Thursday, December 24, 2009

Redneck Security System

-----------------------------------------
On Thu, Dec 24, 2009 at 7:23 PM, Dave Ruden wrote:

That's hillarious!


-----------------------------------------
On Thu, Dec 24, 2009 at 12:14 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:





> > HOW TO INSTALL A
> > HOME SECURITY
> >
> > SYSTEM
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > 1. Go
> > to a secondhand store and buy a pair of
> > men's used size
> > 14-16 work boots.
> >
> > 2. Place them on your front
> > porch, along with a copy of
> > Guns & Ammo
> > Magazine
> >
> > 3... Put a few giant dog
> > dishes next to the boots and
> > magazines.
> >
> > 4.
> > Leave a note on your door that
> > reads:
> >
> > Bubba,
> >
> > Bertha, Duke, Slim,
> > & I went for more ammo and
> > beer. Be back in an
> > hour.
> > Don't mess with the pit bulls; they attacked
> > the mailman this morning and
> > messed him up bad. I
> > don't think Killer took part, but
> > it was hard to
> > tell
> > from all the blood. Anyway, I locked all four
> > of 'em in the house.
> >
> > Better wait outside.
> > Be right
> > back.
> >
> > Cooter

Mom's message to Pam

My mother emailed Pam this message...


--------------------------------
On Wed, Dec 23, 2009 at 6:26 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Dear Pam,

I am so glad to hear that all went so well with your medical situation -Congratulation!

I wish, David would find my dissertation (on maintaining good health after certain medical procedures) to stay well for the rest of your life...Please read it with an open mind!

Although I realize, you more so than I trust and have firm believe in the invincibility of medical treatment, a little bit of Mental Imagery and Visualization is now in order for you...(the topic of my thesis...:)) It surely can't hurt you, so please, read it! You are a feisty girl and I am really proud of you, so do add a little extra "alternative treatment" to assure you of the perfect health you should enjoy in the future!

I hope, you don't mind my suggestion, but as you might know, I went through a similar situation when I was a bit older than you, and I think, there is a lot of truth in the power of our mind...

Be well and keep up that great attitude of yours (according to Dave you got that, thank goodness). That , of course, is all important!

Happy Holidays and Lots of Love and best wishes!


Lisa

Sunday, December 13, 2009

On Greatness

On Sun, Dec 13, 2009 at 10:53 AM,
Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:
--------------------------------

I must be very great indeed....I always "approximate"...:)))

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:
"It is the nature of all greatness not to be exact." - Edmund Burke

Thursday, November 19, 2009

On Thu, Nov 19, 2009 at 8:43 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:
"There must be more to life than sitting wondering if there is more to life."
- Unknown

--------------
Good one!

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Frightful Halloween Jokes

Oy these are sooooo baaaad...



-------Original Message-------
On Sat, Oct 31, 2009 at 10:30 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

...BOOOOO!!!




-------Original Message-------

From: Robert
Date: 10/31/2009 10:06:12 AM
To: Friends & Family
Subject: THESE ARE FRIGHTFULLY BAD!

What do you get when you cross a ghost with Bambi?
Bamboo

Why don't witches ride their brooms when they're angry?
They don't want to fly off the handle

What do you get if you drop a pumpkin?
Squash

Why don't skeletons cross the road?
They don't have the guts

What happened to the guy who couldn't pay his exorcist?
He was repossessed

Who won the skeleton beauty contest?
No body

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Still True - Eric Hoffer

-------Original Message-------
Thu, Oct 29, 2009
6:16 PM,
Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:


-------Original Message-------
From: PEARLIE
Date: 10/29/2009 5:35:56 PM
Subject: Fw: Still true


Sent: 10/28/2009 11:17:30 P.M. Pacific Daylight TimeSubj: Still true

THIS WAS WRITTEN IN 1968 41 years ago - Astonishing!
You probably don't remember the name Eric Hoffer. He was a longshoreman who turned into a philosopher, wrote columns for newspapers and some books. He was a non-Jewish American social philosopher. He was born in 1902 and died in 1983, after writing nine books and winning the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His first book, The True Believer, published in 1951, was widely recognized as a classic.

Eric Hoffer was one of the most influential American philosophers and free thinkers of the 20th Century. His books are still widely read and quoted today. Acclaimed for his thoughts on mass movements and fanaticism, Hoffer was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1983. Hopewell Publications awards the best in independent publishing across a wide range of categories, singling out the most thought provoking titles in books and short prose, on a yearly basis in honor of Eric Hoffer.

Here is one of his columns from 1968 -- 41 years ago! Some things never change.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ISRAEL'S PECULIAR POSITION...by Eric Hoffer - LA Times 5/26/68
The Jews are a peculiar people: things permitted to other nations are forbidden to the Jews. Other nations drive out thousands, even millions of people and there is no refugee problem. Russia did it, Poland and Czechoslovakia did it. Turkey threw out a million Greeks, and Algeria a million Frenchman. Indonesia threw out heaven knows how many Chinese and no one says a word about refugees. But in the case of Israel , the displaced Arabs have become eternal refugees. Everyone insists that Israel must take back every single one.
Arnold Toynbee calls the displacement of the Arabs an atrocity greater than any committed by the Nazis. Other nations when victorious on the battlefield dictate peace terms. But when Israel is victorious, it must sue for peace. Everyone expects the Jews to be the only real Christians in this world. Other nations, when they are defeated, survive and recover but should Israel be defeated it would be destroyed. Had Nasser triumphed last June [1967], he would have wiped Israel off the map, and no one would have lifted a finger to save the Jews.
No commitment to the Jews by any government, including our own, is worth the paper it is written on. There is a cry of outrage all over the world when people die in Vietnam or when two Blacks are executed in Rhodesia. But, when Hitler slaughtered Jews no one demonstrated against him. The Swedes, who were ready to break off diplomatic relations with America because of what we did inVietnam, did not let out a peep when Hitler was slaughtering Jews. They sent Hitler choice iron ore, and ball bearings, and serviced his troops in Norway. The Jews are alone in the world.

If Israel survives, it will be solely because of Jewish efforts. and Jewish resources. Yet at this moment, Israel is our only reliable and unconditional ally. We can rely more on Israel than Israel can rely on us. And one has only to imagine what would have happened last summer [1967] had the Arabs and their Russian backers won the war, to realize how vital the survival of Israel is to America and the West in general. I have a premonition that will not leave me; as it goes with Israel so will it go with all of us. Should Israel perish, the Holocaust will be upon us all.

-----------------------------------------

Monday, September 28, 2009

On Mon, Sep 28, 2009 at 10:10 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:



-------Original Message-------
From:
Sent: Sunday, September 27, 2009 5:36 AM
Subject: Perceptions of the Jews by well known-gentiles
Perceptions of the Jews by well known-gentiles!!!
Zamsky Dan


"Some people like the Jews, and some do not. But no thoughtful man can deny the fact that they are, beyond any question, the most formidable and the most remarkable race which has appeared in the world."

-- Winston Churchill


"The Jew is that sacred being who has brought down from heaven the everlasting fire, and has illumined with it the entire world. He is the religious source, spring, and fountain out of which all the rest of the peoples have drawn their beliefs and their religions."

--Leo Tolstoy


"It was in vain that we locked them up for several hundred years behind the walls of the Ghetto. No sooner were their prison gates unbarred than they easily caught up with us, even on those paths which we opened up without their aid."

--A. A. Leroy Beaulieu, French publicist, 1842


"The Jew gave us the Outside and the Inside - our outlook and our inner life. We can hardly get up in the morning or cross the street without being Jewish. We dream Jewish dreams and hope Jewish hopes. Most of our best words, in fact - new, adventure, surprise, unique, individual, person, vocation, time, history, future, freedom, progress, spirit, faith, hope, justice - are the gifts of the Jews."

--Thomas Cahill, Irish Author


"One of the gifts of the Jewish culture to Christianity is that it has taught Christians to think like Jews, and any modern man who has not learned to think as though he were a Jew can hardly be said to have learned to think at all."

--William Rees-Mogg, former Editor-in-Chief for The Times of London and a member of the House of Lords


"It is certain that in certain parts of the world we can see a peculiar people, separated from the other peoples of the world and this is called the Jewish people.... This people is not only of remarkable antiquity but has also lasted for a singular long time... For whereas the people of Greece and Italy, of Sparta, Athens and Rome and others who came so much later have perished so long ago, these still exist, despite the efforts of so many powerful kings who have tried a hundred times to wipe them out, as their historians testify, and as can easily be judged by the natural order of things over such a long spell of years. They have always been preserved, however, and their preservation was foretold... My encounter with this people amazes me.."

--Blaise Pascal, French Mathematician


"The Jewish vision became the prototype for many similar grand designs for humanity, both divine and man made The Jews, therefore, stand at the center of the perennial attempt to give human life the dignity of a purpose."

--Paul Johnson, American Historian


"As long as the world lasts, all who want to make progress in righteousness will come to Israel for inspiration as to the people who had the sense for righteousness most glowing and strongest."

--Matthew Arnold, British poet and critic


"Indeed it is difficult for all other nations of the world to live in the presence of the Jews. It is irritating and most uncomfortable. The Jews embarrass the world as they have done things which are beyond the imaginable. They have become moral strangers since the day their forefather, Abraham, introduced the world to high ethical standards and to the fear of Heaven. They brought the world the Ten Commandments, which many nations prefer to defy. They violated the rules of history by staying alive, totally at odds with common sense and historical evidence. They outlived all their former enemies, including vast empires such as the Romans and the Greeks. They angered the world with their return to their homeland after 2000 years of exile and after the murder of six million of their brothers and sisters.
"They aggravated mankind by building, in the wink of an eye, a democratic State which others were not able to create in even hundreds of years. They built living monuments such as the duty to be holy and the privilege to serve ones fellow men.
"They had their hands in every human progressive endeavor, whether in science, medicine, psychology or any other discipline, while totally out of proportion to their actual numbers They gave the world the Bible and even their "savior." "Jews taught the world not to accept the world as it is, but to transform it, yet only a few nations wanted to listen. Moreover, the Jews introduced the world to one God, yet only a minority wanted to draw the moral consequences. So the nations of the world realize that they would have been lost without the Jews. And while their subconscious tries to remind them of how much of Western civilization is framed in terms of concepts first articulated by the Jews, they do anything to suppress it.
"They deny that Jews remind them of a higher purpose of life and the need to be honorable, and do anything to escape its consequences. It is simply too much to handle for them, too embarrassing to admit, and above all, too difficult to live by."So the nations of the world decided once again to go out of 'their' way in order to find a stick to hit the Jews. The goal: to prove that Jews are as immoral and guilty of massacre and genocide as some of they themselves are"All this in order to hide and justify their own failure to even protest when six million Jews were brought to the slaughterhouses of Auschwitz and Dachau; so as to wipe out the moral conscience of which the Jews remind them, and they found a stick.
"Nothing could be more gratifying for them than to find the Jews in a struggle with another people (who are completely terrorized by their own leaders) against whom the Jews, against their best wishes, have to defend themselves in order to survive. With great satisfaction, the world allows and initiates the rewriting of history so as to fuel the rage of yet another people against the Jews This in spite of the fact that the nations understand very well that peace between the parties could have come a long time ago, if only the Jews would have had a fair chance."Instead, they happily jumped on the wagon of hate so as to justify their jealousy of the Jews and their incompetence to deal with their own moral issues. When Jews look at the bizarre play taking place in The Hague, they can only smile as this artificial game once more proves how the worldparadoxically admits the Jews uniqueness. It is in their need to undermine the Jews that they actually raise them.
"The study of history of Europe during the past centuries teaches us one uniform lesson: That the nations which received and in any way dealt fairly and mercifully with the Jew have prospered; and that the nations that have tortured and oppressed them have written out their own curse."
--Olive Schreiner, South African novelist and social activist
"If there is any honor in all the world that I should like, it would be to be an honorary Jewish citizen"
--A.L Rowse, authority on Shakespeare
------------------------------------------------------------
On Mon, Sep 28, 2009 at 11:19 AM, Dave Ruden wrote:

>"The study of history of Europe during the past centuries
>teaches us one uniform lesson: That the nations which received
>and in any way dealt fairly and mercifully with the Jew have
>prospered; and that the nations that have tortured and oppressed
>them have written out their own curse."
>--Olive Schreiner, South African novelist and social activist
Interesting point. Curiously, on thinking about it, I find this also in my readings of history. Although it has never been an explicitly drawn conclusion or theme in my readings, it has been remarkably consistent in its truth.(although I have yet to really get into Greek history :).
---Dave.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

08/18/2009

On Tue, Aug 18, 2009 at 1:55 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Dear Sharon and Reidar-

It was so great to have you visit us -you are a GREAT couple, so good looking and charming, do come again...And (if I make it :) you MUST come to my 90th B'day gathering in March...

Sending you a delightful little program I just received from ISrael (Ilana belongs also to the Popkin family, actually...a cousin of your father) . This slide show reminds me of the lovely flowers you brought me...thanks again!

Love, Aunt Lisl

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

July 27, 2009

-------Original Message-------
On Sat, Jul 25, 2009 at 6:19 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Hi!

We had the Rabbi and her husband for Lunch (Julie made Brisket etc. ) then they went to Torah study - Julie is so completely involved now with the Temple, (too much,if you ask me :( but I felt uncommonly tired and stayed home , watched the Fla Beauty pageant, gorgeous girls - didn't pick the winner, but it was an esthetic adventure - so much beauty...

My appetite is so lousy and when I finally feel like eating, its the wrong stuff and my Edema on my right leg swells up -too much salt, probably, in short I am a mess...The good Docs give us Oldtimers more quantity of life and take away the quality ( sorry, bitching, bitching -forgive me...)

Glad, you have fun things planned and are meeting interesting people - keep it up ...Did Pam go for her final checkup last Thursday? All O.K.?

My Love to both of you! Have Fun and take care of yourselves - Life is too short not to...

MOM



-------Original Message-------
From: Dave Ruden
Date: 7/25/2009 5:22:04 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Re: !!!

Hi Mom,
Doing good so far. Went out to dinner with some new friends of Pam's. Pam met her at the breast cancer support group she's been going to, and we've hit it off with them so far. Did some much needed yard work around the house this morning, and then a little shopping. Gong to Durham this evening for a Durham Bulls baseball game. The USNA Alumni Association is having their annual picnic there today. Tomorrow is mostly hanging around home, cleaning up inside - which is also much needed :).

How are you feeling?
---D.



-------Original Message-------
On Fri, Jul 24, 2009 at 7:44 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

VERY WELL SAID, DAVID!

HOW IS YOUR WEEKEND SHAPING UP?

HAVE A GOOD ONE...

LOVE, mom



-------Original Message-------
From: Dave Ruden
Date: 7/24/2009 5:56:45 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Re: !!!

I've heard this statement from him before. Interesting. I wonder, however, about the first part of that. I.e. I don't think I agree that science needs religion. Maybe it needs ethics, but not religion. Perhaps, however, it depends on the definition/scope of the concept of "religion". Einstein was very much into the 'mystery' behind the universe. As such, there was an awe and reverence of that mystery which can be attributed to an appreciation of God.

::)
---D.



-------Original Message-------
On Fri, Jul 24, 2009 at 7:54 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THOUGHT OF THE DAY:
"Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind." - Albert Einstein


Lisa.

Friday, July 24, 2009

July 24, 2009 - Pineapples


-------Original Message-------
On Fri, Jul 24, 2009 at 7:30 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

...harvesting Pineapples...must share...

Have a great day! Love,
Mom


Saturday, July 18, 2009

July 17, 2009

On Fri, Jul 17, 2009 at 8:14 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Read your blog -I hate to disagree with Pam, but again, I think,your features are too "clean cut" to look like raggedy Andy :((( Do get that haircut and send me a picture...

Have fun at the concerts - so glad that Pam has so many great, social contacts - makes life so much more fun. Funny, I just ordered "Milk" through Netflix, I remember the real story and it sounds interesting. If you see it on Sunday, tell me how you liked it!

So you enjoy the weekend, you two!

Love you, MOM

BTW, Julie is such an optimist and positive thinker in her messages, but today I feel exceptionally tired and draggy - kinda quetching and aching - oye veh...Old age is truly not for Sissies...so, call me Sissy...
Enjoy your youth while you can, DAvid! Make each day count and take care of yourself!

Love, M.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Jul 16, 2009

On Thu, Jul 16, 2009 at 11:02 AM, J Ruden wrote:

Hi Everyone J (smile face)

So my updates are less because Dr. Mom is BACK on line, on the phone - Whoooooooo Hoooooooooo and I’m trying to catch up with everything OY J VEY (not sure if there is such a thing as catching up J smile face)!!!!

For those of you who have reach mom by phone, yes she is tired and not skipping down the street (YET), but she is walking and working out with the physical therapists. Her scars are almost gone, but the nerves are definitely still “healing”. It will take another month probably before she is swimming, but she WILL RETURN to that and more – AMAZING!!!!

She is able to breath on her own (no more nebulizer stuff or oxygen needed) A true miracle!!! Her numbers are better than mine most of the time – the doctors are still getting the medications adjusted – (she’s so tiny that 40 milligrams really should be twenty) and we are learning as we go.

We have home health care; everyday someone is here working her upper body, her lower body, her lungs, and her mind – she keeps everyone on their toes; of course she excels at everythingJ!!!

She is still impatient and wants to be ALL better NOW, but two steps forward everyday and one step back every other day is still progress Whooooo Hooooooo!!!

I’ll be in touch as we go J (smile face).


Thank you all again for your prayers and mark your calendars for Thursday, March 11th 2010 We will be celebrating Dr. Mom’s 90th !!!!!!! PARTY!!!!!!! (she knows J)

Details soon on the party J

Squeezes with LOVE
Julie

EVERYDAY IS A MIRACLE!!!! Whooooo Hoooooo!!!

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Jul 13, 2009

-------Original Message-------
From: Sepop24
Date: 7/13/2009 5:22:31 PM
To: drlisaearle
Subject: (no subject)

Hi there !!!
How are you feeling ???? Hope better!
Just wanted you to know that Reidar's daughter had a heart valve replacement back in Dec. '05. She said that she felt tired and had shortness of breath for quite a while. She had the artificial valve inserted ... and she seems to be doing ok so far. She had some rough days (especially in the cold weather in Norway) --- but she's ok. (she also has several other health issues as well) ...

Things here are ok - but hectic and frustrating. We're waiting to hear from Immigration ... letting us know when we need to return to Scandinavia for Reidar's interviews and medical ... But the worst part is trying to find health insurance for him .... not fun !!! Hopefully we'll find some GOOD answers and some information SOON !!!

Glad you're feeling a little better --- and hope you keep improving quickly!

Love,
Sharon




----- Original Message -----
On Mon, Jul 13, 2009 at 5:40 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Hi, Doll,

I DO appreciate this Info, having similar problems this days (30 days since the operation) , but am relatively doing o.k. (according to the "good"? Doctors...:))) The pouring rain yesterday also seemed to give me some special aches and pains...Oh, well...

Reidar's daughter clearly was a better candidate (soooo much younger). I hear of many survivors re :Heart valves, it seems to be more common than I knew before. I suppose, we must count our blessings!

Tell me more about Reidar and his family - how many children does he have? And yes, it is most important to be covered by Health Insurance - They just sent me the bill from the Atlanta Hospital (149,00.00) and that does not included the Physicians involved...

Love to hear from you, Lots of Love,

Jul 14, 2009

----- Original Message -----
From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Sent: Thursday, July 09, 2009 10:23 AM
Subject: Fw: Update

My dear, caring friends and Cousins, who seem to want to know...

"They" say, I am doing better, day by day -I still feel congested and we will see the cardiologist today -hopefully, he may be able to help me a little -I don't expect wonders :(((

I am telling myself, that the new addition -the new valve - for my heart, is trying to get used to its new position...therefore the occasional pain, the fatigue, lack of energy, "heavy" leg movements, rough nights and sleeping problems etc.

However, I am still among the living and enjoying my wonderful family (you loving, caring guys) -it seems, this was not my time to join the angels... As Jim always said, you won't go until your time comes...As it must come for everyone, sooner or later, I guess...Let go and let God...

I am trying to be patient, patient, patient -it is sooo difficult for me...My great daughter, Julie, helps me to uplift my spirits -she is so positive and wonderful!!!

I love you all,



-------Original Message-------
From: Joyce Doty
Date: 7/13/2009 10:23:50 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Re: Update

Thanks for sending us the up-dates on how you are doing. I hope each day brings you closer to feeling stronger & having less problems. It must be hard to wait until your strength returns & you are able to get back into your routine & life again. We pray that the time will be soon when all this waiting will be behind you. Yes, Julie is wonderful & she is a great caregiver to her very special Mother! We also think you are a special & remarkable woman & the Lord has more for you to do on this earth or you wouldn't be here! Being patient is the worst & I'm sure I would be the worst at waiting! Anyway, we love you & hope that you will be feeling better real soon. You asked about Judy's illness, she had leukemia & it was life threatening but she was a strong woman & fought the two kinds of leukemia that she had for about 5 years, until her body just gave out of strength from all the chemo that took a toll on her immune system. She had my brother as a caregiver & he was the best, just like your Julie! Thank you for your prayers & your concern for her over the years. She is at peace now & we are thankful for that, we will all miss her, especially my brother since he was with her 24/7. Take care of yourself & thank you for your inspirational & beautiful e-mails. We love you, Tarr & Joyce



-------Original Message-------
On Tue, Jul 14, 2009 at 8:07 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Must share this wonderful letter from a dear, special friend...
Have a really good day,
Love, MOM

Sunday, July 12, 2009

July 12, 2009

Email exchange...

=====================================================================================
-------Original Message-------
On Fri, Jul 10, 2009 at 11:13 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Just read your latest entry on the blog, my heart goes out,I know exactly how P. Feels, pain wise and otherwise.
You said you expressed yourself (at that Mexican restaurant) how tired YOU are of it -when sickness comes into our life, we all feel that way, Darling. I have been through it many times myself, through Simon, through Susie, my own Cancer surgery and now the Heart sugery...I believe, so many of us go through our own personal holocaust...Life is very tough so often- philosophically there must be a reason for it...At that Mexican restaurant, to WHOM did you "express " yourself thus? I just wonder...

Hang in there, Darling, no matter what, Life still has wonderful moments and IS good!(Ann Frank).

I love you, MOM




-------Original Message-------
From: Dave Ruden
Date: 7/10/2009 3:32:31 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle; dave.ruden@gmail.com
Subject: Re: I understand...

Hi Mom,
It was at dinner with Pam. That's what made it so cathartic. I can express this with friends and family, but it's not quite the same as doing so with her as it's about she and I. Was a small short conversation on that aspect, but meaningful.
Done with the worst of this last round now. Only one more infusion to go!
Love you.
---Dave.




-------Original Message-------
From: Dave Ruden
Date: 7/10/2009 4:04:09 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Re: I understand...

She teared up a bit cause she knows I'm almost as tired of it as she is. But it was a good reaction, not one of those that says "I take offense". Pretty well balanced gal! That's why I felt comfortable saying so, and why it was such a quality moment. It was about comisserating, not feeling at fault.

Sorry to hear you feels so tired. Julie tells me that the fibrilation not happening anymore.
How goes the physical-therapy?
---D.





-------Original Message-------
On Fri, Jul 10, 2009 at 3:59 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

How did she react, when you expressed your feelings in that fashion?(.Only if you want to share it, but I just wonder)....
My day today is rather flat myself, hard to describe, Doc gave me new Med, I guess, to make the newly fashioned heart slow down (Pulse averages 111 beats a minute, shouldn't be over 80 or 90...I am so tired.)

Rough days for all of us, I am afraid...Wish my message would be more uplifting, but...
No matter what, I love you lots, stay strong and take care of yourself!

Love, MOM




-------Original Message-------
From: Dave Ruden
Date: 7/10/2009 4:04:09 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Re: I understand...

She teared up a bit cause she knows I'm almost as tired of it as she is. But it was a good reaction, not one of those that says "I take offense". Pretty well balanced gal! That's why I felt comfortable saying so, and why it was such a quality moment. It was about comisserating, not feeling at fault.

Sorry to hear you feels so tired. Julie tells me that the fibrilation not happening anymore.
How goes the physical-therapy?
---D.





-------Original Message-------
On Fri, Jul 10, 2009 at 4:27 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Therapy is helpful. Fibrillation(to me is questionable - why does the pulse stay at 111 and more, I wonder...Doc gave me"Digoxin( also known as Digitalis to slow it down, I guess, but now I have no appetite, which slowly had come back...

Well, I shouldn't burden you with this, forgive my bitching, you have enough on your plate!
You DO have a lot of inner strength throughout this bittersweet experience, DAvid, God bless you!

LOL, MOM

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Jul 9, 2009

On Thu, Jul 9, 2009 at 5:13 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Sharing...

-------Original Message-------
From: Steve Hirschhorn
Date: 7/9/2009 3:07:34 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Re: Fw: Update

Dearest Lisa
we're thinking of you all the time and wishing you to be well as soon as possible. we think you've done wonderfully so far and are willing you to get better and better..

love from both of us to you and Julie
s&a


-------Original Message-------
2009/7/9 Dr. Lisa Earle

My dear, caring friends and Cousins, who seem to want to know...

"They" say, I am doing better, day by day -I still feel congested and we will see the cardiologist today -hopefully, he may be able to help me a little -I don't expect wonders :(((

I am telling myself, that the new addition -the new valve - for my heart, is trying to get used to its new position...therefore the occasional pain, the fatigue, lack of energy, "heavy" leg movements, rough nights and sleeping problems etc.

However, I am still among the living and enjoying my wonderful family (you loving, caring guys) -it seems, this was not my time to join the angels... As Jim always said, you won't go until your time comes...As it must come for everyone, sooner or later, I guess...Let go and let God...

I am trying to be patient, patient, patient -it is sooo difficult for me...My great daughter, Julie, helps me to uplift my spirits -she is so positive and wonderful!!!

I love you all,
Lisa

Jul 9, 2009

On Thu, Jul 9, 2009 at 5:09 PM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:


-------Original Message-------
From: Irene L Clark
Date: 7/9/2009 2:38:26 PM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Being a patient patient

Dear Aunt Lisl:

I well understand your impatience with not feeling perfectly well and would react
that way myself. But we impatient patients must learn to be patient patients--
somehow!

Remember that when someone undergoes a procedure, the recovery usually
requires six weeks, at least. Bill has a very painful shoulder for which he finally
went to the doctor and learned that he has either tendonitis or a small tear in the
rotator cuff. To get back motion and reduce the pain, he has been going to a
physical therapist, has to do painful exercises,ice the shoulder twice a day, and he
was told that recovery will take SIX MONTHS TO A YEAR!

Needless to say, he is not happy about this and growls through his exercises with
great irritation..

Please keep up your spirits! We are all plugging for you!

Love,

Irene
.

Jul 9, 2009

On Thu, Jul 9, 2009 at 9:52 AM, Dr. Lisa Earle wrote:

Dear David,

I finally managed to get into your blog pages - I am getting the complete picture now (practically a nightmare) about my surgery and what you two had to go through emotionally too...

"They" say, I am doing better, day by day -I still feel congested and we will see the cardiologist today -hopefully, he may be able to help me a little -I don't expect wonders :(((

I am telling myself, that the new addition -the new valve - for my heart, is trying to get used to its new position...therefore the occasional pain, the fatigue, lack of energy, "heavy" leg movements, rough nights and sleeping problems etc. However, I am still among the living and enjoying my wonderful family (you loving, caring guys) -it seems, this was not my time to join the angels...! As Jim always said, you won't go until your time comes...

I am trying to be patient, patient, patient -it is sooo difficult for me...

2009 has been a very bad year for us and hopefully, will get better, slowly, but surely, concerning your situation, Pam's and mine -I will pray for this!!!

BTW, hope you received the requested check -do NOT cash till Monday and then, try to negotiate those totally unreasonable, undeserved fees- Simon would offer half!!! -Cash TALKS!!! Do NOT be timid about it, my dear, dear Son!

I love you all soooo much!

Hugs and Kisses, MOM

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Saturday June 20

Ariane and Walter send an email to Julie and me to say hi during this time.
I answered a bit in German, followed by explanation of Mom's status in English...

===========================================
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Dave Ruden
Date: Sat, Jun 20, 2009 at 12:08 PM
Subject: Re:
To: Walter & Ariane Roy


Hallo meine lieblich Familie,
Danke fuer deine Email. Ich bin derzeit mit neue Arbeit und Kuemmern-nehmen(?) fuer meine Freudin, sehr beschaeftigt. Ich habe zu wenig Zeit meine deutsch zu ueben. Julie ist jetzt zurueck von Hotel. Ich schlief gut gestern, und folglisch kann ich Heute wenig Arbeit tun.

Also, nur eine kleine Brief auf deutsch "Hallo" zu sagen.
Bitte, kanst du mir die Email-addresse fuer Horst und/oder Florian schicken. Ich moechte gelegentlich ihnen schreiben. Ich hoffe dass Florian ganz-geheilt wird!

Als die bestimmten Daten ueber Mom's Bedingung kompliziert ist, ich beschreibe es fuer Euch auf englisch...
Chuess!
---Dave.

---------
Mom's doing really well. She slept through the night with only a couple short exceptions. As I've been taking the 'night-shift' while she's in ICU, I'm much better rested this morning than I was yesterday :).

Starting to get some of the IV's and probes out today. She sat up in the chair yesterday for more than an hour. Complaint about pain is much reduced. Complaint about difficulty breathing has subsided as well this morning. Eating easily. Still pretty sleepy, but when she's awake she is very awake. Also her feet, which almost always feel cool, feel luke-warm - and that's not wearing socks! Still in Atrial-Fibrillation (mostly in the 70 to 100 bpm range), yet they are less concerned about that, given that it is not in a life-threatening status - blood pressure is still good, and she doesn't feel badly from it. Still, they're likely to prescribe some kind of anti-fib medication for it. I really hope we get her moved to private room today. Would hate to leave tomorrow while she's still in ICU. Dr just came in and said he'll keep her in ICU for another day. Going slow to be cautious. So it's not today but she's real close to getting out of ICU.

Doctor also said that she's got a bit of fluid in her right lung ("odd cause they didn't do anything there"). They're watching it, getting up and down - being a bit more active - might very well help clear that up. If not, they'll aspirate it maybe tomorrow. Mom hears about fluid in her lung and she starts thinking fatalistic again. I was in for my collapsed lung operation 25 years ago, and similarly had fluid in my lung and a chest-drain tube for a good handful of days afterwards. So fluid is not what we want, but it isn't the sign of the beginning of the end like she can sometimes be looking for. I relay my experience to her, and she asks the nurse and doctor about it. Everybody is telling it straight, and they're saying that it's related to having such surgery and being in bed for several days, and it should clear up on its own. And if it doesn't the aspiration will take care of it. So after chewing on this for an hour or so, she starts to feel more up beat.

She also finally had a bowel movement, on her own, this morning. That's really good. Unfortunately, the exertion subsequently had her feeling very fatigued. That coupled with thinkng again about the doctor's note of fluid in her lung started her thinking fatalisticly again. So we keep reminding her that it is part of the process. Julie is good at forcing her to stop talking in fatalistic terms. I'm good at giving he time to express herself, ask questions and giving her answers at a technical level that she appreciates - she is into "explanations". Also, I can give her insight that comes from my own very similar chest-operation experience.

So she's back in bed now and resting. In a couple hours or so, she'll get her energy back and be more cheery.

Love to all.

Friday, June 19, 2009

ICU recovery

We went in to see Mom Wednesday early evening. She was sedated and not awake. The nurse said she'd be that way until morning. So given that there was also no place in the ICU room for another person to stay overnight with her, we went to the hotel for some much needed rest. We walked around the grounds, and then sat outside the restaurant again for dinner.

Before turned in at Midnight, Julie called the hospital to check on Mom's status. The nurse said she let her come out of sleep briefly to check on her mental state - do you know who you are, where you are, what's going on. The nurse said she was cogent enough to respond by hand squeezes.

Julie planned to be at the hospital by 7am Thursday. I pretty much knew that wasn't going to happen. Too much sleep needed to wake that early, and too much to do getting dressed and checked out. We finally made it to the hospital at 10am. Mom was no longer intubated (breathing tube was removed), and she was fully awake and communicative, albeit in small amounts.

She was in significant pain, and getting jolts of morphine to help. It only dulls the pain down, but it's good enough for a little while. She was also talking fatalistic, saying "she shouldn't have done it", it was too painful, too much trouble. Julie tried to help by pointing out why she'd done this, what the decision process was, how she was getting better. It wasn't very helpful. Julie doesn't understand, or more than this, when it comes to Mom, she can not back away from pushing for optimistic attitude.

At this moment, Mom needs to be able to express the pain, be acknowledged and validated, and that's all. No offering of solutions or positive argument/reasoning.

Also, when Mom needed some help with something, like shifting her posture, or adjusting the bed or pillows, she speaks slowly with breaths inbetween her words. Julie is so focused on immediately helping that she tries to finish her sentances for her, and then do the adjustment she finishes - without waiting to hear confirmation or correction. It was frustrating to Mom because Julie was often wrong. It was frustrating to me to sit there and witness cause I knew Julie was wrong and overly eager. I also knew that my jumping in and trying to resolve the aggitation would result in even more aggitation.

So eventually, Julie went out for a smoke break while I remained behind. We decided not to leave her alone, and she asked us to be sure to have one of us there as she found it difficult to get the staff's attention sometimes.

While Julie was out, I listened to Mom and gave her that simple, pure validation of discomfort and pain. It really helped. I was also able to 'relate' real well to her discomfort by reminding her that I had gone through very similar pain when I had my operation in '82. She appreciated that.

Julie arranged for another hotel a little further away, but half the price of the nearby one. Later, she went down for dinner, and after her, I went. While there, I spoke to Lenny and to Pam. My conversation wtih Pam was nice and long. It was well past 9pm by the time I finished. I had sat outside for dinner, and it turns out they lock the doors at 9pm so I and 3 other people were locked out. We managed to waive down someone inside to unlock it for us and I headed up to ICU again.

I took the night shift at ICU, and Julie went to the hotel for the night. I was awake until around 3am, and Mom was up and down until then as welll. Then she fell asleep until 6:30am or so.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Heart-Valve Replacement Surgery

Mom went in for the valve replacement surgery this morning. They went back and forth on what time frame it would be, from 10am to 1pm, to 10am again to 1pm again. Finally, they came at just after 10am.

Julie and I went with her to the pre-op prep room. There we consulted with the anesthesiologist. Shortly after that, he began his work getting her ready. Julie and I gave hugs and kisses, and 'checked into' the waiting room. Then we went to drop off into the car-trunk all the 'stuff' we had from the hospital room. Whew, now we were a less encumbered and could walk more freely.

Julie was very tired, and very much wanted a bath. The night before was difficult because of the errors the nurse-staff kept making, so Julie was pretty frazzled. Still, she said she just couldn't leave the hospital while Mom was in surgery. So we stopped of for lunch in the cafeteria, and then settled into the waiting room.

Tea, coffee, smoke break, computer working; tea, coffee, smoke break, computer working... Over and over again. At around 2:30ish, someone called us on the phone at the front desk to tell us that they were proceding to put the valve into place.

Tea, coffee, smoke break, computer working; tea, coffee, smoke break, computer working... Finally at around 3:30pm, Dr Guyton came out to update us on the progress. Mom was finished with the surgery, it went well, and they were 'closing up'. They said that due to her age, they had to be extra careful with the closing.

At 4pm, Dr. Thourani came out to discuss the same stuff with us. Surgery went well. There is slight leakage around the new valve, but that's to be expected - probably permanent. The flow through the valve is way better than it was before. They decided not to use the groin aortic artery for catheter observation, and instead went in through an artery in the upper right shoulder. In closing their heart incision, they removed a small portion of one of the ribs in order to have access for the closure. The rest of closure continued and should be done soon.

At 4:30pm, the pager went off, and I took the call at the front desk. Mom was all done with surgery and in the ICU on the 4th floor. Julie was out on a smoke break, so I waited until she returned, and then we moved up there to wait another hour or so for her to get comfortable enough and conscious enough to go in and visit with.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Atlanta, Heart Valve Surgery

Mom has been feeling more and more lethargic and short of breath over the past 6 weeks. This is due to the heart-valve calcification condition she was diagnosed with several years ago. The prognosis was that the condition would continue to get worse over time, leading to congestive heart failure where breathing simply becomes more and more difficult until total heart failure.

Up to 6 weeks or so ago, the situation has been getting slowly worse, but not to a point where life was very seriously curtailed. In the past 6 weeks, however, the situation has become precipitously worse. It has gotten uncomfortable enough for her that when mom heard about a heart-valve replacement study at Emory hospital in Atlanta, Georgia that involved using a catheter to do the replacement rather than full blown open heart surgery, she decided to go for it. So she and Julie packed the car and they drove up to Atlanta.

I spoke to my boss about taking time off to go to Atlanta, and he agreed. I spent as much of the weekend as I could with Pam, and then drove down to Atlanta Sunday to meet Julie and Mom at the Emory Conference Hotel about 3 blocks from the hospital.

We all three spent the night in the hotel, Julie and I had a pleasant dinner outside the hotel restaurant, and in the morning went to the hospital.

Plan was to get some tests to evaulate if she was a good candidate for the Study's catheter-from-groin surgery. Turned out she was not. Calcium buildup in her aortic arteries in her groin was too excessive and the arteries were too small to support the size catheter needed for the replacement procedure.

This was disappointing, and we had to evaluate what next to do. There were three options offered: (1) valvoplasty - temporary (4 to 6 months) fix using a balloon inflation to clear the valve of calcium buildup; (2) full open heart surgery; (3) Trans-Apical procedure - enter through lower ribs with catheter tool.

Because option (3) was also part of the study and not FDA approved, the choice between options 2 and 3 had to be randomized.

Long discussions and deliberations ensued. Chosen stragegy: If option (3) was selected, she'd do it. If option (2) was selected, then do option (1) and go home to think on what to do.

Doing the latter makes sense from a "don't rush foolhardy into something" perspective, but makes for rather an emotionally stressful decision process that needs to be made going forward.

As luck would have it, the randomization selected option (3), the TransApical procedure. Mom seemed somewhat relieved about this, as were we all. Now the sweat of decision making was basically resolved.

Numerous tests followed this afternoon to ascertain Mom's fitness level prior to surgery. It seems that other than the heart valve problem and the congestive heart failure that it brought on, her health was really quite good.

The various doctors on the surgical team, one by one, showed up for introductions and pre-surgical consultations. Questions and answers. Getting to know each other personally and get comfortable with the physicians involved.

Surgery is scheduled for Wednesday. She is the 2nd patient of the day, and they said she'd probably go in at around Noon time. Probably she'll get taken for 'prep' an hour or so before that.

I asked the cardiac surgeon (Dr. Babaliomos) various technical questions regarding the heartvalve and replacement procedure:
o) The new valve is bovine valve (bio-material).
o) The old valve is simply pushed out of the way.
o) The new valve is inside a stent. This is how the old valve is pushed out of the way. The stent is placed inside the old valve and then 'sprung' open, pushing the flaps of the old one to the edges.
o) The new valve is not sutured into place, but rather stays in place by heart-action/blood-flow pressure. The new valve is slightly larger than the aortic artery aperture. Pressure of blood flow holds it pressed against the aortic exit.
o) The stent/valve combo are compressed very small, placed inside the catheter tool, and fed through the incision on the lower chest, and to the heart.
o) The heart is not stopped for the valve insertion. Rather, it is "galloped" up to 200 or so beats per minute for 15 to 30 seconds. This results in 0 efficiency in pumping, therefore 0 blood flow, and therefore no pressure to get in the way of the insertion. Once in place, the heart resumes it's normal rate and blood flow/pressure take part in holding the valve where it belogs.


The anesthesiologist stopped by earlier this afternoon while Mom and I were away on a test, so we missed him. He left message that he'd stop by in the morning. I'd like to speak with him to specifically ask "how will they know that she isn't doped and unable to move but still conscious"? Usually these days they have some kind of monitor (brain activity monitor or something) to see the expected brain-wave pattern of unconsciousness.

I may not be in yet when the anesthesiologist shows up, so I'll tell Julie to ask about this in my stead if that's the case.



Tomorrow is a big day. Many people are offering prayers and well wishes.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

TIME GETS BETTER WITH AGE

TIME GETS BETTER WITH AGE
Read it through to the end, it gets better as you go!



I've learned that I like my teacher because she cries when we sings "Silent Night".
Age 5
I've learned that our dog doesn't want to eat my broccoli either.
Age 7
I've learned that when I wave to people in the country, they stop what they are doing and wave back.
Age 9
I've learned that just when I get my room the way I like it, Mom makes me clean it up again.
Age 12
I've learned that if you want to cheer yourself up, you should try cheering someone else up.
Age 14
I've learned that although it's hard to admit it, I'm secretly glad my parents are strict with me.
Age 15
I've learned that silent company is often more healing than words of advice.
Age 24
I've learned that brushing my child's hair is one of life's great pleasures.
Age 26
I've learned that wherever I go, the world's worst drivers have followed me there.
Age 29
I've learned that if someone says something unkind about me, I must live so that no one will believe it.
Age 30
I've learned that there are people who love you dearly but just don't know how to show it.
Age 42
I've learned that you can make some one's day by simply sending them a little note.
Age 44
I've learned that the greater a person's sense of guilt, the greater his or her need to cast blame on others.
Age 46
I've learned that children and grandparents are natural allies.
Age 47
I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
Age 48
I've learned that singing "Amazing Grace" can lift my spirits for hours.
Age 49
I've learned that motel mattresses are better on the side away from the phone.
Age 50
I've learned that you can tell a lot about a man by the way he handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.
Age 51
I've learned that keeping a vegetable garden is worth a medicine cabinet full of pills.
Age 52
I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you miss them terribly after they die.
Age 53
I've learned that making a living is not the same thing as making a life.
Age 58
I've learned that if you want to do something positive for your children, work to improve your marriage.
Age 61
I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
Age 62
I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catchers mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.
Age 64
I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you. But if you focus on your family, the needs of others, your work, meeting new people, and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you.
Age 65
I've learned that whenever I decide something with kindness, I usually make the right decision.
Age 66
I've learned that everyone can use a prayer.
Age 72
I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
Age 82
I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch-holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
Age 90
I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
Age 92
I've learned that you should pass this one on to someone you care about. Sometimes they just need a little something to make them smile.

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Mom visit - update, and Julie comes home

Mom is not feeling too great today. She said she had a difficult night sleeping, and kept waking up with her cough. She breakfasted with me, she took a shower, we talked about me and Pam, and she's now getting on her stationary bicycle to try to "clear her breathing".





She asked me if I was ok with letting go of my apartment? Letting go of the freedom to 'get away' to my place if I wanted to. I said I was afraid of the move-in, but was ok with it. Pam too is afraid, and we've discussed that with each other. Pam says she's not as good at starting up those intimate-feelings conversations. But once I start them and make 'safety' primary, she is quite good at going there with me. That is one of the most important things to me in a relationship now, and it's so good to have that with her.







Julie is back in Miami this morning, and will be back home towards late afternoon. She's had a really nice time, and I hope she got a chance for a *most* well deserved bit of relaxation.






She asked me to wash the dogs if I got the chance. But I'm just not enough of a dog-person to do that yet :). Patches has been great this time around. And Bessie, poor thing, is a sweetie. Each morning when she went outside for her morning consitition, I would follow it with a good brushing out of her undercoat - Wow that's a lot of hair!!!! I think she really liked it, and she seemed to be happier when I'd come and go. I also swept most of the floor at Julies place this morning and washed up the dishes to try to make it so she didn't come home to a complete mess of work. If she wants to wash Bessie (and this morning, I agree that she definitely needs it), I'd be happy to help her do it. But with Bessie in the condition she is in now and Julie not present, I don't think I want to do it myself. Julie knows how much to push Bessie, what her wimpers mean, and how much she can take. I don't.

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Teddy Stern

I also got a chance to talk with mom's friend, Teddy Stern, today. That was so nice. She (and Sigy) have been such a vivid and warm part of our family life. It is always wonderful to get a chance to chat with her.

Mom is making her famous Liptauer bread-spread for my trip back up to Raleigh Monday. Don't know if it will last until then :).

Merenge!

Browsing around YouTube this morning on my mother's computer. Looking at various Latin-dance lessons. Came across some Merenge stuff for which the basic-step looks dirt simple! Thought of Pam while watching it, and thinking how much we're both looking forward to getting some lessons down and doing some fun dancing together once were done with all the medical junk.
It's just a simple left-right step, over and over again. No pauses, no extra repeat stepping. It's like the shuffling dance I saw once at a Haitian wedding I went to years ago. At that time, I didn't understand and couldn't quite get it. But now I think that must have been some form of Merenge.
With the stuff I've learned from all the Mambo classes I've taken, some of the added fun-stuff - turns, swings, shifts in directions - looks pretty easy to add in.
I emailed a YouTube video to Pam that I thought was pretty good in it's lesson-combo: basic step, simple direction-changes, simple turns, etc. I think she'll get a kick out of it!

Friday, May 1, 2009

Visit while Julie goes on Vacation

Mom and I went to the doctor (scheduled appt) on Tuesday to have a check up on the leg injury she got from the dog. It was doing well. We did not go swimming that day due to all the doctor and chasing-around activity of the day. Wednesday, was a good day for her, and in the late afternoon we went swimming. Thursday, Mom was feeling poorly, and had developed a persistent cough. It does not seem infection related, and is maybe more of a talking-too-much kind of thing? Something is irritating her chest, so she coughs. Also she was feeling tired and run down all day, so we did not make it into the pool at all. Goulash for dinner!!!

Today (Friday) she's still got the cough, but it seem much much less. We're planning on the swim later and hopefully it will work out. If not, I'll try to get her to at least come down with me to the poolside. Perhaps being there will motivate her to get in .

Patches has been incredibly well behaved, I'm super impressed with him!

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Visit while Julie Takes Vacation

Julie went on her well deserved vacation cruise with Ellen this week. Due to the goings on with Pam at present, I was initial not planning on coming down. But Julie called me a couple weeks prior and said Andrea, my standin, had a family in NY to go to herself. Julie had no other backup. So I arranged for train tickets and came down last Sunday for the week. Pam is on the Gemcytoven chemo this week, and that seems to be pretty mild, so it's actually good timing as well.

I'm enjoying time to share with mom. Today I conjured up some Hungarian Goulash for us, and she gave a few small pointers. Planning on a swim in 20 minutes or so.

Bessie is having quite some diffficulty these days, even to the point where I sometimes need to hand feed her. Julie has me give her some oral medications (hidden in liverwurst) for her joint pain, and that seems to help some.

Patches has been such an incredibly good dog. He has not jumped up on me a single time, with out me asking him to first. I'm so very impressed! He's such a HAPPY-DAWG!

Sunday, April 5, 2009

New Kitchen Floor!

-------Original Message-------
From: Dr. Lisa Earle

Paydirt!!!
We got a new kitchen floor! Finally!!! Hurrah-it's beautiful!


-------Original Message-------
From: jruden






1948 England

From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Sent: Wednesday, April 01, 2009 11:49 AM
To: Steve Hirschhorn
Subject: Re: Fw: PictureMail

This was Kate, who, I thought, at that time looked so much like Walter, as I remembered him at that age( about 5 or 6...)

I took a picture with my cell phone and sent it on to my computer...don't know beans about scanning, I am afraid and am too ancient and lazy at this point to learn...:(((

I do REMEMBER THE Florida T-SHIRTS...

P.S....so good to be in touch with you, Steve -Good Luck to you in your comings and goings (and you seem to be going and going like a good battery...keep it up, Cousin Steve/ ( or "Paul " on those old pics :)!!!

L.

-------Original Message-------

From: Steve Hirschhorn
Date: 4/1/2009 11:02:58 AM
To: Dr. Lisa Earle
Subject: Re: Fw: PictureMail

wow, these are some great pictures!!!
Who is the little girl with Walter?
Are you scanning these in? I recall with some sense of guilt that I promised to help you with your (then new) scanner...

Sometimes it's good to have a wander down memory lane isn't it!

I do remember that when Granny came back from visiting you, she brought me (and maybe Robert too, I don't recall) a t shirt boldy exclaiming 'FLORIDA' in fairly garish manner - a perfect gift for a Birmingham bound kid of my ilk! You may even remember her buying it / them...
Irene wouldn't let me wear it of course. But I remember which is what it's all about isn't it...

Actually Walter hasn't really filled in too much of the extended family details and I wouldn't want to push him. What he did do was explain why he never visited and why we lost touch with everyone.
He was always painted as the evil of the piece by Irene - right up to recent times in fact. You probably know that Simon used to visit Irene - they seemed to get on rather well - I fear poor Simon was no threat and so was accepted on her terms. Through Simon then, we kept more or less up to date with Walter - at least we knew that he was back in Austria and so on.
I don't know if you know what happened when Irene died.. I immediately contacted the authorities in Graz, both civil and Jewish (I didn't know then that Walter had never considered himself part of the Jewish community) by email and received a telephone call from a charming lady at the Graz Rat Haus who gave me Walter's number. I sent her a huge bunch of flowers in gratitude!

OK, back to work!

bye for now
love
s


--------------------------------
2009/4/1 Dr. Lisa Earle

Another find....a (very) faded picture of your Granny, myself and Walter, when I visited England after D-day in 1947 or 8, I believe!

You got me wading through all those boxes and albums of old photographs and I am enjoying marching through memory lane...

Love,
Lisa



Sharing (Family Pics...)

From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Sent: Wednesday, April 01, 2009 10:54 AM
To: Dave Ruden; Julie
Subject: Fw: PictureMail

Sharing (family pics...)


-------Original Message-------
From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Date: 4/1/2009 10:51:46 AM
To: WALTER ROY
Subject: Fw: PictureMail

Steve Hirschhorn asked me if I had any photos of your mother (my Aunt Hermine, of course) and I did find some very faded, old pictures, that I sent on. Thought you might like to share them, Walter...

Hope, all is well with you all!

All my love,
Lisa



-------Original Message-------

From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Date: 3/31/2009 2:39:35 PM
To: s.hirschhorn@googlemail.com
Subject: Fw: PictureMail

Dear Steve'

I am sending you three very faded photographs of your Granny, one with you and Robert as small little boys (in the back it said: "Joschi's two boys" ), one taken when she visited with us in Fort Lauderdale in 1957, I believe, then another one with her sister Klari(I just took her face, but will in my next Email send you the other too...). Klara was the only survivor from my family, which perished in the Concentration camp -you might have gotten the story from Walter, I suppose.

I hope you can see some of it, if it comes through. I still am looking for the one (a better one) of you and Granny...

My best to your lovely wife, Andrea and the rest of the family. How is your daughter by now -all better, I am sure...When you are young, you heal fast! I personally am getting more ancient and decrepit each day - old age is definitely not for Sissies...

Love,
Lisa








Thursday, April 2, 2009

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Sent: Wednesday, April 01, 2009 9:10 AM
To: Dave Ruden; Julie; WALTER ROY; timely87
Subject: :)))

________________________________________
THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

"The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year." - Mark Twain

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

To Steve Hirschhorn

From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Sent: Wednesday, April 01, 2009 1:38 PM
To: Steve Hirschhorn
Subject: The Rosenbergs...

Me again...

Just thinking...

A few years ago, Walter and I started to write about our (ilustrious?) family, the Rosenbergs, starting from my Grandfather Jacob (also your father, Joschi's (Jo's) Rosenberg, a quite brilliant, well travelled(like YOU.:))), multi-lingual (spoke nine languages etc.,Individual. We visualized another "Forsythe Saga" (Galsworthy)or "The Buddenbrocks" (Thomas Mann?), but never got very far and the project sort of died along the way...I have a mountain of notes and tries and so must have Walter.

I thought, you might be the one who could make a "Bestseller" out of the story, I think you are a gifted writer, very detailed. You should consider this a Side project - I imagine, you would have to take tape recordings, personal interviews, may be, etc. What do you think -interested?

Incidentally, a bit of memory lane walking: Did you know, that Hermann Hirschhorn, Jo's father, who died before I was born (TB), was a gifted Violinist? Also, Walter father, Emil, a Gentile Rumanian Nobleman, was converted to Judaism, before Hermine's father, Jacob, would consent to their marriage? (Your Granny was a widow with two children at that time, Joschi and Julie). So Walter is biologically considered half Jewish, half Gentile and so probably found it easier, not to get too involved with the Jewish community, when his family moved to England. After what Hitler did to the Jews, I can't blame him...There used to be a saying: "It's hard to be a Jew"...
So if you do have a choice, chances are, you take the other side...

Think about the above!

Hope all is well with you and yours!

Love,
Lisa

Monday, March 30, 2009

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

Treasure each precious moment...

Love, MOM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THOUGHT OF THE DAY:
"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." - Eleanor Roosevelt
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Thursday, March 5, 2009

THOUGHT OF THE DAY

From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Sent: Wednesday, March 04, 2009 9:35 AM
To: Dave Ruden; Julie; WALTER ROY; timely87; donnarae
Subject: !!!

...and there is so much that I don't know...:)))
...that much I DO know...
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THOUGHT OF THE DAY:

"An education isn't how much you have committed to memory, or even how much you know. It's being able to differentiate between what you do know and what you don't." - Anatole France

Friday, January 23, 2009

Audrey Isabella - Irene Clark's GrandDaughter

-------Original Message-------
From: Dr. Lisa Earle [mailto:drlisaearle@embarqmail.com]
Sent: Friday, January 23, 2009 8:08 AM
To: Dave Ruden; Julie
Subject: Fw: A picture of Audrey Isabella

...must share...a true, little beauty...



-------Original Message-------
From: Irene L Clark
Date: 1/23/2009 12:23:16 AM
To: drlisaearle@embarqmail.com
Subject: A picture of Audrey Isabella

Dear Aunt Liesl:
Here is the latest picture of our cute little granddaughter.
Love,
Irene

Irene L. Clark Ph.D.
Director of Composition
Professor of English
California State University, Northridge

Friday, January 2, 2009

New Year card from Irene Clark


The card was a cute teddy-bear populated version of a classical music performance at the Vienna Musikverein hall...




-------Original Message-------
From: irene.clark
Date: 12/31/2008 4:17:50 PM
To: drlisaearle
Subject: A card from Irene Clark

Dear Lisa Earl,

Irene Clark has sent you a Jacquie Lawson electronic greeting card.


Best wishes





-------Original Message-------
From: Dr. Lisa Earle
Date: 12/31/2008 4:47:47 PM
To: irene.clark
Subject: Re: A card from Irene Clark

How delightful, thanks for being so thoughtful ...

Where did you ever find this wonderful card? As a child, I remember playing in the Stadtpark, where the golden statue of Johann Strauss reigned over the beautifully landscaped gardens...memories, memories...

Happy New Year once more,
Love to you and your great family,
Aunt Lisl and Julie