Columns
Been There, Done That: Bye Bye Trees
December 13, 2023
"Loss of Wilderness: Trees cleared for new homes, leaving a devastated landscape. Concerns for wildlife and neighbors' privacy."
Been There, Done That: Landscaping
December 6, 2023
Jon Stalnaker, post-service, bought houses, tackled landscaping challenges, learned and improved. Now, in Oklahoma, with a new project afoot, he reflects on past endeavors and looks forward to spring planting.
Been There, Done That: So, Whattya Do
November 22, 2023
Embraced volunteering, built diverse skills: from military service to postmaster, musician, writer, and ordained minister.
Been There, Done That: Calaveras Poet Laureate
November 15, 2023
Calaveras Poet Laureate revives toilet stall poetry, entertains coworkers, and surprises Gramma at retirement.
Been There, Done That: Halloween 2023
November 8, 2023
"Halloween memories from 1956-1966: Trick-or-treating, mischief, homemade costumes. A surprise visit from daughter in Bugs Bunny disguise makes the new Halloween enjoyable."
Been There, Done That: Hardscape
November 4, 2023
Transforming our landscape, battling harsh weather, and prioritizing home improvements. Hardscape projects completed, turning dreams into reality. Gratitude to skilled craftsmen.
Been There, Done That: I’m a Mailman
October 25, 2023
"Pride in mail service; 80s gender shift in carriers; manual sorting era; efficiency tactics; rural challenges, 10-mile rescue tale."
Been There, Done That: Sorting the Mail, Part Two
October 18, 2023
Postal career in 1974 amidst USPS changes. Airmail, Railway Mail discontinued. Mail sorting transformed from manual to efficient tech. Transitioned from clerk to letter carrier, preferring day shifts for a regular lifestyle.
Been There, Done That: Sorting and Delivery, Part One
October 11, 2023
Early paperboy ➔ Military mail handler ➔ Learned manual sorting ➔ Transition to letter sorting machines ➔ Scheme knowledge crucial ➔ Delivery unit experience ➔ Desire to be a letter carrier ➔ End of the line responsibility.