Darrington Library

The Butterfly Girl

2012-01-28T11:31:00.000-08:00

Once, a long time ago (at least a year), in a land far away (at least ten miles), there was a lovely butterfly who dreamed of being someone’s very own little girl. She consulted the sun, the moon, the stars, the raindrops and all the creatures of the earth to ask how she could become someone’s little girl. The day and the night was abuzz with ideas and plans about how to help the lovely butterfly become a little girl.

At the same time in the same far away land, there was a handsome young man and a beautiful young woman who longed for a child of their own. They had no objections as to whether the child was a boy or a girl, they would love and care for it just the same. Each year the couple planted a garden where they nurtured and tended plants that became strong and healthy. There were green beans, tall stocks of corn, tomatoes, lettuce, radishes and turnip plants in the garden. Each year as they cared for their garden, they continued to wish for a child.

The sun, moon, stars, raindrops and all the creatures of the earth knew of the young couple, their garden and their dream, so they made their decision. They watched as the couple planted seeds. When the couple went home for the night, the raindrops began their work dampening the soil. The sun appeared the next morning, warming the soil to just the right temperature. The seeds sprouted. The moon and stars watched over the garden at night. Before long there were healthy bean, corn, tomato, lettuce, radish, and especially turnip plants. All the plants grew strong and tall. As summer gave way to fall, the creatures of the forest decided the time was right. They laid a few soft leaves under the turnip plant then gently placed the beautiful butterfly on them. The sun kissed the butterfly and immediately a transformation began.

The couple came in the early morning to weed the garden. They worked their way down each row, eventually arriving at the turnip plant. They moved the leaves aside to remove any weeds sprouting underneath. There, smiling up at them was the most beautiful little girl they had ever seen. She had sparkling green eyes, tiny pink lips, and a smile that was warm like the sun. The little girl hadn't been there the day before, but sometime in the night she had “turned up” right there under the leaves of the turnip plant. The little butterfly girl and the lovely young couple knew immediately they were meant for each other. They went on to live happily ever after in that long ago land far away.

Check out Sno-Isle’s collection of nursery rhymes, fables and fairy tales. You won’t find this story among them, but you will find many wonderful tales to delight your children and tickle your memories of childhood. Then again, perhaps you would like to use Sno-Isle's computers or WiFi to create a special fairy tale for a special little someone in your life. pc

Snow Play

2012-01-17T12:36:00.000-08:00

Who wants snow? We do! Well, some of us anyway! Snow is great for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and making all types of snow structures. It is a great time for the entire family…children, moms, dads, grandmas and grandpas and friends of any age…to get together for fun and excitement. Bundle up, get outside in the fresh air and be creative. Lose yourself in the thrill of unexpected opportunity.

Snow can be so enticing it can cause a temporary interruption of a normal routine. Once upon a time a person we know was cooking a turkey for thanksgiving. Nothing else was ready except, of course, the pies were already baked. Suddenly huge, fluffy snowflakes appeared and quickly accumulated, making the back yard a very magical place. Time came to a standstill. The snow beckoned. The family bundled up quickly and headed out to make a family of snow men, snow women, and snow dogs. Somehow the snow cat was overlooked, but it doesn’t matter now since this happened many years ago.

Work and play continued until the backyard was full of an entire snow family and their pets. After studying the masterpieces with satisfaction, the pressure of time once again began insisting on its share of attention, making the family aware that Thanksgiving Day guests would arrive within a half hour! Panic set in. Using precise family teamwork, all vegetables were cooked, the table set, decorations in place, and everything was ready for a great meal and time of togetherness when the guests arrived.

The moral of this story is: Never forget how to play together as a family. The work will get done. If you would like some great ideas on how to have great fun in the snow, check out Snow Play: How to Make Forts & Slides & Winter Campfires Plus the Coolest Loch Ness Monster and 23 Other Brrrilliant Projects in the Snow by Birgitta Ralston. Get ideas for making forts, slides, and all sorts of snow creatures. Most of all, have a great time together with your family. pc

Calendars and the New Year

2011-12-31T14:43:00.000-08:00

The new year has arrived! The time has come to throw out the old calendar, hang up the new one and prepare for exciting adventures the new year will bring. But speaking of calendars, the calendars used by specific groups of people in the world to keep track of dates vary widely and have changed through time.

A new calendar having 364 days instead of 365 with no leap year, but with an extra week every 5 or 6 years has been proposed by Hanke and Henry to replace the Gregorian calendar we use today. If adopted, will Hanke and Henrys' calendar take as long to attain widespread use as the Gregorian calendar did when it replaced the Julian calendar? Will people who use other types of calendars embrace the idea? Check out Calendars and their History on the web for some interesting facts.

While all Sno-Isle Libraries will be closed Sunday, January 1 and 2, 2012 to celebrate the new year, be sure to visit your local library on Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Find a good book or movie to enhance your day. Ask for a copy of “What’s Happening at Sno-Isle Libraries”. Take the brochure home, mark your calendar so you don’t miss any of the wonderful Sno-Isle programs and events beginning in 2012, and kick back for an exciting journey through the year. May the best of everything come your way in 2012.

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Winter Break Fun at the Library

2011-12-22T16:29:00.000-08:00

There's plenty to do even though school may be out for winter break. Leave the boredom behind and join your friends at Darrington Library’s school age programs held December 27, 28, 29 and 30. Imagine tracking wooly mammoths and wrestling elephant trunks during “Track the Humongous: Mammoths and Elephants” on Tuesday, December 27 at 1:00 pm. Be sure to register online to experience optical illusions at “I Can’t Believe My Eyes” Wednesday, December 28 at 1:00 pm. Make amazing structures at “Lego Creations” on Thursday, December 29 at 1:00 pm. Return to create a book in which to write about your experiences at “Book Making” in the morning of Friday, December 30 at 11:00 am.

Children aged 9 to 12 can make “Rad Crafts From Old CDs”. This program will bring out the artistic talents hiding within. It will be held Friday, December 30 at 2 pm. Be sure not to miss these extremely fun and exciting activities at the Darrington Library on winter break!

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Artistic Expressions - Quilting

2011-12-17T16:17:00.000-08:00

People express artistic talent in a wide variety of ways. Some bring beauty to our world through painting on canvas, windows, coconuts, rocks, trucks, cars, motorcycles and even walls or barns. Others sing or play an instrument to make a wide variety of music. Still others make lovely sculptures or creations using clay, ice, rocks or sand. See some fantastic sand sculptures done by Team Santastic.

Quilting is one form of artistic expression that produces a product both functional and pleasing to the eye. Children have curled up under beautiful quilts on cold winter nights for centuries often fondly remembering or dreaming of the mother or grandmother who lovingly made the quilt for them.

Quilters and non-quilters alike may enjoy the book, Twelve by Twelve: The International Art Quilt Challenge published by Lark Crafts. The book shows the work of twelve artists who created one hundred forty-four 12” x 12”quilts over a period of two years. Every sixty days a new challenge was presented to the artists. The first challenge was “Dandelions”; the second was “Chocolate”. Check out this book to see the different artistic quilt creations that resulted from the International Art Quilt Challenge. You will enjoy this experience.

Books and Boys

2011-09-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

I recently saw a young boy sitting in the corner of the library intently studying the contents of a book. It was a snapshot in time that will stay with me forever. The little fellow was sitting calmly, intently absorbing what he saw on the pages. His interest wasn’t fleeting…he spent a long time perusing the pages, fascinated by what he saw.

Sno-Isle’s bookshelves are filled with materials. Preschool boys may like "Library Mouse" by Daniel Kirk, "Freight Train" by Donald Crews, or "Where’s Walrus?" by Stephen Savage. School age children may get laughs from Farley Mowat’s books, “The Dog Who Wouldn’t Be” and “Owls in the Family”. Our libraries have board books for babies, easy books, and readers. We have easy non-fiction books and educational DVDs to help children learn about the world around them. Music CDs, audiobooks and DVDs are available for your child’s entertainment.

If you happen to be a grandparent who is still scared of computers, accompany your preschool grandchild to the library and observe the child using the preschool computer. A child approaches the computer with confidence believing it to be just another task to learn and master. While making the decision to give computers a try, grandparents should remember “if your preschool grandchild didn’t break it, you won’t either”. Our libraries even offer computer classes for beginners and advanced in a non-stressful environment with much encouragement and no tests!

So bring your babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers, school aged children, teens, friends, husband, wife, mother, father, grandma, or grandpa and come to the library to experience our programs and find library materials. Sno-Isle libraries provide a rich experience for everyone. We look forward to seeing you soon!

A Nod to Skype from a Technophobe

2011-09-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

I have had my eyes on those Nook e-readers since they hit the market. The ability to “haul” around multiple books in one handy little gadget is very enticing. However, on principle, I decided to do without this wonderful device. (I also still pay my bills through the post office). Besides the enjoyment I get from holding an actual book, technological advances, such as the B&N Nook, have me a little concerned. It’s not that I’m worried about technology replacing libraries altogether (although I have heard that concern from customers); but the scariest thing about our rapid advancement in this tech era (for me, anyway) is that we are forgetting why we want technology in the first place. Some of my friends on Facebook have thousands of “friends”, but do any of them come over to cheer you up with a homemade dinner, or remember your birthday without the friendly Facebook reminder? Maybe they do, but my point here is that we have to remember what a “friend” really is. Technology is an aid to help us conveniently stay in touch with our loved ones, but it is in no way a replacement for actual face-to-face time. (My mom is constantly reminding me of this). Okay, now that I have explained some of the roots of my technophobia, let me proceed with an unexpected nod to Skype.
We have a family that frequents our library. They have, I believe, ten children, ages 5-25. One of their older boys is away in California, and the other day was his birthday. The father had come up to the desk and asked us for help installing Skype on his lap top. Our PSA II and I quickly showed him how to sign up and he walked away in awe at how simple it was. Shortly after, I heard “Happy Birthday” being sung in unison from our meeting room. I looked over to see the mom and dad and four of the siblings gathered around the lap top, singing! With closer inspection, I was able to see their son’s smiling face on the screen and even wish him a “happy birthday” myself. I was so thrilled to see this family “gathering” and had to nod in approval at this clever application of technology. The library remains a center for people, ideas, and culture; a place where families can congregate, even if it means using our high-speed Wifi to do so. His mom’s only complaint was that she wasn’t able to hug him through the computer.

Washington State News Flash

2011-08-31T18:31:00.000-07:00

A fire raced through Aberdeen burning over 200 acres and leveling 140 buildings. Fire also destroyed the last electric trolley as it was set afire during a parade in Spokane. In other news, the City of Snohomish lost the Poier Motors Building as it collapsed and fell into the river. Factories closed, banks failed and wages dropped 60% in Everett. To top things off, egg prices fell from $1.00 to 10 cents leaving the future of Lynwood hens uncertain.

Read about these and other Washington State events under the cities and towns link in Historylink: The Online Encyclopedia of Washington State History. Access this and other Sno-Isle databases through Sno-Isle’s homepage. Historylink contains much, much more than the bad news noted above. This database is filled with a wealth of information on Washington State you never knew. Families can thoroughly enjoy Washington state information in Historylink by finding trivia questions or making games such as scavenger hunts that incorporate the information from this database into a game. Are you planning a trip through Arlington, Marysville Mukilteo, Lynnwood or any other town in Washington State? Look up the cities on your route before you go. What happened there in the past 100 years? Select a place to visit in the city of interest. Travel, enjoy, learn, and share your knowlege. Teachers and students should find this database priceless in teaching and studying Washington State in the classroom.

My trivia question for you: Everett is the third county seat for Snohomish County. Which city was the first county seat, and which was the second? Find the answer in our History Link: The Online Encyclopedia of Washington State History database.

Beat the Winter Blues

2011-08-23T11:24:00.000-07:00

Summer is the time for gardening, family reunions, connecting with old friends, vacations and traveling to new places. Winter is rapidly approaching bringing shorter periods of daylight, more rain and the inclination to stay near the heater. A great way to welcome the dark evenings, ignore the rain, and pass the time inside is to check out the Sno-Isle genealogy databases.

Ancestry Library Edition can be accessed from the Sno-Isle webpage at any of our library branches. Heritage Quest can be accessed through our home page from your home computer. Take a look at Heritage Quest at home or book one of our 2 hour computers to peruse Ancestry Library Edition’s wealth of information. Among the information to be accessed through these databases is census information, immigration and travel records , birth, marriage and death records, and other information related to the history of your ancestors. Find where your ancestors lived, the names of their children, neighbors and friends, occupations, and other bits of information related to the lives of your family member. You might think of it as traveling to the past, connecting with family of long ago, and traveling to the areas where your ancestor lived via computer. You can research the history of the area where your ancestors lived, discovering the influences that help shape their lives.

Organizing your ancestors into groups can be daunting without some basic tools. Click the Charts and Forms link on Ancestry Library Edition. Print and fill in in forms that will keep the family groups organized. Clip or staple the information together and you have an instant family reunion on paper! Add a few local history and geographic information clippings from the area to bring the surroundings to life.

Several websites to be sure not to miss are www.rootsweb.ancestry.com, www.familysearch.org, and worldconnect at wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com. Check out the digital history sites at universities. Read and post queries at many of the online forums such as www.genforum.com.

As you immerse yourself in the task of finding information on your family from the past, time may pass very rapidly. You may wish winter with its short periods of daylight extended a little longer so the activities of next year’s spring and summer wouldn’t distract you from your search and demand your attention so soon.

How to make your Mom yell

2011-08-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

Do you remember running through the kitchen with all your friends on a warm summer day and hearing your mom yell, “Don’t run in the house, my cake will fall! You kids go outside and play!” You don’t? Then you are just too young. Have a chat with your Mom, Dad, Grandma or Grandpa and see if they remember. It was a common phrase way back in the day until Betty Crocker came along and made cake mixes that came in a box. Soon we no longer heard about falling cakes.

It makes me wonder, though. Do the Moms who bake cakes from scratch in modern times yell “Don’t run in the house, my cake will fall! You kids go outside and play!” like they did in the olden days? Or did Moms just become sweeter at one point in time, gently distracting their kids with quiet activities during cake baking sessions? If this question burns heavily on your mind and you must find the answer, here is a recipe from the Taste of Home Baking Book, ©2007 by Reiman Media Group, Inc. You can find this and other wonderful cookbooks in Sno-Isle's collection. The recipe contributed by Norma Van Devander, can be found on page 121 and is called Heavenly White Chocolate Cake.

Ingredients: 1 C butter, softened; 2 cups sugar; 4 squares (1 ounce each) white baking chocolate, melted and cooled; 4 eggs; 1-1/2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract; 3cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup water; ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted.

Line three greased 9-in. round baking pans with waxed paper and grease the paper; set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chocolate; mix well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Beat in vanilla. Combine flour and baking soda; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk and water, beating well after each addition. Fold in pecans. Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 23-27 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks; discard waxed paper.

Try this recipe and see what happens. Does it make you want to shout at the kids or not? Regardless of the results, try the cake to determine if white chocolate cakes are as tasty as dark chocolate cakes, milk chocolate cakes, german chocolate cakes. Anything with chocolate is usually good. You can also find a frosting recipe on page 121.

Facts and Other Interesting Things

2011-06-22T11:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen an old, outdated book on the library shelf year after year and wondered why it sat there looking shabby for so long? Perhaps it's waiting for you! Next time you see it, don't walk on by. Instead, stop, pick it up and give it a try.

The book, North Cascadians by JoAnn Roe, sat forlornly on our shelves and I walked past it every day year after year. Recently, I decided to review the local history books Sno-Isle had to offer so I took it home. Wow! There before my eyes was the entire history related to the building of the North Cascades highway. Also included was the construction of Gorge, Diablo and Ross dams. It was fascinating and I could not put the book down once I started reading.

Perhaps we should declare July "give an old book a chance month" and each of us can check out a shabby old book that hides a wealth of rich local history. If you are still stuck on the newer looking covers, try the series, It Happened in Washington by James A. Crutchfield for an enjoyable historical read.

What's This About Frogs?

2011-05-04T15:44:00.000-07:00

Frogs and spring. It's wonderful to sit in the vicinity of a pond or lake in the spring where we can listen to concerts performed by our little green friends. Ancestors of modern frogs have been around for 190 million years adapting to whatever mother nature throws their way. As a result, frogs seem to live everywhere. Some frogs live in the arctic where they actually freeze part of the year. Other frogs live in the desert where one type, a very patient type, burrows into the ground and waits up to 7 years for the next rain. Frogs live in low places and even on mountain tops as high as 15,000 ft. They come in all colors with a wide variety of patterns on their skin.

If you are interested in learning more about the frogs you hear in the spring, we invite you to come to the library where you can find an abundance of information on the subject of frogs. Feel free to use one of our computers to view Exploratorium’s wonderful website at www.exploratorium.edu/frogs, or bring your own computer and hook up to our WiFi. You will be glad you did. The website host, Exploratorium museum located in San Francisco, has many fun facts to satisfy your curiosity about frogs and other topics.

It's a Bear!

2011-04-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

A young man walked into the Darrington Library accompanied by a bear. The bear was so beautiful the employees at the library stopped and stared at its honey colored fur and its perky bear ears. So mesmerized were they by this bear that they forgot to be afraid of its needle sharp teeth and its daggar-like nails. Each employee said, “Oooh”, and then said “Ahhh”. Each one loved that bear and thought how nice it would be if the bear could be their own.

The librarians thought, they plotted, they planned, but as the young man explained how he and the bear came to be together, the librarians could see there was just no polite way anyone could separate the bear from the young man. You see, the young man had brought his bear to the library so employees would know how helpful Sno-Isle Libraries are to local residents. One day not many months before, the young man had decided to learn to do woodcarving with a chainsaw. He walked in to his local library, checked out a book about carving with a chainsaw, and proceeded to make a bear. Armed with only a saw, a large piece of wood and a library book, the young man soon released the bear from the wood.

Moral of the story: You can do anything with a good book. Go to your local library, check out a book, and try something new!

Change is in the air!

2011-03-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

“Change in all things is sweet.”
~Aristotle

“Change alone is eternal, perpetual, immortal.”
~Arthur Schopenhauer

“Change before you have to.”
~Jack Welch

“Change brings opportunity.”
~Nido Qubein

“Change is inevitable - except from a vending machine.”
~Robert C. Gallagher

“Change is such hard work.”
~Billy Crystal

“It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird: it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg. We are like eggs at present. And you cannot go on indefinitely being just an ordinary, decent egg. We must be hatched or go bad.”
~C. S. Lewis

Change is in the air! As our cold winter gives in to the persevering spring in its wet and windy way, I am reminded of just how prevalent change is in our lives, especially as of late: our new library catalog system, Polaris, has supplanted CARL (this could have been predicted, as CARL was quite senior); and out here at the Darrington Library, we have been given a wonderful new temporary library branch manager! Now to those of you for who change makes a bit uncomfortable, this may sound like quite the endeavor; but what it has made me realize is how beneficial the outcomes of change can be.

The change to spring is easy to see and appreciate. The daffodils and crocuses popping up miraculously from what was feet of snow just months ago, the influx of frogs croaking, and the return of the robins are all signs that much-anticipated warm weather lies just ahead! Now if it would just stop raining long enough for me to get out into my would-be garden.

Polaris is up and running as of today! It’s very exciting to be able to offer patrons faster and easier searching for library materials, the ability to see what the wait will be for any given library item, the option to “freeze” holds so that the items that you’ve been waiting for don’t show up and disappear while you are on vacation, and a plethora of other features that I know our public will soon come to know and love about our new library star!

Bryan Stratton of the Brier Library has been given the multifaceted task of being our new fearless leader. Linda McPherson left some big shoes to fill, but Bryan seems to be taking on the role of branch manager in stride. His naturally relaxed manner mixed with his passion and enthusiasm for the library are proving to be the perfect combination to balance keeping what is right and bringing in what could be even better. I particularly enjoy that he is also a musician: just this morning, I had to smile at the gentle guitar strumming coming from his office as he recollected a children’s song with Merle, our children’s librarian. He is friendly, professional, and a great addition to the Darrington community.

Below I have listed books about dealing with change from our catalog. Now that Polaris has arrived, you can place holds on these items (and a myriad of others), and even have a text message sent to your cell phone alerting you of their arrival at your pickup branch of choice. Yes, change can be intimidating; but when one embraces transformation, the advantages become more and more apparent!

The Prophet
by Kahlil Gibran

Illuminations: visions for change, growth, and self-acceptance
by Stephen Paul

Say yes to change : 25 keys to winning in times of transition
by George Cappannelli

Letting go of the person you used to be : lessons on change, loss, and spiritual transformation
by Lama Surya Das

Giggle While You Work

2011-03-09T16:34:00.000-08:00

Imagine working in an adverse environment where a very negative atmosphere results in lack of enthusiasm about being at work. Now imagine how much different it is to work in a positive workplace where the mood is elevated and your ideas and efforts are appreciated and valued. Fun brings positive feelings…feelings that transfer in the form of smiles and genuinely positive interaction with customers. Fun comes in many forms. I don’t recommend abandoning your work to have fun, but rather finding ways to have fun while you work.

Your library system has many items related to having fun…cooking fun, sports fun, crafts, gymnastics, carving…all wonderful activities. However, when I typed “fun at work” in the catalog, I didn’t find exactly what I was looking for. A book in the catalog, “Bringing out the Best in People: How to Enjoy Helping Others Excel” by Alan Loy McGinnis sounded good, but I also wanted more. I found a couple titles in Amazon.com that I liked. I went to the Sno-Isle catalog and my titles weren’t included so I did a “Request an Item Not in Catalog” (RINC). While Sno-Isle didn’t have the items, staff was happy to search outside the Sno-Isle Library System for them. Sno-Isle staff did an ILL (inter-library loan) and soon I received one of the books, “101 Ways to Have Fun at Work” by Dave Hemseth and Leslie Yerkes. I loved what the authors had to say.

“We believe that fun at work may be the single most important trait of a highly effective and successful organization: we see a direct link between fun at work and employee creativity, productivity, morale, satisfaction and retention, as well as customer service and many other factors that determine business success” (101 Ways to Have FUN at Work. Hemseth, Dave and Leslie Yerkes. Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc. 1997).

It has always been easy for me to make fun out of little things, but now I have access to several wonderful books through the RINC process full of ideas for fun. Fun is good for the soul, so enjoy searching for some fun in our Sno-Isle catalog, or even outside our library system by Requesting an Item Not In Catalog.

Books to Remember

2011-02-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

Think back to those wonderful books you read as a child, the lessons they taught and the excitement they brought. Here are some books that bring back wonderful memories to our staff.

Remember The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein? Such a beautiful and sad tale about a tree who gave comfort and happiness to a boy in all stages of his life. How many people and things can you think of who offer comfort and happiness when you need it most? And how about The Little Prince by Antoíne de Saint-Exupéry? That one helped open your eyes to see things from different perspectives.

Other books swept us away. Who can forget the beating of your heart mirroring the hammering of hooves on the racetrack as Alec rode the fastest horse across the finish line in The Black Stallion series by Walter Farley. You weren’t just reading about those races, were you? Didn’t you feel like you were riding that horse?

Collections of Shakespeare’s plays mesmerized one member of our staff during childhood. One of her favorites was The Tragedy of King Lear . The love of theatre stayed with her throughout adulthood. While working with the drama club, she enhanced the experience of actors and audience by using her exceptional sewing skills to make authentic costumes for school plays.

Sno-Isle has these and many other books a child can enjoy. We have had many customers come to us requesting a copy of a book they read as a child. We love to help bring back those wonderful memories. What are the names of some of your favorite books you read as a child?

Myth Busting 101

2011-01-28T13:04:00.000-08:00

We all heard the old sayings and rules to live by while growing up. In fact, we heard them over and over again. We heard this stuff from Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, aunts, uncles, the neighbors, maybe even the old family dog back when it was higher on the pecking order than we were. Well, maybe not the dog, but one such old saying was that someone or some thing’s bark was worse than it’s bite. What?

And what about “you can run, but you can’t hide”. Not true. That old legend needs to say “you can run, but you can’t hide for long”. I once ran away from home…. about 20 feet out into the yard and straight up to the very top of the old fir tree. I sat there completely hidden while Dad called for me. I sat there until it was almost dark. I began to get uncomfortable. I eventually came down because the top of a tree isn’t a good place to spend the night. I was young enough to be afraid of the dark anyway. The old rule didn’t cover what to do after dark.

You have all heard that the early bird gets the worm. Make that “the early bird gets the work”. A friend insists she got up early again and again, finding only work…she fed the cows, fed the chickens, fed the pigs, but she never did get that worm. She eventually learned the truth about the worm. Now she gets up early to get destructive worms out of the garden, out of the flower beds and out of the orchard. Whew!

Then, we used to hear, “If you are with someone when they are doing something bad, you are just as guilty as they are”. Now that one was a good one. Children who heard it and parents who said it took responsibility for not only themselves but to separate themselves from others who were making poor choices and exhibiting bad behavior. Generations of children grew up to be more responsible because of that old saying.

But what about “You can’t judge a book by its cover? Is that true? It’s time to do some myth busting on old rules and sayings to see if they are true or false. We challenge you to find a book with an appealing cover, read it, and report on the results. Did an appealing cover result in appealing contents? Did the artwork on the book jacket give an indication of the story line? Did a book with a totally unappealing cover turn out to be the best you have ever read?

We all heard “look me in the eye when I talk to you”. Take a look at John Elder Robinson’s Look Me in The Eye: My Life With Asperger’s to learn why this isn't always possible.

Spring Gardening

2011-01-26T12:21:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? January is rapidly drawing to a close. It seems early, but now and then in early February an unexpected warm, dry day suddenly appears and the gardener in us begins screaming to get out. What is he or she yelling about? The three P’s…Pruning! Planning! Planting! Now is the time to prune the orchard; it is never too early to start planning the garden; and depending upon the flower or crop, the need for planting starts now and continues until weather puts a stop to it. Grafting can also be done by those interested in adventure.

Your library has a wealth of materials full of ideas and projects for the garden…flowers, vegetables, garden art…you name it, we have it! If you need a computer to access gardening websites, we have it. Use one of our computers or bring your own laptop. You can access WiFi during open hours inside the library or 24 hours a day from our parking lots.

A couple places to start researching orchard management and gardening on the internet are at The West Side Gardener and Grow Organic Apples Holistic Network. Books that can help with pruning, planning and planting are How to Prune: An Illustrated Guide to Easy Pruning For Every Plant and Every Season by John Cushnie; Tips for container gardening: 300 great ideas for growing flowers, vegetables, and herbs by the editors and contributors of Fine Gardening; and The grafter's handbook by R.J. Garner.

Readers are encouraged to contribute gardening tips and ideas to this blog. Does anyone have some effective organic tips or good website links with ideas for controlling pests in the home orchard? We welcome your comments.

New Books, Favorite Authors

2011-01-06T15:12:00.000-08:00

Joanna Brady and J.P. Beaumont move over. Judith A. Jance's book, Queen of the Night has all the action and suspense of the author's other books but with new characters. Also check out Nelson Demille's The Lion or The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson for three good suspense filled reads.

Back in the Day

2010-12-08T18:16:00.000-08:00

Remember back in the day when TV was visible via antenna? There were no monthly fees, just an initial investment of an antenna and a television. Oh, you don’t remember that? Then you are just too young! This will be a history lesson for you.

After walking all over the property to find good reception, the antenna was eventually planted in the back yard, the front yard, the side yard, or even on the top of the roof depending on where the best reception could be found. Those were the days when we had more time, got more exercise, and even talked a bit with each other. We had more time because we really didn’t watch much television since the quality of the picture varied from bad to worse with the blowing of the wind. The wind caused the antenna to spin around so we got exercise by running outside in the storm to return the antenna to the best direction for viewing. Someone else stood in the doorway looking at the television so they could yell at the person outside when the picture was back to as good as it could get. The normal conversation during the process was, “Can you see the picture yet?” Soon the person in the house yelled, “Not yet, keep turning” so you see, we had some good conversations going on. Eventually the right position for the antenna was found and the next task was to secure it and that definitely wasn’t an easy task. As soon as we thought it would stay, it slipped back the other direction a quarter of a turn and we were back to the beginning of the process.

While the television picture often was little more than moving shadows accompanied by voices, there were a number of innocent, fun, shows that provided entertainment for determined television audiences. Sno-Isle now has many of those TV series on DVD in the library collection. They are a lot of fun. Check out I Dream of Jeannie for some good laughs; Leave it to Beaver for some ideas on how to raise good kids; Mission Impossible for a suspense filled hour; and Bonanza for a television trip back to the wild west. Additional recommendations by our staff are Different Strokes and I Love Lucy. Add your favorites to the comment section of this blog and give our readers ideas for selecting the perfect television series to enjoy on a long rainy afternoon.

Love is in the Air

2010-12-06T19:31:00.000-08:00

You're in love and now it is time to plan the perfect wedding. However the thought of spending a small fortune to get married is not your idea of perfection and you refuse to follow that path. Beautiful, but less costly weddings can be planned by incorporating nature into the theme in any season. Winter provides an opportunity to incorporate snow and sleigh rides into the wedding scene. Spring and summer brings lovely waterfalls tumbling down the mountainsides which can serve as backdrops for some spectacular wedding photos. The serenity of the seashore on a warm summer or fall day adds a special touch when you begin your lifetime of love. In fact, one enterprising couple who didn’t want to spend a fortune decided to get married at the seashore. They found lovely, but affordable wedding attire, decorated their two dogs as “flower girls”, and their marriage has passed the test of time. Another happy couple went to the Leavenworth area for their wedding. After an enjoyable sleigh ride into the mountains, they were married in a snow-covered clearing and have lived happily together since.

Sno-Isle has books full of ideas about planning less expensive but beautiful weddings. For example, try How to Have a Big Wedding on a Small Budget: Cut your Wedding Costs in Half by Diane Warner or Stylish Weddings for Less : How To Plan Your Dream Wedding On A Budget by Catherine Sabino. If you decide nature doesn't provide enough natural decorations, take a look at Beautiful Wedding Decorations & Gifts On A Small Budget by Diane Warner.

Whether you choose a large wedding with no expense spared, or a low cost, but tastefully beautiful wedding, look for wedding planning assistance through your local library. You will be glad you did.

A Better Me, Before the New Year

2010-11-23T13:01:00.000-08:00

I realize that it takes all kinds of people to create this wonderfully diverse world, but I will tell you a little about the kind of person I am NOT: I am not a black friday shopper. Fighting over deals and/or getting trampled by competing shoppers is not my idea of the best way to welcome in the holiday season following good old turkey day. I am also not a Christmas Eve shopper. Again, the crowds and lines and waiting... oh my! No thank you. Are you seeing a trend here? It is, I believe, the conformity of it all that turns me off. I have never really liked doing something at a certain time just because everybody else is doing it then. Which brings me to my New Year's Resolution. Don't be afraid; I am not jumping ahead two holidays. I happen to be the type of person who makes resolutions all year long. Whenever I come upon anything, be it a book, person, or piece of advice that gives me a glimpse of a better version of myself, I jump on the opportunity. Why should New Years Day get all the resolutions? Starting a new or better you can begin whenever you choose. Above are a couple of my recent favorite best bets that were unexpected, insightful gifts from my library. While I don't want to give away Don Miguel Ruiz's entire book,The Four Agreements ; his first agreement is "BE IMPECCABLE WITH YOUR WORD." There is a lot to be realized in just that statement alone.

What books have you discovered that you would recommend? Any that help deal with holiday crowds would be very welcome here. ;) Wishing you all a safe, happy, non-trampled Holiday season.

Winter

2010-11-20T16:11:00.000-08:00

Winter is coming, hold onto your hat! Find your coat and cuddle your cat. Add some hot chocolate, a warm crackling fire, now get together for beautiful smiles. You can find a great selection of materials to make an evening memorable at your local Sno-Isle library…books, movies, talking books, music CDs and more. Combine some much needed projects with a fun family get together. For example, great ideas for organizing family photographs can be found in Family Scrapbooking: Fun Projects To Do Together by Lael Combe Furgeson. Think of all the extra space that will be available in the closet when those photos are beautifully displayed in a scrapbook. Afterward, grab a snack, some hot chocolate, play some soft music and reminisce.

Chickie Catchastori

2010-10-23T15:58:00.001-07:00

The warm sun made the earth a welcoming place the day Chickie Catchastori came into the world. His downy feathers caught the light as he peeked out from underneath his mother’s wing. Chickie was a tiny little fellow, but right from the start he had a big attitude. He quickly realized that life was an adventure and the world was his to explore. Chickie’s mama squawked helplessly as Chickie shot out from the safety of her wing and ran wildly around the coop.

Chickie’s sisters and brothers hid their eyes in fear as Chickie ran up to the biggest rooster in the flock. His mama just sighed. In one terrifying motion, the big rooster scooped Chickie up in his wings. "Hello Chickie, I’m your uncle, Chicken Catchastori," the rooster said. "How would you like to go catch a story at the library with me today?”

Chickie peeped excitedly as he rode on his uncle's shoulder to the library. Uncle fluffed his feathers as they entered the room where baby storytime was held. All the mama’s swooned. Chickie tried to fluff his downy feathers, too. The mamas smiled and clucked approvingly. The librarian read a story about flying. Chickie wanted to fly right then and there, but uncle said Chickie must develop real feathers first. The librarian agreed and showed Chickie how to use his little toes to spell out his name in sign language. Next she helped Chickie stick his foot in paint to make yellow and green footprints all over a piece of paper! Chickie could hardly wait to go home and tell his brothers and sisters about the exciting time he had at the library’s baby storytime session.

More Adventures of Chicken Catchastori

2010-07-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

Chicken Catchastori strutted into the local library to catch a story and find some action. It was important to make sure the pecking order was intact with him on top. Catchastori flexed, preened, and fluffed his finery, looking brilliant in his colorful wear. Suddenly something caught his eye! He couldn’t believe it. The local librarian was in the meeting room with guitar in hand, moving wildly about while strumming and singing at the top of her lungs as music rocked the room. Her hair had escaped the binds of the bun on the back of her head. The librarian’s long hair was flying around wildly as she tossed her head furiously while playing the guitar. Catchastori’s mouth dropped open. He gasped and placed a wing over it. His eyes were as big as saucers. In his entire life, he had never seen a librarian without a bun twisted tightly on the back of her head and never, never had seen one with long, flowing hair making music such as this.

After the initial shock, Chicken Catchastori looked closer. There were others in the room. The librarian’s flock consisted of cute teenage chicks and handsome dudes. The wild librarian handed the guitar to some of the teens, then brought out other guitars and games. Chicken decided to join the group. He knew he could play the games, make the music and do it well. He wanted to be the best! Soon Chicken had mastered the tasks and was expertly strumming guitars, driving race cars, and doing dance routines. He was so good everyone in the room gave him a standing ovation. Chicken Catchastori forgot all about flexing and worrying about the pecking order and exclaimed, “Wow! Libraries are the absolute best place to be! I’m going to check the schedule for the next teen game night and bring my best friend, Chicken Winzalot”.

The Adventures of Chicken Catchastori

2010-05-17T18:01:00.000-07:00

The town was completely silent as the big guy walked cockily down the street. His name was Chicken. Chicken Catchastori. He walked with his chest puffed out, his beautiful colors flashing in the sun. Suddenly Chicken Catchastori stopped in his tracks. Where were all the chicks? Something was terribly wrong here. Chicken looked left. He looked right. Then he looked at the sign down the street at the local library. It said, “Story time today”. He saw chicks of all sizes and shapes rushing through the doors of the town library. Raising himself to his full height, Catchastori strutted to the library and right through the doors to where family story time was starting. Chicken flexed his muscles. The room was full. There were little chicks, big chicks, mama chicks, baby chicks. They all stared. But not at Chicken Catchastori. They all stared with rapt interest as the storyteller held her book high and read to her audience. Chicken Catchastori felt a little rejected at first, but before long he became caught up in the story, too. Now Chicken Catchastori doesn’t bother strutting down the street when he comes into a new town. He goes directly to a Sno-Isle library and catches a good story.

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Mother's Day

2010-05-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is coming up on May 9. It is the opportunity for sons, daughters, their spouses, and husbands to take time to honor their mother and to show appreciation. Mother's Day is also an opportunity for a mother to consider the joy her children have brought to her. It is a good time for mothers to tell her family how they have enriched her life. The library has many books full of ideas that can help either a mother or her family make a beautiful, but inexpensive card or gift to express positive feelings which would be cherished forever by the recipient. A wonderful book is Handcrafted Cards from Elegant to Whimsical by Paige Gilchrist. A book with excellent gift ideas is Creative and Thoughtful Gift Giving by Leah Ingram. If you would like to share, tell us what you did on Mother's Day.

Sir Cumference Math Adventures

2010-04-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Back in the time of kings, knights and castles, Sir Cumference and his family encountered many problems. They had to use their wit and wisdom to survive the hardships of life in the land of Camelot. It was imperative to study problems from every angle. To miscalculate could mean failure. Join Sir Cumferance, his wife Lady Di of Ameter, and their son, Radius as they solve the mysteries that confront them. Try Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi; a math adventure; Sir Cumference and the First Round Table; Sir Cumference and the Great Knight of Angleland; Sir Cumference and the Isle of Immeter; Sir Cumference and the Sword in the Cone. The author of these wonderful adventures is Cindy Neuschwander.

Musicals for Everyone

2010-04-22T14:41:00.000-07:00

Library staff members have excellent sources to learn about those hot items that just have to be seen or read. The best source by far has proven to be Sno-Isle’s own customers.

One customer recently raved about the musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. She claimed she watched it a number of times before returning the item. I decided to give it a try. Before I got the item checked out, someone else saw it and wanted it. I checked it out to the customer then put the item on hold and forgot about it. Eventually Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat arrived. I didn’t know what to expect when I put it in the dvd player but before the weekend was over, I had watched it four times and my spouse watched it twice!

There are many good musicals in the Sno-Isle Library collection. Elvis fans can find King Creole and Blue Hawaii. John Travolta and Olivia Newton John brought the musical, Grease, to the top of the charts. Don’t forget The Sound of Music starring Julie Andrews. Add Once Upon a Mattress and Paint Your Wagon for another enjoyable musical evening at home. Try these musicals from our collection and give a review. Suggest a few of your favorite musicals so others can share your experience.

Spring Sprouts Babies

2010-04-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

Babies, babies, everywhere! Even before the weather turns balmy, it seems like everywhere you turn there is another new life sharing our world. Baby bird, baby bunny, bundled baby in a backpack, baby in the library.
Each Monday in April at 11:30 am the Darrington library offers babies and their favorite adults an opportunity to go gah gah over books.
As a lifelong observer of babies, I have often thought that a fussy baby is simply a misunderstood baby. To understand the needs of a baby, we learn to decode what baby is trying to communicate or teach baby a new way to communicate with us. American Sign Language is becoming a second language for many families with preschool children. Infants can learn to do simple sign far earlier than they can master verbal skills. A good book by Andrea Fixell and Ted Stafford is Baby Signing: How to Talk With Your Baby in American Sign Language.

Things I Like About Getting Old

2010-04-14T17:35:00.000-07:00

Seeing my mother’s reflection when I look in the mirror
Sleeping until I want to get up
Having the grandchildren come to visit
Saying goodbye to the grandchildren and sending them home
Knowing what I like to eat
Not noticing when the teens in the library are getting a little boisterous because my hearing is going, going, gone

Staying home on Friday night
Playing my preferred music in the car and not having to change the channel for anyone
Looking good in the color gray because it matches my hair
Going to bed before dark
Knowing the lyrics to all the Beatle’s music
Knowing how to count back change
Knowing how to make biscuits and gravy from scratch without a recipe
Eating biscuits and gravy with no feelings of guilt
Being amazed when a toddler has better computer skills than me

Historical Bridges

2010-03-19T13:31:00.000-07:00

The Darrington Historical Society will present an updated version of the program, “Bridges Around Darrington”. This historical program covers bridges from Darrington to Monte Cristo and beyond. It will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, March 28, 2010 at the Mansford Grange in Darrington, Washington. You can also access Sno-Isle's collection of materials about bridges. Explore how bridges are made with your family by checking out a DVD called Bridges by Larry Klein and Mark Olshaker. Learn what enables a simple arch bridge to support such great weight and what holds up a suspension bridge. Enjoy all our bridge related library items, and enjoy the Darrington Historical Society's bridge presentation at the Mansford Grange.

How did the vegetables cross the river in Darrington?

2010-03-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

It was easy to get the vegetables across the river after the bridges in the Darrington area were built. Previously, people took vegetables across the river on canoes or ferries.

When spring comes to Darrington, locals get the urge to dig and plant. By summer vegetable and flower gardens are flourishing. But back in the past, well before gardeners began sharpening their spades to prepare the soil for early spring planting, the Darrington Historical Society members were digging into the history of the Darrington area. Their work can be seen at the updated presentation of the program, “Bridges Around Darrington”. It will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, March 28, 2010 at the Mansford Grange in Darrington, Washington. Come, spend an early spring day in Darrington among beautiful scenery and friendly people, and enjoy the program. If you are coming from out of town, visit one of the local restaurants or stop by the new Sauk River Bridge with a picnic lunch. For more information, the Darrington Historical Society President, Leah Tyson, invites you to contact her at 360-436-0675, or e-mail her at patches1234@gmail.com.

Relax, rest, and read

2010-02-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

Come visit, sit and relax, read a favorite magazine. The Darrington Library will receive eight new magazines for customers to enjoy in 2010. They are Acoustic Guitar, Allure, American Artist, Kiki, Living Crafts, More, Rifle, and Shutterbug. Library customers have access to all magazines at the Darrington Library as well as magazine collections housed at all Sno-Isle Library System branches. Come in, enjoy our mountain view, and enjoy a good magazine. We look forward to seeing you.

Get Together at the Library

2010-01-11T18:27:00.000-08:00

Libraries are the place of choice for all age groups to find fun and entertainment. Teens get together to play Wii games or to challenge each other at traditional games, to access games on the computers, watch movies or read. The library is a place teens gather to do research, work on homework with friends or utilize the homework helper that can be accessed from the Sno-Isle website at www.sno-isle.org.

Library resources are not limited to teens, but offer resources that benefit everyone from babies to adults. Babies who attend storytime at our library have fun playing, interacting with other babies and their families, and often learn some American Sign Language from Miss Merle. Family programs provide an excellent place for parents to get together with their children to do fun activities at no cost.

Not to be outdone, adults gather at the library to read current newspapers and magazines, use the computers, attend the book discussion group, gather with the knitting group, enjoy music appreciation classes or view a travelogue. Whatever age you happen to be, the library has something for you. You are urged to join us at the Darrington Library for a truly enjoyable experience.

Breaking the Rules

2010-01-09T14:02:00.000-08:00

(Shhh...don't tell the Fashion Police)

I have always been a fashion diva. I learned how to sew when I was 10 and by high school I was sewing and designing my own clothes. Over the years I have worked as a tailor, a furrier of custom sheepskin clothing and leather goods, and even made drapes for a Community College. I think my favorite stint was five years as a volunteer, costuming for local high school drama productions.
Soooo where am I going with this? Every persons “style” periodically needs some updating. Our lifestyles, our jobs, even (gasp!) our bodies change, and we can end up looking “stuck in the sixties” (or fill in era here) if we don’t occasionally make some changes. To this end, I was delving through the rather respectable collection of books that Sno-Isle carries on this subject over the last couple of months.

Here is this divas “dish” on her preferred picks.

Hands on strategies for taming your closet

Style Clinic by Paula Reed

The Style Strategy by Nina Garcia

Brenda Kinsel's Fashion Makeover: 30 Days to Diva Style by Brenda Kinsel

Photo filled guides that take the guesswork out of what they are saying

Trinny & Susannah Take on America: What your clothes say about you by Trinny Woodall & Susannah Constantine; photography by Robin Matthews

What not to Wear by Trinny Woodall & Susannah Constantine; photography by Robin Matthews

How to have style by Isaac Mizrahi

Figure it out: the real woman's guide to great style by Geri Brin

A little "style therapy" for the nervous among us

Dress to Express: seven secrets for overcoming closet trauma and revealing your inner beauty by Tracy McWilliams

Some heartfelt encouragement

Secrets of a Style Diva: a get inspired guide to your creative side by Susie Coelho

AND some fun

How not to act old: 185 ways to pass for phat, sick, hot, dope, awesome, or at least not totally lame by Pamela Redmond Satran

Last word

Don't be afraid to "break a rule" when the results warrant it. I recently read that "nobody with style dyes their hair in unnatural colors these days". Oops!

Michelle

Happy Child

2009-12-23T16:39:00.000-08:00

My granddaughter and great grandson recently came for an all day visit. I was struck by the conscientious way this happy little toddler was cared for, so I took the opportunity to acknowledge the young mother's efforts. A small gesture on my part made a huge impact on this tired young woman. With a beaming countenance, she spent the entire day joyfully sharing her son with us.
Any parent knows that raising a child has challenges. If you are looking for a book with practical ideas on raising a happy child consider What All Children Want Their Parents to Know by Diana Loomans.

Winter Break Spells Fun at the Library

2009-12-03T13:56:00.001-08:00

The library is filled with kids, many of them teens, engaged in a variety of activities. Some are on computers. Others are lounging, content in friendly conversations. Occasionally a giggle or two floats through an otherwise serene setting. It seems kids have found a way to pass those boring hours when there is no school. The secret is in the library.
The Darrington Library has a week of fun filled activities planned for the winter break. A theater troupe is coming to present “The Tiger, the Rabbit and the Rescue of Spring”. Then Captain Underpants will be featured in a hilarious program filled with trivia and a craft. We have games planned to amaze and beading projects guaranteed to calm your jitters. If that’s not enough, you can join your friends for a Saturday matinee showing of “Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken”.
Visit Sno-Isle Libraries home page and click on Events & Programs to find out the dates and times.

Walking in the Winter Wonderland

2009-11-25T19:12:00.000-08:00

If you like to hike or walk, don't stop your enjoyable activity just because winter is approaching. Check out Best Winter Walks and Hikes in Puget Sound by Harvey Manning to find some great hikes in this area. In addition, visit the Washington Trails Association website for some hiking ideas and tips. One lowland hike near Darrington is the Boulder River Trail. You can enjoy the beauty of old growth trees and waterfalls as you hike this trail almost any time of the year. Before starting out, learn weather expectations, dress adequately for winter conditions, and proceed safely on any trails in the winter since weather conditions can change rapidly. Most importantly, have fun and be safe.

Act F.A.S.T.

2009-11-19T16:40:00.000-08:00

The National Stroke Association has a simple test that can be used as a tool to help determine if a person displaying unusual symptoms may be having a stroke. The test uses the mnemonic, "ACT F.A.S.T" to help folks remember it.

Face - Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

Arms - Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech - Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred? Can he/she repeat the sentence correctly?

Time. If the person shows any of these signs, time is important. Call 911 or get to the hospital fast. Brain cells are dying.

You can also check out the American Heart Association website or the Mayo Clinic website for additional information.

A good resource regarding prevention and treatment related to strokes is the Stroke Sourcebook edited by Amy L. Sutton.

Be aware of stroke symptoms. If caught early, long term damaging effects from stroke can possibly be minimized or prevented.

Free Program: FLOWMOTION at the Darrington Library!

2009-11-16T14:51:00.000-08:00

So what are the perks of being married to a professional musician? A couple obvious ones: no longer having to wait in lines for great shows, rarely having to pay ticket prices, meeting very talented people, traveling to festivals, and generally having a lot of live music in my life. Pretty awesome.

Another little perk is getting to perform a little “show and tell” with him at my library in Darrington. My husband, Eric Bryson, and Flowmotion’s lead vocal and guitarist, Josh Clauson, both grew up locally and know first-hand that pursuing your goals of becoming an artist in a small town can present challenges. With funding for the arts in dwindling supply, these two know the importance of utilizing available resources and finding your inner determination. In the past year, Flowmotion played some legendary venues, from the Great American Music Hall to the Fillmore to the High Sierra Music Festival in California to the Paramount in Seattle where they opened up for the Grateful Dead’s Bob Weir. In addition, they annually put on one of the fastest-growing, greenest music festivals every August called the Summer Meltdown. For all you aspiring musicians, or for those like me that just like to sit back and enjoy the great talents of others, come listen to Eric and Josh, Wednesday night from 7:00-8:00pm, for what is sure to be a stellar night. All ages.

**Speaking of stellar, don't miss the meteor shower beginning Tuesday morning and "visible" through the end of the week… that is if these clouds ever give us a break ;0)**

Relaxing at the Library

2009-10-16T14:02:00.000-07:00

Many come to the library to read, check e-mail or just relax. Some browse quietly, while others are..uh..er…animals.

But Watch Out! It Might Be A Fake!

We visited our library recently to consult maps to find a good place for a walk. Our trek led us to pieces of bark that exactly resembled cow pies. The possibilities were endless. Our friends all love a good laugh so the image of a good natured friend coming home to find three cow patties on the porch suggesting a visit from the local bovine, was too much to resist. City folk not familiar with cow pies can click this link for more information about cow pies (Cow pie information)

We didn’t have to wait long. One set of our friends was out shopping when we got home. We neatly arranged the cow pies and waited. We got a call from the wife a few hours later wondering if we had any idea how cows had accessed their porch. Naturally we had no idea. She told us she had glanced at the porch while unloading the car. Startled, she told her husband, “We have a problem!” The couple rushed to the porch together to get a closer look. The husband picked up a pitchfork and, keeping the cow pies at a safe distance, sniffed the air. No smell. His wife thought he must be nuts, because of course those nasty cow pies were stinky!

Eventually confessions were made and the real makeup of the “cowpies” was disclosed. Everyone had good, tummy shaking laugh about the practical joke. The very next day the fake cow pies were waiting on the porch of other unsuspecting friends.

Library users can find maps and travel books that might just lead to unexpected treasures like fake cow pies. Look in the Sno-Isle Library catalogs for books about practical jokes or use the computers to find recipes for cowpies. Should you have a strange urge to improve your garden soil after reading this story, you can even choose a book such as The Rodale Book of Composting. The library is an excellent resource for finding materials to satisfy a wide variety of interests.

"This Library Rocks"

2009-09-30T16:43:00.000-07:00

No lie…this was an actual quote by P.J., one of our lovely Darrington patrons, as she left my desk just a minute ago. Our branch manager and I were telling this woman about our upcoming Watercolor Sunsets Program Saturday, October 10th, at both the Arlington and Darrington Libraries. She had asked if supplies would be provided or whether they would have to be brought by the attendees. She was delighted to find out that paints, paper and brushes would all be there and waiting for anyone (over the age of 14) to create with under the instruction of painter Michele Cooper. This free program is one of many offered by Sno-Isle, allowing aspiring artists to tap into a multitude of artistic expressions guided by professionals of that field. I myself took our last watercolor program at the Darrington Library, and was astonished to walk away with a painting that actually resembled birds as I’d meant for it to. It is a pleasure to be in an environment that encourages exposure to new aspects of learning beyond literature; and to be able to share these programs with patrons and learn to paint alongside them on an Autumn Saturday…well, rocks! So P.J., thank you for the inspiration to write this, and for the quote: “This Library Rocks!” I agree.

My Library Saves Me Money!

2009-09-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

I had been putting off driving the half hour that I need to drive just to get to the place where I get my oil changed, and dreading throwing at least another 40 dollars into my car. It dawned on me that my library has automotive databases to which I could go for detailed, easy-to-follow instructions on how to change my own oil. Eureka! The next day, I was able to find, in a fraction of the time it would have taken me just to get to the mechanic, simple steps and diagrams to change my oil. In addition, I was able to learn about the different types of oil available today: what their seals of approval really mean, and which oils were the best bargain for both my budget and the environment. The following weekend, I was an oily mess of library enthusiasm as I, for the very first time with the help of my local library, changed my very own oil! When you factor in a $40.00 oil change every 3 months (four a year) in addition to the cost of fuel that it takes just to get there, I just saved over $150.00 each year! Sno-Isle not only has a plethora of repair and maintenance procedures for a variety of vehicles in its databases; they also have free databases for health and medicine, genealogy, do-it-yourself, careers and education, and many more. So the next time you think about paying someone for a service, remember that your library is a source of help and information. Do a little research, or ask a friendly librarian to help you, and see if you can fix it, or build it, or design it or learn it on your own…and keep your money in your pocket!

Funtastic Folktales

2009-09-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Families are invited to experience stories told by Eva Abram on Thursday October 1st at 1:30 PM at the Darrington Elementary School. Abram uses stories to celebrate our differences, weaving stories to bridge culture to culture. People of all ages will enjoy Eva's engaging, entertaining multicultural folktales. We are grateful to the Sno-Isle Foundation and the Friends of the Darrington Library for supporting this event.

Garden Farewell

2009-09-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

There has been a distinct chill in the air these past mornings. It is a happy sad time for the gardener. For the past four months the summer sun has been a partner, encouraging seeds to sprout and plants to grow and produce. It has been a good summer for growing, eating and preserving fruit, berries, and vegetables.
I find myself a little saddened now that the pressure canner is cleaned and placed in storage. Concurrently, I am thrilled to no longer be tied to the kitchen range waiting for the timer to buzz. It is sad to think that within a few weeks I will no longer be able to pick the evening meal fresh from the garden. Then again, what joy I find in gazing at the colorful rows of my preserved bounty. For the beginner, try The Beginner's Guide to Preserving Food at Home by Janet Chadwick.

The Greatest Show on Earth - F-R-E-E, free for the whole family

2009-08-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

It'll be just like the movie, except starring Emmett Sapp instead of Charlton Heston!

It’s the amazing, the spectacular, the incredible spectacle known as Emmett’s Adventures in South America: The Slideshow!

Want to hear more about studying abroad in Buenos Aires? Haven’t gotten your fill yet of pictures of Patagonian plains, Fuegian penguins, Brazilian waterfalls, and Peruvian ruins? Yearning to hear more tales of Emmett’s incredible exploits in exotic locales? Then yearn no more!

Come to the World Premier of Emmett’s Adventures in South America: The Slideshow! Conveniently located in the grand public library of that cosmopolitan capitol of culture, Darrington, Washington, the show will run for ONE NIGHT ONLY! Don’t miss it!

AUGUST 17th, 2009! A day sure to be remembered in the annals of history for what shall transpire at 7 PM at the Darrington Sno-Isle Library!

And even more stunningly, this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime event, will be FREE! That’s right, F-R-E-E, free for the whole family! So bring your friend, your wife, your girlfriend (or all three!) and come on over for the greatest show since Barnum & Bailey.

Remember, ONE NIGHT ONLY! Don’t miss this ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY! August 17th, folks! Be there, or be square!!!

If you want to read more about his six month adventures, click on his blog: http://esintrepid.wordpress.com/2009/08/

Are you going to Meltdown?

2009-08-05T17:36:00.000-07:00

Are you going to Meltdown?

While seemingly appropriate with regards to our recent heat wave, this question is neither an inquiry into your body temperature nor your mental status? It is actually an invitation for anyone who may read this to my favorite festival, actually my favorite weekend of the entire year. I am referring to the Flowmotion Summer Meltdown, a wonderful music and arts festival held annually near our little mountain town at the Whitehorse Mountain Amphitheatre (also known as the Bluegrass Grounds). From August 14-16, I can think of nothing else I would rather do or recommend others to do than go to this yearly gathering of folks, friends, and artists of all ages! Flowmotion is a Seattle band which boasts the talents of two of our own local musicians: Josh Clauson (lead vocal and guitar) is from Arlington and Eric Bryson (bass guitar) grew up in our very own Darrington! Find out more about this incendiary band at http://www.flowmotion.net/. This years’ Meltdown will be the bands’ ninth annual festival, and is not to be missed! With three stages of music over a three day festival, the acts booked are more than enough reason to attend: Jackie Greene (the “Prince of Americana”) and Tony Furtado band just to name a couple. You can check out the full line up at http://www.summermeltdown.com/ . I recommend checking out these sites, as there are too many great things about this festival to capture in one little blog, even one website, so you’re best bet is to just go and see for yourself! Children have perhaps the most fun of any attendees, with their own “children’s campsite,” (a section of their own recycled cardboard fort “tents” elaborately decorated with fabrics and glitters and colors…oh my! Last year I happened to walk by just in time to catch American Idol runner-up Blake Lewis giving an impromptu lecture to an enraptured young audience on the art and skill of beat boxing. This is the thing about Meltdown…you will find yourself capturing all sorts of these tiny precious moments. Here is one more: While watching the phenomenal talents of MarchFourth Marching Band, I heard a glass bottle (which is NOT allowed at the festival) break nearby. In the moment while I thought about whether to get up and help them pick up the pieces, a whole group of festival goers were on their feet circling the broken glass like seagulls to french fries. With all those tiny bare feet to protect, Meltdown goers are not the type to take chances for injury. They are a very environmentally conscious group, and are equally community oriented. The festival is run entirely on B-99 biodiesel, the cleanest burning fuel out there. In fact, this year the goal has been set to recycle 80% of the festival’s waste in its entirety. This is definitely the greenest festival out there! For a great family weekend, some fun and interactive lessons on reducing your carbon footprint, and to get your socks rocked off…Meltdown. Definitely Meltdown!

Recipe for Burnt Green

2009-08-05T16:25:00.000-07:00

Recipe for Burnt Green

100 plus degree temperatures
Tinder dry underbrush
Dry grass
Lightning
Minimal drops of rain

The lightning show was impressive, making viewers ooh and aah just like the fireworks on the 4th of July. Unfortunately the tinder dry conditions brought about by an extremely hot summer with little rain resulted in lightning fires. Over 33 fires were ignited in the area. Fire crews have been successful in extinguishing most of the fires. Work is continuing to finish putting out the remaining fires. According to the Gold Hill Complex Fire Update, the crews limited the damage to only 60 acres. We extend our thanks to all those who did the hot, sweaty, and dirty work of fighting the fires so we can continue to see our familiar green landscape.

Sea Glass

2009-07-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

Summer is in full swing! My favorite getaway destination is Ocean Park, WA . Miles of beach vistas, blue-flamed driftwood fires, stunt kite battles with my sons, and fabulous seafood cook-outs with old friends wash the cares of everyday life away. A treasured alone time activity is combing the beach for sea glass after a storm.

Sea glass is old broken glass bottles, buoys, or containers that have been washed by the sand and wave action into frosted, smooth edged bits of glass.
Sno-Isle has a couple of books on sea glass: Pure Sea Glass by Richard LaMotte and A Passion for Sea Glass text by C. S. Lambert.

For more information on sea glass check out Odyssey Sea Glass, Sea Glass Association, and the Sea Glass Journal an online sea glass collecting magazine.

Sea Glass
Discarded by the careless,
broken, unvalued,
Tossed by circumstances and environment,
in the waves and stones of life,
until all the sharp, painful bits have been smoothed
so you don’t cut others with your broken edges.
Found by someone hunting for a treasure,
wrapped with silver,
adorned with bits of crystal and precious stone,
hung on silk, to be seen for the prize you are.

Michelle

Teen Chicks Rule the Roost, Old Ladies Fly the Coop.

2009-07-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

I have six teenage chickens who share a coop and yard with our three old ladies. Since they started sharing the same living space this spring these elderly hens have kept the newcomers firmly in check by keeping them away from the prized roost at night and away from any garden scraps that are thrown their way.

The six chicks were reduced to sharing one nesting box every night since they were first put in the chicken house. When fresh greens are thrown into the chicken yard, the chicks scatter because they were afraid, and rightly so, of the old ladies henpecking them.

One day this week the neighbor’s dog startled the old ladies and they managed to somehow open the gate and escape to freedom into the blackberry and salmonberry bushes nearby. My husband told me what had happened when I came home from work. Finding no sign of my chickens, young or old, in the chicken yard and fearing the worst, I peeked into the coop. There were the six teen chicks firmly ensconced on the roost, all fluffed up, wings extended, to completely fill the coveted roosting bar. The old ladies did return later that night, but now they’ve learned to share all the space and privileges in their communal home. I firmly believe the teen chicks will be leading the next great escape.

Raising your own chickens has been in the news lately with articles in The Herald on the Tour de Coop on Bainbridge Island, to raising chickens in the suburbs.

A recent article in USA TODAY states that “chickens” are a sign of the tough economy and harken back to the victory gardens planted by Americans in previous economic downturns and during the two world wars.

Sno-Isle Libraries carry lots of great resources if you are contemplating chickens in your life and backyard. You may not save money but the entertainment value is priceless.

Here are a couple of books to get you started.
The Joy of Keeping Chickens by Jennifer Megyesi
Raising Chickens for Eggs and Meat by Mike Woolnough
Linda

Gardening with Children

2009-07-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite things are gardening and children. So why not combine the two and see how it goes? The first thing in the morning I put on my rainbow colored gardening boots and dished myself up an extra helping of patience. Then I headed next door to solicit help from my three year old granddaughter.
“Papa already planted a ginormous garden,” she chirped. I answered thoughtfully, “I want to do something fun! And the most fun thing I can think of is spending time with you.”
With big smiles on our faces, we trudged to a neighboring ranch where we filled 5 gallon buckets with horse manure. Can you imagine the questions that were asked? With each careful answer, came another round of questions. By mid morning we had our buckets, boots, and seeds in place to begin planting our garden. My granddaughter had added many colorful words to her already bulging vocabulary, and I was ready for a nap. Rest can wait, but seeds and three year olds cannot.
So we began the process of digging, raking, shoveling, and planting. With each seed came another wave of questions. Each seed variety has a unique size, shape, smell and feel, much like children who are differently yet marvelously made.
Imagine our joy when a week’s worth of anticipation was rewarded with the miracle of those first tiny green leaves. Some of the seeds would keep us waiting for a few more days, and the pumpkin seeds took an extra week. Their fuzzy plump leaves were so worth the wait.
Now it is our responsibility to keep our garden watered and weeded. Have you ever noticed that weeds tend to hide around a look alike plant? My little helper noticed this right away, when chick weed sprouted next to the bean plants and horsetail next to the lacy carrot tops.
In a few weeks we will be picking and eating the fruit from our labor, or in other words, the veggies from our play time.
Roots, Shoots, Buckets and Boots by Sharon Lovejoy

Hollyhocks and Honeybees by Sara Starbuck

London Bridge goes to Arizona

2009-06-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

According to Wikipedia, the “London Bridge” has existed over the River Thames since the Romans occupied the area. The first bridge was a pontoon bridge built about 50, and next a piled bridge was built in 55. During the Saxon era, a new bridge was needed, so in 1016, a newer London bridge was built of timber. That bridge was destroyed by tornado in 1091. It was soon rebuilt and remained another 45 years until it was destroyed by fire.

Construction of a stone bridge began in 1176 and was finished in 1209. Houses and shops were built on it to bring in revenue. Occasionally disaster struck the stone London Bridge. Arches collapsed, houses burned, and wars were fought on the bridge. By the time the stone bridge was 600 years old, it was clear the bridge needed to be replaced.

Work on a 19th century London Bridge began in 1824. The engineer was John Rennie. Bridge construction included five stone arches in the design. Renne’s London Bridge was finished in 1831. It was 928 ft long and 49 ft. wide. This bridge didn’t quite make it as long as its predecessors. Only one hundred years later one side of London Bridge was inches lower than the other. A new bridge was needed so designs were made for the newest version of the London Bridge. Work began in 1967. Napoleon’s cannons were used to make the bridge lights. Queen Elizabeth II opened the modern London Bridge on March 17, 1973. If you want to travel to London, England to see the London Bridge or even the Tower Bridge, check out a great website at www.londontown.com.

While the most current version of the London Bridge remains in place to watch over the River Thames, Rennie’s London Bridge immigrated to America. It was bought by Robert McCulloch, taken apart and each piece numbered. McCulloch reassembled the bridge in Lake Havasu City, Arizona where it connects Thompson Bay with the Arizona side of Lake Havasu. The English theme park where the bridge resides is the second largest attraction in Arizona. You can access information about the Lake Havasu City and its London Bridge at www.londonbridgeresort.com.

You can find information about both London, England, and Arizona by checking out travel guides for at the library. If you prefer something a little closer and much less costly, there is a new bridge over the Sauk River in Darrington. It’s not the London Bridge, but you can rest on a bench along the banks of the river. A piece of the old Sauk Bridge still sits alongside the bench and from there you will have a perfect view of the new Sauk River Bridge.

Juggling

2009-06-15T19:19:00.000-07:00

People spend much of their lives juggling. We juggle time, thoughts, activities, decisions, and child care. Entertainers juggle rings, bottles, scarves and other interesting things to entertain children and adults. Stay at home mom’s and dads can find helpful information about juggling the responsibilities of home and family through the following books. Check out Juggling Tasks, Tots, & Time Juggling Tasks, Tots and Time by Cathy Penshorn, or The Stay-At-Home Dad Handbook by Peter Baylies. Working parents may glean information from the book, How She Really Does It: Secrets of Successful Stay-at-Work Moms by Wendy Sachs.

If you are interested in actually learning to juggle, try The Most Excellent Book of How to Be a Juggler by Mitch Mitchelson.

While you are juggling your thoughts or schedule, give yourself a little break. Bring your school age children to the summer reading kickoff on Saturday, June 20 at 3:00 pm at the Darrington Library. Parent's Choice Awards winner Bonnie Phipps will tickle your imagination with story and song, rhythm, rhyme and melodies. You can either stay and be entertained along with your children, or you can spend the time pampering yourself by browsing our shelves for a great read.

A tale of two weddings

2009-06-05T17:02:00.000-07:00

Weddings seem to in the air this time of year. June is traditionally the month when more people get married than any other time.

Ever wonder why June weddings are so popular? It is said the Romans favored June weddings because that month dedicated to the observance of Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage.

Another piece of historical “folklore” dating back to Shakespeare’s time is that in the 1500's, people took their yearly baths in May, when the weather warmed up. By June, they were still fairly clean and smelled pretty good, compared to the rest of the year. Since the over-all population was smelling relatively fresh in June, it was a good time to hold a special event like a wedding. However the bride still carried a bouquet of fresh flowers to mask any unwanted odors.

I attended two family weddings over the past two weeks, one couple in their 20’s and the other in their 60’s.

They were both beautifully planned weddings and each very different from the other. One had a very intimate wedding, with only their parent, children, and siblings attending while the other couple hosted a multitude of family, friends and colleagues at a picturesque outdoor wedding site. One wedding took a year to plan, the other a month. Both couples wrote their own wedding vows, very loving and memorable wedding vows. I was impressed and very happy to add a new niece-in-law and new brother-in-law to our family.

Our library system carries many wedding planning books and magazines that can help you plan that so very important day including how to save time and money with on-line resources. Check us out!

Where Are the Heroes?

2009-05-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

Who are the heroes in our society? Where are those who help society, nurture children, and act as positive role models? Newscasts are filled with stories about adults yelling or brawling at games from little league to professional, politicians calling each other names rather than focusing on the needs of our country, and sports figures, musicians and actors and actresses acting irresponsible. Here are a few celebrities whose actions might warm your heart and give you hope.

Drew Brees has played professional football with the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints. In 2008 he was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year. Brees exhibits true sportsmanship in his career and his life. When Drew is not playing football, he is busy helping raise funds for cancer research and to rebuild schools, parks, playgrounds, athletic fields through the Brees Dream Foundation. You can read more about Drew Brees’s work at www.drewbrees.com. There are some good websites about sportsmanship and parenting at life.familyeducation.com and www.sportmanship matters america.com.

Jamie Lee Curtis is an actress and author of several children’s books. She is the National Spokesperson for the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation. Jamie Lee Curtis became involved in this foundation after her son, Tom, had a serious accident and was awaiting surgery. The nurses brought in a Starlight Starbright Fun Center for him to play with and it was successful in alleviating his anxiety and pain while awaiting surgery. You can check out some of Jamie Lee Curtis’s children’s books at the library. Two titles are: Big Words for Little People and Is There Really a Human Race.

Trace Adkins is a country music singer. At the age of 9 months, Trace’s little girl had a severe allergic reaction after licking the lid of a peanut butter jar. Trace joined the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network to help raise awareness and funds for food allergies and research toward cures. Check out www.foodallergywalk.org where you can find more information and track the organization as it works toward its goal of raising $2,790,000 for research. You can check out Trace Adkins CDs at the library. Try Greatest Hits Volume II.

Look around your community and you will see many heroes. Heroes may be celebrities and corporate officials who quietly make a difference without asking for notoriety. Heroes are also the mother and father who take time to teach their children and friends good sportsmanship. They are the people who work to raise money for cancer research or other worthy causes. Heroes are people of all ages who spend time being a friend to a child or someone else who is lonely.

The media may give the impression there are few heroes in our midst, but that is incorrect. Unsung heroes are everywhere. Offer a kind word, and you will be someone’s hero. You may never know the difference you made in their life. Those little acts of kindnesses and good will not only have a positive effect on someone else’s life, but also on yours. Take the time to do something positive each day with no strings attached. You will benefit just as much as the other person from the good feelings those actions produce.

READ FOR FUN

2009-03-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful visit to our local Darrington Elementary school this week. I came to see their “reading in the morning’ voluntary reading program. Children from 1st through 6th grades come ½ hour early so they can spend time reading a favorite book in the school library before school starts. What a simple, yet very effective way to encourage the love of reading at a young age! This program, coupled with a new school wide reading program, has increased the number of Darrington students reading at or above grade level by 13%.

When children have time to read “for fun” they are apt to be more successful in their schoolwork and beyond. The love of reading is never lost once you have it and I couldn’t imagine not having time to read. Magazines, newspapers and books clutter my life and I learn something new every day from them.

If you have children in your life, let them see you reading. Bring them to the library and let them pick out their own books. Sometimes it takes only one special book to “hook” them into not wanting to put it down. I remember the first time my son read The Hobbit by J. R. Tolkein when he was only 7 or 8 years old. Now, 27 years later, he still reads every fantasy book that I bring home when he comes to visit.

Thinking Green

2009-03-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

In the process of planning an eco-friendly children’s program, I asked myself, “What makes you a recycling expert, Mrs. Green?”
My dad, who was not Mr. Green, saved almost anything, most of which was stored in a dilapidated shed he called the “delco house”. That old shed was stuffed floor to ceiling with used twine, spark plugs, horse shoes, rusty nails, nuts, bolts, screws, etc. As a child, I was forbidden to enter, but I remember standing in the doorway gazing at shelves lined with coffee tins brimming over with meticulously organized junk.
Although I did not inherit Daddy’s junk collecting skills, I did learn the value of reusing household items that might otherwise be bound for the trash. I began recycling many years before it became the popular thing to do. We have never had garbage service at our home where we have resided for more than 35 years. Our children dutifully learned to sort paper, glass, aluminum and tin. Buckets of smelly table scraps were toted to the compost pile for systematic turning and testing. Our dogs grew shiny healthy coats on diets of bread scraps enhanced with milk, eggs, olive oil, garlic powder and an occasional scrap of meat, a recipe from Laurel’s Kitchen by Laurel Robertson.
After mulling it over, I suppose I am sufficiently “green” enough to do this program. My challenge is to translate many years of utilitarian experiences into something fun and educational.

Live Gratefully

2009-03-23T15:39:00.000-07:00

I will often bounce philosophical ideas off of my very wise grandfather, who proceeds to recommend a plethera of corresponding and contradicting material for me to read. After reading some of his suggestions, I found myself spiraling down this well of possibilities. So many religions, so many beliefs... and everyone who subscribes to each will state his or her own as "fact." That is, the only choice, out of many choices. Does anyone else find this confusing? What I have learned is that living with faith is a lot like being in love. No one can tell you you are or are not in love. You can not show someone the love that you feel, or explain its origin. But one feels love nontheless. I imagine it is much the same with faith. Perhaps it is these intangible treasures that define us. So I wrote this poem, kind of for my grandfather and mostly for myself. For me, it means not to spend my time worrying about which ending (out of an infinite number of possible endings) will be mine? Why think of endings at all, or beginnings? Aren't we all somewhere in the middle? How about, instead, we spend our time grateful to be alive in this time that we are alive in? Sounds good to me.
I was going to attempt to enter this poem in some poetry contests, so if a potential reader has any revisions or suggestions, I would love to hear them. I am only semi-familiar with poetry time and rhyme, and am open to your criticisms. I hope you enjoy the poem. It's message has become a sort of mantra for me and how I live my life:

If When

I looked up at a tree
And he looked back at me
Through deep sockets of eyes
Where his arms used to be

And I asked silently
Indirectly to he
If his roots carve the grave
Where my ashes will be?

He inquired back to me:
"How can one not see
these humans who walked once
whose souls live in me?"

It occurred to me then
Regardless of the end,
the Beauty of this now
Lies in the vastness of if when

If when you die,
and you may - you see,
If when you leave
and come back as a tree,
You'd live many years,
seeing all there is to see
But from time to time
from the eyes of your limbs
You will remember and
say to a listening me
That you once walked about
on two legs
and were free.
You encapsulate secrets
of great men before me
And you give this advice -
"live gratefully."

If when you die, you rise
To a cloudy haven above
And spend your days with angels
Making life from love

Will you not longingly remember
This paradise below?
Mountain peaks, waterfalls,
Uncertainty and sorrow.

Why miss sorrow - so loathesome a thing
Yet pain carves the cup
From which happiness drinks.
It is only by knowing the empty gorge of space
that we appreciate its fullness
and understand its place

And the angels whisper sweetly
using chimes in the wind
that my paradise surrounds me
if I can find it within
And today she sings audibly
to a much listening me
that "heaven is inside you-
live gratefully."

If when you die,
you fall far below
To join cries of despair
and eyes hollow
To a fiery pit
that torches your skin
and learn what is meant
in the meaning of sin.
If when you manage
a thought that is yours,
surely you'll cherish
a life only endured:

The cool of the river
on a hot summer's day,
the sounds of laughter
of children at play
and you'll silently scream
from the balls of your feet
to a darkened red sky,
while knowing defeat
and yet I still hear you
from under my feet
VIBRATING
live gratefully

But what if it's all in my head
this Beauty, this world?
You've painted yourself a picture-
You clever little girl
and somewhere you either writhe or twirl
and create this life for myself
to spare me your toil
and I lie here grateful
for this picture I've painted
and shy far away
from those things that would taint it.

If when you're passing
through judgement one day,
Oh great surprise,
should omnipotence say
that there is much fault
in claiming this phrase:
"live gratefully."

If when you're scorned or cast away
Think back to beauty, if you may
and know that ne'er existed a day
When you were not grateful
living in love's way.

If when time repeats itself
If when we kill our own salvation
As fire spreads, will we spend our ends
pondering obligation?

"perhaps" ,"maybe", "could've", "should've"
If when these can't be solved
Look at your life through the memories you choose.
Feel jubilant and absolved.

If when an accident
renders the healthy man stricken,
may he not look back in wonder
at however he missed it:
To have ran like the rabbits,
To have swayed like a tree,
And let him not say
to a listening me:
"Live Gratefully."

If when we live forever
to watch our landscape change
humans may one day wonder
although now seemingly strange,
at the beauty of a sky
that is both blue and orange,
or a bird that is red and sings
with its own song
and enjoy as we may,
our newest creation
the self-proclaimed greatest
of all of the nations
or perhaps a world resulted
from alien visitation,
Won't we someday look back
and long for sensation
of plush grass beneath our feet
and sand between our toes,
of rushing water on our fingertips,
feeling the river flow,
of a lovers lips on our softest skin
and ponder that maybe the greatest of sin
is just not to've lived gratefully.

So tree, should your roots
pave the grave of my ashes,
I look forward to one day
sprouting out from your branches,
to having the best seat
as the sun sets west,
to be home to so many-
a place even eagles rest,
to come back as a house
or a blank sheet of paper,
to know all that has been
or at least all that have came here,
and to look down below
to a listening me,
will suggest that I write down
this dream life I lead,
and feel the connection
between I and he,
and feel the wind on my face
and live gratefully.

Computer Classes at the Library

2009-02-23T15:42:00.000-08:00

The Darrington Library is offering four free computer classes on Thursday, March 19, 2009. Introduction to Computers will begin at 11 am. This class is for those who want to learn computer basics and how to use the mouse. Students who want to set up an e-mail account, send and receive messages, and attach photos and files should sign up for Starting with E-mail. If you have ever wanted to travel without leaving home, research destinations, purchase tickets online, etc., then our Traveling on the Internet class is for you. For those computer users who want to learn something specific with which we can help, sign up for Advanced Topics.

Each class is limited to four students per class so contact Patsy or Michelle at the library to register. Our phone number is 360-436-1600. Pre-registration is required, so hurry to reserve your space.

Employment Help at the Library

2009-02-12T14:47:00.000-08:00

Public Libraries have had a certain historical image as the place students go to do research and the rest of us go to find great books on every subject from how-to-fix-its to current bestsellers. Excepting the occasional traveling salesman looking for romance, (humming Marion, madam librarian), there is a popular misconception that libraries are a luxury in tough economic times.
After all, everyone has the internet now right?
Nothing could be farther from reality.

Sno-Isle is a rich resource for researchers of all types, as well as a great place to read and relax, or checkout a best seller, CD, or DVD.
But, Sno-Isle also offers a wealth of resources for those hunting for jobs, writing resumes, or filing for unemployment. No computer at home? Or do you have internet speed that would make a snail look fast? You can book a computer at your local Sno-Isle library and submit your unemployment claim, write a resume’, or get your job search up and running.

Here are a few ideas to help you get started.
On the Sno-Isle home page under Research tools > Databases and Research>The Way of the Job Hunt is a broad list of recommended web sites covering career information, job databases, a Career Development eManual and links to job and educational information. Just click the highlighted title to go there.

Among the many books Sno-Isle carries on job searching, resumes and cover letters here is a small sample.
Resumes for the 50 Plus Job Hunter by the editors of McGraw-Hill

How to Say it on Your Resume: a top recruiting director's guide to writing the perfect resume for every job / Brad Karsh with Courtney Pike.

Killer Cover Letters and Resumes: WetFeet insider guide

Best career and education web sites: a quick guide to online job search / Anne Wolfinger.

For more great titles go to www.sno-isle.org and type in resumes in the search box.

The Washington Employment Security web site has user friendly links and an easy to read format to help the job seeker to file a claim, find a job, or even write a resume.

Michelle

Grand Re-Opening of the Darrington Library

2008-12-04T13:44:00.000-08:00

We have been back in our remodeled library building for a month and it seems like every day something new is added or changed. New furniture, new books, new computers, I never know what our delivery trucks, Fed Ex or UPS will bring each day.

If you haven’t visited us yet, be sure to come to one of our many programs during our grand reopening week, December 8 through 13.

Monday, December 8, is the ribbon cutting at 11 am (with cookies and coffee), Baby Story Time at 11:30 am and an exciting travelogue, Rafting the Grand Canyon, with George Winters and Bridget Wisniewski at 7 pm.

Tuesday features Wii and other games for Teens at 3 pm.

On Wednesday you can relax with muffins and coffee from 11 to noon while listening to recorded music with our “guide” Clarence Caspers.

Thursday is for the novice computer or internet user. Bring your questions and learn new skills at either 11 am or 3 pm.

Friday, we have our regular family story time at 11am.

Saturday is our big Fall used book sale sponsored by the Darrington Friends of the library from 9 am to 3 pm.

Check us out!

Mystery Madness

2008-08-18T17:32:00.000-07:00

Mystery readers! Have you read all the books written by your favorite mystery writer and now wait anxiously for him or her to deliver the next exciting book? Here are some suggestions of other authors you might like to sample. Try a book by Harlen Coben, Jacqueline Winspear, Lisa Scottoline, or Martha Grimes, Anne Perry, PD James, or Janet Evanovich. These are some of the favorite mystery authors of the Darrington Library staff.

The Power of Kindness

2008-07-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

I have always loved to do things to brighten someone's day. Recently I found my own days, weeks, and months being brightened by some very caring people. My foot was severely dislocated several months ago after a fall from a height of only two feet. I suddenly faced a long, extremely painful, and very inconvenient recovery. During my recovery, I found myself as the recipient of tremendous amounts of kind actions and words of encouragement that brightened my life while I struggled to do even the most basic things over a period of three months.

Shortly after returning home after surgery, friends started appearing at my door. They visited, brought food, offered medical aids, cleaned house, did laundry, brought things I couldn’t reach, drove me where I needed to go, took me for walks in the wheelchair, and did so many, many more big and little things that I appreciated so much. As my recovery progressed over a long period of time, a small core of friends continued to help. Two friends even did tasks to help my blind mother since I could no longer be a part of her care. One friend made sure Mom had books on CD and the other friend steam cleaned her deck so she could get someone to paint it.

Life is busy and it is often hard to find an extra minute. Taking time to show caring and compassion makes society a better place. It is easy to find someone who would benefit from your kindness. You have parents, children, extended family, and friends whose lives will be shaped by your thoughtfulness. You have neighbors, acquaintances, and even strangers you pass each day who would benefit from your greeting. You know people who are sick, disabled, elderly or lonesome. I know how much easier the thoughtfulness of my friends made my recovery and I am so thankful for their thoughtfulness. Don’t hesitate to share your kindness as you go through life. Kindness is more powerful than you may realize and it is good for both you and to whom you direct it.

Take a look at the following for some interesting ideas on how to make a better day for someone.
http://www.parentswish.com/Site%2001/big.html (Video clip on aging)

Hug Your People by Jack Mitchell.

So What Can I Do? http://sowhatcanido.blogspot.com/2006/06/practice-random-acts-of-kindness.html

We are on the move.

2008-07-03T11:49:00.001-07:00

If you can't find us, it's because we moved to our temporary summer location.

WHY: Construction has started on the addition and remodel of our current library. We are adding 1100 square feet, including a multi-use room for programs, study, meetings etc and upgrades to the existing space.

WHERE: We are now located at the Darrington Middle School Commons, 1065 Fir Street. You will notice a large banner hanging from the verandah railing that identifies it as the Temporary Darrington Library Summer 2008.

WHEN: We will be here until the end of August.

It may be smaller, but we still have computers, internet, copier, plus a great assortment of books, media and, of course, our friendly and knowledgable staff who can help you find that specific item you want or order it for you.

Did I mention programs? Summer is all about fun and we have weekly programs for teens with Wii, Guitar Hero, Nintendo DS and DDR on Tuesdays. School age children can enjoy fun and games on Mondays. Preschoolers have a couple of Friday programs scheduled in July. All these take place on our covered verhandah. How cool is that!

Road trip Techie Style

2008-04-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

The first extended road trip my husband and I took was with our kids, sleeping bags, budget motels and in a ‘79 blue Pinto wagon. This year we decided to do it in style, without kids (they are grown up now anyway), 3 star motels with Wi-Fi, and an all wheel drive Subaru. With our cell phones, GPS unit and laptop computer, guide books, and a stash of paperbacks we set out, heading in the general direction of the Grand Canyon for a 2 week safari without any set reservations or deadlines.

Every morning I checked out that day’s weather and possible route using the hotel’s Wi-Fi and my laptop. Rest stops, restaurants and scenic byways were all available at my fingertips on my GPS and our all wheel drive was invaluable in the unexpected snow storms and gravel and dirt roads that we encountered.

The best part of travelling with my laptop was being able to access geographic, geologic and historical information using Sno-Isle Library’s recommended websites and databases.

Sno-Isle carries lots of great travel books. I personally recommend travel guides such as Mobil Travel Guide, Southwest, Roadside Geology of Utah and educational DVD’s such as DVD-ED 917.9043 Touring the Southwest’s Grand Circle.

No, we didn’t make it as far as the Grand Canyon as we fell in love with the majestic scenery of southwestern Utah and decided to spend more time there.
We will save the Grand Canyon for another road trip.

Virgle

2008-04-05T14:33:00.000-07:00

On April 1st this year visitors to Google’s search engine found a link to Virgle, a Virgin/Google joint enterprise to colonize Mars. The Virgle page has links to descriptions of the 100 year timeline, the opportunity to be a part of Mission Support, and even the chance to apply to be one of the pioneers who will head to Mars.

As far-fetched as the whole thing sounded the information offered and the proposed steps to accomplish this lofty goal were well thought out, plausible, and within the scope of the technology we posses today. Yes, it was an April Fools joke, but it was a thought provoking and enjoyable one.

If you would like to check out the Virgle Mars Mission site click here.

Whether you are someone who loves the idea of colonizing another planet, just want to know more about Mars, or revel in cutting edge science, Sno-Isle has magazines, books, and videos to satisfy your intellectual hunger. Here is a sample of the resources available to you from Sno-Isle.
In magazines may I suggest Scientific American and Science News?

In Space on Earth: Saving our world by seeking others by Charles Cockell. Professor Cockell discusses the value of colonizing other planets and how that idea is not in conflict with saving Earth.
Welcome to Mars, a DVD by NOVA documents the most significant events of the Mars rovers Spirit and Opportunity.
Voyage to the Planets and Beyond by Tim Haines is a companion book to the Discovery Channel series of the same name. The book uses “fictional first person accounts of space travel (which are based on the experiences of real astronauts) to tell the imagined story of a six-year space mission.”
Life on Mars by David Getz is an account of the adventures of a team on their three year mission to Mars. This book is a great one for younger readers.
Mars NASA Mission Reports is a sequel to the original Mars Mission Report and updates the reader on the most recent missions. It includes a DVD/DVD-ROM of movies and information about Mars.

Good Grief!

2008-03-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

Have you ever walked past your best friend without recognizing who they were? Have you cracked up laughing about something that seemingly was not funny in the least? Have you cried uncontrollably while listening to Madonna sing “Material Girl”? If you answered yes to most of the above, I would bet that you are grieving the loss of someone or something.

Grief has a pattern, I am told. It comes and goes like the waves of the ocean. Sometimes it crashes down driving you to unfathomable depths. Sometimes it takes you to pinnacles so breathtaking you dare not blink. Other times grief makes doing the mundane things of daily life unbearable. Birds singing in the trees can seem obnoxious, children’s laughter amplifies to a cacophony, a whisper startles, a gentle caress leaves you bruised and aching.

Then the pain recedes, leaving you spent and lifeless, gasping on the shore like a floundering fish praying for the next predictable wave to wash over you. Without that wave you would surely perish. Suggested read: Grieving forward : embracing life beyond loss by Susan Duke

Communicating With Babies

2008-02-28T14:21:00.000-08:00

As a lifelong observer of babies, I have often thought that a fussy baby is simply a misunderstood baby. To understand the needs of a baby, we learn to decode what baby is trying to communicate or teach baby a new way to communicate with us.

American Sign Language is becoming a second language for many families with preschool children. Infants can learn to do simple sign far earlier than they can master verbal skills.
Baby Signing by Andrea Fixell and Ted Stafford is good beginning book to use.

Recently, I began to teach my grandchild some basic sign. I was amazed at how quickly the communication proceeded. At 9 months she understood basic sign, and would respond with basic sign, please, thank you, no, yes, I want more…. Etc. At 12 months she began to teach her baby dolls to sign. Now she is trying, with limited success, to teach her grandpa to sign. At 24 months she has a vocabulary of approximately 50 word signs.

Of course she is learning to talk too. I am convinced that learning sign language has enhanced her ability to verbalize. She uses complete sentences and talks as well as children twice her own age. I recommend Bright From the Start by Jill Stamm to anyone who has an interest in nuturing the developing mind of a child.

Yes, I am a proud grandma. However, I am convinced that teaching a baby to sign is a wonderful gift.

The Knitty Gritty

2008-02-15T13:18:00.000-08:00

I taught myself to knit many years ago from a how-to book published by Sunset. I renewed my love for knitting this winter surrounded by Sno-Isle books that instruct and inspire me. Here are some favorites.

Sally Melville takes a beginning knitter through projects that she designed to build confidence and skills in The Knitting Experience, Book 1: The Knit Stitch. The photos and designs are a treat for the eye, plus Sally offers some “meditations” on what knitting teaches us and how it can change our lives. Did you know that repetitive, intellectually undemanding, and visually stimulating activities such as knitting take us out of our left brain thinking into our more innovative, solution-advancing right brain? She believes this is why it feels so good to sit and knit and I would have to agree.

For a fun read try Wendy Knits, My Never-Ending Adventures in Yarn by Wendy D. Johnson. She offers knitting patterns she designed and in the process she tells about her knitting life. As a child she was a self-taught solitary knitter but today she is part of the worldwide community of knitters through WendyKnits.net, her successful website.

There are many books published by Vogue with beautifully designed projects, but I especially enjoyed the articles on knitting and the profiles of famous knitwear designers in Vogue Knitting: 25 Years of Articles, Techniques and Expert Advice. I’ve often wondered how knitting got started and found the surprising answer here. Knitting originated about 3,000 years ago on the Arabian Peninsula with men of nomadic tribes using wool from the sheep and goats of their flocks. The wool was gathered and spun by the women, who did not knit. The men would knit as they tended the flocks, some as they stood on stilts so they could keep better watch over the animals!

If you are allergic to wool (like I am) don’t give up on the idea of knitting. Take a look at No Sheep For You : Knit Happy With Cotton, Silk, Linen, Hemp, Bamboo and Other Delights by Amy R. Singer. The author gives practical information and knitting tips for alternative yarns with 22 excellent projects.

And that’s the “knitty gritty”.

A New Season

2008-02-14T12:57:00.000-08:00

The hectic holiday season is over and a crisp snowfall paints the landscape blue in the twilight. Like others, I make my New Years resolutions and meditate on ways to improve myself.

For anyone with AD/HD, commonly called Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, the demands of busy times of year such as this can be overwhelming. I know because I am one of those folks. So, I use the New Year as a kind of cue to regroup and assess my progress; refocus my energies.

Sno-Isle Libraries has a good selection of books on AD/HD in both adults and children to help you and the ones you love get back on track and in the groove.

ADD-friendly ways to organize your life by Judith Kolberg and Kathleen Nadeau is a fabulous book for helping sort through those piles and developing habits to keep the piles from coming back. The authors also help with the myriad of other areas in our lives that get away from us. Understanding first hand what does and does not work for those of us who are "ADD wired" the organizing information is practical and do-able. This book is also very freeing in the sense that it helps one determine what goals can realistically be accomplished, and what limits gracefully accepted.

Another title I continually find myself revisiting, You mean I'm not lazy, stupid or crazy?! : the classic self-help book for adults with attention deficit disorder by Kate Kelly and Peggy Ramundo ; foreword by Ned Hallowell has been recently updated. The authors share both their own experiences with attention deficit and those of their clients over the past twenty plus years. Along the way they impart tried and true techniques for improving professional and personal relationships and finding the right job for you.

Attention deficit disorder: the unfocused mind in children and adults by Thomas E. Brown is full of useful information from both a clinical and personal point of view. Dr. Brown examines the results of several studies of AD/HD ADD, as well as the various perspectives of the authors of those studies. For a person like me who has a hard time plowing through the snowdrifts of charts, statistics and erudite phrasing it is slow going, but very rewarding.

Organizing solutions for people with attention deficit disorder : tips and tools to help you take charge of your life and get organized by Susan C. Pinsky
This book is one I just came across this year but definitely worthwhile. Ms. Pinsky is a professional organizer who refined her organizing techniques for ADD clients after working with her extremely ADD daughter. The book is well laid out, entertaining and useful enough to make it into my permanent collection. The information she shares about the Brutal Purge alone is worth the price of the volume.

Everyone benefits from a fresh look at life at the start of a new year. So let's reboot and renew and happy new year to you all.

Beading

2008-02-14T11:48:00.000-08:00

Winter is really starting to make it’s presence known up here, which means I start looking for some INDOOR entertainment. This winter, I went hunting magazines and books on beading. WOW! I was (and continue to be) amazed at the huge number of books and periodicals Sno-Isle has available.
Whether you want to make jewelry, decorate clothing, explore the beading styles and techniques of another culture, or just make something completely cool and different, there is a book or magazine for you.

One of the titles I really enjoyed is Creative Doll Beading by Patti Medaris Culea. This amazing little book is filled with great photos and directions for making the dolls pictured, as well as patterns and techniques for creating your own dolls. Along the way, the author shares her thoughts on both beading and creativity.
In Simply Sparkling Christmas Beading: [over 35 beautiful beaded decorations & gifts] by Dorothy Wood the projects are varied in complexity and for the most part well explained. This book is not just for Christmas, despite the title. The beadwork on the light string is wonderful enough to really light up any special occasion, (think outdoor barbeque,) as is the beadwork on the candles. I liked this book so much I bought a copy.
The impatient beader by Margot Potter is wonderful for helping folks get over their fear of creating. This book is THE ONE if you have never tried beading. Margot shows you the tools and the techniques then helps you dive right in with projects for every taste. She even rates the difficulty of each project with great titles like “Beading Virgin” “Beading Vixen” and “Beading Goddess”. I bought this book for a friend who wanted to try beading out. She was afraid she could not be creative. She fell in love with beading and soon was coming up with ideas of her own!
I have heard there is clinical evidence that learning new things keeps your mind young. Try beading and enjoy the indoor weather this winter.

Local History

2008-02-14T11:41:00.000-08:00

Are you interested in local news and current events? Do you wonder who your parents invited to dinner in 1958? You can find links to local newspapers from Sno-Isle’s home page. Some of the newspapers have online archives that allow a researcher to immerse themselves in the past. To reach the links, move your mouse over Research Tools. Click Databases, Web Sites, Research E-Books. This will bring up a category called Browse Subject Guides. Click Newstand. Scroll down until you find the topic, Recommended Websites Categories. There you’ll find a link entitled, Local Newspapers. Click on the link and it will lead to many local newspapers that cover news for local communities in Island County and Snohomish County or click here. Enjoy the unique flavor of local communities through their own publications produced and distributed in the small towns they represent.