Yes, last year at this time, I was not aware that this continuing saga of my "ramblings" would find utterance, yet here I am, still setting here at this "one eyed" monster tapping out the latest edition of "what is what". I can't say it hasn't been a pleasant journey, but have many misgivings that much of this "prattle" has been as interesting to the readers as it has been to "yours truly".
I guess it is only when we set down and give some serious thought to what has gone on between the time of entry into this domain up to the present time, that you realize you have not been idel. So many little things that weren't all that momentous at the time have, in the remembering, logged some pretty exciting or fun things. Oh, there have been some sad times as well, but then they are what round out the entire experience.
I had intended to wind this down, and call it a day, but have been informed that it should remain open so I can jot down anything else that might cross my mind. I know one thing that has crossed my mind - I wish we would have had this ability a few years ago and maybe I could have jotted down a number of things that Jay had talked about while he was here. Maybe now would be a great time to knock out a line or two about some of those things!
Jay always said he was a "mean little kid". Always picking fights and causing trouble. Hard to believe, but he swore to the truth of it. He was rather a spindley kid, or at least that is what his pictures tell us. He always had a full head of wavey "dishwater" blonde hair. It was a production for him to comb it. He would push, and primp, tap with the comb, etc. until he had it just right.
Honest it would take him longer to comb his hair than it did me.
He was a fastidious dresser. When he wasn't working he always wore white shirts that had been sent to the laundry and starched and pressed to the max. He rolled the cuffs up "twice". He wore tan gaberdine slacks and wing tip shoes. Cut quite a swath in his day. He "buddied" with the same group of guys he went to school with. Of course his best friend was Paul Minnick. They had been friends since kindergarten. He liked to tell about the time he was in the Navy and got Liberty in Pearl Harbor and went over aboard the ship Paul was a cook on. He made his way down to the Mess Hall to find Paul. They spyed each other across the hall and had a time getting around the tables, etc. First one would go one way and the other another. They were pretty frustrated by the time they finally met. It was quite a reunion.
I believe I have mentioned about the ship Jay was on in WWII. The LSM 330. It was a very small ship with a crew of around 50 men. When they took on supplies among the fruits and vegetables, a crate of Avacado's was included. All but three of the crew came from the East and had no taste for Avacado's. Fortunately for Jay, the other two from the West Coast didn't care for them either. He said he would grab a jar of Best Foods Mayonaise and box of Ritz Crackers and find a quiet spot in the Engine Room and have a feast. He kept the crate in his own little spot, just in case someone might want to try one. Fat chance they would have had!
Jay was a good cook, and took his turn at cooking while on the "330" I don't recall him saying what he cooked, but apparently anything was better than what the assigned cook put out. Poor LeRoy Schettl, the guys weren't much as fans of his productions. I guess Jay came by the cook part honestly, his Dad Thomas Gower use to cook for the Sheep Herd Camps when he was just a teenager. Guess some of it rubbed off.
Jay ran the "jittney" while he was with the "330". This ment he would load a small boat up with crew to go on Liberty, or pick up and deliver mail. They also made a tour of the other ships in harbor to trade off movies. I guess mail and movies were the best part of the job. He always was met with a great deal of glee when he brought either or both aboard.
You know Jay always had such an inferiority complex. He didn't feel as if he was liked by the men on the ships he served. Like being from the West Coast was some kind of a blight. Yet when the group started meeting together in 1987 everyone remembered Jay and had nothing but fond memories of serving with him. I believe his early years being alone so much with his Grand Dad Harris left him with some feelings of neglect by the rest of the family. He loved his Grand Dad, and they did many things together, but he didn't feel as if the rest of the family were very close. All except Afton, his sister. I think after Grand Dad died, Afton took over the mothering part of Jay's life.
I may have mentioned when Jay was 13 he had a ruptured appendix and had emergency surgery. I think his condition was rather iffy for awhile, and Afton stayed in the Hospital with him. That brought about a closeness that he felt even to the end of his life. While he was seriously ill before he passed away, he would cry out in his sleep for her. Unfortunately he did not have that kind of closeness with his brother LaMar. I guess the age difference was one of the resons.
All in all I think Jay was a gifted individual. He was self taught and very mechanical. Dawn takes after him in that department. It was always a fight between them when they would do anything together. Neither of them thought the other had the true vision of what they were doing. It was an adventure to watch them do anything together. They loved every minute of their projects. I was always happy to have another room to go to when they were working. It kept me out of their way, and out of their discussions. I never wanted to be the tie breaker.
You know I have mentioned other times about how honest Jay was, but I don't know if I have
mentioned before just how "equal" he was with his children. He could never do something for one that he could not duplicate for the other. If we saw a need one place, he would spend hours figuring out how he could equalize doing for the other. It was not in his nature to show partiality in the family. Guess it was just another manifestation of his "fairness".
I think I drug him along kicking and screaming into a number of things we did, but in the end he usually remarked he had enjoyed it. He took too long figuring out how a thing should go. Me, I just jumped in and paddled through it. What the heck - the most fun is learning as you go. If it was a wrong decision, then I just picked up the pieces and tried not to "go there" again.
The Christmas Paul wanted his 10 speed bike to complete some things in scouting. Jay had a pad and pencil out night after night figuring how to pay for such an expensive item and then be fair to Dawn who was so much younger, and not ready for such things. We haggled and hassled, fussed and fumed until finally he decided the need was far greater than trying to measure out the equality of the thing. Dawn never got that kind of a bike, but then she never had the need for anything like it either. We looked to do other things that fit her, that Paul never had. It does equaled out in the long run.
I think the one thing that Jay will be remembered for, well maybe two. One you couldn't tickle his knees and the other if you got him laughing for very long, he always got the hickups, which only made him laugh the more. Oh, and the constant adjusting of the rear vision mirror. You know I catch myself sometimes just tapping it for him. What delicious memories. Which leads me to once again say: "Merry Christmas" - with love - Grandma "R"
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
What's with the "head" bit?
You know for the life of me I haven't a clue. However, it seems to fit in very effectively with my Missions. So here is how that all goes: Jay and I were called to serve in the Family History Mission, only it was'nt concidered a Mission back in 1991-1992. We arrived to start work in November of 1991. It was a cold day, we were fortunate enough to have friends help us move to Salt Lake City. Jay was quite ill so he was left with Joyce Favor while the rest of us got the things moved into our Apartment. When we had things moved in, and a bed made for Jay, we brought him over and he went to bed for the rest of the day.
With that behind us, we settled into being oriented and given an assignment in the Indexing Dept. of the Mission. We worked on the 1881 British Census. I had a part time job of working on a small portion of the 1851 Census. Time went by quickly. We were into the Holiday Season, which is the most delightful experience we had ever had. Everything is decorated in Salt Lake City. You haven't really enjoyed Christmas if you haven't spent some time in Salt Lake City between Thanksgiving and the New Year. (Sorry it is taking me so long to get to the topic at hand, but can't help bringing in all the flavor of the time we I am talking about.)
Our Christmas party was not planned until after the first of the year. That was due to the amount of things that go on in the Church Office Building. So we missed that excitement at that time. On the Second of January Jay and I reported to work on the evening shift. There were few computers, so they decided to work two shifts so the maximum use could be accomplished, thus the work could move along better. We went to work at 11 a.m. and got off work at 7 p.m.
It wasn't bad working those hours, but we did still have to get up every morning and go to Devotional in the North Visitors Center on Temple Square. Helped with the laundry. The laundry room was usually easier to find space during the morning hours we were home. Anyway on the Second of January we got off work at 7 p.m. and went down to the garage to get our car to go home. Someone forgot to tell the cleaning people there were still Missionaries in the building and they had scrubbed the floor by the elevators so we had to use the stairs to go down to the garage. As fate would have it, this was the first day I wore a shoe with a higher heel. One of the heels got caught in a strip on the stairs, and my foot came out of the shoe. Of course I continue to walk, causing me to flip in the air and plunge down the remaining 9 steps to the cement landing below. I believe the only thing that saved me from a fatal injury was my "puffy jacket". As I was airborne, my jacket was gathered up around my neck and head which helped when the back of my head hit the solid surface of that landing. The Sister we took home every evening, who was behind me, said it sounded as if I had cracked my head open. As it happened I didn't. There was a fast rising bump about the size of a "twinky" however.
Security saw the whole thing on their cameras, and there was someone there in an instant. He kept asking me if I was O.K.? I could hardly hear him as my ears were ringing so loudly. In fact they still ring all the time. I couldn't focus my eyes and felt real dizzy. I was helped to the car and taken to the LDS Hospital where I was admitted into the ER. I seemed to hold things together pretty well until just before we entered the hospital then I felt faint. They held me for a little while until I was more stable. One of the nurses came into the room where we were waiting to see a Dr. and asked if I felt nauseous. I foolishly told her I did. She came in with a shot, which I was unfortunately allergic to. Pretty nearly shut down my breathing, but I faught through it. When the nurse came back she was upset that I hadn't let them know I had a reaction. What she didn't know was I wouldn't have let them do more. I couldn't be sure the cure would be worse than what I was going through.
I had an MRI which showed there were no fractures or clots. I had a concussion, but no further damage. They didn't want me to sleep of course, and I couldn't lay down, the pressure was too uncomfortable, so I pretty well stayed in a semi reclining position for about two weeks.
Even though I was still suffering shock, I insisted on returning to work. They found a very quiet corner for me with some paper work that didn't take too much mind envolvement. It was during this very weird time they had the Christmas Party. I had made a dress for the occasion while I was staying home. I thought I looked pretty good. Pictures taken showed the dress was great, but I looked as if I was spaced out to the max. Strange I didn't feel that bad, but looks don't lie.
After we returned home, we had a family gathering at Dawn and Greg's. Jay and I were getting things out of the trunk of the car. He thought I had gone into the house when actually I had just handed off what I had to someone else, and turned back to get something else out of the trunk. Jay did not see me and slammed the trunk lid down on my head. I saw stars for a short time but came out of it with another bump on my head about the same place of the first one. Jay was so upset. Well, not as much as I was!
Then there was the experience in my Second Mission in 2004. Our Devotionals were usually started Friday Mornings with a pre program, put on by one or a group of Missionaries. It was voluntary of course. I told Sister Jurgenson I would like to get a group together to do a program; she was delighted to have me put something together. I went to the group I entered the Mission with who had some pretty good singers in it. I got all the music together and then asked for a couple solos and a couple mixed quartet numbers. It was difficult getting together
to practice but I kept after the group and was fairly successful. Fortunately for me, we were posponed due to some other schedule changes. As it turned out we were the last group to perform before they dropped the pre programs from the Devotionals. Now you might wonder what all this had to do with my head. Well, one of the last practices I scheduled was to be in the Training Lab. I arrived with all the music in tow and pleased to find some of the quartet ready to practice. The final member came into the lab, I didn't see him, I had my back to him. As he passed the speaker used in the lab, he kicked it with his foot accidentally. It was on a tall and flimsy stand that toppled and headed in my direction. There was no way I could see it, and no warning could have helped. The speaker about the size of a Television came straight for my head. It not only knocked me silly, but threw me about 5' forward flat on my face. My clothes were all ascue and left me in rather an unfortunate condition on the floor. It took me awhile to find my sences. I tried to straighten out my clothes and get to my feet. You guessed it, same place on my head. They sent me down to the Dr. who checked me over and felt I was O.K., but had a nasty bump on the back of my head. (So what else was new?) We had our practice, and our program, when it was time to perform, went beautiful. I think everyone loved it. I had picked all Primary songs. I found a very old Primary Song Book, and we used songs that were ones many of the Missionaries had sung when they were in Primary.
Well that is the tale of my "head". I am greatful that I have a skull that can take all this banging around. Of course you will remember that I had my head put through the windshield in that Auto Accident in 1952. If I seem "rattled" at times, purhaps you will excuse me on the grounds I have been "hit in the head" too many times.
Written this 9th day of December 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
With that behind us, we settled into being oriented and given an assignment in the Indexing Dept. of the Mission. We worked on the 1881 British Census. I had a part time job of working on a small portion of the 1851 Census. Time went by quickly. We were into the Holiday Season, which is the most delightful experience we had ever had. Everything is decorated in Salt Lake City. You haven't really enjoyed Christmas if you haven't spent some time in Salt Lake City between Thanksgiving and the New Year. (Sorry it is taking me so long to get to the topic at hand, but can't help bringing in all the flavor of the time we I am talking about.)
Our Christmas party was not planned until after the first of the year. That was due to the amount of things that go on in the Church Office Building. So we missed that excitement at that time. On the Second of January Jay and I reported to work on the evening shift. There were few computers, so they decided to work two shifts so the maximum use could be accomplished, thus the work could move along better. We went to work at 11 a.m. and got off work at 7 p.m.
It wasn't bad working those hours, but we did still have to get up every morning and go to Devotional in the North Visitors Center on Temple Square. Helped with the laundry. The laundry room was usually easier to find space during the morning hours we were home. Anyway on the Second of January we got off work at 7 p.m. and went down to the garage to get our car to go home. Someone forgot to tell the cleaning people there were still Missionaries in the building and they had scrubbed the floor by the elevators so we had to use the stairs to go down to the garage. As fate would have it, this was the first day I wore a shoe with a higher heel. One of the heels got caught in a strip on the stairs, and my foot came out of the shoe. Of course I continue to walk, causing me to flip in the air and plunge down the remaining 9 steps to the cement landing below. I believe the only thing that saved me from a fatal injury was my "puffy jacket". As I was airborne, my jacket was gathered up around my neck and head which helped when the back of my head hit the solid surface of that landing. The Sister we took home every evening, who was behind me, said it sounded as if I had cracked my head open. As it happened I didn't. There was a fast rising bump about the size of a "twinky" however.
Security saw the whole thing on their cameras, and there was someone there in an instant. He kept asking me if I was O.K.? I could hardly hear him as my ears were ringing so loudly. In fact they still ring all the time. I couldn't focus my eyes and felt real dizzy. I was helped to the car and taken to the LDS Hospital where I was admitted into the ER. I seemed to hold things together pretty well until just before we entered the hospital then I felt faint. They held me for a little while until I was more stable. One of the nurses came into the room where we were waiting to see a Dr. and asked if I felt nauseous. I foolishly told her I did. She came in with a shot, which I was unfortunately allergic to. Pretty nearly shut down my breathing, but I faught through it. When the nurse came back she was upset that I hadn't let them know I had a reaction. What she didn't know was I wouldn't have let them do more. I couldn't be sure the cure would be worse than what I was going through.
I had an MRI which showed there were no fractures or clots. I had a concussion, but no further damage. They didn't want me to sleep of course, and I couldn't lay down, the pressure was too uncomfortable, so I pretty well stayed in a semi reclining position for about two weeks.
Even though I was still suffering shock, I insisted on returning to work. They found a very quiet corner for me with some paper work that didn't take too much mind envolvement. It was during this very weird time they had the Christmas Party. I had made a dress for the occasion while I was staying home. I thought I looked pretty good. Pictures taken showed the dress was great, but I looked as if I was spaced out to the max. Strange I didn't feel that bad, but looks don't lie.
After we returned home, we had a family gathering at Dawn and Greg's. Jay and I were getting things out of the trunk of the car. He thought I had gone into the house when actually I had just handed off what I had to someone else, and turned back to get something else out of the trunk. Jay did not see me and slammed the trunk lid down on my head. I saw stars for a short time but came out of it with another bump on my head about the same place of the first one. Jay was so upset. Well, not as much as I was!
Then there was the experience in my Second Mission in 2004. Our Devotionals were usually started Friday Mornings with a pre program, put on by one or a group of Missionaries. It was voluntary of course. I told Sister Jurgenson I would like to get a group together to do a program; she was delighted to have me put something together. I went to the group I entered the Mission with who had some pretty good singers in it. I got all the music together and then asked for a couple solos and a couple mixed quartet numbers. It was difficult getting together
to practice but I kept after the group and was fairly successful. Fortunately for me, we were posponed due to some other schedule changes. As it turned out we were the last group to perform before they dropped the pre programs from the Devotionals. Now you might wonder what all this had to do with my head. Well, one of the last practices I scheduled was to be in the Training Lab. I arrived with all the music in tow and pleased to find some of the quartet ready to practice. The final member came into the lab, I didn't see him, I had my back to him. As he passed the speaker used in the lab, he kicked it with his foot accidentally. It was on a tall and flimsy stand that toppled and headed in my direction. There was no way I could see it, and no warning could have helped. The speaker about the size of a Television came straight for my head. It not only knocked me silly, but threw me about 5' forward flat on my face. My clothes were all ascue and left me in rather an unfortunate condition on the floor. It took me awhile to find my sences. I tried to straighten out my clothes and get to my feet. You guessed it, same place on my head. They sent me down to the Dr. who checked me over and felt I was O.K., but had a nasty bump on the back of my head. (So what else was new?) We had our practice, and our program, when it was time to perform, went beautiful. I think everyone loved it. I had picked all Primary songs. I found a very old Primary Song Book, and we used songs that were ones many of the Missionaries had sung when they were in Primary.
Well that is the tale of my "head". I am greatful that I have a skull that can take all this banging around. Of course you will remember that I had my head put through the windshield in that Auto Accident in 1952. If I seem "rattled" at times, purhaps you will excuse me on the grounds I have been "hit in the head" too many times.
Written this 9th day of December 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Monday, December 7, 2009
How A Family Grows
I guess it takes growing older to think about such things. Like the world, there is no beginning and no end. However we tend to think in our own space, and so it is with this. Our Family has grown quite remarkably I believe. I won't concider the amount of people in the background who have been instrumental in getting us here, but only from where We began. By that I mean Jay and myself.
It has always facinated me that all the Smith Kids born in Ohio and moving to California married "prune pickers" or mates who were all born in California. Who knew? Then in my case who could have guess that a family move from Utah would be the reason that Jay was the only one in his family who WAS born in California. Small things that made big differences.
I have written previously about our meeting and getting married, so that wouldn't fit here, but it is the reason for the "posting". We were young, hardly prepared for parenting, but then, as I scan life, I don't believe anyone is really ready for the job. One thing becomes very clear, very quickly, it is a "forever" job. Once you become a parent, you will always be, just that! The kids never grow too big for a parent to be concerned, or interested in what happens. Well for most parents. I suppose there are exceptions, but they are not the norm.
Speaking as a mother, the marvel of being responsible for something so fabulous as the small person who has been created within is awesome. A word I don't use too often. Just looking at those features, the tiny fingers and toes, the cute little nose, well, you get the idea. How great is the fact such a wonder can be created from two people who meet, choose to join in a relationship that is remarkable in itself.
Babies seem to come with their own "purse" with no script included. How does the finance work out? I have no clue. I only know that the ability to care for them, seems to be a natural thing with most families. It doesn't necesarily mean there is an increase in finances, just that the amount of sacrifice that is needed always seems to come without a great deal of trouble. It just seems to be a part of the job of parenting.
I cannot imagine life without either of my children. They are both different in their own way, and yet they are such a great part of their Dad and myself. The love needed just seems to be present without the slightest ripple or change in everyday life. How does that happen? I have no idea, it just does. I guess when God put this plan together He thought it through to the point that instant change was natural when it came to becoming parents. One day you are two and then suddenly you are "added upon". It is even more wonderful when the time comes to become Grandparents. As I look back over the past years, I cannot remember a time when each of the Grand Children weren't part of our lives, and yet, a life time was lived before they came upon the scene.
Now at the age I am I have the wonder of enjoying the entrance into my life of Great Grand Children. What did I ever do without them? They add so much to life, and the joy of seeing them grow and learn and become is just as exciting. How could it all happen so quickly? I don't know, but I am so greatful for the wonder of it all. As parents we stand back and watch our children grow, develope and learn, much as we did. Too soon, in most cases, they find someone that they want to be with, and their family begins. Where does the time go? We all come into
this world totally helpless and dependant. Parents are there to help us along lifes way.
I am greatful for the opportunities I had to be a parent to my children. I am not unaware of the fact I made mistakes along the way, but appreciate the fact none were so drastic as to curb my children from growing into great adults.
I know, or have learned, that I Am A Child Of God. My "turn on earth" has allowed me to witness the beginning of a number of other of God's children have their turn as well. Having been given such blessings as children, grand children and now great grand children has truly made this journey worth the effort it has taken to get me this far. How choice a family is. We sometimes think it is just coincidence, but I am beginning to believe that we do have a great deal of choice in everything that happens. Just how this all works, I am not at all sure, but I do believe we are where we are ment to be. So I have to thank each of you for coming into my life. For extending to me your love. I don't know what I would do without any of you. Your
so special.
To my Children, thanks for putting up with me. To my Grand Children, you will never know the joy you have brought me. Thank you for adding such wonderful Grand Children-in-law for me.
To the Great Grand Children, etc. You have been more than I could have hoped for. I pray you will always be able to fill your dreams to the fullest. I leave you my blessing and love for time and for all eternity.
Written this 7th day of December 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg
It has always facinated me that all the Smith Kids born in Ohio and moving to California married "prune pickers" or mates who were all born in California. Who knew? Then in my case who could have guess that a family move from Utah would be the reason that Jay was the only one in his family who WAS born in California. Small things that made big differences.
I have written previously about our meeting and getting married, so that wouldn't fit here, but it is the reason for the "posting". We were young, hardly prepared for parenting, but then, as I scan life, I don't believe anyone is really ready for the job. One thing becomes very clear, very quickly, it is a "forever" job. Once you become a parent, you will always be, just that! The kids never grow too big for a parent to be concerned, or interested in what happens. Well for most parents. I suppose there are exceptions, but they are not the norm.
Speaking as a mother, the marvel of being responsible for something so fabulous as the small person who has been created within is awesome. A word I don't use too often. Just looking at those features, the tiny fingers and toes, the cute little nose, well, you get the idea. How great is the fact such a wonder can be created from two people who meet, choose to join in a relationship that is remarkable in itself.
Babies seem to come with their own "purse" with no script included. How does the finance work out? I have no clue. I only know that the ability to care for them, seems to be a natural thing with most families. It doesn't necesarily mean there is an increase in finances, just that the amount of sacrifice that is needed always seems to come without a great deal of trouble. It just seems to be a part of the job of parenting.
I cannot imagine life without either of my children. They are both different in their own way, and yet they are such a great part of their Dad and myself. The love needed just seems to be present without the slightest ripple or change in everyday life. How does that happen? I have no idea, it just does. I guess when God put this plan together He thought it through to the point that instant change was natural when it came to becoming parents. One day you are two and then suddenly you are "added upon". It is even more wonderful when the time comes to become Grandparents. As I look back over the past years, I cannot remember a time when each of the Grand Children weren't part of our lives, and yet, a life time was lived before they came upon the scene.
Now at the age I am I have the wonder of enjoying the entrance into my life of Great Grand Children. What did I ever do without them? They add so much to life, and the joy of seeing them grow and learn and become is just as exciting. How could it all happen so quickly? I don't know, but I am so greatful for the wonder of it all. As parents we stand back and watch our children grow, develope and learn, much as we did. Too soon, in most cases, they find someone that they want to be with, and their family begins. Where does the time go? We all come into
this world totally helpless and dependant. Parents are there to help us along lifes way.
I am greatful for the opportunities I had to be a parent to my children. I am not unaware of the fact I made mistakes along the way, but appreciate the fact none were so drastic as to curb my children from growing into great adults.
I know, or have learned, that I Am A Child Of God. My "turn on earth" has allowed me to witness the beginning of a number of other of God's children have their turn as well. Having been given such blessings as children, grand children and now great grand children has truly made this journey worth the effort it has taken to get me this far. How choice a family is. We sometimes think it is just coincidence, but I am beginning to believe that we do have a great deal of choice in everything that happens. Just how this all works, I am not at all sure, but I do believe we are where we are ment to be. So I have to thank each of you for coming into my life. For extending to me your love. I don't know what I would do without any of you. Your
so special.
To my Children, thanks for putting up with me. To my Grand Children, you will never know the joy you have brought me. Thank you for adding such wonderful Grand Children-in-law for me.
To the Great Grand Children, etc. You have been more than I could have hoped for. I pray you will always be able to fill your dreams to the fullest. I leave you my blessing and love for time and for all eternity.
Written this 7th day of December 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Catch Your Star and Enjoy the Journey
Coming toward the end of the year I suppose most people are thinking of "resolutions" I never do that. I just keep plodding along and make the most of what is presented to me on a day to day basis. If I were to leave any advise it would be to "catch your own star", hang on and "enjoy the journey". Life can be all "you can make of it", not what society sets up as a way to live. I guess I took very seriously the addage my Mother set for me: "your clean and paid for". What more can anyone ask?
Of course when I was small, nobody was very well off, but then, we didn't realize that. We had a roof over our head and food on the table and clothes to cover us. I don't recall ever being cold in our home, or hungry, except just before we sat down to eat. I may not have liked everything that was on the table, but there was always bread and butter and of course p-nut butter and jam or jelly.
When we put too much into what others have and think too little of what we have, we lose sight of why we are really here. We don't need to pass everyone around us, we just need to keep moving and hopefully in the right direction. There are times we think our parents "don't understand". That is because we forget they had to pass this way once themselves. They had their "demons" to overcome, in their own time and in their own way. Along that way they had picked up some pretty valuable "smarts". If they say "no", they usually have a darn good reason for saying it. The fact we "don't want to hear it" has very little to do with what should be done!
So many bumps and bruises have been experienced by those older than us, we need to look at what they may "really know" as compared to what our narrow understanding of "what" is "really what".
I will admit I had a stubburn streak and bullheaded at times, but I was so greatful for a Dad who could point me in the right direction - even when I went grumbbling away from his advise. I never regretted taking it once I got a little way along the "road of life".
You know, we didn't come here to fail. We came here to learn, advance, enjoy and be happy. Now it only depends on how much time we spend working to that end instead of fighting against the tide. It isn't hard to find happiness around us. We just need to look for it. It is not always like the sunshine that we can see or feel. I guess what I am saying is: "life is what YOU make it".
No one can make us happy, we have to "be happy". It comes from within, not from without.
I guess it is like the two little boys who are in a room full of manure. One just sets down and cries, while the other little boy starts digging with excitement sure there has to be a pony in the room. Kind of a drastic picture to imagine, but it certainly brings the point into view. We can't just set down and wait for something to happen, we have to be actively engaged in making good things happen around us. Like the girl who is always smiling, making everyone else wonder what she knows that they have missed?
I learned some time ago to reply to a request to do something with "I'd be happy to". It makes me feel good, and it sure makes the one asking feel lifted because of such a positive reply. I may not always be "happy to", but I start out with that thought, and find in the end, it was O.K. I think the Hymn that asks us to: "brighten the corner where you are", has a great suggestion for life. Another one says: "there is sunshine in my soul today". It won't be there if we are not looking for or putting it there. I learned in Scouts it takes more nerves in your face to frown than to smile.
I suggest you "be happy" because You Are A Child of GOD. If: "life gets dark and dreary, don't forge to pray"! And remember - no matter where I am, I Love You!
Written the 3 day of December 2009
by: Grandma Rosenberg
Of course when I was small, nobody was very well off, but then, we didn't realize that. We had a roof over our head and food on the table and clothes to cover us. I don't recall ever being cold in our home, or hungry, except just before we sat down to eat. I may not have liked everything that was on the table, but there was always bread and butter and of course p-nut butter and jam or jelly.
When we put too much into what others have and think too little of what we have, we lose sight of why we are really here. We don't need to pass everyone around us, we just need to keep moving and hopefully in the right direction. There are times we think our parents "don't understand". That is because we forget they had to pass this way once themselves. They had their "demons" to overcome, in their own time and in their own way. Along that way they had picked up some pretty valuable "smarts". If they say "no", they usually have a darn good reason for saying it. The fact we "don't want to hear it" has very little to do with what should be done!
So many bumps and bruises have been experienced by those older than us, we need to look at what they may "really know" as compared to what our narrow understanding of "what" is "really what".
I will admit I had a stubburn streak and bullheaded at times, but I was so greatful for a Dad who could point me in the right direction - even when I went grumbbling away from his advise. I never regretted taking it once I got a little way along the "road of life".
You know, we didn't come here to fail. We came here to learn, advance, enjoy and be happy. Now it only depends on how much time we spend working to that end instead of fighting against the tide. It isn't hard to find happiness around us. We just need to look for it. It is not always like the sunshine that we can see or feel. I guess what I am saying is: "life is what YOU make it".
No one can make us happy, we have to "be happy". It comes from within, not from without.
I guess it is like the two little boys who are in a room full of manure. One just sets down and cries, while the other little boy starts digging with excitement sure there has to be a pony in the room. Kind of a drastic picture to imagine, but it certainly brings the point into view. We can't just set down and wait for something to happen, we have to be actively engaged in making good things happen around us. Like the girl who is always smiling, making everyone else wonder what she knows that they have missed?
I learned some time ago to reply to a request to do something with "I'd be happy to". It makes me feel good, and it sure makes the one asking feel lifted because of such a positive reply. I may not always be "happy to", but I start out with that thought, and find in the end, it was O.K. I think the Hymn that asks us to: "brighten the corner where you are", has a great suggestion for life. Another one says: "there is sunshine in my soul today". It won't be there if we are not looking for or putting it there. I learned in Scouts it takes more nerves in your face to frown than to smile.
I suggest you "be happy" because You Are A Child of GOD. If: "life gets dark and dreary, don't forge to pray"! And remember - no matter where I am, I Love You!
Written the 3 day of December 2009
by: Grandma Rosenberg
USS LSM 330 Remembrances
I am not sure if you knew that we had put out a book about the ship Jay served on in the Second World War? It started out, hopefully, as a small edition for the 50th Anniversary of the ships commissioning. There was a reunion planned for the occasion in Winter Park, Florida. We had asked all the Crew Members and Officers to submit pictures, stories, etc. for the Book of Remembrance. It was like pulling teeth, but things started to come in slowly, and with a great deal of prodding the final result was quite amazing.
Our hopes were it would exceed 20 pages. As it turned out we had nearly that many pages of pictures alone. I asked a couple of friends to help with the artwork that was used to make dividers for the different sections and Ronald Smith did all the type setting and headings for the edition. We had Poor Richards Press here in Paso Robles do the printing, and they were so helpful with the project that took nearly a year to complete.
Binder (3" size) were purchased and the assemling of the pages began as the sections were started. We had to reconfigure them a number of times, as things kept arriving. A large portion of the books were mailed to members who had never come to any of the reunions, but had served with the crew at one time or another. The price of those books was paid for by the active members. We did not recieve one Thank You from any of those mailings, but I am sure they were received with a great deal of interest.
There had been some contention among a few of the Crew Members about our trying to "take over" the Group. We had been aware of this, and had become quite unsure of just how they would critique the Book when they received it. I was so sensitive about it that we sent all the books to the Hotel for Richard Sewell (one of the Captains) to receive before we arrived. I did not want to be there when they were passed out so Jay and I made a side trip to the Orlando, Florida Temple to do a Session. By the time we arrived, everyone was setting around the Hospitality Room going through their Copy of the Book and amazed at just how much had been gathered and included. Things most of them had never seen of knew about. It was a heart warming experience for everyone, and a great relief for us.
One of the men came to us and Thanked us, most appreciated all the work as he had lost all his Navy things in a flood many years ago. The rest were surprised and appreciated the time and efford we had put into getting so much information together for them.
It was a bitter sweet moment. Sam Ray the Exec. Officer and main drive of getting the Group together the first time in 1987, had cancer and was slowing loosing his battle with it while the Book was being put together. We fortunately finished it before he passed away a few weeks before the Reunion. We had sent his copy to him in the Hospital where he had a chance to see and enjoy it. This was a very great joy for me, because Sam had always been such a constant support for the work and ever ready to review and give council when needed. A copy was sent to the Sisters of Greg Mullian who was the Radioman aboard who had spent countless hours getting the addresses and information on the Crew Members for the Second Reunion that was held in Orlando, Florida in 1989. Greg passed away before the Third Reunion in San Diego, California in 1991 from heart desease. The Book was Dedicated in his honor.
When the National Association of the LSM held their reunion in Omaha, Nebraska after the USS LSM 55 was brought back to the United States from Greece there was a lot of video available. The grandson of Kenneth and Ann Kelly was interested in taking a lot of video of a ship like the one his deceased grand father had served on. The ship at that time was being docked at Freedom Park in Omaha. We had a chance to tour it. Many volunteer hours had been spent in restoring the ship. The sad part for me was the Vaporators (what Jay had maintained) were not restored. Bob Killick showed me where they should have been. Jay was not able to make this reunion due to his failing health.
While I was visiting the Gift Shop I noticed there was a Video available of the Group who went to Greece and got the ship and stayed aboard while she was towed back to the US. It also included the arrival and all the fanfare of it being brought to Freedom Park. We were able to get a copy of the video Ken's grandson made and joined it with the one I had bought in the gift shop. This was the Suprise Gift everyone received at the last Reunion the Group held in Charlotte, South Carolina. Copies were likewise sent to all those still surviving that could not attend.
Jay was first asked to be Treasurer for the LSM 330 Group in 1989 then had the job expanded to Secretary/Treasure when Greg Mullian passed away in 1991. He held that possition until he passed away in 2003.
I issued an invitation to the Group to assign another for the jobs Jay had held, but no one wanted to take on the responsibility. They all told me that no one could do the job better than me now that Jay had passed away. So I am still the Secretary/Treasurer for what is now knows as the "USS LSM 330 Family" I have enjoyed keeping in touch with the members and their families. We have a great many widows now, but we are like family and want to keep them close. There are not enough to make the minimum requirements to plan Reunions any longer. That was a big job for us, but one we got a great deal of pleasure out of arranging. We always rented a large Van to get people without cars to and from the various venues we planned. Some of those trips really showed off my "amazing" driving skills. There were many hours of pleasure spent together I can tell you. It is sad to report the passing of friends, but part of the job I assumed. We started out with about 80 known who had served aboard the Ship. Not all of them however participated in any of the things planned. I guess that was because they either did not stay aboard very long, or were part of those who made up the Company for the "Flag Ship" that the "330" was during the build up for the invasion of Japan. Toward the end of the War in the Pacific men were rotated out by "points" determined by how long they had served. This ment a great deal of shifting of assignments over a short space of time as the men rotated to go home. I believe there were only a handful left aboard when the ship arrived in New Orleans to be de-commissioned. Jay was one of 7 at that time. He returned home to California on a Troup Train.
The saddest part of this story is the USS LSM 55 that was so carefully restored and so expensively gained by the National Association was never able to find a permanent home. She was shifted from Freedom Park in Omaha, Nebraska to Cherry Point the North Carolina and I believe even moved one other time before it was impossible to find a permanent home for the last remaining LSM afloat. She has been scraped like all her Sister Ships. A part of History lost forever, except in our Book of Remembrance and the Video that was so loveingly made and in the care of those who served aboard the "330".
Oh! and a copy of the Book has been sent to and now resides in the Library of Congress.
Written this 3 day of December 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Our hopes were it would exceed 20 pages. As it turned out we had nearly that many pages of pictures alone. I asked a couple of friends to help with the artwork that was used to make dividers for the different sections and Ronald Smith did all the type setting and headings for the edition. We had Poor Richards Press here in Paso Robles do the printing, and they were so helpful with the project that took nearly a year to complete.
Binder (3" size) were purchased and the assemling of the pages began as the sections were started. We had to reconfigure them a number of times, as things kept arriving. A large portion of the books were mailed to members who had never come to any of the reunions, but had served with the crew at one time or another. The price of those books was paid for by the active members. We did not recieve one Thank You from any of those mailings, but I am sure they were received with a great deal of interest.
There had been some contention among a few of the Crew Members about our trying to "take over" the Group. We had been aware of this, and had become quite unsure of just how they would critique the Book when they received it. I was so sensitive about it that we sent all the books to the Hotel for Richard Sewell (one of the Captains) to receive before we arrived. I did not want to be there when they were passed out so Jay and I made a side trip to the Orlando, Florida Temple to do a Session. By the time we arrived, everyone was setting around the Hospitality Room going through their Copy of the Book and amazed at just how much had been gathered and included. Things most of them had never seen of knew about. It was a heart warming experience for everyone, and a great relief for us.
One of the men came to us and Thanked us, most appreciated all the work as he had lost all his Navy things in a flood many years ago. The rest were surprised and appreciated the time and efford we had put into getting so much information together for them.
It was a bitter sweet moment. Sam Ray the Exec. Officer and main drive of getting the Group together the first time in 1987, had cancer and was slowing loosing his battle with it while the Book was being put together. We fortunately finished it before he passed away a few weeks before the Reunion. We had sent his copy to him in the Hospital where he had a chance to see and enjoy it. This was a very great joy for me, because Sam had always been such a constant support for the work and ever ready to review and give council when needed. A copy was sent to the Sisters of Greg Mullian who was the Radioman aboard who had spent countless hours getting the addresses and information on the Crew Members for the Second Reunion that was held in Orlando, Florida in 1989. Greg passed away before the Third Reunion in San Diego, California in 1991 from heart desease. The Book was Dedicated in his honor.
When the National Association of the LSM held their reunion in Omaha, Nebraska after the USS LSM 55 was brought back to the United States from Greece there was a lot of video available. The grandson of Kenneth and Ann Kelly was interested in taking a lot of video of a ship like the one his deceased grand father had served on. The ship at that time was being docked at Freedom Park in Omaha. We had a chance to tour it. Many volunteer hours had been spent in restoring the ship. The sad part for me was the Vaporators (what Jay had maintained) were not restored. Bob Killick showed me where they should have been. Jay was not able to make this reunion due to his failing health.
While I was visiting the Gift Shop I noticed there was a Video available of the Group who went to Greece and got the ship and stayed aboard while she was towed back to the US. It also included the arrival and all the fanfare of it being brought to Freedom Park. We were able to get a copy of the video Ken's grandson made and joined it with the one I had bought in the gift shop. This was the Suprise Gift everyone received at the last Reunion the Group held in Charlotte, South Carolina. Copies were likewise sent to all those still surviving that could not attend.
Jay was first asked to be Treasurer for the LSM 330 Group in 1989 then had the job expanded to Secretary/Treasure when Greg Mullian passed away in 1991. He held that possition until he passed away in 2003.
I issued an invitation to the Group to assign another for the jobs Jay had held, but no one wanted to take on the responsibility. They all told me that no one could do the job better than me now that Jay had passed away. So I am still the Secretary/Treasurer for what is now knows as the "USS LSM 330 Family" I have enjoyed keeping in touch with the members and their families. We have a great many widows now, but we are like family and want to keep them close. There are not enough to make the minimum requirements to plan Reunions any longer. That was a big job for us, but one we got a great deal of pleasure out of arranging. We always rented a large Van to get people without cars to and from the various venues we planned. Some of those trips really showed off my "amazing" driving skills. There were many hours of pleasure spent together I can tell you. It is sad to report the passing of friends, but part of the job I assumed. We started out with about 80 known who had served aboard the Ship. Not all of them however participated in any of the things planned. I guess that was because they either did not stay aboard very long, or were part of those who made up the Company for the "Flag Ship" that the "330" was during the build up for the invasion of Japan. Toward the end of the War in the Pacific men were rotated out by "points" determined by how long they had served. This ment a great deal of shifting of assignments over a short space of time as the men rotated to go home. I believe there were only a handful left aboard when the ship arrived in New Orleans to be de-commissioned. Jay was one of 7 at that time. He returned home to California on a Troup Train.
The saddest part of this story is the USS LSM 55 that was so carefully restored and so expensively gained by the National Association was never able to find a permanent home. She was shifted from Freedom Park in Omaha, Nebraska to Cherry Point the North Carolina and I believe even moved one other time before it was impossible to find a permanent home for the last remaining LSM afloat. She has been scraped like all her Sister Ships. A part of History lost forever, except in our Book of Remembrance and the Video that was so loveingly made and in the care of those who served aboard the "330".
Oh! and a copy of the Book has been sent to and now resides in the Library of Congress.
Written this 3 day of December 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg
Monday, November 23, 2009
Thanksgiving - A Blessed Time of the Year!
Well, the year is coming to a close, and I have spent most of it writting down the things I remember to fill the request Keara gave me last Christmas. I believe I have touched about everything that has crossed my mind. Hoping all the while that I have left a path of thoughts that will be of use to any, some or part of the family I love so very much! One way or the other, it has been a time of great interest to me. I have been surprised at times of how much I do recall. After a number of serious "thumps" on my head, I have, at times, felt it difficult to recall even the tiniest of things. Family would laugh and talk about somethings, I do not recall at all. So what has been written certainly is a marvel to me.
Then what about Thanksgivings? Well they have come into my life 80 times this year. I only recall some because they were special for one reason or another. I recall we didn't have Turkey until we were in California. Dad, being English, would prefer duck or goose. These became less available after we came West. I guess that is why we had Turkey? It was a new experience not only for the family, but for Mom as well. I recall her confusion at just what she could do with such a BIG BIRD. I guess what she did with a goose was different? I can't really recall. I know we did have duck one year, and I hated it. It is just too greasy. Besides they are shaped funny!
I remember one Thanksgiving that was rather sad. The family had gathered at Mom and Dads for dinner. Jay's dad received a telephone call before he came that his brother, Magnus had been killed. We waited dinner while he went to check on what had happened. It had been a very foggy morning. Magnus was on his way home when he had some kind of car trouble and got out of his car to check things. In the fog, he was not visible. Another car came along and hit him. It put quite a damper on the day, but we managed through it. A real test of family. We were so greatful we were all together and could support each other in such a trying time.
Mom and Dad always included all the family when it came to Thanksgiving. All the kids would come home with their families and Uncle Bill and Aunt Clara would come. After Jay's parents divorced, "Slim" was always included as well. Mom was good about filling any special orders for the meal that were suggested. For Uncle Bill it was always "creamed onions". Not everyone liked them, but there was always a dish full which he enjoyed. I like them too, and am known to fix them once in awhile. Each time a special memory of Uncle Bill.
Mom always left everything on the table after we would finish eating. The family would play games, or just set around and talk. Then when we got hungry again, which we always did, we would uncover the table and pick at what was left. You know, if we did that today, there would be all kinds of trouble. Folks would say we would get sick from that stuff being unrefrigerated. None of us every did. Wonder why that is? Nothing like a plate of cold dressing and turkey. I loved it!
The boys had given Mom a beautiful set of dinner ware for an Anniversary one year after they had gone to work. It was such a pleasure to set the table with it. Mom had two sets of real silverware. One with an "S" on it and another that had different shape and decorated handles. Back in those days a table wasn't really set unless it had "silverware". Today you hardly ever see any. I believe the dinnerware went to Ralph and Betsy when Mom gave up her home. Dawn and Greg were given the "S" silverware. Gosh, lets see, it would be it about 89 years old now. What an antique it is! The dinnerware, I have no idea where it could be, would be about 50 years old. Good things keep their value if only sentimental. Can't replace that kind of an item these days. Nothing like old china, silver and linen. There is some of Moms wedding linen spread around the family as well. That was such a priceless thing. Irish Linen was the dream of every bride back in the early 1900's. We don't even think of it now.
Modern tables are set with a number of different kinds of tableclothes, with not a one being from Ireland. Plates may range from paper to the best of Dinner Ware. Usually the utensils are of Stainless Steel. Glasses range from plastic to Crystal. Depending on the household serving the meal. It really doesn't matter what we eat off of, nor what we use to put the food into our mouths. No, it really matters who we set down with and the love that is gathered around the table. The food will be good, no matter what is placed on the table, and the feelings will be much the same as they have been from years past. We have gathered to spend some very special time with some very special people. Will the women be spent from the cooking? Of course! Will the family enjoy the time together? Naturally! Will it be worth all the care and time spent in getting it ready, then cleaning up afterward? Depending! Mom has been the one who has taken the time to get things together. Dad has worked hard to provide the supplies. Now it is up to the family to be "Thankful", Appreciate everything that has gone into the day. Sometime we find the time around the table was great only because we are "stuffed", much like the Turkey.
When we need to remember what has gone into getting this day together.
Prigrims had to thank the Indians for thier part in helping keep them alive by teaching them how to plant and harvest crops here in the "New Land". Their meal was not as grandeous as anything we set down to today. We need to remember what the day is set aside for. A time to be greatful for what we have. For many years things were not as great as they are now (2009).
For every good thing we have, we need to be greatful, and offer up thanks! For Mom who has been so willing to give, "just one more day of service" in putting such a great meal on the table. To Dad for his part in seeing we have the supplies needed for Mom to do her job. Families are ment to be together, to set down together, to enjoy time and conversation. They are also ment to give Thanks for the things they have and the people who love them and see to their needs on a day to day basis. Nothing lasts forever here on this earth. It is only what we do with the things we have that will prepare us for the time when our "Family Will Be Together Forever."
I guess what I am trying to leave today is the thought that we should be greatful and thankful and appreciative everyday in some way for what we have been given, for those who provide and prepare for our comfort and safety.
Some of our families were lucky to have a one room cabin with nothing but a blanket to cover the windows, and a fireplace to keep the cold from biting them. Their food was a lot different from what we enjoy. Much depended on the Season and or the way the family was able to keep what they had grown. No super market, or corner store to go to. No dairy to supply the fresh milk, or butter. No bakery to get bread. Goodies were very few if any at all. I know this sounds like the old story of: "I had to walk to school a mile in the snow". That is not it at all. It is remembering those who have paved the way for the good things we have today. Those who were brave and caring enough to chart a way West, who were willing to go that "extra mile" to find a place where they could be who they wanted to be and live the way they wanted to live. Nothing lasts for ever, and nothing came from nothing! We have much to be Thankful for. I pray the day will never come when we forget the things that have blessed our lives. Those who loved us from a long line of those who loved us. Those who have made our Today better because of the times they lived through to make it all possible. Too many to number, but not to remember.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, this year, and every year that follows this year. Pass on the traditions, the love and the caring that has brought us to this Thanksgiving so that all that pass on after us will be able to set down together and be Blessed because we too "passed this way".
I love you, one and all - FOREVER -
Written this 23 day of November 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg - Grandma "R"
Then what about Thanksgivings? Well they have come into my life 80 times this year. I only recall some because they were special for one reason or another. I recall we didn't have Turkey until we were in California. Dad, being English, would prefer duck or goose. These became less available after we came West. I guess that is why we had Turkey? It was a new experience not only for the family, but for Mom as well. I recall her confusion at just what she could do with such a BIG BIRD. I guess what she did with a goose was different? I can't really recall. I know we did have duck one year, and I hated it. It is just too greasy. Besides they are shaped funny!
I remember one Thanksgiving that was rather sad. The family had gathered at Mom and Dads for dinner. Jay's dad received a telephone call before he came that his brother, Magnus had been killed. We waited dinner while he went to check on what had happened. It had been a very foggy morning. Magnus was on his way home when he had some kind of car trouble and got out of his car to check things. In the fog, he was not visible. Another car came along and hit him. It put quite a damper on the day, but we managed through it. A real test of family. We were so greatful we were all together and could support each other in such a trying time.
Mom and Dad always included all the family when it came to Thanksgiving. All the kids would come home with their families and Uncle Bill and Aunt Clara would come. After Jay's parents divorced, "Slim" was always included as well. Mom was good about filling any special orders for the meal that were suggested. For Uncle Bill it was always "creamed onions". Not everyone liked them, but there was always a dish full which he enjoyed. I like them too, and am known to fix them once in awhile. Each time a special memory of Uncle Bill.
Mom always left everything on the table after we would finish eating. The family would play games, or just set around and talk. Then when we got hungry again, which we always did, we would uncover the table and pick at what was left. You know, if we did that today, there would be all kinds of trouble. Folks would say we would get sick from that stuff being unrefrigerated. None of us every did. Wonder why that is? Nothing like a plate of cold dressing and turkey. I loved it!
The boys had given Mom a beautiful set of dinner ware for an Anniversary one year after they had gone to work. It was such a pleasure to set the table with it. Mom had two sets of real silverware. One with an "S" on it and another that had different shape and decorated handles. Back in those days a table wasn't really set unless it had "silverware". Today you hardly ever see any. I believe the dinnerware went to Ralph and Betsy when Mom gave up her home. Dawn and Greg were given the "S" silverware. Gosh, lets see, it would be it about 89 years old now. What an antique it is! The dinnerware, I have no idea where it could be, would be about 50 years old. Good things keep their value if only sentimental. Can't replace that kind of an item these days. Nothing like old china, silver and linen. There is some of Moms wedding linen spread around the family as well. That was such a priceless thing. Irish Linen was the dream of every bride back in the early 1900's. We don't even think of it now.
Modern tables are set with a number of different kinds of tableclothes, with not a one being from Ireland. Plates may range from paper to the best of Dinner Ware. Usually the utensils are of Stainless Steel. Glasses range from plastic to Crystal. Depending on the household serving the meal. It really doesn't matter what we eat off of, nor what we use to put the food into our mouths. No, it really matters who we set down with and the love that is gathered around the table. The food will be good, no matter what is placed on the table, and the feelings will be much the same as they have been from years past. We have gathered to spend some very special time with some very special people. Will the women be spent from the cooking? Of course! Will the family enjoy the time together? Naturally! Will it be worth all the care and time spent in getting it ready, then cleaning up afterward? Depending! Mom has been the one who has taken the time to get things together. Dad has worked hard to provide the supplies. Now it is up to the family to be "Thankful", Appreciate everything that has gone into the day. Sometime we find the time around the table was great only because we are "stuffed", much like the Turkey.
When we need to remember what has gone into getting this day together.
Prigrims had to thank the Indians for thier part in helping keep them alive by teaching them how to plant and harvest crops here in the "New Land". Their meal was not as grandeous as anything we set down to today. We need to remember what the day is set aside for. A time to be greatful for what we have. For many years things were not as great as they are now (2009).
For every good thing we have, we need to be greatful, and offer up thanks! For Mom who has been so willing to give, "just one more day of service" in putting such a great meal on the table. To Dad for his part in seeing we have the supplies needed for Mom to do her job. Families are ment to be together, to set down together, to enjoy time and conversation. They are also ment to give Thanks for the things they have and the people who love them and see to their needs on a day to day basis. Nothing lasts forever here on this earth. It is only what we do with the things we have that will prepare us for the time when our "Family Will Be Together Forever."
I guess what I am trying to leave today is the thought that we should be greatful and thankful and appreciative everyday in some way for what we have been given, for those who provide and prepare for our comfort and safety.
Some of our families were lucky to have a one room cabin with nothing but a blanket to cover the windows, and a fireplace to keep the cold from biting them. Their food was a lot different from what we enjoy. Much depended on the Season and or the way the family was able to keep what they had grown. No super market, or corner store to go to. No dairy to supply the fresh milk, or butter. No bakery to get bread. Goodies were very few if any at all. I know this sounds like the old story of: "I had to walk to school a mile in the snow". That is not it at all. It is remembering those who have paved the way for the good things we have today. Those who were brave and caring enough to chart a way West, who were willing to go that "extra mile" to find a place where they could be who they wanted to be and live the way they wanted to live. Nothing lasts for ever, and nothing came from nothing! We have much to be Thankful for. I pray the day will never come when we forget the things that have blessed our lives. Those who loved us from a long line of those who loved us. Those who have made our Today better because of the times they lived through to make it all possible. Too many to number, but not to remember.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, this year, and every year that follows this year. Pass on the traditions, the love and the caring that has brought us to this Thanksgiving so that all that pass on after us will be able to set down together and be Blessed because we too "passed this way".
I love you, one and all - FOREVER -
Written this 23 day of November 2009
by: Eileen Rosenberg - Grandma "R"
Monday, November 9, 2009
Veterans Day
They are celebrating Veterans Day on Monday - in reality Veterans Day is on the 11th of November. It was so declared because the First World War was ended on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Now they celebrate on a Monday nearest to that date so there can be another three day week-end. Sad that our Society has found it more advantageous to set Holidays when they can accomodate lifestyle rather than on the day they
actually came into being.
I suppose my feelings come from my youth when this was such a very special day. Whether it fell on what ever day of the week. Things came to a stand still. Parades were held and special attention was paid to flying the flag all over this great nation. Of course there were picnics and trips to cemetaries to decorate graves. It was always such a special feeling to enter the Cemetary and see the majority of the graves covered with flowers and flags. Even those who were not Veterans found honor on this very special day.
Our family has always had Veterans to remember. Doing Genealogy it is apparent relatives have come forward when this Nations was threatened to serve and defend our Liberty and Freedom. Even before the Constitution was written there were those who stepped forward and did the unthinkable, stood up against those who would tax them beyond what was right.
During the First World War, which was to be the War that ended all War, there were a great number of men who either were drafter to serve, or volunteered. Thomas Gower Rosenberg was drafted toward the end of that War and did not have to go overseas to fight, but his older brother Harvey Rosenberg did and he was wounded and suffered the horrifying effects of being exposed to Mustard Gas. He survived, but was permentally effected by that exposure.
In the Second World War, which by now we hoped would be the War to end all War, we had even more family men who stepped forward and served. Both LaMar Harris Rosenberg an Uncle and our Jay Ford Rosenberg both enlisted and served in the Navy. Ralph Evron Smith and Ronald Charles Smith, Uncles, both enlisted. Ralph in the Army Paratroops and Ronald in the Marines. All four served in the South Pacific. There were a number of the Hall family, Cousins, who served as well. In all I should say we were well represented in that conflict. To my knowledge all who served returned home. Our family has been very fortunate indeed.
Oh, there have been other conflicts down through the years since then. We have had those who have stepped up and met the challenge of service to preserve our Freedom and Liberty. In Korea it was Jay Ford Rosenberg who was recalled to serve in the Navy. In Vietnam it was Gregory Webb Slane and Paul LaMar Rosenberg and Joseph Jay Rosenberg who were on the active duty rosters. Greg in the Marines and Paul in the Army Rangers and Cousin Joe in the Navy. All returned home, Paul, however, later developed health problems from exposure to Agent Orange that was used to defoliate the jungles where he was. When two of these family members returned from that War they continued serving. Greg in the California National Guard and Paul was switched first to the Navy as a Medic and then into the Marines where he served another 13 years. In fact he was one of those who was sent to Panama to free that Country from their tyrant leaders.
I don't suppose most of the family knew that Paul had been caught during one his normal trips to decorate fallen members of the Armed Forces on Memorial Day and Veterans Day by a Newspaper in Bakersfield. On these days Paul would get flowers and go into a Cemetary,very early, and walk about until he found a grave of a fallen Serviceman where he would clean the head stone, place flowers and then take a moment and have a prayer of thanks. He looked for a Soldier, a Marine and a Sailor. The Newspaper Photographer was there early getting ready for the Service that was to be held later in the day. He noticed this man dressed in uniform going about stopping here and there. He decided to follow him and find out about this. In the process he got a picture of Paul kneeling beside one of the graves giving his prayer of "Thanks". He didn't come close enough for Paul to know he was there, but when Paul was leaving, he approached him and asked if these were special friends. Paul explained he looked for a fallen "Hero" to thank for his service. As you may remember the Vietnam Servicemen did not get "Welcomed Home". In fact to this day, when they see another fellow Vietnam Vet, they always approach him and say: "Welcome Home", "Thanks for your Service". Well the picture was used and the story told of this Veteran who took time every Memorial and Veterans Day to remember an unknown falled "Hero".
This however is not the end of that story. Years later when the United States went over in the Desert to assist Kiwait against Sadam Husan our Troops again won a victory and were returning home, only this time, they were to receive a "heros welcome home". A Parade was planned with a great deal of fanfare. One of the planning committee went to the Newspaper and asked if they knew of someone who could act as Grand Marshall for the parade. A Veteran, who could represent all the Veterans. The man behind the desk had no problem with his choice. He opened his desk drawer and pulled out a picture of a uniformed Veteran kneeling beside a grave with flowers in hand saying a prayer. He knew the mans name and where he lived. That is how Paul LaMar Rosenberg was honored by representing ALL VETERANS in the "Welcome Home
Parade" for the Desert Storm Troops.
It is quite common today to see people go out of there way to thank a veteran for his or her service. A great thing. It has taken years for people to realize a Veteran is always due our thanks for the time and effort he or she spent in serving and defending our Country from all enemies both Foreign and Domestic, no matter what conflict that service was given in.
So today, even on a day other than the 11th, we will fly our flag, and remember the Veterans who have given so much to keep our Country Free and our Liberty secure. It is the least we can do for those who have given service to both Flag and Country.
Written this 9th day of November 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg
actually came into being.
I suppose my feelings come from my youth when this was such a very special day. Whether it fell on what ever day of the week. Things came to a stand still. Parades were held and special attention was paid to flying the flag all over this great nation. Of course there were picnics and trips to cemetaries to decorate graves. It was always such a special feeling to enter the Cemetary and see the majority of the graves covered with flowers and flags. Even those who were not Veterans found honor on this very special day.
Our family has always had Veterans to remember. Doing Genealogy it is apparent relatives have come forward when this Nations was threatened to serve and defend our Liberty and Freedom. Even before the Constitution was written there were those who stepped forward and did the unthinkable, stood up against those who would tax them beyond what was right.
During the First World War, which was to be the War that ended all War, there were a great number of men who either were drafter to serve, or volunteered. Thomas Gower Rosenberg was drafted toward the end of that War and did not have to go overseas to fight, but his older brother Harvey Rosenberg did and he was wounded and suffered the horrifying effects of being exposed to Mustard Gas. He survived, but was permentally effected by that exposure.
In the Second World War, which by now we hoped would be the War to end all War, we had even more family men who stepped forward and served. Both LaMar Harris Rosenberg an Uncle and our Jay Ford Rosenberg both enlisted and served in the Navy. Ralph Evron Smith and Ronald Charles Smith, Uncles, both enlisted. Ralph in the Army Paratroops and Ronald in the Marines. All four served in the South Pacific. There were a number of the Hall family, Cousins, who served as well. In all I should say we were well represented in that conflict. To my knowledge all who served returned home. Our family has been very fortunate indeed.
Oh, there have been other conflicts down through the years since then. We have had those who have stepped up and met the challenge of service to preserve our Freedom and Liberty. In Korea it was Jay Ford Rosenberg who was recalled to serve in the Navy. In Vietnam it was Gregory Webb Slane and Paul LaMar Rosenberg and Joseph Jay Rosenberg who were on the active duty rosters. Greg in the Marines and Paul in the Army Rangers and Cousin Joe in the Navy. All returned home, Paul, however, later developed health problems from exposure to Agent Orange that was used to defoliate the jungles where he was. When two of these family members returned from that War they continued serving. Greg in the California National Guard and Paul was switched first to the Navy as a Medic and then into the Marines where he served another 13 years. In fact he was one of those who was sent to Panama to free that Country from their tyrant leaders.
I don't suppose most of the family knew that Paul had been caught during one his normal trips to decorate fallen members of the Armed Forces on Memorial Day and Veterans Day by a Newspaper in Bakersfield. On these days Paul would get flowers and go into a Cemetary,very early, and walk about until he found a grave of a fallen Serviceman where he would clean the head stone, place flowers and then take a moment and have a prayer of thanks. He looked for a Soldier, a Marine and a Sailor. The Newspaper Photographer was there early getting ready for the Service that was to be held later in the day. He noticed this man dressed in uniform going about stopping here and there. He decided to follow him and find out about this. In the process he got a picture of Paul kneeling beside one of the graves giving his prayer of "Thanks". He didn't come close enough for Paul to know he was there, but when Paul was leaving, he approached him and asked if these were special friends. Paul explained he looked for a fallen "Hero" to thank for his service. As you may remember the Vietnam Servicemen did not get "Welcomed Home". In fact to this day, when they see another fellow Vietnam Vet, they always approach him and say: "Welcome Home", "Thanks for your Service". Well the picture was used and the story told of this Veteran who took time every Memorial and Veterans Day to remember an unknown falled "Hero".
This however is not the end of that story. Years later when the United States went over in the Desert to assist Kiwait against Sadam Husan our Troops again won a victory and were returning home, only this time, they were to receive a "heros welcome home". A Parade was planned with a great deal of fanfare. One of the planning committee went to the Newspaper and asked if they knew of someone who could act as Grand Marshall for the parade. A Veteran, who could represent all the Veterans. The man behind the desk had no problem with his choice. He opened his desk drawer and pulled out a picture of a uniformed Veteran kneeling beside a grave with flowers in hand saying a prayer. He knew the mans name and where he lived. That is how Paul LaMar Rosenberg was honored by representing ALL VETERANS in the "Welcome Home
Parade" for the Desert Storm Troops.
It is quite common today to see people go out of there way to thank a veteran for his or her service. A great thing. It has taken years for people to realize a Veteran is always due our thanks for the time and effort he or she spent in serving and defending our Country from all enemies both Foreign and Domestic, no matter what conflict that service was given in.
So today, even on a day other than the 11th, we will fly our flag, and remember the Veterans who have given so much to keep our Country Free and our Liberty secure. It is the least we can do for those who have given service to both Flag and Country.
Written this 9th day of November 2009
by: Eileen C. Rosenberg
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