I receive many comments about this website. Some of them are published below. Many more messages are too private to divulge publicly.

I may edit some of the messages for content to protect the identity of the sender.

Thank you everyone who enjoy my work and take the time to let me know your thoughts. I appreciate them.

Received from Rick -- 08/29/08

Don,

Read your latest blog and have 2 comments:

1. I don't think most people really want to think about the issues. Instead, they just want to vote for someone they would feel comfortable having diner with. That is why we get what we get.
2. I am not so sure about hydrogen cars. Hydrogen is not very dense and can seep through steel. Also, consider where you will get it. I think we should electrify transportation where practical and plan on liquid fuels for the rest.

Take care.

Rick

Received from Nicki -- 08/25/08

Thank you so much Don! You are an inspiration!

Thank you for sharing you, as well as sharing what I do to help the horses.

All is well here with me...and hope you are superduper.

Love,

Nicki

Received from Gene Weed -- 08/25/08

Don,

It sounds fantastic! in mp3. Like your graphics in iTunes.

Thanks again.

GW

Received from David -- 08/22/08

Beautiful,

Thanks,

David

Received from Liz -- 08/13/08

Hi Don,

Good site. I remember it all.

Liz

Received from Joyce -- 08/12/08

Thanks for sharing your gift. I'm book marking your inspirational website.

Have you considered doing a book - with your writings with the photos as they are online? I don't know how you get something published but I see lots of things at Barnes and Noble that are not as inspiring as your website.

Thanks again.

Joyce

Received from Debby (edited) -- 08/12/08

My husband and I saw that relay. It was great.

Debby

Received from Joyce -- 08/01/08

I am really enjoying the insightful notes below your pictures. You are certainly a forward-thinking human being!

Joyce

Received from confidential -- 08/01/08

"There is the beauty of friendship, real friendship, when a person feels the world closing in on them...and they are lost...and they reach for a phone and call to hear a voice they need...to have something to hold onto...to know they're being really listened to by a kindred soul who isn't charging them by the hour to hear their anguish...someone who will stop whatever they are doing to make a space in their heart for their friend to find some refuge...

WOW - NEED I SAY ANYMORE!  YOUR FRIEND HITS THE NAIL ON THE HEAD."

The words above struck me because that is the kind of friendship you've given me. You were/are that voice!

Love you

Received from Donna-Marie (edited) -- 07/25/08

Hello my friend,

I absolutely love cruizin' thru your site.

Fondly,

Donna-Marie

Received from Brian -- 07/25/08

Don,

I'm writing to ask your permission to use your Indecision image in a powerpoint presentation I'm preparing.

The powerpoint will be presented at the American Filtration Society Fall Conference 2008.

Thanks,

Brian

Permission granted for that usage.

Received from Carol -- 07/24/08

Hello,

I wanted to let you know I enjoy reading your page. You are very talented in expressing through writing.

Thank you

Carol

Received from Larry -- 07/21/08

Wow Don,

Bill still has that twinkle in his eye I remember. Wish I could have been there!

Larry

Received from RM (edited) -- 07/21/08

Loved the stories and the pictures. Good friends are SO SPECIAL.

Neither time nor distance apart seems to affect the relationship. You just seem to pick up where you left off.

Love you,

RM

Received from Anna (edited) -- 07/21/08

Don,

The site is great. Thanks for sharing.

Anna

Received from Bob -- 07/21/08

I clicked on the Caldwell link and also Suzy's. Great pics and a good story, too.

Bob

Received from Mike -- 07/21/08

Was good to see you!

Mike

Received from Anna (edited) -- 06/22/08

I have enjoyed reading your sites regarding Bowen and our classmates. I didn't know it then but the 4 years at Bowen were the best years of my life. Even though I have accomplished much in my life and had many great experiences, I look back at my high school yers with such great fondness.

Anna

Received from Rick -- 06/20/08

Don,

Thanks for another great blog.

I have to wonder about the viability of hydrogen as an energy storage medium. It is very difficult to handle and contain. Its energy content is high per kilo but as a gas, not so high per liter. I like fuel cells but I think they will have to run on a liquid fuel to be practical.

Where is current technology for generating hydrogen?

Rick

Received from Debra (edited) -- 06/11/08

Hi Don,

I love all your photos, I can go on a mini vacation anytime I want just cruising through a set.

Debra

Received from RM (edited) -- 06/09/08

Loved hearing about your memories and reading the story about the math teacher and the "list".

...

PS:  I missed my prom. I guess it doesn't matter so much because I never really connected with the school Igraduated from since I only went there my senior year.

RM

Received from Scott (edited) -- 06/03/08

Dear Don,

I loved your article, flooded my memories.... I had an assocociate set up my wallpaper, so that the first thing I see every morning is Bowen High School ...to always remind me where I came from.

...

It was nice to see Ronnie Springers name..a good guy... I'm not sure you remember me...but its nice to reach back through the decades.

Your photos are outstanding.

Warmest Reguards..

Scott

I do remember Scott. :-)

Received from Arlene (edited) -- 06/02/08

Your write-up on Bowen was sent to me today by a friend. He had called first to let me know it was coming and to make sure I looked at it. When he said it was sent by a Donald Larson, I said, "Oh My", I think he was in my first class when I transferred over to Caldwell from Avalon Park . I was in 5B - I think, if this is you, you were in 6B.

It was so much fun reading about so many familiar names. I never had Mr. Vandas or Ms. Karpen, but my sisters did and I don't remember hearing too many nice things about them.

Harry Swidler was a first cousin to my mother. I remember Harry because I got my turquoise blue Schwinn bike from him. I can still picture both he and Etta at family get-togethers. I will have to share this story with my mother who is now 96.

Thank you again for the trip down memory lane!

Arlene

I haven't seen Arlene since I graduated Caldwell back in 1964! It is a special treat to know she is a relative to the late Harry Swidler.

Received from Alan -- 06/01/08

Don,

Someone passed your website on to my wife today. I have seen it before and really enjoy it. The last time I was in DC I went to the Vietnam Memorial. I wasn't friends with Alfred but I did have some classes with him. I found him in the book and looked him up on the wall. Didn't expect it but it was a pretty moving experience. I'd recommend to anyone if they have a chance to visit the memorial to do so and say hello to and old classmate.

Best Regards,

Alan

The Wall holds other friends from our Class of Bowen 1968. I've been there a couple times and yes, it is a very moving experience.

Received from Ross -- 05/30/08

Don,

I went to Bowen between '68 and '72 and just got this sent to me from a friend in California. I just wanted to say thanks for putting this up, even if it was 4 or 5 years ago. It still rings true and was a great piece of work. It really made me feel warm about what was written and my memories from being at Bowen too. It was the basis of who I am today too. As you say, if you should say thanks to someone, do it now....so I am. Thanks. Good luck in your future, and thanks again.

Ross

I enjoy all such messages to me. I especially appreciate people like Ross, who acknowledge the compassion to tell someone "thank you" without delay. Not so much because he thanked me, but that he thanks others who impact his life in a positive manner. That's one way how goodness is spread...

Received from Ronald -- 05/29/08

Dear Don Larson:

Just heard Ronnie Allen's radio interview with Janie Grant ...that you'd arranged!   How nice that a fan could get a DJ and a music legend together. Wish I could have seen Janie in concert....however, back then, I was just an 11-year-old kid (in 1961).

I first heard of Janie Grant in the mid-Eighties....when a Japanese-Hawaiian fellow named Keven Hirabara had an Oldies show called "Kruisin' Klassics",only in Oahu,Hawaii. He played "Triangle". I'm still friends with him; and rock legend Rodney Bingenheimer.

Sincerely,

Ronald

Received from Rick -- 05/26/08

Don,

I just read your latest post. I think it is much more practical to rebuild after an earthquake than after a hurricane or typhoon. We continuously learn how to build more earthquake resistant buildings but there seems to be little hope of building to survive a flood or tsunami. We have rebuilt San Francisco.  It will be heavily damaged in the next big earthquake but less so than in the last. New Orleans, on the other hand, is forced to become an island by the end of this century. The primary cause is human activity - ironically, flood control of the Mississippi. I think it should be abandoned. It was known to be a bad idea 150 years ago, when it was much further inland than it is now.

Take care,

Rick

Received from Tammy -- 04/24/08

Loved the a-d so cool!!!!!

Tammy

Received from Received from Bruce -- 04/22/08

Mr. Larson,

My name is Bruce and I am with the California Department of Food and Agriculture's Division of Fairs and Expositions. We oversee the network of California's 80 fairs including the San Diego County Fair and racetrack in Del Mar. Our purview includes a host responsibilities that includes fair budget approval, capital infrastructure programs, administration of the Fair and Exposition Fund that benefits fairs, etc.

While preparing our annual Expenditure Plan for fairs, I came across your great Del Mar race track pictures via a search on the Web last night. Each year, we like to refresh our photos of various California fairgrounds in our Expenditure Plan, which is submitted to the Legislature each year for their review and approval. Here's the link to prior year budget proposals.

I would love to include a couple of your digital photos in our plan this year since fair racing is always a key part of our proposal and presentation. We are a California state government agency; thus, the publication would be used for informational purposes with no for-profit objectives. Please let me know if you are amenable to my request and whether you require a fee. Of course, I would add the appropriate credits and fully reference the source of your images in our budget proposal.

Thank you for the consideration. Have a good day.

Bruce

Permission happily granted for that usage.

Received from Karen -- 04/16/08

Thanks so much for voting for my scrapbook page at HSN. I never realized how many people would take the time to do so. It was fun looking everyday to see the votes tally up, but more importantly it was nice to know that so many of you took the time to vote for our girl Abby who I don't mind telling you is spoiled so rotten she hurts. :-)))

Love,

Karen

Received from Pedro -- 04/04/08

Hi Don,

Now it's much better!!!

I already incorporated it to the default visualizer.

Thanks.

Best regards,

Pedro

Received from Mick -- 03/29/08

Don,

I am and old guy, programming since the 0's and 1's days.

Along the way I found out not to sweat it. There would always be a smart guy that would show the way.

Thanks for the examples [1; 2]. Enough is here to do most anything.

Mick

(Editors note:) I offer thanks to programmers like Mick (who I do not know), who probably helped many programmers in their time. They helped me. It's all part of the Pay It Forward philosophy.

Received from Larry -- 03/28/08

Congratulations, sir Donoldo!

Received from Dennis Hayes -- 03/27/08

Hi Don,

Dennis Hayes here from Blackdog Blue in warm, sunny Canada! We are back into the studio for another album and I was wondering if we can use your Twin Flames image once again. The album is called Staring at the Sun. I have attached a draft of the album cover (shown below) pending approval of your image. I look forward to hearing from you.

Dennis

(Editors note:) I agreed to license the requested image to Dennis for his band's purpose upon agreement of my terms. This is the second mutually beneficial agreement with him.

Received from Gail (edited) -- 03/24/08

Don,

I was checking the Bowen site to see if we were having a reunion (guess not!) and I saw your article about high school memories. I really enjoyed reliving those times.

...

I just thought I'd pass along my appreciation for your writing about Bowen. You sure stirred up some memories.

Gail
Class of 1968

Received from Marc -- 03/23/08

Whoa! That is very cool! Thank you!!!

Cheers,

-Marc

Received from RM -- 03/20/08

I can't believe those 5 years have gone by so quickly. I remember when you told me about the club and that you were giving your first speech.

Love,

RM

Received from Rick -- 03/15/08

Don,

I would like to offer a different view of the Democratic primary [1; 2].

First, lets talk about Florida. Both parties have tried to start their primaries in just a few small states. Their reasons are sound. Candidates without a lot of financial backing can compete in those small races. This opens up the process to more candidates. Florida and Michigan originally supported this process but then, their legislatures decided to jump ahead of other states. At least in Florida, this was a decision made by a Republican majority. The consequences were spelled out in advance. By the way, the Republican party is counting only half the delegates from the Florida primary because they moved up the date.

The Democrats are doing everything they can think of to avoid a back room deal. However, it looks like neither candidate will have enough delegates to win outright. Most Democrats like both candidates. Other than personality, they do not differ by much on the issues. Most Democrats say they would be happy with either and, if they could, would vote for both. A successful back room deal, if there is one, will put them both on the ticket.

Personally, I liked Ron Paul. However, honesty is too extreme a position to get votes in the US.

Regards,

Rick

Received from Donnamarie (edited) -- 03/12/08

Dearest Don,

It is always so-o-o good to hear what you've been up to.

Warmest wishes,

Donnamarie

Received from Gene (edited) -- 02/29/08

Don,

I am completely touched beyond words. Karen would have loved your works.

Warmest of regards,

Gene

Received from Carol (edited)-- 02/09/08

Congrats again, Gramps!

This seems to be the year for BOYS! Four other friends of ours had sons/grandsons born the same day as ours (Jan 15) or the following day! The nurse said it's because it's a Leap Year....

Hope you're doing well and emjoying life!

--Carol

Received from Joey -- 02/08/08

Don,

I really love your image of twin flames.

I would love to see it on a card or it's so much more important to contact or create a twin flame , my feel and read as well is that our soul mate for real is God, the I am , call it what you will and together as Soulmates with God we can co create and or draw forth our Twin Flame -- as we are prepared.   Thanks for sharing your images.

Joey

Received from Eric (edited) -- 02/08/08

Don,

It is me again, Eric. I browsed a bit through your website, Time Out Of Mind, and was fascinated by some of the different talents you have. I didn't know that you were so creative!

I am impressed by the many talents! Like you, I am also an artist (I worked for years as a graphic designer), I am a writer (not published.... yet) and Love technology! When I saw the images of the old computers, I had to laugh. I am old enough to remember the dinosaur computers I grew up with in our house! My dad actually bought the Radio Shack TRS80, (Trash 80). I hated that thing, as I couldn't do something simple like write a letter and save it! Back then typewriters were SO much easier for me to use than a primitive programmer friendly computer. I am not a programmer. My dad is a retired Unix programmer (retired last year), my younger brother currently works as a Java programmer for a defense contractor. Me? I am just a basic graphic artist, who loves using computers to create fun things.

I was a heavy duty Windows user for over 20 years, since the early days of DOS. My first computer was a DOS computer, and I worked with every version of Windows ever made since the yukky windows 3.1. I had to know Windows, as most of my jobs were Windows environments. Back in the early 1990s, when Apple had a lot of problems with management, and Steve Jobs was kicked out, I had to work with very unreliable Apple computers in the corporate world. I was a graphic designer frustrated with Apple computers as they had too many problems. Back in the 1990s I swore I would never, ever own an Apple machine.

Years later, my faithful Windows XPro machine decided to die on me and became very unreliable. I did side work as a PC repair tech for all my friends, family and strangers. I did repairs on restoring a friend's Dell computer with Winxp. He didn't have the money to pay me, so he paid me in a very unusual way.

He said I could have the old CRT Apple iMac as payment. It was sitting on a desk collecting dust, with boxes piled up on it. No one in the family was using it anymore. So I said sure... I'll take the imac. It was still working, but only had OS 9 on it. I tried very hard to get it to work with today's web 2.0, and couldn't get it to work. So I upgraded the hardware, ram and bigger hard drive and installed Tiger (10.4). That ancient imac (the last edition of the CRT slot loaders) still works even today! It was my most reliable machine, after all my windows machines quit or had too many problems! OS X was the best OS Apple had ever made, and I started with Apple back in the days of System 6!!

I had told you before, I bought the latest computer, the intel Apple iMac, and it has been the best computer I've ever had! I've gone through many different windows machines since 1989!

I never thought I would switch to Apple, but I did! If you had told me I would switch to Apple in the 1990s, I would have laughed and said No way!!

Now I am watching all my friends struggling with Windows Vista and it seems like the beginning of the end for Microsoft. Their last best OS was Win2000, Win98 and XP. I think we are seeing the last days of Msoft, as Apple is getting more market share, and Linux is getting much easier and more popular around the world.

Hope your day is going well...

Eric

Received from Karen -- 02/03/08

Thanks for the birthday wishes Don. :-)))

Yesterday was a nice day for me. I guess we are getting older and I realize that unless both people in a marriage accept each other for who they truly are the marriage won't last. Sometimes it takes awhile to find out who we truly are too. :-))))

I love Sherry's website and she provides a wonderful service, and you guys are a perfect match for each other. The deep love you have for one another shows on your Feb 2nd website. I guess I'm like the ground hog in a very real sense. Sometimes I think you have to stay down in the burrow for a little while, come up look around, and then recoup. But eventually you just have to come out and face things.

We were talking about this very thing about caring for each other today, and a dissolution of a marriage of friends that we both felt bad about, when I commented "well, I guess there are two sides to everything." Jerry replied that he thought that it was more like" one just quit caring about the other one". I think he is right about that.

When you're a young married you think differently about a whole range of topics. Things seem so intense then.

But as you age you realize it's the quiet things of this world and the "Quiet caring" for each other that really matters. When you're young it seems you both have to be in the same room or on the same page with each other all the time. But when your marriage ages it gets so much better. You realize you don't need to be in the same room with each other. You already know about being in the same room together. You realize that you can each be on your own separate page across from each other at times, just as long as you are both in the same book. :-)))

It seems around here that we have food malls. America the land of the food malls. Everywhere I look on the main drag are all these food places. Most are "lick and quick places" as I like to call them, but healthy-- not really. Eating at them perhaps once in a while is okay, but I sure wouldn't want to live off the stuff.

Montel in his book talks about living well. I really think it's more like "living abundantly". You don't have to have a lot of money to live abundantly.

There is nothing more comforting than on a cold day to sit down and have a nice bowl of soup, some crackers and read a book. I love the simple things. The food with whole grains and frozen fresh, or fresh is just so much better for us. It's amazing how good I am starting to feel by eating well. I'm getting well by eating well.

Anyway, I send hugs to both you and Sherry. I love the heart art.

Love,

Karen

Received from Jeff (edited) -- 02/03/08

Hello Donald,

I was planning on giving a copy of Oxidizer to my daughter, as she enjoys making her own desktop patterns. However, upon opening the dmg file, as well as looking under the help menu, I discovered that there is no documentation for the program anywhere.

...

Is there any online step-by-step documentation anywhere which will help newcomers to Oxidizer, like me, know how to properly use this program?

Thanks so much!

Jeff

Jeff, here is a great place to start.

Received from Tami (edited) -- 02/02/08

Your site has been very interesting to me, even though I'm not from Chicago.

...

Again, your site has been interesting reading, and how ironic about Bowen. Thanks.

Tami

Received from Caryn (edited) -- 02/02/08

I love your website, Don.

Very creative.   Happy Ground Hog's Day,

Caryn

Received from Darren -- 01/29/08

Don,

Good luck on your new venture, although I will miss the more regular site updates. As I am in the software field myself, I will watch your progress with much interest.

By the way, your long-running posts on Toastmasters encouraged me to join our company club. I just did my 6th speech and hope to finish my CC in the next few months.

Thanks for the good stories.

Cheers,

Darren

Received from Rita (edited) -- 01/22/08

Hi Don,

I just read about your cold weather experience. You are such a good writer in my opinion. It kept me so interested as do most of your articles.

Love ya all,

Rita

Received from Karen -- 01/21/08

Brrr... I read the article and remembered the cold.

If I remember right in 1982 I think it was -60 degrees. We lived in Crestwood then in a apartment then and I remember the windows being covered with ice.

We are cold here. We're usually in the 50-s-60's and today we are 31 degrees. We are having a cold winter here for the south. One thing about the cold weather is that it will get rid of the bugs come spring.

Thanks for the look back Don.

Love,

Karen

Received from Denise -- 01/21/08

I had to laugh Uncle Don, reading your story and thought, "Welcome to my World!". ...and there are some days that I am Happy about Global Warming...because Minnesota isn't near as cold as it use to be.

The coldest I've ever felt was -120 with windchill. That was Jan. 10th, 1981 when I use to live on the Canadian border. We just moved here to MN the week before and I truly thought I would die from being so cold.

Sat. Night this weekend was -45. I just happened to be up in the cities and ironically I was at a play about Northern Minnesotan's ("Don't Hug Me") and the scene was "The coldest day ever in MN". It was very funny and quite fitting for the evening.

I love living here in Minnesota and it will probably always be my home - but these very cold days I really don't enjoy. =)

Thanks for sharing your story....Enjoy your warmth and sunshine....

Denise

Received from Karen -- 01/14/08

Hi Don,

Here is my brief list of what I have learned in 2007:

1. I have a food addiction
2. The reason why I have the food addiction
3. How to surrender my will to Heavenly Father and the Lord,=pray for help
4. Learning to listen for the quiet inspiration that I truly believe comes from God and the Lord and do it
5. Portion Control
6. If I get upset, I let the thing that upset me go. this is one I'm still working on
7. Be good to myself. Miracles take time
8. Look around and be thankful for what we have. Happiness is not about getting more. It's about being content with what you have
9. Quiet. Treasure those moments. Be still and know that I am the Lord is a promise. If we stop and listen, we will benefit
10. Exercise within my limits and not dwell on what everyone else is doing. The biggest mistake we do is compare ourselves to others

-- Karen

Received from Curt -- 01/09/08

Hi Don,

My name is Curt. I lived in Chicago at 79th and Muskegon from 1960 to 1972. I was surfing on Google and I typed in Andy's and got your site.

I went to Bradwell School, Graduated in 1970. I worked at the Wallman's New's Agency from 1966 to 1970. It was at the corner of 79th and Marquette. It was behind the Jewel in a little building.

We used to eat at Andy's all the time, as we delivered papers 7 days a week. On weekends at night sometimes we would have pickup baseball or football games in the parking lot.

Curt

Received from Karen -- 01/07/08

Don,

As usual you hit the nail on the head in regards to the Primary and General Presidential Election.

Karen

Received from Jason (Edited) -- 01/06/08

You don't know me, but I am related to Doris Karpen. I have to say that I do know much about her days teaching as she was long retired by the time I came around. She recently passed away (last July, at the right old age of 98) and it was nice to be able to read a little bit of her past that I never got a glimpse into. Thank you.

The rest of my family also enjoyed reading your article.

Jason

Received from Rick (Edited) -- 12/22/07

Don,

I just posted an article about the global warming debate on Different Slants. If scientists are still disagreeing, it is a good sign. When everyone agrees, it will have moved from science to faith.

Keep up the good work on your blog. It always gives me something to think about.

Rick

Received from Larry -- 12/12/07

Don;

I was very impressed with this latest thread. You have got it right. It's quite interesting. Personal responsibility is something our litigious political system knows little about.

Larry

Received from Mark -- 12/07/07

Don,   Thanks for not only taking time to read but to also review Lions of Medina. The men who made the ultimate sacrifice for us need and warrant the recognition albeit late they so richly deserve.

Semper Fi!!

Mark

It is a honor for me to do so.

Received from Udi (Edited) -- 11/12/07

Hello,

I found your digital pictures very interesting, special and beautiful.

I'm from Israel and building a Powerpoint show and need pictures for the background.

The purpose that I need the pictures are for a non-profit use. It's for a presentation for people who come here about making the world a better place with building the goodness and kindness inside of them.

They come to a house we have in Israel and the place is to hold the charity money we collect.

It is not commercial and it's only in-house use.

I will be very happy for your help if I can use the pictures: Horizon Of The Heart; Heart and Soul; and, World View.

Thank you.

Udi

Permission happily granted for that usage.

Received from Larry -- 11/09/07

Congrats Don!!

Larry

Received from Ron -- 11/09/07

Dear Don,

I read your piece on Bowen and quite enjoyed it. I graduated in 1958. I recognized some of the names like Mr. Goldberg and Mr. Hurd and a few others. After graduating Rooselvelt U. I fled the south side and lived in Europe and South America for several years.

I have been an actor and playwright. 4 times published and had a movie produced by  Beatle George Harrison. Now at my advanced age I recieve pensions from Actors equity and Screen actor guild.

I hope the above doesn't sound a like a big ego trip but though you might like to know what happeded to another Bowen/Caldwell graduate. I live in LA and my wife is South American so I spend a lot of time in Chile.

Thanks for your effort.

Best regards,

Ron

Received from Carol -- 11/09/07

I was just going through old emails and realized I never responded to your good news! First of all, CONGRATS on your AC Silver -- WOW, very impressive! You have been quite an ambitious speaker and a great role model for so many!

Congrats also on the new family member on the way! Grandkids are such a joy and a blessing, as you already know!

Time is flying by, isn't it??? I hope you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoy all the fun of the holidays!

Best wishes,

Carol

Received from Pierre -- 11/07/07

Hi Don,

Just wanted to say congratulations on your achievements today. That was a great speech. Very creative and Fun.

You are a great inspiration to the club. They are lucky to have you... Also congrats on the new addition to your family soon. That was a new news to me.... will talk soon...

Pierre

Received from Marc (edited) -- 10/31/07

Hi Don,

My cousin, whose house in Loma Serena along Lake Hodges has been spared last week, has taken a lot of spectacular photos which could complement your incredible website.

Cheers,

Marc

Received from Donna-Marie -- 10/30/07

Always wonderful!

Fondly,

Donna-Marie

Received from Karen (edited) -- 10/30/07

Hi Don,

I enjoyed reading your article about the upcoming water shortages. I remember that song well and it was about acid rain in the southern states.

...

Governments have to wanna take action. We are so busy being consumers we have forgot to be stewards.

Until the nations of this planet realize that they are stewards of the lands on which they reside and are held accountable to a higher power (God) to take care of the land, waters etc. the situation is only going to get worse.

...

Surely there is a solution to this problem. Just my two cents for what it's worth.

Warmest regards,

Karen

Received from Kenneth -- 10/30/07

Don,

I just saw your Bowen website.

I went there from 56-60 and I thought you might be interested to know that about ten years ago, at a reunion, my class took a tour of the building. We went to the 5th floor study hall and were amazed to see a screened in batting cage up there.

We asked the tour guide about that (I think he was a vice principal) and he said that they had pretty much given up with study hall and to keep the guys busy they put in the cage.

I remember many times being sent to the principal's office because I hated study hall so much. It remains my least favorite memory of Bowen.

Thanks for putting the time in to create the website.

Sincerely,

Kenneth

Received from Ildar (edited) -- 10/24/07

Hello, Mr Larson!

I saw your wallpapers while searching for "four seasons".

Thank you for the wisdom. I would like to ask your permission to use your four seasons in my PhD thesis in nonlinear model of relationships as illustration of phase sequences.

Just thank you for Tolteks synchronicity. I'm tatar in nation, ancient Bulgarian tribes came to Kama and Volga rivers from Altay mountains. By Theun Marez, they were Tolteks.

I love Migel Ruis.

By the way, 20-th wedding anniversary with my wife will be at 5-th of November, and I suddenly find happy people after 30th :)

Warmly, with many gratitudes

Ildar

Permission granted for that usage.

Received from Margaret (edited) -- 10/10/07

Don,

Can you tell me how you are related to John Honeyman? I am his 4th great grandchild.

...

I think you know more about him than I do. The pictures on your website are great.

I've also been to Lamington and seen his house in Griggstown. There is a story (myth?) in my family that someone has that letter that Washington wrote to protect Honeyman's family, but none of us has ever seen it.

Margaret

Received from Anthony -- 10/08/07

I just viewed your web page and am fascinated by the incredible pictures you've taken. Thank you.

Anthony

Received from Iris (edited) -- 09/21/07

Hello,

I really had enjoyed your website..it was wonderful seeing the school and old neighborhood. It was also a little sad for me..so much time has gone by.

I was just at your website and I was looking for the picture of Arthur ___, as he was coming out of Bowen. I was unable to find it again.

Arthur was my first boyfriend, I was very innocent and naive. We corresponded for awhile and eventually we broke up. I never knew what happened to him. I hope he is well and blessed with a loving companion.

Thank you for the memories...

Sincerely,

Iris

A wonderful story from yet another person seeking solace with the past.

Received from Bob -- 09/12/07

Hey Don,

I thought you might find the demographics interesting. I may be taking a leap here but my impression is that your sites are ahead of the curve, being centrist to the boomer "web" elements of expressive maturity and continuity, "the how did we get here?" element.

Keep trucking bro',

R

Received from Geraldine -- 09/07/07

Hello Don!

I must thank you for your beautiful images and texts. I had to write to you after reading your text of how precious life is, in the face of death.

I have realized how precious life is since the last two years, since I have asthma. My life has changed radically because of this illness, I appreciate every day where I can breath normally and enjoy the gifts of life, especially nature.

I have come to the conclusion that it is the quality and not the quantity of life which makes it worth living. Thanks for sharing your life and your thoughts with us.

An admirer,

Geraldine

Received from Damian -- 09/07/07

G'Day Donald from down under.

I was surfing the net and came across your powerpoint presentations for Toastmasters reference. Awesome work. Looked at the Delivering tangible results one, and I will suggest our president to look at it.

I am on the look out for ideas of one that you can take to a corporate presentation to win them (CEO, HR) over to start up a corporate club.

Also highlighting the reality of loosing momentum over time when members finding the balance between work, and educational priorities. Even a change in management.

Then winning them over to hold a demonstration meeting.

This year has been quite mad already, in that we have had a lot of inquiries in a short space of time.

Cheers,

Damian

Received from Jim -- 08/23/07

Don,

I just came from your website, Time Out Of Mind and want to thank you for the wonderful personal insights you have published out there.

You're a talented writer, and along with the photography, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning more about you.

Please continue the work -- it inspires me to put my life out there, too, in very much the same fashion. I share a lot of your history when it comes to early careers and life moves.

Again, thanks, from a recent admirer!

Jim

Received from a close friend -- 08/23/07

Hi Don,

I just read your last chapter [link since deleted]. You've clearly poured out a lot a emotion in it. I wonder if people truly understand the impact they have on our lives? I don't think we can blame ourselves too much for things that did or didn't happen. Your chapter took a lot of soul searching. One thing that time or circumstances can't take away are the depth of our feelings. You've used your loss as a motivation. To make something constructive out of a loss is quite commendable.

You mentioned you think (the woman whom you wrote about) has looked at your site. I wonder if she was one of the people who read the chapter. I wonder of the other people who read the chapter relate to it. Does a shared loss make it easier to handle? To survive? I think it does.

I'm glad that you have a loving and understanding family. You've been through a lot and deserve the best life has to offer.

p.s. I hope (the woman whom you wrote about) has also found peace of mind.

Warmest Regards,

I choose to not disclose names for this entry. This person also knew whom I was writing about. All of us were friends once. His comments are keenly absorbed by me.

Received from Thomas -- 08/22/07

Don,

I have a website for a few rental condos at Oceanside, CA. As part of the interface I'd like to use a portion of your beautiful 'Oceanside Pier Beach -- 02/16/03' desktop photo. Would you be willing to let me do so if I give proper reference to you and your site?

FYI, love the photos on your website.

Thank you,

-Thomas

Permission granted for that usage.

Received from Rachel -- 08/20/07

Hi!

Hello. My name is Rachel and I am e-mailing you to request your permission to use your image Heart's On Fire. The reason I would like to use it is for a background image and theme for an avatar contest on the website www.elcaballosim.com.

I would, of course, give you credit in any way that you would like-in the form of a link or text. I would not be manipulating the image in any way (I'd be resizing and maybe cropping, but no actual change in the image).

Good luck with your site (it is very beautiful by the way).

Rachel

Permission granted for that usage.

Received from K -- 08/14/07

Don,

This sounds just like your journal...

The mountains did for you what Niagara Falls did for me.

The majesty of these things is no accident and we both know God created them for our benefit and learning.

We will be long gone and the mountains and falls will still be standing. Something tells me there is a big lesson in this; and that is all I will say.

Love,

K

Truly, a woman after my own heart.

Received from Larry -- 08/10/07

Don,

I get out there and agree. Downhill steady.

Larry

Received from Bob -- 08/08/07

Hi Don,

That was an interesting picture of the beach. I remember going to a day camp with my brother.

I still go back a couple times a year to the Calumet Fishery on 95th street. In my humble opinion, they have the best smoke fish, they still smoke them there. Any way there are still a few good things around, if you like smoke fish that is.

Bob

Received from Bob -- 08/08/07

Don,

I agree with you. The rotting away of where you come from gives a person a sense of irretrievable loss. Good pictures, Don.

See you, Don.

Bob

Received from Roger -- 08/01/07

Thank you so much for your tribute to Janie. I, too, loved Triangle - has been one of my top ten favorite songs for 46 years.

It was a thrill to get an update on the singer. I didn't know she was only 16 when she recorded it. I wish I could have caught her gigs when she was still singing.

Roger

Received from Rick -- 07/27/07

Don,

I attended the WordPress Camp in S.F. last weekend. I noticed that about 3 out of 4 laptops I saw there were Apples.

Because I come from a technical computing background I don't use Apples, just because the applications I need are not ported to it. Of course, I do not use Windows either.

Microsoft has had some good applications over the years, I can't think of any off hand but I am sure they have, I just don't need any of them. More importantly, I have a low tolerance for defective designs and monopolistic behavior.

I use OpenOffice when I need an office application. It runs on my Solaris and Ubuntu systems and does pretty much everything I need. I also use gnucash for accounting.

People have choices in computers. Unfortunately, most don't know it.

Rick

Received from Bob -- 07/25/07

Hi Don,

I like the business plan article, after 28 years I can fully appreciate that. Things are going very well in Chicago.

Your web site is very informative, I can tell you put a lot of passion in it.

Take care my friend,

Bob

Received from Paula -- 07/25/07

Hi Mr. Larson,

I currently work at New Millennium School of Health, one of the four schools now housed within Bowen High School. I am making a website for our school and I was admiring the long shot you have of the outside of Bowen. I see that your pictures are copyrighted and wanted to know if we could use that photo for our website.

Thanks for you time.

Paula

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Katie -- 07/24/07

Donald,

Your work is stunning. Keep up your fine, fine work.

Your fan,

Katie

Received from Sheila -- 07/24/07

Hello Donald,

I was very happy to see the Bowen website and thank you very much for the memories. I graduated in 1970 and have been looking for my friend, Julie. Also, I would like to attend a class reunion. I am often in Chicago, but never during the week when Bowen's doors are open.

Someone suggested that I try the webpage, silly me, I didn't think about that. Although, I tried searching for Julie on the web, I never thought to look up Bowen.

I'm glad that I did. If you hear of anyone having another open house or a 1970 reunion, please let me know. I am going to try to get to Chicago during a time when Bowen is open and give them my name and address in case someone has a class reunion. Once again, thanks for the memories.

Sheila

Received from R -- 07/23/07

Hi Don,

I enjoyed your story today about scuba diving.

I don't get a chance to read all the emails I get from you, But when I do they are all great. Much better than I can write. They also take me back to some of my own experiences of life.

Well take care. I just wanted to share this with you. Because you have a talent with the writing that I don't have.

Love,

R

Received from Lisa -- 07/17/07

Donald,

Thank you for sharing with me. I have been fully loaded with classes this summer and haven't been able to get a break. I so appreciate all the information you have provided me regarding my ancestor, John Honeyman. I was in New York this winter and gave my brother Rick copies of all of the articles that you sent me and others. He enjoyed them very much and placed them with the Honeyman Bible I gave him for his 50th birthday.

Lisa

Received from Lenny -- 07/16/07

Love your web site(s). It's refreshing to know I have such a soulful relative.

Warmest regards for the greater good,

Lenny

Received from MD -- 07/15/07

Hi Don,

I have just read your Time Out of Mind and agree that our past is an intrinsic part of our present. I treasure my past , It made me what I am today. I don't regret anything, all was for the best.

I like my solitude but as you say in small doses. I prefer the company of good friends and family. Most of all I treasure the memories that I have created in my life.

Warm regards,

MD

A woman after my own heart. -- dwlarson

Received from Gene Weed -- 07/15/07

Don,

Just to let you know we survived one of the biggest storms ever on record here.

Temperature went from 105.7° to 74.8° in 15 min's, with pea sized hail. Radar said we had 2.7' of rain in one hour.

Just thought you might enjoy as we did.

Gene

Received from K -- 07/10/07

Hi Don,

Just to let you know that I have your crafty captain screensaver on my pc. My husband loved it so much he's putting it on his pc. Ya can't get the sailor out of the old sailor, and being he was a old navy swabbie, the shoe fits.

I love your old ship.

I have given up the idea of being perfect too. I'm much happier, more at peace now, and just live one day at a time and try to be nice.

Love,

K

Received from Hal -- 07/08/07

Hello,

I am a member of the Bowen High School Class of 1957. We will be celebrating 50 years with a reunion in October. We have had very few previous reunions. The most recent was October 2004. After all these years, it has taken a lot of effort to build a list 1957 classmates and keep it going, so I decided to create a website to help us remain in contact.

While we have some photos which were taken on a tour of the school in 10/04, some of your shots are much better than ours. Also you have some South Chicago neighborhood photos that would greatly enhance our website. We are just starting out and need more content.

Would you allow us to display some of your photos on our site? You would receive photo credit and I will include a link to your Bowen page. I think our readers would find it interesting. Hoping to hear from you. Thanks.

Hal

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from RM -- 07/06/07

Don,

I was married in July. I guess it wasn't lucky for me (except for beautiful children). I was curious as to why you said July marriages aren't lucky?? Just your opinion or something to do with horoscopes?

Now you've got me curious.

RM

Received from Bob -- 07/06/07

Hi Don,

I see what you mean about your web site you could get easily lost in it. Great stuff.

Bob

Received from Bob -- 06/29/07

Hi Don,

You have build up a really wonderful web site, very cool.

Bob

Received from Mohammed -- 06/23/07

Don,

My name is Mohammed and I was just surfing when I came across your superb digital image entitled Heart and Soul. I was very much impressed by it and I would be obliged if you could grant me express permission to use the image on my blog.

Please feel free to check out the blog and I will be happy to answer any of your queries.

I look forward to receiving your reply.

Mohammed

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Maria Dolores -- 06/23/07

Hi Don,

I liked your Principle of No Effect, it really makes a lot of sense and it is very good advice.

Your friend,

Maria Dolores

Received from John -- 06/23/07

Don,

Thanks once again for maintaining your list for those interested in John Honeyman. I have responded to Jill who turns out to be a third cousin of mine.

I bought the CD of the Honeyman Book and while the pictures are poor, the text seems to be useable.

John

Received from Stan -- 06/23/07

Don,

I noticed that you had several tracks from this album, Colonized. I've been trying to find this album and not pay an arm and a leg for it. Is there a source in the Chicago area that may carry these older (GREAT) bands? I lived in Harvey, Ill for several years during the late 60's, this and other local bands' songs bring back a lot on memories.

Thanks for any help.

Stan

Received from Stuart -- 06/05/07

Don -

My name is Stuart and I graduated from Bowen in Jan of 1967 - the last mid-year class in the City of Chicago. The class of '67 is having a 40th reunion in July and after not attending any previous reunions, I plan to go this year. Your article on Bowen brought back many memories but I do have one correction.

You mentioned a teacher named Karpen and that she had passed on. If this is Doris Karpen that you are referring to, she is still alive although no longer with her full faculties.

Stuart

I had assumed Ms. Karpen's 1966 heart attack was fatal. I have corrected that incorrect assumption on the pages affected. Thank you, Stuart.

Received from Mark -- 06/02/07

Don,

For years after I returned from Vietnam I too mistakenly thought that those men who perished there "died for nothing". Only later did I come to the realization of just how untrue that statement came to be.

Did they die for Mom, apple pie and the good 'ol USof A??? The answer, I believe is no. They did die for their brother Marines. They gave their all so I could enjoy the rest of my life. I don't need to be reminded of this fact. I live with it every day.

Maybe someone should clue in Ms. Sheehan. Doubt it would do any good.

Mark

Received from Chuck Shepherd -- 05/16/07

Hi Don!

I think that the speed of the spheres is perfect and helps to show the passage of time. And the way it ends with the artwork brings the whole thing home. Just excellent Don! I'm tickled! :)

I even revamped my whole site to set the stage for the video and added more into my blog. Better look out....there may be people coming to you to do videos for them from Soundclick haha! It is also streaming to my MySpace page.

I sent out a bulletin to my friends list and included links and copyright info, as well as my friends list on Soundclick, so I have told about 1200 people about it so far.

I very much enjoyed our working together as well and the video gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment! When I see the credits at the end, it immediately reminds me of teamwork and what can be accomplished. And the fact that we are on opposite sides of the country really makes the magic of the internet come to life.

I guess I will watch the video a few more times and get some sleep!

The whole experience has been wonderful and the friendship is invaluable, so I say talk to you soon as well my friend!

Peace!

Chuck

Received from Chuck Shepherd -- 05/12/07

Thanks!  I'm glad you like the song, and I hope you can hear the influence from your art in the music!

Chuck

Received from Nancy -- 05/11/07

What a beautiful tribute.

Thanks for putting it out.

Nancy

Received from Chuck Shepherd -- 05/10/07

Hi Don!

Wanted to let you know that Many Moons Ago tune is up and playing.

It's a working copy and I still need to polish some rough edges here and there, but it did hit #1 on the Rock charts on Soundclick last Sunday. I will be posting it on MySpace after I do the finishing touches.

Have an awesome week Don and thanks again!!

Peace!

Chuck

Received from Karen -- 04/22/07

As I sit here I'm at peace. Your wedding ceremony sounded just perfect to me. I remember having the 1971 wedding ceremony with Jerry in a packed Lutheran church of ours, the reception etc. I was glad for the chruch ceremony, the pictures, but hated the reception. It was the worse night of my life.

The second marriage ceremony in 1995 was quite different. Jerry and I were in the Atlanta LDS temple, kneeling at a white altar, facing each other and staring into each others eyes, while the ceremony progessed. Behind us were infinity mirrors symbolizing the eternal nature of marriage between a husband and wife. The ceremony was simple and our dearest friends were there. The reception was simple, in the church gym with a few of our friends. We requested no gifts at the reception. The food was simple, the joy of seeing all our friends wonderful, and I had made my own bridal dress.

The piano gal forgot about showing up at church to play for our reception, but that turned out to be a boon for us. Everyone talked and laughed and we all enjoyed ourselves. I wanted her to play the song "In Our LIfe" by the Beatles.

The spirit of the Holy Ghost at the marriage sealing, along with the joy I felt with my closest friends in the temple were beyond reasoning here. Even the officiator said that he didn't need to say much after we had been married all these many years then, just told us to each take care of each other. That's really what marriage is all about, loving and taking care of each other, the maturing and growing.

We've been married since 1971, but the sealing to my husband was the more lasting impression in 1995. The ceremony was simple, but the joy was more complete.

--Karen

Received from Carol and Dan -- 04/21/07

Congrats on #34! We celebrate ours in June... There aren't many couples around that have made it that far -- sad but true. We sometimes wonder where the years have gone, but then when we start to list all we've done and seen and experienced in the past 3+ decades together... WOW!

Ours was also a simple, humble beginning (nowhere to go but up!) but that brought us even closer and has helped us appreciate all we have gained and achieved through the years even more.

We wish you lots more happy anniversaries! Keep being affetionate and showing your love!

Best wishes,

--Dan & Carol

PS -- Gorgeous necklace! Way to go, Don!

Received from Jackie -- 04/15/07

Beautiful photos!

Jackie

Received from Carol -- 04/08/07

CONGRATS!!!! Quite an accomplishment to be world renown! Best wishes for continued success!

--Carol

Received from Billy -- 04/08/07

I really like your Twin Flames piece (and your take on the concept)...what would it take to have that on the tank of my bike...?

Billy

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Jim -- 04/08/07

Don,

I happened to be surfing around looking at Quicktime movies (using my new iMac at home) and I stumbled across your web site.

You have done some wonderful and exciting work! Good job!

And thanks for the plug is about 2 minutes and 27 seconds long and 8 MB in size. for Carlsbad.

Congratulations on a job well done.

Jim

Received from Larry -- 04/02/07

First, the Tastee Freeze article was great. I passed it on and want to thank you for it.

I would sure love for you guys to visit us again. I still need to send you some pics. I sure love what you are doing for the world. - Keep it up!!!

Larry

Received from Chuck Shepherd -- 03/28/07

Hi Don!

Listening to Deer Woman Moon Encounter right now and it reminds me of the cool music that used to come on the radio in the middle of the night...floating along with a nice groove to it. Love the sax in there too!

Thanks so much for what you wrote about me on your page, I sure do appreciate it! I've been working on the song and it has taken a slight Bluesy edge and I'm just letting the song grow to see where it takes me.

I've been going outside at night with my guitar and the laptop, and work on it. I even have the picture on the desktop so I'm using that for inspiration too. When I first thought of naming a song Many Moons Ago, I had no idea about the Native American aspect and just thought it was a cool name. Then someone posted on my message board that "being a Native American, I am looking forward to many moons" and that's when I did the search and found your picture.

I have a good friend in West Virginia who plays my music and my bands music on her BZoO Homegrown Radio Show and she is Cherokee, so she's excited about the song too haha!  So, I don't know what it's going to sound like from their perspective, but all I can do is write what feels right, right? :)

Have an awesome evening Don and thanks again!

Chuck

P.S. Been listening to "Deer Woman Moon Encounter" looping while I wrote this and I really love the song!!! Great mood music!

Received from Bob -- 03/25/07

Hi Don,

It's been a long time since I've had Andy's cross my mind... and you and Larry working there... it's a good feeling...

R

Received from Chuck Shepherd -- 03/24/07

Hi Don,

I am an artist (musical) and am writing a song entitled Many Moons Ago and was doing a search for clipart and came across your beautiful picture. I post my music on:

• http://www.soundclick.com/chuckshepherd
• http://www.soundclick.com/members/default.cfm?member=Chuck%20Shepherd
• http://www.myspace.com/chuckshepherd

If you are familiar with music at either of these sites, there is a little picture next to the songs when they are played.

I would like to request permission to display a small version of your picture (approx. 100x100) next to the song, with proper copyright info and links to you included in the song information. There would be no sale of the artwork at all. The song itself would be for sale, but only as a downloadable mp3, with no art attached.

If not, that is fine, I understand! :-)

Have a great weekend!

Chuck Shepherd

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Bob -- 02/27/07

Don,

Your review was as always, honest, direct and right to the point.

Thank you for writing a 3rd review about my late-in-life career choice.

Your pal,

Bob 

Received from Rick -- 02/27/07

Don,

Very nice and well done.

Rick

Received from Carol -- 02/26/07

I really related to today's home page! And I wholeheartedly agree with your views on volunteerism! The most worthwhile things we do in life usually don't come with a paycheck! My philosophy: We're all put on this earth to help one another--Sometimes we're on the giving end and sometimes on the receiving end, but that's what life is all about!

--Carol

Received from Dan -- 02/23/07

Outstanding work Don!

I have added your testimonial to my website.

Thanks for everything!

Dan

Received from Shelly -- 02/19/07

Hi Don:

Congratulations on your Bronze! Your speech was wonderful and great to read. As you know, I really relate to the emotionalism about Dr. King. When I wrote the PowerPoint that I sent you last year, during the M.L.K. page, I continually had to stop to cry. His "I have a dream" speech, completely tore me apart and I could not write any more that day. The ashes of the Chicago riots after his death will live in our hearts and minds for the rest of our lives.

Warmest regards, (I got that from you, thank you!)

Shelly

Received from Bob -- 02/15/07

Don,

I read your speech and it was very moving.

I agree that King's Dream speech is one of the most powerful I've ever heard. I listen to it every year and never feel that its power has diminished in any way.

Congrats on achieving another level in the Toastmaster group! If you enjoy the company of the regulars that show up for each meeting, to me, that's the main thing. It means you're part of something. If no guys showed up, then the awards would be hollow. Your being there helps make what you are participating in...exist. When one of the older guys dies, you won't miss his awards, you'll miss him. I expect one day, a long, long time from now, that's how your friends will feel about you.

Bob

Received from Gary -- 02/09/07

Hi, Don!

I'm glad to see you are involved with Toastmasters. I learned a lot from the group while I was working in Chicago. I've checked into clubs in my area, but they only seem to meet on Saturday mornings or Tuesday evenings, when I have other commitments.

Interestingly, a monthly local coffee house uses something similar to "Table Topics", that they call "The Question". The leader poses one to three questions, and then they do a round through the audience, asking people to speak briefly on one of them. I gave the organizer a list of "Table Topics" questions to expand her list.

Take care!

Very best regards,

-Gary

Received from Carol -- 02/08/07

Hi Don!

I was just on your web site and am happy to hear that you are still so actively involved in Toastmasters (congrats on your latest achievement!) and using the skills learned and/or honed there. How's the club doing? I'm sure I wouldn't recognize most of the current members but am happy it continues to grow and be diversified.

How's that beautiful little grandbaby doing? When will you see her again? They grow soooo fast and it's hard being a long-distnace grandparent....sigh!

Best wishes,

--Carol

Received from Bob -- 02/05/07

Hey Don,

Just a note to say how much I enjoy the Chicago stuff... the personal and the historical... good work buddie... many a dinner date in Chinatown stands out in my own mind....

Bob (popz)

Received from Ginny -- 02/04/07

Hi Don,

Love your website! I'm sending you a story I wrote a couple years ago. Hope you enjoy it.  Feel free to add it to your website, if you want.

Take care,

Ginny

Received from Name withheld -- 02/04/07

Dear Don,

I have just finished reading the parts of your book [link since deleted] and your reasons for writing.

There are tears of sadness and joy running down my cheeks at the moment for I am on a similar journey myself. I love your attitude towards the things that mold us into the people we are today. Yes, occasionally, we do tend to want to blame others for our misfortunes, but if we honestly look deep inside we find we had a part in all of it.

The photo of you, your Mom, Russ and Chuck... omg what memories flooded back for me. For that is the time frame I remember most about you.

I look forward to each chapter, as I believe I will learn a great deal, not only about you, but about myself.

Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with the world.

Love,

Name withheld to protect sender's privacy.

Received from Lisa -- 01/24/07

Dear Mr. Larson,

I am also a descendant of John Honeyman. My name is Lisa and have been living in Daytona Beach, Florida for the past 22 years.

I have been working for an attorney for the past 20 years and I am going to college to obtain my Paralegal degree. I am taking Oral Communications this semester and we have to give speeches. As soon as I was informed I would have to do an informative speech, I thought of no greater topic than my ancester, John Honeyman. Any help you can give me is greatly appreciated.

...

I I know this is a rather long e-mail, but when I got on the internet and saw your site I became so excited about the information I was able to obtain. I also went on other sites and gathered more information. It is quite amazing.

I hope to hear from you soon.

Warmest regards,

Lisa

Received from Karen -- 01/24/07

Thanks so much Don, for your posting today on Doing the right thing. Yes, my husband and I were talking about the death of Denny Doherty of the Mama's and Papas.

Ya know despite it all, I'm glad to have been born in the time period we were born in. It was more then just the music. We had a real sense of our lives having purpose beyond the mundane. Even if many of us lived mundane lives after that.

But more important, it became important to do the right thing for the right reasons.

We can lose our money, all our possessions, but nobody can take our memories away from us unless we let them. Those memories are a anchor in our lives as we grow older and learn from them. Sometimes it's good to look back in order to grow forward.

It's been good to listen to you also my friend. I really consider you a brother. We may not agree on religious stuff, but we still agree on the basic fundmentals of what is right and truth.

I'm glad that we had a chance to travel around the US and see this country. Somehow you just can't go thru the rockies and not feel or know the hand of God is in this vast country.

Take care my friend and thank you, hugs.

Love,

Karen

Received from Linda -- 01/14/07

Good Morning:

Stumbled upon your site. Love the concept. Desert Wedding. Very interesting. Would love to see more sometime. Congratulations! Someone who thinks outside of the box!

Respectfully,

Linda

Received from Tom -- 01/05/07

Hi Don,

My name is Tom and I am one of the members of the Overflow.

I also work for the Chicago Public Schools and would like to reprint your story about your high school English teacher in a newsletter my department puts out called "CPS@Work". I thought your story was extremely well written and very inspirational for teachers.

Let me know if that is all right with you.

Thanks

Tom

Permission is gladly granted for that usage.

Received from Shelly -- 01/04/07

Hi Don:

Hope you had a great vacation in Chicago.

You would be glad to hear that I found my best friend from Luella and Bowen who I mentioned when we had coffee. We were both very excited to talk and spent 2 hours on the phone.

She was a Junior when you were a Senior. School led me to you and your awesome website, plus, back to her and the opportunity to catch up on both of our lives. We are now in contact regularly by e-mail.

Life is great!

Regards,

Shelly

Received from Ross -- 01/04/07

Hey Don,

I figured I would check in and see how things were going in San Diego. Now that I have a little free time I've been attempting to catch up with the updates to your website. I got behind there with no internet in my apartment and many papers to write and edit.

Ireland is, well, very Irish. I find myself adopting their slang and some customs. I think though learning their traditions I actually am learning more about mine (after many long talks with my farm-raised Irish roommates).

Otherwise life is relaxed and uncomplicated.

Hope all is well.

Talk soon,

Ross

Received from Mark -- 01/01/07

I appreciate your giving me credit for teaching you how to ride the Honda 50. That was the perfect transition vehicle between our bicycles and real motorcycles. I still have a motorcycle...little bigger then the "50". I have a 1969 BSA 650...haven't ridden it for some years but will never sell it.

Mark

Received from DM -- 12/31/06

Great Idea, Don

And, I hope your decision provides a substantial fund for your later years.

Luv U Muchly,

DM

Received from MD -- 12/30/06

My friend, as usual you have done a wonderful job. I have enjoy it very much.

Happy New Year!!!

MD

Received from Marc -- 12/22/06

Great photos from 2006!!! The gym particularly brings back memories as well as the park. Playing baseball at Bowen was the highlight of my high school career.

Hope all is well.

Marc, Class of '68.

Received from Karen -- 12/04/06

Hi Don,

Glad to hear that you had a chance to meet someone new and share your views. Somehow I really think that when we do this and listen thoughtfully to each other we gain much more then we can ever give.

Thanks for a fine website.

Love always, your internet sister,

Karen

Received from Adam -- 12/04/06

Mr. Donald Larson,

I'm writing asking for permission to use you're copyrighted picture of the Winter Day. I would like it to be the picture representing a Facebook group created to commemorate our latest snow storm in the midwest and our "adventures" across the snow covered land.

Thank you.

Adam

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Mark -- 11/19/06

Hi Don,

I truly enjoyed the fact that I'm NOT the only person in the world that was affected so much by the song Triangle. I was looking on line for a newer copy of the 45 rpm record ( I just about wore out my original pressing) in my old 1954 Wurlitzer jukebox, and upon a Google search stumbled upon your web site.

Janie Grant, had a hit like no other artist up to that point in time--and for that matter, has not been equaled to date. Her voice haunted me and was very unique, different and fresh.

The song was in it's own Genre. Not country, not rock 'n roll. It was a hard song to sing in my opinion, and I don't think there are too many today that could equal her. The arrangement of Triangle and how she really rose to the occasion to sing what I think is one of the most under-rated best "oldie" songs of all time in the woman's category.

I share many of your thoughts...including the one on why I also didn't know why liked the song Triangle so much, and it's long-lasting effect has stuck with me to date!  About once a month I listen to it on the Juke box. The nostalgia it evokes is overwhelming sometime. I even have cried before listening to it! Weird. I guess it makes me think of my wife and our 39 years together before she died of ovarian cancer.

It was mine and my "late" wife's favorite song of all time! I hope you don't mind that I wrote you on this. I really enjoyed what you and Janie wrote and hope that others get the same enjoyment I did. I loved the fact that she was grateful for you contacting her.

She is a really nice person too, that makes all the difference. The pyramid(s) photo with her 18 years photo in blue is very cool too! I can personally relate to the fact that she was not paid monies due on records. The same has happened to me in the past as a song writer in the 60's. The music business then, was not in many cases, fair with the artists. Monies due for artists royalties were greedily stolen right and left leaving the artist without receiving a cent.

I love the song so much, that I have been trying to re-record the song again professionally, but have always had a hard time finding a voice that could match Janie's range and tone. I guess it will just have to continue to be a dream.

Take care and thanks for listening,

Mark

Received from DM -- 10/26/06

OH MAN!!! I missed out again...Gosh I miss being there every Wednesday! It has been way too long.

Luv U...

dm

Received from Professor Janice L. Smith -- 10/21/06

Mr. Larson,

I am a professor of geology at Austin Community College. While doing an internet search for images of pebble beaches for my classes in oceanography and physical geology, I came across your photograph from Ponto Beach.

...

I thank you for your consideration and look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,

Janice L. Smith

Professor, Physical Sciences Dept. -- Geology
Austin Community College
Rio Grande Campus
1212 Rio Grande
Austin, TX 78701

Permission is gladly granted for that usage.

Received from Rick -- 10/16/06

Hello, Don:

My name is Rick, and I am from New York City. I wanted to write to you and thank you for your detailed story with your training. I really enjoyed reading about your gradual progress from your painful beginning.

I am also writing because I am totally blind. I've been interested in the Martial Arts since I was a kid. I use to have sight until the age of 12, so I have seen movies and different things on the topic.

After I lost my sight, I learned that it was true that some forms of training is done blind folded. I do not know where to start my search. Do you happen to know of anyone, or school where I may go to, or at the least, speak with someone?

Any assistance would be truly appreciated! Thank you once again, and I hope to hear from you soon. Hope all is well with you and your family.

Rick

Received from Maria Dolores -- 10/15/06

My friend,

You should really be named, Don Larson , AKA Reach Out, I'll be There. That is who you really are for many people. I Love to read about your life and thoughts. Keep then coming!

Warmest regards.

Maria Dolores

Received from Bob -- 10/11/06

Dear Don,

I stumbled onto your website while doing a project on my Mac for the Reagan Library.

Loved your pics.. Nice touch (I am spoiled in that I get to see it in person often).

Respectfully,

Bob, Docent, Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

Received from Ted -- 10/10/06

It's Ted from Louisville KY, Speak UPS. I was looking through your presentations and came across the Music and Art one. I like your website. Digging the music.

Speaking of music, I am in the Wicker Frog Band here in KY. There are some samples of original music we have but the recordings are rough.

Basically a Sony Hand Cam with the lens cap on was used to record rehearsal and then converted to MP3 format. We are hitting the studio in a couple of weeks to get a much better and much needed recordings for hand out.

Great job with the tunes.

Ted

Received from William -- 10/07/06

Enjoyed the transcript of the Janie Grant interview - in fact, had directed someone else to it.

...

I was also affected by "Triangle" and subsequently collected her other recordings.

...

Glad I didn't go to Catholic school! [link since deleted] I've always believed in truth and would have been devastated to be called a liar. Believe it or not, I was born a Catholic but guess "the higher power" intervened, with the "divorce" word, but I wasn't necessarily "saved". Oh well! Such is life. And I don't mean that, quite so literally, but we all try to "get on with our lives" despite the past and speak from my own experiences.

Have a nice day!

William

Received from Donnamarrie -- 10/05/06

Hi Don,

So good to look over your website. So refreshing to hear that we all exist in a web of connections with life and it's circumstances...wonderful events as well as those that allow us to grow in ways we otherwise would never have imagined.

From my heart, know that you and your family are dearly loved.

Fondly,

Donnamarie

Received from David -- 09/29/06

Greeetings,

I enjoyed your pictures of Cottonwood, AZ that you have on your website- we have spent much time up there, and are planning to move there soon. However, we wanted to know in which park you took the picture of the standing stones. We've done alot of hiking up there, but haven't seen that yet!

Thank you for your time!

Sincerely,

David

Received from Richard -- 09/29/06

What a surprise to see your site from Bowen (google)- I was class of 1969 although the last year of HS moved to Southern Suburbs. It made me smile to see the school and the cafeteria (even without the grilled cheese sandwiches).

What a wonderful site you created!!!!

Richard

Received from Jake -- 09/28/06

Don,

My name is Jake and I'm writing on behalf of a friend and one of the women in my church. She is helping to direct a women's retreat this fall and I came across your digital art piece Heart's On Fire and presented it to her as an idea for one of the logos that goes along with their theme. Of course, with it being copyrighted, though, I don't feel right just printing it out and using it without your permission.

So, I would like to seek your permission to use the Heart's On Fire art piece as one of the logos of the women's retreat. She said she would like to use a small print of the logo for about 100 copies. May we do that? Do you charge for that service, and if so how much? Please advise. Thank you!

-- Jake, Richland, WA

Permission is gladly granted for that usage.

Received from Karen -- 09/26/06

Congrats Don on getting your photos in the weird us hauntings book. Now this is one book I would love to read.

You have a good site.

Thanks,

Karen

Received from Larry -- 09/26/06

I need to see the movie Don. Superman was my hero!

Larry

Received from Ryan -- 09/25/06

Hello Donald,

I am very happy you enjoy the book. Thank you for all your help (and the postings). I sincerely hope we get to work together again in the future. Have a great day.

Sincerely,

Ryan

Received from Ryan -- 05/04/06 (Deferred Posting)

Hello Donald Larson,

My name is Ryan Doan and I am the production associate with the creative team of Weird US. We are currently putting together our Weird Hauntings hardcover book which will join our series of Weird US books published by Sterling Publishing. You can see some of our current titles by visiting www.weirdus.com. In our research on the internet we recently came across your photography at www.timeoutofmind.com and would like to know if we could be granted permission to use some select shots for possible inclusion in our Weird Hauntings book.

If so, we were also wondering if it would be possible for you to email us larger resolution versions of the same photos. Of course, we would also include the respective photo credits in the finished book.

Should you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me at your convenience. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. We look forward to hearing from you.

Ryan Doan - Production Associate / Editor - Weird US

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Jackie -- 09/18/06

Hi Don,

Beautiful photos! Disneyland is still one of my favorite places ever since childhood. In fact, I have an annual pass this year since my friend loves it as much as I do. We went just two weeks ago and will be going again in about 3 weeks. What a kid I am! Thanks for sharing.

Jackie

Received from Thomas -- 09/17/06

I enjoy the pictures of Bowen, remind me good old days we have in south east Chicago.

Thomas, Class of 1969

Received from Karen -- 09/11/06

I read your website. That was really nice Don. Thanks.

Love,

Karen

Received from Hal -- 09/08/06

Dear Mr Larson,

I am an old ( but young at heart ? ) Japanese , fond of American pop music of '60 ( as my e-mail address suggests ).

I was searching Janie Grant through Google to find your column about her which is informative and interesting. ' Tell me mama ' was one of my favourite songs those days. It wasn't a big hit in Japan but covered by well known Japanese girl singer who is still doing musical and also appearing on TV as an actress. I did not have any information about Janie and was long looking for ' Tell me mama ' which I finally got a few years ago in compilation CD called Dear Mr DJ - Girls collection 3. I was searching to see if there is any CD available of her own.

In your column and in her e-mail, she says there were 10 singles made. 20 songs will be a right number/volume for one CD, don't you think so ? Anyway, it is good to know something about her and other songs, and further more she is well.

I just wanted to let you know that there are Janie Grant fans everywhere, even in Japan. Thank you for your column.

Regards,

Hal, from Chiba, Japan

Received from Darlene -- 09/07/06

Hi,

We have just discovered your website. We were amazed at the amount of information you had. My husband grew up with Janie Grant and went to school with her in Little Falls, NJ. If it is possible can you forward our email address and other information to her.

Darlene

Received from George -- 09/05/06

Hello, Donald-

I really enjoyed coming across your webpage and the great memories you shared about your personal experiences while at Bowen 1964-1968. I appreciate your sincerity.

Well, I started my high school career at Bowen in January 1953, and graduated in 1957, right on time!! Hey, four years was long enough. I see that we both had at least one English teacher, Ms. Doris Karpen, and probably several others from the other divisions.

I'd write more but just wanted to let you know that there are Bowenites from the 1950s still around. As a matter of fact, the January and June graduates of 1957 are planning a 50th reunion sometime in 2007. The committee, of which I am a member, is looking at different venues. I will keep you posted. It would be nice to have you visit with us if you are in Illinois. Where do you live now Don? Many of my classmates also attended Caldwell elementary school. You might know them or their families. We are spread all across the USA, and of course, over the years, some have left this earth.

By the way, two Bowen teachers from my days, and probably yours, are still with us, unless they died in the last two months: Mrs. Jacqueline Saltysinzki (English) and Mr. Carlin (Latin & year book).

Take care.

George

Received from Donna-Marie -- 09/04/06

Yah! I have to have my White Castle Fix every now and then too!

Donnamarie

Received from "M" -- 09/04/06

Dear Don,

I was just having a look at your most recent website. You present an interesting view of life, from the grandparent's side.

I have kept most of my feelings to myself about being a grandparent alone, but I like hearing what others say.

I think I would just ask you to remember us--that there are many, many stories out there of grandparents --and keep a place in your heart for prayers for us.

Regards,

"M"

Received from Rita Lewis -- 08/22/06

Hi,

I was looking for images of wormholes to use on a Cafe Press Store dedicated to Ben Browder (Farscape actor) as a background for T-shirts for a web site called www.benbrowderportal.com.

I was writing to ask permission to use Sonoma Wormhole with attribution as it is gorgeous. Please let me know as soon as possible because I need to get the store ready by the end of September.

Thank you so much in advance.

Sincerely,

Rita Lewis

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Richard Marchessault -- 08/14/06

I am a youth minister and educator in my parish of St. Augustine's in Covington, GA. I am creating a presentation on Pope John Paul II's document titled "Familiaris Consortio". I would like to use your background with the Pope in this presentation. Could I have your permission to use it?

Thank you,

Richard Marchessault
260 Fairway Trail
Covington, GA 30014

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Maria Dolores -- 08/14/06

Don,

What a pleasure is to read all your timeoutofmind. You are full of surprises!

Maria Dolores

Received from Larry -- 08/02/06

Dear Don;

Your memories sure hit home. I so much appreciate your detailed accounts of our past. I am very proud to be your buddy. I hope that you, your family, all your readership are having great times.

Your pal,

Larry

Received from Tina -- 07/30/06

Great pics. I wonder if I emailed the Del, if they would tell me the name of the tree that had the red foliage. It is soooooooooo beautiful!!

I doubt if I could have it in this zone, but I would love to try. Everyone would oooooh and ahhhhh over it and I would love it!!!!

I think they had the name of it by the trunk, but I can't remember. Can you remember??

Tina

Not I, but maybe a reader will let me know.

Received from Barbara -- 07/30/06

Nice job Donald!

I just returned home last night from a trip to Chicago, it is 5am in Honolulu and I am off my sleep schedule. While in Chicago I toured the south side, drove by Bowen, which looked under construction. I had not been back to see it in 20 years. I went to my 20yr reunion and hopefully 07 we will have a 40yr reunion and I will return for that. I would have graduated in 68 but we moved to Skokie and I went to Niles North for my senior year.

We had a great time until the wee hours of the morning (I had to catch a plane early Sat morning) The next morning I realized I left my 1966 and 1967 year books on a bench in Montrose Harbor beach park also a book I had made of all my class pictures from Kindergarden on. This all happened this past weekend. I am really sad about losing the books and I just e-mailed Bowen in case someone finds and returns them. I hope so!!!!!

So that is what brought me to to your awesome memories, thank you so much for taking the time, brought back memories. If I lived in Chicago I would be a Bowen reunion crasher (like the wedding crashers) 67 reunion should be coming up, any info on that. I am a teacher in Honolulu (montessori) 3-6yr olds. I cherish my Bowen memories too...

Aloha

Barbara

Received from TJ -- 07/28/06

Mr. Larson,

I recently came across your website and saw pictures of the USNS Sacagawea. I was wondering if it were all possible to get permission to use the pictures you have posted on 'Time Out Of Mind' on a website known at "NavSource" It can be located at NavSource.

I thank you for your consideration.

Very Respectfully,

TJ

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Mike -- 07/27/06

Don,

Pictures brought back very fond memories. Thanks,

Mike (Class of 1972)

Received from Lil -- 07/27/06

Don,

Thank you for sharing your website and presentation. Love your website and the beautiful pictures!

Lil

Received from Donna-Marie -- 07/18/06

Dear Don,

Again, your info is so timely. I read about our TOT presentation regarding document shredding. As you know, in my work I gather sensative material (rap sheets and other criminal records). I just spoke with the Goodwill Industries rep and have set up an appointment, established a reasonable rate for the boxed bulk items I'll bring to them, and have solved a recurring problem at the end of each research project.

TOT AGAIN RIDES TO THE RESCUE! Fondly,

Donnamarie

Received from Robert -- 07/07/06

Don,

Just read the piece on John Honeyman, Sr. which mentions that much of the information was provided by you.

It is all very interesting.

Robert

Received from Wendy -- 07/07/06

Hi Don,

It's a very cool cd, I just listened to it!

Thanks!

Wendy

Received from Earl -- 07/07/06

I'm working on a piece about the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago and came across your pictures and was wondering if I can use a few to spruce up the article.

It's for a non-subscription web based magazine.

They can give you credit and link to your site.

Thanks!

Earl

Permission is granted for that usage.

Received from Anonymous -- 06/30/06

My life has been so busy here at work, and because I have no computer at home, I've had little time to go to your website much and/or communite with anyone these past 8 weeks.

First, let me just say I am doing fine and am continually blessed by the peace of mind that I have finally found in my life.

Now about you. I got a chance to read your book [link since deleted]. As usual, your writing leaves me with wanting more. I also felt sad that your were going through a bad time during the time I first became acquainted with you - and I never knew it. You helped me SO MUCH during those first few years of our relationship and I did ALL THE TAKING. I've often felt that you must have suffered a great deal of pain in your life because you expressed such compassion when dealing with me.

Because I care so much about you, I do worry that reliving these details while writing your book will be very hard for you so TAKE CARE MY FRIEND. I know you are in a different place "mentally" than you were back then so I hope that when you finally do commit all those things to paper you will FINALLY be free.

...

I think of you and Sherry a lot. I know you have many good friends but if you ever need to talk you know I am here to listen.

Hope you have a great holiday.

Love,

Anonymous

One of the most wonderful messages I ever received. For the greater good of readers, I decided to publish this private message, however I am witholding the author's name. This person and I walked the 'virtual path of emergence' together in the many years we've known each other. The journey is truly the reward.

Received from Andrew -- 06/27/06

I find it much easier to right-click the "X" under the resolution size and then click on "Save Target As". If this is a problem please be sure to let me know. The images are spectacular and I plan on downloading more to add to my current library.

Thank you for your attention regarding this matter,

Andrew

Received from Shelly -- 06/27/06

I was also in Bowen in 1968.

...

Would you mind if I copied some of your photos to use in my paper?

Thank you, Shelly

Permission is granted for her usage.

Received from Larry -- 06/17/06

Good one, Don.

My son graduated last night. Thought about ours.

Larry

Received from Kara -- 06/16/06

Hi Don,

Stumbled across your website looking for Bowen class of 1969 news. Your site brought back lots of memories. I remember the riot after Martin Luther King was killed. My dad had to come into the school to rescue me after my English teacher locked us in the classroom. I remember the broken storefront windows along 87th street. I also remember Mrs. Nellum, our gym teacher, who wouldn't let girls wear pants in her class.

...

We lived in interesting times.

Kara

Received from Donna-Marie -- 06/15/06

Thank you, Don

You nourish my soul.

Fondly,

Donna-Marie

Received from Bryan Clark -- 05/27/06

Dear Donald,

My name is Bryan Clark and I would like to request the use of your picture of Green Waves as a background on a website.

I was intrigued by your page detailing your encounters with death: you're here for a purpose, there's no doubt about that from what I read. The existence and meaning of "fate" is discussed in The Edge.

Could you please advise if it would be possible to use the picture? Thanks in anticipation.

Best Regards,

Bryan Clark

Permission is granted for usage as requested.

Received from Aparna -- 05/15/06

Hello Don,

Thank you very much for including reiki in your beautiful art. I really like the color.

Reiki all around you and your family.

Regards,

Aparna

Received from Karen -- 05/13/06

Hi Don,

I enjoyed reading your article Women Of Insight and smiled. I have a Lobo CD of greatest hits and love them. They were one of those sleeper bands and I think were actually ahead of their times.

So many people define their lives in context of all the Beatles hits/songs. I'm not one of them. I loved all the different bands we listened to growing up.

...

Hope you guys are well and happy. Give your daughter and wife a hug for me and wish them a happy Mother's Day.

Love,

Karen

Received from Bob -- 05/09/06

Don,

I sure wish you luck with it. I just finished Vol. 3 and it's as close as I'll ever come to delivering a baby! I expect to publish it later this year.

... I hope all is going well with you, and also that you're happy.

See you,

Bob

Received from Jose -- 04/06/06

Mr. Larson,

My name is Jose Neto, I visited your site through a google link and found your Twin Flames image which I thought was very creative. I'm also a Photoshop fanatic, and could possibly design similar artwork, but I don't like to re-invent the wheel. On the same token, I give credit where credit is due, and would like to kindly request your permission to use this image partially. It's for a party flyer and the theme is fever 102 so that's why the flames are relevant to the topic. I thank you in advance if you do grant me this permission.

Sincerely,

Jose

Permission is granted for usage on that flyer.

Received from Darren -- 03/29/06

Don,

You have been putting alot of new content on the site the past few months. Is this practice for your upcoming book?

Keep up the good work; I alway enjoy reading your site.

Cheers,

Darren

Some content I write for this site will find its way to a degree in my book. My publishing is becoming easier for me as my art, music, photos, and writing converge.

Received from Annicea -- 03/22/06

Hello Donald,

I was thinking of using your love & money image as the display picture for my bankcard but I am not sure if this allowed. My bank says before I use this image I must recieve permission.

I hope to hear from you at your earliest convenience.

With kindest regards,

Annicea

Permission is granted for her own personal usage. ;-)

Received from Maria -- 03/20/06

What a story teller you are Don. Do you know that I was nearly crying when I finished your story about Ms. Karpen? Keep telling your experiences in life. They are illuminating and can bring hope and joy to a lot of people. I for one enjoy everything you write.

Your friend,

Maria

Received from Charles -- 03/14/06

Aloha! Just want to let you know I really enjoyed your expose on Triangle, and Janie Grant. If you have the opportunity, please let her know that she probably has a lot more old-time fans than she realizes.

Charles

Received from Mary-Ellen and Jim -- 03/14/06

Hi, Don,

Could you, please, send me the directions for us to view articles [1; 2] and photos about our park.

Thank You,

Mary-Ellen and Bob

Received from Mary Lynn -- 03/05/06

Dear Don,

Thank you so much for your enthusiastic and kind words about the presentation. And I very much appreciate the mention on your home page.

You have a wonderful website, and are doing so many different and creative things--you are a modern-day renaissance man! I truly believe that artistic creation is one of the essential foundations of a good life well-lived, and you are an inspiration to all those who experience your work. Keep it up, and thank you again for all that you do!

Best Wishes,

Mary Lynn

Received from undisclosed -- 03/03/06

Don, How very exciting! I know you will put your heart and soul into this work of art! The cover is terrific!!!

Challenge: I suggest you consider what will really make the book "successful." The $$ earned? The satisfaction of having completed a phenomenal undertaking? The therapeutic effect of having gone through the writing process? The pleasure of sharing yourself and your tremendous creativity with others? The beauty and honesty of your work?

Go for it and best wishes!

The money I might earn is not a consideration in this book. The other reasons you cited are correct and in the right order.

Received from undisclosed -- 03/03/06

You'll be happy to know that I read and loved the art and title of your book. Let me know what it costs and I'll buy a copy when you complete it.

Hugs

Received from undisclosed -- 03/02/06

Today I got a few minutes to go on your website and I am so glad I did. The excerpt from your upcoming book grabbed my attention and it left me wanting to ask, AND NOW WHAT HAPPENED?

I have sensed that you have done your share of suffering in the past. What amazes me is that you are one of the "most together" persons I know. You seem so sure of yourself (but in a humble - not cocky way). You always seem so wise to me. You always say the right things and give me the best advice. I wonder how long it's taken you to evolve from the person who was so hurt to the person you are now.

If you ever put something up there that you'd really like me to see I hope you will be able to drop me a line and alert me to it. I anxiously await your book!!!!

Love to you and Sherry,

Received from Greg -- 03/02/06

Hey Donald,

Thanks for publishing the radio interview with Janie Grant! I enjoyed it very much! Very Cool!

Greg

Received from Wes -- 02/19/06

Hi Don,

Just thought I'd send you a little note to let you know that I revisited your website a few nites ago and read all the nice messages...especially the ones about (to and from) Janie! She surely thinks the world of you! To the best of my knowledge, you are the only one who could display some of her e-mails.

Anyway, just wanted to let you know how I appreciate your "forum" and all the stuff you design.

Stay well!

Wes

Received from Ronnie -- 02/09/06

Don,

What a nice webpage on February 7th devoted to Janie!

I posted a message about it on the Oldies Music Bulletin Board.

Ronnie

Received from Deborah -- 02/06/06

Hello Mr. Larson, I am Deborah and I work for Modesto, California Fire Department. I enjoy your artwork and was impressed with your passion. I'm writing to ask your permission to use the Twin Flames artwork on the cover of our annual report.

I respect your decision, thank you.

Deborah

Permission was granted. I received the 2005 Annual Report (cover shown below) on March 23, 2006.

Received from Maria -- 01/29/06