Lake Ontario Shoreline

Mom's Garden

2011-05-30T16:27:00.006-04:00

Remembering my Mom this Memorial Day (1924-2011)

Music David Lanz : CD - Return To The Heart
Christofori's Dream
Near The Still Waters Of Amsterdam
Return To The Heart

Somewhere lost in "Silent Night"

2010-12-23T13:54:00.003-05:00

Dear Daisy,

Jus' a few hours 'til Christmas. This is a different Christmas for me. It certainly has been a year of letting go. I know we all have years like this one. Makes it hard though when the news reporting talks of "prosperous times". I've always felt out of timing with this World, but this year I'm really feeling it more than usual.

...The sanctuary was packed this eve. Maybe this was my chance to catch up to the timing of this World with at least this crowd in this sanctuary even if the outside World wasn't all here...

...the balcony Light had spread following the curvature design, row by row. The Light stopped from the right. There was this huge aisle between me and the Light. I smiled and looked for the Light from the left. I didn't on this night have anyone sitting there. I was alone. For a moment I remembered that, too had been part of this year. I looked to the right more behind than in front. The Light had stopped moving. Ahh, but the Light was now in front of me, the row was long and surely they would...the Light would...it stopped moving.

I looked down. There hadn't been a miracle where my light had been touched by accident without my awareness. The wind hadn't picked up to spark ignite the wick of my candle and I was certain that a big gust of wind hadn't struck in this sanctuary on this evening to blow it out for the wick was clean. No one had had to do anything in particular to receive their Light this night that I hadn't done and certainly my patience with this past year had been doing something positive. I felt like a body shell receiving the message from these people or maybe God Himself that I was somehow less worthy of receiving the Light offerin' from Christ. I was a child of God, created by God, and this room...too blind...

Couldn't these people open their eyes to see that my candle had been missed? I wasn't able to give much to the plate tonight, but I had been giving my heart (as much as was left of it) this year. I was doing my best not to clam up, fold up, or give up on the human condition and life through all the hard times I faced getting through this year, moving through the heart break of this one, and facing this World alone. Besides what was it costing these people to share what Christ gave them for nothing? Christ wasn't some possession that they owned, or needed to protect like all their materialistic things of this World...So Daisy, tell me, what did these peoples do tuh earn dem this right? I jus' needed a little part of the Flame for my heart.

My mind questioned, my heart sat in "silent night" even more cut from the feeling that had grown for years of feeling left out, not understood, unworthy, and different. I pledged to move on with my own head held high, jaw set, candle lit or not, believing God and Christ's promise without proof, that I, too was a child of God. Borrowed token candle lit or not, my inside candle knew how to shine, had kept on shining against all kinds of winds, and was going to continue to shine despite this sick, cruel World. Christ had never walked away from me...Babe Jesus was having his birthday and I was going to celebrate even if this moment held nothing worth celebrating.

Finally after several chorus and verse combinations of "Silent Night", way passed "all is calm, all is bright", the woman to my right across the aisle noticed that my candle remained unlit. She reached over without eye contact and crossed the great gap divide. I had started to move toward her halfway as I saw her movement and especially to thank her. With hurt lingering from the long wait, included in some timing other than my own, I was thankful for the one who noticed, hurt by many who didn't, and I felt emptiness with the closing of this service.

I walked, passed the crowds of people gathering at the exits all talking more of their holiday plans than what they had just witnessed or experienced in this sanctuary of the traveling Light. I didn't know what else to do stepping out of this or how to regain strength that I would need to face the outside. I put on a smile, wished "Merry Christmas" through nod and voice to those I made eye contact with and thought of getting home to spend the remaining hours of Christmas Eve with Levi and welcoming in Christmas morning.

I drove home that snowy night through the City to avoid expressway traffic and icy roads. As I drove out the parking lot I realized that I hadn't seen Main Street decorated for Christmas so this would be a fun option. The drive was beautiful, fresh snow-covered with streetlights glimmering. I drove passed a Mission House. People had gathered for holiday dinner, warmth, and those that I could see were communing at the door having a smoke. I knew the mixed feelings in their hearts, the uncertainties that times of survival and struggle bring, and I knew how cold and dark a night can feel when the day before brought little light. I knew how cold the streets. I had lived them for a time. I said silently as if they could hear, ("Merry Christmas, God Bless") and drove home. For now, that was all I could do. For now.

I wasn't in a good place myself that night and certainly not in a place to help them. My energy level and heart was somewhere lost in "Silent Night" and I knew far too well how fine a line between warmth of home and nowhere to go, and I wasn't prepared to be that cold tonight. God forgive me for not stopping. I can't seem to get them out of my mind, though. I know that I will be back in a way that I can really help. I'll find some way to relight their candles and to help them keep them lit. I know its part of God's Plan. It has to be part of God's Plan for me to witness as often as I do.

...Merry Christmas, dear friend. If you see Jesus up There in Heaven, tell him "Happy Birthday" from me.

Mis' Jane

(Christmas Eve, December 24th, 1999)

Dear Daisy, Theme Song and Path

2010-09-20T14:05:00.010-04:00

Theme Song, "Dear Daisy" composed by Hiroshi Takatani
(video features final instrumental version)

June 2010, the song, "Dear Daisy" was born.

Based on the book Dear Daisy by Jane Marla Ver Dow

Though the years they may change us
Some things in life forever remain
Like those years we spent together
Living life its joys and pain

You taught me all 'bout honesty
How the truth would set me free
Like a teacher you inspired me
Each day beneath that Cherry tree

Chorus)
Now "Dear Daisy" as I write this letter
Though eyes can't see I know you're there
I feel your presence surround me
Your angel wings as they brush my hair

Your smile my summer mornin' Sun
Your wisdom my guide no end
Your actions more than words spoken
Showed me I had a special friend

(Chorus)
Now "Dear Daisy" as I write this letter
Though eyes can't see I know you're there
I feel your presence surround me
Your angel wings as they brush my hair

(Bridge)
Say everything now there's a reason
Not in ours but in God's time
A path our lasting friendship
Enough love to last a lifetime

(Chorus)
Now "Dear Daisy" as I write this letter
Though eyes can't see I know you're there
I feel your presence surround me
Your angel wings as they brush my hair

"Dear Daisy"

© Buddy Sutton June 09 2010
Additional Lyrics Jane Marla Ver Dow

To all I met on my summer festival Dear Daisy book signing path...thank-you for your purchases, but mostly I thank you for the joy and support you brought to my life. Sharing stories, laughs, and connecting with you has made all the difference.

Sincerely,
Author, Jane Marla VerDow

September Events Author Calendar

2010-09-01T21:05:00.022-04:00

September, still Summer and two Festival Weekends with Rising Sparrow Press hosting an Author's Tent for local authors. Books Etc of Macedon and Village Bookmarket of Palmyra will be sponsoring a second tent for local authors. (For Lumberjack Festival both "tents" will be vending space indoors).

Authors from Wayne, Monroe, and Ontario Counties will be there discussing and autographing their books, sharing writing and book promotion projects, and to answer any questions you may have about writing-creating books and publishing pathways.

Lumberjack Festival Macedon

28th annual Macedon Center Community Lumberjack Festival September 11 & 12, 2010

"Gates open both days at 8AM. Amateur competition will begin on Saturday at 9AM. The events will include log rolling, two-man crosscut, buck saw, chain saw, log chop, and tree falling...At 5PM the grease pole climb will take place, so gather up 4 people and get a team together...
On Sunday, professional competition will begin at 10:30AM. All the competitors will use their own equipment. Men and Women events will include the underhand chop, stock saw, single buck, and two-man crosscut. Open events will include springboard, hot saw and ax throw. Demonstrations will be conducted throughout the day. The grease pole final will be held at 5PM. After the grease pole climb we will raffle off gift cards and other items donated by local merchants."

Canaltown Days Palmyra

September 18 & 19 Calendar of Canaltown Days Festival Events

The Canaltown Days Parade travels a 1.5 mile route through the village of Palmyra. Parade time 4:00PM on Saturday, September 18th, 2010

Antique and Classic Car Show Saturday, September 18, 2010

Boat Tours

The Rose Lummis, a 1953 Mississippi River Boat, is coming to town for Canaltown Days in Palmyra. Saturday, Sept. 18, from 12:00pm to 4:00pm and Sunday, Sept. 19, from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Boat tours will leave the Port of Palmyra Marina on the hour. The cost is $10 per person, $8 for kids ages 2 to 12. Tickets will be sold at the Canaltown Days Information Booth and at the boat.

Music Entertainment provided by bands, choirs, dancers, fiddlers...

Jane Marla VerDow
Author of "Dear Daisy"
Upcoming title "Rising Sparrow"

"Dear Daisy"

"A dream of a child from under a cherry tree...

that came to be under an apple tree...

For everything there is a season"

~ Jane Marla VerDow, Rising Sparrow

"Childhood is nothing more than, absolutely nothing less than, the courage to discover for the first time with innocence and openness, the faith and passion to explore the next, and the inner wisdom to sense the value of each moment along the path."

~ Jane Marla VerDow, Dear Daisy

In honor of Daisy, Author, Jane Marla VerDow will be donating 10% of all "Dear Daisy" book sales to Love Is The Answer to assist HIV/AIDS orphaned children of Uganda.

Also follow Author Blog Storytellers and Writers

Wayne County Fair

2010-08-10T18:53:00.005-04:00

Dear Daisy is dedicated by the author to her friend, Daisy whose warmth taught her love, whose gift of patience taught her to search for patience with others, and whose soul taught her strength equal to compassion.

"Dear Daisy" at Wayne County Fair August 9-14, 2010

Rising Sparrow Press, est.2003 is an Independent Publishing Company founder by Author, Jane Marla VerDow.

Current Title: Dear Daisy

Hardcover, case bound, 384 pages, nonfiction-spiritual
Publisher Rising Sparrow Press $27.95

A nonfiction, spiritual memoir, Dear Daisy is the storyteller’s journal recording footsteps on her life path from days long ago shared with her friend, Daisy (1960′s) to the 911 aftermath. Sharing humor, visions, dreams, heartbreaks and challenges, Jane Marla VerDow has written a compelling account that both entertains and challenges one’s soulful reflection. Written in a unique style the author refers to as “language layers”, Dear Daisy has been described by readers as “enchanting”, “ profoundly written”, and “courageous.”

Books Etc of Macedon and Village Bookmarket of Palmyra will be at the Wayne County Fair all week in the Floral Hall. Local authors have been invited to drop by to talk about their books and for book signing. I'll be at the fair Saturday and some evenings.

Wayne County Fair History

Pirates Festival Palmyra 2010

2010-08-10T18:37:00.012-04:00

“Arrrgggggg” say the Authors at Pirates Festival Palmyra August 7-8

2010-08-02T13:25:00.020-04:00

Authors take on the Pirates along the Erie Canal in Palmyra this weekend. Village Bookmarket, Palmyra (Marcia Delue Marsille) and Books ETC of Macedon (John Cieslinski) bring five Wayne County Authors, another tent of Five Local Authors will be led by Gary Fitzpatrick, and Rising Sparrow Press (Jane Marla VerDow) is strong with three from New York State.

Donna Bennett, author of Petey and the Mean Pirates is a delightful 27 page paperback children's book (Preschool-4th Grade) that appeals to both kids and parents, alike. Written to speak to the common childhood belief that all pirates have to be rough and tough and aggressive, Petey the pirate is different, using something other than swords, angry words, and bullying. The Ice Cream Pirates, an “illustrate your own” and “create your own depictions of the storyline”, teaches children the basics of entrepreneurship as they help the pirates open their own ice cream shop.

Also available from Three Chiquitas Publishing, Sherry Widmer's Wild Animal Kid Songs, a compact disc (CD) and Seven Days At Camp EAGR!, a children's book (written for the Epilepsy Association of Rochester-Syracuse-Binghamton) increases awareness about childhood epilepsy. Author website / Three Chiquitas Publishing :

Sheila Jarkins is a Children’s Book Author and Illustrator after a career in arts education. Her Picture books Marco Flamingo and The Adventures of Marco Flamingo Under the Sea are available as English and bilingual editions and in Hard cover and paperback.

Sheila will also have Prints from the original book illustrations for $22.00 available at the festival. Along with the book, the prints make a great Holiday or baby shower gift. For more information visit Author and Book website: or follow Sheila on her blog

Jane Marla VerDow, author of "Dear Daisy" and upcoming title, Rising Sparrow, both editions Independent Published by Rising Sparrow Press. "Dear Daisy", Hardcover, case bound, 384 page, nonfiction-spiritual memoir is the storyteller’s journal of her life with Daisy retelling her childhood days on her family’s Upstate New York fruit farm and years later, Daisy her angel returns to lead her on the pathway Home. Rising Sparrow Press designed both books to reflect a book of the 1960’s era in pre dustcover style, book layout, short storytelling format, time era language and values. Sharing humor, visions, dreams, heartbreaks and challenges, Jane Marla VerDow has written a compelling account that both entertains and challenges one’s soulful reflection and has been described by readers as “enchanting”, “profoundly written”, and “courageous”.

Rising Sparrow Press also produces and publishes book related items, photography, postcards, and prints. An education background, Jane VerDow teaches self-independent publishing, author promotion pathways, creative writing-media projects (video and scrapbooking), and speaks on nonviolence topics. Rising Sparrow Press

Author Schedule for July 2010

2010-07-13T13:18:00.010-04:00

I had a great time at Village Bookmarket, Palmyra, NY on Saturday, June 5th meeting wonderful readers. Thank-you Marcia at Village Bookmarket, and thank-you to all who came and shared conversation and laughs, supported me and of course for purchasing my book, Dear Daisy. Located in Historic Palmyra a stop along the Erie Canal, Village Bookmarket is "A little store that's BIG on service. BOOKS: Used, Rare, Hard-to-Find, Out-of-Print, Old & Almost New, Local History, Local Authors, Wide Range of subjects, Hardcover, Paperback, Book Searches, Book Repair".

There are big events happening in Palmyra during July including the Mormon Hill Cumorah Pageant and the connection to local history; bike tour along the Erie Canal with stop off at Palmyra; and the ongoing town Museum and local history tours.

July 17 & 18, 2010, the Hamlet at Pultneyville (located along Lake Ontario in the Town of Williamson, NY) celebrates the 53rd annual Pultneyville Homecoming Festival. Art show, antique show (Centennial Park), antique auto show as part of the parade, fund raising donation-auction, food booths, and theatre performances at Gates Hall return in tradition.

New this year, Wine & Jazz Fest, a primitive and folk art gathering, and a "Positively Pultnevyille" Art Show & Sale hosted by Artisans' Loft. For details about the festival and schedule:

Dear Daisy is available for purchase at Artisans' Loft. I will be attending the festival Saturday, more than likely gawking and shopping at the antiques areas and at the Artisans Loft. I hate to say I will be leaving before the chicken bbq on Saturday. I love the Pultneyville Fireman's chicken bbq, but I have a date with my camera and another event. More details later -but I will say this much - something I have always wanted to do...I am going to do. Clue- answer can be found in Dear Daisy.

Seneca Falls Arts Festival, July 24 (one day only). I (Rising Sparrow Press) have an invite and confirmation from festival and will be bringing several local authors along for this event. Meet local authors from Williamson, Marion, Canandaigua, Rochester and have a copy of their books autographed. Authors list is now being compiled and I will update as available prior to the Festival. Seneca Falls, Woman's Rights, beautiful Seneca Lake one of NYS Finger Lakes all near-by. The Festival and Art Show is happening Saturday, July 24th, 2010 (10 AM-4 PM) at People's Park, Seneca Falls.

Next stop, another Historic place along the Erie Canal is Macedon, NY. July 31st 2 PM I will be at Books Etc. of Macedon. Here, I will sit down a spell in the quiet, peaceful space John Ceislinki creates at Books Etc., a coffee in hand, to share stories about writing Dear Daisy, the process of writing to independent publishing, swap stories with readers, and share a sneak peek of my next novel, Rising Sparrow.

Pultneyville Homecoming Festival July 17 & 18, 2010

2010-07-10T15:07:00.001-04:00

Press Release

Greetings from Artisans' Loft and the Pultneyville Homecoming Festival!

On July 17th & 18th, our community will celebrate the 53rd annual Pultneyville Homecoming Festival. In addition to the antique show in Centennial Park, the annual parade and antique car show, many new events have been added to this year's festival including a Wine & Jazz Fest, a primitive and folk art gathering, and a "Positively Pultnevyille" Art Show & Sale hosted by Artisans' Loft. Attached you will find details about the art show.

Please note that as always, traditional Homecoming events are free and open to the public. However, tickets are required to taste wines of Lake Ontario Wine Trail wineries. Advance sale tickets are available at Artisans' Loft prior to the day of the event for $15. or on line at www.lakeontariowinetrail.com .

For additional information regarding 2010 Homecoming events, please visit www.w-phs.org.

Looking forward to seeing you in Pultneyville July 17th & 18th where you can enjoy wine, jazz, antiques,
art . . . food, fun, family, friends and more!

Nan
--
Nanette P. Hance
ARTISANS' LOFT
The Landing at Pultneyville

Local Author Volunteers Time To Summer Read Program

2010-07-10T12:36:00.002-04:00

Williamson Free Public Library offers Summer Read Program

Calendar of Events at Williamson Free Public Library for July, 2010.

Press Release

On Monday, July 12 from 2-4 pm, local author and storyteller Jane VerDow will present a writer’s workshop for teens at the Williamson Free Public Library. A Williamson native and author of the nonfiction memoir Dear Daisy, Jane will discuss the opportunities for self-publishing and self promotion today and will provide advice and insight into developing a writer's own voice.

This event will be fully participatory, so if you have a laptop, bring it!

Jane will be on hand again on Monday, July 19 from 2-4 pm for a follow-up round table discussion. Teens are invited to bring their work to the library and get advice and feedback. This is your chance to learn from a professional!

These programs are free, and open to teens ages 13-18.

For more information, please call the library at (315) 589-2048.

From Apple Farm to Matrix/"Trinity" Deborah Smith Ford

2010-06-10T18:05:00.024-04:00

And they say nothing happens in small towns, USA

Bet, you can't picture that happening in Williamson.

But it did!!!

Williamson Apple Blossom May 2010 (51st Annual), and Trinity was there...

Deborah Smith Ford, Celebrity Lookalike was there.

Born in Sodus, NY, her family farm where she spent much of her childhood was located in Wolcott, NY (Butler, NY to be exact)...
here shown as Celebrity Lookalike "Trinity", she also shared with Williamson as Author of "The Little Apple".

"The Little Apple"
Author: Deborah Smith Ford
Illustrations: Susi Galloway

About life growing up on an apple farm.

"The Little Apple" Available at Artisans' Loft The Landing at Pultneyville, NY. Become a Fan of Artisans'Loft on Facebook

Also available at The Williamson Apple Crate.

Follow Deborah Smith Ford on Deborah Smith Ford / Facebook

Subscribe to her writing on Examiner for daily posts.
Examiner/Deborah Smith Ford

or Celebrity Lookalike Examiner/Deborah Smith Ford

The authors so enjoyed her visit and participation in the Apple Blossom, "Books to Blossom" authors events for the Festival.

Thanks for your Friendship, Deb.

Much Success,

Jane Marla VerDow
"Dear Daisy"
Rising Sparrow Press

"Dear Daisy" is also available at the Artisans' Loft, The Landing at Pultneyville, NY

Don't miss Pultneyville's Homecoming Festival July 17&18, 2010

Postcards

2010-06-04T14:58:00.012-04:00

Authors at Williamson Apple Blossom Festival 2010

2010-06-04T11:33:00.000-04:00

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=8764&id=100000827497643&l=a6898c4547

Letchworth Balloonfest Memorial Weekend 2010

2010-05-31T12:37:00.016-04:00

Being there for me was like being a little kid in a candy store!!!

Letchworth NYS Park Gorge

Fun day at Letchworth NYS Park over Memorial Day weekend. Gorgeous weather!!!!

Granger Homestead, Canandaigua NY

2010-05-27T21:23:00.006-04:00

What a great day, Saturday May 20th at the Granger Homestead, Canandaigua NY for the "Carriages on the Lawn and Country Fair".

My next shoot adventure, Letchworth Ballon Festival

Later this summer, East Aurora 35th Annual Carriage Drive and Competition, July 24th and 25th 8 AM-5 PM.

Author Tour Summer 2010

2010-05-27T15:00:00.028-04:00

I love to travel. I love to meet people and to share stories. I love Festivals. I love History and places along Lake Ontario and the Erie Canal, Upstate NY, and the Towns/Villages scattered throughout NY State. I love Photography. I am an Author.

So...why not do it all?

Author Schedule for Summer 2010

Village Bookmarket, Palmyra, NY June 5th 10 AM
Dear Daisy, author, Jane Marla VerDow story sharing and book signing and would love to answer questions about her book, upcoming titles, and to hear about your writing adventures.
Located in Historic Palmyra
a stop along the Erie Canal, Village Bookmarket is "A little store that's BIG on service. BOOKS: Used, Rare, Hard-to-Find, Out-of-Print, Old & Almost New, Local History, Local Authors, Wide Range of subjects, Hardcover, Paperback, Book Searches, Book Repair". Visit Village Bookmarket blog.

Seneca Falls Artisan Festival, July 24 (one day only). I (Rising Sparrow Press) have an invite and confirmation from festival and will be bringing several local authors along for this event. Meet local authors from Williamson, Marion, Canandaigua, Rochester and have a copy of their books autographed. Authors list is now being compiled and I will update as available prior to the Festival. Seneca Falls, Woman's Rights, beautiful Seneca Lake one of NYS Finger Lakes all near-by. The Festival and Art Show is happening Saturday, July 24th, 2010 (10 AM-4 PM) at People's Park, Seneca Falls.

Sunday, July 25th I will drive in the opposite direction to East Aurora for the 35th Annual East Aurora Carriage Drive & Competition. I have been invited to the event for picture taking and book signing, Dear Daisy. What an honor!!!

Next stop, another Historic place along the Erie Canal is Macedon, NY. July 31st 2 PM I will be at Books Etc. Here, I will sit down a spell in the quiet, peaceful space John Ceislinki creates at Books Etc., a coffee in hand, to share stories about writing Dear Daisy, the process of writing to independent publishing, swap stories with readers, and share a sneak peek of my next novel, Rising Sparrow.

August starts off with an "aarrrgggg" at the Pirates Festival, Palmyra, NY. Rising Sparrow Press will be hosting an Author's Tent with local authors from Wayne, Monroe, and Ontario Counties. Authors list is now being compiled and I will update as available prior to the Festival.

I'll be one of several local authors available to meet and book sign at the Wayne County Fair August 9-14, 2010 If I'm not at the Village Bookmarket and Books_Etc Booth, anyone knowing me would tell you to check the animal stalls, especially the little goats and horses, or I would be getting food, especially if they offer the clam bake, or strolling along the midway. I confess, I'm a big kid :)

September, still Summer left so a weekend at the Lumberjack Festival, Macedon, NY Sept. 11-12 seems like the best place to be. Rising Sparrow Press will be hosting an Author's Tent with local authors from Wayne, Monroe, and Ontario Counties. Authors list is now being compiled and I will update as available prior to the Festival.

My Last Stop of Summer will be Canal Town Days Palmyra, NY Sept. 18-19. Rising Sparrow Press will be hosting an Author's Tent with local authors from Wayne, Monroe, and Ontario Counties. Authors list is now being compiled and I will update as available prior to the Festival.

51st Annual Apple Blossom Festival / Local Authors & Books

2010-05-04T22:34:00.010-04:00

"Books in Blossom", theme for the 51st Williamson Apple Blossom Festival gets underway May 7th lasting through May 16th, 2010. Authors from Wayne County and books relating to the area are participating in the Books In Blossom events, Williamson, New York.

Wednesday, May 12th the Williamson Free Public Library will host local authors to meet and talk with readers through formal scheduled presentations and informal gatherings. Children's book readings will be throughout the day at the Williamson Library children's reading circle and the youth room. Poetry and prose readings will also be ongoing 9:30 AM- 8:30 PM at the Library. Local author books will be available for sale and author autographed per request, with all book purchases, cash or check payable to the author.

For Full Listing of Authors and Books

Friday, May 14th W. Main Street Williamson, Authors Tents 6 PM-dusk
Street Dance Featuring Williamson’s Emily K. Peck 8-10 PM

Saturday, May 15th Local Authors will participate in festival activities, Authors Tents 9 AM-dusk, and storytelling along the parade route 2:00 PM to Parade start time 3 PM.

Grand stand readings, West Main Street Sat. May 15th at 11:15 by author Eileen Loveman, Pultneyville, NY from her books, "Rhythm and Rhymes of the Heart" and Eileen's George and Bob Stories, a treat for young at heart and youngest.
Actor, Deborah Smith Ford, and Author of "The Little Apple" will be entertaining at the Grand Stand 12 noon-12:45 PM.
JoAnn Meaker, Ontario NY, author of Images of America, Ontario at 12:45 sharing her researched Town of Ontario history then published through Arcadia Publishing.
Alex Reid, one of Williamson's favorite storytellers will entertain us with stories from his book, Reid's Short Reads, 1:30 PM.

Fireworks Sat. May 15th 9:30 PM (dusk). Watch from Main street or behind Middle School

Sunday, May 16th meet the authors and book signings Authors Tents 10 AM-4 PM.
Fly-in Breakfast Williamson Airport 7 AM-1 PM

Hospitality Tent Local Authors will be sharing their stories from 12-2 PM, Sunday May 16th. Author Paul Roxin will stop by after the Williamson Airport Fly-in Breakfast to tell us stories from his book, One Foot on the Ground: A Pilot's Memoirs of Aviators & Aviation. Topics: Women in Aviation; Detroit Michigan Aviation/Ford Motor, The Greatest Generation, B24 Bomber production and aviation; and Mohawk Airlines.

Grand Stand storytelling by local authors Sun, May 16th 3-4 PM coordinated with the Hospitality activities and Zoo events Sunday afternoon. Jim and Carol May will be speaking 3 PM about their cycling adventure through the Underground Railroad Trail and their book, Underground Cycling prior to the bike drawings sponsored by Herm and Wilma Young. You must be present to win.

Crafts & More Tents W. Main Street Friday 6 PM-10 PM, Sat. 9 AM-dusk, Sun 10 AM-4 PM

Carnival E. Main Street Fri.5 PM-11 PM, Sat. 12 noon-11 PM, Sun 12 noon-4 PM

Festival Parking
Handicapped Parking for festival if wanting info for visitors is behind the Hardware Store.
All other Parking is side roads off West Main

Complete Apple Blossom Festival Events May 7th-May 16th

Books in Blossom Authors Events for the Williamson Apple Blossom Festival, May 2010

2010-05-02T19:51:00.022-04:00

"Books in Blossom", theme for the 51st Williamson Apple Blossom Festival gets underway May 8th lasting through May 16th, 2010. Authors from and books relating to Wayne County, New York are participating in the Books In Blossom events.

Wednesday, May 12th the Williamson Free Public Library will host local authors to meet and talk with readers through formal scheduled presentations and informal gatherings. Children book readings will be throughout the day at the Williamson Library children's reading circle and the youth room. Poetry and prose readings will also be ongoing throughout the day at the Library. Local author books will be available for sale and author autographed per request, with all book purchases, cash or check payable to the author.

Participating local authors and books include:
Local History and History authors JoAnn Meaker (Ontario), aviation history, Paul Roxin, nautical history Susan P. Gateley (Wolcott) and photo books of West Barrier Bar Park, Fair Haven by Peterson Gateley and Pat Cooper Maxon (Sterling), Civil War / NYS 10th Calvary presented by Ron Matteson (Ontario-Walworth), Pultneyville's own John E. Connors' book, Pettiness in Paradise and Other Tales of Appleboom Point, and the book of Christine Moll that started as a family storybook that she published to share with her community. Children and Youth book authors, Sally Valentine Steinmiller (Ontario), Alex Reid (Williamson), and Actor-Author Deborah Smith Ford (originally from Sodus) guest to the Williamson Apple Blossom Festival will present her book, The Little Apple.

Stories for adults and children will be available by Eileen Loveman (Pultneyville) and the cycling journal adventure of underground railroad history by Jim and Carol May (Williamson); Poetry and Prose by Eileen Loveman and Dick TenEyck (Williamson); timely Fiction books by Brooks Tenny (Williamson) with topics ranging from unmanned aircraft warfare to drug traffic trade and Michael Pealo (Marion) book on life-death issues of women in dangerous, abusive relationships. Memoir, Nonfiction- Spiritual hardcover book presented by Jane Marla VerDow of days growing up on an apple farm in Williamson, New York.

Writing and Publishing topics will be presented during the morning May 12th at the Williamson Library by Susan P. Gateley of Whiskey Hill Publishing at 10:30 AM followed by Educator-Self Publisher-Published Author, Dick TenEyck from 11-12 noon. An evening Self to Independent Publishing information session will begin at 6:30, presented by Jane VerDow of Rising Sparrow Press.

Local authors will also be doing book readings and signings at The Apple Crate, Williamson Main Street. Meet the author, discuss their books, get an autographed copy by the author during the author's scheduled times May 12th through Sunday May 16th, 2010. Author MaryJane Auch and Herm Auch, Illustrator (Ontario) will be book signing at The Apple Crate as well as several local authors from the list above. Contact The Apple Crate / Nancy Jordon who will host this opportunity to inquire about specific times for each author.

Friday, May 14th the Authors will be on Main Street Williamson in two Authors Tents from 6 PM-dusk

Saturday, May 15th Local Authors will be participating in the festival activities, returning to the Authors Tents 9 AM-dusk, and
storytelling along the parade route 2:00 PM to parade start time 3 PM.

Grand stand readings, West Main Street, Sat. May 15th at 11:15 by author Eileen Loveman, Pultneyville, NY from her books, "Rhythm and Rhymes of the Heart" and Eileen's George and Bob Stories, a treat for young at heart and youngest.
Actor Deborah Smith Ford, and Author of "The Little Apple" will be entertaining at the Grand Stand 12 noon-12:45 PM.
Joanne Meaker, Ontario NY, author of Images of America, Ontario at 12:45 sharing her researched Town of Ontario history then published through Arcadia Publishing.
Alex Reid, one of Williamson's favorite storytellers will entertain us with stories from his book, Reid's Short Reads 1:30 PM.

Sunday, May 16th meet the authors and book signings Authors Tents 10 AM-4 PM.
Hospitality Tent Local Authors will be sharing their stories from 12-2 PM, Sunday May 16th. Author Paul Roxin will stop by after the Williamson Airport Fly-in Breakfast to tell us stories from his book, One Foot on the Ground: A Pilot's Memoirs of Aviators & Aviation. He could keep you entertained for hours talking about Women in Aviation; Detroit Michigan Aviation/Ford Motor, The Greatest Generation, B24 Bomber production and aviation; and Mohawk Airlines.

Grand Stand storytelling by local authors Sun, May 16th 3-4 PM coordinated with the Hospitality activities and Zoo events Sunday afternoon. Jim and Carol May will be speaking 3 PM about their cycling adventure through the Underground Railroad Trail and their book, "Underground Cycling" prior to the bike drawings sponsored by Herm and Wilma Young. You must be present to win.

Join us in celebrating local literature writing and publishing. Truly Wayne County has had a bountiful harvest of artistic, creative writing talent through the years.

Jane VerDow, Rising Sparrow Press

Books in Blossom Writing and Publishing Pathway Presentations

2010-05-02T12:23:00.007-04:00

Writing a book? Want to know how to publish your book? Join authors at the Williamson Library Wednesday, May 12th to learn more.

Dick TenEyck will share writing techniques and styles from poetry to literature to submission guidelines for professional journal writing from 11:00 AM-12. From there Dick will share the many ways he has brought his poetry and writings to print, including self and traditional publishing, literary journals, and professional journals.

Come early by 10:30 AM to hear Susan P. Gateley present self-publishing (Whiskey Hill Press) and Print on Demand (POD) showing photo book and softcover. Susan will also inform us about changes in the publishing world with recent on line methods.

Can't make these day time presentations? Jane VerDow (Rising Sparrow Press) will be speaking 6:30-7:15 PM to present an overview and information on topics related to writing and publishing pathways, Traditional to Self and Independent Publishing. Jane will also speak of recent on line advances to build author platforms, writing and book promotion pathways, and writing-publishing-promotion networking. Jane will share her experiences writing-creating a hard cover book (Dear Daisy), decisions she made specific to book design and promotion pathways, and steps along her path establishing an Independent Publishing business.

This writers and publishing pathways Library event is part of the Williamson Apple Blossom Books in Blossom, Theme for the 51st Annual Williamson Apple Blossom Festival May, 2010. Authors will present during formal presentations/schedule at the Williamson Free Public Library 9:30 AM-8:30 PM and will be stopping in to meet readers and signing their books throughout the day and evening. Cash and Checks payable to the Author.

For the full listing of Authors and Presenting times at the Williamson Free Public Library, May 12th, 2010: http://lakeontarioshoreline.blogspot.com/2010/04/williamson-apple-blossom-festival-2010.html

For Williamson Apple Blossom Activities and Events Schedule:
http://www.williamsonappleblossom.com/events.html

Williamson Apple Blossom Festival 2010 / Authors Books, Presentations at Library

2010-04-27T19:12:00.064-04:00

http://www.williamsonappleblossom.com/events.html

Local Authors Events Schedule

Wednesday May 12th, Williamson Free Public Library, 9:30AM-8:30 PM

Author Alex Reid 9:30-10:30 Reid's Short Reads (a collection of short stories; Author's days growing up...favorite stories he loves to tell...) This Author is a great storyteller and is sure to entertain the youngsters and young at heart. A great start to the day and Alex has agreed to spend extra time in the library to meet you.

Author Susan Peterson Gateley 10:30-11:00. Books by Susan Peterson Gateley on Lake Ontario include: Mirages Monsters Myths and Mysteries (90 pg. paperback); Passages on Inland Waters (144 pg. paperback: Maritime history, contemporary yachting, 1000 Islands-Erie Canal); The Edgewalkers' Guide To Lake Ontario Beach Combing (24 public beaches,thousands of acres public shoreline and parks. Maps, Photos). Visit her website at www.silverwaters.com and to to meet Twinkle Toes and the gang.
visit http://www.silverwaters.com/Riddleshow/index.html Ask her about her latest hair brained mad scheme to promote water quality- bringing a community methane digester to Butler with the help of other citizens for cleaner water!

Author Dick TenEyck 11:00-12:00. Self-Published and Published Poetry and Poetry Books Author as well as a Literary Journal Author. Retired English Teacher, Williamson Central. Dick is presenting writing skills and tips/the writing process for a variety of writer paths,general editing and submission guidelines/writing paths, and publishing information. A wealth of knowledge and information, Dick's Presentation will benefit any writer beginner to professional.

Author Michael Pealo 12:00-1PM August Storms: Journey Of An Abused Woman Michael became aware of the tragedy women trapped in abusive relationships, especially attempting to free themselves from an abusive relationship face while serving in his nursing career. Heart-mind struggle to understand, Michael researched this serious issue and wrote his book based upon a true life experience. He is passionate about telling this story, increasing public awareness, educating women and travels nationally to share the truth he discovered.

Author Jane Marla VerDow 1:00-1:45 Dear Daisy
Independent Published:Author/Rising Sparrow Press. Book design: 1960's era (486 pg spiritual-nonfiction/hardcover).The author, a gifted storyteller invites the reader into her childhood shared under cherry and apple trees with her friend and adopted Migrant Grandmother,Daisy. As the story begins (1999), caught in a personal struggle of survival under conditions felt oppressive, Janie writes letters to Daisy...The 911 Holy War strikes between extremists of Nations...before the dust settles, 10-28-01 brings world chaos personal. The author speaks on timely issues of World violence; violence against children, bullying, child-teen-adult suicide; violence within churches and between religious-spiritual faiths. http://www.storytellersandwriters.blogspot.com/

Author JoAnn Meaker 1:45-2:30 Images of America Ontario. by Arcadia Publishing (128 pg.softcover). History of Town of Ontario; 200 compelling photographs, traces the historical influences that helped shape this town from apples to atoms—from the distant glacial past, the land developers Phelps and Gorham, the Iroquois Nation, and the early settlers to the major industries of iron ore mining and nuclear power. It focuses on the people, places, businesses, industries, and agriculture that earned the town its motto: the Community of Good Neighbors. Author Bio: JoAnn Meaker is the archivist and past president of the Ontario Historical and Landmark Preservation Society, cochairman of the Ontario Bicentennial Committee, and five-year organizer of the annual Civil War Weekend. A local resident and educator, she is the author of the series of bicentennial articles that appear in the Wayne County Mail. For Ontario, she has selected superb photographs from the town historian’s collection and the Ontario Historical and Landmark Preservation Society’s archive, preserved at Heritage Square Museum. www.arcadiapublishing.com/news

Author Paul Roxin 2:30-3:30 One Foot on the Ground: A Pilot's Memoirs of Aviators & Aviation. Presentation Topics: Women in Aviation; Detroit Michigan Aviation/Ford Motor, The Greatest Generation, B24 Bomber production and aviation; Mohawk Airlines. Paul is an endless source of real life aviation stories from wartime to airlines and also has agreed to spend many hours in the library on this day for the chance to meet and talk with him. His expansive knowledge and experiences; so many tales to tell and you can feel his pleasure sharing one...and then the next. Young and older alike will love this rare treat.
http://sections.asme.org/rochesterny/PilotsMemoirs.html

Author Brooks Tenny 3:30-4:00 Killing Mauritius (novel) Islamic terrorism set in Indian Ocean. New Silk Road (novel) Centered in Central Asia, deals with Afghanistan drug traffic reach to the world. The Ten Thousand Things is set along China's ancient Silk Road and deals with China's activities in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles. Always an entertaining author-speaker, Brooks draws his writing and topics from his engineer training-background (Xerox, GE, and Chance Vought Aviation), topic and setting research, and imagination to create his action-adventure and timely fiction.

Author Ron Matteson 4:00-4:45 Civil War Campaigns Of The 10th New York Calvary and also Scanning for the SOHO, a tutorial about the uses of scanners in the small office and home office. Ron's Presentation Topic will be based upon his Civil War book and extensive researched history on the Civil War and details specific to the 10th NY Calvary. To extend the time for readers to meet and talk with Ron, he has agreed to arrive around 2PM that afternoon at the Williamson Library and is willing to extend his time after his formal presentation to talk and book sign at the library. It is also exciting to know that Ron has taken the Civil War and presented his book to modern technology with availability on Kindle.
http://www.matteson.us/a_matteson_%20in_%20the_%20civil_war.shtml

Author-Actor Debra Smith Ford 4:45-5:30 The Little Apple
Debra has agreed to stop into the Williamson Library during the afternoon after she makes a special appearance at a local day care center during the morning hours. Debra Smith Ford formal presentation time at the Williamson Library will begin 4:45 and she promises The Little Apple stories and to entertain all with her Acting career highlights. Still a mystery exactly what Deb has planned...she's only let little hints out to me...what I know about her and her stories, FUN...so...Maybe this will give you a sneak peak, too: http://www.debsford.com/

Author Sally Valentine Steinmiller5:30-6:30 The Ghost of the Charlotte Lighthouse; Theft at George Eastman House; What Stinks? An Adventure in Highland Park
Sally is showing slides and a PowerPoint presentation she shares at schools and for groups of many local landmarks and attraction sites of the Greater Rochester and Wayne County area. Places we all love to travel, children of all ages will enjoy her presentation and travelling along with her. Author website: http://www.rochesterauthor.com/authorbio.html

Rising Sparrow Press 6:30-7:15
Jane VerDow will present an overview and information on topics related to writing and publishing pathways-Traditional to Self and Independent Publishing;developing author platforms; writing and book promotion pathways; and use of the internet for book writing-publishing-promotion networking. Jane will share her experiences writing-creating a hard cover book (Dear Daisy), decisions she made specific to book design and promotion pathways, and steps along her path establishing an Independent Publishing business. Information update for upcoming 2 FREE 2-hour sessions July 2010
at the Williamson Free Public Library offered to youth by Author Jane Marla VerDow-Rising Sparrow Press as part of the Summer Reading Program at the Library this summer. http://www.risingsparrowpress.com/

Authors Jim and Carol May 7:15-8:00 Underground Cycling
Jim and Carol May return to the Williamson Free Public Library to present their book about Cycling the Civil War era Underground Railroad Path. This book represents how journal writing can transform to become a fantastic book to be shared with others. A great read and an exciting story that combines the May's passion for history and cycling.

Author Linda Moll will drop in early evening to show us her Children's Book; "started out as just a picture-story book for children in my own family". Drop into Library anticipated sometime after 7 PM and possible Author read/present time 8PM-8:15.

Author Eileen Loveman will be doing readings from her books at the children's reading circle and youth room and throughout the day-evening at the Williamson Library:
Rhythm & Rhymes of the Heart is part essay, poetry and prose.
George & Bob Stories, Life Lessons From Little Brothers
reads as "children's stories written for adults" so young to younger will love this one.
Eileen also has an Upcoming 2010 November Release: The Book of Stories From the Lake Author is offerring Preorder and Presale of this Upcoming Release at the Library and during the Festival; a compilation of 200+ columns from the Sun Record and Author, Eileen Loveman's Website.
http://www.eileenloveman.blogspot.com/
http://eileenloveman.wordpress.com/

Additional Authors who will be dropping by as their schedule allows especially after work into evening to share their books and to offer book signings:

Author Linda Moll will drop in early evening/anticipated sometime after 7 PM and possible Author read/present time 8PM-8:15.

Additional Books Available May 12th at the Library for Sale or Presale

Pettiness in Paradise
and
Other Tales of Appleboom Point

Author: John E. Connors Beloved Teacher, Williamson Senior High School

http://lakeontarioshoreline.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-03-13T18%3A36%3A00-04%3A00&max-results=7

Top Hit Release March 1959

2010-03-29T18:55:00.004-04:00

This song, Alvin's Harmonica was released March, 1959

“I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living, It's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope. Which is what I do, And that enables you to laugh at life's realities.” ~Dr. Seuss

Janie

Seneca Falls 90 years later

2010-03-29T18:46:00.004-04:00

Convention Days 2010, July 16-18th (Votes
for Women: 90 years later/162nd Anniversary of American Women's Rights
Movement) / Annual Procession Elizabeth Cady Stanton Home to First
Presbyterian Church, Seneca Falls, NY. Newsletter information National
Women's Hall of Fame www.greatwomen.org

http://www.conventiondays.com/

"Convention Days is founded on the ideals to preserve, educate and perpetuate the events associated with the first Women's Rights Convention held in Seneca Falls, NY in 1848. Activities will be held on the weekend closest to the actual dates of the event, July 19 & 20..." (historical dates).

Join Upstate New York in remembering and celebrating this July 16, 17, and 18th, 2010.

Late Night Humor

2010-03-15T23:06:00.003-04:00

I missed Sunday Afternoon Movie Clips Yesterday, so tonight I thought I'd share Late Night TV.

Enjoy (Sound is Loud so you may wish to click volume on video to adjust)

Sunday Movie / Figurin' in Business

2010-02-28T13:01:00.004-05:00

Sunday Afternoon Film Pick this snow house-bound weekend in Upstate, NY

One of my favorites featured often as the Sunday afternoon movie on our 3 channel station viewing choice during the 60's.

Ma and Pa Kettle (and Math)

Janie

Upstate New York / Images

2010-02-24T15:32:00.007-05:00

Facebook Members

See Upstate New York

Total pictures in project at this moment (886)

Twelve submitted by self, Jane VerDow (2/24/2010)

Samples :

For all (12) photos follow link:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=1369&id=100000827497643&l=99062a27bd

There really are some beautiful photos in this collection representing the best of NY State / Upstate.

Seneca Falls / National Women's Hall of Fame

2010-02-24T15:19:00.004-05:00

Received mailing Re: National Women's Hall of Fame

via Exploritas Adventures Lifelong Learning/Theme Travel.

Forwarding information...lecture/travel series

Seneca Falls Mar.23-Apr.8, 2010.

A Day of Discovery
Women in Politics & Social Leadership : A Survey Course of Women's Social and Political History

Six Sessions
Session 1: The Suffrage Movement
Session 2: Women of Peace & Diplomacy
Session 3: Eleanor Roosevelt, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Session 4: The 1960s & 70s: Women in Social Justice, the Feminist Movement
Session 5: Unexpected Leaders: Women of the Developing World
Session 6: The Next Generation: Pearls, Politics, & Power

Details on sessions-topics/lecture/lecture leaders/cost...click through link.

http://www.exploritas.org/programs/programdetail.asp?DId=1-55JQLP

Winter Sunday Afternoon Movie

2010-02-21T11:20:00.005-05:00

This week's Sunday Afternoon movie pic.

From my favorite black n' whites oldies

The best of Chico and Harpo. Talented!!!!

Janie

More Sunday Afternoon Movie clips - click on labels for this blog (below)

51st Annual Apple Blossom Theme

2010-02-19T13:40:00.005-05:00

Tho' February is snow covered...the locals along the Lakeshore are talking this morning of snows, driveways, plows going by right after the shovel is placed against the garage now once again blocking...

Spring Apple Blossom Festival plans are underway.

The 51st Annual Apple Blossom Theme has been set...

http://www.williamsonappleblossom.com/

I'm kinda partial to this festival,the apple blossom festival...

hometown...

and it has been going as long as I have!!!!

Janie

A Farmer's View

Blossom Time Upstate NY

Restoration Projects

2010-02-19T11:56:00.003-05:00

I love Restoration Projects.

Something about preserving and respecting the footsteps those before us made for our benefit and growth as a people that most captures my Soul.

One idea I linked to today via Facebook friend sparks how I may be able to contribute to this vision-mission.

HS gang will see the links for me. Hoffman Essay Contest 1977 Woman's Suffrage Movement/Wayne County connections.

A Museum in the Making: Post-Standard Column Tells Story of Modern-Day Gage Home

Here's a few links if interested:

http://www.matildajoslyngage.org/whats-new/house-restoration/

Volunteer Application and for ideas on what you may be able to contribute:

http://www.matildajoslyngage.org/support-our-mission/join-us/

Jane Marla VerDow

Connecting Old and New

2010-02-19T09:12:00.002-05:00

Took the time to get my connection up and running on Facebook last night.

Started by getting my Profile set-up...history (schools and work),connections on Internet (blogs,web site), telling a little about myself (as little or as much as I wanted). Personal questions I answered truthful and with humor.

I posted a few Through the Years Pictures so people could see it was in fact me.

Click on pictures (they enlarge)

posted a video of me and my kids through the years.

Found it most fun reconnecting with people I shared the road with back in Hometown, Williamson (Pultneyville) School Days.

Woke to a wonderful comment this AM: "You haven't aged much over the years."

THANK-YOU!!!!!

and...smile for those who remembered where and how we connected...sports and music and laughs.

I also was able to connect with current work friends. Several have poke me invitations, but I'm still new to this Facebook thing...so before I go poking too many people thought I'd find out what that means first.

Researching further, it appears many of my old and newer friends are into farming on this group connect thing called FarmVille. Poor friends. Most are already obviously in need of help; too many cats showing up, barns needing repair...

Connection invite from friend across Ocean (France). So great to have friend invite from her in my email this AM and then to read her positive news re: her writing breakthrough via Twitter and her blog.

My message back: "Smiling across the Ocean. Tweet. re: your writing breakthrough. Love this post and blog entry. Three words on post I noticed...courage, creativity, and gratitude...all three there. You are onto something, for sure. Best to you"

Just received message back from her through Facebook...gotta love this Internet age,faster than post office.

Made two confessions already this AM:

1. "Over yrs. my kids have blocked my music career. Tend to leave the room every time I play. Message in that? I wonder." (to my Saxophone playing friend)

2. I joined a group: I Cheated at Heads Up 7Up in Elementary School Anonymous

"Hello everyone. I'm Jane, and I'm a cheater at Heads Up 7Up. It all started in Elementary School. My excuses; desk was too hard (hurt my head and elbow), and I was delirious from breathing my own hot air. Thank-you for listening to my story."

But my group membership didn't stop there.
I now belong to:

Graphic Design and Adobe Photoshop; DECLARE 2010 THE YEAR OF PEACE - Make it the largest Group of FB; Six Degrees of Separation; When I Was Little I Used To Think The Moon Was Following My Car; and I Cheated at Heads Up 7Up in Elementary School Anonymous

Tag along on my Facebook page. Just click on Facebook link on this blog.

and to my friends from past days to those newer to my road, thanks for co-creating the good times.

Jane Marla VerDow

Sarah

2010-02-14T01:14:00.001-05:00

Dedicated to my Grandmother, Sarah (The Piano Player)

Came from Holland just under 2 years of age. Great-grandparents and two siblings, all three children under the age of five at the time of their immigration to the USA. Ship: The Veendam.

Photo Restoration/Video: Jane Marla Ver Dow (2010)

Video Music: John Jarvis, Some Kind of Sunrise

Names of "Home Towns" In Holland (Providence) I saw printed, though letters switched or left off or added on through speech translation handscripted now in print or handwriting versions of the storycarriers. Here I will write them as Zeelandic Flander; Zuidzande; but most common I saw Cadzand. Speech we often heard Zuid-er-zee. I assume that meant land Zuidzande next to or on the zee (Noordzee/North Sea). Funny how sound and letters get lost over time.

Then, the waves and Sea...Now, still fighting the elements to work the land and to preserve home...that remains like Homeland, northwest Netherlands. The draw towards living near water remained in the hearts and Souls of next generations and there they settled along The Great Lake; Ontario. Farmland, rich and higher elevation this new place called, home.

I wrote this in loving memory to "the Grandparents I never met" and to include them on the day my parents celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Grandma Sarah passed at age 40 (Dad, 14) and my Mom's Father, William had passed (1945) prior to their wedding day, 1946.

God, watch over me and mine I pray
Your Ocean to cross so vast.
Dream You planted in my heart just as deep
Your Promise be true, what I sow may I reap.
Set my sail to horizon -America, there may
Mother Liberty open her arms.
Captain my ship as she sails on the Sea
Me a lad or babe, Mother praying over me.
Farmland rich for Your Hands did make.
My gifts all I bring, from Thee.
My hands able to labor and music I play
Send Your Love and Guide my way. Amen.

Happy Heart Day to my Lucier-VerDow Family, 2010

Photo Restoration: Jane Marla VerDow

I love doing photo restoration of old photos. At first I thought it was my imagination, but as I was doing the close pixel work on photos of people I knew, I sensed them there with me. Everything about them. How their skin felt to me, or smells of their day from work or food; simply put, I could sense them on a touch level.

What really intrigued me...when retouching the photos of Grandma Sarah, the grandmother I never knew or met or had the gift to touch, this feeling-touch sensation would still travel through my mouse click into my hand...then to my heart.

Same I sense with old books or old papers. Guess that's the real story behind my rare and old book searches and the interest ephemera collecting. I connect this way.

For more of the same: old photos and restoration in process, or family immigration stories

http://lakeontarioshoreline.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2007-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&updated-max=2008-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=16

Janie

Daydreaming

2010-02-05T21:32:00.000-05:00

Very early photos taken by me, 1980's on my Minolta 35mm.
Just something I used to do, a hobby back when...high school and college years.

Updated to movie-video format, 2010 this winter day early February.

Today, searching for what next at a crossroads. How fitting. Then searching for the path..now in search of what else.

(To watch full screen click on arrows, right bottom of screen. To change resolution, choose 360 or 480)

Follow your bliss and be what you want to be.
Don't climb the ladder of success only to find
it's leaning against the wrong wall.
~ Bernie Siegal

Janie

Sunday Afternoons Winter Time

2010-01-31T12:56:00.001-05:00

So what would I have done with a long Sunday, snow-cold afternoon lasts days of January along the Lake Ontario Shoreline back in the 60's...

Watch an old black-white movie on a Zenith black-white TV

Then, still today spellbound by Talent and Creativity

For more of the same visit my YouTube Channel. So far just a mixture of music I like, political or historical interests, movie or TV clips that spark my writing, comedy that reminds me not to take life so serious, storytellers and artists that spark my creativity. The variety can be viewed by clicking on Playlists. I update it at least weekly thru This Weeks Picks (Playlist) and by the Featured Video on the Home Channel Page.

I'm working on a few films of my own to post. Book trailers and others just for the fun of it. Stay tuned...

http://www.youtube.com/JaneMarlaVerDow

The Boxer

2010-01-28T14:59:00.000-05:00

Referring back on this thread (October 16, 2009), college days and where this road on my path started.

"Service is the rent we pay for a room in Heaven." ~ Muhammad Ali

Time, energy...balancing the Spiritual-Material...

That's where I am on this day...both in mind and heart.

The question today? Still forming somewhere between head and heart.

But my thought-feelings:
Room in Heaven...doing the daily bread thing most days feels like earning rent money from Hell for a room in Heaven...

I'd prefer something in between...like more Heaven on Earth. Then again, I must be dreaming again.

My thoughts travel back in time to a conversation I once had at work while walking with a retired Priest. We talked of why I do what I do per diem and the obstacles he, too faced in his career. I remember he spoke of the Politics embedded. I remember my words back to him. "Isn't it sad how much the Powers of the World get in the way of doing God's Work?"

For today...
I settled for a day off from Hell to make my time-space on Earth today and my next tomorrows more like Heaven.

Forever Young

2009-11-29T11:50:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite performers, Joan Baez. Loved her during the 60's listening from the farm and sorting through the World's images and realities of war and chaos...and today, 2009 still listening from the trees.

I love this performance. Such a gracious performer; Her Creativity, Art, and Appreciation shine through.

This next video is more from her performance in France,2000

The best performance of House of The Rising Sun by Baez featuring not only her voice but also her gift playing the guitar.

Album Titled: Day After Tomorrow. Released September 8th, 2008 by Proper Records

Celebrating Baez 50 years of voice.

Always, the search for peace. Honoring her contribution to the Cause. Thank-you, Joan Baez for sharing your gift.

Peace,
Jane

Don't miss watching this trip down memory lane. A gem.

The encore

Peace

2009-11-22T17:03:00.000-05:00

Great when people of the world all come together on the same page, isn't it?

For more information go to: http://playingforchange.com

Orchard Songs

2009-11-22T12:38:00.000-05:00

Recently I spent a few days stepping back into my orchards, especially the one I've come to know as my deer sanctuary. Named for the apples that remain there on the ground after frost and harvest time and for the deer who find them, but mostly for how content my heart feels in that shared space.

So for that and no other reason, I decided to share an older post. A time remembered in my thoughts or a reminder to you, the reader, to from time to time, take a step back. Read an older post on storytellers and writers for maybe that time, like this time is heart shared and only separated by this abstract concept called, time.

The beginning….
Songs of the orchard played in my mind as words appeared on paper.
I thought of Daisy and her home with Jim…

Nearing the ending…
At the depth of my heart I knew the Truth of my singing the folk songs in the orchards with the wind…

As I wrote…
Songs of days long ago lived then gone, never outgrown, continued to play in my head and I hummed along as words appeared on paper…

Songs of the orchard…closest I’ve ever found to poetry; truly, the inspiration for such…
words playing on canvas.

Winds blow then fade. One moment of time changes the world, or at least our perception.

There standing, sitting, being, holding her space-filling her space; Daisy.
Learned lesson, the one that came to me just watching Daisy, no words; she needed none:
Just hold your space-fill your space. Her message, so clear to me now.

So truth told, I learned about blank space in writing from her, and from holding my space while the winds did their own game. Filled in the space between with orchard songs. Daisy by nature didn’t use many words. The gaps between allowed me to just be, there with her.

So I learned most about words by time spent in listening and waiting. Let them be. Give them space and respect. Honor the life rhythm of each and every. Together, they find their own place and share.

Blank space in writing is where you, the reader comes…to sit and be.

Blank space, that’s where all the “what ifs” live.

From somewhere deep within, there was a voice calling me home. I had to listen. When a child of any age hears that voice, there’s no denying it, least not to yourself, especially when the call becomes a whisper.
Jane Marla Ver Dow
Dear Daisy, 2004

Let your heart guide you. It whispers, so listen closely.
~ The Land Before Time

For additional Author places:
www.storytellersandwriters.blogspot.com

www.risingsparrowpress.com

Twitter/JaneVerDow

2009-10-20T11:56:00.000-04:00

Ephemera collecting is a hobby of mine. Postcards are just one example of what you can collect.

I have an evergrowing number of cards that I have collected during my travels. Best purchase places include antique shops, shops or dealers specializing in Ephemera items. Postcards are just a small sampling of such paper products that you may be interested in viewing or starting a collection of your own. It is amazing how much local history is recorded through postcards.

The following three post cards are samples of postcards for online viewing at the Rochester Rublic Library. Supplied here as examples of the quality available despite many cards reaching the century mark since original publication.

Support your local library. View their collections for pleasure or to expand your search capabilities and possibilities to expand your own search and collecting.

click on card to see enlargement and to appreciate the quality/age
and to appreciate Upstate New York

Location: Irondequoit Bay (Rochester,NY)

Remember if you purchase cards for your collection, keep the original intact. Do not destroy the history of the card. If scanning one of your ephemera items, save an original file before making a copy that you may digitally improve for presentation purposes.

Materials presented here are for sharing/educational purposes only, especially to increase awareness of community resources and to preserve local history.

Support The Rochester Museum and Science Center. Preserve local history efforts.

http://collections.rmsc.org/LibCat/libraries.html

From the Collections of the Rochester Museum & Science Center, Rochester, NY.

Train ride Upstate New York Autumn

2009-10-20T10:54:00.000-04:00

Train ride Upstate New York, Autumn

Hawk Airflight Upstate New York

2009-10-20T10:26:00.001-04:00

Bored today?

Take a 5 minute flight over the southern shore of Lake Ontario.

Approaches Lake Ontario, Sodus Bay, Sodus Point

For those picturing New York City...well, I think you'll be amazed how rural Upstate New York really is.

Lake Ontario Chimney Bluff

2009-10-19T19:19:00.000-04:00

Take a walk along the southern shoreline of Lake Ontario in Upstate New York.

This video shows the land path. Stay tuned for Lake Ontario views of the bluff.

Short video.

Stop Motion Video / Music Down Below

2009-10-18T18:34:00.000-04:00

Found this on my travels today. What a gem!!!

Enjoy and give full thank-you for sharing credits to the creators...

I'm just the messenger.

Creativity takes time...and vision. And the world is still producing creative talent.

Jane Marla VerDow

SUNY Brockport

2009-10-16T13:44:00.000-04:00

Special Olympics Oath:

Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.

Sculpture created by artist, Zureb Tsereteli (Soviet Union). A gift to the United States from the Soviet Union with home on SUNY at Brockport campus.

Special Olympics 1979 Remembered.
Host of the International Special Olympic Games

and yes this sculpture was celebrated

and I was there...1979
like most with Health and Physical Education degrees in process, volunteering for the games, meeting the athletes, and walking into celebrities. To name a few...I remember being there with Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue. Sally Struthers. Susan St. James. Christopher Reeve. And Muhammad Ali.

"Service is the rent we pay for a room in Heaven." ~ Muhammad Ali

Heaven is where most all felt they were living during the Special Olympic experience on our campus. Words can't explain it, nor express it. It just was...Heaven on Earth.

Of course there, the Kennedy clan (Ted, Ethel, Maria Shriver and now, not then Gov. Schwarzenegger) with Eunice (Kennedy) Shriver leading from the early days of site proposal and planning.

I remember their speeches.

Love this quote (Kaleidoscope 30th Anniversary edition)

"In Special Olympics it is not the strongest body or most dazzling mind that counts. It is the invincible spirit which overcomes all handicaps. For without this spirit, winning medals is empty. But with it, there is no defeat." ~ Eunice Kennedy Shriver

I would take the time to stand in front of this statue again for graduation. A moment in time taken to capture this gem...

Geek pictures from history

Caption: OK, Dad take the picture already.

What sparked sharing this picture?
Temporary loss of mind...

and enjoying the Kaleidoscope (Brockport College Publication).
The Vol 23, No. 1 Fall 2009 edition
Celebrating 30th Anniversary of the International Special Olympic Games at Brockport

what a gift from the College, my Alma Mater...how proud I am to remember those years and what I gained there and to remember this event of celebration of Olympians and Achievement...

The faces of the Olympians I remember most...pride and intense determination one minute participating and competing...a moment later celebrating the achievement even if that meant this time the victory went to someone else. Yes, all were winners, every time, every contest...

may we all remember their wisdom.

Thank you College at Brockport and to the Kaleidoscope.

For anyone interested in connecting further here's a link Kscope@brockport.edu

Our Hearts Remember

2008-09-11T09:18:00.000-04:00

Today, this 911 we come together to remember our World's Family members...may we always reflect on our challenge as the survivors...

As individuals and as churches, we have need to determine if our mission is to light candles and to keep candles lit, or to blow candles out. I still believe that one candle and that candles united in purpose create the World’s path of creation and life, or can be used to ignite the fire of destruction. If we seek Peace, whether the War is between Nations or the War is between peoples, our own stone and our own flame is really all that any of us have control over.

- Jane Marla VerDow

Dear Daisy, 2004

As the story begins, the author caught in a personal struggle of survival under conditions felt oppressive, writes to Daisy. As the reflective search for self and path unfolds, the 9-11-01 story strikes as a Holy War between extremists of Nations. Before the dust settles, 10-28-01 brings world chaos personal. Living the aftermath, the author struggles to forgive and declares through writing an Epistle as part of her emancipation pathway that violence as a rightful expression and worship of God is not the God of her faith.

http://www.risingsparrowpress.com/announce.htm

Some Pictures are Perfect As They Are

2008-08-04T18:00:00.000-04:00

Old Photos

2008-08-04T11:40:00.000-04:00

The advantage of being a small press author-publisher is being able to select the project and to create the book in the image most desired, from the picture lay-out to storytelling. Next, how will that image be recreated? A book. An image print. A single picture or a grouping. A story told by words or through pictures that somehow when assembled and connected recreate or even create a moment in time.

I'm not an artist by paint or chalk. A single line I can't place on paper so it appears to be a line, least not straight nor of value or recognizable as object or subject. My penmanship...most laugh, those that is not struggling to read, for it flows for me when I create it, not much more can be said than that.

To take a picture, poor exposure or best of the time and create from that something new or improved...

A group shot gathering of kids with Grandpa/Grandma could become an improved photo with wear marks to be removed

or cropped to become just a special couple...

With color/lighting, somehow the characters come to life...

A family-friends photo becomes just family...

Or maybe an old scrapbook photo could pull into a closer view...

Hey, That's me!!!!

Many hours I could and do spend on a single photo just to see what is hidden there, you know telling a story, or at least one I love to tell... of some story I remember and others...only the picture could tell...

These are examples of what I am currently working on...

What was...

Becomes...

What is now this...

Author: Jane Marla VerDow, Dear Daisy copyright ©2004; Independent Publishing: Rising Sparrow Press, est. 2003.
Visit Author Website http://www.risingsparrowpress.com/ to learn more about author’s upcoming titles or for writing and self-publishing resources. Also find Hard to Find Resources on history, travel, rare/old book finds, and arts/literature. Enjoy following Blogs: http://www.storytellersandwriters.blogspot.com/ and http://lakeontarioshoreline.blogspot.com/
And the latest addition, http://www.recordfootsteps.typepad.com/ to explore Writer-Publishing topics including Publishing Green/Environment Aware.

Winter Nights Waiting For Spring

2008-03-13T18:36:00.000-04:00

So what does one do in a place like Pultneyville?

After one has done the Spring ahead an hour?
Before Spring flowers and buds pop?

On a night after work?
Or after all the seed books have been looked through in Winter?
At a time when all the fruit trees have been ordered?

Well...dream about play I suppose.

May is coming once we get passed the rains of April.
It will soon be time for the Apple Blossom Festival,
Williamson, NY
and the Lilac Festival in nearby Rochester, NY

So what else can we do for fun this year?

Here's a great find. Enjoy.

http://www.festivals.com/

Visit Author Website http://www.risingsparrowpress.com/ to learn more about author’s upcoming titles or for writing and self-publishing resources. Also find Hard to Find Resources on history, travel, rare/old book finds, and arts/literature. The latest addition, http://www.recordfootsteps.typepad.com/ to explore Writer-Publishing topics. Features leading to Spring: What's Green in Publishing?

Appleboom Point

2008-01-14T16:45:00.000-05:00

Pettiness in Paradise
and
Other Tales of Appleboom Point

author: John E. Connors

Backcover:

What appears to be nothing more than a sleepy side note on the Seaway Trail along the south shore of Lake Ontario comes to life in these vivid tales. They are written by a beloved teacher and a keen observer of human nature who adopted the tiny town of Pultneyville, New York as his home. Originally known as Appleboom Point, the community is shown in its heydey as a bustling harbor town filled with lively characters busily making history. The author, using accounts from local newspapers, diaries, and other historical sources, builds a richly imagined world of days gone by. The stories, while fictional, paint a vibrant picture of a town's history. They are complete with accounts of local militiamen resisting the British assault during the War of 1812 and conductors guiding others to freedom on the Underground Railroad. Then, too, there are patrons carousing in the Pig's Ear Saloon, returning heroes haunted by the Civil War, and ghostly entities inhabiting elegant homes fully equipped with witch bottles in the ceiling. Spanning the decades when sleek and majestic schooners plied the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes, the stories tell how it must have been when the high and mighty were brought to this crossroad of commerce. Pettiness in Paradise: And Other Tales of Appleboom Point takes the reader on a fascinating journey back to upstate New York as it was when the captain was king, and the way of life was the way of adventure.

John Connors was a graduate of Alfred University with a Master's Degree in English. He taught English at Williamson Central School in Williamson, New York and at the Rochester Institute of Technology. He loved poetry and wrote many poems, some of which have been published in various poetry collections. He also wrote a collection of his own titled Conjure Man. This book is his only published prose and is his last. John died in June of 2005.

(John E. Connors lived)
In a Place called Pultneyville...Appleboom Point

ISBN #: 978-1-4251-1448-0
Trafford Publishing
Printed in Victoria, BC, Canada

Thank you Mr Connors for believing in me and my writings. Love Always.

One student,

WCS, Class of '77

Jane Marla VerDow

Clam Bakes

2007-07-31T19:22:00.000-04:00

Family Clambake Photo; 1952.
Grandpa in shaded area of photo, 3rd from left. Mom and Dad Center. Little Nancy, child standing in front row. Janie?...not thought of yet.

Cherry Picking Group Photo; 1954.
Left to right: Uncle Johnnie, Mom and little Nancy. Grandpa second from right with Wolf.

My best guess, the "last day of picking for the year", some day around August 10th, and Dad more than likely not in the picture because he had "gone with the load" (translation: the last cherries picked that day for the season delivered to the canning factory).

What would come next day or at least within a couple? Nancy and Grandpa would take a drive to the ice cream store and eat "pig's dinners".

Ah yes, Grandpa and his clambakes. Every year. Family reunion. Steamed clams, salt potatoes, corn-on-the-cob, and about a hundred pies, sure as day that at least some of them (notice I didn't write one of them) would be sour cherry and apple. The only rule; had to be a month with a "r" in it...'cause of the quality of the clam, of course. "Don't want to eat all that sand!"

"Uncle Johnnie"
The "professional" fisherman. "Fished every mile of that Lake, from here to Canada and back."

I'd hear stories told down mostly by my Dad about the size of the fish Uncle Johnnie would catch. His favorites to tell though were always about the size of the waves in the middle and how those storms could come up outta' nowhere.

Dad would throw his shoulders back proud, "Uncle Johnnie had sailed and fished the Ocean and always said Lake Ontario had more dangerous waters. It's the way the waves break on that Lake. They roll on the Ocean. On that Lake they can come from all directions at once in a storm; rolling, and crashing, and breaking. Uncle Johnnie he knew how to handle a boat out there. But I'd never try it. Not in a storm. Not in the middle. Too far to swim to shore when you are stuck out there in the middle. I'd want a pretty good size boat to try it. Then, not sure I would."

In answer to your question: yes, my Dad has crossed Lake Ontario on a boat, The Colberg when it travelled back and forth from the Port at Charlotte (Rochester) to Canada as a young man... and yes, that was a pretty large boat, indeed.

Roots;Land and Water

2007-07-29T13:26:00.000-04:00

Maternal Grandfather came from London ("Home" Kent, England) on The Saint Louis, (1910) as a young man of 20. Plans were to come to America to be a barber and to send money back home to his Mother. He was sponsored by a family (farmers) in the town of Ontario and worked for them until he purchased a farm, settled in the Town of Ontario, became a Father, and played coronet in the Ontario Fireman's band.

He never returned to England. Two of his brothers traveled England to America then back, then returned to America from 1909 to 1920. His brother purchased a ticket for the Titantic voyage but at the last minute "missed the boat" by a "change in plans".

Grandma Sarah (paternal line) came from Holland (farmers) with her family; Mother and Father ages 24 and 25, with three young children (born to that date) all under the age of five. Sarah, age 1, became ill on the voyage (The Veendam) and years later it was summized by the nature and lengthly period of time of her liver illness that she had contracted hepatitis on the journey. Her passing left 6 children ranging in ages from 2 to 16 to be raised by my Grandfather, the oldest children, and extended family.

2006, my parents celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. To mark the occasion and for the gathering of family and extensive list of their friends of all ages I put together a scrapbook. I honored the fact that Mom's Dad (age 52) had passed the year prior to their marriage and Dad's Mom (age 40) had passed when he was 14 years old; neither of them living to be a part of that day in 1946.

I wrote this in loving memory to "the Grandparents I never met" and to include them on this day, 60 years later, in celebration of their children:

God, watch over me and mine I pray

Your Ocean to cross so vast.

Dream You planted in my heart just as deep

Your Promise be true, what I sow may I reap.

Set my sail to horizon -America, there may

Mother Liberty open her arms.

Captain my ship as she sails on the Sea

Me a lad or babe, Mother praying over me.

Farmland rich for Your Hands did make.

My gifts all I bring, from Thee.

My hands able to labor and music I play

Send Your Love and Guide my way. Amen.

Maternal family line; Great-Grandma and Grandpa. His family came from Holland sometime before the Civil War...stories were recorded by newspaper that he remembered the day President Lincoln was shot (about 5 years old at the time).

My Grandma had a green thumb for vegetable gardens and flowers. Memories of her many; spading dirt by shovel in the Spring and tending her gardens each Summer through Fall, a gift she inherited and learned from her father and then passed on to my Mom.

Photos taken near the Water, down on her Lakeshore; Ontario, the Great Lake. This place where families settled and they chose to be the caretakers of the land deposited there, a place to root children, and then to raise them near. She, this Great Lake and they, each generation, each family, each one...took a moment to be recorded as having been there...in this place, settled, together.

Good Friends

Grandpa, closest to water pictured above with a friend, was a farmer by trade, and an avid fisherman by hobby and at heart. His older brother, John was the "professional" fisherman on Lake Ontario waters. Stories told down of family back home in Holland, "farmers and fisherman on the Sea, they were."

Names of "Home Towns" In Holland (Providence) I saw printed, though letters switched or left off or added on through speech translation handscripted now in print or handwriting versions of the storycarriers. Here I will write them as Zeelandic Flander; Zuidzande; but most common I saw Cadzand. Speech we often heard Zuid-er-zee. I assume that meant land Zuidzande next to or on the zee (Noordzee/North Sea). Funny how sound and letters get lost over time.

Then, the waves and Sea...Now, still fighting the elements to work the land and to preserve home...that remains like Homeland, northwest Netherlands. The draw towards living near water remained in the hearts and Souls of next generations and there they settled along The Great Lake; Ontario. Farmland, rich and higher elevation this new place called, home.

Dad carried on the tradition...early morning fisherman with fish tales to tell, taking a break from farming.

Mom never learned to swim, was more fond of viewing or sitting near than being in the water. Still...the story has been told and retold how she jumped into the water (a pool, not the Lake or Bay) and saved me from drowning when I was 2.

"A day at Pultneyville Beach"

Mom sitting the closest to the Lake.

Roots of Faith

2007-07-26T22:41:00.000-04:00

My Paternal Grandmother attended the Pultneyville Dutch Reformed Church as a child and became the organist. (photo; 1946)

My Maternal Grandmother was a member of the Ontario Baptist Church.

My faith was born under the cherry or apple tree. As a child, Daisy was my teacher. She could teach about God by a smile, the way she held out her hand, how she listened to my stories, by her patience, and by the strength of her character and Spirit.

As a child, I understood nature, sensed how life should be, accepted what it wasn't on most days, placed hope in tomorrow by living today, and trusted my instinct to know right from wrong and direction.

She taught by her compassion and gentleness to judge fairly or not at all, by her tolerance I learned to look for the good in people, and that the best way to teach was by being or reaching for the best within myself. Daisy as my friend, I sensed early on that we are all God's children; that more makes us the same than different and the contents of a person's heart measures Soul and worth.

Give us this day,

our daily bread

Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.

For thine is the Kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever. Amen
Earth as it is in Heaven

Ons Vader,

Gi-j die in de hemel bunt,

Gi-j mot heileg genuump worde,

ow heerschappi-j mot ruumte kriege.

Wat Gi-j wilt mot gebeurein

de wereld aevegoed as in de hemel.

Geef ons vandaag en iedere dag

't brood da wi-j nodeg hemme.

En scheld ons kwiet onze schuldenkrek

as wi-j doen aan andere

die bi-j ons in de schuld staon.

En breng ons niet in de verleiding,

maor maak ons vri-j van kwaod.

Want van Ow is de heerschappi-j

en de krach en de glorie.Amen.

(Dutch; dialect by the North Sea)

Roots of Life

2007-07-26T20:46:00.000-04:00

Springtime Love

Unloading apples

Moments of fun in a day's work

Now a Dad

In Charge of Wolf and Guarding the Peaches

Then along comes...

Janie

Born to be the storyteller.

Photos:

Springtime Love. Mom and Dad;1949

Dad driving tractor, younger sister Viola riding on trailer with family dog. Mom took picture. Had just returned from their Honeymoon "around Lake Ontario via Niagara Falls, Canada, St. Lawrence" (August 1946); Fall 1946

Dad and sister, Nancy in the woods on farm;1955

Nancy and Wolf guarding peaches at Grandpa's;1953

Janie, the storyteller;1959

Growing a Family

2007-07-26T20:41:00.000-04:00

Cherry Pickin'

Friends from Rochester visit the farm, photo shoot attempted

Big Sister, Little Brother

Special moment with Mother

Grandpa (Myron) and Grandma (Sarah), the early days

family posing next to Great-grandma's snowball bush

photos:

#1 Cherry pickin'. 1933. Dad with sisters. Adult female, lifetime neighbor/family (cousin) and her husband.

#2 Approx. 1929; third and fourth,1923; fifth, approx. 1923
top; Dad center fourth from left with sisters, Isabelle clearing her eyes, Mabel crouched down holding Beulah, and right side Viola, little one consoled by adult. Early spray tank background.
#3 Dad sitting on the lap of big sister, Mabel
#4 Dad on Mother's lap, Mabel looking on
#5 Grandpa and Grandma right, Grandpa's sister, Katie left.

Childhood; 1905

2007-07-26T19:50:00.001-04:00

photo 1905; Grandpa and sister, Carrie

Nearing Twenty

Blossom Time

2007-07-26T18:58:00.000-04:00

A walk through the orchard

Third week of May in Upstate

Apple Blossoms; May, 1920

(photo:1920; Grandpa VerDow with horses, Fred and Kit)

Apples; the Life

2007-07-26T18:21:00.000-04:00

Dried Apple Packing Crew. Neighbors and Family unite.

(photos: 1915-1918; Great-Grandmother, Mary
bottom row middle. Great-Aunt, Kate top row, right)

Day-to-Day along Lake Ontario; Upstate

2007-07-26T01:04:00.000-04:00

Sun Rise

Approaching Noon

Sunday Afternoon Drive
Lake Ontario

One Room Schoolhouse

Sunday Afternoon at the Pier

Top three photos: 1918-1920
Schoolroom/class: 1912-1918
Crop Duster, aircraft view: 1947
Pier: approx. 1920; Grandma, Sarah middle

Pultneyville Back When

2007-07-24T22:35:00.000-04:00

Pultneyville Harbor

Homecoming; The Place Called Pultneyville

2007-07-20T09:51:00.000-04:00

Pultneyville...spoken just the way it looks...with a long e in the middle
that is unless you are talking with one of the locals...
one who's been around the block a couple times...
at the end of the day tired from working the orchards and fields,
or maybe with seasick legs just off the boat...

or then again, some days "jus' because" that's how the locals express their affection for their small Hamlet along the Lake Ontario Southern Shoreline.

Any of these the case and in fact you have found one with roots to there...Pultneyville is slurred to sound more like "Put-neyville"... Just for fun if you look real close at some written accounts printed for the Town of Williamson-where Pultneyville is properly positioned on the map in Upstate, NY, even the locals can be known to "misspell" her this way tho' they pass the roadsigns each day telling them how it is supposed to be...But...no matter, not to the locals...for calling Pultneyville..."Put-neyville" always comes with a smile.

From time to time in the future I thought I'd do some storytelling 'bout this little stop along the Seaway Trail. Rich in heritage connected to Lake Ontario...complete with fishing lines and everyday tale "lines" of "the big one that got away"; sunken ships and cannon balls found along her coast waters left over reminders of the War of 1812 and the St. Peter sunken ship (1898) at rest just off Fairbanks Point; or "the Lake was a bit rough today" warnings for sailing or fishing...

Or maybe show-n-tell you the homes dotting her shoreline of Captains past, many resting at Lakeview Cemetary overlooking, still watching their Lake. Some of the old time homes have not been reconstructed and the "hiding" rooms, many in attics of the homes remain, reminders of the Lake's purpose and calling to carry people safely by night calmed waters across to Canada. Some of the old time homes are cobblestone, small lake-smooth aged stones collected from her shoreline and carried to a coastline home or horse drawn closer to the "Ridge."

Oh...there are a million stories to tell...truth told, Lakeview Cemetary could tell you far more than I have heard to re-tell...because of the stones and the people buried there, yes, that's true...but more by the man who caretakes there. Ask anyone in Put-neyville this weekend...who to ask...about...that is, if you want to know any story that has ever been told or written about Pultneyville...and if you hear the answer, "Chet Peters"...well, you'll know first hand you are talkin' to a local.

For today..."Homecoming" Is the News around Pultneyville.

http://www.pultneyvillehistoricalsociety.org/pages/homecoming.htm

Pultneyville's Gates Hall is known to be "the second oldest little theatre in the United States".

For a listing of this weekend's production go to:
http://www.pultneyvillehistoricalsociety.org/pages/news_feat.htm

And...because the locals love the "holiday season" (even if it is the third weekend of July)
be sure to check out one of the newest attractions along Salmon Creek featuring local artists:

http://www.thelandingatpultneyville.com/pages/artisansloft.html

Have a safe and happy "Homecoming".

Jane Marla VerDow

Lake Ontario Southern Shore

2007-07-20T01:25:00.000-04:00

Rochester, New York

Known in its founding days as "The Flour City" due to its location on the Erie Canal, the earliest means to connect a farmer's grain to regional/City manufacturing and production, Rochester is on the path of the Genesee River as it feeds into Lake Ontario. The Erie Canal waterway system, in our local region an east-west path, was primarily constructed (dug out by man, real horse power, and early pulley/crane systems) to connect farmers and local trade to international markets. Upstate has traditionally been known and remains the major apple production area of New York State and early days the Erie Canal provided the means to ship dried apple products in box-wooden crates and raw apples in wooden barrels to Europe.

Though Rochester's official associated name is and will forever remain to the long time locals, "The Flour City", meaning shifted as the Erie Canal lost its founding function and with the growth of the Lilac Festival (The Flower City).

Most recent years, the Erie Canal has regained popularity as a waterway for boating tourists providing bed and breakfast and stop-n-shop opportunities. Bike trails line the upper banks of the Canal as it travels through New York State.

Rochester is rich in historical significance, the Underground Railroad and the Freedom Trail (The St. Lawrence Seaway) providing means for slaves to Canada; voting rights led by Susan B. Anthony, the primary meeting ground to develop strategy and to write woman's history (along with Stanton from nearby Seneca Falls, NY) and the abolition movement with Frederick Douglass. Rochester is also known as the home of George Eastman (Eastman-Kodak).

What would Rochester be without a slide show?...

From time to time in the future I'll share Rochester and the regional area from my own collection of pictures of "the good ol' days" and some more current of the place I call "home" in Upstate New York along the Lake Ontario (Southern) Shoreline.

For now, to support my Home City, I'll share the tour that Rochester has offerred the world in pictures.

http://www.visitrochester.com/phototour/phototour/index.cfm?action=cover&tourID=22

To view more of the author's photography images from Upstate, NY scroll down to the base of Lake Ontario Shoreline blog.

author unknown

2007-07-17T13:18:00.000-04:00

“Pray with your feet moving.”
-author unknown

The pathway;my life

2007-07-15T09:07:00.000-04:00

and on the pathway...of my walk...I discovered me...some I already knew, some I was still discovering...and as I walked towards I sensed it pulling me...and on the lookbacks, I saw and felt replayed all life I had known and lived...and once I reached the end of where I could no longer walk...the answer I was searching for, there I found...and I smiled, no, truth told I laughed outloud...and said "thank-you", most grateful ...then I played there...content I walked back out and followed my path...some steps I already knew...and some I was still to discover...

Janie

A Farmer's Faith

2007-06-26T17:44:00.000-04:00

Written on a March Sunday, 2000 when we were talking in a Church home of Jesus drawing lines in the sand. My heart and mind drew me afterwards to the lakeshore where this was written.

While others questioned where it was written and talked of straight lines and tiers of oppression holding others down, I was picturing Jesus with stick in hand drawing a circle in the sand around the woman and asking “How much space do you need?” And saying “Fill your space.”

Written June 21st, 2001…
Now on this morning of late June 2001 on the 21st day, somehow blossom time makes sense.

The Lake, ...for the first time my home on Earth discovered in my time and in God’s Time the Way my Creator planted the dream in my heart as it would be for me so many years before. I had traveled for a lifetime a Soul path to the crest of the hill, sat there always in body or mind sense looking to the Lake and praying when God’s Presence and guidance was most needed... dreamt of walking the final mile alone to the Lakeshore, then…stepping in and walking to my body balance point that allows strength and complete submission without fear, then…returning to create what God was dreaming of, too.

This was the body of what was written at the Lakeshore late March of 2000…

To provide support for the process of growth and discovery, those choosing to support that process may find that growth occurs naturally when righteous actions are abandoned, power is given rather than taken, and control is seen as unnecessary. Although forcing action-response may be the necessary tool or approach to spark awakening, to merely do so limited by hungry desires and wants or our predetermined and well-worn pathways, we risk taking the life force from the tree for only the tree knows its own time and growth space.

The true miracle of growth often comes with the passage of time in fertile ground, with supportive waiting, the balanced new air of Spring following the hardship, quiet and rest of a long Winter.

While the farmer rests and dreams, the buds of growth each respond on their own time clock, and awaken to their self and God determined Path; their opening. Wishing the onset, wishing to control the timing, wishing the blossoming, does nothing but breed the disappointment, the anxiety, the painful awareness of the long Soul wait. Believing, holding faith, and trusting that on their own each will open in their God Time to their predetermined Earth time, we dream of blossoms and fruits abundant.

It is true that the combined, the unison May time blossoming holds beauty beyond description. My eyes, oh, how many times they have been blessed to witness this event of color. Yet, no less spectacular, no less a miracle, no less eye opening is that single late flower bloom of the single blossom cluster that my eyes have always been with vision to see on that late June morning.

When all the others have faded and by now well turned to fruit, this one single blossom how captivating, so powerful in its aloneness that it holds our attention when the others have long ago become, reviving our memory of what had come before balanced against a hope-vision of what is yet to be. We do not force this one to be like the others, to catch-up, to expect this one to become the biggest fruit on the tree but rather, we sit back in curiosity and with support equal to that which we have given the others, respond to the grace that it is by just surviving and simply being, and anticipate what it may become.

We know without proof of knowing, our hearts open to our discovery and God’s gift in that moment when our eyes were most open, that this flower of blossom as it comes to fruit in its own God Time and God Space, and mirrors the image God has pictured, that by observing its presence and doing nothing, we watched a miracle of its own discovery.

Janie

Above is an edited version of a longer story.
Appears in full, nonfiction spiritual novel, Dear Daisy by author, Jane Marla VerDow

http://www.risingsparrowpress.com/Bio.htm

http://www.risingsparrowpress.com/announce.htm

Lake Ontario Shoreline

2007-03-30T10:10:00.000-04:00

Day One.

The wise words told to me by a beekeeper at a farmer's market...

"Bloom where you're planted."