.

As a child I liked nothing better ---a pillow, some popcorn, and the gigantic screen were all that was needed to make an ordinary night magical. Our local drive-in was called the "Orange Drive In ". There were swings to play on before the movie started, and the theatre was surrounded by eucalyptus trees, which perfumed the air with their clean, fresh fragrance and provided a soft backdrop to the mass of metal parked in the middle. I can still see the tree sillouhettes, bending and bowing, as dusk slowly fell upon us and we began to settle into our cozy car cacoons. Safe and secure with our parents, no bedtime, and a movie to watch, was close to a perfect evening in the 40's and 50's. The only negative thing about going to the drive-in was the trip to and from the concession building for popcorn or other necessities. Getting there wasn't a problem. Getting back could be. All the cars looked the same at night, and there were no street signs to show the way, just row upon row of cars. The only time I remember having the nerve to leave the car alone, was as a teen-ager on a date. The Orange Drive-in was still going strong , and was still quite the place to go---for somewhat different reasons. Back in the 50's, we actually "dated", and the drive-in provided an opportunity to be alone without "parking", which was another activity not seemingly necessary today. "Parking" was a notch up on the dating scale, from the drive-in, and was saved for special dates--- and a movie was not at all required, if you catch my drift. Of course, at the drive-in, you were necessarily parked, so that was different from "parking". It was so popular that some kids would smuggle themselves in by way of other kids' car trunks. No pillows were required. Just you, your date, and some popcorn! One night I decided to venture forth alone to the concession stand , but on the way back---- I completely lost my way. There was no familiar looking car or date.---anywhere! Up and down the rows I walked. Had my boyfriend left? Or moved the car as a joke? Would I have to take a cab home? Just when I was about to panic , I spotted a figure sitting, bolt upright, on the hood of a car---it was my date and his car. He must have seen me wandering about ---and rather than call out my name, he used himself as a human sign post. Very sweet, and very creative, I thought----but why didn't he just come and rescue me? Maybe he thought that would embarrass me---or did he just want to enjoy the evening air? I never knew, as neither of us said a thing, other than---"want some popcorn?" It was one of life's embarrassing moments, and not just a little traumatic. To this day, I hate to prematurely leave any movie theatre for any reason. Getting lost ---I believe they call this affliction"directionally challenged"--- seems to come natural for me, and continues to be scary. Staying lost is even scarier. And losing your boyfriend at the drive-in would have been so not cool. I wouln't say it left a lasting emotional scar, but I haven't been to a drive-in movie since.

Life moved on and southern California nights at the drive-in became just fond, nostalgic memories. But the other day, a friend mentioned that she had been to the drive-in! What?? Did they still actually exist? I thought this was a relic of the past, like sock hops and "dating". I was suddenly gripped with an urge to drive to the drive -in with some of my favorite "dates"---my grand daughters! We will grab our pillows and off we'll go. But someone has to promise that if we get lost on the way back from the concession stand, they will get out of the car and come find us---or perch high on the hood, until we find them. Life has a way of sometimes circling back around and taking us for a ride back to our past----even if it's in a car that's parked, and grandchildren that take the place of a boyfriend.

And so, the summer song hums along , and the days fill with memories for another summer still to be lived. The Orange Drive-In is no longer there, but here in this town there is another drive-in with young families and their pillows--- and pulling in right behind them is a young couple. They look in love, but a little out of place in 2010--- maybe they are time travelers--or maybe they are hiding the kids in the trunk. I wonder if there are trunk checks these days. A little later, a red convertible with the top down arrives---it has an elderly, grey haired couple inside, and they are holding hands and laughing. There are two canes in the back seat. There is also a large bag of popcorn---in the trunk. The summer breeze blows through the trees, the movie begins, and the song of summer fades into the future.

Newspapers No More??

"What's black and white and " red" all over?" That was one of my favorite riddles as a child. Of course, you know the answer---everybody "read" the newspaper back in the day. Not so much, now. More and more of us are getting our news off the internet and liking it more and more. It's immediate, free of that messy black ink, and---often less biased. Newpapers are losing readership at an alarming rate. Even old institutions, like the New York Times are suffering from lack of public interest- but maybe it's more than the internet that's causing the great migration away from the heretofore very powerful " fourth estate", otherwise known as the free press. The American media, originally one of the great bastions of a free people, symbolizing free speech and free thinking, has increasingly been accused of being the hand maidens of the left wing political agenda. Their credibility as an objective source of news reportage became very suspect during the last presidential campaign, when it seemed more than obvious that Obama was their chosen choice. It has been a known fact that most journalists lean toward the liberal philosophy, and should not be a surprise that their stories, editorials and general reporting reflect their bias-----but, we expect and deserve more from them. Their job, however difficult, is to investigate and present the information, without personal bias or intention of leading the public to make conclusions based on selected news they decide to print. It's a responsible and heavy burden to be the messengers of world events, political happenings, and stories of people in power that can and will shape our opinons of them and our voting tendencies, but it can be done and should at least be attempted. To spin and/or omit the news is to connive and control, and should not be tolerated.

A recent occurence, concerning the "Black Panthers", a group known for their extreme anti-white stance, is a case in point. This admittedly racially constructed group used tactics such as intimidation, weapons, and threats to steer people away from the 2008 polling boooths in Philadelphia . This incident has been under investigation and was brought before the United States Justice Department recently. And that's as far as it got----the case was abruptly and shockingly dropped . Eric Holder,the United States Attorney General, has refused to prosecute in this case. This, in of itself, is a most interesting and disturbing story. But just as interesting is the fact that the mainstream media has chosen to ignore the story completely. It simply has been absent from the papers---until last Sunday, when the Washington Post reprimanded itself for having committed the sin of omission , saying that it was unintentional, but nevertheless wrong. Yes, better late than never, but one has to wonder what they were thinking . Was it that it did not fit their well established habit and some would say, deliberate plan, to promote all things liberal, and ignore anything that might help the conservative movement? And now, comes another revelation that during the presidential campaign, a group of journalists were directed to "kill the Jeremiah Wright story", in order to not cast any negative aspersions toward their favored candidate, Barack Obama. This story can be found on You Tube.

If it is true that the media favors the current administration, there is no love lost between the administration and the Republicans. Barack Obama makes no apologies for his outspoken tirades against them and his contempt for any and all media that has the nerve to speak against his policies. He has gone so far as to refuse to be interviewed by Fox news and strongly encourages others in his circle to do the same and in fact has implored the public to boycott this station. His partisan attitude may show loyalty to his own left wing party members, but is strikingly unpresidential and off putting to a country more accustomed to their President at least trying to appear to be a leader for all of us, not just his own 'posse". At times his strident, aggressive words used to sell his own programs , such as the health care bill and the current bill to extend unemployment benefits, are so tilted and without whole truth, that he seems more like a tough ,bullying Chicago politician, than the President of a people who might respect him more without his resorting to name calling and put downs of those who disagree with him. Given the forceful nature of this President and the rapid, unprecedented changes unfolding before us under his direction, it would seem absolutely essential that we have access to a fair and balanced news media. The press has been called the "Fourth Estate" because it wields tremendous power in educating and influencing the country with the news it chooses to report or omit, and the way it chooses to slant it or not. Journalists should take this responsibilty very seriously, for what they do can turn the tides of history. We, as a people, should also remember to practice our own diligence and research beyond that found in the main media, most of whom will admit to a bias. There are, thankfully, other sources to give balance--- the internet news, blogs, radio programs, and magazines devoted to giving other sides of the news besides that which is fed to the masses through the newspapers. It will behoove us as a nation to do our homework, and not assume that everything one reads in print or hears on television is true, or that it is enough to simply read the headlines every day. It is not enough. Our very survival of a free nation may depend on our being a well informed ciitizenry, not just casual unlookers and followers of the powerful, the politicians, and the "Fourth Estate".

Beware of those who would boycott or possibly even attempt to shut down free speech, including such groups as the "Tea Party", and right or left wing talk shows, by ridiculing, intimidating, exaggerating or lying. Whether you disagree or agree with these groups is not the point---the point is that the first ammendment guarantees free speech for a reason. It assumes that an informed public will make informed choices. It did not assume that only the rich, influential, and powerful should decide for all of us. But we must have adequate and unbiased information from our newspapers and so called news magazines. They, unlike talk shows and some TV political programs which state up front their political views, should serve as a funnel of unpredudiced information, excepting for their editorials. If the newpapers are becoming a thing of the past, perhaps they have brought it upon themselves with their stubborn unwillingness to print both sides of the story fairly and to include all stories of interest, not just those they deem appropriate to their particular causes .

What's black and white and not very read anymore? You got it----a fading institution called the "newspaper"-----should they be referred to, instead, as our" opinionated papers"? Buh-bye, New York Times, Washington Post, etc. I'll miss some of you, as I still love to hold you in my hands, but you have betrayed your original trust and duty---to keep us informed, not indoctrinated.

A FUNNY KIND OF GRANDMA

Let me say right off that I have never been your stereo-typical or traditional grandma. But then, is there is such a thing these days? I'm not the only one who works and dresses not that differently from my grandchildren. There are new norms everywhere, even among grandmas. I've been told I'm more of an "Auntie Mame", than an "Aunt Bea", Opie's surrogate grandmother on" Mayberry RFD", the old TV show.. I prefer to think I'm more like Sophia Loren with grandchildren! Now, there's a new norm. My grandmothers both wore long dresses and had grey hair. But neither one of them provided warm, nurturing role models. One of them lived with us for a while and took care of me and my little brother while my mother worked. She braided my hair and made fresh bread, which she served to me as a snack with buttermilk when I came home from school. She was, however, not affectionate, and could be quite stern. I remember being chased with a broom which she clearly meant to use on me ---fortunately , I ran faster . But she was for her day, a rather traditional German grandmother. She had no life of her own, but found meaning in helping out our family. I had no wish ever to be like her, and in fact, I wanted to be as unlike her as possible. But today's grandmothers seem very different from mine. I so admire and envy those that spend large blocks of quality time with their grandchildren, helping out every time they are needed. Owning and operating a business have never left me with many spare days or energy. And to be honest, as my children and parents of my grandchildren often readily point out---I have a busy social life, a periodic pedicure, and a tennis match to squeeze in whenever possible. I'm there to care for the children if I'm really needed, but I admittedly guard my private time, knowing that I must have it to keep my balance. But every now and then, I get to be a real grandma---last week was one of those times. Katherine, 12, and Kelly 10 came to stay for a few days . I was delighted and felt I had been given a second chance , as the last time I was given the grandmother test, I failed badly! It wasn't that I did anything wrong, it's that I wasn't even there. A few weeks before their planned visit, I had been invited to join a couple of friends for a girls' trip to Italy. Torn as I was, I decided to go, leaving the children in the very capable hands of my kind and generous husband . They weren't coming to our home until after I left on my trip, and I planned to get home before they left, by cutting short the itinerary and skipping Venice. Well---need I say more? You don't skip Venice. Even my husband urged me to go on to Venice -- "you have to see it", he said. And so I went, thinking I would stay only one day and leave early the next morning . But like a smitten lover, I did not leave. I had fallen completely under the spell of that ancient, lovely, fairy tale city, and stayed on one more day and night. After a long trip from airline hell, with delays, canceled departures, and bumped reservations, I finally made it back home to my waiting grand daughters who had expected me a couple days earlier. They greeted me with smiles and welcome home signs they had made, and I greeted them with a huge guilt conscience. The trip was wonderful, and I don't regret it---there comes a time in life when a door opens and you just know you must walk through it---the opportunity and circumstances will not pass your way again. This was one of those times. But I will always miss the days I could have spent with those two little girls.

So, this was my chance to be a hands-on grandma---and I think I passed the test this time around. The week was filled with as much summer fun as we could pack into it, including fireworks, a movie, ice cream cupcakes, "rip stick" skate boards (the very latest in skate board technology) , fishing, a sleep over with their cousins, and even a couple afternoons at a day camp while I worked. For just a little while they brightened and lightened my days. Laughing in the sunshine, running in the rain and forgetting all of life's problems had been their gifts to me. I could only hope that they were taking home some fond memories as well. Probing for answers, I asked one of them how she would rate the day camp---she said," It was good". I then asked which activity they had enjoyed while with us the most-- " fishing with Papa", was the reply. But the best thing they left me with was a note that said: " Grandma,you are funny and you make us laugh." I loved that note, not only for it's sweetness, but because somehow they had found a way to appreciate me, their not so traditional grandma. I tried to explain to them, that pouring orange juice into their cereal bowls was not that unusual---could happen to anyone, but they looked unconvinced and quite amused. Yes, they had tapped into my core---a sort of unintentional penchant for missteps, or mis-pours, in this case; and were doing what visits like this are for---getting better acquainted and learning that grandmas come in all different packages with all sorts of personalities. But most of us hold the same gift inside--a deep and abiding love for the children of our children. We want them to know that others besides their parents treasure and love them unconditionally. And if we're lucky they will remember us when they become grandparents, as good role models --minus the brooms!

As I turned my little charges over to their mom on the last day of their visit, they seemed very happy to see her, and maybe just a little sad to say good-bye to me---but mostly what I saw in their eyes was a look that said, "we know you a little better now, and we love you a little more". I hope so. I found myself tearing up on the way home---I may have made them laugh, but they had made my heart smile. I missed them already.

"THE SUMMER KNOWS-----"

Last night I took my 90 year old mom to a movie---the one she picked was "Grownups". She is one of those, for sure, but I was still surprised at her choice. It turned out to be just what we both needed---a good time. This film is miraculously getting good box office turn-out, which has to mean we are desperate for a little comic relief---even if the comedy is worse than bad, and the relief is mixed with embarrassment for laughing at such low brow humor. Adam Sandler stars in this typical fiasco of a bunch of guy friends reuniting after many years for the funeral of an old basketball coach. Sandler is his usual goof ball, but endearing self. You gotta love this guy--he has a sweetness about him that shines through his slapstick, obvious comedy. In coming together again, the "grownups" guys rekindle their friendships and regress to acting like outrageous, adolescent
boys---and realizing that what they had achieved in life isn't nearly as good as what they once had---love for each other and the simple pleasure of one another's company, devoid of status or material things. It is all rather silly, predictable, and crazy, yet nostalgic and fun---like a day at the beach with old friends who know each other well enough to be silly, predictable and a little crazy at times. And like ice cream and lemonade, this movie probably wouldn't have worked in the more serious winter season, but it was a perfect summer treat---maybe because the summer knows that once in a while, we need to feel like kids again.

At the end of the movie, I asked my mom what she thought of it---she said, "Stupid", but she was smiling. So was I. "Grownups" had reminded me of the importance of good friends, good times, and the goodness that they bring our in us. I had just recently spoken on the phone to an old girl friend who lives far away from me. Our friendship is laced with memories. We have seen each other at our best and our worst, our happiest, and our saddest, our hearts whole and broken. We have both survived long marriages, children, and in her case, the early death of a husband. At one point in the conversation, as she was telling me how she fills her days now with many activities and the blessings of good health and loving, adult children, I said, "You have a good life". She agreed. She had weathered much, and so had our friendship. I was happy for her and me---we had come a long ways from teen age gal pals to now, "grownups".

I remembered back to a long-ago summer day, sitting under the shade of a tree on a southern Califoronia hilltop,she expressing her unrequited love for a boy who hardly knew she existed, and I trying to console her. She would later do the same for me when all I could do was cry my broken hearted tears, and all she could do was be there. She loved the song, "Blueberry Hill, and poems, and dancing. I loved pretty much the same things. She made me laugh like no one else could. We talked about how someday we would live together before settling down to marriage and children. In those days, living with a girl friend in an apartment was considered very glamorous---living with a guy was not even considered, much less done. The next summer found us graduated from high school and both working at Disneyland. We worked the evening shift , so we would spend the afternoons at the beach, then report directly to work, sand falling out of our shoes and clothing. Life was good, but we knew it would soon change, and it did. I took a job with United Airlines, and she went back to school. But we reunited later and got that apartment---it wasn't so glamorous, but we thought we were. We learned to ski that winter on the mountain tops of Colorado and joked about how hot "Norbert", our ski instructor was. I will never forget my first downhill run, and how as I went speeding totally out of control, headed straight toward the parking lot, I heard my friend yell, "Snow plow, Kel, snow plow!!", the then ski term for "brake, brake!!" She had jolted me out of my frozen fear and may have saved my life! A year later, we went our separate ways. The next few times we saw each other were for short visits and then our respective weddings, where we stood at each other's side as maid or matron of honor, well aware that things would never be quite the same. We were married ladies now, no longer first in one another's lives. The story goes on from there, with many plot lines, twists, turns, and sacred secrets---but we are still friends. Now, whenever I hear "On Blueberry Hill", I think of her and that day on our hill---how young and new we were, how time and the whole world seemed to stretch out below us, and how quickly it has all gone by. We are , indeed, all grown up, but veterans of life---she a widow, but a mom of four children, and two grandchildren; I a wife and mom of three children and four grandchildren. We are a little worn, and a lot sassier. But when we occasionally talk on the phone or see each other, we are none of those things---we are sweet and seventeen again, giggly and just happy to still be alive and together again---two old friends who remember each other as girls on the way to becoming women. There have been other friends and other good times, but she was my first BFF (best friend forever), and she is still the one who makes me laugh the hardest and one of the few allowed to see my tears.

Little do we always see, that on the journey to growing up, we are living some of the best of times, and meeting some of the dearest friends we will ever know. Someone once said, "Youth is wasted on the young". I don't think so---part of the bliss of being young is not knowing what lies ahead; and part of the comfort of old age is remembering the joys of being young! I may not be so new anymore, but in my heart lives a summertime who knew that some things last forever, and some BFF's like wine, become even better with age---or LOLWA! (Little old ladies with attitude!)