Through The Looking Glass

Part Trois!

2011-03-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

Without further ado....round three of my photos from my trip...

More Brothers....

Mike Fourtner

Hillstranded!! LOL!

Edgar Hansen

Me, with Jake Harris

Captain Larry, of the F/V Seastar

Scott Hillstrand

Captain Andy Hillstrand

Jake Harris

Steve Ward, I am so grateful I got to meet this man...the man who found Captain Phil Harris that fateful morning in January, and did everything humanly possible to save his friend....he is truly a very special man...his wife took my camera, and got him out of the meet and greet line, and took this picture for me! She too, is a very special person...

Josh Harris

This is one lucky lady....Miss Lynette...Johnathan adores her...every time he sees her, he runs up to her, hugs her so nicely, and gives her a kiss on the forehead...I mean each and every time...she adores him as well...

Miss Lynette with the entire Time Bandit Crew...I love this photo....its one of my favourites from the trip...

Johnathan doing a burnout...

Last but most certainly NOT least...a very special vehicle...the moment I saw it I HAD to get a photo...this truck belonged to Captain Phil Harris...

I could post more and more...but there may not be enough bandwidth!

Hope you enjoyed this sampling of images from my trip....There are MORE to come...from THIS year's trips...so until next time, where ever you are, enjoy the view!

Seattle/Tacoma/Astoria 2011 Part Deux...

2011-03-13T12:57:00.001-07:00

Okay, so here is part deux of my photos from my trip.....

Mt Rainier

This reminded me of a dragon...

Hello Absolem...these little blue butterflies or moths were all over the place at Mt. Rainier...too pretty!

Waterfalls...I love to play with water.....

Christine Falls, Mt. Rainier National Park

Mt. Si

I love this...it reminds me of my father....he was a railroad man...maybe that's why I love trains...

Now hold on to your hats folks...I'm not done with ya yet....Part three is uploading as I type this....so patience please...it will all be worthwhile.....:)

Oh, what's on the plate for me this year???? Well, first off is CatchCon 2011, on April 9th in Seattle Washington! I'll be out there for four days.....then in September, I'll do something I've always wanted to do: cross the USA by TRAIN, and then spend 10 days in Tacoma, and go to the Commercial Fisherman's Festival again, and then do a week long photo tour of the mountains....I sure hope Rainier gives me the shot I'm hoping for: Reflection Lake...we shall see!!!

Okay stay tuned...part three is moments away!

Ya Know It Just Dawned On Me....

2011-03-13T06:41:00.000-07:00

That I never posted pics from trip last September...okay so how lame is that? Oh sure friends on Facebook have seen them, but not everyone has! So okay without further ado...here are some highlights of my trip to Seattle/Tacoma/Astoria 2010....then I'll tell ya what's on the plate for me next..:)

Seattle...as seen from Kerry Park

The lucky chance to meet Captain Keith Colburn, and be invited to visit onboard the F/V Wizard! Totally unexpected, but sincerely appreciated!!! He treated me like he'd known me all his life. This is one Captain who truly appreciative of his fans!

In the Galley of the F/V Wizard, the porthole was open, and the view was amazing..I love the age and patina on the porthole, its a testiment to the Wizard, and her age, yes, but also her beauty, strength, and that she's going to be around for quite a while..:)

F/V Wizard, Seattle Washington

Hello Captain Keith!

Captain Keith

Meeting Captain Monte!

Brothers...I love candid shots so much more than 'posed' ones...

Lenny!

Captain Monte..

The Lockspot Cafe...GREAT fish and chips!

A cool sculpture at the Ballard Locks

Captain Phil's current brick at the Fishermen's Memorial, Fishermen's Terminal, Seattle.

Okay, that's all for this edition....I'll post more of them later today...right now, its get ready to go to dinner!! Its Sunday Morning and I hope you all remembered to "Spring Ahead"...so much for that extra hour of sleep eh!

Until next time, no matter where you are, enjoy the view!!

Happy Purrrssss To Youuuuuu Until We Meet Again

2010-09-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is, Tuesday evening, and I'm looking over photos from my day trip to Mt. Rainier. AWESOME. Then it hits me: tomorrow is the last day of my vacation. It has been a great, and much needed break from work, and other stuff, but the 'homing beacon' has kicked in, and I am feeling that I am ready to return to my house, my hubby, and my kittehs...

I know that I will return here. Its in my blood now. I really love this area. It is a nice vacation spot, and trust me, you need MORE than a week to see and enjoy it all. I have a lot of people to thank for the past week of fun:

Becky; thank you for taking time out of your schedule for me, to be the best and most fun tour guide. We had a blast, and we will always "Stand up and be proud!" It was awesome to meet ya at long last, and you're an awesome friend. Your friendship is something I will always cherish. Always know, that no matter what happens, day or night, I'm just a text or phone call away, and that's that!!! I love ya for all you did for me while I was here, and man we had some great surprises along the way did we not!

Helen: So happy to meet ya finally sis, I can't tell ya! Thanks for hanging with me on Monday, and I loved meeting the kittehs, even if Ms. Kai was being the shy gal, and Mr Al, was lovin me up in his own way, hey Shad gives mum kitty nibbles on the fingers, its all good! Thank you for the awesome treat, I LOVED going to Dick's Drive In, and reminiscing about Phil. We all sure do miss him.

The Ladies of The ORIGINAL and STILL THE BEST Captain Phil Harris Dot Com Forum and Chat: Well we finally did it, we finally all met up, well almost all of us, and it was a great time!
What happens in Astoria STAYS in Astoria, but hey we didn't get outta line, so its all good! I hope everyone had a safe, and happy journey back to their homes, and who knows, maybe we'll see each other again next year!

Lastly to the Captains and Crews of The Deadliest Catch: Thank you gentlemen. Thank you for taking time to do all that you do for your fans. We know there is no doubt something else you'd rather be doing, but still you come to the events, smile, shake hands, sign stuff, and I'm here to tell ya, you all give some of the best damn hugs out there. So thanks guys, for all you do. Doesn't sound like a lot to say "Thank you", but trust me, it IS appreciated by this fan, and I know it is by many others too. May your seasons this year, be plentiful, safe, and may you return to your loved ones swiftly. God bless you all.

So as I get ready for my last day on the town in Seattle, I know I'm going to be sad to leave, but it is time to go home now, and back to life as I know it in the little house at the edge of a great wood, with my animals, and a wonderful husband who is waiting for my return....its going to be great to be home, but I'm going to miss this.....

And so, here it is, as sung by Andrea and I at Astoria:

"Happy Purrrrrrssssssssssss to youuuuuuuu. Until we meet again!"

Photos to follow on the blog when I get back to PA...the hotel connection here is just far to wonky for words!

Astoria Oregon, and The Commercial Fisherman's Festival 2010

2010-09-20T05:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, so up bright and early saturday, and off we go to Astoria, Oregon for the festival. Not a bad drive, and I'm here to tell you, its a pretty little town. Reminds one of a nice seaside villiage.

After settling in to the hotel, we went directly to day one of the festival. Of course, the big draw of the event, was meeting the captains of Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" So lots of line standing, in order to do that was pretty much the order of the first part of my day.

There were cooking demonstrations, from famous personalities, like Amy Roloff, (who I missed dammitallanyhow) and Graham Kerr. There was a wonderful exhibition by a native American dance troupe, competitions for the fishermen, as well as spectators, great food, and while the weather on day one, didn't hold up so well, on day two it was perfect, a little too breezy perhaps, but perfect.

So the evening of day one, is a meet and greet for the guests staying at the Best Western, with the captains. While it was great, there were a few who were missing. Josh and Jake Harris, NEVER showed up. Johnathan and Andy Hillstrand, Neal Hillstrand, Scott Hillstrand, Eddie U. , Captain Larry of the SeaStar, and Captain Wild Bill, and Edgar Hansen were the list who DID come to the event. Sig Hansen, was unable to make the event, as were Captains Keith and Monte Colburn of the F/V Wizard. (They are working triple time to leave for Dutch Harbour).

Another event that happened, was a group of people who had been 'talking' to each other on line for the past few years, finally all got to meet each other at the festival. Of course I refer to the members of the ORIGINAL and STILL THE BEST, Captain Phil Harris Dot Com forum and chat room. (Sorry, the new one is just LAME, never updated, and is NOTHING Phil would have approved of, this is just MY opinion, so there you go, take aim, fire, I really don't care). We all had a ball, chatting, hanging out, laughing and generally enjoying the entire weekend.

The winner of the ride with Johnathan on his bike, well, she had a blast, but I bet she was just a little more than white knuckled, John does NOT ride that bike slow!

A few cool things to see, were the bikes of Captain Big Dad, Harry Lewis, Captain Johnathan Hillstrand, Scott Hillstrand. These bikes were all too cool.

Day two, was pretty much a repeat of day one, with a few exceptions. For one, the weather was great, a little breezy, but it didn't rain! Once again, the Captains politely gave up their time, to meet people, sign things, and just hang out.

A few NOT so cool things happened, but I won't go into the details, suffice to say that one had to do with a certain merchandise product, that's been promised but NEVER delivered, a fire extinguisher, and Captain Phil Harris' pick up truck and how it appears to have been 'appropriated' by one Phil would never have allowed to drive it. Saw that one with my own eyes, and it was NOT pleasant.

So, most people got to meet and greet all the DC folks, get photos, eat some great food, hang out, and generally enjoy the weekend.

As I mentioned in my blog about the Colburns, I was amazed at how nice these DC guys are. They don't HAVE to do any of this, but they do. They give up their time, and come to these events, have cameras all over them, people who come up to them and want to monopolize their time, and they remain smiling and polite the whole way through it. My hat's off to them, because for me, that would get OLD real fast! So, thank you to the Captains and Crews of "Deadliest Catch" for taking time that could be spent doing other things, to come down and spend a weekend with the fans at the festival.

Hope everyone had a great weekend!!! Three days of my vacation left.....not sure what's on the plate today...but its bound to be good!

Seattle Astoria 2010

2010-09-17T20:58:00.000-07:00

Well, the vacation I've been waiting for, finally came, and here I am in Seattle/Tacoma, and so far, the operational word on this trip has been "GO!". I haven't even been here 48 hours, and I'm telling you its been a GREAT time.

My friend Becky, has been just AWESOME. She spent this day, taking me all over to see the sights of Seattle. The Ballard Locks, had lunch at the Lockspot Cafe, went to Fisherman's Terminal, but the best of all, was a visit to the F/V Wizard, of "Deadliest Catch" fame. Now just seeing one of these boats is awesome for any fan of the show, but to be able to GO ON one? That just rocks. Today, it just rocked. I got to do just that! When we got to the area where the Wizard was, we were surprised to find that both Captains Keith and Monte were there working on the boat! With a wave of his hand, and huge smile, Keith invited us on board!!! I was on the Wizard for about 25 minutes, with Captains Keith and Monte Colburn, as well as several hard working guys, who are all busily getting the Wizard ready to go to the Bering Sea for King Crab 2010. Now, these guys have a LOT on their plates. Especially at this time of year. Captain Keith didn't HAVE to take one minute for me to see the Wizard up close and personal, but he DID. And he did it with a huge smile, a welcoming handshake and a big hug! It was great to meet him, and Monte, and see the F/V Wizard from a perspective that not too many get the chance to do.

So while you're going to see a bunch of photos here, let me first say thank you to:

Captain Keith and Captain Monte, thank you for the time you took to make this fan's day, and first day of her Seattle vacation. I simply don't have words to adequate express my gratitude for the pleasure and privilege of being aboard the Wizard. Thank you very, very much!!

The photos from the trip, will follow in a later post....the hotel internet is just tooo slow to handle the upload! If you are a friend of mine on Facebook, you can see them there!

Next destination: Astoria Oregon, for the Commercial Fisherman's Festival! Not sure how that one will pan out, but its going to be an experience I'm sure!!!

The Sound of Trains.....and My Dad

2010-07-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

A month or so has gone by since my father passed away. This is a story I shared with some of my dearest friends in a chatroom we share on line.

The day of my father's funeral service, which was deliberately private at his request, a small group of about six, gathered at the funeral home. His casket, was in his favourite colour, blue. Dad loved blue. A huge gorgeous floral arrangement was atop the closed casket. Gentle music playing, candles lit on each side of the casket, and the kneeler, placed in front. Behind the casket, was a window, its dressings closed.

As we waited for the pastor to begin the service, I heard a sound. It was a humming noise, almost like an engine running. I wasn't sure where it was coming from, so I got up and walked around the room, to see what it was. As I neared the casket, it got louder. Then it dawned on me: the railroad ran right behind the funeral home.

My father, for many years was a machinist for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. I loved hearing his stories about his railroad days.

I went up to the casket and stood at the left side....I touched it, and the sound of the engine was its loudest near the window, so I moved a little behind the casket, and moved the curtains....there sat a train! Three engines, all running, the Great B&P. "Dad!" I said, glancing towards his casket, "look, it's the Great B&P, they've come to see you off." It was a moment MEANT for my father's funeral. A railroad man, proud of his work, at his final service, has a train show up, right out back of the very place where it will happen.

The pastor came in, and dad's service began. I got up and said a few words for my father, and then Pastor Ken finished the service. Just as he finished, the engines on the train out back, throttled up, and the train began to move, and as it did, its triple throated whistles where blown...Dad was leaving....I really think that train was MEANT to be there for him.

As we all paid our final respects, and prepared to depart for home, I glanced back at dad's casket and said, "Safe journey dad, safe journey." I knew that train would never break down, not with the B&O's BEST machinist on board!

And knowing dad, he's regaling everyone with his wonderful stories......yeah, in fact I am certain he is.

Safe journey dad....safe journey.

Tradgedy....A Local Son, Physician, Husband, Father, and Friend is Gone...Dr. Albert Varacallo Jr.

2010-07-09T18:53:00.000-07:00

Now I realize, most of you won't know who that is. Just let me say this: Dr. Varacallo, was one of this area's FINEST doctors.

In 1987, he became my husband's physician. Nick had fallen suddenly and mysteriously ill, and was in ICU. Albert stayed close to ICU to monitor Nick, as the whole illness was very, very mysterious, and no real cause could be pinned down. He was looking for any reason, any cause, to determine what had happened to Nick. An uncle of Nick's had brought me a book, in which a disease called "Addison's" was documented. I read it, and all of Nick's symptoms were there.
I'm not one to tell a doctor their business, but I showed the book to Albert, and he was OPEN to the suggestion, and read it with me. While he thought that it could be Addison's, he couldn't run the needed tests for some time, if at all. Our local hospital didn't have the endocrinology department in 1987, that it has now.

Two weeks after the hospital stay, we were still no closer to answers. Once again, Albert gave me a reason to admire and respect him: if he were out of answers, he'd find someone who might be able to help. He sent Nick to Danville, to an endocrinologist, for tests. He wanted to pursue the Addison's Disease possibility, and wanted more input from an endocrinologist he felt would find the answers; Dr. Ralph Starkey.

Within 24 hours of the Danville appointment with Dr. Ralph Starkey, Nick was diagnosed with Addison's. He was admitted, and agressive treatment started, with lifetime continuing therapy planned. These two special men, and Nick's uncle, had literally saved Nick's life.

To this day, I credit Albert Varacallo Jr., with this. I truly believe that if he had NOT sent Nick, Nick would NOT be here right now. The Addison's would have been left alone to do as it willed, and take his life. I also credit Nick's uncle, the late Charles Spuck, with finding that all important book with information that started everyone wondering in the first place. Truly he too, saved my husband by way of that. Dr. Ralph Starkey, who finally put the pieces of the puzzle in place, took all that Albert and Charles had given him, and in the end, Nick was and is able to live and lead a very good life.

There are not many doctors like Albert in this area.

Yesterday, he was engaging in his favourite 'stress reliever', he was riding his bicycle. He was approaching an intersection, and started to cross through it, a car coming in the other lane, was turning to head on to Shaffer Road, and did not see Albert. They hit head on. He was air lifted to Altoona Mercy, and died there. He was 52. He leaves behind his mother, siblings, his wife, six children, and a multitude of patients who are not sure what they will do now. He will be sorely and truly missed. He left an indelible mark on our medical community.

May God be with Luann, and the children, Albert's mother, his siblings, and all who will miss him.

A Father's Day I'll Never Forget.....Sadly.

2010-06-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

Today is Father's Day. All around dads are getting gifts, having barbeques, spending time with kids, grandkids, and family. A happy time for all. However today, my father Percy, marked his last Father's Day. At about 11 a.m., I received word that he was being taken to the hospital. He was somewhat unresponsive, and not alert. At hospital, he continued in that frame, although at about 12:30, he opened his eyes, and saw me, but still did not speak much. I have no idea if he knew me or not. In recent months, he'd often ask who I was, but then after I'd leave, he'd ask, "Where'd Michele go?".

I took a break to come back to my house, have a bite to eat, and a quick nap. I'd planned to go back to the hospital after dinner, in the evening. At about 4 p.m. the telephone rang. It was the hospital calling to tell me that dad had just passed. He passed very quickly, quietly, with no suffering and with dignity. He was not alone, but I was distressed that I'd not been there to say good bye. He was 92. Nick took me to the hospital, so that I could say good bye to him. For there will be no viewing. He did not want one. There will be a simple graveside service on Tuesday. It is all he wanted done. I will honour his wish.

And so this evening, the daughter came home, wearing her father's cherished ruby ring on her hand. It will be sized to her finger, and she will wear it on the third finger of her right hand, just as he did, until he could no longer do so.

The relationship was not perfect. There were estrangements, that I will regret til the day I die. I am grateful for what time I had, I only wish I'd used it more wisely than I did. I hope, beyond all hope, that dad knew I loved him...........

Tonight, he is with mum, and his family who have gone on....a reunion is taking place, and I hope its grand.....

Goodnight sweet prince.....

Addison's Disease Rears Its Ugly Head For Nick...

2010-05-31T16:10:00.000-07:00

My husband, in 1987, was diagnosed with Addison's Disease. I get asked one question every time I tell someone: "What is that?" Basically, the adrenal glands, have stopped producing corticosteroid hormones, that the body needs to survive. It affects the immune system, and generally makes any illness a bit of a battle for the patient. In 1987, we nearly lost Nick, because we didn't know what had hit him. It took at trip to a specialist, to diagnose and get him on treatment, that he has been on ever since, and will be for the rest of his life. Most of the time, you'd never know he has this illness, except for his suntanned arms, that don't fade in winter, darkened knees and elbows, and when he gets sick.

When he gets sick, he gets SICK. He can go from talking and coherant, to fully unconscious in a matter of a half hour. A crisis can come on as just tiredness, that increases til he gets sick, or he can start throwing up, and be unable to stop, until he's so dehydrated he ends up in ICU. Fevers are the enemy as well. He does not 'get sick' like a normally healthy person will. By the time we realize he is going down with a crisis, most times, its time to dial 911, and get him to definitive care at once. When he starts in to a crisis, he can become combative, and refuses to go for treatement, once he starts down the hill though, he really has no say-so, and the ambulance comes to get him.

Since 1987, his average has been very good. A crisis may hit him once every 6 to 10 years. This isn't a bad average at all, considering he's been treating the disease for 23 years. There is no cure. He will live on corticosteroid hormone replacements for the rest of his life.

Recently, he fell into a crisis. It was a beautiful hot day outside, and I came home to find him in the house, windows closed, heating system ON, swaddled in blankets, shaking as though he were running a jack hammer. A touch to his forehead, revealed that he was burning up. Fever of 103.

The hospital stay was 6 days. The fever refused to give up for that long. He spent two days in ICU, just for closer monitoring......his appetite came and went......the physicians, treated him with IV Cortef, antibiotics, (in case there were an underlying infection) and dozens, upon dozens of tests were run to see if there were an opportunistic infection trying to get the upper hand with him.

This evening, is the night before he goes back to work. He is pretty much back to his old self, back on his usual regimen of treatment, his appetite is back, and he wants to fly his R/C helis all day long again. He has made it through yet another adrenal crisis event. I am confident he'll do fine tomorrow, but I'm off (on LOA until Wednesday) 'just in case'.

I know there will be adrenal crises in the future. I also know, that this disease will take his life someday, believe me, Addison's Disease will do what it wants, when it wants, and you won't know a damn thing about it until its already well underway. Its one of the most mysterious and rare ailments out there. In our local area, there only 2 known cases.

Nick has Addison's Disease. Yes, he has it, but IT does not have HIM. He will fight it, and live his life as he wants on his terms, until the last moment. I wouldn't expect any less of him, and wouldn't have it any other way.

It would be very easy for me to walk away and say, "I can't handle this" and move on, and in point of fact, I actually KNOW people who HAVE walked away from a chronically ill spouse, because they 'couldn't handle it', but 28 years ago I said: "For better, for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health" and I meant it. The doctors asked me, "Are you capable of handling what this thing can do? To him and to you?" I replied, that no I wasn't, but that it didn't matter, I will do what I have to do.

And that's just the way it is.

The Plan

2010-05-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned an eating plan I'm on, that my doctor suggested. The plan is a lot of common sense actually, nothing really 'new' about it, except that in this plan, breakfast is by far the largest meal of the day. At first I thought it was WAY too much to eat, but after doing this now for a few weeks, I see the logic of it.

Here now, I am giving you Dr. Henry delaTorre's "Habits for Healthy Living", I kid you not, give these a try. They have made a difference. Most people would say, "I don't have time for all that." The key is PLANNING. You can do the things on this list, if you start to take control of YOU.

Here is the breakfast:

1 large hard boiled egg, 1 serving of yogurt (activia type), 1 Serving of oatmeal with berries, 1 apple or banana, and 1 8 oz. glass of orange juice.

You won't lose a ton overnight, but if you do this breakfast, along with sensible, healthy choices for eating, and we all know how to do that, its just a matter of DOING it, you'll see weight start to come off. In the three weeks I've been eating this way, I've lost 4 lbs. Not a huge record breaker, but it did come off, and that's that.

Here now, is the rest of the list of habits for healthy living:

* Eight hours of sleep nightly. (Between 10 and 7)
* Daily breakfast eaten between 7 and 8 a.m.
* Eat light meals, with healthy snacks in between, and an early light supper before 7 p.m.
* Avoid sitting after a meal, especially supper, for at least an hour.
* Eat only 60-70% of your stomach capacity. (No feeling 'full' or belching)
* Avoid going to bed within three hours after supper.
* Drink plenty of water, 8-10 glasses per day, drink more when exercising or sweating a lot.
* Avoid drinking ice cold drinks too much, especially after a fatty meal.
* Aerobic exercises daily, or isometric exercises coupled with deep breathing exercises.
* Deep breathing exercises (yoga breathing) in through the nose out through the mouth, preferably before and after a meal.
* Daily relaxation. (Music, tapes, etc)
* Deep relaxation, (meditation, yoga, prayer) daily.
* Increase potassium and electrolyte intake through increasing fruits and juices (bananas, oranges, orange juice, apples)
* Increase intake of nuts and berries
* Increase intake of fruits, veggies, and fish, while decreasing intake of red meats.
* Stay positive in life.
* Devlop spirituality and practice spiritual values of forgiveness, tolerance, love, etc.
* Avoid over eating, too much salt, too many sweets and drinking soda (pop).
* Avoid too tight clothing, especially pants, under garments, as well as ill fitting bras.
* Stay active, avoid too much sitting about in front the tv or too much use of the computer.
* Keep a healthy weight.

That's it. The dietary suggestions alone have made a difference for me, and I'll be posting recipes as I create, or find them, that have not only been healthier, they've actually been tasty, flavourful, and filling.

Until next time, where ever you are, enjoy the view!!

*You can watch things happen, you can make things happen, or you can wonder; 'what the f**k happened?' and I don't want to be #3.*-- Captain Phil Harris.

Happy Spring!!!!

2010-05-07T17:58:00.000-07:00

Ahhh it is springtime FINALLY! After this past BRUTAL winter, the wonderful feeling of opening windows, having the screens in, the screen door open, and hearing all the wonderful sounds of the outdoors again, is absolute heaven! Of course, you know what it really means for me don't you???? I'm going out to play with the cameras and lenses!!!

The first little 'visitors' were these little phlox flowers..I think that's what they are, I know they have a name, maybe violas?

Anyhow...next up, is one of my all time favourites to see in the yard, the violet...

Daffodils, no garden in springtime is complete without them!

Tulips, I'm not that good at capturing them, so I only tried it once this year!

Ahhh Signore Cardinale! How nice to see you! I have more cardinals around here this year, than I've seen in a long while...so nice to hear and see them!

And of course, the Rare Miniature Black Panther, a.k.a. Shadow Tiberius Cat, would have you know, that these nice days, are perfect for catnappin!

Until next time, where ever you are, enjoy the view!!

There & Back Again: My Travels With Ms. Trixi

2010-03-15T11:37:00.001-07:00

Please feel free to visit my book site, and share this little widget with anyone who might like to own a copy of the book!

Thanks!!!

There & Back Again by Michele N Yamrick

Some Eye Candy...and News

2010-03-10T06:42:00.000-08:00

So I'm sifting through the big data drive, making sure all did not get lost during the re-build and figured I put up a few pieces of eye candy....

I got a new macro lens, and Shadow was all too happy to be one of my very first subjects!

Ahh, what is in a name? That which we call a rose......

And I cannot forget OUR favourite man: MUSCLE SQUIRREL!!! (film at 11 for those who are unfamiliar!)

And here she is, my new traveling companion: Ms. Truvy.

Hmmm? Could THIS be Mike Rowe's Parking Place???

Now, the story of Muscle Squirrel. I love to take day trips just to take photos. At the Pittsburgh Aviary, there are great things to see, gardens, birds, and the resident squirrels in the park. They are all very accustomed to humans, and will readily pose for photos. Well, Muscle Squirrel came down the path, stopped, and did his Mr. Universe pose, and well, that was too good to pass up! He's been the hit of a chatroom I frequent on the net, when we need our man, Muscle Squirrel can always be counted upon to show up and make the day!

Lastly some news, I have, at age 50, returned to school. My course of study, is of course Photography, and in 2013, I will receive my Bachelor of Science Degree in that field. I have aspirations of working for magazines, or other branches of photojournalism, and fine art photography. Who'da thunk it? LOL!

Well, until next time, no matter where you are, enjoy the view!

One Month Later....

2010-03-09T06:14:00.000-08:00

If you just read my last post, you know that its been one month since Phil Harris' untimely death at age 53. More than once in the past month, I've had the same thought: what if? What if he had NOT died? I've tried to reason that one out from different angles.

We know the stroke was pretty severe. Many reports from the boat, mention his being paralyzed on the left side, unable to move. That is very significant. Then he undergoes a long surgery, a drug induced coma, and when he wakes up from it, we read he has started physical therapy, and in fact had been doing some the night he passed. From all standpoints, he appeared to be making great strides. But would he have recovered enough to continue doing what he loves to do? We may never know. I believe he would not have. I believe the damage from the stroke would have been end of his fishing career.

The man loved his boat. Indeed the F/V Cornelia Marie was his true love. Out on the Bering Sea in King and Opilio Crab season, was where he loved to be. He also loved riding his motorcycles. He'd take off for points unknown, and just enjoy life.
That was Phil Harris. He loved life, and enjoyed it to the fullest. If you were to take away those things that gave him the greatest happiness, it would have killed his spirit.

Would he have been able to watch the other boats leave without him? No. Would he be able to watch motorcycles whiz by and know that his three were in the garage, but that he wasn't fully able to ride them? No. It would have crushed him. Sure it would have made him even more determined to beat the stroke and all it had done to him, but still from a medical standpoint, the distinct possibility that he would NOT be able to, is very real. Again, we will never really know, I only surmise.

So what do I draw from this? Well, God in His infinite mercy, KNEW that if Phil could not live as fully as he wished, he would not be complete. And so on February 9 2010, He called Phil home. He would not allow Phil to languish in a life that may very well have not been the full happy existence that Phil so loved. Hearts broke the day he died, yes, but know this, he is completely totally well and whole again, and always will be. There are no more blood clots, no more issues, no more pain from the crushed discs in his back, no more worries.

Today is March 9 2010, it is a month today that Phil passed away. Its a bright, beautiful, sunny day, and I actually have my kitchen door opened, to hear the birds singing, and get a bit of freshness into a winter tired home. I looked out, and saw the most beautiful blue sky. I smiled. He's okay. He is absolutely okay.

February 9 2010

2010-03-08T15:13:00.000-08:00

Those who know me, know I am huge fan of Discovery's 'The Deadliest Catch'. Most who are fans of the show, have a favourite boat or boats, and captain. My two favourites would have to be Captain Phil Harris and Captain Sig Hansen.

On January 29th, while unloading at St. Paul Harbour, Alaska, Captain Phil Harris suffered a stroke and was airlifted to Anchorage. He underwent an extensive surgery, was placed in a drug induced coma, from which he awoke on his own a few days later. While he appeared to be making strides of improvement, on February 9th, he slipped quietly away at the age of 53. He was a unique one of a kind individual. That show won't be the same without him.

Rest in Peace Captain, in fair skies, and calm seas...

Winter 2010

2010-03-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

Wow, been a while since I've been here....I better get off my duff eh?

A lot has been going on with me since last we met....I'm officially 50 now. Yup, the pirate-ess has looked at 50 square in the eyes, and 50 is NOT messing with me!

I took a big step at the beginning of the year, and made a decision to go back to school and get my Bachelor's Degree in Photography. I am attending the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online, and will graduate in 2013. I just want that extra knowledge, and the degree that my late mum so wanted for me.

Winter here in Pennsylvania, has been nothing if not brutal. However, we are now seeing signs of springtime, with sunny warmer days! And of course, the sure fire sign that Spring is right around the corner, is the re-opening of Debi's Dairy Queen for the season!! That's one of the absolute harbingers of Spring!

So a few little winter scenes perhaps?

Something new I'm toying with...Macros of Snowflakes....

Now just look at this SKY!

Until next time, no matter where you are, enjoy the view!

Requiem for my little compadre..

2009-08-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

Those who know me, and I mean really know me personally, know I love my cars. Always have. Each one's been named, and all that jazz. Of all my cars, over all the years, one has stood out over all: Ms. Trixie. A 1995 Geo Tracker, she's been my traveling companion since 1999. White with a mint blue green (or Cornelia Marie Teal if you're so inclined) ragtop, and matching alloy wheels, I remember the day I bought her, saying to the dealer, "If she runs as good as she looks she's mine!" I drove her home an hour later.

For the past ten years, she has faithfully gotten me 'there and back again'. No matter where, no matter how far, what the weather, she never failed to get me safely to my destination and back home every single time. Even after being in an accident last summer, she bounced back, as Trixie as ever, and within weeks of the repairs, made yet another trip back to the Outer Banks, and back home again.

About a week or so ago, a strange noise was detected. An investigation led to a discovery I wasn't ready for: the little motor that could, would not be able to much longer. Trix was nearing the end of her days...Ten years had come to an end.

Today, is the last day she will sit in my driveway. Old age, a rotting frame, and other maladies, have brought her to her end of days...so, she will catch that ship that leaves Middle Earth, to go to the Gray Havens, never to return....

I've had so many great trips with this little car, I can't tell you, and yes, I am more than a bit sad. I wanted this little gal to run forever, sadly we know they don't and the time comes that they must go.

Trixie is being recycled, so that she can live on in other ways.

Her successor, is yet another Tracker. A hunter green'02, with a black ragtop, that will be christened "Ms.Truvy" after the Dolly Parton character in the movie, "Steel Magnolias".

Somehow, it just wouldn't be me to NOT have another Tracker.

Adios mi amiga, vaya con Dios, goodnight Ms. Trixie, and thank you....

Ms. Trixie, February 2005, in the driveway at home.

Ms. Trixie, Outer Banks, 2004, one of five OBX vacations we'd make over her 10 years.

The Official Release Of "There & Back Again"

2009-07-12T04:49:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce, that my first book has been released.

"There & Back Again: My Travels With Ms. Trixie" is available on line, at blurb.com. It is a self published endeavor. Copies are available starting at $19.99 for softcover editions.

When purchasing one, if you would like it signed, simply email me at:

thecatmomma@gmail.com

and I will give instruction on where to send it, for signature. Once signed, your book will be shipped immediately back to you, at no cost to you.

Here is a button link to the book, complete with a preview of its pages:

There & Back A...

My Travels With Ms...

By Michele N Yamrick

Book Preview

Art Show Season...

2009-07-12T04:36:00.000-07:00

My season has started here, and the first show of 2009 is over, and I'm happy to announce, that I came home with two ribbons and a little $$.

The first show of every year, is the Laurel Festival Art and Photography Show. Its small, held in Brookville Pennsylvania, but it stands as one of my huge favorites. A lot wonderful people give their time to make this show happen, and its ALWAYS nice.

Here are the winners, and please bear in mind, these image were shot with a PHONE, so they are NOT good, but they give you an idea of what I finally decided upon as this year's competition pieces.

First Place Winner Western Pennsylvania Laurel Festival Art and Photography Show:
The Hummingbird Trio

Honorable Mention:
A Bridge At Clear Creek

At some future point, when all the shows are over for this season, I'll do my best to take some good photographs of the winning images and post them.

The next show is coming up fast, its The Oil Heritage Festival Art Show, in Oil City PA, July 20 through the 24th. Hope to see you there!!

There & Back Again..My Travels With Ms. Trixie

2009-06-13T03:14:00.000-07:00

About a year or so back, an acquaintance was here, and I was trying to so hard to visit, and organize photos at the same time. Mind you, I have over 10,000 frames of imagery taken over the years, and they were all digitally convertered, were ALL OVER the hard drive of the computer. The conversation turned to the images, and what to do with them. I was encouraged to do a book.

I never thought anything of that, until about 6 months ago, when on a local internet forum, the people who had seen my imagery, started telling me the same thing. So I finally sat down, and decided to see how it play out.....I have to say, its been the most fun project I've done in a long time....watching it come together, choosing the images to use, paging it up, and 'putting it to bed'.

And so, in a very short while, my first book, "There and Back Again: My Travels With Ms. Trixie" will be available for purchase by friends and family.

The book is self published, using a great clearing house here on line. Once I have the hard copy of the final edition, the link for purchase go 'live', and you can get a copy of it! It feels nice to finally put some of my favored pieces in a collection, that can be enjoyed by anyone.

I like the idea of 'self publication' as it gives me more control I guess. I've never been in this for the money, its the love of the art, the beauty of it, that gives me the most satistfaction.

So, please watch my MySpace page, or follow me on Twitter.com to know when you can order your copy!

To Answer A Question or Two....

2009-05-16T16:39:00.000-07:00

In our local area today, one of my pieces, was included in a Chinese auction at a benefit dinner. I sure hope it raised lots of money! Anyhow, a few folks asked if I ever sold my pieces. The answer to that is yes, I do. Either framed or print only.

I am in the process of putting together a catalog of my works, that are suitable for framing, and display, so if you are interested, please email me at:

thecatmomma@gmail.com

I'll get back to you, and we'll go from there!!

May.....The Grass Is Gettin' Greener....

2009-05-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

And yours truly, has been out playing....mostly with the new porch additions: Gerbera Daisies...
I love them. Easy to keep and grow....and so colorful. So far I have two...going to get a few more.....

The hummers have returned, and that should have me outside quite a bit now that they're back!

So until next time, no matter where you are, enjoy the view!!

Lovely Stuff.....

2009-04-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

A few more pieces of eye candy...

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet."
Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2)

Chicken Coop Door....

Fallen....this little egg fell from a nest. Actually, with the winds we've had lately, we feel the whole nest was blown down, and the little egg landed on the grass below....it was punctured, so no hope for the little bird inside...still the egg on the green of the foliage, made for a pretty photo.

For The Birds...

2009-02-27T06:12:00.000-08:00

Birds are some of my favorite subjects in nature....everything about them, they sing, play in the birdbath, and just bring a warmth to the heart, and a smile to my face.....

A Sleepy Mourning Dove...

Snowy Egrets..these birds are so beautiful, these two, were in the huge loblolly pines on Knott's Island, in North Carolina.

Tufted Titmouse

Song Sparrow

Not the prettiest of fellows...the Turkey Vulture

Cooper's Hawk...

I was proud of the hubby on this one, he photographed it. Not in perfect focus, but usually the man never picks up my cameras....

North American Goldfinch

A Cardinal Couple

White Breasted Nuthatch..the little fellas that go down the tree trunks head first...

Black Capped Chickadee

Common Sparrow, and I think his dinner's a bit big for the beak!

Head First! White Breasted Nuthatch

Ruby Throated Hummingbird

Black Capped Chickadee

And one of my favorites, this little Tufted Titmouse, who landed in the snow, and ended up with a perfect little snowball in front of him...I call this one: "Will You Help Me Build My Snowman?"

No matter where you are, enjoy the view!!!

I Am Blessed....

2009-02-27T05:44:00.000-08:00

I live, in one of the most beautiful of our 50 United States; Pennsylvania. Lived here all my life, with a brief stint in North Carolina, that gets my vote as my second most favorite state. While I lived there, I was lucky enough to have a house one block back from the Atlantic....while my time there was all to brief, and our permanent move to Kitty Hawk, did not work out, one day we hope to return there.....and stay.

Now, when you have views like these, its not too hard to see why I'd like living there.

Sunrises on The Atlantic...

Wild Ponies of Corolla....

And of course, the sunsets....The Outer Banks, a barrier reef series of islands, share the Atlantic to the east, and the sounds to the west, Currituck, Alblemarle, and Pamlico sounds.....so soundside sunsets, are something not to be missed...

Lastly, here are a few 'ladies' that the OBX is quite famous for: Its lights. Lighthouse fans from all over, come to see the five ladies of the Atlantic, that grace the shores, from Currituck, to Cape Lookout.

Currituck, located in Corolla

Bodie Island Light, situated at the start of the Outer Banks. (the true OBX, is Bodie Island south to Ocracoke)

Perhaps the most famous, not just because she's the tallest, she just IS the most famous, and endured being moved to save her from the encroaching sea...Cape Hatteras

The littlest light, Ocracoke, sits on Ocracoke Island, the pearl of the Outer Banks, and one of my favorite places in all the world...

It takes a bit to get to Cape Lookout, but the end result is worth the travel time...

I sorely miss the Outer Banks....I go back once a year for a week.....when I'm there, I feel like I'm home. So I call my yearly trip, 'going home for a few days.'

Until next time, no matter where you are, enjoy the view!

And The Nominees Are:

2009-02-25T21:08:00.000-08:00

Okay so every winter this happens..my winter project. I select, mat and frame up new works for the coming juried art shows I like to compete in. This year, there are quite a few contenders...seems I can't narrow the field down to just 3....which is what most shows allow....

So without any further ad0, here come the contenders:

"Lily's Reflection"

"Red Sky At Night"

"Nick's Crabbing At Sunset"

"Monochrome Asiatic"

"At Clear Creek"

So far that's it....I have one other shot, to attempt to get on the list of nominees, and that is of a bald eagle. Hopefully that one will happen here soon, as in our area, the birds are becoming quite common, and its nesting season....

Well, until the next time, no matter where you are; enjoy the view!!

A Few Years Back....

2009-02-25T20:33:00.000-08:00

I mentioned to an on line acquaintance, how blessed he was to be an artist. I so wished I could do what he would do with brush, oils, and a canvas....All I had were my cameras...never really considered that as an artform, but now here a few years later, it is my art....which substantiates precisely what Tom told me that day: "See, now there you go, you are an artist too."

This blog will tell stories, show images, and hopefully entertain....stop back often...you just never know what I'll be up to....