Sport Now that Gilbert is middle-aged, six in dog years, 42 in human years, coaxing him off the old couch to go for a run is a bit harder than it used to be. However, once outside, his tail sets to wagging as Lu leads him off at a trot. I once thought that if I stretched every time Gilbert did, this old set of bones might move more easily. The thought of movement made me … [Read more...]
A little of this, A little of that.
“Chatty Kathy” was my name in high school for obvious reasons! There aren’t many people who have a doll named after them. Well, of course there is my sister Barbie. She is a real life doll who everyone one loves because of her fun nature and generous heart. I guess no one gets to choose their nickname. If I could have chosen , I would be called “Crafty Kathy.” My hands … [Read more...]
Recycling 101
The most common item made from iron is the steel food can. Rechargeable batteries must be recycled. A recycled aluminum can is usually back on the grocery shelf in about sixty days. Approximately 11% of household garbage is compostable. The easy open aluminum can has been around since 1962. It has been estimated that more than 275 million dollars worth of uneaten turkey … [Read more...]
A View From The Woods
Eclipse, Minnesota style We knew the eclipse of the sun would only be partially visible here in southeast Minnesota. We knew we had failed to find the right dark glasses to protect our eyes, despite an online purchase of ten pairs at an incredibly low price (later found to be counterfeit.) We also knew the forecast for clear skies was doubtful. Nevertheless, we persisted. … [Read more...]
Recycling 101
Only one in six households disposes of batteries correctly. Minnesota is number two in the nation with a recycling rate of nearly 45%. The “chasing arrows” on a Styrofoam container does not make it recyclable. Thirteen million glass jars and bottles are used in the United States each day with only 25% being recycled. There are containers for Salvation Army donations of … [Read more...]
The Working Mom
Wisdom through the years Hello friends! I have been writing this column since 2009 and sharing stories about my life and family and probably embarrassing them many times. As I was writing my column last time that talked about my son getting ready to leave for college soon (three weeks!), it really hit me that as parents we can only hope we have instilled good values into … [Read more...]
Sue’s Muse
The library, one of my favorite places As a child, I always thought of the library as a magical place. The building itself was rather spare, set apart from any town, pretty much in the middle of nowhere. But, once I entered the Glen Lake Library, the shelves held books full of mystery, magic, and exotic places I could visit with just the turn of a page. Today, I love the … [Read more...]
A little of this, A little of that.
CONFESSION! I am an addict. I got hooked early on. My grandmother was my first supplier. While eating homemade donuts with a side of chocolate kisses and a glass of milk, grandma showed me a McCall’s magazine. I was not interested. Then she turned to the page with Betsy McCall, the paper doll with great clothes. We cut out the doll and clothes and I was hooked! My … [Read more...]
A View From the Woods
Ancient loons haunt the lake Word comes to us in early June from family members visiting our extended-family cabin. A loon is nesting at Hammock Point! At our three-acre island, we often listen to the loons calling their hysterical laughing call or the haunting wail that sends shivers down your spine. The sleek black bird sparkled with white spots on its back swims and dives … [Read more...]
Recycling 101
During the 10 years that I have been the Recycling Educator of Fillmore County, a lot of recycling and environmental information has appeared on the computer as well as printed material on my desk. In the next several 101 articles, I will share some of the information I have collected. A lot has been compiled by Oberlin College of Ohio and the MPCA. Other environmental … [Read more...]