They just sustained a group of new Seminary Teachers at Sacrament Meeting Sunday then on Monday I received an e-mail from one of my former Seminary Students who now lives in Colorado, and has been called to teach Institute this fall.
I got up early and taught Seminary for 17 years in Bakersfield Stake, Anaheim Stake and San Luis Obispo Stake. I also taught early morning Institute for 5 years. Loved every moment of it too. I am not sure I could do it now, not because I am 80, but because the students are so much more caught up with worldly things, they don't have the interest they use to. I have talked to a Seminary Teacher who gave up, because most of her class was not interested in learning. They had their I-Pods and Cell Phones to keep them entertained. Never a dull moment it seems.
I am reminded that the Seminary/Institute Program is an 8 year program. With four years in High School and four years in College. What a wonderful way to ground oneself for future challenges.
I have heard back from some Students and some Parents how much was learned in the classrooms I was responsible for, had helped. I asked to be crituqued every Semester to make sure I was doing the very best I could do. One of the comments that continually came up was the room was always "ready". I had the key issues we would cover on the chalk board and the class agenda listed. Who had the prayer, thought and scripture for the day. My class never seemed to come late. They were all in their chairs before start of the class period. Class discussion was always great, and the students were up on their reading of the scriptures we were studying. I always challenged the class to read all the scripture before the end of the School Year. I knew this was tough because of all the other things they had to do, but it was necessary for them to know where we were and what we were discussing. Playing it by ear was not the best way of preparing for Missions or Classrooms they would stand in front of in the years ahead.
One of the key things I tried to do for each Student was give them "hooks" on which they could hang a thought or idea presented so when it came before them later down the road of life, they would be able to take it down, and refresh themselves on just what it ment. This too paid off richly I was told when a Mother came to me years later and told me she was concerned when she took her Son to the Temple before he left on his Mission. She asked if he was confused by what he had seen and heard, could she help him with anything. He just smiled at her and said:
No, Sister Rosenberg explained all of this to us in Seminary. Meaning, he had used the thoughts I had asked they put on a hook in their minds, and when a time came they would understand just what it ment.
There is nothing new, and nothing secret. Everything is given in one way or another. We just need to have a way of saving the things we don't understand for a time when the revelation will occur that will clear the matter up totally for us. There are sacred things that are not to be discussed, these especially need to be hung on a hook in ones mind when first given at a time when they are not ment to be clear, but when they are presented in the right setting and under the correct conditions will become valuable information. I have had some wonderful opportunities to do this, and on one occasion found, it did exactly what I had hoped it would. If there were other times, as I am sure there were, I have not heard of them.
The Church did not always have Seminary or Institure. The programs were set up by very inspired men who saw the need for a deeper study of the Scriptures. The Books were first very large and special editions with large print and great colored pictures. These were replaced by regular Scriptures. Same great paper of regular Scriptures, but with cheaper covers. I always encouraged the class to get clear plastic covers so the weaker ones would hold up better. All the students were given red pencils to mark their scriptures with. It was important to mark the ones for Scripture Mastery, which were the most important for Future Missionaraies. Everyone should mark and anotate their scriptures. When a thought comes, write it down. If it inspires the reference to another scripture that has ment the same to the reader, that should be put in the margin as well. It will amaze you what struck you one time, will not bring back the same upon another reading. Each notation will be important.
I would encourage every High School Student to MAKE the time for Seminary and everyone out of High School to take advantage of Institute Classes wherever they are offered. We never learn all we need to when it comes to the Scriptures. Everyone has an important part in our understanding of the whole. Because we have the Book of Mormon does not minimize the great worth of the Old Testament, or the New Testament. The Old Testament has all we need to know about how God and Christ started this world, and brought mankind into being. How the chosen people were taught, fell away, and how God and Christ dealt with them. Every story in the Old Testament is important for what it teaches. We won't learn those lessons, if we don't study that great book. The New Testament gives us the Genealogy of Jesus Christ and how he came into this world, and what He did while He was here. We learn about his Apostles and what they taught from what they had learned. The Book of Mormon brings those teaching into clearer view. The Doctrine and Covenants brings us into this Dispensation. How it brought the fullness of the Gospel forth, and how the Church was to be named and organized. The Pearl of Great Price opens new information from two of the Prophets of the Old Testament, Moses and Abraham. They shed new light on the Creation and the state of Man.
Seminary and Institute were organized to help the younger singles to learn and be better aware of the things that have brought us to the times in which we live. Time spent in these classes will bring rich dividends to any who are willing to "pay the price". Nothing comes easy. Everything has its' price. Never be afraid to spend what ever it takes to take advantage of these two great programs. I can promise you will gain far more than you expend.
Written this 27th day of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Monday, July 27, 2009
And These "Two" Things
In mind meandering, I came up with two things that mean a great deal to me with my membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For a long time, I didn't give a lot of thought to them, then one day, I realized just how important they are - at least to me. The first is Tithing Settlement. At the end of each year, I have gone to the Bishops Office and had a short but important chat and recollection time. The years I wasn't working, I went to declare that I was Tithing Exempt. Having no income of my own, I had noting to Tithe, but it was important to make that declaration to the Bishop so that I would qualify for my Second Thing that means so much to me. Propable even more than the first.
That would be my interview for a Temple Recommend. For years these more scared me than brought forth feelings of "refreshment". Mainly because one can rarely feel "totally worthy" for such a great Blessing. Then one day, when I was leaving one of those interviews, I talked candidly with the Councilor who had interviewed me and admitted I was always leary of that question of "worthiness".
I guess we all have a twinge or two when we stop to think about the Blessing of Temple participation brings to mind. What a beautiful place, what serenity is found in the Temple and how often we are blessed with greater insight into the things we are taught there. How can we be so brash as to believe we could be "totally worthy"? This great man simply said: "Sister Rosenberg, I never asked you if you were perfect. I asked you if you "felt" worthy?" At that particular moment, I knew I was doing the best "I" could do, so worthiness wasn't a problem.
Being a Temple Recomment holder, made me continually strive to do "My Best".
We aren't suppose to "measure up" to anyone elses ideals, only do "Our Best". One can only do that in line with the knowledge they have. Our knowledge should continue to grow, and with it our ability to do better and better over the span of time.
Once a year I have the opportunity to set and discuss with my Bishop how I am doing with my willingness to follow the commandment of Tithing. Some times I find I have fallen short, one of those envelopes was still stuck somewhere, and didn't get turned in. The checks were never short, they might have been misplaced, but even that was not on purpose, but I had this chance to "square" myself "before" the Lord and my Bishop. What a great feeling. How blessed we are to have such opportunities. How greatful to be able to teach our children the importance of such seemingly small things. How sad when the members don't think it is important enough to take the time to do.
We have been counseled to carry a current Recommend, even if we live to far from a Temple to be able to attend. I don't believe we truly understand what that means. Not that the Lord or the Bishop and Stake Presidency needs to know our standing. We need to take the time to set and think about "how we are doing". Take a personal Inventory of where we are and how we "feel" about things. What a wise Father in Heaven we have. No one will come and check on us if we don't go to Tithing Settlement, and no one will stop us on any given Sunday and ask if we are Temple Worthy before we take the Sacrament. Those things are left up to us to know or deside.
I remember one time saying to myself, I will try always to be worthy to hold and use my Temple Recommend. The payoff for that was when we were called to serve as Ordinance Workers in the Los Angeles Temple. That would never have come to us, without our being Temple Recommend holders. Then again it couldn't have come to us if we hadn't been full Tithe Payers either.
Yes, the two things that I am greatful for remain the same. I think about them once a year when Christmas rolls around and the end of the year is upon us. Then again I am reminded to take care of the other when I check my recommend. I only have to do that once every other year now, but I keep a check on that date. I don't ever want to be caught with an outdated recommend. I hope I will always be able to qualify for one. I may not be able to attend as often as I like, but I always want to be able to if the opportunity arises.
Written this 27th of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
That would be my interview for a Temple Recommend. For years these more scared me than brought forth feelings of "refreshment". Mainly because one can rarely feel "totally worthy" for such a great Blessing. Then one day, when I was leaving one of those interviews, I talked candidly with the Councilor who had interviewed me and admitted I was always leary of that question of "worthiness".
I guess we all have a twinge or two when we stop to think about the Blessing of Temple participation brings to mind. What a beautiful place, what serenity is found in the Temple and how often we are blessed with greater insight into the things we are taught there. How can we be so brash as to believe we could be "totally worthy"? This great man simply said: "Sister Rosenberg, I never asked you if you were perfect. I asked you if you "felt" worthy?" At that particular moment, I knew I was doing the best "I" could do, so worthiness wasn't a problem.
Being a Temple Recomment holder, made me continually strive to do "My Best".
We aren't suppose to "measure up" to anyone elses ideals, only do "Our Best". One can only do that in line with the knowledge they have. Our knowledge should continue to grow, and with it our ability to do better and better over the span of time.
Once a year I have the opportunity to set and discuss with my Bishop how I am doing with my willingness to follow the commandment of Tithing. Some times I find I have fallen short, one of those envelopes was still stuck somewhere, and didn't get turned in. The checks were never short, they might have been misplaced, but even that was not on purpose, but I had this chance to "square" myself "before" the Lord and my Bishop. What a great feeling. How blessed we are to have such opportunities. How greatful to be able to teach our children the importance of such seemingly small things. How sad when the members don't think it is important enough to take the time to do.
We have been counseled to carry a current Recommend, even if we live to far from a Temple to be able to attend. I don't believe we truly understand what that means. Not that the Lord or the Bishop and Stake Presidency needs to know our standing. We need to take the time to set and think about "how we are doing". Take a personal Inventory of where we are and how we "feel" about things. What a wise Father in Heaven we have. No one will come and check on us if we don't go to Tithing Settlement, and no one will stop us on any given Sunday and ask if we are Temple Worthy before we take the Sacrament. Those things are left up to us to know or deside.
I remember one time saying to myself, I will try always to be worthy to hold and use my Temple Recommend. The payoff for that was when we were called to serve as Ordinance Workers in the Los Angeles Temple. That would never have come to us, without our being Temple Recommend holders. Then again it couldn't have come to us if we hadn't been full Tithe Payers either.
Yes, the two things that I am greatful for remain the same. I think about them once a year when Christmas rolls around and the end of the year is upon us. Then again I am reminded to take care of the other when I check my recommend. I only have to do that once every other year now, but I keep a check on that date. I don't ever want to be caught with an outdated recommend. I hope I will always be able to qualify for one. I may not be able to attend as often as I like, but I always want to be able to if the opportunity arises.
Written this 27th of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Hey, it's Fair Time
I don't know why this hasn't come to mind before, but way back when, we use to do the Fair in high style. I would take my vacation time, and come up to Atascadero so I could take all the Slane kiddoes to the Fair for a day. I don't recall whether Shayla ever got in on those wild times, but I know that Keara, Gower and Nemiha did.
That was when the smaller ones had to watch while Keara went on the rides she so loved. Then we would take the, not so daring, over to the smaller rides. When I think back on it I wonder how I was able to take the heat and all the walking, but I was a lot younger then. It was such a fun time for me I know.
Now when I go by the Fair Grounds I remember how things were then, and realize there have been a number of changes made. I think the last time I went to the Fair was when I took Jay. He use to like to go through the buildings and see all the things they were selling. I don't recall him ever buying anything, but it was fun to look. Of course we had to stop before we left and get a Cinnamon Roll and some milk. Come to think of it, that is what I did with the Slane Kiddoes as well. Nothing like a Cinnamon Roll at the Fair.
I recall we would take some time on the lawn area and watch some of the performances that went on there. Good place to rest for a short while, and enjoy some of the shade. There was always a drink or two and something to eat. Whatever we could get that wouldn't make too much of a mess. I guess it didn't really matter what, being at the Fair made up for any of the things we weren't able to do.
Thank goodness for the stroolers. They weren't as fancy back then as they have become today, but they sure saved for carrying things and helping the little ones save their legs. Great place to sneak in a nap as well.
I guess one of the highlights of our visit was finding Greg when he came on duty at the Fair. We usually had an opportunity to visit with him for a few minutes somewhere before we headed home at the end of what I thought was a pretty great day. You know I have always hoped the few times we were able to enjoy things together was making memories that would last for a long time. We may not think of them often, but when they do come to mind, it is sweet to look back on, well for me anyway.
As Latter-day Saints we believe Families are Forever, and it is the memories we make as we go along that will be remembered when we can no long do such fun things, like now. My old legs just won't take the walking, and I doubt my old head would like the heat as well. Doesn't mean I wouldn't enjoy doing things, it just means the Spirit is willing but the Flesh is weak. There are days I wake up and feel as if I could do just about anything, then once I am up and moving, I realize the idea was O.K., but the rest of me soon finds out that ideas don't get us far.
I have often said: "if I would have know just how great my youth was, I would have enjoyed it more." I don't mean I would have done more, I mean, I would have enjoyed what I was doing more. We sort of let the good times roll right on by without taking the time to "smell the roses".
Whatever, I did enjoy the Fair, and the things we did together. I guess I always enjoy being with the family - no matter what we are doing. Those times just don't seem to come around all that often, and life seems to get away from us. The way things were ment to be.
Written this 25th day of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
That was when the smaller ones had to watch while Keara went on the rides she so loved. Then we would take the, not so daring, over to the smaller rides. When I think back on it I wonder how I was able to take the heat and all the walking, but I was a lot younger then. It was such a fun time for me I know.
Now when I go by the Fair Grounds I remember how things were then, and realize there have been a number of changes made. I think the last time I went to the Fair was when I took Jay. He use to like to go through the buildings and see all the things they were selling. I don't recall him ever buying anything, but it was fun to look. Of course we had to stop before we left and get a Cinnamon Roll and some milk. Come to think of it, that is what I did with the Slane Kiddoes as well. Nothing like a Cinnamon Roll at the Fair.
I recall we would take some time on the lawn area and watch some of the performances that went on there. Good place to rest for a short while, and enjoy some of the shade. There was always a drink or two and something to eat. Whatever we could get that wouldn't make too much of a mess. I guess it didn't really matter what, being at the Fair made up for any of the things we weren't able to do.
Thank goodness for the stroolers. They weren't as fancy back then as they have become today, but they sure saved for carrying things and helping the little ones save their legs. Great place to sneak in a nap as well.
I guess one of the highlights of our visit was finding Greg when he came on duty at the Fair. We usually had an opportunity to visit with him for a few minutes somewhere before we headed home at the end of what I thought was a pretty great day. You know I have always hoped the few times we were able to enjoy things together was making memories that would last for a long time. We may not think of them often, but when they do come to mind, it is sweet to look back on, well for me anyway.
As Latter-day Saints we believe Families are Forever, and it is the memories we make as we go along that will be remembered when we can no long do such fun things, like now. My old legs just won't take the walking, and I doubt my old head would like the heat as well. Doesn't mean I wouldn't enjoy doing things, it just means the Spirit is willing but the Flesh is weak. There are days I wake up and feel as if I could do just about anything, then once I am up and moving, I realize the idea was O.K., but the rest of me soon finds out that ideas don't get us far.
I have often said: "if I would have know just how great my youth was, I would have enjoyed it more." I don't mean I would have done more, I mean, I would have enjoyed what I was doing more. We sort of let the good times roll right on by without taking the time to "smell the roses".
Whatever, I did enjoy the Fair, and the things we did together. I guess I always enjoy being with the family - no matter what we are doing. Those times just don't seem to come around all that often, and life seems to get away from us. The way things were ment to be.
Written this 25th day of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Friday, July 24, 2009
Some things worth recalling
This morning I got an e-mail from one of my Mission Friends. She was just notified her eldest child had passed away in his sleep. Which is the way most of us would like to go, but it does not do much for those who are left behind.
This Lady is a very special person. One who made my Mission experience all the more rich because of the time we spend together, and the things I learned from her. I feel her loss very deeply. Not because I knew the son, but because I know her so well. How I wish I could do something for her, or even with her, but she lives a 9 hour drive away from where I am at present. They tell us that a day makes a difference, but in this case a mile is just too darn far for my liking.
Which brings to mind the fact we never know when such events will crawl unexpectedly into our everyday lives. Or what they may bring that we must deal with when they do. That in no way, however means we are able to assimilate all that such things bring. Who can think contructively while dealing with the loss of someone loved so dearly?
One of our Bishops just lost his Dad this past week, and we see on TV the passing of some famous person. Each touches our lives in someway. I recall the morning after my Dad was killed in an auto accident. The thought passed through my mind: "but the sun still came up on time".
Nothing stands still when these things happen. Life continues on in its ordinary way. However we may be effected, the things around us stay everlastingly "the same way". This can be a bit
troublesome at the time, we just have to realize that "this is life".
I'm not sure this is the time, or the place, but it seems so right to have feelings such as I am having this morning come spilling out. I am so greatful for Barbara and her friendship, for her
beautful spirit and her willingness to "hang in" when the going gets tough. This isn't her first loss. She was widowed some years ago followed by the loss of her youngest son. I am not all that sure she has completely recovered from either of these losses, but she has such a positive attitude. Has filled 5 Mission in the Family History Mission is Salt Lake City. What a good neighbor. She takes her Ward Sisters who need a ride to and from the Doctor or Market when they need her. She plants a garden in the Spring and when the harvest time rolls around she is always picking and carrying the fresh vegetables to Church on Sunday to share with the Ward
Members. Her abundant gleaning of Zucini are made into loaves of delicious bread which she
freezes and then doles out during the year to those who "love it so". Having Barbara as a friend is certainly one of lifes rich blessings.
We share many things, Barbara and I. Yet I would like to be more like her in many ways. It would be nice to know that I had touched people as abundantly as she has. Been as thoughtful and willing to share as she does. Everyone has their place. Then I must be happy with what I am and how I am seen by others. One never really sees themselves as others do. Most certainly they are never seen as they see themselves. With a quick note, we are always much harder on ourselves than anyone else. Barbara is constantly afraid she hasn't done all she could have to bring her boys back into activity in the Church. She frets over the Grand Children and how they are being raised. The family could not have a more perfect example of what she wants than what she is. They know how faithful she is, they know she wants them to come to Church, but they have their agency, and it is taking them on a different path.
Barbara feels so alone, and yet she is surrounded by so many who love her and care about her. That old saying, though not so nice, "no one can hurt you like your own family", is true. In many cases they are not even aware of it.
Well, I have talked about my dear friend. Nothing would please me more than to be able to set with her awhile today and cry with her. I remember how much that ment to me when someone thought enough of me to set with me and cry when my father-in-law passed away. They didn't come to talk, just set quietly and cry with me. It was so touching. Someone cared about the hurt that I was feeling. Knowing words really don't help, and "Sorry" becomes the most useless word in the English language at such a time. I avoid saying it, myself. I have found there are many times when words can never do what a few tears can. Reasoning with a heart that is tender is such a waste. Maybe that was why the Lord stooped to write in the sand when the mob was crying "stone her" to the women who they were accusing of adultry. He never looked at her, he never condemed her. When the mob had gone away He simply told her to go her way and sin no more. He didn't preach to her, He just counseled her and let her go to do as she would. I am sure the Savior has his comforting arms around Barbara today. I am sure he is crying with her as well. I know I am.
I have a wonderful friend, her name is Barbara Hoopes. She lives in Arizona and has just lost one of her beloved children. I wish I could be with her today. I wish I could help her with her
loss, but I cannot. I am greatful for her and what she has brought into my life. I can only hope that I have been as much a friend to her as she has been to me.
Written this 24th day of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
This Lady is a very special person. One who made my Mission experience all the more rich because of the time we spend together, and the things I learned from her. I feel her loss very deeply. Not because I knew the son, but because I know her so well. How I wish I could do something for her, or even with her, but she lives a 9 hour drive away from where I am at present. They tell us that a day makes a difference, but in this case a mile is just too darn far for my liking.
Which brings to mind the fact we never know when such events will crawl unexpectedly into our everyday lives. Or what they may bring that we must deal with when they do. That in no way, however means we are able to assimilate all that such things bring. Who can think contructively while dealing with the loss of someone loved so dearly?
One of our Bishops just lost his Dad this past week, and we see on TV the passing of some famous person. Each touches our lives in someway. I recall the morning after my Dad was killed in an auto accident. The thought passed through my mind: "but the sun still came up on time".
Nothing stands still when these things happen. Life continues on in its ordinary way. However we may be effected, the things around us stay everlastingly "the same way". This can be a bit
troublesome at the time, we just have to realize that "this is life".
I'm not sure this is the time, or the place, but it seems so right to have feelings such as I am having this morning come spilling out. I am so greatful for Barbara and her friendship, for her
beautful spirit and her willingness to "hang in" when the going gets tough. This isn't her first loss. She was widowed some years ago followed by the loss of her youngest son. I am not all that sure she has completely recovered from either of these losses, but she has such a positive attitude. Has filled 5 Mission in the Family History Mission is Salt Lake City. What a good neighbor. She takes her Ward Sisters who need a ride to and from the Doctor or Market when they need her. She plants a garden in the Spring and when the harvest time rolls around she is always picking and carrying the fresh vegetables to Church on Sunday to share with the Ward
Members. Her abundant gleaning of Zucini are made into loaves of delicious bread which she
freezes and then doles out during the year to those who "love it so". Having Barbara as a friend is certainly one of lifes rich blessings.
We share many things, Barbara and I. Yet I would like to be more like her in many ways. It would be nice to know that I had touched people as abundantly as she has. Been as thoughtful and willing to share as she does. Everyone has their place. Then I must be happy with what I am and how I am seen by others. One never really sees themselves as others do. Most certainly they are never seen as they see themselves. With a quick note, we are always much harder on ourselves than anyone else. Barbara is constantly afraid she hasn't done all she could have to bring her boys back into activity in the Church. She frets over the Grand Children and how they are being raised. The family could not have a more perfect example of what she wants than what she is. They know how faithful she is, they know she wants them to come to Church, but they have their agency, and it is taking them on a different path.
Barbara feels so alone, and yet she is surrounded by so many who love her and care about her. That old saying, though not so nice, "no one can hurt you like your own family", is true. In many cases they are not even aware of it.
Well, I have talked about my dear friend. Nothing would please me more than to be able to set with her awhile today and cry with her. I remember how much that ment to me when someone thought enough of me to set with me and cry when my father-in-law passed away. They didn't come to talk, just set quietly and cry with me. It was so touching. Someone cared about the hurt that I was feeling. Knowing words really don't help, and "Sorry" becomes the most useless word in the English language at such a time. I avoid saying it, myself. I have found there are many times when words can never do what a few tears can. Reasoning with a heart that is tender is such a waste. Maybe that was why the Lord stooped to write in the sand when the mob was crying "stone her" to the women who they were accusing of adultry. He never looked at her, he never condemed her. When the mob had gone away He simply told her to go her way and sin no more. He didn't preach to her, He just counseled her and let her go to do as she would. I am sure the Savior has his comforting arms around Barbara today. I am sure he is crying with her as well. I know I am.
I have a wonderful friend, her name is Barbara Hoopes. She lives in Arizona and has just lost one of her beloved children. I wish I could be with her today. I wish I could help her with her
loss, but I cannot. I am greatful for her and what she has brought into my life. I can only hope that I have been as much a friend to her as she has been to me.
Written this 24th day of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
A step back in time!
I was enjoying AviJae and her antics as a "sneky little devil". Hadn't tought about this for such a long time, until that showed up on the "Stude" blog. Then the old mind remembered Mom telling about me when I was about that age. So her goes!
Seems I was "small", and I think I have Blogged about that before, but I dont' believe I retold this. Mom would have to be Oh! so careful when she put things in or took things out of drawers in any part of the house. If she left even the smallest opening that I could work with, I would pull the drawer open, pull all the contents out and then climb and and peek out. When she would come looking for me, she would find a pile of clean linen, or what ever on the floor, and me inside the drawer. Apparently, I thought that was such great fun.
One day she caught me in the act. There I was kneeling on the floor and reaching in, then pulling out and throwning behind me all here clean table clothes. If she had been a few minutes later, she would have found me inside the drawer. Who knows why kids do such things. I guess it might be because "they can". Adventure is such a fun thing to be envolved in.
I may have told this before, but just in case. When I was about 3 or 4 they would put me to bed in my room that was just at the top of the stairs in our two story home in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. I don't ever remember being in a crib. When they would leave me, they would lay Dads shaving strap on the landing. As a warning I would get a licking if I came back down those stairs. Mom said for quite awhile after they would put me down they would hear a little voice say: "till there". Which ment I had come to the door and looked out. Finding the strap still on the landing, I would go back to bed. Eventually to fall asleep. You know I don't ever remember being hit with that strap, but it must have made quite an impression on my mind. Whatever, it worked. Being the baby of the family, and having two older brothers made it hard for me to be anything but spoiled. Well that and being the only girl in two generations didn't hurt either. How I wish I had a video of some of those days in Pennsylvania. They are still so vivid in my mind. I believe I remember things that happened when I was only about 3 years old. Not great long memories, just snippits. One thing I do remember is when I had croupe and would cough for long periods of time I would asked God to help the coughing stop. I don't remember anyone telling me to do that, I just knew if I asked, I would get some relief. Those are some of the nicest memories that I have. Such faith and so young - wonderful!
written this 22 day of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Seems I was "small", and I think I have Blogged about that before, but I dont' believe I retold this. Mom would have to be Oh! so careful when she put things in or took things out of drawers in any part of the house. If she left even the smallest opening that I could work with, I would pull the drawer open, pull all the contents out and then climb and and peek out. When she would come looking for me, she would find a pile of clean linen, or what ever on the floor, and me inside the drawer. Apparently, I thought that was such great fun.
One day she caught me in the act. There I was kneeling on the floor and reaching in, then pulling out and throwning behind me all here clean table clothes. If she had been a few minutes later, she would have found me inside the drawer. Who knows why kids do such things. I guess it might be because "they can". Adventure is such a fun thing to be envolved in.
I may have told this before, but just in case. When I was about 3 or 4 they would put me to bed in my room that was just at the top of the stairs in our two story home in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. I don't ever remember being in a crib. When they would leave me, they would lay Dads shaving strap on the landing. As a warning I would get a licking if I came back down those stairs. Mom said for quite awhile after they would put me down they would hear a little voice say: "till there". Which ment I had come to the door and looked out. Finding the strap still on the landing, I would go back to bed. Eventually to fall asleep. You know I don't ever remember being hit with that strap, but it must have made quite an impression on my mind. Whatever, it worked. Being the baby of the family, and having two older brothers made it hard for me to be anything but spoiled. Well that and being the only girl in two generations didn't hurt either. How I wish I had a video of some of those days in Pennsylvania. They are still so vivid in my mind. I believe I remember things that happened when I was only about 3 years old. Not great long memories, just snippits. One thing I do remember is when I had croupe and would cough for long periods of time I would asked God to help the coughing stop. I don't remember anyone telling me to do that, I just knew if I asked, I would get some relief. Those are some of the nicest memories that I have. Such faith and so young - wonderful!
written this 22 day of July 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Monday, July 20, 2009
Mom and Jay
I just thought about this early this morning. The first time Jay came to the house, I hope I haven't told this before? Oh well! what the heck, it is worth going over again if I have. Jay came to pick me up for that first date. We went to a house party, I know I told you about that, and when we got home, there was my Mother waiting up for me. That is something she never did before. When I got in the house she greeted me with: "when is my son-in-law coming again? I
wasn't all that excited about her enthusiasum about Jay that night. However she turned out to be pretty insightful, now that I think back on it.
There relationship started that night. I don't know that Jay knew it, but he certainly grew into it before too much time elapsed. There just seemed to be a bond between them. He loved her more than his own Mother I do believe. Well, I think both of my parents earned a special place in his heart. Jay and my Dad particular had a great deal in common. They both were machinists, and of course my Dad had always wanted to be in the Navy. He credited me with giving him his Navy Son. Of course Ron had been in the Marine Corps. which, pardon the expression is part of the Navy. (don't tell your Dad I said that however). Somehow that did not count. You remember I told you that My Dad tried to enlist in the First World War, but he was too thin. He was trying to get into the US Navy at the time.
It seemed as if Jay fit into the family just as much as my two brothers did. It was my parents who were always there to support us when something came up that we wanted to do. It wasn't that Jays Dad wouldn't have done all he could, but after the divorce, he didn't have that much to do with. Jays Mother was never really part of the family after the divorce. But then that is a whole other story, and one that I will more than likely never share with you here on the Blog.
I don't know that it is worth the family taking note of.
After the accident when My Dad was killed and Mother hurt so badly, the connection between Jay and her seemed to deepen. She turned more to Jay than either of the other boys. Ralph was too far away, and Ronald never was one to hang around much. If he was needed, he was as close as the phone, but I believe Mom would rather call Jay for the things she needed than she would Ron. Emergency things, she called Ron. If it was something that could wait, she would have Jay do it when he came over, which was on a regular basis.
It was Jay who would let me leave him home and take Mom on vacations. We went to the theatre together and to Know Your Religion and other Church things. When her home was taken by the City of Huntington Park, well the whole block she lived on was taken by public
domain. Legal theft I call it, anyway it was when the time came to find a place for her, Jay and I took on the job, moving her closer to us. I think it was a good thing, but it did not last long.
It was Jay and I who went in and helped sort through the things that she would keep from the home she had lived in for 40 plus years. I set one whole day and sorted pictures by the score. We put who they were on the back and those she did not remember, we tossed out. I made up about three frames full of family pictures for her that we hung on the wall of her new Apartment.
That was so she could have all her brothers and sisters around her as well as kids and grand kids. It was a huge project. All the grand kids were invited to come and take what furniture
they wanted, or other things that she would not have room for. Surprisingly enough there was a great deal left that we had to store until we could make sure she didn't have someone who wanted something after all.
I guess the sum and substance of this tale is Mom and Jay had a special relationship. She loved him, and he loved her. I think he would have done just about anything to make her happy. It was me who refused to let her move in with us, we did have room, but I had seen what such arrangements had done to Jays Aunt Jo. She moved in with Trix, and it wasn't very long until Jo would not, or could not do a thing for herself. She just sat and was waited on. I had learned on the vacations with Mom that it was easy for her to slip into that kind of a mind set. It was not that I didn't want to do for her, it was I did not want her to lose her ability to do for herself. To me that would have been the worse thing I or anyone else, for that matter, could or should do for her. She was pretty bitter about it, but once she got into her Apartment at the Senior Center, she realized she was better off. She had people around her all the time that needed her companionship. She was close to Church and she was able to do so much more. She only lived a year after she moved into the Center. I believe it was a good year for her. She worked at the Los Angeles Temple one day a week, which she enjoyed so much. She had been there for 10 years. She served on Tuesday, read to the blind in the Center where she lived on Wednesday, called for Bingo and gave a knitting lesson to a friend on Thursday evening and had her stroke early Friday Morning. That night she had a series of strokes that caused her passing. Hard as it was, we all felt it was a blessing she could slip away so quickly. She had never wanted to lay like her mother and sister-in-law did. While Ron and I were waiting outside her hospital room after she had passed away, I looked over Rons shoulder and gasped - he turned to see what had caused me to be so startled. Mom had passed away in room 719 of the Anaheim Hospital on Euclid Street. Our Dad had died in the automobile accident in 1955 on July 19th. Rather startling to me even today. Mother died on 11th of August 1984, 29 years after that accident. Her birthday was on 11 February, 1901. She was 83 years 6 months of age.
Another sweet memory is: Dad had taken Mom to Hawaii in the 1970's and she had always wanted to go back. I called Ron around Christmas time and asked if he thought we should take Mom to Hawaii while she was still able to travel and enjoy things. He thought it was a great idea, but he couldn't get away. I offered to take her, and Jay thought it was a good idea as well, because my birthday is just 4 days before hers. I took her to the Travel Agent after Christmas and we talked about making the trip. As usual she was always so afraid to spend any money on herself. After figuring out what it would cost and nearly driving the poor Travel Agent nuts, I told her to book the trip. Ron had told me to do it, and he was the one responsible to handle her finances.
We went and she had a glorious time. While we were there she celebrated her 83rd birthday. We were on a tour that day. I guess the tour guide had learned of it and when we had stopped at the Pineapple Farm, he had picked out one of the biggest Pineapples I have ever seen in my life. At the next stop, we saw the divers at the falls. It was thrilling, but coming back to get to the bus was a hassle. Neither of us could walk all that fast, and we knew the bus was on a schedule and if we didn't make it back, we would be left. Huffing and puffing we made it just before the bus was to leave. We were the last aboard. We had hardly found our seats when the whole bus burst into "Happy Birthday" and the tour guide presented Mother with that huge Pineapple. Well, we carried that darn thing around the rest of the day. Then we had to make arrangements to have it flown home with us. I was so tired of that darn thing by the time we left Hawaii I could have thrown it away, but it was Moms Birthday Pineapple. End of story, when she returned, she gave it to the cook at the Senior Center and it was cut up and served as a special treat after lunch. Everyone enjoyed Moms Birthday, and Hawaii with her. It was great.
I guess the end of this tale is the Ward had made arrangements to have family pictures taken. Mom was not going to get envolved with that. Her and Dad were not great on picture taking. Jay called her and told he we would pick her up, so get dolled up. We dropped by and took her to the place designated for the "shoot". It wasn't far from where she lived really. Jay and I had our picture taken, then Mom went it. She really looked great. They called and we went over to get the proofs. She picked out the one she liked best and we ordered the pictures. The date for pickup was the week after she passed away. That is the most valuable picture in the world to the family. Willetta, my sister-in-law got in touch with the photographer and had small copies made for every grandchild. I hope they still have their copies. The large picture she got for the setting hangs in the spare bedroom of our home here on Hogan Place. I call that room
"Moms Room". Jay thought that was a great way to remember her as well.
I will end with this one single thought. If you want to leave your family something they will cherish long after you have left to continue your work on the other side of the veil, have your picture taken regularly - you may not look your best, but it will be the way they remembered you, and it will be priceless. I can promise you that.
Written this 20th day 2009 - 40th Anniversary of the Astronauts landing on the Moon
by: Eileen Rosenberg
wasn't all that excited about her enthusiasum about Jay that night. However she turned out to be pretty insightful, now that I think back on it.
There relationship started that night. I don't know that Jay knew it, but he certainly grew into it before too much time elapsed. There just seemed to be a bond between them. He loved her more than his own Mother I do believe. Well, I think both of my parents earned a special place in his heart. Jay and my Dad particular had a great deal in common. They both were machinists, and of course my Dad had always wanted to be in the Navy. He credited me with giving him his Navy Son. Of course Ron had been in the Marine Corps. which, pardon the expression is part of the Navy. (don't tell your Dad I said that however). Somehow that did not count. You remember I told you that My Dad tried to enlist in the First World War, but he was too thin. He was trying to get into the US Navy at the time.
It seemed as if Jay fit into the family just as much as my two brothers did. It was my parents who were always there to support us when something came up that we wanted to do. It wasn't that Jays Dad wouldn't have done all he could, but after the divorce, he didn't have that much to do with. Jays Mother was never really part of the family after the divorce. But then that is a whole other story, and one that I will more than likely never share with you here on the Blog.
I don't know that it is worth the family taking note of.
After the accident when My Dad was killed and Mother hurt so badly, the connection between Jay and her seemed to deepen. She turned more to Jay than either of the other boys. Ralph was too far away, and Ronald never was one to hang around much. If he was needed, he was as close as the phone, but I believe Mom would rather call Jay for the things she needed than she would Ron. Emergency things, she called Ron. If it was something that could wait, she would have Jay do it when he came over, which was on a regular basis.
It was Jay who would let me leave him home and take Mom on vacations. We went to the theatre together and to Know Your Religion and other Church things. When her home was taken by the City of Huntington Park, well the whole block she lived on was taken by public
domain. Legal theft I call it, anyway it was when the time came to find a place for her, Jay and I took on the job, moving her closer to us. I think it was a good thing, but it did not last long.
It was Jay and I who went in and helped sort through the things that she would keep from the home she had lived in for 40 plus years. I set one whole day and sorted pictures by the score. We put who they were on the back and those she did not remember, we tossed out. I made up about three frames full of family pictures for her that we hung on the wall of her new Apartment.
That was so she could have all her brothers and sisters around her as well as kids and grand kids. It was a huge project. All the grand kids were invited to come and take what furniture
they wanted, or other things that she would not have room for. Surprisingly enough there was a great deal left that we had to store until we could make sure she didn't have someone who wanted something after all.
I guess the sum and substance of this tale is Mom and Jay had a special relationship. She loved him, and he loved her. I think he would have done just about anything to make her happy. It was me who refused to let her move in with us, we did have room, but I had seen what such arrangements had done to Jays Aunt Jo. She moved in with Trix, and it wasn't very long until Jo would not, or could not do a thing for herself. She just sat and was waited on. I had learned on the vacations with Mom that it was easy for her to slip into that kind of a mind set. It was not that I didn't want to do for her, it was I did not want her to lose her ability to do for herself. To me that would have been the worse thing I or anyone else, for that matter, could or should do for her. She was pretty bitter about it, but once she got into her Apartment at the Senior Center, she realized she was better off. She had people around her all the time that needed her companionship. She was close to Church and she was able to do so much more. She only lived a year after she moved into the Center. I believe it was a good year for her. She worked at the Los Angeles Temple one day a week, which she enjoyed so much. She had been there for 10 years. She served on Tuesday, read to the blind in the Center where she lived on Wednesday, called for Bingo and gave a knitting lesson to a friend on Thursday evening and had her stroke early Friday Morning. That night she had a series of strokes that caused her passing. Hard as it was, we all felt it was a blessing she could slip away so quickly. She had never wanted to lay like her mother and sister-in-law did. While Ron and I were waiting outside her hospital room after she had passed away, I looked over Rons shoulder and gasped - he turned to see what had caused me to be so startled. Mom had passed away in room 719 of the Anaheim Hospital on Euclid Street. Our Dad had died in the automobile accident in 1955 on July 19th. Rather startling to me even today. Mother died on 11th of August 1984, 29 years after that accident. Her birthday was on 11 February, 1901. She was 83 years 6 months of age.
Another sweet memory is: Dad had taken Mom to Hawaii in the 1970's and she had always wanted to go back. I called Ron around Christmas time and asked if he thought we should take Mom to Hawaii while she was still able to travel and enjoy things. He thought it was a great idea, but he couldn't get away. I offered to take her, and Jay thought it was a good idea as well, because my birthday is just 4 days before hers. I took her to the Travel Agent after Christmas and we talked about making the trip. As usual she was always so afraid to spend any money on herself. After figuring out what it would cost and nearly driving the poor Travel Agent nuts, I told her to book the trip. Ron had told me to do it, and he was the one responsible to handle her finances.
We went and she had a glorious time. While we were there she celebrated her 83rd birthday. We were on a tour that day. I guess the tour guide had learned of it and when we had stopped at the Pineapple Farm, he had picked out one of the biggest Pineapples I have ever seen in my life. At the next stop, we saw the divers at the falls. It was thrilling, but coming back to get to the bus was a hassle. Neither of us could walk all that fast, and we knew the bus was on a schedule and if we didn't make it back, we would be left. Huffing and puffing we made it just before the bus was to leave. We were the last aboard. We had hardly found our seats when the whole bus burst into "Happy Birthday" and the tour guide presented Mother with that huge Pineapple. Well, we carried that darn thing around the rest of the day. Then we had to make arrangements to have it flown home with us. I was so tired of that darn thing by the time we left Hawaii I could have thrown it away, but it was Moms Birthday Pineapple. End of story, when she returned, she gave it to the cook at the Senior Center and it was cut up and served as a special treat after lunch. Everyone enjoyed Moms Birthday, and Hawaii with her. It was great.
I guess the end of this tale is the Ward had made arrangements to have family pictures taken. Mom was not going to get envolved with that. Her and Dad were not great on picture taking. Jay called her and told he we would pick her up, so get dolled up. We dropped by and took her to the place designated for the "shoot". It wasn't far from where she lived really. Jay and I had our picture taken, then Mom went it. She really looked great. They called and we went over to get the proofs. She picked out the one she liked best and we ordered the pictures. The date for pickup was the week after she passed away. That is the most valuable picture in the world to the family. Willetta, my sister-in-law got in touch with the photographer and had small copies made for every grandchild. I hope they still have their copies. The large picture she got for the setting hangs in the spare bedroom of our home here on Hogan Place. I call that room
"Moms Room". Jay thought that was a great way to remember her as well.
I will end with this one single thought. If you want to leave your family something they will cherish long after you have left to continue your work on the other side of the veil, have your picture taken regularly - you may not look your best, but it will be the way they remembered you, and it will be priceless. I can promise you that.
Written this 20th day 2009 - 40th Anniversary of the Astronauts landing on the Moon
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Printers in the Family
Paul thought I should tell you a little about the boys. Ralph was the first to go the Huntington Park High School. He took Print Shop with Mr. Loomis. Then when Ronald came along, he too went into the Print Shop. That was the time when printing was done a lot differently than it is today. Both Ralph and Ron were good on the, forgive the spelling here, lynotype machine. That was how they set type then. When printing was first done, it was with individual pieces of type placed in wooden holders with spaces and punctuation added. Well they still did do some of that, but most of what they used in the Print Shop was hot led being fed by the machine as the operator typed out the words, much like a typewriter would do, only this was in lines. As the pieces were finished, they would drop down into a hopper ready to be set for the press. The keyboard on the machine was similar to, but not the same as a typewriter. The touch on the keyboard was much different as well, and the sound it made was quite clickity, clack. Then as the pieces would drop they were hot and needed to cool down. I don't know that that makes much sence to someone who hasn't seen the operation.
Ralph went on to printing, but ended up in a machine shop. Ronald however stayed with printing and went to work with the city newspaper call the "Signal". He was there for years. For a time he went over to Arizona and worked on a paper over there. Then he left printing and did a number of other jobs ending up working for Sanwa Bank in their Supply Warehouse.
When Bill, Ronalds oldest boy entered High School, he went into the Print Shop with Mr. Loomis. He was as good at the trade as his Uncle and Dad had been. When he went into the Marine Corp, like his Father had earlier, he left off printing and got interested in Computer Programing.
Like all the trades, things are a great deal different today. Modern Technology has changed the way we do a lot of things. Printing isn't different. At this writting even the newspapers are finding it hard to compete with Computers and the biproducts that have come with their advancements. You can read news on the internet and listen to radio as well. You can send mail and receive mail too. People keep in touch by the printed word as they do by phone. It is far from what we old folks grew up with. I won't say it is better, only that it is different. Everything is so much faster. Television brings far away places into our living rooms. Cell phones make it possible for us to talk wherever we may be and Computers have brought us into contact with just about every thing possible. We can shop and take pictures and hear sound while we are doing all the above. Amazing.
I don't believe printing will become obsolete, but it will certainly change, just as much as anything else we have had over the past. Another thing that can only be experienced in a museum somewhere. I don't know if that is good or bad. I just know that it is progress and I for one am please to say, I lived when things were less complicated. At my age, I can't master all there is to know about this computer I am setting at typing out this short history. While I know that my Great Grandchildren will be able to show and tell me far more than I need to know in
a heart beat. They have been around it since they were small, and have grown into it. As for me, I have stopped growing, and wonder if I will ever be able to get past the frustration of learning enough to be able to do it without blowing my cool? I guess that is why they tell us to
"wait" or "strike any key to continue". The first gives you no choice, and the second is an invitation to destroy. I'm getting too old for such instructions. I haven't the time to wait, and I still have too much moxey to have restraint. Such is the end to this tale.
Written this 18th day of July, 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Ralph went on to printing, but ended up in a machine shop. Ronald however stayed with printing and went to work with the city newspaper call the "Signal". He was there for years. For a time he went over to Arizona and worked on a paper over there. Then he left printing and did a number of other jobs ending up working for Sanwa Bank in their Supply Warehouse.
When Bill, Ronalds oldest boy entered High School, he went into the Print Shop with Mr. Loomis. He was as good at the trade as his Uncle and Dad had been. When he went into the Marine Corp, like his Father had earlier, he left off printing and got interested in Computer Programing.
Like all the trades, things are a great deal different today. Modern Technology has changed the way we do a lot of things. Printing isn't different. At this writting even the newspapers are finding it hard to compete with Computers and the biproducts that have come with their advancements. You can read news on the internet and listen to radio as well. You can send mail and receive mail too. People keep in touch by the printed word as they do by phone. It is far from what we old folks grew up with. I won't say it is better, only that it is different. Everything is so much faster. Television brings far away places into our living rooms. Cell phones make it possible for us to talk wherever we may be and Computers have brought us into contact with just about every thing possible. We can shop and take pictures and hear sound while we are doing all the above. Amazing.
I don't believe printing will become obsolete, but it will certainly change, just as much as anything else we have had over the past. Another thing that can only be experienced in a museum somewhere. I don't know if that is good or bad. I just know that it is progress and I for one am please to say, I lived when things were less complicated. At my age, I can't master all there is to know about this computer I am setting at typing out this short history. While I know that my Great Grandchildren will be able to show and tell me far more than I need to know in
a heart beat. They have been around it since they were small, and have grown into it. As for me, I have stopped growing, and wonder if I will ever be able to get past the frustration of learning enough to be able to do it without blowing my cool? I guess that is why they tell us to
"wait" or "strike any key to continue". The first gives you no choice, and the second is an invitation to destroy. I'm getting too old for such instructions. I haven't the time to wait, and I still have too much moxey to have restraint. Such is the end to this tale.
Written this 18th day of July, 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Thomas Gower Rosenberg Remembered
It has been on my mind for some time - none of you Grand Children knew your Great Grand Father Tomas Gower Rosenberg. You would have liked him I am sure. He was a very quiet man, but a bit of a tease. That was pretty much the nature of the Rosenberg men. He was called "Slim" because he was so skinny. He wasn't all that tall, but with his lean looks, he appeared to be taller than he was. I believe he stood about 5' 11". Just a shade short of 6'. He was about the neatest man I have ever known. Even when he was in his work clothes, he was as snappy as a man could be. He always wore a hat of some kind. Winter and Summer, Dad had a hat on. When he worked in the yard it was always a straw hat. He wore gloves when he worked. I guess it was because his hand were sensitive and he would break out with a rash. I guess the thing that was most interesting about him was he was a great cook. When he was very young he use to go out with his older brothers and herd sheep. While they were in camp, someone had to do the cooking, and Slim was eager to learn. Those camps must have been lonesome and hard work, but then the boys and men of Southern Utah were pretty use to that. When the First World War was being fought in Europe, Slim was drafted and entered the Army. It was during this time the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ordained their male members when they went into the service so they could care for thier brethern. I don't think Dad had been all that active when they ordained him an Elder. In fact I don't believe that Grandma Rosenberg was very active, or brought the family up to be. If any of them were married in the Temple, it was usually after they were married and got active with their own families. Anyway - Dad didn't have to go overseas. He served his time in the United States - what time it was, the war ended before he had much of a chance to be envolved. His older brother Harvey had gone to France and was seriously injured from exposure to Mustard Gas. A brother-in-law was killed and buried in France. So the war was very much a part of his life.
I don't recall hearing about how he met your Great Grand Mother Itha Harris. They were married in Cedar City, Utah and lived in a very small house behind Grandma Rosenbergs home. Work was very sparce in Utah so Dad and Itha moved to California where Slim found work with little pay, but back then, there was little opportunity for unskilled laborers. Itha worked in the home and Slim finally found steady work at Owens-Illinois Glass Company. He held a number of different jobs at Owens. He was head of the Quality Control Dept. for a time. As he got older, he stayed on as one of the Company Custodians. He retired from Owens after about 30 years I think it was.
Everyone liked Slim. As I said he was quiet and had a great sence of humor. I always marveled that he could set for hours and give the family genealogy from memory. He knew everyone in
Cedar City on a first name basis. It was always fun to go to Cedar City with him on vacation. We would go up town and he would be able to tell us about everyone we met. Who they were related to and how they fit into the family. It was marvelous. He went to Utah almost every year as I recall. Visited his Mother and his siblings. They were a close family even with the miles which parted them.
When we would go over to the house for dinner, Slim would do the cooking. He could put a Pot Roast on the table that nearly melted in your mouth. His gravy was to die for. He was the only cook I ever met that made beef gravy with milk. It was soooooo good. His days cooking in the sheep camps was not wasted.
I met Slim before I met your Grand Father Jay. We use to shoot pool in the recreation room at lunch time. Slim was quite a pool player. We became very great friends. He would look for me when I came to work in the mornings. He was having his coffee - I would set with him for awhile and then get to my desk for the days work to begin. His younger brother Magnus worked at Owens at that time as did my cousin Charles Smith. Both sides of the family were part of the Owns crew it seems.
When Jay and I got married, it seemed to be the time had come for Itha to move on in her own way. She divorced Dad the year after our marriage. Dad was lonely and lost. He was adopted by my parents for Holiday Dinners. I think he found a home with the Smith Family. After a brief marriage to Cora, he was divorced again. Then he had some health problems that landed him in the hospital where he underwent two operations pretty close together. When he was ready to come home, we brought him into our home to get back on his feet. It was at this time my parents were in an auto accident that took my Dads life and put Mom in the hospital for quite a long stay. When she was finally able to go home and be on her own again, it was Slim who took time to stop by and see if she needed to go shopping or have him help her in the yard. They had been friends for sometime, so it was natural for him to look after Mom. They went to the movies, and horse races. The end result was they were married and had 11 happy years together before Slim passed away from cancer.
I wondered if he ever really knew how much we loved him. I can still picture him in his fresh and clean outfit. Dress shirt, dress slacks, smartly shined shoes and his hat. He cut quite a figure for a farm boy from Utah. He would go to Church with Mom, but never really got too envolved. The great story was one Sunday he went to Church and put his hat on the hat rack in the voyer. When he came out his new hat was gone and a dingy old hat was left in its place. A few weeks later he saw an old man wearing his hat. He walked up to the man and told him he had his hat on. The old man argued it was his hat. Dad pulled the hat off his head and showed the old guy the brim was filled with paper so it would fit his head. When the paper was removed it fit Dad. There was no more discussion.
You don't see men wearing hats anymore. In fact, I don't see hats anymore. There was a time when they were part of any well appointed mens store, but not now. Times change. One thing won't change for me however and that is I will always remember with love and appreciation the tall, slim fella I loving called "Dad". (He was as dear to me as my own father, and that is saying quite a lot.)
Written this 18th day of July, 2009
by Eileen C. Rosenberg
I don't recall hearing about how he met your Great Grand Mother Itha Harris. They were married in Cedar City, Utah and lived in a very small house behind Grandma Rosenbergs home. Work was very sparce in Utah so Dad and Itha moved to California where Slim found work with little pay, but back then, there was little opportunity for unskilled laborers. Itha worked in the home and Slim finally found steady work at Owens-Illinois Glass Company. He held a number of different jobs at Owens. He was head of the Quality Control Dept. for a time. As he got older, he stayed on as one of the Company Custodians. He retired from Owens after about 30 years I think it was.
Everyone liked Slim. As I said he was quiet and had a great sence of humor. I always marveled that he could set for hours and give the family genealogy from memory. He knew everyone in
Cedar City on a first name basis. It was always fun to go to Cedar City with him on vacation. We would go up town and he would be able to tell us about everyone we met. Who they were related to and how they fit into the family. It was marvelous. He went to Utah almost every year as I recall. Visited his Mother and his siblings. They were a close family even with the miles which parted them.
When we would go over to the house for dinner, Slim would do the cooking. He could put a Pot Roast on the table that nearly melted in your mouth. His gravy was to die for. He was the only cook I ever met that made beef gravy with milk. It was soooooo good. His days cooking in the sheep camps was not wasted.
I met Slim before I met your Grand Father Jay. We use to shoot pool in the recreation room at lunch time. Slim was quite a pool player. We became very great friends. He would look for me when I came to work in the mornings. He was having his coffee - I would set with him for awhile and then get to my desk for the days work to begin. His younger brother Magnus worked at Owens at that time as did my cousin Charles Smith. Both sides of the family were part of the Owns crew it seems.
When Jay and I got married, it seemed to be the time had come for Itha to move on in her own way. She divorced Dad the year after our marriage. Dad was lonely and lost. He was adopted by my parents for Holiday Dinners. I think he found a home with the Smith Family. After a brief marriage to Cora, he was divorced again. Then he had some health problems that landed him in the hospital where he underwent two operations pretty close together. When he was ready to come home, we brought him into our home to get back on his feet. It was at this time my parents were in an auto accident that took my Dads life and put Mom in the hospital for quite a long stay. When she was finally able to go home and be on her own again, it was Slim who took time to stop by and see if she needed to go shopping or have him help her in the yard. They had been friends for sometime, so it was natural for him to look after Mom. They went to the movies, and horse races. The end result was they were married and had 11 happy years together before Slim passed away from cancer.
I wondered if he ever really knew how much we loved him. I can still picture him in his fresh and clean outfit. Dress shirt, dress slacks, smartly shined shoes and his hat. He cut quite a figure for a farm boy from Utah. He would go to Church with Mom, but never really got too envolved. The great story was one Sunday he went to Church and put his hat on the hat rack in the voyer. When he came out his new hat was gone and a dingy old hat was left in its place. A few weeks later he saw an old man wearing his hat. He walked up to the man and told him he had his hat on. The old man argued it was his hat. Dad pulled the hat off his head and showed the old guy the brim was filled with paper so it would fit his head. When the paper was removed it fit Dad. There was no more discussion.
You don't see men wearing hats anymore. In fact, I don't see hats anymore. There was a time when they were part of any well appointed mens store, but not now. Times change. One thing won't change for me however and that is I will always remember with love and appreciation the tall, slim fella I loving called "Dad". (He was as dear to me as my own father, and that is saying quite a lot.)
Written this 18th day of July, 2009
by Eileen C. Rosenberg
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
What A Surprise
Sunday - the 5th of July 2009 - after Church, I stopped at Little Mexico in Templeton to pick up a bite to eat for Paul and myself. Not anything unusual about that really. I haven't been there for quite awhile, but while I was driving home, it struck me that might be a nice treat for Paul. After I had picked up our order, I got back in Pauls car, mine still has a low tire, and as I was backing out of the parking space, I noticed a black and white going South on Main Street. Before I got to the driveway to leave the parking lot, I noticed the black and white making a sudden U-turn. I decided I had better not turn out in front of the Police Car, so sat in the drive way. I was quite surprised when the black and white turned into the driveway and stopped next to me. I had never given it a thought that Gower was on duty. I rolled my window down and said very sweetly: "I hope you aren't going to arrest me?". Gower just laughed and said: "No, it is too much trouble." He said he was on a wrap around. He had worked the 4th until 3 a.m. and then had to come back on duty for his regular shift. He was tired, and he looked it. We chatted for a few minutes and said our "good-byes" and went our seperate ways.
Brought to mind the night we were coming home from Atascadero when red lights were flashing in our rear window. All I could hear Jay saying was: "Greg, don't do this to me." Sure enough, it was Greg. He had seen us heading home and caught up with us, just for the FUN OF IT.
These are the moments that stick into the minds of those of us who know we haven't done anything, but remember all the times we did, and weren't caught. Greatful even more that it is a loved one that is just "catching up" with us to say "hello". Sure appreciate the short visits, and
greatful to know that we have someone that "special" in our lives.
Written this 8th day of July, 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Brought to mind the night we were coming home from Atascadero when red lights were flashing in our rear window. All I could hear Jay saying was: "Greg, don't do this to me." Sure enough, it was Greg. He had seen us heading home and caught up with us, just for the FUN OF IT.
These are the moments that stick into the minds of those of us who know we haven't done anything, but remember all the times we did, and weren't caught. Greatful even more that it is a loved one that is just "catching up" with us to say "hello". Sure appreciate the short visits, and
greatful to know that we have someone that "special" in our lives.
Written this 8th day of July, 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)