Just Wondering, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Happy Belated Resurrection Day or Happy Belated Easter!!
There's so much happening, it's hard to keep up with it all in a weekly
column. For the faint of heart - you will probably want to stop reading
here. I've been hearing and reading that we need God back in our
schools and on our money. Take a minute or two to think about
that...really think about it. My mind goes on a different track - I've
shared... read
more |
Old Wars and
Dead Horses, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! With all of the hype around our current Presidential Election
- I got to thinking. Racial prejudice, slavery, health care and such,
are the hot topics that drew my attention. Oh - and building a wall.
I'll start with the wall-building. Germany tried that - Hitler,
actually. The wall was built and armed guards were posted at the wall
around the clock - with floodlights set up for easy visibility at
night. And there were... read
more |
Darke
County Senior Scribe… Spring
brings us the Easter Bunny and God’s Grace, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day.
This time it’s Easter. Wilson offers two poems, one in which the Easter
Bunny puts the hens in their place, the other in which Christ leads the
way to God’s Grace. Wilson's completed set - five volumes - of
published poetry is now available and is offered as a fundraiser... read
more |
Remember
When… Beautiful Ohio,
By Kim Smith
I am going to wander down a different path in this column: the beauty
of Ohio. I have lived in five different states: Illinois, Oregon,
California, Arkansas and Ohio. I have also traveled all over the
country, including the state of Hawaii. Each and every state in this
country has something unique and breath-taking to offer those fortunate
enough to be able to explore its bounty. Years ago, a relative
commented... read
more |
The Picture,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! The niece looked at her picture many times over the years.
The picture was her Aunt - who was taken in a fatal car crash as many
years ago as the niece was old. The niece wondered about the crooked
smile - and a certain look in the Aunt's eyes - some sort of inner
knowledge - maybe. Mystery had always surrounded her death. When people
spoke - it was with hushed tones - and never much being said... read
more |
Darke County Senior Scribe… St.
Patricks Day Limericks, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day.
This time it’s St. Patricks Day. Wilson offers six limericks in honor
of this annual event. Enjoy the five-liners and don’t forget to ‘wear
the green’ on March 17. Wilson's completed set - five volumes - of
published poetry is now available and is... read
more |
Have/Have Not,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I'm just submitting this for you readers to leisurely peruse
- think on a spell. People who retired from Fram - or Allied Signal -
or Honeywell.....have received a letter advising them that they will no
longer have their retirement insurance as of January 1 of 2017. Digest
the above a tad. In world history - follow me here - the USSR signed
documents under the Hague Convention. After some time - the USSR... read
more |
Remember when… Being stuck
inside in bad weather, By Kim Smith
Mom couldn’t always kick us out of the house to entertain ourselves
when our chores were done. A little thing called “bad weather”, kept us
indoors. Ohh…what to do? What to do? In truth, we had no problem
whatsoever keeping busy, none at all! My brother and I were very close.
Oh, how we loved to torment each other! We created the “rubber-band
game... read
more |
Dancing, fancy,
deadly clutch… By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day.
This time it’s dancing. Wilson offers four poems, each addressing a
different look at… dancing! This isn’t seasonal. It’s generational.
Which one reminds you of you during your dancing days? Wilson's
completed set - five volumes... read
more |
Children’s Book
Series, From Kim Smith
While illustrating children’s author, Sue Hart’s book, “Bless Your
Little Heart”, I spotted a spider who had taken up residence in my
laundry-room window. My usual impulse would have been to grab the
nearest fly-swatter, and--smack! no more spider! For some unknown
reason, instead of killing it, I began to observe it. Observing then
changed to sketching, and before... read
more |
46 Days, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! We are in the Lenten Season. Lent starts after Ash Wednesday.
The next day - Thursday, is counted as day one. Sundays are not
counted. I've listened all of my life to some people saying they are
giving up this or that for Lent - food, movies, vices (cigarettes,
gambling, alcohol, etc) and such. Other people observe Lent with
fasting and prayers. One Pastor told his congregation to "take on"
something for Lent... read
more |
Coloring and Praying: A Book Review,
by Beverly Hughes
Have you ever prayed in color? Sybil MacBeth published Praying in Color
in 2007 (Paraclete Press) just as the adult coloring phenomenon
steamed up in the United States. Publishing houses declare they
have rarely seen such an explosion in any genre. Adult colorists
(as they may be called) claim increased mindfulness, stress-relief, and
relaxation. Lent may be an appropriate time to consider... read
more |
Remember
When…. Before the earth cooled…
winter antics! By Kim Smith
When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, technology as we know it today
was in it’s infancy. So, without electronics, what did my brother,
sister and I do to keep occupied? Well, when we weren’t doing chores,
we did something shocking and amazing by today’s standards: We
entertained OURSELVES! Imagine that! Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall,
when... read
more |
Walls,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I am drawing the following to your attention so that you
might come to a more informed opinion. Regarding an article in the
Greenville Daily Advocate reporting a conversation between Pope Francis
and Donald Trump. Trump wants to build a wall between the USA and
Mexico from Texas to California and expel 11 million illegals from the
US - if he is elected President. Pope Francis said Trump is not... read
more |
Busy Ma Bell,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! For the faint of heart - read no further. I received a phone
call this morning. A girlfriend's daughter had died of a heroin
overdose. Yes - I'll extend thoughts and prayers. A month ago a young
gentleman I've been mentoring called me. He knows about this column and
wanted me to share this with you readers. Barney Rubble said he, Fred
Flintstone, and the gang "needled up" some heroin. He said the last
thing... read
more |
Remember
When… Proud to be an “old codger”
Hello, everyone! My name is Kim Smith, and at nearly 67 years of
age, I proudly view myself as an “old codger”. “Proud??”,
you say. “Who in their right mind would be proud to be an `old
codger??’” Well, I never have claimed that I AM in my “right mind”, but
nevertheless, I AM proud. Why? Allow me to explain: Being born in 1949,
rather than 1969, 1989, or 1999, enabled me to experience... read
more |
Red Heart Day,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!!! I've been listening a lot lately and not speaking. I know -
it surprises me, too! But, what I'm hearing is that people - at large -
want a change. Men and women alike are wanting "something that will
last" - speaking of relationships. Now - this can only mean a couple of
things: One - people are tired of the bright, shiny "trinkets" or two -
people are just bored. And before I elaborate - these two might... read
more |
Cat and Mouse,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! It was brought to my attention that a girl I know in name
only, was booked into our Darke County Jail - again. Now - I'm gonna
sidestep what continual use of drugs - any drugs - legal or illegal -
does to your body. I'll sidestep the fact that everyone has someone
that loves them, does not want to and can not watch you destroy
yourself. The point to this column is: I've heard all my life -
"friggin' pigs... read
more |
Love Day's
Comin' By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Valentine's Day is only 18 days away - as I pen this. A
reader shared with me that: "there is much I can use"
from last week's column. Thanks, reader! I strive to bring reality to
this column. Sometimes it's ugly to face. But, if we face it together -
I think we'll be ok. I've never liked the idea of one day - Valentine's
Day - being "the day" to buy stuff - over-priced as it is - for the
day to show or say "I love you"... read
more |
Elsie’s Legacy,
By Lois E. Wilson
I don’t know exactly when Mr. Buffington came into my life. I was a
small child when I learned that he had loaned my parents money to buy
our home after they lost their first one to the bank during the Great
Depression. He was tall and had one arm—the result of a work injury
years before. He had left Ohio to live in Chicago with his daughter
Elsie and her husband, Frederick Boe. At least once a year he came... read
more |
Paul Harvey -
Part II, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Last week's column was a Paul Harvey "The Rest of the Story"
- aired in 1965 - it's 50 years old!! It took 50 plus years to get us -
the USA - where we are now - wow!! From last week's Paul Harvey aired
speech: "If I were the devil, I'd encourage schools to refine young
intellect but neglect to discipline emotions - just let those run wild
until - the more you do it - you'd have to have drug-sniffing dogs... read
more |
Don’t mess with seniors… continued,
From a CNO reader
Some people will never learn you simply don’t mess with seniors… We
went to breakfast at a restaurant where the ‘Senior Special' was two
eggs, bacon, hash browns and toast for $2.99. "Sounds good," my wife
said, "but I don't want the eggs." "Then I'll have to charge you $3.49
because you're ordering a la carte," the waitress warned her. "You mean
I'd have to pay more for not taking the eggs?... read
more |
Darke
County Senior Scribe… When you
go to the doctor’s office… By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day.
This time it’s healthcare. Wilson sums up the top ten things you DON’T
want to hear when you go to the doctor. Wilson's completed set - five
volumes - of published poetry is now available and is offered as a
fundraiser for the Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund. Enjoy great... read
more |
The Rest of the
Story, By Mona Lease
HI, all!! Consider the following from 1965 - I was six years old. "If I
were the devil - I wouldn't be happy until I had seized the ripest
apple on the tree.......the. So, I'd set about however necessary to
take over the United States. I'd pollute the churches first. I'd begin
with a campaign of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent, I would
whisper to you as I whispered to Eve - "Do what you want." To the
young... read
more |
Sometimes Ya
Gotta, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I was perusing Facebook. It's been a favorite of mine lately.
I've been blessed by the people posting on it. I've seen some groups -
I guess they are called - where the cussing, drug/sex posts (talk and
photos) is astounding - downright atrocious and stomach-churning...to
me, anyway. (I guess there's no FCC anymore!). I found the following. I
thought it said so much - to so many - in so few words... read
more |
"Resolutions"
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Wow - this year - 2015 - has flown by so quickly! A lot of
bad things have happened and a lot of good things have happened, too.
As I was doing some "hands-on" research on/about Facebook - I "ran
into" an old friend I have not seen in 25 years. I "ran into" a woman
who was married into my family and divorced out of it in the late
'70's. We picked up... read
more |
Words,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I had a request for an old column. I'm not searching my
records - I'm too lazy - I'll rewrite it. The people with whom I've
spoken regarding this, seem to like how I say it. A few faces lit up
and one person started bouncing on their feet saying - "Yeah - right -
true - , etc." So - I hope you all had a Merry Christmas or Happy
Holidays… - or whatever... read
more |
Conversatin'
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! This column is a tad hard-hitting - it's the truth. I was
chatting with a guy - I think - on the computer. You don't see a face -
just a name. The conversation originally involved three of us - then
just "he" and I. It started with our US Constitution - that it is
not being upheld. Some part of it states that we will not let people
come here (to the USA) to live if they intend on destroying or harming
us... read
more |
Santa Claus?!!
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! It's always interesting to me how different things are around
the world - and yet - the same, really. Take Santa Claus: In Belgium
he's Pere Noel, in Brazil he's Papai Noel. In Germany he's Weihnachtman
(Christmas Man), in Hawaii he's Kanakaloka. In Hungary he's Mikulas
(St. Nicholas), in Italy he's Babbo Natale. In Japan he's Hoteiosho (a
god or priest who bears gifts), in Russia he's Ded Moroz... read
more |
Jesus and the
Grinch, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I had readers express an interest in this subject. Since I've
written about said subject previously - and I'm too lazy to go back
through the columns - I've rewritten it. For me - every time I think
about this subject - a new question arises. Enjoy! So the first
"Christmas" was when this baby Jesus was born - as I see it. It's
recorded in the King James Bible... which also records the Wise Men
bringing gifts... read
more |
Dennis Gray,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I hope you all enjoyed the Thanksgiving dinners with family
and friends. I did a little checking on this "Thanksgiving" idea. It
seems that there has always been a party - if you will - when the crops
were taken in from the fields. Most people had some sort of
celebration, giving thanks to the god or gods for another year that
held fertile fields, good rains, and healthy workers to tend... read
more |
Senior
Scribes… This World Is Not Our
Home, Forwarded From Bev Hughes
Dear friends, The news is dominated by the refugee crisis. Commentators
debate it, politicians are fighting, Facebook opinions are running
wild, Christians are on both sides of the debate. It's a confusing
issue. I don't claim to know the answer, but I do know this. As
Christians, this world is not our home either. In a way, we are
refugees in a strange land, awaiting the day we can go home... read
more |
Toujour Paree,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Do you readers remember the Andy Griffith Show? Do you
remember the episode where the new kid in town was told repeatedly to
stop riding his bike on the sidewalk? Remember Sheriff Andy had had
enough of warning the kid, took the kid and the bike to the Court House
and called the kid's Dad? Remember the Dad being at the Court House and
the kid saying he did not hurt anyone while riding his bike... read
more |
'Tis The Season!
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! As I write this, I rub my forehead and I don't know whether
to laugh or cry. On my answering machine was a message from the
Government - the Government!! A guy who said his name was David (in
broken English), warned me I needed to call a number he left in the
message. I should do this as this was the "second warning" - "do not
ignore this" I was told. Seriously? I never got the first warning... read
more |
To The Vets and
Readers, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! It's that time of the year - again - it seems too soon.
Veteran's Day is next Wednesday - as I write this. I do not write these
columns alone...readers tell me their hopes, dreams, fears, etc. I
strive to make the columns worth your time to read - something tucked
into them you can use - a direction for our lives (whether you take it
or not - it's a direction.) - things with which we all deal everyday...
read
more |
Money,
© By Abraham Lincoln
Whatever happened to the Half Dollar coin? I keep looking for them when
I get change but they are all being hoarded or the banks no longer give
them out. My father-in-law used to hand out Two Dollar Bills at
Christmas. He always made a trip to the local bank to get the bills he
was going to hand out each year. We still have those he gave us and the
bills were issued the year we were born. Before I retired... read
more |
Hope and Help,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all! We've looked at some hard-hitting situations in the past
couple of months. We looked at HIV/AIDS and Planned Parenthood getting
caught verbally stating that they were selling "abortion contents" -
dead baby body parts to be exact. In my Right to Life Newsletter - Ohio
will no longer be funding Planned Parenthood due to this. We've looked
at rights - peoples' rights. We've asked - I have asked... read
more |
50 Shades of
Gray, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!!. It probably started when I was in on the ground floor of
Abortion Accurate Information - now Crisis Pregnancy. Our goal was to
provide as much information as possible - pictures, statistics, health
risks to the Mother following an abortion, etc. The more information
you have - the better your decision is. Somehow it spilled over into my
life and these columns. No situation or answer is black or white... read
more |
Consider This,
By Mona Lease
HI, all! I thought I'd share this with you since we are coming upon the
season of Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. It has been brought to my
attention that my column dated 9/19/2015 - entitled "Whose Rights
Count" - has generated some speculation as to some particular person or
persons that could be the subject matter. That is not so. My reference
to nursing homes is because I worked in two of our local... read
more |
A Two Headed
Coin? By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I was thinking how the bad is everywhere. It seems like where
there is a way to go wrongly - that's what's happening and a few new
ways have been invented. So - consider the following: Marlee Martin,
actress: Appeared in "The West Wing," "Desperate Housewives,"
"Seinfeld," "Law & Order," and "ER" - to name a few. She received
an Academy Award for her role in "Children of a Lesser God" and... read
more |
Darke
County Senior Scribe… My
pumpkin’s not ripe yet, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day.
This time it’s fall. Wilson offers four poems, each addressing a
different look at the changing of the season. Some days it’s warm, some
days it’s not so warm. Autumn brings red, orange and gold… and then
there’s the harvest. Enjoy. Wilson's completed set - five volumes... read
more |
A Time to
Wonder? By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! This column might be a tad on the x-rated side or - not for
the faint of heart. To say I am appalled, mortified, etc. - is an
understatement. I claim no political party or religious affiliation. I
believe in the "best man for the job" - whatever party - politically
speaking. I do what I have to do every day of my life. But some of the
recent happenings are "across the line" - so much so that John Boehner
is done... read
more |
Whose House Is
It? By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I've been seeing this a lot lately: "As for me and my house,
we will serve the Lord." I've seen it on facebook, in the newspapers,
heard it on the radio, etc. I've wondered what that actually means.
When I was raising my son - it was "my house." My name was on the
title. My name was on the lot I rented. My name was on the insurance.
My name was on the electric/propane bills. My name was on the titles...
read
more |
Hotel Stay,
From a CNO Reader
An older lady decided to give herself a big treat for her 70th birthday
by staying overnight in a really nice hotel. When she checked out the
next morning, the desk clerk handed her a bill for $250.00. She
demanded to know why the charge was so high. "I agree it's a nice
hotel, but the rooms aren't worth $250.00 for just an overnight stay! I
didn't even have breakfast." The clerk told her that $250.00 is the
'standard rate'... read
more |
Whose Rights
Count? By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! How many of you readers remember Norman Rockwell and/or his
paintings and pictures? Remember the ones he had on the Coca Cola
memorabilia? You know - the ones where you were looking into the living
room from the outside? The family is all snuggled up in front of a fire
while the snow falls gently on the ground outside the window?
Good! Now that you have an image in your head... read
more |
Lessons in the
Key of Life, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!!! I was painting the bumper of my son's camper when I was told
that my Dad's now-deceased friend's son had been looking for me and was
there to see me. I found him leaning against an SUV. His Mother was in
the passenger's seat. I went to her side of the SUV and thus began the
reminiscing. As we scrolled backwards through the years - laughing at
the good memories and knowing... read
more |
Darke
County Senior Scribe… Gadgets,
gadgets and more gadgets, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
issues with her insightful look at the important concerns of the day.
This time it’s the gadgets of the day. Wilson offers four poems, each
addressing a different look at today’s technology. She even has a
prediction for the future… check it out! Wilson's completed set - five
volumes - of published poetry is now available and is offered... read
more |
Labor Day?!
By Mona Lease
HI, all!! I've always wondered about Labor Day. No Federal employees
work it. How is that? Where did Labor Day start? Why? So - I googled
it. Labor Day is always the first Monday of September. Oh - ok. It's
created by the Labor Movement and dedicated to the social and economic
achievements of American workers. Hmm. It's a yearly national tribute
to the contributions of workers to the strength... read
more |
Facts-n-Hints,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I thought since the Great Darke County Fair is here and
school is around the corner - I'd make this column more "reader
friendly" - if you will. Things That Ruin The Skin 1)Too much chlorine.
2)Too much coffee. 3)Sleeping with make-up applied. 4)Popping pimples.
5)Skipping meals. 6)Long, hot showers. 7)Testing too many products.
8)Not drinking enough water. 9)Too much talking on the phone... read
more |
No Worries!?
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I need to see my eye Dr. - who is now retired. No worries -
he left associates to replace him. I called to schedule an appointment.
Three Drs - take your pick. No worries. Now to the insurance - of
course - they want to be paid before you even get there. My insurance
is United Health Care. Are the Drs "in network" or "out of network?"
Now the worries start. OK - maybe not worries. But - hassles... read
more |
Darke
County Senior Scribe… It’s Fair
Time Again, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of our
favorite times of the year with her insightful look at the important
events of the day. This time it’s the Great Darke County Fair. Wilson
offers four poems, each addressing a different look at what visitors
will find during fair week… check them out: Hair Raising, Milking
TV, Medlesome Moo-Ves and Under a Cloud. Wilson's completed set... read
more |
“Missed
Opportunities ~ Missed Blessings” By Art Garland
“Geesh! So many things on my list I need to get done
today!” Tossing them all around in my mind, driving from one
appointment to another I come upon a stop sign. Stopping, I look
to the right then left, then right again and slowly begin to pull away.
I had noticed a woman in the street with many bags falling all around
her feet. My first thought was not on this woman, but of my next
appointment... read
more |
What Have We
Accepted? By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! So - for the disturbing phone calls I mentioned last week -
and the added conversations I had in public places: 1)A guy told me his
Father died and there was no funeral. He lowered his head and changed
the subject. 2)A young man told me I am living in the '70's. It is now
acceptable for an attached girl (married or not) to have male friends
and do things with them while the boyfriend (or husband)... read
more |
Cherry Tree,
By Abraham Lincoln
I have been watching my new cherry tree growing and this is the fourth
year since I planted it—a bare root specimen that I ordered from Miller
Nursery and it arrived by UPS along with two apple trees. The apple
trees began producing apples the second year and were not the kind you
see in the grocery store. I picked one or two off and noted they were
covered with scabs and that I would have to begin... read
more |
Needful Stuff,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! After a couple of disturbing phone calls - disturbing to me
anyway - I thought I'd just take a break from it all and give you
readers something useful and fun, too. Enjoy!! 10 Brilliant Uses For
Beer: 1) Restore volume to limp hair. Mix 3 T of beer with a 1/2 cup of
water. Rinse out the shampoo, apply the beer mixture and wait 5
minutes. Rinse. 2) Quick clean and season cast iron. Pour fresh beer...
read
more |
Wings and
Ollie's Plowshares, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! There's a lot of activity in our little county. And some new
activity to come. I'll get to the new stuff a tad later. Has anybody
seen the helicopter that has been "crop-dusting" in the county the last
couple of weeks or so? I had the opportunity to speak with the owner of
the business....seriously. He was sitting on the outside of the
helicopter talking to the pilot. The helicopter was parked at a local
hotel... read
more |
Park Concerts
& Band Shell, By Sharon Hopper
We attended the jazz band concert and in spite of threatening weather
and there was quite a crowd. We have attended all the concerts this
year and each and everyone has been well attended. Greenville is
planning a new band shell in the park and I do hope that a lot of
people get behind this project as it will enhance the experience of
attending these concerts. I am sure the sound will be improved and
having... read
more |
Truth From An
Unlikely Source? By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! The following is from a one Mr. Scott Gauthier - a black man.
"How ya'll doin', America? We're gonna talk just a little bit about the
Confederate Flag - just for a second. Just for a second we're gonna
talk about the flag. See this flag? See this Confederate Flag behind
me? A lot of people think it was just meant for slavery or was fought
on racism. And it most certainly was not. Just to get everybody's... read
more |
Of Flags and
Morals, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! This is another one of "those" columns. Again - this is the
truth. Friday, July 10, marked an historic event - the removal of the
Confederate Flag from the Dome of the Statehouse in Columbia, South
Carolina. It has hung there some 54 years. The catalyst for the event
is reported to be a one Dylan Roof - who purchased a gun through an
"FBI background check flaw." I'm gonna say this... read
more |
Darke
County Senior Scribe… Have you
noticed how things are shrinking? By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of her
game with an insightful look at the important events of the day. This
time it’s getting less for more. Wilson offers five poems, each
addressing a different look how our purchasing power seems to be
decreasing. She has no fear as she takes on the companies that
manufacture our toilet tissues, facial tissues, cereal... read
more |
The Phone Call,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I answered the phone to hear a woman telling me - you were
right - you were right...What you said is true. I say a lot of things -
so, I took a deep breath and asked - "To what are you referring?" I was
hoping - ok - praying this was not going to reach behind me and take a
huge bite. She reminded me that I had told her that it takes a family -
a community really - to effectively raise a child... read
more |
Will Rogers -
and Senior – wisdom, From a CNO reader
Will Rogers, who died in a 1935 plane crash in Alaska with bush pilot
Wiley Post (from Maysville, Okla), was one of the greatest political
country/cowboy sages this country has ever known. Some of his sayings:
1. Never slap a man who's chewing tobacco. 2. Never kick a cow chip on
a hot day. 3. There are two theories to arguing with a woman. Neither
works. 4. Never miss a good chance to shut up... read
more |
Independence
Bought, By Mona Lease
Hi, all! This column is a little hard-hitting. Then again - the truth
usually is. You all remember the story of "The Titanic?" Remember how
there were not enough life jackets? Remember the icebergs? OK - now
scroll backwards another 250+ years or so. Ships were not built as well
as the Titanic - luxury wise or even "smooth-sailing" wise. Oceanus
Hopkins was born aboard the Mayflower while it was... read
more |
The Plane Crash,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all! I took this test last weekend. I thought it would be an
interesting change of pace. You are riding on an airplane and the pilot
radios the control tower - MAYDAY - MAYDAY! The plane is losing
altitude...there is some sort of trouble with an engine. In the last
transmission, the pilot tells "the tower" he is 25 air miles from
Anchorage, Alaska. That is roughly 50 miles by land. The plane
crashes... read
more |
This is London
Calling, By Abraham Lincoln
Times have changed. If I live until my birthday I will be 81 years old.
Our house, in Gordon, was purchased from the Arcanum National Bank
because the original owners lost everything during The Great Depression
and could not make payments. The taxes were past due at the county seat
in Greenville, Ohio and my dad went there and paid the... read
more |
Fertile Gardens,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! This one has been in my head for too long. As I was waiting
outside of WalMart for my ride, I heard as young woman tell the two
little girls with whom she was walking, that they were right - we do
not talk to strangers. The whole "stranger/danger" thing went through
my mind. Which brings me to the following: We tell, talk, preach and
restate - stranger/danger, say no to crack... read
more |
Little Green
Onions, By Abraham Lincoln
What do old people think about? At 80 plus I seldom think about my
future because the road ahead is one we all take and there are no rest
stops along the way. Sometimes I think of myself as that last piece of
tape on the roll wonder if will I be enough to finish wrapping this
package. I catch myself thinking about the many things already done and
forgotten until I just remembered how... read
more |
Crowning Glory,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! A young man called me the other day. He told me his Mom
raised him. His parents were divorced. His Dad never really cared - he
had always known that. He told me he had been very defiant - too
defiant, actually. He said he had tested her and her boundaries. He
tested her to see if she would follow through with the rules she had
set...she always did. Her yes was always yes and no was... read
more |
Our Old House, By
Abraham Lincoln
The house was old when we moved in. I should say it was old when my dad
bought it and got the deed after paying $300.00 in past due taxes. The
Shepard family had to move out before dad and mom moved in. It was the
house I was born in. Windows rattled when the wind blew. Fine dust
particles sifted through cracks and settled on the windowsill. In the
winter, fine snow would end up on my quilt... read
more |
Spittoons,
By Abraham Lincoln
The tiny building set along the Dayton, Greenville and Union City
railroad line. It was built as a ticket and baggage office shortly
after the railroad came to town. The small office was no longer used by
the railroad and was sold to George Myers. It was his Gordon Coal
Office. My mom didn't like the place because my dad went there, and she
said it was... read
more |
A 50 Year
Answer? By Mona Lease
Hi, all! The following has been floating around in my mind for a while
now. So - I'm going to submit this to you for your mental mastication -
or - another of my "something to think on a spell" columns. Mastication
means to chew. It is the first step in the digestion process and allows
more efficient breakdown of food by the enzymes. This is accomplished
by thorough chewing... read
more |
COPD,
By Abraham Lincoln
I felt immortal back then. I was mired in black volcanic sand on the
beach at Iwo Jima. Scrambling up that slope was as impossible when I
had to do it as it has always been. The black lava beach was a
nightmare and I remember looking at the volcanic mountain named,
“Suribachi”, on my left and the caves where Japanese machine gunners...
read
more |
Hello and
Goodbye, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Memorial Day weekend was great. My son drove up from Florida.
As a family - we camped out and through a joint effort - we made Dad's
famous "Bluegrass Stew" - cooked over an open fire. In the vein of
laughter and good times - I submit the following to you. Memorial Day
weekend has long been the "unofficial start of the boating
season." So for all of you boaters, skiers, etc. - wear your
life... read
more |
I Remember,
By Abraham Lincoln
Some 'remarkable people' have crossed my path over the years. My mother
kept us alive when all hope must have vanished during the Second World
War. My wife, these last 60 years, has been a calming influence
on my life. I think of the dogs I have called my own, by personal name,
who have kept my blood pressure low. Miss Beatrice Brown, my... read
more |
Decoration Day,
By Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln lived in Gordon, Ohio during World War II and remembers
what Memorial Days used to be like. This day, Memorial Day, used to be
called, "Decoration Day," because it was a national holiday created for
the express purpose of honoring our dead by visiting the cemeteries and
placing flowers or other "decorations" on the grave sites. When I was
young, people cut off flowers... read
more |
Honoring those
who gave the ultimate price, By Lois Wilson
While most of Americans across the country enjoy their first three-day
weekend of the summer, Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson reminds
us of the reason for Memorial Day holiday. It isn’t about bar-b-ques or
family get-togethers. It’s about those who died so that we may enjoy
this and so many other holidays we observe… and the freedoms that go...
read
more |
Awnings,
By Abraham Lincoln
We finally got our cloth awnings installed and they really make a
difference in the outside appearance and now the afternoon sun no
longer streams in and heats up the house. We have had awnings before
and liked them but they eventually wear out and we waited several years
to have them replaced. The awning company we used is the same one we
had used originally—from Fairborn, Ohio; Glawe Awning... read
more |
A Breath of
Fresh Air, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! A reader called me. I've been mentoring her for a few years
now. She had to change her life - let go of old friends that did not
want to grow up and be responsible. One of her friends that did grow
up, called her. The friend's sister - Barbie Doll - loves the heroin.
Someone informed Children's Services...who made a surprise inspection
of Barbie's house. Barbie tested positive for heroin. Barbie called her
older sister... read
more |
A Kid and a Pope,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I've been watching a Grandmother (who has custody of her
(grandkiddies) manipulate the Father of the grandkiddies. He is not
allowed to throw a football with them or interact with them. He is good
enough to be allowed to drop the kiddies off after school. You can be
sure he is allowed (and made) to pay child support. I watched, for
myself, this Father be run off by the Police three times... read
more |
Mothers, From Mona Lease
Hi, all!! So many things are happening, I think I could write a column
a day! Since I've spoken to a few callers about their life, growing
years, young broken hearts, kissing scraped knees, etc. - I dedicate
the following to all of you Moms out there. Our work is always needed -
whether it is to our own kiddies or to someone that looks to us for
wisdom and advice. When the Good Lord was creating Mothers, He was... read
more |
Sleep Apnea Test, By
Abraham Lincoln
When I was wired for my sleep apnea sleep test. I had 24 wires stuck on
my body–under my nose, under my chin, on my temples, behind both ears,
on my head in my hair–in front and in back; on my chest, plus two wires
on each leg taped on my shins. And, I had two belts around my middle.
Each wire end was stuck on my body with a strip of 747 tape (It is the
same tape used to fasten the wings... read
more |
Could This
Happen? By Mona Lease
Hi, all! My Editor printed this article in it's entirety some years
previous. For this column, I am using the last portion. "A philosophy
professor puts a large jar on his desk and fills it with golf balls. He
asks if it's full and the students answer yes. He takes a bag of
pebbles, pours them into the jar and shakes it until the pebbles settle
into the spaces between the golf balls. Is it full? The students say
yes. He takes... read
more |
School Days,
By Abraham Lincoln
Times have changed. If I live until my birthday I will be 81. I have
lived through the Great Depression that ruined lives and bankrupted
whole communities. I have starved until mother made enough money
washing and ironing Herb Hamel’s bushel basket of clothes and got paid
so we could buy something to eat for $2.00 a week. I remember the fear
of World War II, and our neighbors who lost sons in Italy, Germany... read
more |
Put it on the
Bill, by Abraham Lincoln
There was a time, not that long ago, when you walked into your grocery
story with a note. The note contained a list of items you needed. My
mother usually gave me a note and told me to go to Boyer’s or to
Pinkerton’s store to get the things on the note. Sometimes she also
gave me money to pay for the items but more often than not, she would
say, “Tell them to... read
more |
Skunks and Crows,
© By Abraham Lincoln
Our dog, Pepper Jax, went out at 6:15 AM the other morning. After a few
minutes I went back to the door to let him come back in. I saw him
nose-diving into the dew-covered grass and then rolling. He did it
repeatedly and I called my wife, Patty, to come and look. We decided he
must have been sprayed by a skunk but neither one of us can smell so we
didn’t or couldn’t smell anything. He came in the... read
more |
What Do You Say? By
Mona Lease
Hi, all!! A twelve year old girl sat on a park bench beside her fifteen
year old half brother at the Darke County Fair. I listened as they
spoke of the fact that their Mother had given both of them away when
they were very young - One year old and three years old - too young!
The girl has a physical defect. The boy has no "defects." They wondered
why they were not wanted. The boy told his half sister... read
more |
The Way it Was,
Abraham Lincoln
Sometimes I either dream or fall into a kind of stupor and seem to
exist in a different time. I am able to see and hear whatever is around
me. I also remember sitting up against an old oak tree at the speedway
south of Greenville and remembered when I walked in and stood at the
guardrail and imagined racing cars roaring around the dirt track. And I
saw, as plain... read
more |
How We Shopped,
By Honest Abe Lincoln
Small towns had stores called, "Grocery Stores," that sold more than
food. We had two stores in my village named after the founder, Philip
"Gordon." Both stores sold food, and they catered to farmers with
harness, fly nets, milk buckets, and all the things the local farmers
needed. The store at the south end sold more nuts, bolts, and nails
than the north store did. I was always fascinated with the buckets... read
more |
I know that I
am not the only one who gets angry, but… By Sharon Hopper
I hear about the testing that is going on in the schools and some good
and some bad perceptions have resulted.
But somehow I think that all this talk about testing and preparation
for life in the real world has gotten lost. For
instance. We have cash registers that tell the
clerk how much the purchase is and how much change should
be given back to the customer. But sometimes even
that is misinterpreted... read
more |
The Holy Gray,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! This column is kind of a "part two" to last week's column. I
spoke with a reader regarding Indiana's law allowing business owners to
decide who to serve. This turned into a religious war of sorts and drew
in the homosexuals as well as the Mexicans. She (the reader) thought
there was a lot of "gray area" - religiously speaking. So - I went in
search of what I called... read
more |
Socialized
Medicine, by Abraham Lincoln
I watched Obama talk, repeatedly, about delivering affordable health
care for the masses and I voted for him to deliver pills to us
patients. So far, without any notable exceptions, Obama has not swayed
Congress to create socialized medicine for Americans -- both the
Republicans in office and the Democrats running things are all taking
big bucks... read
more |
What if you
were the mother of Jesus? By Sharon Hopper
Every year at this time we as Christians celebrate the resurrection of
our Lord Jesus and so it is written that if we believe in the death and
resurrection that we will have everlasting life. We hear about the
crowds shouting for the freedom of Barabbas and they put Jesus on the
cross only a short time after a triumphant arrival into Jerusalem. And
I have always wondered how this could be, except that God ordained... read
more |
Easter, You Say?
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! As I write this - Easter is a mere five days from us. I've
heard all the "talk." You can't call is "Easter" - that's a
"pagan" holiday...you have to call it "Resurrection
Sunday." It's (April 5th) not even when Jesus rose. There's no
Easter Bunny - the Easter Bunny is "pagan." It's not Easter -
it's "Easterlie." I've heard "it's not" and "you have to" until I just
turned off the computer and laid down the pen... read
more |
Are the
oldersters the ones with dementia? From a CNO Reader
Recently, I went to McDonald's and I saw on the menu that you could
have an order of 6, 9 or 12 Chicken McNuggets. I asked for a half dozen
nuggets. 'We don't have half dozen nuggets,' said the teenager at the
counter. 'You don't?' I replied. 'We only have six, nine, or twelve,'
was the reply. 'So I can't order a half dozen nuggets, but I can order
six?' 'That's right.' So I shook my head and ordered six McNuggets... read
more |
Good Golly
Molly---It Is Over! By Sharon Hopper
After what seemed a lifetime this winter we are on the brink of spring.
To me this was the longest time I can remember that I was trapped
inside. I love the outside and the fresh air. Heck I even drive my car
in the winter with the windows down so I can breathe the fresh air. My
husband on the other hand has the heater on what seems 100 degrees. In
other words it is ‘hot’. Same with our house. Hot, stuffy, and dry... read
more |
Pinstripes and
Details, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! So - for those of you that read my column faithfully (thanks,
much!), you'll know that I am drawn to the unusual - the things that
money cannot buy - you know...true friends...family...dedication, etc.
When I saw the truck I knew there was a story - and it would be a good
one. The truck arrived in or at the edge of Darke County from
California. The owner could not get the truck to run or run rightly.
Sorry about... read
more |
Here WE Go
Again….Our Government’s Stupidity, By Sharon Hopper
Actually who in their right mind would think that homeland security
could afford to go broke and cease to exist? REALLY?!!!! Did our
congressmen and women forget 911, Colorado Federal Building, ISIS,
Presidential Campaigns, or the Massachusetts bombing of a race to name
a few. And what about all the National Holidays and sporting events
like the Olympic Games. And Let us not forget the politicians... read
more |
Very
Interesting! By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I find the following facts most interesting. See what you
think. Isis has been running wild - almost unstoppable you might say.
Israel will not stand for it. And Netanyahu has voiced this loudly and
clearly. He is equal to our Presidency..."head of the country"
speaking. Netanyahu came to the US. He is asking for countries to band
together to stop Isis. Our President and Democrats did not attend... read
more |
Question?
By Sharon Hopper
What have you done
with your time here on earth? And What do you expect your reward to be?
These were the questions that were brought to our small elderly
congregation this past week. My first thought was why is he (the
pastor) asking such a group these questions at this time in our lives?
Isn’t the age of accomplishment over at this point and is it not too
late to go back and have a do over? Then I started reflecting... read
more |
Ageless Advice,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Elle grew up in the depression. She remembered getting out of
school to people singing, dancing, and shouting in the streets - the
war was over - at last!! She lived through hard times - good times bad
times and lonely times. She knew money - no money - some money - much
money and increasing prices to take the "much money." I had come to
depend on her wisdom and opinions on a lot of these columns... read
more |
Here we are in
a New Year……2015, By Sharon Hopper
Everyone always looks to a New Year like their life is going to be
different. But I believe that this year will be the same as last year
and the problems will continue. You see I don’t think problems go away
with a new year, they actually change over many years. For
instance… I remember driving home from Newport R.I. It took as
long to travel the 110 miles from the Pa. line to my hometown of Huron,
Ohio as it did to make... read
more |
Purim,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! For those of you who read my columns faithfully - thanks
much!! - you know that there are some things I just gotta find out for
myself - no offense to anyone. All of my life I have heard phrases like
"Jew someone down on a price" or those people won't let you "jew" them,
etc. I've heard about Orthodox Jews, Traditional Jews, Jews for Jesus,
etc. Roughly ten years ago, I started researching these subjects... read
more |
Two Phone Calls,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! The following will sound sad at times. And at times - sappy
and sentimental. But - it's all true. She called me crying. I knew
before she told me. I had spoken to her two days before that. She had
held the phone up to her husband's ear. I said hi. I heard bub, bub,
bub. He was heavily dosed with morphine for the cancer pain. She had
been telling me that she wanted one last good-bye...one last hug...one
last kiss... read
more |
Amidst the
Chaos? By Mona Lease
I am amazed at what I hear now that I've been keeping my mouth shut -
well, more shut than I ever have! The following amuses me. I find so
much irony in it. And - a healthy dose of humor. I've heard all my life
that Catholics "have it wrong." I've watched the news as Jewish people
were killed because "they were inferior" or as Hitler put it - "life
worthy of life." He and those who were close to him "had it right - the
true religion, etc... read
more |
Pacts and
Promises, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I am submitting the following to you - to read - to reflect.
I used bing on my laptop and typed in "signatures of the Geneva
Convention." The following is from "Wikipedia - the free encyclopedia."
The Geneva Convention was adopted in 1864 - in Geneva, Switzerland - a
neutral country. It was revised in 1906, 1929, and again in 1949 -
after we "learned a few more things." This treaty is forever linked to
the... read
more |
"That Day"
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Saint Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day, Feast of Saint
Valentine; whatever you call it - we celebrate it every February 14th.
It is celebrated around the world and in most countries - it is not a
holiday. The holiday began as a liturgical celebration for early
Christian saints named Valentinus. Many stories surround this holiday.
One of the stories is: A Saint Valentine of Rome was thrown into prison
for... read
more |
Mrs. Campolo,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! With so many jobs being lost, I thought now might be a good
time to submit this to you. I've had it for a few years. I never realty
thought there would be a use for it. Still, throwing it in the trash
seemed wrong. Off the top, it shows how big words and "labels" strung
together, can be misleading. For you parents out there - this one's for
you. To you Moms - rethink being "just a housewife"... read
more |
Name-ly Speaking,
By Mona Lease
As I write this - we just relived the whole Nazi-Germany experience.
Saturday and Sunday January - 17th and 18th - the computer scrolled the
old headlines across my home page. Certain tv stations were filled with
it. Down in his FuhrerBunker - some 28 feet below a garden - Adolph
Hitler took up residence. The date was January 16,1945. Russia was
coming with mustard gas bombs. It is reported... read
more |
Old Fart Pride,
From a CNO reader
I'm passing this on as I did not want to be the only Old Fart receiving
it. Actually, it's not a bad thing to be called, as you will see. Old
Farts are easy to spot at sporting events; during the playing of the
National Anthem. Old Farts remove their caps and stand at attention and
sing without embarrassment. They know the words and believe in them.
Old Farts remember World War II, Pearl Harbor, Guadalcanal... read
more |
Virginia's
Knowledge, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! It had been a while and I was beginning to wonder if I would
see Virginia. And just like that - she surprised me with a short visit.
She asked me if I had thought about last week's column - about Elle. OK
- no disrespect, Virginia but, - Duh - I wrote it. Then I remembered
Virginia's ways. ..think harder. OK - I don't get it. She told me to
think backwards - what?!! OK - Elle died - I spoke with Elle five
days... read
more |
Elle,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all! Before I continue - I want to say that I do not write these
columns by myself. They are a collection of thoughts and ideas you
readers have shared with me. And I write them in an effort to make this
column worth your time to read - that you might find a tidbit to help
you gain more perspective. Also - maybe you will find someone else has
made it through a situation that you are now encountering. Lastly... read
more |
New Year/New
Hope, By Mona Lease
Hi, all! I hand write these columns to keep a written record for
myself. When I wrote 2015 - I was shocked. 2015 already?! I thought
about our last year...2014. I spoke with a girl's Mom - we had just
been camping. It has not been five months already - has it? There have
been so many changes...changes in our home - Darke County. Changes in
our Government - our country. And, it is in that capacity I write... read
more |
A Yuletide
Blessing? By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I hope you all had a safe, happy and healthy Yuletide! Now
for some exciting stuff - I believe. On the front page of the Daily
Advocate - Monday - 12/22 - the headline read - "Commissioners, Judge
clash over budget." This is a money issue, again...nothing new.
Money is wanted for the Adult Probation Program for 2015. But what is
new is this - Commissioner Mike Stegall is quoted as saying... read
more |
Darke
County Senior Scribe… Merry
Christmas, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day.
This time it’s Christmas. Wilson offers two poems and a puzzle, each
addressing a different look at Christmas and the holiday season. The
accuracy of predictions, the splendor of the ice spears, and finally,
the inevitable thaw. Wilson's completed set - five volumes... read
more |
Christ - mas?
By Mona Lease
Hi, all! I submitted a letter to the editor of the Early Bird - which
got me to thinking - as usual. I did some more research past that
letter. See how you think and feel. People have been running around
like Mad Hatters - readying for Christmas. One woman has denied herself
and delivered trees, food, clothes, dishes, bedding, tvs, - you name
it. She sounds and looks very tired. Others swiped credit cards... read
more |
Depression,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I've been meaning to write this column and other subjects
seemed more important - more in tune with the calendar. I've been
speaking to people lately and hearing about their depression. They say
it is the holidays...then again - in July it was something else. Before
I continue I need to state that I am not speaking of depression over
the loss of something...a job, house, etc....or a loved one... read
more |
My Take On It,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! The following has a heavy psychological slant to it. Take
your time with this...study on it. A Priest's wife and their two
teenage daughters went to Spain. The three of them went to a topless
beach. When the congregation found out about it - they were outraged.
They sputtered - they gasped...of all the gall! One old man said they
were getting upset over nothing. After a couple of weeks it would be no
big deal. Think about that... read
more |
What in the
World is Happening? By Sharon Hopper
These past few months everybody seems to be demonstrating about
something and the troublesome part of all this unrest is supposedly a
race issue. Well I have a different opinion. I think the troublesome
part is complete disregard for the law. It seems to me that the more
the law is administered, the more people want to demonstrate, destroy
property that is not even theirs to destroy, and are willing to go to
jail... read
more |
Cleaver
Knowledge, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! This column has been floating around in my head for a
while now. Follow me - if you dare. Was it in the '60's that we -
as a people - told June Cleaver to drop the pearls - she could be more
- "deserved" to be more than just Mrs. Ward Cleaver...that she could
have her "dream" (some women did not know they had a dream and were
told to get one!). June was told that little Beaver would be ok
without... read
more |
Open Letter to
My Niece, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Niece: I am so pleased you are expecting your first
"bundle of joy!" I know you have many thoughts right now. I know you
have wanted this for a long time. I wanted to share some of the wisdom
given to me. If you set boundaries early in life - like when they are
up and walking - you will save yourself a lot of headaches in the
future. Raising kiddies is like a savings account: When you tell the
kiddie you love... read
more |
Old Words,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! He kept a daily diary. He wrote of breaking camp to go get
turnips from a field they had passed earlier that day on a march. He
wrote it all in pencil. He wrote of not holding much hope that he would
make it back to US soil alive. He wrote letters to his family "back
home." He wrote of constant drilling to keep their skills sharp - of
grabbing his gas mask "just in time." He wrote of boarding... read
more |
Co-Incidents,
By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I was waiting until after the election to voice my views.
Mostly, I wanted to see the prevailing thought processes. I claim no
political party and am not swayed by money or the promises of it. I
vote for whomever is requesting and requiring the truth. In this case
it is John Boehner. He requests the truth as to why four American
soldiers were left in the Syrian desert to die when they had requested
aid - namely Benghazi... read
more |
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