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A Letter To My Sister

January 4, 2025 Dearest Tammy, I was a freshman in college at California State College, now called Pennsylvania Western University, California, in 1965 when I first heard the exciting news! I had a baby sister! I remember that day as if it were a minute ago. To quote the Irish novelist, John Banville, “The past beats inside me like a second heart.” (Just a few fun facts about my friend, John. He grew up in Wexford, Ireland and was born on 12/8/45.) I was living in the Green Street dorm on the second floor. This was before the existence of cell phones, so when we got a phone call or wanted to make one, we had to go down to the lobby. Nothing like having to make or receive calls while any number of dorm residents and their guests might be lounging there on couches and chairs. The phone was mounted on the wall right outside of the resident hall director’s (warden’s) office. On a side note, there was also a campus wide curfew of 10:00 PM. A piercing whistle would sound all over campus to w...

Kris Kristofferson Revisited

Aged To Perfection Kris Kristofferson has performed for me via 8 track tape, cassette tape, CD and live at The Palace Theatre, Greensburg, PA. I’ve listened to his music from the 1970’s to January 27, 2017 and beyond, where a full house joined me in a music appreciation evening of raw Kris. The intimate feel of this Palace jewel suggested a gathering of friends in my living room, singing along with our talented, guitar playing friend. The lights dimmed, Kris, sans introduction, walked to center stage alone, plugged in his guitar, adjusted his neck harmonica and began the first of many fan favorites. For the next two hours, to paraphrase the lyrics in a Billy Joel song," Kris sang and played me a memory." I was transported back to a time of polyester leisure suits and bell bottom pants, platform shoes and lava lamps, youth and marriage, Jaws and a Bahama honeymoon, more future ahead of me than behind. Kris wore his jeans and age with equal comfort. The Si...

Eulogy For Wolfgang

Wolfgang, we didn't have enough time with you. January 19, 2017 was the worst day of our lives. Late morning we called the vet, who would make a house call at 7:00 PM. We sat on death row with you all day counting down the hours. You made many trips outside just to feel the grass, see the sky and smell your favorite scents. You said your good-byes to Debbie, your favorite mail carrier, who always left treats in the mailbox for you. We pulled out all your toys one by one, and tried to engage you in play. We know eating was difficult for you, but you still managed to eat some of your favorite Frosty Paws ice cream and apple slices. If I have a choice, my last meal will be ice cream also. We hugged and kissed you as many times as you and time would allow. How can this be the last time we will feel your heart beating in rhythm with ours? How can we do what needs to be done? How can we not? Wolfgang, we tried to be as courageous as you. For seven months you battled the...