Communication is an art (and a large time consumer)

I have spent the greater portion of today (my so-called day off) writing the latest newsletter for the shop. Although not a difficult task, it IS a time consumer, especially for me who is not technologically fluent. I use one of the leading programs which provides templates and allows you to use pictures of your own as well from their image library. In theory, a very simple process, but in practice? Still takes several hours.

I wonder how we communicated in the "old days" with just our pen and paper. It certainly was easier, but limited.  Even though I could send a letter relatively quickly, it was to only one person. Later with the copier, I could print several if I needed but then individually address and mail them.  Today, even though the process seems more time consuming, it is really a marvel to think that after I write here, anyone in the world (with interest, of course), can view it in mere moments.  I like that.  Imagine the power my words can have!  Guess I best go back and be sure the newsletter is worthy of all that power.  Peace to your day!

Thank you, Senator ted Kennedy

I am filled with sadness this morning to learn of the death of our Senator, Ted Kennedy. I met him first when I was a teenager, learned about his health care reform ideas as a student nurse, watched families benefit from programs he sponsored/supported as a community and school nurse, and today follow the current health care reform discussions with a liberal background influenced by him and his era.

Although the present health care reform bill still needs much continued discussion, the mere fact that it is being discussed(again)is a tribute to his tireless efforts to see it pass. The fact that even after 42 years we have so many people who cannot afford medical care, and there is still so much debate as to whether we need a universal health care system simply tells me that the issue continues to be a battle of enormous proportion. I'm sorry he won't be a part of the ongoing discussions and feel his absence has been felt even before this.

I am sad, but proud to have had his voice and service in Massachusetts and the country. Thank you Senator Kennedy. Rest in Peace.

ENJOY SUMMER TODAY!

Like most everyone, I get busy with my day to day activities, especially in the summer season, and rush from one spot to another. Focused on the activities of the shop, I rarely spend much time alone or outside when it is a work day. I have a general knowledge of the day's weather but it is not a main part of the day, instead I focus on errands or shop activities.

Last night as I watched the full moon rise, I thought of how marvelous the world of Nature can be, quietly changing in the background of our busy lives. One night shadowy in the fog, the next clearly illuminated by the moon, and in the morning murky again until the fog burns off. As I write this in my home office, I am surrounded by trees, almost shrouded in silence except for the calling of a mourning dove, which will still be here when I return from a busy day in the village, where noise is so much more prominent. The constant drone of the air conditioner, the roar of cars and delivery trucks, the constant movement of people and activity, chattering in conversation and the bustle of shopping. How different the two parts of my life are and yet each is so necessary to maintain the other. How marvelous this balance is to creating a holistic pattern in my life. Who would I be without these different influences?

Hope you can stop for a moment today and feel the Nature around you. Feel summer breezes, soak up the humidity, splash in the water, enjoy the sunshine (or rain). It's August, the last few days of summer. Enjoy what it has to offer you, wherever you are! That's what summer is really all about!