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Throughout Egypt, handsome and friendly children greeted American visitors who wonder if they are safe now. Friendship with brilliant guide, encounters with children, foster worry for their safety Adept as a guide and translator, Amr took the photographer and writer through Egypt, proudly sharing his country's wonders. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER AS NEWS  of bloodshed in Cairo commands our attention this week, we wonder about our friend Amr. We met this talented, multi-lingual guide and translator last autumn during a memorable and magical trip to his native Egypt and the Middle East. We spent only a few days with him, but we became fast friends.  He won our affection and admiration with his diplomacy, talent and bravery. He sheperded us through lanes of daunting traffic -- including buses, cars and donkey carts -- from Alexandria up to Cairo, directing our faithful bus driver and working comfortably with our group of 20-some tourists, a security guard Cookie and Keller were safe with Amr; here they enjoy Giza's splendors. who accompanied us on our journey, and many museum, gallery, hotel and restaurant operators. AMR GUIDED us through mosques, where we carefully removed our shoes, and through ancient sites to view wonders, always offering thoughtful reflections on the contributions of his country's rich culture to the world. Events of the "Arab Spring" had only recently unfolded and Amr was recovering from injuries in the demonstrations in Tahrir Square. As we drove past a huge prison a half-mile off the highway, he noted that deposed president Hosni Mubarak was housed in that very jail. "So what do you think of Mohammed Morsi?" we asked. Although, he was in power, he had not yet been The marvelous Egyptian Museum has more than 120,000 relics of the pharaohs, and King Tutankhamun's tomb treasures. elected President. Amr paused, collected his thoughts and explained that he was not a fan of the now ousted president. "He will be more of the same," he said with fervor.  "We need change, idealism, someone to lead us to our new, free future and fulfillment of our potential." DURING OUR  time with him, chatting in the famed Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, Amr expressed his idealism that Egypt become a true democracy, that all Egyptians would be treated as equal with no regard for color, gender, belief. Amr expressed depression and anxiety as the election loomed. What does he think now? AMR SPOKE  with affection of his wife, "an educated, contemporary woman," as we passed dozens of women in traditional head garb and veils. Not all Egyptian women wear full body coverings, or burkas. Amr is among the educated, young idealists involved in the original demonstration near Cairo's Tahrir Square. He is also a father of two youngsters.  He is reluctant to align himself with any group, to subscribe to either the Muslim Brotherhood or the old regime. He deplores violence. Extremism in any direction, he believes, is not a good option. Amr professed confusion about what the U.S. wants for Egypt, the "mixed signals" he feels we are sending. I would hope he would be sympathetic to America now, as we are faulted by all sides as the complex events unfold. Shopkeepers and vendors struggle in Cairo to make ends meet. FOR CERTAIN,  the recent military crackdown and bloodshed would disturb him. We wonder what his reaction is to President Obama's pleas for the government to back off. Surely he would commend Obama's condemnation of the murder of civilians. And he would remind us how difficult life has become for the average common man, trying to earn a living selling fruit juice or peppers. As Amr chatted with guides and shopkeepers, we saw a true work ethic, a yearning to make life better. One of many Cairo mosques. AMR KNOWS  transition will take time. He shook his head sadly as he described the decline of "civilized life" in his country.  It could not be denied, with the mounds of garbage and wrecked cars, the crush of people and signs of poverty everywhere. Still, the children smiled, were curious and spoke animated English to us. Time will tell Egypt's future. Hosni Mubarak was in power more than 30 years, and his philosophies were deeply imbedded. A transition to full democracy may take a decade or more. The discontent felt by Amr and many of his fellow Egyptians has to be acute -- even those who supported Morsi must be disappointed that he was not able to accomplish altruistic goals. We wonder if Amr is safe.  He was injured in the first rebellion two years ago.  His goals are shared by thousands of other young, educated Egyptians: The Nile River: thoroughfare for tourist, commerce and recreational vehicles. *That Egypt develop a democratic procedure for selecting leaders. *That citizens' rights under the law be respected and protected. *That social justice be upheld. Amr's criticism of the Brotherhood stems from his belief that now ousted President Morsi would not represent a departure from the corruption and repression of his predecessor. The recent violence is a reminder of the schisms in Egyptian society.  There is great distrust of the Brotherhood.  There are pro-Morsi supporters.  The military.  Police.  Secret service.  There will likely be backlashes after the protests.  Surely Amr and his friends thought the military would help them, turn things around, as they did when Mubarak was ousted. A whirling dervish entertains, on a Nile dinner cruise with guide Amr. Now, the hugely powerful military is responsible for hundreds of deaths. Thousands more are wounded. The instability is bad globally and has a hugely negative effect on tourism in the land of ancient wonders. How sad is the carnage near the great pyramids of Giza, and in the very square where we lunched with Amr. We all wonder: will there be another election?  Democracy seems to have been crushed.What will become of the Brotherhood and Al Quida, which seem to be enemies? Does this spell an end to the attempt for a free society?  What will the ramifications be in Syria? Where are the ideological commitments on which democracy is based? Animated discussion follows an accident on a busy Cairo street. What effect will the military's actions have to do on the country's embattled economy? EGYPTIANS  were beleaguered when we visited last fall, aware that the country's infrastructure was collapsing. Now they are mourning, burying their dead. Please the gods, may our smart, sweet, talented Amr, not be among the casualties. Flowers abloom in Montana . COMING SOON: W e return to Montana for flower power under the Big Sky. The Treasure State is abloom, in one of the lushest floral summers our reporter can recall. And this Saturday, we visit the San Diego concert venue of Humphreys By the Bay. Humphreys has it all: gorgeous oceanside setting, tremendous talent, wonderful sound and lights, a terrific bar. Already this summer, Humphreys has hosted superstars of every persuasion, from Lyle Lovett, Bill Cosby and Bill Maher, to Willie Nelson, Garrison Keillor, Joan Rivers and Cyndi Lauper.  It's not too late to take in Melissa Etheridge, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Diana Krall and others. More next week. Explore, learn and live, and check us out on Wednesdays and Saturdays at: www.whereiscookie.com

Concerts by the bay attract sell-out crowds to picturesque venue "If I had a boat / I'd go out on the ocean / And if I had a pony / I'd ride him on my boat / And we could all together / Go out on the ocean / Me upon my pony on my boat ..." Humphreys' "boat people" gather on the water to listen to the concert. The venue is a San Diego, sold-out favorite.   Lyle Lovett's performance included generous time to show off mandolin, bass and other players. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER GO OUT  on their boats, they did! Although there were no ponies in sight. One of the prettiest concert venues in the country -- perhaps the world -- is Humphreys Concerts by the Bay. Lyle Lovett likes it, too. Humphreys concert patrons may also stay in the Half-Moon Inn, above. The Texas born troubadour recently played a sold-out concert at Humphreys. Lovett's "Large Band" -- spiffy in suits and ties -- came on stage promptly at the promised 8 p.m. curtain time, receiving a generous hand from the audience and launching into a rousing swing opener, each musician taking a solo turn. THEN LOVETT  walked on the stage to cheers, thanking the sold-out crowd for its rousing welcome, and giving a hello to the folks in their boats, who also enjoy the evening's music -- but without buying a ticket. "You've been here with me from the beginning of my career here," Lovett deadpanned. "But I think your boats are getting bigger." The crowd was in a good mood. Who isn't, at Humphreys? Cookie thanks her lucky stars for the good life, recently a  fabulous Humphreys concert with Lyle Lovett. The audience showered cheers upon Lovett, appreciating his singing, playing and writing and his versatility in any style -- from down home country and bluegrass to gospel, pop, jazz, rock blues and swing.  Wow, does he swing. I'VE BEEN a fan for his entire career, from back when he was a struggling songwriter and opening act. Swing, he does, along with that crack back-up band. Lovett's grueling tour features perhaps the best band in the country, each a magnificent musician himself. He gave wide forum to each of his players -- horns, guitars, bass, mandolin, violin, even steele guitar and his longtime cellist, who sits to Lovett's left. Lyle Lovett always brings down the house at picturesque Humphreys. Besides being a top musician, Lovett is a nice guy.  A real professional.  His rapport with his musicians is evident the entire performance and while the players come and go, he stays on stage the entire time, sharing the spotlight and giving generous time to their endeavors, new songs, solo capabilities and vocal talents. Another sell-out at Humphreys.  Our advice: book your tickets early. Lovett is a Humphreys regular, dating back to his days as an opening act for singer Bonnie Raitt 25 yeas ago. He returned many times since and pronounced Humphreys "one of our favorite venues." HUMPHREYS,  like Lyle Lovett, has it all, too: ambiance, terrific location with the ocean view, good food and drink, friendly waiters and a civilized, fun loving audience. The venue has hosted the creme de la creme of the entertainment world since its opening a quarter Humphreys is alight with its signature palm trees swaying in breezes. century ago on the picturesque boating and tourism hub of Shelter Island, on Point Loma west of downtown on San Diego Bay. Among celebrities to play, and return, are singers Tony Bennett and Cindi Lauper, Boz Scaggs, Steely Dan, Melissa Etheridge, and the legendary Willie Nelson, who is also a frequent visitor to my other favorite state, Montana. Popular groups and duos also play Humphreys, ranging from Chicago and Gipsy Kings to Huey Lewis and the News, the Doobie Brothers and Air Supply.  And comics like the venue, too -- Joan Rivers and Bill Cosby both visited this summer. Pretty view of San Diego's skyline, strolling back to the car after the show. LOVETT'S generous show featured many of his hits and award winners, including "If I Had a Boat" and "She's No Lady." He grinned approval as the crowd sang along to the rhythmic and whimsical boat song: If I had a boat / I'd go out on the ocean / And if I had a pony / I'd ride him on my boat / And we could all together / Go out on the ocean / Me upon my pony on my boat..." LOVETT'S craggy, weathered look spells endurance. He's survived a much publicized marriage and friendly divorce with actress Julia Roberts and a horrible accident when he was smashed against a fence by a bull at his Uncle's ranch. Keller and Cookie -- singing along at Humphreys with Lyle Lovett. What makes him endure are his class-act musicians, his own genius and versatility and his professionalism which shines through on stage and is obviously part of his off-stage history. HUMPHREYS  feels smaller than its 1,400 seats indicate.  And there's really not a bad seat in the house.  We try to get up in the first 10 rows to avoid the need for binoculars.  Humphreys is romantic, a fun treat for an anniversary or birthday celebration. And the stage is elevated for good views --  you won't find better lighting or acoustics in San Diego's varied performance venues. Humphreys Concerts by the Bay are held on the grounds of Half Moon Inn at 2241 Shelter Island Drive. Take I-5 to the Rosecrans exit, take Rosecrans west to Shelter Island Drive and turn left. Humphrey's Half moon Inn is on the right. There is a parking fee at Humphreys, but we usually park along the bay, in one of the free spots a few blocks up. The stroll to Humphreys from free parking is a pretty one along the water. Concert prices are  in the $50-$75 range and dinner and overnight packages are available. Sell outs are usual.  Book ahead. You can pay and park on the site, or drive a few blocks to park by the water.  It's a pretty stroll to Humphreys, past picnic areas and pelicans. Bring a wrap because the ocean breeze kicks in about 9 p.m. Prepare to have your purse or satchel looked in.  You cannot bring in your own food or snacks, but there's plentiful libation within the venue. COMING SOON:  Birthday tradition in the writer's family involves the "Happy Birthday" song, with a unique addendum. Find out what "Without Come to our casbah -- Saturday! No Pants On" means, and the link between the famous silent film star Rudolph Valentino and Cookie's mother, Ellen. We'll also pay tribute to the writer's mother who is greatly missed and would have been 86 Aug. 27. And we'll go to Montana for a flowery summertime diversion, then travel north to Alaska, check out the colorful history of the Alberta Bair Theater in Billings, and travel "26 Miles Across the Sea" to Santa Catalina of song fame.  Remember to explore, learn and live. And check out our Wednesday and Saturday posts at:  www.whereiscookie.com

What is home? Two places capture the hearts of our traveling team Where we love is home - home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts. --  Oliver Wendell Holmes For the two of us, home isn't a place. It is a person.  -- Stephanie Perkins STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER  A contented seal enjoys Southern California beach life. IF HOME IS where the heart is, then my home and heart are mobile. Home is, for me, deeply connected to trees, water and sunsets. Gorgeous sunsets on the California coast and over the rocky cliffs of the Beartooth Mountains. I need to be surrounded by favorite people, the natural world and "my stuff" -- paintings, books, pianos, gardens, bird feeders, theater Playbills. A couple favorite cooking pots.  A tea strainer.  A pair of porcelain coffee mugs made by my potter brothers. A photo of my mother playing violin -- I have that in both homes. HOME IS  knowing my way around a The feeders are attracting a mix of bright birds. kitchen and locating the ginger, dill and green tea.  Or hanging the finch and hummingbird feeders and having a my first customers buzz my head and dip for a snack before I get back inside the house. HOME IS  the sweet song of birds, the sheen on the Rimrocks north of Billings, the looming San Diego skyline, the storybook Oceanside harbor up the coast. Home means egrets in the sand, eagles in the pines. And trees. Here in California, the palms, Torrey Pines and eucalyptus form a comfort zone. IN MONTANA  it's the aspen and pines. Both places have distinct smells -- musky earth from recent rain and my garden marigolds in Montana, salty sea air and the patio orchids in California. The trees and Mediterranean brush of southern California. But always trees.  Without these, I'd be rootless! Herman Hesse loved the rustle of trees, "when we stand uneasy before our own childish thoughts."  He felt that trees have "long thoughts," and that because they generally live longer than we do, "they are wiser than we are." Home also has to do with a feeling of safety. For me, the beauty of the natural world has long calmed me, producing a sense of The picturesque Oceanside Harbor welcomes the writer home, from another home in beloved Montana. security and absence of anxiety. Ultimately, the feeling of being "home" and "at home" is an amalgam of emotions, comforts and connections dating back to our infancy. Being greeted by a loved one -- partner, sibling, parent -- also signals "home." FAMILIAR SIGHTS -- for me, the mountains and ocean -- welcome me, make me feel grounded, safe and comforted.  The sea and hills welcome me and confirm that I'm home. I'm lucky to have two places that make me feel happy and connected to nature. Cookie and Keller enjoy a sail up the California coast her first day back. Home is the wide open spaces of Montana, surrounded by aspen and fir, meadowlarks and robins, in the shadow of the Beartooths. Home is also a favorite beach, for a barefoot stroll beneath the palms. On the Oceanside shore of Southern California, dolphins and whales vie for attention -- and osprey nest in the light poles. RATHER THAN  looking for deer, antelope and bears, I'm sailing past sunning seals and into the Pacific. Both places offer abundant delights from the natural world -- daily doses of extraordinary beauty. The first few days of "being home" are always rewarding, whether I'm coming or going, whether my destination is California or Montana. A stop at Queen Califia's Magical Garden spells "home" in California. MY AUGUST BIRTHDAY revels are fully underway, with parties and presents in Montana, then more awaiting my arrival  in San Diego. I'm taking only a few days for this California visit, to connect with friends, partake of a favorite Jazzercise class, go sailing and take in a few plays and concerts. This week's line-up includes a Lyle Lovett concert tonight at Humphreys By the Bay, a beloved venue right on the ocean, which we'll feature in next Saturday's posting. There's a play Friday, "In the Heights," downtown at the Lyceum, in Horton Plaza. An opportunity to view one of the prettiest skylines in the country.  San Diego's palm trees and skyline also say "home".   And there is time for a sunset at our favorite cocktail and appetizer spot, La Jolla Shores. A QUICK TRIP  to Harrah's Rincon Resort and Casino restores my gambler's soul and, for a change, I leave a few dollars ahead. Time, too, for a picnic at Queen Califia's Magical Garden, that enticing artful sculpture circle in Escondido's Kit Carson Park. HOW LUCKY  we are to have multiple places in which we feel comfortable. When I'm back in Montana in a few days, home will be cattle and deer, the Stillwater River, rafters instead of surfers, birds of the northern Rockies, Montana fir trees. THE GYPSY in me loves travel -- mulling over brochures to choose a new destination or return to a favorite place. But home will always be two distinct and different places -- the wilds of Montana and the beaches and hills of southern California.  Here, in these two places tied together forever in my heart, I come and go -- leaving home and coming home, content whichever direction I'm going! Lyle Lovett is one of Cookie's favorite singers. COMING SOON:   A sold-out concert by gifted singer songwriter Lyle Lovett is one of the enticements at Humphreys Concerts By the Bay, for Birthday Girl Cookie.  Humphreys is a popular seaside performance venue which lured the writer "home" to San Diego from her rural Montana writing studio. Plus we'll look at Montana theater, Egypt's changes and Brazil. Remember to explore, learn and live And check us out Wednesdays and Saturdays at at:   www.whereiscookie.com

Remembering 'Uncle Cog' for his wry wit, Harry A. Cosgriffe,above right, poses with his siblings, circa 1930.From left, Richard (thewriter's father), twins Nancy and Mary, Harry. "Uncle Cog" was the oldest  child, but outlivedhis three siblings. In left photo,Cog with his daughters,"my girls," he called them,Susie, Colleen and Kathleen.  attention to detail and devotion to family STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER HE'D HAVE loved the weekend.  Fun, frolic, feasting, reminiscing, dancing, laughter.  And moisture -- both in tears shed as we said "so-long", and in welcome rain on the ranch land. Rick Cosgriffe amused and touched gatherers with his eloquent remembrance of his uncle. Harry Arthur Cosgriffe, "Uncle Cog" to his doting nieces and nephews, was born in 1920 and died in March of this year.  His three daughters, my cousins, decided to honor his memory in July, giving friends and family time to reflect on the loss and make travel plans. So the weekend after the Fourth of July unfolded with joy, a gentle wind, music and memories. Relatives and friends   from in a dozen states and many Montana towns gathered to pay respect as Uncle's ashes rested in a beautiful urn crafted by a nephew. The Crazy Mountain Inn was a regular dining out option for Uncle Cog and Aunt Peg and some of us stayed here. NIECES PLAYED , sang and my cousin Nancy Ellen delivered a loving eulogy while her sister Diane led a rousing "You Are My Sunshine."   My brother Rick compared  his Uncle's orderly and well planned life to the white fence surrounding the Two Dot ranch where he spent decades of happy summers. He imagined that Uncle's heart "soared like a hawk" each time he approached the Crazy Mountains from his other home in Pullman, Washington. For his heart was always here in the shadow of the Rockies with the comforting sight of horses, cattle and wheat fields. Uncle Cog and my dad, Richard Edward Cosgriffe, were bookend brothers, with twin girls born between, Mary and Nancy.  They shared a love of land and family, engendered during their ranch rearing and Harlowton roots.  They both loved to reminisce and each told a good story. They adored the familiar landscape of their youth. THE WEEKEND,  for the Richard Cosgriffes, offered an opportunity for our own five-sibling reunion and we gathered for two days at Martinsdale's Crazy Mountain Inn (that's an upcoming post -- great fun).   From left, the three offspring of Harry Cosgriffe and Peg Moore: Kathleen, Colleen and Susie, who planned a delightful four-part day of honoring their dad. Uncle's day was a four-part opus on Saturday, July 6.  My three cousins -- Kathleen, Susie and Colleen -- greeted mourners and celebrants at Harlowton Cemetery, where Uncle's parents, in-laws, uncle, sisters, brother and a nephew are interred.  I offered piano music on a keyboard.  Children romped, with respectful restraint, and dogs were welcome, including my twin Yorkies, Nick and Nora. WHEN A GUY  reaches his 90s, with many accomplishments and legions of admirers, it's hard to be too sad.  We'll miss him, of course, but we had him a long time and for that we are grateful. The Cosgriffes walk to their own   Cookie plays keyboard in the wind as mourners arrive.  Among her tunes, a favorite of Uncle Cog's, Cole Porter's "Don't Fence Me In." drummer when it comes to staging memorials. We're not big on dour funerals. Our good-byes are emotional occasions with music and poetry. That's our Irish showing, I suppose. MY OWN  memories of Uncle Cog shine: There's the time our large family plus a couple friends stopped on a camping trip, at the Big Timber drive-in in the early 1960s.  My parents had fashioned the back of a cattle truck into a camper and we looked like own own version of "The Beverly Hillbillies" with blankets and books, lanterns and coolers, fishing gear, guitars, dogs and sleeping bags. Cog and my Aunt Peg happened to be at the drive-in having a late lunch when we made our larger-than-life ice cream stop.   Since Cog loved to dance, it was fitting that his memorial ended at his beloved Two Dot Bar with music and action on the dance floor. Uncle walked slowly to our truck, then hoisted himself up to peer over his bi-focals into the back. He smiled broadly, and deadpanned, "I don't suppose there's there room for one more?" HE ONCE  told me he did his best thinking on the back of a horse.  I replied that my best thoughts came at 30,000 feet in the first class section of an airplane. "Just different modes of transportation," he opined. "I'll bet that's where you come up with your good stories!" ONE WINTRY  day a few years ago, my sister Olivia and I were invited by Uncle to the Cosgriffe-Moore ranch, where the dessert part of his memorial day was held. Peg was detained in Washington state and Uncle invited us to sleep at the ranch and sup at the Two-Dot Bar. "It's not a salad kind of place," he offered. "Good burgers. That's what to order." The Fire Hall was the place for the feast following the cemetery rituals, with more tributes here by a  brother-in-law and grandson, and music: a group sing of "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling." UNCLE  WAS  unruffled when we arrived with my ancient sheepdog, Smedley, and a rescue mutt, Max. But, he said, sadly, "I'm afraid they will have to stay in the garage.  House rules." As dusk came, snow fell and the temperature dropped, Uncle disappeared into the basement with an old horse blanket under his arm. "I made a bed for Smedley and Max," he said, returning. "But you must swear never to tell Peg that a large wet dog and his equally moist little friend spent the night in this house!" With both Cog and Peg gone now -- and Smedley and Maxwell long in their own doggie urns -- I can tell this sweet story. ANOTHER TIME,  Uncle wrote me asking how much truth poetry should have.  He had been pondering a poem I wrote, inspired by my memory of a Guests were encouraged to write a memory and sign in. 1954 visit to my great Aunt Maud's home in White Sulphur Springs. He wondered how much was "fact" and how much was imagination. This interesting question launched a continuing discussion about poetry versus reporting, the liberties poetry can and should take, that its "truth" comes from its evocative nature, from its expression of feelings. That details and ideas can craft a larger "truth" through compelling style, language and rhythm. The Cosgriffe-Moore home welcomed family and friends at the memorial. GOOD REPORTING,  I wrote Uncle, comes from factual ordering of events and circumstances. They're different literary beasts. He wrote me back: "A Plus on your explanation, dear niece. You have written a fine poem. Let the record show you are also a good reporter. I enjoyed your explanation on the differences between the two forms." An Angus at home on the range. HOW I WISH  we'd been able to visit our ancestral homes in Ireland together. I've felt the family influence in my trips there and know Uncle reveled in touring A scenic view of Jordan, where both the writer and her Uncle Cog spent time, but never together. the linen mill in northern Ireland where his grandfather Arthur worked.  I'd have loved for us to experience the wonders of the Middle East together. Uncle lived for several years in Jordan, where he was praised for his inventive agricultural contributions. I've visited a half-dozen times, recently looking down upon Jordan from a lovely vantage point with Israeli friends.   Cousins help cut and serve the "Uncle Cog" memorial cakes. I know Uncle was proud that so many of us have become teachers, writers, counselors, communicators, curious global citizens.  He earned his doctorate in adult education at University of Chicago and like many others in the family, had a passionate commitment to education and travel. The Cosgriffe brothers, Harry and Richard; the twins, Mary, seated  left, and Nancy, right and their dad Harry Cosgriffe, center, in the 1950s.   HE MADE  many friends in Jordan and I remember one story of a days-long wedding at which he was an honored guest. A niece, Misha, places a white rose with the urn. My last note from Uncle came after I wrote daddy's obituary for several newspapers. I erroneously listed his only brother's residences as Pullman, Wash., (correct) and Ryegate (wrong -- it's Two Dot and I know better.) Correcting me with his characteristic diplomacy, Uncle Cog pointed out the mistake then said, "It was a wonderful obituary. I've always been proud of you.  And I did date lots of Ryegate girls, so I'll bet that's what you were thinking about." AS HIS  memorial day wound down, with tributes and toasts, dining, beer, wine, dancing, rain and elaborate Cowboy hats were in vogue at the Two Dot Bar dance. cakes and storytelling, I thought of the roses loved ones had placed on the urn, each one saying, perhaps, some last word of thanks, maybe even deadpanning a one-liner. My kindly, smart Uncle -- who made a bed for two cold, wet dogs -- had a good heart and sharp mind. I thanked him for that. Dear Uncle, I kept the dog secret for years.  But it's such a good story, it just had to be told. COMING UP:   Ever think about how much of our language comes from sailing? It's true:  from ship shape to lowering the boom.  A look at the many phrases we use whose roots are in sailing and boats. So many words from our language derive from our love of boats and the sea, here a rainbow framed harbor in Lisbon, Portugal. And our family stages a third birthday party for our delightful Christena, born with Down Syndrome. We examine the joys and challenges of raising a handicapped child, with my brother, a single dad, and a large and loving family and friends support system. And traveling light at Martinsdale's Crazy Mountain Inn. Remember to explore, learn and live. Tune us in Wednesdays  and           Saturdays at:       whereiscookie.com

Child born with Down Syndrome sparks  love, unity, courage in Cosgriffe family Christena's auntie Misha bestowed a pretty new dress! STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER, MISHA  MINESINGER, PATRICK COSGRIFFE SOMETIMES  we're tested in ways we don't understand. Our family has met many challenges. We rise to the occasion, doing the best we can. So it is with the Cosgriffes as we deal with a first:  raising a handicapped child. Christena Lynn Cosgriffe was born June 30, 2010, with Down Syndrome. MONTHS BEFORE  her birth, my brother Patrick left a voice message at my Arizona home, telling me "I'm going to be a papa," I was floored -- speechless -- a rarity for me. Christena likes music, and is happy to sing and clap with her musical family. Patrick was approaching 50.  He was single. He was planning to quit his job at Sears and return to college. He was overweight, with heart problems. For all these reasons, I asked my beloved brother: "A BABY?  Seriously? It isn't  April Fool's Day. Are you sure?" The baby's mother refused to take the test which would have determined a possible birth defect. She was in her mid-40s and the chance of a baby having Down Syndrome increases with its mother's age. We all crossed our fingers, meditated, prayed. The day the child was born, the doctor confirmed that Christena indeed was a "special needs" baby. She has Down Syndrome, an extra copy of chromosome 21. We feared "trisomy 21," is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of a third copy of chromosome 21.We'd done the homework. Now we had work to do. Christena's birthday party attracted family and friends, caregivers, and her physical and speech therapists.   HER FIRST  months were complicated and after an emotional, expensive and difficult legal battle, my brother Patrick H. Cosgriffe, obtained custody. Christena came "home" to our care. She's named after three strong women -- myself, her great-great grandmother Christena Wilson Pittendrigh, and another auntie, the late Robbie Lynn Cosgriffe Townsley, her first and finest advocate. The child adds joy to our lives, just as cliches about special needs children predict. But as Hillary Clinton famously said, "It takes a village." CHRISTENA'S  "village" is our Cosgriffe family -- strong, loving, loyal and, thank goodness, large. Her support includes a network of savvy and supportive speech and physical therapists, a fine pediatrician, excellent cardiologist, devoted daycare personnel and many others who love her, including Patrick's partner, Diane Moen, who loves Christena "like my own flesh and blood." Christena turns three at a party with friends and family. WEE CHRISTENA  had her first lung surgery in Denver when she was just weeks old.  She is beset with physical woes, relating to the birth defect: a tendency for ear infections, trouble chewing and sometimes swallowing because of compromised jaw muscles, a hole in her tiny heart which will likely require open-heart surgery down the road.  Her kidneys, eyes, thyroid and other organs are monitored and not those of a "normal" child. SHE COULD develop skeletal problems, so her posture is carefully observed.  She has worn leg braces and supports in her shoes, to boost her ankle function and walking. At her third birthday, she was walking with spirit and confidence. Patrick walks with her every day. Christena and her father, Patrick Harry Cosgriffe, enjoy their back yard. She is cheerful and loving, laughs and mimics others, and is an observant quick study. SHE QUICKLY learned my Yorkies' names, and says, "Oh, puppies. Hi, Nick and Nora."  She knows her colors and brings me the pups' kibble bowls -- blue for Nick, red for Nora. "OK, puppies. Eat now," she says, clapping her hands. WHEN SHE  was just days old, I touched my pointer finger to hers and whispered, "Sistine Chapel." That quickly became our greeting, one which others in "the village" have adopted. Michelangelo's magnificent painting of God and Adam touching hands has always inspired me, heretic that I claim to be. Christena and the writer, Christene, indulge in silliness, at play with zucchini.   When Christena sees me, she extends her "ET" finger to meet mine. I hope this is always our special greeting.  She calls me "Ween" -- her version of "Queen," my nickname from her, based on her tiny "Princess" t-shirt. "There are many princesses in a court," I told her when she was just one. "There is but one Queen! It is I!" "Q" IS A   tough letter to pronounce, but I know she'll master it. Christena and I have a special connection, which includes laughing and abundant silliness. My brother loves this late-in-life only child dearly.  He keeps her immaculate and beautifully groomed.  Her dark hair glistens, often in a pony tail.  Her face is always shiny clean.  She smells like a spring valley after rain. When she slops pea soup or smears frosting on her dress, she is quickly changed. Christena recently met cousins in the "Cosgriffe Village" at her great uncle Harry Cosgriffe's memorial. Auntie Olivia holds her at the Harlowton Cemetery. PATRICK HAS  returned to college, with plans to be a drug and alcohol counselor. He is losing weight, walking, getting fit. He busy day is long and complicated: study and classes, childcare and seeing to Christena's complex medical needs, exercising, support groups, laundry, meal preparation. Meanwhile, "The Village" fills in the cracks. Sister Olivia walks and dances with Christena. Brother Rick and his partner Jane watch her and read to her.  Sister Misha dotes on her, too, sending her adorable dresses from Atlanta.  I pick out books for her, sing to her and hope she'll be a piano player. She has nice, long fingers! Patrick's good friend, Ginger, loves her dearly and contributes to her care. Christena had a new birthday gown as she turned three. COUSINS, FRIENDS  and caretakers lavish love and attention upon her.  Her speech therapist Vicki Andre and her physical therapist Linda Malloy came to her birthday party.  They sing her praises, and believe she will be able to attend regular school, so well is she doing in day care and pre-school. The early attention paid is making all the difference in her handicap, needs and personal potential. MY LATE mother Ellen would have loved this child, a granddaughter younger than her great grandchildren. Her grandfather Richard would be smitten with her sweet smile and air kisses. YES, CHRISTENE  Lynn was born with difficulties to overcome. Down Syndrome is not for sissies. But luckily, she was born into a family willing to share the challenge and joys. Christena in the writer's arms, with her uncle Rick (in blue) and from left, her auntie Olivia, father Patrick, auntie Misha. Early treatment --  including speech, physical and occupational thearapy -- is essential to improving a Down Syndrome child's chances. Christena's therapists commend Patrick for seeking support and treatment the week of her birth, giving Christena a good chance at a happy, productive "normal" life. Sometimes, I hear Patrick reading her to sleep when I'm overnighting at the Billings house family members share. HE READS  with expression and I hear him answering Christena's questions:  "What's that?"  "That's a deer." "What's that?" "It's a rabbit." A bird. A cat.  A tree. A puppy. "Nick and Nora?" she asks.  Christena Lynn Cosgriffe on her way to sweet dreams.  PATRICK IS  old enough to be her grandfather. He knows that as she ages, her problems may multiply. But for now, she's thriving. Each Down Syndrome child is different. So is each parent. Patrick has devotion and discipline in spades. I WITNESS  that as he tucks her in at night, and wishes her "sweet dreams." We accept that Christena has Down Syndrome. She also has love, love, love. The Beatles song tells us that's all we need. Patrick and Christena have that in abundance. And they have the Cosgriffe "Village" staunchly in place behind them. The Bair Museum is one of the enticements in Martinsdale. COMING UP : With Pope Francis visiting Brazil and Egypt in turmoil, we examine the cultures and speculate on the excitement and challenge of change sweeping this pair of intriguing countries, both recently visited by the writer and photographer. And we look at a small Montana town in  summertime splendor as we visit Martinsdale's Crazy Mountain Inn and Bair Museum. Remember to explore, learn and live, and check us out Wednesdays and Saturdays at: www.whereiscookie.com .

We've borrowed many terms from life aboard ships; whether you "know the ropes" or not, come have fun  If you "know the ropes" you have proficiency in your task, a term which comes straight from sailing. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER AHOY , avast and shiver your timbers! Much of our language comes from the sea, from the early Phoenician and Greek cultures, on up through the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries when British naval vessels ruled the seas. Did you know, for instance, that "overwhelm" comes from the Middle English meaning to capsize. Our term, "square meal," comes from the square trays set before hungry seamen, the "three squares a day" promised in their contract. DO YOU  try to "go with the flow" and "give some slack" to your colleagues or friends? Both old sailing terms. Are you proud of "knowing the ropes" and understanding "the lay of the land."  Both derive from sailing, meaning proficiency in a task and knowledge of the terrain. Perhaps there is a modern day "floozy" aboard, enjoying. If you're a "leading light" in your business, you're a natural teacher or leader -- another sea term in which lights were hung to mark entry to a port and show other ships the way. MAYBE  you're a "floozy," meaning loose woman. This salty phrase comes from a centuries-old term, floozies, for women brought aboard when a vessel was in port. Basically prostitutes, assuming they received some pay.  Or perhaps they just liked fooling around with sailors. Are you a "Limey" -- hailing from the British Isles -- or a "loose cannon," slightly out of control? Limey dates to the 17th Century when British sailors were issued limes to combat scurvy.  The cannon reference   The term "loose cannon" comes from an unpredictable, loose cannon on deck. refers to the unpredictable or potentially dangerous cannon which came loose on decks of old sailing vessels. Want to tie up some "loose ends" -- or are you feeling "under the weather"? The "loose ends" refers to having everything shipshape on board -- no details overlooked, no ropes untied.  The "weather" reference refers to feeling ill and comes from the frequency of ship passengers becoming seasick in heavy weather. DO YOU  do your best to "keep an even keel"? Another sailing Above and below left,  writer and photographer are minding their "P's and Q's" or at least champagne . term for keeping a boat upright, not listing to either side. Today the expression is used when describing a person's emotions, encouraging level-headed or stable behavior. You may have guessed that "minding your P's and Q's" has to do with pints and quarts.    Sailors would get bar credit at the taverns in port until they were paid. The barman always kept a record of their drinks on a chalkboard  behind the bar. A mark was made under "P" for pint or "Q" for quart.  On payday, a sailor was liable for each mark next to his name, so he was forced to "mind his P's and Q's." Today the term means to remain well behaved. THERE ARE  many, many more. Even the word "nautical"  originates from the Greek word 'nauti' meaning sailor, not questionable behavior. "May Day" is one of my favorites, an internationally recognized voice radio signal for ships and people in stress or trouble -at-sea. Its source is actually a verb, the French Even the word "nautical" comes from the sea; "nauti" is Greek for sailor.   m'aidez which means "help me." So the next time you're sailing, think of language and its shipshape evolution. That term, by the way, shipshape, derives from the captain's command that everything be left in meticulous order or "shipshape" by the crew. HERE ARE a few more to ponder and have fun with. *Feeling over a barrel?  Sailors were sometimes tied over a cannon barrel when being whipped. Today the expression is used when someone is in a risky or precarious  situation with limited or no course of action. "Getting hitched" means marriage, deriving from joining ropes together. *High and dry: This expression usually refers to being without resources or support. It derives from the description of a ship that is beached or on the rocks.  She's "high -- as the tide recedes -- and "dry" without water. *Getting hitched: This common term usually describes the act of  marriage and comes from the ship hands' joining or hitching two ropes together to form one.  *Holy mackerel: Because mackerel spoils quickly, merchants were allowed to sell it on Sundays contradicting the blue laws in 17th-century England. Thus mackerel is a "holy" fish! The phrase is still If you wanted other vessels to see your identity, you flew your flag or "colors" when passing. used   as an expression of surprise.  *Swashbuckler has become synonymous with adventurer,  explorer or traveler. The word originated in the 1500s, and was used to refer to a below average swordsman. Its present day connotation is more glamourous. If you "scrape the bottom of the barrel," you're dealing with the undesirable, deriving from the ship's cook's last couple ladles of food which were not very appetizing. My daddy always woke us youngsters with "rise and shine," an old naval morning call now used to mean "get yourselves out of bed and greet the day!" "Swashbuckling" has its roots in sea language, connoting adventure. If you knew most of these, you've "passed with flying colors." This expression comes from the sailing custom of flying colors, or flags and pennants, to be identified when passing other ships at sea. Today this expression is used to refer to someone who has easily passed a test or some other trial or challenge! Aboard the Jada, out of San Diego bay, everything is "shipshape" in her beautifully restored galley. OKAY.  Now are you ready to go the "whole nine yards? This expression means "everything" or all encompassing. The expression comes from square-rigged sailing vessels that had three masts with three yards of sails on each. "The whole nine yards" meant all sails were up.  Now, perhaps you'll come into a windfall. Originally the word was used to refer to a rush of wind which would help a vessel's forward movement.  Today, it means a stroke of good luck. Since language has been evolving for hundreds of years, and the sea has played a huge part in our lives, it makes sense that our speech is permeated with nautical terms. TRY FIGURING  out "run the gauntlet" or "rake you from stem to stern".  While ancient armies forced soldiers to "run the gauntlet" the Royal Navy had its shipside version,  as a punishment for theft. The condemned was prevented from rushing by the master-at-arms with a cutlass and pushed forward by a corporal, while being beaten with rope yarns. If you're raked "stem to stern," you are verbally chastised completely, from one end of your "boat" to the other." So happy sailing.  Happy speaking. The two have a time honored connection! COMING UP : We take a loving look at our three-year old Christena, born with a birth defect, Down Syndrome,  but thriving in the "Cosgriffe Village." See how our family is coping with this delightful youngster (the writer's namesake) and how she is thriving with her single dad's steadfast care and many loving helpers. Christena recently celebrated her third birthday with balloons. Her father, Patrick Cosgriffe, hosted a party for her. AND, HAVE  you ever been to Martinsdale, Montana?  You're in for a treat. At the world class Bair Museum and the Crazy Mountain Inn with its delectable lemon pie. Remember to explore, learn and live.  Check us out Wednesdays and Saturdays at whereisccookie.com

Nick enjoys a romp at Harrah's Rincon near San Diego. Make your journey fun,  safe and smooth sailing  when you're traveling with four-footed pals   Nora is not certain she is enthused about a walk during a break between flights.      whether by plane or car, these tips will help you and pup enjoy STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Nick and Nora, Cookie and Keller enjoy a  break during Montana travel. IF YOUR  four-footed friend is part of the family, as are our Nick and Nora, you'll want to take them with you when you travel. Whether you journey by car or plane, these few tricks from a lifetime of traveling with pets, are offered to help make your journey and your pup's more pleasurable. FIRST, DO  your homework. If you're driving, make a plan for stops based on dog friendly hotels and motels.  There are many nowadays -- not the case 25 years ago when only a few hostelries accepted pets.  Now, pets may stay with you in many places -- even Nick is at home with his toy, enjoying the Omni Hotel in Los Angeles.  some fancy B&Bs, and in certain Hyatts, Hiltons, Ritz Carltons, Red Lions, Best Westerns, Ramadas, and so on. We've taken our Yorkies to the beautiful Omni in Los Angeles, where they were given their own gift bag and special treats. WE'VE ENJOYED  the hospitality of a lovely dog-friendly wing at Harrah's Rincon northeast of San Diego. First, driving with your pups: *Once you've determined your route --  based on dog-friendly options -- make your reservations, asking for a room on a floor convenient to exiting. *Don't plan to do more than 300 or 350 miles a day- that's plenty for both human and canine. Nick and Nora are pooped but patient after a day on the road.  *Give pup his own place of honor in the car, on his own comfy pillow or doggie bed.  If it's hot, make sure he has plenty of air from the conditioner, or a crack in the window. *Take frequent breaks, at least every 100 or 125 miles. Walk a bit, to a creek or river, or in a pleasant park or rest stop. *Have a couple bottles of ice water in the cooler and make sure you offer pup plenty of water both inside and outside the car. Bring his own water bowl if you've room. *Minimize treats, offering a couple times a day, as a reward for playing catch with the toys you've taken along or walking with you. A stroll on Fisherman's Wharf for Nick, Nora, Cookie. *Have a separate tote bag for doggie stuff -- leashes, treats, enough kibbles for at least three meals. (No need to haul a 15-pound bag into the room each night, so leave the large stash in the car.) *Be sure you have pup's medical documents safely packed in his tote. Make certain his shots are current. *Include a favorite blanket or pillow to make him secure in the room. Let him socialize, if you normally do.  He'll make new friends on your walks. So will you. *Once you're inside, set out his water bowl immediately and put the blanket on a chair or bed where he'll be spending time.  Let him get familiar with the place. *Always carry a couple doggie pee-pads and put one in the bathroom just in case. Your pup will probably not have an accident, but sometimes travel can distress. Be forgiving. * KEEP TO  his schedule as best you can and don't leave him too long in the room. Nick takes a snooze on the road in dog-friendly Carmel. *We always tune in a TV program for Nick and Nora, usually the Discovery Channel, CNN or PBS. Classical music or jazz also seems to keep our pups calm.  Give a treat as you leave the room and thank pup for being such a good traveler. On a plane, things are a bit more complicated. *Make sure the airline knows you're "traveling with pet in cabin" and this means an extra charge -- usually $125 or $150 for coming and going. *Purchase or borrow the regulation carrier provided by pet stores and airline approved. *Get your vet to give you a prescription for a pet tranquilizer and use it a half-hour before you hit the airport. Keller, Nick and Nora in Santa Barbara. * GIVE PET  a good walk before you fly, and feed him about an hour before you head for the airport. That way, pup will likely sleep -- with the food digesting and his prescription tranquilizer (we use only half a pill for our 10-pounders and it's plenty). *Take off his collar before you head for TSA. Makes it easier because you'll have to carry him through x-ray with you (obviously, he must be taken out of his carry-on.) *Take along an EMPTY water bottle in his sherpa, and fill it as soon as you clear security. *Don't take him out of the carry-on -- it is forbidden. (I learned the hard way.) *Talk to him often -- he'll be under the seat in front of you. *Save your plastic cup. After you drink your cranberry juice or soda, use it to offer a drink to pup. *Tuck the leash in your purse or pup's carry-on. *Offer a treat once or twice during the flight and if it's a long day of travel, you may need to "re-up" the tranquilizer. In Downey, Calif., at the home of friends, the Yorkies are part of the family. *Tell your seat-mate that you have a doggie under the seat in case he yelps or causes a disturbance -- which may happen, but usually doesn't. *Take advantage of airport "doggie stations" if you're traveling more than one or two legs and have long lay-overs. You have to go back out of security, then in again, but your pet will thank you.  Some cities such as Davis, Calif., Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Portland and Seattle have cute little dog-walk parks right on airport grounds. *Travel safely and with patience and humor! AT LEAST  one airline -- Alaska -- is considering giving mileage points for pet travel.  They should. It's expensive and we do all the work when the pet's in the cabin with us!  Torrey Pines Glider Port attracts tourists, locals, at sunset . COMING SOON:   A look at the magnificent Bair Museum in Martinsdale, a little treasure tucked away in the Crazy Mountains.  And summer fun with music, a world class glider port in San Diego, photography pointers and reveling in the natural world. Explore, learn and live Wednesdays and Saturdays at: www.whereiscookie.com

San Diego venue plays host to international adventurers A gorgeous, golden afternoon brings out gliders galore to the famed Torrey Pines Gliderport north of San Diego, Calif. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER WITH THOUGHTS  of Peter Pan -- or Sally Field in "The Flying Nun," -- I gazed, spellbound, as  Folks bring chairs and watch the gliders. a 40-something man took flight. Our venue was the world famous Torrey Pines Gliderport, an historic flight park on the ocean's edge, founded in 1928. My "glider guide" was my partner, Bruce Keller, who has more tricks up his sleeve than a Las Vegas magician. Safely on terra firma, these gliders expressed elation at their experience. "I had no idea you knew so much about gliding," I gulped, as we walked to the edge of a cliff and he began to explain wind currents and sail plaining, describing all the necessary gear:  reserve chutes, harnesses, helmets and more. He knows his stuff. I KNEW  Keller spent years navigating the azure Pacific out his back door. He snorkles, scuba dives, sails and swims.  This fella understands wind, so I should have guessed he also has a handle on flying through the air with the greatest of ease.   The Torrey Pines Gliderport is a wonder to behold, a sentimental and spectacular favorite spot of locals and a sought- after tourist destination.  Keller has been a fan for years and is proud of its international appeal.  On our  The Torrey Pines cliffs could be dangerous, but skilled gliders navigate them artfully. several visits together, we heard French, Italian, German and Japanese, along with the usual English and Spanish spoken in San Diego environs.     We watched as certified instructors coached people from their twenties well into their seventies in the art of flying high by the clouds. I GOT A   crash course in paragliders and hang gliders. Hang gliders have solid wing structures and an aluminum frame, creating a V-shaped wing that resembles a stealth bomber. Paragliders have soft wing structures -- no internal frame.  Once inflated, they take on an elliptical shape. TORREY  Pines, a gorgeous, much photographed and well used scenic area in north La Jolla, is also a favorite of golfers -- you've seen televised tournaments there if you're an aficionado.  The park is also beloved as a fundraising venue.  Many films and commercials have been shot there, because of the stunning scenery.  I watched in wonder as advanced gilders soared over the cliffs and ocean, sweeping magically, then eventually landing in one piece, with a graceful downward or sideways motion. The art is in moving their bodies to bend with the wind and navigating the way they want to. Gliders float high above the Pacific, and see wonders beneath and all around. Wind conditions, of course, play a major role in the success of the adventure. Skilled gliders learn how to determine when the wind is best for prime soaring. I THINK  of myself as a fairly gutsy gal, but I fear I haven't the courage to soar with the hawks. For now, I'm content to watch and sigh, eyes heavenward, as the Torrey Pines gliders show me their stuff. I'm no cliff hanger, except as an appreciator.  And count me in as a fan of the Cliff Hanger Cafe at Torrey Pines Gliderport, which serves up yummy sandwiches, soups and salads. If you're braver than this reporter, you can hire certified instructors at the venue, or give a gift A glider lands with grace and ease at Torrey Pines Gliderport, which has been beloved since 1928. certificate to a loved one.  Call 858 452-9858 or go to www.flytorrey.com GLIDING BUFFS  are fit, trim and healthy looking.  And if you're looking for a romantic adventure with your sweetheart, you can fly tandem. What a thought! Keller could nudge me to consciousness if I fainted from terror.   Landlocked for now, Cookie may some day soar with the gliders. Could Nick and Nora come along? I long for the courage to brave it, for it looks like a wondrous pursuit -- the clouds close enough to touch, birds, whales and seals to enjoy, and the Pacific shimmering below. This past spring, we saw the migrating grey whales here, enroute to the Baja to give birth. For now, I'll do my flying in a 747. And my sailing in a boat.  But maybe sometime I'll glide! If not in this life, then in the next! "Uncle Cog," Harry A. Cosgriffe, atop his favorite horse at his Crazy Mountain ranch. COMING SATURDAY :  A tribute to a special uncle, as we attend his classic Montana send-off memorial.  "Uncle Cog" was beloved by many and a weekend celebration to honor his memory included music, prose, flowers, food, dancing, reminiscing, tears and laughter. That's this July 20 at www.whereiscookie.com Then we look at a family's challenge and rewards of nurturing a baby born with a birth defect. It truly takes a village! Plus more travel tips and photography pointers. Tune us in Wednesdays and Saturdays and remember to explore, learn and live.

"The water's running free and it's waiting there for me.... cool, clear water." Here, at Black's Beach in northern San Diego County, a favorite of glider aficionados and nude sunbathers.  Water works its magic on lakes, rivers, oceans STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Ducks enjoy a pond in San Diego's Kit Karson Park. WARS HAVE  been fought over it, countries conquered and fortunes lost over it. Crops have flourished or languished depending on its availability. We would all die without it. Precious, beautiful, nourishing, calming water. We soak our feet in it, wash our clothes, keep our lawns and flowers gorgeous and use its ice to cool our beverages. San Francisco's skyline and waters provide pretty boat and ship photos. Nothing beats a long cool drink from my spring-fed pump after a day of digging, planting, hiking or mowing at High Chaparral in Montana's Beartooth Mountains. WATER COVERS  71 per cent of the Earth, working its magic and singing its siren song. Lovers and poets slosh around in it.  Hundreds of famous movie scenes involve water, including "Singing in the Rain" with the magnificent dancing of that dapper, umbrella toting Gene Kelly.  Or how about steamy beach-side love making? Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr do some heavy breathing on the sands in "From Here to Eternity." Recently, "Titanic" put a grim and spectacular spin on water's deadly potential. MY PARTNER, Bruce Keller, was born and raised on the Pacific Ocean of southern California and spent summers on a lakeside cabin in rural Minnesota. I grew up in a small Montana town on the Stillwater River, and live part of the year on the west fork of that river today. My sister Peny was a lifeguard at the Columbus Pool.  So was my cousin Cliff.  I remember them both diving into the waters, turning heads, cutting through the air  with grace. BOTH KELLER  and I love sailing, as faithfuls of this blog know. Among our most glorious times are afternoons spent sailing Mission Bay, sometimes just the two of us and other times with visiting family or sailing friends.  Our holidays always take us to the water -- the shores of Lisbon, the bay of Olbia in Sardinia, a Cookie and her Atlanta sister, Misha, enjoy a sail on Mission Bay. rooftop garden overlooking the canals of Venice, a barge cruise  through the Loire Valley, stopping at chateaux and tasting the treats of the vineyards. Dinner cruises are a favorite of ours -- on the Seine in Paris, on the Thames in London. Around Manhattan with its glorious architecture. When we visit Seattle, we book a room on Elliot Bay.  In San Francisco, we try to situate ourselves with a view of Golden Gate Bridge or Fisherman's Wharf. In New York, it's a treat to look down upon the East River and watch the city lights. Fisherman's Wharf is always a picturesque photo opportunity. WATER'S magical mix is one atom of oxygen and two atoms of hydrogen, bonded by sharing electrons. Water has carved many of the world's great sites, including Arizona's Grand Canyon and the mighty canyons of our own Yellowstone Park. If one believes the story of Noah, the dove signaled the end of the flood, returning with a sprig of tree to prove that land would once again return to Earth. Here in the northern Rockies, I've found seashells on my meanderings. On cruises and Atlantic crossings, we've admired the frigate birds that follow the ship, hundreds of miles from land. This wonderful bird, related to pelicans, is also called the pirate bird and can have a Whale watching and a sunset cruise combine to delight the writer and photographer off the coast of Santa Barbara.  wing span of nearly eight feet. Our healing tears are salty water and I'm convinced of the boost my mental health gets from the negative ions provided by the Pacific. It's a universal solvent and can -- with time -- dissolve anything, cutting through solid marble, stone and steel. "Water, water, cool, clear water" as the Marty Robbins song goes.  May we always treat it with reverence and respect and be grateful for its life-giving force. COMING SATURDAY : Our travelers take to the skies and byways, with tips on traveling with beloved pets. Pointers await, through the next few blogs, on traveling safely abroad and making the most of your time and dollar.

The blossoms that bloom in the spring -- tra la -- here on a lovely street in La Jolla, Calif. BOWERS OF BUDS TAKE A BOW  AS SUMMER SWEETLY BLOOMS  And nearer to the river's trembling edge There grew broad flag-flowers, purple pranked with white And starry river buds among the sedge And floating water lilies, broad and bright -- Percy Bysshe Shelley (more Shelley in italics below) STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS  Daffodils show their stuff in Montana's spring. PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER When words don't seem adequate, or cannot be appropriately summoned, a flower or bouquet communicates. Flowers say "I love you," "I'm sorry for your loss," "congratulations," "I miss you" and "I was a jerk. Please forgive me." We use and enjoy flowers at weddings, birthdays and graduations.  They ease the pain at funerals and memorials, bringing a lightness and beauty to the somber scene. FOR CENTURIES,  flowers, herbs and plants have given pleasure to people of all the nations.  One of my most vivid flower memories is of a long-ago hike in the Balinese rain forest.  Bruce and I came upon a cremation ceremony, about 50 people dressed in beautiful garlands and gowns.  They asked us to join the processional, and gave us flower petals which we dropped on the ground behind the departed.  They carried her to a pyre, bedecked in flowers, deposited food and flowers at the base, and set the thing ablaze. Because their beauty has the ability to bring cheer when someone is ill, recovering or downhearted, their fragrances can be used to make lovely perfumes, delicate foliage can be used for certain medicines and foods, and pungent smells can effect a mood. Orchids at the entrance of La Jolla Shores Resort. And in the warm hedge grew lush eglantine, green cowbind and moonlight-coloured may, And cherry-blossoms, and white cups, whose wine Was the bright dew, yet drained not by the day Flowers have been around much longer than man.  Honeybees and hummingbirds were enjoying flowers long before FTD.  Poets and playwrights have celebrated flowers.  Many people have a favorite.  My mother's was the gardenia and it is mine today. In the world's great museums, flower portraits abound -- even before the Renaissance.  Monet's lilies and Van Gogh's sunflowers are universally beloved.   Succulents offer color, blooms and an attractive lure for hummingbirds. In fact, so deeply do we honor flowers that we have formulated a language about flowers called "floriography." This "language" was particularly utilized during the Victorian era. Flowers well into past generations have had religious and symbolic meanings, and still do today.  There are references  to flowers, herbs and plants in Biblical times, and during the Middle Ages, herbs were even believed by some to have magical powers. Therefore, they were given a place of honor in the royal floral gardens. The use of these floral "gardens" existed well into the Victorian era,and helped to create the elaborate list of meanings to describe these beloved flowers.  A bloom of a camellia entices the photographer in our town home courtyard in San Diego. And wile dorse, and ivy serpentine, With its dark buds and leaves, wandering astray; And flowers azure, black and streaked with gold, Fairer than any wakened eyes behold. History tells us that royals have long used flowers and inspired their subjects to do the same.  During her long reign in England -- 1837 to 1901 -- Queen Victoria believed that a flower in the lapel or on the jacket was part of the attire of a properly dressed person. In the Victorian era, flower shops came into favor and, particularly around Covent Garden, where Eliza Doolittle first meets Henry Higgins, flower girls vied for customers as the wealthy people came and went to dinner and the theater. An ornamental willow leafs out at High Chaparral in Big Sky Country. ON A COLD  day in February in 1989, my late sister Robbie and I attended the Bolshoi Ballet in the Soviet Union, shortly before its fall and the dismantling of the wall. We were impressed that people with little money found enough coins to buy flowers in the lobby and throw them on stage as the dancers took their curtain call. Only months before her death, Robbie, spent two days in northern California creating dozens of bouquets for our niece's wedding. At Robbie's memorial, we made certain that flowers were part of our eulogy to her. The Maritime Museum includes many vessels in San Diego Bay. COMING WEDNESDAY : A celebration of the wonders of water. Lakes, rivers, streams and the majestic Pacific Ocean find a place in our blog as we honor the beauty of water and its hypnotic effect on our psyche. As summer unfolds, we explore travel, photography and a very special child. Remember to explore, learn and live. And check out our posts on Wednesdays and Saturdays at: whereiscookie.com

STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER Three distinctly different venues -- each with its strong suits and personality -- offer San Diego theater lovers a wealth of wonderful play-going. On tap are humor, emotion, revivals, romance, new work, classics,    comedy -- in works that challenge the status quo and offer enticing food for thought. In this lively theater town, it's possible to see almost a new play a week -- at least two or three per month -- beginning with the summer previews and extending through next spring. We begin with Cygnet. Like the old-fashioned poem for the bride's attire, Cygnet Theatre's new season has something old, something new, something borrowed, and, well, yes, something blue, if you count the sky framing the classic old red building that welcomes you to the heart of Old Town. (By intermission, you'll be star-gazing, but before opening curtain, it's a dazzling blue-sky-and-sun place to savor day's end.) Cygnet's recently opened patio offers a pleasant atmosphere before the play  or here during intermission of "Shakespeare's R&J," energetic and intriguing. Cygnet's eleventh season in its charming, intimate venue promises to "startle the soul and celebrate what makes us human," according to artistic director Sean Murray, also an accomplished actor. Start your theatrical adventure by sipping a cocktail or coffee on the spacious, newly opened patio. From an Oscar Wilde classic to a popular Christmas tradition, a Sondheim musical, Tom Stoppard extravaganza and Cygnet's popular holiday show, the line-up will entertain, stimulate and amuse. I can't wait for to see what Cygnet does with one of my favorite Sondheim works, "Company" opening July 5. A San Diego premiere, "Maple and Vine," sounds delightful, opening in January, a comic homage to the 1950s. We've seen a bonanza of spectacular productions at Cygnet, many of them with Murray either directing or starring.  From "Sweeney Todd" to "Cabaret," "Man  of LaMancha," "Private Lives" and recently "Assassins" and a contemporary take on "Romeo and Juliet," Cygnet delivers, and never disappoints. Consider Cygnet's theater tour to Dublin and London this autumn. Tour price of $4,495 includes air across the pond and between Dublin and London, eight nights in hotels, several dinners, six productions (three in each grand city) and visits to classic museums, theaters, cathedrals and a highlight trip to the original Old Globe. Why not? www.cygnettheatre.com or veronica@cygnettheatre.com for season tickets or to book the theater tour.      *   On the northwest side of town, at LaJolla Playhouse, it's time for experiments, new work and engaging treats for the play-passionate aficionado. La Jolla Playhouse is at once stately and contemporary, befitting its varied and wide-ranging new season. With both "Chaplin" and "Hands on a Hard Body" nominated for Tony Awards this year, San Diegans and arts patrons can proudly say: "we saw it here and we saw it first!" The LJP is justifiably proud of its exciting record: sending more shows to Broadway than any other venue. In our five years of being regulars here, we've met many sophisticated and well traveled fellow theater lovers. Because of this discerning and educated clientele, LJP is a fine proving ground to determine if a play might succeed on the Great White Way. The tradition of novelty and challenge continues at the gorgeous, state-of-the-art complex with the recently opened "His Girl Friday," in its west coast premiere.  , The vintage movie with Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell is one of my favorites, a fast-paced tale of reporters in 1939 Chicago. The production, directed by Christopher Ashley, promises romance, lively banter and "velocity, plenty of it," says Ashley, the Playhouse's artistic director. We'll be there next week to watch reporter Hildy Johnson go after one last scoop, breaking a big story, and falling in love again (with her ex-husband!) Sheer fun. "Tribes" takes a savage, funny look at family dynamics, a romantic tale with a twist as a young deaf man from a hearing family falls in love. The talented Moises Kaufman directs "The Tallest Tree in the Forest" in autumn, based on the life of famed vocalist-actor and controversial activist Paul Robeson. And there's more: "Sideways" is coming! Hooray. A favorite novel turned acclaimed movie weaves the story of male friendship, change, relationships and romance set in lovely Santa Barbara wine country. And "Sideshow" looks captivating -- the story of talented conjoined twins and the complexity of life for Daisy and Violet.  "The Who and The What" is another world premiere, exploring tradition and contemporary life. The playwright is award winner Ayad Akhtar. Tempted? Treat yourself and a pal. www.lajollaplayhouse.org Both seasons offer package deals. There's no better present to yourself or gift to a friend than theater! COMING WEDNESDAY:    San Diego Repertory Theatre's  Lipinsky Family Jewish Arts Festival is in full and fun swing, with enthusiastic attendance in the Lyceum Theatre.  This week's fabulous staged reading about the life of activist Abbie Hoffman was written with tenderness and emotion by the gifted Herbert Siguenza, who also plays the lead in "Steal Heaven."  A klezmer summit is on tap this Monday featuring "Jews in Jazz" with renowned jazz cellist Fred Katz, now in his 90s and still going strong. Note: If you missed Siguenza's inspired "Steal Heaven" you have another chance Tuesday, June 11, at North Coast Repetory Theatre. This delightful, intimate venue recently presented a sold out "Odd Couple" and in the wings are "Leonard Nimoy's Vincent" about the life of Van Gogh, and A.R. Gurney's always moving "Love Letters.  www.northcoastrep.org Wednesday we'll preview SD Rep's new season where yet more treats await! www.sdrep.org Remember to explore, learn and live and check out our postings Wednesdays and Saturdays at www.whereiscookie.com

Framed by the glitzy hotels of the world's greatest gambling city, Cookie and Keller enjoy a night out!  STORY BY CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS BY WILLIAM KELLER I have a confession to make.   My name is Cookie and I love Las Vegas. I adore casinos. I've visited gorgeous ones in Monte Carlo, in London's Mayfair district, in the Dutch Antilles and Macau. The glitter of Las Vegas easily seduces me and I love playing my way up and down the strip -- from the Mirage to the Venetian, with sidetrips to Mandalay Bay, Paris,  Bellagio, New York, New York.  My game? Usually video poker. I like sitting in a glitzy casino sipping a coffee, cranberry or cocktail and taking my chances with lady luck. Looking forward to seeing Cher, Bette Midler or one of the variety shows. I love remembering the old circular Sands Hotel, and the greats I saw there: Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, Debbie Reynolds, Frank Sinatra. I've introduced casino hotels to many members of my family and have had lots of fun on casino ships with my brother Rick and my late husbands, Bruce Meyers and Bill Jones.  Both Bruce and Billy were good blackjack players.  Bruce, in fact, paid for our tips and wine bill on an Atlantic crossing on the Queen Elizabeth II, with his blackjack wins.   Cookie held a single ace -- and got four! I prefer video poker. For some reason, the game attracts far more women than men. Perhaps we all love the symmetry of a straight, the cohesiveness of a flush, the delight in four aces and the thrill of that elusive big bopper of the video poker arcade:  the royal flush. I'm working on the "know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em" technique. And I'm improving. The time to cash in is when you're ahead (a large "duh" from the audience.)  Sometimes the timing is wrong, though.  If you win immediately when you arrive, for instance, that's not good. Now what are you going to do?  The MGM Grand's signature lions look out on the glorious Vegas strip. As Bugsey Siegel knew, gambling is time honored. Ah, Las Vegas.  As long as I'm not using the mortgage money or shortchanging the children (wait, I don't have children), I'm okay. And the Yorkies still have plenty of clothes. As I write this, we're nestled in a beautiful suite at Harrah's Rincon Casino Resort, a lovely property about ninety minutes from San Diego. It's close enough for an easy weekend drive, and yet not so near that we are tempted to visit every day. We love Las Vegas, but a quick trip there involves a plane ride. Two reasons we are loyal to Harrah's: Proximity to San Diego. And pups are welcome for a small charge.  Harrah's Rincon offers patio rooms with a mountain view. Rooms in the Garden Tower wing of this lovely landscaped resort are dog friendly, and the pups are greeted by a doggie fairy who delivers treats of biscuits, a designer bag for pick-ups, and a silver water bowl with a non-skid, non-stick bottom. Keller just stopped by the window of the Palomar Suite, enroute back after walking the doggies. Yes, I realize upgrades in casino hotels are not really "free" -- we've paid for them with our play. But Harrah's provides a reasonably priced get-away for us with breaks on the room with our Total Rewards points. Keller said the Yorkies made new friends on their stroll -- a bassett hound and an Australian shepherd, both accompanied by their owners, taking a break from the gaming action on the floor. We're planning a return to Las Vegas, where we can stay in Total Rewards sister properties involved in the collaboration. We're considering Caesar's, a favorite of mine for forty years with our favorite showroom. And we'll rack up more points towards our passage from "Gold" to "Diamond" status, which means we'll be eligible for more upgrades, more perks, more points.   Harrah's Rincon Casino Resort welcomes Nick and Nora. I get it that the more we play, the more we risk losing, and the more the casinos make.The casinos are flourishing. Harrah's Rincon is building a new tower! People will always spend money to take chances on winning. Perhaps the reason is the same one that explained why people in the Great Depression spent money on movies and treated themselves to a bite to eat. They wanted to have a little fun, to lighten their load. I really don't have much to lighten. Knock wood. Lights, lure of Las Vegas -- from the sky bridge connecting MGM Grand with New York, New York. I have a wonderful partner, a good life in two states, beloved Yorkies, a loving family, truly devoted friends, nature's beauty to greet me in both Montana and California, my native and adopted states. But I get a rush walking down the strip, gazing at the fake Eifel Tower, the skyline of a fake New York, the turrets of Excalibur, the majestic lions at MGM Grand, a recent favorite. And I'm at home here in Harrah's Palomar Suite, with two giant flat screen TVs, tasteful art, a couch big enough for my entire family and a bathroom big enough to hide in (with mirrors that tell me more about my face than I want to know.) Gotta go now. Time to register for my slot in a  Keller reviewing his four deuces says: "I've won and I've lost  while casino hopping with Cookie. Winning's better." tournament.  And Keller just hit the jackpot: four deuces and a win that will make a big dent in his next Montana ticket.  Hope springs eternal in the gambler's breast. COMING : The great theater town of San Diego boasts many gems, including Cygnet, located in Old Town. We take a look at the upcoming, adventurous season and check out wine tasting, too. Remember to explore, learn and live! And check our Wednesday and Saturday postings at: www.whereiscookie.com