So, here we are folks! I was just wondering why is it that we can’t do more? Why can’t we be more loving? Why can’t we see the good in others? Why can’t we truly see the wonders of nature, and commit to keep the world a better place? Why can’t we see more in the face of a derelict than what is there today? Why can’t we understand that Christmas is more than the amount of money we spend on a gift? Why can’t we work together, and set aside our differences? Why can’t we see the richness in others belief system, and be grateful that they are part of the diverse society we live in? Why can’t we rise above our self, and reach out to others? Why can’t we forget what we want, and think of what others need? The answer my friends is, WE CAN! Have a wonderful day, and may whoever you are, may your life be rich and full, for when your life is happy, you are more likely to turn your eyes to others. Colleen
What I Love About Being A Grandmother September 26, 2009
I love baking with the Grandchildren! I Love doing art projects, I love collecting leaves! I Love taking walks! I love sunsets! I LOVE the ocean!! Ilove snow! I love reading a good book! I love soaking in a jacuzzi! I love rainy days! I love holidays! I love the smell of Fall! I love seeing my Grandchildren grow! I love life!
The Beaded Bracelet September 15, 2009
Around my stethoscope hangs a small dull beaded bracelet. It has been there for six years. I was given the bracelet by a little girl who lost her battle with cancer. Whenever I look at the dull beads I am reminded of Alexanne, and what she brought into my life.
I cared for Alexanne over a two year period of time. I saw her loose a kidney, have her leg amputated, and held the bucket when she threw up after her chemotherapy. I was there for her blood transfusions, I was there when she stood looking out of the window when her white blood cell count made us place her in isolation. I was there during it all. I was there when she finally couldn’t fight anymore, and took off the bracelet and told me take care of it. I was there when she died, and I was the one who took the red balloons from her room and released them, as the rising sun streaked the sky in pinks and golds. I stood there and watched the balloons as they drifted higher and higher until I couldn’t see them anymore. I thought of how Alexanne told me she was going to be in charge of the snow, because she wanted everyone to be able to lay in the snow and make snow angels.
the last night of her life I curled up on the bed with her, and told the unresponsive girl in my lap, the story of Cinderella. I knew that this was Alexanne’s favorite story, and this night I read it, knowing would probably be the last time she would heard it from me. I told about the wicked step sisters tearing her gown, and how they laughed as they went off to the Ball. I told of the fairy godmother who created a coach from a pumpkin and coachmen from mice.Then I told Alexanne that the fairy godmother touched Cinderella’s dress and it turned into a beautiful blue gown with matching blue shoes.
I paused the story as a weak nudge and a tiny whisper came from Alexanne. I leaned in and a little voice said, “The dress is red.” Iforgot that Alexanne’s favorite color was red. Then, a little voice brought tears to my eyes as she whispered, “Wear a red dress and shoes when you say goodbye.” Those were the last words little Alexanne spoke. Six hours later she was gone.
Alexanne’s life was short. she was diagnosed when she was five, just before school started. She died when she was one week before her seventh birthday. But this little girl packed every second with laughter, and jokes, and even when the bad days came, and there were plenty of bad days, she got through them.
The beads on her bracelet marked the good days, they marked the the bone biopsy, they marked the transfusions, the marked when her blood count was high enough that she could play in the day room with the other kids, and the last black bead mark when her cancer had metastasized to her brain.
Alexanne and her family drew strength from one another. They faced the experiences they were given, and became stronger. The people who were touched by the chance to care for Alexanne were blessed far more than the heartache they felt at her loss. She made us all a little better, and certainly showed us that even a little child can teach us the way to live life to its fullness.
I told the other nurses Alexanne’a request for red dresses and shoes to be worn to her funeral. As it turned out of the more than 1000 people who came to say their goodbyes to Alexanne, there were many red outfits on. Instead of flowers, the front of the chapel was fill with red balloons.
After we left the chapel we went into a feild at the back of the church, and about 3000 red balloons floated slowly up, up,up. Even as the last reds faded out of sight, we stood there. Finally, we walked away in silence, each of us pondering our own mortality, and committed to live our lives alittle bit better.
Six years later the bead bracelet is still with me. It reminds be to strive to be the best that I can be. It reminds me that when things seem to drag me down, there is always hope for a brighter day. It reminds me that it is what is within that makes us great. And it reminds me that I can do what ever is placed before me.
I just thought you’d like something that shows you what is REALLY important in life. Think about it folks. Until later…Colleen
Bye Bye American Pie September 4, 2009
Like a lot of Americans I had hoped that maybe there really could be a change in the course our government seemed to be locked upon. I work hard. I pay my taxes. I have seen my retirement shrink. I have driven on roads that need the potholes repaired. I have waited greater than six hours in emergency rooms that are packed. I have picked up kids from schools that are over crowded, with decreasing academic scores, that are rated lower than some third world countries.
I am shocked by the total control that the new administration wants to achieve over America. I am reminded of the stories my Father used to tell me about Germany and how Hitler gained his control over one of the most intellectual, enlightened social structures.
Hitler campaigned on all fronts, vowing that with him at the helm, there wouldn’t be unemployment. He appealed to the liberal, the independent, and the conservative. His theme was social control of all the government agencies. He wanted roads that were the best in Europe, jobs for all, free education, assessable medicine, and prosperity for the nation. Of course the scape goat was the Fat Cat with money, who by the way, was a dirty little Jew who was keeping some worthy Aryan son or daughter out of a job, or worming their way into the university.
Hitler appealed to the young, he appealed to the dissatisfied. He won the hearts of the media, and they were mesmerized with his message of hope and change, and a better Germany. He surrounded himself with like minded followers. He named his media and financial, and economic czars, and once he was given the scepter of power he quickly struck. If you were not for his programs you were against him personally. His policies changed from open dialog, to brown shirts storming into businesses and at times people disappearing. Dissenters were portrayed by the media as trouble makers. They quickly went from calling them names and ridiculing them, to closing their business, and confiscating their goods. They filled the schools with teachers who taught only approved propaganda. Children were taught that it was their duty to be the ears and eyes of the Fuhrer. They were taught to watch, and listen, and report.
I understand now a little bit of what the German people must have felt like when they realized that all the rhetoric and fine speeches of change were set aside, and were only a front for a power hungry, sly Charlotan. I understand how you can become swept up in the rhetoric, and parades, and the euphoria, and add your voice to the “Heil Hitler”.
One thing that the new administration, and the liberal socialists have over looked is this; unlike Germany, Americans are not going to follow their Fuhrer into ruin. Obama may have won an election, but the all hail the chief can quickly turn to throw the socialist out. All the good ole boys know eventually the voice of the people will be heard.
American anger is growing over the tax burden they are carrying for illegals. The anger and concern are broad based. The media portrays people with concerns about illegal aliens, concerns about crowded schools, concerns about higher tax burdens, concerns about lost jobs, concerns about a socialistic approach to life, as ignorant, bigoted, narrow minded, gun toting, rabble- rouser’s who don’t represent America. This is not true.
When Obama was campaigning, the liberals that packed the Townhall meetings and shouted down the Republicans were labeled “Grass Roots Americans” wanting a change. What has changed? Nothing. People don’t want their freedoms curtailed. They don’t want Obama Care. They can recognize that this administration is giving the propaganda czar more money than Hitler ever gave Goebbels to convince the German nation of how much they needed Hitler’s leadership.
I’m just another voice out there stating that just as the big bad wolf fooled the little pigs for a while, but his sheepskin eventually doesn’t hide what’s underneath. Think about that for a while. Until later…Colleen
From Moth To Butterfly September 4, 2009
I have to say that I am a big fan of Susan Boyle. I find her entire story fascinating. The circumstances of her life, and her meteoric shot to fame serves as a reminder of the greatness that exists in ordinary people.
I am sure many have seen Susan’s signature frizzy mop of graying curls, and thick dark browns and heard of the millions of emails telling her not to change anything! I have see the Harper’s Bazaar photos of her and I have to say, Susan you rock. You look FABULOUS!!!!! The before and after pictures themselves tell the story.
Many times our looks and appearance are a direct result of where we live, what we live in, and certainly our financial situation. Susan now has the means to live in an environment that is nurturing, yet one that will provide her with any direction, and coaching she may need as she maneuvers through her fame. The financial rewards she will receive will insure that her public, that loves and adores her, will have many years of new recordings, and concerts to looks forward to.
So I say, you continue soaking up all the positive experiences you can Susan. Get a massage, and manicure, a pedicure, and show the world the fantastic clothes they offer you. Use the makeup team, and shop, and do all the things you never had the chance to do. You are a great reminder to all of us, that life is full of surprises! Think about it, folks… Colleen
Everyone Needs A Place To Relax And Meditate August 31, 2009
One of the best places in Portland, Oregon to go to relax is the Portland Oregon Test Gardens. The gardens are located off SW Park Drive. They over look the city, and in the distance you can see Mt. Hood. I have gone to the gardens countless times over the years. As a matter of fact, my husband actually asked me to marry him right there; in the far distant past.
As I was doing some research for this article I found out just how ignorant I was concerning The Rose Gardens. Here are a few things I found out. First off, In 1888 Georgiana Pittock, who was the wife of Henry Pittock, a wealthy businessman invited her fiends and neighbors to exhibit their best roses in a tent set up in her garden. This event was so popular that it became an annual activity. It is recognized as the first rose show of the Portland Rose Society.
In 1905, 20 miles of streets were bordered with roses, in honor of the Centennial celebration of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It was at this time Portland became known as the “City of Roses”.
The annual Rose Festival activities includes a parade, which began in 1907. The first parade was reigned over by Queen Flora; Carrie Chamberlain. Carrie was the daughter of the governo of Oregon. From 1908 through 1913 instead of a Queen, the Rose Parade was reigned over by an upstanding male citizen known as Rex Orgonus. The Queens once again began reigning over ‘Rosaria’ in 1914.
Though the world was entrenched in The Great War during 1917, Jesse Currey who was the president of the Portland Rose Society, was able to convince the city fathers that Portland should establish a rose test garden. Hybridists throughout The world sent their roses to Portland. Many of the roses enjoyed on visits to the gardens now, are distant relatives of those earlier plants. Portland is the only test garden in North America that is allowed the privilege of granting a Gold Medal to those few roses that have passed the requirements to be honored as a gold medal winner.
In 1931 it was decided that each highschool would pick one representative, from these girls, one would become the Queen of ‘Rosaria’. Her name at the end of Rose Festival would placed upon a plaque, and find itself positioned on “The Queen’s Walk”, within the garden. In 1951, The Queen’s Walk was established within the test gardens to honor all those individuals who ruled since 1907 as the queen of Rosaria. I think of those six years when Rex Orgonus reigned, but was never remembered. I think they wonder the gardens with the queens of Rosaria. I think they compare the changes that occurred over the years.
Over the years the Rose Gardens have matured, and spread out. The oldest section is the Shakespearean Garden. Here you will find a cement bench brick paths to wonder down, tree lined walkways where the fragrance of the garden mingle with one another..
I go to the gardens in the early evening, and like all the photographers in the past set up my tripod and try to capture that one perfect shot of the essence of the rose. I go there to think and relax. I think of those other individuals who strolled and laughed, and enjoyed a picnic, as they listened to a Sunday concert. We are all alike in the sense that we want to set aside the concerns of the hustle of daily life.
Remember this, we each need to find a place to unwind. If you aren’t fortunate enough to have the Rose Gardens to enjoy, then find some place else. Like those long gone individuals, what is important is to unwind and relax, and reconnect with your inner self. Good luck in your quest. Until later… Colleen
Why We Can’t Judge a Diamond By The Box It Sits In June 9, 2009
Most of us judge a package by the wrappings it comes with. If we are handed a small box, label K-Mart, and there is a diamond ring, we expect flaws and inclusions in the stone. The same ring sitting in a Tiffany Box would cause our palms to get sweaty and our heart to race.. It’s all in the packaging, until we see the goods under a jeweler’s eye piece.
The same is with the way we judge people. Here is an example. I recently saw a movie with my husband called “The Soloist”. If you haven’t had a chance to see the movie, starring Jamie Lee Foxx, do it. It is one of those rare movies that demonstrates once again the greatness within us, as we extend a hand to someone in need.
Jamie Foxx plays a homeless person, who is schizophrenic, and a gifted musician, who lives on the streets of Los Angeles. The journalist who discovers him, decides to write an article about him. What he finds out is that that as he puts himself into this individual’s life, his own life is changed.
Here is another example of this same thing. Along with millions of others, I have seen the phenomenal Susan Boyle as she performed on “Britain’s Got Talent”. The smirks and rolling eyes,let the world know what they thought of the 47 year old dynamo marched on stage, and announced that she came from the village of West Lothian, Scotland. She was a cheap K-Mart diamond, and when they were ready to get a good laugh, she opened her mouth, and they were stunned. Not a cheap dime store item, but a priceless jewel radiating such brightness and beauty they could only stand in awe, and weep.
Susan Boyle had not changed. She sang with feeling, and as she sang anyone who heard her suddenly realized how much they had become jaded in their day to day life. They realized that it wasn’t Susan Boyle who was being laughed at and ridiculed, it was themselves. They knew what they had done, and they were humbled. Humbled as Susan turned away from the audience, eyes brilliant with joy, an angelic smile on her face, gave the roaring audience a thumbs up, threw them a kiss, and began marching off the stage.
The three judges, who had sat and smirked, and rolled their eyes along with the audience, called Susan Boyle back. They apologized for the way they had treated her. All of them expressed how sorry they were for the lack of respect they had shown her. The experience of watching that reaction reminds us that life is full of great moments. It reminds us that at any moment we may find our self humbled as we stand in the presence of someone far greater than we are. Hopefully, we will recognize that moment, as we hurry through our daily life.
Until later…Colleen
Take Advantage Of What Life Offers You June 6, 2009
It has been a while since I posted on my blog. Many things have been going on. Things at the hospital have been hectic, and of course trading on the stock market has been occupying my husband and myself. However, I did have the chance to attend a conference in Boston during the early part of April. Initially I wasn’t going to attend, Then I decided to take advantage of the opportunity. the conference reminded me that you need to take advantage of the unexpected opportunities that come your way.
The thing is that during that time the stock market was presenting some opportunities as well. I wanted my husband to come with me, but he decided that by going he would miss out on trading for at least four days. If it had been later in the year he probably would have come, but instead I went alone.
Now, for you who haven’t been to Boston during the early part of April, the weather is usually a crap shoot. What I mean by that is this, You must pack for snow, but don’t be surprised if the weather is gives you clear skies, and requires only a light jacket. With this in mind I left Portland, Oregon, on a very cold morning, and headed for my conference.
The Boston Harbor Westin Inn by the conference center was where the conference was held. I was there six days, and Boston did have some cold very wet days, but several of those days allowed me to get out on the “Old Towne Trolley” and sight see. Each night I called home, and as it turned out the trading was only average. Each night my husband told me he regretted not taking advantage of the opportunity to return to the East coast, where we had spent the early years of our marriage.
I took tons of pictures, and wrote snipets in my journal, so I could share the experience with Leland and my children. I went to Quincy Market,, Boston Commons, MIT, Harvard, Walked down Beacon Street, and ate the best sea food. Each moment brought back old memories for earlier times, the only thing missing was the person I had shared those experiences with years earlier.
when I returned home I shared the pictures, and related the things I had done while at the conference. The mug from Harvard, and the tee shirts from Boston were appreciated by my children. The trip was a reminder that time and life do not hesitate and wait for you to say yes or no to an opportunity that is given to you. You don’t know when you will have to get off life’s train. If you pull into a station along the way I hope you throw your arms around the chance to experience each moment that you have. Don’t pass up memories. Take advantage of what life offers you. You only live once. Until later…Colleen
The Greatness Within May 3, 2009
Like the 100 million other viewers of Susan Boyle’s performance I want to add my hearthfelt wonder at the magnificient job she did in wowing the world, and reminding all of us that we each can answer the whisper within us to follow our dreams.
It doesn’t matter that she has a learning disability or not, this is simply a label. Yet this is one of the first things that is brought up. What she is folks is one amazing woman!
what she has done is remind us that there is greatness within all of us. The sad thing is that as we rush through life, we loose sight of that greatness. We judge success by who and what we are, by the school we go to, the clothes we wear, the partner we have, and the job we hold,the house we live in, and the money we have. Susan Boyle is destined for fame and fortune, but that is only a flicker of who and what she is.
Let us not forget what our potential is. Until later… Colleen
Spring Has Arrived!! March 23, 2009
When the squirrels begin to rob the birdfeeder, you know that Spring has REALLY arrived! I snapped this shot the other day. I guess it’s time to begin thinking of warmer days, and put the winter coats away. Enjoy your days… Until later…Colleen
Spring Has Arrived!!
A Woman’s Epiphany On StockTrading With Her Husband March 16, 2009
Recently I had a great epiphany, after a long day of trading stocks with my husband. It was one of those win-lose days, where you look at the balance at the end of the day, and realize you made a grand total of seven bucks a piece. You look at your trading partner, and the only thing you can do is crack up. “Well, we didn’t loose!” It was at that moment that I realized how really lucky I was to have the chance to be sitting here with my husband laughing about making seven bucks a piece!
I have found over time that there are some real differences in trading styles. It is also difficult to blend those styles together, when you are married to your trading partner. It is difficult to keep the home disagreements out of the office, and likewise, the office disagreements out of the home. But the truth is, if you don’t work out some way to do this you are simply increasing a thorn in your couple life. I have seen some great marriages disintegrate because differences could not be resolved.
We were married YEARS before Leland and I began trading together. We had a history of making decisions, approaching problems, arguing, laughing at things, and we knew the things we loved and hated about each other. I knew all the things that you don’t know about the guy you work with. When we were going to start trading together, we thought it would be a great experience. It was like being a newly wed, and thinking that everything would be in the “Happily Ever After” column. Not reality folks.
Trading is like being a manic-depressive. You have highs where you are euphoric with your success, and you have the gut wrenching valleys that make you shake in your boots. The euphoria is always easy to enjoy. The valley is an entirely different beast. If you can’t navigate through a valley, you will soon loose your nerve, and ability to soar upward.
While my husband is very meticulous with the records, I take a more analytical approach to my trading. I look at curves, and volume, and of coarse listen to what the news is saying. I have also had many times that suddenly I just KNOW that the wind is turning, and we need to make a quick change in our trading. The result has been that generally you are able to keep one step ahead of the market, and you win more than you give up.
To me working the market is a lot like being an experienced ICU nurse. It usually takes about seven years to be at the top of the heap, but when you arrive at that level, you know that the patient fighting against death will have a better chance of survival with you at his bedside. With stocks the individual who stays in the game, learns from their falls, and develops the skills along the way will find the market to be a pretty gratifying way to earn a living.
If you are trading there is something that you have already probably experienced. Some adviser on CNBC tells you tomorrow the stocks that are going to be winners are X,Y, and Z. Smile, write the information down to check on it, but don’t trust what they tell you. I have become more tough skinned when it comes to the advice I listen to. As a matter of fact, I place it only slightly higher than tips I hear from the next table, where two business associates are talking about a stock. Do you get my point?
When I got my great epiphany I realized that Leland and I were working together and really enjoying it. It doesn’t mean that there won’t be disagreements next week. It simply means that I don’t have to get a gold medal. The goal is to win together.This means that there is another area that can unit you as a couple. I also discovered that we compete less. You are a team. You both want to contribute to a partnership that will enrich your marriage, and increase your job satisfaction.
My last bit of advise is this. If you are trading together use the strengths you each have. You will each contribute something that will help your business, and your personal partnership. Don’t let the stock market get between your relationship. There is a reason she has been given a female personality. I think she doesn’t give a rats tail whether you wreck your marriage or not. She is selfish, and self-centered. She can lure you away from each other, and make you think the way to happiness is by spending more time with her. Just remember this, if you don’t learn to live while you are away from her, your success will not be as enriching as it should be. Good luck in your trading. Until later…Colleen
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