Rosemary Leal:  

July 1, 2009 I was a serious student and still take life quite seriously. Then: most would say a "square" Now: mixed reviews...depends to whom you speak. That's an honest statement. Completing a rear yard transformation from the dirt up is taking its toll. We've returned to Bakersfield, CA We have lived in Kern County since 1965. Our first stay in B-field lasted 25 years. Next was Keene (actually a community nearby whose P.O. is Keene) for 19 years. We've been in our new home since February 2009. Added on 1-18-2009 What fun to have been in touch with so many of you in the last year. You've been most kind with your words. We took a short RV trip to Arizona but missed seeing several of our classmates and friends. We'll have to plan better and not be so spontaneous next time. The fuel prices were more reasonable and that partially prompted the sojourn. Gluttony is one of the seven deadly sins. It is usually associated with eating too much food. For me the trap was cotton fabrics...oh, me oh, my. I am a quilter but it would have taken several life times to use up all that I had acquired over 18 years with the hobby (complusion?). After several "goings thru" and "weedings out", the stash is down to a more presentable amount. Fortunately much of the donated fabric is being used for quilts for the needy and "prayer blankets" through a church in SD and one in Bakersfield. So even though it wasn't a conscious resolution for 2009, I feel much lighter having lifted the burden of too much fabric off of my shoulders. I recommend this exercise to anyone who can relate, whatever the out of control hobby/past-time. (first story, 2008) Music choice=mid-1950s; early 1960s. Choice wasn't on Classmates list that I saw. Pets=rabbits, deer,mountain lion, bobcats, bear, ground squirrels, snakes, rodents, etc. and LOTS of birdlife. You might even see a fox now and then although they prefer that you not see them. Most knew me as a "square" in high school. I was a serious student. Still am. That's just part of being ME! I re-entered college and earned a B.A. in Liberal Studies and a M.A. in Education, C & I. Ask me. Friends describe me as a true friend and one who is direct ...Expand for more