‘twas the night before...

...The Holidays
And all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring,
‘cuz all the spoons were in the dishwasher.
And I didn’t feel right about running less than a full load…
Wasted energy!!! Global warming!!! What can I do?
Oh my God, I want to please everybody!
And I guess that would be YOU!!!
So, I’ll just have to be frank,
Happy/Merry ______ !
(YOU fill in the blank)
;-)

COMMON KID'S VACCINE RECALLED

You probably saw that news headline today. I wonder if these common kids are in the same group as the slow children playing in a neighborhood near you.

As for me, I prefer the rare fast kids.

♫ I Can Pee Again ♪…

(Sung to the tune of “On The Road Again.”)

My surgery went fine and I am home again, just lazin’ around with Maggie and doing everything my caretakers advised.

Having noticed that all the medical people –from specialists to assistants- now always use the term “pee,” I asked “When did people in the medical professions stop using the term “urinate” and now always simply say “pee?” I think it is a good sign. Less formality and more straightforward talk in the industry.

I loved the fact that Kyleigh could visit me with her mom –another relaxed and helpful move for the hospitals.

Sara (our China Doll) was really worried about her grandpa being in the hospital –especially after her recent experience involving grandma. She asked, “Why did you have to go to the hospital, grandpa?” I told her that I had to have an operation and that I am home now and OK. She asked, “what was the operation for?” I told her it was a procedure called Trans Urethra Resectioning of the Prostate. “What’s that,” she asked. I told her I’d explain when I see her…

I ceremoniously dumped the bottle of Flomax this morning, having fulfilled the object of electing to have the TURP. And now, on to Christmas and all the wonderful things that we have planned…

Did you see this one?

Unless you worked at or visited NOSC and ate lunch in the outdoor portion of the rooftop cafeteria, you probably have never seen this sign. This engraved phenolic gem could have been produced more cheaply had it simply said "Don't feed the birds"

But, the originator probably thinks as I do: Pigeons are NOT birds...they're rats with wings!

Say what?

At first, this sign, seen a long time ago at Lindbergh Field in San Diego, seemed quite innocuous. One might not even give it a 2nd thought. But, having successfully completed the Remedial English class at Syracuse University, I DID give it a second thought. “Hmmm , I thought, I AM a ticketed passenger, so according to that directive I can only be over there –beyond that sign! Well there goes my idea of going back to the gift shop or the restroom…”

I brought it to the attention of the airport manager (that was back when flying was fun and authorities a lot friendlier). The next time I was back at Lindbergh Field, I noticed that the sign was changed to read "Ticketed Passengers Only Beyond This Point."

(OK. So its Saturday, no football games of interest today, an I’m bored…)

Huh?

Judi started this by posting a photo on her Blog of an improbable sign that she came across. Here is a reproduction of my personal favorite. Maybe we could start another fun game with this idea??? See comments for details.

A Special Date

- and a very special night. It was 5 years ago tonight that I met Miss Donna Lee. Saturday, November 16, 2002. When I first saw her, it was no different than the way you have seen her: smiling & friendly, warm and excited to be among friends. I believe at that moment, I resolved to make it my endeavor to make this beautiful person my loving partner. Maybe it was just something in the way she looked at me...

Happy Veterans Day & Happy Birthday Lori!

Lori was born on Veterans Day and for many years she thought everyone got the day off because it was her birthday! This year, these two important events occur on Sunday, and, unfortunately go largely unnoticed. Well not here. Today is the day to say "thank you" to a veteran -without this genre, we would not be free Americans. And Happy Birthday Lori, without whom we'd all have a big void in our lives. (have fun in Florida, girl!)

Happy Birthday Lori!!

Piece o' Cake...

No problema. For all you unsympathetic mothers (no, REAL mothers) out there, it was a very simple, no-pain procedure. Very quick, very easy, very informitive. Not remotely comparable to child birth. Actually, I suffered more distress worrying about this than I experienced during the procedure itself.

For any guys reading this and wondering what I'm talking about...don't even think about it! Its just something that involves stirups, probes, scopes, cameras and uh... oh yeh, the urethra.

Vaya Con Dios.

Happy Birthday Maggie!

Today Maggie turned 11...or 77 in Dog Years. Well, she finally passed me up. I wondered how she would act, turning 77 and all. Well, she was surprisingly perky and almost puppy like. She rolled on her back and kicked the air like she used to do as a puppy. She almost ran to the pond and even chased a couple of birds!
What in the world could she have been THINKING of?!!?

Well, anyway, HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL! You're a wonderful Canine-American Fur Person -and you always have been.

Connections.

Surely you’ve heard by now that Barack Obama and Dick Cheny are distant cousins –the same great great grandfather or something like that. It’s true! Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton offered a tongue-in-cheek response to the revelation, saying, "Every family has a black sheep."
Well, here is another, CLOSER connection: California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and I also are related, somewhat, by association! Unbelievable, but true! Here’s how:
My sister Doris and I have the same parents, Lulu and Everson Clark. Doris and George Smith had a son George Wilson Smith III in 1952. George has had a marvelous and rewarding career and is now the Senior Representative for Fundraising for the East Asia Special Olympics. In fact, George spearheaded the development of the Special Olympics in China. George works directly for Eunice Shiver. Eunice and Sargent Shriver are the parents of Maria Shriver. Maria is married to Arnold Schwarzenegger. I stood right outside the gov’s office (pictured here with Donna and Kyleigh) while he and Maria were behind THAT door meeting and partying with some group of dignitaries. More succinctly stated: MY governor sleeps with the DAUGHTER of my NEPHEW’s boss. Amazing!
‘small world, isn’t it?

Writer's Block

John says he has Writer's Block at the moment, and asked ME, Maggie, to think of something to post.

Hmmmmm.. 'seems I can think of only one thing. A one-track mind you might say. Oh well.

Hey, if John wants me to get creative maybe he should think about including ME in the name of this stupid blog....like, maybe "johgie's world?"

I'm gonna just take a nap. Sorry Jessica...

Wuf.

Forty years, 11 months and 14 days...

That's how long it had been since the Broncos absorbed a home loss of the magnitude they suffered at the hands of the Chargers (41-3) on Sunday.How long ago was that? To put it in perspective: Uncle Mike was walking around furniture, but not walking yet. Aunt Lori had just started kindergarden. Lee, Barbara and every player on today’s Broncos had not been born –or some, not even thought of yet! Yours truly was a 32 year old, boy engineer and a die-hard Charger fan…ahh, the good old days!

Jersey Boys -The Musical

On Saturday, Sept. 22, Barbara and I went to the Sacramento Community Theatre where we thoroughly enjoyed "Jersey Boys" -the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. We had "accoustical friendly" seats (back row, but the sound/accoustics were great). Even if you were born in the late '70s (like Barbara) or WAY before that (like me), the music was immediately recognizeable with such great hits as "Sherry" and "You're Too Good To Be True."

We both loved it and have since purchased the CD by the original cast. We encourage all who enjoy good music and a little nostalgia to see this musical...especially our NY/NJ family and friends who have access to those great theatres in NYC.

Trouble in the Football Rooom?

Can there be civility among the boys this week in the Football Room? We have Chargers (Mike) at Broncos (Lee), Gaseous Pigskins (Mike) vs the 40 Whiners (that would be me), and nobody really to beat upon as the FRaiders have a bye this week. Watch in silence? Ugh.

Lets just go out for a long, expensive lunch...

♫ San Diego, same old Padres ♪ ♪

Same tune, different lyrics.

If you've ever wondered why the Pads and the Bolts suck -year after year...here's the official answer:
When He created the world, God came to San Diego late on the 6th day. He informed the leaders of this fine city that He had just about run out of choices for them; that they could choose between having good professional sports teams or good weather.
The rest is history...

Riding the train...

... is an experience all should enjoy. In this world of rapidly advancing (and often irritating) travel technology, the train remains an indelible part of our American culture.
My littlest granddaughter, Ellie -nearly 2- has become fascinated by the train and we all look forward to that 1st experience for her. What a thrill for a little person!
I have included a photo of my favorite train -the Skunk Train which runs from Fort Bragg on the California coast to deep into the redwood forest. Oh, that Ellie and her cousin Kyleigh could experience this train ride together!
Even if that is not possible this year, at least Ellie and Kyleigh can ride up and down Locomotive Lane together with their Grandpa Clark!
Woo, woo!

♫ San Diego, same old Chargers ♪ ♪

A recent blog by Granddaughter Jessica Clark about Charger “stuff” opened the floodgates of nostalgia for that once-charming little sailor town called San Diego. Without going into a lengthy epistle, allow me to just blurt out the fantastic memories I have of that time and place…
Balboa Park.
The Coronado Ferry moving across sparkling, sun-washed waters.
…and, of course, the “Nickel Snatcher!”
Hotel Del.
Palm trees growing in harmony with Pine trees.
The wonderful fragrance of Eucalyptus trees.
Free & easy parking at easily accessible sandy beaches –on the bay or on the coast.
Possibly the very best dog beaches in the whole world!
The Zoo!
Balboa Stadium. David and I attending Charger games -every home game in 1963!
Fillipi’s Pizza.
The best Mexican food north of the border.
Chula Vista and National City…what in the world are these?
Point Loma and the light house.
Trips to the desert & mountains –heat, snow, and a mild, sunny seashore all in one day!
Mount Soledad and Mount Helix.
That tiny town north of us –Escondido. Hard to get to because of a little 2-lane road.
The city with the best freeway system in my experience, now has become a major US City with major traffic problems –still with beautiful beaches but which are now nearly impossible to access.
But we’ll always love you San Diego.
We have no living relatives there now. But we still have some dear friends that will always welcome us back –if only for a visit.
So,
Go Chargers! (and take the Padres with you)

Donna's Memorial Gathering

Donna's life was celebrated in her Roseville home that she cherished so much, by family and friends on September 20, 2007. The love and well wishes that flowed were a wonderful tribute and a reflection of Donna's life. We will love you forever Miss Donna Lee!

This beautiful montage was provided by dear friends Ray & Norma Gandy and family.

Happy Birthday Donna and Don

A very sad time for us all, but a happy birthday to brother Don and a happy birthday remembrance of Donna. Here is Donna and her twin brother Don in 1934. These two wonderful people have touched so many lives in so many positive ways. Don, you are my idol for your love, courage, and tenacity. Donna, we miss you terribly. You are the idol of so many people who's lives you touched and blessed. God bless you both.

--John

P.S. This is probably the only photo you've ever seen of Donna when she wasn't smiling broadly!

Lord, love a duck !

Is there anyone out there that has never heard Donna's favorite exclamation?

Remembering Donna

We all love you and you will remain in our hearts forever, Donna Lee.

Donna's life will be celebrated in her cherished Roseville home by family and friends on September 20, 2007.

By pre-arrangement and in accordance with her wishes, Donna's ashes will be scattered at sea, near the Golden Gate bridge --off shore of Marin County, California where her precious daughter Donalyn, granddaughter Sara, and son-in-law Kevin live. Family, friends, and Donna's Spirit will be present at this ceremony in October.

God love you Miss Donna Lee...we all do.

Johnna's World...

...has been shattered.

The sweetest half of Johnna -our precious Donna- has been called home by God. Miss Donna Lee suffered a severe cerebral hemhorrage on 28 August and slipped away peacefully on 31 August.

She was born Donna Lee Colbert on September 12, 1934, in Sacramento, California.

Our Donna started each day with a song in her heart, and ended her evenings looking up at the stars, always thankful for her many blessings. She has been an inspiration to everyone that was fortunate enough to have known her. Memories of her kindness, generosity, beauty, and incredible spirit are things that will help all of her family and friends deal with her loss. While “Miss Donna Lee” may no longer be with us here on earth, she has fearlessly and courageously moved on to meet her Maker. As Autumn arrives, Donna’s extended family and friends will have a celebration of her life at her cherished home in Roseville.

God love you Donna. Everyone who ever met you certainly does. We will miss you forever.

146 and counting...

Now that it's late July, Johnna is officially 146+ years old. And, for being a total of more than 1752 Moons, we are in pretty good health. It may be time for an update:
Donna had blood tests recently and everything was in range...some of them very, very good! She also had an EKG and a CT scan. No official news on those results, but it seems that no news is good news for these type of tests. Now she is preparing for cataract surgery. Her vision for the last year or so was not correctable with lenses and so further tests revealed the presence of cataracts. She had her pre-op today and will go in for laser surgery on Thursday. One eye at a time. With good, normal results, they will do the other eye in August. As a last fling, she will have her ears blasted free of wax next week. Wow...a Donna that can see AND hear!!! Life is good!!!
John is fine -if just a bit rasty (so what else is new?). Just one more test to go this year: a simple test for PSA level.
With a clean bill-of-health (hopefully) we'll be ready to move on to Larry, Jr's visit in August, our Hawaii trip in September, and our MN trip in October.
--Johnna

Last one to leave...

...please turn off the lights.

Donna saw the 1st two leave this morning. Rudy wasn't so sure he was ready. He'd perch on the edge, then go back to the safety of the nest. Kyleigh and Barbara arrived about 11 AM and were able to see the show...but didn't see the flyaway. No one did. When I checked back around noon, he was gone.

This is a picture of Rudy taken just before Kyleigh and Barbara left.

Good luck to Roby, Ruby, and Rudy! It was fun watching you grow & go!

Ready to Fly?

It's amazing how fast these critters grow! It seems like yesterday (it was only about a week ago) that these guys had just hatched! Now they are flapping their little wings and rarin' to go. We are having so much fun watching it all. They are well fed and attended to. In this collage, Mama is seen in the upper left watching me (unapprovingly) from a nearby fence as I try to photograph her kids. As you can see from this series of pix, the nest is already getting crowded and these chicks are getting ready to bust outta there!

Meet the Robin Triplets...

Here's Roby, Ruby, & Rudy...not necessarily in that order. They don't seem to be as camera-shy today as they have been. Maybe I'll be able to get better pix before they fly away...

Roby, Ruby, and Rudy...

...are fine. I have not posted more pix of them because, unlike Many, Moe, Jack, and Surprise, they are very camera shy. Twice today I tried to get a picture of them. As soon as I would get close enough to take a picture, they would hunker down and become almost invisible in their nest. What does this say? It says that I need better camera...one with a great lens and good telephoto capability.
Maybe when they get a little older I can get a good photo.
Meanwhile, Mama and Papa are feeding them well and they are growing and look very healthy.
Stay tuned...

Mo' Robins!!!

Deja vu? We have another family of Robins in the same nest!

This time there are 3 chicks. We don't know the relationship of these birds to the family we watched grow just about 6 weeks ago...kids? Grandkids? Cousins? We don't know if there is a way to determine that --probably not unless you're an ornithologist.

We will keep you updated...

(photo taken 07/07/07 [our lucky day?] at 2 PM PDT)

The Next Beach Blanket Babylon star?

Beautiful girl

Crazy Hair

Why not !??!

What, no PARTY this weekend?

Yep, its true. Johnna's taking a break!
That's not to say it won't be a fun weekend. Tonight we check out still another new restaurant nearby. Then tomorrow we will have Kyleigh and the girls will watch the last installment of "Anne of Green Gables."
Have a great weekend, everybody.

PS: Lori, the quote of the day is dedicated to you...

Donalyn's Birthday Party

We started off this 2-day celebration with a ferry boat ride from Larkspur Landing (a mile from Donalyn's home in Greenbrae) to the Embarcadero in San Francisco with Donalyn, Kevin and Johnna. The bay was beautiful on this gorgeous summer day. Our first stop was at a little pub near the theatre where we saw the wonderful and hilarious musical Beach Blanket Babylon (log onto beachblanketbabylon.com and be sure to click on Show Pics). Then it was dinner and a very memorable cab ride at sunset across the Golden Gate Bridge back to Greenbrae. What a great evening!
June 25, 2007 AM: An early morning birthday celebration (actually the 11th anniversary of Donalyn's 39th birthday), topped off by Donna's gift of an "oil" of Sara. Check out the Princess of Marin complete with cell phone and the world's smallest birthday cake with a single candle ignited by Kevin.
What a great time!!! Happy, happy birthday to our lovely Donalyn --the world's youngest 50-year old! We all love you Donalyn!!!

Our Hummingbird Feeder...

A few weeks ago (during the Robin Festival) we hung up this new feeder.

On occasion, both Donna and I have seen a Hummingbird dart in, take a few sips, and dart away. I waited with my camera ready a few times but the shy little guys would catch the slightest movement of the camera and scram. Today...

...well, check this out! What you see there is a Ruby Throated Hummingbird.

SMILE...and the world smiles with you...

POUT...and you're pretty much on your own!

and now you can see where Larry Birkhead got his hair style from!

Happy Fathers' Day!

To all the dads we know and love...enjoy this special day.

Here is a photo of a father-son combination close to my heart. Anybody recognize these two?

Hint: this picture was taken circa 1935 (and the little one is now a great-grandpa!)

Butts Charged With Stealing Toilet Paper

(ya just can't make up stuff as good as this...)
By Associated Press
MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa - Police blame a woman named Butts for stealing toilet paper from a central Iowa courthouse, and while they're chuckling, the theft charge could put her in prison.
"She's facing potentially three years of incarceration for three rolls of toilet paper," Chief Lon Walker said, stifling a laugh as he talked to KCCI-TV about Suzanne Marie Butts. "See, I can't say it with a straight face."

(...the article goes on to say this Butt has prior convictions for theft, thus the potential stiff sentence.)

A Perfect Saturday night?

The house lights dim and "Ann of Green Gables" graces the screen. Kyleigh and Grandma Donna snuggle up together to watch this heart-warming story.

This may not explain it all, but goes a long way toward defining "The Meaning of Life."

For us...a great Saturday evening. See Complete Profile, Interests...

Oops!

There is a "technical error" in our previous post. That is, technically, it wasn't "The same ol' people." At least two of them only get to attend a couple of our parties each year and I should have made it a point to get a picture of them, but didn't. Mea culpa (see reason #4, previous blog).

Bob and Ruth traveled all the way up here from San Diego to attend this party and deserved to be photographed. However, Bob did take a few pictures and sent them to us today. Thanks Bob. Here is my favorite. 'not taken at the party but on the day of her birthday (June 5). 'seems her daughter slipped over late at night and decorated the place. Nice surprise!

Again, Happy Birthday Dr. Ruth!!!

What if you threw a party...

...and nobody took any pictures?
It finally happened. I can explain. I could use the excuse that our "official photog" was given the night off. But that's not it. The simple facts are:
1. Same ol' people giving the party.
2. Same ol' house.
3. Same ol' garden.
4. Same ol' open bar.
5. Same ol' people attending the party and having a great time.
Apparently no one was inspired to take a picture of 1 through 5, above.
Let's say we did take a bunch of pictures. Do you really think they would look any different from any other party pictures in the same setting? The thought did strike me that I could copy the folder "party042807" into a new folder called "party060207" and nobody would know the difference!!! Of course I wouldn't do that, would I?
So just know that everyone had a great time and the food and drink and conversations were abundant and great! Everyone was 6 weeks older than at the previous party here, but who's counting? Now we are looking forward to the next big party/celebration: Lee is Going to Prison!
'see ya at the Dings' !!!

Party Time (again!) !!!

Bob and Ruth are heading this way this morning and should be here in time for Happy Hour. Its Ruth's Birthday soon and we will take her out to dinner this evening...then get ready for the big party on Saturday. 4 excuses for a party became 5 excuses when we learned that Norb had a birthday around the middle of May. It looks like the weather will cooperate so we can have the party inside and out. Now, we must get ready...

All About the Birds and the Bees

now that I have your attention...

Its post Memorial Day and now we turn our attention to our party this weekend. We are getting ready by sprucing up the yard, planting, trimming, etc.
We placed a coloful new hummingbird feeder near our pergola and have had several hungry little hummingbirds already. The nectar also attracts bees, so we have to deal with that. A little Raid sprayed nearby seems to keep the bees away without killing them.
This morning we were treated to the sight of a baby Robin, foraging in the ground near the office area. It was probably one of the chicks who flew just last Wednesday. It was nearly as large as Mama Robin, but still has the speckles on its breast. Wow, how they grow!
We have lots of birds that entertain us each day: Robins, Hummingbirds, Bluebirds, Quail, and of course the ever-present Mourning Doves.
I'm going to quit now because this writing is for the birds.

Happy Memorial Day!!!

Its a beautiful day in Roseville...'hope everyone is enjoying this holiday!

Johnna will join BJ, Don, and Chuck later in the day for a scrumptious holiday treat. Hot Dogs and Apple Pie??? nope...Tacos y cerveza. Viva Los Estados Unidos! Have fun, everyone,

Love,

Johnna

Memorial Day...and WWII

Happy Memorial Day to all! Let's all forget the politics for a day and remember all those who went before us -fighting for OUR freedom!

Mike and I started off this weekend early (on Wed.) by visiting the restored WWII bombers at Lincoln, CA airport. For a nominal donation, we were able to self-tour three beautifully restored airplanes. What an incredible history was told of each plane! For instance, the B-24 had flown 130 missions during the war and never suffered a casualty. Most crews in most squadrons weren't that lucky. Today, I saw the same B-24 and B-17 flying over Roseville -and snapped a picture of the '24.

--John, Navy Veteran, Son of a WWI Navy Veteran, and the great-grandson of (probably) a US Civil War Veteran.

Empty Nest!

The chicks started leaving the nest around 10AM. The last one was a little reluctant but flew a foot away to a limb near the nest, then, finally onward to another Plum tree. I have about 50 photos. Here are 4 of them.

Camerashy...

We're still trying to get a good shot of these chicks at their finest. At this point in their young lives, they are standing and flapping their wings as if ready to leave the nest. But, when I stand on my little stepladder next to the nest, they all hunker down as in this photo. If you click on the photo, it should enlarge so you can see a closeup. I'll keep trying for that "perfect shot."

After Further Review...

...quads! While trying to get a better closeup photo, we discovered the 4th hungry little Robin. So I guess it's now Manny, Mo, Jack, & Surprise. Robin chicks are in the nest about 2 weeks, according to Wikipedia. Their eyes open after about 1 week. So, we figure these birds are about 8 days old and will be out of the nest and attempt to fly in less than a week from now. Stay tuned... HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KYLEIGH!!!

Manny, Mo, and Jack...

Here is a closeup of the Triplet Robins...

Triplets!

We have a new family at Loco Lane: 3 baby Robins and their busy, nurturing parents. We have been fascinated, sitting in our treegola -and also viewing from our family room - watching this little story of nature unfold. Each parent takes turns bringing the young ones worms to their nest in the Fruitless Plum next to our patio. Here are some early photos.

The Clark Siblings.

This photo was taken in June 1997 at Piseco Lake. Barbara probably took the picture. She and I were in NY and that was the year we went to NYC and went to the top of WTC-1.

This photo is probably the 1st time we were all together since our childhood --and I don't know of any other picture anywhere of all 5 Clark Siblings together!

Chuck, and other stuff...

Chuck arrived right on schedule and we enjoyed a relaxing afternoon watching TV and sitting in our "treegola." Tonight is Kyleigh's school play.

Tomorrow's a big day...

...about all this busy couple is doing today is preparing for tomorrow's events. We'll pick up Chuck at the airport around noon. In the evening, Johnna will attend Kyleigh's play at her school -leaving Chuck to watch a low-def NBA Playoff game on our hi-def TV. This may sound a little socially unorthodox, but not after you get to know "Chucky Cheese."
The weather forcast for tomorrow is wall-to-wall sunshine and about 85.
cu L8r

Uncle Chuck's comin' to town!

Donna's brother ("Uncle Chuck,"

aka "Chucky Cheese") will arrive on Thursday, 17 May. Chuck will stay with us for a week and then move on to Citrus Heights where he will stay with brother Don and BJ for a week before returning to Las Vegas. He is one of the nicest, easiest going, laid back men you will ever meet. Donna and Chuck love each other, and like most brother-sister pairs, bicker at each other constantly. Its fun just to sit back and watch. Chuck is a big sports fan and will be engrossed in the NBA playoffs while here. Here is a photo of Donna & Chuck taken when we visited him in Las Vegas last September.

A Broadway Salute at the Sacramento Community Theatre

What a wonderful, upbeat musical night out! The production was magnificent. It was the kind of music (almost) everyone recognizes and can sing along to. Downtown Sac was buzzing with people attending this musical and other exciting events. Dinner and cocktails at the Esquire Grille was outstanding.