Shades of Me

Moving from Fall into Winter has brought up many questions and answers in my mind this week. Re-reading "Shades of Me", I realize that it might just be possible for that "Spring" to come again. That "Shade" of me has not died yet, though for months, possibly even years, its felt as though it had.

I've feared the "Spring" and have been content to remain in the "Winter", when all things have died or are dormant. I am still terrified of the "Spring" but I can see it coming now and despite the mixture of feelings it arouses, the season will change and I can choose to remain dormant or embrace it. I think I will embrace it and go with the flow of the seasons.

Thanks "T"


Shades of Me
such as the seasons be

Ever changing hues
of green to gold,
from young to old

And as if Spring
has come to stay,
abruptly, it is swept away.

Contentment leaves
dew turns to frost.
I cry for a Spring,
that appears to be lost.

Blossoms wilt
and turn to brown.
Will shades of Spring
again be found?

Assuredly as seasons change
fragments of the Spring remain.

"Shades of Me" was published by Rook Publishing in "Quothade an Anthology" in 2005 and is my all time favorite poem.

Road Warrior - A Job of Many Hats

I apologize for my absence, I have had some drama in my own life and have moved into a new apartment although Its been a month, I'm still moving. Its quite difficult when one is out of town five to six days a week. My personal story is not yet ready to be written, however It will in time be told. Perhaps when I've completed the move and my own drama has dissipated.

I have other stories to tell right now about the amazing people I have met through my job as a simple Portrait Consultant. Spending my evenings in churches around the Midwest, helping people from all walks of life choose their portraits for their church directories and selling them packages of their images to hang on their walls.

The most memorable of my customers tend to be the elderly. There was a time in my life that I did not have to work but out of boredom I took on a couple of part time jobs. One was working with the elderly as a "Congregate Homemaker". I drove a small bus and took them shopping, to their doctor appointments and did their laundry and sometimes cleaned their homes and fixed their meals. I loved that job but there came a point where I had to move on but I built quite a rapport with the elderly and that job helped me personally when it came time to take care of my own elderly parents who have since passed on. Because of my past experience, my present experiences are extremely gratifying.

I am astonished sometimes by the stories my customers tell; The 35 year old pastor of one church in North Central Iowa had gone to pick up their oldest member, One-hundred and one. He said by the time he got out of the car to open the door for her, she was already in the church and he was left in the dust. I thought my 96 year old customer from Northeastern Iowa, an active business owner who had just gone golfing the day before was incredible. But then someone else comes along and completely blows my mind.

In Southern Illinois in a little country church in the middle of nowhere an elderly woman with a walker was waiting for her pictures to be taken. She moved at a slow pace but had spunk and all her wits about her. The hostess at the table told me she had just had her Ninetieth birthday and so I sat down next to her and wished her a happy birthday. "Spunk" cannot accurately describe this woman.

The frail appearing woman informed me she had gone sky diving on her last birthday and had wanted to go again this year, however her friend was unable to go with her so she passed this year but intends on going again for her Ninety-first birthday. Needless to say, I was impressed. After her pictures were taken and viewed she hung around for a while and mingled with the rest of the congregation that were waiting for their own pictures to be taken.

After she had gone, I learned that little miss skydiver was working on her "bucket list". The hostess, a few decades younger than the skydiver turned out to be her closest friend. This summer she was asked to tag along with her to Seattle Washington. One of the items on her list was to have lunch on the Space Needle. So one day, her and her friend got on a train and headed for Seattle. They had their lunch on the Space Needle, got back on the train immediately following and returned home. That was all she wanted to do and had no desire to stay for any length of time in Seattle. The next item on her "bucket list" is a scheduled cruise to Alaska. What some might call gossip others call good stories.

There is a down side however to the stories. You are bound to run into hardships and pain in this line of work. I sat at my table with a young attractive couple and their young children in Bloomington Illinois. A beautiful church I might add. But there is ugly sometimes hiding in the beauty. It may seem silly but in the short amount of time I spend with my customers, there is a slight bond that develops sometimes. This particular family seemed very happy and pleased with their pictures and their positive energy seemed to rub off on me when they left. But then the gossip from the hostess completely caught me off guard. This beautiful young woman was dying of cancer, she was wearing a wig I was told. I then went to my car and cried.

It seems recently I've had to wear the hat of counselor as well. Knowing in advance that someone is dying and going to be sitting at my table is a completely different expereince. In fact today I sat with a couple and the husband was dying. He was just diagnosed with advanced lung cancer three months ago, but she seemed to be in the acceptance stage and said she was surprised that he wanted to come and have his picture taken. He'd only been given a few months to live. While we viewed their pictures, he stepped out of the room to visit with other church members. And completely out of character, I asked her questions and shared the story of my best friend who had lung cancer and was given six months to live but refused to "get her things in order" and lived for five years. Sometimes people just need someone to listen, relate to them and empathize with them.

The first time for a Widow or a Widower to have their picture taken without their spouse is a very traumatic experience. Sometimes they flat out tell me and I end up consoling them with a hand on the shoulder while they struggle to choose their directory pose. Others, I can see it in their eyes when the pictures appear on the screen and their expression suddenly goes blank. At those moments I begin asking them about their children and grandchildren and it distracts them enough to be able to complete the task.

In my line of business there are those who deliberately avoid those customers because they know they will not buy or at least that's their assumption. They will take their time with their current customer and the other Portrait Consultant ends up having to take them. Not all of them shuffle the deck but there are those who's main objective is to get the sale. I think its just as well that I end up with them under the circumstances because compassion is what is needed at the moment, not just a sales person.

This is the most gratifying job I've ever had and hope it is the last job I ever have. I get to travel, hear wonderful stories that bring a smile to everyone I share them with and on occasion help people through a difficult experience while making a decent wage. I have aspired at one time or another to be a church secretary, a hospice nurse, a psychologist, a photographer and a writer. I have discovered a profession that includes a little piece of all of them.


Peace
Liz

Road Warrior - Revisitng Lover's Leap

I left abruptly Monday morning for Saint Louis, Missouri. It was 3:00am when I couldn't handle the situation at home any longer having slept about two hours when I departed. I watched the sun rise somewhere south of Peoria, Illinois. Adrenalin coursing through my veins finally wore out about fifty miles from my destination and I had to pull over for a coffee refill and pull myself together.

I spent two days in Saint Louis, terrified to drive anywhere other than work. I have a fear of driving in big cities. I knew there were several sights I would have liked to have visited but didn't. Our job was nothing short of a bad dream. But you'll have those days. I pretty much stayed in my motel room for the duration and ate nearby. Of course, I never thought I'd be driving all over the country side for work at any point in my life or solo for that matter. I'm glad fear didn't prevent me from taking this job, though I may complain on occasion, I do love it.

I left on Wednesday morning and decided to take the scenic route 79, even though it was an hour longer. I had plenty of time to enjoy the day and a lot on my mind. Normally I avoid driving the winding, curving hilly roads as much as possible ( like the busy cities) but this time I chose to drive them deliberately. If I hadn't I would have missed some beautiful scenery and some good pictures.

I stopped in a place called "Blue Rose" North of Clarksville and saw a sign for the "Village Lodge Bed & Breakfast", touting a restaurant with a beautiful view, I had to take a peek. Unfortunately I was 1/2 hour too early for lunch and they weren't open but it was a beautiful view indeed and I walked about the property thinking that maybe some day I might like to stay there. I think I also stopped at every scenic overlook that I came across.

When I came upon Hannibal I saw the Mark Twain Cave off to the left and a flood of memories came rushing back. I'd been in Hannibal before with my now ex-husband and I had a feeling I knew what was coming up on the right hand side of the highway. Sure enough there it was, "Lovers Leap". I had to stop, I was drawn to it. After taking pictures and appreciating the view much more than I had years ago I thought about revisiting the Mark Twain Diner for lunch and headed back down the cliff to town.

Town was a buzz with activity and I couldn't find a parking place, so I decided to continue on with my journey, I could see the bridge that would take me into Illinois and away from "The Great River Road" and decided that I'd had enough. On my way to the interstate I glanced to my right and there was the horrid hotel we had stayed in, it was a dump then and was worse today but regardless, I smiled, remembering us both waking with aching backs from the bed.

Even though things didn't work out with my ex-husband, it didn't stop me from enjoying the memory that we shared in Hannibal which brings me to the moral of this particular story. When I left for Missouri It was an unpleasant evening, I won't go into details except to say that no one was hurt, physically anyway. No one ever really wins in a break up, but if it doesn't work out you can at least say you tried (sometimes several times) and took a risk and jumped off the cliff into the unknown, just as I did this trip. Even though it began badly and work didn't go well, I chose to take the winding, curving, hilly roads home despite my fears and ended up making some new memories as well as recalling some good old ones. We choose how we are going to remember our experiences. I choose to look back and remember the good things about this trip and life.

Road Warrior - The Friendliest People You Will Ever Meet

I was back on Highway 24 this week it was nice to return to a familiar place that I enjoyed before. This time it was a trip about the people. I worked in Fredricksburg Iowa first, A small farming community as was Saint Lucas where I spent the last three days of the week.

I always learn a little something about everyone when they sit down at my table but I spent a lot of time mingling with them in the waiting area this trip. I met a 91 year old woman in Fredricksburg who left their young pastor in the dust when he personally picked her up and brought her to the church for her picture to be taken. Before the pastor could get out and help her to the door, she was in and ready.

Most of them hung around for coffee and cookies after they were done, just chatting and the positive energy was contagious. there were people who drove for miles to attend that particular church and it was very understandable. They were a tight group. I told them I loved it up in the area and thought about moving to the area many times but this church I said I would join if I ever did. They offered to come to the Quad Cities and help me pack. I made a joke about it, but the pastor said he was quite serious.

After Fredricksburg, Saint Lucas was much the same but we spent three days there. This tiny town was nestled in the crevice of the surrounding hillsides. It was beautiful countryside. I stopped one day on the way to work at "The Little Brown Church", the smallest church in the world, with only four small pews. Then I met up with my partner for the week and had lunch at "The White House". It went highly recommended by someone from Fredricksburg and the food and service was great.

The people of Saint Lucas were also very kind and friendly. We were told stories of the residents (not gossip) that we had met or in the case of one elderly man in his 90's, we never met, who had just gone into assisted living. He claimed he didn't need to be reminded of his appointment but when it came time, he had taken a bus to the River Boat in Dubuque. His sister rescheduled the appointment for the next day and he again came up missing. This time he had gone off on an expedition with one of his son's. I don't believe he ever made it to have his picture taken.

One thing I noticed was the prevalence of certain surnames in the area and I inquired with several of them as to their relations with this or that person whom I had sat with earlier but found a lot of them were distant relatives and these people had been farming and living in this tiny community for generations.

Its a good feeling to be so well received by an entire community. We had bars reopen their grills just so we could eat something after work. Everyone knew who we were and where we were from and struck up conversation wherever we went. Our presence was also requested on the next shoot in Fredricksburg in a couple of weeks. We apparently made a good impression.

Road Warrior - The World Is A Smaller Place

It poured all the way to Decatur, it was a depressing journey. Like many bad experiences, they are just part of life. Let me rephrase that, not "bad" or "good" so much, as reflective. Most of my journeys have been reflective thus far, however one reaches the threshold of enlightenment at some point that changes your entire perspective on life. And when that happens, it affects everyone around you. I've often been told "you think too much". I don't understand why that's a bad thing. Driving long distances allows an abundance of "thinking" time and is meditative.

I'm finding nothing appealing about Decatur and in a way this city and this trip parallels my life at this moment in time. It poured all the way here and many of the gas stations on the way had just been through a storm and had no power. Decatur is littered with large, looming factories producing pollution and it smells. The roads are confusing and in need of repair. I have difficulty finding my way around. The only clarity and solitude I'm finding is being locked up in my hotel room, a suite with no bathtub and taking a bath is sacred to me.

I tried to sleep in on Wednesday because I've been designated to receive advanced training before work. The doors here are loud and always slamming and it was fruitless. My District Manager believes I should be at the top of the district in sales after only six weeks. That's a lot of expectation to shoulder.

I was glad to return home on Saturday. It was a hot trip back, in the 90's with no air conditioning, it was a relief when the sun went down. I took a different route back and enjoyed the experience of crop dusting planes playing in the air and chicken with the cars. I also found wind turbines in the area as the sun was setting; my only visual pleasures of trip.

My only day off on Sunday was very busy. It began with Birthday shopping for my Grandsons and then to their party. It was a great feeling to be able to buy them gifts after such a long dry spell of being broke all the time and then unemployed. I've never been able to enjoy the satisfaction of giving without worrying about breaking the bank and it was an excellent feeling. They were all very pleased, with the exception of the littlest, whom only being one year old, doesn't care so much as whats in the box, but the box itself.

The remainder of the day was trying to stay cool, doing laundry, re-packing and finally a relaxing movie and bed only to turn around and start it all over again on Monday. I must say I am glad to be back in Iowa. Marshalltown, Fredricksburg and Saint Lucas are my jobs this week. Iowa seems so small now after feeling like I've been to every nook and cranny. When I really contemplate that thought, the "World" is now a smaller place and no destination feels "too far". Sometimes when I'm driving I think I could just keep going and see the World!

My 25th Class Reunion

I didn't know quite what to expect from my first Class Reunion. I stopped getting invited to them when I moved and wondered why I received the invitations in the first place. I didn't graduate. I actually got my GED, got married, went to the community college all before my Senior year.

Most people I've spoken with have dissed their reunions, never really hearing anything positive I don't know why I decided to go. Besides, I never really thought I'd be remembered. My perceptions of Jr. High and High School were that of having been a hermit, a loner and shy, thinking I blended in with the furniture. I've grown since then and thought it would be fun, I'm a kind of "off the wall" personality now, you never know what your going to get.

So I crashed the mixer, gathering at one of the local clubs. I was greeted by many vaguely familiar faces that actually did remember me! I was told "you were so cool", "you were funny", "you were fun" and then one comment that completely dumbfounded me "you always looked like you were going to beat the crap out of me". My perceptions of my self in school were apparently wrong.

We did not have name tags so part of the fun was walking up to everyone saying "Do I know you"? Out of a class of 600, though only a fraction of that attended, 9 out of 10 times I did know that person. One even recalled sitting next to me in one of our classes, how I wished I could remember school that well. Maybe it was my attitude that suppressed it or it could have been that I had terribly low self esteem during that phase of my life.

I had only had five beers but on an empty stomach, it didn't take long before I was feeling it pretty well. I was just having way too much fun to sit down and eat. My daughter called and checked on me a few times (Mom doesn't get out much). Finally I ended up calling her for a ride home. When I left, I was followed out to the car and one of my classmates just jumped right in and said "you're taking me home too". She was happy to oblige and probably very amused.

I really don't understand why there is so much dread associated with class reunions after having attended one. My intentions were not to brag about what a cool job I have nor did I care who did what and how much money they made. It was about seeing old friends that I had completely forgotten about and having a good time. As it was!

If you are contemplating your class reunion, don't. Just do it!

Peace
Liz

Intersections

Pitch black roads, beneath starry skies,
night after night I drive.
Pink Floyd wishing you were here
or Miley climbing mountains,
whatever I can dial, I sing and smile.
Prowling highways and interstates,
hearing music for my inner state.
Thoughts race sometimes or draw a blank,
hypnotized by yellow lines and reflective signs.

New friends each day
or for the week.
This life is not intended for the meek
of soul or mind
but I've never been so "me" before
nor had such ambitions of having more.
No complaints by hotel staff,
nothing to criticize on my behalf.
When I walk through the empty door,
the road calls my name,
enticing me to journey further
beyond thoughts I've never had before.

Attainable dreams upon the horizon;
I hear them sizzle
when they rise.
My senses keener, smelling roses on the way
and emotions of the distant bay.
I am compelled to pause and touch the sky.
Reflect upon the "crossroad" sign;
contemplate what turn to make.
A single stretch of highway
possesses forging power;
transforms the scenery of approaching days.
Each curve, each turn, each hill I climb,
illuminates the centered line.

© Elizabeth A. Hall, 2009, all rights reserved.

Road Warrior - Pella Iowa

I only had a half day home after my last trip before I headed out again on Monday for Pella, Iowa. I passed through Montezuma again and followed the winding roads. I wasn't sure I was there when I got there. I thought I was in a town called Vermeer, the first sign I saw coming into town. Vermeer was an enormous 1.5 million square foot facility stretching several city blocks. producing environmental equipment for excavation, construction, agriculture and many other products, also housing their own museum on their grounds outlining the history of Vermeer. It was pretty impressive.

I passed by many small dutch windmills on my way to the motel, they are scattered about town in peoples yards, business and parks. The main attraction being the Vermeer Mill Windmill, including another museum. There were gardens everywhere as well and I discovered a small courtyard hidden downtown under a clock tower. I walked about town on Tuesday and went into the courtyard discovering more gardens, fountains and a pool. At the end of the courtyard was a small Pella store, minuscule compared to the Pella Windows and Doors plant which is also very beautiful.

My first job was not in town but in Peoria Iowa, a small community outside of Pella. The view from the back of the church was breathtaking. Across the street from the church was the "keeper of the keys", he wondered about the church in his motorized wheelchair. Very friendly as well, he invited me across the street to take pictures of the Skunk River behind his house when he observed me taking pictures in the parking lot. I wasn't sure what to expect but I couldn't actually see the river only a clearing in the corn that could have been a river. Needless to say it was still a fantastic view to have from your back yard.

The next morning I spent more time in downtown Pella, browsing in dutch import stores and bakeries. Thank goodness I didn't have a lot to spend this trip otherwise I would have purchased all kinds of pastries and they would never have made it home. I had lunch at the "Windmill Cafe", a very busy place. I had a great Feta Cheese, burger and grabbed a Ruben to go for my trip home but by 12:00am it was a bit soggy.

I was most impressed by our photographer this trip. Not only was he an excellent photographer but he did a great job in spite of the fact his wife was dying of cancer and the Dr. had given her a week at the most. The only reason he was there working was to maintain his medical insurance, for some reason he wasn't able to go on FMLA. He was frazzled and distracted but when there were people to shoot, he put a smile on his face, joked with them and gave us some great material to work with. In times of despair and tragedy our true character shines and my thoughts are with him and his family.

Road Warrior - Journey to Spirit Lake Part 2

I spent Thursday in Arnold's Park exploring the "Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum". I enjoyed the Buddy Holly wall and the artistry of the local High School. They decorated guitars in honor of Rock Legends and I was able to vote for my favorite. After the voting they are auctioning off the guitars and the proceeds will benefit the school. (I voted for #3).

I had an ice cream and then did some shopping. I purchased gifts for some of my family members and then explored some of the history of the lakes; Okaboji West, East and the largest, Spirit Lake were created by Glaciers. West Okaboji is spring fed and where Arnold's park sits is unusually deep, there is a canyon of cooler water beneath the lake and the two never intermingle but there is an inversion of cooling and heating and it turns over twice a year.

Friday I spent napping and relaxing until it was time for work. I grabbed lunch in at the "Fresh Bistro" on Hill Avenue in Spirit Lake and had the most scrumptious "Fresh Dip", akin to the "French Dip" with sirloin, Swiss and saute'd mushrooms dipped in aujus sauce. It was wonderful as was the service. I then went next door to the "Piece of Work" art shop and purchased a pair of acid etched nickle earrings with dragonflies etched on them (imagine that, not butterflies).

We had a trainee with us this trip and she quit on Friday so our Photographer from Clear Lake stayed over night in her room, he was planning on going back and returning in the morning ( a two hour drive). We all decided to grab a bite to eat after work and had pizza and ended up going back to the Motel and sitting outside until late, drinking beers and learning about each other. It reminded me of my old job and the comradery and friendships I had built with many of them. I had a great time and let my hair down (which I don't do very often outside of home).

Though we aren't on the same job all the time, we will probably run into each other again from time to time. I've been keeping in touch with several of the PC's I've worked with, we've shared ideas and experiences and are becoming an extension of my friends and family back home. The job is growing on me as are the people.

I only got 3 hours sleep that night and was really dragging the entire day so instead of going to wait for the sunset on Spirit Lake, I went home and went to bed early so I could get up early and head out. I was on my way out of town by 6:00 and it was a tough trip back. I had to stop several times to try to wake up, splashing water on my face in the rest area bathrooms.

I was very disappointed in my stop at "Buddy Holly Place" in Clear Lake, I don't know if I went the wrong way or what but I found nothing but open fields, no indications there was a plane crash. I expected more and if I did go to the wrong way, oh well, maybe another time. I at least got a photo of the street sign and "A Field"..lol (Found out I didn't go far enough, "Buddy Holly Place" ends but starts back up again).

I arrived home safely right on schedule, it took exactly 6 hours and I immediately headed for the bed for a nap. Heading out for Pella Iowa tomorrow morning for my next adventure.

Peace
Liz

A Most Unique Bridal Party Entrance

I actually got choked up watching this video. The joy in the celebration was contagious!

Road Warrior - Journey to Spirit Lake

It down poured all the way to Cedar Rapids and I was drenched after carrying in my luggage. Its difficult to juggle an umbrella with several bags. I arrived early and my room wasn't ready so I went shopping and bought a much needed clothes rack for the van.

I headed out bright and early this morning, a travel day, which means I can take my sweet time getting there, I don't have to work tonight. It appeared the weather was going to be more of the same. The weather cleared up nicely and when I stopped for gas in Mason City, it was hot and humid. I was hoping to get to Estherville before Noon which is nearby Spirit Lake and Lake Okaboji. It should only have taken 4 hours according to the search engine map. However I didn't pull in to town until near 3:00pm. I was only prepared to drive six hours home from here, now its looking more like eight.

I stopped briefly in Clear Lake as Hwy 18 goes right through it. I spotted "Main Avenue" and thought there must be a post office nearby, its a little town, I needed to drop off my deposit and get a money order. Driving down Main Avenue, I stumbled upon Clear Lake, it was the quaintest little downtown, right on the Lake with little shops and galleries. I asked for directions to the Post Office and walked there, only taking up about a half hour of time.

Heading out of Clear Lake I passed "Billy Holly Place". I was very tempted to turn down that road but had to use restraint. I am planning on stopping on my way home to see the crash site of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and the Big Bopper (so stay tuned). One of the toughest challenges for me out here is "not stopping"! Its like eye candy, so much to see, so much to photograph. I see the photographs in my mind as I'm passing, thinking "that would have been an awesome shot".

Somewhere along the line, I passed the turn for Estherville. I recall seeing the sign that said "Estherville 25 mi" and the road kept going, and going and going. I finally arrived in Spencer Iowa and knew I had done passed my turn!! . After having stopped a moment and snapping a shot of a church being elevated off its foundation, I pulled over and observed my "old fashioned" map and determined the map had screwed up again. I ended up going the long way to Estherville by passing it and going through Spencer, Lake Okaboji and then through Spirit Lake to hit Hwy 9 going East when I was supposed to arrive in Estherville from the South West.

Highway 9, between Estherville and Spirit Lake is interesting. I passed two abandoned trains and a field of mules, yes, mules maybe they are burros, I don't know but I hope to get a picture of them. The Super 8 in Estherville is not a great looking motel, nor does my bed look comfy, its old and I'm looking across the street at a much newer "Sleep Inn" thinking "why am I not staying there"? They have an indoor pool and a whirlpool! My peers who arrive tomorrow will probably move across the street, I might even join them.

I freshened up a tad when I got here and decided to head back to Spirit Lake for some shopping, dinner and photography. I checked out Hill Avenue and its many shops, my favorite was "A Piece Of Work" Art Gallery ( I might return for a little something for myself later). Dinner was "Charlie's Barfly Saloon" and they had the most excellent 1/2 lb. Mushroom and Swiss Burger. While there I asked the owner where there was a good place to photograph the sunset and it just so happened that he also owned some condos on Spirit Lake and he gave me directions and said I should sit between the condos for a good shot.

I arrived long before sunset and I crashed a couple getting ready to have themselves a campfire, they had just come in from skiing. I chatted with them a bit and they made me feel welcome but I decided since it was their last night on the lake before heading back to Nebraska, I should leave them alone. I took some shots and departed, I think their privacy was more important than me capturing a shot of the sunset (I already have over 400 sunsets in my database). Even if the Owner called the sunsets on the lake here "Iowa's Maui". What I did capture was beautiful enough for me and that moment.

So ends the journey to Spirit Lake. Tomorrow I work and hope for a better experience.

Peace
Liz

Road Warrior - Highway 24

As I was pulling out of town on Wednesday, I stopped for a biscuit at a drive through. When I reached the window to pay, a lady I'm familiar with from the days when I was taking care of Dad informed me that the car in front of me had paid my tab. All I could say was "why''? She said it happens often, just because people have a sudden urge to be kind. I've only gone so far as leaving my quarter in the shopping cart at Aldi's. Perhaps she saw my clunker and felt I could use a break. Either way it was good to see my old friend at the window and we chit chatted for a few moments before I headed off for New Hampton and Fort Atkinson Iowa.

Highway 24 is a stretch of old Highway that runs from New Hampton in the West to Calmar in the East. Along this stretch of Highway are several small towns and absolutely no city lights glowing in the distance. New Hampton, with a population of about 4000, being the largest. I found the late night drives back to the Motel in New Hampton from Fort Atkinson to be beautiful, it was pitch black and the Milky Way was uninhibited.

The Super 8 in New Hampton gets at least four stars from me. Compared to the last two Super 8's, this one was near luxury. I especially liked my view out the window, no parking lots or businesses, just corn field as far as you can see, with a few trees to house the birds that sang to me in the morning and a wonderful cool breeze. I actually found time to use the pool this time and swam a some laps and enjoyed the Whirlpool.

Thursday night I had a good nights sleep and decided to take advantage of the time before I went to work. I ran nearly the entire stretch of Highway 24, my destination Spillville to see the Bily Clock Museum which I'd heard so much about from my Co-workers. On the way I stopped in Lawler to photograph the Veterans Monument that had recently been erected. As soon as I parked my van to get out, a car stopped to observe what I was doing, as if they were untrusting of my intentions. When I was done I got back in the van and pulled across the street to buy gas at the low price of 2.29 a gallon. When I did, the curious car departed.

The clocks at the museum were fascinating. Two brothers, Frank and Joseph Bily, carved very large and intricate clocks in their spare time begining in 1913 and were once offered $1,000,000.00 for one of them but turned it down. I was amazed that they created these clocks just for their own pleasure, never intending to part with them. They are beautiful but I wasn't allowed to photograph them but you can visit their website at http://bilyclocks.org. On my way back I did stop to photograph a tiny church I found interesting; St. Clement's Catholic Church and was built in 1856.

Another interesting tid bit is the Wapsi river up there. Where I am from the Wapsipinicon is a fairly good size river but I crossed over it every day just outside of New Hampton on my way to work, a small creek that begins just North of New Hampton, called the "East Fork Wapsipinicon".

That night at work was interesting as well. My first three customer were in their 90's and I never would have guessed. I saw my longest married couple today, they had been married for 64 years. My last customers of the day were Father and Son. Dad was 94 and in great shape, we talked about golfing and the John Deere Classic that is held where I am from. Apparently he had been golfing just the other day and had bought a brand new club.

After having seen so many people Friday that were in their 90's and 80's, I never would have guessed them to be that old, I began asking many of them if they were senior citizens because we offer them a 10% discount. Looks here are deceiving. I told them I was going to move up here because there must be something in the air. The people in Fort Atkinson were wonderful, friendly and fun, everyone knew everyone, the population only being about 400. Every day the coordinator for the church we were working would bring in baked goods, fresh fruit and sandwich fixings.

My partner on this trip was one of our districts top sales persons, she's been with the company for 9 years and she gave me some great pointers, her input has increased my sales significantly and she thinks I'm going to make a great PC. She also ended up changing motels and stayed at the Super 8 with me, helping me also to get a lower rate on my room for the week.

When I left Fort Atkinson and headed for home, I took Highway 150, a winding, curving and hilly drive. Beautiful now but I'm not looking forward to driving those roads in the winter. I stopped and took a few landscape photos and kicked myself in the butt after that, the sunset was phenomenal but I wanted to get home before dark, I didn't quite make it but those photos will forever remain in my mind.

Peace
Liz

Road Warrior - Always Carry A Spare Car Key When Traveling

This weeks adventure took me on winding country roads through quaint little towns, where main street is square and old City Hall buildings rest in the middle. Montezuma, Iowa was one of them, a very quaint little town, with Mom and Pop grocery stores and modern cafe's. A mixture of the past and present.

My destination, Agency Iowa. My first trip as a graduated Portrait Consultant. I decided to stop along I-80 at the Amana Colonies "mini mana's" as I call it, to treat myself to a little something. My bangs are getting too long and the wind blows them in my eyes, I had meant to pack a scarf but forgot. There were only woolen scarves available so as it was scorching hot, I opted for a cheap butterfly sun visor. I probably looked like a trip in my rusty old 91 Aerostar van; Classic Rock blaring on the radio, butterfly sun visor and shades.

The Super 8 in Ottumwa was only slightly better than the one in Mason City. I approached the front desk and the first thing that I observed was the office chair, the arms taped with duct tape. "You need a new chair" I said to the clerk. "Business is bad" he said. The lobby was inviting with the pool right there with beautiful stonework flooring. Again, I was hoping to make use of it but never found the time.

The room was ok; coffee pot where it should be, on the sink. There was a refrigerator this time so my yogurt didn't spoil. I unloaded, changed and headed for Agency. Another nice little town, more modern than the rest of the little towns I've visited, It was a "newer" town with ranch houses and split levels rather than little old farm houses.

I had a great first day with a bit of a humorous ending. I made my draw for the day plus a little bit more. I earn a salary, plus a draw on my commission every day. I have to sell a specific amount to meet that draw and everything over that I get a percentage of the sales. If I sell above a certain amount I draw a higher percentage.

Unfortunately I heard several of our customers express their surprise that they were going to be able to purchase additional portraits. One customer said "If I'd have known that, I would have wore a suit". Apparently this mission wasn't well planned, and this particular customer had only received a call about having their church directory photos taken the day before and the customer only wanted their free 8x10, putting a damper on sales. These parishioners had not had a portrait done in ten years. I even spoke with a middle aged gentleman who hadn't had his portrait taken since his High School photo.

The evening went by quickly. After my last customer, I went out to get the next one and there was nobody left. My partner said I kept up well and we both showed an equal number of sets. I was anxious to leave and get back to the motel and in my hurried state, I took a load out to the van and had to go back for the laptop so I could transmit my business to headquarters. I had thought I had tossed my car keys on the front seat of the van and went back in. My partner and 3 photographers were standing by the van so I wasn't worried about leaving them there.

Its funny the tricks your mind can play, especially when one is tired (also still sick). When I returned with the lap top I couldn't find my keys. It was dark but we looked with a flashlight all over the front of the van. We concluded that I must have taken them back inside and I was able to get a lift back to the motel with my partner (the lady who locked up the church had already gone).

Back at the Motel, I had no wheels to wander about town to look for dinner. So I hooked up my work laptop to transmit the days business and I didn't have much luck with that either. I could not transmit via wireless, I'm not sure why, so I resorted to dial up. It took eons. So I wandered down for coffee in the lobby because the coffee pot didn't work and I had a nice chat with the desk clerk while he made me a fresh pot. Whom I later found asleep at 2:30am when I returned to fill my cup.

I gave up on transmitting and thought I would try again in the morning. For some reason I had no problem with it the next morning, though the entire time I was having trouble with the work lap top, mine was connecting just fine.

It was good to see my old rusty van the next day and the photographers were more than happy to announce that they had found my keys laying on my table in the basement of the church. I ended up having yet another good day, almost identical to the previous one. However I had to drive three hours home immediately following. The good news is that in chatting with another customer, I was advised to return home via a different direction that was all four lanes and it would cut 1/2 hour off my drive time.

The roads were empty and dark and the most excitement I had was passing a sign advertising the "American Gothic Home" that was in the painting by Grant Wood. It would have been interesting to visit if it were not in the middle of the night. I arrived home at 2:00am barely alive, having stopped 9 miles from my 1st ex-husband in Columbus Junction to get gas and coffee. I had pondered asking if I could crash there, but the stop was refreshing and I woke up a tad and just wanted to get home. When I finally did, I was too wound to go to bed but finally did at 4:00am as the birds began waking up.

(Because I didn't take any photos this trip, I have graced you with a few of my favorite photos from the wedding I shot over the weekend and my version of "American Gothic". I was told when I began working with photographers, that they were very sensitive about their work, I've learned this past weekend, that I fall into that category as well..lol)

Peace
Liz

Road Warrior - Week 2

This week got off to a cool start and I packed all sleeveless blouses, go figure. The sky was clear and blue and uneventful (which was probably a good thing for me, my camera stayed in its case). I made it to Cedar Rapids in record time. Our first gig was at a beautiful Orthodox church in an very upper class neighborhood. Most of the members seemed to be related in some form or another. I had a positive attitude and high expectation that were quickly dashed. Not a bad selling day but not as good as I'd hoped. One family was very difficult and obnoxious but I hadn't given it a thought until my instructor had critiqued my performance in my notebook, saying I handled them very well. According to their standards, I have had several difficult customers but I suppose having worked with angry customers on the phone for nearly three years it never crossed my mind to label them as such, perhaps because they weren't angry and yelling. I saw them as being indecisive and impatient.

The remainder of the week was spent in Kensett, Iowa. It was a long trip to Mason City, where we stayed (120 miles from Minneapolis, Minnesota). I got lost several times (I swear only once was my fault). We were given the wrong name and address of the church in Kensett. Our district Marketing Rep had made the error. Apparently the pastor had two churches in the Kensett vicinity. I was very impressed when the next day he drove all the way from Waterloo to apologize in person for the mistake.

We stayed at Super 8 in Mason City, they skimped on their amenities, no ironing board, fridge, microwave (I'm getting spoiled already). I wanted to throw their little coffee pot, its not user friendly and there was no place to put it other than the spare chair because the desk was so small. My milk and yogurt went bad too. However they did have a pool that I didn't have time to utilize. The air conditioning unit looked like it had a rodent living inside it (ewwww). If I'm up this way again, I'll be finding a different motel. Their cleaning was more than under par; my toilet paper was nearly empty and wasn't changed, the hair I removed from the drain was still sitting on the side of the tub (I forgot to throw it in the trash), my coffee hadn't been replenished the entire time I was there and my ashtrays were still dirty. I had inquired at the front desk for a comment card to complain but they don't have any, the manager said I had to send an email..lol

Now, Kensett is a town with about a two block down town area with the usual a gas station and tattoo shop (yeah, a tattoo shop in the middle of no where). What struck me most about the little town was the telephone booth on the corner. For those who don't know what that is, a long time ago, before cell phones, there used to be small Plexiglas booths that you could stand in and for a dime, you could place a phone call to anywhere local and if you picked up the handset and dialed "0", you would get a real person to assist you. I used to call the operator sometimes for kicks and tell her that I lost my dime in the phone and a dime would suddenly appear. (is my age showing?) I remember when the price jumped to a quarter. I wonder if its a rotary phone or a push button. I asked one of the residents and they weren't sure.

One of the perks for me having a job where I am traveling are the little things I come across that strike me as interesting, out of the ordinary even the uniqueness of each individual community. I was most intrigued by the Wind Turbines everywhere up there and I can understand why, I was almost blown off the road several times by the wind. I inquired with one of my customers about them and it seems they sell the power to the Western states. I had to restrain myself from stopping along the road and taking photos but I did get a few shots while driving.

I began to feel a cold coming on midweek. My body just isn't used to this much activity, being on the go, go, go all day, every day. On Thursday, when all was said and done, after having a brief lapse in confidence, I wondered if I could really do this job physically and mentally, and do it well. I called in my numbers for the week and listened to the District Manger praise three people who had averages that were above 100 on "one" day this week and I realized that out of the four days I worked this week, three of my days were above 100 and Thursday my average was higher than those mentioned and I about went through the roof with excitement, that was the reassurance I needed to really know that I can do this job and do it well.

When I was arrived back at the motel and done for the week, standing in the lobby waiting for the elevator, in a suit, holding my briefcase and thinking to myself, "wow, I must really look professional, like someone with a great career" and it occurred to me that I "AM" that person and I do have a great career. Just that thought alone, I observed, compelled me to carry myself differently, more confidently. I'm 43 years old, a grandmother and finally, I have a career!

Peace
Liz

Road Warrior Week - 1

I just arrived home from my first business trip, it was long and hot and didn't have much time for myself. I left Tuesday morning and wore little due to lack of air conditioning (which provoked much honking from passing truck drivers). The heat indexes were in the 100's, I encountered storms in Cedar Rapids that produced some beautiful photographs and on my return trip as well. I'm sure people stay clear of me while I'm snapping photos driving 70 to 75 mph. (keep in mind, I don't look through the view finder, I just point and click, its a surprise as to what I end up with and sometimes well worth it).

My schedule consisted of 11:00 am training, an hour break and then to the location where we set up our displays of portraits and packages available to the church members. If we are lucky, we get a break, if not we starve until we tear down at 9:30 pm and are usually out by 10:00 to 10:30pm. Once back at the motel its study and homework time and to bed around 1:00am (and then repeat).

I way over packed and that was another learning experience. I found I can cut down significantly on the amount of "stuff" I take with me; clothes, books and food. Instead of the huge cooler all I need is my small lunch bag. However, having a van is a plus as I've acquired a significant amount of equipment. Two huge bags ( 30 x 40 x 5 ) of display portraits and frames, another laptop, a printer, a flat screen for customers to view their photos, a big box of office supplies and a cart to haul it (All of that takes up the entire back seat).

I've been passing through towns and sites I'd really like to visit and photograph however I haven't any time for myself (yet). Training is grueling, the amount of homework is too much, by the end of the night you are so tired you can't concentrate but I only have one more week and they cut me lose and no more training or homework. I was told if I can make it through the first two weeks, I've got it made.

On Friday night we stayed in Waterloo and after work we went back to the motel and had more training and after, our instructors ordered pizza and provided beer. Now I don't drink often and I had two beers and the next day I was the walking dead but we had a lot of fun and I'll not do it again until I know my job like I know my social security number.

Saturday I actually began selling. It was an odd day in Dike, it was slow, I only had four sittings but sold two of them on a package and ended up leaving early because I lived the farthest away. I did have a chance to survey the cute little town and photograph their old Fire Department building, it was no longer in use and the tiniest building, I couldn't imagine them being able to house much of anything in it. But I found it interesting and took a few shots. I've sent an email to info@dikeia.com to inquire as to the age of the building.

I definitely want to return to Cedar Rapids (where I'm headed this morning) to take photos of their courthouse which sits in the middle of the River. From what I understand its undecided what they intend to do with the landmark as it was damaged by flood in 2008. Whether or not I will have time to do so is undetermined at this point. I have a friend willing to take me on a tour of Cedar Rapids if I can just squeeze it into my busy schedule.

On Saturday after breakfast at the Happy Chef in downtown Waterloo, which by the way gets a very poor service rating by our entire party, we passed by the John Deere plant where my Father was frequently called to business. From what I understand, he designed some of the office and is comparable to the size of our Alcoa building which spans at least one mile. I'm sure if I'm wrong my cousin will comment with the correct information.

Today I am ready to head back to Cedar Rapids for Week 2 and then to Kensett, IA near the Minnesota border. I'm done for the week at 10:30pm on Thursday and expected to drive 4hrs 9mins back home (250 mi). I'm contemplating the possibility of staying the night again in Mason City before heading back, that's a long drive after such a long day.

It's now time to load the van and be on my way. Until next time....

Peace
Liz

In Honor Of Father

I couldn't let the day go by without saying something about my own Father. He passed away in 2005 and being a "Daddy's" girl, it was very difficult and occasionally still is. The Father's day before he passed away, I honored him with a poem. I worked very hard on that poem, he was an Architectural Engineer for John Deere & Co. and to make it special, I researched architectural terms and their meanings to incorporate them into the poem. Unfortunately, he didn't live to see it published, or the award won for it.

So here's to you Dad! I miss you!

Construction Site

I've never felt the board's sting against rebellious skin,
instead you took from me pleasures and privileges
for Mom to return the moment you'd gone.
This architecture of discipline, though un-engineered,
imposed height to a seemingly small spire.

Whatever guided or misguided venture I constructed,
you were a rigid structure of support. You encouraged me
to challenge even the boys at their own games.
I didn't care to "kick, pass or punt" but did because you asked
and I swam for the love of it as I pitched and double played--
catching red-velvet rocking chairs.

I have gained wisdom from your vaulted mind
that you may have thought gone unheeded.
From your blueprint poured a solid foundation,
albeit rough and unrefined--
I will wear a red brick dress to dine.

Behind your new façade of old adobe eyes
and corbelled arch leans a pillar
I stand in its shadow as I swim-- I. M.
or butterflies, I dive into a pool of concrete
and water from the widower's walk, mitered at your side.
I am your cornice-- you have engineered that.

2005 - Ann Sherrick Award
2006 - Published "SAGA" Art and Literary Magazine, No 69A

by Elizabeth A. Hall
2004

I love this Doctor

I received this email (origins unknown) and just had to share it.....


Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise.
Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster.
Want to live longer? Take a nap.

Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn.
And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient
mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken.
Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable).
And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.

Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!

Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one.
If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! ...... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil.
In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger.
You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.

Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans ! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!

Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.

Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!

Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.

And remember:

'Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention
of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other -
body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and
screaming 'WOO HOO, What a Ride'

And For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health.
It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

2.. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION

Eat and drink what you like.
Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

Reflections of the Unemployed - Week 15

It has been a busy week, beginning with meeting my future daughter-in-law's family at her Graduation party. All went well and I was informed I passed the "mother-in-law" test by her parents. I went as myself with peace sign earrings, tattoo in plain sight, and my camera around my neck with the idea that they would get a true impression of who I am right off the bat. I believe its important to "just be yourself" in all situations. If people like me, great, if they don't, its their loss because I'm a very kind and compassionate person. Which may have something to do with why, on Wednesday, I was informed that I got the job that I interviewed for last week.

On Monday, I found a gold mine of old friends on Facebook and spent Monday and Tuesday catching up with old acquaintances and some very close friends. One being my best bud from the time I was about four or five until girls started becoming gross. We talked about how I gave him a black eye with a baseball and beat him up in his drive way (I really am a nice person). I recalled camping out in our back yards and sneaking across the street to share popcorn in his tent and I'm meeting up with one my long lost friends on Monday for coffee that just lives up the street.

The highlight of my week came Wednesday when I got the call offering me the job. I calculate that the odds by how many interviews it took to land one job, is much better than the odds of actually getting an interview. 41 applications+ 2 interviews = 1 job. The key for me was to get the interview but with the internet being so impersonal, I didn't meet anyone filling out an application. There was no one to hand the application to; no one to get that "first impression".

Thursday I met with an online group I met on "Twitter". Quadsville.com is similar to other online communities like Facebook and Myspace but its our very own local, online community. Now that I am employed there won't be much time for that because I'll be on the road during the week. I hope that more of those opportunities will take place on weekends.

I started my orientation today and as I suspected, my trip to Des Moines was as liberating and my free spirit flew high. My radio station carried me 100 of the 168 miles (thanks F106.5). Although at one point, I swear I hear a "Twitter" chirp during one of the tunes. I must have been experiencing "Twitter" withdraw. I was astounded to find "Wi Fi" at the rest stops and if I didn't have a mission I may have been tempted to stop at each one to squeeze in a "tweet" or two. However I only stopped at one, to grab a snack out the vending machine and while there, I updated my status on Facebook, checked the radar and I only tweeted twice (I swear).

Another change but disappointing was the disappearance of "Stucky's"; an interstate Icon for road warriors back in the day. They have now been replaced by BP gas stations and "Adult Superstores" ( I wonder how they compare to "Walmart Superstores" are they a "one stop shop too"? can I get a gallon of milk there?)

I made pretty good time, despite taking the wrong exit (even if it was in familiar territory as I was leaving town). I discovered "rear view mirror" photography, without looking through the view finder and snapping random pictures (I was driving after all). It was amusing to see how they turned out and a few good ones.

Leaving Des Moines I was headed into a storm so I took my time, trying to stay behind it because I had a wiper blow out. Had I not been cleaning the windshield so much because I was taking pictures out them, I may have been able to avoid that.

I manged to stay behind the storm and arrived home without incidence. Next week I will leave Tuesday for Cedar Rapids, Iowa and return home on Saturday. And there in lies the transition from an "unemployed" genre to "Week 1 - A Travelog".

Peace
Liz