(Place on page 42- new para. after "power of Lourdes..").
We took a flight home from Paris and did a little sightseeing on the final two days. I'll never forget this smiling cab driver with a gold tooth in the front, showing us all around the City of Lights the night before we left for America. He picked us up at Orly Airport and drove super fast into the city, grinning all the way. He spoke little English, plus none of us had the courage to ask if all Parisians drove that fast, or did he want to give a family of Americans a thrill before departing France?
I was sitting in the front of the taxi, almost peeing my pants from fright, while my parents and Mark sat in the backseat, white as ghosts. Suddenly, the dreaded Schuylkill Expressway outside of Philadelphia didn't seem so bad.
We made it into Paris in one piece.The cabbie took us to all the usual tourist spots. I can still see the Effel Tower as we parked beside the iconic landmark, and I remember feeling in awe of the height and thinking "It's really here!" The other memorable memory was all the little bridges crossing over the river Seine, and as dusk was falling over Paris, the scene truly was spectacular, the many lanterns and lights on the little bridges twinkling and sparkling on the water.
I'm sure Dad had to remember the Arc de Triomphe in the heart of the city. I still have a grainy, old black and white photo of Dad's army squadron, pictured right there in front of the monument. Dad never used to like to talk much about World War II , and he said little when we saw the majestic Arc.
I wished we had more time to spend in Paris, but spending so much time in Lourdes was worth it. Plus we did take day trips, bravely venturing around the rolling summer countryside, seeing vineyards and mountains and lush fields of green.
We did okay with the language, picking up a few words of French here and there, especially the basics, like "food" and "bathroom."It did take Dad a while to get used to the French currency. I liked the fact that their money came in different color bills, making it much easier to find.
Speaking of food, the French cuisine wasn't bad. Of course, as kids, we tried to stick to our basic diet of American food, and found that french fries were about the same as the fries at McDonalds back home. Mark and I were courageous to try the rabbit one night (I never watched a Bugs Bunny cartoon again). We passed on more exotic food, like escargot ( snails) and frog's legs, delicacies in France. To us, the expensive plate of snails at a nearby table, laying on a bed of parsley, looked too much like our front garden and drew the predictable reactions of "Yuk."
We did enjoy the occasional glass of red wine, which was offered at every meal. It made the odd sights and aromas of the restaurants in France easier to swallow ( pardon the pun).
My favorite was the soft, warm bread and the endless variety of pastries, almost as good as our local Tastykakes.
All in all, spending a month in France during August, 1972 was a once in a lifetime, unforgettable summer. I wouldn't fully appreciate the experience until later in life. My parents really were the greatest. And as time goes by, France seems like a fading watercolor dream, the visions not as vivid, yet the memories lingering forever.
Tuesday, December 31, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES
Thinking about the playoff games this weekend in the NFL..
Buffalo at Houston
It wouldn't surprise me to see the Bills win in Houston, but I think the Texans prevail in a close one
Texans 24 Bills 17
Tennessee at New England
The Patriots are in the unfamiliar position of hosting a Wild Card game instead of having a bye. The Pats aren't what they used to be, but Brady & co. have too much pride to go out losing at home to the Titans.
Patriots 34 Titans 17
Minnesota at New Orleans
One road team has to win this weekend. The Vikings play in a dome too, so the noise shouldn't bother them. Minnesota has the firepower to stay with the Saints. The Saints are looking to get back to the NFC Championship Game after the refs screwed them last season.
Vikings 33 Saints 31
Seattle at Philadelphia
The Eagles haven't beaten the Seahawks in Philly since the 1980's. Seattle is just as banged up as the Birds. The Eagles survive another week with a ragtag squad.
Eagles 20 Seahawks 17
Buffalo at Houston
It wouldn't surprise me to see the Bills win in Houston, but I think the Texans prevail in a close one
Texans 24 Bills 17
Tennessee at New England
The Patriots are in the unfamiliar position of hosting a Wild Card game instead of having a bye. The Pats aren't what they used to be, but Brady & co. have too much pride to go out losing at home to the Titans.
Patriots 34 Titans 17
Minnesota at New Orleans
One road team has to win this weekend. The Vikings play in a dome too, so the noise shouldn't bother them. Minnesota has the firepower to stay with the Saints. The Saints are looking to get back to the NFC Championship Game after the refs screwed them last season.
Vikings 33 Saints 31
Seattle at Philadelphia
The Eagles haven't beaten the Seahawks in Philly since the 1980's. Seattle is just as banged up as the Birds. The Eagles survive another week with a ragtag squad.
Eagles 20 Seahawks 17
Monday, December 30, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES
Comments on the big Eagles victory over the Giants, clinching the NFC East. The Eagles play at home next Sunday at 4:40 p.m. vs the Seattle Seahawks.
- Carson Wentz again played brilliantly. He has stayed healthy all year and now plays his first playoff game. He signed a contract extension last off-season, got married, and has a baby on the way. Can life be any better?
- Both of the evil empires lost on Sunday. Dallas did beat Washington, but were eliminated from playoff contention when the Birds won. New England lost at home to Miami. The Patriots are in the playoffs, but are in a position they are not used to. They must play in the Wild Card round next Saturday, hosting Tennessee. If they win that game, they must travel to Kansas City to face the Chiefs at Arrowhead. Winning that game would get them either a trip to face top-seeded Baltimore in the AFC Championship Game, or host Buffalo.
Clearly the pats aren't what they used to be. Tom Brady is finally declining. New England misses retired tight end Rob Gronkowski. Despite having the # 2 ranked defense in the NFL, New England will have a real challenge to defend it's world championship. They won the AFC East for the 11th straight season, but Buffalo made the post season and are improved. The Dolphins and Jets still have a ways to go but have bright futures.
Meanwhile in Dallas, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones will not bring back Head Coach Jason Garrett after 9 seasons. The Cowboys were an underachieving team. After starting the season 3-0, Dallas failed in key games, especially last week in Philadelphia.
It has to be agonizingly frustrating for Cowboy fans, seeing their club destroy the woeful Redskins yesterday, with the top-rated offense in football, yet out of the playoffs. They have plenty of talent but something is missing.
- Dallas continues to get special treatment by the national media, despite the fact they haven't won a Super bowl in nearly 30 years. The Cowboy- Redskin game got Fox's top announcing crew, Jack Buck and Troy Aikman. A bad decision by Fox.
- The Steelers also didn't make the playoffs. Losing QB Ben Rothenberger early in the season killed Pittsburgh. Baltimore went 14-2 and completely out-classed the Steelers in 2019. Pittsburgh didn't deserve to be in the playoffs. The Steelers generally draft well so expect them to be back sooner than later.
- Who would've ever thought that Doug Pederson is the lone coach standing in the NFC East? Washington fired their coach ( and reportedly will hire ex- Carolina head coach Ron Rivera), as did New York this morning. Dallas will not bring back loser Jason Garrett. So, Pederson, who has coached brilliantly since 2017, and who had his doubters when he was hired, will soon be the wily old vet of head coaches in the division.
Since it generally takes a season or two to turn around a franchise around, will the Eagles win the division in 2020 and break the NFC East jinx? No team has repeated had East champs since the 2003-4 Eagles. The trend continues as last years' champs, the Cowboys, are staying home.
Also, another season where the loser of last years' Super Bowl, this time the Rams, don't even make the playoffs.
- No turnovers yesterday by Philadelphia, another big reason why the Birds won.
- The Giants have the makings of eventually having a good team. They are explosive with Saquon Barkley at running back. Daniel Jones throws a nice ball but obviously needs experience. And I'm not set on their receivers. But the elements are there, unlike the redskins, who have no explosiveness on offense and their rookie quarterback seems shaky.
I'll have my playoff predictions , including the Eagles game, on Thursday. Can the Titans beat the Patriots in New England? Do you like the surprising Bills in Houston? What about the vikings in New Orleans?
- Just announced: the Eagles' opponents for 2020.
Home: NFC East, Rams, Seahawks, Ravens, Bengals, Saints
Attractive home card. Not easy. Rams and Seahawks must cross country, so 1:00 games would be great. How many prime time games will the Birds get?
Away: NFC East, 49ers, Cardinals, Packers, Steelers, Browns.
Interesting slate. Only one West Coast trip, unless you consider Arizona. The Eagles won in Green Bay this year. Hopefully that game isn't in December. Pennsylvania rivalry vs Steelers in Pittsburgh. Think of all the Eagle fans crossing the state for that showdown!
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- Carson Wentz again played brilliantly. He has stayed healthy all year and now plays his first playoff game. He signed a contract extension last off-season, got married, and has a baby on the way. Can life be any better?
- Both of the evil empires lost on Sunday. Dallas did beat Washington, but were eliminated from playoff contention when the Birds won. New England lost at home to Miami. The Patriots are in the playoffs, but are in a position they are not used to. They must play in the Wild Card round next Saturday, hosting Tennessee. If they win that game, they must travel to Kansas City to face the Chiefs at Arrowhead. Winning that game would get them either a trip to face top-seeded Baltimore in the AFC Championship Game, or host Buffalo.
Clearly the pats aren't what they used to be. Tom Brady is finally declining. New England misses retired tight end Rob Gronkowski. Despite having the # 2 ranked defense in the NFL, New England will have a real challenge to defend it's world championship. They won the AFC East for the 11th straight season, but Buffalo made the post season and are improved. The Dolphins and Jets still have a ways to go but have bright futures.
Meanwhile in Dallas, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones will not bring back Head Coach Jason Garrett after 9 seasons. The Cowboys were an underachieving team. After starting the season 3-0, Dallas failed in key games, especially last week in Philadelphia.
It has to be agonizingly frustrating for Cowboy fans, seeing their club destroy the woeful Redskins yesterday, with the top-rated offense in football, yet out of the playoffs. They have plenty of talent but something is missing.
- Dallas continues to get special treatment by the national media, despite the fact they haven't won a Super bowl in nearly 30 years. The Cowboy- Redskin game got Fox's top announcing crew, Jack Buck and Troy Aikman. A bad decision by Fox.
- The Steelers also didn't make the playoffs. Losing QB Ben Rothenberger early in the season killed Pittsburgh. Baltimore went 14-2 and completely out-classed the Steelers in 2019. Pittsburgh didn't deserve to be in the playoffs. The Steelers generally draft well so expect them to be back sooner than later.
- Who would've ever thought that Doug Pederson is the lone coach standing in the NFC East? Washington fired their coach ( and reportedly will hire ex- Carolina head coach Ron Rivera), as did New York this morning. Dallas will not bring back loser Jason Garrett. So, Pederson, who has coached brilliantly since 2017, and who had his doubters when he was hired, will soon be the wily old vet of head coaches in the division.
Since it generally takes a season or two to turn around a franchise around, will the Eagles win the division in 2020 and break the NFC East jinx? No team has repeated had East champs since the 2003-4 Eagles. The trend continues as last years' champs, the Cowboys, are staying home.
Also, another season where the loser of last years' Super Bowl, this time the Rams, don't even make the playoffs.
- No turnovers yesterday by Philadelphia, another big reason why the Birds won.
- The Giants have the makings of eventually having a good team. They are explosive with Saquon Barkley at running back. Daniel Jones throws a nice ball but obviously needs experience. And I'm not set on their receivers. But the elements are there, unlike the redskins, who have no explosiveness on offense and their rookie quarterback seems shaky.
I'll have my playoff predictions , including the Eagles game, on Thursday. Can the Titans beat the Patriots in New England? Do you like the surprising Bills in Houston? What about the vikings in New Orleans?
- Just announced: the Eagles' opponents for 2020.
Home: NFC East, Rams, Seahawks, Ravens, Bengals, Saints
Attractive home card. Not easy. Rams and Seahawks must cross country, so 1:00 games would be great. How many prime time games will the Birds get?
Away: NFC East, 49ers, Cardinals, Packers, Steelers, Browns.
Interesting slate. Only one West Coast trip, unless you consider Arizona. The Eagles won in Green Bay this year. Hopefully that game isn't in December. Pennsylvania rivalry vs Steelers in Pittsburgh. Think of all the Eagle fans crossing the state for that showdown!
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Thursday, December 26, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES-GIANTS, SIXERS
- Coming off a stunning victory over the Dallas Cowboys last week, the Eagles face another division rival on Sunday in the final game of the regular season. The New York Giants may only be 4-11, but they do have dangerous weapons, plus it's an NFC East game.The Giants took the Birds to overtime early in December at the Linc. Usually Giants-Eagles games are close and go down to the wire.
The win over Dallas was so huge, I worry about the Eagles having an early letdown against the G-men. I expect it to be close all the way.Philly must win to get into the playoffs and secure a home playoff next weekend against either San Francisco or Seattle.
QB Carson Wentz has been playing great in December and must keep it up in the Meadowlands. New York quarterback Daniel Jones threw five touchdown passes in last week's OT win in Washington. Although the secondary played well vs the cowboys, the pass game has been a weak link in the Eagles' defense all season.
Of course, the main worry is Giants stud running back, Saquan Barkley. The Birds' defense plays well against the run, and I don't expect them to play any differently with so much at stake.Jones can throw interceptions so the Philadelphia corners need to tackle well. The Giant receivers aren't really burners so the secondary must make sure no one sneaks behind them all during the game on Sunday.
New York will try to control the ball and the clock using Barkley, hoping he breaks a big run sometime during the game. The Eagles' offense should also try and control the ball as well. Looks like running back Thomas Jordan will play, finally teaming with Boston Scott and Miles Sanders. I would hate for Howard to get most of the snaps while Scott and particularily the red-hot Sanders sit.
At least this week, when the Eagles do try and throw, Wentz should have more confidence in "practice squad crew." Greg Ward, J.J. Orceda-Whiteside, and tight end Dallas Goedert had terrific games while thrusting the Cowboys. Each week their confidence grows with the more experience and plays with the first team they get.
As always, turnovers and penalties will play key importance on Sunday. The game was flexed from 1:00 to 4:25, so the weather may play an effect as the game progresses. Rain is supposed to move into the east later on Sunday.
Things to consider: there may be more Eagles fans in the stadium than Giant fans. Even though it is a road game, I'm positive loads of Eagles fans will make the trek up the Jersey Turnpike for the game.
If the Eagles do win and clinch the division, it will continue the interesting streak of no NFC team repeating as division champs since 2003=04 when the Eagles captured the division crown two years in a row.
Wentz took a huge step out of the shadow of Nick Foles last Sunday. Wentz knows what is on the line this Sunday so I expect him to continue to play well. Getting into the playoffs is one thing; getting Wentz playoff experience is an other factor/
With all that in mind, I make it:
Eagles 23 Giants 17
A loss to the rival Giants ( who would love nothing better than to spoil Philadelphia's playoff hopes) would be a crushing blow after an incredible win last Sunday over dreaded Dallas. The Eagles can't be too overconfident. They must travel to upstate Jersey and take care of the Giants in a very business-like way.
**********************************************************************
The 76ers scored a huge win on Christmas afternoon in front of nationwide audience by destroying the best team so far in the NBA, the Milwaukee Bucks. The Sixers were up by as many as 29 points late in the second half against a club that had only lost 4 previous games. Philly went to 16-2 on their home court, the best record in the NBA. They are proving they can beat any one on any night.
Looks like Coach Brett Brown will finish the season, despite the fact that his basketball team has been wildly inconsistent all season long.
The win over Dallas was so huge, I worry about the Eagles having an early letdown against the G-men. I expect it to be close all the way.Philly must win to get into the playoffs and secure a home playoff next weekend against either San Francisco or Seattle.
QB Carson Wentz has been playing great in December and must keep it up in the Meadowlands. New York quarterback Daniel Jones threw five touchdown passes in last week's OT win in Washington. Although the secondary played well vs the cowboys, the pass game has been a weak link in the Eagles' defense all season.
Of course, the main worry is Giants stud running back, Saquan Barkley. The Birds' defense plays well against the run, and I don't expect them to play any differently with so much at stake.Jones can throw interceptions so the Philadelphia corners need to tackle well. The Giant receivers aren't really burners so the secondary must make sure no one sneaks behind them all during the game on Sunday.
New York will try to control the ball and the clock using Barkley, hoping he breaks a big run sometime during the game. The Eagles' offense should also try and control the ball as well. Looks like running back Thomas Jordan will play, finally teaming with Boston Scott and Miles Sanders. I would hate for Howard to get most of the snaps while Scott and particularily the red-hot Sanders sit.
At least this week, when the Eagles do try and throw, Wentz should have more confidence in "practice squad crew." Greg Ward, J.J. Orceda-Whiteside, and tight end Dallas Goedert had terrific games while thrusting the Cowboys. Each week their confidence grows with the more experience and plays with the first team they get.
As always, turnovers and penalties will play key importance on Sunday. The game was flexed from 1:00 to 4:25, so the weather may play an effect as the game progresses. Rain is supposed to move into the east later on Sunday.
Things to consider: there may be more Eagles fans in the stadium than Giant fans. Even though it is a road game, I'm positive loads of Eagles fans will make the trek up the Jersey Turnpike for the game.
If the Eagles do win and clinch the division, it will continue the interesting streak of no NFC team repeating as division champs since 2003=04 when the Eagles captured the division crown two years in a row.
Wentz took a huge step out of the shadow of Nick Foles last Sunday. Wentz knows what is on the line this Sunday so I expect him to continue to play well. Getting into the playoffs is one thing; getting Wentz playoff experience is an other factor/
With all that in mind, I make it:
Eagles 23 Giants 17
A loss to the rival Giants ( who would love nothing better than to spoil Philadelphia's playoff hopes) would be a crushing blow after an incredible win last Sunday over dreaded Dallas. The Eagles can't be too overconfident. They must travel to upstate Jersey and take care of the Giants in a very business-like way.
**********************************************************************
The 76ers scored a huge win on Christmas afternoon in front of nationwide audience by destroying the best team so far in the NBA, the Milwaukee Bucks. The Sixers were up by as many as 29 points late in the second half against a club that had only lost 4 previous games. Philly went to 16-2 on their home court, the best record in the NBA. They are proving they can beat any one on any night.
Looks like Coach Brett Brown will finish the season, despite the fact that his basketball team has been wildly inconsistent all season long.
Book- retire
( Place on page 315 after para 2 "leave it all behind).
To be honest, if my health wasn't concerned, I may have elected to retire regardless. Why? Nursing home social work was changing. Before, the emphasis was the resident. Getting to know the residents you cared for was of the utmost importance. How can you do a proper assessment, care plan or even write a progress note if you have no clue about your residents?
At the end, we were required to spend much more time chained to our desk, doing computer work. Going back to my days at Penn, the computer wasn't my niche. People were. That's why I left the machines behind and found social work in the first place.
Numbers and machines were gradually taking the place of people. Many of my co-workers were much more technical and computer savvy than I was. They could zip through an assessment in no time. Me? I was older and old-school. I struggled , as usual, which made time at my desk seem even longer and more agonizing.
Back in the good old days I would visit a resident for twenty minutes, then whip out a note in his or her chart in only a few minutes. With pen and paper. Now it seemed the computer ruled and the resident came second and the time requirements were reversed.
I knew things had changed forever and for the worst when my streak of visiting each of my residents on my unit every single day ended toward the end of my social work career. And it was all because of machines. Progress notes, care plans, assessments- everything was now being documented in computers. It made the job faster and more efficient but that didn't always mean things were better.
When I went home that particular afternoon, not checking in on all 50 of my residents, as was my daily custom, I knew things had changed. My life and my career had come full circle. The simple ways of my early social work days were fading, with a new, faster-paced, more impersonal way of doing our job being thrust upon us.
Things would never be the same again.
To be honest, if my health wasn't concerned, I may have elected to retire regardless. Why? Nursing home social work was changing. Before, the emphasis was the resident. Getting to know the residents you cared for was of the utmost importance. How can you do a proper assessment, care plan or even write a progress note if you have no clue about your residents?
At the end, we were required to spend much more time chained to our desk, doing computer work. Going back to my days at Penn, the computer wasn't my niche. People were. That's why I left the machines behind and found social work in the first place.
Numbers and machines were gradually taking the place of people. Many of my co-workers were much more technical and computer savvy than I was. They could zip through an assessment in no time. Me? I was older and old-school. I struggled , as usual, which made time at my desk seem even longer and more agonizing.
Back in the good old days I would visit a resident for twenty minutes, then whip out a note in his or her chart in only a few minutes. With pen and paper. Now it seemed the computer ruled and the resident came second and the time requirements were reversed.
I knew things had changed forever and for the worst when my streak of visiting each of my residents on my unit every single day ended toward the end of my social work career. And it was all because of machines. Progress notes, care plans, assessments- everything was now being documented in computers. It made the job faster and more efficient but that didn't always mean things were better.
When I went home that particular afternoon, not checking in on all 50 of my residents, as was my daily custom, I knew things had changed. My life and my career had come full circle. The simple ways of my early social work days were fading, with a new, faster-paced, more impersonal way of doing our job being thrust upon us.
Things would never be the same again.
Monday, December 23, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES
- The Eagles with an amazing, gritty win over the dreaded Cowboys on Sunday. Everyone was picking Dallas to win- even old Eagle die-hards like Ray Didinger and Dick Vermeil. Dallas was the healthier team, coming off a big victory last week against the powerful Rams. Clearly, Dallas has the better talent, having beaten Philadelphia 4 times in a row.
But the best team doesn't always win. Yesterday, the Eagles were the better teams. They had more passion. Fueled by their crazy fans on a chilly but nice day in December, The Eagles finally rose up and played like the recent Eagle can play- as champions.
Carson Wentz had his break out game in the main spotlight, emerging out of the shadow of lingering Nick Foles/ When Wentz needed to play well, he did. Young back-ups Boston Scott and Greg Ward continued to play well. The defense stepped up and held Dallas, the highest scoring club in the NFL,to no touchdown and only 9 points.
Now the Birds need to visit the Meadowlands next Sunday and beat the 4-11 Giants to clinch the NFC East and earn a home playoff game over the weekend of January 4-5. They must not have a letdown against their division rival. It would beat a real kick in the head to beat Dallas, then turn around and choke vs New York.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys need to beat lowly Washington at home next weekend and hope the Birds do falter in New York, Looks like a house cleaning in Big D after the season. Unfortunate for Eagles fans, head coach Jason Garrett will most likely be fired. Expect major changes in Cowboy country during the off-season.
But the best team doesn't always win. Yesterday, the Eagles were the better teams. They had more passion. Fueled by their crazy fans on a chilly but nice day in December, The Eagles finally rose up and played like the recent Eagle can play- as champions.
Carson Wentz had his break out game in the main spotlight, emerging out of the shadow of lingering Nick Foles/ When Wentz needed to play well, he did. Young back-ups Boston Scott and Greg Ward continued to play well. The defense stepped up and held Dallas, the highest scoring club in the NFL,to no touchdown and only 9 points.
Now the Birds need to visit the Meadowlands next Sunday and beat the 4-11 Giants to clinch the NFC East and earn a home playoff game over the weekend of January 4-5. They must not have a letdown against their division rival. It would beat a real kick in the head to beat Dallas, then turn around and choke vs New York.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys need to beat lowly Washington at home next weekend and hope the Birds do falter in New York, Looks like a house cleaning in Big D after the season. Unfortunate for Eagles fans, head coach Jason Garrett will most likely be fired. Expect major changes in Cowboy country during the off-season.
Sunday, December 22, 2019
SNL, EAGLES-DALLAS, MERRY CHRISTMAS?
- Saturday Night Live welcomed Eddie Murphy back last night after over 30 years.Murphy launched his career on SNL in the 80s and went on to be a hit at stand-up, in the movies, and even as a recording artist. He created so many memorable characters during his SNL tenure, many of whom Murphy brought back.
Fellow comics Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle and Traci Morgan joined Eddie during the opening monologue. The cold open was about the recent Democratic debate, with numerous cast members doing candidates like Biden, Warren and Sanders, who participated in this week's debate.
The impressions were mostly spot-on, but the bit wasn't that funny.
Things really didn't start getting fun until Murphy brought back his take-off on Mister Rogers, called "Mister Robinson's Neighborhood." It was easily the funniest bit for the entire show, with Murphy updating his Mister Robinson to a more modern neighborhood.
More Murphy when Eddie brought back his famous Buckwheat character, straight from the Little Rascals short films. This time Buckwheat was The Masked Singer, wearing a corn on the cob costume.
Murphy also brought out his Velvet Jones character, with Velvet playing Black Jeopardy. Luckily, Murphy was in most of the skits. Without him, the show wasn't funny. When Eddie played Gumby again, during the tired "news" segment, he brought humor and energy. Otherwise the news bits, especially the lame Pete Davidson, brought nothing to the table. Why Davidson is on the show is beyond me, this generation's Adam Sandler. Most of the bit was spent watching the cast members laughing at their own unfunny jokes.
The musical guest was Lizzo, a heavyset black chick who raps, with numerous dancers squiggling around her. No talent crap, IMO
Eddie Murphy not only was funny and fresh last night, he also brought back memories for long-time SNL viewers who remember his iconic skits. It didn't seem to get the huge laughs in the studio, and maybe that's because most millennials and younger don't remember characters like Mister Robinson, Gumby or Velvet Jones. Hopefully they U- Tube old SNL episodes featuring Murphy.
******************************************************************
Everyone is picking Dallas today in the big game at the Linc vs the Eagles. Even old Eagle die-hards Ray Didinger and Dick Vermeil are picking the hated Cowboys.
But Dallas is 7-7, the same as Philadelphia. I get it that Dallas scored big against the Rams last week. But the Rams aren't making the playoffs this season.
I also get it that the Eagles have been wildly inconsistent and injury-riddled this season, losing to the likes of the woeful Dolphins. But Dallas lost to the equally terrible Jets.
Cowboy QB Dak Prescott is banged up with a shoulder injury. Carson Wentz is playing well, with new offensive weapons Greg Ward and Boston Scott. Turnovers and penalties will be key. The Birds need to get defensive pressure on Prescott. The Eagle secondary must tackle well and not give up big plays to the Dallas receivers.
Most of all, the Philly fans will be juiced, after a full day of tailgating and drinking. We gate the Cowboys and all they stand for. This game is do-or-die. Win and the Eagles have a great shot on winning the NFC East, and playing a playoff home game. Lose and they are out.
If Dallas loses, look for major changes by owner Jerry Jones.
I'm taking the Eagles, despite my head saying no. Sorry, I just can't take Dallas at any time. Plus I really believe the Eagles have a fighter's chance to win.
Eagles 23 Cowboys 20
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Should we say "Merry Christmas" when it seems everyone around us is saying the politically correct "Happy Holidays?"
Everyone who works at the local malls are programmed to greet shoppers with "Happy Holidays!" When I responded "Merry Christmas," they replied "Merry Christmas" back.
I don't care what anyone else does. I'm saying "Merry Christmas" and keeping Christ in Christmas.
Fellow comics Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle and Traci Morgan joined Eddie during the opening monologue. The cold open was about the recent Democratic debate, with numerous cast members doing candidates like Biden, Warren and Sanders, who participated in this week's debate.
The impressions were mostly spot-on, but the bit wasn't that funny.
Things really didn't start getting fun until Murphy brought back his take-off on Mister Rogers, called "Mister Robinson's Neighborhood." It was easily the funniest bit for the entire show, with Murphy updating his Mister Robinson to a more modern neighborhood.
More Murphy when Eddie brought back his famous Buckwheat character, straight from the Little Rascals short films. This time Buckwheat was The Masked Singer, wearing a corn on the cob costume.
Murphy also brought out his Velvet Jones character, with Velvet playing Black Jeopardy. Luckily, Murphy was in most of the skits. Without him, the show wasn't funny. When Eddie played Gumby again, during the tired "news" segment, he brought humor and energy. Otherwise the news bits, especially the lame Pete Davidson, brought nothing to the table. Why Davidson is on the show is beyond me, this generation's Adam Sandler. Most of the bit was spent watching the cast members laughing at their own unfunny jokes.
The musical guest was Lizzo, a heavyset black chick who raps, with numerous dancers squiggling around her. No talent crap, IMO
Eddie Murphy not only was funny and fresh last night, he also brought back memories for long-time SNL viewers who remember his iconic skits. It didn't seem to get the huge laughs in the studio, and maybe that's because most millennials and younger don't remember characters like Mister Robinson, Gumby or Velvet Jones. Hopefully they U- Tube old SNL episodes featuring Murphy.
******************************************************************
Everyone is picking Dallas today in the big game at the Linc vs the Eagles. Even old Eagle die-hards Ray Didinger and Dick Vermeil are picking the hated Cowboys.
But Dallas is 7-7, the same as Philadelphia. I get it that Dallas scored big against the Rams last week. But the Rams aren't making the playoffs this season.
I also get it that the Eagles have been wildly inconsistent and injury-riddled this season, losing to the likes of the woeful Dolphins. But Dallas lost to the equally terrible Jets.
Cowboy QB Dak Prescott is banged up with a shoulder injury. Carson Wentz is playing well, with new offensive weapons Greg Ward and Boston Scott. Turnovers and penalties will be key. The Birds need to get defensive pressure on Prescott. The Eagle secondary must tackle well and not give up big plays to the Dallas receivers.
Most of all, the Philly fans will be juiced, after a full day of tailgating and drinking. We gate the Cowboys and all they stand for. This game is do-or-die. Win and the Eagles have a great shot on winning the NFC East, and playing a playoff home game. Lose and they are out.
If Dallas loses, look for major changes by owner Jerry Jones.
I'm taking the Eagles, despite my head saying no. Sorry, I just can't take Dallas at any time. Plus I really believe the Eagles have a fighter's chance to win.
Eagles 23 Cowboys 20
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Should we say "Merry Christmas" when it seems everyone around us is saying the politically correct "Happy Holidays?"
Everyone who works at the local malls are programmed to greet shoppers with "Happy Holidays!" When I responded "Merry Christmas," they replied "Merry Christmas" back.
I don't care what anyone else does. I'm saying "Merry Christmas" and keeping Christ in Christmas.
Friday, December 20, 2019
book- belinda
(Place on page 327..Delete previous Belinda para.)
Meeting singer Belinda Carlisle had nothing to do with my OI, but it was another example of how nice people have been to me during my life.
After a terrific concert by Belinda, Holly and I were in the parking lot, ready to leave. We tossed our phones in the car and I was halfway in the car when Holly noticed Belinda was signing autographs and taking pictures with 20 or so fans gathered near a chain-link fence.
We decided to go over and say hi, so I quickly transferred back into my chair. Holly still needed to shut her driver's door. As she ran to the other side of the car, suddenly some guy appeared out of nowhere. He grabbed the handles of my chair and shouted, "Hang on, Buddy! I got ya! Buckle up! I'll get you there!"
Startled, I yelled "I don't have a seat belt!" as he plowed me through the pebbly parking lot. We just missed Belinda by a split second. She was getting into a white SUV, waiting for the driver to back out of the fenced-in parking spot.
Holly caught up to us, panting "Did you see her?"
"No," I sighed, disappointed, as the fans dispersed. I suggested we stay to wave to Belinda as she was leaving.
Slowly the vehicle backed out. I waved, hoping Belinda would see us, despite the tinted windows. Without warning, the front window rolled down and I heard a voice from inside the SUV.
"Do you want a picture?"
"Yes, please!" I replied and the vehicle stopped. Sure enough, out bounds Belinda, smaller than I imagined. I was shocked and stared at her, face-to-face with the beautiful former lead singer of the iconic 80's band, the Go-Go's.
Oh, no! Our phones ( and cameras) were still in the car! As Holly ran back to the car, another fan who had lingered with us, shouted "I gotcha!" and took several pictures as I continued to stare.
Just like that, Belinda was back in the SUV and off into the chilly September night. Everything seemed to move in slow motion as Holly returned. I sat there, still in a trance, finally snapping out of it."What just happened?" I muttered.
Belinda didn't have to stop but she did. People really are nice.
Meeting singer Belinda Carlisle had nothing to do with my OI, but it was another example of how nice people have been to me during my life.
After a terrific concert by Belinda, Holly and I were in the parking lot, ready to leave. We tossed our phones in the car and I was halfway in the car when Holly noticed Belinda was signing autographs and taking pictures with 20 or so fans gathered near a chain-link fence.
We decided to go over and say hi, so I quickly transferred back into my chair. Holly still needed to shut her driver's door. As she ran to the other side of the car, suddenly some guy appeared out of nowhere. He grabbed the handles of my chair and shouted, "Hang on, Buddy! I got ya! Buckle up! I'll get you there!"
Startled, I yelled "I don't have a seat belt!" as he plowed me through the pebbly parking lot. We just missed Belinda by a split second. She was getting into a white SUV, waiting for the driver to back out of the fenced-in parking spot.
Holly caught up to us, panting "Did you see her?"
"No," I sighed, disappointed, as the fans dispersed. I suggested we stay to wave to Belinda as she was leaving.
Slowly the vehicle backed out. I waved, hoping Belinda would see us, despite the tinted windows. Without warning, the front window rolled down and I heard a voice from inside the SUV.
"Do you want a picture?"
"Yes, please!" I replied and the vehicle stopped. Sure enough, out bounds Belinda, smaller than I imagined. I was shocked and stared at her, face-to-face with the beautiful former lead singer of the iconic 80's band, the Go-Go's.
Oh, no! Our phones ( and cameras) were still in the car! As Holly ran back to the car, another fan who had lingered with us, shouted "I gotcha!" and took several pictures as I continued to stare.
Just like that, Belinda was back in the SUV and off into the chilly September night. Everything seemed to move in slow motion as Holly returned. I sat there, still in a trance, finally snapping out of it."What just happened?" I muttered.
Belinda didn't have to stop but she did. People really are nice.
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Book- back
(Place at the end of Epilogue)
December 17, 2019
It's the week before Christmas, one of favorite weeks of the year. Holiday packages are arriving; decorations and lights have been hung; Christmas carols are playing on the radio; silver bells are ringing in the streets and echoing from church steeples everywhere.
I find myself sitting with Holly at Penn once again, this time in the Medical Genetics Department. It is busy for a weekday, patients all bundled up, coming in from the cold and sleet outside in the Philadelphia afternoon.
I see a small woman hobble by me on crutches. She smiles as we make eye contact. I can tell she has OI too. It's a rare occurrence, encountering someone else with OI.
I do love visiting with my favorite doctor, Dr. Kallish, every six months. This is supposed to be another routine check-up. Dr. Kallish is bright, young, understanding, encouraging and honest. She knows more about Osteogenisus Imperfecta than anyone I have ever met in my life.
There is plenty of good news to share with Dr. Kallish and her assistant, Anne. I feel great! I have been dieting recently and have lost weight. I feel and look better. Plus I find it easier to transfer myself with less weight, with not as much strain on my back and arms.
I am exercising more often. I haven't had any significant pain for a while. No broken bones or stress fractures.My life is happy with Holly, Katie and Bud. I'm looking forward to the upcoming holidays like never before. I've found peace in my heart.
There is only one negative item I bring up near the end of our appointment. The progressing scoliosis of my back.
I admit, it takes a bit longer to get dressed in the morning now. I also admit, I do lose my balance at times when I do transfer. I seem to need support for my back all the time. I can't sit up erect any longer without some sort of back support. I'm not in any back pain. I've learned to live with it, annoying as my back problems are, and chalk it up to a by-product of my OI .
Sometimes I am concerned about my upper torso slowing rotating to the left. I joke about it, that someday I might be able to see behind me without really trying. But it is weird, and I know I look strange, but when didn't I look "strange" during my life?
Dr. Kallish again floats the idea of consulting with a spine surgeon. I have disregarded this suggestion in the past, feeling that my surgery and reconstruction days are over. Now, here in the autumn of my life, quality of life is key. I don't want to endure another big operation. With it goes the recuperation, the therapy and the pain. Will I be able to sit up? Will I be able to transfer myself and get around in my wheelchair? Or will the surgery leave me even more limited than I am now?
She points out that quality of life is the point in seeing Dr. Arlet, the spine doctor. Right now, my quality of life is good but can be better. It would be a shame, since I feel so good otherwise at 63 years old, and may have another twenty years of living to go, if my back were to spoil it all.
"We want to keep you feeling this good ," she says. To do so may mean being proactive rather than reactive...sooner than later.
For the first time , maybe since I was a kid, Dr. Kallish points out what may occur in the future. The scoliosis may get so bad, it may become life threatening.
I haven't heard that my OI may eventually kill me in a very long time.
The various doctors have always told me to be careful about lung infections, especially things like pneumonia and bronchitis. Since my lungs cannot expand like a "normal" person ( mine can only expand about halfway) due to my small body, any issues with the lungs could be deadly.
Now, with the slowly creeping scoliosis, organs are even more cramped than before. Even my heart is in danger, as everything is being "smooshed" to the left.
Maybe the spine doctor, after reviewing the x-rays, will want to just observe for a year or two. Or maybe the recommendation will be to do surgery before it's too late to do anything.
So I will make an appointment to see the spine doctor after the new year. We wish Dr. Kallish and Anne a Merry Christmas. I will see them again in May, when it is warmer and the spring flowers are blooming, and baseball has started- the season of hope and renewal.
In the car, I ponder the situation. I don't have much of a choice. I have never been one to whine and say "Ah, poor me!" But it does suck to go through a life of broken bones, come out on the other side feeling better than ever, only to know I may not be around too much longer because of my lifelong friend, OI.
Still, I remain determined never to give up, never to give in, and to keep fighting, as hard as I can for as long as I can.
It's the only way I have approached my life. Why change now?
Thus, the journey continues. And with God's grace, I will still be kicking for many years to come.
December 17, 2019
It's the week before Christmas, one of favorite weeks of the year. Holiday packages are arriving; decorations and lights have been hung; Christmas carols are playing on the radio; silver bells are ringing in the streets and echoing from church steeples everywhere.
I find myself sitting with Holly at Penn once again, this time in the Medical Genetics Department. It is busy for a weekday, patients all bundled up, coming in from the cold and sleet outside in the Philadelphia afternoon.
I see a small woman hobble by me on crutches. She smiles as we make eye contact. I can tell she has OI too. It's a rare occurrence, encountering someone else with OI.
I do love visiting with my favorite doctor, Dr. Kallish, every six months. This is supposed to be another routine check-up. Dr. Kallish is bright, young, understanding, encouraging and honest. She knows more about Osteogenisus Imperfecta than anyone I have ever met in my life.
There is plenty of good news to share with Dr. Kallish and her assistant, Anne. I feel great! I have been dieting recently and have lost weight. I feel and look better. Plus I find it easier to transfer myself with less weight, with not as much strain on my back and arms.
I am exercising more often. I haven't had any significant pain for a while. No broken bones or stress fractures.My life is happy with Holly, Katie and Bud. I'm looking forward to the upcoming holidays like never before. I've found peace in my heart.
There is only one negative item I bring up near the end of our appointment. The progressing scoliosis of my back.
I admit, it takes a bit longer to get dressed in the morning now. I also admit, I do lose my balance at times when I do transfer. I seem to need support for my back all the time. I can't sit up erect any longer without some sort of back support. I'm not in any back pain. I've learned to live with it, annoying as my back problems are, and chalk it up to a by-product of my OI .
Sometimes I am concerned about my upper torso slowing rotating to the left. I joke about it, that someday I might be able to see behind me without really trying. But it is weird, and I know I look strange, but when didn't I look "strange" during my life?
Dr. Kallish again floats the idea of consulting with a spine surgeon. I have disregarded this suggestion in the past, feeling that my surgery and reconstruction days are over. Now, here in the autumn of my life, quality of life is key. I don't want to endure another big operation. With it goes the recuperation, the therapy and the pain. Will I be able to sit up? Will I be able to transfer myself and get around in my wheelchair? Or will the surgery leave me even more limited than I am now?
She points out that quality of life is the point in seeing Dr. Arlet, the spine doctor. Right now, my quality of life is good but can be better. It would be a shame, since I feel so good otherwise at 63 years old, and may have another twenty years of living to go, if my back were to spoil it all.
"We want to keep you feeling this good ," she says. To do so may mean being proactive rather than reactive...sooner than later.
For the first time , maybe since I was a kid, Dr. Kallish points out what may occur in the future. The scoliosis may get so bad, it may become life threatening.
I haven't heard that my OI may eventually kill me in a very long time.
The various doctors have always told me to be careful about lung infections, especially things like pneumonia and bronchitis. Since my lungs cannot expand like a "normal" person ( mine can only expand about halfway) due to my small body, any issues with the lungs could be deadly.
Now, with the slowly creeping scoliosis, organs are even more cramped than before. Even my heart is in danger, as everything is being "smooshed" to the left.
Maybe the spine doctor, after reviewing the x-rays, will want to just observe for a year or two. Or maybe the recommendation will be to do surgery before it's too late to do anything.
So I will make an appointment to see the spine doctor after the new year. We wish Dr. Kallish and Anne a Merry Christmas. I will see them again in May, when it is warmer and the spring flowers are blooming, and baseball has started- the season of hope and renewal.
In the car, I ponder the situation. I don't have much of a choice. I have never been one to whine and say "Ah, poor me!" But it does suck to go through a life of broken bones, come out on the other side feeling better than ever, only to know I may not be around too much longer because of my lifelong friend, OI.
Still, I remain determined never to give up, never to give in, and to keep fighting, as hard as I can for as long as I can.
It's the only way I have approached my life. Why change now?
Thus, the journey continues. And with God's grace, I will still be kicking for many years to come.
Monday, December 16, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES
Comments on the Eagles flawed but gutsy win on Sunday vs Washington..
- The defense seemed lost against the Redskins. Washington came into the game ranked last in the NFL in offense. Too many missed tackles and not enough pressure on Haskins, the Redskin rookie quarterback. Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz again didn't blitz enough, especially against a shaky Haskins.
There are accusations that some of the Birds were "disinterested." Fletcher Cox was non-existent. He got his money and his championship ring. Is he still hungry?
- Greg Ward had another really good game, including catching the winning touchdown. It's unbelievable no one noticed this guy all season while he languished on the practice squad. Meanwhile, Alshon Jeffery is hurt and done for the season, while Nelson Agholor continues to be out with an apparent knee injury.
Boston Scott continues to impress while Jordan Howard is out. And Miles Sanders is proving to be a beast, breaking the rookie rushing record for the Eagles. Great pick in the second round of the draft last spring. J.J. Orceda-Whiteside looks like a bust of a pick in that same second round of the draft.
- Will DeSean Jackson return in 3 weeks if the Eagles beat Dallas and make the playoffs?
- Carson Wentz still fumbles way too much. He almost cost them the game late in the 4th quarter with a fumble before driving the team down for the winning TD.
- Thank God for the tight ends, Zach Ertz and Dallas Godart. Both were reliable targets for Wentz. They need to come up big next week vs the Cowboys.
-Dallas crushed the Rams to set-up the winner-take-all big game next Sunday, Eagles vs Cowboys.After a tremendous year, the 49ers may have blown their 1st round bye and home playoff game by stumbling in San Francisco against a disappointing Falcons squad. And how about the bills? They secured a playoff berth for the second time in three years by beating the Steelers in Pittsburgh.
- Even though the Eagles lost to bad teams like the Lions, Falcons and Dolphins this season, they did beat both Buffalo and Green Bay ( two playoff teams) on the road.
Finally, the 1-13 Bengals all but assured themselves of the 1st pick in the draft next spring.
- The defense seemed lost against the Redskins. Washington came into the game ranked last in the NFL in offense. Too many missed tackles and not enough pressure on Haskins, the Redskin rookie quarterback. Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz again didn't blitz enough, especially against a shaky Haskins.
There are accusations that some of the Birds were "disinterested." Fletcher Cox was non-existent. He got his money and his championship ring. Is he still hungry?
- Greg Ward had another really good game, including catching the winning touchdown. It's unbelievable no one noticed this guy all season while he languished on the practice squad. Meanwhile, Alshon Jeffery is hurt and done for the season, while Nelson Agholor continues to be out with an apparent knee injury.
Boston Scott continues to impress while Jordan Howard is out. And Miles Sanders is proving to be a beast, breaking the rookie rushing record for the Eagles. Great pick in the second round of the draft last spring. J.J. Orceda-Whiteside looks like a bust of a pick in that same second round of the draft.
- Will DeSean Jackson return in 3 weeks if the Eagles beat Dallas and make the playoffs?
- Carson Wentz still fumbles way too much. He almost cost them the game late in the 4th quarter with a fumble before driving the team down for the winning TD.
- Thank God for the tight ends, Zach Ertz and Dallas Godart. Both were reliable targets for Wentz. They need to come up big next week vs the Cowboys.
-Dallas crushed the Rams to set-up the winner-take-all big game next Sunday, Eagles vs Cowboys.After a tremendous year, the 49ers may have blown their 1st round bye and home playoff game by stumbling in San Francisco against a disappointing Falcons squad. And how about the bills? They secured a playoff berth for the second time in three years by beating the Steelers in Pittsburgh.
- Even though the Eagles lost to bad teams like the Lions, Falcons and Dolphins this season, they did beat both Buffalo and Green Bay ( two playoff teams) on the road.
Finally, the 1-13 Bengals all but assured themselves of the 1st pick in the draft next spring.
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Book- family
(Place on page 18, after para. 4 "wiffle ball game..")
I loved and looked up to my brothers and sister so much. Here I was, a child with special needs, needing the attention of my parents daily, almost hourly, when I'm sure my siblings also had their own particular needs. My parents did the best they could under demanding circumstances to make sure all of their children received the attention they needed and deserved.
But I'm also sure there were many times my brothers and sister realized that my needs came first with Mom and Dad, and they accepted that fate. They grew up to be tremendous people, thanks to my folks and thanks to their own kindness and inner strength.
When there is a special needs child in a family, so much is focused on that child and his or her caretakers, especially the parents, that often times the entire family is overlooked. But never forget the family, in this instance my brothers and sister, who sacrificed and loved me so much, even when their lives often changed without notice, amidst unpredictable sadness and chaotic confusion.
I loved and looked up to my brothers and sister so much. Here I was, a child with special needs, needing the attention of my parents daily, almost hourly, when I'm sure my siblings also had their own particular needs. My parents did the best they could under demanding circumstances to make sure all of their children received the attention they needed and deserved.
But I'm also sure there were many times my brothers and sister realized that my needs came first with Mom and Dad, and they accepted that fate. They grew up to be tremendous people, thanks to my folks and thanks to their own kindness and inner strength.
When there is a special needs child in a family, so much is focused on that child and his or her caretakers, especially the parents, that often times the entire family is overlooked. But never forget the family, in this instance my brothers and sister, who sacrificed and loved me so much, even when their lives often changed without notice, amidst unpredictable sadness and chaotic confusion.
Saturday, December 14, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, EAGLES, SIXERS, FLYERS
Phillies- Exciting and active week at the Winter Meetings in San Diego. Unlike last year, when the big free agents signed late ( including Bryce Harper in March), The big trio of Garrit Cole, Anthony Rendon and Stephen Strasburg all signed this week.
For the Phillies, they had a good but not great week. They improved their starting rotation by adding fireballer Zach Wheeler. They improved their infield defense by signing shortstop Didi Gregorius. However, GM Matt Klentek stated in the papers that the team probably would not be adding anyone of note this off-season.
In reality, the club needs another starter, especially a left-hander.They passed on Cole Hamels, who signed with the braves of all teams, and seem to be lukewarm to Madison Baumgarner. The worry is that cheap Klentek will convince owner John Middleton to bring back lefty Drew Smyly, who is garbage. Klentek better not be counting on the young threesome of Zach Eflin, Vince Valasquez and Nick Pivetta. Aside from Eflin, they have already shown they are inconsistent and choke under pressure.
There is still a long way to go until spring training but the Phils need a third baseman, bullpen help and a stronger bench.
I say they need 4 pitchers in the bullpen. They need power off the bench. Is rookie Alec Bohm the answer at third base this season if he impresses in Florida? Will the club move Scott Kingery or Jean Segura to third? Who plays center field? A healthy Roman Quinn? Kingery? Adam Heasley? Or someone not on the roster yet?
Middleton doesn't want to go over the luxury tax. But he needs to build a winner around Harper as Bryce enters his prime. After 2020, David Robertson and Jake Arrieta come off the books. Middleton needs to go all in this summer.
Klentek also needs to step it up. If he fails to improve this club in 2020, he will be out of a job next off-season.
***********************************************************************
Eagles- Why did it take so long to play, let alone recognize the potential of, receiver Greg Ward and running back Boston Scott? Both helped the Eagles overcome the awful Giants last week. With Alshon Jeffery and Jordan Howard out again this game, both Ward and Scott will be counted on to help beat the 3-10 Redskins in Washington.
There should be more Eagles fans in D.C. then Skins fans. Win, along with a Dallas loss to the Rams on Sunday, and the Birds go 7-7 and take over 1st place in NFC East. The big game of the year is next week at the Linc, a winner take all brawl with the dreaded Cowboys.
Beating the Cowboys makes the final game of the season with the Giants in New York mute. The Eagles could rest QB Carson Wentz and prepare for a home playoff game against Seattle or San Francisco.
Even though Philly is playing on the road after a home Monday Night game ( never a good thing), the Eagles should roll this bad Washington team.
What Eagles team will show up this week? The one that sucked vs Miami and for three quarters against the Giants? Or the thrilling, bold squad that drove down the field on consecutive drives in the 4th quarter and in overtime?
Wentz seemed to click when he was calling the plays at the end; When he was able to roll out and scramble; and when the offense used the hurry-up, no huddle.
*********************************************************************
Sixers- Did it really take criticism from Charles Barkley and Shaq to motivate Joel Embiid to play harder? Isn't that up to head coach Brett Brown and to Embiid himself?
It is great how the Sixers are the only team in the NBA to still be undefeated at home. 14-0. which is their best home mark in 53 years. Without J.J. Reddick and Jimmy Butler, I thought the 76ers would not be as good this basketball season.
We will see when spring comes and it is playoff time. For now, the Sixers are rolling, winners of 5 in a row.
**************************************************************************
Flyers- The Flyers continue to play well in the early part of this NHL season. But it's only hockey and there is a sad story to the flyers' saga.
Oskar Lindblom, tied for the team lead in goals (11) and only 23 years old, recently was diagnosed as having a rare type of bone cancer. He is out for the year as he undergoes treatment.
More so than any other franchise in the city, the Flyers seem to be a hard luck organization. Barry Ashbee died from Leukemia long ago. Goalie Pelle Lindburg was killed in a car crash in the 80s. Now Lindblom.
They say it is a tough cancer to beat, but the survival rate is 80%. Hopefully Lindblom is okay in the end as hockey becomes very secondary to real life.
For the Phillies, they had a good but not great week. They improved their starting rotation by adding fireballer Zach Wheeler. They improved their infield defense by signing shortstop Didi Gregorius. However, GM Matt Klentek stated in the papers that the team probably would not be adding anyone of note this off-season.
In reality, the club needs another starter, especially a left-hander.They passed on Cole Hamels, who signed with the braves of all teams, and seem to be lukewarm to Madison Baumgarner. The worry is that cheap Klentek will convince owner John Middleton to bring back lefty Drew Smyly, who is garbage. Klentek better not be counting on the young threesome of Zach Eflin, Vince Valasquez and Nick Pivetta. Aside from Eflin, they have already shown they are inconsistent and choke under pressure.
There is still a long way to go until spring training but the Phils need a third baseman, bullpen help and a stronger bench.
I say they need 4 pitchers in the bullpen. They need power off the bench. Is rookie Alec Bohm the answer at third base this season if he impresses in Florida? Will the club move Scott Kingery or Jean Segura to third? Who plays center field? A healthy Roman Quinn? Kingery? Adam Heasley? Or someone not on the roster yet?
Middleton doesn't want to go over the luxury tax. But he needs to build a winner around Harper as Bryce enters his prime. After 2020, David Robertson and Jake Arrieta come off the books. Middleton needs to go all in this summer.
Klentek also needs to step it up. If he fails to improve this club in 2020, he will be out of a job next off-season.
***********************************************************************
Eagles- Why did it take so long to play, let alone recognize the potential of, receiver Greg Ward and running back Boston Scott? Both helped the Eagles overcome the awful Giants last week. With Alshon Jeffery and Jordan Howard out again this game, both Ward and Scott will be counted on to help beat the 3-10 Redskins in Washington.
There should be more Eagles fans in D.C. then Skins fans. Win, along with a Dallas loss to the Rams on Sunday, and the Birds go 7-7 and take over 1st place in NFC East. The big game of the year is next week at the Linc, a winner take all brawl with the dreaded Cowboys.
Beating the Cowboys makes the final game of the season with the Giants in New York mute. The Eagles could rest QB Carson Wentz and prepare for a home playoff game against Seattle or San Francisco.
Even though Philly is playing on the road after a home Monday Night game ( never a good thing), the Eagles should roll this bad Washington team.
What Eagles team will show up this week? The one that sucked vs Miami and for three quarters against the Giants? Or the thrilling, bold squad that drove down the field on consecutive drives in the 4th quarter and in overtime?
Wentz seemed to click when he was calling the plays at the end; When he was able to roll out and scramble; and when the offense used the hurry-up, no huddle.
*********************************************************************
Sixers- Did it really take criticism from Charles Barkley and Shaq to motivate Joel Embiid to play harder? Isn't that up to head coach Brett Brown and to Embiid himself?
It is great how the Sixers are the only team in the NBA to still be undefeated at home. 14-0. which is their best home mark in 53 years. Without J.J. Reddick and Jimmy Butler, I thought the 76ers would not be as good this basketball season.
We will see when spring comes and it is playoff time. For now, the Sixers are rolling, winners of 5 in a row.
**************************************************************************
Flyers- The Flyers continue to play well in the early part of this NHL season. But it's only hockey and there is a sad story to the flyers' saga.
Oskar Lindblom, tied for the team lead in goals (11) and only 23 years old, recently was diagnosed as having a rare type of bone cancer. He is out for the year as he undergoes treatment.
More so than any other franchise in the city, the Flyers seem to be a hard luck organization. Barry Ashbee died from Leukemia long ago. Goalie Pelle Lindburg was killed in a car crash in the 80s. Now Lindblom.
They say it is a tough cancer to beat, but the survival rate is 80%. Hopefully Lindblom is okay in the end as hockey becomes very secondary to real life.
Thursday, December 12, 2019
book- beanbag
(Place on page 6. after para 8.. "birthday cake")
Probably the weirdest fracture occurred by tossing a bean bag. There was a game out back then called "Toss-a-Cross", a variation of tic-tac-toe, where you throw a bean bag to turn over an X or an O and try to get three in a row to win. It was sort of like the corn hole game played during tailgating parties nowadays at sporting events.
I'm pretty sure "Toss-a-Cross" was a much- wanted Christmas present. I remember it was Christmas Day and I was finally able to play the game, this after rifling through my other gifts that morning. This was a pretty popular game back in the 60s, so I was excited to play.
I recall sitting on the sofa in the living room while my brothers set up the board. A few bean bags in, I flung the deciding soft bean bag underhand, hoping to yell out in victory. Instead, that terrible, familiar feeling hit me as I snapped my right tibia, merely from the force of my throw.That meant another trip to Philadelphia, via ambulance, even on Christmas, and another eight weeks in a plaster cast.
I vividly remember that fracture, maybe because it was Christmas, and how cold it was outside as they loaded me on the stretcher into the back of the ambulance. The warm blankets covered my fragile, tiny, shivering body. Mom rode in the back of the ambulance with me, as Dad followed by car. My poor siblings stayed home to fend for themselves for a few hours.
The hospital was nicely decorated as they unloaded me from the warm ambulance to the icy Philadelphia air, to inside the noisy, busy lobby. I noticed from under the blanket people rushing in, all bundled up, carrying red and green wrapped presents with big bows. Then they rolled me down the hall to the Cast Room, painfully transferring me to the hard, cold table with the thin paper sheet, as I waited for a doctor to arrive to set and cast my broken leg.
In an hour or so, after the plaster started to dry, Dad would carry me to the car, load me into the back of our station wagon, and drive the journey home before the early winter dusk fell, home to celebrate what was left of Christmas.
Pain doesn't take any holidays.
Probably the weirdest fracture occurred by tossing a bean bag. There was a game out back then called "Toss-a-Cross", a variation of tic-tac-toe, where you throw a bean bag to turn over an X or an O and try to get three in a row to win. It was sort of like the corn hole game played during tailgating parties nowadays at sporting events.
I'm pretty sure "Toss-a-Cross" was a much- wanted Christmas present. I remember it was Christmas Day and I was finally able to play the game, this after rifling through my other gifts that morning. This was a pretty popular game back in the 60s, so I was excited to play.
I recall sitting on the sofa in the living room while my brothers set up the board. A few bean bags in, I flung the deciding soft bean bag underhand, hoping to yell out in victory. Instead, that terrible, familiar feeling hit me as I snapped my right tibia, merely from the force of my throw.That meant another trip to Philadelphia, via ambulance, even on Christmas, and another eight weeks in a plaster cast.
I vividly remember that fracture, maybe because it was Christmas, and how cold it was outside as they loaded me on the stretcher into the back of the ambulance. The warm blankets covered my fragile, tiny, shivering body. Mom rode in the back of the ambulance with me, as Dad followed by car. My poor siblings stayed home to fend for themselves for a few hours.
The hospital was nicely decorated as they unloaded me from the warm ambulance to the icy Philadelphia air, to inside the noisy, busy lobby. I noticed from under the blanket people rushing in, all bundled up, carrying red and green wrapped presents with big bows. Then they rolled me down the hall to the Cast Room, painfully transferring me to the hard, cold table with the thin paper sheet, as I waited for a doctor to arrive to set and cast my broken leg.
In an hour or so, after the plaster started to dry, Dad would carry me to the car, load me into the back of our station wagon, and drive the journey home before the early winter dusk fell, home to celebrate what was left of Christmas.
Pain doesn't take any holidays.
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, PHILLIES
Nice dramatic victory by the Eagles last night at the gloomy, rainy Linc. Credit the Birds for the 4th quarter comeback. Up until then, the game was a boring sham. Philly had hit rock bottom, losing to the 2-10 Giants at home. The team deserved to get booed at halftime, down 17-3.
Then QB Carson Wentz pulled a miracle comeback. The rap on Wentz has been he never brings the team back, and he doesn't make the players around him better. Both issues were resolved last night. Wentz looked confident and assured as he drove the Eagles down the field with only minutes to ho, finding the reliable Zach Ertz in the end zone for the game-tying touchdown.
Then, with rookie receivers Greg Ward and J.J. Orceda-Whiteside on the field, Wentz again drove the offense down the field. Along with surprising running back Boston Scott ( We have both a Boston and a Dallas on the club), the Birds scored the winning touchdown in overtime.
The team was lucky to win the coin toss starting OT. New York's Eli Manning, having a solid game, did not get a chance to get back on the field.
The crowd was dead for 3 quarters. The driving rain and wind never let up. The Linc was damp, dreary with soaked. depressed fans until the crucial 4th quarter and overtime which saved the season.
With Alshon Jeffery hurt and Nelson Agholor unable to play, the wide receiver corps were down. Even back-up quarterback Josh McCollum was prepared to enter the game as an extra wide-out.
Scott gives the team an extra burst of speed and explosiveness. They must use him as they did Darrell Sproles. Along with running back Miles Sanders, Scott would make a nice compliment for the ground game.
The G-men proved why they are ultimately a two-win team. Their defense isn't awful, but their offense benefited from the Philadelphia poor secondary. Corner back Ronald Darby was terrible again, getting beat consistently. He needs to go after the season.
Sidney Jones, often invisible during the season, came into the game in the 4th quarter and made a key stop. It would be nice if Jones finally stepped up and proved he was worth all the hype and high draft selection.
Right tackle Lane Johnson may be hurt. He hobbled off the field in the second half with what looked like an ankle injury. Hopefully it's not too serious.
The Birds are now 6-7, tied for 1st in NFC East with the Cowboys. Dallas plays at home this week vs a surging Rams team. Meanwhile, Philly goes to Washington to face the lowly Redskins. But as we saw last night, divisional games, especially on the road, are not easy to win.
Sunday, December 22 is the big game, as Dallas comes into the Linc. It will be payback time for the Eagles, a time to show they have heart and haven't quit.
Hopefully the players continue to show the passion and fight as they did late in the Giants game.
****************************************************************************
The Phillies are at the Winter Meetings and rumors are flying that they are in on third baseman Anthony Rendon and shortstop Didi Gregorius. They also need another starting pitcher and about 4 pieces in the bullpen. Still much work to do by GM Matt Klentek. Let's hope he is aggressive enough to get the job done.
Stephen Strasburg is off the market, re-signing with the Nationals yesterday. I want Garrit Cole ( who will probably go to the Yankees) or Madison Baumgarner (who is reportedly seeking a contract similar to Zach Wheeler).
The Phillies Christmas Tree Lighting, held last Saturday at Citizens Bank Park, was a nice time. The organization always does a great job with such as events.
Approaching the festive, decorated ballpark, parking was free. Outside the home plate gates were a pair of live reindeer that had come down from upstate Pennsylvania.
The Phillies store was full of discounts and sales. When we arrived, Phils' announcers Larry Andersen and Ben Davis were waiting, greeting fans. They are nice guys and we took a picture with them. We briefly talked baseball before going on our way.
The Pass and Stow restaurant was open but the only food we saw were soft pretzels and hot chocolate.
We were able to get on the field and see the Phillies clubhouse. All of the ushers were extremely friendly and helpful. The field looked good, the grass rich and thick. The infield dirt is gone. There's something haunting about gazing at an empty ballpark. You can almost hear the crack of the bat, the cheers and vendors, and smell the aroma of hot dogs in the air. Summer isn't that far away.
I never was in the clubhouse before and that was a treat. It was cool to be in the bowels on Citizens Bank Park again, snaking our way to the first base side of the stadium. The clubhouse itself is a bright, cheery place. The Phillies logo is everywhere.
I also loved being in the Diamond Club, not only savoring the plush inside, but soaking in the quiet atmosphere of being outside in the empty ballpark on a chilly December afternoon. I don't know if I'll ever actually see a game from the diamond Club, but it was a nice experience to check it out at least once.
The highlight of the day may have been meeting Phillies first baseman Rhys Hoskins in the Tour Room inside the ballpark. The room was beautifully decorated with bright, twinkling lights and sparkling Christmas trees. Hoskins was friendly as we shook hands and take photos. He has a powerful handshake! The only bummer was no autographs allowed.
The actual Christmas tree lighting was worth the wait in the chilly late afternoon air. In front of the park were a group of Christmas carolers, dressed in Victorian garb. Two Phillies ballgirls were in attendance. Scott Palmer did the honors as the Master of Ceremonies. Phanta Claus ( The Phillie Phanatic) and Phebe Phanatic were there, as Phebe dancing with fans and security guards who stood nearby.
Hoskins arrived via fire truck. he said a few words, the lifeless tree was plugged in and zoom! a beautiful red and white tree was lit, signifying the beginning of the holiday season. The ceremony took about 20 minutes, the crowd dispersing to the warmth of their cars or the ballpark again.
All in all, it was a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon, as dreams of spring training and the spring made the fans smile.
Then QB Carson Wentz pulled a miracle comeback. The rap on Wentz has been he never brings the team back, and he doesn't make the players around him better. Both issues were resolved last night. Wentz looked confident and assured as he drove the Eagles down the field with only minutes to ho, finding the reliable Zach Ertz in the end zone for the game-tying touchdown.
Then, with rookie receivers Greg Ward and J.J. Orceda-Whiteside on the field, Wentz again drove the offense down the field. Along with surprising running back Boston Scott ( We have both a Boston and a Dallas on the club), the Birds scored the winning touchdown in overtime.
The team was lucky to win the coin toss starting OT. New York's Eli Manning, having a solid game, did not get a chance to get back on the field.
The crowd was dead for 3 quarters. The driving rain and wind never let up. The Linc was damp, dreary with soaked. depressed fans until the crucial 4th quarter and overtime which saved the season.
With Alshon Jeffery hurt and Nelson Agholor unable to play, the wide receiver corps were down. Even back-up quarterback Josh McCollum was prepared to enter the game as an extra wide-out.
Scott gives the team an extra burst of speed and explosiveness. They must use him as they did Darrell Sproles. Along with running back Miles Sanders, Scott would make a nice compliment for the ground game.
The G-men proved why they are ultimately a two-win team. Their defense isn't awful, but their offense benefited from the Philadelphia poor secondary. Corner back Ronald Darby was terrible again, getting beat consistently. He needs to go after the season.
Sidney Jones, often invisible during the season, came into the game in the 4th quarter and made a key stop. It would be nice if Jones finally stepped up and proved he was worth all the hype and high draft selection.
Right tackle Lane Johnson may be hurt. He hobbled off the field in the second half with what looked like an ankle injury. Hopefully it's not too serious.
The Birds are now 6-7, tied for 1st in NFC East with the Cowboys. Dallas plays at home this week vs a surging Rams team. Meanwhile, Philly goes to Washington to face the lowly Redskins. But as we saw last night, divisional games, especially on the road, are not easy to win.
Sunday, December 22 is the big game, as Dallas comes into the Linc. It will be payback time for the Eagles, a time to show they have heart and haven't quit.
Hopefully the players continue to show the passion and fight as they did late in the Giants game.
****************************************************************************
The Phillies are at the Winter Meetings and rumors are flying that they are in on third baseman Anthony Rendon and shortstop Didi Gregorius. They also need another starting pitcher and about 4 pieces in the bullpen. Still much work to do by GM Matt Klentek. Let's hope he is aggressive enough to get the job done.
Stephen Strasburg is off the market, re-signing with the Nationals yesterday. I want Garrit Cole ( who will probably go to the Yankees) or Madison Baumgarner (who is reportedly seeking a contract similar to Zach Wheeler).
The Phillies Christmas Tree Lighting, held last Saturday at Citizens Bank Park, was a nice time. The organization always does a great job with such as events.
Approaching the festive, decorated ballpark, parking was free. Outside the home plate gates were a pair of live reindeer that had come down from upstate Pennsylvania.
The Phillies store was full of discounts and sales. When we arrived, Phils' announcers Larry Andersen and Ben Davis were waiting, greeting fans. They are nice guys and we took a picture with them. We briefly talked baseball before going on our way.
The Pass and Stow restaurant was open but the only food we saw were soft pretzels and hot chocolate.
We were able to get on the field and see the Phillies clubhouse. All of the ushers were extremely friendly and helpful. The field looked good, the grass rich and thick. The infield dirt is gone. There's something haunting about gazing at an empty ballpark. You can almost hear the crack of the bat, the cheers and vendors, and smell the aroma of hot dogs in the air. Summer isn't that far away.
I never was in the clubhouse before and that was a treat. It was cool to be in the bowels on Citizens Bank Park again, snaking our way to the first base side of the stadium. The clubhouse itself is a bright, cheery place. The Phillies logo is everywhere.
I also loved being in the Diamond Club, not only savoring the plush inside, but soaking in the quiet atmosphere of being outside in the empty ballpark on a chilly December afternoon. I don't know if I'll ever actually see a game from the diamond Club, but it was a nice experience to check it out at least once.
The highlight of the day may have been meeting Phillies first baseman Rhys Hoskins in the Tour Room inside the ballpark. The room was beautifully decorated with bright, twinkling lights and sparkling Christmas trees. Hoskins was friendly as we shook hands and take photos. He has a powerful handshake! The only bummer was no autographs allowed.
The actual Christmas tree lighting was worth the wait in the chilly late afternoon air. In front of the park were a group of Christmas carolers, dressed in Victorian garb. Two Phillies ballgirls were in attendance. Scott Palmer did the honors as the Master of Ceremonies. Phanta Claus ( The Phillie Phanatic) and Phebe Phanatic were there, as Phebe dancing with fans and security guards who stood nearby.
Hoskins arrived via fire truck. he said a few words, the lifeless tree was plugged in and zoom! a beautiful red and white tree was lit, signifying the beginning of the holiday season. The ceremony took about 20 minutes, the crowd dispersing to the warmth of their cars or the ballpark again.
All in all, it was a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon, as dreams of spring training and the spring made the fans smile.
Monday, December 9, 2019
book- feelings
(Place on page 100 after para 2)
You may be wondering about sex. I know I would if I was reading a story about a guy with brittle bones who claimed to have girlfriends. As much as Mom wanted me to be a priest, I had feelings like any other guy. When I found Fox she taught me a lot about sex since she was the experienced one. I was scared at first, especially because of my bones. But we explored and found out what worked and it turned out to be fun. A whole new world was opening up to me.
My overall physical condition was getting stronger since my days as a kid when a simple sneeze would cause a fracture. I still had to be careful but Fox was aware and gentle, as were future girlfriends.
To be honest, I always liked cuddling, hugs and the intimacy part of sex most of all. Feelings of being wanted and needed were big to me. It still amazed me that a woman ( attractive women at that) would find me attractive too. All I had to do was look at my battered legs to get discouraged. But I was soon learning that certain women were interested in much more than what my legs looked like. Much more!
In the future I would admire the great Christopher Reeve and his openness about disability and sex. He showed the world that just because one had a physical challenge didn't mean he or she should extinguish any natural feelings or desires. With me, because my experience with women was so limited, it actually made me more sensitive, passionate and romantic when I did find a girlfriend. And when I fell in love with Jill and Holly down the road the feelings grew even more intense.Love made the intimacy so much better.
For now, sex was fun and made me confident in life. I was growing by leaps and bounds, the innocence of my childhood fading away. I was becoming a man. More than showing the world I was no different inside with my feelings, I was proving it to myself. I was no longer ashamed of having a disability. Despite the challenges, I could still enjoy life, feel good about myself, and say "Maybe I'm not such a monster after all."
You may be wondering about sex. I know I would if I was reading a story about a guy with brittle bones who claimed to have girlfriends. As much as Mom wanted me to be a priest, I had feelings like any other guy. When I found Fox she taught me a lot about sex since she was the experienced one. I was scared at first, especially because of my bones. But we explored and found out what worked and it turned out to be fun. A whole new world was opening up to me.
My overall physical condition was getting stronger since my days as a kid when a simple sneeze would cause a fracture. I still had to be careful but Fox was aware and gentle, as were future girlfriends.
To be honest, I always liked cuddling, hugs and the intimacy part of sex most of all. Feelings of being wanted and needed were big to me. It still amazed me that a woman ( attractive women at that) would find me attractive too. All I had to do was look at my battered legs to get discouraged. But I was soon learning that certain women were interested in much more than what my legs looked like. Much more!
In the future I would admire the great Christopher Reeve and his openness about disability and sex. He showed the world that just because one had a physical challenge didn't mean he or she should extinguish any natural feelings or desires. With me, because my experience with women was so limited, it actually made me more sensitive, passionate and romantic when I did find a girlfriend. And when I fell in love with Jill and Holly down the road the feelings grew even more intense.Love made the intimacy so much better.
For now, sex was fun and made me confident in life. I was growing by leaps and bounds, the innocence of my childhood fading away. I was becoming a man. More than showing the world I was no different inside with my feelings, I was proving it to myself. I was no longer ashamed of having a disability. Despite the challenges, I could still enjoy life, feel good about myself, and say "Maybe I'm not such a monster after all."
Sunday, December 8, 2019
book- Lennon
(Place on page 50 after para 2)
It was around this time in my life when yet another terrible event occured. Like the Kennedy assassination, the night of December 8, 1980 would live in my soul forever.
I was watching Monday Night Football as millions did back then. Suddenly Howard Cosell broke into the game that John Lennon had been shot and killed in New York City. There was very few details yet. The Internet didn't exist in 1980, nor did social media like Twitter or cable news networks. Everything seemed slow, especially compared to now. For once I couldn't wait until the football game was over so I could get more information from our local news and Nightline.
I loved The Beatles and their music. I remember spending the night scouring radio stations for any updated news. Many stations played nothing but Beatle songs all night long. I began to appreciate their music more that night.
I recalled how much fun The Beatles were, how happy they made everyone when they came to America to appear on the Ed Sullivan show in early 1964. The world needed The Beatles after the JFK assassination. It was now hard to imagine that John had been murdered too. Why?
Later I learned more chilling details, and the heartbreaking sadness overwhelmed me. As they wheeled the morally wounded Lennon into the emergency room, it was reported that "All My Loving" was being played overhead on the hospital radio system.
Again, just like in 1963, I was living through not only a historical event that would change the world forever, but also a personal sorrow. I never met John Lennon, yet somehow he was a part of me. The Beatles were always there. And now, unlike my fading youth, John would remain frozen in time, forever young, tragically robbed of his old age. The world would be a sadder place now. and life would never be the same again.
It was around this time in my life when yet another terrible event occured. Like the Kennedy assassination, the night of December 8, 1980 would live in my soul forever.
I was watching Monday Night Football as millions did back then. Suddenly Howard Cosell broke into the game that John Lennon had been shot and killed in New York City. There was very few details yet. The Internet didn't exist in 1980, nor did social media like Twitter or cable news networks. Everything seemed slow, especially compared to now. For once I couldn't wait until the football game was over so I could get more information from our local news and Nightline.
I loved The Beatles and their music. I remember spending the night scouring radio stations for any updated news. Many stations played nothing but Beatle songs all night long. I began to appreciate their music more that night.
I recalled how much fun The Beatles were, how happy they made everyone when they came to America to appear on the Ed Sullivan show in early 1964. The world needed The Beatles after the JFK assassination. It was now hard to imagine that John had been murdered too. Why?
Later I learned more chilling details, and the heartbreaking sadness overwhelmed me. As they wheeled the morally wounded Lennon into the emergency room, it was reported that "All My Loving" was being played overhead on the hospital radio system.
Again, just like in 1963, I was living through not only a historical event that would change the world forever, but also a personal sorrow. I never met John Lennon, yet somehow he was a part of me. The Beatles were always there. And now, unlike my fading youth, John would remain frozen in time, forever young, tragically robbed of his old age. The world would be a sadder place now. and life would never be the same again.
book- JFK
(Place on page 22, after para. 2)
Another early hero of mine became such a vivid memory, one that would last a lifetime. I was home on November 22, 1963, recovering from yet another fracture. I remember watching TV around 12:30 p.m., when a news flash interrupted Mom's soap opera. Whenever the sign "Special Report" flashed on the screen you knew it wasn't going to be good news.
Mom was outside hanging clothes. When she came in I blurted out the news "The president was shot!" I remember her gasping, standing aside the TV and watching Walter Cronkite break the tragic news that John F. Kennedy had been shot in Dallas, Texas.
We watched in stunned silence as the once quiet Friday afternoon soon melted into many days of sadness. We couldn't take our eyes off the screen all weekend. I remember crying, as my Mom did, when we watched the funeral, especially when little John-John saluted his father's casket.
Everything was in black and white, including our world. We all had a lost, sunken feeling that nothing would ever be the same.
Another early hero of mine became such a vivid memory, one that would last a lifetime. I was home on November 22, 1963, recovering from yet another fracture. I remember watching TV around 12:30 p.m., when a news flash interrupted Mom's soap opera. Whenever the sign "Special Report" flashed on the screen you knew it wasn't going to be good news.
Mom was outside hanging clothes. When she came in I blurted out the news "The president was shot!" I remember her gasping, standing aside the TV and watching Walter Cronkite break the tragic news that John F. Kennedy had been shot in Dallas, Texas.
We watched in stunned silence as the once quiet Friday afternoon soon melted into many days of sadness. We couldn't take our eyes off the screen all weekend. I remember crying, as my Mom did, when we watched the funeral, especially when little John-John saluted his father's casket.
Everything was in black and white, including our world. We all had a lost, sunken feeling that nothing would ever be the same.
book- mom
(Place on page 15, after para 2)
Like most wives and girlfriends around 1944, Mom watched Dad go off to war, leaving behind my brother Jimmy, who was only a toddler. She would get an occasional letter and post card from Dad, who was embedded on the Western Front of Europe. For security reasons the soldiers were not allowed to tell anyone where they were located, so often the mail would say "Greetings from Somewhere in Holland..." Mom kept all of his mail. It had to be so hard on her, not knowing where my father was or even if he was still alive from day to day.
That statement was never so true as Christmas Eve, 1944. Mom received a telegram, which was usually bad news anyway. The telegram simply read that Dad was injured. No explanation if he was dead or alive, no clue where he was or in what condition he was in. That had to be a horrible Christmas for my family.
As it turned out, Dad was hurt during the famous Battle of the Bulge, which was the largest battle ever fought by the United States Army. He sustained shrapnel wounds in his right leg and was flown to England to recuperate. He was one of the lucky ones, The Gold Star banner hanging in our window at home turned Silver to indicate that a wounded soldier resided there.
I know my father was very brave to face the horror of World War II. But so was my mother. And so it almost became a "normal' way of life back then, 12 years before i was born.
Like most wives and girlfriends around 1944, Mom watched Dad go off to war, leaving behind my brother Jimmy, who was only a toddler. She would get an occasional letter and post card from Dad, who was embedded on the Western Front of Europe. For security reasons the soldiers were not allowed to tell anyone where they were located, so often the mail would say "Greetings from Somewhere in Holland..." Mom kept all of his mail. It had to be so hard on her, not knowing where my father was or even if he was still alive from day to day.
That statement was never so true as Christmas Eve, 1944. Mom received a telegram, which was usually bad news anyway. The telegram simply read that Dad was injured. No explanation if he was dead or alive, no clue where he was or in what condition he was in. That had to be a horrible Christmas for my family.
As it turned out, Dad was hurt during the famous Battle of the Bulge, which was the largest battle ever fought by the United States Army. He sustained shrapnel wounds in his right leg and was flown to England to recuperate. He was one of the lucky ones, The Gold Star banner hanging in our window at home turned Silver to indicate that a wounded soldier resided there.
I know my father was very brave to face the horror of World War II. But so was my mother. And so it almost became a "normal' way of life back then, 12 years before i was born.
Friday, December 6, 2019
My Diet-Day 5
Today is Day 5 of my new diet. Oh, you haven't missed any previous notes. I didn't write any. Today is the first time I've felt like blogging about it.
I wanted to look and feel better, not only short-term, for the holidays and an upcoming family wedding at the end of December, but long-term too.
I have a bit of a gut, but my worst issue ( at least to me) is a "baggy neck,
or "turkey neck " ( think Mitch McConell0. I hate it and it has only started to appear within the last several years. I finally decided to do something about it.
I have a full, round face too, and a little definition there wouldn't be a bad thing. But mostly I want to lose ( or at least reduce) the neck thing by the wedding.
I have never been a big eater, so I wouldn't call myself a "porker" but I do need to look and especially feel better.
Not only that but since i transfer myself with my upper body from place to place ( into bed, the car, etc..) being too heavy isn't good. It's a strain on my back and arms.
My girlfriend's doctor has a sign posted on her office door about a program called "Optivia. It is a weight-loss program, but it also strives to teach you about better life habits overall, from exercise to a clear mind, to health finances. They strive to teach you how to improve yourself and keep those good habits all through your life. The diet part may end but the learning and maintenance never ends.
My goal is to lose 10 pounds in a month. I currently weigh 109 pounds, but for me, that's too much. My girlfriend is on the program too, and it does help to do it as a team, to encourage each other as well as remind each other when it is time to "fuel up."
That's what they call their little "snacks"- fuelings. You body is a machine and needs to gas up to run more efficiently. Or so they say.
The program starts with weight loss, as they feel a healthier, more confident you will better respond to the rest of their life-long plan. Optivia also has a website, a so-called "community" for support, and everyone gets a "life coach." Our coach is the doctor 9 who is actually leaving her practice to get more involved with the Optivita stuff.
I just want to lose weight. Maybe I'll get into the other aspects later. Or maybe not. Kiddingly, I refer to this "community" as a "cult." They send numerous daily texts or emails, asking how you are doing, etc.. It's great if you need support.
Anyway, for something like $250, they send you a box of "food" for the month. Probably programs like Nutra-System and Weight Watchers do the same thing. Their power bars are good, quick and easy. They also have things like biscuits and special pancakes, and many things you merely make with water and the microwave.
Speaking of water, you drink tons of it. They want you to do at least 8 glasses of water every day/ I'm only a small guy, and on Day 1 I felt a little light-headed, so, with permission from the life coach, I backed of to between 4-5 glasses daily. I do pee a hell of a lot all day and night.
So, they recommend you eat every 2-3 ours, and try to stick to a routine schedule. Eating 6 healthy meals a day is key. We make 1 Lean & Green meal daily, consisting of protein ( chicken breast, turkey or fish), veggies ( lettuce counts) and 1 or 2 "fats,' depending on your meat ( anything from a spoonful of salad dressing to between 5-10 olives).
Portion control is also a key, so you weigh your Lean & Green food. You can have healthy snacks, like their version of popcorn. I find myself not hungry so far to eat any snacks at all.
No sugar. No bread. No pasta. No drinks other than water. I flavor my water, which is okay, as long as it is sugar-free. No desserts.
If it sounds hard, it is. But you get used to the routine. Like I said, I've always been a light eater but an unhealthy eater. I got heavy consuming potato chips and crap like that. over time it adds up. A former dietitian I knew had a catchy phrase "Once on the lips, twice on the hips." And as you get older it's even tougher to lose.
So, my typical day starts at 6am. They want you to eat something within an hour after you wake up, so at 7 I usually have a breakfast bar. It goes every 2 hours with the fuelings, so I generally end up around 5-5:30 pm. Then nothing but water until the next morning.
So far, so good. I haven't much difference, even though Day 4 was supposedly the start of the "fat-burning phase." I hoping to see some success soon, which will only encourage me more.
I know in the spring and fall, when the leaves change, they do so overnight, when conditions are cooler. So maybe i will wake up some morning, look in the bathroom mirror, and see no neck!!
I wanted to look and feel better, not only short-term, for the holidays and an upcoming family wedding at the end of December, but long-term too.
I have a bit of a gut, but my worst issue ( at least to me) is a "baggy neck,
or "turkey neck " ( think Mitch McConell0. I hate it and it has only started to appear within the last several years. I finally decided to do something about it.
I have a full, round face too, and a little definition there wouldn't be a bad thing. But mostly I want to lose ( or at least reduce) the neck thing by the wedding.
I have never been a big eater, so I wouldn't call myself a "porker" but I do need to look and especially feel better.
Not only that but since i transfer myself with my upper body from place to place ( into bed, the car, etc..) being too heavy isn't good. It's a strain on my back and arms.
My girlfriend's doctor has a sign posted on her office door about a program called "Optivia. It is a weight-loss program, but it also strives to teach you about better life habits overall, from exercise to a clear mind, to health finances. They strive to teach you how to improve yourself and keep those good habits all through your life. The diet part may end but the learning and maintenance never ends.
My goal is to lose 10 pounds in a month. I currently weigh 109 pounds, but for me, that's too much. My girlfriend is on the program too, and it does help to do it as a team, to encourage each other as well as remind each other when it is time to "fuel up."
That's what they call their little "snacks"- fuelings. You body is a machine and needs to gas up to run more efficiently. Or so they say.
The program starts with weight loss, as they feel a healthier, more confident you will better respond to the rest of their life-long plan. Optivia also has a website, a so-called "community" for support, and everyone gets a "life coach." Our coach is the doctor 9 who is actually leaving her practice to get more involved with the Optivita stuff.
I just want to lose weight. Maybe I'll get into the other aspects later. Or maybe not. Kiddingly, I refer to this "community" as a "cult." They send numerous daily texts or emails, asking how you are doing, etc.. It's great if you need support.
Anyway, for something like $250, they send you a box of "food" for the month. Probably programs like Nutra-System and Weight Watchers do the same thing. Their power bars are good, quick and easy. They also have things like biscuits and special pancakes, and many things you merely make with water and the microwave.
Speaking of water, you drink tons of it. They want you to do at least 8 glasses of water every day/ I'm only a small guy, and on Day 1 I felt a little light-headed, so, with permission from the life coach, I backed of to between 4-5 glasses daily. I do pee a hell of a lot all day and night.
So, they recommend you eat every 2-3 ours, and try to stick to a routine schedule. Eating 6 healthy meals a day is key. We make 1 Lean & Green meal daily, consisting of protein ( chicken breast, turkey or fish), veggies ( lettuce counts) and 1 or 2 "fats,' depending on your meat ( anything from a spoonful of salad dressing to between 5-10 olives).
Portion control is also a key, so you weigh your Lean & Green food. You can have healthy snacks, like their version of popcorn. I find myself not hungry so far to eat any snacks at all.
No sugar. No bread. No pasta. No drinks other than water. I flavor my water, which is okay, as long as it is sugar-free. No desserts.
If it sounds hard, it is. But you get used to the routine. Like I said, I've always been a light eater but an unhealthy eater. I got heavy consuming potato chips and crap like that. over time it adds up. A former dietitian I knew had a catchy phrase "Once on the lips, twice on the hips." And as you get older it's even tougher to lose.
So, my typical day starts at 6am. They want you to eat something within an hour after you wake up, so at 7 I usually have a breakfast bar. It goes every 2 hours with the fuelings, so I generally end up around 5-5:30 pm. Then nothing but water until the next morning.
So far, so good. I haven't much difference, even though Day 4 was supposedly the start of the "fat-burning phase." I hoping to see some success soon, which will only encourage me more.
I know in the spring and fall, when the leaves change, they do so overnight, when conditions are cooler. So maybe i will wake up some morning, look in the bathroom mirror, and see no neck!!
Thursday, December 5, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, EAGLES
- I like the signing of pitcher Zach Wheeler by the Phillies. 5 years, $118 million. He solidifies the starting rotation. He is a health risk, but what pitcher isn't? Between Girardi and Realmuto, they should get the most out of the 29-year-old fireballer.
Now sign Madison Baumgarner..build the bench and bullpen..explore trading for Kris Bryant, who would cover third base for the next 10 years.
I'll be attending the Phillies' Christmas tree lighting on Saturday. Hopefully a few Phillies will be there. it will be cold but fun!
- Eagles' owner Jeff Lurie needs to be another John Middleton. Fire both coordinators. Get younger and faster. Take control as Middleton has done.
My pick for Monday night: Eli Manning has one final gasp against the Eagles. The Giants are almost as bad as the Dolphins, and look what Miami did vs Philly. All that said...
Eagles 23 Giants 10
Now sign Madison Baumgarner..build the bench and bullpen..explore trading for Kris Bryant, who would cover third base for the next 10 years.
I'll be attending the Phillies' Christmas tree lighting on Saturday. Hopefully a few Phillies will be there. it will be cold but fun!
- Eagles' owner Jeff Lurie needs to be another John Middleton. Fire both coordinators. Get younger and faster. Take control as Middleton has done.
My pick for Monday night: Eli Manning has one final gasp against the Eagles. The Giants are almost as bad as the Dolphins, and look what Miami did vs Philly. All that said...
Eagles 23 Giants 10
Tuesday, December 3, 2019
book- louie
(Place on page 277, after para. that ends with "lifeless home")
On those late summer afternoons, as the van dropped me off from work each day, I could almost see Mom waiting for me on the front porch. She often read the local newspaper until I arrived, or sat admiring her flower garden in the front yard. I swear I saw Louie sitting in the driveway, patiently waiting for the van and his plastic bottle, the same routine each day for over 13 years. I missed tossing him the empty bottle, watching him pick it up after one bounce in the driveway, and proudly carrying it into the house as Mom held open the front door.
I missed Mom asking how my day went as she helped me take off my tie. I missed Louie finally greeting me in the living room after he was done crunching the plastic bottle. I wished they were back so I could tell them how much I loved them.
On those late summer afternoons, as the van dropped me off from work each day, I could almost see Mom waiting for me on the front porch. She often read the local newspaper until I arrived, or sat admiring her flower garden in the front yard. I swear I saw Louie sitting in the driveway, patiently waiting for the van and his plastic bottle, the same routine each day for over 13 years. I missed tossing him the empty bottle, watching him pick it up after one bounce in the driveway, and proudly carrying it into the house as Mom held open the front door.
I missed Mom asking how my day went as she helped me take off my tie. I missed Louie finally greeting me in the living room after he was done crunching the plastic bottle. I wished they were back so I could tell them how much I loved them.
Monday, December 2, 2019
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES
My thoughts on the Eagles' embarrassing loss to the stinkin' Miami Dolphins...
- Eagles Head coach says "The Dolphins wanted it more" than the Eagles. Miami is tanking. They were 2-9 going into the game. They have nothing to play for. The Birds could've moved into a 1st place tie with Dallas in NFC East. They are battling for a playoff spot. Yet the Dolphins wanted it more??
- The Eagles are a bunch of fat and sassy divas, living off their Super Bowl victory two years ago. They are old and slow. They need to be rebuilt.
- Questions go beyond this losing season. Is Wentz really a franchise quarterback? Is this the "new normal?"
- We knew the secondary sucks. Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz sucks. He makes no adjustments during the game.
- Why does Pederson continue to refuse to run the ball? The Birds currently have the worst receivers in the NFL. So why throw the ball 48 times?
- I can't root for the Eagles to lose out and get a higher draft pick. Look what tanking did for the Sixers! But reality says that even if the birds beat Dallas and win the East, they will be one and done in the playoffs.
- If the Eagles do win the East and things stay the way they are, they would play Seattle in the opening round. They haven't beaten the Seahawks in Philadelphia since 1988. Five straight losses to Seattle in Philly.
- I'm tired of Ronald Darby, Jason Peters and Nelson Agholor.
- Worst of all, apathy is setting in. I just don't care about this Eagles team anymore. Even if they beat Dallas, will they be one and done in the playoffs?
- Howie Rossman needs to take much blame. He didn't help this awful team before the trade deadline. Maybe he knew this team was bad- that's why he kept his draft picks. But he still needs to pick the right players.
- How can the organization go from winning the Super Bowl only two years ago to this? How did things fall apart so fast? Signing old, broken-down players. Was the championship season a fluke?
- Eagles Head coach says "The Dolphins wanted it more" than the Eagles. Miami is tanking. They were 2-9 going into the game. They have nothing to play for. The Birds could've moved into a 1st place tie with Dallas in NFC East. They are battling for a playoff spot. Yet the Dolphins wanted it more??
- The Eagles are a bunch of fat and sassy divas, living off their Super Bowl victory two years ago. They are old and slow. They need to be rebuilt.
- Questions go beyond this losing season. Is Wentz really a franchise quarterback? Is this the "new normal?"
- We knew the secondary sucks. Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz sucks. He makes no adjustments during the game.
- Why does Pederson continue to refuse to run the ball? The Birds currently have the worst receivers in the NFL. So why throw the ball 48 times?
- I can't root for the Eagles to lose out and get a higher draft pick. Look what tanking did for the Sixers! But reality says that even if the birds beat Dallas and win the East, they will be one and done in the playoffs.
- If the Eagles do win the East and things stay the way they are, they would play Seattle in the opening round. They haven't beaten the Seahawks in Philadelphia since 1988. Five straight losses to Seattle in Philly.
- I'm tired of Ronald Darby, Jason Peters and Nelson Agholor.
- Worst of all, apathy is setting in. I just don't care about this Eagles team anymore. Even if they beat Dallas, will they be one and done in the playoffs?
- Howie Rossman needs to take much blame. He didn't help this awful team before the trade deadline. Maybe he knew this team was bad- that's why he kept his draft picks. But he still needs to pick the right players.
- How can the organization go from winning the Super Bowl only two years ago to this? How did things fall apart so fast? Signing old, broken-down players. Was the championship season a fluke?
Sunday, December 1, 2019
book-radio
(Place on page 250, after para. 2)
It was around this time I began calling a sports talk radio station in Philadelphia. I always listened to WIP Sports Radio since back in the mid-80s ,when they switched from music to sports on the AM dial. Finally, a 24-hour forum about one of my favorite topics, especially Philly sports! I especially loved the Phillies and Eagles, so it was cool to catch interviews with local athletes and hear opinions from the hosts and callers from the Philadelphia area.
Soon, many callers became local celebrities. Their voices were welcome. after a long week of life. There was serious sports comments from everyday guys, funny remarks, as well as outlandish predictions. It was like stopping into a bar, like the TV show "Cheers," sharing a cold brew with your buddies for a while, forgetting real life problems, then going on your way.
Everyone had an opinion, and it didn't matter if you were right or wrong. It was refreshing to have a forum to express your sports knowledge and share a common bond with others.
I never thought I would become a part of that community, but I did.
I started listening to the overnight show on weekends and found a host name Steve Trevelise. Steve had been in radio a long time. He was around my age. He worked as a disc jockey, traffic reporter and update news guy. He also worked as a stand-up comic, mostly in his home state of New Jersey. He struck me as a regular guy, with a wife and twin boys. He was funny as hell, had a thick Jersey accent, lovingly spoke of his family often, and knew his sports. He was a terrific interviewer, and usually had some kind of sports-related guest on his program, be it an author or retired athlete. He grew up and remained a New York Giants football fan, but he was still all right in my book.
So, on nights I couldn't sleep, especially from pain, I would try to relax while listening to Steve and his regular group of weekly callers. Often I would drift off to sleep and other nights I stayed awake until dawn when Steve signed off.
For years this went on. I looked forward to weekends because of Steve and his show. I would be dead tired, especially returning to work on Monday morning, but I couldn't miss the Trevelise show.
Not only did we share a love of sports, Steve was also the biggest Beatles fan I ever knew (He named one of his sons Lennon). I grew to appreciate the brilliance of the Beatles as I aged. Admittedly, I wasn't a huge Beatles fan as a kid, yet I remembered the 60s and Beatlemania, the night when John Lennon was killed, and listened to their music more and more.
One weekend Steve gave out his email address, and, on a whim, I sent him a brief note, telling him how much I loved sports, the Beatles and his program. He wrote me back and thus started a friendship which continues even today.
After numerous emails about sports, Steve encouraged me to call his show sometime. I always hated my voice. It was too high and too soft. Even going back to my C.B. Radio days in the 70s and 80s, I hated my voice. A James Earl Jones or Ricardo Montalban I wasn't.
So I resisted calling in, preferring to just listen as I had been doing for years. I did tell Steve about my disability, not that it would matter on a radio show, and he was cool with that. He persisted with every email- "When are you gonna call in?" I knew he wanted me to branch out of my comfort zone and test the waters.
Gathering what little courage I could muster, I picked up my landline and dialed. It was around 3:30 in the morning, so I had convinced myself that no one would be listening, anyway. I forgot about listeners like myself, people who couldn't sleep, or people working overnight, folks in their cars, or sports fans in hospitals. There were literally thousands of people always listening, even in the wee hours of the morning, as I would soon find out.
Surprisingly, I didn't freeze during that first phone call to WIP. I tried not to think about all the people who may be hanging on my every word. It was just like talking to a friend on the phone.
Soon my confidence grew, and I became a "regular" on Steve's show, every Friday ( and sometimes Saturdays ) overnight. Even now, I tend to call around 3:30 a.m., still talking mostly about the Phillies, Eagles and Beatles. But now the WIP 94.5 FM audience has expanded, thanks to the internet and mobile phones, to millions of listeners.
Sometimes I still get comments about my voice. "I liked what your last caller said about the Phils," is a typical comment. "She made some good points."
So, every weekend, I pull up a bar stool and check in for about 10 minutes of weekly fame. I still don't care for my voice, and sometimes my sports views differ from other callers, or even but it's all in good fun. And disability doesn't matter. We are all equal on the radio, as it should be.
I have met other callers at sports events in the city. It's always fascinating to hear the familiar voice coming out of a strange body. Usually they never look like I imagined they would look in person. But imagine what they think of me!
As for Steve, he still hosts his show on the weekends. After about 10 years, I finally met him when I attended one of his comedy gigs in Jersey. I'm proud to be his "Beatles connection," still emailing him related articles and exchanging Christmas cards and gifts.
For his kindness, for welcoming me into his family of special callers and loyal listeners, I am indebted to Steve. He is a good friend and I'm glad he encouraged me to not just sit on the sidelines, but to get involved and make a difference.
.
It was around this time I began calling a sports talk radio station in Philadelphia. I always listened to WIP Sports Radio since back in the mid-80s ,when they switched from music to sports on the AM dial. Finally, a 24-hour forum about one of my favorite topics, especially Philly sports! I especially loved the Phillies and Eagles, so it was cool to catch interviews with local athletes and hear opinions from the hosts and callers from the Philadelphia area.
Soon, many callers became local celebrities. Their voices were welcome. after a long week of life. There was serious sports comments from everyday guys, funny remarks, as well as outlandish predictions. It was like stopping into a bar, like the TV show "Cheers," sharing a cold brew with your buddies for a while, forgetting real life problems, then going on your way.
Everyone had an opinion, and it didn't matter if you were right or wrong. It was refreshing to have a forum to express your sports knowledge and share a common bond with others.
I never thought I would become a part of that community, but I did.
I started listening to the overnight show on weekends and found a host name Steve Trevelise. Steve had been in radio a long time. He was around my age. He worked as a disc jockey, traffic reporter and update news guy. He also worked as a stand-up comic, mostly in his home state of New Jersey. He struck me as a regular guy, with a wife and twin boys. He was funny as hell, had a thick Jersey accent, lovingly spoke of his family often, and knew his sports. He was a terrific interviewer, and usually had some kind of sports-related guest on his program, be it an author or retired athlete. He grew up and remained a New York Giants football fan, but he was still all right in my book.
So, on nights I couldn't sleep, especially from pain, I would try to relax while listening to Steve and his regular group of weekly callers. Often I would drift off to sleep and other nights I stayed awake until dawn when Steve signed off.
For years this went on. I looked forward to weekends because of Steve and his show. I would be dead tired, especially returning to work on Monday morning, but I couldn't miss the Trevelise show.
Not only did we share a love of sports, Steve was also the biggest Beatles fan I ever knew (He named one of his sons Lennon). I grew to appreciate the brilliance of the Beatles as I aged. Admittedly, I wasn't a huge Beatles fan as a kid, yet I remembered the 60s and Beatlemania, the night when John Lennon was killed, and listened to their music more and more.
One weekend Steve gave out his email address, and, on a whim, I sent him a brief note, telling him how much I loved sports, the Beatles and his program. He wrote me back and thus started a friendship which continues even today.
After numerous emails about sports, Steve encouraged me to call his show sometime. I always hated my voice. It was too high and too soft. Even going back to my C.B. Radio days in the 70s and 80s, I hated my voice. A James Earl Jones or Ricardo Montalban I wasn't.
So I resisted calling in, preferring to just listen as I had been doing for years. I did tell Steve about my disability, not that it would matter on a radio show, and he was cool with that. He persisted with every email- "When are you gonna call in?" I knew he wanted me to branch out of my comfort zone and test the waters.
Gathering what little courage I could muster, I picked up my landline and dialed. It was around 3:30 in the morning, so I had convinced myself that no one would be listening, anyway. I forgot about listeners like myself, people who couldn't sleep, or people working overnight, folks in their cars, or sports fans in hospitals. There were literally thousands of people always listening, even in the wee hours of the morning, as I would soon find out.
Surprisingly, I didn't freeze during that first phone call to WIP. I tried not to think about all the people who may be hanging on my every word. It was just like talking to a friend on the phone.
Soon my confidence grew, and I became a "regular" on Steve's show, every Friday ( and sometimes Saturdays ) overnight. Even now, I tend to call around 3:30 a.m., still talking mostly about the Phillies, Eagles and Beatles. But now the WIP 94.5 FM audience has expanded, thanks to the internet and mobile phones, to millions of listeners.
Sometimes I still get comments about my voice. "I liked what your last caller said about the Phils," is a typical comment. "She made some good points."
So, every weekend, I pull up a bar stool and check in for about 10 minutes of weekly fame. I still don't care for my voice, and sometimes my sports views differ from other callers, or even but it's all in good fun. And disability doesn't matter. We are all equal on the radio, as it should be.
I have met other callers at sports events in the city. It's always fascinating to hear the familiar voice coming out of a strange body. Usually they never look like I imagined they would look in person. But imagine what they think of me!
As for Steve, he still hosts his show on the weekends. After about 10 years, I finally met him when I attended one of his comedy gigs in Jersey. I'm proud to be his "Beatles connection," still emailing him related articles and exchanging Christmas cards and gifts.
For his kindness, for welcoming me into his family of special callers and loyal listeners, I am indebted to Steve. He is a good friend and I'm glad he encouraged me to not just sit on the sidelines, but to get involved and make a difference.
.
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