Archive for category: Friday Afternoon

Letters and Thank You notes. At times, they feel like the “proper” thing to send, while other times they are just what’s needed for a business inquiry or transaction. So many times, throughout the day, I find myself jumping on my email account, banging out some correspondence, reading a few text messages from family and friends, and then returning back to work, never really realizing the ease and power of communications we enjoy today. Never disconnected anymore, I was thinking about what it must have been like back in “the old days” when people could only write letters to stay in touch with on another. Reading letters from famous people in history tells so much about what was going on at the time, and the heartache and thoughts facing the writers – one of my favorites is when Grace Bedell told Lincoln to grow a beard, to hide his thin face – 1860 – and how she’ll vote for him.

I can remember writing letters almost daily to Jackie during the summers while we were “courting”, with the best part being receiving letters back from her almost daily as well! Of course, the classic: “How are you? I am fine” opening. Here’s some fun info about letters, format, etiquette, and where the letter format likely evolved from. Be sure to send me a “thank you” note or email if you enjoyed the post! Enjoy!

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If you’ve ever wanted to have a fun vacation, visit Washington D.C., and especially visit the U.S. Capitol Building. The first time I saw it in person, I have to admit it was a breathtaking moment: that giant grand dome rising above the National Mall, white marble, long steps majestically framed by a blue sky and fluttering flags. When Jackie and I took the girls to DC to explore, we made sure to visit the capital. We were able to witness a vote taking place – (fascinating to see the various congress people meandering in to place their vote, then leave – and watching the tabulations taking place on the wall was very interesting as well). Historians say the US Capitol Building is the centerpiece of American history, drama, innovation, politics, art, personalities, and quirky architectural decisions – a place where the ideas and contradictions of the nation are literally set in stone. Did you know, our American flag flies continuously at the east and west bases of the dome — day and night since World War I. Flags over the Senate (north) and House (south) wings fly only when the chamber below is in session, and hidden flagpoles handle special ceremonial requests. I did some digging (SO MUCH info!) about this great building, its varied history, and quirks you might find interesting. Be sure to get a trip in to visit, and think about our great nation, and all that’s come before us. Enjoy!

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Ok, so I’ve heard of Southpaws and Lefties – but new to me – Mollydookers, Porty, Goofy-footer, Cacky-handed, Corrie-fisted, Chickie-paws, Cuddy-wifter, even sinister, may be a bit too much!! There’s no shortage of nicknames for the left-handed people of the world, even if much of everyday life seems to have been designed without them in mind. Being a lefty myself (I must admit I’m actually ambidextrous, which comes with its own challenges), I can never try out my golfing buds’ new clubs, and having to deal with most golf courses designed for righties!  For me, there are some advantages – I can eat with either hand (something I’m very good at!), I get to explain away my horrendous handwriting, and have been blessed with lots of creativity – part of being left-handed! According to experts (Laterality Experts: researchers focusing on the functional specialization of the brain, including hand use), hand preference remains an intriguing puzzle for scientists, with researchers still questioning why a small percentage of people favor their left hand over their right. This quirk has caused lefties to be saddled with historical baggage and ongoing inconveniences. While some people do some things “righty” and some things “lefty,”  Jackie and I are both either ambidextrous or simply “unique”. Experts are still working to uncover the origins of this unusual hand preference – one of our daughters is a true lefty! In the meantime, here are some curious facts about left-handed life. Enjoy!

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The other day the grandkids were over, and I had a blast playing different games with them. I love just going back to the classics that I enjoyed with my girls as well as when I was a kid.  My granddaughter showed me how she did “jumping jacks” at school – and I of course had to show her my version as well (hers were better!).  We progressed to hide and seek which of course includes me saying boo a lot once they find me! (although I have to admit it’s not as easy getting back out from behind the couch as it used to be!). And then on to some card games (Go Fish, Grandpa!). It got me to thinking about the origins of these simple games and why they remain so fun.  I did some online digging to enhance my own knowledge and just wanted to share. Jackie loves when I say “Did you know…?)  Be sure to go play with the kids – and grandkids – you’ll likely laugh like we did and I promise you’ll have a blast … now go have some fun! 

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Over the past few months, I’ve really enjoyed the bulb flowers that Jackie cares for during the winter season. We’ve had nice blooms from our cactus and holiday plants, especially Amaryllis– some around Thanksgiving, some around Christmas, and some into the new year. I’m fascinated by how they seem to sit dormant, and then “pop” with brilliant colors and cool shapes. As spring is approaching (hurry up!), I’m anxious for our lawn and gardens to come alive and start to bloom. (I forget what’s been planted and then smile when I see newer bulbs popping). Looking at the plants, it got me thinking about how bulbs are managed, cultivated, and shipped, and I found out it’s a highly specialized industry that blends agriculture, logistics, history, science, and global distribution – with roots (get it!) both in ancient and modern times. Today, the tradition relies on amazing, advanced technology, strict quality control, massive farms, really cool specialized machines, and scheduled shipping networks. Here’s an overview of the industry and fun facts I think you’ll like.  Thanks to Wikipedia, YouTube, and Google for the info. Enjoy!

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