For the love of music!

Last night we had a late night and waking up to a 6:30 am alarm was going to be slightly difficult to say the least. But, for the love that I have for Mozart, I had to do it - and it wasn't half bad!

The guest speaker was not as informative as in the past, but that is OK.....We had the complete honor of SF Symphony Conductor Laureate Herbert Blomstedt. He was the conductor from 1985-1995. What a TREAT! I must say that he is in EXCELLENT condition for being 82 years old!!!

They played Mozart - Symphony No. 36, Linz. As always, I did a little research beforehand about Linz and Mozart and the writing of the symphony. Every piece has a story and this one is just as interesting. Made me think about mental illness. So many artists are noted to be 'schizophrenic' and makes me think about why this is. My guess is that when you are such a GENIUS in your field, perhaps you are not as balanced in other areas?

Anyway, the performance BLEW ME AWAY - AGAIN! It was so utterly moving - yes, of course to tears again!! I really want to say that THIS performance may have been the best one ever! I want to ask the others in the crowd....Are you just as BLOWN away as me by this performance? Or 'Do you take this talent for granted being somewhat 'accustomed' to hearing such precision?' When they finished playing the Mozart, the conductor told the orchestra, "What a guy, what a guy!!"

As I was listening I was trying to find the words to describe what I was witnessing! Sorry, you'll have to come up and listen for yourself to get the FULL effect - no words can really describe it!!! For the Mozart piece there were 50 violins with the full orchestra!! Imagine!! 50!!! All playing, at times together. AT ONCE! Sometimes, answering each other. But ALL of the time, moving the piece along with tender, sweet, and aggressive precision! I came home and looked online to learn more about this versatile instrument. I mean, it can be a bluegrass fiddler to a symphonic icon!!! Also, did you know there were 13 bowing techniques, according to Wikipedia anyway? They don't just move that bow back and forth.....they:

Detache

Martele

Colle

Spiccato

Legato

Sautille

Jete

Loure

Arpeggio

Tremolo

Col legno

Shuffle

Chopping

I think between the Mozart piece and the Bruckner piece they used every single one!! I really found a new appreciation for this beautiful instrument in a way that surprises me. I usually place my attention on the cellos, the clarinet of course, bassoon, and french horn.

The Symphony No. 6 - Bruckner piece was just as impressive. It was played with 20 violins and a much smaller orchestra. The oboe and bassoon were major contributors and always a delight! About half way through, I noticed that the conductor did not open his score! He knew it ALL without looking at the score!!! Then, afterwards, opened the score and discussed certain areas with the musicians and repeated certain areas.

My job as Donut Girl also went well. Today, a patron approached me and THANKED us for volunteering!!! That was super sweet!! I'll have to remember that one! I work with four other ladies and one man. We have interesting discussions before the patrons arrive and I am always intrigued about their interesting perspectives on the arts, San Francisco and life in general.

On Facebook, my mom wrote about my love for classical music. I had to set the record straight..... I have been told that some find it odd that I am sooooo diversified when it comes to music. I can rock it with the best of them - Buckcherry - to Country - to Black Eyed Peas - to Norah Jones - back to Classical! I mean, I truly LOVE. It. ALL!! The only genre that I never really consumed was the Hard Rock - you know, the screaming into the microphone type of Ozzy Osbourne stuff!! Can you blame me? Come on!!

Also today I found myself thinking of Mr. Selleck, my band director in High School, love, family and how fortunate I am to be in a place where I am able to enjoy this LUXURIOUS gift of the SF Symphony, once again.

Sharing the LOVE kind of weekend!

Amy, Pnut and Daisy (her dogs) drove to Merced from Huntington Beach on Friday night. On Saturday, Amy, Pnut, Daisy, Andrew, Erika and Kaelyn had a road trip up to SF - arriving in the early afternoon. It was a Taylor weekend so the whole family was together - a BIG TREAT!!! This rarely happens and we were really looking forward to it. Taylor LOVES his step-niece and treasures the time spent with her.

They arrived HUNGRY of course so after feeding them, we were ready to start the day! Since we just had our 'tour of Nob Hill' the other night, we thought they would enjoy doing the same so we all hoped on the bus and headed over! Uncle David was finished with his golf tournament so he was able to join in the fun!

Here we are, on the bus. I was showing her the CITY!!

She listened and loved it!

While waiting for our connection, Taylor and I walked her around.

What a trooper!

First stop, Grace Cathedral in all its GLORY! They are celebrating their 100th year! We went inside and it was beautiful! At only 100 years old, just a BABY compared to Europe!

But still SPLENDID!

We also went up to the Top of the Mark! We planned on getting a beverage but there was a 30 minute wait AND a $15 cover charge/person!!! CRAZY!! So, the kids snuck around, took some pictures, (you can see some of the pictures on Amy's blog spot - get there by clicking on her blog on the right) and then we headed over to The Fairmont - where the photos of the earthquake and such are. We ended up, as we did a few nights before, in the courtyard and took a few more pics.

On Sunday we went to our church - Calvary Presbyterian Church. Going to the landmark hotels was enjoyable with the kids but I think sitting in the old pews, hearing God's words MAY have been a highlight of mine. Of course a goal in life is to ensure at least our children and grandchildren KNOW God, worship Him, and live their life according to His will. It did my heart good just being close to God, in this grand church, with its music, message and close to them, all at the same time.

After church we ate lunch then headed over to Golden Gate Park. When Taylor was 2 years old, Dick would take him over and feed the ducks and I wanted to continue this special tradition with Kaelyn. She was a little nervous around the ducks - she was also very tired and in need of a nap too - but enjoyed it.

Walking around the pond.

As you can see, my heart soars being with this little girl!!

I think she loves her Grandma too!! ;)

We had a lot of fun in front of the Mac playing around in the Photo Booth.

You can look at all of our other crazy pics by clicking here.

Many laughs, hugs and kisses - the PERFECT Valentine's Day weekend! Yea, I know, it is only a 'Hallmark made Holiday,' and really EVERY DAY we should be showing the ones we love how much we care for them... but it gives an excuse to show MORE mushiness than usual, and pairing it up with a 3-day President's weekend worked out well with the kid's work/school schedule. I hope it becomes a TRADITION!! Lots of love to share and so many blessings to be thankful for.

They left on Monday and the house was sooooooooo quiet!!! I remember my mom having withdrawals after family was visiting her...now I know the feeling. Funny how when your children are small, you think it will always be the core family, living together, forever. Then, POOF one day, they are GROWN UP, living their own lives..... such is life and the cycle repeats itself again and again.

Funny how God places people together. I ALWAYS placed my children as the most important, probably above my children's father too. At times I would feel that maybe it was the wrong thing to do but could not help myself! I always felt that Amy, Andrew and I had a very strong connection - the three musketeers, the three Amigos.... When I met Dick and saw how he places Taylor with such high importance, I saw myself!!! I appreciate how he is able to keep Taylor as a top priority. THANKFULLY we found each other and totally understand how much our children NEED to feel our unconditional love and how much we LOVE to show them!! THANKFULLY we are mature enough to know that we have our time when they leave and keep each other as a priority. Thank you God for leading us to each other!!

May you continue to feel the love and be near to the special bonds you've been able to nurture in your own lives, today and always!!

Pre Valentine's DayS

Wednesday, February 10th

Due to a busy family-fun-filled weekend coming up, Dick gave me a very sweet Valentine's Day card and told me to 'be ready by 6 pm tonight' for an evening he had planned. He loves the element of surprise - at times! ;) and I love receiving them! :-)

We leave the house and I anticipate getting in the car but he continues walking down the street! Ohhh, we may be walking to a nearby restaurant.....NOPE, He hails a taxi! He tells the driver the address, not the name of the place, in order to 'protect the secret for his Wifey'.

We end up a a very quaint place that we've been to twice before - about 4 years ago - called Venticello. We enjoyed our 2+ hour dinner and felt PREEEEEETTY special! Good going Dickey!!

After a delicious tiramisu we were in need of a walk!!! Three or four blocks up.... we pass the enormous Grace Cathedral Church..... crossing the street and then taking the elevator up in the Mark Hopkins Hotel to the 17th floor - Top of the Mark! WOW! I'd never been! Dick's GRANDMOTHER would take the family up here when he was a little boy! A definite hot spot in Nob Hill. It was a clear night and absolutely beautiful 360 degree views!! Live music on the dance floor so we ordered a beverage and kicked up our heels!!

Before leaving this beautiful area, we wandered around the Fairmont Hotel - oh my!! Soooo fancy, marble marble and more marble.....another landmark hotel with so much history! There were photos in a hallway to the banquet rooms so we read all about the 1906 earthquake and the destruction it did to this area. The hallway ended at the square in the center of the hotel, where a water fountain, park lights, benches, and the skyline of SF was hanging out. Since it was so nice outside, we hung around in this area for awhile. We left the Fairmont and walked over to The Stanford Hotel - yup, another landmark - before taking a cab home before the clock struck midnight!!

Quite a memorable night and thought I'd share!

Thursday, February 11th

David Nash was to arrive in the early afternoon. He officiates for college golf and had a tournament to work this weekend at Stanford. After picking Taylor up from school, we all went out for a burger at Barney's and was able to catch up with what Tay and David have been up to.

On Friday Taylor had a Teacher's In-Service Day so he had a friend over and they played all day long! In the evening, David and Vasi invited us all over for a Lamb Curry dinner!! What a TREAT! Good times, good food, GREAT friends and fun evening!

We better get some rest cuz the Pirtle kids are coming up for the President's weekend!!

Truest Love!

Meant to post this on Valentine's Day..... Hope you still enjoy!!

My Child,

You may not know me,
but I know everything about you.
Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up.
Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways.
Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.
Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image.
Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being.
Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring.
Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived.
Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation.
Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake,
for all your days are written in my book.
Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth
and where you would live.
Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born.
Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented
by those who don’t know me.
John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry,
but am the complete expression of love.
1 John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.
1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child
and I am your Father.
1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.
Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.
Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless
as the sand on the seashore.
Psalms 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you.
Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires.
Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you
than you could possibly imagine.
Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you
in all your troubles.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted,
I am close to you.
Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb,
I have carried you close to my heart.
Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away
every tear from your eyes.
Revelation 21:3-4

And I’ll take away all the pain
you have suffered on this earth.
Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you
even as I love my son, Jesus.
John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.
John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being.
Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you,
not against you.
Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression
of my love for you.
1 John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved
that I might gain your love.
Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus,
you receive me.
1 John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you
from my love again.
Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I’ll throw the biggest party
heaven has ever seen.
Luke 15:7

I have always been Father,
and will always be Father.
Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is…
Will you be my child?
John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you.
Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad
Almighty God

Father’s Love Letter used by permission Father Heart Communications Copyright 1999-2009

Must have been the SPINACH to aid in my PB!!

A Personal Best for me today! I am soooooo excited to FINALLY have achieved my goal! I really thought that it was too big for me to achieve but after 10 YEARS, I got there today!!

About 10 years ago, I began swimming at the Merced College pool. Can you believe it has been that long? Where does the time go? I would admire the swimmers and who could continue to swim lap after lap and I was stopping after 2!! I've continued to extend my number of laps with the help of fins and kick boards over the years. On an average day, I would swim 80 laps - 50 free style, 20 with kick board and 10 freestyle using fins. I've been pretty comfortable, proud and happy doing this for awhile now.

Being up here in SF, the fitness level bar has been RAISED! It seems like everyone is in GREAT shape! Nothing wrong with being in the best shape we can possibly be in! When I go to the pool, women my age are out there speeding in the pool, and are so muscular! Yea, no need to compare, but it is a fact and it makes me strive for doing the the best I can - which there is always room for improvement. So, I started thinking about a goal and wanted to be able to swim a mile - without the use of kick boards and fins. I did not set a time table, just wanted to work toward it.

Well, TODAY IS THAT DAY!! Not sure how that happened. I was not planning on making it happen today. Everything was feeling really good, I had the time and after I swam my first 40 free style, I thought, "That felt good, maybe I'll add 10 more today." And then, 10 more, still feeling good......then it occurred to me, I was pretty close to that 71 lap = a mile and went for it. I actually finished 80 laps (2000 yards) in 40 minutes!

When I reflect back on what I had eaten.... maybe it helped.....

For dinner last night: Egg, spinach, portabella mushroom casserole that I made - yummy!

For breakfast this morning: 1/2 Cinnamon Raisin bagel and coffee

For lunch today: Spinach salad with tuna fish and 1/2 sweet potatoe

So, there you go! It was the SPINACH!!!! Popeye was right!!!

Oh yea, did I tell you that this was AFTER Dick and I ran our 5 mile loop? Crazy eh? So, the bottom line? Eat your spinach, I am!! hahaha

Next goal? Run the 5 miles and swim 1 mile every day for 1 week. Timetable? Nope. Just someday, it'll be done.

Well, gotta give that dog a bath now, she has a job to do on Thursday and all of our kids will be here in SF this weekend - along with brother David - so she has to smell purty!

Extended Weekend Update

On Saturday, January 30th we attended the ZAP (Zinfandel Advocates & Producers) festival at Fort Mason. Our wine friend, Gary, was able to get us tickets from our yummy Zinfandel producing Biale Winery to attend during the special, more private tastings starting at 10 a.m. The general public was able to enter at 1 p.m. We were able to taste a bunch of Zin, that is for sure! Of course our good friends David and Vasi were with us, tasting and learning as we cruised the TWO warehouses FULL of Zin Wineries - I think they say about 250 different wineries. We were able to hit about 35 of them from 10 a.m - 5 p.m. They had wonderful cheese, breads, crackers and fruit to offer, along with lots of SmartWater - thankfully!! Our winner? Well, besides Biale of course......we enjoyed Gamba, D-cubed, Seghesio, and Brown if I could just name a few.....

Here is our infamous wineguy, Gary (on the left)

and the winemaker from Seghesio.

Brothers from different mothers!

Hey, it was a 'Hawaiian' theme'

After 7 hours of wine tasting, (no, that is not a typo) and enjoying a GREAT dinner in our 'hood' we were up and out of SF by 9:30 the next morning! WHEW! We were able to give my mom and Frank a hug goodbye in Merced before they left for AZ for the next 2 months and were in Visalia by 2:30 that afternoon!

First stop when in Visalia? Poopa, of course!!! We were happy the Rehab center allowed us to bring Gabby. Poopa loves animals and loves Gabby very much so it was really nice to bring her along! I think she liked it too!

He looks GREAT and was anticipating going home on Friday!! We heard today that he fell asleep in his wheelchair this afternoon and slipped out of it!! So, now they want him to stay at the Rehab facility until Tuesday! He is disappointed in this because he was really counting the days to go home since it has been exactly 1 month today that he has been in the hospital. He is able to walk using the walker and was feeling really good when we saw him! We are so thankful! On our last visit with him on Tuesday he was in the Exercise Room and we were able to watch him do his routine. During the 'Arm Raises' he started swinging his arms above his head, saying, "Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!" We all had a good laugh and enjoyed seeing 'the OLD Poops" on a roll! hahahhaa!!!

Jane, Dick's mom, put together a small birthday dinner with some friends for Dick. He is a very fortunate man to have such loving, caring, God-loving friends for soooo many years! I am always amazed and count these blessings as TRUE gifts. Many thanks to Jane for implementing such a special evening!

We left Visalia and went to our scheduled Dentist appointments in Merced. No visit to Merced is complete though without spending time with our grandbaby - Kaelyn. What a way to 'forget' about any pain and numbing a Dentist can give! hahaha!! Spend an afternoon playing with her and one is easily able to FORGET all concerns! She is 17 months old now and full of energy! We played with toys, covered babies with blankets, rode the rocking horse, hugged and she even gave lots of kisses to me!! She fell asleep in my arms - a BIG favorite of mine! Her Daddy came home from work, played with her and she gave him BIG SMILES!! They are a very happy family and my heart SOARS!

Riding the horse!

With water cup in hand!!

Playing with Daddy!

Look at that smile!!

Safely arriving a little late last night, but all worth it. So thankful we were able to see for ourselves that Poopa is healing and in good spirits! Thankful for family and friends and the TIME to go on such a trip!