Reflections of China

1 Hall of Happiness, Yu Garden, Shanghai.

Barbara and Chuck, thanks so much for sharing

your wonderful memories with all of us!

Sue, Per your request attached are pictures from our trip to China in Sept.--a wonderful trip that provided us with many opportunities to explore the Chinese culture. We toured big cities---Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, Hong Kong-- and also small villages. Other points of interest included the Great Wall, Terra Cotta Warriors, the Three Gorges Dam, Yangtze River, Forbidden City, Tianenmen Square, Potala Palace in Tibet, Buddhist temples, and Sera Monastery in Tibet (where the uprising began in March).

We had lunch with two families and stayed overnight with a family in a farmers' painting village. This provided an opportunity to see the Chinese people in everyday surroundings.
The Chinese food was delicious and easier to eat as we became more proficient using chopsticks!! Lots of vegetables in a variety of sauces--and some meat included in those dishes. We usually had soup and rice with each meal. (No bagels for breakfast!) We even had a Yak burger (with fries) in Tibet--quite a tasty treat!! Very little sweets or desserts, bread, or dairy products. We knew it was the end of the meal when watermelon and melon were served.
Early in the morning (6AM) one could see people doing Tai Chi in the park, playing badminton and participating in other forms of exercise. In the afternoon and evening the groups of people gathered to dance in the park. In the park it was common to see people playing Mahjong or cards with intense competition and spectators taking it all in.

We visited a Kung Fu School (some of the boys were a part of the Olympic opening ceremonies which the boys said was a lot of hard work). Visiting a silk factory, silk carpet factory, cloisonne factory, jade showroom and a lacquerware showroom provided an opportunity to learn about the production of these goods--and, of course, opportunity for retail therapy!!
One of the memorable visits was to an orphanage in Tibet. While there, we were serenaded with "You are My Sunshine" and "If You're Happy and You Know It". In return, we sang a song for them "Frere Jacque" in French, English and Chinese. The children happily showed us their living quarters (very sparse) and various rooms in the orphanage.

All in all a memorable experience which gave us all an appreciation for all that we have available to us--so many times taken for granted!!
Barbara and Chuck Knauf

#10 Potala (Dalai Lama) Palace, Lhasa,Tibet. Dalai Lama vacated in 1959,

#9 Three Gorges Dam, Yangtze River on which we cruised for 4 days & nights west of the dam.

#8 Terra Cotta soldiers pit near Xian.

#7 The Heavenly Temple, Beijing. Where Emperor prayed for good harvests. Millions spent restoring for Olympics.

#6 The Great Wall. More remote section than seen on TV.

#5 Olympic/Paralympic One World/One Dream display in Tiananamen Square next to the Forbidden City.

#4 One of many emperor palaces in the Forbidden City, Beijing.

#3 Lunch food in local family's home, Shanghai. 23rd floor of high-rise.

#2 Shanghai Pudong area. Building on right with needle eye at top is second tallest building in the world. We went to the top.

News From Glenn!

I was so glad to hear from Glenn that I am breaking my own political rule to post this. Glenn wishes all of us to be informed. We are all looking forward to seeing you back at Sam's! Enjoy the election news tomorrow.

Submitted by Glenn,,,,,,,


Vote Against Question 2!

BYAnthony J. O’Donnell – House of Delegates Republican Leader
Christopher B. Shank – House of Delegates Republican Whip

Over the last few months, the citizens of this state have been bombarded with a variety of myths regarding the slots constitutional amendment. There have been radio and television ads that warn ominously of tax hikes and cuts to education and public safety if slots are not authorized. This fear-mongering ad campaign is financed by a handful of individuals who will make a tremendous amount of money if this plan moves forward. Members of the Democratic leadership have made not-so-subtle threats to unions, community organizations, and other interest groups bullying them into supporting the amendment. Those voicing opposition to the amendment have been demonized. Even if you are in favor of slots coming to Maryland, when you push past the layers of rhetoric and look at this constitutional amendment in its entirety, it is clear that this is not the way slots should be authorized in this state. The House Republican Caucus opposes the slots constitutional amendment because it is a bad deal for the citizens of Maryland and does nothing to address the root causes of our fiscal problems. The House Republican Caucus has a slots plan ready to introduce that does not require a constitutional amendment and allows market forces and local input, rather than political favors and back room deals, to determine the locations.

The first myth that needs to be addressed is that Question 2 is a referendum on slots. Maryland does not have a provision for referenda. Question 2 is not an up or down vote on slots and voting against it does not prevent the authorization of slots in the future. Question 2 is an amendment to Maryland’s Constitution, the primary governing document of the State. This amendment not only authorizes slot machines but authorizes them in specific locations throughout the state. The locations and beneficiaries of the proposed slots plan were decided in a back-room closed process, with no consideration for market forces or the concerns of local governments. Once authorized, any changes to the slots program will require a constitutional amendment. There will be no way to address unforeseen problems that require changes, such as a problem with a particular location, until an election year when the citizens can vote to approve the changes. There is no need to authorize slot machines with a constitutional amendment and failure of this amendment does not mean that the General Assembly cannot come back in January and authorize a slot machine plan that benefits all of Maryland. The second myth that needs to be addressed is that if the constitutional amendment fails, the only option will be more taxes and draconian cuts to deal with the $1 billion deficit we face in FY 2010. Another myth is that education funding will be enhanced or jeopardized depending on the passage or failure of this amendment. The truth is the constitutional amendment does not bring in significant revenues until 2012. The revenues that will be dedicated to education will be used to supplant monies already spent on education, not to increase overall education spending. The message being sold to the citizens by the Democratic leadership is slots OR taxes – the fact of the matter is, the economic situation, the current deficit, and the unwillingness of the majority to restrain spending will lead to slots AND taxes. In contrast, our slots plan will generate an immediate $850 million in upfront revenue in FY 10 that will fill a significant portion of the structural deficit. Our plan will bring in more revenue overall than the constitutional amendment. The House Republican slots plan, in combination with our budget proposal will not only eliminate any need for tax increases, but will allow for a repeal of the historic tax increase passed in 2007.

What the citizens of Maryland need to know is that this constitutional amendment is a bad deal for the taxpayers. It gives away slots licenses well below their market value to a handful of wealthy, politically well-connected individuals. In these tough economic times, and in the wake of the largest tax increase in Maryland’s history, that is grossly inappropriate and should not stand. The constitutional amendment will do nothing to address the $1 billion deficit and will not prevent new taxes. It allows the Democratic leadership in Annapolis to continue to recklessly spend money with no control or accountability. The taxpayers of Maryland do not have that luxury and neither should their elected leaders. It is time for the citizens of Maryland to say NO to Martin O’Malley, Mike Miller, and Mike Busch. No unjust enrichment for political patrons, no more reckless spending, no more threats, no more fear. The best option for our citizens is to vote AGAINST Question 2!

Election Eve

If any of you are still undecided out there this election eve, check out this video for your consideration. More proof that we are living in scary times.

http://www.aarpvote08.org/?d=U3VzYW4gQ29oZW4

Catonsville Halloween Pix

Farewell to the caretaker and his cauldron at Bill's

An electrifying experience (Bill's)

Entering the cemetary with the caretaker (Bill's)

Bill's porch

The accident scene on Bill's front lawn

Bill's front walkway

Sarah, Julia, Elizabeth, Rosa and Shannon prepare to be scared

My neighbors, the Buchers, also decorated for Halloween

Our house with the new fog machine at the steps

Check out the fabulous pumpkin carvings at Pumpkin Gutters site, recommended by Chuck.

Catonsville Halloween Haunting

Bill's Haunted House starts at 6 pm on Halloween night.
It sounds like an excellent walk-through adventure for those who don't scare easily.
Bring your family and friends to 116 Sanford Avenue, 21228. Free!

Welcome Home, Gwen

Gwen, her daughter and granddaughter are visiting from Florida. Doug, Gladys and Gwen
Tracy, Faith, and "Grandy"

Happy Birthday to Jean

Yesterday, Jean thought it was her birthday. She had to look at the date on the newspaper before she believed me that her birthday was actually today! We had planned an 8 am birthday celebration at Sam's for Saturday morning, and Sarah did a great job of not spoiling the surprise. Jean said she was celebrating the 26th anniversary of her 50th birthday. Jean in her favorite pose (hidden from view)
Turns out that at 8 am, I take incredibly poor photos. It isn't easy to make everyone look this bad in a photo, but I managed. Think this was could be in a "Write that caption" contest.
Captions, anyone? Please submit by clicking on "comment" below.

Bill wore his birthday hat and accepted many well wishes. Patty does her best to ignore a comment about Mr. Microphone, which made her cry and Gladys blush.

Luckily Gwen was in town from Florida to celebrate with us!

Harold, birthday girl Jean, and Sue

So many people we needed two tables.

Harold and Doug

Doug, John and Gwen are big Maryland fans

Gladys and Jack

Bill thought Don looked like baby Sweet Pea from the Popeye cartoon

Jim and Dorothy

Jean was working out a deal with Jim to get help with the new TV and FIOS.

Catonsville Haunted House

Honk if you see Bill's truck around town

Don't forget that everyone is invited to stop by Bill Tucker's on Halloween night at 116 Sanford Avenue. This year, he is teaming up with son Jack and friend (who did the Haunted Pool last year) to create a very spooky walk-through haunted event. See you there if you dare anytime after dark. Don't forget to say "Hi" to Bill if Leatherface attacks you!

In Memory of Gram

Harold's grandmother, Blanche Abramson Silverstein, passed away over the weekend after a long illness. She would have been 95 years old in a few days. She was a very hard-working, kind, practical lady well-known for dispensing cookies, advice and chicken soup with love. One of her mottos was "Fight on!" and she did that with dignity. She will truly be missed.

Gram was buried yesterday in Philadelphia. Due to an accident on Interstate 95, poor Gram was literally late to her own funeral! The service was very simple and moving as Arnold, Harold, Beth, and Neil shared their recollections of Gram. Katelyn read a psalm. But what got to me was the sight of my tall 18-year old son in a new suit, solemnly acting as pallbearer.

Friends and family may call at the home of Harold's parents, Arnold and Ann Cohen, on Wednesday (10/22) and Thursday (10/23) evenings. Their address is 2528 Willow Glen Road, Pikesville, MD 21209.

Forgive Me, Dimitri, For I Have Sinned

• The other night I had to pick some work materials up in Columbia. It was around 6:30 pm, and I couldn't help but notice the beautiful sunset. I pulled off Snowden River into a parking lot and took the above photos of the sunset and the rising full moon. A gentleman said to me, "Wow, you timed it right. A sunset and they're coming off the line now." "What are?" I asked. "The Krispy Kreme donuts". I looked up and I was parked in front of a Krispy Kreme Store. Now, I have had a cold Krispy Kreme from a convenience store in the past and had not been impressed. But I went in and watched the donuts on their little conveyor belt getting fried and glazed. They smelled great. People were rushing in to buy the fresh donuts. I bought a dozen and ate two on the way home. Don't know if it was because I hadn't eaten in over 6 hours, but they were DELICIOUS and hot! They were crispy like the beignets in New Orleans with a sweet sugar glaze instead of powdered sugar. Anyway, I am glad I don't live nearby, because I fear I could easily become addicted. I feel better now that I have confessed. (But do try them hot if you get the chance!)



• Bill W. had an infected leg but is on antibiotics now and feeling a bit better. He had some terrific jokes which I have sadly forgotten.



• I missed noting that the blog was a year old on September 22. Just like the Seinfeld show, it is truly something based on nothing. But I hope that it has given the few faithful readers some smiles over the past 12 months!



• We have a Wii at home and recently got the Wii Fit game. You stand on a Wii board (which also measures your weight and balance) and attempt to do various exercises with your virtual trainer. It's a lot of fun. Yesterday my "trainer" told me my balance was off and asked me if I tripped frequently. How could he know my long family history of klutziness? Anyway, I tripped UP the curb yesterday at work and skinned my knee and hand. It was my first experience of having something in my virtual world foreshadow an event in my real world. Wonder if he could give me virtual lottery numbers.



• I am doing my patriotic duty and attempting to stay awake for the final presidential debate. Will anyone else be glad when this election process is over? The process seems to take 2 years now, a waste of time and travel and money. I would vote for a shorter campaign season in the future.

Columbus Day 2008

• We celebrated Paul's 79th birthday yesterday. Bill T. asked him if he had made a birthday wish, and Paul replied, " Yes, but it's none of your business". Jean blushed. Well, hope you have many more good wishes!


• Gladys reported that Gwen had called from Florida, and she will be visiting this week. Look for her at Sam's on Friday morning.


• Alicia was looking forward to a week's sailing trip. She sailed from Philadelphia on Sunday.


• Harold will be off to the state of Washington for a long teaching weekend.


• It was Wall Street's best day in years, going up many points instead if down for a change. Maybe 13 is not an unlucky number. Let's see what happens the rest of the week.


• Enjoy the warm "Indian summer" weather while it's here. Hope Mike and Glenn continue to recuperate at home. We are thinking of you.
  

Foster Family Bingo!

The Foster Family had over 200 participants last night at their Bingo to fight breast cancer. This is the 9th year they have held the event since Pat Foster defeated breast cancer in 1999. They had gone to so much trouble to have beautiful filled baskets, door prizes, raffles and food. We had fun being together, but the luck of the Irish wasn't with us. Patty, Pat and Marty look happy at the start of the evening

before they realize they were seated at the loser's table!

Since I had so much extra time (what with NOT dabbing any numbers on my card), I took a photo of this cool "Dab Out Breast Cancer" ink bottle. You can see that only my "free spaces" had any ink on them.

Even this guy came over to point out that ours

was the only table not winning anything.

Kelly Foster finally delivers a basket to our table.

The lady in yellow sat at our table after intermission and won TWO baskets.

(We hate her.)
Kim calls out her winning numbers.

Pat consoles Patty and Pat on our table's Bingo performance.

We still had fun, and there's always next year!

My friend, Mary Lou, who joined us last night has invited all of us to another Longaberger Basket Bingo at Resurrection Church in Ellicott City on Friday, November 7th at 6 pm. Proceeds benefit the youth group and food will be available. Let me know if you want a ticket.....our luck can't always be this bad!

Post-op day 3

It's POD #3, as they say in the biz. Swelling after trauma generally starts to go down after the third day, so I'm hoping for rapid improvement in this horrible pain. Today is my first full day at home, and my parents reluctantly concede I am self-sufficient enough not to need someone monitoring my home 24-7. It's like they want to make up for neglecting me as a child or something.

My sis wants to visit this weekend from Boston. "I know you're not up for company, " she says, "but I'll stay out of the way and take the kids around to their activities. We know we're being an annoying family, but most families are, you know." She makes me laugh out loud, so I say OK.

I just awakened from this really hard, deep afternoon nap. You know the kind. I dreamed I was visiting my sister, and walking around her neighborhood was something like Dr. Seuss Land. The people walked exotic, flamboyant, colorful, one of a kind dogs that resembled themselves. The trees were groomed in the form of intricate long, slender show dogs or birds, complete with soft fur, floppy ears, or feathers, and big eyes. The sidewalks were icy, but perfect for shimmying down like a surfer or a skateboarder on the soles of my sneakers.

My kids have Columbus Day off, so I'll have them for the long weekend? They're excited about the meal menus they planned, "I call dinner", "I call breakfast."

I'm excited about having my blankets arranged well. When the weather turns chilly and I'm alone in bed, I like lots of downy, plushy-soft blankets. When my children were little, I used to remove all the blankets from their beds before they got in. Then they would lie down. Then one by one, I would grab each sheet or blanket by two corners, and when they said "Go!", I'd fling it high up to the ceiling and let it float down on a billowy cushion of air to meet them. When this was done for all five or so blankets, we knew they were tucked in snuggly for the night.

Can Halloween Be Far Behind?

• Haven't hear from Dr. Mike yet. We are thinking of you and hoping that your surgery was successful.
• Scott has returned from a successful fishing trip. Doug took Scott and his daughter Courtney out on the bay. Scott said he finally caught some fish after he removed the plastic covers on his fishing hooks.
• Bingo tomorrow night at The Lodge to benefit cancer research. The Bingo event is being sponsored by the Foster family. Doors open at 6 pm.What could Gene be looking at on Sam's parking lot?
  

Why, it's Bill T's creepy passenger! That must mean that he is gearing up for his famous haunted house at 116 Sanford Avenue on Halloween night. All welcome.

Katelyn was home for a visit and had breakfast with her PopPop Paul.

For just $3, you can purchase a "Glenn's Friend" spirit bracelet at Sam's. All of the proceeds go to Glenn's family. I see a lot of the Bagel Bunch already sporting them. We are thinking of you, Glenn.