It was the labor day weekend we will never forget. Early in the morning we packed our car with all our camping equipment and headed to Lake George for our yearly camping trip with our young sons and our collie, Chipper. We did not plan ahead as usual because one of our sons had a cold and we did not think he would be well enough to make the trip until the last minute
When we arrived at the marina we learned all the large boats were taken. Based on the amount of equipment we took, we had to make two trips to the campsite. But first we had to take our rented motor boat to the ranger station to pick our favorite campsite on Glen Island. Our preference had to be level because of our small children and not too far from the mariner. Unfortunately the rangers said all the campsites on Glen Island were full. The only safe camp site available was on Long Island, a much deeper and wider part of the lake. Reluctantly, we took it and ventured out with our map in hand to proceed to find it.
Once there, we unloaded our boat taking out our tent and food, which we purchased in Grand Union supermarket in Bolton Landing near our marina. My husband pitched our tent on the platform provided, while I set up my kitchen. I always liked to be organized and know where everything was. I looked for wood, to build a counter top for my portable gas barbecue, and work area. Being the modern camper, I made sure we had our portable toilet although a clean out house was provided, a gas stove and lantern. We took plenty of rope to tie our food up in the tree to prevent raccoons from taking it. I enjoyed playing house and setting up my hollywood kitchen. The campsite provided a picnic table, fireplace.and a dock.
While playing house, my husband went back to the marina to bring the rest of our camping equipment which included a large screen tent around the picnic table provided. I enjoyed exploring our new campsite and meeting the surrounding campers by walking on a man made path through the woods.
Our campsite was lovely and safe. It felt like we were on a private island with no visual campers around. Unfortunately it was too far away from the Marina and Glen Island. Previously we always made it a point to reserve a safe campsite on our favorite island which was Glen Island. months in advance. Making friends with other campers on the island was fun, however we each went our own separate way with our families.
The weather was delightful. The lake looked like glass with hardly any waves. Swimming in clean water was a delight for me as I detested chlorine pools. I loved our rubber boat taking short excursions around our campsite. Every day, we took our rented boat back to the marina for a day of fun in town. There were so many theme parks and restaurants. Some times we would come home late in the dark, using our flash lights to see where we were going. It was frightening to me, but we always arrived safely at the camp site. We usually hung a marker like an old sheet on one of the trees to identify where we were..
The long weekend was always too short, as it was time to go home. We brought some things back to our car the day before to lighten the boat for the second trip. However, we should have made two more trips, but decided to chance taking the remaining equipment and clothes with us for our final trip back to the car.
The last day started out beautiful, however as the day progressed the wind was picking up. We heard the boat knocking against the dock from the wind. Fearing the worst, we decided to bolt quickly. I told my older son to put on his life jacket as we entered the boat. I was in the process of zipping up my 4 year old with his life jacket as the boat charged ahead. My husband saw the white caps getting bigger as the wind progressed. He feared the worst thinking it was not such a good idea to continue on the widest part of the lake. He started to turn the boat around heading back to shore. Within a few minutes we were in water. All our equipment, my purse, everything was floating in the water. I felt I was dreaming and wanted someone to wake me up. Holding on to my younger son, I can still hear his young voice crying "Mommy, Mommy"
The boat turned upside down and became very slippery as I could not hold on. Yelling for my older son who was about 7 years old, "where are you?" he excitedly said he was riding on Chipper's back who was swimming in the water. He did not understand nor was he fearful of what to expect. He thought he was on a great adventure having the time of his life.
As we .were trying to hold on to the boat, the waves were turning into larger white caps, pushing our hands off the boat, I have never seen the lake look mean and nasty. The clouds in the sky turned dark gray. My husband and I looked at each other with disbelief that this was happening to us. I said, "this is not our end yet. We have our whole lives to live"
Where were all the other campers we wondered? It seemed everyone cleared out of the lake earlier. "Who was going to rescue us? Usually the rangers come by with their boats to check on the campers. Where were they? What was to become of us," we feared.
Finally, it seemed like an eternity, a man came by with his boat to help rescue us. He was on the other side of the lake and witnessed what happened. However he said he would not take our dog Chipper. While in the water and at the mercy of this man, we were bargaining that we would not get onto his boat unless he promised to take Chipper. He agreed, promising he would go back for him after he rescued us.
He took us to a nearby campsite and gathered whatever he could find floating in the water. He brought back our duffel bag full of clothes. One side was all wet but the other was dry. We changed our wet clothes into dry ones, still shivering from the cold. My husband went back with the man with the boat to get Chipper. I thought for sure he drowned because we could never get Chipper in the water to teach him how to swim.. My husband helped Chipper into the boat and we were all a happy family again.
All our other equipment, tents, stoves, etc all gone. Our money, my gold watch which was supposed to be at the repair shop and never got around to do it was all lost. The insurance company would not honor our claim because the loss happened in a boat.
A man came by to offer us money to get home. He took out a wad of bills, asking if we needed $100. $200. etc. My husband said $50 would be fine. The man gave us his card, a name I will never forget. Skyos was our hero. He took us back to our Marina. Still shivering, we went to a nearby Italian restaurant for dinner and the long drive home. We quickly sent him the money he loaned us with a thank you note. We never did figure out what caused the capsize except perhaps the plug from the boat might have loosened up.
The moral of this story is never underestimate the lake. river, ocean etc. No matter how calm and friendly, it could be your worst nightmare.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Friday, August 6, 2010
EULOGY FOR AN OLD FRIEND
Little children ages two to four years old were on the second floor with four counselors. Among the little tots, was a two year old ill with Asthma. How her mother sent this child to sleep a way camp was puzzling to us. The camp mother who did not bargain for this job was with the baby most of the time. We did not have too much contact with the children in the dorm as we had teenage activities that took us away from them.
It was a day that changed my perspective of human nature and a day to be tested. It was also a day when I first met my husband although we were strangers until a few years later.. We acquainted ourselves with our new camp friends on the first day. There was a dissatisfaction among some of the girls because one of them had a deformity, one of which was never seen before by any of us. Some of the girls refused to share their dorm with her. Some threatened to call their parents to take them home.
At first I, too, was uncomfortable, but found it fascinating watching that beautiful faced teenager applying lipstick on her lips, using her hands attached to her arms. Having no forearms, Lenore was a Thalidomide baby. When her mother was pregnant, her doctor prescribed the miracle cure for “morning sickness." The drug was also used as a sedative to help patients sleep. Unfortunately many doctors all over the world prescribed this drug to pregnant women.leaving many babies deformed. The drug was banned for many years until recently making it useful as a powerful cancer fighter.
Lenore warmed up to us quickly. She wasted little time being friendly. We decided to invite her to share our room. She became one of us doing everything we did. I could not get over how she polished her toenails perfectly. Besides being intelligent, Lenore had good typing skills, along with a cheerful and witty personality. Her good looks reminded us of Doris Day. Whenever she walked into a room with her smiley face, the whole room lit up. Her handicap did not restrict her in anything we did as far as I can remember. She was one of us and was a lot of fun
Lenore had a lot of self confidence despite her handicap. She wore beautiful rings on all her fingers. Around her wrists she wore beautiful bracelets. Lenore was lucky, as other babies had only one or two fingers along with deformed feet.
Through the years we separated like many of our camp friends. We all had different paths in our future. About ten years ago, Lenore found me in Florida as I had recently moved to an adult community. We got together with our husbands on several occasions and kept in touch. Lenore worked at the Bethesda Memorial hospital in Boynton Beach, Fl. in the records department. She was a dear friend and an asset to me when my mother passed away there.
Lenore and I caught up almost fifty years of our lives with our experiences and hardships. Although handicapped, she took care of her older sister who became a drug addict, eventually placing her in a nursing home and later taking care of her burial. She took care of her aging parents until she found good nursing homes for them and eventually handled their burials as well. How ironic, as I remember her family all too well when they came up to camp on visiting day. Her parents were very attractive, looking like movie stars. Her older sister was prettier than her parents. I could tell then by the way they treated her, that Lenore was a disappointment to them. However they loved her dearly, and in the end, Lenore was the strongest of all and survived everyone..
Due to the economy and their retirement, they were forced to sell their house which was not too far from us. They moved about three hours away.. She missed her old friends in Boynton Beach, however found a life for herself and her husband Don, making new friends and volunteering in a school teaching English as a second language.
Every year Lenore always called me on my birthday and I wished her a happy birthday as well. Her birthday was a day after mine. This year, since I did not hear from her, I sent her a Birthday Greeting on Face Book. When I did not see a response from her I went into her profile page to see comments of other well wishers.
Face Book is a wonderful web site. It brings old friends and families together after years of being apart. I heard of an adopted child finding her mother on Face book, or the other way around. But who would think I would find an old friend on Face book deceased without being told first. She passed away about 20 days prior to her birthday. It was shocking and devastating.
Lenore, you will be missed.
For those who have never seen a Thalidomide baby
Monday, July 26, 2010
THE MOST ECONOMICAL AND FUN SUMMER VACATION FOR FAMILIES
In the late 60's a relative suggested we take our small children camping for a wonderful inexpensive adventure and experience. He suggested Lake George, Bolton Landing, where the water was so clean you could drink from it. As a matter of fact, anyone caught using soap in the water would get a big fine. Dogs were allowed on the lake until recently for which they are now banned.
We followed his instructions on renting camping equipment, sleeping bags, etc and where to rent a boat. After the first time, we purchased our own sleeping bags and equipment. A motor boat was needed to get to the camp site We found a nice mariner where all kinds of boats were available to rent. Motor boats, sail boats, as well as row boats with outboard motors. The mariner had showers and free parking for their customers. I still remember the showers we took at the mariner. We had to insert a coin to start the shower. When the water stopped running we had to take our soapy bodies out of the shower to fetch another coin from our clothes which were laid out on a nearby chair.
At the mariner, we were given a map to the ranger station on Glen Island where we had to register. It was a very interesting site. The ranger station was in the middle of the lake. There was a country store where campers could buy anything from eggs to pots and camping equipment. Rest rooms, telephone booths, and boat docks surrounded the commissary. It was another world to me as I looked at the Appalachian mountains, the beautiful scenery of the trees and little nooks and crannies of different islands on the lake.
Campers were everywhere, however we hardly saw them unless they were out on their boats. The campsites were very private. They were all on different islands, each with their own charm and view. We were given a site that was about an acre or less. The campsite had a platform to pitch a tent, an immaculate well equipped out house, a fireplace, picnic table, and a dock for boats. The campsites were all shady with no mosquitoes or annoying bugs.
Campers were not near us unless we walked through the woods on a man made trail. If we saw campers they were far away from the trail. Most of the neighbors were friendly and respected each others privacy. Occasionally we would acquaint each other by sitting at our campfire or theirs with our children roasting marshmallows, drinking wine, or sharing coffee and cake together.
Every day was glorious. We took our boat and explored the lake. Visiting the little islands and coves were breathtaking. We purchased little rubber boats and explored the coves. The children loved swimming as well. I enjoyed sitting in the little boat sunbathing and watching the kids enjoy themselves.
Every labor day we returned to Glen Island for years to enjoy our camping summer life. We were only allowed to stay on one campsite no more than four days. After that we would go back to the ranger station to pick another campsite. When our boys were older, we rented speed boats and took them water skiing every day.
Being out in nature all day and evening was exhilerating. I loved the smell of the tall pine trees, sitting by the campfire with a cup of coffee in my hand, listening to music from our portable radio and staring onto the beautiful lake.
To add to the fun on Lake George, we took our rented boat to the mariner and hopped into our car for the children's paradise. There was Gas Light Village which consisted of amusement rides, plus many other theme amusement parks for the children. The streets on Lake George were always crowded with families. There were many stores and restaurants for all to enjoy.
Lake George was definitely addictive and it always kept us coming back year after year.
Please come back in a few weeks for a continuation of Lake George and our near tragic experience
Where do you take your family on vacation that you enjoy the most? Please click on the comment box. Lets share some ideas and events!
We followed his instructions on renting camping equipment, sleeping bags, etc and where to rent a boat. After the first time, we purchased our own sleeping bags and equipment. A motor boat was needed to get to the camp site We found a nice mariner where all kinds of boats were available to rent. Motor boats, sail boats, as well as row boats with outboard motors. The mariner had showers and free parking for their customers. I still remember the showers we took at the mariner. We had to insert a coin to start the shower. When the water stopped running we had to take our soapy bodies out of the shower to fetch another coin from our clothes which were laid out on a nearby chair.
At the mariner, we were given a map to the ranger station on Glen Island where we had to register. It was a very interesting site. The ranger station was in the middle of the lake. There was a country store where campers could buy anything from eggs to pots and camping equipment. Rest rooms, telephone booths, and boat docks surrounded the commissary. It was another world to me as I looked at the Appalachian mountains, the beautiful scenery of the trees and little nooks and crannies of different islands on the lake.
Campers were everywhere, however we hardly saw them unless they were out on their boats. The campsites were very private. They were all on different islands, each with their own charm and view. We were given a site that was about an acre or less. The campsite had a platform to pitch a tent, an immaculate well equipped out house, a fireplace, picnic table, and a dock for boats. The campsites were all shady with no mosquitoes or annoying bugs.
Campers were not near us unless we walked through the woods on a man made trail. If we saw campers they were far away from the trail. Most of the neighbors were friendly and respected each others privacy. Occasionally we would acquaint each other by sitting at our campfire or theirs with our children roasting marshmallows, drinking wine, or sharing coffee and cake together.
Every day was glorious. We took our boat and explored the lake. Visiting the little islands and coves were breathtaking. We purchased little rubber boats and explored the coves. The children loved swimming as well. I enjoyed sitting in the little boat sunbathing and watching the kids enjoy themselves.
Every labor day we returned to Glen Island for years to enjoy our camping summer life. We were only allowed to stay on one campsite no more than four days. After that we would go back to the ranger station to pick another campsite. When our boys were older, we rented speed boats and took them water skiing every day.
Being out in nature all day and evening was exhilerating. I loved the smell of the tall pine trees, sitting by the campfire with a cup of coffee in my hand, listening to music from our portable radio and staring onto the beautiful lake.
To add to the fun on Lake George, we took our rented boat to the mariner and hopped into our car for the children's paradise. There was Gas Light Village which consisted of amusement rides, plus many other theme amusement parks for the children. The streets on Lake George were always crowded with families. There were many stores and restaurants for all to enjoy.
Lake George was definitely addictive and it always kept us coming back year after year.
Please come back in a few weeks for a continuation of Lake George and our near tragic experience
Where do you take your family on vacation that you enjoy the most? Please click on the comment box. Lets share some ideas and events!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
THE MOST MEMORABLE THING ABOUT MY DAD
Although my dad passed away 38 years ago, he has always been in my heart and thoughts. Whether a man resembling my dad came into sight, or a voice from a man who sounded like him, I wished it was my dad and not the stranger.
As I watched my husband carrying our children one at a time playing piggy back, galloping and making them laugh, I reflected back in time when my dad did the same thing to me when I was little. Now I see my children playing piggy back with their children.
The endless hours playing Monopoly, scrabble, jig saw puzzles and many more games with my dad, was later repeated when my children became parents and played with their little ones..
The numerous vacations, playing with me in the water, helping with homework and giving me quality attention made my dad very special especially the story telling and the good night kisses.
One remarkable thing I remember when I was a little girl was my father standing on his head just to make me laugh because I was ill and did not want to take my medicine.
Some dads pick unique pet names for their children. My dad used to call me "my little chicken" because I was small and petite. He very rarely called me by my birth name unless he was angry with me.
My dad was always warm and gentle. People liked him, as he always made them feel special. I loved him very much because he made me feel special too.
I miss you Dad!
WHAT WAS THE MOST MEMORABLE TIMES YOU HAD WITH YOUR DAD?
Please comment below where it shows the amount of comments
If you are having trouble, please email your comment with permission to post on this site. Thanks iris@pushthewheel.com
As I watched my husband carrying our children one at a time playing piggy back, galloping and making them laugh, I reflected back in time when my dad did the same thing to me when I was little. Now I see my children playing piggy back with their children.
The endless hours playing Monopoly, scrabble, jig saw puzzles and many more games with my dad, was later repeated when my children became parents and played with their little ones..
The numerous vacations, playing with me in the water, helping with homework and giving me quality attention made my dad very special especially the story telling and the good night kisses.
One remarkable thing I remember when I was a little girl was my father standing on his head just to make me laugh because I was ill and did not want to take my medicine.
Some dads pick unique pet names for their children. My dad used to call me "my little chicken" because I was small and petite. He very rarely called me by my birth name unless he was angry with me.
My dad was always warm and gentle. People liked him, as he always made them feel special. I loved him very much because he made me feel special too.
I miss you Dad!
WHAT WAS THE MOST MEMORABLE TIMES YOU HAD WITH YOUR DAD?
Please comment below where it shows the amount of comments
If you are having trouble, please email your comment with permission to post on this site. Thanks iris@pushthewheel.com
Sunday, May 9, 2010
A MOTHER'S DAY STORY HOW WE STOPPED OUR CHILD FROM BEING KIDNAPPED AND YEARS LATER OUR GRANDDAUGHTER
Since today is Mother's Day and we are approaching summer, I would like to share a true experience that happened to me and later to my family..
It was a very hot summer day in Colorado. We celebrated our little granddaughter, Jessica's 2nd birthday. Her mommy and daddy made a big deal over their children's birthdays with balloons all over their living room and up the stairway. A dozen presents waiting for little Jessica to open as grandma and grandpa looked on. Gummy is my name which replaced grandma, as it was easy to say when she was a baby and it stuck till this day.
The following day we drove to Water World for a wonderful day of adventure and fun. We parked our belongings at the little kiddie pool which looked like a lake. In the pool was a sliding pond going down to another pool . There were table and chairs for picnicking along one side of the pool,. It was fenced off, so no children could wonder away. It looked very conducive for the safety of children, or so I thought.
Leaving the stroller and our things behind, we left the area for some tube fun. It was the best time of my adult life, feeling like a kid again. I loved sharing the tube with my grandchildren going down the slides. After trying out their other rides, we went back to our table and chairs for some lunch. We stayed there for awhile resting and enjoying watching our little 2 year old play in the water. The others continued playing with the other rides.
Later, they all returned, to get ready to pack up for home. My daughter in law was busy collecting their belongings and collecting the children from the pool. She dried off the wetness from our little granddaughter and instructed me to watch her while she was going to find our grandson Justin who was five years old.
When she got Justin out of the water they returned to my table. I was watching our granddaughter all the time, but my eyes must have been off her when her mother returned to the table. to dry the little guy off.., My husband asked where our little 2 year old Jessica was. I could not believe she was missing right in front of us. My son and husband ran into the kiddie pool and the other side of the big slide but now where was she to be found. We were getting frantic. My daughter in law sat down holding my grandson crying, while I demanded everyone scream for help.
Who cares if we sounded like a low class citizens. I walked out of the gate which was like a maze. It was difficult to get out as you had to walk around a bit. Screaming on top of my lungs, "Jessica, Jessica" I ran out of the gate. A woman heard me yelling and asked me if I was looking for a little blond child. I said yes, and asked where she was. The lady told me that a woman and man were walking with her but when they heard my yelling they walked away. Then another lady followed her to the direction of the refreshment counter It was in an enclave hidden from the walkway with a rest room adjacent to it. There was a long line of people waiting to get in the bathroom. At the refreshment area, I screamed for my granddaughter and yelled for the police. "Please help me someone, police, police, help" But no one came out to say "here is your granddaughter,"
As we were circling the area, we noticed a woman in her 40's holding her in her arms waiting in line to get into the rest room, We grabbed Jessica from her arms and stupidly ran back with her to her parents.We knew they were beside themselves and we wanted to stop their pain as soon as possible. What was so strange, why didn't that lady step out of line to say she found her. Why wasn't Jessica crying when the stranger was holding her? Why didn't she put her arms out to us when she saw us? It was all such a mystery until we returned Jessie to her parents.
A gentleman who was at the next table from us, came over and said " I am sorry to intrude, but I could not help notice the commotion of your missing child, We are so happy for all of you that you found her. You are very lucky especially what is going on in Disney World, or Land.. Could not remember." What do you mean", I said."Didn't you read it in the papers? There was a kidnapping ring that went to Disney world or Disney Land. They take the children into the bathroom, change their clothes, put color on their hair and drug them so they wont cry. They caught the kidnappers because the mother who gave an exact identification of clothing described the sneakers in great detail. The kidnappers forgot to change the child's shoes. Thus, the child was found harmlessly but drugged" Their security system was excellent as they closed the gates making sure no one could enter or leave."
After hearing his story, my son demanded we go back to the ladies room to find that woman. But she was gone,. He was so angry, blaming me, his wife, everyone. I could not blame him. It was horrible. My voice was never the same again and eventually I had a larynectomy It could have been from screaming and perhaps smoking earlier.
Afterwards we put the pieces together. My daughter in law said, she noticed a couple sitting at the table on the other side of us with no children, She was wondering how come they were there if they had no children, Busy having fun with her family, she paid no attention at the time. When we found Jessie, she did not put her hands out to us when she saw us and was not crying. The fact that the lady did not step forward to hand us our child caused further suspicion They must have grabbed her with the confusion of packing up, and carried her over the fence which was about three or four feet tall.
We looked all over for the security guard, police etc. But the only people we found were teenagers manning the first aid shack. They were no help. I could not believe that Water World in Colorado had no security. I tried contacting the company but got no response. We were extremely happy we found her and tried to forget about it.
Until we started hearing about missing children. They were not as lucky as our Jessie. They were found dead. Every missing child reminds me of how lucky we were. I still cry out for all those lost children who suffered before they died. I cried for their parents and family as well.
Perhaps people think I over react when I cry each time I hear the news of a kidnapping. Some do not know my story while others do and understand, This story must not be in a closet. It must be told all the time. Never, never take for granted for one minute that your child will be in the same position you left her. Perhaps 99% for that moment she will stay close. But that 1% can be deadly.
On another occasion many years prior when our daughter, Stacy was about two or three, I took her to a department store. Looking at children clothes for her, she disappeared .She was just beside me. She wanted out of the stroller and was right by me. Screaming on top of my lungs, I yelled her name. She was nowhere in sight.
Our daughter, was afraid of escalators.. Every time I carried her up or down she would cry. So I knew she did not go downstairs by herself. However, I yelled her name anyway down the escalator as it was riding up. just in case because she was nowhere on my floor. I remember my husband always said to me to refrain from screaming out for your children as it sounds very common. I did not care how it sound. After screaming several times, for the police, help and so on, I heard my daughter voice coming from down the escalator as it was going up I didn't care. I ran down the up escalator to her. I did not know if I should hit or kiss her. I chose to hug her tightly. "How did you get downstairs," I asked. "Mommy," she said. "A lady took me by my hand to take me to my mommy. When I saw she was taking me out side, I heard your voice, and broke out of her hand to the escalator. Today my daughter has a three year old and the fear continues...
We are all human and it is difficult to watch with your eyes wide open 100% when you are with your child. You have to be lucky. With a blink of an eye, your child disappears and wanders maybe into the wrong hands. But with what is going on these days, it is wise to try getting to that percentage. Besides little children wandering, there are sick people out there who stalk and watch their routine. They wait for that 1% moment to crab them..
A buddy system is always recommended even in teen years. Never take your siblings, children grandchildren or any child you care for, for granted that they will stay by your side. Not for a moment!
God Bless
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY
..
It was a very hot summer day in Colorado. We celebrated our little granddaughter, Jessica's 2nd birthday. Her mommy and daddy made a big deal over their children's birthdays with balloons all over their living room and up the stairway. A dozen presents waiting for little Jessica to open as grandma and grandpa looked on. Gummy is my name which replaced grandma, as it was easy to say when she was a baby and it stuck till this day.
The following day we drove to Water World for a wonderful day of adventure and fun. We parked our belongings at the little kiddie pool which looked like a lake. In the pool was a sliding pond going down to another pool . There were table and chairs for picnicking along one side of the pool,. It was fenced off, so no children could wonder away. It looked very conducive for the safety of children, or so I thought.
Leaving the stroller and our things behind, we left the area for some tube fun. It was the best time of my adult life, feeling like a kid again. I loved sharing the tube with my grandchildren going down the slides. After trying out their other rides, we went back to our table and chairs for some lunch. We stayed there for awhile resting and enjoying watching our little 2 year old play in the water. The others continued playing with the other rides.
Later, they all returned, to get ready to pack up for home. My daughter in law was busy collecting their belongings and collecting the children from the pool. She dried off the wetness from our little granddaughter and instructed me to watch her while she was going to find our grandson Justin who was five years old.
When she got Justin out of the water they returned to my table. I was watching our granddaughter all the time, but my eyes must have been off her when her mother returned to the table. to dry the little guy off.., My husband asked where our little 2 year old Jessica was. I could not believe she was missing right in front of us. My son and husband ran into the kiddie pool and the other side of the big slide but now where was she to be found. We were getting frantic. My daughter in law sat down holding my grandson crying, while I demanded everyone scream for help.
Who cares if we sounded like a low class citizens. I walked out of the gate which was like a maze. It was difficult to get out as you had to walk around a bit. Screaming on top of my lungs, "Jessica, Jessica" I ran out of the gate. A woman heard me yelling and asked me if I was looking for a little blond child. I said yes, and asked where she was. The lady told me that a woman and man were walking with her but when they heard my yelling they walked away. Then another lady followed her to the direction of the refreshment counter It was in an enclave hidden from the walkway with a rest room adjacent to it. There was a long line of people waiting to get in the bathroom. At the refreshment area, I screamed for my granddaughter and yelled for the police. "Please help me someone, police, police, help" But no one came out to say "here is your granddaughter,"
As we were circling the area, we noticed a woman in her 40's holding her in her arms waiting in line to get into the rest room, We grabbed Jessica from her arms and stupidly ran back with her to her parents.We knew they were beside themselves and we wanted to stop their pain as soon as possible. What was so strange, why didn't that lady step out of line to say she found her. Why wasn't Jessica crying when the stranger was holding her? Why didn't she put her arms out to us when she saw us? It was all such a mystery until we returned Jessie to her parents.
A gentleman who was at the next table from us, came over and said " I am sorry to intrude, but I could not help notice the commotion of your missing child, We are so happy for all of you that you found her. You are very lucky especially what is going on in Disney World, or Land.. Could not remember." What do you mean", I said."Didn't you read it in the papers? There was a kidnapping ring that went to Disney world or Disney Land. They take the children into the bathroom, change their clothes, put color on their hair and drug them so they wont cry. They caught the kidnappers because the mother who gave an exact identification of clothing described the sneakers in great detail. The kidnappers forgot to change the child's shoes. Thus, the child was found harmlessly but drugged" Their security system was excellent as they closed the gates making sure no one could enter or leave."
After hearing his story, my son demanded we go back to the ladies room to find that woman. But she was gone,. He was so angry, blaming me, his wife, everyone. I could not blame him. It was horrible. My voice was never the same again and eventually I had a larynectomy It could have been from screaming and perhaps smoking earlier.
Afterwards we put the pieces together. My daughter in law said, she noticed a couple sitting at the table on the other side of us with no children, She was wondering how come they were there if they had no children, Busy having fun with her family, she paid no attention at the time. When we found Jessie, she did not put her hands out to us when she saw us and was not crying. The fact that the lady did not step forward to hand us our child caused further suspicion They must have grabbed her with the confusion of packing up, and carried her over the fence which was about three or four feet tall.
We looked all over for the security guard, police etc. But the only people we found were teenagers manning the first aid shack. They were no help. I could not believe that Water World in Colorado had no security. I tried contacting the company but got no response. We were extremely happy we found her and tried to forget about it.
Until we started hearing about missing children. They were not as lucky as our Jessie. They were found dead. Every missing child reminds me of how lucky we were. I still cry out for all those lost children who suffered before they died. I cried for their parents and family as well.
Perhaps people think I over react when I cry each time I hear the news of a kidnapping. Some do not know my story while others do and understand, This story must not be in a closet. It must be told all the time. Never, never take for granted for one minute that your child will be in the same position you left her. Perhaps 99% for that moment she will stay close. But that 1% can be deadly.
On another occasion many years prior when our daughter, Stacy was about two or three, I took her to a department store. Looking at children clothes for her, she disappeared .She was just beside me. She wanted out of the stroller and was right by me. Screaming on top of my lungs, I yelled her name. She was nowhere in sight.
Our daughter, was afraid of escalators.. Every time I carried her up or down she would cry. So I knew she did not go downstairs by herself. However, I yelled her name anyway down the escalator as it was riding up. just in case because she was nowhere on my floor. I remember my husband always said to me to refrain from screaming out for your children as it sounds very common. I did not care how it sound. After screaming several times, for the police, help and so on, I heard my daughter voice coming from down the escalator as it was going up I didn't care. I ran down the up escalator to her. I did not know if I should hit or kiss her. I chose to hug her tightly. "How did you get downstairs," I asked. "Mommy," she said. "A lady took me by my hand to take me to my mommy. When I saw she was taking me out side, I heard your voice, and broke out of her hand to the escalator. Today my daughter has a three year old and the fear continues...
We are all human and it is difficult to watch with your eyes wide open 100% when you are with your child. You have to be lucky. With a blink of an eye, your child disappears and wanders maybe into the wrong hands. But with what is going on these days, it is wise to try getting to that percentage. Besides little children wandering, there are sick people out there who stalk and watch their routine. They wait for that 1% moment to crab them..
A buddy system is always recommended even in teen years. Never take your siblings, children grandchildren or any child you care for, for granted that they will stay by your side. Not for a moment!
God Bless
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY
..
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
THE HORROR OF THE TUMBLING BOUNCE HOUSE
It was about five years ago in May when we visited our granddaughter, Jessica, to celebrate her 6th birthday. We took our adorable Maltese puppy, Mindy with us. She was about three months old and an excellent traveler. We felt very fortunate having her house trained so early.
While my daughter in law was busy preparing for the birthday party, our son was helping with balloon blowing in the house. Sitting out side enjoying the beautiful weather, my husband and I watched the man assemble and blow up the bounce house. All children enjoy bouncing in it.
My husband commented that one stake was not inserted into the ground because the bounce house was mostly on the lawn and partly on the street. The property was not level, as he tried to do the best he could. "I do not think this is secure" my husband said to the man, as he was concerned that the day might get too windy. He assured us that he knew what he was doing and it would be okay to leave one rope unsecured in the ground. He had a huge gasoline driven inflating machine over the unsecured rope holding it down in place.
While my daughter in law was busy preparing for the birthday party, our son was helping with balloon blowing in the house. Sitting out side enjoying the beautiful weather, my husband and I watched the man assemble and blow up the bounce house. All children enjoy bouncing in it.
My husband commented that one stake was not inserted into the ground because the bounce house was mostly on the lawn and partly on the street. The property was not level, as he tried to do the best he could. "I do not think this is secure" my husband said to the man, as he was concerned that the day might get too windy. He assured us that he knew what he was doing and it would be okay to leave one rope unsecured in the ground. He had a huge gasoline driven inflating machine over the unsecured rope holding it down in place.
It was wonderful watching the children arrive with their colorful wrapped presents. They immediately removed their shoes and went on line to jump in the bounce house. "Only 6 children under a certain weight" the man said. So everyone had to take turns going into the house. We felt good about his rules.
Sitting outside watching the children having fun was amusing. Mindy was tied up to the camping chair and we enjoyed the beautiful weather. How wonderful it felt. Coming from Florida where the humidity was high it seemed like we lived in a bubble. The strong sun and cool breeze felt good flowing through me that day The fresh air was exhilarating, making me doze off.
Suddenly a strong gust of wind came in. I was awoken by Mindy's barking, which was the first time I heard her bark so loud. I could not believe my eyes and thought I was still sleeping with a bad dream. The bounce house was rolling over the cars and pickup trucks. Tumbling like a wheel with the wind pushing the wheel. "Oh my God" I yelled. "The children are in the bounce house. Somebody help me catch the house." I ran as fast as I could trying to catch it preventing it from tumbling further down the street. But it was a giant house with the heavy gas blower machine attached to the ropes. All I could think of was the poor children tumbling like clothes in a washing machine but without suds.
"Could they survive" Where are all the neighbors who were just outside?" I cried, as I was running to catch it. But I fell flat on my stomach and was screaming. It was amazing I did not get a heart attack at that moment. I worried about the children being injured or killed. And what if there were children playng in the street. The bounce house would have killed them for sure, expecially with the heavy attached machine flying through the air, hitting the vehicles.
"Could they survive" Where are all the neighbors who were just outside?" I cried, as I was running to catch it. But I fell flat on my stomach and was screaming. It was amazing I did not get a heart attack at that moment. I worried about the children being injured or killed. And what if there were children playng in the street. The bounce house would have killed them for sure, expecially with the heavy attached machine flying through the air, hitting the vehicles.
One of the parents came over to help me stand up. While wiping my tears, he said. "Don't worry," The children are in the house having birthday cake. They are safe. " You were sleeping so peacefully, no one wanted to wake you" My daughter in law was busy with the party, and was unaware that I was napping outside. My husband was inside taking video pictures.
While I was sleeping, the wind started up just after the children went into the house to continue with the birthday party.
The question in my mind was, what would have happened if the six children were in the bounce house when the gust of wind uprooted the bounce house? Would their little weight hold the house down, or would they have tumbled?
After researching in Google, I learned other bounce houses broke loose as well. Unfortunately those incidents were too numerous to mention, including lots of injuries.
In my humble opinion, please don't allow your kids to enter one if it is not on level ground. Check to see that all the stakes around the house are secured in the ground. Make sure the weather is calm with no wind.
After researching in Google, I learned other bounce houses broke loose as well. Unfortunately those incidents were too numerous to mention, including lots of injuries.
In my humble opinion, please don't allow your kids to enter one if it is not on level ground. Check to see that all the stakes around the house are secured in the ground. Make sure the weather is calm with no wind.
Now that the cold weather is behind us, many out door birthday parties will take place. Bounce houses have become very popular and I urge every one to be cautious with your children.
Did you or anyone else you know had similar experiences? Please comment. If you are having a hard time with the comment box, I will be happy to publish it for you if you email your comment to
iris@pushthewheel.com
What do you think?
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
POLE DANCING IN THE NEXT OLYMPICS?
Pole Dancing originally started in strip clubs all over the world for many years. Now advocates are circulating petitions for a test event at the 2012 Olympics and a more formal event four years later in Rio de Janeiro.
When I first heard about Pole Dancing, I thought it was a ridiculous attempt to downgrade the Olympics. Taking some time to do research, I found articles where people are going to sport and fitness clubs as a way to tone bodies. Although there are sensual erotic movements in pole dancing, those movements will naturally be eliminated if accepted into the Olympics.
Meanwhile,there are Pole Dancing championships like this one below all over the world
Pole dancer Mai Sato, 29, does her daily workout at a studio in Tokyo, Japan, last week. Sato is the world champion in her sport
As I observed the talented couples ice skating, they too, gave a sensual performance. I loved the romance and drama in which they performed. So why couldn’t Pole Dancing be a sport if done in good taste?
Too be honest, I have never seen Pole Dancing in person. Have you? What do you think? Do you know anyone who is doing this for a fitness program? Do you think it could be cleaned up for the Olympics? Please comment my readers would love to hear about your opinion and experience if any
When I first heard about Pole Dancing, I thought it was a ridiculous attempt to downgrade the Olympics. Taking some time to do research, I found articles where people are going to sport and fitness clubs as a way to tone bodies. Although there are sensual erotic movements in pole dancing, those movements will naturally be eliminated if accepted into the Olympics.
Meanwhile,there are Pole Dancing championships like this one below all over the world
Pole dancer Mai Sato, 29, does her daily workout at a studio in Tokyo, Japan, last week. Sato is the world champion in her sport
Hong Kong-based Ania Przeplasko, the founder of the International Pole Dancing Fitness Association, the sport's fledgling supervisory body, believes Olympic recognition is only a matter of time and would be a victory for underappreciated sports worldwide
Too be honest, I have never seen Pole Dancing in person. Have you? What do you think? Do you know anyone who is doing this for a fitness program? Do you think it could be cleaned up for the Olympics? Please comment my readers would love to hear about your opinion and experience if any
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