DIARY OF GEORGIA MY LIFE MY LOVE 6

Georgia and her two friends, Art and Allen, planned a three day skiing trip up at Georgia and Fredrick’s mountain cabin. The cabin was a very sturdy building with four bedrooms and a bath and a half. Georgia and the guys were out cross country skiing all day when a sudden, severe storm blows into the area. The three friends made it back to the cabin, but after unexpected piles of snow began to gather up outside, making travel impossible, they decided to hunker in and stay warm and safe.

Since it was too late in the evening with too many snow drifts on the road to leave they decided to stay in the cabin.

While the two men made sure there was plenty of wood inside the cabin they put up three red flags on the side of the door to let others know there were people inside just in case an emergency search was needed. The car was backed into the garage so that it pointed out towards the road.

Georgia left a message on Fredrick’s cell, work phone and just in case on their home phone letting him know where the trio were and the conditions of the unexpected storm. The majority of people killed after being trapped in snowstorms are those who have wandered from shelter. She then turned her phone off to conserve the battery even tho she had an extra charged battery in her duffel bag.

The doors and windows had all been sealed with storm windows and storm doors to preserve heat. She also closed off and sealed any drafts under the doors of the two back bedrooms. Georgia had stocked the four bedrooms with plenty of blankets and extra clothing for men, women and children just in case someone ever did ever get caught up there in a storm.

The pantry was well stocked with canned and dry foods and plenty of gallon jugs of water were on hand. Flashlights, batteries, candles and medical needs were also stocked in the cabin. All around the outside of the four bedroom windows the shutters were closed with the backs of these shutters being painted a bright red. The bright red was to call attention to people in the town that if there were an emergency storm people were inside.

The trio decided it was time to keep a small fire going to prevent the chimney from clogging up with snow and ice and blocking the air flow. That would be a disaster if smoke blocked up as they could all die. They also decided to take turns sleeping in four hour shifts so that two would always be awake to keep the fire a low dancing flames instead of a roaring fire.

There was always a pot of water warm next to the heat for instant coffee, tea or drinks for the two that were awake playing games or talking. When the four hour sleeper was wakened the three of them would turn on the emergency short wave radio on to listen to five or ten minutes of news.

The first night went well and everyone was warm and well fed. A small breakfast was made then Art quickly crawled up into the attic space to look out the small upstairs window. He took his digital camera with him and got shots of how high the snow had piled during the night.

Downstairs he showed the others how high the snow had piled and they determined it was way above the door. It was still snowing outside but not as much as the night before. They decided to go up to the window every hour to see if it was possible for them to go out one of the side doors and start shoveling out.

Soon a rumbling went on outside, what a horrific sound just like a freight train going over the roof. All three huddled together and waited. The silence came. The all knew there had been an avalanche.

Georgia screamed “ The chimney, the chimney, we have to keep it open for the smoke to escape!”

They all sat at the table to collect their thoughts and make a plan.

They knew they were trapped but they had to be calm and plan a solution to make a space for the air to come into the cabin.

Together they made a list of things to do. First was to make sure there was fresh air then check the structure of the cabin.

Allen went into the garage and saw that there were downspouts up in the rafters and a bunch of two by fours. There were many tools and a sledge hammer. He was very happy to see this assortment.

Art had crawled back up into the attic and to his happiness there was a thin crack of the blue sky streaming through the window.

Georgia kept watch on the small fire noting that the smoke was still flowing upwards.

The trio now sat at the candle lit table, each with a cup of soup and reported to each other what they had found and observed. A prayer was said that they were happy to be alive and then they started their plan to make themselves safe until they were found.

©Julia A Knaake

DIARY OF GEORGIA MY LIFE MY LOVE 5

While in Texas I was working as a freelance photographer. I made a fairly decent living as a photographer but my heart wasn't into taking pictures. I was always lost in my thoughts. I hooked up with a rodeo taking pictures for publicity. I wasn't paid much but always had a place to sleep and food in my stomach.

When one of the riders was hurt I thought what the heck I only need one arm on the rope for eight seconds so I filled in as a standby and enjoyed it immensely. I knew it as a hobby and not a profession.

Soon after I settled down and joined a big corporation and worked myself up the ladder as a buyer for wines and cheese. I was passionate in this quest and enjoyed flying off to other countries. The company liked that I was always there to work never asking for time off for family problem.

Little did I know there would be heartbreaking problems in my future.

The president  of the company took a liking to me and often invited me to his home. His wife was always pleasant and I felt so at home. This is where I met Candice, their only child. Unknown to me she had a breakup with another lover and was visiting her parents. Seeing that her parents really liked me she decided it was time to settle down and I was her next target.

After a short whirlwind courtship we were married in big style and our gift from her parents was a home filled with all the things Candice desired. With me working for the company I was not home every time Candice wanted me and her eye went roving again.

The drunken parties and orgies all went on when I was not at home and Candice and I became strangers in our own home. She wanted no children and our intimacy went off into the wind. The last straw was when I came home a week early and found her in our bed with three men. She screamed at me to leave her house so I packed up my belongings and left that night. There was no resolving the marriage and it ended in a divorce. Candice went her way and I went mine.

I continued working for Candices father because he and his wife understood that I tried to keep the marriage to their daughter intact but she just was too spoiled to even care about the two of us and our wedding vows. She was quite incorrigible.

I flew to Paris often and when not working I scoured the antique shops and resale shops looking for Petrolena items to add to my collection. One shop caught my interest and my eyes went directly to a painting that resembled Georgia and myself. I went into the shop and a robust lady behind the counter actually came over to me speaking French and started to hug and kiss me. I was quite surprised when she spoke to me using my name. She must have noticed my surprised as she slowed down and spoke to me in French:

Vous êtes l’amour perdu de la Géorgie. Elle était mon étudiante de peinture et elle pined pour vous souhaitant qu’elle ne vous avait pas si ignoré. Bienvenue dans ma boutique, cher Frédéric.

You are Georgia’s lost love. She was my painting student and she pined for you wishing she had not ignored you so much.

Welcome into my shop dear Frederick.

She went to the shop window and pulled out the picture Georgia had painted and wrapped it in tissue paper then in a paisley scarf saying “Frederick when you see Georgia give her this shawl from her friend Rose.”

Eventually I met up with my beloved Georgia and told her this story then gave her the scarf.

Connecting

The feeling of your touch

when physically not there

brings great joy and pleasure

feeling forever connected

When time to say I love you it is said by both in unison it’s a natural occurrence you see feeling forever connected

united for a mutual cause

makes the quest smooth

and meaningfully bound

feeling forever connected

Little things may not be much

knowing that you really care

is more than a golden treasure

feeling forever connected

pleasures sensing what you do

feelings for that special person

being in love is a choice to be

feeling forever connected

There are no hand written laws

it’s only in your heart that does move

where joined feelings united abound

feeling forever connected

©Julia A Knaake

DIARY OF GEORGIA MY LIFE MY LOVE 4

"I'll get rid of her, honey, can I borrow some of your clothes ? "

Georgia told him that was fine but wondered what he was up to this time. After the Club left Allen was in the kitchen helping Georgia tidy up and Georgia informed him that Beatrix had declined the offer to join the Garden Club. " I know, honey I did my best to help her decide not to join and those pink high heels were too tight for my big feet ! " "Oh, Allen you didn't, but yes you did oh, I do love you my friend I really do. "

"Georgia you should have heard me I put on such an act that even Sarah Bernhardt would have applauded me. " The two school chums giggled and toasted each other with a glass of wine.

The seafood and the other items arrived from Seattle on Friday afternoon along with a big pot of basil and a beautiful wreath made of fresh rosemary and a red ribbon with an attached pair of scissors for snipping. A note card attached to the rosemary addresses to Georgia. Inside the note said;

'Rosemary is for remembering

to my Sweetheart Georgia

my love forever your Frederick'

The party went well for Allen and the barbershop quartet Art had hired were a great hit. There were tears in both Allen and Arts eyes when they saw the painting Georgia had created for them.

Georgia was true to her promise to take Betsy on a long country ride in the Tucker whenever Betsy asked. They drove out in the country on long rolling roads with Betsy's aide Madeline and had a glorious ride. Georgia found a picnic table on the sunny side of the road and making sure Betsy was covered and warm the trio had a nice picnic. Madeline had packed sandwiches and mugs of tomato soup and coffee. She even had some little tea cakes for dessert. Madeline got up and walked to the edge of the woods and turned around and started singing " Amazing Grace "

Madeline was standing in a patch of wild violets looking like an angel. Georgia was out on the patio when a susurrous breeze flowed through the trees.

She felt a slight chill while reaching for her sweater but stayed at the table to enjoy

her morning coffee and croissants laden with orange marmalade. Bebe and Frito scampered around playing with falling leaves. Fall was early this year. The woodpile needed to be tidied because the playful chipmunk's had been scurrying around on top of of the logs and a few had tumbled from the neat stack. She made a mental list of the fall chores including to check if the summer tools were still workable and to bring out the snow shovels.

Sam and Anita drove up in their 1958 Chevy Apache Cameo Pickup Truck. She invited them for breakfast. They accepted and sat and chatted a while. Sam

was bragging about Anita's preparation of food while Anita said she owed it all to her great teacher Georgia. Then Anita asked Georgia if she could teach her how to make baby food.

"Baby food?"asked Georgia. Sam blurted out "we're having a baby in May !" "How wonderful" happily replied Georgia. Sam said they had come over to look at Georgia's car but both the women knew he just wanted to bring the good news about the baby. Georgia and Anita just smiled and chatted about the new arrival. Anita and Georgia set a date to go shopping for baby furniture the next week. The weather was starting to cool off in the evenings so Georgia started a big pot of navy bean and ham hock soup for dinner then finished packing some paintings for clients.

She had gone to Paris studying painting right after Berkeley while I went to Vietnam. Our letters to each other were few and far between but each never forgot the other. I had been flying helicopters with uncle James and learned many skills as a young man that many grown men did not know. Uncle James was a stickler for safety and I learned to fly with accuracy. Staying only four years in service to my country to me it was a lifetime seeing the horrors of war. I had been wounded having muscle damage to one arm. When I returned to the states I drifted for a while roaming from state to state seeing the beauty of my country and often thinking of my lost love Georgia.

©Julia A Knaake

DIARY OF GEORGIA MY LIFE MY LOVE 3

The two men had been school chums of Georgia's. They both loved her because she seemed to be the only one that understood why they were meant for each other. Allen and Art fell in love with each other when they were in their late teens. The two men  had been through thick and thin with their relatives and a few friends, except Georgia. She was their true friend and would always be there for them to help explain the fears and joys in their lives.

The two of them came to help her and, Georgia, used to doing her own work, found all this new free time a bit annoying. She decided she must pull herself out of this slump and start another painting but what of she had not decided. Allen came upstairs bringing her art supplies and a comfy stool.  Perfect height for her to sit on, leaving her alone with a bell in case she needed anything. Art came up later saying he was going shopping and did she need anything at the store.

" No, Art, unless you can think of something for me to paint.  My mind is drawing a blank and I've painted the cats several times."

Art gave Georgia is a picture of Allen and himself when they were in Mexico a few months ago.

" His birthday is next month so see what magic you can weave."

What a wonderful idea Georgia thought and immediately started

thinking up a background with a water theme to compliment her two friends. The afternoon rolled  around quickly.  

The floral delivery of long stemmed yellow roses brought a poem from Frederick:

Connecting

The feeling of your touch

when physically not there

brings great joy and pleasure

feeling forever connected

When time to say I love you

it is said by both in unison

it's a natural occurrence you see

feeling forever connected

united for a mutual cause

makes the quest smooth

and meaningfully bound

feeling forever connected

Little things may not be much

knowing that you really care

is more than a golden treasure

feeling forever connected

pleasures sensing what you do

feelings for that special person

being in love is a choice to be

feeling forever connected

There are no hand written laws

it's only in your heart that does move

where joined feelings united abound

feeling forever connected

To my little girl, I love you...Frederick

Georgia placed her left thumb into her right palm. She knew at that exact time Frederick would feel her touch.

She had  finished the painting of Allen and Art and was putting away the art supplies when the phone rang.

“Hi Sweetheart I'm stuck in Seattle so won't be home for another week.  I might as well stay here because I have a wine conference to go to on Wednesday. Do you need anything from Seattle ? "

“ Yes, Darling, how about shipping out a whole large King Salmon and a couple of large bags of fresh oysters.

 I'm having a birthday party for Allen on Saturday.  I could barbecue the salmon on a cedar plank. Will cook the oysters directly on the grill with some butter and Louisiana hot sauce on the side.

Send some bags of jalapenos and fresh basil also."

I said would do  that gladly I don't have to eat the seafood even tho'  her sweet hands would be preparing the food. Art would be preparing the rest of the dinner she would make sure to save me a big piece of cake so I was happy.

I'm going to check out a place in Seattle that had some Gilmore items for sale. I am a collector of Petroliana. We have globes, pumps and advertisements from the Gilmore Oil Company downstairs in the barn. Today I have a lead on a collection license plate toppers. Oh how wonderful it was that the barn could hold this large collection of Gilmore.

That evening the Garden Club was held in the barn. Each member brought a friend to introduce them to the Club in hopes that they would become a member.

Georgia was annoyed that a member had brought big mouth Beatrix. This Beatrix woman  hogged all the conversation. Almost everyone was hoping she would decline the invitation to join.

 Allen was there and noticed Georgia's gloom. Once they were in the kitchen alone Allen asks Georgia

" What's wrong Georgia honey ? "

"Oh, Beatrix is such an annoying big mouth know-it-all. I hope she doesn't join the Garden Club because we will lose members for sure." replies Georgia.

©Julia A Knaake

DIARY OF GEORGIA MY LIFE MY LOVE 2

Arriving home a few days later I call out,

"Georgia, sweetheart where you?" " I missed you and took an earlier flight home."

" Hi Darling, you're home a day early and I love you too."

" I missed you and I love you too Sweetheart why on earth are you all covered with grime and grease ?"

" Darling I was working on my new rod, come on see it, give me you opinion if I should have it paint or retain the nice original paint with buffing to just bring shine."

"OMG Georgia do you know what you have here in this shed ?"

"Yeps, sh-or do honey it's a 1948 Tucker."

"Sweetheart she's a looker and from the outside looks in good shape."

"Why are you all dirty let me get Sam to come over and help you with the grunge work."

Georgia agrees only if Sam would bring his wife, Anita over so she could teach her how to make authentic Mexican tamales. Sam loved his wife dearly but she could not cook anything unless it came out of a box with directions on the back. How he longed for some of his Mother's pork tamales.

We talked about the history of the Tucker and how Georgia was now the owner.

Georgia had gone to an art auction with her friend Matilda and Matilda's mother Betsy.

Betsy took a liking to Georgia just as everyone else does that meets my sweetheart. Betsy was reminiscing about her late husband and how they had taken long rides in the countryside. Betsy had not driven for over two years so Georgia offered to take her on a ride. Betsy brought a big picnic basket and they went for a long ride in the country.

When Georgia took her back home Betsy took her to the garage and showed her the car Elmer had given her long ago. He bought the car brand new in 1948 giving it to her saying that it was a car for a woman to drive. Elmer had it at the shop getting it serviced and polished the day he died. Two months after the death of Elmer a man came to her house and insisted on buying her car but she declined his offer.

Betsy had Matilda's husband secure the garage and Betsy only went out with him for a ride once a month.

Later on Matilda and her husband divorced and just before he moved to another state he came over and checked the car and he poured Stabil in the gas tank. The car had not been driven for almost two years.

Betsy was the owner and still kept the car up to date in her name with insurance in case she ever had to have someone drive her to an appointment. Georgia said she would check out the car for Betsy and when she saw it she fell in love with the 1948 Tucker !

Georgia checked the fluids and started the engine. She & Betsy took the car out around the block then-they took a short drive in the country. Georgia said it was a heavenly ride.

One day Matilda called to say that her mother had decided to move to an assisted living apartment and that both Betsy and Matilda had decided the Tucker would go to Georgia but she must take Betsy out for a ride to the country once in a while. After a wonderful week at home I went back to work again. I missed Georgia.

I sent this poem I wrote to Georgia along with a key chain shaped like a little Tucker.

Sent a little smile today

You brightened my day

when I heard your cheerful

voice and I was so glad.

sent a little smile today

Our conversations are

filled with brightness

and joyful merriment.

sent a little smile today

At times silliness flies our way

other times thoughts are dual

and the connection is ironclad.

sent a little smile today

Wishes upon a falling star

with never say neverness'

out love has been God-sent

sent a little smile today...

I call her at four o'clock in the morning Georgia was awakened from a sound sleep. Luckily Georgia has the phone next to her bed and sleepily answers

“Darling are you back in the states already?”

“ No Sweetheart I just called to say I love you and your sprained ankle.”

“ How in the world did you know about, oh never mind, we did it again didn't we?” she said.

“Yes we did an why don't you tell me how you got in this predicament?” I laughingly asked.

"I was on the short ladder and a crow dive bombed me so I went off balance off the second from the bottom rung. I'm fine because Allen and Art are here mothering me to death by cooking and cleaning all day long.”

© Julia A Knaake

DIARY OF GEORGIA: MY LIFE MY LOVE 1

Georgia,is my love, she has a voice like honey. I love everything about her I will never will hurt her in any way. She brings joy to my life. With every breath I take she is always on my mind.

We met in the summer of sixty two and I thought she was the most amazing woman I had ever met in my life. We are exact opposites but we blend so well.

I'm back home, it is early morning, about six am and she has made a golden stack of waffles with a hint of grated orange rind. She places a heart shaped pat of creamy butter on the top and has a small pitcher of slightly warmed orange blossom honey on the side. I bring the Lo-Heet drip coffeemaker filled with deep rich coffee on a tray with cream and sugar, The mugs are on the table.

She drinks her black coffee and devours a waffle then another. I am still stirring my coffee with cream and sugar and she has finished already. Where she gets this boundless energy I do not know. Georgia looks exceptionally beautiful in the pink peignoir set I brought home from Paris. It is so complimentary to her skin tones and the blue and green embroidery with the deeper pink roses enlighten her fiery hazel eyes with dazzling excitement. She waits for me to nibble at my waffles and pours herself another cup of coffee.

I'm back home after being in Paris for three weeks on business and she was here busy as usual and painting. We chat about what did these weeks apart. Yes we did miss each other but we also have a wide variety of interest that the other does not have any interest. This is what makes our thirty year union so unique. We are opposites but we do attract !

"When I came in last night I saw that you had painted the three walls downstairs and it is gorgeous !" Georgia says the color is citron-yellow the color of the scarf I had bought her two years ago. She goes on to say that the room feels much warmer when the flames from the fireplace dauntingly reflect onto the walls. The fireplace is made from soapstone and the back wall was originally layered out in a slightly lighter sandstone with slight flecks of yellow that complimented the fireplace stone. “Did my crate of pictures arrived from the Artist Gallery she say yes.

"Well did you open it?' I as I excitedly. "Darling it was addressed to you, yes,

I was curious but waiting for you to be the one to open the package." After all these years she never opens my mail or packages she leaves them for me. We both agreed long ago it was alright if either of us opened the others mail or at least the packages.

"Sweetheart , you go get dressed and I'm out to the shed for the ladder...meet me downstairs and be prepared to work." She gives me that already knowing look.

I get the ladder and she is dressed in her old citron- yellow paint spattered jeans

a white shirt with a yellow belt and of course her four inch heels ! I am always amazed that she can scramble up and down a ladder in those impractical heels but she has been wearing heels since she was eighteen years of age. She of course knows what I am thinking always and even gives me that smug smile so I take her in my arms and kiss those full red lips and say," Merry Christmas Sweetheart lets open the crate."

Once inside she sees there are six black and white pictures boldly framed in driftwood with ebony matting in four various dance themes of dancer Martha Graham.

Appalachian Spring

Blood Memory

Lamentation

Joan of Arc

one with Erick Hawkins

(they had been

married a short time)

one of her with President Ford

receiving the

Medal of Freedom,

the highest civilian award

in the United States

We both decide at the same time that they will be placed on the walls along fireplace so that the dancing flames will illuminate the black and white photos. Now I am wondering how in the world did she have the foresight to paint the walls citron-yellow ?

We both worked diligently all day to place those six pictures seeing them as you entered also while sitting in front of the fireplace as these were the only photos in the room. The fall leaves are twirling around like dancers and the air is crisp. Soon there will be snow on the ground. We decide to take a walk before lunch and bundle up and go outside for a walk with "Bebe" and "Frito" our two adopted stray cats. Walking through the countryside sure makes you build a huge appetite and I am hungry as we approach the door. Enter the barn I smell the distinct aroma of Navy Bean and ham hock soup. Hmmmmmmm she set the crock pot to low just before we left knowing we would be famished from that long walk. Getting the Oyster crackers and bowls out we have a feast in front of the fire admiring our Martha Graham photos. Dinner is over, cats fed now it's our time so I carry my sweetheart up to our bedroom with wild passionate lovemaking we both fall happily asleep.

©Julia A Knaake

Bolivian Bowler Hats 9

“Well we made a great profit today. I think I will ask your sister to allow me a few dollars. I saw Berardo complaining his drums were not selling fast enough. He is a greedy old fart and asks triple the price. Told me the tourists have the money but do not purchase. I told him he asks too much. I think ten dollars American will clear his mind if I take all the drums.” said Oscar.

“What will you do with all the drums?” questioned Marilynn.

“Villancicos, are the Christmas Carols of the Bolivian culture. Songs that celebrate Christmas played on native instruments to the rhythm of native music.

In Bolivia, it is very common to see poor children working, and one of the ways they make money is singing and dancing Villancicos on the streets. I'm thinking not all children will have an instrument. So why not give them drums!” smiled Oscar.

“I have heard many homes place the baby Jesus in the manger on Christmas Eve. After the baby is blessed in La Misa de Gallo they do this.

What exactly is La Misa de Gallo?” asked Marilynn.

“La Misa de Gallo is a tradition of Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Early Christians honored the mystery of Jesus Birth with a midnight vigil at Bethlehem.

Followed by a procession that would end at dawn, when roosters crow.

The Bolivians honor this tradition by getting together as a family to share a meal. A very traditional meal in Boliva is la Picana, a stew made with chicken, beef (or lamb) and pork; served with potatoes and corn. I had the honor to share this meal with a Bolivian family back in the States. Perhaps it one of the reasons I chose to come live in Bolivia.” answered Oscar softly.

December 23 the townspeople got together in the square. It was a night to celebrate the poor, especially the children. Cups of steaming hot chocolate were handed out to everyone. Baskets of breads and cookies were also handed out to those in need.

Many children in the town that were not in need rummaged through their closets. They took clothing and shoes to the church for volunteers to size and sort. Only clean and usable clothes were accepted. The clothes would be wrapped and labeled boy or girl with the size.

Christmas Eve the clothing would be distributed to the needy. There also would be a nice dinner for all after Mass.

Oscar, Marilynn, Richard and Karen handed out the purchased drums. Marilynn and Karen had also found Jingle Bells on ribbons at a great price. They handed these instruments out also.

December twenty four music was heard. The children started out playing:

The Drummer

The road that leads to Bethlehem

goes down to the valley where the snow covered

The shepherds want to see their King,

they bring gifts in their humble wallet

to the Redeemer, the Redeemer.

I would like to put at your feet

some present that pleases you Lord,

but you already know that I am poor too,

and I have nothing but an old drum.

(Rom pom pom pom, rom pom pom pom)

In your honor in front of the portal I will play with my

drum!

The road that leads to Bethlehem

I mark with my old drum,

there is nothing better that I can offer,

its husky accent is a song of love

to the Redeemer, the Redeemer.

When God saw me playing before him he smiled at me. 

The adults joined in singing. Some adults brought their favorite instruments from home.

 Senor Cabrera was covered with a blanket. One of his daughters pushed him in a wheelchair. He played his harmonica as he rode along the sidewalk to Church.

After mass the four were invited to the Cabrera's for the traditional meal. No one saw Oscar and Marilynn slip outside to the smoking table.

“I do smoke a cigar after dinner. I just wanted to come outdoors for some fresh air.” said Oscar.

“I was about to suggest coming outside for a bit of fresh air also. I wanted to give you a gift. I know we said no gifts. I found something I liked in that shop. There was only one so if you do not like it I will keep.” said Marilynn as she handed Oscar a tiny cloth bag.

Oscar opened the cloth bag to find inside a hand painted nativity set where the figures attired in traditional Bolivian dress.

“I love the set. I know we agreed to no gifts. I also have a gift for you.” said Oscar as he held out a small box.

“I hope you accept this ring. When you are ready. I feel we should live our lives together.” said Oscar.

“I am ready now. We do belong together.” said Marilynn as Oscar slipped the ring on her finger.

Richard and Karen came outside looking for the couple.

“Hey you two?

What's up?” Asked Richard.

“We're getting married in June” said Marilynn.

“June”? Asked Richard.

Oscar said “ June is plenty of time for us to finish our future house.                                             Help you two finish your house

and  

for Karen and Mrs Cabrera to plan the wedding.” laughed Oscar.

©Julia A Knaake

Bolivian Bowler Hats 8

Marilynn and Karen got up early to make breakfast before Senora Cabrera came. Senora Cabrera came to work as usual and on time. The sisters told her they had made breakfast as went shopping early. They took Oscars large truck.

The sisters knew how to drive a stick shift. They stopped at all the best yard sales first. People were getting rid of many items at an inexpensive price. People wanted to make money for Christmas celebration.

It was close to lunch time so they stopped for a coffee and pastry. Marilynn listened to the travelers complain how hot it was in Samaipata. Silly people she thought. Why don't they carry a water bottle? While Senora Cabrera and Karen checked the newspaper for dishes she got up and walked around looking into shop windows. One shop door was open with a sign saying Venta Barata. Aha she thought “For Sale Cheap”!

She heard a shrill voice coming out of a doorway. A demanding English speaking woman was yelling at a man.

“It doesn't matter what your uncle has here. Sell this junk so we can move back to the states.

The woman noticed Marilynn and softened her voice.

“May I help you? We are selling everything in the shop. We will take cash or Visa card.”

Marilynn said she would get her sister and their friend and check out the shop. The three ladies looked around. Karen found some items for her home. Karen saw some tools so she called Richard to the shop.

Marilynn saw a Heavy duty snow cone machine in the corner of the store. The cups and cases of syrups were stored next to the machine unopened.

Oscar saw her checking out the machine. He went over to the gentleman and asked if he would take five hundred American cash for the machine and everything that went with it. His shrill voiced wife told Oscar they wanted one thousand. Oscar told her he lived here and could not raise anymore American cash. No he did not have a credit card. He then proceeded to walk out the door. The woman called him back and made the deal.

Oscar asked Marilynn to ride back to the house with him. Richard stayed and looked at tools.

Inside the Land Rover Oscar had a smile on his face.

“You were inside my head. You knew I wanted that snow cone machine. I was going to offer one thousand.” said Marilynn.

“Yes I knew you wanted it. I do not know the reason why. I offered five hundred. The uncle paid two thousand. I helped him put it in his shop. He owed me five hundred for delivery charges. I figured one thousand was a fair price. I wanted my five hundred. Business is business” laughed Oscar.

“I heard a tourist in town complaining about the heat. I figured if we sold snow cones during the hot weather we could make money for the orphans. We could pay off the machine in no time at all. The profit would go to the street children. They could have food everyday. Who knows there might even be enough left over for medical help.” said Marilynn.

Oscar pulled over to the side f the road and planted a huge kiss on Marilynn's lips.

“You are a true angel.” said Oscar. Marilynn blushed a deep red.

Richard drove the truck full of household furnishings to their house. Senora Cabrera went over to Oscars and started a late lunch. Karen and Marilyn unloaded the smaller items. The men carried in the large items.

A delivery truck drove up to the house with brand new mattresses for the two beds that were bought. There was also new bedding on the truck.

Richard said “Oscar we love your hospitality but we're sleeping in our own home tonight.”

At lunch Oscar and Marilyn spoke about the snow cone caper they were planning. Senora Cabrera was dining with them. She told them they could try it out on the corner lot of her and husbands home. There home was in a prominent place in town. Oscar said he would only if they would take money for using their electricity. Senora said only if you ask my husband first. Oscar agreed saying he would meet with Senor Cabrera tonight.

The next day with an official permit Marilynn and Oscar set up their cart. The permit was displayed in a prominent place. A wood sign Senora Cabrera's daughter had painted was displayed near the cart for all to see. The rest of the day was profitable. The sales slips and funds were taken to Karen who had agreed to be bookkeeper. The money was kept in Oscars safe in a special box until they could set up a bank account for the nonprofit orphan's fund.

©Julia A Knaake

Bolivian Bowler Hats 7

Two months had passed. It was time for the trio to return home. Marilynn and Oscar had gotten closer in their relationship. They were still being careful not to rush into a deep relationship.

Richard and Karen had made up their minds to move to Samaipata. In fact they had purchased a home in Samaipata. It actually was right across the street from Oscar.

It needed a bit of work. The building was in great shape. There was an issue with the roof needing repair.

Oscar knew some local people that would fix that problem. He knew they were good as he had used them on hi own house. They did excellent work. Oscar would also supervise the roof repair.

The outside needed paint. The rooms inside needed paint and rugs. The big problem was the grounds. That would mean major renovation. Everything except the roof would be finished after Richard and Karen moved.

The day came to leave Samaipata. Senora Cabrera made them lunches for the plane ride. Her grand children made everyone bead key chains.

Returning to America was so different. Everything seemed so fast paced. Samaipata was a sleepy town. Yes there were tourists but still it was quiet.

Richard and Karen sold their home quickly. They received four times the price they paid for the new home in Samaipata. This meant a nice profit for them. The adventure of a lifetime as Richard called the move. They would open a small business. Marilynn was already a successful writer. She did not squander her money.

Yard sales took care of the furniture, kitchen and tools. Other than photos, a few books and favorite clothing was packed and shipped to Oscar. He would keep their belongings in a safe place and save it for them when they returned.

The autos were sold for good prices. Everything else that was needed for the move they could buy in Samaipata.

Richard called Oscar letting him know the date of their arrival.

”We will be in Samaipata two weeks before Christmas. The women are excited to be able to decorate the house.” said Richard.

Oscar replied “ I have your gift to them all finished. I helped Carlos paint all the inside rooms the colors you suggested. The outside of the house is primed white. You and Karen can pick out your final color for the outside. Carlos and his brother will paint for you. They are both very good at what they do.”

“Karen ad Marilynn wanted to know if Samaipata inhabitants celebrate Christmas.” asked Richard.

Oscar said “Christmas is celebrated in Bolivia from December 24th to January 6th. However, the most important night for this season is Christmas Eve.

Most of the population is Catholic. Christmas is a holiday with deeply religious convictions. There will be decorations galore. Almost every home has a Nativity decoration inside and outside. The ladies will love it here.”

Oscar went on to say that Senora Cabrera will make them a very traditional Bolivian meal. It is called la Picana! A stew made with chicken, beef (or lamb) and pork; served with potatoes and corn. Her husband will join them.

Arrival date came with the trio being picked up by Oscar. Marilynn and Oscar shared a nice kiss. There was not too much luggage as they traveled lite. They stayed at Oscars home again. The next day Karen and Marilynn would go shopping for furniture and household items.

“Richard don't you have something to give to Karen and Marilynn?” said Oscar.

“ My dearest wife and dear sister-in-law I am giving you your Christmas gift early. Let's go into our home.” said Richard.

Inside the walls were all freshly painted. The exact colors in every room as the ladies had wished.

“It's beautiful. Just what Sissy and I picked out. What is in the big box?” asked Karen.

“Go look. There is a card.” said Oscar.

Opening the box there was a beautiful teak table with chairs to sit eight. The card was from Marilynn.

“I knew you wanted this set so I got together with Oscar to have it sent to Bolivia.” said Marilynn.

“All we have to do now is pick out the rest of the furniture. Appliances, Dishes and dinnerware. Beds and so forth.” said Richard.

“Sissy and I will do that starting tomorrow. What is in the small box?” asked Karen.

“Marilyn and I decided to exchange our gifts before Christmas. The gift is for Marilyn.” said Oscar.

Inside was a pair of pink leather motorcycle boots. Marilynn tried them on saying it was a perfect fit. Then she opened her big jacket pocket and handed Oscar his gift. It was two friendship watches. Identical except for the wrist band color. Oscar and Marilyn donned the watches with happiness.

“When Christmas comes to Bolivia. We that are more fortunate celebrate by giving gifts to the poor.

This is why we four are having our Christmas early.” said Oscar.

Senora Cabrera came to the house saying dinner was served.

©Julia A Knaake

Jam Jar

There's mold in the jam jar

I know exactly who did it

You take your butter knife

after buttering toast, buns

bagels, bicuits and cornbread

with all the various crumbs

browned, blackened and burnt

sticking this stuff, sometimes

bits and pieces of bacon or egg

into the beautiful red pristine

jelly or jam with sweet berries jar

There's mold in the jam jar

I know exactly who did it

there it sits and congers up the

long spores of mold all throughout

the unknown jar creating fuzzy

little green and black patches

of mold! No randmother was wrong

about running a large tablespoon

across the top of the jam jar

or even in a little deeper digging

away the fuzzy green and black.

There's mold in the jam jar

I know exactly who did it

The spores travel to the bottom

where they are not seen at all

I am such a pain about putting

a gob into a small bowl or cup

then passing it at the table

when done it goes to the bin

not back into the jar to cook.

Io not wish to receive my

penicillian shot or pill that way

There's mold in the jam jar

I know exactly who did it

©Julia A Knaake