Ah, the joys of summer, and the time to get a few things I’ve been wanting to do, done.

I am intent on learning a few computer programs/applications this summer, such as PowerPoint and learning how to encode video. Although I still have a lot to learn, I’ve at least learned the basics of encoding video from a DVD. I have to shell out actual $ for a program which will help me with editing features (the one I’ve used thus far is a freebie and only does so much – fortunately the other is only $30), but at least I’ve successfully encoded!

As a first attempt I’m sharing my mom’s memorial slideshow. Don’t know why, but it’s what struck me as something I’ve wanted to do. Must be the time of year, I guess.

The thing is 273 Mb and takes a few minutes to download and/or run (however, not nearly as long as the dialog box says it will, and of course you can delete it when you’re finished!), but hey, it works! And I’ll always be very proud of this, as I will always be of her. Kudos, always, go to Mark and Lolly. It was a joint family effort and a labor of love, and I believe it captured her essence, and her life’s journey, beautifully.

So, if you’d like, take a stroll down the last half of the 20th century (dig them hats!).

… I am sitting here wanting memories to teach me,
to see the beauty in the world through my own eyes.
I am sitting here wanting memories to teach me,
to see the beauty in the world through my own eyes.

I think on the things that made me feel so wonderful when I was young.
I think on the things that made me laugh, made me dance, made me sing.
I think on the things that made me grow into a being full of pride.
I think on these things, for they are true.

I am sitting here wanting memories to teach me,
to see the beauty in the world through my own eyes.
I thought that you were gone, but now I know you’re with me,
You are the voice that whispers all I need to hear.

I know a please, a thank you, and a smile will take me far,
I know that I am you and you are me and we are one,
I know that who I am is numbered in each grain of sand,
I know that I’ve been blessed again, and over again …

“Wanting Memories” lyrics by Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell

I love you, Mom.

Barbara Plummer Early, in Photos and Music ~ Celebration of a Life