From Skilled Hands » Birthdays

Crank the Sound Up LOUDLY

fromskilledhands — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 04:03:15 +0000

Today is my birthday.

Share this!

SpamFest: July Edition; and a Ride on the Train

fromskilledhands — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 19:52:45 +0000

Little did I know, when I wrote my last post about the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway, that I was inviting the spammers of the world another opportunity to flood my inbox with their pieces of………..work.
When I wrote, Take a Ride on the Wild Side, I was referring to the flora and fauna of the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

I have been offered medications, treatments and activities to enlarge body parts I never knew existed. I have been invited to watch activities that are best left unsaid.

How about you? What’s your Spam of the month?

****************************************************************************************************************
Speaking of the train, we had the opportunity to celebrate the birthday of the proprietor of the Downtown Emporium yesterday. We boarded the train and proceeded through several railcars to the beautiful St. Lucie Sound.

The Saint Lucie sound is a lounge car that was used on luxury trains linking Florida with New York and Boston during the 1950’s and ’60’s. Restored in the late 1980’s, it was operated as an executive railcar. Purchased in 1994 by Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, the Saint Lucie Sound is now used primarily for private parties. This magnificent private railcar has been fully restored and modernized. From the round-end observation end of the car, your party of up to 20 guests will have a first-class view as the beauty of Cuyahoga Valley National Park unfolds outside the windows. This car is an ideal setting for business meetings, anniversaries, and other special events. With the availability of a bar, and a list of caterers who could provide you with appetizers or boxed lunches, the Saint Lucie is an impressive choice for a unique excursion that will be long remembered.

We traveled from our Village of Peninsula north then back south through the Village, to Akron. The diversity of habitats was astounding. We saw wetlands and woodlands, geese and deer, and amazingly, a bald eaglet flapping it’s wings in it’s nest.

Good food, good company, an incredible view, and a celebration. A good day.

Share this!

One Year Hence

fromskilledhands — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:29:56 +0000

I just realized that I began writing this blog on April 27, 2007. Oh, what a ride it has been!

In the past year, I have learned not to be afraid of this new to me medium (thank you, Kelly). I have discovered so much about this lovely blue planet, and about myself.

In the past ten months, I have had many life-changing experiences. On Fathers’ Day, my Dad had a massive stroke. Throughout a very powerful and intense few weeks, we supported him in completing his work in this life and transitioning to the next. My oldest daughter left for college in New York City; nine weeks after she left, her horse’s intestines ruptured and she had to make the decision to have him put down. At the end of November, my dear friend and neighbor lost her life to cancer (but not the battle—-she grew so much, and so did I). Since then, three good friends have lost a parent, and one had a serious surgery.

The Little Blue Santa came into our lives and graced us with his gentle being. His sweet nature and connection to history continues to be a blessing.

I have learned a lot about perspective, and about valuing what I have been given. i have learned what is truly important to me. (I have to say though, that a little less experiential learning would be fine with me; I’d gladly write a paper.)

I have met so many lovely people through this venture, where we sit and tappity tap our thoughts to share. Words have power, and the combined power of all our words and actions are catalysts for change.

It is all good.

Share this!

April 16

fromskilledhands — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 01:01:16 +0000

So we’ve paid the taxes, and relished the first days of Spring. The grass IS greener—on both sides of the hill. Pansies raise their smiling faces at the sun, and daffodils sway in the breeze. Asparagus and strawberries, and the sky that is that infinite shade of azure affirm Spring is here.

If today is your day, as it is mine, click here or here

Share this!