I'm off to the show, soon. Caught up on my last minute work, all except for hooking up this darn web cam. What a pain! Still fooling with that.
I would like to welcome Sturgeon Paul's to ifish! You can get yourself some wonderful sardines at Sturgeon Paul's, and don't forget to stop by his booth at the show, for some wonderful jerky! It's awesome! I know I'll be, um... buy! :)
During the week, I will be posting any writings to this link on the discussion forum. That way I don't have to haul along all my ftp software. Just me and my DB!
Remember, I'll be at booth 1029, Salmon Master Guide Service. If you want to catch me, I'll most likely be there in the mornings, for sure, and on and off, through out the day. If you miss me, ask Dennis when I'll be back, as we give each other breaks to shop and browse, and visit. We always say how long we will be, and unless we get caught up with something, it's a good way to figure our schedules out.
Thank God for Buzz Ramsey at Luhr Jensen! He pulled a fast one and got our Kwikfish rushed, for the show! Thank you, Buzz! I was so excited, I told him I loved him! Now, come on! They are only lures, Jennie!
Off I go. I have to pack, take some more aspirin, get out some frozen carrots, next... and pray that my eye goes back to normal, soon. I can't be at the show, with all those lights, and have my eyes still dilated, now can I? Carrots have to do the trick!

I'm going to use the db for my column, if I have time to write, this week.
It's just so much easier, than bringing along all my software. Call me lazy!
This webcam set up is taking me way too long, for what it is worth! I wish I had someone that knew how to do routers and ports. Please, come forward at the show, if you do! Webcamming is not my expertise, or even close!!!

The webcam is located at http://ifish.camarades.com/ if you'd like to check on our progress. I'm going to work on it today a bit. If you see the "bird cam" for now, that's because I haven't left yet, and I'm still messing with ports and settings.

Anyhow, needed to start this to link to my front page. I love being lazy!

Ta ta--
J

Feb 2 2004

Days Inn is my favorite, all time motel. In my many, many travels, I've never stayed at a place I feel so at home in. Everything is in order. You know how it's always a hassle to find an outlet, or a plug in for your cell phone? The telephone cord rarely is in the right place for your laptop? The shower is not too cold, nor too warm. It is not to short for me, either, and the water pressure is superb! The room is large, has a microwave, fridge, coffee maker and kitchenette! I'm comfortable!
I didn't sleep well the first night, but last night was better.
At the show...
The Kwikfish are selling like hotcakes, and so are the new beanies. I should have ordered more of those! I only got 36, and I'm running low!
Everything is going swimmingly, but I sure miss Kilchis. I don't know how many times I have called home and asked to sing to him. I have certain songs I sing to Kilchis, and he enjoys them. Bill might bring him to visit. I hope so!
Had a hectic time yesterday morning. I was a bit too lax at breakfast. Lots of people joined our table, and all of the sudden it was past time to be there. Missed my shuttle at the motel, ran to the other shuttle, only to figure out I didn't have my cell phone. Luckily, it was not at Elmer's, but in the front seat of Dennis' truck. Whew! I made it to the front gate just in time to meet the guy with the hats, and Buzz, with the K fish!
It takes a while to adjust to the speed and madness of city life. Comparing it to life on the Kilchis, it is world's apart!
I do miss my Kilchis. Both the river, and the dog. My return to both is eagerly anticpated!
The web cam is a bit of a frustration this year. I don't know how to make it run faster, and I don't have the time to fool with it. It will just have to do, and I'll plan better for next year.
With all the web cams in the world, you would think that there would be an expert out there. I would have paid for help, but could not find help!
It's nice to have free continental breakfasts here, and I'm headed down to partake, soon. Coffee, orange juice and the normal display of carbs.
I'm on web mail, for my mail, and it's frustratingly slow. I don't have filters to mass delete things, so it's one by one. I miss Eudora!
Off I go. It's shower and show time, soon.
Andrew, David? If you read this, I miss and love you, both! Talk to you this evening...
Mom

Feb 6 2004

Friday... early! What is it? 6?
In answer to your question, I will be at the show Saturday, only until 1:00 at the latest.
Friday, today, I will be at the show from open until 4ish, and then off and on in the evening until my legs collapse, like yesterday!
I saw a show about a guy who had MS, which is different from marfan. Anyhow, he said there are times when people think he is on drugs, or drunk.
Last night, as I hobbled and weaved to the shuttle, I'm sure I was looked at, sideways. However, I had no drugs, nor alcohol! I just couldn't walk!
It was rather interesting, yesterday, as a guy who was disabled from ifish, pending a response to mail, for complaining over and over on the board, regarding things on ifish that he did not agree with. He wouldn't write back, so we didn't re enable him.
He used another person's account, and attempted a new registration, secretly.
Anyhow, he came to my booth, while people waited to speak to me, behind him.
He told me, in no uncertain terms how unhappy he was with me, and with ifish, and I listened, patiently. That was, until he called me a dictator!!!
At that point, tired, and rather emotional, I told him it probably wasn't a good time for this. I asked him to move on.
That's when he stated it was a public show, and that he didn't have to move on! WHAT?
Dennis nodded his head, as if to say, "Yep, good time to move along.." THANK YOU, DENNIS!"
It was too bad. I really dislike people being unhappy, but the rules on ifish are pretty clearly stated, and we are very reasonable to work with. I am justified in my decisions. It would have been favorable, of course, to work it out, and I honestly tried to listen, and work it out. Just didnt happen after I was called a dictator. However, Dennis said, "Dictator of ifish? Is that the same as owner who makes rules? Yip! You are the dictator! SO????" LOL!

I guess it was crazy time, and Scott at Amerman Eggs had a similar experience with a show visitor, out of control. His visitor was drunk and obnoxious, though. Perhaps I am the lucky one!

It was great to meet tons of ifishers, and I look forward to more, today.
I keep thinking, "Today is the day that I will feel great, and make it through the whole day!" Just hasn't happened yet!
Shows are like marathons!
You have no clue how much I miss Kilchis. I cannot wait to hug him!!!
One and a half days left, and Kilchis, it's you and me on the river!
(Stuff that dreams are made of for me, lately!)
Kilchis loves a special teddy bear of mine, and I don't let him have it very often. It's a special bear that I love, and I don't want him to chew it up. Bill says he keeps putting it higher and higher up, so that Kilchis won't get it, but somehow, when he comes home at night, Kilchis has that bear! He finds Kilchis laying on the couch, his head propped up on "bear" like a pillow, sound asleep.
Last night, Bill called all exited. He said he was shaking. "Why?"
He was fishing with a First Cast Jig, when it went down, hard and fast. Several (he couldn't count!) runs later, he landed AT LEAST a 19 pound buck steelie!!!!
Bill is very good, and very honest at measuring estimation on fish, and if anything, under estimates. I wouldn't doubt it to be actually 20!
He said it was chrome bright, with just a hint of peach on him! WOW! On 12 pound line! COOLNESS!
Congrats, Bill!
The river is prime, and.... here I am! Oh well!
I'd say by the length of this writing that I am off to a good start, this morning.
Coffee is going down quickly, and next step is web mail.. Thought I'd write this before I start on that task. It's NO fun to do 109 e mails on web mail! At home, I have Eudora and filters to help, so I can mass delete.
Here? I have a dial up account, and one by one, I "delete", wait, wait, "DELETE", wait, wait, "Answer this one", wait, wait....
Anyhow, that's next. I'll make it through! I will!
Then, down for breakfast, shower, and off to the show!

I can do this. Kilchis? Mom will be home, soon! I love you!!!

Sorry, no spell check, but dogs don't care!

Feb 7th 2004

I think I've only had to deal with things like that twice in the life of ifish.
Both, I wish hadn't happened, or I wish they'd have ended differently, at leasT!
I think that's why it shakes me so. It surprises the heck out of me!
It's Saturday! I get to go home, today!!!
I'm working till noon or noon thirty, and then meeting my brother and his kids for lunch.
Then, off and over the mountains, and up the Kilchis river to those who miss me, too!
I'm tired... stayed up too late last night, packing up my home away from home.
Although these shows are tiring, I wouldn't miss it for a million bucks. I love meeting people and I love seeing all of the new tackle. I also love to see how hyped the folks are about their new products. It's fun when people come to show me what they bought!
Crabbait came yesterday and brought me Krispey Kremes! WHEEE!!! There are still a couple left, too! Thank you, Crabbait!!! Then, he vanished! Where did you go, CB?
Pete came too, after the meeting. He said his feet killed him after four hours on that concrete. UH HUH!
Got to meet Aunty M's nephew, some folks from Canby, and I just adore the guy next to us that has been a show neighbor now for three years. He does hunts in Africa, and the days would be much longer without his jokes. I have to fill up on these, so that I can tell them on the boat, later in the year. That is, if I can get them straight! How do some people remember all that stuff?

OK, off I go. Shower, pack, get ready.... I'm comin home!

February 8th, 2004

As I rounded the last bend that overlooks perhaps the best stretch of steelhead water on the Kilchis river, there it stood. The meadow appeared a bit brighter green, the first daffodils of the year, nearly in blossom. Home, with smoke coming out of the chimney, just as I left it.
As I made my way down the driveway, there stood Kilchis, my dog, a bit shy, and cautiously wagging his tail. Could it be? Is my Mother home? Is it... really? You could see the doubt there, after my longer than usual absence. I barely opened the car door, and he was all over me! He was too wiggly to hug, and I wanted a long, long hug, so badly! He bumped my chin as he jumped up and down, as high as four feet at times, and his claws scratched all over me! "Kilchis! Slow down! Mom needs a long, long hug to make it all better!" That didn't happen until much later.
I don't think I've ever felt such tremendous exhaustion. It must be the cement floors, but my hip joints gave way several times as I tried to make it to the house.
"I'm home!" The obvious became apparent, as my kids came to greet me. Long hugs, happy faces. I'm home!
I'm the type that can't do anything until my bags are unpacked. I can't be home until my things are home. Sweaters, home in their drawers, makeup, home in their assorted trays, laundry, home in the washer.
And then? Jennie, home in her.... bed!
I knew I had thousands of e mails to answer, thousands of posts to read, thousands of bills to pay, or invoice, or catch up on. Home should have been at my computer, but I simply could not face that, yet. If I'm not home on my computer, I should be home on the river, fishing. Yes, it called my name, but I was deaf to it's call.
I was in bed by 4:00 PM.
"What is for dinner?" They asked, as they recalled five nights of fish sticks and frozen delights from Marie Calendar and Swanson. "Chinese food! McDonalds! Burger King!" I was NOT going to cook! Chinese food, it was. When it was delivered, I tried to make it down for a bite, but failed. Nope. I am in bed, and even the smell of my favorite foods could not provide the energy needed, to partake. I had to have been hungry, after eating barely anything more than Kettle Korn and Krispey Kremes for four days! It's the "K" diet, don't you know? K is for Kafeine, too! Oh! And don't forget the "K" in late night Whoppers at Burger King!
I headed for bed at four o clock, and did not move more than 15 feet after I got horizontal, until 6:20 this morning!
Now, it is time to catch up. Catch up on bills, invoices, thousands of notes in a little book, kept at the show. Decals to mail out, hats to mail out, Kwikfish to figure out ownership, and notices to post on the board, about upcoming events.
Oh, where to start?
I know! I will start on the river! That will clear my brain, right?
That is... if I can make it down there! I kid you not! My legs are like jello and refuse to cooperate! Legs are a really nice feature, and I feel ripped off. Mine don't work, and I want a refund! It's like they have a mind of their own, and I have no control over their actions! What do you mean I should work? Oops! Those darn legs kicked the computer! :)
Uh oh! Like I said, I have no control over them, and yes... they are struggling to get up, go to the mud room and put waders on them! I'm so terribly sorry, but it looks like I have to go, now!!!
Oh, my, but doesn't the river look fishy!!

February 9th, 2004

Caught a nice little steelie yesterday. Named it my "welcome home" fish.
Not sure if I'm going to the doctor today, or fishing in the drift boat.
Thing is, if I go to the doc, they'll say, "Here is a pain prescription and we'll see you in two weeks for an x ray and a bone density test." Do I really want to start another round of "Let's go see the doc?" Or, do I want to go play with some cartwheeling steelhead? Hmmm... Tough choices, NOT! Let's go fishing!!!
I've thought of this before, and it most often it vaporizes into thin air. Today, I'm going to do it, and I suggest all of you who play "internet bulletin boards" do the same.
It's about positive thinking. It's about looking at the bright side. It's about not getting caught in the negative trap
Just for today, let's look at the bright side. Some posts may drag you to think negatively. Don't let it! Look at the good side of every post on the ifish bulletin board, and if you choose to post, post something positive! Make someone feel good! I guarantee you that when I choose this attitude over the other, it is returned to me in so many ways!
Once I took a post that was aimed to displease me, and I turned it around by being light hearted and found the good in the post. The results were not only positive in return, but also made my day, instead of ruining it!
Take the time, choose one member of ifish and write them a kind letter or note. Just, out of the blue! See what happens!!!
Think of solutions, not problems. Each day on ifish, there are bound to be posts that displease you. Post at least one thing to make another ifisher happy.
Try sorting through and reading only the positive posts, join in, and learn from them to be happy. Wouldn't it be great if everyone just ignored the complainers? The negative posts would drop to the bottom of the board and be gone!
Remember, happiness is contagious!
When things do not proceed as intended and desired, do your best to stay detached. Detachment will help you to stay calm and in control of your moods and posting reactions. Detachment is not indifference!!! Detachment has a bunch to do with how peaceful you feel! If you have that peace, then you are doing your part to bring happiness and civility to the boards!
So, with that, I am going to think positive, for this one day, only. No way does that mean that I can't start off tomorrow like this, again, but I tend to bite off only what I can chew, and then re commit to that again, if the results were positive!
I'll tell you. Not only does it make me feel better emotionally, it also helps me to forget about physical pain. I think the two go hand in hand.
I really liked what Captain J posted yesterday, and I will focus on this, too:
"People call me lucky, and the harder I work the luckier I get!"
This works not only with physical work, or with your job, but in disciplining your moods and reactions. Heck, if I work hard to be happy and it is successful, what more could I ask for?
So, look out folks, I'm going to be happy, today! Why don't you join me?

February 11th, 2004

Yesterday was glorious on the Wilson river! What a day! Not that many fish, but beautiful sunshine and.. the chance of fish! Now, those two together make for a perfect day! I did land a nice bright hatchery hen, and I did it, right after saying, something about not worrying about ifish, and just having fun. Yip! That was the ticket! Bobber down! It was like a affirmation, or something, to live more, and to worry and work less! I am trying to do that!
Today, however, it is a day to visit my accountant and put all these little slips of paper from the entire year into order. One hour with the accountant! I think I've done my homework, but I'm sure she'll point out things that I have missed! It's always that way!
Andrew woke up ill this morning. He says he is so dizzy he can't stand up. It always worries me with him, that there is something wrong with his heart. Probably just Mom worrying, again. But, if he had a cold, a drippy nose, or a fever, I'd feel a whole lot better. You know, a "normal" sickness! Isn't that odd? He just has days where he feels very weak and kind of dizzy. I can relate!
Today, however, I'm feeling pretty good. Off to shower, and North to the accountant, I go! Then home to Kilchis and the Kilchis river to see if I can find a big native. This truly is my favorite season on the river! (Do I say that every season? I think so!)
Oh, one note about jig fishing... I have found that the tight mend on a jig line isn't necessary. I get a more free float, if I just keep letting line out. I have found the drift less of a hassle, and when the fish takes, the whip of the line and tension against the water does the job, in hooking the fish. Then, when I reel in the slack, I hit the fish a couple more times, to set the hook, more firmly. Works for me. Try it sometime! I can't say that my hookup ratio has suffered one bit, doing it this way, even with a huge belly in my line.
Another thought.. Have you ever wondered, when fishing on a slow day, that the fish may just be biting very, very softly? Frustrating to think how many you might be missing on those days, by not setting the hook on each slightly suspicious bump! It's especially frustrating when you are fishing a hole that has no particularly interesting structure to the bottom of the river, with a slinky. I finally took off the slinky, while fishing a sand bottom, and put some lead on. Still didn't hook up, but certainly felt the bottom more keenly. Anyway... off I go. Now I'm late!

 

February 12th, 2004

Do you like jigsaw puzzles? Brain teasers? Well, sometimes in the morning, I get up and stare at the ifish home page for hours! It's like a puzzle, with ever increasing pieces! Oregon Wildlife Heritage, "Rod" called, and wants to advertise the Salmon Quest. "Oh! That is a great event! OK!"
The NW Steelheaders called. "Can you please help us get the word out about the Broodstock Rodeo?" "Oh, yes! Ifish totally supports that!!!"
Kings for Kids needs some space, too! "Oh! I love that program! OK, I'll put it up!!!!
BUT WHERE??
First in importance, of course, are the sponsors, who help pay for ifish. But, then again, these sponsors are also supporting these events, and we all know that these events are what makes the fishing world go around, so...
Finally! I have created the space, and I'm happy with it! Ifish was getting a very busy, distracted look, and I wasn't pleased with it. Today, I AM! I am happy! (Or happi-er!)
After four cups of coffee, and racing thoughts about it in front of the computer, in the shower, and at the kitchen table, I have moved all of the tournaments and fundraisers to front and center, next to my decal.
You know, I have entertained thoughts of drop down menus. However, I have always been from the "K.I.S.S." (Keep it simple, stupid) school of web design. Not only do drop down menus take longer to load, but I don't want to hide anything. So, I seem to have more information on ifish home page, now, and it seems to be in order, and almost, (could it be?) easier to read and navigate? If so, I have conquered my puzzle! Whoo hooo!
I am very worried about Andrew. Bill nearly took him to the hospital while I was gone, yesterday. He has very little energy, and can not explain what is wrong. I hope it's not his heart. He says it hurts in his stomach, but what worries me, is his lack of energy. He has none! To the docs we go! I can't tell you the number of stories I have heard about marfan people going to the emergency room with stomach aches. They are sent home with a diagnosis of the flu, and later die, because they have have an undiagnosed abdominal aortic dissection. Hopefully, that isn't the case, but I'd much rather be safe, than terribly sorry.
David, forever burning 5000 candles at both ends, is trying to do pep band, the school play, the Key club, and other assorted activities. (You name it, he wants to do it!) He was sick about a week ago, with the coastal crud. Well, it's back!
Tillamook is first in their league in both Girls and Boys basketball. This means traveling to state to play for the games. Last night, out of curiosity why he was sleeping at 5:00 P.M., I took his temp. It was 104! Whoa! To the doc you go, too!
They are both sound asleep, and not attending school. This is not good! I hope to heavens that I don't catch any of this stuff! I simply have too much to do!
Off I go. Have a terriff day! I just love this sunshine! I must be getting old, because it feels so good!

February 13th, 2004

I got a kick out of the casting ponds at the show. I walked over and watched for a while. There were people that didn't know how to cast, learning some tricks. I longed for my river. I had the urge to cast something, somewhere, if I couldn't be on the river. I had a plan.
I walked up. "May I try?" Innocently asking, waiting to be taught. I fumbled with the line a bit, wrapping it around my feet. "Oops!" Finally, I attempted a cast, and it sloppily landed by my side. "Help!" I cried. I got a lesson. They taught me how to hold the rod. They taught me the physics of how it works. They taught me how to make a good loop.
By golly, and much to the surprise and pleasure of my teacher, wouldn't you know it? At the end of my 10 minute lesson, I was double hauling, roll casting, steeple casting, and they were SO PROUD! HA! HA! HA!!! I kept innocently asking, as I cast to the end of the pool, "Is this right?" Just as I was getting a big kick out of my prank, a rep from Lamiglas that I hadn't seen was watching.and shouted to my instructor, "She's hustling you!"
DANG! OK, so I was caught, but it didn't stop me from doing it once more, with different instructors, later in the show!
Now, before you think that was cruddy of me, let me tell you, I did learn some things! I really did! My roll cast is improved, 100 percent! It's the big D! I hadn't been doing that, and now that I let my line fall behind me in that big D, I'm a better roll caster! Also, I was coming too far forward, on the release. Oh! Another thing! My shoulders get so sore fly casting, and I learned to loosen up while doing it. All of these things I have been practicing now, out back. I finally pulled out my fly rod, and put on my new Christmas present. Weight forward line! It's tougher to cast, but it sure gets my flies into the bite zone!
I tend to work at one thing at a time, until I get it right. Not just right, mind you, I am of a personality type that has to do things perfectly. I have to be the best! So, last, it was fishing with a side planer. I know. That's a no brainer, but I had to catch a steelie on a planer. I've done that. I've caught a salmon, and a steelhead. All done. It's really no fun fighting a fish with that plastic hanging on your line. I don't like it. Now, I have to accomplish the steelhead on a fly thing, and I'm NOT going to use an indicator. I have to do it the plain, old fashioned way! No matter how much Milton Fischer used to tell me that it's not cheating, somehow, in my own mind, it's not the same as presenting a fly on a natural cast. Bobber equals cheater in my mind! Maybe not that bad, but it's so like jig fishing, and I can do that. Sorry, Milt, in all respect. (And, oh! How I miss you!)
OK, so is weight forward line cheating too? Uh oh!
I just got back from fishing the low, clear waters of the Kilchis. Not one bite. It's so crystal clear, and Kilchis, my dog, pretty much spooked anything that might have been there. As the first rain in days started to spatter on the back of my coat, I headed back home. I was lazy. Pulled on my hip boots over my red and white snowflake spattered pajamas. Now, if that wasn't a sight for the passing log truck drivers to see. "Oh, there is that girl fishing in her pajamas, again." I bet they pass my way and wonder what kind of loonie tunes live on the river, up this far. Pajama clad fishing girls, that's who! And, I don't care!
Who says people can't change, at 43? Let me tell you. I went through a period in the last six months that was beginning to get old. Real old. I worked too hard. I played too little, but the number one thing that happened to me, was the fact that I was seeing things in a negative light. Let me tell you how simple this is to change!
I don't know what it was, but after the show, I suffered extreme fatigue. I was so tired, I really wished an aortic dissection would come my way. I've too often repeated to myself, "O. K., I've done good, God. Here is what I've done. I'm good. Can I please go now? Is it my time to join you? Please?" I think this happens out of sheer exhaustion and the fact that I've grown up so used to the idea of death that it doesn't scare me at all. Plus, the fact that I'm tickled pink to know that I have a place reserved with my heavenly Father. Who would ever be afraid to go to a place where there is no sadness? I'm certainly not!
However, it has not been my time yet. Knowing this, brings me to ask Him, "How much good do I have to do?" Oh! That's right! I forgot! We are not measured by our deeds! Somehow I forget that, often.
Anyway, I was getting more and more negative. People would write to me, complaining about this, or that, on ifish, and I would write back callous, perhaps cold and frustrated replies. People asked the same old questions, over and over. I'd hastily type out the same response, with no personal comments.
No more!
I have a new attitude! (And that song runs through my mind, often!) I made up my mind to change all of that. When people write to me, frustrated, I check my energy level. "Am I tired?" If so, I simply walk away from the computer, until I am renewed. I take a walk on the river, sit out on the porch and breathe some fresh air, or take a nap. I have stopped asking, "Do I still have energy to work?" and started asking, "Do I still have energy to work with a positive and kind attitude?"
When I am new, I return, write a letter, making sure I am (what a friend told me) firm, fair and friendly. I have turned so many potentially bad situations into golden opportunities! After all, what do I want from ifish, and ifishers? I want them to want to make ifish a golden place to visit! Now, how do I do that? Would you be more inclined to want to contribute positively when asked by a cranky, frustrated, condemning person, or a kind, encouraging, complimentary person? You got it! So, I try, in earnest to value every member and point out their good traits. You know what? If you look for the positive in each situation, it is there! It really is! And, it's not just a false front! I have found, through looking for the good in people, that it is really there! And once I open that up in people, I really dig them! I saw a signature line in an ifish members post, and it said, "I love ya, man!" Well, if you start off your day thinking that of everyone, pretty soon, you feel people loving you, back! Now, how simple is that?
I don't get as much work done. However, the work I do, is turning out a better quality, with better and more personal results. It's the old "Quality over quantity" thing. I want my work to be of the best quality, and I'm done with trying to zip out 200 e mails in no time so that I can play. At the end of the old work sessions, I didn't have a good feeling, even if I 'finished". Now, I do! Finishing to me, now, is the satisfaction that I did as much work as I could, while keeping a positive outlook, and by reaching someone new. It feels SO good! Try it!
I would think that this method would not only work with ifish, but with any job, or life, or circumstance. I finish my day with pride. I still have the energy and love to deal with my children in the same way.
Oh, one other thing. People don't take the time to really listen to others. During the show, I made a sincere effort to really look people in the eye, and listen to them. Not only did I learn the names and faces of others better, but I had the satisfaction of learning something about them. When people stood in line to visit, I didn't rush the person in front of me. That was tough, but hey! One at a time! I want to get to know you! Not just get to the end.
I guess the whole meaning of what I am trying to say is this: Life is not a race to get to the end. Not a race to finish my e mail, nor to get through a line of people, nor to finish a day's work.
Life is happening this very moment. It is the road we travel on the way. Each and every moment, whether dull, or exciting! Make the most of every minute you have, and life becomes a fascinating and satisfying journey!
With that, I realize I am tired again, and simply must go fishing! Please don't take me yet, God, I have some fish to catch!
No kidding, though... Try it, for even a day... This positive outlook thing. Just commit one day to it. And then, commit tomorrow, too! Bite off small chunks. You think you are doing it for others, but you aren't! The return for yourself is fabulous! It takes a lot of reminding yourself, but it's working for me, so far!

February 13th, 2004

Just wanted to add a little note: Thank you to the rebate lady, who understood Andrew's visual problems in filling out a rebate form. Although the call to ask for a second chance will probably cost nearly all of the rebate, (long distance) she trusted us enough to send Andrew his money, even though he messed up!. Thanks to the rebate lady!

I got a kick out of the casting ponds at the show. I walked over and watched for a while. There were people that didn't know how to cast, learning some tricks. I longed for my river. I had the urge to cast something, somewhere! I had a plan.
I walked up. "May I try?" Innocently asking, waiting to be taught. I fumbled with the line a bit, wrapping it around my feet. "Oops!" Finally, I attempted a cast, and it sloppily landed by my side. "Help!" I cried. They taught me how to hold the rod.
They taught me the physics of how it works.
They taught me how to make a good loop.
By golly, and much to the surprise and pleasure of my teacher, wouldn't you know it? At the end of my 10 minute lesson, I was double hauling, roll casting, steeple casting, and they were so proud of their student!! HA! HA! HA!!! I kept innocently asking, as I cast to the end of the pool, "Is this right?"
Just as I was getting a big kick out of my prank, a rep from Lamiglas that I hadn't seen shouted out, "She's hustling you!"
DANG! OK, so I was caught! It didn't stop me from doing it once more, with different instructors, later in the show!
Now, before you think that was cruddy of me, let me tell you, I did learn some things! My roll cast is improved, 100 percent! It's the big D! I hadn't been doing that, and now that I let my line fall behind me in that big D, I'm a better roll caster! Also, I was coming too far forward, on the release. Another thing! My shoulders get so sore fly casting, and I learned to loosen up while doing it. All of these things I have been practicing now, out back. I finally pulled out my fly rod, and put on my new Christmas present. Weight forward line! It's tougher to cast, but it sure gets my flies into the bite zone!
I tend to work at one thing at a time, until I get it right. Not just right, mind you, I am of a personality type that has to do things perfectly. Last, it was fishing with a side planer. I know. That's a no brainer, but I had to catch a steelie on a planer. I've done that. I've caught a salmon, and a steelhead. All done with the side planer! It's really no fun fighting a fish with that plastic hanging on your line. I don't like it. Now, I have to accomplish the steelhead on a fly thing, and I'm NOT going to use an indicator. I have to do it the plain, old fashioned way! No matter how much Milton Fischer used to tell me that it's not cheating, somehow, in my own mind, it's not the same as presenting a fly on a natural cast. Bobber equals cheater in my mind! Maybe not that bad, but it's so like jig fishing, and I can do that. Sorry, Milt, in all respect. (And, oh! How I miss you!)
OK, so is weight forward line cheating too? Uh oh!
I just got back from fishing the low, clear waters of the Kilchis. Not one bite. It's so crystal clear, and Kilchis, my dog, pretty much spooked anything that might have been there. As the first rain in days started to spatter on the back of my coat, I headed back home. I was lazy. Pulled on my hip boots over my red and white snowflake spattered pajamas. Now, if that wasn't a sight for the passing log truck drivers to see. "Oh, there is that girl fishing in her pajamas, again." I bet they pass my way and wonder what kind of 'loonie tunes' live on the river, up this far. Pajama clad fishing girls, that's who! And, I don't care!
Who says people can't change, at 43? Let me tell you. I went through a period in the last six months that was beginning to get old. Real old. I worked too hard. I played too little, but the number one thing that happened to me, was the fact that I was seeing things in a negative light. Let me tell you how simple this is to change!
I don't know what it was, but after the show, I suffered extreme fatigue. I was so tired, I really wished an aortic dissection would come my way. I've too often repeated to myself, "O. K., I've done good, God. Here is what I've done. I'm good. Can I please go now? Is it my time to join you? Please?" I think this happens out of sheer exhaustion and the fact that I've grown up so used to the idea of death that it doesn't scare me at all. Plus, the fact that I'm tickled pink to know that I have a place reserved with my heavenly Father. Who would ever be afraid to go to a place where there is no sadness? I'm certainly not!
However, it has not been my time yet.
Anyway, I was getting more and more negative. This had to change! People would write to me, complaining about this, or that, on ifish, and I would write back callous, perhaps cold and frustrated replies. People asked the same old questions, over and over. I'd hastily type out the same response, with no personal comments.
No more!
I have a new attitude! (And that song runs through my mind, often!) I made up my mind to change all of that. When people write to me, frustrated, I check my energy level. "Am I tired?" If so, I simply walk away from the computer, until I am renewed. I take a walk on the river, sit out on the porch and breathe some fresh air, or take a nap. I have stopped asking, "Do I still have energy to work?" and started asking, "Do I still have energy to work with a positive and kind attitude?"
When I am new, I return, write a letter, making sure I am (what a friend told me) firm, fair and friendly. I have turned so many potentially bad situations into golden opportunities! After all, what do I want from ifish, and ifishers? I want them to want to make ifish a golden place to visit! Now, how do I do that? Make friends of potential enemies! Would you be more inclined to want to contribute positively when asked by a cranky, frustrated, condemning person, or a kind, encouraging, complimentary person? You got it! So, I try in earnest to value every member and note their good traits. You know what? If you look for the positive in each situation, it is there! It really is! And, it's not just a false front! I have found through looking for the good in people, that it is really there! And once I open that up in people, I really dig them! I saw a signature line in an ifish members post, and it said, "I love ya, man!" Well, if you start off your day thinking that of everyone, pretty soon, you feel people loving you, back! Now, how simple is that?
I don't get as much work done. However, the work I do, is turning out a better quality. It's the old "Quality over quantity" thing. I want my work to be of the best quality, and I'm done with trying to zip out 200 e mails in no time so that I can play. At the end of the old work sessions, I didn't have a good feeling, even if I 'finished". Now, I do! Finishing to me, now, is the satisfaction that I did as much work as I could, while keeping a positive outlook, and by reaching someone new. It feels SO good! Try it!
I would think that this method would not only work with ifish, but with any job, or life, or circumstance. I finish my day with pride. I still have the energy and love to deal with my children in the same way.
People don't take the time to really listen to others. During the show, I made a sincere effort to really look people in the eye, and listen to them. Not only did I learn the names and faces of others better, but I had the satisfaction of learning something about them. When people stood in line to visit, I didn't rush the person in front of me to get to the next. That was tough, but hey! One at a time! I want to get to know you! Not just get to the end of the line.
I guess the whole meaning of what I am trying to say is this: Life is not a race to get to the end. Not a race to finish my e mail, nor to get through a line of people, nor to finish a day's work.
Life is happening this very moment. It is the road we travel on the way. Make the most of every minute you have, and life becomes a fascinating and satisfying journey!
With that, I realize I am tired again, and simply must go fishing! Please don't take me yet, God, I have some fish to catch! More good to do!
No kidding, though... Try it, for even a day... This positive outlook thing. Just commit one day to it. And then, commit tomorrow, too! Bite off small chunks. You think you are doing it for others, but you aren't! The return for yourself is fabulous! It takes a lot of reminding yourself, but it's working for me, so far! What a time to start this, too. It's Valentines Day, and you can make your own Valentine! YOU!

February 15th, 2004

Today is the day that I get to demo a new cat! It's a "Rapid Cat" made by Waterready!, a new sponsor of ifish! I get to play with it, test it, and write about it for six months! Fun! Here is a sneak preview:

Rapid Cat by Waterready!

My only fear is that my doctor would just freak out. They have made a cart so that I can haul it more easily, and I'll just have to see what kind of water I'm OK to row it in. Bill is going to follow along my first time down in the drift boat, just in case I run into trouble. Me? In trouble? Oh yeah! Wonder how Molly cat will like this?
Yesterday was a day of making Valentine cookies, and cleaning house. I also got taken out to dinner! Now, that was fun! We went to Alice's and man were they busy! You know, Alice's on the Wilson River Hiway? Neat people! I especially like that the waitress kept referring to us as kids. "You kids doing OK? Have enough to eat, kids?" By the time I was done, I was feeling young and sated!
My valentine cookies are gorgeous! You almost can't eat them! Once, I was at a restaurant where they had glittered colored sugar at the table, for your coffee. I have searched for it, ever since. You know how I am about sparkly things! So, I found it on the internet, ordered some, and absolutely had a blast decorating cookies! My Mom's recipe is so good!
Are you bored? Check your boat insurance against Boat US. I'm curious to find out if they offer a better deal than what you have. Please let me know, if you try it! The link is below:

Think I'll go read the paper and then take a shower. Maybe I'll make a couple casts before the Cat Man comes at 10:00 AM.
I'm still trying my best to be positive, and how much happier my life has become! Sometimes people direct me to negative things on other web sites. You know, "Look what this nasty person, said!" Through my history with ifish, I am picking up sayings that in all of my life would not have related, until my work experiences, here. The one that I have been fixating and learning from lately, is, "I have enough to do, tending to my own four walls." I like that, so much! I do keep busy, enough, with ifish! What other people or businesses have going on, need not concern me, as long as I'm doing my very best, right here at home. Click not, Jennie, and tend to your own business!
I fished yesterday and I fished hard! The water is really low, so I changed my leader to 6, tied on a small hook, and put just a touch of eggs on the loop. I felt so good about this! You know how sometimes when you fish, and you just KNOW you are doing it right? Well, I knew! But, the fish just laughed at me! It was entirely frustrating. I could see the entire bottom structure of the river, and all of the fish, had there been any! I know they are there, somewhere, as Bill brought in a wild 20 pound native last week. Where did he go? I want my turn at him!!!
Oh well, my day is coming. Springers are here, and as you can see by the picture above. I can catch those brutes! As I remember that fish hitting, and nearly being pulled out of my boat seat, I smile.
Alright, that thought was enough to make my day. Hope you have a great one, yourself. Dream fish! Big fish!!!--and smile, too!

February 16th, 2004

The cat experience was grand! Read about it, and see pictures, here. Bruce was asked what the name of this model is. He told me, "Let's call it the Ifish Cat!" Well, OK! So, there you have it. The Ifish Cat. It's decked out with everything, AND a cup holder!
You know what? I have rediscovered my USIA waders, just recently. I have been wearing them so much! I just love them! They are custom fit, so they fit like a glove. I got so tired of the extra gobs of material folder around me, when I bought men's chest waders. These are fit, just for me. I'm tall, so I have to buy men's larges. No more! They are so awesome! I am wearing them in the pictures above, with my cat. You can talk to USIA about ordering some, here. For some reason, I didn't wear them that much at first. I was taken by my breathables. But, these are so nice when it's pouring down rain. Just wear your exotherms underneath, slip these on, and you are NOT going to get cold, or wet! Perfect!
I'm so tired, today. Think I'll take it easy, go shopping, and dilly dally round the house. It's a rainy day... Think I'll make some soup and fresh bread.

February 17th, 2004

Alrighty, then. I have my work cut out for me for a while. Looks like it's home week (month?) for me. Not that I mind. I work a little, rest a little, fish a little... Reminds me of a song!
Ifish had a traffic surge yesterday, and the bulletin board couldn't keep up. Therefore, it is time for an upgrade. I knew it was coming, but I tried to hide from it. No more. We crashed because of this, one other time, and I turned the other way. But, two times? Time to upgrade!
I used to just panic when ifish had a problem. I have learned to be more calm about it. It happens. It will happen, and my panic will not fix the problem. So what if 10,000 addicted readers cannot access their fix? Am I responsible for that? Uh oh. I am!
Well, that's fine, but there is no need for panic. It was funny, because right in the heat of the moment, a member posted, "In Christ you can do all things!" Oh yeah! I forgot! "God? Help!"
Want to see something awesome? Stan Fagerstrom sent it to me. Click here! Even if you aren't of this belief, the pictures and music are soothing and beautiful!
Yesterday, I went out steelhead fishing. What IS it about this year? I targeted steelhead in the early winter months, and got huge chinook. Now, I am targeting steelhead in the late months, and getting HUGE cutthroat!
Of course, the cutts are headed downstream this time of year, and there are many in the system, so please be careful. What scares me, is the 19 or so inch cutthroat I caught yesterday, could have well been taken for a jack steelie and bonked by a novice angler.
Cutthroat trout are characterized by two yellow or orange-red lines in the skin folds of each side of the lower jaw, (Streaks below the operculum) and heavy spotting well below the lateral line, and the full length of the fish.
I'll never forget standing on the Kilchis logging bridge as an angler caught a cutt. He screamed back at his friend, "It's a keeper!" Even from where I stood, I could tell it was a cutt! I started to yell, but it was too late. Bonk! Bonk! I slowly walked down to explain to him the circumstance. Fishermen do not take well to listening to girls. Did you know that?
Cutts bite very aggressively, and you can tell their fight by a wiggling trout like action, despite their size. Most steelhead tend to suck and pull, in my experience. However... I've noticed lately that downstreamers tend to take bait pretty darn aggressively, also!
Anyhow, what I am getting at, is to please be careful and release these fish, immediately. You may not retain cutthroat trout in the Tillamook river systems. Since the law was put into affect that we may not retain this species, the cutthroat trout has made a fairly decent recovery. I am in awe of this species, and feel an almost spiritual connection with them.

February 19th, 2004

Sometimes I forget the phrase, "Expect a fish with every cast." I didn't forget, day before yesterday. My first cast, using this thought, produced a beautiful 15ish pound native buck.
I can't tell you the number of fish I have caught by the following accidental method. Jim Erickson taught me how to proceed, after getting your weight snagged on bottom. Your automatic reaction is to pull. Don't! Let a couple of pulls of line out, and most often, the river current will do the job for you. Your pulling only tightens the snag. So, I cast out into the pleasant waters of the Kilchis river. I had a pink corky and a fresh Marie's sandshrimp neatly threaded onto my hook. It softly touched bottom throughout the stretch, and then hung up. I was patient. I let a little line out. It still held fast onto the rock or stick, on the structure of this particular drift. Not giving up, I let a little more line out. Finally, I pulled back just a tinge, and my oh my! The "rock" came alive! The bite of a steelhead is not something that I can describe, well. It is a feeling of "life" and that's where my description ends. You just know there is life at the other end. It's not a bite, nor a pull, nor anything related to anything I can relate you to. Something is living on the other end of that line!
Bill was upstairs, in the house. I knew he was, and I wanted to share my treasure before I released this beautiful slab of chrome. I yelled with all of my might. No answer! Oh well, Mr. Steel, the memory is etched for me for life. What is it about releasing these beautiful fish that make lasting memories?
It's not just the fish, either. It's the surroundings. The smell of the air at the time, the faint blush of green in the alders, the melody of the birds that sing the arrival of spring.
As I sip the complex spirit of a new brand of coffee I purchased the other day and glance outside at the changing seasons, I feel a rush of satisfaction in life that I have been missing for a while.
All is well, in the Kilchis canyon.
Reflecting back on some darker days in my soul, I realize that what I had read somewhere in a book, is true. If you don't experience darker days in your life, you don't appreciate the light, nearly so much. So, it is with that thought, that I reach out for the sun and learn to enjoy every mood I experience in my life, and know that for each season, there is a reason.

February 21st, 2004

Sometimes I get so frustrated with learning something new, that all I can think of to clear my brain is to dump myself in the river. That would work, right? Then, I'd be all clear in the head, and when I returned to my computer, everything would work as I think it should.
There is something about the river's invitation to me, that is cleansing. When I get to my wit's end, I want to sit on the river bank, and run my hands through the mud, the sand, the water, the sticks and rocks. It's crisp clean water draws me in. It renews me.
Earth, which is pure, and clean, and simple.
A friend of mine from way back, "Janie," talked to me about Reed College. How, after finals she wanted to join her Father on the farm in Eastern Oregon, and do strenuous physical work. She needed to relax her mind, and use her body muscles, instead of her brain muscles. I can totally relate to that, this morning.
Years ago in my Portland State days, I was downtown eating lunch at "Hamburger Mary's," a place no longer in existence. I spotted "Janie." She had been at Reed for three years, and I hadn't seen her in a long while. I shouted out, "Janie!!" Her hair was a mess. The stylish, smiley and social girl that I went to high school with was now in old, dirty clothes, and looked much different. She said to me in a low, and very serious voice, "My name is not "Janie", it is Jane."
Reed got that girl!
She went on to tell me about getting her food out of garbage bins at Safeway, and... well, this well-to-do socialite, who once lived in an upper class neighborhood, and dressed to the hilt in high school had been Reed-ified. (Reed-efined?)
But still, as I try to configure this new software board called Threads, and get it to run (at least) similarly to the old ifish bulletin board, I, too, want to go to Jane's Father's home to work, strenuously.
My brain is full. I want to run my hands through the earth, on the river, and plunge my body into the cold depths of the winter runoff.
Let me tell you, ladies and Gentlemen... When I started ifish, I had no clue how difficult it might be at times, nor how large it would become. I find myself wishing I was rich enough to say, "Here, YOU DO IT!" But I can't, because, well... No one cares about ifish as much as I do, and most hired people don't understand that.
It is with great pride, and not without great frustrations at times, that I proceed. There are times when I want to throw up my hands, and say, "I quit!" (Right now!)
Instead, I'll walk out to the river and roll in the mud for a while. I'm kidding, but my visits to the river are curative for me. The earth does cleanse my spirit and renew my will to learn, learn, learn some more. It's like it sweeps out a corner of my brain so there is room for more.
Sometimes I stare at the piano, which of late, more frequently gathers dust. Would it help to sit down, and bang out some Rachmaninoff, or would my fingers stumble and result in frustration? I'm too afraid to try. Have I lost my repertoire? Has my touch disappeared? Will I play, and feel a void?
I'll have to try that, and let you know. But for now, I'm going out to the river.

February 22nd, 2004

Hey! I think I am getting somewhere with the new board, now! I'd better go fishing anyhow, just to make sure my head is still clear! :)

February 24th, 2004

Yes, I am still alive, and yes, I made it through all that chocolate cake, for my birthday. :) I am a busy girl lately, with the new board, and will write as soon as I can!
Things are crazy, crazy, but we are getting places! A new picture upload! A new board! Software that can handle more traffic! Just one thing, though. My only wish is that "MySQL," were "YourSQL." I don't understand it, so you can have it! I got asked by my tech last night, if I wanted anything else added to the "MySQL dump." Uh, Er... What is it?!? I'm learning, I'm learning!
Told Pete last night, that I may get to go "girl shopping" this evening. Bill has a meeting in Portland, and it's been ages since I've been to Nordies. His reply? "I want one!"
Here is what the boys bought me for my birthday. Aren't they lovely?

Primroses for Jennie Rose!

February 26th, 2004

This morning, I was going to write about some of my favorite things, which have been coming to mind, quite frequently. Along with a smile, I might add.
However, I have a massage appointment at 8:00, and I'm late! It's a Birthday present, and a good one, at that! Great timing, too! :) I can't move my neck right now. Maybe after this appointment!
And by the way, massage is one of my favorite things! I'll add to this when I get home. (That is, unless the Wilson river kidnaps me on the way home!)

February 27th, 2004

I'm not going to hide it. I'm frustrated.
I've hired different consultants for different tasks in putting together the new ifish bulletin board. Some of them are less than cooperative, or involved. Sigh.
I have no interest in learning more than I need to, to run it. I need to administer it, to edit, delete, approve registrations, and help people, well... to help our community be a stronger force of fishermen and women. I want MySQL to become 'someone else's' SQL, and I have no calling to learn to configure .CSS or to edit permissions of read write, etc... I just want it to work right! However, it seems that's not a choice. I have to learn. (And learn, I am!)
Ifish is open 24 hours a day, you know. That'd be 24/7/365, except on leap year when it's 366. I've had my fill of this for a while, and today is my day of rest. I've said that for six days now, and I keep getting sucked back in. I've got to learn about God's gift and blessing to us: REST. I've got to learn to find a quiet place for prayer and realize that God is in control. As everyone can clearly see, I am not! I do have a big poster of that in my office. It says: "God is in control" I don't read it often, enough.
Now, for the benefit of all involved, I am going to continue with a few of my favorite things. I need focus and I need to see all things beautiful, and count my blessings!
...on coffee and massage
Yesterday, my massage was awesome! As my 30 minutes of pure heaven were drawing to a close, my masseuse told me that she was going to give me a bottle of water, and that I should probably do a liquid fast in the morning, or even all day, to help all of the toxins escape my system. I was eager to please and follow her recommendation. On the way home, I drove past a coffee stand. Latte's are liquid, are they not?
"I'll have a double butterscotch in a short glass." Ah! Liquid heaven!
How do you feel about ordering coffee drinks? Do you drive up to the window feeling nervous?
You think you need to be an expert to order wine? As I drive along Tillamook's main highway, I see at least 5 different coffee shops. All of them have their own "latte" lingo. Want a Grande? Or, perhaps over there, we go by drink size in ounces. "Eight, twelve, or sixteen?" Across the street we have "small, medium and large." Down 5th street we must refer to them as "short, medium or tall."
Now that we have sizes down, (or not) let's talk about mochas, latte's, italian ices, steamers, doubles, singles, decaffeinated, (unleaded) or caffeineated, (leaded.) Want half caffeineated and half caffeineated? Call it a "half caf." You are catching on, aren't you?
You want skim milk? Call it "skinny." It sounds cool, if nothing else.
I suppose you should have the basic coffee nouns working for you. All in Italian, here they are: Espresso, macchiato, cappuccino and latte. These nouns explain to the waitress in the box (Barista?) how much milk you want in your coffee.
The rest is all adjectives. This is how you want the Italian noun prepared. You know, how much flavor, how much foam, whipped cream or without?
Driving up to a box alongside the road, for coffee is fun and convenient, no doubt. I really enjoyed my butterscotch latte after my massage. I was able to order what I wanted, and it satisfied me. I doubt the massage lady would have recommended it, but the end result for me, was good.
Here at home, I have Yuban. Right now, I'm going to go pour myself a leaded skinny grande without.
...and then, I'm going fishing!
I really had to get off the bulletin board track this morning. For all of those concerned about my sanity, I say, "walk a mile in my ifish boots!"
Perhaps I've had too much java today. Both in computer language, and what drips from my coffee maker.
Seriously, I can only go so fast with learning this new computer stuff. So, I'm going to simply purchase both a Classic license, and a Threads license, and take my time in getting to know and configure the new software. Thank you for your patience!

February 28th, 2004

Now, onto a few of my favorite things...
I adore waking up to the darkness with the sliding door open, so that I can hear the river, at 5:00 A.M. Wandering downstairs with two happy dogs wagging their tails, anxious for a cookie, ready to go bark at critters in the night. I like that. I never get tired of that. Every morning is exciting to me, as I wonder, "What does today have in store?"
I am happily habituated in grabbing a hot cup of coffee with hazelnut creamer, and walking to the computer. Finding nice e mails from ifishers in my inbox, telling me I'm doing a good job with ifish. That makes me smile!
As the sun comes up, I see thousands of robins in the meadow! Tiny junco, song sparrows, chickadees, and occasionally one lone Townsend's warbler that comes in close, to peck at the suet. Oh! And where is my ruby crowned kinglet? Gone for Spring?
The blush of pink on the alders, and the light green on the tips of the forest trees tell me that spring is near.
I wonder when the junco will go. I wonder when the Townsend's warbler will make his last winter visit. This is his third year return. When he leaves, I worry that I won't see him next year.
But soon! Soon, my beautiful goldfinch will return!!

Photo by Jen

We already had a driveby of a hummingbird, so I made some food and hung out two hummy feeders.

Photo by Jen

So far, no takers. But, soon! How could you not be excited about a new day when you have hummies to look forward to? It could be today! ...and those rhodies are going to bloom, too!
As soon as the light spreads across the meadow, the dogs know there is a real possibility that I will head towards the mud room, still adorned in my pajamas, and slide on my waders. Every time I get near my waders, Kilchis begins to bark wildly! You know, this bugs me so much! I can't get him to be quiet! However, I know that come the day that he gets too old to be this excited, my heart will sink.
My favorite things? Watching Kilchis dig holes while I cast, and cast again. Molly, the fishing cat, wildly runs, jumping from one of his freshly dug beach holes, to the next. She hides in them. As if we can't see her! I can't help but giggle between casts.
Winter water levels are still here, but on select days when the water recedes, I get a peek at the true color of spring. The moss on the rocks exposed, is a hideously bright green that almost laughs at you, as it pops out of the water like a jack in the box. The river joins in... a raucous cackle. Yip. Spring is near. You just know that Spring is here when the river begins to laugh!
As Molly finally tires of her game, she jumps up my back, and crawls upon my shoulder. She finds a perching point, and stops to watch that incredibly enticing pink corky fly from shore to water, and land softly, just where I want it. As the line peels off my reel, I finally feel that familiar bump, bump, bump, of the river bottom structure, that I know so well.
Sometimes, I count a time signature to my lead, dancing on the bottom. It depends on the water level, whether it's a fast 6/8 or a slow waltz.
But my favorite of all favorite things? With Molly, perched on my shoulder, I feel an incredible, "without a doubt" movement on the other end of my line. I lift my line, ever so gently, and reassure myself that "yes, indeed!" That is a fish!
Set the hook! Molly flies into the bushes! I yell at Kilchis! "Kilchis! I got one! Kilchis!!! It's BIG!" Kilchis doesn't know what I'm talking about, until he sees the splashes in the river, and it is at that point that he joins in the excitement!
Molly comes crawling out, interested, also.
This all happened yesterday.
As I unhooked that beautiful wild, near 15 pound steelie, with the blush on his cheeks, and a beautiful ribbon of rosy sunrise down his lateral line, we all sat together, on the beach, spent from the energy and enthusiasm.
Molly, Kilchis, and me. We watched the fish swim free.
As I gave Kilchis a hug, and patted Molly on the topside, I said to them both, and without a doubt, "these are a few of my favorite things."

February 28th, 2004

Now, onto a few of my favorite things...
I adore waking up to the darkness with the sliding door open, so that I can hear the river, at 5:00 A.M. Wandering downstairs with two happy dogs wagging their tails, anxious for a cookie, ready to go bark at critters in the night. I like that. I never get tired of that. Every morning is exciting to me, as I wonder, "What does today have in store?"
I am happily habituated in grabbing a hot cup of coffee with hazelnut creamer, and walking to the computer. Finding nice e mails from ifishers in my inbox, telling me I'm doing a good job with ifish. That makes me smile!
As the sun comes up, I see thousands of robins in the meadow! Tiny junco, song sparrows, chickadees, and occasionally one lone Townsend's warbler that comes in close, to peck at the suet. Oh! And where is my ruby crowned kinglet? Gone for Spring?
The blush of pink on the alders, and the light green on the tips of the forest trees tell me that spring is near.
I wonder when the junco will go. I wonder when the Townsend's warbler will make his last winter visit. This is his third year return. When he leaves, I worry that I won't see him next year.
But soon! Soon, my beautiful goldfinch will return!!

Photo by Jen

We already had a driveby of a hummingbird, so I made some food and hung out two hummy feeders.

Photo by Jen

So far, no takers. But, soon! How could you not be excited about a new day when you have hummies to look forward to? It could be today! ...and those rhodies are going to bloom, too!
As soon as the light spreads across the meadow, the dogs know there is a real possibility that I will head towards the mud room, still adorned in my pajamas, and slide on my waders. Every time I get near my waders, Kilchis begins to bark wildly! You know, this bugs me so much! I can't get him to be quiet! However, I know that come the day that he gets too old to be this excited, my heart will sink.
My favorite things? Watching Kilchis dig holes while I cast, and cast again. Molly, the fishing cat, wildly runs, jumping from one of his freshly dug beach holes, to the next. She hides in them. As if we can't see her! I can't help but giggle between casts.
Winter water levels are still here, but on select days when the water recedes, I get a peek at the true color of spring. The moss on the rocks exposed, is a hideously bright green that almost laughs at you, as it pops out of the water like a jack in the box. The river joins in... a raucous cackle. Yip. Spring is near. You just know that Spring is here when the river begins to laugh!
As Molly finally tires of her game, she jumps up my back, and crawls upon my shoulder. She finds a perching point, and stops to watch that incredibly enticing pink corky fly from shore to water, and land softly, just where I want it. As the line peels off my reel, I finally feel that familiar bump, bump, bump, of the river bottom structure, that I know so well.
Sometimes, I count a time signature to my lead, dancing on the bottom. It depends on the water level, whether it's a fast 6/8 or a slow waltz.
But my favorite of all favorite things? With Molly, perched on my shoulder, I feel an incredible, "without a doubt" movement on the other end of my line. I lift my line, ever so gently, and reassure myself that "yes, indeed!" That is a fish!
Set the hook! Molly flies into the bushes! I yell at Kilchis! "Kilchis! I got one! Kilchis!!! It's BIG!" Kilchis doesn't know what I'm talking about, until he sees the splashes in the river, and it is at that point that he joins in the excitement!
Molly comes crawling out, interested, also.
This all happened yesterday.
As I unhooked that beautiful wild, near 15 pound steelie, with the blush on his cheeks, and a beautiful ribbon of rosy sunrise down his lateral line, we all sat together, on the beach, spent from the energy and enthusiasm.
Molly, Kilchis, and me. We watched the fish swim free.
As I gave Kilchis a hug, and patted Molly on the topside, I said to them both, and without a doubt, "these are a few of my favorite things."