too much stuff--to wash

My life today started with A HUGE PILE OF LAUNDRY...it took a grocery cart to carry it all to their laundry room. Rugs, rugs, more rugs....spent the day with Charlotte..last week was all people most of the time so I spent today with CG...l,h.d had me over for dinner and to watch the Olympics...I was so taken back with it all I almost started to cry...it was so moving...so to speak, historical, symbolic, beautiful, exotic, and the fire works. They invented paper, fireworks, and so many more treasures...so I loved it...got to meet one of L's oldest friends and her family. They are all so nice..did not do any work related stuff today...let my brain rest and recovery. my knee is still hurting so that is no fun. had a doc appointment on Monday so lets see what they say...good nite...

Over flowing with PAPER.

Getting a new BASW program underway sure requires tons of paper, emails, meetings, new contacts, meeting students, new agencies, etc. Yes, I did agree to be the Director. I really like it...I need to "Leave time for you to play and laugh"...ok...got lost tonight and was so off the track I just drove home after an hour...As someone else told me "I saw the highway but could not figure how to get there and just drove around and around" yep that was me...I tried to park downtown and that was a big waste of time...so came home and walked around the marina and had dinner at one of the little eateries. So, had a good day. The picture is of the poster in Arizona re voting down the anti-marriage amendment in the constitution...it was voted down last year but it was re-introduced...I will vote against it for sure....at least in spirit since I am already registered in Oregon. nite nite

just saying hi

hi everyone....pretty good day except when I have to walk (I decided not use my support) and I paid for it all day...just walked to the bookstore and went down some stairs...my my, I could barely get up. darn it...met someone new re potential teaching in our program; so many neat social workers. so did not sleep at all due to my bedroom being SO HOT...I relocated into the living room and fell asleep and then got up and went back to my bed at 3:00am....so, not sleeping very well and that gets crazy with my system; what time is it and what am I doing so early in the morning and can't i go to sleep? fear, anxiety, pain, root less, transplanted and culture shock and on top of all of this A NEW JOB. thank goddess for l! all at once. having fun yet? no. of course my self talk is: it just takes time, Char and I know that but going thorough it is so hard....what was good today? met another woman who moved here from Phx area and she is enrolled in the PHD program...we talked so much about AZ and mutual friends...gots lots done at the office and stayed until 7:20 pm....good nite

90 degrees sort of day

was up at 5:15 am yesterday to go to the kp re my knee...it actually opened about 7:00 am...so I just went and got some bkfast...it is quite a place....my meds were a 1.00 each..(he basically said it will just take time to heal--gave me a knee support made in china; i wore it yesterday and it did make it feel better; how cool is that! so all my walking in june caused this...so much for walking and of course, my role is that I WALKED TOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH. So now I hope I don't have to talk about my physical condition any more... Meds at kf were only 1.00 a piece....I can never retire that's for sure....spent most of the rest of the day at my office trying to get my stuff in order; I have been putting more and more on the walls; it is looking more and more like I like it there..plus I am getting ready to actually see students this week! sure hope I know what to say to them...yikes....it is suppose to be 90 degrees today in portland...my my...almost like, shall i say....ARIZONA. l1 gave me some excellent advice yesterday about my 'BODY/MIND/SPIRIT" so I called today re what she suggested....so, off to work at my real office and see what is happening there.. Oh saw "Mama Mia" on Sat p.m. with L,D, H, J, and her sister...what fun that was; D was such a good sport...definitely a "gals" movie....so i just wonder around don't i...no comments allowed since this is my blog. (photo from dooce site-her dog, chuck--just love his face...I really don't feel like that today; just like the pix).

Got Blogs?

In 2007 I posted 113 blogs and for 2008: 129--for a total of 242...who would have known....just wish i could figure how to print them all so I could have a hard copy...anyone know?

Just trying to catch up--

went to see wall-e last night with k; cute and sweet; dating is always so hard isn't it? no matter what the planet is like...loved the music and the animation. so this am trying to get some of my home stuff taken care of and doing it very slowly...my left leg/knee is still hurting so call me "limp along"...I am calling the doc on monday for an appointment at the naca health clinic (portland indian clinic). at least the rest of my body is doing pretty good, saw l2 on Thursday at the LC, it was delightful seeing and talking with someone from flag...the honeymoon of p has ended and now i am into loss and more loss feelings...getting reestablished is so hard. making new friends is hard too...thank g for l1 and her sweet family. on the good side i am meeting new people and fac are certainly reaching out to me...got a parking sticker yesterday so i don't have to walk so far....cloud cover yesterday and rain...so foretelling of the future...I AM GOING TO BE POSITIVE...it is my water decade! now to pay bills. this will be fun! wish a a safe trip to Washington to her new home....

a story about something very new

Attended a NASW chapter networking reception tonight; meet new people and gave out my new business cards. Every time I tell people what I am doing they get so excited and start smiling..so let me tell you a story: yes MSW & PHD gave birth to a tiny basw entity recently. Please handle with care and talk slowly and quietly...it's parents are so protective and want everything to be just right and sometimes forget to just relax and know it will grow into a beauty some day....It is genderless, only believes in equity and peace, does not have an ethnicity but knows its history, is willing to share, no role will be put on it due to the world being too big, has literacy in love, understanding, balance, and joy, it speaks with its heart, listens with its observations, and hears music all around from many nations, and is willing to learn new dances; it is a small entity right now but it knows it is loved and cherished by its grandparents and other social work relatives, when its new adoptive mom takes it out; everyone wants to talk about it and can't wait to see what happens in its growth and development, the first 40 students will be holding it up and celebrating while learning about themselves as multi-dimensional inter-galaxy support systems to mother earth, it does not have a big carbon footprint nor does it expect to since it is living in a GREEN place in so many ways, so lets give it some time to rest and have sweet dreams. It will be all ok and it will be what it is suppose to be. It is learning how to crawl in Beauty.

retreat or how to really work in disguise

went to b house for an all day work retreat; i enjoyed hearing everyone re their program and what they are proposing to do re the "diversity" issue. i talked a bit re the basw program and just want it to get started; so many unknowns still. it has not even been a month since I started and much of it i was sick....so still in orientation and observation part of my entry phase. lots of support for it to be successful which is good. i still need to get my feet on the ground and learn more and more. also, i need to work on my class which i have not taught before....so, tomorrow i am going to the market and the library and get a book then off to look for some stuff to hang in my office then to l,d,h re "MOVIE WATCHING" and some r & r. a big meeting i thought i was having is Tuesday and not Monday so that helps me a bunch with my weekend planning....will be getting my first pay check from psu next week so that will be a check on reality and what and how i can manage that new part of my life of being paid once in the month...this move was a lot more expensive that i had ever anticipated so that is going to take awhile to recover from.... thanks that many activities in Portland are free or pretty inexpensive. happy fishing d. guess who that cute girl is...??? she is a sweetie.

All Day All Night--

completed a mini task this am for d,l,h re their wonderful house....I think I am getting it down you all....had meeting with mp re tasks and goals, saw s re field, talked with k re whatever, invited to dinner at kc house...with 5 other people...she is a lovely host...finally home...off tomorrow for an all day "retreat"....THEN THE WEEKEND...yea! thank g that I am feeling better re my energy....hope you are all having fun in wyo....play hard! see you later

People People Everywhere....

In the last couple of days I have been meeting new people at various events. NA professional network group last night with k, was introduced to about 15 new people, some individuals from nicwa...a couple men from the Dine rez....today I visited an elementary school west of here (about 40 minutes) and went into several classrooms from kindergarden to fourth grade, primarily Latino/as children...I loved being there and even sat next to a fourth grader who was reading Spanish. I told him I had to repeat the 4th grade when I was a child; then he said "that's why I am going to summer school"---I even remembered some of the Spanish I learned in my class in the spring semester. Went with another professor from the university and he took me to a Latino grocery store with a Mexican deli...so good to eat real Mexican food, reminded me of Flag...then surprised d and l this evening with a "social worker home visit"---they are leaving tomorrow for Wyoming for a week. We all had dinner at Village Inn...just love them all. I am so lucky to have their friendship and love. I bought a RED hat at Walgreens this afternoon...sure fun to wear....because I can! ....tomorrow kc is giving a little dinner for me at her house with about 8-10 people ...and yesterday at lunch went to another function to meet child welfare workers from around the state; talked about the new BASW program...so busy getting connected to the Portland area from all directions. I am certainly feeling welcomed but I am starting to get homesick too. so..l2 called tonight and will not be here until next Thursday, so hoping we can get together but that may not work out. I am the one in the blue outfit in the pix...if you forgot what I look like these days....

Streetcar Named Desire

Had a good day at work; first day back for sometime; so happy to be feeling better; afterwards I decided to just ride the streetcar for some "viewing experiences" of Portland...teenagers, tourists, business people, "little ole ladies", couples of various sorts; a man got on who was listening to his ipod and was dancing to his tunes (actually a really good dancer):dancing to a different drummer"; so, it takes all kinds...green, yellow, blue, & purple hair and so many tattoos; kids; the novel readers; and me just watching it all happen...I wonder what category they put me into? Miss u l1 if u are reading this....happy travels. good nite....

It Is Still Sunday

I can see a Full Moon outside my east facing door overlooking the river, bridges, sparking lights....and listening to some new music from Pandora radio....what a wonderful end of the day....new beginnings tomorrow....starting with health this time. I pray that anyway...looking at the moon with my binoculars and can see the ridges, valleys, etc...what a gift from outer space and our universe...we are all related! Good wishes to my friends in Flag....and now Portland.

It is Sunday!

Been a long week or so; just sick and more sickness...but feeling better now...THANK YOU G. Even went to UU this am...felt so good to be there. Very passionate sermon on "Not being a Stranger" and meet a nice person too. So getting back to my ole healthily self, I hope. A is moving to Washington on August 2nd!

What a Muse.

Need I say more?

A Full Moon & Venus! Plus a River: What a Mug

What a dreamy site to behold...a gold full moon, venus the planet, and the river outside my window in Portland. We are all related; just remember we are all pieces of star dust millions of years old. (So, even if you don't want to be related we are, so there!)...my new mantra is "ok cold it is time to go somewhere else now go!)( I forgot to say a bridge too.) Nice photo of me too....what a site I am! What are they doing to you in Portland, Char? Ok, I know I need a bit of photoshop help but...guess my humor is coming back and that is a good sign.

Welcome to the Week

not too much but starting to feel a bit better; more energy; still coughing and will be on meds for several more days; LOSS...dealing with it in so many ways; so I guess my body is saying "Char you need to rest and sleep"...I miss everything...it is hitting me more each day...just a simple task as washing my clothes..went to the apartment laundry room early this am and then proceeded to lock myself out....my keys were returned pretty soon and I could get into my apartment and got ready to go to work...so, just the basics---seems like everything is a big ordeal...no real shopping here so have to go to other side of the river..and get lost...again...miss my house! My friends....NAU.....Flag....so I guess this is the "other side" of the coin about moving...ying and yang....ALWAYS HAPPENING. And on top of all all this..my left foot and the back of my left knee are hurting so walking is quite limited....can't wait to get my health care at Kaiser started so I can get that evaluated. Portland is no place not to be able to walk. I think what happened is when I first arrived here I walked my heart out everywhere and I hurt my foot with all the steps so quickly...so on one hand it was good but now I am paying for it. Went out of town today with a phd student, c to Salem and saw Mt. Hood in full force. Visited the Indian boarding school there. Very nice person! So, that's my day...boo ho...boo ho....oh well tomorrow will be better....

Creativity By Twyal

Twyla Tharp : Creativity is more about taking the facts, fictions, and feelings we store away and finding new ways to connect them. What we're talking about here is metaphor. Metaphor is the lifeblood of all art, if it is not art itself. Metaphor is our vocabulary for connecting what we are experiencing now with what we have experienced before. It's not only how we express what we remember , it's how we interpret it - for ourselves and others. (from aliedwards website today) just love this quote...my worldview is often a metaphor...enjoy

Hi Everyone: Happy Friday

I bet none of you have seen me in this outfit. No I am not going into outer space just getting my hair done. This week went quickly between being at the office learning all about my job and continuing to be sick and getting worse...now it is bronchitis. I hope when this is all over I will be feeling much better and can get some energy. Very lovely people and lots of support. Everyday I am meeting new people and I know this will continue. This place is huge is so many ways. Staying home today because I have a doctor's appointment re my continuing cold stuff. So enough about my physical condition. Hopefully I will feel better so I can do some fun stuff over the weekend. On top of all this my office at work has been really hot and I actually can't really be in there even with a fan so I have migrated to the prior acting director's office where it is much cooler. Also there are many files I have to review there anyway so it worked out for me. L1 miss u. Saw 2 eposides of JA last night. Loved being with your kitty cats again.

What A Day

So beginning again after being out last week. Many people came by to say hello and wish me luck...such a warm and welcoming group. Getting my office in shape and books put away. Need to pace a bit better or I will be burned out by the end of the first week....so, take your time Char. L1 have a great time on your vacation to the beach. See you later this afternoon.

Keeping In Touch

Visited ea today at the Jewish Manor where she lives...she is spry as ever...walked up the hill, around the building, down the hallways and then we had lunch; meet her sister and brother in law who live in the same place; what a sweetie she is; some memory loss but at 90 years old she is amazing....cute as ever! Bright as ever! and Full of Zest for Living. In her apartment saw several of her watercolors made in her past...she is quite the artist. So happy she called me when I got here and I made it over; want to visit her again...she actually does not live too far from my place. She also told me she had been married four times! Then went to my PSU office to start making it more my place.....the security guards did not come this time. Was invited to go to the blues festival with r but decided not to considering how much I have to do to my office. L and I are going to a movie tonight. So it is getting busy with love, life, and work!

Feeling Much Better

had a very special time with l,d, h at their place yesterday (had dinner with several neighbors) shot off fireworks and just laughed...watched John Adams HBO special with d and l...my first 4th of July in Portland as a resident. Aside from not feeling too well lately it was lovey spending it with my family on the other side of the river; today drove around Portland to get more lay of the land--went westward on new highways...pretty country. Then went to the Blues Festival next door to me for a couple of hours...listen to several artists and loved it all.......so many new people to watch. I called several of my Flag friends yesterday cuz I miss Flag...missed our parade etc. I think I am more vulnerable to sadness right now cuz I have not been feeling well so it will be better....just be patient and go slowly and you will make new friends. Everyone is so welcoming but I still miss Flag.

Sleep the Healer

Sleeping all day and I feel better.

What an Exciting Day or Walk Until You Drop

went to work for the first day at psu...pretty good so far even saw a student and had one meeting and had a sweet lunch with l1. got a call from my doc in flag and my inr was DOWN TOO MUCH. So she said i have get a local doc and get another inr tomorrow after taking 6 instead of my regular 3...this makes sense to no one except myself; so went home took another pill then TRIED ALL AFTERNOON TO GET A CHECK TO NAU OVERNIGHT...one streetcar ride, 2 buses and more walking and it was hot and i did not bring my h2o...so it was pretty horrible especially with my left foot hurting...as a later said to me "why didn't you take your car?"------------DUD. well tomorrow I AM TAKING MY CAR AND GIVING MY POOR FOOT A BREAK. So aside having a great morning my afternoon was crazy with me trying to get to the post office etc. I guess I still have not heard of the word moderation and balance....no I have to walk everywhere and I don't have too, char--take it easy! my office is starting to look much better now that the boxes are all stacked up in other places in the office and I have some room to move around and now decide what to do with all the books in the boxes...life is so complex isn't it. CHAR WHEN YOU HAVE REAL PROBLEMS, LET ME KNOW..your kid, char--so good nite and sweet dreams.....thanks to l2 and bg for sending me your sweet notes re my first day....

It is Almost Time: The Second Time Around

so excited about starting my new job tomorrow at PSU....unpacking and cleaning my new office sounds like fun....meeting new people; working with new faculty and interlacing with new admin....PLUS learning from new students....here i come ready or not....let's make it a great day, week, year and many more....hope i can sleep tonight. nite nite

Darn Ole Cold Anyway: Oh Well

my cold symptoms are getting worse...darn it. tomorrow is my big day and I don't want to feel under the weather....l called this am and it was nice hearing her voice. just had my first inr in portland...almost late cuz i used the wrong bridge to go across the river....so that was fun. the lady was very nice and they understood my situation so they took my GALLON (not really) of blood. hope the levels are ok so i don't have to do something different with my meds...enough information...i agree. so got my groceries at the closet Safeway on Hawthorne and now i am home...can't wait to take a nap....i feel like i am starting school all over again...and in away that is what i am doing...now i need to get some new shoes, oh, i already did! nap time. kinda like the little shelton pony from yesterday...just cute...it was actually sat. more from the aquamarine. the view from the condo..my picture of the bridge and a sailboat....yummy.

I Almost Forgot

Strawberries to die for.....miniature horse (it was only one week old)....and fish markets..(I have another pix of this one)....Oregon is so rich with so many new places, people, animals, plants, fruits...etc. etc....my goodness what a place this is and I have only been here less than one month. I left Flag on June 1. I will be sharing some of my photos later when I get them downloaded from my camera. I have a new quote now: "Sometimes our only available transportation is a leap of faith"...I guess that is what I did!

Newport Beach on the Oregon Coast

I was invited to spend the weekend at Newport Beach on the coast in the middle of Oregon...a new friend invited me to go with her and what a sweet person she was to ask me to begin with and then be able to accept my complaints re my feet and then getting a cold...I felt so badly about this but I still had a wonderful time..It was beautiful and the weather was outstanding....cool, breezy, fog, clear skies, and so peaceful. Lots of rest, reading, watching the tube, looking at the beach, seeing new places like the jellyfish at the aquarium and an exhibit which had hand blown glass representing fish, plants, and you could barely tell what was real or not. New food including outstanding crab soup, crab patties, halibut (so tender), new drinks, and wine tasting....and plus went to a craft store that is going out of business so that was great fun....oh I forgot, fresh berries, art galleries...what a treat this was, thank you so very much, r. The pictures are of the bridge at Newport Beach, art deco on top of all of it! A wonderful pre work vacation plus! thanks again. Even saw a famous photographer at Canyon de Chelly in Arizona. Got back to my apartment and it was over 100 degrees inside so it took a long time to get it cool so I could even stand inside. Then a big thunder storm...sorry l re not going to the movie, I know you wanted to; just could not do it tonight. So sad of course to learn about the horrible accident in Flag; prayers for all those who died and have family who were impacted.

Good Morning, Good Morning

I was awake at 4:00 am this morning...had a dream about my mom and living in Window Rock. Some friends and I were rv camping in the mountains near Window Rock and there was smoke...we left to my parents home in WR and I was telling my friends about them. I saw matching pieces to the silver set I have now; old clothes of hers; living in poor conditions; feeling like I had to leave pretty soon with my friends to be safe somewhere else. Then I got up and looked at the peaceful quiet river outside my new apartment; twinkling lights; shimmering water; leaves blowing slightly. I was grateful when I woke up that I was not in any pain. So I was running to a safe zone but needing to leave right away with my friends. Amazing considering I left Flag about three and half weeks ago now. I left on June 1 and July 1st is next Tuesday. My entire life has been about coming and going different places physically, emotionally, spiritually, geographically, socially, culturally...I can see my female Buddha sitting on my desk on her red Navajo rug in a peaceful position. Reading meditations from my UU song book...let quiet come to me and let peace come to me; it is already within me already...just listen... Char (you have come along way and everything will be just fine).

Changing My E-Mail Address: The Shock Was Not That Bad

Yes, I changed my e-mail and it has actually been pretty harmless...I guess that is why they have the word "forward"....the picture is of d and i the other day....he is just a wonderful person!!!!!!!!!!! Must say i look really relaxed. I got up feeling pretty tired due to my deciding to walk at least 10 miles in downtown Portland...I really need to learn the words MODERATION AND BALANCE. Spent the am basically walking around my carpeted apartment and cleaning....then dear L1 called and we made plans to go to the mall with h and s. I bought a new leather purse...!!!!!!!!!!!!! and a HARD BACK BOOK. Yummy...went to wf and signed some papers....I think I will use the services near the mall, like Safeway, Pier Imports...banking...bookstore...and I can take my car to get there like other people do to get around and like I used to do in Flag....I don't know what I was trying to prove that I have to WALK everywhere or it does not count!...oh well...it is my learning curve with lots of hugs and smiles form L1. Off to the beach tomorrow with a new friend. Sure hope we like each other or I will have to take a bus home if it is not fun; I am not expecting that to happen but she is a new friend....very sweet of her to ask me to go with her...I am excited about seeing the ocean...it has been a long time. I don't have a laptop computer so I will not be ON MY COMPUTER for a few days....I hope I can survive. Wish me luck.....saw some jewelry today at Macy's named "Lucky"...cute.

What A Day

I walked and walked and walked some more....oh my goodness...went to a workshop sponsored by Apple Store on ipod and itunes but now I can't get my computer at home to have any sound...help oh great one of the speakers! Have been invited to go to Newport Beach, Or with a new friend I made via UU social events...leaving Thursday am and returned on Sunday afternoon...so that will be really different...she has a place there so I will be helping her with gas and driving. Making new friends...I have to learn how to get around a bit better cuz my poor feet are hurting so much. Tender, red, swollen, and painful...help if anyone knows of some medicine to help me....beautiful weather today---sunny and warm---love my new desk at home...so professional looking and now I have lots of room....going to put my feet up and in a water bath to see if that will help...later

Lov The MAN....

L1 thanks for sharing your d with me today...we went to IKEA and I bought my desk, shelves, chair, etc....he was so patient with me...he also PUT THEM ALL TOGETHER AT MY PLACE .....I will be taking you guys out to dinner! Just swell to have spent most of the day/night with d re my stuff...it looks wonderful...so clean, polished, orderly, new, attractive...and for me! Again, give your d a big thank you hug, ok???!!!! Safe travels...see u soon. c

Hi Again..It is Monday!

After I left my office I decided to attend a UU film discussion sponsored by someone who actually lives pretty close to l,h,d...i was the newcomer...i thought we would be watching films then discussion would follow...NO. They had a potluck and then we all gathered outside in the back yard (about 30 or so)and discuss three films which we are suppose to see before we attend this discussion...so, I heard about a film called "Young At Heart" and met a new person who loved it and she invited me to see it tomorrow sometime...I went to You Tube and it looks really fun and it takes place in Northampton, Mass...so that will be familiar since that is where I got my MSW years ago...how funny...came home and watched tv for awhile; talked with c; miss her...then started to make folders for my new job....I am getting excited about it....it will be such a new adventure. So, nite nite---(I guess I have been a busy bee today..or yesterday or tonight or early morning; whatever).

My New PSU Office---Alarms Going Off

Went to UU by the streetcar and two women (who I had met earlier in the week) welcomed me and I sat with them at UU...then I walked downtown to THE MALL...somethings never change...then I decided to go to my new office start the UNPACKING OF THOUSANDS OF BOXES. (Actually not that many!). Got into the building and my new office and was happy that my new keys worked...started to look around and of course turn on my computer...not sure if this one is the one but probalbly so...anyway, basically minding my own business---or I thought...no one here. Then I heard a noise and quickly turned around...TWO PSU officers were standing at my door. Apparently, I had not turned off the social work alarm and motion indicators...so, ---they were very nice and I explained who I was and they saw all my boxes...they did ask to see my new PSU id....so...I am suppose to call them when I leave so they can turn the alarm back on...so...I was officially welcomed! It made me certainly feel safe and now I know what I am suppose to do even though I don't know how to do it... My new office has two windows, the ceiling has three holes in it with the pipes showing through...hopefully they will get this fixed before I actually start on July 1...so...I can see a tree on the left and a large multistory building off in the distance (it is round); variuos construction items on the street...see students below on the street; I am on the fourth floor. Also, I hurt my left foot pretty badly; sure hope I have not broken it by all the walking I have been doing...finding some boxes with home stuff in them...vcr...art books, bathroom rugs...ok...too much information...so, adios and back to unpacking....maybe---l1, your photos are making me home sick...for the sunny southwest...but I hear it is HOT. See you next week sometime.

Lost Again & Thank You HP for Taking Care of Me...again

Basically I spent the day trying to find stores with no luck in spite of my new gps and fancy laminated map....I was so confused..so I stopped at Safeway and asked for help (directions) and tried to follow them...I continued to be lost...oh well, the gas I was trying to save by my quick trip to get office supplies turned into a long, expensive trip without getting to the store I actually wanted....oh well...another learning experience. So finally I gave up and went to Fred Myers and got the stupid file folders! I think it is getting time for me to start my new job and spend less time in the car...I almost had a very serious accident which would have been my fault so I thank HP over and over again....it was really stupid what I did and I cannot go into it anymore....just really glad I did not hurt someone else or myself....be gentle with yourself c. (Does anyone know why I took this picture and where it is?)....good nite

Playing Again

Artistic stuff re my recent move and some cool paper....or how to really mess up some pictures--you decide. Or too much of a good thing is too much of a good thing or.....ok. time to go to bed and get some sleep. all right already I really like blue and pink.

Summer in Portland: A Wonder to Behold

I still can't believe I actually live here now....truly amazing if I do say so myself. Had a sweet lunch with d and l at a nearby restaurant; (across the street!) overlooking the RIVER. Like l said...it is like a live in a resort! and that is true. I took a short nap on my new bed this afternoon---cool breeze and kayaks in the view. Getting closer to being unpacked at home; just need to start thinking of my new office at psu...I walked way too much yesterday so I am staying close to home today....my right leg is hurting. Well, off to do something or not! Later, L1 have a wonderful time in your travels to ARIZONA and dc. A big hug to d for putting in my new shower head with instructions for the future...I actually had some "plumbers tape"--he was pretty impressed by that...so z rubbed off on me a bit plus the class I took last year on "women and home repairs". ...and don't get too wet in the river....

More Pictures from Char

More pictures from cg...

Walking and More Walking

Mainly stayed home this am then went to the Pearl district for lunch then "the hunt" for a new place that I saw a couple of weeks ago that sold furniture...well, I took the streetcar and basically was lost but eventually found it with the help of some kind person; leather chairs and more leather chairs...too much for my small apartment so the hunt continues. Spent most of the day with h yesterday and we went to t and i....she is fun person to be around. L1 made me dinner at her house then I went home. I am getting most of my stuff put away....OH my new queen size bed arrived. It is wonderful and to actually sleep in it is great too; it is very high so I have to jump to get into it...not that bad but kinda high. Just trying to figure out what kind of headboard I really want. so I have been piling up the steps that's for sure....so that will help me with sleeping better and more balance in my life re other issues I am dealing with...I mainly need a desk first then a chair...had an all day orientation at psu re my benefits on Monday...need more time to decide which is the best plan. so that is it for right now. happy trip to l with her dad in Az. a may be moving to here or up north...will be nice to have her closer. The pix are from my trip to Portland and walking around....funny

The Real Reason I Can Play Today

Gracias to L1 and H for helping me put away my stuff yesterday and the day before....h was so much fun; sometime I will download a picture of her reading a book in a big box that she unpacked for me...thanks you two wonderful people.

Nirvana with Sun (and rain sometimes)

I have been a busy bee today....Portland Farmer's Market this morning then Gay Pride this afternoon.....on a specular day, bright blue skies, Mt. Hood, and dykes. I am so close to Tom McCall Waterfront Parkway, where the majority of summer events are located...about 15 minutes walking....it is like living downtown in Flag and walking to hertiage square....what a place this is; I just hope I don't forget to go to work on July 1....

good morning portland

This is the streetcar I will be using to get to work....just up the hill to psu.....Just happy to be here! so many choices...i feel like i am in a candy store and can't decide what to do (if that has ever been a problem)...be patient it will all be wonderful; my new job is going require me to be very active and visible so this will be a change; just be patient with yourself charchar...my new Internet is so much faster---it goes! new keyboard---to help me with my hands and give me some ease...getting already for my new life at psu. used my new microwave and had a good bkfts...coffee was wonderful too. So, off to do more unpacking at home then my new office....what fun this is! I wanted a new life and now I am getting into my new life....thank you to everyone who has helped me get here...lov u all....

Getting Really Connected

yes, today is the day I had my cable/Internet installed; he even set up my computer with the help of h. it is sunny today and i can see the moon and Mt. Hood; I mainly see the base because the top is obscured by the bridge...clear blue sky; how these days will be treasured in the coming years/months. l took me shopping at target for home stuff; it was fun being with her; she is so supportive and loving...accepts me totally. my computer is set up on the wall facing the north and on my right is the east doorway out to the balcony. can see all types of activity from this view point. little kids playing in the pond with gold fish; walking dogs; aroma of steak from a restaurant downstairs; lots of people out for a walk. I walked 9453 steps yesterday so my feet are really hurting today; i need to take care of my feet because I will be doing a lot of walking here; the positive side effect is that i slept really good last night until 8:00 am....h helped my unpack today and we got all the drawers lined with fancy paper; she was a big help then l joined us later and we went to her house for some late afternoon treats (cheese, crackers, apple and lemonade); i would generally agree i live in a paradise outside of my apartment and the inside is beautiful too; got a lot unpacked last night and today with help of h. what a treat to come home to every night...I can't believe it. and target was very happy i came by today! i feel like i am living next to a "movie" "on the river front"---watching all the changes each minute; each time i look it is different; light, river colors, shades of green, temperature....what a treat.....thank hp.

I Guess U Have to Be Here!

This is an insider story....ok, ok, ok, I got it. signed "the kitty cats of 44th Ave".

Travels with L1: AKA It could not be worse!

My dear dear fried L1 has been up all nite from a flight from DC via Denver...darn ole Denver for having put its terminal into the Midwest plains somewhere...far away from anything or anyone....nap time. Just image two cats with pampers on walking around with their back legs hobbled.....this is suppose to make you laugh if u know the context....anyway it is official I am a aunt cuz I get to take h somewhere now...yea! yea!

Queen for a Day: Or Let's Get Ready for Bed in My New Place

purchased my new queen sized bed this evening from m. so they will be delivering it next Tuesday...it will be so nice to look out my new window and see the river with all its charms, activity, boats, speed boats, etc. it was raining today; they say it will be in the 80's this weekend...h had her last day of class today. What a kid she is...just love her spirit and delightfulness! A new 6 grader now! Fun to watch her play with the 2 doggies and 2 kitties....running around, rolling around, and just playing! so, tomorrow i will be taking h to a friend and picking up l...then to psu to get my official id etc. THEN START UNPACKING. On with my new life now.....safe return for l from dc via denver.

Surrrounded by Big Boxes & Small Boxes & tiny boxes; ok you got the idea

Yesterday the movers arrived like clockwork...just 3 hours late; no big deal so that gave me enough time to look at my apartment and conduct the "checklist of errors" before I move in....you know me...I had to attach a 6 page handwritten comment section about every detail I could possible see...so they will not get one cent of my down payment (sounds like a car)..deposit...oh well, just 3 serious corrections need to be made...THEN THE BOXES ARRIVED. Whew....it was really hard watching them unload my 30+ boxes and at my office about 25+ boxes...so now for the unpacking....OF IT ALL....after they finished the unloading I attended my first BASW orientation meeting with 2/3rds of the students, faculty, and Jr who has been the director of the program so far...It was really nice to actually see them and everyone was very gracious and welcoming to me...very diverse students; so motivated and WANT TO CHANGE THE WORLD. Heavens knows we need that...so, it makes me feel very humble and I hope I can live up to their expectations...me too. 17 days until I official start at PSU so it is me and the BOXES for awhile...d,l,h so kind to let me stay with them....I know it is hard on everyone especially this time of year...so more later.............

The Count Down

The Dragon Boats can be seen from my balcony...did not see the race but have seen them practicing....about Sunday in Portland: The following discussion is basically all over the place; as you will find out yourself....enjoy. Well the movers will be at my new apartment between 9:00 and 9:30 am...so my life will be changing even more. The first item I have to purchase is a bed...a comfy one! Measured my bedroom and living room and d made a computer drawing of the two rooms and now to try to fit all that I brought into this floor space...went to my new home this morning and it was the first day of SUN AND BLUE SKIES..I feel like I came out from underneath a pretty soft green leaf all week...from my balcony I could see Mt. Hood, the River, all the bikes, kids, Lily pond, flowers and boats...so it will be beautiful each morning; spent about an hour lost between downtown and The Other Side of the River plus lots of closed streets due to the Rose Festival events...thousands of people everywhere...so, where I was reading my map, looking at the GPS and hearing The women's voice try to give me directions plus going over the river; not sure why this is such a big event for me I guess because I never have lived near WATER. So I just let it be "me lost"....and driving around aimlessly. (is that a word?); went to my first UU service this morning--whew that was an event of hundreds...they honored 4 seniors who have graduated from high school; the sermon was about "disappointments and new paths"---change was the theme and it certainly hit home for me right now. I stood up when they asked for "visitors" to stand..the woman next to me said hi...sang a song and it made me cry...for joy. so I will be finding my little niche in this large community after awhile; it will all just take time and patience....missed our little uu. It is a week since I left flag...I have been in between all week but tomorrow that will change due to getting my furniture and boxes...b called this evening and said I was missed at uu; thanks b...spoke with a this afternoon; and l1 left for dc...this is about the first Sunday I did not have my session with L2...8:00 am like clock work...miss her lots...so today was the day of THE SUN COMING OUT. Maybe summer has come to Portland now??!!??? So, good nite charchar....be patient with yourself and be gentle....and be loving...it will all be ok....

My First Day in Portland as a Newly Arrived

First and foremost, Happy Anniversary to D & L...saw their darling wedding pictures; so cute and in love! Lov u two...anyway, spent most of the day staying at their lovely home; adventured out by myself once to fax something to jp in flag. Started looking for new bedroom furniture, beds, and matresses..so personal. So hard re so many thougths and memories..So time to go more slowly and wait....I don't need anything but I would like to have a bed! Took a nap mid morning...so sleepy and tired from all of the driving and pushing to get out of flag....so, here I am and I don't have to leave!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! yea....it is very cold and rainy.

My First Bridge Crossing

I crossed my first bridge in Portland today about 5:00 pm...made it to the other side...without any incident...whew...

A New Reality

It just turned into June 6th.

I Can't Really Believe I Am Here! Fate as z would say

I feel so spaced out now that I am really here...what an opportunity and I can't wait to meet so many new people....lov to all my friends, come up and visit! congrats to a for getting her new job in Washington only 1 1/2 hours away..

Ashland Springs Hotel: A Room with a View

Living it up in Style---what a pure delight to celebrate my first night in Oregon...refined, soft, pleasure, peach, bubble bath...yes, I am here now. From their website: "Today, the Ashland Springs Hotel continues to offer first-class hospitality to those who are drawn by business, the arts or the area’s natural beauty. Ashland Springs Hotel combines the charm of a bed and breakfast, the friendliness of a small inn, the feel of a spa resort and the safety and convenience of a hotel. This beautifully restored hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places and is located in the heart of downtown Ashland just steps from the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Other nearby attractions include the Oregon Cabaret Theater, Lithia Park, wine tastings and gallery tours, skiing, golf, fishing, river-rafting, tax-free shopping, dining and pampering at the nearby Blue Giraffe Spa".

A 2000 year Play about Love India Style

The Clay Cart...a bit of mid afternoon delight....musical with a stage of 20 plus actors...in the round! funny, joyful, playful, laughter, dancing, silly, good throughout the ages...and just pure entertainment.

A Bit of Fun and Relaxation-Or How Many People Can Die at the End of A Play?

Othello---in Ashland An opulent production of Shakespeare’s larger-than-life tragedy The Moor Othello, a celebrated general but also an outsider, shares a boundless love with Desdemona, a Venetian aristocrat. Defying her family and social convention, they marry. Enter Othello’s military aide, who nurses a vengeful hate for his commander. The deceitful Iago plants seeds of envy that lead to catastrophe for Othello and Desdemona, and their perfect union comes tragically unraveled. Lisa Peterson’s muscular Shakespeare interpretation boils over with fury, sexual heat and consuming passions.

Hola Portland, Es Carlota

Well, I made it today. I arrived in Portland at 3:30 pm after 1,337 miles from Flag. What a trip. First night in Las Vegas, next day drove from LV to Susanville, CA via Reno...600 miles! The third day I drove from Susanville to Ashland, Or. Crossed into Oregon at 1:00pm. Saw sea gulls in the morning, fog at noon, and a play at night...while in Ashland I saw two plays and two mini concerts on the "green"...first night stayed at the Ashland Spring Hotel (historic hotel, was the first sky scrapper between Portland and San Fran in the 20's); I was on the 6th floor in a corner room; walked to the theatre one night; called a and k the next morning and stayed with them the second night in Ashland. So much fun with them; went to another play that afternoon;...so getting off on the right foot; seeing plays and listening to music...what a wondrous welcome to Oregon. Got to Portland today and got my keys to my new apartment...went to dinner with l,d, and h then we came over to see my new place and we all got wowed...with the view of the river...tried to image my furniture in the two rooms; it is bigger than I remember; the accent color in the lr is a rust/reddish (very southwestern hue)...then we went to the floating restaurant and had dessert..saw the Chinese boats practicing for the celebration mid June. Saw geese and ducks, a Lilly pond from my windows..what a fun place this is going to be with my dear friends, l1, d, and h. So my stuff is arriving early Monday morning and i will be staying with ldh until that time. sunset and tiny lights all over the bridges and river, and boats...it feels so special...then came back over to their house at 44th place. this is going to be such a treat in my life....yea char. lov to all in flag who made this possible...I am doing really well...the first night in my new home, Portland. I don't have to leave this time...so, off to bed with sugar plums dancing in my head and dreams...nite nite. thanks to l, d, and h for being so special and lov to you three forever!

Last Post in Arizona

The movers arrived this morning about 9:00am and were done about 11:15 then off to my NAU office; got that all loaded by 12:30pm...so, the carpet guy is working on two bedrooms and z is finishing the LR...a and xo will be over later to clean...s and b came over to get more stuff;...I did not feel well this morning. Shortness of breath...have not had that in years...so, I hope I will be ok after the trip...spent the night a c last night and slept really well in a real bed...beautiful sunny warm summer day in Flag...sitting in my nau office for the last time. Turning in my keys pretty soon....so off to a new adventure in my life...oh z is renting my house...yea...so thrilled about that...great human being....I am thrilled about that...all coming "full circle" thank you HP for taking care of me....walk in beauty, char you will be in Portland pretty soon. lov to everyone here. thank you to dear l in Portland...see u soon

"The Return of Baby Son" a mew summer feature

This is unreal...I got home late last night after dinner at a Tai restaurant...as I drove up I saw a cat; I said this isn't one I really know since all 3 were in their new homes...I thought...a few minutes later, The Cat came running into the kitchen and I really looked at it...IT WAS BABY SON. He came home from Donney Park...several miles away...!!!!!!! He looked really good but was pretty hungry...he jumped on my lap and licked my face and neck...he was so happy to be here and I started crying since I could not believe it myself...so he slept with me last night...he has been in and out all day and I called his new owner and she is coming by this evening to get him...he is actually outside and I can't get him in the house...! I have heard of stories like this but it has not happened to me before...............Baby Son's Return...the name of a new movie? I went to several places today to take care of more business re moving...got my hair cut and fixed really nicely...a little present of "self-care" for me after all these days of working so hard on the move....several uu are coming over tonight to help me...z was here earlier re the LR; always something else to consider...may need to use a licensed electrician...always something else....getting down to the last parts of the house--kitchen, my office, food stuff, little by little it is happening....yes, I am leaving Flag after 21 years. I am glad I decided to keep my house; it means security and home to me in upcoming years...no one knows what will happen but at least I am taking a new plunge...no it is not a geographical....I am moving toward a new life not running away from one. went to Starbucks and said good bye to Denise; she almost cried. my left hand is tingling a lot like when I had carpel tunnel on my right wrist....rita from next door took me out to lunch at the new New Frontiers; ran into ... t's ole classmate; she is replacing K's position at BB/BS....got the back of the front door painted with a new coat of red..looks so pretty. "taking care of business" yes, that is what I am doing...tension, stressful but very rewarding to see all of the work happening around me. A l said this is my body and I am making it pretty before I go to Portland; it has become my home and it is now reflecting love. It is Wed pm and I am leaving on Sun after uu...wow...just a few more days and hours to go...it will get all done! Got a cute message from L1 that Ikea is waiting for me in Portland...she is so precious.

It's a blurr...Sat and Sun

It snowed off and on on Sat but the yard sale went ahead; several people came by...lots of help from many friends, relatives, etc. b and s and I went to dinner and laughed even more...just too much crazy stuff all day. too many cooks. my neck was really sore from sleeping on the floor the last few nights. got up at 3 am on Sat and stayed awake until 4:30 or so then fell asleep again. went to uu and took flowers..had bkfast with b and s.a couple of people came by to help take away stuff to goodwill and UU yard sale so the garage is looking pretty empty now. b and s left this afternoon so I took a nap since i was so wiped out. very quiet around here now and that feels good quite frankly considering how the last two days have been. my home phone was on the blink since I turned off the cable and forgot it connected to the phone...it is fixed now. of course today it is beautiful with no crazy weather like SNOW. so, the last week is coming up--unreal. have some people who are interested in the house. trust the process, c. so...off to get my office at home packed and see my mail from the last week...w gave a great sermon this am...about race in the us...everyone clapped. i will be back tomorrow with his truck to take more away...letting go and letting g. missing a.

a family surprise

b and s came to see me tonight from wr...we had dinner at the h and laughed until our sides hurt and I could barely stand up...seriously, tried to have a yard sale this am and it was snowing....ok so I sat in my lawn chair in my kitchen and watched the snow...three brave souls came to see what I had at the garage sale...drive around with c and went to purchase some carpet for the two bedrooms...not so hard...got to sleep now..nite nit

Unreal Day

Woke up to "it is snowing"---had a panic attack with a on the phone...poor thing had to listen to me cry, wine, etc. etc...I had so much fear that I was not going to be able to pack it all...she gave me some great suggestions! First sit down and have some coffee...I just woke up and started to run around with my head cut off...didn't even know where to start..so went to m and r and had breakfast and COFFEE. D came at 11:00am and worked until about 3 on the house; he got so much done. He is so fast...worked on my office, holes in the wall, the bathroom drawers and painted them after sanding them. Some of this makes me really mad because this house did not get any attention as a couple but now I am taking care of business....yes, i can get stuff accomplished Here it will be in the best shape for a stranger and not me...oh well; such is life, I guess..I basically got started packing in the kitchen (pantry, dishes, silverware, etc, etc). B came over for about 2 hours and we had some fruit tart from last night. c called later and we went to dinner at the "New Frontiers" which had its grand opening today...saw m & j..had dinner with them too; just love them...I didn't think I was going to be here for the opening of our new big city like store...then I remembered I will be in PORTLAND with lots of stores like this....so, after dinner came back and started on the garage and my bedroom getting ready for the yard sale tomorrow...the kitchen is finally clean and has some order after chaos all day! c took the tv in the living room; m's brother came over and helped her move it...so, it is certainly happening...d is going to work on the bedroom carpet tomorrow...it is taking shape; I think I will be able to leave on June 1...just my office is the next big room but lots of it is done...just current papers, bills, etc and my home computer...I dreamed that Ophie came home last night...I sure miss her and all of them...my life is really changing in such a big way..I am excited and thrilled all at the same time...up and downs..all day long...that it what moving is all about. someone said I looked like I had joy in my face again!!!!