Connect to Disconnect

Koko Remembers Robin Williams

I just read this story on the web site of The Gorilla Foundation and wanted to share.

In 2001, Robin Williams was invited to meet Koko, the gorilla who communicates in sign language, at The Gorilla Foundation in northern California (see photo above). We had no idea what to expect, but everyone was in for a treat, and they became very special friends.

On Monday, Aug. 11, the day news broke of Williams' passing, Koko and Penny and Ron (Drs. Patterson and Cohn) were together when phone calls started coming in about the sad event. 

After the first call, Koko came to Dr. Patterson with an inquiring look on her face.  Dr. Patterson explained that "we have lost a dear friend, Robin Williams."  Koko was quiet and looked very thoughtful (above photo).

More phone calls about the news came in, and Koko overheard one from a former colleague who had worked with Williams while he filmed a public service announcement for The Gorilla Foundation (based on his visit with Koko) in 2003.  The colleague's voice broke at the end of the conversation.  About a half an hour later, Koko signed to Penny:  "CRY LIP" (LIP is Koko's sign for woman).

At the end of the day, Koko became very somber, with her head bowed and her lip quivering (below photo).

Here is the YouTube video of the day Robin Williams and Koko met...

Blue Ribbons, Red Ribbons

This year I was able to get some creative pieces together for the annual Extension Homemakers Regional Cultural Arts competition, a nine county event.  It is the qualifier to compete at the state convention in May.  

I am so pleased with how I did.  I entered 9 items and came out with 7 ribbons of first or second place.  The first place pieces will go up to Louisville in May.

Black and White Photography

"Storing Up Summer"

Jewelry - Beaded

Asymmetrical single strand, using new and vintage beads.

Jewelry - Mixed Media

"Boho Button Necklace"

Buttons, beads, and wire on a chain.

Photography - Color

"Bob White"

Drawing - Colored Pencil

"Carmen's Home"

Miscellaneous Class

"Old Rugged Cross"

Mixed Media art

Ceramics - Hand Formed

Small tray

Ohhhhh No Way!!

Have you ever seen a photo of yourself and thought "Oh my goodness!"... and NOT in a good way?

Friday Himself and I went out to mail some things, then we headed down to a recreational area along the river for a walk.  Himself took the little camera I keep in my purse and started snapping photos of me as I walked along the beach area.

When I downloaded them I was shocked.

WHO was that frump in the picture??  (Nope... not showing those pics...)

Saggy baggy clothes, no make-up and hair that could use a washing just to get it to fluff up.

IN PUBLIC!!!

Yesterday morning I was up bright and early to rip into my closet and dresser before we went into town to meet someone.  Right along the route is the Goodwill store and I fully planned to make a drop off!

This drawer had been crammed full.  Be gone dark and baggy!  I haven't lost all this weight to not show off my new form.  Most of the drawers looked like this when I was finished.

Then it was time for the closet...

Another armload of things cleared out.  I had a garbage bag full by the time we needed to leave.

When we got home I started back on the decluttering.  

My shoes that are left (actually, I ditched one more pair after I took this photo).

My dress shoes are in plastic shoe boxes with photos so I can remember what's in them.  

Also went through purses, bags, belts... well, about everything I own.  There is another trash bag sitting at the foot of the bed!

Still need to get the jewelry done.  That will be a good job for today.

Plus by the end of the month I'll be sporting a new hair cut and it is definitely time for a mani-pedi!

I never want to see that frumpy old woman again!!!

Joni Eareckson Tada

In the late 70s, I think every young woman who attended church ... and a lot of young men... read this book by Joni Eareckson.

It told the story of how Joni became paralyzed in a diving accident and how she has created a new life for herself.

Recently she visited a local church for a speaking engagement.  Of course Himself and I went.  We were one of those young people who read that book.  It was an enjoyable evening.

Joni Eareckson Tada and her husband Ken.

http://www.joniandfriends.org/  

Take With Food

When vitamins say "Take with food"... they are NOT kidding.

And I would like to add here that a big bowl of soup for supper is not considered "food" by one's stomach when it comes to vitamins.  I made that mistake Wednesday night.

As we went to bed, I told Himself I was feeling a bit sick/sore in the stomach.  At 2 AM my world blew up and for the next 3 days I was very sick.  It was a blessing that Himself was here.  I was so completely pampered and taken care of.  Wish I hadn't been so sick so I could have enjoyed the spoiling more!

So PLEASE, take your vitamins with some serious food!!!

Little Hoopsters

Sports is THE thing in my family, especially for Sis and Big J (both were college athletes).  So it's no surprise that Little Bird and Little Hoss are into sports too (such as it is with a 4 year old and a 5 year old).  Our last trip up, we were able to watch one of their games.

Sis is helping coach Little Hoss' team (he's the one with the ball). 

Running is the best part!  (Hoss is on the far left).

But they are learning skills, so it's fun to watch as they change.  (Hoss in on the far left in red).

The second game was Little Bird's.

She seems to be getting the hang of it.

I was impressed on how well she kept her eye on the ball.

She tries very hard to get in there and work it.

It's going to be fun breaking out these photos when they are in high school!!  LOL