During this difficult time of pandemic, it can sometimes be hard to feel much joy. We focus on how we can't see our children, parents, grandchildren, siblings or other relatives or friends and feel so sad. Because we need each other, this is especially hard for all of us. But as long as Covid-19 is … Continue reading What Are You Focusing On?
The End of America’s Democracy?
Here is a quote from Michael Cohen's new book, Disloyal, that really concerns me. Cohen, Trump's former personal attorney wrote: "There is a serious danger that Donald Trump will not leave office easily, and there is a real chance of not having a peaceful transition. When he jokes about running again in 2024 and gets … Continue reading The End of America’s Democracy?
Is my cousin a sucker and a loser?
My cousin, Donald Edward Van der Schans, enlisted in the Navy as a medic during the Vietnam War. He could have remained stateside as a medic (corpsman in Navy terminology) but he chose to go to Vietnam, to serve his country. He was shipped over there in 1968, where the war was in full swing … Continue reading Is my cousin a sucker and a loser?
Pandemic Blues
Raise your hand if you are sick and tired of this pandemic. I know I am. Can't travel anywhere. Can't visit family and friends in the United States. Can't sing in a choir to chase away the blues. Can't go to memorial services for choir members or their spouses who have died nor can you … Continue reading Pandemic Blues
Helping Spaniards Improve Their English
Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit Spain in March, I haven't gone anywhere overnight. Being forced to stay in one place for months on end was hard for me, as it has undoubtedly been for many other people. I love to travel and look for opportunities to go somewhere and do something. So when my Canadian … Continue reading Helping Spaniards Improve Their English
Missing Family, Missing Hope
"I left my heart in San Francisco. High on a hill, it calls to me. To be where little cable cars climb half way to the stars, the morning fog may chill the air. I don't care. My love waits there..."--Tony Bennett The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco I am so desperate to see … Continue reading Missing Family, Missing Hope
Nobody Asked Me: A Teacher’s Opinion on School Reopening
Great article about the impracticality of opening schools during this pandemic! It's written by one who knows: a teacher!
Scenes of Spain Photo Essay
Spain is such a beautiful and fascinating country. I share these photos to give you an idea of the kinds of things you can see in this Mediterranean country if you ever get a chance to visit it. Amazing churches, beautiful bodies of water, impressive castles, awe-inspiring palaces, interesting traditions, stunning architecture, fun festivals and … Continue reading Scenes of Spain Photo Essay
Murals in Orihuela in honor of Spanish poet Miguel Hernandez
In the city of Orihuela, in the Spanish province of Alicante, there lies a hidden treasure: beautiful murals painted by Spanish artists in tribute to the poetry of hometown son Miguel Hernandez. I never heard of this poet before but he was very popular during and after the Spanish Civil War. Unfortunately, he wasn't a … Continue reading Murals in Orihuela in honor of Spanish poet Miguel Hernandez
Towards a More Just America
Even though I have not been hopeful or optimistic about the direction the United States has been taking since President Trump was elected 3 and half years ago, the large number of protests across the United States recently in support of the Black Lives Matter movement have really been encouraging. I feel like there is … Continue reading Towards a More Just America
US Author Nancy Klein in Spain 