By chance...

Just a little snow...

2012-02-08T16:49:00.000-05:00

It's February, Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter and here it is...

SNOW!!

Here are a few photos snapped in Upper Salford on Wednesday afternoon...

Grab a cup of cocoa and enjoy...

(By the way, that's our Alien Cat... doesn't like snow...)

Happy Groundhog Day!

2012-02-01T19:48:00.000-05:00

HAPPY GROUNDHOG DAY!

OK, I am posting this on Wednesday evening, just so it will be taken care of since I rise early for work. But who would want to miss Groundhog Day? Not me!

Have you ever been to Punxsutawney? I have ... but not on Groundhog Day.

I ventured there once with my daughter when she was in high school. She had her photo snapped by the huge wooden groundhog statue in the park, we checked out the map of how to get to Gobbler's Knob and visited with Punxsutawney Phil at his home in the library. His photo isn't so great, but that's him at the glass wall of his abode.

And of course the day would not be complete without this Pennsylvania Dutch greeting, on a hefty groundhog image ....

Yes, good health and good luck to all, from the groundhog!
Happy Groundhog Day ... and just what will that prediction be, Phil?

Just can't cope? This can help!

2012-01-29T19:58:00.000-05:00

Somewhere, in the Montgomery County area, in an office that must remain secret, there is a machine ... nay, more than one ... that we all could use. Yes, as you see by this sign, this office has COPING machines!
And as anyone who has ever worked in an office ... or anywhere, for that matter -- or never worked outside the home -- will tell you, we ALL need coping machines.
In this office, for some unknown reason, one of these coping machines somehow broke down, and this note had to be attached. What made this coping machine unable to cope? Was a certain person's problems just too much to handle?
And how DO these coping machines function? Does a person have to speak into them, telling the machine of his or her dire straits? Is it fed the information through a computer? Is it, dare we dream, simply able to magically read your mind?
And why don't we all have these coping machines? We certainly could use them, especially when Monday morning rolls around!
But, with my luck, I would wind up with this unfortunate machine, which obviously could just no longer cope. Mine would be the one with the tearful sign attached: Use other coping machine.

We can only hope someone ... or some coping machine ... was able to come to this machine's rescue.
Fare thee well, oh coping machine!

Go see this film...

2012-01-29T08:19:00.000-05:00

If you haven't seen "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" yet, go soon.
I have to admit that I rarely go to the movies -- you know, actually pay to get into see a film. Generally I figure I can wait for the DVD release.
But this move drew me and it did not disappoint.
It tore me apart, but did not disappoint.
It's not an easy watch, but well worth your emotional investment.
It touches the heart and soul; it sears them.
But it heals them, as well.

Winter at last!

2012-01-21T14:13:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's officially been winter for about a month now, but it hasn't felt a lot like winter...
Until today! Snow!
So out I went, just with my phone, and snapped a few photos...
Enjoy!

Tranquil scene in front of my house...

This kitty apparently does not appreciate the snow!

Dutch boy looks a bit horrified by it all...

'Alien' cat just looks a bit angry, I think...

Getting back into it...

2012-01-15T15:48:00.000-05:00

OK, that new profile picture of "me" is just temporary... I hope.
Now that I have retired from The Reporter and started a new career, I have joined the community bloggers!
I hope to soon get a new photo to replace my "old" one, as I start on this new phase of my life.
I hope you'll bear with me, as I sort out where to go from here with this blog!
In the meantime, here's a random photo for your viewing pleasure....

Farewells are always bittersweet...

2011-12-30T07:51:00.000-05:00

When I walked into The Reporter newsroom for the first time as a new employee more than 38 years ago, I was both scared and excited.
Scared, because as a new college graduate, this was my first “real” job — those summers working at a card factory didn’t count. Excited, because the hum of activity was palpable.
Reporters were typing away — yes, typing, at manual typewriters; the AP teletype machine was clattering out reams of news copy, with bells ringing for important stories and alerts; the police radio was loud and constant; and the editor — the stern Cal Craig who was the stereotypical old-school newsman — was barking out instructions to one of the photographers.
It was so similar to movies I had seen about tough news reporters breaking a hot story that I could almost taste it. It didn’t matter that I had been hired to write obits, social news and rewrites, plus take care of the morgue — as the newsroom library was called. It was a job in a newsroom and I couldn’t have been happier.

Here's a photo of me from the late 1970s ... thanks to former chief photographer Willard Krieble for catching me looking my best at a construction site!

Since that day I started at The Reporter in early September 1973, I’ve written plenty of hard news stories and features; shared through my columns and my blog so much of my life, from the tragic to the comic, from the mundane to the magical. You have come to know my daughter and my cats; you knew of the tragedy of losing my husband nearly eight years ago.
You helped me through the rough patches in my life and often called, wrote or stopped me out in the community to let me know how much you enjoyed my cat stories.
So it’s extremely bittersweet to write my last column as editor of The Reporter today.
Yes, I am “retiring” from this career in journalism to start a totally new chapter in my life.
I will be working at a local veterinary hospital; many of you probably think that’s a natural fit for me, having heard my many animal stories. And I am looking forward to the new challenges and opportunities that I am sure this change will bring.
But I will greatly miss all the fine people here at The Reporter and within the Journal Register Co. family.
And I will miss you, my readers and friends in the community, very much.
When I started at The Reporter, it was a private company headed by the Knipe and Berky families. I was here when it was bought by Gannett in 1980 and then by Journal Register in 2001.
I have pounded out those stories on manual typewriters, rejoiced when we switched to electric models, sweated out learning how to use our very first computers and then eased into different systems as computers advanced.
Now I blog, tweet, SMS, post to Facebook and our website, and shoot the occasional video as well as write, edit, work with my mobile news staff and continually strive to learn the latest technology.
When I started here, The Reporter was an afternoon newspaper delivered in part by kids on bikes. We long ago switched to morning delivery, but now we are producing news 24/7 through our website and social media.
Yes, that print edition still is delivered every day, but news also is provided through alerts to smartphones, the website, Twitter and Facebook.
It’s strange to think back to my first years here, when we typed up our copy and sent it to the composing room in a pneumatic tube; when I was sent to meet the train in Lansdale so that a freelancer in Doylestown could send his stories via the conductor, to then be typed up and placed in The Reporter because there were no fax machines.
Yes, what changes there have been.
But there are constants as well. There are so many wonderful people in the community that I have been fortunate enough to meet over my nearly four decades here. There are so many who care deeply about this area, the schools, the municipalities, the children.
We have so many devoted readers, who are now becoming bloggers, joining us in our crowdsourcing efforts, following us on Twitter and letting us know what you think we should be covering.
It is gratifying to know that you are so connected to your communities, and so connected to The Reporter.
All of that will continue as The Reporter evolves in the years ahead, with your help.
I won’t be here as an editor anymore, but I still will be reading and blogging as a community blogger. Perhaps you’ll join me in becoming a blogger as well.
It will be strange to not head to Lansdale and walk up those steps to the newsroom every day. I will miss the chatter of the police radio, the interaction with the reporters and the constant whirlwind that is a newsroom.
But I know quality journalism will continue to be produced by The Reporter, and with your help, it will continue to succeed.
Yes, it is hard on one hand to say goodbye; to, in editing parlance, put that “30” at the end of this part of my career.
But I have been very fortunate to be part of The Reporter family for such a long time. And I know that I am leaving the newsroom in good hands.

AND IF WILLARD KRIEBLE is reading this... a special note to you: 700 to 718... over and out.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-24T23:19:00.000-05:00

I have had this depiction of Mary, Joseph and Jesus since I was in college; yes, it graced my wall at Christmas each year at Shippensburg and has had a place of honor ever since. It may be a bit tattered, but it is much beloved.

Below you see the angel that topped our tree during my growing-up years. We had a Santa like the one in the case, but this is one I found at a flea market; not my original. They are shown with Elfina -- I named her that after my Mom gave her to me long ago -- I love her!

Merry Christmas to all!

With all Christmas reverence...

2011-12-24T07:52:00.000-05:00

This is a different sort of nativity scene, but one that I love. Yes, cats are people too, and in my mind they simply want to show the love, reverence and respect that animals all seem to possess.

And, as legend has it, at midnight on Christmas Eve, animals are granted the gift of speech to utter their thanks to their Creator.

May we all keep the true meaning of Christmas in our hearts!

Happy Festivus!

2011-12-23T08:04:00.000-05:00

Is it time for the airing of the grievances?

I think I'll skip the feats of strength...

Deck the halls...

2011-12-22T09:10:00.000-05:00

Here's something a bit weird... found this card in a thrift store. You have to wonder about the person who photographed this ... and then the company who decided to use it as a card! I love it!

A vintage candle set, owned by my daughter -- still works!

What a festive ornament ... a different kind of hunter...

And kind of creepy Santa... this is really an apron, but I love the vintage fabric.

Can you stand more decorations?

2011-12-21T10:47:00.000-05:00

Nothing too flashy today, but I wanted to share this shot of part of our Christmas tree, featuring a red bird ornament. I'm sure it's special only to me, because it belonged to a late uncle. He's been gone more than 30 years now, but he's still special to me and this little red bird always brings him to life for me.
The yellow star was cut out of wood by my dad and painted by my mom, with "sparkle" help from my daughter. Another very special ornament!

This Rudolph was crafted by my mother-in-law when our daughter was very young. When you press on it, it STILL plays "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and the nose lights up. Pretty impressive, considering its age...

Just a happy Snoopy shot -- and it's actually a potholder, which you can probably tell by close examination...

And a really old-time manger scene, from my teen years...

Weird enough decoration?

2011-12-19T15:19:00.000-05:00

I've been lax in posting some of my Christmas decorations, and time is running out.
Do any of you have a pig wearing a Santa hat, as noted above? Also, he's a sheriff!
The others below are a bit more normal...
Enjoy!

A little Gaga in New York

2011-12-13T13:15:00.000-05:00

Back from a week of vacation ... and still trying to get into the swing of things.
It was one of those weeks where you did a few fun things... and got caught up on appointments like the dentist... twice.
But heading to New York City with my daughter was the huge highlight. Lunch ... and cocktails ... at Alfredo's is always so great.
And browsing the stores and taking in the windows, plus Rockefeller Center, of course.
Mega this year was Barneys, with the Lady Gaga display and store. If you get a chance, check it out in NYC... tons of fun!

Santa, Rudy from the past...

2011-12-02T07:57:00.000-05:00

OK, another installment of my beloved Christmas ornaments.
I've had Santa and Rudolph for longer than I can remember and yes, they've seen better days. But each year they have to be part of our Christmas display.
I hope they don't just disintegrate one day ... that would be too sad!

Happy December!

2011-12-01T11:36:00.000-05:00

There's something about flipping that calendar page and realizing you're in the last month of the year. I'm always hit by nostalgia, disbelief and, yes, a bit of panic.
How in the heck did we get to December? Where did another year go? I barely remember to write 2011 on stuff and soon it will be 2012!
Not to mention the fact that I haven't done a thing to address the holidays, other than work with my daughter to put up our Christmas tree and decorations.
But I'll think about that later.
Meanwhile, I'll try to post, as we go through December, some of our Christmas decorations. Some are old, some not so old; some are weirder than others; some hold very special meaning.
So I hope you enjoy. Maybe others will join in and share theirs, too!

What's your favorite Christmas ornament?

2011-11-29T17:12:00.000-05:00

http://www.kohlsstonyhill.com/

What are your favorite Christmas ornaments? If you're not quite sure, take a look at a few of these. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I visited my sister who lives near Catawissa, and we made a trip to Kohls Christmas Tree Farm near Milton. They boast that they have more than 50,000 ornaments, and I believe it.
How about a "merman"? They have them!

Or if you need something to top that tree, how about a dog angel? I found them a little disturbing, but that's just me.

Of course you gotta love sock monkeys, of every description ... and no tree is complete without a pink flamingo, right?

Don't miss the huge display of tree stands on the walls, ranging the ages, so to speak. This is just a small sample:

And... I love these guys! The Beatles are appropriate everywhere!

Just beware... this animated Santa that greets you at the door is a little creepy ... but be brave. The shop inside is well worth it!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-23T19:33:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone has a great THANKSGIVING ... and has many reasons to give thanks.
There are two great reasons to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade -- the turkey, which is an all-time favorite...

AND THIS YEAR ... a balloon by Tim Burton.
Can't wait to see the real thing!

As a vegetarian, I won't be eating any turkey. But bring on that potato filling... and way too much pie!
Hey, we can all diet next week... until Christmas!

On the trail again, part 2

2011-11-09T00:11:00.000-05:00

As promised, here is the second part of my tale of our recent vacation jaunt.
Having been able to base at my friend's house in Harrisburg, on the second day of this vacation we headed to Maryland for a day trip, stopping first at Mount St. Mary's University.
We wanted to walk out to the grotto, take in some of the beautiful statuary and, of course, walk through the cemetery there.
Here are some of the wonderful shots that capture a bit of that stop. If you ever have the chance to check this out, please do so.

After we spent a bit of time there, it was time to get back on the road to our next destination, Catoctin Mountain National Park.

I had never been there, but my friend said it was a beautiful spot and we could do some hiking, so off we went.

We stopped at the visitors center, picked up a map and asked the park ranger which trail he would suggest. Since we're not spring chickens, but also aren't couch potatoes, we didn't want the most challenging trail. He hemmed and hawed a bit, and then suggested the trail to Cunningham Falls. It was supposed to be a bit more than 3 miles round-trip; we figured that was easily doable before dark.

So we set off -- and quickly realized the term "trail" is a bit of an overstatement.
There were no markings at all, and because of all the leaves, you kind of had to guess as you went up and down in the woods, over here and back there, walk, walk walk. We finally passed some people heading in the opposite direction and asked if they had gone to the falls. They hesitated, said yeah, and we asked if we were almost there.
"Ummmm," was about all the reply we got.
We finally decided to rest on a fallen tree for a few minutes, and then thought it would be most prudent to head back.
We hated not getting to the falls, but we had been walking a long time and there was still no water in site.
After getting back to the parking lot, we decided to drive through the park, which was gorgeous. And then we headed up the road to Cunningham Falls State Park. At a lake pulloff, a man in a wheelchair told us there was supposedly an area along the main road where you could park and get to the falls.

We finally found that and at last made it to the falls. They were beautiful.

Now to get there from the national park, you would have had to cross that main road, we discovered. We're still a bit mystified by that national park trail.
So if you ever get down there and want to see the falls, go to the state park. Take one of the other "trails" on the national park side if you just want to trek through the woods.
Still, it was a terrific trip, we had lots of fun ... and have great memories of that long trek to nowhere.
Once again, thanks, Lynn, for a great vacation. And thanks, Danielle, for the great photos.

Please vote today!

2011-11-08T08:21:00.000-05:00

Today's the day .... the day to vote!

It's an important election, to be sure.

Be sure to check out The Reporter's live blog and other coverage.

And if you don't know where to vote, check this list.

Now no excuses... it's a beautiful day. Speak your voice and vote!

Happy hiking ... but vacation's over

2011-11-04T13:28:00.000-04:00

A week back at work almost makes you forget that you were just on vacation. Maybe it has something to do with the impending election, and all the related work.
Whatever the case may be, I was just on a week's vacation, and now have a week of work under my belt.
So it's time to get caught up a bit on blogging.

Although this vacation did not turn out to be a trek to Vermont, it was beautiful and memorable nonetheless. Basing out of my friend's home in Harrisburg for a few days (he was willing to put up with us even after hosting us in Cape Cod this summer, thank you!), we ventured into the gorgeous Lancaster area countryside on one of the days and that evening hit a hiking trail near Harrisburg for a little 3-mile jaunt.

Once again, I thank my daughter for "lending" these photos, which catch a bit of the beauty of that walk.
Hope you enjoy these photos -- it was a great place for a walk.

My next blog entry will detail a bit of our journey to Maryland ... and a hike that was a bit, well, different.
Until then, drink in this great scenery (oh, you can skip that photo of us walking...)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2011-10-31T08:27:00.000-04:00

OK, so we got quite the trick this weekend.
It's still autumn, it's Halloween -- we should not have had snow!
But let's shrug it off and hope it's not a forecast of a tough winter to come!
In the meantime, Happy Halloween!

You can help the kitties

2011-10-04T17:10:00.002-04:00

Stray Cat Blues is our local nonprofit, no-kill cat rescue. And this month they are not only helping to get cats adopted, but also are collecting food in honor of National Feral Cat Day, which is observed on Oct. 16.
You can help out by donating wet or dry food that Stray Cat Blues will give to those who are caring for feral -- or undomesticated -- cats that have been trapped, neutered and returned to their home environment.

Between now and Oct. 16, you drop donations off here at The Reporter, at 307 Derstine Avenue in Lansdale; or at the offices of Baum, Smith & Clemens LLP, located at 2128 N. Broad Street in Lansdale, between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Stray Cat Blues also has an urgent need for people who may be able to foster cats, especially on an emergency basis.
The group always is looking for those who would like to adopt, as well. Check out the kitties at PetSmart, off Knapp Road, Montgomery Township. You can see some cats every day, and on Saturdays and Sundays, adoption workers are at PetSmart from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information, check straycatblues.org.

A salute to this 2-faced cat...

2011-09-29T13:01:00.000-04:00

All cat lovers should appreciate this story about a world-record-setting cat -- or is it cats?
It is written by Rodrique Ngowi of The Associated Press. I did not want to take anything away from his story-telling, so since The Reporter is a member of the AP, I am simply sharing it with you, with all credit going to Ngowi.
Here are some photos of the cat with two faces; the story follows. Enjoy.

AP Photos by Steven Senne

By RODRIQUE NGOWI
Associated Press

WORCESTER, Mass. — Frank and Louie the cat was born with two faces, two mouths, two noses, three eyes — and lots of doubts about his future.
Now, 12 years after Marty Stevens rescued him from being put to sleep because of his condition, the exotic blue-eyed rag doll cat is not only thriving but has made it into the 2012 Guinness Book of World Records as the longest surviving member of a group known as Janus cats, named for a Roman god with two faces.
"Every day is kind of a blessing, being 12 and normal life expectancy when they have this condition is one to four days," Stevens said, stroking Frank and Louie's soft fur as he sat on her lap purring. "So, he's ahead of the game — every day I just thank God I still have him."
Frank and Louie's breeder had taken him to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, where Stevens was working at the time, to be euthanized when he was just a day old. Stevens offered to take him home, but experts told her not to get her hopes up.

Janus cats almost never survive, and most have numerous congenital defects, including a cleft palate that makes it difficult for them to nurse and often causes them to slowly starve to death or aspirate milk into their lungs and die of pneumonia. The condition is the result of a genetic defect that triggers excessive production of a certain kind of protein.
But Frank and Louie did not suffer from most of the common Janus problems. Stevens used feeding tubes to nourish him for three months, hoping that would also save him from the danger of choking on food going down the esophagus from two mouths.
It turned out she didn't have to worry about him choking, because Frank and Louie just used one of his mouths to eat.
"The condition itself is very rare and I think that the fact that this cat became an adult, a healthy adult, is remarkable," said Dr. Armelle deLaforcade, an associate professor at Cummings and head of the emergency services section.
Colleagues at the veterinary hospital told Stevens that trying to raise Frank and Louie might not be good for him — or her.
Still, she "stood firm and stood by the cat, and I'm really glad she did because this cat really has fewer problems than many cats that have very normal anatomies," deLaforcade said.
Frank and Louie does not seem to be bothered by his condition and has developed a very friendly personality. The breed is known for its soft and silky fur, docile temperament and penchant for relaxing in a person's arms like a rag doll.
He is "very, very laid back, not afraid of people, very friendly and he's actually more of a dog than a cat," Stevens said. "He walks on a leash, he goes right in the car, he loves car rides."
People often want to touch Frank and Louie's long, luxurious fur while Stevens is out walking him.
"It's funny because people walk up to him thinking it's a nice, fluffy white cat and they're walking up with a big smile on their face to pat him, like, 'Oh, what a beautiful cat' and I see a look of horror come over their faces when they actually see his face," Stevens said, laughing.
Thirty years ago, a cat like Frank and Louie might not have been given a chance to live.
Said deLaforcade: "You can look at a cat like this as either a very strange and bad omen, or you can look at this cat as a miracle."
___
Rodrique Ngowi can be reached at http://twitter.com/ngowi

It's autumn at last

2011-09-23T10:25:00.000-04:00

It's finally the first day of autumn, although you wouldn't guess it by the humidity, fairly warm temperatures and ... for a change ... rain.
But at least this brings hope for chilly weather, the chance to wear sweaters and flannels, perhaps even the opportunity to sit out by a fire and look up at the stars on a few evenings.
Please... even just one evening!
I'm determined to remain optimistic. I may not be able to head to Vermont this fall, but I'm looking for those changing autumn leaves.
Now, about that humidity....

Cows call you to Harrisburg

2011-09-19T11:39:00.001-04:00

You don't have to be a farm kid to enjoy the Pennsylvania All-American Dairy Show.
It's featured this week in Harrisburg... and here are some snippets from my visit on Sunday:

Sorry if the video was a bit long -- trust me, I had even more footage! But as someone who not only has a soft spot for cats, but also cows, it was hard to know where to cut... I favor Jerseys and Milking Shorthorns, but really, all cows are cool.
The show also features neat dairy antiques, so if you have time, check it out, today through Wednesday at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg.

Love that chill in the air

2011-09-16T13:05:00.000-04:00

The chill that greeted us today was most welcome ... I only wish it were here to stay.
I am sick to death of air conditioners, of humidity, of shorts...
I want to wear flannel shirts and long jeans.
I want to have the windows open and feel a cool breeze.
I want to hold my cats on my lap without sweating to death.
And here's a gratuitous cat photo, snapped at the Edward Gorey House on Cape Cod this summer.

Hey, I like cats; sue me...
I wish I could spend autumn in Vermont
But that's not going to happen ... sigh.
Anyway, back to the beginning... I hope the chill sticks around a bit.
Autumn doesn't officially start until Sept. 23, I know...
I'm ready for it now.

Great balls of ... Schweddy!

2011-09-09T18:01:00.003-04:00

I love Ben and Jerry's ice cream.
I love Vermont.
Put them together and you have heaven -- or at least a sweet little piece of it.
Consider their new flavor and you have a hilarious piece of heaven.
Yes, the great ice cream producer has announced a tantalizing new treat: Schweddy Balls.

I posed the question on The Reporter's Facebook page, "Would you eat Schweddy Balls"?
Pat Frederick said "nope. stopped eating Ben and Jerry's when they issued Hubby Hubby." (note-- it's Chubby Hubby).
Melanie Altemus: It's officially on the to-do list!
MaryAnn West Hoermann: absolutely not, sounds disgusting.

Hey, I side with Melanie... can't wait.

Of course, Schweddy Balls is an homage to a "Saturday Night Live" skit featuring Alec Baldwin as bakery owner Pete Schweddy, whose unique holiday offerings included a delicacy called Schweddy balls.
The Associated Press story on this noted:

The company's not worried about offending people with the name, said spokesman Sean Greenwood.

"We're the caring company," Greenwood said. "We never want to do anything that is upsetting for people. We think it's congruent with our values, in terms of having fun. One of our principles is 'If it's not fun, why do it?'"

Other flavors with edgy names — like Karamel Sutra and Half Baked — were irreverent double-entendres, too, he told the AP.

The new flavor consists of vanilla ice cream, a hint of rum, fudge-covered rum balls and milk chocolate malt balls.
What's not to like?
And I love that Baldwin is enjoying this...

"For a long time, I thought that 'Here Lies Pete Schweddy' would end up on my tombstone," Baldwin said in a statement released by Ben and Jerry's. "Now, thanks to Ben and Jerry's, the goodness of the Schweddy family recipe won't go with me to the great beyond."

If you've somehow missed the skit, check out Schweddy today.

Did you have a metal lunchbox?

2011-09-07T11:51:00.000-04:00

This morning I asked a quick question on The Reporter's Facebook page about people's favorite metal lunchboxes, related to a video featured on our website, thereporteronline.com

A few of you answered, including Jennifer Alderfer who said "Donnie and Marie"; Monica Maury, who said, "Mork and Mindy, until someone stomped it!"; and Cheryl Brownlee, who favored "Charlie's Angels."
Here's a look at that video:

For me, it had to be "Brave Eagle," fashioned after an old TV show by the same name. I don't have the lunchbox itself anymore, but somehow I do have the thermos -- sitting proudly on my bedroom bureau.

Saying goodbye to summer...

2011-09-05T07:48:00.000-04:00

It's Labor Day, rain is predicted and it may be your last day on the beach or at the mountains.
You may already be thinking of the work piled on your desk or the school days stretching out ahead.
Stop worrying, start enjoying.
Summer isn't over yet. And yes, you can still wear white after Labor Day.

Photos courtesy of Danielle Breaux, taken this August in Cape Cod.

Beloved Vermont hit by Irene

2011-08-29T15:32:00.000-04:00

I love visiting Vermont, and it was with a heavy heart that I listened to and watched all of the reports on the destruction there by Hurricane Irene's wrath.
These Associated Press photos show some of that destruction. There was loss of life, loss of historic covered bridges, towns under water -- much worse than we had it here.
I know the people of Vermont pride themselves on helping each other and being resourceful. I wish them only the best.

Come on, Irene.... more storm photos

2011-08-28T17:58:00.000-04:00

No, there isn't a lot of excitement in Upper Salford on a regular basis. But when there's a storm of the magnitude of Irene, you have to get out and about the next day.
I took lots of photos and tweeted them out with my iPhone, but here are some that my daughter snapped...

The first few photos show the destruction and mayhem on Old Sumneytown Pike near Long Mill Road in Upper Salford:

Now we move to Lower Salford, and the area near Freeman School Road:

Hope everyone made it through the storm safely... and you can still share your photos with The Reporter. Tweet to @lansreporter or email to citydesk@thereporteronline.com

Hurricane Irene ... after the main storm

2011-08-28T10:50:00.000-04:00

My daughter is a much better photographer than I am, so here are a few post-hurricane shots.
Thanks, Danielle, for the photos... and thanks for the company in the basement last night with the cats during the tornado warnings...

CORN DAMAGE ON NEIGHBOR'S FARM IN UPPER SALFORD

A NEW CANYON IN MY DRIVEWAY ... THANKS, IRENE!

LUCKILY THESE TREES STOOD FIRM...

BIT OF A MESS AT THE END OF MY YARD...

AND A BIT OF BEAUTY

Earthquake hits; I feel nothing

2011-08-23T15:41:00.000-04:00

I won't be tacky and say the earth didn't move for me.
OK, I just said it... sorry. But everyone here in the newsroom is shrieking around about having an earthquake, I'm in an office with floor-to-ceiling windows and feel nothing.
Nada. Zip. Only one other person in the newsroom admits to also missing the whole earth-moving experience.
It's horrible to feel left out of a news-maker like this, especially when you work for a news media operation! How embarrassing.
But plenty of our audience felt it -- at least I got lots of reaction from my tweets and Facebook posting.
But still, my face is red. Maybe next time.
To make up for it, here are some photos from my walk last night on the Perkiomen Trail near Spring Mount. It was a beautiful night for a hike ... no earthquakes there, either.

Cape Cod, part 2

2011-08-16T11:12:00.000-04:00

As promised, here are a few more photos from my Cape Cod vacation. If I listen real hard, I can still hear the waves!

Just another beautiful Cape sunset...

Peace, quiet, beauty...

Anyone who knows me knows I am not a sports fan. But hey, I like Adam Sandler movies! So when my friend on the Cape wanted to show us the "Green Monster" that had been created for a Sandler movie, I was game... Here it is -- and it was impressive. Alas, it won't be permanent. But I do want to see the movie now.

With any luck, I may see this lovely beach again next year... such a long time to wait, but worth it!

Vacation at Cape Cod ... just glorious!

2011-08-14T16:30:00.000-04:00

Another wonderful vacation has just come to an end ... another wonderful visit to Cape Cod, thanks to my very good, practically lifelong friend. There's no way I could afford such a perfect vacation if not for "Mr. Godshall."
After finally making our first visit last year, I headed up to the Cape again this year with my daughter for another unforgettable visit. The days at the beach, the great food courtesy of our host, the terrific theater nights ... hey, even our one rainy day was fun ... in hindsight!

Of course you have to visit the Edward Gorey house if you go to Cape Cod! Here's just one tiny taste...

Just drink in this beautiful scenery, and you'll understand why it's so relaxing at the Cape, so inviting ... and why vacation flies by much too quickly!

And here's a glimpse of two "beach bums..."
No, I'm not too old to pick up shells and beach rocks...
Yes, I'm the one without the tan!

I'll be sure to share a few more of my daughter's terrific photographs in the next day or so... Thank you, Danielle, for allowing me to showcase some of your work.
And thanks, great friend, for so generously sharing your Cape home!

Shop and help the kitties

2011-08-02T11:50:00.000-04:00

What are you doing Aug. 27? Hey, don't spend the day sleeping, like my cat Pokey does.
How about shopping -- for a good cause?

Yes, you can shop at Macy's on that Saturday and help Stray Cat Blues, the local no-kill cat rescue, at the same time.
The nonprofit Stray Cat Blues is participating in Macy's Shop for a Cause event and you can buy a ticket for just $5. Here's how it works
Buy a ticket from Stray Cat Blues for $5. That entitles you to shop at any Macy's and at Macys.com and save 25 percent all day (10 percent on electronics, furniture, mattresses, and rugs/floor coverings).
You also will be eligible for a chance to win a $500 Macy’s gift card (one winner per store).
So consider helping out the kitties while you have fun shopping.
To purchase a ticket, contact Judy Smith at jsmith@bsccpas.com
The kitties will thank you!
And Pokey, well, he'll just keep on sleeping, no doubt...

A great excuse NOT to mow grass

2011-07-27T13:24:00.000-04:00

If you've ever been to Vermont, you know the people are a rather self-sufficient, independent sort.
They have always been extremely friendly to us when we have visited, but some say they often walk to the beat of their own drummer.
I can't say for sure if that is true. But I have been to Johnson, Vt., many times, where this photo was snapped by Toby Talbot of the Associated Press, and I have to say I don't find it unusual.
I just wish I had this excuse -- when it rains and I actually have grass to mow, that is.
Hope no one takes offense ... this photo was just too great to pass up.
If I were them, I'd hope the mower never gets returned. Must have been stolen by a flatlander.

Wish I could help these kitties...

2011-07-26T12:31:00.000-04:00

Someone that my daughter knows has been presented with a problem: A mom cat and her kittens have taken up residence in their yard.
They aren't really tame, but will come to eat and play near the onlookers.
The SPCA doesn't want them because they aren't tame -- not adoptable.
Foster homes to tame them would be great. But who has time?
If anyone wants info, I can put you in touch. You can email me at nbreaux@thereporteronline.com
They are cute, aren't they?

Cool off with snowflakes

2011-07-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

Let's face it -- it's too hot to live.
And everyone is trying to find ways to cool off.
Here's a different way...

If you don't know Wilson Bentley, look him up and check out his wonderful productions!
Another reason to love Vermont!

It's hot... just chill!

2011-07-12T10:34:00.003-04:00

If you're smart today, you'll just chill out.
Take it from my cat Marmi, it's the best thing to do

She was kind enough to pose for this "demonstration" photo of how to relax on a hot day, for those of you not familiar with the practice.
But really, Montgomery County has issued a Code Red alert because of the high heat and humidity. So stay out of the sun, drink plenty of water, seek out air conditioning, don't be outside exercising and check on elderly neighbors, friends and relatives.
Oh, and Marmi said, make sure your pets are cool as well -- and pampered!

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-04T08:31:00.003-04:00

Make it safe and glorious! And Tweet The Reporter @lansreporter with your photos and videos, using #lansfourth ... we want to feature you!

Happy Fourth!

Join in the Fourth of July fun!

2011-06-30T10:18:00.014-04:00

Reporter staffer Dan Sokil took this great video at the Mann Music Center Wednesday night and it shows how easy it is to join The Reporter in "covering" the Fourth of July. You'll see on our Twitter feed (@lansreporter) and our Facebook page that we want to feature your photos and videos of the Fourth.
We want to show how you, our audience, enjoys the Fourth -- whether you're heading out to a festival, taking in fireworks or traveling.

Tweet #LansFourth to tell us where you are this weekend and include photos and video, if possible.
We'll use the best tweets in a story July 4th.

Don't miss our rundown of Fourth events and a great map, too!

Barking cat ... and dogs

2011-06-22T13:29:00.003-04:00

One of my co-workers, Amanda, brightened my morning with this video today, so I just had to share... and it reminded me of a hilarious few moments yesterday.
First, the video...

Yes, a barking cat... apparently the jig was up when it realized its person was watching.
As for yesterday, I was driving down Valley Forge Road, just outside Lansdale, behind a small Saturn with two big dogs in the back. One seemed happy just to be hanging out the window.
The other, not so much.
Every time a car would pass in the opposite direction, this dog would bark furiously at the car. Next car, the same... and the next and the next and the next.
At rush hour on Valley Forge Road, you can imagine it was doing a lot of barking.
I had the windows up and the AC on and could hear this pooch.
The driver must be deaf!

Calling good sports!

2011-06-20T16:19:00.004-04:00

I admit it... I was never great at playing sports. But perhaps you are.
Do you love to play soccer? Perhaps boxing is your sport. Or maybe fencing fuels your fire.
Whatever your sport, we'd like to hear from you.
The Reporter once again will be publishing its Community Guidebook, with a focus this year on sports and recreation.
Do you belong to a sports group? Do you know of a great sport that may not get general coverage in the area? Is there a sports facility that perhaps we could highlight?
Let us know!
E-mail your information about the sport and where we can reach you to citydesk@thereporteronline.com. Put COMMUNITY GUIDEBOOK in the subject line and be sure to include your contact information. Please submit your suggestions by Thursday, June 23.

Thanks, Stray Cat Blues

2011-06-17T14:12:00.016-04:00

I hope you got to attend The Reporter's Mature Living Expo on Thursday and also that you stopped by the Stray Cat Blues table to see their precious kitties that they had with them.

If you didn't, please check them out here or at their Facebook page here.
The Expo was a blast as always, and I hope everyone who attended had a great time. And please, come next year!
But as a cat lover and an occasional SCB volunteer, I had to spend a few moments at their booth -- and make a donation to pick up some of their "rubber ducky/kitties"! You see one here, now happily living on my iPad on my desk.
Consider adding a real kitty to your life -- just check out Stray Cat Blues!

Cool off with a chuckle

2011-06-08T14:33:00.003-04:00

It's hot.
When I was in high school, one teacher used to state matter-of-factly: "It's hotter than Hades in here."
That sentiment rings true today... and tomorrow will be even hotter.
So enjoy Simon's cat, chuckle and cool off...

New traffic rules ... again

2011-05-27T06:55:00.007-04:00

Time to study that PA traffic manual again.
Who knew that when lanes are marked for left turns at an intersection that it's OK to use them to pass the traffic proceeding straight ahead?
Apparently those are the new rules, at least in Franconia Township. I saw this not once but twice this morning.
The first was about 6:15 a.m. at the intersection of Route 113 and Schoolhouse Road. There was a small truck in front of me and when the light turned green, heading toward Souderton, a small black car blew past us, then using the left-turn lane for the traffic heading from Souderton on the other side of the intersection to complete his pass.
No police in sight, of course.
But wait, there's more.
This lovely maneuver was repeated at the intersection of Route 113 and Allentown Road minutes later, because the poor lad was behind yet another truck.
Who could expect him to follow a truck?
Again, no police.
But then perhaps these ARE the new rules. Go ahead, just use those left-turn lanes to pass that pesky traffic in front of you.
I just MUST get a new driver's manual. It's so hard to keep up with all these rule changes.

Thank you, second-graders!

2011-05-24T09:08:00.013-04:00

I recently had a lot of fun reading to second-graders at Gwyn-Nor Elementary School in the North Penn School District, as part of the PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce Community Reading Day.
The children were a delight -- very polite, chimed in with some questions and observations -- as I read "Bats At The Library," a book I found really cool as well.
Here's a photo one of my co-workers, Pam Linderman, snapped that day. Aren't the kids cute?

And I was delighted to receive a huge envelope yesterday filled with thank-you letters from the children. Really, they didn't have to -- but I loved them.

Just a few quotes:
"Thank you for reading 'Bats At The Library.' My favorite part of the story was when the bats were on the printer and printed out copies of them on the papers."... Catherine
"You did an amazing job reading to the class... when I'm older I want to be just like you."... Alexa (gee, thanks, Alexa!)
"My favorite part of the story was when the bats made a monster." ... Ryajiah

Some of the careers the students said they were planning included cruise ship captain, microbiologist, singer/songwriter/fashion designer, businesswoman and teacher.
I'm sure they will accomplish whatever they put their minds to, and that their teacher, Melissa Jefferis, will be an inspiration to them.
Thank you, students. I had a great time.
Keep reading!

A GLIMPSE OF SOME OF THE THANK-YOU LETTERS SENT FROM THE CLASS

Vote, please

2011-05-17T05:44:00.003-04:00

Exercise your rights.

Speak your mind.

Show up.

Be a good citizen.

Set a good example.

Don't make excuses.

Just do it ... VOTE!

The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check out polling places, the ballot, stories on candidates -- all at thereporteronline.com.

My cat was robbed!

2011-05-06T07:05:00.014-04:00

This is my cat, Trick.
She likes to purr. A lot. Loudly. With exuberance, using her whole body.
I'm not kidding. I swear it's how she keeps her girlish figure, even at age 9. Her purring basically vibrates her from head to toe.
But she's been robbed of her rightful title. Yes, on Thursday, the Guiness World Record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat was officially bestowed on Smokey, a gray-and-white tabby that hit the big time by having her purr recorded at 67.7 decibels.
Just for comparison, a lawnmower is 90 decibels.
Smokey is a 12-year-old cat who lives in the UK, and whose purr has been described as "akin to the cooing of an angry dove."
See what you think... a video of Smokey is featured below.
Guess I'd better record Trick, and submit her purring to Guiness. But on second thought, that fame would probably just go to her head.
And she might purr even louder.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T09:23:00.001-04:00

May your Easter basket be filled with good cheer -- and lots of chocolate!

Sorry, Yellow Cat

2011-04-19T10:31:00.001-04:00

OK, so I finally got an iPhone this past weekend and I've been playing around with it. I admit, I have a lot to learn.
As the salesperson who handled my purchase asked me, "Do you know this has a touchscreen? Are you going to be comfortable with that?"
All right, I'm not that bad. But, as I said, I have a lot to learn. Trial and error seems to work the best for me.
So last night, when Yellow Cat was sharing the couch with me, I snapped his photo.
No, it's not very flattering, but I decided to share it anyway. Hey, first attempts and all that. And besides, he's very understanding and tolerant.
Anyone else have cute (and better) pet photos to share?

April showers...

2011-04-14T07:07:00.004-04:00

... mean that a whole lot of people in this area will, once again, be driving with their windshield wipers flapping but without their vehicle lights in operation.
WHY??

This photo show how easy it is to drive with your lights on. But as I see every day, people refuse to do so.
Like a broken record ... not that anyone knows what a record is anymore... I will say again -- it's the LAW! If you have your windshield wipers on, your lights must be on. I really wish the police would enforce this every now and then.
I especially love all those gray cars that blend in with the fog and the dusk whose operators refuse to switch on the lights.
I truly wish someone would explain this. Why won't you turn on your lights? Why is it so difficult?
Why are you so ignorant?

When did we become so dumb?

2011-04-12T06:57:00.008-04:00

It does make you scratch your head and wonder, "When did so many people become so stupid?"
Case in point today: Students at Rutgers University are trying to get Bruce Springsteen to play at the college. Now that seems reasonable, since Rutgers is in New Jersey and The Boss is a Jersey guy.
But that's not the reason they want him. So why are they courting him via a Facebook page? As an attempt at a "salvation."
According to The Associated Press, the Facebook campaign -- "Let's Bring the Boss to Rutgers!" -- is meant to counteract fallout from a recent appearance by Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi.
Get this: The Rutgers University Programming Association paid Snooki of that esteemed "Jersey Shore" um "reality show," $32,000 to answer questions. You have to wonder exactly what she could say that is worth that fee.
And that sum is $2,000 more than Rutgers will pay Nobel-winning novelist Toni Morrison to deliver the commencement address next month.
Oh yeah, now I get it. There's no comparison between the intellectual capabilites of Snooki and Morrison. If you don't get the sarcasm, you're a Snooki fan.
Again, when did we get so dumb?
Of course the students were free to book whomever they wanted, according to Rutgers University President Richard McCormick.
"We don't censor who they invite," McCormick said.
The students hope Springsteen would either perform or have a question-and-answer session similar to the sit-down Snooki gave last month.

So far, no word from Springsteen's publicist.
Well, Snooki would be a hard act to follow....

A touching story

2011-04-08T07:22:00.003-04:00

It's Friday, it's been a long week and I just wanted to share this Associated Press story and photos with you, hoping they brighten your day as they did mine.
Let's hope this all has a happy ending... we need more uplifting moments, don't we?
Here's the sweet tale...

An unusual springtime friendship between a deer and a nesting goose appears to have blossomed inside a cemetery in Buffalo, N.Y. For the past week or so, the deer has been standing near an urn where the goose has taken up residence, positioning itself between the urn and any passing car or foot traffic.

Craig Cygan noticed the unlikely pair during his regular patrols with his goose-chasing border collies. He says there is no mate around the goose and he believes the deer has taken over the job of protecting the nest.

Cornell University wildlife expert Paul Curtis says deer and geese usually don't pay any attention to each other.

Forest Lawn Cemetery officials are trying to arrange for a webcam so the curious can check in on the nest.

Are you a fool?

2011-04-01T07:02:00.003-04:00

Aren't we all a bit foolish on April 1 -- some of us trying to pull pranks, the rest of us trying to avoid being the butt of a joke?
Relax... it's all in fun.
I'm not quite sure what's going on in the vintage French postcard, but apparently they actually had April Fool's Day cards -- Hallmark, are you listening?
But it's goofy enough to share.
So enjoy!

No, thank YOU!

2011-03-29T07:20:00.006-04:00

It's always fun to have Scouts and other groups stop by The Reporter for a tour of the newsroom.
Recently a local Cub Scout Den did just that -- and then sent some homemade thank-you notes. I wanted to feature just a few of them today -- and it was VERY hard to pick just these. They were all so well done and a bright spot in my day.
Joe Monti, their leader, included a letter with the cards, noting that the boys loved the tour and "were excited to see their picture in the paper the next day. Some of the boys took the picture into school for show and tell."
That's great -- and we were so glad to have you!
So really, no thanks are needed... We want to thank YOU for stopping by and being so attentive!
We welcome groups who are interested in a tour, or anyone who would like to use our Community Media Lab during the day (computers are available). We also offer various "short courses" in the lab and welcome new bloggers.
For more information, email nbreaux@thereporteronline.com.
In the meantime, enjoy this great artwork!

I love Vermont, but...

2011-03-09T13:15:00.006-05:00

I have to admit, I'm glad I'm not there this week.
These photos by the Associated Press show just how "beautiful" the weather was, with about 30 inches of snow. Guess I better not complain about the approaching rain that's supposed to hit our area this week.
So, no trip to Vermont just yet. But maybe come October...

Oh, for good old TV days

2011-03-08T09:45:00.002-05:00

I am more than frustrated with the world of TV these days... held hostage to a cable company that raises my rates again and again for channels I never watch. But if I want to get the channels I do like, I can't get just "basic" cable.
And then they drop channels and add others I don't like or move them around.
This morning, a few channels were suddenly moved and when I called to ask why, first one person told me it was to make more room for HD channels, then put me on hold, then transferred me and that person told me NO channels had moved -- it must be just my set.
I give up.
I may have to just watch clips like these on YouTube... might be time better spent.

Guess we're never happy...

2011-03-03T08:34:00.002-05:00

It's only March 3. It's still winter. And yet all I hear is people complaining about it being cold.
Note sentence above: It's still winter!
And really, it's not THAT cold. Plus some warmer days are on the horizon.
What I fear is that false sense of security. When I flipped my calendar over to March, I saw something that, for some reason, I keep noting each year, just as I do people's birthdays -- in the hope that I'll remember to send cards.
This is a more ominous note, from March 13, 1993: BLIZZARD.
Yes, a blizzard in mid March.
We all know this is a crazy month, and I'm not going to complain about the cold or scraping ice off my windshield.
But I sure wouldn't mind if we didn't get anymore snow.
That huge pile near my house from having my driveway plowed this winter is ALMOST gone! No more additions, please.

Seuss favorite?

2011-03-02T14:03:00.004-05:00

Yes, today's the day we celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday ... and there's good reason to celebrate. We've all read tons of his books as children -- and then read them to our children until we had them memorized, no doubt.
And I recently came across a book of his World War II editorial cartoons in a thrift store that I just had to pick up.
It would be hard to pick just one favorite, but Cat in the Hat and "Moo" are outstanding.
How about you ... any top picks?

In like a lamb...

2011-03-01T09:05:00.004-05:00

Yes, March has entered like the proverbial lamb. No snow, no howling winds, no ice storms.
What a lovely break from some of the winter weather we've been having.
Of course we all know what a mercurial month March can be as well, so fasten your seat belts; it may be a bumpy ride.
And since it's a lamb today, does that mean the converse will prove true at the end of the month -- that it will go out like a lion?
That's OK, as long as the "lion" resembles the little guy below.

Edward Gorey's birthday!

2011-02-22T09:16:00.008-05:00

If you're an Edward Gorey fan, as my daughter is, you know that today is his birthday. Since she's a procrastinator, she missed being born on his birthday by one day!

Unfortunately the eccentric artist/writer is no longer with us himself, but his creativity lives on.
And this summer,when we went to Cape Cod, we had the great fortune of visiting his house, now a museum of sorts. Here are just a few of the photos my daughter snapped while there.
And for more info, check out http://www.edwardgoreyhouse.org/

Clean off your snowy car

2011-02-22T08:18:00.004-05:00

This goes out to that person who came flying out of the Jacobs Woods development onto Welsh Road this morning about 6:45 a.m., heading toward Hatfield.
Driving REALLY fast is NOT an effective way to clean the snow off your car. How could you even see?
See how this woman is doing the job, in a file photo from a storm last year?
It was interesting, to say the least, to see this person's car this morning, totally covered, including most of the windshield, with snow flying.
I guess the driver was running late -- not a good idea, especially since the roads were slick and slushy.
So please, just take a few minutes and clean off your vehicles. Keep us all safe out there.
As for the photo below, I just like it. Reporter photographer Mark Psoras snapped it during a snowfall last month at the Elmwood Zoo in Norristown. Enjoy.
When is spring coming?

Oh, that Simon

2011-02-17T07:42:00.006-05:00

If you love cats, you have to check out this site: http://www.simonscat.com/gallery.html
Lots of cute winning photos ... and, of course, Simon...
You'll probably wish you had entered...
Enjoy!

Have a purrfect Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T08:05:00.004-05:00

It's Valentine's Day, it's not snowing ... we'd better enjoy!
I love vintage cards... here's a few to brighten your day...

And another to make you smile...

It's so cold...

2011-02-11T09:04:00.005-05:00

Yes, we could all come up with some catchy endings for that phrase, I'm sure.
But I'm so cold my brain is numb.
The weather forecasters promise warmer weather is nigh, but I'm dreaming of last summer.
So here are a few Cape Cod memories, that may warm your day, too.

So, what Super Bowl ad did you like?

2011-02-07T08:24:00.002-05:00

I wasn't real impressed by the Super Bowl ads Sunday, I have to admit. I didn't watch much of the game, per usual, but generally I'm more than amused by the ads.
I did "like" Kenny G and his mellow tones. Hope you appreciate sarcasm.
But since I've always wanted a Camaro, I did enjoy watching the car...
So, here you go....

Ice, ice baby...

2011-02-02T10:43:00.008-05:00

Just a few shots from Upper Salford this morning.
The groundhog says an early spring ... hope so!

EARLY SPRING, PHIL?

2011-02-02T08:16:00.003-05:00

Yes, it's Groundhog Day.
Yes, it was crazy this morning in Punxsutawney -- thank goodness PCN covers it live... what a hoot!
And as we all watched in anticipation for Phil to be pulled from his little temporary home, we all were thinking the same thing: 6 more weeks of winter.
But no ... Phil shocked us. He swears he did NOT see his shadow (how could he, in the rain?) and that an early spring would be our reward.
Hmmm. With the winter we've been having, I'd love that. But find it hard to believe.
Oh, and if you're wondering about the photo in my blog, that's courtesy of my daughter Danielle this morning. She carried out to our ice-covered deck for a photo op this morning.
She snagged that little critter in a silent auction at Care & Share a few years ago -- probably at one point was something connected to a Grundsow Lodge.
Yes, the groundhog is wishing you good health and good luck.
No doubt we'll need it... unless Phil is right about that early spring.
Fingers crossed!

see no evil ... er ... 3-D

2011-01-20T11:56:00.006-05:00

I remember the first 3-D movie I tried to watch -- emphasis on "tried."
We went to the movies to see "Comin' At Ya," which looked really stupid but my late husband really wanted to see what all the hype was about.
So off we went.
We donned the dumb glasses and settled in to watch this fabulous flick.
My husband quickly was dodging and ducking -- while the next thing to a migrain enveloped my head.
Forget this, I told him; we have to leave. I see no 3-D and I have a splitting headache.
Reluctantly he agreed.
At my next eye doctor appointment I mentioned this experience. He started to laugh and asked why in the world I ever thought I could go to a 3-D movie, considering the "problem" I had with my one eye.
I won't bore you with the details on that problem, but suffice it to say it basically doesn't focus with any real clarity.
Oh, I see... pun intended. My two eyes don't work together, so forget 3-D productions.
Which brings me to a story just reported by the Associated Press. As the writer notes, "From Hollywood studios to Japanese TV makers, powerful business interests are betting 3-D will be the future of entertainment, despite a major drawback: It makes millions of people uncomfortable or sick."

Yea! I'm not alone in the world (I knew at least our former online editor Chris Stanley was a fellow sufferer).

But according to the AP story, as many as one in four of us have problems watching 3-D movies and TV. It might be because of eyestrain or problems perceiving depth in real life.
Regardless, it makes us queasy, dizzy or suffering from headaches.

Naturally there are researchers working on the problem, but true solutions may not come for decades.
Darn.
Guess there's no point in saving up the extra money for a 3-D TV. Or to pay more for a ticket to a 3-D movie.
And I don't get to wear those stupid glasses ... sigh.
Hey, wearing "real" glasses is pain enough, thank you.
Meanwhile, for real 3-D, I'll just head outside and enjoy nature. Ahh, much better.

He was gone far too soon...

2011-01-16T18:05:00.024-05:00

He always wore a look that said he was just a bit worried. Maybe he always knew his days would be short. I hope not. But we lost our beloved cat, Zombie, a few days ago, and we just weren't prepared.
I knew something was wrong the last week or so. He wasn't eating right; he looked thinner. He had taken to hiding under the dining room buffet -- unlike him. But his last night at home he resumed his usual spot on the settee as we ate supper. He generally joined us, almost like a dinner guest, as if he could understand our conversation.
He was sweet; and he loved his mom Beatrice and sister Shel.
But it always seemed as if he were just a bit mournful.
He had his name for a reason. When we were trapping the kittens that Beatrice had in the summer of 2004, he was the last to give in. He was out, hiding under our porch, down in a hole, for more than a day after the others were safely inside. I had about given up; I thought he had perished.
It was raining cats and dogs... sorry ... and we decided to give it one more try. Finally the humane trap snapped... we had the last kitten. Since I thought he had died, but now here he was, full of life, my daughter said we should call him Zombie..
He was never the bravest of cats, but he was one of the sweetest. He didn't pick fights, didn't get into trouble. At Christmas he loved snuggling up to a stuffed Rudolph.
I never dreamed this would be his last year to do that.
But a trip to the vet for a checkup revealed something amiss; a mass could be felt. An X-ray confirmed a problem. Surgery was set for the morning -- this past Thursday.
I got the call at work -- three masses in the bowel and lymph node involvement. There was nothing that could be done.
I had to decide to either have him euthanized while under anesthesia, or if we wanted to be there our vet would close, bring him out of it and then, when we could get there that day, we could be there for it.
I quickly called my daughter, we cried a lot, but decided it would be cruel to not do it immediately.
Even though that almost killed us. We've never not been there to hold them, stroke their fur, tell them how much we love them before they cross the rainbow bridge.
This was even more awful ... but the alternative seemed even more horrible for Zombie.
Our vet sent us note with the sympathy card and told us how Zombie had gotten extra attention before he went into surgery, because he had just been such a love.
It didn't surprise me, but it helped a little to know that others saw what a sweet, sweet soul he was.
His mom and sister still seem lost and confused without him.
So are we ... the ache is still so strong.
These photos are just a little memorial to this very special cat... just six and a half years old.
We miss you, Zombie. We still expect to see you at dinner; to see that special face and your distinctive cry.
Until we meet again, take care. You'll live forever in our hearts.

Zombie just loved spending time with Rudolph...

Zombie was a mommy's boy... here he and mom, Beatrice, nap away...

Gotta love Christmas!

Oh, Christmas tree!!

Zombie and his dear friend Rudolph, again. Sweet dreams, forever...

'snow getting away from it

2011-01-12T09:40:00.009-05:00

The snow is beautiful ... after you're done shoveling and you've safely arrived at your destination.
No problem for my daughter today, because her workplace was closed.
So she was able to snap these photos, offered here for your enjoyment.

I want to go to the Farm Show!

2011-01-06T14:10:00.004-05:00

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO

I love the Pennsylvania Farm Show.
I want to go. I have plans to go.
So of course snow is predicted... we'll see.
But check out this cool butter sculpture, unveiled today at the show that opens Saturday in Harrisburg. OK, maybe 1,000 pounds of butter isn't the most healthful thing around, but these sculptures always are very cool.

The Pennsylvania Dairy Industry showed off the sculpture prior to the opening of the 95th Annual Pennsylvania Farm Show, and it depicts a dairy farmer providing milk to children playing. It was created by Jim Victor of Conshohocken.

Oh, and after the show is over, the sculpture will be converted into biofuel
Now that IS cool.

Visit The Reporter!

2011-01-04T08:33:00.002-05:00

If you check out today's Reporter, you'll see this great photo of Cub Scouts -- and one Boy Scout -- from Pack 62, based at St. John's UCC in Lansdale. They paused for this photo after touring The Reporter on Monday. The youngsters met writers and editors and had a behind the scenes look at our media company.

If you have a group that would like a quick tour, just let us know... email nbreaux@thereporteronline.com or call (215) 361-8820.
We'll be happy to welcome you in!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-01T09:24:00.004-05:00

May your resolutions be positive and attained.
And may we move into a gentler, kinder world in 2011.

For auld...

2010-12-30T10:46:00.001-05:00

It's almost time to sing this again...
are you ready?

Snowfall ... so cool

2010-12-27T19:36:00.006-05:00

As one of the lucky ones who is on vacation this week, my daughter was able to snap a few -- well, a lot -- of photos out at our place on Monday after the snowstorm.
The snowfall looks so lovely on these photos ... I'm sharing a few here.
I wasn't feeling quite this appreciative, however, when we were shoveling and then when I was maneuvering the drifted roads on my way to work Monday morning.
But enjoy ... the snow always looks pretty on photos, doesn't it?

the day after...

2010-12-26T13:12:00.003-05:00

Hope you're enjoying the holiday weekend, despite the snow...

AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-25T09:50:00.005-05:00

Peace, love, kindness, compassion.
May all your Christmas wishes come true!

Simon's Cat in 'Santa Claws'

2010-12-22T08:41:00.002-05:00

Anyone with a cat -- or multiple cats, as I do -- can relate to this scenario.
It's almost Christmas -- has your tree survived?
Sit back, relax and chuckle ... even if you don't have cats, you should love this!

Wow... lunar eclipse on the winter solstice!

2010-12-21T07:50:00.007-05:00

OK, so I admit I did not get up in the middle of the night to see the lunar eclipse. But I did catch the tail end around 4 a.m. today -- does that count?
Truly is cool that the full moon was on the winter solstice AND we had an eclipse!
Enjoy these Associated Press photos.
The huge moon photo shows the view from Stedman, N.C., taken with a 10-second time exposure.
The series of photos was taken over an hour-long period in Overland Park, Kan.

According to the AP, a total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth casts its shadow on the full moon, blocking the sun's rays that otherwise reflect off the moon's surface. Some indirect sunlight still pierces through to give the moon its eerie hue.
The totality phase — when the moon was completely immersed in Earth's shadow — lasted 72 minutes.

The last time a full eclipse occurred with the winter solstice was on Dec. 21, 1638. It won't happen again until Dec. 21, 2094, so I won't be around for that one!

Want to help stray cats?

2010-12-20T08:14:00.016-05:00

It's so easy to do.
Stray Cat Blues, the local nonprofit, no-kill cat rescue, could possibly win $2,000 WITH YOUR HELP.
One of the Stray Cat volunteers works for Digitas, which is awarding $2,000 each week in December to charities with which their employees are involved.

Stray Cat Blues is one of the charities in the running to win $2,000 -- wouldn't that be a great Christmas present for the kitties! -- and you can help make that possible by voting for them.
It's easy... click here http://www.facebook.com/digitashealthgrouphug
to go to the Facebook page, click on POLL, vote, hit SUBMIT at the bottom -- and REPEAT!
Contest ends on Friday at 11 a.m. so spend some time every day putting in as many votes as you can! And spread the word.

And here's some info on the project:
Digitas has started what the company calls Group HUG (short for “Helping U Give”), to recognize their employees and the charities that they aid.

• You are invited to vote for your favorite charities under the “Polls” tab. Hit POLL, vote, go to bottom and hit SUBMIT.

• Each week, Digitas Health will award $2,000 to the charity with the most votes, for a total of $10,000 donated during December.

HAPPY FESTIVUS!

2010-12-15T20:37:00.007-05:00

Everyone ready to air your grievances and perform feats of strength?
Have that festivus pole ready?
OK, me neither...
But in the spirit of the "holiday," let me wish you a Happy Festivus!
And just to lift your spirits on this day before Christmas Eve, here are a few photos of Christmas decorations brightening our house, graciously provided by my daughter.
Enjoy!

Oh, Tannenbaum!

2010-12-15T20:25:00.006-05:00

This year we decided to do something different and more personal when choosing our Christmas tree. When we visited my sister just after Thanksgiving (thank you, Mother Nature, for spoiling our actual Thanksgiving Day plans!), my brother-in-law was kind enough to cut down a "wild" tree for us.
First was the exciting ride on the back of a tractor to high atop a hill on their farm -- on a VERY cold day. But it was a lot of fun and we just love the tree.
And in the next photo, you'll see that our cat Zombie really loves it, too!
There was nothing quite like transporting it from Catawissa in the back of my Explorer -- the aroma was wonderful!
Hope we can do this again.
And if you're wondering what that is near the top of our tree, in the bottom photo, it's a Belsnickle ornament.
If you don't have any Pennsylvania Dutch in you, that may leave you scratching your head.
Hey, I'm sure you can Google it and find out the whole story!
As for this tree, we'll be sad to say goodbye after the holidays.
It may be our most favorite tree ever! Nothing cookie-cutter about it; totally natural.
You gotta love it!

Pets like Santa, too

2010-12-02T08:52:00.002-05:00

Come on, you know that your pets are part of your family.
So of course you want them to see Santa, right?
You have your chance again this year, thanks to Stray Cat Blues, the local no-kill cat rescue, which once again is working with PetSmart for an annual fundraiser.
For $9.95 you get a digital photo of your pet with Santa and a holiday frame. Five dollars of the price of the package is donated to Stray Cat Blues, a very worthy cause.
This year Stray Cat Blues volunteers will be covering this event in two locations on the following dates:
Dec. 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., plus Dec. 11, 12, 18 and 19 at PetSmart at Witchwood Drive and Knapp Road, Montgomery Township; and on Dec. 11 and 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at PetSmart Providence Town Center, Arcola Road and Route 29, near Collegeville.
So gather up those cats, dogs, ferrets, snakes -- what have you.
Santa is waiting!

RAINY START TO DECEMBER!

2010-12-01T08:02:00.002-05:00

OK, everyone has shopped on Black Friday (but me) and Cyber Monday (but me) and all those shoppers are in the holiday mood (me... a little).
And now it's Dec. 1 and the rain is pouring down.
Relax, enjoy the music and the fire ... snow will be here soon enough!
Happy December, Happy Hanukkah and an early Merry Christmas!

Where are the great decorations?

2010-11-30T08:27:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again -- time to deck the halls, the houses, the lawns, every square inch.
The Reporter wants to help you find the great places to view holiday lights -- and we need your help!
Let us know if you're creating a great display or know of one in the area.
Just email the details -- exact location, brief description -- to citydesk@thereporteronline; put LIGHTS DISPLAY in the subject line.
We'll post a map at our website, thereporteronline.com, and feature photos of some of the displays.
Hope to hear from you!

Decking the tree...

2010-11-29T09:04:00.003-05:00

Tuesday night the grand tree at Rockefeller Center, NYC, will have its official lighting ceremony.
But this cool video shows how the tree was set up -- don't you wish we all could do it this quickly?
Check it out and get into the holiday spirit!

Beatles come to iTunes at last

2010-11-16T10:21:00.004-05:00

Yes, it's official. The Beatles are finally coming to the Internet.

According to an Associated Press story, Apple Inc. will sell music from the Fab Four through iTunes.
Apple Corps Ltd., which manages the band's affairs, had resisted, according to the AP.
The situation was exacerbated by a long-running trademark dispute between Apple Inc. and Apple Corps, AP said, but was resolved in 2007 when the companies agreed on joint use of the apple logo and name.

Most longtime Beatles fans probably already have plenty of their music on iPods, loading CDs into their iTunes library ... or through other, ahem, means.
But it's still great news.
Finally, everything has "come together."

Thank you, veterans

2010-11-11T07:21:00.002-05:00

PHOTO BY GEOFF PATTON/ FROM LANSDALE'S 2009 VETERANS DAY CEREMONY

Today is Veterans Day, and we should all show our appreciation to those who have served, those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and those who are serving today.
There are various local events today to honor our veterans.
Here is a sampling:
-- Warren Royer Post 234 of the American Legion in Souderton and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5308 in Telford will hold a flag retirement ceremony as part Veterans Day observance today. The ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. at the Legion post home, 353 N. Main St., Souderton.

-- The Lansdale American Legion William E. Hare Post 206 holds the annual Veterans Day ceremony in Memorial Park, Main Street, Lansdale, at 6 p.m. today. Cub Pack 9 will present a wreath at the ceremony. The Rev. Sue Bertolette, of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Lansdale, will lead opening prayer and the benediction. Light snacks at the Legion post will follow the ceremony.

-- Hatfield American Legion Post 933 holds a Veterans Day ceremony at 7 p.m. today at the legion flagpole on Koffel Road. Civil War re-enactors from First Pennsylvania Reserves Company E Re-enactment Unit will appear to aid in the flag ceremony. Re-enactors and Boy Scout Troop 51 will help lower the colors and raise them at half-staff. Afterward, the public is invited to an open house at the Legion post home.

-- Applebee’s at Ralph’s Corner in Hatfield Township offers free meals to veterans from 10 a.m. to midnight today. To coincide with the promotion, local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts will give thank-you notes to veterans and talk with them about their experiences. There will be live bands outside playing patriotic music as well.

thank you, SAVE!

2010-11-09T18:14:00.003-05:00

This photo shows a "beautiful" air conditioner, not unlike the few that I had hanging around my house until this past Saturday.
They weren't working, but I kept putting off calling our trash service to have them taken away, since they charge $60 apiece for that service.
Then, a bright ray of sunshine -- SAVE (Students Against Violating the Earth) at Souderton Area High School was holding a recycling day ... and taking air conditioners!
I loaded up all three ... and an old dehumidifier ... and was oh so happy to be able to get rid of them without that big price tag!
I was more than happy to give SAVE a donation that day ... after all, the group had saved me a lot of money!

Cat abuse unfathomable

2010-11-04T13:26:00.003-04:00

If you need yet another dose of how horrible some people can be to animals, just read this Associated Press story.
I don't understand how this can happen.
And it's more than scary that teens can be this callous and violent. AND THEY TAPED THIS! Just think what they might do to another human being some day...

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Animal welfare officials in Philadelphia are alleging that two teenagers put a stray cat inside a microwave and tossed the appliance out of a third-story window.

Officials from the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals say the cat survived but was taken for evaluation by veterinarians. They say the teens recorded the entire episode on a cell phone on Wednesday afternoon in the Juniata section of the city.

George Bengal, director of law enforcement for the Pennsylvania SPCA, told reporters that the teens had found the cat on the street four days earlier. He says the recording shows the events from start to finish, including the microwave hitting the ground. Bengal says officials hope the animal will survive. A dog was also taken from the home.
======

Luckily my "rescued" cats have nothing like this to fear.
This photo of Pokey basically sums up their "stressful" lives...

attack of the jacks!

2010-11-01T21:03:00.005-04:00

ALL PHOTOS.... COURTESY OF DANIELLE BREAUX

If you missed heading to Gwynedd-Mercy College on Saturday, you missed a terrific Halloween display!
Here are just a few of the 300 craftily carved pumpkins that lit up the night.
It made for a great prelude to Halloween and benefited a good cause.
Absolutely worth the trip!

happy halloween!

2010-10-31T10:06:00.003-04:00

May you all got lots of treats!

Harrisburg... worth the trip

2010-10-28T15:08:00.003-04:00

ArtHouse Lounge in Harrisburg

I have to admit, Harrisburg was never exactly at the top of my "must tour" list. And I also have to admit that I still haven't seen a lot of it -- unless you count many, many trips to the Farm Show.
But during my time off last week... after that infamous trip to Shippensburg (see earlier blog post) ... I visited with that great friend who hosted us at his Cape Cod home this summer. Yes, that's his summer home; the rest of the year he lives just outside Harrisburg.
So after Ship, we stopped in for a visit and he treated us to an evening in the 'burg... a lovely walk along the river, a visit to an art show opening, a stop at another gallery called the ArtHouse Lounge, great food at a terrific place called Carley's and a truly dangerous stop at a huge used bookstore -- dangerous only because of how many books we already own.
But it was a great evening and I was pleasantly surprised at how lively and appealing Harrisburg turned out to be.
Definitely worth a return visit!

HAPPY 140TH, REPORTER!

2010-10-27T07:49:00.002-04:00

The Reporter streams from the press at Journal Register Offset, in this photo by online editor Chris Stanley.

The Reporter building, in early times...

Oct. 27 marks the 140th birthday of The Reporter!!
Don't miss our special section in print today -- and the great features on our website, www.thereporteronline.com

And, as a special treat, here's a song, just for The Reporter, from my boys...

Ship happens

2010-10-26T11:43:00.004-04:00

Some people say you can't go home again. Maybe they're right, at least where college is concerned.
I took last week off from work, and during that time I paid a visit to my alma mater, Shippensburg University. I hadn't been there for quite some time, and knew that a lot of things would have changed.
But at least I got one question answered. For some time, I've been wondering what the heck the new mascot was.
Back in the olden days when I was a student there, we were the Red Raiders and had as our mascot an Indian. That was replaced and now the logo is, I suppose, a pirate ship -- or some type of ship. It's annoying, to say the least. There's no ocean anywhere near Shippensburg.
In the alumni magazine, I'd see the new mascot from time to time, and figured it was a parrot. It was wearing a pirate's hat, after all.
But when I picked up The Slate, the student newspaper, last week, the mascot actually had a column -- and set the record straight. It's a red-tailed hawk, called Big Red.
OK... a hawk in a pirate's hat.
Yeah... Anyway, I had quite the time finding a shirt in the bookstore that didn't have a ship on it.
Finally found one that's quite fitting. It simply says: Ship Happens.
Yes, it does.

Join the 4-H alpaca fun!

2010-10-15T07:57:00.004-04:00

PHOTO BY REPORTER CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER GEOFF PATTON

As someone who always loved being a member of 4-H and, later, a leader, the news about a new club starting up caught my attention.
And it's not something you hear about every day -- its a 4-H Alpaca Club.
Yes, I've seen them at the fair as "displays" and we have a few farms in the area that raise alpacas.
Now youths will have a chance to work with them first-hand and, perhaps, they'll start raising them as well.
The first meeting of the club is set for this coming Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the 4-H Center on Route 113, Skippack. You don't have to own an alpaca to join, and there will be some alpacas at this first meeting.
Kids are advised to "come dressed for work around the animals" and it sounds like this should be both fun and informative. You have to be 9 to join in and there is an enrollment fee of $30, but it sure sounds worth it.
So consider joining up! Just call the 4-H Office at (610) 489-4315 and give your name, age, birth date, address and phone number. They can help you with the rest of the details.