Sensing the beauty of people around you
Ukraine. When that country was so prominent in the news did you loyal readers feel, as I did, that we knew more about the country and especially the people than the average American? Thanks to Judy Halstead and her communication after visiting Ukraine we were fortunate to have an intimate view of Ukraine and its desire to be more a part of the Western World.
Probably we’ll be hearing more as our election enters the fall. Judy’s son John was there through his State Department job so Judy visited often (plus her grandson was there!) with her last visit in late May/early June.
Grandson and his parents now live in Kazakhstan so we will learn about a new country. Their post is in the capitol, formerly called Astana and now called Nur Sultana. John’s Peace Corps assignment was there 25 years ago and she visited them so is excited to see the changes made during that time period. She did visit during the Christmas holidays to REALLY cold weather — between 2 degrees above zero to 20 above. With all that cold weather, Judy said, “Amazingly, everyone was out every day.” Obviously, the citizens are accustomed to it but note that Judy will return in the summer months to celebrate her grandson’s birthday and see more of the country.
Looking forward to hearing all about Kazakhstan after your return, Judy. We need to learn more about the “stan” countries which were part of the Soviet Union for so many years. ———
Enjoyed taking phone time with four of my favorite people.
• Dixie Belleto, sprite and cheery as ever, was my first contact. When I wrote about Dixie for my Common Thread book daughter Leta Wallach said her mother was always positive. At 104 (she’s already talking about her 105th birthday!) she remains not only positive but caring about others. Immediately, she asked about my health before I heard about her fragile health. Obviously, this is one reason for her longevity — her caring about others until we expect her to cheer us up forever.
• Jim and Lois Finch, mainstays for the Lodi Concert Association, next came to mind. With their positive attitudes, special neighborhood parties and lovely yard, they thoroughly enjoy life. They’ve had some physical problems but are making the best of it — looking forward to the final concert, to spring so they can enjoy their flowers, and to what life still has in store for them.
• Gwin Mitchell-Paden always is a delight. She first told tell me all about her new residence at The Fountains. Then we moved to her beautiful yard which of course she misses. But she is pleased that it is “spread around the neighborhood” now with the new owners retaining its beauty. Her squirrel and bird feeder went next door so can still be heavily used. Her fountain went to another neighbor who planted flowers and plants in it. Naturally, she misses her home of so many years. But she loves hearing from people, either by phone or coming by in person. She’s on my list -- and I hope yours.
——— When I talked about the Carole King Tribute I mentioned that Stephanie Damilano had graduated from Lodi High in 1973. This brought me to an interesting question.
How many of us really knew all our classmates and the many talents they brought to the world?
I recall my high school days and realized I had one set of friends, but never branched out to other classmates who probably were hiding many talents yet to be discovered.
Think of the people we could have known and appreciated from scientists to musicians to writers, artists and perhaps movie directors. Too often we stay in our secure little world when we can find so much just beyond.
Some quotes I’ve enjoyed: “Your mind is like a parachute. If it isn’t open, it doesn’t work.” Buzz Aldrin
“Failures are like skinned knees, painful but superficial.” Ross Perot
Hope to hear from you: durlynnca@gmail.com or 209912-4053.