Audrey Mike

Reviewing 8 days in Haiti

2009-12-10T11:53:00.007-05:00

The visit in Haiti was everything I hoped and much more. It was a learning trip for me. Each interview of people who knew and loved Ruth Blackwell taught me more. Home ten days, I'm still processing and still learning. This will take longer than expected.

I wanted to write summaries of all I witnessed: the traffic, the mountains, efforts for education, and mostly the wonderful people. This week I've spent more time on a website of a foundation supporting some of the educational efforts, and I am so impressed with the notes written by a couple of the board members following their visit to Haiti in October 2009. Their impressions were the same as mine. I want to share this organization's website and encourage you to check it out, especially the notes by the two board members about their Haiti visit in October. A paragraph from one these says about the work of the Mona Foundation, " I came away trusting in my heart that we at Mona Foundation are really not supporting simply schools or education. Rather, we are participating in the process of building a revised world, based on the principles of justice and compasssion in which service to others is a way of life, no child will go hungry for food or love, and no war is fought because of corrupt governments." For more go to: http://www.monafoundation.org/

So much good is being done out there in the world, and so much more needs to be done.

HAITI

2009-09-29T17:30:00.002-04:00

Sometimes, writing this book, the Blackwell Book, as I casually refer to it, still feels like an over whelming task, and I know I am only at the "tip of the iceburg" of this process. Then I recount what already has been done since this commitment became very real in mid July of this year. I remind myself that any worthwhile big project has to be broken into smaller parts. With the exception of about three days out of the past near one hundred days, I have done some task every day connected to this book. And I remember to visualize the end at the beginning.

With these thoughts in mind, I happily report that the process and the progress on the book about Ellsworth and Ruth Blackwell are going very well.

Since the last blog post, plans are coming together for a trip to Haiti - eight days over Thanksgiving. In part, this is getting arranged with my travel companion (YES, she is going with me!) Gabs, formerly of Haiti, now living in Hemingway, SC. The office of International Pioneering at the Baha'i Natinal Center in Wilmette, IL, shared its best wishes, wrote a formal introduction of us to the National Spiritual Assembly of Haiti, and even sent a few researched items to me. For me, this trip is possible through generous financial assistance from my family and a few friends, as a birthday gift to me, instead of any other gift, cards, flowers, cake, etc.

Last week, a friend visited me for five days. We taught together on the Navajo Reservation at the Chinle High School from 1994-1997. We had a lot of fun in this long overdue visit. While here, of course Linda heard about the book and was aware of my many hours on it while she was here. She, too, put in several hours - hours of reading rough drafts of a few small sections. Thank you, Linda, for your encouragement and suggestions.

I'm still transcribing stories from Ruth recorded for me in 1984 when we visited in Wilmette. I continue to feel her presence in my living room as I hear her voice, her laugh, her expressions reflecting strict adherence to Baha'i administration, and her deep respect and love for her then departed husband, Ellsworth.

I was in touch with the Baha'i Publishing Trust and received positive encouragement about the worth of this project and its interest in a book about the Blackwells. In addition, new friends have connected me to former co-workers of Ellsworth and Ruth. Their lives affected the lives of so many! I hope to make a trip in the spring to do more research in the Archives at the National Baha'i Center, adding to materials collected in 1984.

I am filled with gratitude at being able to do this wonderful work - generated in me mostly out of love for the Blackwells and for the Baha'i Cause they served so well.
Thanks for reading my blog.

Blackwell Book is such joy!

2009-09-02T22:55:00.005-04:00

So far, so good. Each day, each hour spent on the book is confirmation that this is a worthwhile positive project. That's what I was told by the general manager of the Baha'i Publishing last week when we spoke on the phone. And of course, that was great news to hear him as enthusiastic about it as I am.
When I listen to the casette tapes by Ruth in 1984, it's like she's in this room with me. I know I felt this way six weeks ago when I was transcribing 1970's Fireside talks by Ellsworth, but it's the same now with Ruth. In fact, maybe more because her tapes were to me specifically, and his are recordings of talks to large groups.
I continue to surprise myself with new discoveries of material I already have. It's also great to be able to go online and get additional information about various topics from the web.
Tonight Gabrielle called me, and one of our topics was a trip to Haiti for me. She said she would help me plan it, so that my time there would be efficient in getting more stories for the book, especially from people who knew Ruth in her final years there. Last year, Gabs and I had talked about us going together once I was further along on the book, but she said for now it would be best for me to go by myself. Her assistance in the planning and making connections for me with contacts will be invaluable. So now we're trying to plan a time I could go to LGBI so that she and I have time together. I asked her about the best time for LGBI AND the best time for Haiti. It looks like LGBI in October or November and Haiti maybe March or April 2010.
I was thinking that Ruth suggested the book title, "White and Negro alike" taken from the Guardian's cable of 1939. However, she suggested that just as a chapter title for the section discussing their volunteering to pioneer. The more I think about it, the more I like this as a title for the book. I'm pretty sure it was White and Negro alike that Shoghi Effendi said, not Negro and White alike. It's easy enough to find out. I have a copy of that cable in my materials, and it's published other places, too. I'm just too tired now to move and go get it.
I'm learning more about the Inter-American Committee under the US National Spiritual Assembly in the 1940's. I have letters to and from Ellsworth and this appointed body. Interesting. I'll learn a lot more than we'll choose to put into the book. I've ordered a book from Amazon, The Baha'i Faith in America. It was published a few years ago and still usually costs over $40., but I found a new copy online for under $20. I was able to read a few pages online, and I know I'll learn a lot about the relationship of the National Assembly and the Baha'i pioneers in the 1940's and 1950's. Like I said, I'll learn a lot more than will go into the book.

Little bit, every day

2009-08-03T10:07:00.002-04:00

Here's an update on The Book progress. I find I'd rather work on something directly connected to the book than write on my blog about the writing of it. Every day I'm spending some time on it, and I am not concerned about how much progress is happening. I'm just delighted to see that with consistent DAILY effort, there is definite progress. Now it's been three weeks.
It took ten days to transcribe a fireside by Ellsworth in Lauderhill, Florida, given in 1974. Some of this tape was not clear, and it was about one and a half hours in length, but it was a joyfilled project for me to type out the words. Then I transcribed journal notes by me on tape after a visit with Ellsworth and his family in Chicago in 1975, recent notes (2008) from a conversation with Dody Theriault-Chattin in Virginia Beach, and most of the interview with Carole Hitti in Farmington, NM, May 2008.
I am especially pleased that even as I had guests here at my home and we enjoyed three movies together, ate out a couple times, prepared fresh shrimp to eat here twice, had much time to visit and laugh and share, during those three days, I did more work on the book than any three day period so far. Hmmmmmm.

BOOK ABOUT ELLSWORTH & RUTH BLACKWELL

2009-07-18T18:02:00.005-04:00

Just a week ago, my cousin Bruce asked, "When will you finish the book?" Finish? I thought. I need to get started. When I didn't answer, he asked again, "When will it be done?"

"I have no idea. It's a huge project!"

"So, when will the book be finished?"

I told Bruce, "I've challenged adults in classes just the way you are challenging me."

"Yeh," he said, "do as I say, not as I do."

After more friendly haggling over a date, we decided 18 months from last Saturday, with an extension of six months.

I've worked on it every day since returning to North Carolina six days ago. That may not sound like much, but it feels like a real shift in my commitment to write this wonderful biography of a beloved Baha'i couple NOW! One reason for the procrastination is the amount of material I already have, much of it collected in the mid 1980's, as well as ideas for a lot more. It's like overwhelming! But at least one friend since last weekend reminded me of the riddle: How do you eat an elephant? (answer: one bite at a time)

My commitment is not for any number of hours at this time, but to work on it every day. As happened in this first week, I expect most days, the work will be for at least two or three hours or more, but even if it's the end of some day when other activities have kept me from the book, I'll do at least a half hour before going to bed.

I have uncovered additional treasures in my plastic storage file box labeled "Blackwell Book." (BTW, this large collection of materials includes about twelve audio cassettes of my visiting with Ruth in 1984, items researched from Archives at the Baha'i National Center also in the mid 1980's, letters to me about the book from numerous prominent Baha'is who have since passed on to the next world, as well as recorded interviews done in the last few years of friends who knew Ruth in Colorado or in Haiti after Ellsworth's passing in 1978. This box has moved from Illinois to NC (several homes in NC) to the Navajo Nation in Arizona, back to NC, again to several locations.) I have three audio cassette tapes by Ellsworth from 1971 and 1972. I'd forgotten these, even though I transcribed them in 1984. In addition, I discovered another cassette of a fireside talk by Ellsworth in 1974 that is now in the middle of transcription. It is very inspiring to hear his lovable, sincere voice, full of stories and witt, humor and love. It sounds like he's in the living room with me now, but the recording was done twenty-five years ago.

I expect to post updates every week or so as a progress journal for me and for anyone who is interested in reading it as I move on now with this exciting real adventure.

Albuquerque with Pearl on Friday

2009-02-10T20:49:00.002-05:00

We checked out Estate Sales. Talked on phone with brother Tom in St Augustine, FL, and he was wishing he were with us to look for bargains. Then Pearl and I treated ourselves to lunch at a great Bar-B-Q place.....photo here so I can remember the next time I'm in Albuquerque. Of course we went to Old Towne.
While in town, I went with Curt and Pearl to the Baha'i Nineteen Day Feast at the Albuquerque Baha'i Center. Curt and Pearl and I left home on Friday at 5:45am to go to the Civitan Breakfast. That morning it was to thank and honor local clergy. Curt, President of that chapter of Civitan, introduced me as representing the Baha'i community.

Quick ten day trip to southwest

2009-02-10T19:29:00.003-05:00

Gone from home in NC only February 4 - February 14, this trip includes many of my favorite places and visits with some favorite people. One full day of traveling, three different planes for three flights, and I was there! Sure beats driving both directions as I've done two times recently.
First stop: Albuquerque to be with Curt and Pearl. We went with her mom to medical appointments in Gallup the first day I was in New Mexico. Of course we went to Earl's. Here's a photo, as Pearl says, of her mom wheeling and dealing at Earl's.

Are we already in 2009?

2009-02-10T19:27:00.001-05:00

I koow that. We're already into mid February, and this is my first post this year on my blog. Being on facebook now, there's a limit to how many places I can post updates.

Looking ahead

2008-11-16T12:48:00.004-05:00

It's beautiful fall back in this part of North Carolina.
I believe this is my last day to have fun updating my blog with memories since I left home October 4. There are many more photos and memories that have been put into my computer and may sometime get printed for scrapbooks, but not soon. I'm feeling thankful for all the recent experiences and invigorated to start my revised routine back home. I have a commitment with three weekly Baha'i Ruhi Institute new study circles that involve average drives of over two hours round trip each. These begin this week and will run for undetermined length of time, every Mon-Tues-Wed. In additin, I've made a promise to myself to put regular, almost daily (M-F) focus and energy into the Blackwell Book that's been a "must do this" in my life for over twenty years. This commitment will be a personal challenge because I want to treat those hours like serious uninterrupted work time, something I've not done recently except for temporary part-time work with Dine College in Tsaile, AZ. So........... Retured I am............but active with really worthwhile activities. Life is good.

As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to remember...........

"O thou handmaid of God! In this day, to thank God for His bounties consisteth in possessing a radiant heart, and a soul open to the promptings of the spirit. This is the essence of thanksgiving."

Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’ page 179

Jamaica treasures

2008-11-16T12:43:00.002-05:00

Tom and Elsy really enjoyed the laid back joyful friendly tourist atmosphere of Jamaica. Favorite trinkets brought back include hat with dreadlocks and shirt for Chis and a wood carved guitar player.

Houston this morning...Sneads Ferry by mid afternoon. This is so much easier than driving!

2008-11-15T22:53:00.003-05:00

8am Houston time. I’m in the airport, already through security, at the gate with about 45 minutes till boarding. The good news is that there is good internet connection, and I figure I can finish updating my blog. The bad news is that it is not a free service, and I’m not going to pay to get on the web. I can write some and then add it to the blog if I have time between flights in Charlotte or later today or tomorrow from home.
HOME….that sounds good. To be in my own home, my own kitchen, my own yard, in my own bed, driving my own car. Life is good.
Elsy and Tom got home last night. It was a good trip for them, from a business standpoint and more importantly from a personal standpoint. They are both much more relaxed than when they left five days ago. I had fun with both boys while their parents were gone. My son was impressed with the homework done and test grades received by his sixteen year old this past week. When Elsy hugged me good-bye this morning at the airport curb, she said, “Thank you for everything. You brought a lot of love into the house!” Who could ask for more? On the way to the airport, we talked about possible times together sometime soon.

Houston Baha'i Center and other Baha'i gatherings

2008-11-14T17:47:00.006-05:00

It took almost a week until I established contact with local Baha'is. Then I found information online about the Houston Baha'i Center and drove there for a Sunday morning devotions service. It was wonderful to meet some of the local Baha'is. Because it took me some time and energy to locate Baha'is, I think my Kingwood family thought I'm the only Baha'i for miles around. Houston is a big city, and I drove a ways into it, not familiar with the highways, or even much with the family car I'd borrowed. However, it worked, and I was able to go again for Feast with a couple people from Kingwood. People are busy with their lives, and so was I, so I didn't spend as much time as I had hoped with Baha'is.
However, while here, I firmed up more details about the upcoming Atlanta Conference on December 5-6, one of 41 conferences called for by The Universal House of Justice in a letter October 20th, to be held worldwide over the next few months. It's wonderful, though not surprisinng, to be getting emails from friends all over the southeast United States who are making plans to get to Atlanta. Folks here in Houston are urged to attend the Conference in Dallas the weekend after Atlanta.
Arizona/New Mexico friends will be hoping to go to the Los Angeles Conference.

POW-WOW in Houston

2008-11-14T17:38:00.006-05:00

Not nearly as big as those in the southwest, but it gave a small taste of a Native American celebration to my son and grandsons who hadn't ever seen a pow-wow. Of course, I looked forward to fry bread, and I talked a lot about it ahead, and I got in a short line to get some. It took a long time, and my son told his sons who were waiting nearby, "She's probably sending it back and telling them to remake it." Well, almost. I saw some come out that looked better than what was first handed to me, so I said I'd buy from the next bunch. Well, Pearl, you wouldn't have been able to eat it at all! For folks who have never had fry bread, I guess it was ok, but it sure wasn't like Bertie's or Pearl's or anyone's who makes Navajo fry bread. This was not Heard Museum or Pueblo Center fry bread! The costumes were fun to see, and we watched a couple dances. There was a small drum group. I miss Arizona and New Mexico.

Time in Kingwood

2008-11-14T17:27:00.005-05:00

There's been time for reading and some crafts, alone or with my younger Texas grandson. My son updated music in my ipod, and I learned why the sound has not been good. I would turn the volume up on the ipod and the speaker, and still, it would be too soft to use in a room with anyone else. The reason? The master control setting for highest volume possible was set low. I could hardly believe it! I wished last spring at Louise's that I could play music in the living room that she could hear or at meetings. Well, now I can.
Most important thing was grandma time with both Texas grandsons. I enjoyed helping Kevin with homework. He's a math whiz like his dad. And he reads several grade levels above his school grade. I bought him a new book for his twenty minutes a day reading assignment. MARLEY. We took turns reading to one another and laughed a lot. My favorite photos from Kingwood will probably be those taken of the seven year old when he played in a water puddle outside the house one afternoon after school. It all happened in less than five minutes until he came in the house and changed wet clothes and shoes, but it was definitely a "kodak moment" for a grandma who loves to take photos.

Leave Tsaile again and fly from Albuquerque to Houston

2008-11-14T16:17:00.005-05:00

Now when I say "good-bye" to friends on the Navajo Reservation, it no longer seems sad. Time goes by so fast, and pretty soon, it's time to plan another visit. This is one of the bounties that increases with age. I don't know when I'm going back, but I "trust the process" that it won't be long.
My son picked me up on Oct 23, at the Houston airport for my expected eleven day visit, and we began the twenty minute drive home to Kingwood. Before we even got to his house, he said, "You know, Mom, it would really help us out if you'd stay another week and a half. We're leaving on a business trip just a few days after your intended departure, and if you'd stay, you could take care of the boys." Well, within about another half hour, back at the house, we talked to family in NC, I knew there were no appointments or commitments that could not be changed, and my son had made new flight arrangements.
When I leave tomorrow, it's after twenty-two days here in Kingwood. It's been a good visit. This is a busy household. With the parents in their own business, there are apt to be activities, sometimes planned and sometimes spur of the moment almost any time. I've met some of their friends and some of their business associates, and with all the intercultural associations, it's really interesting. My daughter-in-law holds meetings in Spanish with many Latinos from the Houston area. My son does a lot of phone counseling and sometimes holds online chats with people, mainly in Mexico.
Hall-o-ween included a couple carved pumpkins, light sticks for all the trick-or-treaters, and fog at the front door.
We went to a "Dance with Parents" P.E. activity at the elementary school. Also my daughter-in-law and I went to a parent conference. I helped with seven year old's homework. I can almost keep up with his math, and I like math! I'm still a better reader than he, though not much. I bought a new book for his 20 minutes/day reading homework. The book is on middle school level, I think. I cannot believe his word approach to figuring out new words. His mom and I helped with a mock election held on November 4th. My job was to check the children's voter registration forms. What good practice for future voters. It was well organized, quite realistic, and the kids were appropriately excited and nervous and respectful.
The most sentimental comment from my son was his assurance that, regardless of whatever personal situation I have in my own home, there are so many family members in North Carolina who love having me close, and "You always have a place with us here in Kingwood anytime." I cried a little when I shared that comment of his with my daughter-in-law, and it could lead to a tear as I write his words here.

Get togethers with Baha'is

2008-11-14T16:06:00.005-05:00

Pinon picking and frybread making and other laughing times together were wonderful, but the best times in Tsaile were the gatherings we had in the Baha'i community. We met at the Coffey's home a couple times, once for a Women's Circle and once for the Holy Day (Oct 20). In addition, Bertie and I hosted three evenings at her home to complete Ruhi Institute study circles with Book two. I don't have photos of those study circles, but the same women were there who were with us last spring. Now, over three weeks later, it seems like a dream that we were able to meet together all those times in the short visit for me this fall in Tsaile. What special times indeed!

Fry bread lessons

2008-11-14T16:02:00.003-05:00

Bertie also spent time trying to teach me how to make fry bread.....AGAIN! This is an ongoing effort from Navajo friends.

Eight busy wonderful days in Tsaile

2008-11-14T15:39:00.005-05:00

I stayed the whole time in Tsaile at Bertie's home. She was the secretary in our college TRIO program from 1990 to 1994. She's already been mentioned on my blog from when I was in Tsaile last spring, staying with Louise. It is so wonderful to have friends from so long ago who are closer now than ever.
Bertie had to work during the week while I was there. I met co-workers and her supervisor where she is so appreciated for her great work as a coordinator of activities and a teacher of special needs students throughout the Chinle School District. Since we worked together almost 15 years ago, Bertie went back to college and got more training and certification for her current work. She has really found her nitch, and I am so proud of her and blessed to have her as a friend. This time with her, she taught me more about pinons, about the trees, and how to find the nuts on the ground, how to tell if they'll be really good or not. Pearl has always loved pinons. (I think they are about the same, if not just the same, as the Pine nuts from Pineto, Italy, where two grandsons live, in the town named for those nuts....the pine nuts, not my grandsons!) I still have one in a film can in the kitchen that Alan (grandson) picked up for me when we were together in Pineto to visit his grandmother when he and his family lived in Brazil about 1995. One of the new recipes I've made calls for pine nuts. In the grocery store in Kingwood, Texas, the pine nuts are from China. Navajos almost all love pinons. They fall from the trees only every other fall or less. For a few weeks, when it's pinon time, it's obvious every where. Students bring them to school and eat them during class. In offices, it's very common to witness secretaries at their desks enjoying pinons. The shell should be taken off before eating them, but the first time I was given a few (early 1990's) I ate the first one shell and all. Well, that was another time added to others, when I was so culturally dumb on the reservation and provided laughs for my Navajo students.

2008-11-14T15:39:00.001-05:00

Still away from home after a month more

2008-11-14T15:27:00.005-05:00

It's been a month since I posted anything on this site. Tomorrow I fly home to North Carolina, and earlier today I figured if I don't update some of the time I've been away today, it'll probably not happen. After five days in Sedona, I drove to the Navajo Reservation, destination: Tsaile, AZ. On that drive, I went through Flagstaff. It's been a warm fall, and there was no snow by that time, mid October, on San Francisco Peaks. While in Flagstaff, I went to the visitor's center, right in the center of town, next to railroad tracks. While out of the car, I received a phone call from my sister, Pat. She wanted me to know that our brother's mother-in-law (almost 100 years old and just recently fell) was not recovering well, and there was the thought that she was probably leaving this world very soon. Just before the phone rang with Pat's call, a train went by, and I thought of our mother who told us that she loved hearing trains go by when she was a little girl because she always figured someone was on a trip going to some wonderful place. And now I realized that Carole's mom was on her way very soon on the best trip any of us make. It seemed an appropriate sentimental kind of thought as I said prayers for Carole and her mom and all their family during these days of change.
Then it was on to Tsaile for me.

Sedona, AZ -----as beautiful as ever ---- I say that every time I'm here!

2008-10-14T18:41:00.004-04:00

After a wonderful Baha'i Fireside and potluck in a home near Curt and Pearl's on Saturday evening, I left Albuquerque on Sunday morning. The rental car I have is another good one. The trip went smoothly to Gallup where I met Lauren (1990's co-worker and owner of doublewide I rented in Shiprock in summer 2007) at Earl's Restaurant, and we had a wonderful two plus hours visit. We knew we could have enjoyed even more time together, but there were "miles to go" before my next stop. Arrival in Sedona was before sunset, so I got a good view of the beautiful red rocks from 89A. And it is wonderful to be here again. This is true inspite of the new "round-abouts" at 89A and 179 and lots of road construction right at the entrance to Los Abrigados. Actually, this last thing helps because it's always been a challenge to get out of this property, and now there are two traffic manager persons to help cars in and out.

A couple more photos from Ghost Ranch Friday trip

2008-10-14T18:39:00.002-04:00

RV practice

2008-10-14T18:14:00.003-04:00

Our second "day trip", on Saturday, just Curt and Pearl and I went for a ride up to about Sante Fe and over to Madrid (pronounced MA-drid with accent on the first syllable) where the funny movie "Road Hogs" was filmed. This day trip was for Curt to get more driving experience in their new RV. He wanted to see how it handled in wind. We expected a little wind, but while we were gone, a tremendous storm came up with winds predicted at 75 mph. We kept listening to the radio to know the whereabouts of the storm and avoided the worst of it. We never got driving in really bad winds, but Curt was pleased with the handling of the RV in the conditions we did experience. When we got back home, there were little piles of hail in the driveway.

Driving around Albuquerque, early fall colors and other sights.

2008-10-14T17:57:00.004-04:00

We made two day trips the end of the week. On Friday, Curt and Pearl and her mom and I drove in Curt's car to Abiquiu and Ghost Ranch. Peg Dunn had taken Mom and me to that area about ten or twelve years ago. It is very beautiful. Several photos here of rocks and trees were taken at Ghost Ranch, as well as one of the "painted pony" at the office entrance.

Special shapes glodeo and fireworks

2008-10-14T17:42:00.003-04:00

The evening we were at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival included the glodeo and fireworks. Balloons don't go up at night, but there were hundreds of them on the grounds, and often they would all fire up at the same time, creating the "glow." Pearl and I settled ourselves on the ground, she in a chair she carried, and me on a bath towel, and we were right in front of the Scarecrow balloon. In one of the photos I just posted of the stork balloon being inflated, the scarecrow is visable laying on its side, also being inflated.
After a while, all the balloons are deflated rather quickly. It reminded me of watching the disassembling of a circus show because it all came apart so fast. Then there was a really well done fireworks show, and I was able to get a couple photographs of that worth adding here.
Then everyone wanted to leave at once. Still, everyone being respectful and polite, but man! so many folks. When we got in line for our particular bus route (there were 8 or 10 routes using school busses from all over the Albuquerque area), looking ahead at all the people in line, I thought it would be over an hour wait before we boarded a bus. We called Curt, but he was in his car, in a lot, waiting for traffic to move, so that he could himself move at all. Pearl and I stayed in line, made friends with other people around us, took turns walking to the ladies room (there was a trailer of rest rooms, as well as portapotties all over) and we waited only about a half hour till we got on a bus. Well organized.

Special Shapes new stork balloon

2008-10-14T17:27:00.003-04:00

The hot air balloons are so big! We went to the activities last Thursday night, the best day of 2008 Balloon Festival in Albuquerque. The weather was perfect. The crowds were huge, but everybody always enjoys the hot air balloons, so it's a joyful time and temperaments are always all positive.
Pearl and I were there for hours. We took the bus over from a church lot near her home. Curt was already there, volunteer parking for Civitan Club. This was the day of the "special shapes" with copies of Disney characters and other creative unique animal and building shapes. Many of the balloons return year after year, but there are always new ones. It was interesting to watch the balloons getting inflated, especially the new stork balloon. I'll post photos taken of the process, from seeing the very large flattened white fabric on the ground through the gradual inflation, seeing the shaped beak on the ground, and finally the total stork, complete with a bundle hanging from his beak (no baby inside that.)

Albuquerque hot air balloons

2008-10-14T17:14:00.005-04:00

Like I remember from other years, it was fun driving around Albuquerque when the weather was good and the hot air balloons went up. One time Pearl and I were close enough to a balloon that we waved to the folks in the basket, and they waved back. Often, the balloons were off to the east from us, and so my camera was looking into the sun, but I'll post a couple photos that came out pretty good.

ELVIS lives

2008-10-04T17:34:00.003-04:00

I prepared for this photo, even wore the shirt purchased in Memphis, Aug 2007, when Pearl and I stopped to celebrate with thousands the 30th anniversary of Elvis's passing. I prepared for this photo when I knew it was an Elvis memorabelia place where I'd meet my new Baha'i friend in Swansboro, NC, day before yesterday for lunch. I prepared, and she took the photo, but I had no idea it would be quite this funny! It makes me laugh, and I hope you'll enjoy it, too.

On the road again

2008-10-04T17:17:00.003-04:00

On the road again.......or more accurately, In the skies again.....Man, is this an easier way to get to the southwest than driving.
Flights today so far from Wilmington to Charlotte and Charlotte to Phoenix. Went over Albuquerque and wished I could jump out with a parachute and my luggage....what an entry! But I chose to stay in the plane and now will backtrack to Albuquerque after a couple hours here in Phoenix. US Airways makes this wait easy. I'm near my gate. It's relatively quiet for an airport. I'm on my own laptop with it and my phone plugged in behind the trash can right near where I'm sitting.
I'm adding a photo...could be entitled Many Bags makes herself at home at Sky Harbor

Expect to start return drive 8-22-08

2008-08-21T23:39:00.003-04:00

Wonderful gathering tonight. Baha'i Feast in West Palm Beach. If I heard right, there are now at least 30 local spiritual assemblies in this area of south Florida. When I became a Baha'i in Plantation, FL, in 1972, there were about six LSA's in the same area. This is just rough memory, but close to right, I think.
Tonight a small dinner was arranged for Gabs and me and a couple other guests. It was really good food and a wonderful thank you for us. I have one new recipe I'm eager to try at home.
We are hoping to leave at 9am in the morning, stop at Edgewater to visit Joan and Ed Mazur and then on to St Augustine. I keep checking weather online (no tv here) and am hoping to mostly be after all the rain from Fay that is still hitting northern FL. Today finally, there was no rain here....very little yesterday.
The next day will be a longer drive from St Augustine to Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute in Hemingway, SC, and then Sunday I hope to leave in enough time to stop in Hampstead at a devotional on my way back to Sneads Ferry.

Haitian memories of the Blackwells

2008-08-19T20:17:00.002-04:00

Erick Louis came again on Sunday to MCBI, and he spoke to me and my casette recorder to tell his rememberances of Mrs. Ruth Blackwell after she returned to Haiti in the last years of her life. This is another wonderful interview of preciouos stories for that book about Ellsworth and Ruth Blackwell that will get written, God willing, sooner rather than later at this point!
It was fun for Gabs to visit in Creole with this old friend.

Dinner at Institute for Haitians

2008-08-19T19:51:00.004-04:00

The gathering at Magdelene Carney Baha'i Institute held August 16, 2008, will be remembered as one of the highlights of our trip. The evening included dinner, songs and prayers by the children's classes, presentation in Creole by Gabrielle Griggs, and much visiting between the local Baha'is and the guests. Most of the people in attendance were Haitians, and most of the communication was in French or Creole. Erick Louis from Fort Lauderdale came here to MCBI after work and visited with guests Saturday night. He and Gabrielle Griggs were teenage Baha'is together in Haiti many years ago.

one of Pauly's funnier moments coming here

2008-08-19T18:43:00.003-04:00

The drive here to West Palm Beach, two days from Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute in Hemingway, SC, was long enough for the three of us that it included boring times and good times and difficult times for each of us. Pauly can be one of the most charming, cutest little kids imaginable. He regularly says thank you and please and you're welcome at appropriate times in the sweetest voice possible. But at 27 months, he is a challenge to his mom in surprising, creative, stubborn ways! Most of the time in the car, he was interested in seeing new things. "Look at the birds, Pauly." And Pauly would excitedly say, "See. Birds." "Trees, Pauly. See the big trees, Pauly." And then he would comment about the trees.....the planes....the trucks....and so on. This might go on entertaining him for miles. One time, however, he was mad about something else, and we attempted to change the subject trying to get him to look at all the things around us. And his responses were in a loud, near screaming voice, "NO TREES! NO BIRDS! NO CARS!" And in one bad moment today, after Gabs corrected him and asked him to speak to me, Pauly announced loudly, ...."NO SORRY, GRANNY MIKE!"
This might be just the testing current method in his development. I just heard him in the next room, "NO BATH!"

time flies when you're having fun (or not)

2008-08-19T16:57:00.002-04:00

Over all, it is still a good trip. Of course, it's good. We are healthy. We are seeing many Baha'i friends, new and old. We are very blessed, as always. But most of the time, we are even more blessed. It is raining. You know how I hate rain! And it has been raining. Every day during this rainy season, in this tropical area, it rains....hard....every day! Add to this, a tropical storm (Fay) which is a slow moving lingering storm, and it is even more rainy. It is hot and humid and rainy! I am so glad I do not live here all the time and do not want to.
Maybe I could have used more time during this housebound time to write more blog entries, but I cannot believe how lazy I have felt. Finally, there is pizza on the way, and I'm going to post some updates to let you see more of what we've been doing.
Dominoes found us.......

New construction here at this Baha'i Training Institute

2008-08-14T22:13:00.003-04:00

It is exciting to see the construction that goes along with the recent increased size of local Baha'i communities in this area. The local Auxiliary Board Member provided all the necessary guidelines to Gabrielle, including directions for home visits and deepenings.

MCBI in West Palm Beach, FL

2008-08-14T22:04:00.003-04:00

We are at the close of our first full day here, and more than I even imagined, the days will indeed be full! This first day went very well. We are feeling more settled, and Gabs and Pauly are already asleep as I post a couple entries tonight.

LGBI Hemingway, SC

2008-08-11T22:58:00.003-04:00

The drive here went fine. Gabrielle had called me to tell me that she and Mark and probably CJ were all going to the Mexican Restaurant that is a favorite for folks here, and invited me to join them. I did. It was good to be with these friends again. Now two and a half, Pauly has grown a lot since I last saw him in January. He's an active adorable friendly little boy who is sure to add his own unique joy to our journey.

Spread the Hollyhocks

2008-08-11T22:29:00.003-04:00

On day one of this trip, I gave away the first of the little baggies of hollyhocks seeds I brought with me, to the woman who works at the recycling center in Sneads Ferry. I noticed that there is a variety of pretty flowers growing near the entrance, around the "office." I asked the woman who is always there, always so pleasant, if she planted all those flowers, and she said Yes. I asked her if she likes hollyhocks. "Yes," again. "Do you have seeds?"
"Just so happens, I do," I said. She was very happy when I went to the trunk of my car and got out a small package of seeds for her. "It's my favorite flower," she said. So now, sometime in the future, when we all make our regular treks to the recycling center in Sneads Ferry, we'll see hollyhocks blooming. (in a year or two anyway.)

Baha'i Prayer to start this journey

2008-08-11T22:23:00.003-04:00

I have risen this morning by Thy grace, O my God, and left my home trusting wholly in Thee, and committing myself to Thy care. Send down, then, upon me, out of the heaven of Thy mercy, a blessing from Thy side, and enable me to return home in safety even as Thou didst enable me to set out under Thy protection with my thoughts fixed steadfastly upon Thee.

There is none other God but Thee, the One, the Incomparable, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

Bahá’u’lláh

ON THE ROAD AGAIN........

2008-08-10T21:05:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow, August 12th, I plan to drive to Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute in Hemingway, SC. I'll stay overnight there and then Tuesday, my friend Gabrielle Griggs and her three year old son, Pauly, and I will start our drive to West Palm Beach, FL, to help in the Baha'i community in that area. Gabs was invited to come because of her ability to speak Creole, and she invited me to join her. I expect it will be a very enjoyable and rewarding trip for Gabs and Pauly and me. Tonight I put together some materials that will work for me to help in youth or adult classes.
Tuesday night we'll stay in St. Augustine, across from Tom and Carole. I am very eager for this visit though it will seem too short.

May 13...it's Mother's Day again (KLP thinking of you!)

2008-05-13T20:35:00.002-04:00

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA
Have finished day four of the five it will take me to drive from Albuquerque, NM, to Sneads Ferry, NC. It took longer to feel refreshed and rested a little after I got to the motel tonight. I think it is at about this point that I feel always on these cross-country drives (this now is the fourth one I've done in the past 12 months) Good Grief! This is a long drive!!! Thank goodness there's just one more day! At the same time, I'm thankful that it's gone well, that I've been safe, that my car is comfortable, that the weather for me has been good.
I'm too tired to post photos. I'll try to put more on this blog after I've been home a few days.
In case you're looking at this and don't recognize the date, it's four years ago, on May 13th, that our mom moved on to the next world after a short time of illness in Thomasville Medical Center, the town next to where I lived (Lexington) in the middle of North Carolina at that time. For those of you who recognized that date, you were probably there with us. It continues to be one of those amazing family experiences for us all.

May 11: Oklahoma and Arkansas

2008-05-11T23:33:00.002-04:00

All over again, I was impressed by the dozens of wind generators (hundreds?) on both sides of Highway 40 in Weatherford, OK. Then there was that hill of wild flowers posted already on the blog just before the Arkansas border. I'm getting further east.

May 10 Beginning of Trip east

2008-05-11T23:28:00.002-04:00

First stop: Clines Corners in New Mexico. This is where the bus would stop when Pearl was little, on the trips to and from boarding school. Then I went across that small top section of Texas.

Old Town Albuquerque on May 9

2008-05-11T23:23:00.002-04:00

Time with Pearl in Old Town was fun like always. We both looked for holihocks and were glad to find them.

Mother's Day

2008-05-11T22:17:00.004-04:00

I received a whole field of flowers near the border between OK and AR, and accepted them as Happy Mother's Day.

On my way to North Carolina

2008-05-10T21:03:00.002-04:00

I left Tsaile right after Dine College graduation on Thursday, May 8th. There were hundreds of people there, and I didn't even get to say "good-bye" to many friends I expected to see that day. In some ways that's better. Many of us had already shared that we hope time goes quickly till I return and assurance of prayers for one another, so what more is there to say? Later Thursday, the drive to Albuquerque went very smoothly.
Friday was spent mostly running around with Pearl in Albuquerque, including hours at one of my favorite places to walk around, visit shopkeepers and admire beautiful Native crafts: Old Town Albuquerque.
After breakfast with Pearl and Curt at a great place in Albuquerque, Curt's favorite for breakfast, today was a short drive, relatively, just 288 miles to Amarillo, TX. Before logging in to post this blog, I looked at photos from the last couple weeks. They are very telling of the wonderful experiences that filled the end of this stay on the Navajo Nation. I've let it get too late tonight to do it, but hopefully, tomorrow or the next night I'll post some of the photos ......... fewer words, but great photos!
Tomorrow: Alma, AR
Thanks for checking the blog.

After exit report from the accreditation team visit

2008-04-23T15:27:00.003-04:00

This is a good day. Many happy people! The college received a positive report following months of very intense hard work on the part of administrators and faculty and other staff members. It's fun to publish all these positive photos from Dine College.

Dine College 40th Anniversary Rededication

2008-04-21T18:56:00.003-04:00

This was really special to see. Much was done in tribute to the elders who had the foresight to dedicate their lands to be used for the Tsaile campus of Navajo Community College that was first housed at Many Farms in 1968. The original landbreaking and dedication ceremony at Tsaile was in 1971. Many people who were there attended the rededication on April 13, 2008. The same cane (or fire poker), contributed by Edward Bahe Harvey, used ceremoniously to plant the seed of education in 1971, has been used in ceremonies since that time and was used again for the rededication. Mr. Harvey, too, was honored. College employee and medicine man, Avery Denny, explained the significance of the symbols used in the ceremony. He said that 40 years ago, we realized that western education was not providing everything needed by Navajo young people. "We begin everything important by calling on the Holy People....Today we replant the seed in our songs and prayers and philosophy....healing education." College President Ferlin Clark talked about the significance of prayer for traditional Navajos who pray at first dawn's light, all through the day, and again at night. There was humor, too, especially when re-telling the stories of the people (now elders, but many are still here) who went to Washington, DC, to explain about the wish of Navajos (joined by other tribes) who wanted to have their own tribally controlled institutions of higher learning. Comments like what makes you Navajos think you can run a college? were heard at that time. But hearing the stories now, one has to understand that there was so much belief and determination on the part of the folks who were sure this was a good thing that there was no way to stop the progress.

new friendships and old friendships renewed

2008-04-21T17:43:00.002-04:00

This spring I have gotten to know many new people, and it has been very special to again be with folks who were co-workers and friends back in the first years I was here. Agatha was in charge of Student Services when I was here in the summer of 1989. Since then, she has worked in many different capacities, always focused on serving college students here at Dine College. Bertie was the secretary in the department where I worked from 1990-1993. After that she went on to more education and is so dedicated now as a special education teacher and coordinator in the Chinle district. As mentioned in other blogs, Bertie and I have enjoyed many times together this spring, both Baha'i activities, as well as college and community events. The three of us, Agatha and Bertie and I sat together for the 40th anniversary rededication of the college and then met with other "old time staff members" for our own lunch after we all helped serve lunch to over 500 community members who attended the celebration. Lots of good sharing and laughing. (A few days earlier, I took the training, and I now have a Navajo Nation food handler's certificate.)

White Man's Kachinas

2008-04-21T17:15:00.002-04:00

This is not the best photo I have of these, but this one is available now, of the electric towers that dot the landscape all over out here. Many Navajos live without electricity which is so expensive to hook up because homes are often spread far apart, maybe miles. When my sisters and Mom and I first traveled around this area after I started work in 1990 at what was then Navajo Community College, one sister decided these look like whiteman's kachinas. If you are unfamiliar with the term, mostly from Hopi and Zuni cultures, you'll get a wonderful list of links if you google it. At any rate, the reason this term came up again this spring is that when I was driving with a Navajo friend, we passed these towers that are in this photo. I shared our family comment, and she responded, "Oh, yes. Whiteman kachinas.......headless!"

POSTERS

2008-04-21T17:09:00.003-04:00

I've always liked the billboards and posters in this area, reminding the viewer that this is indeed a unique place with scenery and culture much different than other places. All four of these posters hang in the Student Union Building, outside of the Student Services Division.

back again......still here

2008-04-21T17:06:00.001-04:00

I had trouble getting into my own blog last night, but now today, it's working. Thanks, Cathy, for suggesting I be patient.

Blessing Way Ceremony

2008-04-08T18:14:00.003-04:00

Now there is lots of activity to celebrate the college's 40th anniversary. These days are part of why I wanted to be on the main campus this spring. Last Friday night, I attended a Blessing Way "last night" ceremony from 10:15pm to 5:20am. This was another one of those special learning experiences that are unique, especially for non-Navajos. There were about 30 of us in the Hogan, and I was the only white person, and one of few who didn't understand the words of the prayer songs that went on for most of the six hours of the "official" ceremony. (Today a co-worker told me, "You're not a white person. You're more like a brunette Navajo!") Not only was the medicine man singing, but over half the men and women there often sang along, and this was beautiful, even though I didn't understand most of the words. The lady next to me translated a few of the songs. Individual songs went on for 15 or 20 minutes.
The first hour (10:15 - 11:15) was preparation, including spreading out of "stuff" many people brought to be blessed by corn pollen and prayers all night. I added to the pile a small purse with symbolic personal things: Baha'i prayer book; phone (off) representing communication with family/friends; pen representing writing; camera; a few dollars. And the thing I was most pleased to put out there, in addition to the items in the small denim purse, was a spiral bound thick book, a copy of the Self-Study Report from the college in connection with the important Higher Learning Commission of North Central Accreditation visit later in April.
Earlier, I was the last one to leave the college office on Friday, and I'd just seen this report here in the conference room. Thinking it was probably a division copy, I took it and left a note that I had it with me and would return it Monday. After it was in the pile of items blessed all night, I wanted to keep this copy if possible. The beautifully done books are in limited supply, but on Monday the Dean (my boss) said I need to have one for my work, and it has evolved that now there is another one here in the conference room for the division, so I can keep this one that was in the Blessing Way.
I'm posting a link here that I hope will take you to Dine College main site. This spring is such a special time here, and there are links from the site to additional information about the 40th anniversary celebrations.

Area of so much Beauty

2008-04-08T18:03:00.003-04:00

Skipping ahead, I'm going to post a couple recent blog journals and later will go back and fill in more from earlier weeks. I keep thinking how I wish that you could all see and experience what I'm seeing and what I'm experiencing. As I drove that beautiful road between Tsaile, AZ, and Window Rock, AZ, (Rt 12) on my way to Gallup, NM, last weekend, this struck me again. I never tire of the beauty of those huge red rocks on the eastern side of that route. I know photos cannot really do justice to the view, and I try to internalize the sight so that I'll remember how it really looks when I'm away from here.

Naw-Ruz and other notes

2008-03-21T18:19:00.003-04:00

I just got closed out of the college library, forgot it closes at 4pm on Fridays. I figured, too, it might be open straight through this afternoon since there is a potluck-get together there tonight to welcome spring. Now, I'm in the student union bldg with just a couple students in view. I wonder who's around to come to the library event tonight that I expect to attend.
Anyway, Happy Naw-Ruz, the first day of the Baha'i new year, that happens on the first day of spring. I've always thought that is so cool. March 20 also marks the end of The Fast. After eating a whole bunch last night at a party in Chinle and then breakfast this morning and then lunch.......I'm already feeling more full than I did for the past 19 days.
I took today off from work. I was caught up and asked for the day since it is a Baha'i Holy Day and we are not supposed to work if possible. I went to Lukachukai this morning for a study circle and that was a good way to start a Holy Day with no work.
It is beginning to feel like spring. It's still cold at night, and the house today was left a little cooler than I like, but I'll go build a fire before coming back to campus for the library event at 6:30. Louoise's house will stay warm while I'm out for a couple hours. Louise expected to go see her mom at Wheatfields Lake, about a half hour south toward Window Rock from Tsaile late this afternoon.
Tomorrow, weather permitting, Louise will do some yard work at her home. I'll help, and then we want to go to Farmington, NM, across the Chuska Mountains on that beautiful mountain pass road that's been closed all winter. We hear now it's all clear, no snow or ice on the road. There's a Mexican Restaurant we like in Farmington where we went met last summer a couple times. Shiprock, where I was last summer, is on the other side of the mountains from here, between here and Farmington.
I just learned something about setting the date for Easter. It's unusual to have it fall so early and within a couple days of Naw-Ruz. Here's why Easter Sunday is March 23 this year. Easter is always on the first Sunday after the first full moon (tonight) after the spring equinox (March 20 or 21.) Now we'll know.

I've looked ahead at the April calendar. It's quite busy with, largely with events connected to the 40th anniversary of Dine College which started as Navajo Community College in 1968. I figured out I'm just past the half way point in the time I'll be away from North Carolina. I'm glad April is busy, both with my work and the extra activities scheduled for weekends, because as I get closer to the time I'm going to start my drive back to North Carolina, I'll be missing family and my home even more than the time so far since I left in January.

Thanks for checking my blog.

Good thing I'm done. This room will close in ten minutes. Tsaile is kind of a quiet place to be. Then again, there's that big happening at the Library in a couple hours.

Cell phone connection in surprising places!

2008-03-16T12:43:00.003-04:00

Here's one more photo from yesterday. This is about where I was standing when I received a phone call from Gabs at Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute, Hemingway, SC. We had connection for about a half hour. That's part of why I was so far behind Sue and the flock of sheep.

PS No, that's not where I was when on the phone. This is a photo of the canyon where we took the sheep to stay a few hours. One of the earlier photos, probably the one with the sheep way off in the distance is about where I was standing. Anyway, I was way out in the middle of a field near the Chuska Mountains, and I never would have guessed that I'd have phone reception there! But I did.

Yesterday with the sheep

2008-03-16T12:12:00.006-04:00

New friend, Sue, by her own definition, a traditional Navajo woman, invited me to come to her home. We decided last week, I should do this yesterday, so I'll know where she lives and can pick her up sometimes for Baha'i events. Again, early yesterday morning, I drove to Lukachukai and a little beyond toward Round Rock. I got lost just once because I took a turn about a quarter of a mile too soon off Hwy 12. However, now I know for next time.

As planned, I got to Sue's home before 9:00 am so I'd be there as she was letting out the neighbor's sheep. This is a neighbor who Sue is helping. She said she partly is volunteering to be an example of a helpful Baha'i. Her own sheep just go out to graze and come back on their own. However, Sue is training this new flock that had not been given the opportunity in recent months to get out of the corale. If folks can get hay, sometimes they don't bother or are not able to get out with the sheep. Sue says it's so much healthier for the animals if they are out. What a beautiful area she and the animals have in which to walk.

I'm going to post a few photos of this area where I walked, always behind Sue who, about my age, I think, is in much better shape from the hours of walking she does every day. A couple photos just show the area. One, however, shows the sheep way ahead of me, just dots way out there, and then another of the two sheep who I herded to hurry up and join the rest. They did.

The first photo here is of a baby lamb who stayed behind with others. Sue says to leave some of the young ones behind is a help in assuring that those who are way out will return home (As I type that, I'm thinking of my returning home to NC...no matter how far out I go to "graze.".... I'll leave here in about 7 - 8 weeks to start my drive back to NC. Lots of grazing yet to do out here! )

Thank you again, Sue, for being my teacher yesterday.

ASU trip to southwest

2008-03-16T11:49:00.003-04:00

That's Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, not ArizStateU. Pete Reichle, professor at ASU, brought students again, on the annual trip he has done most years since 1988. It was great to visit with him and meet this year's group. I was able to see them twice, before and after their hike into Canyon de Chelly. It was this same trip, 19 years ago, that I came on and had my first experiences on the Navajo Reservation. At that time, there were two main activities that continue to seem like the most influential on me during that life-changing ten days. The first was being with Annie Kahn, as I think I mentioned a week ago in a post. I was lucky to be at her presentation again last Monday. As often seems to be the case, there was confusion about where we could meet, mis-communication between folks. But, as always, we ended up in the best place, on the grass in a circle, near the meeting place that had been pre-arranged where now there was another meeting in progress.

Annie said everyone of us is born sacred with that first breath. Each of us is unique, with a certain identity and purpose. None of us is an accident. The earth can teach you everything. She then shared some of the traditional Navajo teachings that have become so familiar to me over the past twenty years. She challenged the young people, telling them their life is so easy, and that they have more freedom than folks in the past, more opportunities to do important things. She invited the students to share and answer what they could do that can make a difference. "How do you make your own notches?" she asked. The answers focused on learning and giving to others. Before starting a continuous line around the circle so that everyone got to greet and hug everyone else, she reminded us, "Today is no accident. This is a beautiful day. We have time to sit together, to share, to be friends, to be brother and sister."
Ahe'hee (thank you) Annie Kahn

Winter views in Tsaile

2008-03-16T11:39:00.003-04:00

Here are two photos taken on a crisp winter day, February 27th. The young student dropping off his son at Tsaile day care on Dine College campus before he headed to Chinle for classes, is Lionel Yazzie. Before the photo, he pulled the blanket back on the cradleboard, and his beautiful six month old, Quintin, gave a big grin to me. Lionel said it was fine to take the photo and post it on my blog. Thank you!

The other photo here is a tree in the backyard of Louise's home at sunset that same day. I figure it will be a pretty tree to photograph during spring's arrival.

Almost spilled the beans!

2008-03-16T11:23:00.003-04:00

A week ago, on Sunday, my good friend Bertie was in my car, and we were going to the Baha'i Cluster meeting in Lukachukai. There were two caseroles in the back on the floor, and Bertie had her crockpot of beans held between her feet on the front floor. I handed her my camera because I wanted her to take a couple photos as we went down the hill, looking ahead to Lukachukai with the beautiful red rocks of the Chuska Mountains in view. It was late afternoon, and I thought the lighting would be real good. Whoops, I said, that's where it would've been great.

So I did a turn into a driveway and quickly backed out going the other way so we could get that same view again. Continuing my turn around, I went into and out of the next driveway, and Bertie was concentrating on getting the photo. Over went the crockpot. But Bertie was able to save it. Luckily,she had placed foil on top of the pot, under the lid. With a laugh, as she took the photos, she said, "Mike, you almost spilled the beans!"

I hope the photos, even small on this post, show you why I love the drive from Tsaile to Lukachukai, about 15 minutes to the home where we often meet for Baha'i events.

People are the most important

2008-03-16T11:04:00.003-04:00

Louise continues to be a wonderful friend to me. I always enjoy meeting more of her large family. I hear from Louise that they always ask if I'm ok, if I'm happy, warm enough and comfortable. A couple weeks ago, her mom and step dad came to her home. When we were officially introduced, her mom called me "daughter" in Navajo, and Louise said, "That's it! Now you're part of the family forever." Here are two photos from that day, one of Louise and her mom and another one of her mom with me. Her mom may not have been too enthused about agreeing to the photo shoot, but she did make sure that her hands were held in front of her (Louise said) to show off all her turquoise jewelry. As they left, soon after these photos were taken, she said in Navajo to Louise, "You girls are up to no good."

Bigger catch up - not so quick

2008-03-16T10:45:00.003-04:00

There have been experiences and photos I want to share over the past couple of weeks. It's Sunday morning, and I'm at the Navajo Nation Quality Inn in Window Rock, AZ. I have access to the internet and some time before I leave for a birthday party in St. Michaels for Pearl's mom. The blog entries I post this morning before I leave will not be chronological, but an assortment of "stuff to share."

The photo here was taken a half hour ago, by me of me, in the mirror. Those of you who know me will appreciate the phrase on the shirt. Sorry, the writing is backwards. There's probably a way to reverse the photo online, but I don't know how to do that. The shirt was purchased last week at T&R Market in Gallup, newly renovated and updated, and now it's a really cool grocery store. Although I am so connected emotionally and spiritually to a lot of the teachings and values here on the Navajo Reservation, there's an ongoing joke about me and mutton(sheep for eating.) It's a real treat for most Navajos and one of those "back home items" that Navajos crave if they live off the rez. To me, it's not like lamb; it has a stronger flavor, and I've never gotten used to the taste. At some time in the future even if I wanted to eat it, I might not. That would ruin the jokes that have been said about me for almost 20 years: "Doesn't like mutton? What kind of a woman is she?"

I expect the shirt will provide some laughs today at the gathering of Pearl's family.

Quick catch up

2008-03-07T18:50:00.002-05:00

I have not logged on to my blog since the last post on March 3. It's 4:45pm on a Friday at the college....always a very quiet time on any campus....and it's spring break! Really quiet! Security will probably want the offices closed very soon. The library closed an hour ago. I have no where in town to go and get online until Monday, so I thought I should just say everything is fine for those of you who check (thanks).

It is more than fine. Work is going well. I'm getting so much cooperation from staff here, and I'm enjoying the online research I'm doing. The time goes by so fast to work just half time.

My Baha'i Ruhi Institute involvement is wonderful, especially during The Fast. Today we had study circles and devotions in Lukachukai, the "town" just ten minutes from Tsaile where I live and work. For the second time I have homemade stew and fry bread from the devotions gathering that today has to wait till the sun goes down for me to eat and share with Louise.

This weekend will be quiet in Tsaile. The big activity for me tomorrow will be to go to Chinle (Bashas grocery store) to buy more ingredients for two dishes I want to make in quantity for Sunday, some to take to the Baha'i Cluster meeting in Lukachukai and some for Louise and her family members who will be visiting this weekend.

Monday I expect to go to Chinle with Charlotte Kahn. We'll be guests of Annie Kahn (Charlotte's mom) who is doing a presentation to the Appalachian State University group that comes with Pete Reichle every year (different students....same basic trip) This is the trip I came on in 1989 that was a life changing experience for me. Part of what was so wonderful about that trip was the presentation and visit with Annie Kahn, well known medicine woman and teacher of Navajo traditions. She is still a wonderful teacher. Today she shared the thought that the primary reason Navajos are still here as a recognized group of people is prayer, their traditional prayers about all of life. Of course, there was Navajo language shared today, and again I wish I knew a whole lot more.

I know I expected to add photos to my blog this past week. Again, I hope to do it soon. Meantime, stay in touch with what you're doing, by phone or email or comments on this blog. It's 5:20, and Louise is going to wonder, "What's she doing now!" if I don't get "home" soon.

Thanks again for checking in.

Indian Market Heard Museum 50th anniversary

2008-03-03T10:19:00.004-05:00

Another wonderful special weekend in Phoenix area with sister Pat and brother-in-law Dick. This blog entry is to tell a little about my first time at the Indian Market, and sometime soon (?) I hope to update other activities of the past couple weeks. My job at the college, although part-time, is taking more energy, and I'm having a wonderful time with Baha'i Ruhi Institute activities in Tsaile, and then, there are these unique experiences like this weekend.

The drive here was beautiful. Most of the snow near "home" (Tsaile) has melted. I took a route that goes through mountains and beautiful pine forests and some snow and rock formations. Then here in Phoenix, the temperatures over the weekend were about ten degrees above "normal" for this time. It was in the 80's on Saturda, 70's yesterday.

Pat has told me for years that I'd love the Indian Market at the Heard Museum. She's right! Artists often said that this is one of the best show in the country. Beautiful traditional and modern jewelry and sculptures and lots of entertainment, mostly drumming and dancing, from different tribes. I have videos, taken on my little digital camera, of some of the entertainment, but I haven't figured out yet how to share those. Pat and Dick helped both days at the fry bread booth. This is the largest single fund raiser booth at the Indian Market. Having done this volunteer service for years, Dick has the system well organized with the cooking of beans and used 72 institutional cans of beans. (Ran out, could have used 85!) Some folks choose to put salt or cinnamon sugar on their fry bread instead of beans and salsa. Dozens of other volunteers give four or five hours at a time to helping customers. A group of Native American women make fry bread, more of it than I've ever seen in one place.

Yesterday was the first day of the Baha'i Fast, and that went well for me. Today, because I'm going to drive six or seven hours to get home, I will remember it's the Fast, but I will drink and eat while I travel.

Thanks for checking my blog. Missing you all in North and South Carolina, but continuing to feel so thankful for being able to be in the southwest again for a few months. I expect to post more this week, including photos of some of the entertainment at Indian Market.

Photographs

2008-02-21T21:16:00.004-05:00

Not sure why, but on the post just published the third of three photos appears with an X in a link that you'll have to click to see. I might do that on purpose if I knew what I did to make that happen.

Quick trip to Sedona

2008-02-21T20:45:00.005-05:00

I drove down for only one full day, but it was worth it. The weather got worse again in Tsaile yesterday afternoon, and I think I left just in time to miss a new storm. The roads across the reservation were all clear, and it was really an enjoyable drive. There were clouds, but visability was good, and the only precipitation was some snow in Flagstaff. After I drove passed it, there was more snow in Flagstaff late in the afternoon. Today in Sedona it was cloudy and cool, but I love it here anyway. It was a great place to relax and catch up on some emails. It has changed here in the lodge in the past couple of years. Especially on a day that is not wonderful to be outside, like today, the lobby always has four or five people on computers, me being the one who has sat here the longest! Today, I called and spoke with an advisor at the U.S. Department of Education and received helpful information about the work for my college job. Also, I reviewed some other paperwork printed from information about my job available in web research. The weather reports, T.V. and online, now sound like the roads will be fine for me to leave early in the morning and be back to Tsaile by early afternoon.
Thank you again for looking at my blog.

The best Earl's story yet!

2008-02-17T19:07:00.003-05:00

Yesterday more snow had melted. Main roads were clear by early morning. Alberta John, friend and co-worker from 1990's at the college, and I went to Gallup. I pulled off the road to take photos of the early morning sun coming up behind the pine trees between Tsaile and Wheatfields. Golly, it was so pretty, as there was a lot of frost on the trees after early morning fog.
Being in Gallup, of course we ate at Earl's. The last couple times there, I didn't buy anything from the jewelers and other artists who come around to the tables. Yesterday, however, I wanted to get a couple things for gifts and for me. I spent a lot of time picking out a hair pin, figuring soon my hair will be long enough to pin back, and I bought a really pretty one. Designed and made by Ilene Parkett of St Michaels, AZ, it's silver, like a large bobbypin with a piece of turquoise at the closed end. I carefully wrapped it in part of a paper napkin, but before putting it into my purse, I was busy looking at the next person's jewelry. Naturally, the sellers are aware when a purchase is made, so there is more attention given to that table. We had a delicious meal, and after we were outside looking still at the vendors' tables, I realized I'd left the hair pin on the table. Darn! So Bertie and I went back inside, and I told the waitress, who asked us to talk to another person, and then we were asked to talk to Steven Richards, Pres./manager, who was busy determining how many were in each party in the long line of customers waiting to be seated. (It's mid day Saturday at Earl's!) Mr. Richards treated me like there were no other customers. He asked around to staff, "Has anyone seen a hairpin left at that table?" He already had found out where we'd been sitting. Then, dismissing my request to please not go to all that trouble, he told us to wait, and he went back to the kitchen. In a few minutes, he came back, saying he was unsuccessful, even though he'd put his hands into all the stuff cleared from recent tables! He gave me his card and told me to call in an hour. Annoyed at my carelessness, and I really liked that piece, I remembered to call when Bertie and I were on the other side of Gallup, just about ready to leave town. It took two tries to get through, but Steve was given the phone, and right away, he said, "I've got it!" Apparently, it was put with silverware to be rinsed before being washed, and someone saw it. The "all alert" had been spread enough that I guess the whole staff in the back was on the lookout for this silver hair pin. Bertie and I went back and retrieved it, by now in an envelope at the front register. I thanked Mr. Richards and told him I'd thank him publicly on my blog. We've all always had such positive thoughts about Earl's Family Restaurant in Gallup, and this experience just pushes those thoughts up a few notches for sure! THANK YOU EARL'S AND ESPECIALLY THANK YOU, STEVEN RICHARDS, FOR YOUR CUSTOMER SERVICE WAY BEYOND THE ORDINARY!!!

Another snow storm

2008-02-17T18:50:00.002-05:00

Friday morning, it was clear there'd been another snow storm. Before she left Wednesday till Sunday, Louise had moved a lot of wood to large boxes by the house door and had covered the wood pile. Thank goodness! I'm getting pretty good at building fires in the wood stove in the living room. This time after the storm, the temperature was higher outside, above freezing, and there was a lot more melting in the next couple of days. For so many people on the reservation, that means more mud. I don't remember the mud situation being this bad back in the 1990's. Many people are stranded and still more have to leave vehicles on pavement and walk, sometimes a quarter mile or more, to their homes. If the temperature drops to below freezing over night, then most four wheel drives and trucks can make it in or out over frozen mud. I'm very lucky that I've not had to drive in mud. Just a little stepping in it is gross enough for me.
There are a lot of stories of organized and individual help, especially for elders, whose homes are off the road. Food and supplies and hay for animals have been delivered, and hopefully to all who need this assistance.

Sunday Brunch before leaving Phoenix

2008-02-13T18:45:00.003-05:00

While I spent Saturday during the day with Pat and Dick, Louise had a good visit with her family. Then Sunday we met for a meal and visit before leaving Phoenix. Louise and her son, Darold, and his wife, Cheryle, and their three boys, Nikota, Daron, and Kayo, and I all met at Mimi's for a good meal and a wonderful visit. It's the first time I've seen Darold and Cheryle and their first son, Nikota (just a baby then) since they helped me move from Many Farms, AZ, in 1997. Darold drove a U-Haul truck to Albuquerque where Peg and Denis met us to drive the truck the rest of the way to North Carolina. Before that memorable adventure I had not seen much of Darold since he worked with me at Dine College (then Navajo Community College) from 1990 to 1994. A new NCC graduate at that time, he was a wonderful addition to our staff and a good friend. Since then he and Cheryle both have completed lots more of their own education and both have interesting, responsible jobs, and three great kids! What a pleasure it was to get reconnected.

Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio

2008-02-13T12:31:00.003-05:00

Pat and Dick (my sister and her husband) and Louise and I went to the Phoenix Symphony for a half hour music performance (Grand Canyon Suite) followed by the performance of Enemy Slayer. This unique piece combines music by Mark Gray and poetry by Laura Tohe and photographs by Deborah O'Grady. Before this performance, these three creative artists were on stage to preview what we were going to see and hear. Laura Tohe, a Navajo daughter of a WWII Code Talker, and an English associate professor at Arizona State University, introduced herself traditionally by naming her family's clans. Her writings for this oratorio are published in both Navajo and English in a program insert. The story is of a Navajo soldier returning home after serving in Iraq and deals with his mental and emotional struggles to re-identify himself as a human being.
The evening's premier performance that we attended was recorded for broadcast and commercial release. Although we wish there had been more participation in the performance by Navajos and more of the Dine language spoken, we all enjoyed it, and I think it will expose more people to some of the basic Dine beliefs that I have come to respect and love.

Hoop Dance Contest at Heard Museum

2008-02-13T11:47:00.002-05:00

The outdoor stadium was full on Saturday when Pat and Dick and I went to a few hours to the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest at the Heard Museum, Phoenix, Saturday, Feb. 9. Over 60 contestants from different tribes in the USA and Canada were divided into five different age divisions. We watched just a small number of the dancers, but thoroughly enjoyed the event.
I was especially attracted to the Tiny Tots and spoke with the mom of two year old Kai Win Clements from Warm Springs tribe in Warm Springs, OR. The little dancer was often on the grass behind spectators practicing with his hoops. The mom graciously gave permission for me to post a couple photos of her son for you to enjoy, too. She told me before we came he won $25 and stuffed animals.
The fry bread line was too long, but Pat and Dick and I enjoyed the best ever grilled cheeseburgers that we're hoping will be as good at the Heard Museum Indian Fair & Market the first weekend of March.

I'm still here

2008-02-12T18:39:00.000-05:00

I'm still here, and so is the snow and lots of ice early morning and lots of mud by late afternoon. We don't have to deal with the mud as much as many folks around here, though I did lose both shoes into the mud when I was attempting to bring some wood in from the wood pile late yesterday afternoon. (How I thought I could do this chore without my shoes tied on tightly is another funny personal experience! That's why they have laces, Audrey Mike!) This morning, the crisp clear air at sunrise was really beautiful when I went out to dump the ashes. There's a beauty out here that's so special.
Our weekend was wonderful. Louise and I spent most of Friday driving, one busy day (Saturday) in Phoenix, and driving back home to Tsaile most of Sunday. Next post will have photos of the little two year old hoop dancer from the competition at the Heard Museum, and pictures of Pat and Dick and Louise and me at the Navajo Oratorio premier Sat night at the Phoenix Symphony, and pictures of Louise's son, Darold, who worked with me at Dine College 1990-1993 and his family.
Thanks for checking in on my blog.

Canyon de Chelly

2008-02-07T19:32:00.000-05:00

The top photo posted yesterday, taken Tuesday, looks maybe like a lake. It is not. It is looking across the campus before footprints.
I drove to Chinle in the middle of today. I decided to take extra time and go out on the south rim of Canyon de Chelly. I'm so glad I did. I imagine there was even more snow a couple days ago, but it sure is beautiful still. The weather remains cold, and, although the roads are mostly all clear, there is still a lot of snow off the pavement.
The second photo today is back on campus, on the way to the main parking lot, near these two buildings, the Ned Hatathli Center (administration, museum, and large classrooms) and the North Hogan.
Yesterday when she got to the college, Louise said the temperature outside her car was 2 degress. Today at noon it was 37. A real heat wave! Last summer, I remember it being 109 at least once over the Chuska Mountains in Shiprock, NM.

Dine College

2008-02-05T14:29:00.000-05:00

What a beautiful winter wonderland! Yesterday most of "our world" was snowed in. Public schools all over the reservation were closed. Even the college was closed for classes and office work. This morning we drove to campus in Louise's Hummer. I took a photo of the yard and my car on the first morning I awoke in Tsaile. I thought it was a noteworthy photo because of the snow and winter scene. That was two days ago. Sunday morning was nothing compared to Monday, and this morning, Tuesday, was different still. Now, I think, these beautiful winter scenes around campus this morning are truly noteworthy!
When I reintroduced myself to the college librarian, he said, I know, I've seen your blog! Then he told me that his google site is set up to alert him if anyone on a blog mentions Tsaile, AZ, or Dine College. Reminders again of the small world we inhabit.
Thank you for sharing my little part of our world through this blog.

Super Bowl

2008-02-05T14:18:00.001-05:00

Amidst the prediction of more snow, Louise and I went in her Hummer, driven by her brother, to her daughter's near Kayenta to watch the game. The game was exciting, even though we chose to leave after the half time show as snow seemed to be falling more and more, and it was near a two hour drive home. Even more wonderful, however, for me was getting to know Louise's family a little better. Her daughter fixed a wonderful Super Bowl Party meal, complete with great fry bread. Grand-daughter, Mariah, 10 years old, who loves to back cakes, made a special teddy bear prediction cake. All the women helped make Valentine baloon-candy favors for a school fund raiser. Louise wrapped her six month old grandson in his cradle board. He sleeps more content in the protection of this than in his crib. Thank you, Louise and Christina, for a wonderful Super Bowl Navajo celebration.

Special Olympics Fund Raiser

2008-02-02T17:46:00.000-05:00

Navajo Nation Special Olympics did fundraising activities today, including visitation of several of the "current princesses" at Garcia Restaurant, connected to the Chinle Holiday Inn. At breakfast, I visited first with Dorothea R. Paul, Miss Central Navajo. I asked about Miss Navajo Nation and learned that she is in Phoenix for the Super Bowl festivities. However, Dorothea had post cards of Miss Navajo Nation that were being sold for another fund raiser. Of course, I bought a few. Then other princesses came. The other photo is Dorothea and me and Yolanda Jane Charley, Miss Eastern Navajo, and Crystal Littleben, Miss Central Teen. Much excitement. In addition to the contributed amount from the restaurant of all sale and tips (volunteer waiters and waitresses), I went back to my room to get a check for Navajo Nation Special Olympics. The volunteers held additional fund raisers today, including a fashion show at noon.
Louise was back in Tsaile and called, wanting me home (Tsaile) before she went out which was probably better than my going to the fashion show. Their family crisis is under control, at least for as much as Louise can do. The patient was released this morning from the hospital.
I got my car unloaded for the first time since January 21 and It seems as though I'm home and already settled for several months.
We have two invitations to Super Bowl gatherings, one here at the Student Union and one at Louise's daughter's home near Kayenta. If driving is ok, we'll probably do the latter.

Arrival Tsaile

2008-02-01T23:59:00.000-05:00

By mid afternoon I decided I'd drive to Tsaile today. Having told her earlier that I might wait till tomorrow to get to my "spring home," I called Louise at work about 3:30. Her co-worker told me she had taken leave and gone to Chinle to her daughter's. As long as I had cell phone reception, I tried several times to reach Louise at home or on her cell phone or mobile phone. By the time I got to Tsaile, there was no reception with my phone, so I went into the Fina station and got a lot of quarters to make calls. I drove back and forth between the college, Louise's home, and the Fina station. I took some more photos and really like the one at sunset of the hogan at the college. As it got dark, knowing I had no cell phone, I didn't want to just hang out in the area. I kept trying to reach Louise and by about 6pm decided to call (from the Fina station) about staying at the Holiday Inn. That arranged, I left one more message on Louise's home phone to tell her I'd be in Chinle. I drove the 30 plus miles to Chinle and checked in. As I got to the room to freshen up before going to the hotel restaurant, the phone rang. It was Louise and her daughter. There was a family emergency today and that was why Louise left work and had to go to the Chinle hospital. She left in such a hurry that she forgot her cell phone. Bless Louise. Mostly, the reason she went back to Tsaile was to see if I did drive up today rather than tomorrow. Even though she was in the middle of a personal family crisis, she and her daughter were worried about me and glad to know I'd decided to come to the Holiday Inn. They were going to pick up another family member and head back to Chinle hospital. I told her to call anytime overnight if I can help at all, and offered to share this hotel room if anyone from her family wants to come here.
Of course, I hope and pray for healing in the Litzin family. I expect to see Louise tomorrow and hopefully get settled in at her home.

Left Sedona this morning

2008-02-01T23:46:00.000-05:00

Another beautiful clear day in Sedona. Lots of birds in the trees. One doe was behind the unit I was in, just out for a stroll, it looked like, near some homes.
No new snow, so there was less than when I drove into Sedona just two days ago. Mary, in the resort gift shop, said that when she drove home that evening, it looked like God had taken a huge flour sifter and sprinkled the red rocks. There was a lot more snow near Flagstaff in the woods.

Beautiful Sedona

2008-01-31T15:15:00.001-05:00

Every time of the year, this spot is so beautiful. I'll be here just one full day, and I need to get out into the cold but gorgeous clear day in Sedona.
National weather today reports storms and ice in many areas that were fine as I drove through them last week. Amazing how that timing worked so well for me.
The photo above was taken from inside my car when I arrived in Sedona late yesterday afternoon. Snow was in the red rocks just on the one side of 89A. With the sun so bright today and no new precipitation, it may be that this was my best view this visit of white in the red.
Learned today that the Portuguese meaning of "Los Abrigados" is the shelters.........Hmmmm. This is definitely a place of shelter from all cares and woes.

Gallup, NM

2008-01-29T21:48:00.000-05:00

More storms overnight. Schools were closed throughout this section of AZ/NM. The slippery hill up from the Schuyler home early this morning reminded me of our NC home on Niley Cook Road in the late 1970's, watching cars slide around. It was an easy decision to delay my leaving Albuquerque until the side roads there benefitted from the bright sun and above freezing temperatures. That all worked. I left a little later than planned but had a good drive with almost no snow on I-40 except about 20 miles east of Gallup. For all of you Earl's fans, all's well at Earl's. Enjoyed a Navajo taco and visiting, but bought no jewelry or other items
My biggest concern this evening is, Where am I going to watch the Super Bowl game on Sunday? By then I expect to be settled in at Louise's in Tsaile. I'm hoping the student union at the college will be open and the game will be on a tv there. If not, I may have to drive to Chinle to see it. I know I am blessed beyond measure that this is my biggest concern. Feel free to laugh at me. I'm laughing at me.

Fun with Pearl

2008-01-28T17:17:00.000-05:00

The photo was taken today and shows clouds above the Sandia Mountains.
Still in Albuquerque on a beautiful southwest day, just windy. All around us the weather is not good. I've learned the Navajo word for mud because that's what's on a lot of the reservation now. It rains, snows, rains, freezes, then melts. Whattasystem. That is nature's way in the early spring.
Tomorrow is supposed to be better at least on the main highways going toward the rez, and I plan to leave Curt and Pearl and Pearl's mom. Talked to the dean at Dine College today and he respects my decision to travel the rest of this week, and move into Tsaile, AZ, across from the college on the weekend. This works for Louise, too, where I'll live. Rarely do we get the gift of time with no set plans or responsibilities like I have now for the rest of the week. I'm going to take advantage of this situation. Gallup tomorrow and Sedona for two nights, then, if the Great Spirit sees for improved driving, I'll go to Tsaile on Friday.
Today Pearl and I took off for several hours middle of the day. About noon we said the healing prayer for Josiah in Sneads Ferry and Mary Lou in Wilmington. We drove half way to Santa Fe, to Santa Ana Pueblo (they call it Tamaya) because Pearl wanted me to see a beautiful hidden away resort and spa. We walked around for a while, and it sure is beautiful!

Ya'ah'teeh! from Albuquerque

2008-01-26T18:51:00.000-05:00

I'm here at the Schuylers', and of course it feels great. I'm in Curt's office. At one time, he was at the other desk in this room on a computer; I'm on mine; and Pearl was in the office/guest room on her computer doing the Baha'i newsletter. What a way for the three of us to visit! The modern American- (global!) way! But we've also had interaction of course. Curt showed me how to insert accents in msword for Baha'i words (and Navajo words) but my blog won't support that. Darn. I watched Pearl do a beautiful braid with her mom's long hair. I could do a braid like that, Browne girls, next summer on your heads. Pearl thought maybe I knew how to do a Navajo bun, but I don't.
We're going to a Mexican restaurant nearby, and it is wonderful that Pearl's mom wants to go. I've been told before that although they always ask her to go with them, it's more likely she'll go out with us when I'm here and ask.
So happy to be in Albuquerque, I know I'm not yet on the reservation, but like always, even when I come by plane, and moreso, to be here with Curt and Pearl, I feel I've arrived in my Navajo home when I get this far.

Amarillo, TX

2008-01-26T10:14:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my longest day of driving. As I left the motel, there was light sleet and not a pretty forecast, but I left thinking I'd stop in the middle of Oklahoma if I had to. Roads were not iced at all, just the windshield. Within a half hour, precipitation stopped, and it was just cloudy for the next few hours. Then the sun came out by noon, and the rest of the day was really beautiful. Cold and windy outside, but warm and toasty and comfortable inside my "Mazda home." Most interesting site was those huge and many wind energy generators west of Oklahoma City. I remember those from the drive out last May, but had forgotten how many of them there are! As far as you can see, both sides of I-40, and all turning in the wind yesterday. They are not in straight lines, but facing differently, to catch the wind no matter from where it blows, I guess. Hmmmm. sounds like it could be a parable to some life experience...........
Today the southwest sun is bright in the clear blue sky, almost no wind, and above normal temperature for right here.
Today is the day I drive into New Mexico and see those big red rock formations that remind me of the area near Gallup. I'll get to Albuquerque, visit and stay with wonderful friends, Curt and Pearl and Pearl's mom. Life is good.

Alma, AR

2008-01-24T23:24:00.000-05:00

Leisurely drive and numerous stops on Riverside Drive in Memphis along the Mississippi right after breakfast before starting the rather short day of driving. In a warmer time of the year, this would be a really great place for a couple days' stop, take in the Civil Rights Museum and music activities on Beale Street. Maybe this could be part of the return drive to NC in May.
Good day of driving today. Sun all day. But it's cold. I talk on the phone with friends from the Navajo Reservation and hear about more snow and cold rain. There's real winter weather ahead for me up in Tsaile, I think.

Memphis tonight

2008-01-23T20:37:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm definitely further west, toward my destination, but I have two amusing stories about today's travel.
For all of you who know me well, this won't come as a surprise. Two experiences today show that my expectations and positive visualizing are not always supported by reality.
First, in planning not to drive more than 350 or 400 miles maximum each day, I figured I'd have time out of the car, seeing some new sight, a museum or tourist attraction, or at least a walk in a mall. So far none of that is happening. Today's biggest stop was for over a half hour when I pulled off on an exit with only one gas station (but a nice clean new one.) I parked next to the building on a quiet section of the pavement, lowered the car window (just a little chilly), opened my cooler, and leisurely ate left over salad from last night and cheese brought from home. Went into the station and bought a peanut butter brownie for dessert.
Until I'm into it again each time, I forget that when I'm on a long distance drive like this, esp alone, pretty much the only activity there's energy for is to drive and rest and drive and rest. And I do have a long stretch this evening and overnight for rest.
Second, and this is even funnier to me......I planned tonight's stop in Memphis, and looking at the map, it looked like the motel would be just a couple blocks from the Mississippi River. Wow! Here's the reality: the window in my room looks out onto a truck parking lot in an industrial section right near the airport. I was thinking of a view of the Mississippi like in a travel brochure advertising old paddle wheel boats or something like the walk along the Wilmington, NC, water area. I guess that's what I was visualizing because the reality really surprised me. When I checked in, I saw none and asked if there is a restaurant nearby. I was told that a few restaurants deliver and was given brochures. (I thought that's what you're told in a motel that's in a high crime area.) Anyway, the room is fine, and I enjoyed the chinese food I ordered. Wireless internet connection works great. I'm listening to wonderful old jazz.....love your music, Daddy. And I think I'll read for a while in the comfortable chair with my feet up on the attached ottoman, the same spot as my sweet computer station.
It was cloudy all day, damp but no rain. Tomorrow is supposed to be sunny and very cold.

Phone calls to say, "We're at Earl's"

2008-01-22T21:58:00.000-05:00

Remember Earl's Restaurant in Gallup, NM, where you can eat and shop from local vendors at the same time? It's an old favorite of ours (and countless other folks, too) that the Schuylers introduced me to in 1989. Well, now there's sort of a standing joke that both my sister, Pat Becker, and friend, Pearl Schuyler, call me every time they go to Earl's. One or the other gets there at least once a month. Pat and Dick called from there a few days ago when they were traveling from Sante Fe to Scottsdale, and Pearl called on her way to Gallup (and of course, Earl's!) today. I expect to be there in six days.

So far, so good

2008-01-22T21:25:00.000-05:00

It was great to visit Gabrielle Griggs last night and say hi to her husband, Mark, and hug that cute little Pauly who just keeps getting cuter. (Those two guys stayed at home, so Gabs and I could have a ladies night out at the nearby Mexican Restaurant we all like.) We started the talk about their vist to Sneads Ferry soon after I get back. It was good to hear about all the busy Ruhi Institute processes being directed from LGBI.
As I drove away from Hemingway, SC, I listened to gospel songs on 90.9FM, Radio Baha'i...."Put your hands together, and praise Him!" Great way to start the day. The station was clear for me for well over an hour. My favorite spot on the air was when I heard Gabrielle do a short presentation on the dangers of materialism. She contrasted a material person with a spiritual person. She said the material person is stressed and troubled by little things, but the spiritual person is calm under all conditions. Thanks, Gabs. The next time I'm feeling stressed, and I'm asked why, I'll say, "It's just my material self taking over."
Today's drive was close to 400 miles. I'm on the west side of Atlanta. The drive was a combination of a lot of little small towns in South Carolina (I mean like have you been to Yahannah?)and cities, right through the centers of Columbia and Atlanta, quiet country roads through charming residential communities and large interstates with steady traffic, overcast skies, rain, and periods of bright sun. Diversity is the word for the driving experiences of today.
Wireless connection to the internet from my motel room is really cool.

Outo'here

2008-01-21T14:36:00.000-05:00

A part of each of the last several days I've been uptight about getting done most of the items on my "do before leaving for AZ" list. The good news is that most of those things got done, and I'll be on the road just a few minutes after I post this message. I'm happy that I'm only three hours later than my goal of noon. I remember now that in May, I left about seven hours later than I wanted, and now I also remember, that's probably why that drive seemed especially stressful for me. I had much further to go on the first day, and I felt like I never really caught up to a good schedule. Today I'll drive just three and a half hours to Louis Gregory Baha'i Institute. So today is good, and it's bright and sunny, a beautiful day to drive. I'm feeling very thankful.
A Baha'i prayer will guide my journey..........O God, my God! I have set out from my home, holding fast unto the cord of Thy love, and I have committed myself wholly to Thy care and protection..........

Last day in North Carolina until mid-May

2008-01-20T11:29:00.000-05:00

PHOTO: Baha'i Feast at Schultz home.............
Good to finally see the sun after many rainy days. By yesterday, I was feeling rather cloudy and stressed from so many gray days, and I was concerned with the last minute chores before being away for four months.
Then I went to Baha'i Feast in Wilmington, NC. After the laughs and the serious concerned sharing and mostly the prayers together, I felt as though the sun was shining again!
With friends in Wilmington, I shared more about the young man in Sneads Ferry who is so sick with treatments for leukemia. Sixteen years old, he and his parents have been at the Pitt Memorial Hospital in Greenville since the total surprise diagnosis a little over two weeks ago. The parents are posting almost daily entries on a carepage website, allowing for all the relatives and friends to know what's going on. Others can add a message if they want. This process makes us all connected and all focused together in prayers for this youth and his family and of course the doctors. With Josiah and his family in mind, a familiar healing prayer from Baha'u'llah was said at Feast yesterday...
"Thy name is my healing, O my God, and remembrance of Thee is my remedy. Nearness to Thee is my hope, and love for Thee is my companion. Thy mercy to me is my healing and my succor in both this world and the world to come. Thou, verily art the All-Bountiful, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise."

Most important treasures in NC

2008-01-17T16:45:00.000-05:00

These wonderful folks, my children and their spouses, and all their children are my most important treasures in North Carolina.

familiar scene I leave behind as I drive west

2008-01-17T15:32:00.000-05:00

still setting settings!

2008-01-17T15:05:00.000-05:00

I've just changed so that anyone can comment on this blog without getting a google account.
I'd like to add that you can email me if you do not want your comment to appear on this blog. I'd like that visable on every post I make, but I cannot figure out how to do that. Here's my email address, and maybe sometime I'll figure out how it can be in view all the time on my blog. mike1844@audreymike.com

Start with a prayer of gratitude

2008-01-16T14:45:00.000-05:00

As I begin this new endeavor of a blog, I want to start with a Baha'i prayer of gratitude for all the marvelous gifts in our lives....
All praise, O my God, be to Thee Who art the Source of all glory and majesty, of greatness and honor, of sovereignty and dominion, of loftiness and grace, of awe and power........

Creating a blog

2008-01-16T14:32:00.000-05:00

1-16-08 ok. At Rick's for lunch today, Patty said, "Mom, you should create a blog."
Hmmm. Seems like a good idea, especially as I start out on Jan 21 for another adventure: driving to the southwest (another 2000 mile drive alone!), to work again for a few months at Dine College, Tsaile, AZ. Feeling blessed with the unique experiences that are mine, I'll be lucky again to live within the four sacred mountains of the Navajo Nation.
So, welcome to my blog. Please check it often. Add comments that you want to share with me and the world. My posts are for you and available to everyone who logs on.