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Here is what's up. Want to Add a Message?
I has been a great birthday so far (and it's not even noon yet!) Rex and I went down to the Essence of Thyme for an early morning coffee and scones. Then I met my Thursday morning friends for a half-hour of meditation, then on to half-price day at the Friends of the Library annual book-sale. When I got back Paul, Rex and Athena had put the house back like it was before last night's great party and there were greetings of all sorts waiting for me, so what more could I ask?
Oh yes, and we're having some of "October's bright blue weather." Life is good.
Ramona
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 08:42:56 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!! I'm sure you are getting the special attention you deserve. Good thing Athena and Rex are there, since Dad is probably a little busy these days. Go Mom! (and go Pedro!)
Scott
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 08:17:47 (PDT)
And Happy Birthday from the West Coast, Mama!!! I'm glad you are surrounded by at least some of your family and friends. We wish we could be closer physically, but we are glad to be so close spiritually....Have a great day and a great next 75 years!!! §
Steve
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 07:05:25 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAMONA!!!!!! from CJ in Northampton
CJ Jennings
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 06:00:17 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAMONA!!!!!!
CJ Jennings
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 05:59:50 (PDT)
Hey, who messed up the message board? Ana? Happy Birthday again, Mom. Must be fun with your long lost brother there.
Of course we are Cub fans, we are just glad we are not THE Cub's Fan... 6 down, 5 to go.
#4 Son
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 05:31:27 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to my mama. What a ruckus you have caused this year! Apparently it has something to do with the planets and the stars all lined up in a certain way.....which is why I thank my lucky stars that I have you as my mama. For you I wish a day full of joy, fun, champagne, and lots of love from your adoring family and friends. Congratulations, mom, on a quarter of a century, and thank you for my half. Love from your first born daughter,
Paula June
Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 04:30:50 (PDT)
oh ! my mama says hi!
mom and ana
Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at 19:33:36 (PDT)
he he
ana
Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at 19:31:19 (PDT)
Mom! It's your birthday here already. Thank you! What a start! I hope the rest of the day is as lucky. (I knew you were a Red Sox fan!)
Mark
Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at 17:19:02 (PDT)
Wait a minute, we ARE Cubbie fans!!! §
Steve
Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at 21:34:26 (PDT)
it could be worse, we could be cub fans ... well, worse tonight ... here's hoping the cubs and the sox meet at the world series, at least someone's losing streak would be over ... in other news, we're getting ready for mom's party tomorrow (she thinks we've forgotten in the midst of the pennant races)(she is ten years younger than the sox's wait since their lst world championship)(but who's counting) go, mom!
athena
Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at 20:21:15 (PDT)
Bummah!
Steve
Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at 16:30:24 (PDT)
Today I wish a happy birthday to cousin Thea, and a remembrance birthday wish to Aunt Risse.
P.S. go Red Sox
mona
Monday, October 13, 2003 at 13:09:55 (PDT)
well i'm here for mom's birthday, but i might be it for progeny ... brother rex is coming as you all know, and dad and i still think mom should have a party. All's well in brevard, dad and i are watching the cubs and the marlins as our day off from red sox watching. Wish you were here!
athena
Friday, October 10, 2003 at 17:53:22 (PDT)
Yes, a very successful garage sale. Why, you could fit a Miata, a canoe, and two motorcycles in the garage if you wanted to!
I will not be fortunate to spend my favorite mother's birthday with her,a d will have to use Scott's approach and raise a glass to her by myself.
Leaves are only just beginning to change.
And, what about those Red Sox?
Paula
Friday, October 10, 2003 at 17:02:47 (PDT)
Yes, a very successful garage sale. Why, you could fit a Miata, a canoe, and two motorcycles in the garage if you wanted to!
I will not be fortunate to spend my favorite mother's birthday with her,a d will have to use Scott's approach and raise a glass to her by myself.
Leaves are only just beginning to change.
And, what about those Red Sox?
Paula
Friday, October 10, 2003 at 17:02:47 (PDT)
Yeah, and how to pick 'em too. If I do say so myself. I mean...I waited for days for someone else to post that, but, I guess, if you want something done right...
Who all is headed down to NC for the Mom b'day festivities?
mona
Thursday, October 09, 2003 at 16:46:52 (PDT)
That Ping, knows how to call 'em.
Mark
Monday, October 06, 2003 at 20:31:10 (PDT)
Well, Ping assured me they'd win 3 straight, so we'll see...
Paul finished up his fall baseball league today - so he and David and Betsy missed the exciting finish. In Babe Ruth baseball the basepad is as big as the majors - 90 feet between bases. Takes a bit of getting used to, to say the least. The kids think they can steal a bag easy...then get halfway there and go - uh oh!
Are the leaves turning in New England yet? Did you have much business at your yard sale?
mona
Sunday, October 05, 2003 at 14:06:57 (PDT)
Whoever would have guessed, except Dad, a true Red Sox fan.
Paula
Sunday, October 05, 2003 at 13:42:42 (PDT)
Go Perry! (Of course you are a Red Sox Fan!)
Mark
Saturday, October 04, 2003 at 20:22:25 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Perry.
Glad you're not a Red Sox fan....
mona
Saturday, October 04, 2003 at 19:40:57 (PDT)
I hope Perry is out having too much fun to check the Stylos web-page. I'm sure he's having a Happy Birthday.
Aunt Ramona
Saturday, October 04, 2003 at 17:53:11 (PDT)
How did that happen? I didn't press add message twice....
Anyway, the hug was because I understand the Sox lost again, and that will have to make for some grumpy, sleep deprived Red Sox fans.
Out here in Pingreeville, we're dealing with this upper respiratory ick that doesn't seem to want to go away. But the weather is lovely, and we really have nothing to complain about. Love you all,
mona
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 16:55:27 (PDT)
((((Mom))))
mona
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 15:52:46 (PDT)
((((Mom))))
mona
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 15:45:05 (PDT)
The Bums!!! §
Steve
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 15:43:50 (PDT)
As Jerome would say: "thank you all !!!!!!!!!!!"
I got up early to listen. Ended at about 8:45. Tonight doesn't look much better, 'cept I'll get to bed early.
Mark
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 15:05:35 (PDT)
Scott, I'll answer your question since the one to whom it was addressed is watching u-know-what. I went to bed about the time the game started, your dad saw it through to the bitter end. 2:30, was it? I think dinner will be on a tray tonight.
Ramona
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 14:30:56 (PDT)
I started watching in the eighth inning. Wait, the A's? Aren't they the team that the Mariner's beat 5 out of six times in the last two weeks? Come on Bosox. Let's get rid of that saying, 'The only reason they win today is that it hurts more to lose tomorrow!'. Go Sox. §
Steve
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 10:50:15 (PDT)
Not me. How about you, Dad?
Scott
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 10:42:05 (PDT)
So...who actually stayed up long enough to catch the end of last night's game?
mona
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 10:07:10 (PDT)
EEeeeek! Almost too late. But it's still your birthday in the town you were born in. Happy birthday, markimoo, and many happy returns of this day to you!
mona
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 17:39:18 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to "Papa 1"!! Sure would like to take you out for a beer or something. Instead I'll have to take myself out in your honor. Was great to see you and the kids last summer. Hope all is well.
Scott
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 08:41:41 (PDT)
mark have a very happy birthday. What else can I say but YOU are the greatest. Well I guess you have company there because there is always Jerome and Vanessa. and perhaps some brothers and sisters. At any rate the best of days to you and may they last forever.
dad
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 08:27:41 (PDT)
Yo! Mahhhk! Happy Birthday! For your present, I arranged to have your beloved Red Sox make the playoffs. Even at the expense of the Seattle Folders, er I mean Mariners. Don't tune out yet, your present is just beginning. Have a great year and let me know when the kids spring vacation is so that I can look for a place in Estapona or Marbella. §
Steve
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 07:48:31 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Little Brother. I too wish you a wonderful day full of fun, sunshine, and adoring (and adorable) people. What are your plans for this, your very own day? Do tell. Love from your proud sister,
Paulala
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 07:35:05 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Mark. I wish you every good thing that you could wish for yourself so live it up, pat yourself on the back and enjoy your day! Lots of love,
Mom
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 04:35:22 (PDT)
thank you all !!!!!!!!!!!
Jeromeo
Sunday, September 28, 2003 at 10:37:04 (PDT)
Yes, yes I do!
Ramona
Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 06:12:11 (PDT)
So, what was new Wednesday, Thursday, Friday.... Don't you wish you could be here for our yard sale tomorrow?
Paula
Friday, September 26, 2003 at 17:30:46 (PDT)
You have my best wishes too, Jerome. Only I won't spank you next time I see you.
Probably.
:)
mona
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 21:04:32 (PDT)
happy birthday to an outstanding young man. I continue being blessed having you for a grandson. I am wishing you the best and I am working on getting you a birthday present which I hope to get for you before the summer.
grandfather
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 13:06:07 (PDT)
And here's an armful of good wishes from your grandmother. I hope that everyone is especially nice to you today, September 23rd, and that you enjoy being NINE YEARS OLD!
Grandmother Ramona
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 10:53:34 (PDT)
Let me be the second to wish Jerome a Happy Birthday!!! I hope this is the greatest day for the greatest!!! I also wish you were closer so that I could give you your spankings... They will have to wait. §
Steve
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 09:50:29 (PDT)
Lucky me! I get to be the first to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jerome. Hope today is a wonderful day for you, and that all your wishes come true. Have a happy day, and a happy year. Love from your auntie,
Paulala
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 09:41:04 (PDT)
My pleasure! One of the shortest, but best visits we've had, I'd say.
Me and the two youngest just got back from seeing The Dead in George, Washington. It was a ton of fun! Bye bye, summer.
mona
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 20:04:03 (PDT)
I'm home. The first part, getting to Atlanta was fine, but then things slowed down to a dead stop as there were storms that delayed and cancelled flights. I was in Atlanta from 4:00 to 8:00. Saw Rhea there. She was also rerouted and stranded because of the weather. I got to Asheville around 9:00. My faithful significant other was waiting for me. Now he's in the basement with the shop vac. . .
Thanks for hosting me so well, Pingrees and Steve and Ana.
Ramona
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 19:35:08 (PDT)
Bon voyage Mom!
I had a bon voyage yesterday sailing with Mark and Paula on Boston Harbor. Very impressive, maneuvering the big sailboat around the harbor, speaking in nautical speak. Hope to go again before the season is over.
No christmas plans yet. Probably will be in MA. For thanksgiving I'm hoping to go to Pittsburgh.
Scott
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 09:34:47 (PDT)
I dropped Mom off at the airport today for her return to North Carolina. It's always a little sad when someone leaves. We had a very nice and relaxing visit. Mom and Ana and I drove to Portland over the weekend to celebrate Roger's fiftieth birthday. And she even got some sun before heading back to stormy North Carolina. I have just started thinking about Christmas travel plans. Does anyone have any yet? §
Steve
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 09:03:09 (PDT)
DAD: remember to check your email for mail I just resent to you.
mona
Friday, September 19, 2003 at 22:19:59 (PDT)
Hey, I wasn't through writing. I just hit the tab, and voila! it was posted. Now what was I saying: Just that the sun is shining now and I think our plans today call for seeing Miranda, making oatmeal cookies and whatever else Mona surprises me with. OK, that's it. Now I'm through.
Ramona
Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 08:17:13 (PDT)
Yes, I'm here, luggage and all. I should take lessons from Mona in traveling with only a back pack. The biggest change that I find here is: Paul and Betsy taller and even better-looking than before, and the house newly carpetted, painted and organized. (Did they do all this because I was coming to visit?) Anyway it's great.
Ramona
Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 08:13:29 (PDT)
Yup, yup, yup! We did drive through a couple of sizable squalls on the way home from the airport yesterday...you know, trying to make her feel right at home. I'll let her give her own report.
Me, I'm enjoying the start of the school year!
mona
Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 07:14:38 (PDT)
So, has Mom made it safely to thunderstormy Seattle?
Paula
Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 03:29:36 (PDT)
About half an hour ago we had some very loud thunder. It occurred to me that it was probably about the same time that Mom was landing. And now we are in the middle of a thunderstorm. And, embarrassingly enough, it was me who has been telling her that September was the most reliable Seattle month, weather-wise. Oh, well, at least it is not a hurricane such as they are about to have in NC. After the warmest, driest summer on record, we are having a the September that seems to think its a November. Good for the forests, fires and farmers, but not so much fun for the rest of us.
I am going to see Bill Clinton speak at Seattle's newly refurbished Opera House tonight. It's a fund raiser, but not a political one. The money goes to two local arts groups and the Seattle Hebrew Academy.
We went to the Puyallup Fair last weekend. For the first time since I can remember, the Pingrees did not have a representative with us. My, we are all growing up and/or growing old.
Ana and I have been planning our trip to Europe in April. I told her that maybe we should go to Estapona, since it is the nicest place in the world. Her response: "Nicer than New York City? I don't think so!" Yes, we are all growing up.
Hopefully, this fall weather will bring more activity on the Stylos Message Board. 'Till next time....§
Steve
Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 16:27:29 (PDT)
Hello, this is the first time I have read the site in a long time. I would like to thank all of you who thought of my kids on 9/11. Though two years have passed since that horrific day the pain of loosing them is just as great if not greater.
I would like to know who "Helping Hand"is????
We were in Boston for the Commemorative 9/11 Ceremony
and the ceremonial ground breaking for the Mass 9/11 victims memorial which is to be constructed on the Boston Public Garden. It was a bittersweet day for us. Many happy days I spent sitting, playing in that space, now it will have a new meaning for me.
Christine's Lullaby was played by a string quartet and piano in the State House senate chambers. It was very moving.
Be Well, Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 12:09:06 (PDT)
I'm packing my bag and will be leaving for Seattle "before first light." No, I'm not running away from Isabel, but going to have some time with kids (Steve and Mona) and grand-kids (Miranda, Paul, Betsy and Ana).They tell me September has the best weather of any month in Seattle, so we'll see. I'm still going to take a rain-coat. I'll be back home a week from now on Monday. Bye.
Ramona
Monday, September 15, 2003 at 16:27:36 (PDT)
Yes, she was wonderful to see and to hear. Quite a performer. The Iron Horse is still a great place too, after all these years.
How are the rest of you holding up as summer slips away?
Paula
Sunday, September 14, 2003 at 13:10:53 (PDT)
Laura Love is great, isn't she?
mona
Friday, September 12, 2003 at 08:17:36 (PDT)
I also send my good wishes and healing thoughts to the Hansons today. I spent part of the day in a beautiful botanical garden, and part at a Laura Love concert with Melinda. I need to keep thinking of the things like these that for which I am thankful. These and my amazing family.
Paula
Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 20:46:51 (PDT)
Here is a story about the 9/11 ceremony in Boston, with Lee's quotes.
Helping Hand
Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 12:14:56 (PDT)
I hear from the young man who wrote Christine's Lullaby that there will be a live performance of it in Boston tonight. I would love to attend...instead, I'll just keep sending loving thoughts to my family, and I'll be spending the day in my garden.
((((((Hansons))))))
mona
Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 08:08:09 (PDT)
I'm sending good energy to all of those in Stylosville on the second anniversary of 9/11. Especially to Naki, Lee and Kathy. I hope that each passing day makes this burden a bit easier to bear...§
Steve
Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 07:34:15 (PDT)
Made it home OK (thanks Mom and Dad) and now Liss and I are on the cape visiting Jojo. Today we went down to the water to see the big waves caused by the storms out at sea.
Scott
Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 19:06:29 (PDT)
Scott left Charlotte, headed for Northampton, last evening. We trust he is home now and not still flying around the (un)friendly skies. We certainly enjoyed having him here for the weekend. So easy and pleasant to have around!
Ramona
Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 04:40:15 (PDT)
Can you believe it?? My ISP was down all day - first time in years!!! So it goes - good grab, winner!
mona
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 18:03:44 (PDT)
Nice of me to save it for you......beautiful day today, wasn't it? Sunny and dry here. A wonderful day for a sail. If only the weekend wasn't just about over.......
Paula
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 17:58:54 (PDT)
Good one Master Webmister. §
Steve
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 17:40:46 (PDT)
(And I did not even plan it, or forge it!)
Not a cheater
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 15:31:05 (PDT)
The winner is ???
Winner
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 15:29:57 (PDT)
I am 29,999. What does that make YOU?
Paula
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 15:21:51 (PDT)
My guess is that Mona will be lucky number 30,000. I know that was her intention. Better hurry up, Mona!
Ramona
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 15:15:57 (PDT)
Also: nice Kem playing cards Paula. Where'd you get them?
Who is going to make the 30,000th stylos.net hit?
Scott
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 12:26:01 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Phil! I hope all is good in your world, and that all your favorite teams win today!
The camper looks good mark. Nice captain's chairs. One of these days maybe I'll actually get to go camping in it.
Got a treat for you Joey, if I can get them home without getting them confiscated. It's from South Carolina, and it's not peaches.
Scott
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 10:06:57 (PDT)
Thanks to mona and scott the fridge is back in its place and seems to be working. It is not too difficult when you get good help. Thanks again Mark.
paul
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 09:59:21 (PDT)
Looks like Phlil is up today. Happies Phibby!
Scott, your challenge is to get the fridge back into the bus … The instructions are in the drawer, and are correct except that there are no screws into the sides of the fridge. Be careful not to strip the gas fittings …
Mark
Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 05:01:11 (PDT)
So glad you are enjoying your parent time in Brevard, Scott. Mark and I were just wondering why we never see you...must be your wanderlust. Been to the cabin? Seen any white squirrels? Now that Melinda is back in Northampton I hope to see you soon.
And good to hear from you, Betsy. Keep up the good work!
Paula
Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 15:50:32 (PDT)
Hey - remind dad to check his email! And Dad - the box for the DVD I brought home was empty - you might want to check around and see if it's still in the player.
mona
Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 15:33:23 (PDT)
Yep here I am, back in the south again. Relaxing, enjoying some home-cooked food, watching the game on TV. Life is good alright.
I got a good last-minute deal on the plane ticket, on US Air, but can only stay a few days. Will return to MA on monday night, then on to the Cape with Liss.
Scott, the only child
Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 15:31:47 (PDT)
Good man, Scottrick!
mona
Friday, September 05, 2003 at 10:30:26 (PDT)
Our news is that Scott is coming to see us! Soon! Coming on Saturday, staying until Monday. Just what we wished for to make our summer complete. And there are rumors that the rain may be over for a few days. Life is good.
Ramona
Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 17:58:37 (PDT)
i can only imagine what it feels like to be taller than my classmates (since i was always younger and shorter) but i am delighted that betsy is finally being seen eye-to-eye. Mona it was great to see you, i kept trying to call the cabin to see how it was going, but i see now that it all went well. I'm so glad you took some plants home. Soundz like you packed your last few days full. Steve, i am equally delighted to hear about your trip (and future trips) to vancouver. I wondered why you always told me to go there, and then last time when i went i knew. Hard to explain, it's like finding a semi-tropical european city unexpectedly in north (and i mean north) america. Ana is a lucky girl to bne your travelling companion. I am writing from smith where i just attended valija's first lecture on sculpture in the european tradition. It's going to be a fun class. Other wise it's been work work work all week to make up for my vacation. Happy back to school everyone!
athena
Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 12:58:02 (PDT)
Betsy, It's great to have such a positive report from high school! Thanks for looking after things so your mother could have a week with us. Did your ears burn? I'm looking forward to seeing you later this month and maybe even watching you horse-back ride. Love from here.
Ramona
Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 03:17:50 (PDT)
betsy
Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 19:09:00 (PDT)
Oh, P.S. ~ about the "only child" thing: I highly recommend it to all my siblings. It is such a wonderful luxury to have Mom and Dad all to myself. You would love it, too!
Steve - glad to hear about your happy day, and give Ana a smooch for me, our big Middle Schooler! And Betsy will be a High Schooler starting on Wednesday. Now, for a nice, uneventful trip home (unlike the thunderstorms that greeted me in Chicago on the way here!), with my Rhododendrons and Locusts (tree varietal) and Galax and Dahlia and Asian Lily in tow! Love ya's -
mona
Monday, September 01, 2003 at 20:48:00 (PDT)
Speaking of great days, Ana and I went up to Vancouver last night. Sort of a spur of the moment thing. We ate great sushi and stayed at the Hotel Vancouver. It has to be one of the world's truly great cities. The weather up there seems as perfect as it is down here. I'd like to find a way to spend more time there.
Ana starts middle school tomorrow. She is busy puttig her school supplies together and is very excited. That's about it from here....§
Steve
Monday, September 01, 2003 at 18:33:50 (PDT)
Hey! I had hush puppies and visited the Cherokee village today. A great day. Thanks for planting the seed, Athena.
mona
Monday, September 01, 2003 at 18:27:51 (PDT)
Well, Athena and Amy are on their way to Hartford and points north. That is, if they made the plane after getting bogged down because of a lost key. Mona is taking some alone time at the cabin but will be back here before night-fall. Then she'll get to be an "only child" for a day or two.
We had a good time at the cabin. The white shed, which has been in my way for so long, is finally down and gone. A sitting area and fire pit will soon emerge.
Athena introduced Amy and Mona to "La Salsa" and they may come back just for that heavenly Mexican-Caribbean food!
Ramona
Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 08:09:53 (PDT)
Hey folks how are you all doing?
Big Evan
Friday, August 29, 2003 at 18:00:08 (PDT)
We don't even care if the day is over: you're still the GREATEST!!!!!
Us, again.
Friday, August 29, 2003 at 01:01:02 (PDT)
HAPPY birthday buddy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
anana
Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 18:34:49 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Pagniotis!!! Not until today did I realize that you also shared a birthday with Sweet Lou Pinella. And your still the greatest!!! I often thank my lucky star for having such a great Dad. Have a great day and a great 79th year...§
Steve
Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 07:08:05 (PDT)
We just have one thing to say: Pagniotis, you're the GREATEST!!!
Jerome, Vanessa and Mark
Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 06:37:48 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD from me too! Make yourself some breakfast in bed for me! Did you know Donald O'Connor, the dancer, was also born on this day 78 years ago?
Scottrick
Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 05:22:33 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! I am trying to yell loud enough so that I can join the "Adoring Daughters Celebration". This should actually be a national holiday because if you had never been born, where would we (or the whole world for that matter) be? I love you Dad. I hope you have a the great day that you so richly deserve.
Paula June
Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 04:19:58 (PDT)
Hi Buddy: Birthday greetings. Enjoy your day and know I am thinking about you. I have thought back to those days long ago when I used to kiss you for good luck as you went off to sell newspapers. All bittersweet memories..
I hope you are well.
We are going to Boston for the Comemorative ceremonies for 9/11. There will be a ground breaking for the memorial for the Mass victims. It will be constructed on the Boston Public Gardens.
I think the only other memorial in the Gardens is George Washington. Quite an honor. My love to you and take care; be safe Naki
-
hansonnaki@msn.com
Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 21:31:42 (PDT)
yeah for mark allan's many methods of transportation! and for betsy's exciting school year (and serious sounding) school year coming up (geometry is still my favourite subject in math)(amy likes it too) and --> i'm not surprised the horses were scared by president bush
athena
Monday, August 25, 2003 at 13:01:37 (PDT)
Can't wait to try the bike. Also planning to take you up on the sailing sometime soon - me and Liss. Maybe in Sept?
Was a beautiful weekend. Humidity finally gone. Great time of year coming up.
Scott
Monday, August 25, 2003 at 10:26:22 (PDT)
Scott,
2001 Suzuki SV 650. Naked V twin. bought used with 176 miles on it. Red. Awsome. A bit like the Bandit, but lower center of gravity, 100 pounds less weight, and more torque.
Scott, you are welcome to try it out.
Also I finished advanced sailing class and we upgraded our membership in Boston Sailing Center. Now can sail J 24's and Olson 25's. Boats with a motor, anchor, potty and a real inside. Take Cruising class end of September. Then can sail 30-32 foot boats with real galley, head, and live in capacity. Open invitation for all to join us in the Boston Harbor and the Islands.
Mark
Mark Allan
Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 16:52:30 (PDT)
hey everyone. my summer has been going pretty good. I'm relaxing, and trying to make the most of whats left of it. at my riding lesson today, we were buzzed by a fighter jet.President Bush is in town, so they were patrolling the area. Anyways, it scared the horses pretty good. That is my exciting news of the day. I signed up for my high school classes last week. It was pretty exciting. I have: Geometry, Child Psychology, English 10, and German 1. I cant wait!
betsy
Friday, August 22, 2003 at 17:43:01 (PDT)
well amy and i are "on vacation" which seems to mean travelling around spontaneously (some would say aimlessly) very relaxing. Right now we are in lunenburg at harry and helena semerjian's house (hard to leave the lake) but are planning a trip to maine any day now. Last night we saw a silly but fun movie (freaky friday) with paula and melinda and then kept them up till one in the morning getting some pictures off of my camera (coming to you soon for posting, o great webmaster, if paula can send them) and generally carousing. Our vacation winds up with a quick but concentrated visit to mom and dad (yay, mona's coming!) and then back up here in time for classes (amy's going to try the student side of the desk this year) love to all my friends and relations ...
athena
Friday, August 22, 2003 at 09:10:04 (PDT)
Me! I will be here. Not traveling around the country as SOME people seem to be. Weather report from here is hot and humid. Ho hum. Winding down to September 1, when we give up the lease on the Beacon Hill abode and Melinda goes back to school. Jessamyn's good news is a new job (with health insurance) and a new roommate. Yup, things just keep moving on. (And Scottie, I am sure Mark will answer the motorcycle question again. He tried once, but after a painstaking paragraph written on my laptop, the computer ate it.)
Paula
Friday, August 22, 2003 at 03:26:43 (PDT)
Things sure get quiet around here in the summer. Around this house and around this message board. Ana has been in camp for the past few weeks and now is camping with her Mom. In a few weeks she will be a middle-schooler. Tim has been living at his Mom's for the past few months. I've been working and relaxing, and not much more. Hopefully this message fits the 'no news is good news' category. I think I will be in Boston on Veteran's Day weekend to celebrate Corey Comenitz's Bah Mitsvah. Anyone else going to be around? §
Steve
Wednesday, August 20, 2003 at 07:40:30 (PDT)
The good news from here is that we are looking forward to seeing Mona and Athena and Amy around the 26th and 27th of this month. (Now if Scott will surprise us and show up, the whole family will have been here this summer.) By the time that's over, it will be Labor Day and the whole summer (or is it the monsoon season?) will be over. But then September and October are nice here, too. I plan to be in Seattle from Sept 16-22, and there will be a celebration of sorts here in mid-October...All are invited.
Ramona
Sunday, August 17, 2003 at 03:37:50 (PDT)
Thanks Mona and Mark. My home PC seems to be OK. The system at work was down a good part of the day yesterday because of the worm.
Scott
Thursday, August 14, 2003 at 10:21:45 (PDT)
Scott ~ this article should give you enough information to find out if you have it or not. Basically, if you have it, your computer will constantly reboot, with an error box telling you the RPC service has caused the need to shut down.
I had to use the fixer, then apply the patch. But all's well now. For the time being. :)
mona
Wednesday, August 13, 2003 at 14:01:45 (PDT)
It was a cloudy night here last night - no meteors for us :(
How can I check my computer for this worm?
Scott
Wednesday, August 13, 2003 at 05:38:14 (PDT)
Mona, my wish is that we would get at least one clear night so I can see Mars as it approaches the earth, the closest it has been in at least 5000 years, and maybe in 60,000 years. Surely the rain will move somewhere else before the 27th when there should be a "really big show". Well, catch a falling star and put it in your pocket. . .for me.
Ramona
Tuesday, August 12, 2003 at 19:18:43 (PDT)
The summer is flying by! I just spent a few hours ridding my computer of the dreaded MSBlaster32 virus (worm). What a pain. I've sent emails that haven't had replies, and wonder if they didn't get through?
Tonight is the Perseid meteor shower, and despite the full moon, I'm planning on sleeping out in the back yard, and catching some shooting stars! If I get a wish for everyone I see, I'll get to see you all soon!
mona
Tuesday, August 12, 2003 at 16:28:44 (PDT)
So what kind of motorcycle did Mark A. get?
Hot and humid here in Northampton too. Just took Jeff to the airport, following a brief weekend visit here. Got to see Melissa's play, and get a little Taste of Northampton.
Scott and Joe
Sunday, August 10, 2003 at 15:28:36 (PDT)
Hot and humid Sunday here in Boston. We await the arrival of Athena for supper. Three more weeks of this Beacon Hill life. Better get your reservations in quick!
Paula
Sunday, August 10, 2003 at 14:55:51 (PDT)
Glad to know you and your bags (and your kids) are safely home, Mark, but as usual it is sad to see you go.
Paula
Wednesday, August 06, 2003 at 13:57:44 (PDT)
We're here to love ya, Melinda Rose....except for Ana. She's away at camp. §
Steve
Wednesday, August 06, 2003 at 11:05:18 (PDT)
Comeback for Melinda: You're welcome.
Mark
Wednesday, August 06, 2003 at 10:26:37 (PDT)
And now bagged!
Mark
Wednesday, August 06, 2003 at 10:26:05 (PDT)
Once again, Happy Birthday Paul.
Home, tired, bagless, 95º in the shade, dry, and a pleasant sea breeze. Now for some R & R ...
Mark +
Tuesday, August 05, 2003 at 07:39:50 (PDT)
heh. thank you all for the thought. i hope to get a new picture up soon. i still play trumpet but guitar is getting more dominating. once again much thanks
paul - 2
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 20:26:40 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Paul.
Vanessa
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 19:48:00 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Paul. I'm soon gonna go back to France, and I hope you have a great birthday.
Jerome
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 19:46:36 (PDT)
Gee, Paul, you don't look 13 in that picture! Happy Birthday, old man!
Mark
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 19:40:52 (PDT)
well Paul time goes on and so does your development. Keep going and maybe I'll be around when you make the big leagues. I guess in my mind you are already there, so just keep on hitting them. Your biggest fan and collector of your baseball cards. The other Paul
paul
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 12:46:18 (PDT)
You, Go, Paul. More birthday greetings from the east. At least the east portion of Puget Sound. Isn't it nice that Seattle always has a big party right around your birthday. You deserve it. Welcome to teenagedom. I'm sure you'd be great at it. See you soon, I hope. §
Steve
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 07:37:01 (PDT)
First, to report that Mark and the kids rolled in around midnight, having gone through a few rainstorms. All is well.
And now happy birthday to Paul Pingree, the baseball star and trumpet player, par excellence. I hope you see you next month. Enjoy your day!
Ramona
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 06:49:26 (PDT)
Well Paul Pingree, my young namesake,I do believe you are 13 years old today! Well, get out of bed and celebrate! (On second thought, I guess it is only 3:30 in the morning...okay, you can sleep a few more hours before the celebrations begin.) Welcome to the real beginning of teenagerdom. Enjoy the day and the beginning of yet another crazy ride. Love from the East Coast,
Auntie Paulala
Friday, August 01, 2003 at 03:38:01 (PDT)
Y'all come back, y'hear? Is that what you mean, Melinda? And by the way, we love hearing from you.
Paul has arrived back in NC, Mark and kids are still on the road. Their paths diverged this morning when one took the high road and one took the low road. . . We'll keep you posted.
Ramona
Thursday, July 31, 2003 at 17:50:28 (PDT)
what, no comeback?
melinda
Thursday, July 31, 2003 at 17:45:23 (PDT)
mona's not the only one. mary chapin carpenter is one of my weaknesses. one of those, im kind of sad and just want something to soak in listens that somehow keeps returning, even while the rest of my music tastes change. my dad will also be pleased, or would also be pleased, if he had ever heard passionate kisses, that it was written by lucinda williams, seeing how she's one of his recent favorites. Okay, that's enough of melinda going on a tangent for now, thanks scott for the buttons. and a very delayed thank you to all of you for your birthday wish, and thanks yaya for the book, i promise i will write, once all this interning is over. anyone else i should thank? perhaps ill issue a general thanks just to be ahead of the game for once. but seriously, thank you all. you know, for being family...
melinda
Wednesday, July 30, 2003 at 18:42:34 (PDT)
Paul, Mark and kids are stopped for the night in Front Royal, VA (according to a message on my machine)and should be rolling in here tomorrow. The French contingent will leave out from Greenville, SC on Monday. It seems SO LONG between their summer visits!
Ramona
Wednesday, July 30, 2003 at 18:35:29 (PDT)
Bon Voyage! It was great to see you all. Come back soon!
Mona will be interested to hear that I got to see Mary Chapin Carpenter in concert last week. Great show, as expected. I didn't know that she had so many great songs that I had heard before. Also didn't know that Passionate Kisses was written by Lucinda Williams - a recent favorite of mine.
Scott
Wednesday, July 30, 2003 at 11:37:57 (PDT)
here we are about to leave acton.It was a great time and fully appreciated by the four of us. Mark has planned the route and stops for going to nc. See you soon and ef charisto olysas
paul
Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at 06:46:59 (PDT)
Hello from the mountains of NC where the weather is about perfect today. Later today I'll be going to the cabin to stay until Tuesday morning. Becky will be there on her own, to oversee the installation of a new roof and she made it clear that she would welcome some company. I plan to make blueberry jam while all the hammering is going on. I have been advised to add tapioca to it. Has anyone out there tried that? Hope everybody is having a good weekend.
Ramona
Sunday, July 27, 2003 at 07:56:48 (PDT)
Okay, Bill, I know you are there! Great to see ya again, and many happy returns!
Mark
Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 20:43:18 (PDT)
Great dinner here with Dad, Scott, Mark, Melissa, Vanessa, Jerome and me. Lots of laughter, Red Sox, and humidity.
Paula
Tuesday, July 22, 2003 at 18:57:19 (PDT)
I'm gonna do my best to make it so.
mona
Monday, July 21, 2003 at 21:27:12 (PDT)
Wow! When you put it that way......Just got back from Amy's birthday party, and yes, it was great fun. Glad you arrived safely home, Steve, and Mona: next year for sure, right?
Paulala
Sunday, July 20, 2003 at 19:24:24 (PDT)
We are home safely to Seattle. Arrived to the same lovely weather that we left behind in Boston. It was great to see Ramona, Jeffrey, Jessamyn, Paula, Jerome, Vanessa, Paul, Mark Stylos, Scott, Joey, Cameron, Pam, CJ, Athena, Mark Allan, Melinda, Alia, Mark Friedman, Amy Friedman, Cass, Jay, Debbie, Matthew, Corey, Ted Reidy, Joanne, David, Sacha, Sioux, Paul, Forrest, Doug, Stephanie, Bill, Ginny, Kathy, Rona, Karen, Art, Jesse, Peter Watts, Peter Stelos, Alex, Monique, Nicholas, William, Perry, Daniel, Phillip, Lisa, Andrea, Vinny, Sophie, Jane, Dick, Sue, Naki, Lee, Kathy, Mark, Alexandra, Nicole, and anyone else I neglegted to mention. Wow, what a trip. Sorry I missed you Amy Semerjian, but 99 out of 100 isn't bad. It's trips like these that makes me thankful for my big, happy family. Until next time.....§
Steve & Ana
Sunday, July 20, 2003 at 17:06:53 (PDT)
Happy Party Day to Amy Semerjian!! I'm so glad we found you! Hope you all have much fun at the Garden Lighting Party! Love,
mona
Sunday, July 20, 2003 at 09:11:33 (PDT)
I love that: firefly and moonlight.......
Paula
Saturday, July 19, 2003 at 18:37:21 (PDT)
arrived in acton at 2:45. We were late due to too many poorly planned road constructions. All else is good. Mark, vanessa, jerome, and me.
paul
Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 23:56:07 (PDT)
Paul, Mark, Vanessa and Jerome left here today around 4:30 headed north in the VW camper. They will probably show up in Massachusetts sometime Friday. The bus was cleaned, detailed and expertly restocked by Mark. They expect to be staying in state parks along the way. I would like to be joining in on the family get-togethers this weekend; it sounds like fun.
Ramona
Wednesday, July 16, 2003 at 18:03:36 (PDT)
Don't laugh, little brother, you are following close on my heels......
And who will I see at Ginny and BIll's on Saturday, or Athena's on Sunday?
Paula
Monday, July 14, 2003 at 19:13:50 (PDT)
Another beautiful summer night here. Went for a ride on the bike path by firefly and moonlight.
Had an interesting piece of mail delivered here at 14 Wilson Ave. addressed to a former occupant: Ms. Paula Stylos, from AARP. O boy, here come those senior discounts!
Scott
Monday, July 14, 2003 at 18:40:51 (PDT)
I'm happilly reading along, following your adventures. Cleaning my garage. What about those Mariners??
mona
Monday, July 14, 2003 at 15:50:48 (PDT)
What about the rest of you?
Paula
Monday, July 14, 2003 at 15:18:35 (PDT)
Jeassamyn and I are safely home as well.
Paula
Sunday, July 13, 2003 at 13:50:06 (PDT)
And Ana and I made it back to Massachusetts. We are at Scott's house. Had a nice shish-ke-bob dinner and took a few walks. Even saw Athena at the movie theatre. We'll have breakfast with Athena, Scott and Pam tommorrow, then head east for the rest of the journey.
Steve & Ana
Saturday, July 12, 2003 at 23:03:19 (PDT)
Jess and I made it as far as Phillipsburg, NJ. Here we are in a nice little roadside motel. We had a pleasant drive, and I do believe the blueberry jam (and many blueberries) have not suffered. August you say, Mom? Perhaps I will just have to come back. These summer vacations just seem to go quicker and quicker.....
Paula
Saturday, July 12, 2003 at 17:15:12 (PDT)
I'm checking in from Williamsburg, Kentucky where I am attending a Writers Conference. I'll be back in Brevard tomorrow and I hope Mark and kids are still there. I missed the last day of our annual cabin vacation, but I understand that Paula led the bunch in making jars of blueberry jam! After 2 years of almost no blueberries, we're blessed with loads of them this year. To those of you who missed this year's Celo frolic: we're open to having another in August, September or even October.
Ramona
Saturday, July 12, 2003 at 13:51:12 (PDT)
We are in Front Royal, Virginia for the night and are going to get up and head north in the morning. With any luck and a lack of traffic problems, we should be having dinner tomorrow with Scott (and Athenakimoo if she can be found). We'll keep you posted...
Steve & Ana
Friday, July 11, 2003 at 21:07:41 (PDT)
Actually, we didn't really have phone in the cabin until a few days ago. And yes, we have been having fun. Even the weather has been cooperating. Scott, Ana and I plan to leave tomorrow evening, and make a stop along the way. We should make it to Northampton in time for dinner on Saturday. We hope that you hospitality offer is still open. We'll call you on Saturday morning with a progress report. We hope you are all well, out there in Stylosville. We are all well down here in Stylosville South.
Steve
Thursday, July 10, 2003 at 19:36:41 (PDT)
Gee, I wish I were in North Carolina. They're having so much fun they don't even have time to post any messages.
Scott
Thursday, July 10, 2003 at 18:53:27 (PDT)
we had a fun fourth here in the northwest!! we were having fun with the fireworks, and then our neighbors blew off a firework, and their kid said "beat that!!" so we did! they were 'ooo-ing' and 'awww-ing' so their kid said to our neighbor, "beat that!!" it was very funny. hope all is well, love:
betsy
Sunday, July 06, 2003 at 21:50:42 (PDT)
We have all made it to the cabin, and the sun is out! Hurray! Jeff is off for a hike in the mountains, Dad and Steve on a Walmart run, Mark fixing the lawnmower, Jessamyn teaching her three cousins how to make sock monkeys, Mom setting up housekeeping, and me, as usual, documenting. Wish you were here.
Paulala
Sunday, July 06, 2003 at 08:34:59 (PDT)
Hope you had a great trip and a happy 4th of july, thinking of you. LOVE
Sophie
sophie
Saturday, July 05, 2003 at 08:07:25 (PDT)
We finally made it to Brevard. Sunny, warm and full of Styloses. The trip was long but pleasant. We'll spend a day or two here then head over to the cabin. We'll be sure to keep you posted. §
Steve & Ana
Friday, July 04, 2003 at 14:22:41 (PDT)
Jeff finally made it; we're expecting Steve and Ana (from Seattle by way of Houston and NY) in a couple of hours. Vanessa is decorating her unicycle to ride in the bicycle parade. The weather is cooperating so we should see good fire-works tonight. Happy Independence Day, everyone!
Ramona
Friday, July 04, 2003 at 10:05:41 (PDT)
Hmmmmm.....we are still waiting for Jeff (who ended up in Knoxville) and Steve and Ana (who ended up in Houston). Who says that Stylos's have a sense of direction?
Paula
Thursday, July 03, 2003 at 18:16:55 (PDT)
you are all soooooooooo cool!
you know who
Wednesday, July 02, 2003 at 19:58:10 (PDT)
And now we add Vanessa, Jerome and Mark!
Paula
Wednesday, July 02, 2003 at 18:17:03 (PDT)
A happy 4th of JULY to all. Sounds like you-all will have a good time there. We to are looking to the same. Bye for now Darroll& Judy
Darroll
Wednesday, July 02, 2003 at 05:37:05 (PDT)
The gathering has begun! Paula and Jess arrived yesterday afternoon; Mark and Vanessa and Jerome are in the air somewhere, headed this way; Jeff (surprise!) is coming in tomorrow by bus, and Steve and Ana are expected also tomorrow. Even if the rainy weather continues, it should be a jolly Fourth of July. We'll be missing (and talking about) the rest of you.
Ramona
Wednesday, July 02, 2003 at 04:04:06 (PDT)
happy embarkation on the twenties melinda!
always a little late athena
Monday, June 30, 2003 at 17:58:10 (PDT)
Wow, Melinda is no longer a teenager! In fact, the entire Stylos-Allan group has outgrown teenagedom. We're all proud of you and we all love you, Melinda. So have a great next 20 years and we will see you in a few weeks. §
Steve
Sunday, June 29, 2003 at 09:05:53 (PDT)
Of course you do: doesn't everybody?
Happy Birthday Melinda!
Mark
Sunday, June 29, 2003 at 03:44:26 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to my Melinda, 20 years old and asleep in the next room. Let me shout it from the roof tops (or at least through cyberspace)"Happy Birthday, my little one." Wait till you see the fun I have planned for you today. I love you!
Mama
Sunday, June 29, 2003 at 03:39:23 (PDT)
Happy 20th birthday, Melinda! Wish you were joining us here in North Carolina next week. I'm still waiting to hear more about your summer internship, and the semester in London that you're planning. Enjoy your day; I'm sure you will!
YaYa
Sunday, June 29, 2003 at 02:06:10 (PDT)
Looks like we will be arriving in either Greensville or Asheville on July 4th and heading north on July 11th or 12th. Since we are traveling standby, plans are subject to change. See y'all soon. (See, we have been practicing our southern speak.) §
Ana & Steve
Saturday, June 28, 2003 at 08:46:13 (PDT)
My travel plans as of today: Meet Mark and Jess at the Tapan Zee Bridge (after their weekend in NY) at 1:00 Monday, June 30, and then Jess and I will head south to Brevard. Arrive mid afternoon Tuesday? We will head back to MA Saturday, July 12. How about y'all?
Paula
Saturday, June 28, 2003 at 03:25:19 (PDT)
Trying to save this site.
Darroll
Wednesday, June 25, 2003 at 20:27:36 (PDT)
Hello everyone it's been a long time getting back to say that. I hope you-all are doing well. judy and I have been lazing around this spring and now for summer WOW it goes fast when you get older. Have been working on the house enclosed the patio with glass & screen makes it nice keeping the skietters off ha ha. i hope check in more often we will see. Love to all and see ya soon Darroll & Judy
Darroll
Wednesday, June 25, 2003 at 20:22:56 (PDT)
What do you know. I am visitor 29,000!
Paula
Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at 17:46:29 (PDT)
It was fun to read the Stylos message board and to catch up on missed news. It is always refreshing to read adventures to help us deal with life's bumps! Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, and Congratulations to all!
I have made the trip off a receiving a pink slip and getting my job back this spring; teaching Jess how to drive a standard-remember the hills with a standard!; and looking for colleges-Arizona, Florida, are some possibilities. Life is fascinating-it is a wonderful road to travel on. :)
Kim
Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at 04:18:01 (PDT)
Well, Ana and I made it back to Seattle. Very nice to trip to New York. So much to do. We bought plenty of souvenirs. The ones we like the best were the two umbrellas. The weather was great today, though. We took a long walk in Central Park and a tour of the U.N. Our trip home was interrupted twice by the Presidential campaign. First, the subway closest to the hotel was closed because Bush was speaking at the hotel accross the street. Then we sat on the tarmac at JFK for a half hour waiting for Air Force One to take off.
All in all, in three days we managed to squeeze in a long day at the American Museum of Natural History, a Broadway Musical (Beauty and the Beast), a walk through Times Square at midnight, a few deli sandwiches, shopping in Herald Square, a walk through Washington Park, an Italian dinner and fourteen subway trips. Now we'll sit tight for 10 days then head to NC. With a six hour layover in Newark, of all places...§
Steve & Ana
Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at 00:43:13 (PDT)
Fighting words, coming from a gramma(r).
Paula
Sunday, June 22, 2003 at 17:14:58 (PDT)
No mistakes, unless spelling counts...
RLS
Saturday, June 21, 2003 at 06:35:51 (PDT)
Happy Summer. (Bah, humbug. Cold and rainy again.) Which reminds me... I do believe our friend David is just a tad older today. Ping? What is the word?
(All you grammer nuts, how many mistakes can YOU find in this entry?)
Paula
Saturday, June 21, 2003 at 06:00:02 (PDT)
Congratulations, Ana. We knew you could do it. Hope you both have a great time in NY. Let the vacations begin!
Paula
Saturday, June 21, 2003 at 03:47:16 (PDT)
Steve and Ana: It looks like you're going to have good weather for your New York weekend. Give my regards to Broadway. . . See you SOON.
Ramona
Saturday, June 21, 2003 at 02:58:29 (PDT)
Hello All. Ana and I made it to New York. We are staying at a quaint hotel accross Broadway from the Ed Sullivan Theatre. We have a full three days planned but maybe we'll find a minute to keep you posted. Ana graduated from Elementary School today. Off to middle school (6-8) in September. Can't wait to see all of the east coasters in a few weeks.
Steve & Ana
Friday, June 20, 2003 at 22:47:47 (PDT)
Hi to all cast of meteor garden. I really love your show. I like the way Lei treat San Cai. I love F4 FORLIFE!!!!!!!
Bernadeth
Wednesday, June 18, 2003 at 19:36:41 (PDT)
Yes, it was yum mee. Even more so today, in leftover form!
Now we're on our way to a Little League playoff game - wish us (Paul) luck!
mona
Tuesday, June 17, 2003 at 16:36:39 (PDT)
Mona, a faux pas, you say? Don't you remember being Mona Yee? Was it Mark or another sibling who called you that before he (probably not she) was able to talk plain? Anyway, glad you had an excuse for some Chinese food. Hope it was good!
Mama
Tuesday, June 17, 2003 at 14:24:31 (PDT)
Scotty!! I am so happy you learned some html tricks. And thank you for the attempted phone call (you too, 'thena...)!
I had a splendid day, yes, filled with sweets (Godiva and the company of my two girls for lunch, courtesy of Miranda Lee!) ...in honor of Mom's faux pas, we ate at a Chinese restaurant, reservation under the name of Mona Yee.
And Dad, how did you know that was just what I wanted to hear...I think of you so often, and I love you so dearly. All of you. I am truly blessed, truly lucky in the family I stumbled into. Here's to another 44 years, or so. Steve, let's catch a game soon, OK?
mona
Monday, June 16, 2003 at 21:16:34 (PDT)
(((((MONAMOO))))))
Hey Mona, Happy Birthday!!! Tried to call you on your cell phone but it must be an old number. Email me you new one. And have a great day. Hope to see you soon.
Love, Brotera sou
Scottrick
Monday, June 16, 2003 at 17:33:22 (PDT)
Well Mona, as time goes on I think more and more of you both in frequency and quantity. For all that you must have a wonderful birthday. patera sou
paul
Monday, June 16, 2003 at 07:46:49 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Mona! From the dry and sunny Puget Sound. Well, the other side of it anyway. I hope you like this nice weather we ordered up 'specially for you and you do something perfect with it. Have a great day and we will see you soon. §
Steve & Ana
Monday, June 16, 2003 at 07:20:03 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to Mona Yee. I hope you find a lot of things to smile at, laught at or sing along with today.
Mamaramona
Monday, June 16, 2003 at 06:31:17 (PDT)
Here in Massachusetts we also say: Happy Birthday, Mona. What are your plans for the day? Sunshine, sweets, presents and a smiling family, I hope. Do tell! Love from me,
Paula
Monday, June 16, 2003 at 04:16:59 (PDT)
Let me see, do I have this right? Happy Birthday Mona!
Tentative plans from here are to arrive in Greenvilee S.C. on the 3rd of July, departure one month later.
(Can't wait till I get there, so I can not answer you all in person!)
Mark
Monday, June 16, 2003 at 03:23:49 (PDT)
Hey Dad! I just tried to call you and the phone was busy, busy, busy. So I guess this will have to do...
I love you. Hope you are healthy and happy and having a fine Father's Day. Thank you for fathering me. Love,
mona
Sunday, June 15, 2003 at 17:00:49 (PDT)
Happy Father's Day Dad! Don't know about you all, but I spend my day trying to avoid the heat. Afternoon at the beach, BBQ in the backyard afterwards, now sweltering on the sofa, dozing in and out, listening to Nomar and Manny in the 10th. (Kinda like you, Dad, I guess!)
Mark
Sunday, June 15, 2003 at 14:30:06 (PDT)
Yes, Dad, the Happiest of Father's Days to the bestest of the best. Can't wait to see you and the rest of the family in about three weeks....§
Steve
Sunday, June 15, 2003 at 11:40:28 (PDT)
Let me take this opportunity to say HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! to my most amazing father. I know I have said it before, but I cannot imagine a better Dad. Thank you for being the man with the task of raising this child....and some day soon I may be raised. I love you.
Paula
Sunday, June 15, 2003 at 04:51:45 (PDT)
Dick, you have lots of people pulling for you, including all of your cousins. I hope they are treating you well and that you our home by the time I come back east in a few weeks. We'll be thinking of you...§
Steve
Friday, June 13, 2003 at 07:34:35 (PDT)
come on dick we need you.I know hospitals often treet you well and I have been spoiled whenever I have been there. So get well dick and let us hear from you
paul
Friday, June 13, 2003 at 05:15:59 (PDT)
Greg - So sorry to hear about your Dad. Give him my good wishes as well.
Paula
Friday, June 13, 2003 at 02:41:30 (PDT)
(((((Dick))))) ~ we all love you, too. Please keep us up to date on his condition, if you can, Greg.
mona
Thursday, June 12, 2003 at 21:06:35 (PDT)
two years after my dad had a bad car accident he finds himself back in the hospital.all of the straley family loves our dad.
richard gregory straley
Thursday, June 12, 2003 at 18:32:29 (PDT)
I would like to say thank you to all the bystanders that did there best to help Myself and two of my friends,we were involved in a car accident that happened on June 5th at 4:23pm at HWY23 and 35w in Forest Lake Minnesota.God bless you people.I know I am thanking him every day!
Joyce Johnson
Joyce Johnson
Thursday, June 12, 2003 at 02:36:59 (PDT)
well i'm sure glad you're making good use of the public library mom, benjamin franklin would be proud!welcome home paula! i'm so glad you are being properly feted! mona and david i hope you are getting ready to fete as well!
athena
Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at 18:00:49 (PDT)
Hello all: I'm writing from the library here in Jefferson County in Kentucky. Pat didn't bring her lap-top with her (in fact she didn't even bring Ken) so I don't have a lot of access to a computer but now with computers in all the libraries, not of us has a real excuse for not checking in, right?
It has been an enjoyable visit so far, and I'm looking forward to a second round of Shanghai Rummy tonight with Pat and Nezzie and Doug. I'll be home on Monday. Paul has the telephone number is anyone wants/needs to talk to me.
Ramona
Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at 16:52:43 (PDT)
Paula and Mark: Glad you're back safe and sound and happy. It's early, early here in NC and I'm up getting ready to leave for an early flight to Louisville for a week with Pat.I expect that Ken will have his lap-top and that I can keep up with y'all that way. I'll be back in a week. Steve and Mark: I left Rhea a message to save 3 places in "Big Kids" camp for the second week in July.
Ramona
Monday, June 09, 2003 at 02:49:14 (PDT)
Oh, and a most happy anniverary to Mom and Dad. Amazing to think that you have been married twice as long as Mark and I. Why, doesn't that mean that when you were where we are now, you were busy getting us married? Thanks for that party, by the way. So much to be thankful for, and so much cause for celebration. I say let's party in North Carolina in July.
Paula
Monday, June 09, 2003 at 02:15:54 (PDT)
Well, where to start? Melinda (very kindly indeed)picked us up at the airport from a wonderful time in Provence. Upon our return, we found that Jessamyn had decorated the house with many, many flowers for yet another birthday celebration. I got beautiful pottery from both Mark and Jessamyn (yes, the time has come...I am feeling that creative motivation), and I will bring my present from Melinda to North Carolina, for all those who join us to see.
Thank you all for my birthday wishes (and what a surprise to get Mark's in person...and he forgot to spank me! Thanks to him we has some idea what we ordered at our amazingly elegant dejeuner francais). I feel truly blessed to be part of this loving, rowdy, and affectionate family. What a great half of a century this has been, and I am just getting started!
More about the trip later. It is good to be home.
Paula
Monday, June 09, 2003 at 01:58:50 (PDT)
Paula, are you home yet?
Ramona
Sunday, June 08, 2003 at 18:43:22 (PDT)
((((mummy and daddy)))) ~ happy anniversary, young love birds!
mona
Friday, June 06, 2003 at 17:34:11 (PDT)
Yes, Happy Anniversaries to Mark & Paula, and Paul & Ramona. Mark & Paula, you have now been married half as long as Paul & Ramona! On their 27th Anniversary, they were just cleaning up from that party at Montvale. §
Steve
Thursday, June 05, 2003 at 20:29:11 (PDT)
Happy Anniversary, Paula and Mark!
Mama and ma-in-law
Thursday, June 05, 2003 at 09:42:01 (PDT)
Hoping Paula and Mark are celebrating the day in some wonderfully romantic way!
mona
Thursday, June 05, 2003 at 08:15:40 (PDT)
And a very happy birthday to Patsy Pool, who officially turns 75 today. May the next 75 be even better! §
Steve
Wednesday, June 04, 2003 at 08:35:01 (PDT)
It was a great party! Good to catch up with Laynes and Fishers and Rogers et al! Marion made up a batch of ice cream, Ken led the singing. Kate is playing guitar these days and planning for her move to Hawaii. Pat and I spoke fondly of Al Sharpton. The sun was shining, the food and beverage plentiful. And Pat looks just fantastic - singing, dancing, giving out many many hugs!
Betsy and Paul are marching (leading!) in the Portland Jr Rose Parade today, and I'm driving down to watch. And to bring Paul home (hopefully) in time for a baseball game.
Yesterday I did a high altitude hike, and, to tell you the truth, I could have used some extra sleep this morning, but, alas, it was not to be!
mona
Wednesday, June 04, 2003 at 08:11:13 (PDT)
Thanks for stopping by, Steve. And it was nice to see everybody at Patsy's 75th birthday party. Everyone seems to be growing up nicely or growing old gracefully. If you leave a link to your website we'll put in a link from this one. §
Steve
Tuesday, June 03, 2003 at 21:55:57 (PDT)
Just stopping by to say hi!
Steve Fisher
Tuesday, June 03, 2003 at 20:23:21 (PDT)
happy paula day to all stylos message board readers! paula, i'll wish you happiness in person when you get home!
athena
Monday, June 02, 2003 at 12:37:14 (PDT)
I've been asked to inform you all that the south of france it seems is too classy for internet cafes. She is having dinner with mark and mark in avignon (sur le pont d'avignon...) and appears to be enjoying herself. I'm sure she will be very appreciative of all her birthday messages, but perhaps not until sunday when she returns.
adieu
Paula's messenger
Monday, June 02, 2003 at 11:35:29 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Paulala!!!! I guess it's a good thing I didn't throw that surprise birthday party, since I would have gotten the surprise - that you had fled the country. Can't wait to hear about your trip. You certainly deserve all the happiness and good things that come your way!
Scott
Monday, June 02, 2003 at 09:18:35 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Paula! Good for you, sneaking off to France in the dead of the night with nary a word! I imagine that this is the best time of all to be there, with the nice weather having arrived and the throngs of holidayers still at home. We're all thinking of you on your big day. Hope it works out just as you would have it. See you in six weeks or so. §
Steve
Monday, June 02, 2003 at 06:57:39 (PDT)
I outdid myself! I was first on the board, and first 'Live'. Happy Birthday Paula! I can report that the BD Girl and her (anything for a vacation) Husband are happily settled into thier quarters, and are out exploring Avignon for the Grand Event. If things go according to plan, we will be meeting for Drinks and Dinner later on.
Mark
Monday, June 02, 2003 at 02:16:49 (PDT)
Happy Almost Birthday to my dearest sister Paula!
mona
Sunday, June 01, 2003 at 20:55:50 (PDT)
Mark: I'm sure Melinda knows where they are, and unless she has changed drastically, she reads her email often. I don't know whether she reads this page or not. . .
Ramona
Saturday, May 31, 2003 at 18:57:24 (PDT)
Mark, wish we could help, but it seems that no one knew she was going. Good for you, Paula, getting away like that. What should I do with all your presents? Hope they don't melt!!! §
Steve
Saturday, May 31, 2003 at 17:51:24 (PDT)
HELP!!!!!! Someone e-mail me an address / phone number for Paula. Or Paula: call me 06.78.11.23.40.
Mark S
Saturday, May 31, 2003 at 15:01:09 (PDT)
You are most welcome! I am glad you are enjoying them. I am about out the door, on the way to France. I will admit to being a little nervous, but mostly excited. We will be staying in a stone cottage in Menerbes, and will return Sunday June 8th. I hope to be able to post from an internet cafe, but I think we will be in a small village. We will see! Can't wait to see you all in July.
Paula
Friday, May 30, 2003 at 11:27:52 (PDT)
Oh my! Now that I have a little time off, I started doing things I've wanted to for a long time. Like look at the home movie tapes Paula sent me a few years back. And there's Jerry and Aunt Jenny and Aunt Anna and Ma. And Bud and Mama Layne. And little Ondine! And Buthaina Shukri and Laurel Shader. And Karin and Berit....
Paula, thank you SO MUCH for getting these done. They are priceless. I think my favorites may be the interior shots of 60 Montvale. And the big rock out back, covered with snow, with Athena sledding down! And Buddy's sideburns!!!
What a rich life I've had...
mona
Friday, May 30, 2003 at 10:47:48 (PDT)
Gee, it's quiet around here. Maybe everyone is hiding, getting ready to jump out for Paula's surprise birthday party!
My little black car died the other day.....the engine went. I was tempted to buy a new car, but decided to replace the engine with a used one. Athena was nice enough to lend me her car in the meantime.
Finally seeing a little sun again, after lots of cloudy days.
Scott
Thursday, May 29, 2003 at 08:52:44 (PDT)
Hope you had a great time, and hope you wished ol' Bob a happy birthday!
mona
Sunday, May 25, 2003 at 13:31:35 (PDT)
Off to Woodstock, New York, to see dear Nancy, and celebrate Bob Dylan's birthday! Will report back.
Paula
Saturday, May 24, 2003 at 08:29:29 (PDT)
I too wish a happy birthday to my firstborn. We just got back from a great birthday celebration in Maine (me and my children). Wet, but fun. I am happy it is beginning to seem like this NC trip may work out! What about Mona, and Scott and Athena? And welcome to Gracie, my first cousin twice removed (could that be right?)
Paula
Thursday, May 22, 2003 at 18:10:20 (PDT)
Oh yeah, and WENDY are you out there? I got word that you had been trying to get ahold of me. How are you???? My number in Vermont is (802) 257 - 7019. Get in touch or come up to vermont any time!!! Hope all is well!
Jessamyn
Thursday, May 22, 2003 at 18:01:55 (PDT)
Hi all, it's me the one with the birthday halfway between legal alchohol comsumption and car rentals. Thanks for the shout outs and it will be great to see you guys down south. Special thanks to yaya for the marvelous cd, and Mark, I'm makking an appt. to video Montvale road for this monday, got any directions? and fine sailing) Lotsa love
-Jessamyn
Jessamyn
Thursday, May 22, 2003 at 17:55:54 (PDT)
Happy Birthday JZ! Vanessa says she hopes you are in Acton when we are. We wish you ... you pick!
As for our plans, I guess we will try to follow the flow: Early July in the South, late July in the North. Details and finances to be worked out.
Great news, Al et. al. Must be quite an experience going from unknown, to proud great grandfather and being there to see your kin whilst she is still squeeky new. (P.S. I think that brings your double postings over the limit: please contact the financial director, Paula, to plead your case and discuss your penalty payments.)
In other news, I will be taking part in the Croisiere Bleu in a few weeks, where we will race from Antibes to Corsica in the night. Departure around 6 PM, arrival 14 - 20 hours later. I'm a member of a crew of 7 on a 30-something footer. Promises to be interesting to say the least!
And y'all?
The Undecided Ones
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 13:46:30 (PDT)
Congratulations to my new great cousin Gracie and to my Niece Jessamyn Zoe who is great. We'll be glad to see you in NC Jess, and hope to meet you sometime Gracie. The most recent version of our plans have us going to NC on or about July 3 and going to Massachusetts about July 12. We'll be coming back to Seattle about July 20. Still waiting for word from the WebMarkster as to what his plans are. §
Steve
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 13:11:11 (PDT)
Well, it makes me a Great Cousin, of some sort! Congratulations to the happy families! And welcome to Gracie....what a beautiful name!
(((((Jessamyn Zoe))))))
mona
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 12:38:15 (PDT)
Great news!! Congratulations to the Burleson/Sharpton/Kinnards!! I guess that makes me...oh nevermind.
Scott
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 08:39:33 (PDT)
oooops.....mea culpa
albert
albert
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 06:50:56 (PDT)
I just wanta interrupt for one moment to bring a message of great joy!
My Grand daughter, Betsy, daughter of Rebecca Sharpton Kinnard, wife of Ryan Burleson, gave birth yesterday 20 May 2003 at 5:34 pm to a beautiful 7 lb. 6 oz, 21 inches tall beautiful baby girl who was promptly named Gracie.
Gracie takes her place in my family as my first Great-Granddaughter, a lofty and magical thing to behold.
Thanks for letting me share!!!!!
albert
Albert Sharpton
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 06:49:59 (PDT)
I just wanta interrupt for one moment to bring a message of great joy!
My Grand daughter, Betsy, daughter of Rebecca Sharpton Kinnard, wife of Ryan Burleson, gave birth yesterday 20 May 2003 at 5:34 pm to a beautiful 7 lb. 6 oz, 21 inches tall beautiful baby girl who was promptly named Gracie.
Gracie takes her place in my family as my first Great-Granddaughter, a lofty and magical thing to behold.
Thanks for letting me share!!!!!
albert
Albert Sharpton
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 06:49:00 (PDT)
Yesterday at our writing group someone used the word "hiatus" pronouncing it as if it had and "at" in the middle. Someone else questioned it, and asked if that was a cross between a hyacinth and a clematis...
Happy Birthday to our first grandchild Jessamyn Zoe. I hope you have a great day!
Ramona
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 04:11:06 (PDT)
A purple flowering vine on the far side of the house....
Paula
Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at 03:31:16 (PDT)
Scott, I thought you were a doctor. Surely clematis is some sort of disease. §
Steve
Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at 20:38:32 (PDT)
I'm afraid I don't know what a clematis looks like.
Scott
Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at 20:17:21 (PDT)
And Scottie, check against the side fence. I planted a clematis there: called Nell (for my mama). Is it still there? Also some mint at the back of the house, from Montvale Road. Ah nostalgia.....
Paula
Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at 18:32:12 (PDT)
So Markie, when are you and yours headed this way?
Paulala
Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at 18:28:44 (PDT)
Tom Kovar's Mom might have been remembering me. I remember her. I was good friends with Tom's brother Dick. Hey, Tom and Dick, weren't they the Smothers Brothers? §
Steve
Monday, May 19, 2003 at 13:13:01 (PDT)
I thought you'd never ask. It was......great! Melissa and 3 other students, playing together and separately. It was especially a treat for me because I have been hearing Liss play one half the duets for so long...was nice to hear the complete songs at last.
Tom Kovar's was also fun. Tom's mother claimed she remembered me - from 40 years ago. She also remembered Mark Allan - from other connections.
Scott
Monday, May 19, 2003 at 12:38:16 (PDT)
So, how was the recital?
Paula
Monday, May 19, 2003 at 11:44:41 (PDT)
Ðåôñïó from me too! I think.
And happy birthday to all you milestoned folks! And Jessamyn too!
Yes, a glorious spring indeed. I was even inspired to plant a little vegetable and flower garden, at the end of my little driveway. I can't remember what I planted, but sure enough little green things are poking up out of the dirt!
Tomorrow I'm going to a party at Tom Kovar's house. A Newton friend going back over 40 years.
Then I'm going to Melissa's flute recital. Looking forward to that.
Scott
Saturday, May 17, 2003 at 15:29:07 (PDT)
((((Ðåôñïó))))
ìïíá
Saturday, May 17, 2003 at 11:38:17 (PDT)
Hey, let's not push it....I am still 49! (For a few more weeks yet.) On the other hand, I am kind of proud of having made it this far. How is the view from the other side, Steve?
Paula
Saturday, May 17, 2003 at 09:27:46 (PDT)
50? Say it ain't so! We love just as much as if you were 49, Paula. And a very Happy Birthday to my uncle, Patriarch Peter. I know you read this, Peter, so how about a few more postings in the next eighty years. §
Steve
Saturday, May 17, 2003 at 09:16:04 (PDT)
Happy birthday, Uncle Peter. You just keep getting better and better. Keep it up! Have you ever stopped to think about all of us on the same birthday schedule, with a birth year ending in 3? All with milestones this year: Vanessa turning 10, Melinda turning 20, Athena turning 40, me turning 50, and Pete turning 80. I am proud to be in such company.
Paula
Saturday, May 17, 2003 at 05:46:51 (PDT)
And a happy birthday to Peter as he embarks on his ninth decade. May all the days and years be good
paul
Friday, May 16, 2003 at 21:28:10 (PDT)
Hello Everyone: The "Awards Ceremony" went well. It was, as expexted, quite informal. The Rose family also came. After, we went to the Pleasant Cafe for dinner and to celebrate Uncle Peter and Karen's birthdays. It was all PLEASANT. ha ha!
Thank you Athena for your thoughts about Peter, Sue and Christine. I am sure Christine was right there hugging that tree with you. Fondly, Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Friday, May 16, 2003 at 11:49:15 (PDT)
i was thinking about peter and sue and christina yesterday when we planted a tree and amy went to get water and i was standing there holding hands with the tree and waiting ... it was a corylus avellana contorta (harry lauder's walking stick or (more descriptively) corkscrew hazelnut) we planted it where we can see it with the snow behind it in the winter ... naki and lee i think of you everyday, too. I hope the award ceremony was fun and that you are enjoying this glorious spring
athena
Thursday, May 15, 2003 at 18:44:08 (PDT)
I hope it went well, Naki. I'm sure it was emotional and draining, but worthwhile.
mona
Thursday, May 15, 2003 at 18:36:31 (PDT)
On Thursday, May 15th we will be going to Northeastern University to attend the Annual prize in Literature to the outstanding studentof the year. It has been renamed the "Peter Burton Hanson Award in Liturature". Peter did some writing which was recovered by one of his Profs in the upperclass seminar on utopian literature. In Peter's utopia, the consumption of meat was outlawed, and Jerry Garcia was still going strong at seventy. This was so, so Peter. I canjust see him and Gerry up there talking about "Old times".
"There were days and there were days I know when all we ever wanted was to learn and love and grow. Once we grew into our shoes we told them where to go walked half way around the world on promise of the glow stood upon a mountain top walked barefoot in the snow gave the best we had to give how much we'll never know, we'll never know". Gosh how I miss him.
hansonnaki@msn.com
Tuesday, May 13, 2003 at 21:38:00 (PDT)
And a Happy Mother's Day from me, in Portland Maine. I had a beautiful day of sun, ferry boats, bicycling and lobster. Hope you had things that you enjoy today. I can't wait to have some good mother/daughter time with you in July. Love from me,
Paula June
Sunday, May 11, 2003 at 13:06:38 (PDT)
And a Happy Mother's Day from Steve. Your kids sure are spread out all over the place. I went to see Mona play in her band last night. They sounded great! Some things just get better with age. §
Steve
Sunday, May 11, 2003 at 09:35:20 (PDT)
Let this slacker child be the first on the message board to wish my mummy a Happy Mother's Day!! I could never thank you enough for all you have done for me! I love you, mom.
mona
Sunday, May 11, 2003 at 09:21:41 (PDT)
Well, now, it looks as though I will be traveling to NC the first two weeks in July. Perhaps July 1-12. That is not much of an overlap with you though, Steve. Jess would probably be with me. How about the rest of you?
Paula
Saturday, May 10, 2003 at 09:30:55 (PDT)
Thank you for the birthday greetings, even though there are more years passed than I surely have ahead of me. Scary.
Just a note re The Lullaby. This music was written as a gift to us..It will not be sold and should not be copied. Carl was very firm with that
message. It was written for a "very Special Child"
and presented as a gift to Lee and me. I wanted to share it with the family. Thanks for honoring this wish. Happy Mothers Day to all the Moms and Moms to be. Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Saturday, May 10, 2003 at 09:10:12 (PDT)
Hi dad! We were adding messages at the same time. I was just taking a break from tending roses -- how are yours doing this year? Did you remember the inverted umbrella pruning trick?
mona
Friday, May 09, 2003 at 13:18:08 (PDT)
Glad to do it, Naki. It's an amazing and inspiring story, that really bears telling. I've passed this music on to friends all over the country, and it has brought awe and comfort to many. Here's a link to the website that has a recording of Christine's Lullaby, for those interested and able to download to the computer.
Naki, did I miss your birthday? I don't go to the front page of the website often, so I miss announcements that might be there.
My band played a gig last night, and will play another one on Saturday. It went really well, and it felt REALLY great to be performing again.
Paul and Betsy just landed in Los Angeles, along with their Jr High School marching band. They'll be marching in the Disneyland Parade on Sunday. The rest of the time they get to frolic with 200 of their closest friends in Disneyland. If I weren't enjoying my time off so much, I'd be seriously jealous!
mona
Friday, May 09, 2003 at 13:16:07 (PDT)
Naki I was very glad to read of your recent trip to Minn. I was particularly moved by your appreciation and thankfullness under such stressful conditions. I am proud to be your brother. And by the way have a happy year. Buddy
paul
Friday, May 09, 2003 at 13:13:04 (PDT)
Thank you Mona for posting the Tribune article.
Carl gave us this wonderful gift as a gift....Christine's Lullaby is not for sale...
At the Concert the Lullaby, after a short pause, went into Symphony No. 2 in c minor "Resurrection" by Gustav Mahler. It was so powerful. I can still feel it within me.
The weekend was packed with emotion. Carl's family was so loving and gracious to us. Even with Nikki's non stop energy. Lovely lovely people.
We have been so honored. Love to all Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Thursday, May 08, 2003 at 15:19:56 (PDT)
Thank you for the Birthday Greeting......Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Thursday, May 08, 2003 at 14:55:38 (PDT)
Hey family and friends: here's an article written about Christine's Lullaby, and the Hanson's recent visit to Minneapolis to hear the World Premiere of the piece, as well as some background on the composer. What a beautiful thing this young man has done for us...
BYLINE: Gwendolyn Freed
CREDITLINE: Star Tribune
HEADLINE: Big impact felt in post-9/11 work by budding composer
Many people remember Sept. 11, 2001, as a day of helplessness and heartbreak. Carl Schroeder remembers it as the day he began to learn how much he could do to help.
Schroeder's searingly beautiful orchestral elegy, "Christine's Lullaby," in memory of the tragedy's youngest victim, will receive its world premiere today at Orchestra Hall. The extended family of the late Christine Hanson has flown to Minneapolis from the East Coast for the occasion. This will mark the second reunion visit between the family and the softspoken 21-year-old Minneapolis composer, who finds it strange to think that before Christine's passing, they were all complete strangers.
On Sept. 11, Schroeder was just days into his freshman year at St. Olaf College, a prospective music-composition major. As he struggled, along with other Americans, to grasp the enormity of the tragedy, one small corner of it began to pull at him.
He'd read in Newsweek magazine about 2 1/2-year-old Christine Hanson. A passenger on United Airlines Flight 175, Christine had left her home in Groton, Mass., that morning with her mom, Sue, and dad, Peter, bound for a Disneyland vacation. Their plane struck the south tower of the World Trade Center at 9:03 a.m.
"I wasn't able to forget that story," Schroeder said recently from his dorm room in Northfield, Minn.
"It all became symbolic for me. Christine became a symbol of the senselessness of human violence. It seemed to me the story was being made so complicated -- about a clash of civilizations and about the event reshaping the world -- when what really happened on September 11 was the death of innocence, the loss of our innocent future," Schroeder said.
He sifted through news of her family's story and found a Web site dedicated to the memory of Christine and her parents, packed with remembrances and condolences. Reading them, he said, "It felt like Christine had become a little more real."
Schroeder holed up for the following three days in a music studio on campus, where he set to work composing the five-minute piece, his first work for full orchestra.
He'd learned that Christine's favorite tune was the "Barney and Friends" song. So to start, he took the descending minor third from the opening of the TV show's theme song, "This Old Man," and gave it to a lonely harp, expanding it to sound a lot more like late Romanticism than TV kitsch.
He went on to incorporate the strong, hopeful sound of woodwind choirs, soaring violin lines doubled by flutes, and the solemn trumpet calls and soft, intermittent snare-drum rolls of a proud nation hobbled by grief. In closing, chimes symbolize the wind in which Christine had been traveling when she died, Schroeder said.
What makes the piece exceptional, said Schroeder's composition teacher, Timothy Mahr, is its "serene calm."
"I can't tell you the effect this music had on both my wife and myself," said Christine's paternal grandfather, Lee Hanson, 70. He and his wife, Eunice, and their daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren are in the Twin Cities to hear the work performed by the Minnesota Youth Symphonies in today's concert at 2 p.m. in Orchestra Hall.
The Hansons first heard "Christine's Lullaby" last spring, when Schroeder sent them a recording made by the orchestra under the direction of Manny Laureano.
"We couldn't listen to it at first without crying," Hanson said. "In the first part, you can actually see a little child playing. It's almost as if Christine was there with him when he was writing it."
Schroeder explained: "What I wanted to do was create something that was an antithesis of what happened that day. . . . I wanted to bring back to life some of what was lost."
Visit to ground zero
Last summer Schroeder accepted an invitation to visit the Hansons at their home in Easton, Conn. He and Lee Hanson and Hanson's brother-in-law went to ground zero for the first time.
Standing in the observation area, facing the gaping pit below, Schroeder and Hanson felt compelled to look heavenward. "Maybe that's man's condition," Hanson said. "We are meant to look up."
Later, they took in other sights -- Times Square, St. Patrick's Cathedral, a boat tour. "We felt lucky we'd been sent this wonderful person, a wonderful young man, and he was here with us now," Lee Hanson said.
Eunice Hanson also spoke of how her granddaughter lives on, thanks to Schroeder. "In Carl's music I see her, I can feel her presence. It's beautiful. So beautiful."
Among the many condolences they've received, "this music is unquestionably the most special," Eunice said.
She is looking forward to the balm and comfort of this afternoon's music. On first hearing "Christine's Lullaby," she recalled, "I felt that she had come back to us through Carl. It was like she was sitting here giving us the message: 'I'm all right. Hey, I'm all right.' "
Gwendolyn Freed is at gfreed@startribune.com.
mona
Thursday, May 08, 2003 at 09:04:08 (PDT)
On behalf of Jeff and Liss thank you all for your birthday wishes. And on behalf of Scott and Liss thank you Jeff for you kind hospitality. Who ever thought Pittsburgh could be so much fun!
Sorry I missed you call last week Jessie. Hope to see you soon.
I'm not sure of my summer plans. Probably will stay in MA, but I don't really know.
Scott
Tuesday, May 06, 2003 at 13:49:25 (PDT)
It sounds like that second week in July is the most convenient for about everybody. Becky says they'll probably come on the 13th. All of July is wide open as far as we are concerned. (August, too, for that matter.)So talk to each other if you want to plan to meet up down here. Steve, I called Rhea about camp. She will be out of town until Friday so we won't know before that unless it happens to be in this week's Burnsville paper. I'll let you know as soon as I know. We're having a lot of rain this week but the tornados missed us. Too many mountains, I guess.
Ramona
Monday, May 05, 2003 at 17:30:17 (PDT)
We are getting close to finalizing our plans. We are thinking July 3 - to Boston; July 7th or 8th - Martha's Vineyard; July 11th - NC; July 20 - Seattle. Any comments? Mom, when is Rhea planning to have the camp for the big kids this year? §
Steve and Ana
Monday, May 05, 2003 at 16:06:29 (PDT)
and let me be the last to wish jeff happy birthday! hope you're enjoying your new locale ... i'm thinking maybe early july for north carolina, and maybe again in october. How's that sound, mom?
athena
Monday, May 05, 2003 at 15:50:05 (PDT)
Great news, Dad. Yep, I sure can't wait for summer.
Paula
Friday, May 02, 2003 at 19:27:28 (PDT)
Go, Jeff, Go!
Mark
Friday, May 02, 2003 at 17:48:08 (PDT)
Jeff have an awesome year, You deserve it and many more.
I had my three month check up and the oncologist gave a good health report. Next one in four months. I told him that Scott would like to talk to him and he said he would be glad to call scott on Mon. may 12. I can feel a good summer coming on.
paul
Friday, May 02, 2003 at 17:46:04 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to you, Jeff, from your Grandmother in North Carolina.
Ramona
Friday, May 02, 2003 at 13:24:43 (PDT)
And a Happy Birthday to Jeffrey from this end of the world, too. How nice that you got to spend it with your sister and father. You may not know that I live in Pittsburgh for the entire year in 1968. The year after the Summer of Love and the year before the Summer of Woodstock. Lots of good memories there. I'm sure you will enjoy living there. Have a great birthday and a great year....§
Steve
Friday, May 02, 2003 at 08:47:04 (PDT)
Let me be the first to say Happy Birthday to Jeff. I am sure you are celebrating in grand style with one of my favorite brothers, and one of my favorites nieces there to party with you. Happy 22, and may all your wishes come true. Love,
Paula
Friday, May 02, 2003 at 03:32:03 (PDT)
Middle America? Here, they consider Montana east coast. No kidding. 'Twas a glorius day, today. Ana and I took a long walk through an Arboretum. It's only a few minutes from home, but I never knew it was there. I love the smells of spring. It's getting time for us to buy our summer plane tickets. When is everyone going to be where? I think we have abandoned the idea of June and are thinking Mid-July. Maybe the second week of July in Boston, Martha's Vineyard, and the third week in NC. Any thoughts? §
Steve
Thursday, May 01, 2003 at 20:03:03 (PDT)
Yes, great pictures. Paul's charm and energy really comes through.
Melissa and I are having fun here in Pittsburgh. Jeff is keeping us amused and entertained. A plasant, livable city, in a middle america sort of way.
Scott
Thursday, May 01, 2003 at 19:58:43 (PDT)
Wow, Patrice, what nice pictures. If you dig back into the archives on this website, you will see some messages Paul left over the years. I think Paul is the first one who left messages here, then left this life behind. He is missed by all of us - a kind soul and a good thinker. Hope you come back to the website...§
Steve
Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 16:18:45 (PDT)
p.s. If any of you have any other photos or stories about my Dad that you would like to share please email me: jitterbugluna@hotmail.com
Patrice Helmar
Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 15:43:51 (PDT)
I just found this homepage. I rembered my Dad telling me about it.
I really wanted to thank all of my Uncles that came up to Alaska to help with my Dad's funeral, and all of you for writing and calling with your support.
I want you to know how happy he was to have seen all of you when I saw him last in the hospital, and how much he loved everyone back there. I know he's still looking out for all of you.
I really wanted to share a couple of these old family photos.
Take Care
Love
Patrice Helmar.
Patrice Helmar
Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 15:40:48 (PDT)
Woah! Betsy....cool. Glad you're feeling better. (she was at home, not feeling well, for the past 2 days)
So, did I forget to tell you that I got laid off?! Believe it or not, this makes the planned summer road trip back east all the more likely. I'm hoping to get to see the WHOLE family, and I'll need help (and volunteers) to make it all come together....maybe we can use Athena's dreamscape for our garden party?
mona
Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 10:25:27 (PDT)
hey this is me from school... BORED i finished all my work early and i could "surf the web" according to my way lame teacher...uh oh... gotta go! love all!
Betsy
Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 10:22:55 (PDT)
yes, congratulations to the straleys! That must be so exciting fo everyone. I had a dream last night that i was at montvale road and the backyard was all beautiful and how it used to be (and set up for a garden party) so i'm happy to report that 60 montvale lives on better than out in dreamland
athena
Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 09:22:18 (PDT)
Congratulations to all the Straley family.
Ramona
Tuesday, April 29, 2003 at 18:06:32 (PDT)
Wonderful news!! Welcome to the family, and to the world, little Ryan Michael!
mona
Tuesday, April 29, 2003 at 15:32:18 (PDT)
dick and i are delighted to announce a new grandchild ... ryan michael born friday april 25th/ son of karen and kevin in falls church virginia. a cute story karen told her son owen three years old that she would be getting the baby out of her tummy the next day. owen said that is great and when does it go back in. dont you love it. jenn and i will fly to visit ryan the week of may l3th. dick and i are thinking of selling the big old house and finding either a cute small house or condo .... we hope to stay in hull and have water front which you all will love to come visit us. will let you know as we go forward. love to you all sue and dick
sue straley
Tuesday, April 29, 2003 at 10:40:48 (PDT)
Hppies? Fix that, will you AW (Assistant Webmaster...)
Mystery Man
Tuesday, April 29, 2003 at 04:36:04 (PDT)
I was waiting 'til today, so I could count Kenny Helmar in, too. Hppies to all of you! Seems in all my memories of Kenny, he is always smiling - even if he might have been brawling with his brothers! Must have been the Zorba in him.
Mark
Tuesday, April 29, 2003 at 04:34:25 (PDT)
I already wished Melissa a happy birthday I did not know about alex. Anyway Alex have a happy birthday and thanks for the present. The drive back was the best I ever had, I left Northampton at ten in the morning and rolled in shortly before midnight at NC. And I was not even road weary. Thanks Alex.
paul
Monday, April 28, 2003 at 21:58:32 (PDT)
And from me too, Melissa. Wishing you the happiest of birthdays on this simply beautiful day!
Paula
Monday, April 28, 2003 at 13:23:17 (PDT)
!! Happy Birthday Melissa !!
mona
Monday, April 28, 2003 at 12:26:20 (PDT)
Yes, Dad has come and gone once again. His new car seems very nice. He will probably make it back home to NC in very good time, I'm guessing.
Liss and I are going to Pittsburgh in 2 days, for a medical congerence and to visit Jeff. Melissa's first time in an airplane. That's my present to her. Happy birthday Melissa!
Scott
Monday, April 28, 2003 at 12:08:00 (PDT)
i never knew lissa and alex shared a birthday. leave it to brother steve to keep track of the details. Happy birthday to both! Last night dad and scott and i drove dad's car (that he just got from alex) to take melissa home to worthington an hour or so before the mutual birthday began. Now my understanding is that dad is on his way back to north carolina, having re-established his primacy on the cribbage board. Have a good trip dad!
athena
Monday, April 28, 2003 at 08:47:21 (PDT)
Yes, Happy Birthday, Lissa. And Alex too if you ever read this board. Spring seems like such a good time to have a birthday. Especially in Massachusetts. If either of you leave Mass, you'll have to make an annual trek back to celebrate the anniversaries of your birth. Or is that the anniversary of your births? §
Steve
Monday, April 28, 2003 at 08:30:55 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to Melissa. I hope you're having a wonderful day.
Ramona
Monday, April 28, 2003 at 05:12:01 (PDT)
Glad to hear it Mom, now Dad will have new grass to tend. In the lawn category, Jess just spent a week discovering ours under years worth of pine needles. See Mona and Steve? The advantage of this cold climate is less lawn mowing. Yup, that is about it. Dad has headed to Northampton. Is he there yet?
Paula
Sunday, April 27, 2003 at 15:09:19 (PDT)
OK, it was me, but Paul's been emptying the bags for me, and Lord knows that's half the work!
mona
Sunday, April 27, 2003 at 12:34:30 (PDT)
We, Mona? §
Steve
Sunday, April 27, 2003 at 11:10:21 (PDT)
Our 125 foot long (more or less) deeply buried drain has finally been replaced, grass seed sowed and straw is now covering the wound in our front yard.
Ramona
Sunday, April 27, 2003 at 06:55:54 (PDT)
Our snowdrifts have finally melted.......
Paula
Sunday, April 27, 2003 at 05:36:38 (PDT)
(we've already got 4 or 5 mowings in. never mind)
mona
Saturday, April 26, 2003 at 23:26:47 (PDT)
Nice quiet weekend here. Ana and I still don't know when we will make our trip to Boston and NC. We are going to spend a long weekend in New York from June 20 - 24. Probably come back to Boston in July. We're waiting for someone else to make the first move. I cut the grass today, I guess that marks the unofficial beginning of spring. Hope everyone is well...§
Steve
Saturday, April 26, 2003 at 19:54:53 (PDT)
Dad is here. Hurray!
Paula
Thursday, April 24, 2003 at 17:58:42 (PDT)
ah yes summer plans the time of year when we all ask ourselves the question : is it more fun to be at the cabin when it is empty and quiet and peaceful and i get to see more of mom and dad or do i want to go when there are as many siblings as possible and i get to relive my riotous youth and revel in the party atmosphere and sit down with ten other people to dinner every night and watch mom and dad get overwhelmed by so much of a good thing? both are tempting. scott and i drove to shelburne falls for pancakes today and discussed the pros and cons. Amy's fortieth bithday is july twentieth so of course we want to be home then, otherwise i am undecided. steve, mona, do your plans include trips to massachusetts? mona let me know what we can do to aid and abet your trip, it's all too rare that we see you out here ... i still would like to do some work on the cabin (new floor?) this summer (fall?) it was so fun building the woodshed last year (hope it's still standing ... mom, dad what are your preferences? (for projects or visiting dates)
athena
Monday, April 21, 2003 at 18:14:57 (PDT)
Well we are circling in on July, anyway. Mark?
Paula
Sunday, April 20, 2003 at 15:32:01 (PDT)
Yes, many blessings of the day to you all.
I'm still holding with the belief that me and the kids will make it back east this summer - though probably end of July-ish...
Something was edited, and I don't remember what someone said....
mona
Sunday, April 20, 2003 at 14:59:33 (PDT)
Or maybe the second two weeks, though then I would miss Steve and Ana...unless they were here for some of their vacation time.
By the way: HAPPY EASTER, ALL!
Paula
Sunday, April 20, 2003 at 13:48:13 (PDT)
A nice spring day here in Seattle, too. On a normal year, Ana and I would be in France, getting packed for the trip home. We missed going there this year, but the trip to Greece made it worth it, and we look forward to France '04. Most of the spring flowers around here are in full bloom. My yard is very colorful. Ana and I just got home from seeing the movie 'Holes'. We both liked it. A kids movie that recognizes that its audience actually have minds. We are still waiting patiently for the cinematic debut of Vanessa and Jerome....We are looking at the last week in June, first week in July for our trip back east this summer. Anyone else have any plans? And Peter, Sr. and Peter, Jr, we know you read this board, so leave a note once in awhile....§
Steve
Saturday, April 19, 2003 at 18:39:06 (PDT)
A beautiful sunny day here in Acton, at long last. Ah, Spring.
Paula
Saturday, April 19, 2003 at 16:27:04 (PDT)
Way to go, Peter!!! Great news.
mona
Thursday, April 17, 2003 at 09:12:48 (PDT)
Rona reports that Peter is continuing to improve and is beginning to use the computer. He comes home on weekends and he has the GI tube out. She sounds happy with his progress.
Ramona
Wednesday, April 16, 2003 at 04:42:53 (PDT)
Okay, here is your chance. As editor in chief I need to let you know that I will be putting together a new issue of the Gazette within the month (I hope, I hope). Please send me any articles and/or pictures you would like included. You KNOW what happens if you don't: you will only get the news I see fit to print. So, bring it on. (paula@stylos.net)
Paula
Friday, April 11, 2003 at 15:59:31 (PDT)
love u all
max
Friday, April 11, 2003 at 04:45:27 (PDT)
I'm used to it. Even people who don't know I have a brother Steve call me Steve. Figure that one out.
Scott
Wednesday, April 09, 2003 at 10:06:03 (PDT)
Ramona....
LOL....I knew, given enuff time, I would screw things up royally!!! Sorry Scott....I meant you no harm;) (Sure hope there is NO sibling rivalry there!!) Scott...feel free to come anytime. You would think after all these months I would have you guys (and delightful ladies) catergorized and catalogued!!!
Albert
Tuesday, April 08, 2003 at 14:13:11 (PDT)
Al, Scott may have mixed up the states, but you mixed up the Stylos boys! Oh well, I often call them by the wrong name, too.
Ramona
Tuesday, April 08, 2003 at 13:18:47 (PDT)
Darn Steve....
Here I turned my home into a B & B for you so at least you could have said your chances to see Mardi Gras were ENHANCED! But a big spender from the West would probably choose The Dauphine Orleans Hotel in the quarter over our quaint B & B (read home).
A saddened Albert
albert
Tuesday, April 08, 2003 at 11:07:10 (PDT)
Mona,
Yes, that is the long-winded to spell it but I wanted to conserve bytes and bits so I abbreviated it....knowing I could insert a tad of scatology to attract your attention;))
albert
Albert
Tuesday, April 08, 2003 at 11:00:20 (PDT)
Sorry about that Uncle Albert. You may have saved me an embarrassing trip to Louisianna. I guess this doesn't help my chances of ever making it to Mardi Gras :(
Scott
Tuesday, April 08, 2003 at 08:46:10 (PDT)
My mama always told me it was
emm-eye-crooked letter-crooked letter-eye-crooked letter-crooked letter-eye-humpback-humpback-eye!!
mona
Tuesday, April 08, 2003 at 07:10:53 (PDT)
Scott...
Emm-eye-ess-ess-eye-ess-ess-eye-pee-pee-eye.
We are directly on the Gulf Coast in a small town with the name of Gautier...ie Go-ti-aaaaaa or as some say....go shay!!
And come on down...the greenery is true to form...it's green...David and Becky also thought my backyard beautiful....and be aware that any child of Ramona and Paul Stylos are welcome at the home of Albert and Ann.
Albert
Albert
Monday, April 07, 2003 at 23:26:27 (PDT)
Nice pictures Al. Can't believe all the greenery and flowers. We're expecting snow tonight. Too bad we can't all make a trip to Louisianna.
Scott
Monday, April 07, 2003 at 15:23:34 (PDT)
I agree, beauty and intelligence - a wonderful combination.
Paula
Friday, April 04, 2003 at 15:00:03 (PST)
Mona...my pictures do not do her justice. She is one more beautiful daughter to add to my string of sweet beautiful daughters. Also and it's no. 1 on my list is....She is both beautiful and INTELLIGENT. How could she help not being so??;))
albert
Albert
Friday, April 04, 2003 at 12:08:29 (PST)
Thanks, Al! She's as beautiful as ever, isn't she?
mona
Friday, April 04, 2003 at 08:57:14 (PST)
I have posted pictures of Rebecca's visit to us last weekend.
They are located http://e9usn.us
Under FAMILY STUFF, select 29MAR03 and just click each picture to enlarge it....click the -> to move on to more pix.
Thanks Ramona...
Albert
Albert
Thursday, April 03, 2003 at 16:45:30 (PST)
Sorry I missed it, Pam!! Hope you had a great birthday. Let us know how things are going! Love ya...
mona
Thursday, April 03, 2003 at 12:05:15 (PST)
Happy Birthday, Pam. It seems like just a few years ago that we were celebrating your 14th birthday in Seattle. Hard to believe that you are almost twice as old now as you were then. I hope all your birthday dreams and wishes come true. §
Steve
Wednesday, April 02, 2003 at 10:17:58 (PST)
Happy Birthday, Pam. Hope you're enjoying school.
Ramona
Wednesday, April 02, 2003 at 10:17:25 (PST)
Well I'll be. Little Pammy is, what, 27 today? It doesn't seem possible. Pam, I hope you celebrate well today, and receive the love and adoration (and presents) that you so richly deserve. Happy Birthday! Love from your
Auntie Paula
Wednesday, April 02, 2003 at 03:23:57 (PST)
Paula,
Believe me, I extolled this site many times to Rebecca as we chatted. I told her that keeping up with the family Stylos was almost like reading a travelogue....and certainly beat Peyton Place, or maybe even Montvale Rd. for uninhibited actions of a family so close in spirit but physically separated by many miles....which, by the way, is no doubt what makes this message board such a success and a very warm place to which I am daily drawn.
albert
PS: I have commenced sending pictures of the past weekend to Mark. If you don't see them soon, complain to the webmaster;))
Albert
Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 22:44:04 (PST)
Welcome, Becky, to the action here at Stylos-Central. Now that you know how to find us . . . It sounds like all kinds of things are happening, and changing with the Kinnard family. That does keep life interesting, doesn't it? We may go over this week to open the cabin. The Brodhead folks would like to come for the weekend on the 10th. (Do they know how cold it could be?)
I'm happy that you have had, are having a good trip south!
Ramona
Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 05:47:37 (PST)
Brother Mark is the Webmaster, at webmaster@stylos.net. Becky-how wonderful to have you here. We keep trying to bring cousins in on our endless chatter, I mean intellectual discussions, so I am very glad you've joined the fun. Happy April Fools Day to us all!
Paula
Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 03:36:14 (PST)
So there you have it brothers and sisters...I did get Becky to write a few words, and if you read between the lines....we had a wonderful time. She is so sweet, but she still believes in taking her time writing or calling....so Ramona...Look for a call when the phone rings;))
David and I played...ummm David played golf today and I walked around chopping grass, digging divots, and retrieving errant balls....He shot a round of 80, my round was a bit shy of double that. But then he is a limber youngster, and well, I'm almost a great grandfather, thanks to a brand new grand daughter in Ohio;))
Greetings to all you wonderful sons and daughters of Ramona....seems like I know all of you so well now because I am a daily reader of this great idea of the distinguished webmaster. Now to whom do I email some pictures to make a posting in your photos section??
au revoir
albert
Albert Sharpton
Monday, March 31, 2003 at 19:22:47 (PST)
Hi everyone. Can you believe I am really here with Albert? This has been a great trip. We spent Saturday and Monday with Albert and Ann and we will see them some tomorrow before we leave. Who would have thought thi?
Ramona, I will give you a call later this week. We have things to talk about --- my trip here, Betsy's baby that is due in 6 weeks, and now Katey's engagement (as of last Wednesday night). I haven't seen or talked to her since she called with the news. What a whirlwind of a week!!
Love, Becky
Becky
Monday, March 31, 2003 at 18:21:57 (PST)
Yah...it would be great to hear from Becky, too!
mona
Monday, March 31, 2003 at 16:36:08 (PST)
So Al, this is Monday. I eagerly await the next report!
Paula
Monday, March 31, 2003 at 15:31:10 (PST)
Ho hum, another day, and me here at work...Ah well, at least the company's springing for lunch!
mona
Sunday, March 30, 2003 at 13:00:59 (PST)
Boring??
Al, you crack me up...
I join my brother and sister in tears of joy...I am so happy for Becky, and for you. Love, family - they are everything.
(((((family))))))
mona
Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 22:08:12 (PST)
I just love this fairy tale. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful news. I am so happy for you both.
Paula
Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 20:33:41 (PST)
I am sure that I speak for all of us, Al and Becky, when I say that we share your joy. §
Steve
Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 19:43:50 (PST)
Today was a glorious day on the Mississippi Gulf Coast when Rebecca and David arrived at the Master Grill in Ocean Springs, Mississippi to enjoy Brunch with her true father and her excited stepmother. In no time flat, everyone was at ease, and I thought we were never gonna get that huge breakfast eaten for the chatting!!!!
Eventually we did and we came on home with them in tow. From then on, after a decent interval when all four of us chatted, My daughter whom I had never laid eyes on before and I adjourned to my computer complex and spent the next 5 hours alone talking ....and we covered the spectrum. It was truly unbelievable and the good thing about it was that we found common ground in 99.99% of everything that was said. It was a true father/daughter talk, even though we had to blast our way through the haze of 53 years apart. This was a most unusual day, and I and Rebecca are the best for it. I am sure we bonded today and before she left a couple hours ago...she looked at me and told me this was one of the happiest days of her life. I shed lots of tears today. I will shed more Monday when they next come here.....I am so happy that we are together at last. The reason I am boring most of you wonderful people, is that this was all made possible by My Wonderful friends, Paul and Ramona Stylos, classmates at Berea College and still great friends forever. Thank you so much Ramona and Paul. You have given me a blessing and I will never forget this.
Albert ..........father of Rebecca Sharpton Kinnard.
Albert, father of Rebecca Sharp;ton
Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 19:38:19 (PST)
thank you all for my birthday.I love you all and hope you have a good year to.
Vanessa
Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 03:02:41 (PST)
I spent an interesting morning with Linda Moin, first cousin of David Moyne. She is a Bay Area attorney who was up here on a case. I went to court with her to act as local counsel. She was charming and gracious. In other words nothing like her cousin. (Just kidding David). She reports that David is in the financial industry in San Francisco and his father now lives in New York. See, it's not a small world, just a big neighborhood. §
Steve
Friday, March 28, 2003 at 13:29:35 (PST)
Aunt Ramona - Ashburn is a relatively new area which reminds me of Olney back when we moved there. Not much around yet, but growing like crazy. It is located just south of Leesburg and north of Reston. Yes, more girl power is definately needed in our family :)
Andrea
Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 14:42:31 (PST)
Welcome back to the east, Andrea and Vinnie. I looked in the atlas to find Ashburn but found only Ashland...I'm glad we're going to have a crop of little girls to balance the little boys. I'm sure all your family is glad you're going to be closer.
Ramona
Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 14:17:58 (PST)
Wow, Andrea! Spending the summer in Fairhaven sounds fantastic!
mona
Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 09:15:55 (PST)
Well, it's official. We are moving back to the east
coast. Vinnie and I sold our house here and purchased one this weekend in Ashburn, VA. We are excited to move back, but at the same time will miss Colorado terribly. Our new house wont be ready until September, so the girls and I will be spending the summer in Fairhaven. I hope to see most of you then!
Andrea
Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 14:50:49 (PST)
It was entirely our pleasure and privilege.
Paula
Monday, March 24, 2003 at 15:08:31 (PST)
This is to announce that the World Traveler has arrived back home, by the same means in which he departed, but this time with his belongings! He seems to be fine and (I think) glad to be home amid all the spring flowers and flowering trees. Thanks, all of you, for taking good care of him.
Ramona
Monday, March 24, 2003 at 13:08:14 (PST)
A real rush of memories and nostalgia, hanging around the old house. With one half of the family there, as Athena pointed out. Standing in some places it felt like the same house, like in the 1st and 2nd floor hallways. And my old 3rd floor bedroom. The rooms in the back of the house of course are all new. The back yard is very different - so small and level.
After the open house we drove back to Noho and put Dad on the bus at 4:10 PM to arrive in Hendersonville NC at about 3 PM today. If anyone ever has to buy a bus ticket to go there make sure you specify Hendersonville NC and not Henderson NC. Twice they nearly screwed up on that. Dad was looking great - perhaps a little anxious to get home after 7 weeks on the road. Probably we won't have to wait too long to see Dad again up here, since he will need to come back to pick up the car he bought from Alex.
Spring is finally here - complete with crocuses poking up and people walking around in tee shirts. Sure feels good!
Scott
Monday, March 24, 2003 at 06:04:16 (PST)
Good!! Got rid of those bushes where the bees lived at last, eh? Thanks, Paula...I look forward to hearing more!
Though certainly the thing that really made the place magic was all of you...all the family and friends who populated the place. And of course, it is the first place I laid eyes on David Pingree!
mona
Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 17:33:39 (PST)
Yes, I will send you a brochure as well. The sunroom is there, though now it is a breakfast nook, and the floor is wood. As I said, so many changes. The doors/windowns in that room are the same though, but all the trees/shrubs around it are gone.
Paula
Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 17:09:28 (PST)
Very detailed brochure? Is it something you can copy and send to me as well?
Is the sun porch with the stone floor still there?
mona
Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 16:25:57 (PST)
WOW. A very amazing trip to Montvale Road. For those of you looking at the virtual tour, the kitchen and family room are part of the addition, as is the master bedroom and bath, so do not try to imagine them (except to say that the family room is exactly where the patio was, and the master bedroom on top of it). Lots of changes, but we had a great time, meeting up with Rhoda Davidson and Lisa. I took many photos, as did Athena and Scott, but alas my video camera decided not to work when we got there, despite all my best efforts. We plan a slide show this summer in NC, before and after. Mark, I have the very detailed brochure for you which I will mail tomorrow. What memories. The Brocks were wonderfully gracious, for which we are most appreciative.
Paula
Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 15:58:59 (PST)
WELL?
mona
Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 14:42:57 (PST)
Yes, lovely spring weather here as well. I await the arrival of Athena, Amy, Scott and Dad who will be joining me for the Montvale Road trip down memory lane. More to follow.
Paula
Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 05:23:34 (PST)
It looks like spring sprung without nary a peep from the Stylos clan. It felt like spring around here today - some sun, some rain, some clouds, some wind. It's been a quiet weekend. We're just sitting around waiting for the Montvale update. Hope all are doing well and enjoying the transition of the seasons...§
Steve
Saturday, March 22, 2003 at 20:20:48 (PST)
Great Scott! (notice the lack of a comma). Do come join us, it will make it all the more fun.
Paula
Friday, March 21, 2003 at 03:17:27 (PST)
Dad just got back here to Northampton. He brought Jeff and all his earthly posessions to Pittsburgh PA, where Jeff will go to Grad school at Carnegie Mellon, in the computer science dept. Dad is interested in seeing Montvale Rd. this weekend, along with Paula and Athena. Maybe I'll go too. Part of me doesn't want to see all the changes there, but it sounds like it might be a fun weekend trip.
Scott
Thursday, March 20, 2003 at 20:13:39 (PST)
Peace and love. ((Paula))
I sat on the ferry dock and then the boat ride home listening to the news....thinking of all my loved ones...and, I'll confess, praying.
mona
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 20:21:21 (PST)
Peace to us all.
Paula
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 18:56:12 (PST)
My room is actually between the second and third floor with some amazing old things in it, mostly very old (and very cool) toys.
Paula
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 15:15:55 (PST)
My secret room is an annex of the Trunk Room - filled with things like old rocking horses. And breaks in the plaster lathe where you can look down into the rest of the house...
Did you know it was originally built for a Doctor who saw patients there? Don't remember how I know that...
mona
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 14:40:12 (PST)
You guys aren't dreaming about that secret room between the kitchen and the downstairs bathroom, are you?
The Ghost of Montvale Road
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 13:38:51 (PST)
I do not know what it means, Mom, but I have the same dream (though at times it is a hidden attic). Athena, want to go with me? Scott is cosidering it...
Paula
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 13:32:48 (PST)
In my dreams about Montvale I am usually finding a room I didn't know was there, like a ball-room with a piano. Anybody want to try and interpret that?
Ramona
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 11:58:08 (PST)
ah magical montvale memories ... me i still have many dreams of going there, and people who currently live there saying why are you and your family always hanging around (in a friendly way) ... it will be a blast to go hang around in person ... all is well and sunny in northampton today
athena
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at 07:42:14 (PST)
Oh, and at long last I heard from Melinda, climbing the hills of Ireland. She will be heading home this Sunday.
Paula
Tuesday, March 18, 2003 at 18:05:24 (PST)
For those wondering, Mark Allan is home recovering from his knee surgery. All went well, except he sure does not like being slowed down like this. The pain medication sure makes him happy, though.
Paula
Tuesday, March 18, 2003 at 18:04:38 (PST)
60 Montvale was a magical place Mona! I remember playing flashlight tag in the front yard. We also played a tag and hid from the cars headlights in the front yard at night-I know there was a name for it but it has slipped my mind. It was fun climbing the stairs in the front hall and coming down the ones in the kitchen. It was a great house and always a fun place to visit after I walked over climbing the huge hills on my journey there!
Kim
Tuesday, March 18, 2003 at 13:51:45 (PST)
OK - I guess I'll have to rescue myself from the Top Spot.
((((((family and friends everywhere))))) May we all stay safe.
mona
Tuesday, March 18, 2003 at 13:38:52 (PST)
I have such deep feelings about 60 Montvale...
Best wishes to the new owners.
I did some research at the Newton Room of the old main branch of the Newton Public Library when I was in High School, and there are some great maps of how Montvale Rd was developed - ours was the 2nd or 3rd house on the street, after the Greenbergers...
But for me, the old house, as it was, before we made changes was....perfect. And magical. And the old pudding stone rock out back that was struck by lightening and the tree that grew out of the crack that was made...and sitting up on top, looking out onto the Cohen's and thinking about life, and the time Betsy Matthews and me ran away back there, and the playhouse the boys built in the back that got burned down, and the McSweeney's hammock and the time I was sitting on top of the rock and saw a tree fall behind the Silberstein's, and the patio that Dad built with the bricks that we drove into Boston and recovered from some building that had been torn down, that we flooded for ice skating in the winter, and the time me and Mark got swarmed on by bees, and Jerry shooting his B.B. gun into the BBQ area we made, and the swing set that the Ingbar's gave us, and the way the house was built with a heart....with the staircase winding around the central core that was home to so many celebrations and Open Houses and happy times (like the Donegians dropping balloons down on that New Years Eve. And when I finally moved up to the 3rd floor and found the floorboards that came up in the closet of my room with some interesting, er, reading material hidden there!! And on Athena's 4th birthday when we knocked down the walls, and putting up wallpaper with Dad, and the Cleveland Indian's sticker on the leaded glass window of mom and dad's bedroom, and the mistletoe in the front hall, and all the old treasures (Mom's wedding dress, and the diamond necklace that Mama Layne had given her that had been lost, and that I found in that hall seat....
it will just live on in my heart the way it was: in fact, I've done plans for the original house and may someday find my way to building a replica, who knows?
Sorry for the sentimental rant. Stress level is high right now for me, and I'm just looking forward to this next week being past me...Love you all.
mona
Sunday, March 16, 2003 at 23:58:15 (PST)
Athena, it's nice to see someone welcoming the new decade instead of bemoaning it! My wish for you is that you continue to have such a joyful spirit!
Birthday Girl's Mama
Tuesday, March 04, 2003 at 03:52:10 (PST)
Happy birthday, my baby sister. Life, headquartered in you. I love the image. And I love you.
Paula
Tuesday, March 04, 2003 at 03:44:58 (PST)
May there always be life and may it always be head quartered in Atheen. You have always been so good for me and I wish the very best for you. At least a happy birthday. patera sou.
paul
Tuesday, March 04, 2003 at 01:02:13 (PST)
Happiests to Athena. Don't forget the parade pictures, and be carefull passing the floats between rooms!
Mark
Tuesday, March 04, 2003 at 00:45:53 (PST)
Happy Birthday, Athenakimoo! The big Four Oh! Welcome to this side of the hill. A nice quiet evening seems appropriate for someone as ancient as you. I'm sure Amy is taking good care of you. Have a great birthday and a great next forty years. §
Steve
Monday, March 03, 2003 at 23:03:07 (PST)
nice tidbit there mona ... no show i'd rather be connected with (although the daily show is getting up there) ... i loved my party thanks to all who came in spirit or body and am looking forward to a quiet birthday with just a little school and no "work" , although amy and i might have a little birthday/mardi gras parade around the house, drunken and in outlandish costumes
athena
Monday, March 03, 2003 at 22:49:20 (PST)
Happy almost birthday, Athena! (Did you know that "Tina Fey" from Saturday Night Live is really named Athena??)
Happy 03/03/03 to the rest of you!
mona
Monday, March 03, 2003 at 12:00:12 (PST)
glad to hear everyone is home or at least in france, dad. still cold here. more snow tomorrow?
athena
Friday, February 28, 2003 at 19:08:36 (PST)
D'oh!
mona
Friday, February 28, 2003 at 13:54:39 (PST)
Thanks, Steve, for mentioning that there were more pictures of Greece to see. I, for one, hadn't noticed the arrows.Now I have a much better idea of what you were all doing.
Ramona
Friday, February 28, 2003 at 09:25:46 (PST)
Back in the Saddle in Seattle. It's chilly and rainy today. I'm at home waiting for the cable guy. I wanted to make sure everyone knew that there were 38 pictures of Greece posted on the website, not just the six that show up first. To see them all, you need to click on the navigational arrows at the top of the page. Things haven't changed much around here. Just more work and less time. §
Steve
Friday, February 28, 2003 at 09:15:38 (PST)
Welcome home, everyone except Dad. Yes, there is no place like home...except with your family. Time to plan some family visits, I think. I miss you all in this never ending winter.
Paula
Friday, February 28, 2003 at 03:53:28 (PST)
And here I am in Brevard. What did travelers do before they could keep in touch through the marvels of cyberspace? I had a wonderful 10 days in Tequesta Florida with our friend Jill. I almost lost the little gold knife that I always carry. On the way down I forgot about it and security found it. But they let me leave it with an agent and pick it up on the way back. I bet I don't make that mistake again! It's always good to get home, even when you've been having fun.
Ramona
Thursday, February 27, 2003 at 16:51:26 (PST)
Here I am at Mark's place. Things are still working out. Train ride was 8 hours and the country side reminded me of what it looked like 58 years ago when I last saw it. That is about the only thing that has not changed a lot. That is it for now you'all be good. panos
paul
Thursday, February 27, 2003 at 09:58:18 (PST)
I hope you last that long too, dad. I hope we all do...
I'm still trying to put together plans for a summer visit, but I can't quite figure out how to make it work, yet.
Paul had a minor snowboard accident last weekend, and his leg is out of commision for a while - just in time for the start of the baseball season, wouldncha know? But nothing is broken - Doctor says he has extremely strong bones. Good old milk!
Beautiful day here in Sunny Seattle. How is it where you are?
mona
Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 14:42:08 (PST)
althouth the outcome is not what I would have liked I am glad it is all over. I guess I will have to find another way to get a car, or I may just get the gio fixed. It really was a good trip and it seems whoever we bring here (thessaloniki) I am glad it goes as good as it does. not too many more to go. I hope I last that long. So long you all and I will see you soon. panos.
paul
Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 12:21:49 (PST)
Glad to get your message and know that father and son aren't wandering around the continent looking for each other. It's good to be able to keep up with your progress on the web-site; of course I check it every day.
I am trying to get myself prepared for leaving this tropical paradise and going back to Brevard, where icy roads and cold temperatures are predicted for Thursday. It has been a great vacation.
Ramona
Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 08:53:48 (PST)
Found him! We went to all the offices we needed to, and are now free to enjoy the rest of our stay here. We both leave Thursday morning for Antibes, Paul by train, and me by car ro Amsterdam, and then plane to Nice. That's all for now.
Mark
Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 05:46:25 (PST)
Ana and I made it home early and tired. I'm about to take a nap. All in all a wonderful trip. Mark, I got a call from Dad. He is in Brussels and checked into a hotel. His number for you and Sophie don't seem to work, he says. He is going to call me later for your number, I'll give him your cell phone. That's it for me for now. I'll be snoozing shortly. §
Steve
Monday, February 24, 2003 at 14:26:27 (PST)
Papa, where you are?
Mark
Monday, February 24, 2003 at 13:38:00 (PST)
I am HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAYAYAYAYAY!!!!
Ana
Monday, February 24, 2003 at 13:22:45 (PST)
The trip to Thessaloniki was great, the relatives are unbelievably hospitable. We are now in Amsterdam awaiting our flight to Seattle. The others are not far behind. All in all a wonderful trip, in spite of the fact that it was SNOWING when we left Athens this morning. More later...§
Steve
Monday, February 24, 2003 at 00:49:40 (PST)
Yes, another great party Athena. The tradition lives on.
And it's nice to hear from the travellers - and up-to-date photos too! The next best thing to being there. Do give my regards to the Thesaloniki cousins - and from Joey too. We really appreciated the generous hospitality they showed us last year. Safe travels!
Scott
Sunday, February 23, 2003 at 18:03:21 (PST)
Athena had yet another wonderful birthday party. She was beautifully costumed (as always), and appropriately was the life of the party. Her friends George and Carolyn, the home owners, were very gracious. The food was delicious, and "drinks were served as usual, and the usual crowd was there". Thanks Athena, but now that I think of it, are you soon to be 40? That must make me, what, almost 30? Many happy returns. Love,
Paula
Sunday, February 23, 2003 at 07:29:34 (PST)
Hey Stazie, if you remember and/or get the chance, would you please bring home some postage stamps from Greece because your cousin is a collector. BTW, I loved hearing from you this morning and seeing your (alls) pictures on the web. Please tell uncle Mark thank you. See ya soon!
LS
Saturday, February 22, 2003 at 16:30:09 (PST)
Cool! I especially love the expression on Ana's face, at the Market! Sounds like the highlight is yet to come: visiting the folks in Thessaloniki!
mona
Saturday, February 22, 2003 at 12:14:08 (PST)
Thanks to Webmarkster you can now See the Pictures of our trip to Greece, which is still in progress. We leave Crete in the morning for a few days in Thessaloniki, then we all head east for various locations. §
Steve
Friday, February 21, 2003 at 13:38:51 (PST)
Florida is still very enjoyable. It rains at night and is sunny in the daytime.
To the Greek travelers, be sure to find some good Greek music and dancing to hear and see, say, at the Plaka.
Ramona
Friday, February 21, 2003 at 07:37:55 (PST)
And Mom, thank you so much for my presents. Now I really will be moving and shaking. So how is beautiful WARM AND SUNNY Florida? Next year for sure.
Paula
Friday, February 21, 2003 at 04:23:56 (PST)
So, has the sun come out in Crete? How are you all doing, separately and together? What have been the highlights so far? Are some of you taking pictures? Wish I was there. Can't wait to hear the details.
Paula
Friday, February 21, 2003 at 04:16:51 (PST)
Things are fine here, 'cept I'm missing my Sophie! Then again, I have been for years...
Mark
Thursday, February 20, 2003 at 12:59:24 (PST)
well it sure sounds like everyone is having great adventures this february. Me i'm throwing myself a fortieth birthday party amid thirty whatever inches of snow on the ground (the party's early -- the twenty second of february but my actual birthday is on mardi gras which will be doubly fun. Make room for me among the middle-aged, brothers and sisters, because here i come. Greek Wanderers: have a great time in thessoloniki and give my very best to the lovely andromaki and giota and of course yianni (sp.s?) i'm sure they will make you feel as welcomed and honoured as they did us. Hooray for the good travelling group! I hope you get some sunshine ... not like it was in ninety-eight, huh dad with the 120 degree heat? I'm sure you'll manage to have fun anyway ... naki it's aways good to see your postings and opinions. I think about you guys just about every day. So why don't i come visit? this and other mysteries i hope to unravel soon. As soon as i finish my engineering homework. Which should be in may. Love to all, near and far, whether snowed in or eating delicious greek food (ana and gillian -- that was good advice about trying new things that your mamma gave you, my best memories of greece are culinary ones (well besides the relatives)(actually the spread that maki had prepared for us is perhaps the fondest memory of all). Of course, when i was twelve it was more the baklava and the fresh lemonade that appealed to me. So enjoy whatever you like best and have a great time with my good dad!
athena
Thursday, February 20, 2003 at 10:18:10 (PST)
Good to hear from all of you! New England, Seattle, Crete! I'm enjoying being lazy and feeling pampered here in Florida. Love that fresh orange juice! I wish for all of you the same thing: more sunshine and warm weather. I hope you're taking pictures, Steve. I'm still waiting to see some of India. (Hear that Mark Allan and Melinda?) Paula, I hope your 0gre-boss is giving you a day off for being the essential one yesterday. Love to all of you who read this.
Ramona
Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 08:03:29 (PST)
Sounds like quite some storm we missed on the east coast. The weather here is, well, Seattle-esque. No, it does not make us miss home. Yesterday we took a drive to the south part of the island just for some sun. Well, the male part of our group did. The female part all went to the health club with our friend/hostess/landlady. The food and the people here are great. So far we have had rabbit, goat and some unmentionable things.
Crete boasts having 320 sunny days per year. So far we haven't seen them. Our trip is now at the halfway point. We do have internet in the villa, so keep that email coming....§
Steve
Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 23:43:50 (PST)
(((HI GIRLS))) So Ana, have you tried any of the Greek food? Let me know if you have a new favorite dish and I’ll make if for you. KISSES
So Jillian, how much fun are you having traveling with the STAZ? Hopefully you two are forming lots of positive memories to look back on for years to come. Ana said the part of the trip she was most looking forward to was spending time with you! HUGS
LS
Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 14:44:49 (PST)
Mark Darling….Ana informed me that you weren’t traveling to Greece this year; sorry I didn’t know ---but I do miss Vanessa (okay, it would be nice to see you too). Keep your brother out or trouble!
LS
Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 14:42:30 (PST)
Thanks for the words of encouragement, Kim. I only have another hour here anyway. I am SURE you will find a way to send $ to your daughter. Spending money (even on such worthy things as our children) is so much easier than earning it. And Mom, to set the record straight, it was not ME who decided I was essential, it was our friend Mitt.
Paula
Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 12:54:14 (PST)
Well, Paula while the essential state employees are working-I have been learning how to wire money to Jessica and figure out a way for her to call home from Italy since ATT calling card is not working for her! The travel agency said ekit should work out of Australia, all I can say is Wow! It has been a learning experience for me! Anyway relax at work, we are due for a few more inches of snow this afternoon:) !! Happy Blizzard!
kim
Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 11:18:15 (PST)
Hello to all you friends and relatives, wherever you are. 27 inches of snow! Wow! Shades of 1978 or whenever that was. so Paula, why did you feel that you were so essential? I am hear in Jupiter, Florida and I'll be kind and not tell you about the weather; just that we've been out walking along the river and under the palm trees and banyan trees.
I got here 2 hours late because they had to find a new plane for us in Atlanta, but dear Jill was waiting for me and of course we stayed up and talked way past our bedtime.
I depend on this board to keep up with my family, close and extended, so let's keep it current.
Ramona
Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 10:55:40 (PST)
Boy are you travelers missing a fun blizzard here in Boston. Over 27 inches of snow in the last 24 hours. Our fearless Governor decided only essential state employees had to work today! And then decided I was essential. Sure is quiet here...
Paula
Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 09:14:29 (PST)
Congratulations to Kim Rose she is made the Deans List. Love to you Kim Keep up the good work.
Another bit of good news is that Peter Watts is doing very well, he was home for the weekend. Has started to talk in sentences and move much more freely. He is in a wheel chair...quite an advance. Rona never gave up when most of us thought this would never happen......Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Monday, February 17, 2003 at 20:30:38 (PST)
Whatta bout me? I miss you too, LS! Things are inCretable here in Crete. I let Steve, Paul, Ana and Jillian tell the rest.
Mark
Monday, February 17, 2003 at 14:19:43 (PST)
I am leaving within the hour for the airport to fly to Florida for 10 days. I am not trying to make anybody envious, but I'm really anticipating some warm sunshine! Courage to you northerners; spring will come, it always has.
We must keep meeting like this.
Ramona
Monday, February 17, 2003 at 09:38:56 (PST)
I am saying a prayer for all of our travelers overseas. Jessica is in Italy with her school until the 23rd. I know everyone is having a wonderful time, but I pray for a safe trip. Thanks to the computer I was able to track her plane as it flew to Italy.
Happy Nor'easter to us in New England. Happy February birthdays, Pam Kepner and Jenn Straley...and to all!
Kim
Monday, February 17, 2003 at 07:58:15 (PST)
If I were with you in Greece I would carry an American Flag every where I went.
If it wasn't for America Greece would have been lost to the Communists. How soon they forgot.
Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Monday, February 17, 2003 at 07:50:18 (PST)
Hello again from Crete. We will have internet in the villa by this evening. We may be able to post pictures at that time, it depends how slow the connection is. We are having a good time so far, even though it has been cloudy and rainy. The villa is great, very luxurious. We are going out to dinner with the owners tonight. The food is good and cheap. We have a good group here, no complainers. We'll be here until Friday night, then to Athens for night, Thessaloniki for two and back to the states on Monday. I'll email our phone numbers. Mark's cell phone works most of the time. §
Steve, Ana & Jillian
Monday, February 17, 2003 at 03:11:40 (PST)
Yikes, I’m sorry to hear about your tooth….Gee Mona, you must have been hungry! Ana’s message greets me everyday, tell Paul and Betsy that I said, “Thank You.” Stazie also built a web site on Wednesday, all about the SIMS, I was so proud.
I suppose Steve and the girls may not be able to post pictures and send e-mail so I’ll have to post greetings here…((Hi)) Jillian, ((Hi)) Ana ((Hi)) Steve, ((HI)) Paul. I hope you are having a wonder time and eating lots of good food (Ana don’t be afraid, try some). Travel tip no. 1: consider keeping a travel diary. Travel tip no. 2: Don’t kiss any Greek boys (except your dad and Grandpa). Travel tip no. 3: enjoy your trip, school starts on Monday:( Hugs and Kisses
mamaLeigh
Sunday, February 16, 2003 at 09:51:18 (PST)
Hiya Leigh!
Paul and Betsy taught Ana that trick!
Yesterday I broke a tooth and the oven door. And things were going so well up till then! Ah well, it's always something...
mona
Sunday, February 16, 2003 at 09:20:36 (PST)
I’m happy to hear that everyone has made it safely to Greece. Steve, what did your mom mean when she credited you for staying on time? (You were just lucky --you had Ana to keep you on track.)
We’ll it doesn’t look like you’ve figured out how to send e-mail from the villa yet but I’m anxious to hear ALL. Thursday afternoon when I arrived home, I was greeted by a sweet message flashing on my computer’s monitor; before she left, Ana took the time create a personalized wallpaper that said,
“I miss you mamma!” We’ll with Jillian and Ana by your sides, you guys are sure to have a wonderful time in Greece! Post Pictures soon.
LS
Saturday, February 15, 2003 at 21:01:10 (PST)
Yes, I was was happy, too, to hear that you all managed to pull it off and meet up at the appointed time and place! Good planning and arranging, Steve, and good staying on time, the rest of you. I trust you are not waving flags or doing any such thing that might dampen the welcome from the people of Crete. Enjoy, and write when you can.
Ramona
Saturday, February 15, 2003 at 10:06:51 (PST)
Great to hear, and amazing that your closely timed connections all worked out. Tell us about Crete, the Villa, and the lovely sounding mild weather. Still in the negative numbers here.
Paula
Saturday, February 15, 2003 at 05:47:15 (PST)
Hello from Crete. We all found one another at the Athens airport and have now been safely tucked away into our villa and rental car in Crete. It's partly cloudy and mild, and we had to wind our way through the various anti-war protests to find a working internet cafe. We're all a bit tired, but looking forward to the rest of the trip. We haven't figured out how to access the internet from the villa yet, but that is the next task. Hope all is well with all. More later. §
Wandering Greeks
Saturday, February 15, 2003 at 02:02:20 (PST)
I'm anxiously awaiting the next posting. Thanks, Steve for the last one.
Ramona
Friday, February 14, 2003 at 12:54:31 (PST)
Dad and Mark are on their way to the airport. It is negative 7 degree here in Acton. What am I doing here?
Paula
Friday, February 14, 2003 at 02:36:46 (PST)
Well, the first leg of our trip went without a hitch, in spite of the fact that the plane left at 1:05, not 1:30 as I thought. (And Ana wouldn't allow us to be bumped, in spite of the fact that we had the opportunity.) We are in Amsterdam waiting for the connection to Athens. Should be there in about four hours. We'll keep you posted...§
Steve & Ana
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 23:48:21 (PST)
Almost ready. For those feeling a need to connect, I will have my telephone with me in Greece.
Mark
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 12:04:18 (PST)
Nice to see some action on the message board. We are in the final stages of packing and we'll be in the air headed northeast in just a few hours. Dad and Mark, we'll meet you at the airport in Athens, where you exit customs. If we get disoriented, we can use this board to hook up. And of course we will check the 'meeting place' assuming that they have one like in most European airports. Everything is all set except for the rental car to go from Athens to Thessaloniki. We can deal with that there. It's not really zero degrees in Boston is it? Nice day to head south....§
Steve & Ana
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 10:08:31 (PST)
Dang!!! Taken in by a jealous sibling!!! Hook, line, and sinker. But it is rewarding to know that it was not a true feeling, and that all is well on the frozen trails of the North....Good luck on your next trail, Melissa.
albert
Albert Sharpton
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 09:48:45 (PST)
I just called them in Greece to tell then of our iminent visit there. It is such a pleasure to talk to Andremaki she always makes me feel so warm and welcomed. The only trouble is that she insists that there will be room for the five of us and I will leave it up to diplomatic steve to have them feel comfortable if some of us stay at a hotel. She sounded so nice it made me wish I was already there.More as time goes by
paul
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 09:44:41 (PST)
Just promise me something: if and when I fail miserably, promise me that it will not be announced to the world on this page. But then again, why not? Congratulations Melissa. I always knew you were fast...keep us updated! And boy do I wish I was going to Greece. And that my garage was clean.
Paula
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 09:31:56 (PST)
Yay Melissa! Not surprised but always proud!!
And I did get a chuckle out of the "Melissa's Disappointed Family" post! We are warped, are we not?!
And I was just thinking about you, Al - hoping one day to catch up on corespondence. Glad to know you're still reading here, and I hope you'll chime in with news or ramblings of your own from time to time. Leave it to you to come through with words of inspiration and encouragement!
I took the day off work today: it's our 21st anniversary, and I'm going to try to give David what he's always wanted ~~ a clean garage! Well....it will be cleaner anyway. Work has surprisingly taken a turn for the better, and I'm going to use the increased energy for good (i.e. cleaning).
Betsy is working mucking out stalls at the place she takes riding lessons. Paul has taken over my old Yamaha, and plays Day Tripper and Stairway To Heaven, with great vigor and strength and frequency! Miranda gave up her longtime job at the clothing store, and is now working in an Orthodontist office nearby.
And David, well, he's just getting better with age - handsome, witty, kind...what more could a gal ask for?
Bon Voyage to the Travelling Kin!
mona
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 08:39:21 (PST)
Thanks for your encouraging words Albert. As some of you probably suspected, Melissa didn't really fail miserably - some of us (JSS) just have a strange sense of humor. Melissa accomplished her goal - of being in the top 10 girls in the state. One more race to go - in Vermont starting Feb 28. Watch for more news - unless she fails miserably.
Is everyone getting excited about the upcoming trip to Greece? I am - and I'm not even going.
Scott
Thursday, February 13, 2003 at 07:20:53 (PST)
I am a daily reader of your message board and usually just read...but just now I read a message that said Melissa failed miserably in the Mass Cross Country skiing. I look at it this way.....She did not fail miserably...no she didn't win but look at it this way.....she tried valiantly and she is still AHEAD of thousands of kids who never tried. That should tell you something.....and you should treat and think of her as the champion she is.
I salute you, Melissa.
Albert....brother in law to Ramona and Paul
Albert Sharpton
Wednesday, February 12, 2003 at 23:03:02 (PST)
We stood outside in the frigid cold and watched Melissa ski in the Massachusetts high school cross-country championship.
She came in last and was a miserably failure.
We shan't speak of it again.
Melissa's disappointed family
Wednesday, February 12, 2003 at 17:33:30 (PST)
Where is everyone? Dad and Athena and I are cooking a delicious supper. Wish you all were here to share it with us.
Paula
Wednesday, February 12, 2003 at 15:23:55 (PST)
Happy to report that Dad has his luggage in his hands, including the Passport and plane ticket. Whew!
Paula
Monday, February 10, 2003 at 11:44:07 (PST)
yay for grey hound! (peter pan?)
athena
Sunday, February 09, 2003 at 17:36:54 (PST)
And should arrive in Worcester by 9 tomorrow morning.
Paula
Sunday, February 09, 2003 at 13:49:53 (PST)
Hurray! The luggage is found!
Paula
Sunday, February 09, 2003 at 10:42:02 (PST)
Well, let us just say that we can no longer safely get out of the driveway with the 10' city-made snowbanks on either side.
Paula
Saturday, February 08, 2003 at 10:52:32 (PST)
So just how much snow was there in Acton? §
Steve
Saturday, February 08, 2003 at 10:34:45 (PST)
Snow.
Paula
Saturday, February 08, 2003 at 07:08:56 (PST)
You said it, Kim.
mona
Friday, February 07, 2003 at 21:36:33 (PST)
Yes, it is a winter wonderland finally on the southshore of Massachusetts! 15" of white fluffy snow. It is beautiful! It is hard to believe that it is the anniversary of the blizzard of 78. I was the fortunate person that had to go to school today to teach;while the neighboring towns slept in.
Hopefully the beauty of the snow will keep our country safe and prevent us from going to war. I pray that we will be able to work out our differences as a nation without going to war. Enough is enough!
Kim
Friday, February 07, 2003 at 19:22:54 (PST)
Aforementioned Dad is now on the Greyhound bus headed your way, Scott. But then so is another winter storm, if I read the weather predictions right. We got 5 or 6 inches of snow late yesterday, enough to call off schools today, but the temperature is up so it will turn into water soon. I will be watching the message board and/or the email for word that intrpid traveler has reached the first stop on the way to the "old country."
Ramona
Friday, February 07, 2003 at 07:54:07 (PST)
Sitting here at work watching the snow fall outside my window. Was hoping to go up to Brattleboro this evening for the Gallery Walk, but will have to see how the driving looks. A trip to Greece sure sounds nice right about now! Could go to Philippe and go skiing. Looking forward to seeing Dad this weekend.
Scott
Friday, February 07, 2003 at 07:31:25 (PST)
ha ha pig pile on myself what a luxury to be doubly at the top --> since i am taking a class at smith i am around computers more. The big small news from here is that we have spider mums that we bought for our new year's party is still holding up! five weeks , not bad for cut flowers ...thoughts of spring to all!
athena
Wednesday, February 05, 2003 at 15:06:30 (PST)
ha ha pig pile on myself what a luxury to be doubly at the top --> since i am taking a class at smith i am around computers more. The big small news from here is that we have spider mums that we bought for our new year's party is still holding up! five weeks , not bad for cut flowers ...thoughts of spring to all!
athena
Wednesday, February 05, 2003 at 15:06:11 (PST)
well, it's raining in northampton, too. Looks like we'll all have to vicariously go to greece with steve and ana and dad and mark. Hope you guys have a great time. I think that is so so true what kim said about that party at bill and ginnys. I wasn't even there at the one i think she's talking about, but i'm real glad it happened anyway. sometimes you never know how important something like that is going to turn out to be. I am thinking today as on many days of naki and lee and kathy, and wishing you all well.
athena
Tuesday, February 04, 2003 at 09:55:06 (PST)
Well, Paula, It is raining here! :) It is also very, very, windy. Send some snow this way please!
Kim
Sunday, February 02, 2003 at 17:04:29 (PST)
Hey, guess what it is doing here in Acton. Snowing! Hurray!
Paula
Sunday, February 02, 2003 at 10:13:27 (PST)
Pffff! There went January. Was that the fastest month ever or what? February will go quickly, too, I'm sure. One because it is a short month, and two because I'll be doing fun things. Tomorrow Tim, Ana and I are going skiing. It's Ana's second time and my first time since she has been alive. Hope the hip holds out. The two weeks from yesterday, we head to Greece. Brother Mark Webmaster will be joining us. We have finalized our plans (almost). Looks like seven days/nights in a villa in Crete and two days/nights in Thessolaniki. I think we'll do Crete first. I'm starting to get excited. I'm sure that the Cretan winter will feel balmy compared the the cold winter most of us have been having. Otherwise not much new here. Ana has been playing the violin. Went to her first concert last night and they sounded surprisingly good. We were all proud of her and she was happy with herself. We'll send pictures from Crete. I'm bringing a digital camera and my Webmaster, so prospects are at least hopeful. My love to all in Stylosville.....§
Steve
Friday, January 31, 2003 at 16:23:33 (PST)
Well, Mona when you come back East you will have to stop by Taunton too. It would be great to see you, just let me know when.
I was thinking the other day that the party at Ginny and Bills' house was a special time because everyone was together. These treasurable moments do so much for one's soul and there are not enough of them either.
Leo I am glad that you are home and hoping that you are feeling stronger all the time.
It is hard to believe that Ground Hog Day is this Sunday. Will we see he shadow?
Kim
Wednesday, January 29, 2003 at 15:47:58 (PST)
(((((Naki)))))
I'm planning on making a trip back east this summer, and I'm looking forward to being able to give and get some real life hugs from you...
mona
Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 18:20:15 (PST)
Thanks to all for thinking of Peter on what would have been his 34th birthday. We still find it hard to believe that he is not with us.
I have such anger, and I will not have one bit of healing until Osama Bin Laden and his bands of idiots are caught.
I don't want them put to death. I want them to be put in a cell and have to eat pork for every meal.
This to happen is only a wish, besides, ACLU would be right there yelling "cruel and inhuman treatment". Love to you all, Be safe, Naki
hansonnaki@msn.com
Monday, January 27, 2003 at 08:50:23 (PST)
To answer your question Mona, Leo is fine and resting at Carl and Becky's house. He will be there for a few weeks. Happy Birthday today to Sophie Redmond, too. She's two! I didn't know she shared a birthday with Alexandra Barrere :)
Andrea
Monday, January 27, 2003 at 08:02:34 (PST)
Welcome Home, Wayward Travelers! Hope your journey was a memorable one. I've been on the computer today looking for rental cars and hotels in Greece. Any suggestions? Otherwise, Ana and I are sitting around enjoying the rain. Tim comes back from Boston on Monday. Imagine that CJ, still a stripper at 45! §
Steve
Saturday, January 25, 2003 at 18:41:55 (PST)
They are home! Exhausted and road weary, but safely home. Watch for a more thorough report tomorrow...and by the way, are you enjoying this relative heat wave as much as I am?
Paula
Saturday, January 25, 2003 at 16:40:18 (PST)
Athena - make sure you give CJ some belated birthday spankings for me!
mona
Saturday, January 25, 2003 at 07:42:34 (PST)
i am also wishing for peace and good health on and around these birthdays. i'm glad pete is in the good comany of martin luther king junior and other fine capricorn/aquarians. cj had her forty fifth on wednesday. i/m practically an aquarian too this year because i am having my party early, on th twenty second (move over george) of february. hope everyone is warm and well.
athena
Saturday, January 25, 2003 at 07:07:47 (PST)
Hmmmmm. I guess not. Still hoping/praying for the best for my old friend. Well, you know, not old old, ...
Also remembering Pete Hanson's birthday today, and sending out extra special warm thoughts and hugs to Naki and Lee and Kathy. Wishing the passing of days will bring you some peace and comfort, though I know a day like today must be hardest of all.
mona
Friday, January 24, 2003 at 20:17:57 (PST)
Any news on Leo's condition?
mona
Wednesday, January 22, 2003 at 13:38:30 (PST)
happy birthday
Mohammed Chaibi
Monday, January 20, 2003 at 16:03:26 (PST)
12 weeks, huh? Think I'll try that, too. I'll have to think about the recipes....I'll email you for more details on what you're doing, there.
Lovely day in the lowlands today: in the 50's and sunny. Though the poor kids were stuck with foggy conditions in the mountain for their snowboard lessons. Me and David are sitting cozy by the fire, and I'm about to turn off the computer for the day (much to his delight!). Stay safe and warm, dear family.
mona
Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 17:54:56 (PST)
it's good to know that life on the website goes on without me ... and there have been such great messages in the last couple of monthes! (i kept hearing reports) ---> steve ! i owe you many thanks for the for the car safety suitcase (have already used many components) and the holiday greetings. I think i even owe you a happy birthday from way back when. (well it's not the first time i've been in debt) hope your weekend is splendid. ours is very cold. amy and i started a twelve week get in shape program today. wish us luck ! (and send us your favourite high protein recipes ...) love and peace to all
athena
Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 12:32:36 (PST)
Thanks, Mark, for the next installment of your travel journal. Sounds like an exciting trip. Hopefully you are taking plenty of pictures.
Leo sure is an important part of our family, and was in important part of life on Montvale Road. We're all here pulling for you, Leo. Hurry up and get better so we can play some chess.
This is my first weekend at home alone in I don't know how many months. I must say that I have been kind of looking forward to it. And to top it off it is supposed to be sunny and 50's, so I can get a head start on this spring's garden work. Or maybe I can wash the cars. Or maybe clean the gutters. Or maybe mend the fence......the possibilities are endless. Hope everyone else enjoys their weekend as much as I plan to enjoy mine....§
Steve
Friday, January 17, 2003 at 17:56:03 (PST)
Hi to all Stylos' and fellow travelers from Mark and Melinda on the road in Rajahastan.
India does give a different perspective. Our people in the US on welfare are way above the standard of living of so many people here, including those who are "working" that it makes you understand how little a human being needs to at least survive. And while there is cheating of tourists, and maybe a little petty theft, virtually no violent crime, even with targets like me that are carrying cash equal to a years wage for many of the people around me--and they know it.
It is true, cars and bicycles share the roads with rickshaws (tons of them) and not only cows (everywhere) but dogs and pigs and camels and here in Jaipur even elephants.
My fantasy India (the reason I came) does not exist, but now that I have let that go, and had my day of loss, it is good again. Melinda really is amazingly good to travel with--this is not low-stress sauntering--and she takes it all in stride.
Going backward, we just had a reasonable italian dinner (yes really). Before that a Bollywood movie, the latest smash hit, in the best cinema house in Rajahstan, something like radio city music hall in NYC on steroids. Fun, and the story so obvious that we could follow it all even tho it was in Hindi and mostly singing. Before that a private car and driver for half a day ($5) more forts and palaces and an elephant ride (well, the Indian tourists do it also). Last night we heard an enjoyable free live concert of ragas and folk music in the courtyard of the palace still used by the Maharani. Our hotel is his ancestor's old hunting lodge, all wood and marble with huge old guns and spears. Before that three days in Jaisalmer staying in one of the 99 bastions of the fort overlooking the city. We drove into the desert and took a camel ride. Fun and funny.
But for one ill day we have both been fine. We leave tomorrow by car to go to a major bird sanctuary to stay the night for a change, and then on to the Taj Mahal.
Then Varanassi and the Ganges and then home.
Mark
Mark Allan
Friday, January 17, 2003 at 07:12:37 (PST)
fyi - that was an internet buddy of mine from DNC - the Grateful Dead website. As we deadheads like to say "we are everywhere!" Hi Dutch!
mona
Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 20:15:18 (PST)
My heart goes out to yet another cousin in need. You are so much a part of all our memory banks, Leo. Be strong, and get well soon. We love you.
Paula
Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 16:46:04 (PST)
Really nice site (((MONA))) it's so nice to see you and all your loved ones. Thanks for sharing a bit of your life with us. Deep peace, Dutch
DUTCH POTTERS
Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 14:52:30 (PST)
Thanks, Andrea. I'm sure sending out best wishes to Leo...I was just thinking about when I was Miranda's age, in Germany on my own, and Leo was in the hospital. That was more than 25 years ago, and what a scare he gave us. ((((Leo))))), I know you're probably not reading here right now, but I love ya, man.
mona
Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 19:24:16 (PST)
I don't know if you all had heard, but Leo had heart surgery last week. He is on the mend and planning on going home in the next day or so. Mom and Dad went to visit him, and said he looks great. Just wanted to keep you all posted.
Andrea
Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 10:43:17 (PST)
I don't know if you all had heard, but Leo had heart surgery last week. He is on the mend and planning on going home in the next day or so. Mom and Dad went to visit him, and said he looks great. Just wanted to keep you all posted.
Andrea
Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 10:43:11 (PST)
Yes, a Happy Birthday to Tim yesterday. He is in Boston. Mark F and I gave him a buddy pass. I haven't heard from him, but I am sure that he enjoyed it. It was a mellow weekend in Seattle for Ana and I. Just kind of hung around enjoying the rain on the skylights and the fire in the fireplace. It's so hard to beleive that January is almost half over and that we go to Greece in one month exactly. There was even a hint of light in the sky when I left work on Friday. §
Steve
Monday, January 13, 2003 at 07:21:02 (PST)
Belated birthday greetings to Tim. (Can we still call you Timmy, though you're a teen-no-more?)
Ramona
Monday, January 13, 2003 at 04:44:26 (PST)
Great to see your message here, Mark. Nothing could overshadow a pilgrimage to the homeland. It sounds wonderful, and I am thinking I may just have to follow your example sometime soon. Happy Spring, cause it sure hasn't arrived here.
And HAPPY BIRTHDAY Tim!
Paula
Sunday, January 12, 2003 at 17:20:27 (PST)
Once again, Mark has outdone us, making our coming trip to Greece seem almost trivial! But as Vanessa and my favorite Jenny says "No matter where I go, I know where I came from", and that is where we will be heading back soon, right Dad?
Spent a week getting my PC park in shape, and now it seems to be working once again. Perhaps I will even get around to straightening things out here a bit ... I think my 3 PCs together should put me on a MHz par with Dad's new system. That's a good change for those that have suffered so long on a P133.
Seems like spring is here already, with some nice warm sunny days, and a few rainy ones mixed in to remind us how it could be all the time. I've been out of work for almost 2 months now, but unfortunatly, there has been a delay in our final pay checks, so I have not had the chance to enjoy the golf courses as I was hoping. Though that could change any day ...
The happiest of 2003s to all of you. Hope we get to see Beth-Ann's new smile this year, and chat with the "Won't Quit" Peter.
Though we may be oceans apart, know that my love goes out to all of you. I know I can feel yours.
Peace
Mark The Younger
Friday, January 10, 2003 at 18:04:15 (PST)
As Mark and Melinda seem to be having too much fun to let us all know about it, I will share that they are in Udaipur, which they both think is stunningly beautiful. Their luggage did catch up with them, and it seems all is well. Let's hope chapter 2 arrives soon.
Paula
Friday, January 10, 2003 at 15:40:21 (PST)
atta go elizabeth ann
paul
Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 16:23:41 (PST)
Hurray for Betsy! A beautiful smile for a beautiful girl.
Paula
Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 15:43:05 (PST)
From the Pingree News Department: Betsy got her top braces off yesterday!! What a smile that girl has!
mona
Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 15:33:29 (PST)
Thanks, Mark for that message from afar. We will all be waiting and checking each day for another episode of MARK AND MELINDA ABROAD.
Ramona
Tuesday, January 07, 2003 at 18:19:57 (PST)
Great description Mark! You should write a novel. Or at least another episode of your adventures, for our vicarious enjoyment.
Scott
Tuesday, January 07, 2003 at 10:40:18 (PST)
Hi All,
We are on the road, (actually plane, train, and rickshaw). Various "adventures" already. As Paula wrote, 4 hour delay in taking off. Would have missed connection in Paris, but that delayed too, due to snowstorm in Paris. Arrived Delhi 3AM, four hours late, no luggage and took to 3:30 just to fill out the forms, but the driver was still waiting.
Heavy fog, so thick no lights but the air just glowed. Walked out of airport into dull green haze lighting turban and cloth-draped figures passing back and forth with no apparent purpose, the only visible light blinking neon from a fortune telling machine. The drive in was peaceful rather than harrowing despite no visibility and plenty of trucks.
Luggage coming today, they say, or we leave without it.
Delhi exotic but not so intimidating, at least after NYC. 6 AM the call to prayer from the mosques wakes us up. Amazing mixes, as much post-appocalytic as old. Like Athens, but the dress more exotic and the people poorer but never depressed. Already met people, a woman from Amherst and her Indian friends, and had dinner with them last night--very nice. Fellow travlers always interesting.
Take care.
Mark
Mark and Melinda in INDIA
Monday, January 06, 2003 at 22:56:29 (PST)
I didn't even know they were going! Sounds great - do let us know what the itinerary and progress is.
mona
Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 16:19:18 (PST)
True enough. I just checked the Air France website and the plane they should be on has landed in Delhi.
Paula
Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 12:28:26 (PST)
But then they did go looking for adventure, didn't they?
Ramona
Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 08:26:34 (PST)
Well yes they did, but not without plenty of drama. First, there was a snowstorm in Paris (who would have guessed?) so the first flight was delayed by 3 hours. That meant that they would not make the connecting flight on to Delhi. So Mark got on the phone and found a hotel in Paris where they could stay the 24 hours they would have to wait for the next flight. ($100 not refundable). Meanwhile, he had to send an email to the hotel in Delhi and tell them not to send the rickchaw (sp?) at 11 pm to pick them up at the airport. I drove them to Logan in a snowstorm. When I got back home I had a message from Mark saying the airline people insist he would make his connecting flight, and could I please send an email to India and ask them to pick him up as originally planned. So much for the hotel reservation in Paris. Meanwhile, the Delhi Hotel has not responded. Mark and Melinda are in the air (unless they missed the flight and will now have to wait 2 days in Paris (as it turns out that the next flight to Delhi is full). Will they be met at 11 tonight (actually now 1:30 am as I look at the Air France website and see that flight was also delayed...)? Stay tuned.
Paula
Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 07:58:27 (PST)
Well, Paula, did Mark and Melinda get off the snowy ground of New England headed for the exotic land of India?
Ramona
Sunday, January 05, 2003 at 07:31:20 (PST)
~YaYa~
Thank you for the Victoria's Secret lotion and body wash! Much needed and also much appriciated. Love Ya! <3 miranda
Miranda
Saturday, January 04, 2003 at 18:43:56 (PST)
Yes, wonderful news. It must be great to see the progress as Peter comes back to us. Good work! Keep the good news coming.
Paula
Saturday, January 04, 2003 at 10:27:26 (PST)
Wow....that IS exciting. According to Peter's Great Grandmother, this means he will be talking all year. I bet that he has quite a bit to say after that looooooooooonnnnnnnnnnnnnnnggggggggggg nap. Welcome back, Peter!!!
We had a very nice trip to Vancouver, and a nice quiet New Year's celebration. It's going to be a good year in Stylosland...§
Steve
Thursday, January 02, 2003 at 21:08:15 (PST)
You were right, Mom: this year is better already! This is great news. I'm so happy for all of us, especially the Watts/Moser clan! I think loving to sleep is a trait common to many of us. :)
mona
Thursday, January 02, 2003 at 20:05:53 (PST)
Good news for a change: Rona just called with the exciting news that Peter has started talking. Out loud. And tomorrow he will start eating 3 meals a day for the first time. There are still a lot of things he can't do, but it seems that a real corner has been turned. Rona says their computer is on the blink since it got moved, so she said I could spread the word for her. We have to applaud her--and Karen--for keeping on believing that he would come out of it. "He was just resting; he always did like to sleep" was her comment on the situation. We're happy to share in the joy of the Watts family.
Ramona
Thursday, January 02, 2003 at 17:24:49 (PST)
Here's a note to keep in touch, so Mom gets her wish. Had a good First Night celebration here in Northampton. Melissa and Maggie were here, and there were lots of things to do around town - all within walking disance. Earlier in the day they - Melissa and Maggie - were in there first cross country ski race of the season- they both did very well. They are both skiing on public school ski teams. Lots more races to come - every weekend all winter.
My wish is to get some of Dad's spaghetti sauce, and of course whirled peas.
Scott
Wednesday, January 01, 2003 at 15:31:25 (PST)
What's my prize for having the first message posted in 2003? We're having beautiful weather. We have taken our walk around Silvermont, a nearby park. Then Paul made a pot of spaghetti sauce, so we know what he will be doing all year (did we have any doubt?). I wish for each of you in 2003 whatever you wish for yourself. My hope is that we all continue to keep in touch.
Ramona
Wednesday, January 01, 2003 at 14:13:50 (PST)