Keri Olson's Page

I caught a couple of episodes of a popular television program where two men scout the country, looking for treasures they can buy from one party and sell to another at a profit. I also caught an episode of a program where an appraiser helps families auction off some of their belongings so they can use the money to purchase a big-screen TV, fix up a kitchen, add a backyard patio, etc. In both programs, people are showcased who have many belongings and…

I've been rather sad lately, and it's all about change. Some change is exhilarating while some is disconcerting at best. I've been surrounded by a shroud of the grayness that comes with not wanting to accept change. So when I heard a gardening expert say that happy plants make productive plants, I took it as a personal wake-up call. I realized that the expert's statement was true of people, as well as plants. When people (and plants) are happy, they are often…

It's been one of those times lately when several people I know have been passing away. People from my childhood. People from my work life. People who are dear ones of friends. The sadness, sorrow and, in some cases, devastation of those remaining have made me think about the human experience and how an…

A recent weekend walk along the river that bisects our community revealed hints of spring. Instead of the breathless stillness I associate with winter, there was birdsong, squirrel chatter and the movement of water -- sometimes a slow lapping against the rocks and at other times rushing rapids. Larry and I were not alone in our enjoyment of this natural space in the heart of our community. We encountered kids, adults, couples, singles, families and pets. Who…