Shades of Judy Collins

There are places I remember, all my life, though some have changed. Some for ever, some for better...

I've been to some interesting places:
Arosa, Switzerland is as scenic as its postcards. Alpine lodges with steep roofs and flower window boxes. My family skied and skated. My brother was a hero when he put out a fire in one of the Christmas trees. They used real candles.

Asmara, Ethiopia is as stark as its name might imply. Tall, dark, thin-nosed people with the ability to adapt and survive. The food is spicy, and they scoop up stews with bread.

New York, New York is the world in microcosm. My grandma loved the Christmas shows at Radio City Music Hall. The Rockettes always put on a fantastic show.

Fallbrook, California claims to be the avocado capital of the world. Ripe oranges, tangerines, lemons, grapefruit and avocados fall off trees in people's yards and roll down the street. What I would give to have that in Minnesota.

Park Rapids, Minnesota is where I live. Today it rained, finally, after a week of ninety degrees and wind. Grass, flowers, vegetable gardens and trees--Nature celebrates by shimmering in uncountable shades of green and giving a nearly audible, "Ahhhh."