STORY MIX-
Sometimes a "senior" will invariably mention the price of an item when they were young. We all have done it.I used to kid my mother when she would tell about things that were just a penny or so during the depression years of the 1930's. I reminded her that when my stories took over some day there would be all the years of inflation and it would be more difficult to remember all the prices in different years.
Getting bogged down in a story with too many details of any kind can be boring and may distract from the story you are trying to tell. If you want to get into prices maybe a "list" method will suffice about a certain period of time. Remember, you can go line and get prices of items in any particular year.
Mix historical facts and measurements sparingly through-out your stories. Examples would be-where were you when John F. Kennedy died or your feelings of Nine-Eleven. Just remember! Do your best to keep your readers's interest. They will thank you!
Saturday, January 31, 2015
1929 AUTOGRAPH BOOK-JOHNNY/GILBERT
The following is from the autograph book of Gilbert Ingraham and a note written to him by my dad, William John Laverty, and dated 5/23/ 1929.
Dear Gilbert,
I will always remember the good time we've had during the eight years in school together especially the day we played hooky and the time we had. Also, remember the Junior & Senior Play and the Junior -Senior Banquet of '28 and the speech you gave.
Your friend,
\ Johnny Laverty & Gregory Reynolds*
*Gregory Reynolds was a character he played in a class play.
Dear Gilbert,
I will always remember the good time we've had during the eight years in school together especially the day we played hooky and the time we had. Also, remember the Junior & Senior Play and the Junior -Senior Banquet of '28 and the speech you gave.
Your friend,
\ Johnny Laverty & Gregory Reynolds*
*Gregory Reynolds was a character he played in a class play.
MY UNCLE TOMMY L. LAVERTY-FUNNY KID!
While visiting with my classmate, Donna IngrahamWernberg, this past week, she passed along a story told by her dad, Gilbert Ingraham, who attended school at Laurel, Iowa with my dad and his brother Tommy Laverty. The story involved Tommy as recalled by Gilbert.
She wasn't sure what grade they were in back in the 1920's, but, it was a funny story. The teacher had put a worm in a jar of alcohol and the worm, of course, died. The teacher asked the class what the lesson was to be learned. My uncle Tommy raised his hand and responded by saying: "If you drink enough alcohol, you will never have worms!" My uncle Tommy did possess a great sense of humor.
She wasn't sure what grade they were in back in the 1920's, but, it was a funny story. The teacher had put a worm in a jar of alcohol and the worm, of course, died. The teacher asked the class what the lesson was to be learned. My uncle Tommy raised his hand and responded by saying: "If you drink enough alcohol, you will never have worms!" My uncle Tommy did possess a great sense of humor.
MOMENTS TO CHERISH W/ GRANDCHILD!
Thursday evening while taking my eight year old grand-daughter, Jenna, to her dance lesson, she indicated that she was not looking forward to going to school on Friday. I ask her if there was a test or some other issue troubling her. No! Again, she just indicated that the day would be too long and wasn't looking forward to it. Quizzing her further, she finally admitted that she was really excited about us attending the women's gymnastics meet at the University of Iowa on Friday evening and also eating at Hamburg Inn 2.
It always tugs at a grandparents heart strings, when a grandchild expresses their enthusiasm about something that you are doing with them. Later, I will share the outcome of the evening. It was all positive.
It always tugs at a grandparents heart strings, when a grandchild expresses their enthusiasm about something that you are doing with them. Later, I will share the outcome of the evening. It was all positive.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
TELL ME A STORY-PICTURES(part 7)
A lady came up to me after speaking at a local genealogy society meeting some time back and indicated she would never read my book of stories because there were no pictures. My first thought was :are we in grade school with Dick and Jane."
To some, pictures are important, but, what is important is bringing to life the story with the written word. Yes, a picture is worth a thousand words in some ways, however, just a picture of your Grandpa doesn't tell anything interesting about him.
If you can do it all within a reasonable amount of time as a project go for it. My advice is to do one thing at a time. I have recently been putting together a family photo book of oth sides of my mother and dad's family complete with a preface and list of the family members and how we are connected.
My next project will be to put together the narrative-biographical, stories, obituaries, clippings, stats, and so forth with a few selected pictures. Again, I did it in that manner as I wanted to at least get one part done in its entirety.
Even if you get to the point where you have twenty stories and other interesting writings and want to put a few pictures with it, have it bound by a do-it-yourself method online or a local print shop. No matter how you do it, by having the stories with pictures, if you want, it will give you a feeling of accomplishment. Then make sure you make a few copies for gifts to family members. And, you can also E mail the stories around or save them on a flash drive or disc for those that have an interest.
That is one thing about technology today, we can keep adding or we can edit as we go along.
To some, pictures are important, but, what is important is bringing to life the story with the written word. Yes, a picture is worth a thousand words in some ways, however, just a picture of your Grandpa doesn't tell anything interesting about him.
If you can do it all within a reasonable amount of time as a project go for it. My advice is to do one thing at a time. I have recently been putting together a family photo book of oth sides of my mother and dad's family complete with a preface and list of the family members and how we are connected.
My next project will be to put together the narrative-biographical, stories, obituaries, clippings, stats, and so forth with a few selected pictures. Again, I did it in that manner as I wanted to at least get one part done in its entirety.
Even if you get to the point where you have twenty stories and other interesting writings and want to put a few pictures with it, have it bound by a do-it-yourself method online or a local print shop. No matter how you do it, by having the stories with pictures, if you want, it will give you a feeling of accomplishment. Then make sure you make a few copies for gifts to family members. And, you can also E mail the stories around or save them on a flash drive or disc for those that have an interest.
That is one thing about technology today, we can keep adding or we can edit as we go along.
TRY IT YOU'LL LIKE IT!
Thanks to all who wished me a Happy Birthday this week. However, I'm still celebrating the event through the weekend. As long as the Super Bowl is on this coming Sunday, why not let the feasting continue until then.
Again, what's our big hurry to rush through our birthday when we reach a certain age. If they can have Library Week or Enjoy Strawberries Week, then when we reach our Golden Years, we should be able to enjoy it for a few days longer! See you at the Hamburg Inn this weekend!!
Again, what's our big hurry to rush through our birthday when we reach a certain age. If they can have Library Week or Enjoy Strawberries Week, then when we reach our Golden Years, we should be able to enjoy it for a few days longer! See you at the Hamburg Inn this weekend!!
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
TELL ME A STORY-DETAILS(part 6)
When it comes to dates and certain facts, don't let those obstacles slow you down. The best example for most people ids dealing with dates. Do not think you always have to have the EXACT DATE.Sometimes to use, early 1950's is ok. The person reading your story 50 years from now won't really care unless it is a birth date or passing date.
Just getting the year or even decade, depending on your story, may be all that is needed. If the date is of importance bracket that space and keep writing. We all have a tendency to stop what we are doing and start researching. We have digressed and before you know it we have forgot what we were doing in the first place.
You will eventually think of that name,date, or place with the help from a relative or friend. Remember by pondering over detail will possibly take away from what is really important-THE STORY and may discourage you from continuing the story all together.
Just getting the year or even decade, depending on your story, may be all that is needed. If the date is of importance bracket that space and keep writing. We all have a tendency to stop what we are doing and start researching. We have digressed and before you know it we have forgot what we were doing in the first place.
You will eventually think of that name,date, or place with the help from a relative or friend. Remember by pondering over detail will possibly take away from what is really important-THE STORY and may discourage you from continuing the story all together.
OYSTER SOUP-B-DAY TREAT FROM GRANDMA LAVERTY
One tradition in my family once was enjoying a little oyster soup for either during the holidays or at a birthday celebration. My Grandma Annie Laverty was the one that I recall introducing and continuing that tradition.
Not everyone, of course, likes oyster soup. Some, like my sister, Doris, likes just the soup but the actual oysters. For some strange reason as a kid I really liked that soup. Even for years, I enjoyed it as a treat at the Waterfront Restaurant in West Des Moines. It was the best.
Thank you Grandma for introducing me to this fabulous treat! If any of you are thinking of contacting me today over the noon hour, forget it! You know what I will be doing!
Not everyone, of course, likes oyster soup. Some, like my sister, Doris, likes just the soup but the actual oysters. For some strange reason as a kid I really liked that soup. Even for years, I enjoyed it as a treat at the Waterfront Restaurant in West Des Moines. It was the best.
Thank you Grandma for introducing me to this fabulous treat! If any of you are thinking of contacting me today over the noon hour, forget it! You know what I will be doing!
WHAT'S UP WITH BACK PACKS!
The other morning while engaged in my morning power walk, one grade school young girl caught my attention. She not only had two bags of medium size draped around her, but, one she was carrying in one hand that was so big it actually needed wheels.
My question is what are kids carrying to school today that they need to hire a bell boy to assist them. Something doesn't seem right today compared to when I was a kid. I don't ever remember carrying books of any kind in a bag. The only thing I ever remember carrying on an ongoing basis was a small gym bag for P.E. Just hope theses kids don't have back problems later on.
My question is what are kids carrying to school today that they need to hire a bell boy to assist them. Something doesn't seem right today compared to when I was a kid. I don't ever remember carrying books of any kind in a bag. The only thing I ever remember carrying on an ongoing basis was a small gym bag for P.E. Just hope theses kids don't have back problems later on.
Monday, January 26, 2015
Sunday, January 25, 2015
THE BEACH BOYS-TOLD YA DAD!
It was the late 1970's and time to head to one of the Summer Jams held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds Grandstand. One of the big headliners on this occasion was the Beach Boys.
It was quite an entourage going to the Jam-about six of my single pals and my daughter, LaRisa, and a friend of hers. When I picked up LaRisa, she ran back inside the house and came out with a pen and some paper. She said without any doubt that she was going to get a Beach Boys autograph. Sure she was!
On arriving, our group just snaked our way down to the front of the stage as it was all general admission. Other known groups at the time were the Doobie Brothers, Santana, and Kansas. Before the Beach Boys came out, Bob Merritt, my good friend, asked a security guy standing in front of the stage if he would take LaRisa's pen and paper and go back and get an autograph from one of the Beach Boys group. Bob knew the security guy from high school days.
In a few minutes out came the guy with a signed autograph. Bob then handed the paper and pen to LaRisa with her request. In a cute but yet determined way she turned to me and said: "See dad, I told you so!!"
It was quite an entourage going to the Jam-about six of my single pals and my daughter, LaRisa, and a friend of hers. When I picked up LaRisa, she ran back inside the house and came out with a pen and some paper. She said without any doubt that she was going to get a Beach Boys autograph. Sure she was!
On arriving, our group just snaked our way down to the front of the stage as it was all general admission. Other known groups at the time were the Doobie Brothers, Santana, and Kansas. Before the Beach Boys came out, Bob Merritt, my good friend, asked a security guy standing in front of the stage if he would take LaRisa's pen and paper and go back and get an autograph from one of the Beach Boys group. Bob knew the security guy from high school days.
In a few minutes out came the guy with a signed autograph. Bob then handed the paper and pen to LaRisa with her request. In a cute but yet determined way she turned to me and said: "See dad, I told you so!!"
MARRIAGE IS LIKE A DECK OF CARDS!!
At first it is two hearts and a diamond. Then it's a club and a spade!!
TELL ME A STORY-TO MOTIVATE(part 5)
Sometimes in life we are motivated to do things in funny ways. When starting my cleaning service years ago, a good friend tried to lure me back into the real-estate business with a promise of a big office and other perks. The comment was made about cleaning being a little de-grading. That's all it took. Negative incentive. My cleaning service became the largest and would hope the best ever in my community.
Whatever works for you to get moving DO IT! Even if you don't feel you are a good writer in terms of correct grammar or three syllable words, that's ok. Later on we will show you how to write stories in other ways besides in the normal narrative form.
As long as you have a desire or passion to write or tell about the past or present, and feel that you are a good story teller GO FOR IT!
Whatever works for you to get moving DO IT! Even if you don't feel you are a good writer in terms of correct grammar or three syllable words, that's ok. Later on we will show you how to write stories in other ways besides in the normal narrative form.
As long as you have a desire or passion to write or tell about the past or present, and feel that you are a good story teller GO FOR IT!
THAT PLACE STILL THE BEST!
THAT PLACE is still "The" place for prime rib and most everything else. On arriving yesterday evening for our seven o'clock reservation the place was packed. But, we got right in to our table on the scenic north side of the dining area with only a minimal wait.
The one thing I couldn't resist was ordering along with a small medium prime rib was their outstanding pan fryed walleye on the side. Hey, why not it! When it is your birthday and you don't get up there as often go for it.
The only two things that have changed were the salads were a little smaller than in the past and of course due to higher beef prices, our tab was a little higher than the $30.00 range it once was. For our money, it is still the best little steak house in maybe a 30 mile radius. It shows that if you cook it well, have good service, and a fair price, it doesn't matter if it is out near lots of corn fields "they will come."
The one thing I couldn't resist was ordering along with a small medium prime rib was their outstanding pan fryed walleye on the side. Hey, why not it! When it is your birthday and you don't get up there as often go for it.
The only two things that have changed were the salads were a little smaller than in the past and of course due to higher beef prices, our tab was a little higher than the $30.00 range it once was. For our money, it is still the best little steak house in maybe a 30 mile radius. It shows that if you cook it well, have good service, and a fair price, it doesn't matter if it is out near lots of corn fields "they will come."
Saturday, January 24, 2015
TELL ME A STORY-STORY IDEAS(PART 4)
For me getting started with story ideas was not difficult. So many many stories were sitting up there in my head. Most of my first stories were about the early years years, which included times through my college years.
Stories included one about My Mom-Why She Was So Special., My Dad Trading Chevy's, My Favorite Coach, My Best friend, Old Man Quigley and the Pool Hall, My Aunt Vivian,and the "Race" about my Grandpa Smith. All of these and many more are not necessarily biographical at all, but, my feelings about them, or certain events that included them.
Other early stories included ones about the farm and home where I grew up. Stories about my room, the basement and why it was scary, the kitchen, early T. V., playing on the farm, and falling off the barn-almost. Other early stories were about special memories or events-First Day of School,Early Movies, Scooping the Loop. and Early Birthday Parties.
Many stories have been written about later years of course. Those about working, children, grandchildren, and trips. Again, don't concern yourself with the order of stories. You can always put them in a chronological order at a latter date.
The key is to write stories that have something of interest to tell-not just a biographical journey. Hopefully, your family has kept good records of family events, but, you then may want to write some additional interesting stories about you grandmother and weave in some historical data on her with some photos included. We all want to know the human interest side to our families.
Again, don't think about it as writing a book, that's too daunting. Write scenes, or little vignettes that can be assembled into a book. Also, be economical with words.
Again, your objective is to pass along personal and family related short stories and tell them as if the listener was sitting right there in the same room with you. Keep them smiling, laughing, or even a tear with a little sigh!
Stories included one about My Mom-Why She Was So Special., My Dad Trading Chevy's, My Favorite Coach, My Best friend, Old Man Quigley and the Pool Hall, My Aunt Vivian,and the "Race" about my Grandpa Smith. All of these and many more are not necessarily biographical at all, but, my feelings about them, or certain events that included them.
Other early stories included ones about the farm and home where I grew up. Stories about my room, the basement and why it was scary, the kitchen, early T. V., playing on the farm, and falling off the barn-almost. Other early stories were about special memories or events-First Day of School,Early Movies, Scooping the Loop. and Early Birthday Parties.
Many stories have been written about later years of course. Those about working, children, grandchildren, and trips. Again, don't concern yourself with the order of stories. You can always put them in a chronological order at a latter date.
The key is to write stories that have something of interest to tell-not just a biographical journey. Hopefully, your family has kept good records of family events, but, you then may want to write some additional interesting stories about you grandmother and weave in some historical data on her with some photos included. We all want to know the human interest side to our families.
Again, don't think about it as writing a book, that's too daunting. Write scenes, or little vignettes that can be assembled into a book. Also, be economical with words.
Again, your objective is to pass along personal and family related short stories and tell them as if the listener was sitting right there in the same room with you. Keep them smiling, laughing, or even a tear with a little sigh!
"THAT PLACE" BEGINS B-DAY WEEK!
Tonight officially begins my birthday week celebration. After visiting my sister, Doris, in Grinnell and her final week at St. Francis Manor, we are headed to That Place(yes, it is called That Place) for one of my favorites-prime rib. This place makes the best around. I've tried prime rib at some fancy spancy places around, but, this little place on highway 14 outside of Conrad can't be beat.
Again, don't let it deceive you. Get a reservation or you may have to wait. Don't get me wrong. I love going to an uptown bistro as much as the next guy, but, this place is not only fun,lots of just everyday people and value with excellent food. It will be worth the drive from the Williamsburg!
-------stay tuned for more of Birthday Week!
Again, don't let it deceive you. Get a reservation or you may have to wait. Don't get me wrong. I love going to an uptown bistro as much as the next guy, but, this place is not only fun,lots of just everyday people and value with excellent food. It will be worth the drive from the Williamsburg!
-------stay tuned for more of Birthday Week!
DR'S EXAMINE ROOMS-HATE EM"
Yesterday afternoon we headed to Iowa City and the Work Injury Recovery Center at the University of Iowa Health Care Center. Ilah had an appointment for a doctor to examine her and determine if she needed surgery on her arm due to a recent injury at her work.
The first fun part to the appointment was once finding and walking from the parking ramp, was locating the Recovery Center within the hospital. From the sheet of paper with directions sent to us it was fairly easy except for one small wrong turn. The key word that I missed in the directions was "immediate right turn." But, we made it with a few minutes to spare. Somebody needs to come up with an "app" or a human global positioning gizmo for your smart phone. At least for you more savvy folks.
Next, after filling out a few pages of information and turning in a CD of a MRI from the Urgent Care Center, Ila proceeded to a room for an X-Ray. After that an aide asked more questions, of course, about types of medications used and etc.
Then "we" waited in the little closed examine room for nearly 35 minutes before Dennis could not take it any longer. I went out to the reception area and asked how much longer we had to wait. A guy there said he would check it out. At least when calling, for example, US Cellular for something, they tell you how long the wait is in minutes.
I finally opened the door before I died of claustrophobia. Besides all the magazines were not only old, but, too sophisticated for me. The newspaper there was from early December. I threw it away.
After an hour of waiting, a nurse of some degree came in and asked more pertinent questions pertaining to the injury. And, finally just before realizing that I needed some type of anxiety medication, the actual doctor arrived. "Sorry for the wait. We had a large number of patients today." Probably set a world's record for waiting time in a hospital. Next time I may have to take a sedative!
The first fun part to the appointment was once finding and walking from the parking ramp, was locating the Recovery Center within the hospital. From the sheet of paper with directions sent to us it was fairly easy except for one small wrong turn. The key word that I missed in the directions was "immediate right turn." But, we made it with a few minutes to spare. Somebody needs to come up with an "app" or a human global positioning gizmo for your smart phone. At least for you more savvy folks.
Next, after filling out a few pages of information and turning in a CD of a MRI from the Urgent Care Center, Ila proceeded to a room for an X-Ray. After that an aide asked more questions, of course, about types of medications used and etc.
Then "we" waited in the little closed examine room for nearly 35 minutes before Dennis could not take it any longer. I went out to the reception area and asked how much longer we had to wait. A guy there said he would check it out. At least when calling, for example, US Cellular for something, they tell you how long the wait is in minutes.
I finally opened the door before I died of claustrophobia. Besides all the magazines were not only old, but, too sophisticated for me. The newspaper there was from early December. I threw it away.
After an hour of waiting, a nurse of some degree came in and asked more pertinent questions pertaining to the injury. And, finally just before realizing that I needed some type of anxiety medication, the actual doctor arrived. "Sorry for the wait. We had a large number of patients today." Probably set a world's record for waiting time in a hospital. Next time I may have to take a sedative!
Friday, January 23, 2015
CHICAGO-WOW!
A friend at work the other day that her birthday present is attending a "Chicago" concert at the end of May in Cedar Rapids. It will be held near the river at a location held outdoors. The ticket price was only $45.00 or so. Now that is a value. They have to be one of the best all around bands in the last 50 years. I saw them for the first time at the KRNT theater in Des Moines in the mid 1960's.
Does anybody know the story behind their song "25 or 6 to 4" song or does anybody care? Maybe we will see you along the river in C.R. this May!
Does anybody know the story behind their song "25 or 6 to 4" song or does anybody care? Maybe we will see you along the river in C.R. this May!
TEENAGE WASTELAND!
A little musical trivia I learned today and never knew is the following: The song by The Who and usually called "Teenage Wasteland" is actually titled "Baba O'Riley." Check it out!
TELL ME A STORY-THE BEST TIME TO WRITE(part 3)
Next and maybe the most important step in writing is what time of day or week that fits your schedule. Do you write for short or long durations? For myself and researching most writers, the early morning hours works best. And, two or three hour spurts are best. If you still working a regular job, early hours on the weekend may work best.
Before you let your mind get cluttered with all sorts of daily stuff, make writing your first priority after breakfast and don't allow any disruptions to interfere. Wtite down those home chores on a To Do List and you will not be distracted by them. If that doesn't work, go to your library or somewhere that gives you privacy.
Then move on with your day. You may want to split the day and get back to writing later in the day for a duration. Only you can decide the best time of the day or week. But, just get started.
Practice on how long it takes yo to write a page or story in a given amount of time. Experiment at first with your time period. Can you write one or two stories in a two hour period? You will get on to it with practice.
Sometimes you can look at your list of stories and are inspired by one or two"juicy" ones and the go for it! Maybe one story is giving yo a little trouble with srarting it or some of the details. Do not press it. Sleep on it. Give it a little time. But, even if you are having trouble with a date or name, keep writing, leave it blank and come back to it later. Don't let details bog you down.
When that trouble maker finally starts talking to you, get that pen or keyboard ready and start typing. Again, keep a pad handy at your bedside, thoughtts and ideas sometimes come at 4 A.M. in the morning.
Before you let your mind get cluttered with all sorts of daily stuff, make writing your first priority after breakfast and don't allow any disruptions to interfere. Wtite down those home chores on a To Do List and you will not be distracted by them. If that doesn't work, go to your library or somewhere that gives you privacy.
Then move on with your day. You may want to split the day and get back to writing later in the day for a duration. Only you can decide the best time of the day or week. But, just get started.
Practice on how long it takes yo to write a page or story in a given amount of time. Experiment at first with your time period. Can you write one or two stories in a two hour period? You will get on to it with practice.
Sometimes you can look at your list of stories and are inspired by one or two"juicy" ones and the go for it! Maybe one story is giving yo a little trouble with srarting it or some of the details. Do not press it. Sleep on it. Give it a little time. But, even if you are having trouble with a date or name, keep writing, leave it blank and come back to it later. Don't let details bog you down.
When that trouble maker finally starts talking to you, get that pen or keyboard ready and start typing. Again, keep a pad handy at your bedside, thoughtts and ideas sometimes come at 4 A.M. in the morning.
TELL ME A STORY-GETTING STARTED(part 2)
One thing I have done most of my life is to keep a "TO DO LIST." It was something learned many years ago when selling real estate from a customer who kept detailed notes on almost everything.
It was a learning experience for me and the "To Do" list has been part of my life ever since. The list was made up every A. M. with the most difficult tasks noted and attempted to complete first in the morning hours when my energy level was high.
Having that list in front of me constanly gave me afeeling of confidence, control, and never worrying about forgetting something. If a task was thought of during the day, on the list it would go. If something didn't get done that day, on the list for the next day it would go.
In most things we do, preparation is the most important. Whether it be planning a vacation, cooking a meal, or making a speech. You get the picture. Toget started, it is important to be focused, organized, and dedicated to the task of writing. Also, did I mention that you must make the time. Anything in life we want to do we will find and make the time.
It doesn't matter if yo are computer savy or old school pen and paper just get started with your stories. Just think if you are writing in cursive, it will be a rare item someday and could be worth a lot of money.
The first step for me was a yellow legal tablet that was always close at hand to simply write the catch phrase or word to remind you of a good story. You will find that initially, several stories will come to mind and you will write down several. As they come slower keep that pad handy so you can write a word or phrase down as a reminder. Once it is written you won't forget it. Especially keep a pad handy near your bed. Lots of ideas pop up early in the morning or during the night when awake. Sometimes I will find myself writing an idea on a piece of paper and sticking it my pocket. Don't rely on your memory alone.
If you are not computer savvy do not be discouraged. I originally started by writing in long hand and bartered typing up my stories for cleaning services. A local printing company then bound my stories to keep them in order.
Keep those story ideas handy. Even if you don't get around to writing short stories about yourself or family members, the idea will always be there. If only I would have written the story phrase to a lot of the stories my mother had told numerous times. The mememory fades!
One other thing worth noting which I probably will repeat. Don't worry about any particular time frame of your stories. You can always put them in some type of cronological order at a later date.
It was a learning experience for me and the "To Do" list has been part of my life ever since. The list was made up every A. M. with the most difficult tasks noted and attempted to complete first in the morning hours when my energy level was high.
Having that list in front of me constanly gave me afeeling of confidence, control, and never worrying about forgetting something. If a task was thought of during the day, on the list it would go. If something didn't get done that day, on the list for the next day it would go.
In most things we do, preparation is the most important. Whether it be planning a vacation, cooking a meal, or making a speech. You get the picture. Toget started, it is important to be focused, organized, and dedicated to the task of writing. Also, did I mention that you must make the time. Anything in life we want to do we will find and make the time.
It doesn't matter if yo are computer savy or old school pen and paper just get started with your stories. Just think if you are writing in cursive, it will be a rare item someday and could be worth a lot of money.
The first step for me was a yellow legal tablet that was always close at hand to simply write the catch phrase or word to remind you of a good story. You will find that initially, several stories will come to mind and you will write down several. As they come slower keep that pad handy so you can write a word or phrase down as a reminder. Once it is written you won't forget it. Especially keep a pad handy near your bed. Lots of ideas pop up early in the morning or during the night when awake. Sometimes I will find myself writing an idea on a piece of paper and sticking it my pocket. Don't rely on your memory alone.
If you are not computer savvy do not be discouraged. I originally started by writing in long hand and bartered typing up my stories for cleaning services. A local printing company then bound my stories to keep them in order.
Keep those story ideas handy. Even if you don't get around to writing short stories about yourself or family members, the idea will always be there. If only I would have written the story phrase to a lot of the stories my mother had told numerous times. The mememory fades!
One other thing worth noting which I probably will repeat. Don't worry about any particular time frame of your stories. You can always put them in some type of cronological order at a later date.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
MAKING YOUR BED-BUT WHY!
When I was a kid, I was expected to make my bed each morning before the day got started. That habit or ritual that my mother was responsible for has never left me. Sometimes I think why is it so important. Do you sleep better because your sheets are not in a crumble or the pillows not fluffed? Probably not. Somehow it just makes me feel better and to know that I accomplished at least one thing for the day.
A few years ago, while living in Marshalltown and running my cleaning business the following happened and caused some stress related to bed making. The ladies that worked for me would meet at my apartment each morning throughout the work week. We would rendouvous in the enclosed front porch that acted as the office.
On this particular morning, I had over slept and I heard them yelling at me. As quickly as possible, I got ready and was heading out my bedroom door. I stopped and looked back at my bed which was not made. What to do! Frustration! Finally I just slammed the door shut and went to work. All day I thought about that unmade bed. Darn you mom!
A few years ago, while living in Marshalltown and running my cleaning business the following happened and caused some stress related to bed making. The ladies that worked for me would meet at my apartment each morning throughout the work week. We would rendouvous in the enclosed front porch that acted as the office.
On this particular morning, I had over slept and I heard them yelling at me. As quickly as possible, I got ready and was heading out my bedroom door. I stopped and looked back at my bed which was not made. What to do! Frustration! Finally I just slammed the door shut and went to work. All day I thought about that unmade bed. Darn you mom!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY WEEK-NOT DAY!!
Now that I am close to reaching another milestone not necessarily to my liking, I made a major decision yesterday. It's similar to my significant's tradition of having dessert first before the main meal. It only applies, generally, when we are dining out and she stared doing it when she reached fifty! Her logic was she was always told as a kid she had to finish her meal before dessert. Now no one can tell her she can't have dessert and besides she wants to enjoy it before it is gone or too full to enjoy it!
My brilliant idea is based on the idea of WHY NOT! Starting this week-end, even though my birthday is not until the 27th of January, I will be planning dinners each evening around my top favorite meals. One or two of them I may have to go out to a restaurant, but, for at least one week I get to eat my favorites. One of them projected in the mix will be oyster soup. Yes, I have enjoyed this favorite a time or two by myself at the dinner table.
Besides, who said that you could only celebrate your birthday one day or evening. If they can have Black History month why can't there be Dennis Laverty Birthday Week? Give it a try and maybe we will be on to something!
My brilliant idea is based on the idea of WHY NOT! Starting this week-end, even though my birthday is not until the 27th of January, I will be planning dinners each evening around my top favorite meals. One or two of them I may have to go out to a restaurant, but, for at least one week I get to eat my favorites. One of them projected in the mix will be oyster soup. Yes, I have enjoyed this favorite a time or two by myself at the dinner table.
Besides, who said that you could only celebrate your birthday one day or evening. If they can have Black History month why can't there be Dennis Laverty Birthday Week? Give it a try and maybe we will be on to something!
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
TELL ME A STORY! INTRODUCTION (part 1)
When the light bulb finally came on, it was several years ago after talking to my sister, Doris on occasion, pertaining to genealogy. She has been to Ireland and back to trace some of our ancestry and has stomped and tromped through every cemetery between Central Iowa and Ireland.
I would tease her by saying something ill mannered that genealogy was like watching paint dry. There had to be more to ones life than being just a name on a flow chart with your name, year born and died and relatives up and down the line.
Yes, we know that it also includes biographical, statistical data, and some social data written in county historical records, centennial books, obituaries, newspaper announcements, and more. It seemed to me, we need to do more. More needed to be done to compliment the "family tree" and all that data. Those that came before us, deserve more than just to be just a name on the wall, a few pictures in an album or stuff!
It finally dawned on me, alittle late, that a lot of those people that would provide great stories were GONE! But, there was one person that was still around and had some pretty good personal and family related stories. After all, many of my own stories would be going back a half century and probably by the time some young relative would have interest in reading any of them another fifty years would pass. Who knows! Besides, someone will enjoy reading about the good old days even the 1980's!
------------to be continued.
I would tease her by saying something ill mannered that genealogy was like watching paint dry. There had to be more to ones life than being just a name on a flow chart with your name, year born and died and relatives up and down the line.
Yes, we know that it also includes biographical, statistical data, and some social data written in county historical records, centennial books, obituaries, newspaper announcements, and more. It seemed to me, we need to do more. More needed to be done to compliment the "family tree" and all that data. Those that came before us, deserve more than just to be just a name on the wall, a few pictures in an album or stuff!
It finally dawned on me, alittle late, that a lot of those people that would provide great stories were GONE! But, there was one person that was still around and had some pretty good personal and family related stories. After all, many of my own stories would be going back a half century and probably by the time some young relative would have interest in reading any of them another fifty years would pass. Who knows! Besides, someone will enjoy reading about the good old days even the 1980's!
------------to be continued.
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
A WRITER'S WORDS TO LIVE BY!
"A Writer who waits for ideal conditions under which to work will die without putting words on paper."
E. B. White--Author
INTERESTING GUY-TERRIBLE PIZZA!
It was an unusual and very slow way of getting to know this guy Gary. When attending the Iowa football games back in the late 1970's, I got to know Gary Seamons as he sat directly behind me on the east side of the stadium. In talking to him, I learned that he flew in from New Jersey for the home games and was a graduate of Iowa University and worked for A.T.&T.
A year later or so, he indicated he was being transferred to Chicago. When he indicated he was moving to Des Moines the next year, I let him know that I was a realtor and helped him find a home in West Des Moines. In the next year or so, he was being transferred back to western New Jersey and about fifty miles west of New York City.
We had stayed in touch and indicated to him that we, my ex-wife and I, would be coming for a vacation trip of the east coast. He invited us to stay the night as we were passing through the area. When we arrived, he had ordered a pizza from his favorite local pizzeria! When we talked to him by phone earlier in the day about our arrival time, he had us really pumped about that pizza. Maybe the best we would ever have?
Quite to the contrary. It may of been the worst ever eaten. It was horrible. My ex and I were in total agreement. Did we want Gary to order another one. Oh no! The same went for the breakfast we had right outside Washington D.C. in Virginia. What better place to have a southern breakfast than down here. That morning it was biscuits and gravy. Yuk! Had much better right in West Des Moines at the Village Inn. Just never know.
A year later or so, he indicated he was being transferred to Chicago. When he indicated he was moving to Des Moines the next year, I let him know that I was a realtor and helped him find a home in West Des Moines. In the next year or so, he was being transferred back to western New Jersey and about fifty miles west of New York City.
We had stayed in touch and indicated to him that we, my ex-wife and I, would be coming for a vacation trip of the east coast. He invited us to stay the night as we were passing through the area. When we arrived, he had ordered a pizza from his favorite local pizzeria! When we talked to him by phone earlier in the day about our arrival time, he had us really pumped about that pizza. Maybe the best we would ever have?
Quite to the contrary. It may of been the worst ever eaten. It was horrible. My ex and I were in total agreement. Did we want Gary to order another one. Oh no! The same went for the breakfast we had right outside Washington D.C. in Virginia. What better place to have a southern breakfast than down here. That morning it was biscuits and gravy. Yuk! Had much better right in West Des Moines at the Village Inn. Just never know.
MOVING DAY WITH THE ODD COUPLE!
Two years after my divorce, my good friend, Bob Merritt, and I decided to buy a house together and share expenses. We bought a house in the Rio Valley sub-division that was just being developed in Clive, Iowa. It was, for the time, an upscale development with a variety of split levels, two stories, and ranch style homes. Ours that was being built was a rather large for the time, a 4 level split and the rear yard backed up to a wooded area that included Walnut Creek.
We were moving in on November 1, 1976 as I recall and was the day right after Halloween and the day after attending a big Halloween party given by another mutual friend. I was living at an apartment building that I owned near Drake University on 26th street and had the use of a big enclosed truck for the move along with the help of some friends.
Most of my items were boxed carefully and labeled including as to which room the item belonged after the move. Part of the deal in moving in together was that I would have the master bedroom as Bob did quite a bit of traveling and wouldn't be around much.
The funnest part of the move was, that when we went over to pick up Bob and furnishings, he really hadn't started to pack stuff and get ready for the move. But, all of a sudden, he grabbed some big black trash bags and proceeded to just throw everything in those bags. This included dishes, silverware, and drinking glasses. Most everything that man possessed was hauled out of his apartment in garbage bags. It was a sight to see!
Once at the new house, which had been pre-cleaned by the builder, we preceeded to unpack and move in. To make sure things would be arranged in some orderly fashion, my mother and daughter helped with arranging my room and the kitchen. Bob just plugged away and slowly unpacked those big old garbage bags.
I was forewarned by his ex-wife, Patti, that Bob was, to say the least, a little on the slovenly side. It worked out well though, as we had a cleaning lady, Marge, come in once a week. We lived in that house for nearly five years and our house payment and all was less for each than if would have stayed in our separate apartments and a lot more fun!
Monday, January 19, 2015
THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL-IT WAS SCARY
The other day some kids at the Burg Grocery were making fun of the oldie's music being played there. What made me feel old was that some of the music was from the 1980's! It reminded also the time my grandson's made fun of me about watching the old classic science fiction classic, The Day The Earth Stood Still, from the early 1950's starring Michael Renne.
The first time I saw it was with my cousin, Bob, at the Strand Theater in Marshalltown, Iowa. I know I wasn't even ten at the time, but, when that robot came out from the flying saucer I put my baseball cap over my eyes and couldn't watch.My cousin tried to take my hat away from me and I actually ended up on the floor. Technology wise it can't compare with some of the movies of today. But, with that eerie music and all it still haunts me a little to this day!
The first time I saw it was with my cousin, Bob, at the Strand Theater in Marshalltown, Iowa. I know I wasn't even ten at the time, but, when that robot came out from the flying saucer I put my baseball cap over my eyes and couldn't watch.My cousin tried to take my hat away from me and I actually ended up on the floor. Technology wise it can't compare with some of the movies of today. But, with that eerie music and all it still haunts me a little to this day!
DOES ANYBODY REMEMBER FLOPPY!
Acording to the Des Moines Register the Ankeny Area Historical Society is looking for Floppy memorabilia for display. If anyone remembers the show or better still how to get a Floppy T shirt let me know please! Thanks, Dennis
Sunday, January 18, 2015
CANOEING DOWN THE MIGHTY WALNUT CREEK!
It was the Spring of 1977, my old buddy and roommate Bob and I decided it was time for a canoe ride. Not just any canoe ride, but, down the mighty Walnut Creek that flowed behind our home.
We rented a canoe at a local rental place and proceeded to drive west out by Adel or Waukee off highway 6 and put her in the water and got ready for a little adventure. Keep in mind that Walnut Creek is not that wide and very winding-make that extremely winding. It was also flowing pretty good due to the winter run-off and spring rains.
We loaded the S.S. Bob&Dennis and sat sail for the cruise back east toward our home base. We weren't sailing more than a few hundred yards and I think realized how difficult this would be. With the sharp turns, we were constantly banging in to the banks. I felt like we were in some kind of video or pin ball game.But, we pressed on laughing so hard that it became even more difficult.
At some point fairly close to back home near Rio Valley, we tipped it over somehow. When we came up out of the water laughing, we realized a couple of things that could be serious losses of this navel accident. One, by some miracle Bob's vehicle keys had remained on the canoe floor despite that the canoe had tipped completely over. Two, and as important, our six pack of beer was still in the canoe floating around! Lucky us!
We rented a canoe at a local rental place and proceeded to drive west out by Adel or Waukee off highway 6 and put her in the water and got ready for a little adventure. Keep in mind that Walnut Creek is not that wide and very winding-make that extremely winding. It was also flowing pretty good due to the winter run-off and spring rains.
We loaded the S.S. Bob&Dennis and sat sail for the cruise back east toward our home base. We weren't sailing more than a few hundred yards and I think realized how difficult this would be. With the sharp turns, we were constantly banging in to the banks. I felt like we were in some kind of video or pin ball game.But, we pressed on laughing so hard that it became even more difficult.
At some point fairly close to back home near Rio Valley, we tipped it over somehow. When we came up out of the water laughing, we realized a couple of things that could be serious losses of this navel accident. One, by some miracle Bob's vehicle keys had remained on the canoe floor despite that the canoe had tipped completely over. Two, and as important, our six pack of beer was still in the canoe floating around! Lucky us!
JACK BAKER TRAGEDY!
Not sure why I was thinking about this tragedy the other day, but, I did. Jack Baker was the brother to a classmate of mine, Bob Baker. This tragedy happened in the mid 1950's at a
Laurel High School baseball game. I was at the game at the time and was around 12 years old. The following account from past records was believed to have been how it happened.
The accident happened at a baseball game between Laurel and Newburg and happened during the sixth inning of a seven inning game. Jack was a freshman and only fourteen years old. He was attempting to steal third base from second and was hit in the head by the throw from the opposing catcher.
The game was completed because no one thought Jack to be injured that seriously. Jack's sister, Deloras, did take Jack to the hospital in Marshalltown for observation. Jack died apparently of a cerebral hemorrhage. The attending physician had examined him at around 6pm and again as late as 1am and reacted to normal conversation. He passed away about an hour later. If only protective helmets would have been in use back then!
Laurel High School baseball game. I was at the game at the time and was around 12 years old. The following account from past records was believed to have been how it happened.
The accident happened at a baseball game between Laurel and Newburg and happened during the sixth inning of a seven inning game. Jack was a freshman and only fourteen years old. He was attempting to steal third base from second and was hit in the head by the throw from the opposing catcher.
The game was completed because no one thought Jack to be injured that seriously. Jack's sister, Deloras, did take Jack to the hospital in Marshalltown for observation. Jack died apparently of a cerebral hemorrhage. The attending physician had examined him at around 6pm and again as late as 1am and reacted to normal conversation. He passed away about an hour later. If only protective helmets would have been in use back then!
THE POOL TABLE GOES DOWN!
One story that is always fun to tell concerns my single days in the mid 1970's. My friend, Bob Merritt and I decided after our divorces to build a house together and did so on Rio Valley Drive in Clive, Iowa.
Bob was insistent on having a pool table and got a "deal" through a another friend. This was a regulation size table with slate top and all. Being all one piece, it would not make the turn down to the basement.
Since the builder hadn't laid the carpet yet, we had him cut through the subfloor and we hoisted the table up on its end and with ropes and six guys or so, lowered it down between the floor joists with those ropes. That pool table is probably still in that basement!
Bob was insistent on having a pool table and got a "deal" through a another friend. This was a regulation size table with slate top and all. Being all one piece, it would not make the turn down to the basement.
Since the builder hadn't laid the carpet yet, we had him cut through the subfloor and we hoisted the table up on its end and with ropes and six guys or so, lowered it down between the floor joists with those ropes. That pool table is probably still in that basement!
WOLFMAN JACK TO SAVE THE NIGHT!
It was the spring of 1977 and the horse races were on at AK-SAR-BEN in Omaha. Bob, my best friend and roomate at the time, were off to experience the ponies at the track pronounced Nebraska backwards.
When arriving, we decided that if we happened to win the first race we would parlay the winnings into the next race. We made sure that we bet on horses that had low odds to help the percentages of our "system." For a while it worked. We had run it up until the seventh or eighth race. We had it up $200 or so and then lost it all in the ninth race. It was fun just trying.
When it was time to leave, we headed to the parking lot. We were sitting in Bob's car waiting for cars to pass by in our parking lane. In the next few seconds, I received the most profound driving advice I will ever receive. All of a sudden, he put the car in gear and pulled out right in front of the line of cars leaving and headed for the exist.
Bob simply looked over at me and said: "Never look them in the eye." I have found it to work very effectively on occasion. Sometimes it does pay to have eye contact and use the good guy approach.
Heading home to Clive, Bob indicated he would drive half way and I would drive the rest of the way. It was very late due to some stops at a few chosen "points of interest." About half way across the Missouri River heading into Council Bluffs, Bob started to doze off while driving. Oh no!
I wasn't ready to drive either, but, if we wanted to get home! The option of simply pulling over and sleeping awhile or getting a motel room didn't seem to compute. One thing saved us besides the coffee. Wolfman Jack, the syndicated disc-jockey with that low , methodical, distinctive voice, got us through the night somehow and home. He and those oldies he played did the trick. Our weekend guardian angel!
When arriving, we decided that if we happened to win the first race we would parlay the winnings into the next race. We made sure that we bet on horses that had low odds to help the percentages of our "system." For a while it worked. We had run it up until the seventh or eighth race. We had it up $200 or so and then lost it all in the ninth race. It was fun just trying.
When it was time to leave, we headed to the parking lot. We were sitting in Bob's car waiting for cars to pass by in our parking lane. In the next few seconds, I received the most profound driving advice I will ever receive. All of a sudden, he put the car in gear and pulled out right in front of the line of cars leaving and headed for the exist.
Bob simply looked over at me and said: "Never look them in the eye." I have found it to work very effectively on occasion. Sometimes it does pay to have eye contact and use the good guy approach.
Heading home to Clive, Bob indicated he would drive half way and I would drive the rest of the way. It was very late due to some stops at a few chosen "points of interest." About half way across the Missouri River heading into Council Bluffs, Bob started to doze off while driving. Oh no!
I wasn't ready to drive either, but, if we wanted to get home! The option of simply pulling over and sleeping awhile or getting a motel room didn't seem to compute. One thing saved us besides the coffee. Wolfman Jack, the syndicated disc-jockey with that low , methodical, distinctive voice, got us through the night somehow and home. He and those oldies he played did the trick. Our weekend guardian angel!
Saturday, January 17, 2015
OVERHEARD AT THE BURG GROCERY!
A lady was ready to check out at the Burg Grocery and tossed up to me a big colorful bag for her groceries. I mentioned that it was a reallya big ol' bag. She shot right back and said:" I hope you're not making that a reference to me!"
YOU LIKE WHAT NAME BETTER?
Nancy Smith Cockerham, a cousin of mine, has been assisting me with a family history project. In one of her E mails she mentioned a story about her grandma's name which was Dollie Mabel and somewhere along the way didn't care for the name Dollie and changed it to Mabel!
FIRST GET THEIR ATTENTION!
This caught my eye from the "Your 2 Cents' Worth" column in the Des Moines Register.
The Waterworks lawsuit(against three counties) reminds me of the old joke about the mule who absolutely refused to move in spite of yelling and pushing and offered treats, until someone finally whacked the mule with a two by four and said "First you have to get his attention." -- Story County landowner
The Waterworks lawsuit(against three counties) reminds me of the old joke about the mule who absolutely refused to move in spite of yelling and pushing and offered treats, until someone finally whacked the mule with a two by four and said "First you have to get his attention." -- Story County landowner
Friday, January 16, 2015
80 MPH OR MORE CHASE IN A 49" BATHTUB!
Loren was an upper classmate of mine while attending Laurel High School. He was a cool guy, sort of a Fonzie type from "Happy Days." Loren always wore his hair in a "duck tail" and combed the top forward into a "waterfall." You would usually see that pack of cigarettes rolled up in one sleeve of his white T-shirt. He never really got in any kind of trouble and never gave anyone grief.
He owned a 1949 Hudson Hornet or Commodore, I believe. It resembled an upside down bathtub. Yet, looking back, like most cars of that era, it was cool in its own way. Loren had it primered with a mid-grey color that's finish was dull and when washed never streaked. And, with those big white walls of the time and cool hub caps, along with the "top chopped," this was one mean looking machine and a driver who could have had his own T. V. show.
One night, who knows why, a group of us decided to drive to Baxter, a rival town in sports, and see what was happening. A really dumb decision. Loren drove his machine and off we went. Somewhere in Baxter we ran into a car load or two of their guys and words were shouted. The race and chase was on!
Baxter is about 15 plus miles southwest of Laurel-with most being on highway 14 that goes to Newton. This chase was made for a movie. Two cars chasing us at speeds in excess of I would rather not think about it. Sometimes one of the Baxter cars would try to pass and Loren would swerve and cut him off. Then he would try from the other side to no avail.
Finally we drove into Laurel and hopefully in safe territory. We pulled up in front of a place owned by a guy, at the time, who used it as a roller skating rink and restaurant. The race was over and the boys from Baxter were on their way home! We never did that again. We did it the right way and beat them on the football field.
***A footnote. I never did learn how to roller skate!
He owned a 1949 Hudson Hornet or Commodore, I believe. It resembled an upside down bathtub. Yet, looking back, like most cars of that era, it was cool in its own way. Loren had it primered with a mid-grey color that's finish was dull and when washed never streaked. And, with those big white walls of the time and cool hub caps, along with the "top chopped," this was one mean looking machine and a driver who could have had his own T. V. show.
One night, who knows why, a group of us decided to drive to Baxter, a rival town in sports, and see what was happening. A really dumb decision. Loren drove his machine and off we went. Somewhere in Baxter we ran into a car load or two of their guys and words were shouted. The race and chase was on!
Baxter is about 15 plus miles southwest of Laurel-with most being on highway 14 that goes to Newton. This chase was made for a movie. Two cars chasing us at speeds in excess of I would rather not think about it. Sometimes one of the Baxter cars would try to pass and Loren would swerve and cut him off. Then he would try from the other side to no avail.
Finally we drove into Laurel and hopefully in safe territory. We pulled up in front of a place owned by a guy, at the time, who used it as a roller skating rink and restaurant. The race was over and the boys from Baxter were on their way home! We never did that again. We did it the right way and beat them on the football field.
***A footnote. I never did learn how to roller skate!
Thursday, January 15, 2015
THE LITTLE THINGS-BLOB OF SOUR CREAM!
Years ago, a lady by the name of Linda, worked for me and was a pretty good cook. One day I mentioned that I was going to make one of my favorite comfort dishes-goulash. She recommended to make it more moist and yummy to add sour cream. She was right! It was soo good.
Recently, I made beef stroganoff and of course, added sour cream. The best. A lady, who works with me at the Burg Grocery, was making beef and noodles and is considered a pretty good cook. I had mentioned that she should try a little sour cream. The next day she came in beaming. She had just added a "blob" to her dish.
It makes you feel good when you can pass along such a little tip and it makes a difference to a meal and you know it makes someone very happy. Sometimes it is the little things.
Recently, I made beef stroganoff and of course, added sour cream. The best. A lady, who works with me at the Burg Grocery, was making beef and noodles and is considered a pretty good cook. I had mentioned that she should try a little sour cream. The next day she came in beaming. She had just added a "blob" to her dish.
It makes you feel good when you can pass along such a little tip and it makes a difference to a meal and you know it makes someone very happy. Sometimes it is the little things.
WITH SENIORS-TIME IS A FACTOR
The other evening, while visiting with an elderly lady here in town, she preceeded to tell a very interesting story about her father and his experience as a boxer when he was a young man in the area. It was difficult for me, but, for once I was a good listener and asked questions about his experience.
Since I enjoy telling stories, it made me realize that I would enjoy listening to others tell theirs and writing about them. I intend to go back and sit down with this lady and next time take notes and have questions prepared in advance.
But, at the same time I was reminded of years ago while selling real estate. Specializing in condominiums, I listed quite a few of them that elderly ladies were selling before they made their final journey to Arizona or Florida.
When entering their home, I always indicated, as part of my routine, that I had to be somewhere in an hour or less. Then, if the lady wanted to visit a bit it was ok, but, then down to business. Now I'm that elderly person, but, I think I'll try the "time routine" or if I'm not careful I could be at a story interview till bed time.
Since I enjoy telling stories, it made me realize that I would enjoy listening to others tell theirs and writing about them. I intend to go back and sit down with this lady and next time take notes and have questions prepared in advance.
But, at the same time I was reminded of years ago while selling real estate. Specializing in condominiums, I listed quite a few of them that elderly ladies were selling before they made their final journey to Arizona or Florida.
When entering their home, I always indicated, as part of my routine, that I had to be somewhere in an hour or less. Then, if the lady wanted to visit a bit it was ok, but, then down to business. Now I'm that elderly person, but, I think I'll try the "time routine" or if I'm not careful I could be at a story interview till bed time.
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
ONE MAN-VERY SPECIAL (part 2)
What did make Dave remarkable was that he did know people from all over, and with his incredible memory, he would not only remember you and your name for years, he would also remember something else about you-maybe your sister and the fact that she was having surgery. If he met you years later, he would ask how she was doing. Amazing recall.
During the late 1970's, I was visiting with another Allied agent from Ames, George Kuehl and his wife Betty. They also had owned Aunt Maude's restaurant in Ames. George had just returned from a business trip in St. Louis, Missouri. He ran into a man at the St. Louis airport and George mentioned he was from Iowa. The guy asked if he knew Dave Hamilton. Wow!
Dave was a little slovenly, to say the least, but, you learned to overlook it. On one occasion, I called Dave to wish him a happy birthday and tried him at home. He lived in an apartment above a building he owned in downtown Grinnell. One of the field reps for Allied answered the phone and I could hear this load noise in the background. They were cleaning up Dave's apartment as a birthday gift to him. It was a Shop-Vac and it was being used to clean everything off his floor.
One thing Dave would do when he came home was empty his pockets of change and let it fall on the floor. This particular fieldman, Barry, found a bonus check from Allied to Dave in the amount of $10,000 laying on top of his refrigerator in an old cigar box. It had been there for some time. That was Dave.
On one incentive trip to Europe for agents of Allied, the charter plane stopped over at Bangor, Maine, to refill. Dave got off the plane to visit the fire chief or mayor of Bangor that he knew. Needless to say, the plane was delayed leaving from Bangor.
Well, lastly, the most famous Dave Hamilton story involving me personally was how he got my sister, Doris, tickets to see Elvis Presley in 1964. (see story on my blog -8/18/2014-Doris Eddy up close with Elvis-the king) Dave passed away a few short years ago, but, I will never forget him. People like Dave make life's journey a lot more interesting!
During the late 1970's, I was visiting with another Allied agent from Ames, George Kuehl and his wife Betty. They also had owned Aunt Maude's restaurant in Ames. George had just returned from a business trip in St. Louis, Missouri. He ran into a man at the St. Louis airport and George mentioned he was from Iowa. The guy asked if he knew Dave Hamilton. Wow!
Dave was a little slovenly, to say the least, but, you learned to overlook it. On one occasion, I called Dave to wish him a happy birthday and tried him at home. He lived in an apartment above a building he owned in downtown Grinnell. One of the field reps for Allied answered the phone and I could hear this load noise in the background. They were cleaning up Dave's apartment as a birthday gift to him. It was a Shop-Vac and it was being used to clean everything off his floor.
One thing Dave would do when he came home was empty his pockets of change and let it fall on the floor. This particular fieldman, Barry, found a bonus check from Allied to Dave in the amount of $10,000 laying on top of his refrigerator in an old cigar box. It had been there for some time. That was Dave.
On one incentive trip to Europe for agents of Allied, the charter plane stopped over at Bangor, Maine, to refill. Dave got off the plane to visit the fire chief or mayor of Bangor that he knew. Needless to say, the plane was delayed leaving from Bangor.
Well, lastly, the most famous Dave Hamilton story involving me personally was how he got my sister, Doris, tickets to see Elvis Presley in 1964. (see story on my blog -8/18/2014-Doris Eddy up close with Elvis-the king) Dave passed away a few short years ago, but, I will never forget him. People like Dave make life's journey a lot more interesting!
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
ONE MAN-VERY SPECIAL! (part 1 )
Dave Hamilton. I always said somebody should write about Dave someday. I just want to pass along a few good memories about him.. Like most people that have become close to me in my life, he was the original real deal, a maverick and most times soft spoken. That's why I liked him.
I first met Dave when I was working at Allied Mutual in Des Moines as an underwriter. He was an insurance agent from Grinnell. It was my job to accept or reject business that was submitted by agents like Dave. We got to be good friends after getting together socially through my manager, John DuMont back in the late 1960's. One thing that made Dave unique also was that to put it mildly he would not make it as a model for Esquire magazine.
After my divorce in the mid 1970's, I started going to Iowa Hawkeye football games with two good friends, Bob Merritt and Don Brittin. We would get our tickets through Dave as he was a huge supporter of Iowa athletics. It was something to see him come in to Allied Mutual with an attache case full of tickets. In the late 1960's and most of the 1970's, the Hawkeyes were not very good to say the least. I am not sure if Dave had to pat for all those tickets, but, it was amazing to see dozens and dozens of tickets lined up in that case.
We sat many a game on the end-zone line, 10 yard line or in the end zone, but, you had to hand it to Dave Dave for his support and out there selling tickets for a losing program. I do know that Dave, up until he passed away, possessed 20 seats all together on the west side and top two rows just off the fifty yard line. This was before they built the new press box. I witnessed Dave one time give a teacher from northwest Iowa two of his tickets on the east side and right on the fifty yard line. Dave possessed over 100 seats around that stadium. Amazing!
One story about Dave involved a trip to a Iowa-Minnesota football game in St. Paul before they played at the Dome. There were the four of us-Dave, Bob, Don, and myself. All the way up. Dave started saying something about not remembering whether he had guaranteed rooms at this Holiday Inn near Bloomington.
It started bothering me tat we might not have rooms when we arrived. We had no cell phones in those days, of course. And, when I suggested he call the hotel from a pay phone, he would just say, Oh! I'm sure it will be okay." He had me!
When we arrived at the hotel, the marquee read, "Welcome Ortonville Bob and Iowa Hawkeyes." The reference to Ortonville was the fact that Bob Merritt's company. Monarch Manufacturing , was located near the site of what had been a small town of Ortonville-pretty much disappeared by then. It was on the east edge of Waukee on highway 6. Of course, the innkeeper there was a "personal friend" of Dave's and we each had our own room. That was Dave!
---------------to be continued!
I first met Dave when I was working at Allied Mutual in Des Moines as an underwriter. He was an insurance agent from Grinnell. It was my job to accept or reject business that was submitted by agents like Dave. We got to be good friends after getting together socially through my manager, John DuMont back in the late 1960's. One thing that made Dave unique also was that to put it mildly he would not make it as a model for Esquire magazine.
After my divorce in the mid 1970's, I started going to Iowa Hawkeye football games with two good friends, Bob Merritt and Don Brittin. We would get our tickets through Dave as he was a huge supporter of Iowa athletics. It was something to see him come in to Allied Mutual with an attache case full of tickets. In the late 1960's and most of the 1970's, the Hawkeyes were not very good to say the least. I am not sure if Dave had to pat for all those tickets, but, it was amazing to see dozens and dozens of tickets lined up in that case.
We sat many a game on the end-zone line, 10 yard line or in the end zone, but, you had to hand it to Dave Dave for his support and out there selling tickets for a losing program. I do know that Dave, up until he passed away, possessed 20 seats all together on the west side and top two rows just off the fifty yard line. This was before they built the new press box. I witnessed Dave one time give a teacher from northwest Iowa two of his tickets on the east side and right on the fifty yard line. Dave possessed over 100 seats around that stadium. Amazing!
One story about Dave involved a trip to a Iowa-Minnesota football game in St. Paul before they played at the Dome. There were the four of us-Dave, Bob, Don, and myself. All the way up. Dave started saying something about not remembering whether he had guaranteed rooms at this Holiday Inn near Bloomington.
It started bothering me tat we might not have rooms when we arrived. We had no cell phones in those days, of course. And, when I suggested he call the hotel from a pay phone, he would just say, Oh! I'm sure it will be okay." He had me!
When we arrived at the hotel, the marquee read, "Welcome Ortonville Bob and Iowa Hawkeyes." The reference to Ortonville was the fact that Bob Merritt's company. Monarch Manufacturing , was located near the site of what had been a small town of Ortonville-pretty much disappeared by then. It was on the east edge of Waukee on highway 6. Of course, the innkeeper there was a "personal friend" of Dave's and we each had our own room. That was Dave!
---------------to be continued!
JOKE OF THE DAY FOR SENIORS!
An elderly man was being pursued down the interstate by a highway patrolman. The closer the patrolman got the senior would speed up. Finally the patrolman pulled him over. "Why were you speeding up the closer I got asked the patrolman?" "Because my wife ran away with a highway patrolman some time ago and I thought you were bringing her back!"
Saturday, January 10, 2015
KIDNAPPED ON MY BIRTHDAY!
The most unusual birthday I will ever experience happened again back in the crazy late 1970's during my early first divorce/ bachelor days. I was having breakfast with someone on the day of my birthday at their home and then there was a knock at the door.
It was my best friend, Bob, who was there to whisk me off for a day of who knows what kind of surprise on my birthday. He informed me that we were meeting up with two other mutual friends and heading to the Des Moines Airport to catch a chartered plane for Las Vegas!
You never knew what to expect from this guy. I didn't have a change of clothes and he said that we could always buy some when we got there. Also, understand that Bob owned a large window manufacturing company in West DesMoines at the time and another near Adel. Sometimes and most times he didn't think about the cost of things.
We were on our way, but, first had to land in Omaha for some lame excuse. The Vegas trip was a lie. We hailed a cab at the Omaha airport and then Bob asked the cabbie to take us to a bar with pool tables and not in too rough an area of town.
The rest of the morning and most of the afternoon the four of us shot pool and did a little drinking. OK a lot of drinking! When we got back, we got stuck in a snowdrift at the Des Moines Airport and finally made it back for another birthday party that was planned that evening by my fiance. You can guess how that all turned out!
It was my best friend, Bob, who was there to whisk me off for a day of who knows what kind of surprise on my birthday. He informed me that we were meeting up with two other mutual friends and heading to the Des Moines Airport to catch a chartered plane for Las Vegas!
You never knew what to expect from this guy. I didn't have a change of clothes and he said that we could always buy some when we got there. Also, understand that Bob owned a large window manufacturing company in West DesMoines at the time and another near Adel. Sometimes and most times he didn't think about the cost of things.
We were on our way, but, first had to land in Omaha for some lame excuse. The Vegas trip was a lie. We hailed a cab at the Omaha airport and then Bob asked the cabbie to take us to a bar with pool tables and not in too rough an area of town.
The rest of the morning and most of the afternoon the four of us shot pool and did a little drinking. OK a lot of drinking! When we got back, we got stuck in a snowdrift at the Des Moines Airport and finally made it back for another birthday party that was planned that evening by my fiance. You can guess how that all turned out!
THE BEST RECIPE SOMETIMES WINGING IT!
It has been a long time since I have made beef stroganoff. My usual way any more is to google up something from Taste of Home because most of their recipes are fairly simple and not too fancy or exotic.
I actually "lost" the recipe on the internet and was in a hurry to get to the Burg Grocery for work. I ended up buying what I could remember and some things I didn't remember. It turned out to be the BEST ever. Now I am writing it down. To me it was that good.
BEEF STROGANOFF
1 1 lb. of sirloin tip sliced thin 1 inch in length against grain
1 10 1/2 oz. beef consomme
1 10 1/2 oz. cream of mushroom soup
1 8 oz, container of sour cream
1 8 oz. package of fresh mushrooms sliced
2 or 3 cups egg noodles-follow cooking instructions
Cut up meat into strips and marinate 2 hours at least in zip lock bag with Worcestershire sauce. Set oven for 325 degrees. Then add two tablespoons of flour and brown in caste iron frying pan. Then add next 4 ingredients, stir and bring to a boil. Cover and put in oven for 1 hour. Spoon over noodles and enjoy. Mistakes and winging it sometimes make the best meals.
I actually "lost" the recipe on the internet and was in a hurry to get to the Burg Grocery for work. I ended up buying what I could remember and some things I didn't remember. It turned out to be the BEST ever. Now I am writing it down. To me it was that good.
BEEF STROGANOFF
1 1 lb. of sirloin tip sliced thin 1 inch in length against grain
1 10 1/2 oz. beef consomme
1 10 1/2 oz. cream of mushroom soup
1 8 oz, container of sour cream
1 8 oz. package of fresh mushrooms sliced
2 or 3 cups egg noodles-follow cooking instructions
Cut up meat into strips and marinate 2 hours at least in zip lock bag with Worcestershire sauce. Set oven for 325 degrees. Then add two tablespoons of flour and brown in caste iron frying pan. Then add next 4 ingredients, stir and bring to a boil. Cover and put in oven for 1 hour. Spoon over noodles and enjoy. Mistakes and winging it sometimes make the best meals.
A LITTLE CURRENT HUMOR!
Since moving to eastern Iowa, I still have the Des Moines Register sent to me as I have read that newspaper most of my adult life. One of my favorite comic strips is PICKLES! It is a hoot. It's about a grandma and grandpa type and there every day encounters.
This past week, one of the strips had the grandson asking the grandma what it was like before the internet? Her reply was: "Hmmm good question. Let's google it."
This past week, one of the strips had the grandson asking the grandma what it was like before the internet? Her reply was: "Hmmm good question. Let's google it."
Thursday, January 8, 2015
AN ACCIDENT READY TO HAPPEN!
This morning while making my usual morning rounds in the Burg, I spotted a local older guy out shoveling his walk in front of his home and antique store. He had a protective surgical mask over his fave to protect against the extremely cold temperature.
One thing I did notice was what appeared to be a pair of scissors in his back hip pocket. I can't even imagine the outcome if he were to fall down on his backside. Was kind of funny, but yet!
One thing I did notice was what appeared to be a pair of scissors in his back hip pocket. I can't even imagine the outcome if he were to fall down on his backside. Was kind of funny, but yet!
AGAIN I SAY-TOO MANY CHOICES!
The other day at the Burg Grocery, I was reminded once again about having too many products and choices. This one involved a sports drink with the flavor of strawberry and kiwi.
Remembering years ago, while in the Hy-Vee grocery store in Marshalltown, I was looking for a cake mix and frosting. While scanning across all the various flavors of frostings, one caught my eye-strawberry and kiwi. Please don't laugh at me and respond by saying that this flavor is quite good and very popular.
Maybe it's because I am an old guy and not eager to try something different. My mind thinks in terms of something like: "Hey Grandpa! What kind of frosting would you like on your birthday cake?" "Oh! I really have been obsessing lately about strawberry and kiwi instead of my usual white frosting on my chocolate cake that has been traditional for the last 5 or 6 decades!" "Yep. Time for a change!" Get out of here. Really. Get out of here!
Remembering years ago, while in the Hy-Vee grocery store in Marshalltown, I was looking for a cake mix and frosting. While scanning across all the various flavors of frostings, one caught my eye-strawberry and kiwi. Please don't laugh at me and respond by saying that this flavor is quite good and very popular.
Maybe it's because I am an old guy and not eager to try something different. My mind thinks in terms of something like: "Hey Grandpa! What kind of frosting would you like on your birthday cake?" "Oh! I really have been obsessing lately about strawberry and kiwi instead of my usual white frosting on my chocolate cake that has been traditional for the last 5 or 6 decades!" "Yep. Time for a change!" Get out of here. Really. Get out of here!
WEATHER NOT BAD- STILL GET HAIR DONE!
With this past week of a mild snow storm and below freezing temperatures, reminds me of a story about my mother and getting her hair done. I am sure several of you ladies will understand.
Years ago, I would call my mother after work and chat a bit about the weather and other uneventful topics. Sometimes, she would ask, when I had my cleaning service, if I had a good day. To try to gain a little sympathy, I would reply that we had a big day and had cleaned 20 or 30 homes. (Normally 4 or 5.) No sympathy from her. Her reply was usually: "It's good for you!"
If it was on a Friday and her "hair" day and the weather was really horrible like this past week or much worse, I would ask if she was going to cancel her appointment. "Oh heavens no. There has been a lot of days worse than this." Even though she had to drive ten miles to her appointment from Melbourne to Marshalltown, Iowa.
On the other hand, if I was driving to Des Moines in the summer and the forecast was a thunderstorm, she didn't think I should head out. "But mom, I have windshield wipers. I'll be fine"! We all have our priorities!
Years ago, I would call my mother after work and chat a bit about the weather and other uneventful topics. Sometimes, she would ask, when I had my cleaning service, if I had a good day. To try to gain a little sympathy, I would reply that we had a big day and had cleaned 20 or 30 homes. (Normally 4 or 5.) No sympathy from her. Her reply was usually: "It's good for you!"
If it was on a Friday and her "hair" day and the weather was really horrible like this past week or much worse, I would ask if she was going to cancel her appointment. "Oh heavens no. There has been a lot of days worse than this." Even though she had to drive ten miles to her appointment from Melbourne to Marshalltown, Iowa.
On the other hand, if I was driving to Des Moines in the summer and the forecast was a thunderstorm, she didn't think I should head out. "But mom, I have windshield wipers. I'll be fine"! We all have our priorities!
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
WHEN A DOCTOR ASKED WHAT HURTS!
Yesterday, just when the first big January snowstorm was headed our way my significant, Ilah, decided to injure her arm at her work. A way we went from Williamsburg to Coralville to visit Urgent Care.
While waiting, there was paper work to be filled out, of course. Fortunately, for myself, I only take one prescription and that part would be easy for me. Any more and yes I will have to keep a list in my wallet. In helping Ilah and since she injured her left arm and since she is left handed, I helped her filling out some of the paper work. I started to chuckle a little when filling in some X's and 0's on this diagram of her arm to show approximation of injury,etc.
It just hit me funny that we have come so far with detail and having to fill out so much paperwork before we are admitted for care. I miss the old days when you could just go to your doctor and he would say: "What's wrong"?
We did get back home before the storm got too bad and Ilah is O.K. for now and has to go back for an M.R.I. Stay tuned.
While waiting, there was paper work to be filled out, of course. Fortunately, for myself, I only take one prescription and that part would be easy for me. Any more and yes I will have to keep a list in my wallet. In helping Ilah and since she injured her left arm and since she is left handed, I helped her filling out some of the paper work. I started to chuckle a little when filling in some X's and 0's on this diagram of her arm to show approximation of injury,etc.
It just hit me funny that we have come so far with detail and having to fill out so much paperwork before we are admitted for care. I miss the old days when you could just go to your doctor and he would say: "What's wrong"?
We did get back home before the storm got too bad and Ilah is O.K. for now and has to go back for an M.R.I. Stay tuned.
A PET ROCK IN A DOLL HOUSE?
Let me take you back into the late 1970's. The same song, but, a different verse. It was late January and another surprise birthday party was in the making. The excuse this time was that there was something to pick up at a hotel out by the Des Moines Airport. For some reason I was led to this big banquet room where my good friend, Bob Merritt, had convinced me we needed to go in for some reason.
Again it was surprise time. There were lots of friends and probably some that weren't. The birthday drinks kept coming and the gag birthday gifts were a plenty. One in particular was the hit of the evening. It was the size and look of a large doll house and when I opened it up there was this huge ROCK! I had heard of pet rocks, but, this was ridiculous.
When the party was over, I was carrying my rock and house to my car. Somewhere out in the lobby the house slipped in my hand and the rock rolled forward and fell out landing on the lobby floor with this terrible kaboom! The whole room seemed to vibrate and shake. It was embarrassing to say the least.
For years, I kept that 10-20 pound rock on the outside deck of wherever I lived. It was always funny when moving to have one of the movers ask while pointing at the rock if it was to get moved too! Yes it does!
Again it was surprise time. There were lots of friends and probably some that weren't. The birthday drinks kept coming and the gag birthday gifts were a plenty. One in particular was the hit of the evening. It was the size and look of a large doll house and when I opened it up there was this huge ROCK! I had heard of pet rocks, but, this was ridiculous.
When the party was over, I was carrying my rock and house to my car. Somewhere out in the lobby the house slipped in my hand and the rock rolled forward and fell out landing on the lobby floor with this terrible kaboom! The whole room seemed to vibrate and shake. It was embarrassing to say the least.
For years, I kept that 10-20 pound rock on the outside deck of wherever I lived. It was always funny when moving to have one of the movers ask while pointing at the rock if it was to get moved too! Yes it does!
Monday, January 5, 2015
ACAPULCO GOLD SURPRISE!
It was the mid 1980's and we were off to Acapulco and some fun in the sun. While working for Stanbrough Realtors in Des Moines, I was privileged to qualify for this trip along with fifty of my co-associates and their spouses.
It was the last week-end in January and the weather was a constant ninety plus degree paradise. In addition to witnessing a movie made for television shot at our hotel, the great waves at te Princess Hotel south of Acapulco, there was the first nights dinner gathering at an extremely nice restaurant. It was January 27th, right on my birthday.
One thing you will never forget is being with all your close and favorite associates to celebrate an achievement of this nature. It was another to have them all acknowledge your special day by all singing Happy Birthday to you while being led by a Mariachi band. It is something I will never forget of having the opportunity to being honored on such a special day with so many friends and so far away!
It was the last week-end in January and the weather was a constant ninety plus degree paradise. In addition to witnessing a movie made for television shot at our hotel, the great waves at te Princess Hotel south of Acapulco, there was the first nights dinner gathering at an extremely nice restaurant. It was January 27th, right on my birthday.
One thing you will never forget is being with all your close and favorite associates to celebrate an achievement of this nature. It was another to have them all acknowledge your special day by all singing Happy Birthday to you while being led by a Mariachi band. It is something I will never forget of having the opportunity to being honored on such a special day with so many friends and so far away!
Sunday, January 4, 2015
SNOWSTORM ALMOST SPOILED SURPRISE B-DAY!
The beginnings of a snow storm was in its infancy, and, of course, it was right on my birthday. Here I was was sitting at my favorite restaurants in the late 1970's and with someone I was dating quite seriously at the time. We were sitting at Johnny Vet's Club in West DesMoines and trying to decide whether to leave right away and head back to my house on Rio Valley Drive in Clive.
One thing Penny, my date, wanted to do was stop by a friends home in West Des Moines and pick up "something." Against my better judgement, we did swing by this friends home first.
Here we go! Surprise! On the premise of just running in to pick up an article, I was faced with all these cheering friends yelling SURPRISE! Their vehicles were all parked over and around the next block so as not to be detected. My best friend at the time was keeping watch for us out in this blizzard in an Air Force parka. No cell phones to keep in touch and report any progress.
Yes, the party began and no one cared a whole lot. Some stayed the night and the rest of us made it safely back home. It's funny how times change. Today just knowing that a snow storm was coming would have kept me right at home!
SURPRISE! THEY WERE TALKING ABOUT ME!!
Here we go! It's January already and here comes the nasty weather. Don;t get me wrong it has been pretty good up until now, but, I have always said that January is the armpit month of the year. I should know since my birthday falls at the end of the month. If there are others of you out there with birthdays in this month, you know what I mean.
When I was in grade school, not sure exactly how old, it was around my birthday and I was standing in line at school getting ready to go through the lunch line. I remember looking up ahead into the line and witnessing some of my classmates whispering to one another and looking directly at me. Even as a kid, you begin to get a little paranoid and think they are all turning against you for some reason.
After being shunned by my friends all day, it was time to get on the bus and head for home and somewhere maybe I would be appreciated. I was greeted by my mother and she led me into the front bedroom where she had something to show me. Surprise! There were most of my classmate pals hiding behind the bed. It was my first birthday with friends and surprise birthday party.
My mother had driven into town and waited until the buses left from school and then picked up the guys and beat it to our house before the bus delivered me. Of course, the thing I remember most about that day, besides being felt left out of the loop for a time, was playing outside in all those big snow drifts and having my favorite birthday cake--chocolate with white frosting!
When I was in grade school, not sure exactly how old, it was around my birthday and I was standing in line at school getting ready to go through the lunch line. I remember looking up ahead into the line and witnessing some of my classmates whispering to one another and looking directly at me. Even as a kid, you begin to get a little paranoid and think they are all turning against you for some reason.
After being shunned by my friends all day, it was time to get on the bus and head for home and somewhere maybe I would be appreciated. I was greeted by my mother and she led me into the front bedroom where she had something to show me. Surprise! There were most of my classmate pals hiding behind the bed. It was my first birthday with friends and surprise birthday party.
My mother had driven into town and waited until the buses left from school and then picked up the guys and beat it to our house before the bus delivered me. Of course, the thing I remember most about that day, besides being felt left out of the loop for a time, was playing outside in all those big snow drifts and having my favorite birthday cake--chocolate with white frosting!
Friday, January 2, 2015
SPEAKING OF CAST IRON SKILLETS!
Recently, I pitched my Rachel Ray cast iron lined dutch oven that I bought a few years ago after the lining cracked and I got tired of using plastic liners. I pulled out my mother's old 12 inch cast iron frying pan with the metal lid.
A lot of the comfort cooking that I do with it may not be the healthiest method of cooking, but, the taste can't be beat! Last night prepared a small rump roast with carrots, onion, celery, potato, and some Swanson beef broth. After a little browning to start and 3 hours later at 275 degrees. Oh My!
Fried chicken, eggs sunny side up with crispy edges and extra crispy hash browns--where have you been hiding all of my adult life. I am not sure if I will be getting any of my non-stick skillets out again. Except for my small cast iron omelet skillet! Who says you can't go back. Thanks mom!
A lot of the comfort cooking that I do with it may not be the healthiest method of cooking, but, the taste can't be beat! Last night prepared a small rump roast with carrots, onion, celery, potato, and some Swanson beef broth. After a little browning to start and 3 hours later at 275 degrees. Oh My!
Fried chicken, eggs sunny side up with crispy edges and extra crispy hash browns--where have you been hiding all of my adult life. I am not sure if I will be getting any of my non-stick skillets out again. Except for my small cast iron omelet skillet! Who says you can't go back. Thanks mom!
Thursday, January 1, 2015
HENRY H. SMITH DIES SUDDENLY
The following re-write is from a clipping taken from the Marshalltown Times Republican. It is the obituary of my grand-father Henry Harry Smith (4/30/1882--1/7/1941)
Henry H. Smith Dies Suddenly At Laurel
Henry Harry Smith died suddenly at his home, one mile east and 2 1/2 miles north of Laurel,
at 7:30 Tuesday evening. He had been in poor health for the past six months, but, had been up and around as usual Tuesday. The cause of his death was coronary thrombosis.
Mr. Smith was born April 30, 1882, on the farm on which he died. He was the son of David and Sarah Birks Smith, early residents of the Laurel neighborhood. Mr. Smith had lived on this farm all of his life with the exception of 11 years when he operated a restaurant in Laurel, moving back to the farm in 1933.
He married Miss Minnie Schultz, April 3, 1907 at Laurel, and she and their two sons and two daughters survive him. The latter are Vernon and Arnold Smith and Mrs. John Laverty of Laurel and Mrs. La Verne Bueghly of this city(Marshalltown.) Four brothers and two sisters, A. C. Smith of Lusk Wyoming, Charles Smith of Valley Springs, S.D., John Smith and Mrs. Wiliam Speas of Laurel, R.D. Smith and Mrs. Charles Wheeler of Marshalltown, and five grandchildren also survive. A aughter, two grandsons, one brother and one sister preceeded him in death.
Mr. Smith was a member of the K. P. lodge No. 122 of Laurel and also a member of Cyrus Masonic lodge of Gilman.
The body will remain at the Estel funeral home where services will be held at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon. In charge of the the service will be Rev. A. W. Schlesselman, pastor of the Evangelical church. Burial will be in the Graceland cemetery, one-half mile west of Laurel.
more----Pallbears, all nephews, were Lawrence Brennecke, Joshua Brennecke, Franklin Wheeler, Graham C. Smith, Burleigh Speas and Marvin Smith. Attending the services from away were a brother, A. C. Smith of Lusk Wyo., and Rev. and Mrs. L. L. Smith of Weldon. Many friends and family fro Lauarel, Gilman, Ferguson, Haverhill, Melbourne, Van Cleve, and Green Mountain also attended.
Mr. Smith was born April 30, 1882, on the farm on which he died. He was the son of David and Sarah Birks Smith, early residents of the Laurel neighborhood. Mr. Smith had lived on this farm all of his life with the exception of 11 years when he operated a restaurant in Laurel, moving back to the farm in 1933.
He married Miss Minnie Schultz, April 3, 1907 at Laurel, and she and their two sons and two daughters survive him. The latter are Vernon and Arnold Smith and Mrs. John Laverty of Laurel and Mrs. La Verne Bueghly of this city(Marshalltown.) Four brothers and two sisters, A. C. Smith of Lusk Wyoming, Charles Smith of Valley Springs, S.D., John Smith and Mrs. Wiliam Speas of Laurel, R.D. Smith and Mrs. Charles Wheeler of Marshalltown, and five grandchildren also survive. A aughter, two grandsons, one brother and one sister preceeded him in death.
Mr. Smith was a member of the K. P. lodge No. 122 of Laurel and also a member of Cyrus Masonic lodge of Gilman.
The body will remain at the Estel funeral home where services will be held at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon. In charge of the the service will be Rev. A. W. Schlesselman, pastor of the Evangelical church. Burial will be in the Graceland cemetery, one-half mile west of Laurel.
more----Pallbears, all nephews, were Lawrence Brennecke, Joshua Brennecke, Franklin Wheeler, Graham C. Smith, Burleigh Speas and Marvin Smith. Attending the services from away were a brother, A. C. Smith of Lusk Wyo., and Rev. and Mrs. L. L. Smith of Weldon. Many friends and family fro Lauarel, Gilman, Ferguson, Haverhill, Melbourne, Van Cleve, and Green Mountain also attended.
THANK YOU ALL!
I wish to thank you all for enjoying and sharing "dennisnowandago." Since its inception in July of 2014, over 5200 views have been recorded including a total of twelve countries. Am looking forward to bringing many more stories from the past and present for all to enjoy. Happy New Year!! Dennis Laverty
MAY SMITH LAVERTY- MOVING TO LAUREL!
Years ago, in the early 1980's, my mother Doris May Smith Laverty Korte hand wrote a "talk" that was given to one of her organizations that she was a member. I would like to share it as it has historical value to the community of Laurel, Iowa and the surrounding area.
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The lesson tonight could be titled-"Down Memory Lane." It was 60 years ago on the 1st of March 1921 that my folks moved from the David and Sarah Smith farm 3 1/2 miles N. E. of Laurel to the town of Laurel. I was a small child anxious to make friends. My grandmother Minnie Schultz promised to help us get acquainted because she had lived there for 35 years.
She gave us a very long list of names. and through the years I became acquainted with so many of them and their families.Mrs. Mary Weissenburger lived on the south edge of Laurel in a very large house. Her husband, Conrad, had died earlier. They were of German descent and had either given or sold the tract of land to be the town of Laurel. They were the parents of ten children--**Lena, Kate, Dolly, Ida, Clara, Ed, Henry, Conrad, George, and William. Conrad was Harold McIlrath's grandfather.
The town of Laurel was almost named Lena in honor of the oldest daughter. Lena married a Maytag and lived in the large home S. of M. Ingram until their divorce. Aunt Lena lived there alone for many years.
In my review you may wonder why I refer to people as Aunt -uncle, or grandma or grandpa? We weren't allowed to call married people anything but Mr. and Mrs. so when our friends told us we could call them Grandma or Grandpa we did.
There were people by the name of Otten-Bulfer-Maytag-McBroom-Buhrow-Schultz-Jacobs-Schnoor-Sietman-Kramme-Schuman-Reifschneiderf-Rodgers-Pattons-Dixon-Kramy(first hotel operator)-Boston-3rd generation-Awtry(built hotel in 1907)-Hahn-Brown-Smith(Dr.)- Fehrman-Otten.
Around Laurel. Lantz-Bloom-Laverty's-Louks-Schuman-Schmidt-Williams-Korte-Putman-Mann-West-BlyeReifschuede.
* The foot race run in 1904 with John Donnelson on Market street in July or August. Ball and Blankley promoters-Donnelson won.
My mother, Minnie Marie Schultz Smith, is the only living person born in Laurel in 1889 in the house her father, William Schultz, built from a building that had been a harness shop. At age 15 she was chosen most popular girl and Harold Brown was the prettiest baby. Mom won silverware and Harold a diamond ring.
**My mother had an excellent memory on names and dates. On one occasion in her later years, she was naming a local family with 8-10 children. She got to the eighth one and could not remember the last two and became frustrated. She did her routine of going through the alphabet until she remembered the last two children's names.
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The lesson tonight could be titled-"Down Memory Lane." It was 60 years ago on the 1st of March 1921 that my folks moved from the David and Sarah Smith farm 3 1/2 miles N. E. of Laurel to the town of Laurel. I was a small child anxious to make friends. My grandmother Minnie Schultz promised to help us get acquainted because she had lived there for 35 years.
She gave us a very long list of names. and through the years I became acquainted with so many of them and their families.Mrs. Mary Weissenburger lived on the south edge of Laurel in a very large house. Her husband, Conrad, had died earlier. They were of German descent and had either given or sold the tract of land to be the town of Laurel. They were the parents of ten children--**Lena, Kate, Dolly, Ida, Clara, Ed, Henry, Conrad, George, and William. Conrad was Harold McIlrath's grandfather.
The town of Laurel was almost named Lena in honor of the oldest daughter. Lena married a Maytag and lived in the large home S. of M. Ingram until their divorce. Aunt Lena lived there alone for many years.
In my review you may wonder why I refer to people as Aunt -uncle, or grandma or grandpa? We weren't allowed to call married people anything but Mr. and Mrs. so when our friends told us we could call them Grandma or Grandpa we did.
There were people by the name of Otten-Bulfer-Maytag-McBroom-Buhrow-Schultz-Jacobs-Schnoor-Sietman-Kramme-Schuman-Reifschneiderf-Rodgers-Pattons-Dixon-Kramy(first hotel operator)-Boston-3rd generation-Awtry(built hotel in 1907)-Hahn-Brown-Smith(Dr.)- Fehrman-Otten.
Around Laurel. Lantz-Bloom-Laverty's-Louks-Schuman-Schmidt-Williams-Korte-Putman-Mann-West-BlyeReifschuede.
* The foot race run in 1904 with John Donnelson on Market street in July or August. Ball and Blankley promoters-Donnelson won.
My mother, Minnie Marie Schultz Smith, is the only living person born in Laurel in 1889 in the house her father, William Schultz, built from a building that had been a harness shop. At age 15 she was chosen most popular girl and Harold Brown was the prettiest baby. Mom won silverware and Harold a diamond ring.
**My mother had an excellent memory on names and dates. On one occasion in her later years, she was naming a local family with 8-10 children. She got to the eighth one and could not remember the last two and became frustrated. She did her routine of going through the alphabet until she remembered the last two children's names.
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