The Tale of Two Ladies

Their lives were markedly different, each with their own tale to tell.  One was well-loved while the other clearly experienced a much rougher existence. When detailing how they came to rest in the "Siren Hall of Honor" their stories were strikingly similar.  Then on one crisp winter day their paths would suddenly and remarkably intertwine:

"It was early in the year 2019," described 1941 "as I sat dormant in the dark, damp earth. I thought today would be just like any other; struggling to keep warm, praying water would not fall from the sky.

"I passed the time away, thinking of days gone by, when I would enjoy jingling in a local pocket with friends, or chatting away in a cozy cash drawer. 

"The memories played before me like a film; so real I could actually hear the sound of the register bell.

Ding. Ding. Ding.

"Suddenly, I was jolted from my dream as the chiming grew louder right above my resting place.

"'That ringing is real,' I no sooner thought to myself before the ground began to tremble and the earth shifted all around me."

"If I had a voice I would have surely screamed, fearing at any moment I would succumb to the jaws of the angry plow creature as was the demise of so many of my kind.

"My life flashed before me as a different beeping began, coupled with a strange sort of vibration that traveled through my entire being.  It grew in intensity as I was lifted in a clod of soil and gently flipped over before a bright blinding light was shinned upon my face.

"'That light!' I thought, 'that warm, glorious light!'

"Rays of sunshine dappled through what was once my earthly tomb. I had not seen the light of day in...so many years I lost count!

"I then heard a loud gasp as I was plucked from the earth and clenched tightly into the trembling fist of my rescuer.

Siren Kimmie, as she came to be known, proceeded to shout excitedly.  At first I thought she was angry.  She cursed repeatedly and called upon God.  I heard other voices too, 'detectorists', who responded with the same odd mix of anger and excitement.

"'Are you $!&*%@# KIDDING me?' a man shouted as he grabbed me and began a through inspection; while the other detectorist told Siren Kimmie to 'shut up', which I thought was kind of rude.  I became even more confused as then they started to rave about my beauty; now seeming well-pleased with my rescue.  But none more so than Siren Kimmie who subjected me to a careful examination and a gentle cleaning before my age was announced. 

"I had no time to consider this odd behavior as I was placed into a warm, dry pouch.  Initially I feared I would return to a life of darkness but was quickly lulled by the sound of voices and the soft hum of an engine.

"Once we arrived at the Siren Estate, Kimmie provided me with what can only be described as 'the full spa treatment'.  I was given a warm, lavish bath and placed on a velvet bed.  I was then carried into the Siren Hall of Honor, also known as the 'Relic Room' where I was introduced to the sister I didn't even know I had: 1941.

"While telling her story, I learned how 1941 was also rescued in the same fashion just one week earlier.  Both of us ever so grateful to the circumstances which brought us together; we now live a much pampered life, in a climate controlled environment.  We have a new home, with a large family of coveted coins and artifacts, where we watch the sun rise and set each and every day."

xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)

© 2019 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.

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The Day My Friend Became a Hashtag

I had just received notice that I had been chosen as a "Vaughan Garrett Favorite Find of the Month" for my confederate tongue buckle. I only vaguely remember writing the article, retelling the story of how I had found this rare piece of history.
One of my best friends, Kirk Keller, was with me that day and told me how happy he was to witness its recovery.  For a historian and relic hunter, this is the stuff of dreams.

"I actually found something with CS on it!" I shouted with utter excitement.

Kirk teased in response, "I've NEVER found something with CS on it you little stinker!"

A veteran detectorist, Kirk was the kind of guy that found joy in the achievements of others.  He celebrated along with me that day, as a mentor and a friend--his excitement matching my own.  And certainly a part of him will forever be attached to the buckle he once held in his hands.

When I wrote the article, Kirk had taken ill. I had received word that he had been transported by life-flight to the hospital.  I numbly wrote, in some odd attempt at positive vibes and feeling close to him as I tried to recapture the moment. Kirk had been retelling important facts about the land we were detecting--I always soaked in any knowledge he wished to impart--eager to learn and assist in his work with the historical society.  Our little team was in the process of piecing together civil war troop moments through the area and we spent long hours pouring over history and research.

"You are a natural at relic ID. You have a true passion for history and a heart for adventure." he would say, as if trying to convince me.

In the coming days Kirk passed away and was put to rest.  I had all but forgotten about submitting the article--too wrapped up in grief over the loss of my friend.  As I tried to focus on daily life, just as he would have demanded, I thought of him constantly.

The weeks rolled on.  I still missed him dearly but my sadness was now miraculously coupled with a smile; just as he promised would happen when discussing the loss of our friend Steve.

I take great comfort in little reminders of Kirk, so the announcement that my buckle had won felt like a much needed visit with my dear friend.  Reading over my words again, recalling the day, was bitter sweet, and I couldn't help but tag him as I posted the article to my Facebook page.

He would have been so exited over the win, taking the opportunity to "brag on me" in embarrassing enthusiasm.  I know it seems silly, tagging him, knowing he is far beyond the realm of social media, but I felt somehow spurned by his continued pride in me. So I "shared" it with him as I would have done in the past--my feeble attempt at connecting. I found myself looking over his Facebook page which continues to be filled with memories, anecdotes and messages expressing grief as well as happiness at the fortune of knowing this boisterous, fun-loving man.

Suddenly, I felt a stabbing in my chest over the thought that "Kirk the person" was gone and was somehow reduced to nothing more than a hashtag.  #kirkstrong I saw repeated over and over.  It was clear he left an indelible mark on the community with all of the lives he touched.  But I felt overly protective of his memory, as if somehow it was mine alone; arrogant, I know!

My fear was that Kirk and his life were being trivialized in some way

These misplaced feelings quickly turned to joy however, as I realized with each post, that every person commenting was doing so out of this same place of love.

As I pictured Kirk's reaction to his name in a hashtag I instantly began to laugh.  Who was I kidding? He would be "tickled" and certainly humbled, as was his way.

When you think of the impact Kirk had on everyone who knew him, the overwhelming tribute and the many ways he is being honored, it doesn't seem so silly after all!

It is plainly obvious that Kirk Keller is well-loved and highly respected as those of us struggle to adjust to this tremendous loss.  And while Kirk continues to live on through his hard work and good deeds, his legacy also carries on in these shared memories, stories, and yes... even though hashtags.

#MissingYouKirkKeller

xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)
© 2019 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.

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The Tale of St. Siren (A Limerick)

There once was a detectress so fine sir.
Siren Kimmie, they say, there's none wiser.
Till too much wine she did drink...
while hunting relics I think...
the lass dug her way straight down to Chiner.

xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)
© 2019 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

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Detecting Moments

Today's adventure included a 1.5 hour drive to a historic 1901 property where I met a delightful older gentleman by the name of Charles.  

I stood on the grand front porch of this beautiful New Orleans style home as Charles slowly opened the large heavy door in response to my knocking.  With a smile on his face he quickly approved my request to detect his property and confessed to being a metal detectorist himself, as well as a Civil War reenactor.  

Charles was a friendly man with a very kind face, and all the while detecting his property he would pop out to talk.  He brought his finds, and was so obviously proud of his Civil War buckle, cannon ball frag, buttons, bullets, and other campsite goodies; thrilled to share them with someone who truly appreciates them. He later brought out his tablet showing aerial photographs he had taken of a nearby Civil War reenactment. We had a lovely time talking as I puttered around his property digging up one roofing nail after another. He placed them in a little jar--why he wanted them I do not know--other than as a memento of some sort; but I couldn't help but think he was as sentimental about detecting as I am.  And when he spoke of the passing of his dear wife I had an overwhelming feeling, during a time of year that must be very difficult for him, our visit had somehow brightened his day.

When it came time to leave, Charles insisted I take a little button from his finds stash that I had shown interest in, adding it to the only good bits I recovered from his yard--a little buckle and a 1930 wheat penny...

As it turns out, in metal detecting, sometimes the best finds are the moments spent with friends, new and old.

xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)
© 2018 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.

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One Ring To Dig Them All

IT'S HERE! The Fall Season Premiere of Girls Rock Metal Detecting's SIREN OF THE RINGS. Precious finds, revolutionary war history, unboxing the Garrett Zlink Wireless Kit, and Siren Kimmie detects the ONE RING TO RULE THEM ALL. You wont want to miss this digging adventure packed with silver, rings, relics, history and more. Grab a glass of wine or your favorite libation and get ready to YouTube and Chill with Siren Kimmie!
https://youtu.be/outHS9YWwjs

xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)
© 2018 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.

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Be Illustrious

I don't want to be famous – Everyone feels entitled to judge your decisions.

I don't want to be a the top – Everyone questions your right to be there.

I don't want to be considered an "expert" – Everyone questions your skills.

I don't want to be considered a genius—There is always someone more intelligent to learn from.

I don't want to be considered beautiful based on looks – Beauty is subjective and changes with age.

If I am to be respected, let it be by those who deserve my respect in return.

If I am to be recognized let it be for my diplomacy and ability to see things from all sides.

If I am to be admired, admire my strength and tenacity.

If I am to be commended, commend my ability to have confidence without arrogance.

If I am to be applauded, applaud my ability to bring laughter in difficult circumstances.

If I am to be extolled, let it be for my fairness, honesty, and sincerity.

If I am to be praised, let it be for my kind heart, giving soul, and the love I extend.

If I am to be adored, let it be for my true character.

Should I be criticized, let it be from those with something constructive to offer.

Should I reach my goals, let it not be at the expense of others or my integrity.

Should I find happiness, let it be with my life, my choices, and the person I've become.

Should I find contentment, let it be with those I love, doing what brings me joy.

xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)
© 2018 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.

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Show Us Your Detecting Assets

I have been told on a few occasions that I am "an asset" to metal detecting, or a good "ambassador" of the hobby.  This is certainly a huge compliment which does not go unappreciated, believe me!  (On the flip side, I was also called a bad influence because someone felt my profile picture was too provocative—So, six of one half dozen of the other.)

This got me to thinking though; what does it mean to be an asset to the hobby of metal detecting? To me, an asset would be, say--a kick ass set of wireless head phones, a machine that rules out pull tabs, or maybe even a really good sports bra? Something that greatly benefits the detectorist in a tangible way.

Meanwhile, the term ambassador, when taken literally means "spokesperson" or "promoter"... Do we really feel metal detecting is in need of promotion or any sort of cheerleading squad? Let's face it, attracting new detectorists to the hobby means more coils on the soil which isn't exactly advantageous to those already scrounging for sites. But it does equate to more history being saved, so I'm better than okay with that.

When contemplating the terms "asset" and "ambassador," it is important to understand their context as confined to the metal detecting subculture on social media; not the hobby itself. In other words, if I am found to be an asset or ambassador by the court of social media, I do not immediately "qualify" in the eyes of a landowner.

Imagine a permission pitch based on testimonials like: "WaterDigger says I'm a cool chick" and "NuggetBrain thinks I'm the bomb!"?  Not privy to the metal detecting subculture or its dialog, the landowner will stare back in abject confusion.  This also means they will not be judging based on someone's long-time feud with "FindsRecoverer" or "BadDiggahGal."  Thankfully, I will not lose out on a permission due to DirtInvestigator's judgment of my latest profile picture, or someone questioning my "dedication" because I produce YouTube videos. Landowner's will be more impressed over references from their neighbors or a well-respected member of the community.

The point is, metal detecting doesn't have a "reputation".  It is not a living breathing thing.  So it would take a hell of a lot more than a little bit of Facebook drama to do any wide-spread "damage" to the hobby. I'm more concerned over rolling up on a property after a landowner has watched a television show depicting targets dug with a backhoe, or having to apologize because some yay-hoo has left gaping holes all over the place.  When I am standing there, shovel in hand, the only thing the landowner really wants to know is whether I have nefarious intentions or will damage their property. Hashtag Are-you-going-to-kill-me-or-my-lawn!

The world of social media, with all of its personalities, often results in an overdeveloped sense of self-importance based on popularity; which means nothing in the real world.  I do appreciate the compliments, and take them as a reflection of my integrity and recognition of the skills I have developed.  However, my hope is we will all embrace the traits which go along with those titles; owning the ideal of what it is to be an "asset" or "ambassador." This translates into respecting  property, building the trust of landowners who have had bad experiences, and positively influencing and mentoring newer detectorists. When it comes down to it, every one of us is capable of being an asset and ambassador of the hobby. And that my friends far outshines any minor rumblings from the mythical "dark side of detecting" lurking in the distant corners of the internet.

xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)
© 2018 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.

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