My brother, John, made Allstate Gold Band playing the bassoon and maybe Silver band on his marching band instrument the tuba. John made the Madison Scouts drum and bugle corps and played his bassoon in college bands and ensembles. These days John plays the guitar for fun and plays bassoon in a community orchestra. His […]

A few years ago, I attended a dinner party with a vegetarian friend. The smell of bread baking greeted us as we walked in, and freshly cut flowers brightened each table. The host elegantly plated each meal. When the host presented garnished chicken to our vegetarian friend, I almost spoke up. But before I could […]

How do you hope people describe you when you are not around to hear?  I was working a little retail job, when a regular customer came in.  The owner happened to be in the office and jumped up greeting the customer like an old friend. After the sale, the proprietor walked the customer to the […]

Never a hiker, Mom was 79 when she decided to hike to the top of Mount LeConte with us. My cousin Ruth convinced mom to buy hiking boots and take daily training walks. After hiking 9 miles and gaining 2,000 feet, Granny Due, and Connie arrived at the cabins in time for dinner but well […]