Whatever Comes To Mind (268)
The news of the tragedies that occurred this past week have affected many people in our area, especially those in the New Richland area.
The story, "Run in the Rain," has always been a favorite of mine. Ironically, it came on my computer as a rerun this past week. As I read the story, I couldn't help but think that sometimes we need to run in the rain.
I shed tears of sadness for my special friends. Please take time to tell your family and friends that you appreciate them and love them. Make time and take the opportunities to make special memories every day. Treasure and remember those precious memories, and take the time to live!
Run In The Rain
A little girl had been shopping with her mother in Wal-Mart. She must have been six years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle-faced image of innocence.
It was pouring outside — the kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all stood there, under the awning, just inside the door of the Wal-Mart.
We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day.
I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.
Her little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in, “Mom, let's run through the rain.”
"What?" Mom asked.
“Let's run through the rain!” she repeated.
“No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit,” Mom replied.
This young child waited a minute and repeated, “Mom, let's run through the rain.”
“We'll get soaked if we do,” Mom said.
“No, we won't, Mom. That's not what you said this morning,” the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom's arm.
“This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?”
“Don't you remember? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, 'If God can get us through this, He can get us through anything!'”
The entire crowd stopped dead silent. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the rain. We all stood silently. No one left. Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say.
Now, some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.
“Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If God lets us get wet, well, maybe we just need washing,” Mom said.
Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They got soaked.
They were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars. And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.
Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories. So don't forget to make time and take the opportunities to make memories everyday.
To everything there is a reason and a time to every purpose under heaven.
I hope you still take time to run through the rain.
They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but then an entire life to forget them.
I hope that you will share this story with your family and friends and let them know you'll never forget them. If you don't, it means you're in a hurry. Take the time to live!
Keep in touch with your friends — you never know when you'll need each other.
Ironically, my "Whatever Comes To Mind" was to be about rainbows.
I've always had a fascination with rainbows. It is like a promise from God that the storm is over and that everything is going to be all right.
It is like a symbol of happiness, a colorful moment to cherish in our mind and hearts.
Isn't there always a promise of a rainbow after the rain? We just have to look for it.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, July 12th: Daniel Christensen, Kimberly Peterson, Rick Pelzl, Daryl Waltz, Herb & Lori Moon.
• Friday, July 13th: Megan Elizabeth Nowariak, Audrey Lillian Peterson, Marayah Mae Mortenson, Kolette Lageson Stevenson, Brenda Misgen, Sandra Cerney Collins, Joseph Adrian Parks, Ed Nelson, Cynthia Fuerniss, Dick Larson, Amber Anderson, Jean Johnson, Corey & Danielle Wangsness, Jason & Shannon Peterson.
• Saturday, July 14th: Kallen Reed Rasmussen, Gavin Cole Halverson, Sharon Richards Lucas, Annette Hove, Madison Larkin, Dana Simonson, Jeff Kitzer, Jerry Langlie, Lee Cummins, Shane Davis, Peter Kasper, Roger Swearingen, Bethany & Ashley Ashton.
• Sunday, July 15th: Nathan Daniel Wayne, Nathan Joseph Bauers, Levi Peterson, McCoy LaVerne Schwierjohann, Bob Long, Thad Aaseth, Judd Aaseth, Stacy Seath Tempel, Lacinda Jensen, Vicki Utpadel Knudson, David & Kim Killian.
• Monday, July 16th: Sue Stieglbauer, Hudson Mrotz, Kyle Ladlie, Jeff Helmers, Nancy Wilder, Kenny & Sarah Price, Dave & Deb Oeltjenbruns.
• Tuesday, July 17th: Kaylee Christine Hanson, Merton Nelson, Ralph Diaz, Sandi Vangen, Victor Christenson, Larry Molenaar, Leslie Schwartz, Lisa & Bob Wayne, Kristine (Simon) & David Freitas.
• Wednesday, July 18th: Anika Christine McDonald, Nancy Anderson, Matthew DeShane, Katie Dobberstein, Michael Graif, Luke Rye, Roger & Betty Davies, Mark & Mandy Boehme.
How did you celebrate the Fourth of July? Fireworks, parades, picnics, or celebrations?
There is always excitement in the air, as there should be when we celebrate this important time in the history of our country. A very important document was signed 236 years ago, and we still have our freedom to celebrate.
The old saying, "Freedom isn't free," is true. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank those that have and continue to serve and protect our country to this day. Our freedom is the best thing we have and it often appears that other nations would like to fight for the privilege of having that. Often they bring us into battle, not necessarily for our own good because it leaves us open to criticism, but we do it for the good of others.
I feel that the freedom we have is still the very best. It’s so easy to take our freedom for granted today. Many of the problems we are forced to cope with are nothing new because history is full of violence, tyrants and outrage.
I wonder what some of these countries would do if it weren't for the generosity and help provided to them in times of disaster by the United States.
It pains me to see how many people and corporations move to other countries while still enjoying the profits and rights of this country. Greed is a green-eyed monster that is trying to destroy our industrial endeavor. This can threaten our future. It takes away jobs, particularly in the medium sector and challenges our standard of living. But, I am optimistic when it appears that some things are coming back, at least those who stayed with the American industrial program are displaying their faith and integrity as never before.
Notice how many now label their goods, "Made in America.” Isn't it better to take a stand than to watch the millions of citizens sitting back and doing nothing?
This year, when the flags are flying and the fireworks exploding and we celebrate another year of relative freedom, let’s all resolve to do what needs to be done to bring back the freedoms lost and make this a country that is still the best.
Sing out loud and clear. Fly your flag respectively. Fill our churches so that no religion will dominate or dictate what we have built our nation and religious beliefs on.
There was a little old man in the Care Center in New Richland, and whenever anyone asked his nationality, he proudly said, "I am an American.” He never wavered from his statement.
When people would say, "No, I mean what country are you from?" His only comment was, "I am proud to say that I am an American."
Wasn't he right? Aren't we all? Some may have come from other lands, like my grandmother, Christine, who was born in Denmark. But she and her brothers and sisters were taught the English language and though her parents would speak the Danish language to each other, especially when they didn't want their children to know what they were talking about, the children were never to speak anything but English. After all, they were now Americans.
If we were born here, we may have foreign heritage, but we were nonetheless, Americans. The memory of coming into the New York harbor and seeing the Statue of Liberty was something my grandmother never forgot.
My mother had a Vietnamese family in the headstart program. Their biggest goal was to become American citizens, which they did, as soon as they were able.
At that time, the children were all given American names, and even their last name was changed to Trongson, because it was American to have son at the end of your last name. Mom asked them why their children were so intelligent and the father said, "Because we know how important it is to be the best American citizens we can be."
I hope that you celebrated this birthday remembering those who came, stayed and settled in this country, making it their home. Be thankful for those who have served in the military and have given us the freedoms that we have.
God Bless our land. God bless our citizens. It is only right that we should celebrate those who have been such an important part of this free country that we love.
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P. O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
• Thursday, July 5th: Emma Harold, Abby Harold, Jessica Wayne, Brad Tufte, Burt Scripture, Chad Sommer, Russell Thostenson, Rhonda Grunwald, Issac Paulson, Danny Burns.
• Friday, July 6th: Kylie Titus, Brenlee Knudsen, Austin Nord, Linda Aronson, Scott Briggs, Gary Grosland, Wendy Kronberg Kammer, Travis Hanson, Paul Richards, Darrin Stadheim, James Van Riper, Kyle & Bethany Miller.
• Saturday, July 7th: Collin Christensen, Ed Possin, Elizabeth Eder, Cheryl Boverhuis, Casey Johnson, Chad Quam, Scott Reese, Jon Spatenka, Anna Jacobson, David Anderson, DeAnn Skroch.
• Sunday, July 8th: Zaine Augustine Briedenbach, Parker John & Payton Lorraine Bunn were 6 in 2011, Barb Hagen, Al Lee, Adam Arends, Jacob Terry Phillips, Deacon Thomas Lang, Summer Paulson, Deb Jacobs, Marlene Jensen.
• Monday, July 9th: Larry Otto, Corey Pence, Mavis Knudtson, Joni Calderon, Lisa Worke, Dale Peterson, Jenny Bunn, Julie & Dean Hunt, Jennifer & David Lageson.
• Tuesday, July 10th: Kalene Larson, Ethan Green, Brett Dunlap, Sally Hanson Sadden, Suzanne Skroch Larkin, Carley Ray Talamantes, Holly Swearingen, Anna Uetcsh, Todd Borchert, Kym Cameron, Paulette Nelson, Ryan & Amy Crabtree their 6th, Dustin & Jenna Quimby.
• Wednesday, July 11th: Zoie Marie Jensen, Shirley Wallace Tennant, Nicholas Lee Shultz, Helen Scripture Schubert, Kelly Sauke, Nataniel Lizarazo, Michele Degan Reistad, Rochelle Thompson, Lisa Goodnature Noble, Christopher Olson, Jessica Mangskau, Elaine Peterson, Naomi Hemingway, Randy Borchert, Scott Knutson, Celina & Richard Drecher, David & Bonnie Jensen, Carrie (Thompson) & Danny Wichmann.
Hope you have a day filled with things that make you smile!
Watching the open market displays on various food shows, in particular the foreign shows, with all the fruits and vegetables, breads, and even meats and fish that are out in the open air where everyone can handle the food and compare it, I wonder — are there no bacteria or sanitation problems in those countries?
Here in our little corner of the world we take into consideration the moving belt at the check out counter and the handles on the shopping carts. The food items themselves may be even tainted.
We also think about how many hands may have handled the food. Even if there is an outside hide or covering on the food items, like what we find on citrus fruits, that too needs to be washed.
Even after we wash them, we wonder if we are doing a good enough job. I like to use white vinegar and water as it kills bacteria. Put together a mixture of one part vinegar to 10 parts water and use it to wash your fruits and vegetables. Then rinse them with clear water, and wipe the items with paper towel or allow them to air dry.
Is the air, the dust, the fingers and food cleaner in other countries? Rarely. I don't know, but I will keep on washing and cleaning. I hope that I am doing a good enough job.
I know people who won't eat "finger foods" at a fair or exhibition, or allow their children to accept samples given out in the grocery stores. Is this sensible or nonsense? You be the judge.
Have germs taken over our lives? Can we get "germ-a-phobia” - knowing there are germs and bacteria everywhere? Have we become too concerned?
My grandfather often remodeled cow barns. He would have lunch and munch on his sandwich or cookies without a thought of what his hands had touched, and he was healthy as a horse. Perhaps there is an immunity built up over the years.
Some people travel to foreign lands, and immediately become sick. My cousin Jim Hanson, though, has traveled to 78 countries throughout the world, and has never become ill from food.
He says that he doesn’t shy away from local food, but does take some ordinary precautions. He eats food that must be peeled, like bananas. He does not eat raw vegetables, like salads and tomatoes. He drinks soda or beer if it is bottled and the carbonation in the bottle indicates that the bottle hasn’t been opened.
He never orders drinks with ice in them (the ice may be made with tainted water). That being said, he will eat street food from vendors, but watches to see if professional people order it first. These precautions are not just for foreign countries, but also apply to street foods from carts in American large cities and at sporting events.
Do you look at the railings that are located on stairways and think about how many germs are lurking there? Wiping the shopping cart handle is a good move, but have you ever thought about the belt that moves your groceries to the check out person and how many germs may be deposited there?
Do you bump the door handles with your hip instead of your hand? What do you do when you go to push open the doors; do you do it with your hands?
Is there anything dirtier than money? We hear about money laundering, but that laundering is not the kind you do with soap and water. Think of all of the hands and pockets that money has passed through.
My mother knew a gal who would even wash her hamburger. Meats and foods that can be properly cooked should not be washed.
The heat that is used to cook the items will take care of germs, but great care should be taken in cleaning the areas where meat products could come in contact with other foods, such as counter tops and especially cutting boards. Also, don't forget to always wash your hands.
Even the paper receipts and plastic bags we get when we buy our groceries and things have germs and bacteria on them. What about paper products, especially those that have been recycled? What is the story there? Using disposable towels, even in your bathroom, makes sense unless you have a stack of fingertip towels that can be used for single use.
Another food for thought: do you know what you are eating? Sugar isn't just sweet for us. Germs love it too! Sugar in your body sends out chemical signals that drive bacteria to it like a moth to a flame.
Some foreign honey isn't honey at all. It is a substance that can be made from sweeteners and water. Believe it or not, some foreign processed food actually contains excess products that should be disposed of as garbage, but they choose to dispose of them in the product instead. In other words, they get rid of it, saving cost.
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
• Thursday, June 28th: Warren & Bonnie Nelson, Jenny (Broskoff) & Chris Dutton, Danielle (Wagner) & LuVerne Zacharis, Amanda (Reese) Beavens, Shane Reese, Margaret Dobberstein, Zack Kromminga, Sara Hoyt, Sara Jensen and Noah Peterson.
• Friday, June 29th: Donald Hope, Nate VerHey, Courtney Haugen, Jacob Peterson, Brenda (Janka) Tschann, Jane (Jensen) Bratten, Berniece Whelan, Barb & Dale Mrotz, Brent & Valerie Christensen, Brent & Michelle Meiners, Wally & Marge Wobschall.
• Saturday, June 30th: Tammy & Jeff Busho, Susan (Schmidt) & Jon Anderson, Ann & Brent Wiersma, Nate & Kristine VerHey, Julie Vanden Heuvel, Robin Eder, Nathan Robertson, Donna Reichl, Steve Jensen, Barb Wright, Lorrie Kelly and Roger Shaunce.
• Sunday, July 1st: Keralyn (Paulsen) Powers, Eugene Hagen, Mary Edwardson, Linda O'Neil, Joanna Ruth Vermedahl, Maureen Wayne, Jill Hanson, Chris Ihrke, Jason Churchill, Marjorie Otterson, Deb Schimek, Rachel (Eaker) Lee, Gary Carlson, Tristan Bangert, Robert Christensen, Roger & Joyce Wayne, Heather (Krause) & Dion Quiram and Frank & Marilyn Cuden.
• Monday, July 2nd: John & Wendy Schultz, Delbert & Judy Karsjens, Leslie (Gatton) & David Hecker, David & Sidney Skroch, Christopher Matthew Wacek, Mary Ann Ewing, Stacy Shaunce, David Beck, Chad Ritz, Wilma Arbogast, Melissa Quaintance and Tony H. Seykora.
• Tuesday, July 3rd: Danika Marie Jensen, Lorry Pelzl, Amy Storlie, Amy Walterman, Cynthia Nelson, Sara & Chris Ihrke, Rachel & Michael Schmidt, Phillip & Karen Briggs.
• Wednesday, July 4th: Happy 4th of July! Bethany Miller, Carlie Sevcik, Pam Nelson, Trina Churchill, Ellie Rose Meiners, Brent Meiners, Brian Meiners, Denise & Scott McGowan.
Hope you have a day filled with things that make you smile!
With each passing year, grow stronger, wiser and richer in spirit. May the year be filled with new discoveries and God Bless America!
Sometimes, the best advice you can follow is your own
Written by Jim LutgensDo you take your own advice? It’s something to think about when you are telling others what they should do. I can think of many tidbits I passed on to others and forgot to do myself.
My Uncle Paul had all his kids take bookkeeping while they were going to school because he felt it was something they would have to do regardless of their station in life. I thought it was a great idea.
My Uncle A.J. on my mom’s side of the family always kept a little book in his pocket and recorded everything he spent. I thought that was worth telling someone else.
The diet doctor advised writing down every bit of food taken in. For one thing, it kept one from thoughtless eating if you didn’t want to have to stop and write down a spoonful of something. I passed on that good advice.
Another good idea is having a place for everything and returning it to its place immediately after use. That way, you always know where it is.
Don't wait until the day before Christmas to send out greetings to family and friends. That is why we are often late. The same thing goes for greeting cards and letters. Make lists: grocery, things to be done, places to go, etc. I'd score pretty well on that one.
Shop locally. Think of how important that business is and how inconvenient it would be if you had to go elsewhere.
Don't throw garbage out your car windows. That is not really advice, but more of a command.
My mother has always had a thing about this. She taught my sister and me well because when I see papers or trash by the roadside, it really bothers me that someone could be so inconsiderate they would dirty our pretty world.
Eat antioxidants like tomatoes and carrots because it helps keep your blood pressure down. Celery stimulates your immune system and good blood cells to aggressively attack viruses and bacteria. Celery also contains vitamin C and is a natural anti-inflammatory agent shown to ease upper respiratory track infections.
Drink two glasses of water the first thing in the morning to hydrate your body.
Never raise your voice in the house unless there is a fire or some other emergency.
Look where you walk. My dad was almost fanatic about nails, screws, and other objects that might flatten a tire. Grandma always said you might find a penny or two, and she was right.
Grandma also said to cut 100 dandelions or pull 100 weeds every day and you'd get rid of them without using chemicals.
Recycle, Recycle, Recycle.
Walk 30 minutes a day, briskly if possible.
Think of all the good things in life.
A recent visit to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester made me think a little bit more seriously about the facility and all it has to offer and does for so many people, including employment.
Think the Mall of America is big? Think again. The Rochester Mayo Clinic, which occupies approximately 15 million square feet, is about 3.5 times the size of the MOA.
The personnel, physicians, scientists, residents, students, fellows and clinic and hospital staff all adds up to approximately 33,505 people. And that’s just Rochester.
There are also Mayo Clinics now located in Jacksonville, Florida and Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona. Collectively these locations care for more than one million people each year. We don't always realize how fortunate we are, having a facility of this value almost next door.
Patients from throughout the world and from all walks of life look to the Mayo Clinic, a pioneer and innovator in medicine, for hope and healing.
Check out the license plates in the parking lots and on the streets of Rochester, where almost every state is represented every day.
*****
All of a sudden, I heard a fire siren blowing. It gave me goose bumps and reminded us to stop and say a prayer for everyone involved and to tell a fireman how much his services are appreciated.
Before I could return back home again on Thursday from one fire call in Ellendale, a second call came in, this time in Geneva. Fire departments from Ellendale, Geneva, Clarks Grove, Hollandale, New Richland, Owatonna, as well as ambulance personnel from Blooming Prairie all made their appearances when the fire whistles blew. With firemen who leave what they are doing to answer those calls, don't forget to tell these people thank you!
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, June 21st: Shirley & Greg Tennant, Dorothy Kilian, Terry Van Kampen, Robyn Schmidt Beckler, Harmony Mattson Anderson, Greg Ramaker, Jay Ditlevson, Teri Jahnke and Haley Katherine Meiners.
• Friday, June 22nd: Jessie Cleven, Marilyne Donahue, Travis Broskoff, Bruce Hunter, Barbara Haberman, Cheryl Peterson, Becca Schei, Mark & Sharon Sorenson, Chris & Linda (Harding) Newgard and Dale & Suzanne Boverhuis Jr.
• Saturday, June 23rd: Ralph & Alyce Randall, Carlie (Thompson) & Joseph Sevcik, Greg Bartsch, Ann Farr, Amanda Wacek, Rhonda Reichl, and Rebecca Schei.
• Sunday, June 24th: Rhyan Rebea Fritz, LuAnn Hanson, Gordon Hanson, Joel Butler, Andy Sommers, Mary Harty, Sheryl Berg, Rick A. Miller, Julie (Krieg) & Brian Hove, Valerie (Tobiason) & Scott Quiring, Stephanie (Morris) & Brad Hendrickson, Jennifer (Pence) & Juan Ortega, and Danielle (Cook) & Travis Johnson.
• Monday, June 25th: Paul & Deb Wallace, Brad & Jannell Tufte, David & Lori Lembke, James & Mardelyn Thompson, Boyd & Jeanene Reese, Brady Nelson, Rachel Lerum, Michael Bell, Hugh O'Byrne, Brady Nelson Heimer, Marilyn Nelson, Boyd Reese and Steve Lunning.
• Tuesday, June 26th: Michelle Marie & Marissa Ann Leeman, Brock Nelson, Tony Muri, Richard Holmes, Michelle Davidson, Tiffany Olson, Ray Jepson, Pennie Ladlie, Tristan & Michael Ingvaldson, Chuck & Ann Southworth and Tom & Wilma Arbogast.
With each passing year, grow stronger, grow wiser, and grow richer in spirit. May the year be filled with new discoveries.
It’s the time of year when we say thanks to our dads
Written by Jim LutgensWhat is so rare as a perfect day in June? It is that time of year we say thanks to our dads.
Dads are not a forgotten lot. We just didn't spend as much time with them, perhaps, as with our mothers.
There seems to be an unwritten rule that mothers mothered and fathers brought home the paycheck to make our existence what it was. Dads were seldom used as feeders or diaper changers. They were, however, a reminder that if we did something wrong it would be dealt with by dad. It was just a sign of the times.
When dad had worked all day, he was entitled to some time to sit back and relax. Or was he? It is so easy to forget that it was usually Dad who did mundane things around the house, which made it habitable. Dads were called upon to take care of the stopped up sink, the shower that leaked, the window that broke, the lawn that needed mowing and from time to time, and holding a feverish child so mom could take care of other things. I sometimes feel that Dads didn't get their due, even in those "good old days.”
Times have changed. Many a mom has taken her work out of the home and Dad has taken over more responsibility for caring for the kids plus other duties. Most seem to have adapted well, even enjoying being part of their children's lives. His say was so — or at least he thought it was. Mom could be manipulated, but when Dad said, “No,” he meant it.
Today's fathers are to be admired and complimented. Not only do they share in the little things that make their children's lives special, but they seem to enjoy it, and what it does for the child is wonderful. Children know their mother loves them, but when they know dad shows it, it is like a miracle drug.
Dads play games with their children. They're proud of their accomplishments. They spend time with them.
That once wasn't so easy to do because of time elements. Those who can look up to their dad have more self-confidence because if Dad says you're great, you know you are. Some dads use to cut down their kids' esteem by saying things without thinking. You hear more positive reinforcement now, and it shows in each generation.
Today it seems that dads are equal partners in parenting their children. Think about it; how different is the home when for one reason or another dad isn't there? There is an empty space there because something is missing. When dad’s not there we worry less about the complete meal on the table and settle for pizza or grilled cheese.
Dads are like that ever-talked-about "box of chocolates.” You don't always know which ones are the favorites, the not so good and the ones just filling in the box.
On the negative side, it is hard to understand the dad who takes out his frustration on a child. I cry for the child, but maybe I should cry for the man who will abuse, torture or torment something so precious. We wonder what is wrong with him — booze, drugs, or inherited torture from his own father. Less obvious is the father who misuses his brain and tortures with names and mannerisms that mentally hurt. But this is for Father’s Day, and we can only pray that eventually their negative things will go away and only love will be shown to the child.
Blessed is the father who takes time to enjoy his children throughout a lifetime. More precious than gold: the father-child relationship. Little boys may no longer want to be president - they just want to be like Dad!
Kids have a way of wrapping their dad around their little finger. It is a good thing; closeness counts however you get it. Fathers: so easy to operate, even a child can do it.
Love from and for a dad isn't a myth; we just didn't always know it was there because it was hard for them to show it.
How important is a dad? Just listen when children say, "My dad!"
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us.
If you have news please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
• Thursday, June 14th: Camille Marjean Dunlap, Summer Stieglbauer, Herb Moon, Kelly Wacek, David Broskoff, James Deml, Obert Osmundson Jr., Richard Peterson, Mitchell Kubat and Michael & Stacy Keith.
• Friday, June 15th: Donny & Mavis Bartsch, Dale & Nadine Strenge, Dale & Marlene Peterson, DeWayne Hagen, his 80th; James Bremer, Dale Anderson, Jennifer Robertson, Kathy Jensen, Kim Nelson, Logan Vietze, Ken Sable, and Ovanna Haried.
• Saturday, June 16th: Andren Richard Aaseth, Aven Leo Aaseth, Emily Otto, Bethany Otto Mikesell, Doug Smith, Lorraine Wallace, Vonda Humburg, Kenny Evenson, Kari Ingvaldson, Heather (Crabtree) & Keith Krenke, Rochelle (Butler) & Brent Chapman, Tracy & Paul Marcus, Richard & Becky Axmann, Kim (Anderson) & Rich Schneider and Dale & Marlene Peterson.
• Sunday, June 17th: Kimberly & Mike Luhring, Jim & Jeanne Worrell, Tiffany (Moon) & Josh Krueger, Natalie Jean Aaseth, Jim Hohansee, Eric Tobiason, Joshua Churchill, Aaron Casterton, Matthew Xavier, Tim Butler, and Anna Kay Hardyman.
• Monday, June 18th: Keturah Katherine Mae Gassmann, Brett Hagen, Dennis O'Neil, Dave Lieberg, Marie Dobberstein, Marvin Enzenauer, Bonnie Nelson, Krysti Cameron, Margo & Milton Wayne, Wayne & Diane Jensen, Greg & Linda Pavek, Brad & Tammy Thompson, Kathy (Barnett) & Chad Peterson, Amy & Brady Jensen, (2011).
• Tuesday, June 19th: Julie (Vanden Heuvel) & Dale Horihan, Ellen (Johnson) & Mark Johnson, Al & Carol Schultz, Julie & Chad Cornelius, Guy & Tracy Cromwell, Fred & DeLoyce Schmidt, Melissa & Scott Anderson, Tammy & Jeff Busho, Rich & Susan Hanson, Cesar & Heather Rosas, Ashlie Pence, Johnathan David Schewe, Mary Ann Stone, Jean Pelzl, Theresa Kasper, Monty Spurr, John Hohansee, Erica Van Kampen, Tracy Cromwell, Erica McClaskey, and LaVerne Calverly.
• Wednesday, June 20th: Adelyn Grace Quaintance, Jean Ahlstrom, Kari Vanden Heuvel, Christopher Wayne, Patti (Stadheim) Bell, Chris Jensen, Alan Schmidt, Dianne Jensen, Madison Renae DenHerder, Lenard & Everal Lageson, Mike & Kirra Hanson and Rick & Karla Kelly.
Wishing you a very special day blooming with warm and happy memories!
As long as we’re still around, we might as well dance
Written by Jim LutgensOld age is like a plane flying through a storm. Though you can use experience to steer clear of most storms, once you are aboard there is nothing you can do but thank God that at least you were alive long enough to be a part of the experience.
People talk about old age all the time. It is almost as important as talking about the weather. A common question is, "How are you doing?" The questioner never expects to actually get an answer unless it is, "Oh, hanging in there."
Mammy McCullough used to say, "Oh, I am super good but I'll get better. The reaction you get to this is first of all a surprise, then laughter. It pays to think positive.
There is lots of talk about the Golden Years, which would actually be more like silver if you look at the hair.
It is strange that you don't think of being old until you see someone your own age. How can we look in the mirror every day and not see the changes taking place? Do we really see ourselves?
Old age comes at different times. When you're young, old can be any where from 40 and up, but usually around 50 and "half way there." Ironically, one’s idea of old age changes the older you get. At age 40, 50 is old, at 50 one is likely to believe 60 is old. Those 75 or 80 will refer to that "old duffer," meaning someone older than themselves.
Age brings on any variety of ailments. Probably the most talked of is arthritis, though things like cancer, heart, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and the like are far more incapacitating. What is arthritis, really? More than 100 forms of arthritis exist. It has been described as creaky, crunchy, frozen joints and a walk that shows knees that don't want to bend.
Osteoarthritis is the wear and tear type of arthritis because the cartilage within the joints breaks down. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is still a mystery but it usually is the result of immune system attacks on normal joint tissues.
One usually hears more men complain about arthritis, but in reality it is a women’s disease with two or three times as many women affected as men.
I recently sat in the doctor’s office and a thought came to mind: How easy it is for us to dash off to the doctor for any number of things, some things serious, and some things not so serious. The personnel, the knowledge and the so-called technology that can give so much information in such a short time can make you feel better psychologically. But then I thought about all those years when all this technology wasn't available at the touch of a switch.
Who was the "doctor" who made up the prescription, took the temperature (probably by putting a hand on the forehead) and gave out the TLC that was probably more important than anything? It was likely Dr. Mom. I won't say Dad wasn't there too, holding a feverish child to comfort them while Mom had to do other things, but mostly it was Dr. Mom.
Oh, moms still do administer to small illnesses and injuries, but many of the childhood ailments of the past generation or two has meant a dash to the local urgent care center. Compare that with the country doctor who traveled to the patient many times, instead of vice versa.
Most cures from Grandma Hanson came from a bottle of peroxide, a Listerine bottle and a bit of Vicks for good measure. Treatment consisted of washing and soaking injuries — then the doctoring — and the comforting words of, "It will be O.K.," took care of most scrapes and cuts.
It was not unusual to drag out an infection or a boil with the inside skin of a chicken egg. Damp when put on, it dried and drew the skin and pulled out the infection. I can just hear the doctors’ comments, but it seemed to work. People did what they could at that time and hoped that it would take care of the problem.
Grandma’s big cure-all was reserved for more treacherous things. At one time, she had an infection I believe was called a carbuncle. Yikes.
She washed and soaked it and even went to the doctor who lanced it, but it didn't seem to respond to treatments. So she did the Grandma Hanson thing: sour cream straight from the farm and slice of home made bread. She then bound up the ankle. Laugh, but it worked.
I suppose the yeast and sour cream were the antibiotic of the ‘20s, but it pulled that infection out and there was like a core or root that came with it. A few more treatments and the leg was O.K. again. That was medicine of the day. Bread and sour cream was often the cure-all.
Grandma used her Listerine bottle to take care of everything from your head to your feet, including dandruff, teeth, mosquito bites, cuts, abrasions. You got it and it worked. I suppose it was the alcohol in it.
Winter brought its common ills that required Vicks. Dr. Demo always said, "Spread it on the barn." Vicks was a preventer or a get-well item, rubbed vigorously between the shoulder blades, the bottoms of the feet or wrapped in a rag around the neck. A gob in a pan of boiling water and a tent over the head opened up nasal passages and cleared the lungs.
Croup could be treacherous. Uncle Paul got the kerosene and sugar treatment for his and my mother the vinegar drink, or she would wear it on a thing around her neck which was accompanied by a lot of teasing, but it worked — or at least they thought it did.
I remember well the time I burned my arm very badly and Doc Olds in New Richland, wakened from a mostly sleepless night, wrapped it with some yellow salve and gauze and said, "Do not take it off." Whatever it was, it did the trick.
A small potato in the pants pocket was relief from arthritis in those days. Mashed potatoes? No. The potato would get hard as a stone.
My dad used the copper bracelet trick and the skin would get green around it. When combined with a potato in his pocket, the green went away. There were many conversations of people who cut potato slices or wrapped cabbage leaves around their knees.
Remember when doctors or dentists gave candy treats to kids for being good? Not many do that anymore.
Did these folk remedies really work? In some cases yes, but there is no denying the fact that life expectancy has increased sharply since the pre-penicillin and other wonder drug days of WW II. Maybe they worked because they had to work; there was no option. Maybe they worked because we believed in a cure.
Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here, we may as well dance!
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, June 7th: Chris Blouin, Daniel Eliason, Jesse Langlie, Roger Sommers, Faye Thompson, Paul Stollard, Trisha (Gross) Gilbertson, Brandon Gross, Katie (Klemmensen) & Kevin Knudson, Holly (Wangsness) & Jake Dau, Richard & Karen Holmes, Irvin & Joan Diderrich, Richard & Bonnie Peterson, Jeff & Lynne Draayer, Jim & Joanne Pichner.
• Friday, June 8th: Deb Wallace, Steve Hagen, Owen Ryan Krueger, Monty Miller, Sandi Meyer, Rodney Wayne, Steve Lembke, Morgan Hutchinson, Michelle & Damon Gowlland.
• Saturday, June 9th: Torsten & Melissa Wayne, Rhonda (Lund) & Troy Thevenot, Lexi Wayne, Ahinka Jensen, Sharon Lageson, Bennett Ver Hey, Carrie Paulson, Karen Swearingen Cox, Dana Waltz, Greg Smith, Tait Ingvaldson, Kenny Toft.
• Sunday, June 10th: Arnold Lund, his 93rd; Warren Wayne, Samantha Mae Schumacher, Kathy Allard, David Ellis, Chuck Groth, Jamie Weller, Margaret Reese, Forest Peterson, Adam Wacek, London Avery, Sarah (Cornelius) & Rob Routh, Marv & Pat Schulz, Missy (Lonning) & Paul Richards.
• Monday, June 11th: Angie & Thad Aaseth, Rick & Becky Johnson, Andy Lerberg, Zoie Marie Jensen, Diana Ritz, Matthew Horan, John Xavier, Mary Simon, and Karen Carlsen.
• Tuesday, June 12th: Nancy Ver Hey, Hanna Gail Crabtree, John Wallace, Charlotte Hill, Grant Pavek, Keith & Teresa McDonald,Ryan & Amanda (Reese) Beavens and Ron & Julie Peterson.
• Wednesday, June 13th: Steve & Rhonda Christensen, Fran & Fred Kenady, Marilyn & Gary Ulland, Keith & Kristin Hamberg, Kaden Jon Homuth, Cory Donald Haberman, Brent Reese, Ray Otteson, Tira Vangen, Corey Haberman, Tristan Richards, and Gary Jepson.
Wishing you quiet moments of beauty on your special day!
Here’s a question for regular readers. Do you remember when you graduated? Did all the things happen as you thought or hoped they would?
Lately, I’ve reflected on my own aspirations and goals from the time I graduated, and how they may be different from today’s graduate.
It is graduation. What a beautiful, exciting day. One wonders if these young people are putting away their adolescence to become young adults and if they realize what a change this will make in their lives.
Oh, I am not saying they will or need to forego some of the simple pleasures of childhood, or the fun and joy of being with others their own age, but in graduating from high school, they have turned that corner where everyone expects them to become more.
More responsibility falls upon their shoulders. They are expected to do more, perhaps to make more money, to change our troubled world into something more. We expect them to be better, more intelligent, more capable of tasks, more capable of leading the world. The knowledge they possess will be multiplied and filed away for future use.
From this point on, there are decisions they must make, decisions only they can make, decisions that may affect the rest of their lives. Should they continue their education in college? Trade school? Get a job? Join the military? Where will they live? Where will the money come from? They may be unsure of what direction they should take, but the decision is suddenly theirs to make.
In a sense, the real education they will now receive is how to become an adult, to join their parents, grandparents and other citizens in making the world work. It is a whole new ball game. The pitcher, catcher and fielders aren't the same.
They may not know what to expect or what is expected of them, but they are now “in the game.” They'll lose some friends along the way as each go in different directions. Their circle of friends will change as well as their outlook on life. They may even look at things in an entirely different way.
My mother has always said that from the day you start school, you will go to school or work for the rest of your life, and education never ends (nor should it). Time alone will dictate if they need to learn new things or how to do things differently.
There are those who know what they want to do and step easily on the road leading in that direction. For others there will be choices, detours and questions that will guide their lifestyle.
Each class of graduates is forced to confront issues that probably never crossed their minds before. They are now forced to developing an understanding of how the world turns, not the tightly controlled and protected world of high school. They must continue to learn respect and tolerance of many cultures and lifestyles that may not coincide with their own, and which ones they should tolerate or accept, and which ones require the strength to secure their own rights.
They must develop a sense of self, who they are today, what they want to be, and what they are willing to do to achieve their goals. Pastor Jim Arends told the class of 1988 that when people said they would pray for them, they had better take those prayers because they were going to need them, a statement that is still true today.
High school graduates are lucky indeed if they are mature enough to know what they want to accomplish and have a plan to do so. They should also recognize that the best-laid plans are subject to change.
About half of college students end up changing their major areas of study. Several years after graduation, many will not be working in the areas they studied in school. Unlike their parents and grandparents, today’s high school grads will likely change vocations several times in their careers.
This may sound daunting, but it is the new reality. My wish would be for the graduate to learn to take one step at a time, to keep an open mind, to enjoy life and be thankful for whatever life offers. Never give up on real friendships. Be yourself. Do your best. Love your neighbor. Love the world. Listen to sound advice. Don't be too proud to accept help, but also help others if needed. Care for your health. Eat good food. Exercise, and anyone with intelligence knows the effects of drugs, alcohol and smoking. Know there is a Supreme Being who will help you direct your life.
This advice is not new. It’s been out there for a couple of thousand years and stood the test of time.
Recognize you will be spending more time at your job than with your family. If you have a job that you enjoy, that is a winner. If you have a job you don't like, work at it until you find one you do like. Be true to your friends. Trust your ability. Be proud of your achievements. Live a good life, you only get one, make the most of it. You've worked this hard, so don't waste it on frivolous pastimes. Ask yourself, “Is this the best use of my time?”
Graduates, whatever the future may lead, may you always have the wisdom and strength to follow your dreams, the courage and ambition to meet new challenges, and may you know the happiness and pride that come with success!
Follow your dreams, high school graduate! Never feel that success may be too hard a climb. The very highest peaks are reached one step at a time!
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news please contact me via e-mail, mailto:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, May 24th: David Christensen, Merlyn Swearingen, Marlyn Swearingen, Nina Widlund, Reta Draayer.
• Friday, May 25th: Dakota Matthew Kath, his 7th: Riley Dean Disher, his 5th; Jack Harpel, Jackie Johnson Miller, Jim Pichner, Cara Christensen, Valerie Peterson, Richard Fetterly, Bill Nechanicky, Rick Miller, Deb Parks, Paul Reese, Troy & Kelly Utpadel, Dave & Barbara Van Gorkom.
• Saturday, May 26th: Jeff Wayne, Roger Wangsness, Natalie Hanson, Jim Cummins, Jennifer Beaber, Jeremy Beaber, Melissa Redmon, Karey (Kalakian) & Chris Shearman.
• Sunday, May 27th: Eileen Bergland, Lisa Hanson, Steve Jepson, Shane Callahan, Stacy Wobschall, Rev. Beaber, Theresa Kasper, Rick Loven, Carolee Broitzman George, Tracy Marcus, Lisa Hanson, Steve Jepson, Michael Butler, Steve & Karen Quam, Megan & Joel Cooper.
• Monday, May 28th: Sara Beth Carlson, her 2nd; Lily Lee Olson, her 2nd; Madalyn Kehne, Madison Catherine Knudson, Susan Schmidt, Marie Fowler, Rick & Jenny Loberg, Gerritt & Kathy Molenaar.
• Tuesday, May 29th: Brent Peterson, Deb Farr, Odean Otterson, Gene Pederson, Mark Butler, Ross Lein, Colin Quimby, Rod & Sandi Serdahl, John & Susan Oolman, Lily & Jerry Neitzel.
• Wednesday, May 30th: Payton Allen Misgen, Daniel Larson, Molly Hanson, Chuck Crabtree, Shirley Nelson, Julie & Toby Oquist.
May your special day blossom with many reasons to smile!
Remembering the Gettysburg Address on Memorial Day
Written by Jim LutgensWhile I was working on this column about Memorial Day, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address came to mind. This was something many were required to memorize in grade school.
The Gettysburg Address
Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate — we cannot consecrate — we cannot hallow — this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.
Consider the meaning of these few short sentences...
It is dawn, the stillness of the early morning of this most reverent day is broken only by the flapping of the flags which surround the cemetery. It is Memorial Day. It should be a day of reverence and thought...it should be a time to honor and embrace the lives and memories of those who lived and died, so we might be free. We might even take time to consider whether we would be willing to make that ultimate sacrifice. Do we still consider our freedom worth the price paid by others?
From the very first war in which our country was involved — the War for Independence — war has called our finest young men and women — citizens who were once a part of somebody's family, to defend and serve our country They had mothers and fathers, maybe sisters and brothers, a wife and children. They left their families at home to carry on as best as they could...many times these families endured hardships too hard to bear. They sacrificed their lives and livelihood.
The methods and types of war may have changed in intensity over the years but the human element is no different than it was all those years ago, and the sad truth is that in war, some of the human element will die. We will never know what was lost of their lifetimes.
Sometimes they were able to come back to join their families again, sometimes they weren’t. War left some families no longer complete. Buried in the graves which hold the dead servicemen and women are the people who gave their all for their country.
Those who died in the line of duty left families behind. We can only know some of the things that their passing caused for their families. We will never know what these people who gave their lives serving their country might have contributed to all of our lives had they lived.
History says Memorial Day really started with mothers who went to the site of the graves of Civil War soldiers (often while the war was still on) and decorated the graves of all those from the north and south. There was often no distinction of who the young men belonged to. He was somebody’s child and mothers are mothers. For that reason, it was called Decoration Day — the name which was in common use until after WW II. In the first half of the last century, Decoration Day also often was a time to visit and tend the graves of family members. It wasn’t until 1967 (at the height of the Vietnam War) that the name of the day was changed to Memorial Day, and it didn’t become an official Federal holiday until 1971. Since that time, it has become almost entirely focused on our military losses. I rather liked the concept of Decoration Day — the original meaning of Memorial Day — decorating the graves of our military heroes — but reaffirming our relationship with our ancestors. It serves as a reminder of who they were, who we are, and what is expected of us.
For the past 30 years there has been a ceremony of dropping a wreath in Fountain Lake in Albert Lea in front of the bandstand while the VFW or Legion conducted a ceremony. Dropping a wreath into the lake from an airplane, seaplane, or helicopter paid tribute to those lost in the air, at sea, or on the ground. The ceremony has been attended by hundreds of people. Last year, it was easy to count, as there were only 33 people there, including the color guard. Perhaps it was WW II, people were so tired after two big wars. Perhaps it was Korea, the first of the so-called “undeclared wars.” Perhaps it was the unpopularity of the Vietnam war, a war won on the battlefield but lost in Washington and in the press. Perhaps it was the end of the draft - there used to be a time when almost every man served in the military, and every family knew what that meant.
I have the greatest admiration for those families and individuals who generation after generation have realized the significance of honoring our service personnel, past and present on this day. Memorial Day should be a time of reverence, thought, reflection, as well as a time to remember the lives of those who died for their country.
Memorial Day services don’t just happen — they require work, planning and organization. Give thought and thanks to those who put up flags of honor for those who have served our country and later take them down at the close of the day. To those service organizations, scouts and individuals who honor their fellow Americans; to those who speak and march and play musical instruments in tribute; as well as all those who take this holiday seriously and make it memorable.
If nothing else, honor the National Moment of Remembrance. A resolution was passed back in the year 2000, which asks that at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day all Americans, voluntarily and informally, observe a moment of remembrance and respect by pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence.
Embrace this day. There is so much meaning there. Stretch your arms wide and soak up the energy there before you and then bow your head and say a silent prayer for all our servicemen and women, both the dead and the living.
Wars are wars, and though battles have changed in intensity one fact is still the same — unless you have been there you can not possibly know war. War takes a part out of the lives of those who serve. It has been said that the families of those in the military have joined the effort as well.
We are so very thankful that servicemen now have a chance to keep in touch with their families back home because of technology and a big improvement in communications — but speaking via Skype will never be the same as a touch, an embrace, or just spending time with someone missing from our lives.
For those who came back home there were adjustments, sometimes too hard to make. Taking time from their livelihood changed the focus of their life and that of their family. Children were often left for grandparents, relatives and even strangers to raise the best they knew how. There were those whose life changed because of loss of limb, eyesight and ability and there were those who gave their life for their country.
One veteran told me the nicest thing you can do is respect our flag. Stand and put your hand over your heart. Veterans now have the option of saluting. Look for them in a crowd and think God Bless America! Better yet, if you feel so inclined, say it out loud! Thank you.
Go to a parade, a sporting event, or anything patriotic, and people rarely pay attention any more to the flag. It is not that hard. When the flag passes by, stand at attention, take off your hat, put your hand over your heart (veterans have the option of saluting — note how few there are any more) and continue to do so until it has passed by.
Memorial Day is a day to remember all those who gave their lives defending our country. Give thanks to all of our servicemen and women, both past and present, who helped to make this country that we love a great one.
When was the last time your family took the time to attend a Memorial Day service or to visit the gravesite of a family member? Resolve to do it this year - it won't take long - your family may learn something- and you'll feel good about doing it- you'll be "connected" with those who have made your own life easier. Your children will learn a lesson from your actions. They will know you are patriotic, thankful, and love your country. It is something I’ve learned from my own parents, and it is one of the most lasting things they have taught me.
Memorial Day Services — The Ellendale-Geneva Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8941 and the American Legion Post 286 of Ellendale will hold Memorial Day services on Monday, May 28th.
Services will be held at Litomysal at 8:30 a.m.; St.Aidens at Bath at 9:15 a.m.; Geneva at 10:15; and Ellendale at 11:15.
Well-known speaker Al Batt will be providing the address at the area cemeteries and the NRHEG band will provide music at the programs.
All veterans are asked to fall out at the Ellendale Community Center at 8 a.m. on Monday morning.
God Bless America!
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family or school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news please contact me via e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, May 24th: David Christensen, Merlyn Swearingen, Marlyn Swearingen, Nina Widlund, Reta Draayer
• Friday, May 25th: Dakota Matthew Kath, his 7th: Riley Dean Disher, his 5th; Jack Harpel, Jackie Johnson Miller, Jim Pichner, Cara Christensen, Valerie Peterson, Richard Fetterly, Bill Nechanicky, Rick Miller, Deb Parks, Paul Reese, Troy & Kelly Utpadel, Dave & Barbara Van Gorkom
• Saturday, May 26th: Jeff Wayne, Roger Wangsness, Natalie Hanson, Jim Cummins, Jennifer Beaber, Jeremy Beaber, Melissa Redmon, Karey (Kalakian) & Chris Shearman
• Sunday, May 27th: Eileen Bergland, Lisa Hanson, Steve Jepson, Shane Callahan, Stacy Wobschall, Rev. Beaber, Theresa Kasper, Rick Loven, Carolee Broitzman George, Tracy Marcus, Lisa Hanson, Steve Jepson, Michael Butler, Steve & Karen Quam, Megan & Joel Cooper
• Monday, May 28th: Sara Beth Carlson, her 2nd; Lily Lee Olson, her 2nd; Madalyn Kehne, Madison Catherine Knudson, Susan Schmidt, Marie Fowler, Rick & Jenny Loberg, Gerritt & Kathy Molenaar
• Tuesday, May 29th: Brent Peterson, Deb Farr, Odean Otterson, Gene Pederson, Mark Butler, Ross Lein, Colin Quimby, Rod & Sandi Serdahl, John & Susan Oolman, Lily & Jerry Neitzel
• Wednesday, May 30th: Payton Allen Misgen, Daniel Larson, Molly Hanson, Chuck Crabtree, Shirley Nelson, Julie & Toby Oquist
May your special day blossom with many reasons to smile!
It was not a day of sadness. It was a day of hope and pride and honor, a culmination of the lifetime of a loved one’s hopes and dreams. It was sharing the stunning complexity of the human body and an important lesson. We cannot limit our care to the mental body, but rather we must react to embrace the human spirit.
There are times one wonders about things to write. Some subjects may be too personal. But then, maybe someone else would like to know what we didn't until we experienced it.
As many people know it was always my father’s wish to donate his body to the Mayo Health System because he felt that if doctors could learn something, and if studying his body could help someone else, he wanted to donate it.
This is something both my mother and father decided they would do years ago, so they contacted Mayo.
Upon his death in July, we notified the Mayo Health System. They sent a hearse to take his body to Rochester. This spring our family received an invitation to a Convocation Memorial program, which honors those who donated their bodies for science or study during the past year. Students and staff join families and friends of the donors to acknowledge the immeasurable value and impact of the donor's gift. They respect and maintain the privacy and dignity of the donors and their families and friends throughout the ceremony.
The gathering was both an academic assembly of student and faculty to give thanks to the families for their loved ones’ generosity in donating their body, and closure for the family.
The program was dignified and serious. It wasn't sad. It gave us a good feeling of participation in a worthwhile program of helping to train future health professionals and of Dad’s final gift. The students who thanked us and explained what it meant to them gave meaning to the gift. They said there were things that cannot be learned from books. Some things need to be learned and practiced by hands-on experiences.
The program was dignified. The speakers were short but informative. The faculty explained the need and purpose and went on to say the knowledge gained about body changes, surgical techniques, skeletal changes, muscle, bone, vessels, veins, replacements, carpal tunnel syndrome, and osteoporosis could only be researched in a hands-on situation. They told us the knowledge and skills learned through the research are shared with other physicians and anatomy labs around the world so others can also learn what is learned at Mayo.
The students spoke sincerely of the three-dimensional lessons they learned from the experience. They also explained that the knowledge received could never be learned in the same way from books and lectures. In effect they said, “The donor bodies were silent teachers.” They explained that our loved one’s sacrifice gave insight into the efforts of their lives.
From speaker after speaker, we heard them give thanks to those who gave freely and quietly.
One student explained how meaningful and personal it made her feel about her chosen field of medicine. It helped her realize we are not all the same and that outlook on life can change when you have in turn been touched. This is not only a life lesson but an emotional experience for the students. It puts their job in a different perspective.
Another student said, “There is determination and meaning when you've held someone’s heart in your hand. You know that through what you have learned and felt, and that you can make a difference in the lives of others.”
Talks during the convocation were interspersed with music and readings from the students. The students stood with lit candles as they read the first names of each of the 165 remembered. I am sure no one who was present will ever forget the singing of “Amazing Grace,” which was sung a capella by one of the students.
"What is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered? And when the earth shall claim your limbs then shall you truly dance." — Kahlil Gibran.
A gift of long-stemmed white roses was given to those present for the convocation. Attached to the roses was this inscription, "For you who think of the world in your last days and who have thought beyond your life, we are grateful."
— — —
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, May 17th: Laura Caroline Deml, her 5th; Caitlyn Nelson, David Thompson, Dale DeRaad, Rhonda Lund Thevenot, Jerry Blouin, Robert Briggs, Dyne Thereneau, Kay Barclay, Darlyne Paulson, Luella Reiman, Judith Hatch, Thomas Shawback, Rose & Carl Glienke.
• Friday, May 18th: Blake Ihrke, Zachary Jacob Dau, Cory Bailey, David Farr, Arlene Busho, Arlene Cummins, Xan Johnson, Mandy Muri Johannsen, Charlie Hanson, Dan Schember, Hank Thompson, Carol Stohr, Roger Draayer, Kelly Krumwiede, Rod Serdahl, Dan & Val Schember, Sue & Dean Westrum, Ken & Pat Sable.
• Saturday, May 19th: Christina Hill Berry, Madison Schweirjohann, Summer Schember Schultz, Mike Rysavy, John Oolman, Dawn Parks, Tim & Tiffany Hanson.
• Sunday, May 20th: Oakley Baker, Kaye Schember Cady, Laureen Hohansee, Kathy Hanson, Hannah Ashton, Carrie Thorstenson, Penny Nordhorn, Haley Collins, Scott Stohr, Kevin Peterson, Kent Lageson, Josh Kelly, Virginia Jensen, Cynthia Butler, Jay & Marsha Neitzel, Ed & Camille Nelson, Hannah Ashton, Adam & Kristen Arends.
• Monday, May 21st: Tony Dodge, Christopher Flim, Tom Wilker, Joel Cooper, Ryan Parks, William & Marvel Beiser.
• Tuesday, May 22nd: David Eliason, Christine Thompson Krause, Lori Lembke, Scott Dirksen, Pat Horan, Mark Christensen, Jim Obermoller, Michael Sarver, Roger Thompson, Andrew Grunwald, Karla Hanson, Dick Swift, Chuck & Susan Grubish, Toni and James Perschbacker.
• Wednesday, May 23rd: Stephane Paul Martin, her 3rd; Will Richard Utpadel, his 5th: Ilsbeth Wayne, Jeanne Simonson, Melissa Shaunce, Burton Borchert, Orville Langlie, Karen Quam, Rodney & Peggy Sorenson, Duane & Janice Morreim, Jeff & Sara Miller, Rebecca & Tim Brekke.
Celebrating with you as you mark another year. Hoping your day is filled with family, friends and cheer!
What is the most used piece of furniture in your home? At our house the kitchen table would win hands down. Actually, I don't have a normal kitchen table.
It is a bar. While the bar is handy, no way would it come close to being a kitchen table. I do have an old round table in my dining room. My mother was smart enough to buy one for each us girls when we were too young to realize their value. We have since learned.
Houses used to somewhat hide the kitchen from company, as the cook thought it might be untidy. It didn't matter that people always seemed to prefer to be in the kitchen at the table.
Times have changed. We have transitioned from a closed kitchen to one that's furnished as elegant as the rest of the home. It is a pleasure to visit and welcome friends in to talk during meal preparation.
The wide-open spaces in most kitchens today provides a place where everyone likes to gather, particularly around the table. Incidentally, it is a proven fact that children who eat their meals at the table have much better manners than those who eat at a bar. There is something that adds substance to sitting down at a table instead of sitting at a bar, something that says "this is important, this is special."
If there is a heart of the home, it would be the table, and it always has been. Not just for eating, though in Grandma’s time the table was usually set with a sugar bowl, a bowl of spoons, vinegar and oil cruets, salt and pepper shakers. These items were usually placed in the middle of the table, perhaps for a few reasons. They needed to be out for the next meal anyway. And, it saved time, when Pa or someone else came in for a quick cup of coffee.
But, uses for tables didn't stop there. Kitchens seldom had enough counter space, so the table became the place people used to mix cakes, knead bread, peel vegetables, butcher chickens and yes, even dishes washed if the home didn't have running water.
Children did their homework there under Mother's watchful eye from the time of kerosene lamps to the present day. That's where Dad caught up with the newspaper and Mom, well Mom darned socks, cut out dresses, patched pants, sewed, folded the clothes and now and then had coffee when a neighbor or friend dropped in.
Round tables were favored because there always seemed to be room to squeeze in an extra dinner place when someone showed up at the last minute, but it wasn't just that. Round tables seemed cozy. It was a visible invitation to be a part of family activities.
I remember a table my mother had. She bought it at an auction in Geneva. I think it had been a heirloom in the Nelson family.
It had 13 leaves that could be added and when they were all used, the table stretched its limit and went across the dining room area of our cabin at the lake. I suppose the table was a good 24 feet long when all 13 leaves were used. It was wonderful.
There was room for everybody. No wonder my mother cried when it burned in the fire. We still talk about that table when we get together for family gatherings and holidays. It was just the right size to get everyone together.
Mom was able to get one similar a few years later, but it wasn't the same. I notice she still has a preference for round tables, as I catch her eying that beautiful old family heirloom.
We still use round tables. I still have my old round table that my mother gave me. My nephew has my sisters' table and she was lucky enough to find another old antique round table in Arizona when she moved up in the mountains and yes, you can still squeeze one more person in at the table when visitors come.
I wonder how many babies were washed and dressed on that table, games played or puzzles that were put together. We also drew pictures, painted water colors, colored and cut and did projects for school and 4-H at that table. That table has been used for many "round table discussions" we had as a family. And of course it was used for many "Happy Birthday To You" and anniversary parties. Several times it nearly buckled from all the plates of food on it.
I wish my table could talk to me for real. I am sure the story of its life would be a good one. I know because it has served a good life even while I had it. Its history dates many years before that though.
Take the time to set your table for special meals for your family. Use your best dishes and silverware and enjoy the elegance. There is a whole different feeling when families sit down at a table instead of using the convenience of the bar.
To me, the dining room table is the heart of our homes and the mainstay of our children and children’s children. It is a family member.
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family and school reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, and birth and wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, May 10th: Tari (Walterman) Erickson, Ryan Callahan, Tina Nelson, Steve Nielsen, Christine Ingvaldson, Dave Oeljenbrun, Mary Wilker, Brody Johnson, Mark & Sara Misgen, Rande & Jamie Nelson.
• Friday, May 11th: Michaela Ann Hanielton, Jaxon Edward Beavens and Parker Reese Beavens, their 6th; Carol Cromwell Cox, Ed Haberman, Krista Hanson, Troy Janka, Daniel Robertson, Robert Vaith, Loretta Schewe, Scott & Shannon Pacholl.
• Saturday, May 12th: Everal Lageson, Richie Robinson, Dorothy Jensen, Larry & Jean Klocek.
• Sunday, May 13th: Brooklyn Christine DuBois, her 9th; David Richards, Rose Glienke, Troy Donahue, Curt Esplan, John Nechanicky, Holly Pence, Tracy Swearingen, Larry Schmidt, Reed Thostenson, Rose Glienke, Alan & Kathy Knudson, John & Barbara.
• Monday, May 14th: Clair Dahl, Linda Olson, Anna Mae Peterson, her 7th; Katie Peterson, Ginger Thompson, Bruce Waage, Brad Wayne, Judy VerHey, Mark VerHey, Jeff Christensen, Shannon Krikava.
• Tuesday, May 15th: Carter Hagen, Evan Dobberstein, Megan Grubish, Alex Wayne, Mark Flesche, Dan Hagen, Don Hagen, Nicole Strand Harris, Stephanie Krueger, Neil Berg, Sandy Jensen, Marsha Neitzell, Tammy Thompson, Brett & Jessica Richards, Ralph & Irene Krueger, Jon & Nicole Farr.
• Wednesday, May 16th: Ron Kubicek, Mark Reistad, Mark Skroch, Vernie Stieglbauer, Kim Lageson, Doug Lembke, Judy Karsjens, Anne Larson, Allycia Zinke, Becky Phagan, Bev White, Annie Larson, Christine & Brian Carlson.
Here's hoping that your special day brings you laughter, a light heart and much love.
More...
On Mother’s Day, and every day, thank God for your mom
Written by Jim LutgensMother. "No words can ever begin to do justice to the one who bore us and made us what we are. Mother is such a special person! One thing is for sure - There is no one like mother, no love like a mother's love.” -Helen Steiner Rice.
There are thousands of ways one can describe one’s mother. There are plenty of books, plaques and words of wisdom to purchase on the matter. They may all be true, profound and even make you nod your head in agreement.
Behind every image of mother is a message shared by the countless mamas, grandmas, aunts and other women who have shaped our lives. From generation to generation, they have loved us and taught us that the very ordinary things of living have a deeper spiritual meaning. Our mother is the one whose guiding voice we hear, whose gentle touch we feel no matter how time and distance separate us.
A mother knows that loving is easy. It’s letting go that is hard. Mothers encourage climbing and reaching for goals. She cautions that it is not only what you achieve but also how you achieve that is important.
We know there are those who don't deserve to be called “Mother,” but for the most part, there is just something about other mothers. Every mother feels the hurt when they realize there are mothers who don’t do right by their children. They wonder how that mother could possibly abuse something so special as a child.
Mother’s Day, which officially only occurs one day a year, really isn't enough to honor our mothers. But then again, most of us honor them any way, everyday, in some quiet way that maybe neither she nor we realize.
One of the best books I ever read was “Love You Forever,” because it best describes what a mother is.
It starts, “A mother holds her new baby and very slowly rocked him/her back and forth, back and forth, back and forth. And while she held her baby she sang, ‘I'll love you forever. I'll like you for always, as long as I'm living, my baby you'll be.’”
The book goes on to tell about the things that go on between a child and its mother. Each story always ended with, “I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, As long as I'm living, my baby you'll be.”
A mother’s love is unconditional. No matter what, that child she carried in her body was a part of her and for good or evil that flesh was her flesh and that child will always be a part of her. Even if a child was first born to someone else, the person can become its mother. When she first holds that child close to her and feels that baby’s heart beat, that child will always be hers.
He/she could be 75 years old, but he/she is still a mother’s child. Hers to love and worry about, protect, teach and play with. Every time she sees a child, it reminds her of her own child or children. If something happens to another child, it still goes through her like it is her own. She feels every pain, every problem, every situation even if it is someone else’s child.
Her heart is filled with all children. She is proud of their accomplishments. She cries over their problems. She shudders over their mistakes. She forgives and forgets and knows that every kid needs God to protect them, with herself as next in line.
She makes sacrifices for them, but she doesn’t think of them as such. She may over spend on gifts, toys, clothes etc., but figures she can make up the difference some place else. She bends over backwards to find the one thing her child wants the most, even though she knows it is a fleeting thing. She would give her child almost anything.
She does however put her foot down or straightens her back when she knows there is something not right. Who else but a mother can teach right from wrong?
It is a funny thing how children know the difference between kind of and definite. If it really, really matters to mother, they aren't going there, or doing that, no way.
It is a known fact that mothers have eyes in the back of their head. Well, not really, but they are so closely bonded to their child that they seem to always know what is going on. I won't say that mothers are never fooled, but seldom. Some how she has that feeling inside of her that there is something going on she should know about.
To say a good mother is worth her weight in gold would be a travesty, for the value of a good mother is far reaching. There is no end in sight. Her value is without compare!
So on this special day, Mother’s Day, and every day, thank God for your mother. If you can, hug her, and if you can't, tell her in your heart, for that is where she will always be. The thread of her wisdom is woven into the tapestry of our lives. Like a valentine that never fades, a mother's love is stamped on our hearts.
I’ll love you forever. I’ll like you for always. As long as I'm living, my baby you'll be!
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family or school reunions, birthdays, anniversaries, and birth or wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
• Thursday, May 3rd: Jase Dean Knudson, his 4th; Cassidy Worrell, Fern Possin, Justin Robertson, Dale Dulas, Wayne Dobberstein, Anthony Brandt, Merle Bartness, Leah (Ruth) & William (Bill) Scott, their 3rd.
• Friday, May 4th: Joyce Wayne, Angie Worrell Aaseth, Daniel Knudson, Kenneth Schumacher, Charles Wangsness, Keith Miller, Shirley Draayer Anderson, Dean Heskett, Thad Tuttle, Leslie Ray Farr, her 10th; Jessica Marcus, Julia Elizabeth Rye, her 5th, Brooklyn Cecila Strand, her 7th, Melonie Butler, Lexi Jo Brandstad, her 11th.
• Saturday, May 5th: Mckenzie Lynn Jensen, her 11th; Alexis Janning, his 11th; Jeff Draayer, Shirley Jensen, Melody Krenke, Ron Langlie, Ryan Larson, Shirley Swearingen, Amber Obermoller, Dennis Sauke, Martin Whelan, Erik & Shannon Smith, their 11th; John & Lucille Nechanicky, Tim & Jolene Sorenson, Kevin & Annie Avery.
• Sunday, May 6th: Caleb Scott Harpel, his 12th; Brad Borchert, Tracy Haddy, Cheryl Nelson, Iris Jensen, Brandon Wallace, Bill Vavra, Tim Wilker, Jennifer & Michael Vetsch, their 12th, Bill & Judith Hatch, Everett & Marian Camp.
• Monday, May 7th: Brody Hanson, Brian Jensen, John Snyder, Nancy Swearingen Grant, Brian Johnson, Heidi & Jason Owen, their 6th, Bryan & Diane Brighton, Heidi (Crabtree) & Jason Owen, their 7th.
Tuesday, May 8th: Olivia Kay Smith, her 6th; Kristina Follien, Marguerite Christensen Nelson, Ronald Wangsness, Elizabeth Bremer, Sandy Neubauer.
• Wednesday, May 9th: Elli Pearl Baker, Aidan Jeffrey Schlaak, his 5th; John Jensen, Sue Pence, Jake Simmons, Julie Haroldson, Sue Hohansee, Audrey Horan, Karol Carroll, Njole Aaseth, Rachelle Doran, Carolyn Greer, Karla Kelly, Jerry Westrum, Jill (Ottesen) & Cam Kehne.
Wishing you sunshine and flowers and many, wonderful days ahead.
With the snow gone for some time now, there has to be an itch to hitch on to some machinery and "get the show on the road." Well, yes there has been some movement but not the full-throttle kind. Actually, some of the garden enthusiasts have taken advantage of the early spring weather. But, they have less to lose if the weather turns cold and typically spring like.
Rumors say there is corn already growing in rows in the Mankato area, but the experienced farmer has patience and it usually pays off. If you're farming a few thousand acres, the temptation (and the risk of frost) is even higher.
Just think of the size of those mighty monsters carting across the field, planting 24 rows at a time. Remember the little earthy farmer who sometimes even planted one hill at a time, stepped and used his wooden hand planter? It would be hard for youngsters today to realize the ordeal their forefathers went through to plant corn and get it in the crib in the fall.
My mother is not that old (but she really is) and remembers when hybrid seen corn came into being. It caused a round table discussion if one should buy or not buy. My granddad had saved corn ears from the previous year’s harvest and picked the biggest and best from the corn that seemed to do the best and gave the best yield.
Yes, intuition teamed with a little experience was a plus to farming back then too. Those ears were put on steel racks and hung in the rafters of the granary to dry and used to supply the next year’s crop of seed corn.
Doesn't seem possible does it? My grandmother would cover trays with wet towels in an attempt to coax life out of those dry kernels. And of course, the best was what was used to plant in the field.
If you're old enough, you remember how each row was checked on by a wire system with prongs that dropped in the kernels at a particular space. At the end of the row, the wire contraption was moved over for the next row. It was a slow and tedious process.
When it was time to cultivate the weeds, a two-row cultivator was hooked up behind a team of horses. As it made its way down the rows, it broke up the weeds. Even so, the farmer had to be careful driving that team of horses, as the cultivator could pull up corn as well as weeds. It was a long and weary process just sitting or getting off the seat; farmers would resort to walking, holding the reins to give the backside and legs a break.
Once summer was over, that same trek was made again. They walked and husked the corn, and threw it into a wagon with a bang board to stop it from flowing over. Then, the farmer had to scoop the corn ears into a crib where it could be taken later and shelled in a hand-turned sheller or fed on the cob. It was not unusual to harvest corn by the later part of November, often times in snow.
There were some perks in cultivating alone in the field. You could sing to the dog and think about things. It wasn't good to daydream though. Now and then you had to leave the perch to pick small rocks out of the way.
Now the farmer climbs into an air-conditioned cab tractor with high fidelity music, phone and GPS-controlled computer. He can prepare the ground and plant the whole farm in less time than the farmers of old spent preparing one field.
Most farmers no longer have to spread fertilizer in a manure spreader and they make short work of spraying the fields with the needed chemicals and fertilizer. Come harvest time those monster machines pick and shell the corn that may be transported by semi to market or storage.
Time and money spent and profit from more acres have changed the farm into big business. The farmer follows the markets using new technology. Farming is more than a little different than it used to be!
Before the advent of farm tractors, most farms were small, only about 80 acres. To use a business term of today, they were “vertically integrated.” Farmers grew crops that were fed to pigs, chickens, dairy and beef cattle or sheep. If there was any grain left over, it could be sold.
Why such small farms? Part of it had to do with our short growing season here in the north, and part had to do with the use of grains to feed animals.
The original “homestead” lands of the 1800s were 160 acres. That wasn’t enough for farmers on the Great Plains, and maybe too much for farmers here in the north. If you split that in two, you would have 80 acres. On that 80 acres, you would have about 10 acres used by the house, barn, granary, corn crib and animal pens. About 10 acres would be untillable, roads, drives, creeks, and woodlots for heating and cooking. There would be about 20 acres of pasture for farm animals and the horses used to till the land, leaving about 40 acres.
A team of horses could plow about five acres a day, depending on hills and soil. Horses had to be rested and watered. They could disk about seven acres a day, drag 10 acres a day and plant seven acres a day. That’s 24 days to prepare and plant 40 acres.
That would take about a month of work, assuming no breakdowns and allowing for weather delays. If you got started about the 1st of May, you would be finished by Memorial Day. That’s lots of hard work (for the farmer AND the animals). Don’t forget the farmer also had to harness, unharness, and feed and water not only the horses, but all the farm animals. Then there was the rest of the chores: cleaning out barns, spreading manure, milking, shelling corn, threshing, putting up hay, grinding feed, and fixing the inevitable breakdowns. It was hard to farm more than 40 or 50 acres of cropland, depending on the soil, terrain, and crop mix, hence 80-acre farms. Is it any wonder that farming was a family affair? Farmers needed all of the help they could get!
Despite the wistful thinking of would-be farmers (like the TV show “Green Acres”), I don’t think most of us would want to go back to that life. And in fact, the country can’t. In the days of farming with horses, much of the production of the farm was used up by the family themselves; only a bit of the production was sold for consumption by non-farmers in the cities.
Think about this: Without mechanized farming, there would be no large cities; they couldn’t exist. In 1900, each farmer fed 2.5 people, besides his family. By 1940, using mechanization, he fed 19. By 1960, despite larger farms and equipment, each farmer had improved that ratio to only 25 people.
Today, with specialization, chemicals, and all of the technology that goes into farming, each farmer feeds between 129 and 155 people (depending on whose numbers you use). Large cities simply could not exist without the output of today’s farmers. Think about that the next time you go for a drive and see the vast fields and huge equipment. In our rural area, we have an appreciation for farmers. Let your “city” relatives know that without these farmers, they would be working just raising food to survive.
— — —
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, April 19th: Elizabeth Rose Wallace, her 5th; Cody James Reistad, his 6th; Aaron Utpadel, James Bremmer, Jaxon Branstad, his 11th; Kaden Shaw Tonlinson, his 8th.
• Friday, April 20th: Jacob Dau, his 5th Sara Elizabeth Hemingway, her 10th; Steve Mumm, Brenda Sorenson, Kathy Haberman, Jennie Korsbon, Paul & Jennifer Wayne, Don & Delores Glynn.
• Saturday, April 21st: Helen Pierce, Michael Foster, Veronica Graif, Adrian Kilian, Marilyn Reistad, Elmer Vanden Heuvel.
• Sunday, April 22nd: Noah Lowell Swearingen, his 8th; Rollie Johnson, David Purdy, Gregory Swearingen, Stacy Thostenson Harold, James Van Riper, Marilyne Dodge, Mike & Sarah Collins, Rodger & Sue Hill.
• Monday, April 23rd: Jayne Miller, Buffy Bergland, Alan Edwardson, Jackie Johnson Miller.
• Tuesday, April 24th: Keralyn & Bill Powers, Madison Kae Wagner, Marnie Ray Wagner, Dak Sorenson, Gladys Burr, Marilyn Cuden, Audrey Paulson, Lowell Wichmann, Scott Brandt, Kara Vangen.
• Wednesday, April 25th: Ed Deml, Nicole Langlie La Tourneau, Nicole Nielson, Evie Toft, Christine Davidson, Jeff Kunkel, Janice Morreim, Stan Reichl.
• Thursday, April 26th: Jim Arends, Lester Casterton, Teresa Deml Sisler, Beverly Harpel, Jean Larson, Pat Motl, Ashley Bangert, Mary Peterson, Pat Pichner, Steve & Judy Christensen, Bob & Gerry Flim, Allan & Darline Jensen.
• Friday, April 27th: Brian Schember, Norma Robertson, Heidi & Christopher Olson.
• Saturday, April 28th: Martin Rossing, Rodney Peterson, Mildred Flugum, Jamie Cameron, Jean & Chuck Groth.
• Sunday, April 29th: Derek Anthony Kubicek, his 5th; Jane Brocker, Roberta Dettman, Angie Hall, Mitchell Jensen, Pat & Linda Goodnature, Jennifer & Steve Schultz.
• Monday, April 30th: Nancy Williams, Jeff Misgen, Paul Moen, Dawn Cooper, Kevin Cooper, Jonathon Lein, Karey Dufresne, Judah Ashton, Jonathon Lein, Rick & Melonie Miller.
• Tuesday, May 1st: Carter Levi Titus, Jim Hanson, Shirley Pichner Helgeson, Christopher "Critter" Johnson, his 10th; Luke Dobberstein, Gene Budach, Sandi Otto Glenn, Richard Helmers, Sue Kasper Anderson, Tim Kasper, Norma Long, Cari Jensen, Thomas Van Riper, Veronica & Jim Graif, Heidi & Ryan Baldwin.
• Wednesday, May 2nd: Shayna Kress and Tyler Kress, their 2nd; Jack Benjamin Owen, his 3rd; Diane Smith, Ted Radke, Jill Goodnature Kubicek, Bonnie Shaunce, Stephanie Corey, DeWayne Farr, Nolin Joe Simmons, his 7th; Joshua Nicholas Paulsen, his 9th; Roger Anderson, Gerald & Mildred Flugum, Dean & Carolyn Wangen.
May the year ahead bring you a world of pleasures.
Decorating for the holidays is a big thing. Who doesn’t enjoy the glamor and glitz of the holiday seasons?
Sam and Dorothy Worrell, former residents of Geneva, always decorated a little Easter egg tree by their front door. My mother had a Manzanita branch she decorated for a number of years at Easter time as well. Nowhere do I see the amount of decorating for Easter that seems to prevail at Christmas, Halloween and even the Fourth of July.
It was interesting for me to read about an Easter Egg Tree that was decorated in Germany. It made me want to go right out and plant a bushy tree and start tracking down my Easter Eggs again.
The following story is a good one. It tells us how important little things can grow into important big things.
It seems in about 1945 a young lad, Volker Kraft, saw his first Easter tree. So impressed he knew that he too would have to have one for his very own. He married, had a family but that Easter egg tree never left his thoughts. In 1965, he and his wife put out a tree with 18 colored plastic eggs. It became a family tradition. Plastic eggs later made way for real eggs — that were blown out and used so the shells could be beautifully decorated.
As the children grew, they took part in decorating the tree. The children grew older and moved away but needless to say the traditional Easter tree stayed. The grandchildren come home to decorate the now, giant tree. Every year the number of eggs hung on the branches grows and at last count in 2010, the number reached an incredible number of 9,500 Easter eggs!
The tradition still prevails and it takes many people to decorate the tree now. Several weeks before the annual holiday arrives, they start hanging the beautifully decorated eggs on the tree. The tree remains decorated in its full and colorful glory for a week or so following the annual holiday.
Yes, it makes me want to plant an Easter tree and hang it full of eggs of promise. At any rate, the thought is there. The tradition and beauty are beyond compare.
Speaking of tradition and beauty, Lisa Beamer on Good Morning America recently told a story about how an event occurred that opened her eyes, so to speak. She had a very special teacher in high school many years ago whose husband died suddenly of a heart attack. About a week after his death, she shared some of her insight with a classroom of students. As the late afternoon sunlight came streaming in through the classroom windows and the class was nearly over, she moved a few things aside on the edge of her desk and sat down there.
With a gentle look of reflection on her face, she paused and said, “Class is over, I would like to share with all of you, a thought that is unrelated to class, but which I feel is very important. Each of us is put here on earth to learn, share, love, appreciate and give of ourselves. None of us know when this fantastic experience will end. It can be taken away at any moment. “
Perhaps this is the power's way of telling us that we must make the most out of every single day. Her eyes, beginning to water, she went on, “So I would like you all to make me a promise. From now on, on your way to school, or on your way home, find something beautiful to notice. It doesn’t have to be something you see, it could be a scent, perhaps of freshly baked bread wafting out of someone's house, or it could be the sound of the breeze slightly rustling the leaves in the trees, or the way the morning light catches one autumn leaf as it falls gently to the ground. Please look for these things, and cherish them. For, although it may sound trite to some, these things are the "stuff" of life. The little things we are put here on earth to enjoy. The things we often take for granted.”
The class was completely quiet. They picked up their books and filed out of the room silently. That afternoon the students took their teachers advice and noticed more things on their way home from school than they had seen that whole semester.
Remembering the teacher and the impression she made makes me appreciate all of the things we sometimes overlook. Today, do something different, take a walk, stop for an ice cream cone, admire someone’s child or pet. Live. For as we get older, it is not the things we did that we often regret, but the things we didn't do.
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”
Have a great day! God Bless you every day of your life.
Some of our Star Eagle readers have commented they like to read about events such as family or school reunions, birthdays, anniversaries, and birth or wedding announcements. In order to read about these important things, we need our faithful readers to pass along the information to us. If you have news, please contact me.
Also, if our NRHEG Star Eagle readers would like to share birthdays and anniversaries of your family and friends, or you know of some that should be deleted, or names have changed, please contact me via e-mail, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; by postal mail, P.O. Box 192, Geneva, MN 56035 or telephone, 507-256-4405.
Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, April 26th: Jim Arends, Lester Casterton, Teresa Deml Sisler, Beverly Harpel, Jean Larson, Pat Motl, Ashley Bangert, Mary Peterson, Pat Pichner, Steve & Judy Christensen, Bob & Gerry Flim, Allan & Darline Jensen.
• Friday, April 27th: Brian Schember, Norma Robertson, Heidi & Christopher Olson.
• Saturday, April 28th: Martin Rossing, Rodney Peterson, Mildred Flugum, Jamie Cameron, Jean & Chuck Groth.
• Sunday, April 29th: Derek Anthony Kubicek, his 5th; Jane Brocker, Roberta Dettman, Angie Hall, Mitchell Jensen, Pat & Linda Goodnature, Jennifer & Steve Schultz.
• Monday, April 30th: Nancy Williams, Jeff Misgen, Paul Moen, Dawn Cooper, Kevin Cooper, Jonathon Lein, Karey Dufresne, Judah Ashton, Jonathon Lein, Rick & Melonie Miller.
• Tuesday, May 1st: Carter Levi Titus, Jim Hanson, Shirley Pichner Helgeson, Christopher "Critter" Johnson, his 10th; Luke Dobberstein, Gene Budach, Sandi Otto Glenn, Richard Helmers, Sue Kasper Anderson, Tim Kasper, Norma Long, Cari Jensen, Thomas Van Riper, Veronica & Jim Graif, Heidi & Ryan Baldwin.
• Wednesday, May 2nd: Shayna Kress and Tyler Kress, their 2nd; Jack Benjamin Owen, his 3rd; Diane Smith, Ted Radke, Jill Goodnature Kubicek, Bonnie Shaunce, Stephanie Corey, DeWayne Farr, Nolin Joe Simmons, his 7th; Joshua Nicholas Paulsen, his 9th; Roger Anderson, Gerald & Mildred Flugum, Dean & Carolyn Wangen.
God bless you and have a great day!
Just a few things I have learned through the years
Written by Jim LutgensThe other day, I realized how much I owe my intelligence to other people, animals and events. We’ve all seen the books and articles like “All I really know I learned from my dog or cat or kindergarten” and you know, there's some truth to it.
How do we learn? How many people, places or things are needed to teach us what we know? Quite a few I'd say. lt seems like when there were things I needed to learn or experience, there was someone to teach me if I kept my eyes, ears and mind open.
To name just a few...
My Lord has taught me to pray to have faith and to love one another.
My uncle once said his best friend was his dog. He said he could tell him anything, pour out his deepest secrets, and the dog never told anyone. Lesson learned: a loyal friend keeps a secret.
My kids taught me that it is okay to say yes and no at appropriate times. That love isn't always on just the outside, but buried deep inside.
My dad taught me that it isn't good to be wasteful. He also taught me that something can always be made from nothing. And that success isn’t something you wear on your sleeve or in your pocketbook, but in your heart.
From my niece Ava and her Teddy Bear, I learned a loyal friend stays with you through good times and bad. No matter how old and battered things have become, these true friends are still the most important part of your life. A special friend is there to hold tight and warm your heart and take away your hurts.
My granddaughters have taught me to love someone unconditionally and completely. That greatest moments come to you unexpectedly out of the blue and childhood innocence is irreplaceable. When little Amelia smiles, everyone smiles.
My cousin Jim has tried to teach me lots of things — but most of all to keep learning and experiencing new and interesting things and to have fun and enjoy the adventure while you’re doing it.
My husband has tried to teach me the art of time and patience. It is sometimes hard for me to slow down and remember that there is another day.
My grandmother taught me many things besides cooking and cleaning. She taught me how to count to 100 while picking up sticks, pulling weeds or climbing stairs and that every task can be a learning experience. She also taught me that cocoa, choo-choo train toast, Listerine and peroxide almost cure anything. And there is always room for one more in the house, at the table or even in a sleepover.
A teacher taught me how important my name is and to always spell correctly (well almost always.) Another thing she made me realize is how important it was that my papers were neat and on time.
In 4-H I learned to sew and put things together.
During summers at the lake, I learned to swim.
My mother taught me how to love and appreciate the written word, to read and spell, and to write (even though I’ve had to re-learn those lessons over and over again.)
My sister taught me that sometimes the challenge of adversity can lead us up to higher things.
My nephews taught me that though they may have reached for the stars in height, they never used it for an excuse to look down on anyone.
My accident made me realize that two legs aren’t always that much better than one and sometimes you just have to work harder. My bout with encephalitis taught me things won’t always be the same. You just have to learn to accommodate them the best you can.
I’ve found that I’m a lot stronger and more competent than I give myself credit for, if I have the courage to take on an issue or task.
Working for the paper has been an experience of a lifetime. I realize how many people there really are, how different they may be and yet how much they are alike. They have trials and tribulations, too! The experience taught me that few people get through life without some problems to work through but that’s what gives them their strength.
I am so grateful for the chance to be able to express my thoughts (like these.) It has forced me every week to sit down at the computer, reflect, and put my thoughts together. I love being able to literally write “Whatever Comes To Mind.” Most people don't have a forum like this.
Happy people are that way because they choose to be and they make others happy because of it. The same is true of unhappy people who lack the trait of enjoying life and pass it on to others.
My computer has taught me that I can communicate or stay in touch with people everyday, all over the world. Everybody or anything, (even machines) makes mistakes and have bad days. It’s taught me that there are words you don't say and there is good and bad in everything.
Doing cross stitch has taught me I can be creative. Baking cookies and banana bread most often provides distraction for me, but with others in the kitchen, a sense of love is created. I find it enjoyable, and these domestic creations have seen me through a lot of difficult days.
My aunt taught me that a decision once made for good should be accepted and not complained about.
Putting puzzles together has a calming effect which slows me down when things are moving too fast.
I have also learned that it is all right to be quiet or noisy or calm or adventurous. It is best to be polite and well mannered but everyone can shout a bit too. You never outgrow your need to learn or explore or collect information. There are always new things to find every day.
The nicest thing you can be is the nicest thing you can be with a smile for everyone, a helping hand and a mind full of interest.
The plaque on my wall says it all “Right is right and wrong is wrong no matter who or why they're doing it.”
Nursing a pet peeve will only put a sour taste in the mouth. Flowers, like babies, grow larger by nursing.
Perhaps the greatest lesson I learned from God. The Ten Commandments are not the “10 Suggestions.” Every religion has a code of conduct. They give meaning to life, and the way we interact with others.
Lord help me to remember that nothing is going to happen to me today that you and I together can’t handle.
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Birthdays and anniversaries:
• Thursday, April 12th: Tiegen Kay Richards, her 5th; Rory Ann Bickler, Guy Cromwell, Charise Oland, Cheryl Thompson, Deb Wilking, Allen & Betty Brandt, Roger & Reta Draayer.
• Friday, April 13th: Victor Mrotz, Jamie Johnson, Andrea Casteron Malo, Ava Raye Chapman, her 3rd; David Clausen, Margie Nesdahl, Pat O'Conner, Jason Sullivan, Roxie Ritz Simmons, Megan Benson, Charlotte Miller, Curtis Klecker, Shannon & Jason Peterson, their 8th.
• Saturday, April 14th: Anna Elizabeth Bailey, Tina Hagen, Jason Vogt, Rachel Oswald, Marcia Hemingway Jensen, David Jensen, Ron Huber, Butch & Gail Ottesen.
• Sunday, April 15th: Mason Robert Klemmensen, his 4th; Terry Jensen, Barry Troe, James Benson, Sarah Christine George, Cayla Conroy.
• Monday, April 16th: Linda Christensen, Eddie & Arlene Miller, their 60th; Terry & Cindy Vaith their 28th.
• Tuesday, April 17th: Mike Nesdahl, Suzanne Marcus Cory, Matthew Olson, Diane Van Riper, Kathy Paulsen, Bethany & Terry Mikesell, their 7th, Jerry & Mary Peterson.
• Wednesday, April 18th: Ellen Hanson, Marge Leak, Peggy Wallerich, Tim Stollard, Tom Kaphers, Rebecca Lyn Peterson, her 10th; Brian Olson, Danielle Zamora, Levi Michael Den Herder, his 6th.
Wishing you every joy as you celebrate your special day!