Tag Archives: mentors

People Who Made A Difference

For a while, I’ll be writing about teachers and others who made a great difference in my life. Of course my parents were a factor, but that’s a given.

My Aunt Lorna not only taught me to sit up straight, but let me know that a napkin was a serviette and how to speak proper English (she was an English teacher) and she is a really “neat” aunt, as well.

Joan C. was her partner in a summer catering business and a fellow teacher. She was “cool” back in the day and she is still a mentor and friend. And still cool, of course.

These exceptional women have taught me love, respect, caring and telling a kid to eat something before asking what’s in it. That expanded my palate, for which I am forever thankful.

You may not be so thankful as I’ve many others and have not yet compiled a list! The wind has come up and we may actually have snow coming in at least four days this week. The resorts will love it but the wind is coming in fast.

More later. Cheers, Dee

Famous People and and Selves

As I become wiser I know to look to someone who lives their art. Sundance opened today and it is a huge extravaganza of parties, are there movies? I don’t know. We’re recent “locals” who didn’t get our tix three months ago.

When it comes to movies, books I look for a basic truth in the story (even if it’s an animated fable). The storyteller lived something or got to know someone to tell the tale. I may have to wait for the Oscars to be awarded to a film I did not see, but as an outsider I see Sundance as something its founder may not have wanted it to be. A bunch of rich Hollywood folks competing for titles. There are other indie gatherings but this is star-studded and the place to be this winter.

While us locals will not be able to go to restaurants for the next couple of weeks these folks are propping up the sad economy and should be commended.

It is a gift for a writer of non-fiction, poetry, song or prose to sound like themselves in the final product. I have the privilege to know a few who can transcend everything and write or play or sing and create a unique profile. I wish I could, instead I study or am lax in my studies, and marvel at all the wonderful people I’ve met in my life that has made that life richer for meeting and knowing them.

AL&J

Two of my culinary mentors are English teachers. I’ve learned a lot from them about language, good books, food and life.

As friends go, we never see each other enough. When we visit they know how to treat a guest. Last time we were there we brought Jim’s parents and they were thoughtful to place them in the Civil War room in a local B&B. I’ve never met more considerate hosts and have learned a great deal from them.

L collects things, especially linens. I am lucky to be the recipient of a few of these treasures, but won’t let anyone put their hands on them! Every couple of months I take down the decorative towels, wash and iron them assiduously. Jim’s mom gave me another linen towel so that has joined the brace I had before, that are beautifully embroidered.

Both cook with love and abandon, and share recipes. When I was young I had to try something before I could ask the ingredients. That philosophy shaped my life and my cooking. I ate things, tried things I never would have thought of trying, especially in a small town.

I love you both, and ML and hope to see you all soon. You’re always in our hearts and minds. Love, Dee