Lounge Lizards / Misfits / Free Thinkers / Bohemians & the Forgotten :: Young at Heart Only
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OooopsUh, a couple minutes ago it was 16 million, and yesterday was 19 million??
, and fixed. Thanks David.Was a loose nut behind the keyboard.
Happy Birthday, rose 
Happy Birthday @rosesense
This was yesterday, guess I never hit send. Somewhat better today, but still not good.
I had an interesting night/day (NOT!!!). I suspect Rocket was crowding me on the bed. I rolled over and WHAM!!! next thing I knew I was on the floor, face planted into the wall. I could not move. I might have passed out, not sure. All I knew was I was in PAIN! I tried to call Bob (we sleep in different rooms due to snoring) but I couldn't yell loud enough. I did not think to tell Geordi "Go get Dad!" because he would have. I finally managed to roll over and crawl into bed. When I got up later my neck and shoulders screamed in pain. Off to the ER!
CT scan showed inflammation but no breaks or concussion. Gave me a shot for inflammation, a cervical collar too large for me (I am a tiny thing, they had to scramble to get a blood pressure cuff small enough). Tylenol and ice for today, then heat from then on.
I feel better than I did this morning, but the Dr explained it is like whiplash and there isn't anything to really do but rest. We stopped at a Walgreens that had a cervical collar the fits much better. Not to be worn all day, but a few hours a day. I like the support it gives my neck and shoulders! A few days I should be better.
I had an interesting night/day (NOT!!!). I suspect Rocket was crowding me on the bed. I rolled over and WHAM!!! next thing I knew I was on the floor, face planted into the wall. I could not move. I might have passed out, not sure. All I knew was I was in PAIN! I tried to call Bob (we sleep in different rooms due to snoring) but I couldn't yell loud enough. I did not think to tell Geordi "Go get Dad!" because he would have. I finally managed to roll over and crawl into bed. When I got up later my neck and shoulders screamed in pain. Off to the ER!
CT scan showed inflammation but no breaks or concussion. Gave me a shot for inflammation, a cervical collar too large for me (I am a tiny thing, they had to scramble to get a blood pressure cuff small enough). Tylenol and ice for today, then heat from then on.
I feel better than I did this morning, but the Dr explained it is like whiplash and there isn't anything to really do but rest. We stopped at a Walgreens that had a cervical collar the fits much better. Not to be worn all day, but a few hours a day. I like the support it gives my neck and shoulders! A few days I should be better.
Pokin' around on ECF... found more on who is logging in and numbers of posts.
For the week of September 5th, 2022:
Posts: 179 members logged in and posted at least 1 message. Many posted more. Message count for each member is displayed. There is a button (top right) "Find Own Position", click that and on the right, in the popup, it displays how many messages ya posted.
XP: A total of 327 members logged in. That includes those who posted (above) and those who did not post (lurkers).
I found that info on the Leaderboards page, then Posts and XP (leaderboards page).
www.e-cigarette-forum.com
On the top right-hand side of that page you can select Weekly or Monthly to see the stats for the current week or month (or prior weeks and months).
Interesting info. What to draw from it, well, we have life on ECF.
For the week of September 5th, 2022:
Posts: 179 members logged in and posted at least 1 message. Many posted more. Message count for each member is displayed. There is a button (top right) "Find Own Position", click that and on the right, in the popup, it displays how many messages ya posted.
XP: A total of 327 members logged in. That includes those who posted (above) and those who did not post (lurkers).
I found that info on the Leaderboards page, then Posts and XP (leaderboards page).
Leaderboards
www.e-cigarette-forum.com
On the top right-hand side of that page you can select Weekly or Monthly to see the stats for the current week or month (or prior weeks and months).
Interesting info. What to draw from it, well, we have life on ECF.
Darn, I hope you get better real fast. Take it easy.
@clnire Wow, now that's what I'd call a rude awakening! You're lucky you didn't get hurt any worse! Take it easy and I hope you heal up fast.
Thank you @Janet H
How lucky were we to have ECF at the beginning of our vaping journey! We learned so much which definitely helped us to be successful. And we've helped each other stock up to ensure we won't have to go back to cigarettes. It saddens me to think of so many who could benefit, but have been scared away.
Morning, misfits.
More of the same here, warm and dry. Some rumors of (maybe) rain from a cell spun off CAs hurricane. Yeah, right.
Dang, @clnire , that's not how one is supposed to get a good night's rest! Good nothing got broken, but yeah, "whiplash" can take some time!
Maybe...
More of the same here, warm and dry. Some rumors of (maybe) rain from a cell spun off CAs hurricane. Yeah, right.
Dang, @clnire , that's not how one is supposed to get a good night's rest! Good nothing got broken, but yeah, "whiplash" can take some time!
Maybe...
Who doesn't like stories? If ya don't then skip my post... cuz this got a lot longer than I originally intended. < once I get going, I go and go 
>
I was looking at some very old family photos the other day. Came across a few of my Great Grandma (mom's side). She was a lovely, dainty and very pretty woman who aged very gracefully. I have fond memories...
My Great Grandma used to live with my Grandpa and Grandma. Until one day they placed her in St. Joseph's Home for the Aged which was 6 city blocks from where I grew up. The home they placed her in used to be the longtime family home of Gen. Billy Mitchell (regarded as the father of the USAF).
Anyhow, I loved listening to the many stories my Great Grandma told me about her lifetime. As a young kid I really enjoyed hearing those from Great Aunts and Uncles, my Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles and those of my parents. To me those stories were better than many of the books I read as a child. I mean, theirs were real. The stories of their lives fascinated me.
So, when my Great Grandma was placed in St. Joseph's I used to walk or ride my bike over to visit her. I did this daily, rarely missing a day. After a very short time I got to know many of the other folks who lived there. The other folks started sharing their many stories with me. I would sit and listen for hours. In the 60's there weren't all that many who lived there. It was still in the form of the old Mitchell mansion. Eventually after the staff (nuns) got to know me I was on occasion invited for lunches and dinners (with mom and pops permission).
Side note: At St. Joseph's in the 60's a senior citizen did not have their own private room or bathroom. The various sized bedrooms had beds lined along the walls and there were no chairs for them to sit in those rooms (only their single beds). All slept in shared bedrooms.
In the mid 60's, I was learning how to play the saxophone (tenor). As you can imagine with a beginner there are more squonks, squanks and squeals than actual "real sax sounds". But, I practiced daily and eventually learned how to play the sax (along with piano and guitar). I recall hauling my sax down to play for the old folks. I was invited to do so. They had me play in what was this very large room (the parlor) on the first floor. That room was ornate, massive and gorgeous (I can still picture it).
Anyhow, the old folks all came, sat and listened to me play the very (very) basic songs I was learning (hits like Mary had a Little Lamb etc etc; lol). Those were my first solo sax performances. Bear in mind, I was not very good at all, but the old folks loved it and politely cheered and clapped. As a kid, that kind of feedback, was well, like nothing I'd ever experienced.
I used to go there nearly every day come spring, summer, fall or winter (trudging through the snow, lol). This was something I felt driven to do. My friends used to tease me cause I refused to play with them until my daily visit was complete. Priorities!
One Christmas I took my sax to play all the Xmas songs I knew. I was still learning to play sax and frankly was about as good as any youngster still learning (ummm, not very good). The old folks loved my Xmas performance. I'll never forget their many smiles. And they looked so happy. When I was finished, each personally thanked me, a few were in tears, I was hugged by many. There was an energy I felt, which honestly as a youngster I could not understand but it sure felt great and I totally wanted much much MORE of THAT feeling.
It wasn't until I was older that I knew and understood what that energy was... LOVE. When that dawned on me I cried, and felt a sadness, because I couldn't personally thank them for the unconditional love they gave me (they'd all passed by then). But, I knew I could still talk to them, thank them and tell them I loved them whenever I wanted to (wherever they be) and they will receive my offerings. Funny, I still remember many of their names. Still brings tears to me at 62 (born in '60) and I still 'talk' to them. My love for each one of them is right here, in my heart. The memories, I cherish and am thankful for always.
Yeah, I've always been an emotional person. Still remember as a young boy losing animals and relatives, I cried. And, back then, my pops always told my brothers and I "boys don't cry". He was born in '24 (Greatest Generation) so, yeah, that was part of 'then' and a 'thing' with many in that group. As a youngster I never subscribed to 'that' memo, I cried when I felt the need. And frankly, it is human and quite natural to cry and it is considered healthy for all people. Some choose to hide feelings, not me, nope, I say "let her rip"!!!
So, I continued visiting the folks there even after my Great Grandma passed away. Then one day, as comes to all young boys, we get interested in girls and other assorted things (expected). Lol. Some of my friends always thought I was a weirdo for visiting 'old folks'. That irritated me, but I held firm and did what I felt right in doing. I knew I was no weirdo. Although, many people still consider me to be a 'weirdo of sorts' to this day. I consider that to be a Badge of Honor, one I wear proudly.
One thing that always saddened me, even as a kid, and I cried about it then, is I rarely saw other visitors (family or friends) come to visit 'their' old folks. I mean, as a kid you do notice things and some of those make an impression (sometimes for life). I would ask my mom how come others don't visit their grandmas and grandpas, and well, she never really had 'the answer'. It upset me, how old folks were treated, and it still does to this day. I mean, these are our loved ones. They should never be "swept outta site" and then ignored, ever.
To this day, I love sitting and listening to older folks many stories. There are still a couple older family run grocery stores here in Milwaukee where I intentionally shop. Some of those have cute little cafeteria's in them with the old booths and pull-up chairs for the tables. Older folks still gather for their morning coffee and bakery. I've gotten to know many and still love plopping down with a cup of Joe and just listening to their stories.
Those stories still fascinate me to this day. When I listen I still feel like 'that young boy from the 60s'. Though I have noted, with alarming frequency, that some I've come to know, no longer show up. Their time came and they moved on to greener pastures where they are once again loved for all they've ever been (and their many wonderful stories).
One of these days I'm going to stop in at St. Joseph's Home for the Aged (now has a modern fancy name) I would love to see the insides again. Also would like to see if they might have some old photos of the place (prior to 'modernization'). Sure would love to see those, if any exist. I searched and searched for some on the web but could only find a scant few. Happy I did cuz they brought back more memories from my childhood.
I would also love to see if they retained all the beautiful old wood floors, walls, ceilings and fireplaces. I mean, the work carpenters, ummm true craftsmen, did way back when just amazes me.
The few pics of St. Joseph's (Mitchell's Meadowmere) that I was able to find...
The plaque which still stands.
It looks like this today. They added many other modern living style buildings on and around the property.
Many of the original stained glass windows still exist.
St. Joseph's Home for the Aged is about a mile from my home in Milwaukee. From time to time I still take rides around the neighborhoods, and homes, where I grew up. Also drive around the places my wife (RIP) and I used to live at. It's fun, each time brings a new memory or two.
Stories, we all have them. I sure would love to hear (ok, read) yours, if ya feel like sharing that is. I mean, come on, just do it!
Okay, and with that, remember I told ya at the beginning this was long, so now, I'm pretty sure I've nearly yapped yer ears off, so I reckon...
...every story finishes with - - - The End???
>I was looking at some very old family photos the other day. Came across a few of my Great Grandma (mom's side). She was a lovely, dainty and very pretty woman who aged very gracefully. I have fond memories...
My Great Grandma used to live with my Grandpa and Grandma. Until one day they placed her in St. Joseph's Home for the Aged which was 6 city blocks from where I grew up. The home they placed her in used to be the longtime family home of Gen. Billy Mitchell (regarded as the father of the USAF).
John Lendrum Mitchell, the only surviving son of millionaire Alexander Mitchell, was widely known through his activities in business, politics and philanthropy. After serving in the Civil War, he developed a profitable 480-acre farm in the Town of Greenfield where he earned a reputation as a breeder and trainer of trotting horses. A leading Democrat, Mitchell served as both a U. S. Congressman and Senator from Wisconsin and on the boards of the State Agricultural Society, the National Soldiers’ Home and the Milwaukee Public Schools.
In 1878, Milwaukee architect Edward Townsend Mix designed “Meadowmere,” a three story Queen Anne style home for Mitchell and his family located on the Greenfield farm. Materials were obtained from around the world and experts from Europe installed the embossed ceiling in the formal dining room, the stained glass in windows and doors, and the mother-of-pearl fireplaces inlaid with copper and wood. After the death of Mitchell’s widow, the Carmelite order acquired the home which became, in 1938, St. Joseph ’s Home for the Aged. The 28-room house has been treated with care and respect and the parlor and dining room are unchanged from the time of the Mitchells.
more info...
Listing Meadowmere under the category of "House" does not do justice to this once lush and sprawling estate on 240 acres along the Kinnickinnic River. Meadowmere was built by John and Harriet Mitchell in 1885 on Milwaukee's west side, in what would someday be called West Allis. The estate featured a 20 room Queen Anne mansion, a private horse track, stables and farm lands.
John Mitchell was the son of Alexander Mitchell, a successful banker, railroad tycoon and tireless promoter of Milwaukee and the namesake of Milwaukee's Mitchell Street. John followed in his father's footsteps as a successful businessman with extensive interests in banking and insurance. He was also the first Wisconsin born native to be elected to the US Senate. John and Harriet had a seven children that they raised on the estate, one of them was William "Billy" Mitchell.
"Billy" Mitchell was taken with aviation as a young man. In the War to End All Wars, he was the commander of all US Army air operations in France. He recognized the future of aviation in the military, and proved his belief, by demonstrating air power to military brass and government officials by sinking several navy ships by air attacks. He predicted, in the early 1920s, that Japan would attack the United States by air. He was very popular but had his detractors and enemies. For his efforts, in 1925 he was court-martialed, and convicted, for insubordination. He resigned from the army but continued his tireless campaigning for stronger military air operations, and for a separate air force, equal to the army and navy. (He was portrayed by Gary Cooper in the 1955 film The Court Martial of Billy Mitchell.)
In time, all good things must end. In 1924, the Carmelite Sisters purchased 8 acres with the Mitchell Mansion, to be used as an orphanage for young girls. In 1936, Archbishop Stritch asked for the orphans to be relocated and for the estate to become a home for the aged, which it has been ever since. The land was sold off and subdivided and became a substantial residential neighborhood in West Allis.
Today, the mansion is still part of a senior living community.
In 1878, Milwaukee architect Edward Townsend Mix designed “Meadowmere,” a three story Queen Anne style home for Mitchell and his family located on the Greenfield farm. Materials were obtained from around the world and experts from Europe installed the embossed ceiling in the formal dining room, the stained glass in windows and doors, and the mother-of-pearl fireplaces inlaid with copper and wood. After the death of Mitchell’s widow, the Carmelite order acquired the home which became, in 1938, St. Joseph ’s Home for the Aged. The 28-room house has been treated with care and respect and the parlor and dining room are unchanged from the time of the Mitchells.
more info...
Listing Meadowmere under the category of "House" does not do justice to this once lush and sprawling estate on 240 acres along the Kinnickinnic River. Meadowmere was built by John and Harriet Mitchell in 1885 on Milwaukee's west side, in what would someday be called West Allis. The estate featured a 20 room Queen Anne mansion, a private horse track, stables and farm lands.
John Mitchell was the son of Alexander Mitchell, a successful banker, railroad tycoon and tireless promoter of Milwaukee and the namesake of Milwaukee's Mitchell Street. John followed in his father's footsteps as a successful businessman with extensive interests in banking and insurance. He was also the first Wisconsin born native to be elected to the US Senate. John and Harriet had a seven children that they raised on the estate, one of them was William "Billy" Mitchell.
"Billy" Mitchell was taken with aviation as a young man. In the War to End All Wars, he was the commander of all US Army air operations in France. He recognized the future of aviation in the military, and proved his belief, by demonstrating air power to military brass and government officials by sinking several navy ships by air attacks. He predicted, in the early 1920s, that Japan would attack the United States by air. He was very popular but had his detractors and enemies. For his efforts, in 1925 he was court-martialed, and convicted, for insubordination. He resigned from the army but continued his tireless campaigning for stronger military air operations, and for a separate air force, equal to the army and navy. (He was portrayed by Gary Cooper in the 1955 film The Court Martial of Billy Mitchell.)
In time, all good things must end. In 1924, the Carmelite Sisters purchased 8 acres with the Mitchell Mansion, to be used as an orphanage for young girls. In 1936, Archbishop Stritch asked for the orphans to be relocated and for the estate to become a home for the aged, which it has been ever since. The land was sold off and subdivided and became a substantial residential neighborhood in West Allis.
Today, the mansion is still part of a senior living community.
Anyhow, I loved listening to the many stories my Great Grandma told me about her lifetime. As a young kid I really enjoyed hearing those from Great Aunts and Uncles, my Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles and those of my parents. To me those stories were better than many of the books I read as a child. I mean, theirs were real. The stories of their lives fascinated me.
So, when my Great Grandma was placed in St. Joseph's I used to walk or ride my bike over to visit her. I did this daily, rarely missing a day. After a very short time I got to know many of the other folks who lived there. The other folks started sharing their many stories with me. I would sit and listen for hours. In the 60's there weren't all that many who lived there. It was still in the form of the old Mitchell mansion. Eventually after the staff (nuns) got to know me I was on occasion invited for lunches and dinners (with mom and pops permission).
Side note: At St. Joseph's in the 60's a senior citizen did not have their own private room or bathroom. The various sized bedrooms had beds lined along the walls and there were no chairs for them to sit in those rooms (only their single beds). All slept in shared bedrooms.
In the mid 60's, I was learning how to play the saxophone (tenor). As you can imagine with a beginner there are more squonks, squanks and squeals than actual "real sax sounds". But, I practiced daily and eventually learned how to play the sax (along with piano and guitar). I recall hauling my sax down to play for the old folks. I was invited to do so. They had me play in what was this very large room (the parlor) on the first floor. That room was ornate, massive and gorgeous (I can still picture it).
Anyhow, the old folks all came, sat and listened to me play the very (very) basic songs I was learning (hits like Mary had a Little Lamb etc etc; lol). Those were my first solo sax performances. Bear in mind, I was not very good at all, but the old folks loved it and politely cheered and clapped. As a kid, that kind of feedback, was well, like nothing I'd ever experienced.
I used to go there nearly every day come spring, summer, fall or winter (trudging through the snow, lol). This was something I felt driven to do. My friends used to tease me cause I refused to play with them until my daily visit was complete. Priorities!
One Christmas I took my sax to play all the Xmas songs I knew. I was still learning to play sax and frankly was about as good as any youngster still learning (ummm, not very good). The old folks loved my Xmas performance. I'll never forget their many smiles. And they looked so happy. When I was finished, each personally thanked me, a few were in tears, I was hugged by many. There was an energy I felt, which honestly as a youngster I could not understand but it sure felt great and I totally wanted much much MORE of THAT feeling.
It wasn't until I was older that I knew and understood what that energy was... LOVE. When that dawned on me I cried, and felt a sadness, because I couldn't personally thank them for the unconditional love they gave me (they'd all passed by then). But, I knew I could still talk to them, thank them and tell them I loved them whenever I wanted to (wherever they be) and they will receive my offerings. Funny, I still remember many of their names. Still brings tears to me at 62 (born in '60) and I still 'talk' to them. My love for each one of them is right here, in my heart. The memories, I cherish and am thankful for always.
Yeah, I've always been an emotional person. Still remember as a young boy losing animals and relatives, I cried. And, back then, my pops always told my brothers and I "boys don't cry". He was born in '24 (Greatest Generation) so, yeah, that was part of 'then' and a 'thing' with many in that group. As a youngster I never subscribed to 'that' memo, I cried when I felt the need. And frankly, it is human and quite natural to cry and it is considered healthy for all people. Some choose to hide feelings, not me, nope, I say "let her rip"!!!
So, I continued visiting the folks there even after my Great Grandma passed away. Then one day, as comes to all young boys, we get interested in girls and other assorted things (expected). Lol. Some of my friends always thought I was a weirdo for visiting 'old folks'. That irritated me, but I held firm and did what I felt right in doing. I knew I was no weirdo. Although, many people still consider me to be a 'weirdo of sorts' to this day. I consider that to be a Badge of Honor, one I wear proudly.
One thing that always saddened me, even as a kid, and I cried about it then, is I rarely saw other visitors (family or friends) come to visit 'their' old folks. I mean, as a kid you do notice things and some of those make an impression (sometimes for life). I would ask my mom how come others don't visit their grandmas and grandpas, and well, she never really had 'the answer'. It upset me, how old folks were treated, and it still does to this day. I mean, these are our loved ones. They should never be "swept outta site" and then ignored, ever.
To this day, I love sitting and listening to older folks many stories. There are still a couple older family run grocery stores here in Milwaukee where I intentionally shop. Some of those have cute little cafeteria's in them with the old booths and pull-up chairs for the tables. Older folks still gather for their morning coffee and bakery. I've gotten to know many and still love plopping down with a cup of Joe and just listening to their stories.
Those stories still fascinate me to this day. When I listen I still feel like 'that young boy from the 60s'. Though I have noted, with alarming frequency, that some I've come to know, no longer show up. Their time came and they moved on to greener pastures where they are once again loved for all they've ever been (and their many wonderful stories).
One of these days I'm going to stop in at St. Joseph's Home for the Aged (now has a modern fancy name) I would love to see the insides again. Also would like to see if they might have some old photos of the place (prior to 'modernization'). Sure would love to see those, if any exist. I searched and searched for some on the web but could only find a scant few. Happy I did cuz they brought back more memories from my childhood.
I would also love to see if they retained all the beautiful old wood floors, walls, ceilings and fireplaces. I mean, the work carpenters, ummm true craftsmen, did way back when just amazes me.
The few pics of St. Joseph's (Mitchell's Meadowmere) that I was able to find...
The plaque which still stands.
It looks like this today. They added many other modern living style buildings on and around the property.
Many of the original stained glass windows still exist.
St. Joseph's Home for the Aged is about a mile from my home in Milwaukee. From time to time I still take rides around the neighborhoods, and homes, where I grew up. Also drive around the places my wife (RIP) and I used to live at. It's fun, each time brings a new memory or two.
Stories, we all have them. I sure would love to hear (ok, read) yours, if ya feel like sharing that is. I mean, come on, just do it!
Okay, and with that, remember I told ya at the beginning this was long, so now, I'm pretty sure I've nearly yapped yer ears off, so I reckon...
...every story finishes with - - - The End???
Last edited:
Well if anyone skips over or just quickly skims your post they will have missed a wonderful story about stories. Thank you for telling it.Who doesn't like stories? If ya don't then skip my post... cuz this got a lot longer than I originally intended. < once I get going, I go and go
I was looking at some very old family photos the other day. Came across a few of my Great Grandma (mom's side). She was a lovely, dainty and very pretty woman who aged very gracefully. I have fond memories...
My Great Grandma used to live with my Grandpa and Grandma. Until one day they placed her in St. Joseph's Home for the Aged which was 6 city blocks from where I grew up. The home they placed her in used to be the longtime family home of Gen. Billy Mitchell (regarded as the father of the USAF).
John Lendrum Mitchell, the only surviving son of millionaire Alexander Mitchell, was widely known through his activities in business, politics and philanthropy. After serving in the Civil War, he developed a profitable 480-acre farm in the Town of Greenfield where he earned a reputation as a breeder and trainer of trotting horses. A leading Democrat, Mitchell served as both a U. S. Congressman and Senator from Wisconsin and on the boards of the State Agricultural Society, the National Soldiers’ Home and the Milwaukee Public Schools.
In 1878, Milwaukee architect Edward Townsend Mix designed “Meadowmere,” a three story Queen Anne style home for Mitchell and his family located on the Greenfield farm. Materials were obtained from around the world and experts from Europe installed the embossed ceiling in the formal dining room, the stained glass in windows and doors, and the mother-of-pearl fireplaces inlaid with copper and wood. After the death of Mitchell’s widow, the Carmelite order acquired the home which became, in 1938, St. Joseph ’s Home for the Aged. The 28-room house has been treated with care and respect and the parlor and dining room are unchanged from the time of the Mitchells.
more info...
Listing Meadowmere under the category of "House" does not do justice to this once lush and sprawling estate on 240 acres along the Kinnickinnic River. Meadowmere was built by John and Harriet Mitchell in 1885 on Milwaukee's west side, in what would someday be called West Allis. The estate featured a 20 room Queen Anne mansion, a private horse track, stables and farm lands.
John Mitchell was the son of Alexander Mitchell, a successful banker, railroad tycoon and tireless promoter of Milwaukee and the namesake of Milwaukee's Mitchell Street. John followed in his father's footsteps as a successful businessman with extensive interests in banking and insurance. He was also the first Wisconsin born native to be elected to the US Senate. John and Harriet had a seven children that they raised on the estate, one of them was William "Billy" Mitchell.
"Billy" Mitchell was taken with aviation as a young man. In the War to End All Wars, he was the commander of all US Army air operations in France. He recognized the future of aviation in the military, and proved his belief, by demonstrating air power to military brass and government officials by sinking several navy ships by air attacks. He predicted, in the early 1920s, that Japan would attack the United States by air. He was very popular but had his detractors and enemies. For his efforts, in 1925 he was court-martialed, and convicted, for insubordination. He resigned from the army but continued his tireless campaigning for stronger military air operations, and for a separate air force, equal to the army and navy. (He was portrayed by Gary Cooper in the 1955 film The Court Martial of Billy Mitchell.)
In time, all good things must end. In 1924, the Carmelite Sisters purchased 8 acres with the Mitchell Mansion, to be used as an orphanage for young girls. In 1936, Archbishop Stritch asked for the orphans to be relocated and for the estate to become a home for the aged, which it has been ever since. The land was sold off and subdivided and became a substantial residential neighborhood in West Allis.
Today, the mansion is still part of a senior living community.
Anyhow, I loved listening to the many stories my Great Grandma told me about her lifetime. As a young kid I really enjoyed hearing those from Great Aunts and Uncles, my Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles and those of my parents. To me those stories were better than many of the books I read as a child. I mean, theirs were real. The stories of their lives fascinated me.
So, when my Great Grandma was placed in St. Joseph's I used to walk or ride my bike over to visit her. I did this daily, rarely missing a day. After a very short time I got to know many of the other folks who lived there. The other folks started sharing their many stories with me. I would sit and listen for hours. In the 60's there weren't all that many who lived there. It was still in the form of the old Mitchell mansion. Eventually after the staff (nuns) got to know me I was on occasion invited for lunches and dinners (with mom and pops permission).
Side note: At St. Joseph's in the 60's a senior citizen did not have their own private room or bathroom. The various sized bedrooms had beds lined along the walls and there were no chairs for them to sit in those rooms (only their single beds). All slept in shared bedrooms.
In the mid 60's, I was learning how to play the saxophone (tenor). As you can imagine with a beginner there are more squonks, squanks and squeals than actual "real sax sounds". But, I practiced daily and eventually learned how to play the sax (along with piano and guitar). I recall hauling my sax down to play for the old folks. I was invited to do so. They had me play in what was this very large room (the parlor) on the first floor. That room was ornate, massive and gorgeous (I can still picture it).
Anyhow, the old folks all came, sat and listened to me play the very (very) basic songs I was learning (hits like Mary had a Little Lamb etc etc; lol). Those were my first solo sax performances. Bear in mind, I was not very good at all, but the old folks loved it and politely cheered and clapped. As a kid, that kind of feedback, was well, like nothing I'd ever experienced.
I used to go there nearly every day come spring, summer, fall or winter (trudging through the snow, lol). This was something I felt driven to do. My friends used to tease me cause I refused to play with them until my daily visit was complete. Priorities!
One Christmas I took my sax to play all the Xmas songs I knew. I was still learning to play sax and frankly was about as good as any youngster still learning (ummm, not very good). The old folks loved my Xmas performance. I'll never forget their many smiles. And they looked so happy. When I was finished, each personally thanked me, a few were in tears, I was hugged by many. There was an energy I felt, which honestly as a youngster I could not understand but it sure felt great and I totally wanted much much MORE of THAT feeling.
It wasn't until I was older that I knew and understood what that energy was... LOVE. When that dawned on me I cried, and felt a sadness, because I couldn't personally thank them for the unconditional love they gave me (they'd all passed by then). But, I knew I could still talk to them, thank them and tell them I loved them whenever I wanted to (wherever they be) and they will receive my offerings. Funny, I still remember many of their names. Still brings tears to me at 62 (born in '60) and I still 'talk' to them. My love for each one of them is right here, in my heart. The memories, I cherish and am thankful for always.
Yeah, I've always been an emotional person. Still remember as a young boy losing animals and relatives, I cried. And, back then, my pops always told my brothers and I "boys don't cry". He was born in '24 (Greatest Generation) so, yeah, that was part of 'then' and a 'thing' with many in that group. As a youngster I never subscribed to 'that' memo, I cried when I felt the need. And frankly, it is human and quite natural to cry and it is considered healthy for all people. Some choose to hide feelings, not me, nope, I say "let her rip"!!!
So, I continued visiting the folks there even after my Great Grandma passed away. Then one day, as comes to all young boys, we get interested in girls and other assorted things (expected). Lol. Some of my friends always thought I was a weirdo for visiting 'old folks'. That irritated me, but I held firm and did what I felt right in doing. I knew I was no weirdo. Although, many people still consider me to be a 'weirdo of sorts' to this day. I consider that to be a Badge of Honor, one I wear proudly.
One thing that always saddened me, even as a kid, and I cried about it then, is I rarely saw other visitors (family or friends) come to visit 'their' old folks. I mean, as a kid you do notice things and some of those make an impression (sometimes for life). I would ask my mom how come others don't visit their grandmas and grandpas, and well, she never really had 'the answer'. It upset me, how old folks were treated, and it still does to this day. I mean, these are our loved ones. They should never be "swept outta site" and then ignored, ever.
To this day, I love sitting and listening to older folks many stories. There are still a couple older family run grocery stores here in Milwaukee where I intentionally shop. Some of those have cute little cafeteria's in them with the old booths and pull-up chairs for the tables. Older folks still gather for their morning coffee and bakery. I've gotten to know many and still love plopping down with a cup of Joe and just listening to their stories.
Those stories still fascinate me to this day. When I listen I still feel like 'that young boy from the 60s'. Though I have noted, with alarming frequency, that some I've come to know, no longer show up. Their time came and they moved on to greener pastures where they are once again loved for all they've ever been (and their many wonderful stories).
One of these days I'm going to stop in at St. Joseph's Home for the Aged (now has a modern fancy name) I would love to see the insides again. Also would like to see if they might have some old photos of the place (prior to 'modernization'). Sure would love to see those, if any exist. I searched and searched for some on the web but could only find a scant few. Happy I did cuz they brought back more memories from my childhood.
I would also love to see if they retained all the beautiful old wood floors, walls, ceilings and fireplaces. I mean, the work carpenters, ummm true craftsmen, did way back when just amazes me.
The few pics of St. Joseph's (Mitchell's Meadowmere) that I was able to find...
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The plaque which still stands.
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It looks like this today. They added many other modern living style buildings on and around the property.
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Many of the original stained glass windows still exist.
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St. Joseph's Home for the Aged is about a mile from my home in Milwaukee. From time to time I still take rides around the neighborhoods, and homes, where I grew up. Also drive around the places my wife (RIP) and I used to live at. It's fun, each time brings a new memory or two.
Stories, we all have them. I sure would love to hear (ok, read) yours, if ya feel like sharing that is. I mean, come on, just do it!
Okay, and with that, remember I told ya at the beginning this was long, so now, I'm pretty sure I've nearly yapped yer ears off, so I reckon...
...every story finishes with - - - The End???
My memory has faded significantly or the stories I heard around family and social gatherings. Most of the folks were relatives or close friends of relatives. A good number of German-Hungarians who emigrated to the states and their children (which included my parents).
To this say I remember asking why an Aunt had a limp. She was not an Aunt by blood relation but any older person we called aunt or uncle. That's just the way it was. Anyhows ... I was told the story of how she walked out of Russia during the winter to escape the horrors going on and contracted severe frost bite on her feet. One foot never fully recovered. Now that I've read your post I wish I could remember more of what I heard about what that generation went through in Europe during the war. I was only about 6 or 8 years old when I heard her story and remember it to this day.
Thanks for sharing that @ShowMeTwice . I love stories like that. I don't remember in such detail as you but will share a little story from my teen years.
At 16, a group of friends and I had plans for the day. As we picked up the last of my friends and exited her house, the little old man from next door came up to us and started talking. Being self absorbed teenagers, we were polite but we just wanted to be on our way. We carefully inched our way toward the car and as we did so, the man followed us and talked faster and faster. Eventually, he was talking so fast that his dentures flew out of his mouth and he caught them. As he put them back in his mouth, we were all trying so hard not to laugh, we looked at the ground and barely held back until the older gentleman said, "sometimes I talk so fast, they get away from me." That did it, we all were rolling on the ground laughing. He didn't seem to mind, laughed with us as we apologized.
I always wished that I had spent more time with him. The things he could have told us would have been priceless.
At 16, a group of friends and I had plans for the day. As we picked up the last of my friends and exited her house, the little old man from next door came up to us and started talking. Being self absorbed teenagers, we were polite but we just wanted to be on our way. We carefully inched our way toward the car and as we did so, the man followed us and talked faster and faster. Eventually, he was talking so fast that his dentures flew out of his mouth and he caught them. As he put them back in his mouth, we were all trying so hard not to laugh, we looked at the ground and barely held back until the older gentleman said, "sometimes I talk so fast, they get away from me." That did it, we all were rolling on the ground laughing. He didn't seem to mind, laughed with us as we apologized.
I always wished that I had spent more time with him. The things he could have told us would have been priceless.
And now you made me think of some stories from my grandmother.
I asked her were she was born and what country she grew up in. She said when she was a little girl, countries regions were vague. She just recalls they referred to living in the Empire. I can only thing she was referring to the Hapsburg Empire.
Or the time she got home from Sunday Mass and get a real 'licking' from her Dad for wearing her good shows to church on such snowy day. Keep in mind she had to walk a couple miles back and forth to the church. She told her Dad that because there was so much snow on the ground she wore the shoes. Well her good shoes were the only pair of shoes that were 'complete' tops and soles and laces. These were to be used for only special occasions. Her everyday shoes were stuff with newspapers and wrapped with rags to hold them together.
Spring tonic. Her dad would put a nail in a mason jar of kerosene in the fall. By spring it was a rusty mix of kerosene in that jar. Come springtime everyone had to drink a couple of mouthfuls to clean out 'your' system and get ready for spring and summer chores.
On marriage: She never met her husband to be until the day of her wedding. She said she was so scared and frightened about that first night was a strange man. Well I guess they 'hit' it off and eventually came to America together. And here they spawned my mother and her brother.
I asked her were she was born and what country she grew up in. She said when she was a little girl, countries regions were vague. She just recalls they referred to living in the Empire. I can only thing she was referring to the Hapsburg Empire.
Or the time she got home from Sunday Mass and get a real 'licking' from her Dad for wearing her good shows to church on such snowy day. Keep in mind she had to walk a couple miles back and forth to the church. She told her Dad that because there was so much snow on the ground she wore the shoes. Well her good shoes were the only pair of shoes that were 'complete' tops and soles and laces. These were to be used for only special occasions. Her everyday shoes were stuff with newspapers and wrapped with rags to hold them together.
Spring tonic. Her dad would put a nail in a mason jar of kerosene in the fall. By spring it was a rusty mix of kerosene in that jar. Come springtime everyone had to drink a couple of mouthfuls to clean out 'your' system and get ready for spring and summer chores.
On marriage: She never met her husband to be until the day of her wedding. She said she was so scared and frightened about that first night was a strange man. Well I guess they 'hit' it off and eventually came to America together. And here they spawned my mother and her brother.
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