Christmas Letter 2011

It was 6:30 this morning and I heard that all familiar sound from my cell phone. I got up to check and found a message from Siri. She wanted to tell me my snoring was keeping her awake. Now if you don’t know about Siri, she lives inside your I-phone 4. You can talk to her and ask questions or have her call or text someone for you. She is your own personal assistant right there in your phone. Normally she would not start a call on her own, but I guess if she needed her rest and I was keeping her up, it is understandable. There is only one problem. I don’t have an I-phone. I have an Android phone. I’m wondering if perhaps she was just visiting my phone and decided to spend the night. What is the gestation period for little Andrapples?

Before I could get back to bed and pull the covers up over my head, my phone went off again. This time it was a different ring tone. I got up again to check. This time it was my Android; he figured that since I was up and neither of us was going to get back to sleep, perhaps it would be a good time to start the annual Christmas Letter. I tried to get additional information from my phone about what had just happened, but his screen went blank and he reset himself. I’m guessing he wanted to wipe out his short term memory before he spilled the beans.

So, my friends, here I am. It is 6:45 AM and I am starting to put thoughts on paper. Have you ever wondered who is in control? Is it you or your electronic devices? I used to laugh about getting up to go to the bathroom and checking e-mail before returning to bed. Now, I have my phone reminding me that I should pay a bill or wish someone a happy birthday. I appreciate the help remembering, Lord knows I need it, but whose life is it anyway?

Pat is still working for the Secretary of State but is nearing retirement. Knee surgery is also in her near future. I am still House Doctoring in a semi-retirement mode. My body/mind wanted to retire long ago but my fiscal needs have not allowed it.

So, where should I start? If I followed the norm for social media, I would start with the most recent. I guess I did that with the opening, but for now, I’ll just be old fashioned and start with January. Did you ever wonder why the year starts in January? It’s winter, the days are short, and it’s cold. Why not start with a natural beginning like spring? What if we all started our own personal year on our birthday? Then we could go around saying, “happy New Year” all year. But I digress.  (What’s new?)

January in the Sriner household is the code word for Eagle watch, and we did our share of that this year. We spent many hours at the Havana Nature Center, resting inside while we scoured the skies for the majestic Bald Eagles. As they glided toward our sanctuary, we all headed out like bugs from a burning log. Cameras scanned the skies and shutters clicked in rapid succession. Then it was back in for picture viewing and comparisons. The more the river freezes, the more the eagles congregate around open water at the locks. We have had sightings in Keokuk of trees filled with over 50 eagles. What a sight. At times the branches bend under the weight and it would be easy to reach up and grab a lucky eagle feather. Unfortunately, doing so, might get us a stay with Governor Rod in a limited access federal housing facility.

With my 65^th Birthday just around the corner, I had decided that a birthday gathering for all our classmates who would be sharing this Medicare Mayhem would be super cool! The date was set and Pat and I started the planning. What started as a simple “gathering,” somehow swelled into a $5000 class event. By March, we were so stressed out; we needed to get away for a while. Pat and I met up with Kim in New Orleans for a southern shores spring vacation. We traveled all along the coastline camping as we went. We saw the great golden moon rise along the beach in Destin while we were visiting Nancy and Bill Dillen along with a few other classmates; then we drove across Florida to meet up with Karen Waters and Bryan in Jacksonville FL.  It was an awesome trip and we got to see many old friends. Sometimes I wonder how they got so old!

May brought with it a new sprout on the family tree. Emily Seunghee Oh jumped out, hair first into the world. She quickly stole our hearts and continues to dominate the Oh family gatherings. Joshua turned 5 and he is a super big brother to Emily. Steve has a new position with a previous employer ICON. It was an advancement and now he works from home. Krystal is still teaching English at Pleasant Plains HS.

June marked the premier showing of the new TV reality show, “It must be Friday”. The pilot episode aired June 1^st  and 14^th. It started with me at my Primary Care physician’s office. He is looking into my right eye saying, “This is completely black”. This is followed by a flashback to a recent encounter with my previous optometrist who is saying, “No, you don’t have to worry about cataracts. You are a long way from needing surgery.” At this point we scan forward to the surgeon who would make the final decision regarding my ever-darkening vision. The third scene took us to the surgery pre-op. Draped in the customary hospital garb, I am shown getting the first of many eye drops before surgery. The camera zooms in and goes into a slow motion as the first drop hits my blinking eye. The drop bounces off the eyelashes and makes the first splash on my cheek. As the procedure continues, subsequent drops follow similar paths until there is a raging waterfall down my face and torso only to end up somewhere in that black hole known as the belly button. Then, I watch the walls speed by as I am catapulted down the hall into the operating room. In my semi-conscious mindset, I look up at the surreal picture where the stand of doctors and nurses look like a dense forest of tall trees. The bright sun above looks almost heavenly and I hear a voice from the distance. “I don’t like the looks of this! He isn’t dilated at all!” There was a pause as I drifted deeper into the drug induced bliss. The last thing I remember was a short discussion regarding the wisdom of continuing the procedure. With that the scene ends with the caption, “To be continued.”

The second half of the pilot shows the next day in the doctor’s office, I was asked how I was. I replied, “Fine, except that I can’t see out of my new eye.” One check of the eye pressure explained the problem. The pressure was 49 compared to my normal of around 17. Homeland security classifies this as explosive. One bump and I could blow up the entire clinic. The Doctor looked and said, “I don’t like this!” I told him it was a lot worse from my side. He described the next procedure in medical gobbly gook, but I got the translation. He was going to put a needle in my eye and draw out some fluid before I exploded and took half the city block. That ended the two part pilot. The show has continued the rest of the year with regular Friday appointments trying to fix the screw-up. I have had slits in my eye and excessive inflammation even down inside the eye. Every procedure seems to end in a lot of prolonged pain and irritation. We have been preempted most of this month for seasonal programming, but I will be back on next month with another “two slits and we are done” episode. I’m hoping this will be the last procedure.

After more than 6 months of planning, the SHS 65^th Birthday Bash took center stage in mid-July. I was quite proud of the success but very relieved it was over. It started on a Thursday night with pizza at Gabatoni’s and went into full swing Friday morning with a golf outing. I spent the morning in a golf cart following the golfers around trying to police their play. They explained to me that it was OK to use multiple balls on each hole. I also found out that if the foursome agrees, your T-shot can be a “Gimmy”. I didn’t understand all the new rules for friendly tournament play. I did learn how much fun they had.

We finished Friday’s festivities with a casual mixer at the Comedy Club. Saturday started with an early morning behind-the-scenes tour at the Abe Lincoln Presidential Museum. Local ALPM members were able to get everyone in free. This was an unannounced bonus. At noon we migrated over to Cozy Dog for lunch and then out to the Elks Club on the lake for the afternoon and evening. Dinner included prime rib and a dessert cake with the now famous 65^th Bash Logo!

The final event was a breakfast at Wanda and Dave Keil’s house Sunday morning. We played an adult version of hide and seek – stalker edition for a while, but with limited hiding spots, it was difficult.

With the Birthday Bash, also known as “Medicare Mayhem”, fresh in our minds, Pat and I decided to take the party to the mountains and had a mini-bash at Rocky Mountain National Park. We were joined by Carl Crouch and Jay and Joyce Kesinger. Kim joined us on this trip too and we had a great relaxing time.

There were several other gatherings for the SHS class of 64, including one for Dianne O’Keefe home from California with her family.

Our Christmas Gathering pictured below was well attended and enjoyed by all.

Somewhere around mid-year, Kim decided she would return to Springfield after graduation in December from SIU Carbondale. She would have her Master’s Degree in Counseling. She planned to move into Gram’s house, next door. The house, having been empty and unheated for 3 years and rented for 3 before that, was in complete disrepair. I made plans to buy the house and get it ready for Kim. This has been a true labor of love; OK, it is also an investment, but I don’t think I would have worked so hard if Kim were not moving in. It got a new roof, new drywalled ceilings, repaired plaster walls along with electrical and plumbing work. To cut costs, I have done all the work. Something about a 65^th birthday party and carrying 90 pound bundles of shingles up onto the roof do not go well together. I called it my reality based stress test. Actually, the real stress has been the paperwork needed to complete the title transfer. It is still in limbo. Andrew Friedman, Kim’s boyfriend will be spending part of his holiday break with us. I hope his hand fits a paint roller. He is finishing his Doctorate internship this summer.

Steve and Krystal, not to be outdone, also needed help finishing their basement. Throughout the year between other work projects, I found myself laying ceramic floor tile, installing molding, electrical and plumbing. This is another project not quite complete. But just like Kim’s, it is now at least partially functional as am I!

This brings us to a close of 2011. As I look back, I see two major themes for Pat and me. One was a lot of hard work. The other was a year filled with the rekindling of friendships. In early youth, it is all about ourselves; in school, it is all about our friends. As we mature, it is all about our families; and now as we age and our kids are on their own, we find time to return to the old friends we had. For those who also find themselves in this period of life, enjoy every minute with friends and grandkids, because the next phase takes us back to the beginning. We do have an advantage our parents didn’t have and that is the ability to use the internet to connect with friends thousands of miles away. We can text and tweet, e-mail and skype. We can exchange thoughts with the speed of light through the social networks. It is amazing. So, whether you follow us on Facebook or one of my blogs, stay in touch. The love of family and friends is the only thing that can last throughout eternity. It is our wish that all people realize that we are all headed for the same ultimate destination; only our travel agents are different. To each and every one of you we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah or whatever blessing your faith embraces. May your new year be filled with Peace, Joy, good health and prosperity.

Love and Light,

Pat and Dulany

 

Christmas Letter 2000

2000

Welcome the new millennium!

Merry Christmas 2000

It seems to be that time of year again. Time for the yearly update of Sriner family events for family and friends.

During Easter break this year, we went to Grayton Beach, Florida so we could meet up with Krystal and her boyfriend, Mark. We spent a week on the beach enjoying the Florida weather and sunsets. Ask the family about driving 60 MPH in a 15 MPH zone to get to the beach for the last chance to see the sunset before we all went our separate ways in the morning. We came North and they went back to Orlando. It was a sad parting as usual.

 Is time speeding up, or are Pat and I just getting so old and slow that everything seems to be fast by comparison? We moved Krystal to Florida during the summer of ’99, but it seems like just last summer. Now that I think of it, it was just last summer but we weren’t moving her to Florida; we were moving her back from Florida. Looking back, I am getting frightened. The first time she moved, it was to a first floor dorm room. As years went by, she kept going up. By the fourth year, she was on the fourth floor and it was a walk-up. We got her moved home from college, and it was off to Florida. Before we were completely rested up, it was back to Florida to move her home to Illinois. She could only stand about a month of “Thursday night leftovers” before she knew she had to get her own place. Guess what? We moved her again! This time it was only four blocks away but it seemed like more because she is upstairs again! She is all settled in her apartment  and her new job teaching 7^th grade English at Franklin Middle School but she is already talking about moving again! If I know her, it will be a walk up mountain hideaway. And guess who gets to carry everything up the mountain? She is definitely a moving experience, but we are proud of her independence, even if she is still bringing home her laundry. But not on Thursday night! Leftovers.

  Kim is in her own world either working on her computer or giving someone at school a piece of her mind if not the toe of her shoe! The boys know not to tell any “women belong in the home” jokes around her.

Science Fair project

Last winter, she was awarded an “exceptional” in the school science fair and a first place at the Regional. She moved on to the State Competition in Champaign where she received a second place! We were certainly proud of her. We look forward to a repeat this year!

After a boundary change for the new middle schools, many of the neighborhood kids had to transfer back to their old 6^th grade school even though we were within walking distance of Franklin. Fortunately she was in the gifted program which was centralized this year into Franklin. Yes, there are two Miss Sriners at Franklin Middle School! I think they both like having each other around. Kim is doing well with all her classes and she is quickly nearing the end of my math expertise. The gifted program is planning an 8^th grade summer trip to Orlando to visit some of the educational sections of the theme parks. We think it is a great opportunity but Kim is rather blasé considering all the time we have spent in Florida over the last two years.

After more than ten years at SIU School of Medicine, Pat has moved on to a secretarial  job with the Secretary of State, Senior and Community Services Department. The general atmosphere at SIU was getting worse all the time and most of the long time employees had left. She hung in there longer than everyone else. She likes her new job but says she doesn’t have enough to do. I guess you just can’t win. I know I like being able to pick her up at 4:30 and not have to wait for 30 minutes while she finishes up something. Only time will tell how it goes. I think it is a stepping-stone to another state job.

I am still inspecting homes, but with the soft real estate market, I have had more time to work on my web site. I love my computer, but I was born just a little too early to get into it at the right time. The kids today graduating in the computer fields have grown up with it. They are the true computer age adepts. I just need to learn to quit tinkering, but that is just my nature. I crash my computer on a regular basis but I am getting better at resurrection. My web site is www.housdoctor.com.

Last October we were able to be with my sister, Carol, and her family at the baptism of “Tanner”, Mike and Kathy’s new baby. It was nice to get together with the family. It isn’t until you get older that you realize how important family is. Carol and Tanner below.

That brings us to the present. There have not been too many changes unless you count moving, new jobs, state championships, vacations, and a potential trip to Florida. Just about the same as last year! The biggest and best change has been having the family together again. It is especially joyful at this holiday season. Below, Kim and Krystal decorating cookies on their “snow day.”

I hope this finds you all well. And may the joys of the season carry throughout the coming new year. May good health and prosperity be with you always.

With Love and Light,

The Sriners.

Dulany, Pat, & Kim

Christmas 1984 - 1999

1984

Dear Friends,

It is that time of year again. A time you have all been waiting for. Sit back and relax while you read the sequel to last years widely acclaimed CHRISTMAS LETTER  1983 this years smash hit CHRISTMAS LETTER 1984. The title just came to me one night in a nightmarish-like dream.

You will recall from last years letter that we had decided to commit ourselves; to an annual Christmas letter, that is. We knew that was the best way to obtain peace and happiness. We promised you all an annual report on our newly acquired superiority. So, it is with "tongue in cheek” that we send this Christmas greeting.  (If by chance you missed last years Presentation, additional copies are available with a SASE)

1984 started out like a rock but as it rolled down the mountain of life it gathered no moss. I like the way that sounds, don't you? Pat has changed jobs again and the new job promises to be even better than her last one. (That's why she changed) Now she is with Project Quality. She is still working with district #186 it Lawrence Adult Center which is so close to home that she can come home for  lunch Project Quality evaluates the adult education Programs throughout the state. She has mastered the use of her new trash 80 computer. They sent her to school to learn how to use the word processer and out of a class of at least one she was the top student. We were all very proud of her. Her new job is on a ten month basis so she will have two months off in the summer to be with Krystal.  This new  Job also has the added benefit of Paying lots more than what she was making when she wasn't working.

In February of this year Pat was offered a job in Dallas Texas.  The position was with one of the largest banks in Dallas. The salary  was about twice what she makes here, so we thought we should at least go down and take a look. As it turned out the trip was a kind of paid vacation. The interview lasted all day. We  liked the  idea of the salary increase but we just weren't ready for the fast lane in Dallas. Housing costs were out of sight. We could get a real  nice little Place in the slums for under $80,000. It just wasn't the place for us!

You should remember Krystal was Put into a first second grade split class last year. We were somewhat concerned but it worked out well. She liked being with the older kids. _In fact her boyfriend  is an older boy. He is in third grade now. They correspond regularly but she hides the letters. I feel she is a little young for serious entanglements but you know how it is with this new generation.  This year she is back with her friends in second grade. She  is doing so well that there is no doubt that she will be able to apply to Harvard or Yale for' college if she wants.

This year has also brought a new addition to our house. Some of you probably didn't know that we were expecting. The arrival  took  place October 13th. We are now the proud parents of a one proud turtle. His name is Timathy  T. Turtle. The T. is for Terrapin.  He  is a most beautiful green and yellow, Red Eared Slider.  Now some of you probably remember your pet turtles. They were about the size of a half dollar and cost about  the same. Times have changed this one  is  about six  inches across and costs considerably more.  Next  time  I  will  check  before  I  make promises. Timithy T. Turtle lives with Krystal in a 20 gallon aquarium half full of water. Now before you get a picture in your mind of a seven year old sharing an aquarium with a turtle, let me clarify myself. Timithy T. lives in an aquarium. The aquarium is in Krystal’s room. A couple of weeks ago we had a weekend guest with us. He/She (I forget to look) was a white guinea pig from Krystal’s class at school. Shep wanted to play with him but we decided that wasn’t a good idea. All in all, Krystal is growing bigger, better, smarter, and prettier with each day and I can say that with prejudicial honesty.

My year has gone stupendiously. I had planned to win a seat in congress but my ‘write in’ campaign fell a little short. I only got one vote. I guess the judges couldn’t read my name on the other ballots. I can’t understand what happened. I even got beat out by Wilby Nogood and he died two weeks before the election. I think he got the sympathy vote. You can be sure that this is only the beginning of my political career. Don’t forget! I write Christmas letters!

I am still house doctoring while I wait for a political appointment. I also started teaching again. I am teaching a class for the Adult Education Department. It is a 12-week class on basic home maintenance. It has been very successful and I will be offering it again next semester.

I am also taking a correspondence course from the Institute of Children’s Literature. I have only completed one assignment but it promises to be rewarding. You will probably be seeing my name on Time Magazine in the near future as the most promising childrens author of 1985. I think I have made more than my share of promises.

I am going to wind this up for now as I am expecting a call from the resident at the White House down the street.

UNTIL NEXT YEAR AND CHRISTMAS LETTER 1985

MERRY CHRISTMAS

AND

HAPPY NEW YEAR

MAY THE GLORIES OF THIS

HOLIDAY SEASON FILL YOU

WITH THE LOVE AND PEACE AND

MAY THEY STAY WITH YOU

THROUGHOUT THE COMING NEW

YEAR 1985.

WITH LOVE AND LIGHT,

I AM,

DULANY, PAT, & KRYSTAL

AND SHEP & TIMITHY T. TURTLE

The next letter jumps all the way to 1999

Christmas 1999

Condensed version ( I know; Thank God!)

Doorway to the new Millennium

In preparing to write this, I looked back at that notorious first Christmas letter I wrote. It started like this:

Dear Friends,

 

For years Pat and I have read the wide varieties . . . . . . . . . . .  Next year we can tell you about all the good things that have happened in 1984. This year we will just have to tell you the truth!

A long time has passed since then. At that time, Krystal was just entering school. Now Krystal has entered a new school but this time she is the teacher! Looking back on this year, it is obvious that our life revolved around these changes. In May of this year, Krystal graduated from Augustana College in the Quad Cities with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She was certified to teach English in the upper grades. So, the early part of the year was devoted to graduation and all that goes with it. We had a nice party here and many of her previous teachers came to wish her well.  In July, The Florida statewide job fair was in Tampa. She flew down to that and on the second day she was offered and took a job at Lee Middle School in Orlando. She is now teaching 6^th grade English.

With the summer half over, now we had to get her moved to Florida. The end of July, she and Courtney drove back down to Florida. She had new teacher orientation for the week before school and in her spare time they had to look for an apartment. They lived in the Marriott near the airport at the school districts expense. The end of the week, Kim and I drove down to take more important stuff (computer) and to pick up Courtney and bring her back up north. It was a quick three-day trip. As soon as we arrived home, I had to start packing Krystal’s furniture to take down in my small trailer. The trailer was open so I shrink wrapped EVERYTHING! Once I had it in the trailer, I shrink wrapped the trailer with all its contents. It was certainly a site but I wasn’t taking any chances. It was a long drive. So, the first week of August, Pat, Kim and I headed for Florida. 

Moving day, Krystal went to work; we went to move. We were aided by Wil and Elizabeth in this labor of love. Now picture this, a trailer full of furniture with shrink wrap holding it together, an apartment up a flight of outside stairs, the temperature was typical for Florida summer, high 90’s, humidity that made fog look dry and four overweight, over 50, movers. Kim was the only one that looked up to the task. As it turned out, removing the plastic wrap was as difficult as moving the stuff up the stairs. But we did it and just as the last item was in place, Krystal came home from work!

In the 1984 Christmas letter, there were only three of us. Kim was not even born. Now she is in 7^th grade at Franklin Middle School.  She came home from school the other day telling us she was voted “the student most likely to succeed in life”, also voted “the best student in her class”, and voted “the biggest flirt”.  I’m still not sure which one held the highest regard!  We do know, she is an excellent student and gets high marks (Straight A’s) on her report card.  But, I’m still not convinced that was the highest of the three! She spends most of her time on the computer either gaming or communicating. She has friends all over the world. It certainly makes it a small world. She e-mails, chats and even has a voice chat program that they use to hear each others accents. She e-mails pictures and I assume it won’t be long before she will some how set up a picture phone. That’s my Kim truly in the computer age. She is always showing me how to do something on the computer. I can see in her eyes she is thinking “Dad, don’t you know anything about computers?” She has always been the one that had to show the teachers how to do something on the computer. Sure glad we have smart kids to take care of us.

On a more serious note, November 21^st,  Pat received a phone call from her  (ex)sister-in-law, Judy, who told Pat that her brother, Jerry (age 54) had died of a heart attack that morning as he was getting out of bed. In talking with Jerry’s wife, it was apparent some harsh feelings were still there. This was echoed in the obituary that left out surviving siblings. Pat was glad she had made peace with Jerry a short time before. This was a sad end to an already sad chapter in her life.

This once-a-year letter brings with it peace, love, and joy for the very Merriest Christmas for you and your families and to wish everyone the most prosperous and happiest of New Years.  Bring on 2000…we’re ready for the New Millennium!

    God bless each and every one of you!

                    Love and Light,

                Dulany, Pat and Kim

                   (and Krystal in Orlando)

The Sriner Annual Christmas Letter

Today starts Christmas week. One week from today is Christmas. To celebrate the week, I will publish copies of my Famous annual Christmas Letter. On Saturday, Christmas Eve, I will be posting this years creation. I hope you enjoy this look back at Christmases past.

The year was 1983 and the following was the first Sriner Christmas Letter:

Dear Friends,

For years Pat and I have read the wide varieties of Christmas letters from friends and relatives. Year after year, they come bringing good tidings and all the good news from the Previous year. They tell of Prosperity and good health. There is always a list of the many accomplishments of all the children and relatives. With all this in mind, it is obvious to us that everyone who takes the effort to write and send Christmas letters is always rewarded with another year of unlimited good luck. Now, we too will join this list of those who shape their own destiny by sending the Notorious Christmas Letter. You must keep in mind that this is our first wear so you might say we are just priming the pump. Next wear we can tell you about all  the good things that have happened in 1984. This year we will just have to tell you the truth!

The year started off with Pat's being out of work and my business being next to non-existent. Fortunately,  the winter was not too severe so it wasn't too bad without any  heat.  The Christmas candles we got for Christmas were a help, when they shut off the Power. The bean seeds that we had saved from the garden started to sprout in the basement; so we did have some green vegetables for a change. We let the dog out every morning to scrounge the neighborhood for his own food. By the time February came around, things started to get bad.  The candles were gone,  the bean sprouts were starting to mold and the neighbors started to  lock their garbage can lids. It was right then we decided;  NEXT YEAR WE SEND OUT A CHRISTMAS LETTER!!

 

Immediately things started to turn around.  Just knowing that things would be better seemed to help. My work began to pick  up. Pat got a new Job with a local law firm as a legal secretary. For Fathers Day, Pat registered me for a drawing at a local  Jeweler. To our surprise I won a $200 Gift certificate.  Krystal  started back to school. Now she was in the first grade. At  last she was going to school all day. This gave me more time to work  and Pat didn't have to worry so much. Our bills were caught up  and we were sitting on top of the world. Pat was on a roll; so she put our name in a drawing at a local department store and again we won first Prize. It was an all-expense Paid trip  to Washington, D.C. Things were going so well that we decided to get a new truck for my business as we now felt we could afford the Payments.  We took the trip to D.C. and enjoyed every minute of it. As the trip was for four People,  we were able to take my Mom with us.  When the time came to come home, we were simply overjoyed to think  of' how well everything was going. Things were so good,  we didn't think we would need to send out a Christmas letter after all.

That was a mistake! Krystal's class at school was split up  and she went into a new lst-2nd grade split class. She had to  leave most of her friends. She came down with a sore throat and since I was in the middle of a Job, Pat had to stay home with her!  Pat's boss didn't like that, and she was laid off!  PERMANENTLY!! I now we had a new truck and Payments,  with one  less Paycheck.  Pat's Parents left for their trip around the world in 81  days so we lost that regular free meal. Then the teachers went on strike and the schools closed down. By the time Krystal was back in school_, Pat was ready for the funny farm. You know how it is with forced vacations, when it is too cold to Play outside - Disaster!!

It was obvious to us that  it was the old Christmas Letter Syndrone. We had to make a firm commitment to send one out.  So here it is.

Now, Pat has started back to work with the school district as a secretary. It doesn't pay as much as she is used to, but it is a doorway into the system. The work is enjoyable because she  is working in the refugees Program and she can work with people. She needs to feel she is doing something for People,  so this new Position looks to be very' rewarding in that respect. I  had been keeping busy with my work until this month, which is always a slow time. It gives me a chance to work on my new computer and get my books in order for the start of a new year. It also gives me a chance to write this Christmas Letter. Krystal is back in school and she loves it. She has really taken to reading and is reading way above her grade level. Being a Poor reader in school  myself, I really am glad to see her doing so well.  Looks  like we are settling back to normal. It is comforting to know;  now that we have sent out our first Christmas letter, we will no loner have to worry about the future. Now we have our thoughts in order.

Next year we will be able to tell you all  the good  news this letter has precipitated. But for now, let us say,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

May the Glories of this Christmas Season fill you with love and Peace and may they stay with you throughout the coming New Year 1984.

With love and Light,

I AM,

Dulany, Pat, Krystal

& Shep

New video from the Havana Nature Center

This is a new HD video containing some good pictures I took Saturday, the 29th. The eagles were not as active but with patience, we were able to get several good picture series. Click on the link below to go to the vimeo web server. There is an option on the video player on the lower right to expand to full screen. The symbol looks like four arrows pointing out to the corners. Click on it and the HD video should fill the screen. Hope you enjoy watching as much as I enjoyed taking the pictures. Clicking on the link below should bring up the screen sampled above.

Here is a link to the new Havana Nature Center video

A quest for the mighty eagle



Havana Nature Center



Sunday was the first of our eagle watch tours for this year 2011. We headed up to Havana about 45 miles NW of here. While it had never been very good to us in the past for eagle sightings, I saw a note on Facebook from an Illinois Audubon Society member that told of a significant number of eagles around the harbor on Bellrose Island. As we pulled into the riverfront park, we saw what was a new building to us. It was the Nature Center, new last spring. It turned out to have just what these old folks needed. The riverfront room was surrounded by windows and a full view of the river,  Bellrose Island and the marina. The viewing station was warm and there was food service. Two chili cheese dogs later, we knew this could be a new favorite for us on our eagle quest circuit. The adjoining heated full restrooms so necessary at this age, put them high on our preferences list. There is even a campground there that we will try out in the spring. They are open Tuesday, Thursday and the weekend. Look for them on FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Havana-Nature-Center/164528800234746  They even show a count of the eagle sitings for the day.       

Here is a tip for novice eagle spotters. We sat there for over an hour and some of the time, eagles were barley visible without binoculars. Then, a couple would fly out of the trees and jostle for a captured fish. We watched an adult sparring with a juvenile for several minutes overhead and then they were gone. So, the tip is: be patient! You can't just drive up, look around and not seeing anything right there, just drive to the next spot up/down the river. Park and watch. Get out the binoculars and scour the tree tops. Once you spot some watch them for a while. There is no assurance they will leave their perch while you watch but if they do, they could easily fly just overhead and turn somersaults less than 100 ft. away! There are always some shore birds around the park so even if the eagles are hiding out on the far shore, there will still be birds to watch. If you are just learning to capture the winged wonders in flight, it is good to practice on the gulls. They will hang almost motionless in the wind 20 feet away.

When we were there, we even had entertainment to keep us occupied while the eagles were elsewhere. The lady at upper left, sang and played the guitar. Below is a slide show featuring some of the flights from the day. To start the slideshow, click on the play arrow at the lower left corner of the player below.

havana 1 2 11 from Dulany Sriner on Vimeo.

The Hills of Southern MO

Above, you can see our eventual destination, the Current river in southern Missouri.

The banner to this blog proclaims, we like the roads less traveled and as we followed the roads mapped out by the GPS tracking program sitting forefront in the Jeep, we found roads that seemed almost penciled in on the screen. Green vegetation protruded through the cracks in the middle of our lane. I think this would definitely qualify as "a road less traveled"! I should have taken a picture but with only a slight chance someone might be sharing this same road with us and the lack of any type of shoulder, I thought I better not stop in the middle of the road for a shot. The vision of an overgrown 4X4 complete with hunting lights and gun rack, coming up over the hill over yonder made me think twice. I would rather face the bear from an earlier post!

So, just picture a narrow road with only about 18 inches of packed clay bordering the brownish asphalt ribbon. A multitude of cracks were dotted with green weeds often standing 12 inches high; complete with a flower or two. Road kill lay, silenced on the hardroad and the only signs of life were the Ozark red headed eagles, commonly known as turkey vultures. Now, as if by photoshop cut-and-paste, envision two obvious city folks in a relatively clean family SUV towing a dent-free camper down the road. Our camper with the air conditioner sitting on top, not protruding out of one of the side windows, hogged the road bouncing from pothole to pothole. It's a bit like a scene from Deliverance! Now, you tell me, how do I try to look inconspicuous. Standing the in middle of the road with a large lensed camera, would not be my first choice at fitting in.

That all being said, the anxiety was worth every heart palpitation because the same raw nature surroundings that make this land a bit scary, foremost make it beautiful. The spring fed rivers and streams sparkle in the afternoon sun. The strong contrast between the natural stone river base and the super saturated green river plants looks almost surreal. The warm summer afternoon is made even more enjoyable by natures air conditioning from the chilled natural springs. All this and it is less than 275 miles from home. I think we have rediscovered another addition to the "great camping destinations" list.

Our first choice for last weeks destination was Wisconsin but the parks all reflected that "no Vacancy" sign as I went from park to park on the Internet reservation website. What a bummer; we were looking forward to a nice 5 day long weekend vacation. Then I had a thought. Although this is not a common occurrence, I do have a good one ever now and then. I thought of a destination that Pat talked about often. It was a place from her cherished childhood remembrances. Her Mom took her and her brothers to camp on the Jack's Fork River at Alley Spring State Park near Eminence MO. This would have been back in the 50's. We had camped in the vicinity once and had taken a canoe float trip down the river back in the 70's but we had not revisited there since then. A quick check of the vacancies, indicated one electric site left. There was a bonus! The park was now a part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways system and was managed by the National Park Service. The "ding" of the cash register went off in my head. National Park equals senior discount with the old Golden eagle pass, now called the senior pass. For those of you who don't know about this senior perk, it entitles holders a 50% discount. We would be getting water and electric hookups for $10/night. That to me is a bargain. Non-electric sites would be only $7. Even I can afford a week there. This new fact is putting the area even higher on that great campsite list.

As we headed off the Interstate highway system and onto the state and county roads, it became apparent cell service would be severely limited. We imagined the "can you hear me now" commercial that they won't be making. It would start with the driver, make that passenger for safety reasons, trying to make connections as they drive down the roller-coaster highway. At each hilltop would come, "Can you hear me now?" but before any suitable communication, the car and cell phone operator would dip back down into the black hole reception area. I think they refer to it as the "Dead Zone". The skit would end with the cell phone caller on top of the hill, climbing a tall Tulip tree, dangling on a high branch by one hand and holding the phone in the other. "Can you hear me now? . . . Great, I needed to tell you want a great ti. . . . . the call is interrupted by the sound of cracking wood. AS the phone and caller fall in slow motion from the tall tree you can hear in a harried voice, "Gotta go; I think I am loosing you!" The scene ends with a thud. Nope don't think you will be seeing that one. While that might be just a slight exaggeration of my cell experience, you get the idea.

Our campground destination, Alley Spring Park is dominated by the old Alley Spring grain mill. The current building constructed in 1894, was powered by the spring which averages 81 million gallons of water flow every day. The mill was designed to produce wheat flower in an area dominated by corn production. This oversight along with recurring floods made the operation only marginally successful.

There is a short trail around the spring adjacent to the mill and a higher bluff trail which as the name implies ascends up to the ridge of the bluffs to overlook the mill.

Even the upper trail is easy to maneuver. AS some may recall from previous postings, I had armed myself with a new personal GPS unit to keep me on track and make sure the track was the right track and I was going the correct direction. As I started up the bluff trail early one morning, I turned on the GPS for the first time on this trip. I was surprised to find I had no maps for the area. I had thought I had them downloaded from my laptop topography program where I had mapped out our itinerary but I was wrong. When the unit turns on, it brings up the map relating to the new position as indicated by the GPS receiver. At home, it brings up this area. I had not become acclimated enough with the unit to know how to bring up the Alley Spring map without being there. Yes, the preloaded universal map showed major towns and major roads but not anything that was of any benefit to me. Think of a child with a felt marker as they try to draw a map on plain paper. It might just look like a zig-zag line all over the page. No matter how closely you look or how far away you hold the paper, it still makes no sense. That was my GPS screen. I put in map pins to tell me where I left the car and where the trail started and there were the trail markers between them showing my route but nothing else. It was like I was making the map myself. It was cool but not too helpful. I guess I could retrace my route to return to the car but I really expected more. It wasn't until I returned to the camper and my laptop that I could transfer the scribbles on the map base and see where I had gone. Obviously, I had not brought my original state by state base maps DVDs to upload to the GPS. I was supposed to be able to upload the same thing from the laptop but that too eluded me and after several hours trying to understand the two manuals that I gave up and just was happy to scribble maps. The software program would say "check the GPS manual for directions for downloading" but when I looked at the pertinent chapter in the software program it would say, "consult the GPS manual for downloading instructions. Yes, I admit the DeLorme GPS unit has a steep learning curve as reviewed on line. It wouldn't need to be so steep if intelligent writers would have written the manuals. Yes, another of my pet peeves!

A major attraction in the area was Rocky Falls, south and east of Eminence. We took a picnic lunch and after hiking up the Falls and higher up to the top of the mountain, Kira and I came back down and joined Pat who had lunch ready at one of the many tables available.
This is obviously a popular lunch spot. I'm sure we will see it again. Throughout our visit back and forth across the area, we saw people of all ages enjoying the water either as spectators or as swimmers or boaters. The cool, often cold waters were cooling on a hot summer day. Most of the water comes from the multitude of springs in the area. It is cold and crystal clear. Drinking the water is not recommended but it sure looks inviting. It was tempting to drink it but we decided to head the warnings.

During our 5 day stay, we saw several different springs. Round Spring was OK but no real Kodak moment here. The nearby cave was closed while they installed new bat gates. I wonder if Batman knows they moved the cave from Gotham City. I was hoping to get to the cave and perhaps pick up some new utensils for my Batman camera belt. I was particularly wanting the bat buckle but I guess I'll have to wait for that. For those of you who have not been following my many ramblings on this and other blogs and Facebook, I have decided the best way to carry my cameras and gear would be on a utility belt like Batman. I mentioned that I would like to get the Batman buckle. If you know where one can be obtained, let me know. I won't be getting one at the Round Spring Bat Cave any time soon.

Of all the springs, Blue Spring was my favorite. The super saturated blue is unreal. The clear water allows the viewer to see all the way to the bottom 310 feet down. The statue of Liberty could sit on the bottom and the torch would still be under water. It was difficult to pull away from this place and head back to the car 1/2 mile away.

The Current and Jacks Fork Rivers are known by most nature enthusiasts in Missouri and neighboring states. The attraction is the canoe-ability of the rivers. They are swift moving making float trips a great days event. The numerous easy "white water" passages give additional excitement to canoeurs and those in kayaks. In contrast to the basic mud bottom rivers of the Midwest, these spring fed Ozark riverways with their consistent flow and gravel base make for a great summer vacation.

As we pulled out of the campsite and headed home, I took with me many beautiful memories of sights and experiences. Some of these I was able to capture as pictures while others will be a part of my memory which is unfortunately fading fast. (good thing for the pictures)

I also returned with a bad case of chiggers which I carelessly picked up the last evening and 2.7 pounds which I carefully added enthusiastically at the local eateries. It's back to no breakfast and salad for lunch. It was worth every pound!

One thing is for sure; I was able to overload each of my senses in a positive way difficult to describe. There is no doubt in my mind; I will return. When I do, I'll take you along to hopefully enjoy as I do the natural wonders of this beautiful country.

For those of you who follow me on FaceBook, more of this weekend's pictures will be posted in a FaceBook album.

Until we meet again on those roads less traveled, enjoy the beauties of nature that are all around us.

If you enjoy reading my ramblings, sign up as a follower by clicking on the "follow" button at the bottom of the right column.

Facing my own Bear

If you have been following my adventures, you know that I recently faced a bear in the wild while hiking the Appalachian Trail. Last weekend, I had to face my own internal bear. We all have them hidden away. Even Luke from Star Wars had to face his during his training as a Jedi Knight. Now that I have your attention, let's get started at the beginning where all trails should start.

Our adventures this week took us to Starved Rock State Park in the North-Central part of Illinois. The park is known by the high rock formation where an Indian Tribe was starved out by another tribe. The easily defended location made attack futile but the same isolation that protected them also imprisoned them. They starved on the rock. For many, this group of rock formations were the extent of the park. This extended 4 day weekend, showed me a part of the park that I had never explored before. We spent the time hiking the many canyons along this section of the Illinois River. The weather with recent and consistent rains had kept the many springs flowing unlike most summer seasons. Every canyon had some type of waterfall at the beginning. All were flowing. It was an awesome sight. Above, this picture looks down the river toward the namesake.

We arrived at the campground Thursday around noon and set up camp. We took some time in the car to reorient ourselves to the area. We explored the nearby town of Ottawa and were captivated by the "home town" feel of the business district. Murals could be found on many of the old historic buildings. A central square advertised the location of a Lincoln-Douglas debate with statues and a surrounding fountain. I posted the video on my Face Book page with the caption that this was the location of the debate. Readers were quick to ask if the debate took place in the fountain! I suspect the fountains were an afterthought!

A relaxing campfire and large grilled hamburgers gave way to a beautiful sunset and my version of s'mores. I like one marshmallow and a Hershey square between two Lorna Dunes - yum. What a way to end the day.



Friday morning started with an outside breakfast of eggs and potatoes all mixed up. This "mixed up" turned out to be a precursor of the day to follow. We headed out first thing to the closest mall for a phone charger to replace the one left sitting on my desk at home. Then we headed to Matthiessen State Park just down the road from Starved Rock. Our thought was that these trails would be a bit easier on Pat's knees. We took a wrong turn at the first "Y"and ended up on the interior "challenging" trail. We got to a water crossing featuring un-level, overturned stepping stones. This led to a quick retreat back up the stairs to the more level bluff trail. Another poorly marked trail divide took us back to the lower canyon trail. While this was not our intention, it was negotiable so we went on to the falls area. Pat stayed back as Kira and I made our way up the water covered trail to the base of the falls. Leaning stairs showed what the long delayed maintenance was doing to the park system. We stepped over the broken steps and made it to the top where we could look down on the low falls and back up the stream to our original destination. The water level made this trail impassible without serious wading. While Kira would love the adventure, I was not comfortable with a $3,700 camera around my neck. Again, we retreated.

Here, I have to tell you a bit about myself. I have always been very self-sufficient. I flourish in challenges but as my body ages, I have begun to feel the unusual-to-me feeling of frustration at not being able to do something. I have always been at home in the woods. I never got lost and a challenging trail was one more thing to conquer. Now, I find myself having doubts. What if I slip? What if I can't pull myself up? What if I can't find my way back? So, as I stood at the base of the moss covered wet rock, I chose not to go on.

Our hike back out of the canyon was complimented by the presence of another older couple (probably our age) who had also come down the wrong way. They chose not to go back in the canyon but turned back up the stairs with us. A few hundred yards up the trail, the poorly marked trail that we had missed was off to the right. I decided to take it up above the falls to the lake while Pat would head back with the other couple. Kira and I went up to the lake , took some shots and headed back down to catch up with Pat. As we passed a couple with a dog, all my attention was on Kira who is not always friendly with other dogs and I missed the trail turnoff and we went back down the trail we had just come up. When we got to the stairs, I knew I had missed the turnoff and we turned around to go back up the trail to the missed turn. The anxiety of missing numerous trails and retracing my path numerous times was surpassed by the feeling of good health. I even began to jog up the trail to make up time. This is something I have not done in years even on level ground. I was feeling good and we made up the time and met Pat at the bridge where she was patiently waiting for us.

Below us was a substantial waterfall calling to me. The older couple had gone down that direction and I decided to follow, leaving Pat on the bridge to wait for our return. We headed off to the right side of the bridge and up the trial along the ridge of the canyon. About a mile down the trail, there was a set of steps. I heard someone say there were 130 steps. I didn't count. At the base of the steps, there was a foot bridge across the canyon and then another set of steps going round and round like a high-rise stairwell. At the base, was the often muddy canyon floor. We headed up the canyon to the base of the falls and took our pictures. It was worth the walk. High above, Pat stood waving from the bridge above. (click on picture to see larger version) I soaked in the energy of the falling water. It is the closest thing to ocean waves. There is such power. The trip back up the canyon was a little easier as I knew where to go and how to avoid some of the mud. We reached the stairs. Round and round we went up the 8 - 10 flights of stairs. As we exited the stairwell, I saw the familiar wood steps that would take us the rest of the way out of the canyon. At the top, I glanced over at the map to my left but knew I had to turn right to head back to the bridge. Off we went down the trail. The woodsy trails all look the same so there were no discerning markings but it seemed like a lot further back than it was getting there. We walked on and on thinking the bridge and Pat were right around the bend or behind the trees. They were not. Then I saw a metal gate ahead. I didn't remember it but it was probably by the turnoff to the bridge. I was wrong again. A sign indicated we were leaving this section of the park. Fortunately, there was a map there. We had gone the wrong way after leaving the canyon. It was a couple miles back to the stairs and then about a mile more to the bridge. AS I tried to quicken my step to hurry our journey, I had to face the fact that perhaps I no longer could trust myself in the woods. Had I not had a map to guide me back the way I came, I would have been lost. I told myself that I couldn't go into the woods without a GPS unit because I lost track of direction. Was this the beginnings of Alzheimer's? Would I get lost on the way to the grocery store? While you read this, you might chuckle but I assure you I was not laughing. My Mom has Dementia and the prospect of ending up there is terrifying. There was a lot of soul searching as I walked back toward the stairs and eventually the bridge where Pat waited, frightened by our delayed return.

"You made the loop around, I see" she said questioning. Then I realized I had come back on the left side of the bridge. It wasn't until that point that I realized what I had done. I had come up on the opposite side of the canyon so my trail back required a left turn not a right turn. Then the pieces started to fall into place. I didn't remember crossing the foot bridge on the way back. The circular stairwell steps had disoriented me and I was too hyped up on endorphins and adrenalin to properly be aware of my surroundings and where I had come and where I was going.

So, was this a premonition? A warning? or an early symptom? I don't know. Should I invest in a handheld GPS? Probably. Did my concern and attention directed toward Kira throw my senses off? I don't know.

I forced myself back on the trail alone that afternoon for some needed self confidence and I didn't get lost. Another hike Sunday morning also resulted in success but I was fortunate enough to have another couple to guide me over an unmarked trail after we ventured to the upper falls above Illinois canyon. Had they not been ahead of me on the trail, I probably would have stopped and retraced my path back to the familiar canyon floor. I lost something that day. It was the self confidence I always have had in the woods. If you see me wandering aimlessly at the reunion, just point me back to the food table.

I'll be researching a hand held GPS very soon. After a quick search, I ordered a new handheld GPS unit. I'm not taking any chances. Perhaps this unit will have the meat section at the grocery store as a way point.

Next post, we will be finishing up our adventures in Shenandoah National Park where we hike to one of the many waterfalls. See you then. Assuming I can find my way back to this computer.

You can find more Starved Rock pictures on my FaceBook page.

July 4th tribute

For this weeks post we are going to jump back to Springfield Illinois, my home town. Springfield is the center of the Land of Lincoln. I love my home town and try to depict some of the great sights in my photography tour. To view this tour, go to http://www.dsdigitals.com/ click on the Springfield and Lincoln sights album. Then just click on the tour and sit back and enjoy the places relating to Springfield.

Last weekend, we started our 4th of July celebration with a trip to Oak Ridge Cemetery here in Springfield. The Cemetery is noted for the Lincoln's tomb. But we dedicated this visit to the three war memorials that stand proudly at the cemetery entrance.

The angular tribute to the men and women who fought in the Vietnam War is often the first to catch your eye. The black stone walls etched with names of killed or missing Illinois soldiers, displays a poignant message to those who stand before it. http://www.veterans.illinois.gov/memorials/vietnam.htm

To the west of the Vietnam Memorial, stands a more traditional memorial. This statue depicts the service branches serving in the Korean War.

http://www.veterans.illinois.gov/memorials/korean.htm

World War II is memorialized in the last memorial. It's plain black walls reminiscent of the Vietnam memorial in Washington DC converge on a world globe which signifies the broader scope of this war. http://ww2il.com/

click on any of the pictures above for a larger picture for easier viewing. All photos are copyright by me, DSDigitals.com

Bears - Up Close and Personal

The State Journal Register featured an article of my bear encounter in today's edition. That story was based on an interview with me and on the following recount of my experience. I want to thank Chris Young for his article. It was excellent as usual. If you are a nature enthusiasts but not local, I encourage you to follow him on the web . http://www.sj-r.com/ One correction I might make for those in the Springfield area, I am semi-retired, but I no longer do home inspections. I am the House Doctor and specialize in home repairs and remodeling. That's what pays for the camera equipment! Am I a professional photographer? That depends on your definition of professional. Do I take and sell pictures? Yes. Do I make enough to cover expenses? No. If you are interested in seeing more of my work, go to http://www.dsdigitals.com/ . Now let's get on with the story.

It was about 4 PM local time. My wife and I were camped in Big Meadows Campground in Shenandoah National Park. The weather was clear that day and I had spent the morning hiking down the trail to Dark Hollows Falls. We had experienced lots of fog and rain during our stay in the park so I wanted to make the most of a rare, rain free day. I topped my monopod walking stick with a simple digital Canon Powershot A590. The camera backpack was lightened up so I could travel quickly and return before dark. Inside the bag was my Canon 5D Mark II with a 28-135 mm zoom lens. The heavy telephoto zoom was left behind.

I started out on a section of the Appalachian Trail behind the campground (at right) and quickly turned onto the Lewis Falls Trail to descend about 800 feet down to the observation point at the falls level. Alone on the trail, it was easy for the mind to visit many places as the feet seemed to negotiate the rocky trail on their own.

At right, Kira and I are on another portion of the Appalachian Trail the day before.

While thoughts come and go, I think every hiker in bear habitat area has to come to terms with the thought that some day they will encounter a bear on the trail. Just the day before, my wife and I talked about the possibility and we decided our best option was to display as large an intruder as possible. I say intruder because that is what we are; we're intruders in the bears land. We thought we would stand side-by-side with arms outstretched making loud noises. Once you come to grips with the possibility, it is time to move on to other more pleasant thoughts. On this trail, I knew I was venturing into the active time of the bears as dusk would be approaching soon. I also knew I was alone, possibility not the best idea but my only option at this time because my wife's knees would no longer support her on a long hike particularly where a climb is included.

Each step resonated though my body as my feet hit the large sharp rocks making up most of the decent. Clomp, clomp, clomp down the trail I went. “A noisy hiker is not likely to startle a bear”, I kept thinking to my self. At times I considered whistling or singing but I knew I was overreacting, over thinking this whole bear thing. About half way down the trail, there in the center of my path was a large pile of Bear Dung! It wasn't still steaming but it did look fresh! It doesn't take an Indian guide to recognize bear dung. IT IS BIG! Was this a warning or an omen? My wondering mind was quickly brought back to the here and now. I reasoned that I would be just as likely to encounter a bear if I turned back as I would if I went on to the falls. I stepped over and headed on down the trail. I did take extra precautions to be more aware of my surroundings and possible trail mates, the hairy variety!


When I reached the falls overlook, I caught up with my first fellow hiker. Some how, this gave me a feeling of security. We exchanged pictures and headed down the trail to the observation point below. I lingered at the falls and again found myself alone. Another group then joined me and we headed back up the trail together. They were younger, so I was falling further and further behind and about half way up, our trails split as they headed up the easier fire road and I cut back onto the Appalachian Trail to head back to the campsite. I had figured 1 hour down, one hour at the falls and 1 hour back. This would put me back at 7 PM local time; prime bear time. I was ahead of schedule as I headed, again alone, back toward the campground. This part of the trail was not as rocky as I had completed most of the climb. The monotony of the trail now started releasing the leash on my thoughts and they began to wonder. I was breathing in the fresh air, and absorbing the pure vibrations of nature. The endorphins were flowing and I was on a nature high.

As I approached a bend in the trail, the endorphins were replaced by adrenalin. There less than 20 feet away was a full grown female bear in all her splendor. At age 63, this was my first up close and personal encounter on a trail. I had played the scenario many times in my mind but this was the real thing. I was there and so was the bear. I stood still as she looked me over. I was doing the same thing to her. All that advice about not making eye contact, I didn't care what the experts said; I was watching every move she made to judge her next move. I figured if necessary, I would use the walking stick and attached camera as my weapon of choice but hopefully it would not be needed. As I calmed down and started to reason out my next action, I knew that my first action might be the most important decision affecting the rest of my life, short as it might be. I placed my hand around the top of my only weapon and tensed up as I carefully gripped the hand-hold and snapped off a picture! If this was going to be my last picture, it better be a good one! She started in my direction at about a 30 degree angle from a straight line to me. I countered with an advancement along the trail. As I proceeded, I turned to constantly face her as we passed within feet. Sure wish I would have fired off a few more shots but at the time, I was more interested in survival and having the option to see my shots on the big monitor. About 30 yards down the trail, I stopped and took the good camera out of the backpack. It was at this time, I realized there were two cubs playing in the meadow. Momma was more interested in going to them than going after me. Where is that telephoto lens when you need it? I felt too vulnerable to get close enough for any really award winning shots but I sure had a story to tell.

The following picture, while taken the day before with a 400mm lens, exemplifies what I saw when she came out of the brush and crossed the trail ahead of me. By the time I fired off that first shot, she was walking away.


With shadows ever lengthening, I headed up the trail knowing I had passed the bear test. I had cell service on this side of the ridge so I took the opportunity to call my daughters and let them know that dear OLD Dad had passed the bear test. I kept looking back to be certain Momma bear had not decided to follow me home for dinner; hers! I remember laughing over the phone saying that she had probably told her brother and his friends about the encounter and they would be waiting for me in the parking lot at the end of the trail. I could see them standing around in a semi-circle with chains and clubs and wearing leather vests with gang symbols on them. We laughed, Kim and I, not the bears, as I walked back to the camper to tell my story to anyone who would listen.

We all have our bears to face in life. I prefer to face mine with a smile on my face and a hardy laugh to let the bears know I am coming.

© 2009 Dulany F Sriner