One Week With My Brother

Costa Rica

My mom and I spent a week with Richard in Costa Rica. I flew from LAX to Ft. Lauderdale and mom met me there from Lexington. She had to take the long way around, going from Lexington up to Chicago, and then finally to Ft. Lauderdale / Hollywood International Airport. We did not check any bags and we packed light with just our one carry-one and personal item. The flight to San Jose, CR was just a couple of hours. It went pretty smooth, until we came in for landing. It was very windy and I felt a little sick, but as soon as we touched down I was fine.

Mom on the plane in FLL.

We filled out the immigration and customs forms and headed to the counter for my first stamp in my passport! I was wondering if I would ever get a stamp in it before it expires in 2019!

Richard was waiting outside of the San Jose CR Airport, which is actually located in Alajuela. Efrain was with him, and I was glad to meet him before we took him to the bus station so he could continue on his way. Richard had Burger King lunch ready for us. Claudio in Liberia loaned Richard a car for the week, so that was nice. 

Out of San Jose is a town called Grecia, and nearby is San Ysidro and San Francisco, smaller communities with lots of coffee plantations and beautiful views. 

http://www.waterfallgardens.com/

The first day we visited La Paz Waterfall Gardens, in the shadow of Poaz Volcano. The road into the garden still shows some evidence of earthquake damage. The weather cooperated nicely, and we got the full rain forest experience.

After the park tour, we stopped for lunch in San Miguel.

And then it was time for coffee, a visit and a Bible study with Dona Nelly. She lives in Chilamate.

The next stop was at Rosmi and Eladio's, in La Virgen. The river behind their house was double in size because of the recent rain.

Marlene at the internet cafe...and frappaccino with home-made whipped cream!

Marlene and her husband own some properties in Costa Rica. They lived in CR for many years, but due to her husband's health, and also for their children's schooling, they have returned to Canada. Marlene visits Costa Rica once a month to manage her business.

Street juggler...what an unexpected sight!

 The days seem to blend into each other as I recall the sequence of events. The next visit , with Dona Yvonne, where we had lunch. She served pickled bananas and jalepenos to go with fried chicken and tortillas. She recently moved into this new apartment, which was very new and modern.

Lila (Marlene's mother), Dona Yvonne, Mom, Richard, Bev.

Wilbur the gardener took us on a tour of the property in San Francisco. The views are endless!

Sunday morning meeting was in Guadalupe, just outside of San Jose. 

Dona Flor, Mom and Lila waiting for the cars to come down the narrow, hilly road.

On Sunday afternoon we left San Jose and went to Quepos.

Half way to Quepos we stopped for coffee and beautiful views!

Rihard, Chef Omar and Mom.

Chef Omar is the chef at Hotel Verde Mar in Manuel Antonio.

There are only 3 hotels in Manuel Antonio with direct beach access. Verde Mar is one of them.

Marlene and Lila, enjoying coffee by the pool.

After a couple days we headed for Libera, which is about four hours north. 

Time for lunch! Ramon rode along with us as far as Puntarenas. He is the manager at Hotel Verde Mar.

This is a favorite statue of my brother's. See page 19 of your passport.

Richard, Bev, Marjorie and her husband Heiner. Marjorie's brother is Eladio (Rosmi's husband), the home near the river.

Claudio, Tina, Mom, Bev and Richard at Claudio and Tina's home in Libera.

Tina and Bev.

From Libera we took a bus (like a charter bus) to Grecia.

Richard travels by bus in Costa Rica, and to Panama and Nicaragua. The schedule is 3 weeks in rotation.

From Grecia we took a local bus to San Ysidro.

On the day we left to return home, from San Ysidro we took a local bus to the bus terminal in Grecia. The big bus took us to the airport. It was only 1.5 hours trip. Richard saw us through to the Spirit Airlines gate, then we said goodbye... and cried.

Mom and her continental breakfast at the airport cafeteria.

It was a wonderful trip, and I'm so glad Mom and I were able to go. I'd love to go back someday.

I'm back in school! My mantra is "just get a passing grade...please!"

COMM/102

January 27, 2013

                                                       Written Communications Exercises

           Topic-selection for a research paper makes all difference in the success of a paper or its failure. In order for me to create a successful paper, I must have a strong connection with the topic. Many times in my college career as a student, the topics offered up are not really something that draws me in. It usually shows in my papers, which is something I am not proud of. Topic selection for a research paper is like voting for president--choosing the least undesirable topic on the list provided.

Upon choosing a topic, I get started on the brainstorming process. This part fits my personality perfectly, because I often have many ideas pop into my brain. But formulating those thoughts and bringing them into maturity is time-consuming. I have identified one huge character flaw of mine, which is to be focused!  This is where research helps, because I can rely on the experience of others who have already compiled ideas and thoughts, and formed them into article and journal items, books, essays and letters on the topic chosen.
            Last year I wrote a paper about Atlantis, the lost city. It was a good paper, in the fact I provided the information required, and fulfilled the objectives. However, I was not connected to the topic, and I only wrote mechanically. The lack of passion was evidenced in the paper. A much better approach would be to use multiple sources for reference, including interviewing a teacher or professor who is an expert in lost cities. Digging deeper into other lost cities would also add to the quality. Overall, more research and involving many types of sources is really needed to make a connection.

            Selecting an appropriate research topic for an audience involves following a recipe. First, I need to have a good idea of who my audience is. Knowing my audience will help in the delivery and in my credibility. In “Research Matters,” the topic of English As a Second Language showcases a point of view I have never thought of, because I am a native English speaker. The eBook mentions, “When viewed from the perspective of source credibility and evidence, ESL students in public-speaking classes have unique advantages in terms of how to use their second language to enhance their credibility. Because non-native speakers have a wealth of knowledge about their own language as well as the unique customs and rituals associated with their culture, being a non-native speaker can provide valuable support for a speech.” (p. 286) This phenomenon translates into other aspects of life, also. For example, at the call-center where I work, there are a few reps who speak with an accent from their native country. They use this to their advantage, their customers love listening to them, and their productivity results reflect it. I often feel at a slight disadvantage because I don’t have such an accent, and I am not a very good actor!

            Organization of a paper requires shuffling ideas and research around until they fit together like a puzzle. Narrowing the topic and sub-topics helps to get things flowing smoothly. For example, when I write about Music-In-Education (one of my passions), there are many layers to this topic. I could use my own experiences, or those of my children. I could also interview students in the local district, but for contrast it would be good to include other districts, to add color and flavor. Visiting music programs in inner-city schools and incorporating those interviews will widen my audience. Brining in the scientific research about how teaching music to young children also enhances their ability to learn math and science will add interest. Because there are so many layers, this paper will need to be focused, revised and re-written a few times.

            One concept I have found in “Research Matters” is connecting with creativity. The eBook states, “Most instructors welcome initiative and creativity, as long as you find a way to connect

your interest to the goals and focus of the assignment.” (p. 5) Writing about a topic that holds my interest, I have more liberty to be creative. It is a pleasure to read a paper written with passion and creativity.       Another concept I appreciate in “Research Matters” is recognizing my own research, which might look like ordinary curiosity. The eBook states, “While the experience of doing this daily research may feel less structured than your academic research, the best academic research will also come from personal motivation and may draw on a similar range of resources.” (p. 3) Reading the newspaper, searching the internet, or helping at a music event at the high school can easily become research. Almost any daily activity can open the opportunity for research. I can see how daily journaling is a good idea for someone who wants to be a writer. Daily observations and musings over the mundane can be turned into interesting readings for the right audience. I will incorporate these concepts into my future writing. 

   

                                                            References

EBOOK COLLECTION: Howard, R. and Taggart, A. R. (2011). Research matters: A guide to research writing. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Hesperia Town Has Mountain Views, Too!

Looking West towards the Los Angeles National Forest and Wrightwood

 I took a walk the other day. It was Wednesday,  my day off from work, since I work Saturday this week. I was anxious, and although there was much to do around the house, I really wanted to work on my furniture. There are three more chairs that need my attention, but I am out of steel-wool and I don't have any upholstery staples for the staple gun.

Edison sub-station on the left, residential water retention basin on the right.

 I thought about driving to the new Super-Walmart, and immediately got more anxious. I changed my mind about going to Walmart. In fact, I changed my mind ab out driving anywhere, thinking about the recent spike in gas prices ($4.69/gallon). That's when it occurred to me that the .99 Cents Store may have the items I'm looking for! "It's a nice day for a walk, I will walk up there and get my things, and soon be in my happy place in the garage working on my chairs!"

In twenty minutes I was at my destination. "Oh, look, there's pumpkins! Cute, medium-to-small sized pumpkins, the popular orange squash of the season! I will grab two of those!" (oh, wait... I'm walking, and I don't think I want to carry these all the way home--put the pumpkins back).

Better view of Wrightwood Mountains

 I searched for those items I wanted, and hard as I looked, they still did not magically appear! Up and down the aisles I went, and nothing.

But, there were a few things that managed to jump into my cart. I saw a bike lock. Need that, because later in the day I had an appointment about four miles away, and I could ride my bike, if only I had a lock for it! Done!

Looking West

 Packaging tape - need that! I have a few books to mail from the www.swap.com program. (the tape is inferior quality, won't buy that again! Must have 3M label on it to be superior quality tape).

And I know none of these pictures relate to this story yet, but hang in there. I will bring it all together.

Looking South-East towards Big Bear and San Bernardino National Forest

 Epsom salt bath for  a family member who needs it - check! Two bags, please! (small enough to carry). Eggs on sale, (only ONE per customer, please). And there's these nifty flat door-knob protector pads for the walls! I only need three, but they come two in a pack. So much stuff I didn't know I needed! What was I looking for? That's right, steel-wool and upholstery staples... nary a one in sight!

 Checked out, packed the eggs on top wrapped in a few plastic bags, and put them on top of the items in my knap-sack. (There's an interesting word. It is carried on the back. Why is it called "knap-sack?" What is a knap? Does your mind work like mine? Wandering around, curious about words, wondering their origin? Knowing that if I start researching it I will have to call in absent to work because I need to finish this research?).

I left the store, and I was walking "gingerly" so as not to disturb the eggs. I really didn't walk home, but I strolled home at a very leisurely pace. I was surrounded by blue skies and fluffy clouds. (ok, so now we're getting to the pictures). In fact, I walked and wandered so slowly that it took me three times as long to get home. I wasn't going to be working on my chairs, so I had plenty of time.

my shadow

Joshua Trees

 This is taking longer than I budgeted for, so really quickly these remaining pictures are Joshua trees, which I think are very pretty in their own way. They are a protected species, but not so loved. There was a bird on one of them-- can you find it?

Add caption

 The housing tract we live in is adjacent to this beautiful desert. I love living here, although I dream of a day when I can live in the valley of some "real" mountains.

 By the time I got here, the wind was picking up. There went my plans for riding my bike to the chiropractor! It's probably for my own good, being that it has only been six weeks since I fell off the ladder. I don't need to tempt fate!

 Bob and Carol have a cute Minnie-Winnie, new model. They are good neighbors! She retired from GTE, the company who hired me.

 Mark keeps the yard looking great! My friend asked me recently if she could have the name of our gardener!
And one more of the mountains -- looking over the culverts that cross over the California Aqueduct -- another wonderful place to walk!

I hope you liked these pictures. Enjoy the life around you!!

Restoration Therapy

2 arm-chairs

 When I visited Eileen in March, she told me about a Facebook local yard sale site. Since their little community doesn't have a Craigslist, Eileen and a few others started up a Facebook site to buy, sell, and  occasionally post community happenings. It is an online community, and I was added as a guest resident. When I returned home to Hesperia, I checked into it, and sure enough, there's a Facebook "High Desert Yard Sale" site. I have sold some items, bought some items, and then I found a treasure!!

2 without arms

Needle-nose pliers.

       Last week I saw these chairs listed for $20.00 for all four chairs. I went over to look at them, and bought them. I visited with the man selling them, and I mentioned these look like Scandinavian style. He told me they were his mother's, and she is from Denmark.

Thread from previous fabric.

 I started right away in refinishing the wood. Something about steel-wool, sandpaper, mineral spirits and a straight-edged razor blade is very calming to me.

All 4 had 2 layers of fabric and one of Naugahyde.

I wonder how many families sat here?

Tools of the trade...

Finished product! 3 more to go!

 Everyday I work a little on the chairs. The fabric I'm covering them with is a garage-sale find from last May when Fern and I went to Wrightwood. It coordinates with the table-cloth she made me. Now, if only this hobby could pay as well as my job. LOL! 
     I have seen the man I bought these from at the school picking up his little ones when I was picking up a boy I've been babysitting once a week. I can't wait to show him his old chairs!!
 

Umbrella

 Troy was five years old when Gramma-Weese gave him this umbrella. There was a short window of time when my little boy used it. It rarely rains here, but when it does, look out! The rain comes down in sheets for only a few minutes, and the streets get flooded with desert dirt and debris. Main Street's traffic is backed up for miles, because everyone drives in the middle of the road due to the lanes being flooded. I came across this umbrella whilst cleaning out the garage. It was one of those items which caused me inner turmoil. Keep it? Toss it? Pass it on? A few of the spokes are missing the protective ends, and the fabric is coming off. It is a wonderful memory of Troy's childhood, and especially because it was a gift from Gramma-Weese, it was a difficult decision.

 That's when it occurred to me, I can keep a digital keepsake, and toss the umbrella. Crisis averted! Like my mom (Gramma-Weese) always said, "I can't have a crisis this week--my schedule doesn't allow for it!" This umbrella made me think of protection, and representation of care and love. Here's the umbrella hanging from my Mimosa tree in my front yard, which is like an umbrella. The tree provides wonderful shade and we enjoy sitting under it. But so do the ants! The tree trunk is covered with a four-lane highway of ants going hither and yon! Even the outside kitty, Sneak, likes to climb up and nestle in the the branches. Mark's mom and dad planted this tree around the same time Troy got this umbrella. The grandma's give different gifts, but both symbolize protection, shade, and care.

This verse came to mind while I was thinking about Troy's umbrella: Solomon's Song chapter 2 verse 4:"He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love." This entire chapter is beautiful, and so meaningful to me this week. Verse 2 says "As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters." Recently I heard about an old pine tree that had to be removed, and it housed a large family of woodpeckers. Sometimes when the shade or protection is removed, the inhabitants have to find other housing. In this case it was the neighboring home, and the woodpeckers damaged the eaves of the home, drilling holes through the 8" wood beams. I need to protect my protection, and make sure to upkeep that respite, that place under God's wings, so that I can know his love and care.  At Glenda's funeral a year and a half ago Rob Newman spoke about how Glenda provided spiritual shade, and place for souls to rest and find respite, the branches of her life extending to others, reaching out. I don't have my notes handy, but this verse describes Rob's message: 

"In the mountain of the height of Israel will I plant it: and it shall bring forth boughs, and bear fruit, and be a goodly cedar: and under it shall dwell all fowl of every wing; in the shadow of the branches thereof shall they dwell."

Call Me Grace...

 I've been working in the garage lately. Last Friday I spent all morning there, cleaning and organizing. I get such satisfaction in throwing out stuff! I think of it as paying mortgage on real estate which is only filled up with stuff we don't need, haven't used, and most likely will never use!

     There's one large item in the garage which needed to be attended to, and that is the solar pool cover for the in-ground pool. It is a 16' x 24' piece of blue bubble-wrap but much sturdier than regular bubble-wrap. Along with the large piece is a 6' round piece, for the jacuzzi. Previously I had loosely wrapped it in a black piece of plastic and stored it in the rafters of the garage. Recently it had come 'un-done' and each time I pulled the car into the garage, the blue bubble-wrap and the black plastic would inch down from the rafters and hit the top of the van.

     I managed to pull everything down from the rafters without the use of the ladder (see top photo). I re-rolled the blue bubble-wrap tightly, wrapped the black plastic around it, and taped it (see photo at right). And then things got tricky. How do I get this beast back up to the rafters? Oh, I know! I will climb on the ladder and muscle this thing up there! Why not?  No problemo! I asked Steve to help, since he was outside anyway, changing the tire on his car. I climbed the ladder, Steve held the beast, I took one end and attempted to put it up. And that's when the ladder fell out from under me, I grabbed the rafters with my right hand, and my life flashed before my eyes. My past, present and future in 10 seconds on fast-forward played out in my head. In my head I heard my Tae-Kwon-Do instructor say, "If you are going to fall, make yourself as small as possible." I held onto the rafters as long as I could (a few seconds), then made sure the ladder was settled. I glanced at Steve, and decided he would not be able to catch me. Then I let go. Eight and a half feet I dropped, and I did not land on my feet. That proves I am not a cat. I did, however, land on the most padded part of my body. I did not bounce like a rubber ball. Thud, on my bottom on the concrete floor! My left arm hit the leg of the ladder. I remember tucking my head and neck towards my torso to make certain I would not hit the other leg of the ladder. And the bruise on my right thigh indicates I hit the ladder there. "Don't hit your head, save the neck!" kept running through my mind. "Stay out of the hospital, don't call 911!" was foremost in my thoughts! Steve was nearly in shock, and did his best to help. He got an ice-pack from the freezer for my wrist, which immediately got a goose-egg bump, a bruise, and broke the skin. It could have been so much worse! I'm O.K! I'm O.K! Shaken-up a bit, but A-O-K! And by now (one week later) the bruises are yellow and really ugly. I went to chiro Wednesday, and I'm going back right now for more shock-wave heat treatment for my tailbone. Yay for chiro! Yay for Epsom Salt baths! And for landing on my bottom! ~ and now you have...the rest of the story! Good Day!

Optical Illusion?

Do you see what I see? No cars! Normally there are two cars parked next to the curb, unless the guys are out job-hunting. This week both Travis and his buddy Steve got jobs! Yesterday when I returned from an errand, I was thrilled at the realization that they both got jobs! It was refreshing to see no cars parked in front of the house in the afternoon. There was a delightful calming feeling that THEY GOT JOBS! They've both been working at job-hunting heavily for about one month. When Travis was home on lunch-break on his first day, he got a phone call from another place he applied. He told them he recently was hired elsewhere, and they asked him if his friend Steve is still interested. Steve was on the phone at the time with his family, and I told him to end his call because he had to call this job prospect! It was rude of me to interrupt his phone call, and I really don't like when someone does that to me. But there was a job on the line here!! Travis started his new job on Wednesday, and today he got another call-back for yet another (#3) job he applied for. The job he has is better than the other two he has had to turn down, but he is willing to pick up a second job if his current schedule permits. Steve's job is going to fit in perfectly with his school schedule when he returns to Cal-State next month.