signs

A street sign with meaning...funny. 

I'll do my best to try and not complain. . . it can't be that hard. . . or is it?    Some days are better than others. . . some days are worse than others. . . .but the fact we have a day is what is really important...so....let's make the best of today and enjoy our seconds and be thankful that we can say 'top of the morning to you, and the rest of the day to yourself' and old Irish greeting.

The days go on and there is new growth the forest.   Winter is slowly making its way for a new spring.   Be patient, its on its way.

An act of kindness;   an act of love;    What a cutie.   

Here it is the last day of January already.  Depending on where you live, you can classify it as good, bad or indifferent.  We had rain and lots of it;  a day or two of real cold but for the most part not bad at all.  February is usually a winter month but we will have tow and find out what mother nature has in store for us.    For the folks in Brookings, I wish them a good day and pray for patience as they wait for the sink holes to be taken care of.  It is going to take patience, and a good heart to survive the long months of repair.    Friends have sent along some videos of the sink holes and it is a very scary sight.   It is a time to practice patience and give the workers a chance to make a new road they can travel on.   It is going to take time . . . so when you have to take the detours or have a traffic jam on going, offer your waiting time up and you will get a soul into heaven where they stand waiting for a good deed or two.     

 

I had a tea party yesterday.  Ron stopped in to say hello and Sue came in too.    We had a flowing conversation about many things including tales of some of the books we have read over the years.   Sue had just come back from the book sale and bought four books, a surprise as the deal was a bag full for $2.00.   I had been the day before so bought four hard backs to add to my collection.    I have already started "Ireland" which is a tale about the old story tellers who went from house to house looking for bed and breakfast and they repaid with a tale or two.   The first page was absolutely poetic, the start of a good read.   

 

Think that lent is about to start and what you can do to offer up to improve your self esteem and prepare for that wonderful Easter holiday on the horizon.  I am thinking of giving up sweets for lent.   Not easy to do, but a challenge of ones psyche.   I thought of coffee as that would really be  sacrifice, but I am a coward as coffee is what wakes me up.  I thought of bread which is one of my downfalls;  I love bread of all kinds.   But, I'm a coward. . . Never tried it. . . um. . . wonder if I could do it. . . having a sweet tooth is a challenge . . . so, I'll have to make my mind up and come up with a plan to survive the forty days of lent.   All I can tell you is when you do give up something you love and make it all the way to Easter Sunday, wow. . . you feel like you licked the world with one hand behind you.    Try it and see what and if you can do some one sacrifice of something you love for the forty days....guaranteed you will feel really good about yourself.

 

So, go....have a wonderful Sunday all day.    Be one of those folks everyone loves to see coming up the path way to the front door.    Put on the coffee or tea pot and throw a few goodies on a plate and sit back and enjoy your company.    Your friendship may go back for many a year, so reminisce and enjoy the trip on the road back to when you started your friendship.    For some it is a lifetime;  others a new experience, but which ever it is, enjoy each other and think about inviting in someone who could use a lift today.    Be an elevator and share the ups and downs of your lives;  who knows you might find the answer to a prayer or two.  Be good, be kind, be all you are meant to be.   Open those eyes and look around and find reasons to make someone you love and like smile today.   Hugs to all. 

Paint

I hope it is true as there a few of us around here who could use a memory boost.   It's on my list.   I'll have to Google and find out recipes it is used in the most.    Rosemary and thyme. . . didn't Simon and Garfunkel write a song with those words in it?    I think so.  

A lonely whale the size of a submarine.   

Hey Chris,   here is an idea of how to take care of the books.....I'm working on it, have replaced ten hardbacks , and I wasn't going to buy anymore books....well a bag sale at St. Vincent's is hard to pass up.

Must be someone who loves riding in planes, or wants to....

ha, ha,   explain how one would get that size truck in a two car garage....with a lot of paint...yeah!!

It is a novel idea to paint the garage door, but it is a little too much for my taste.    There were others with Christmas scenes and other scenes, a lot of talent, a lot of paint, a lot of show.  I was lucky I could open the garage door.

So here it is Saturday morning and we are within the confines of our weekend.   My girls are going on a Costco run today and I gave in my list which made me laugh out loud.    As I edge towards ninety two , not too many months away, I find my list stays pretty stagnant.   Depends top the list, heaven forbid I should run out;   prunes comes next;  a necessity along with a fig or two;   Kleenex, t.p. and finally the good stuff. . . applesauce,   Valentine candy, and a few special sharing items  my girls are very generous with.     As daughter Patricia would say, "too much information for my mind"   but I thought you might like to make a list and hide it away so you will be prepared when you need it.  I am just good about sharing and caring....and hopefully making you laugh out loud today.

 

How sad to see the videos and the news of the sink holes in Brookings.    A friend called to tell me about it and it seems that there is another sink hole forming behind one of the stores in the shopping area where there is a culvert.   it is going to take millions to find and fix this dilemma  and high future taxes on homes down the road.    there was one large sink hole in front of the  City Hall just a year or so ago;  now two within a month and another forming.   The old pipes have rusted out and once again nature shows who is boss.    We fought for years over the ditch in the back of our property.   The builder and the city folks got together and put in a ditch along the back of the properties and made the buyers responsible for the upkeep.  We all know how that works...some do...some don't....and city hall refuses to work with the owners to stop an event that will eventually happen..    I probably wont be around to say "I told you so" but you can bet if I'm looking down I'll be smiling;  same if I'm looking up although down is more to my taste.

 

Here at Ridgemont it was quiet yesterday.    We finally heard from one of Don's friends that he had to be operated on because of the fall he had when out banking and hit his head on the concrete floor.   He didn't think much of it at the time, but later medics were called in and he was rushed to the hospital and operated on.    Say a prayer for him.  He is one of the good guys.  Doris is going to celebrate her 99th birthday on the 17th;  she's our baker and is making muffins this morning.  She is a tiny petite lady with a lovely smile;  great disposition and so thoughtful of everyone.    she is in great condition and will make a hundred easily.    she came to visit me last evening, a nice surprise and went home with a tin of cookies she didn't have to bake.    As I often tell you, sharing is caring and it really is a two way street.   Try it today and see what happens in your neighborhood.

 

So here you have a whole weekend to do what YOU want to do. . . Make it a special one and keep in mind that there are folks that love you more than life itself and all they want is a word from you;  a touch;  a hug;  and most of all a few minutes of your time.    Be generous, be sweet, be loving, be YOU.   Hugs to all.

 

Wow!!

Go on Facebook and see the video and pictures of the sink holes in Brookings, Oregon.    We traveled this road for years and never , ever, thought of a sink hole.  Our first experience was one at the front of the City Hall a few years back and that was what we thought was big;   this one is the second part of a sink hole that they have been dealing with and unexpected.   When they closed the new restaurant because of 'pipe' problems, they should have checked in out to find out why as this sink hole is almost at the front door.    A huge costly project to be dealt with.    A lot of painful frustration for our Brookings friends who have to travel this road every day.  

Of course . . . why would you think otherwise....smile!!

Every one needs the help of a friend.   

A friend called me from Brookings last evening and caught me up with all the news of the huge sink hole on the main street in Brookings.    It is going to have disastrous effects on the  shops across from it and a lot of frustration for the folks having to make their way to Crescent City.   I gather that we feel once we put a huge sewer pipe in the ground it will last forever, but like everything else in life, it wears out and the end results are disastrous.  The pictures and the video on Facebook were

eye openers.    Go, take a peek.

The rain storm predicted for yesterday never happened and the sun came out as did the smiles.    We had extra reasons to smile as daughter Christine made it back safely from her business trip to Houston, Texas.    It will be interesting to catch up with her today and hear some of her tales.   It was an opportunity to meet the new folks she has been working with on the telephones and computers.   Her old company sold out and the new company, based in Texas, kept most of the workers and a general meeting was called.  As I said, it will be interesting to hear all about this trip, as I am sure some must have wondered if they were to be replaced or not.    New company, new area, new bosses, might mean changes would be in the offering.   Maybe it was just to get acquainted; so we will hope for the best for all.

 

Meanwhile here at Ridgemont quiet prevails.   We found out Don is in the hospital, not which one, but in a hospital after another fall.   He was out to do some chores with Vinnie and had a weak spell and fell hitting his head on the floor.   I gather he didn't think much about it until later in the evening and  the medics were called in and he was taken to the hospital.    Poor Vinnie was telling us about it yesterday and feeling guilty that he wasn't able to catch him before he went all the way down.     It means he should not be driving any more as he has had several falls lately.   No one likes to loose their driving license but it is times like this that remind us there comes a time it is needed as the body and mind take on a way of their own..   We learn there are different roads to travel and we don't like them, not even a little bit, but there really is nothing we can do about it but acceptance and that is the hardest lesson of all in life.

 

So today, keep in mind that the road you are on will have some sharp turns, a few dizzy curves and  the way to accept is to take one second at a time and make the best of it.     Be good, be kind, don't forget a good deed or two.    Find someone to '

dote' on today;   you know that one, give them a hug, a smooch or two, a short visit, or a phone call.  Skype them.   E-mail them just do something that will make your day and theirs an event to celebrateYOU in their lives and that really is a two way street...what would you do if they were not there?   I would hate to find out.    Find reasons to laugh out loud.  Hugs to all.

Rare

I had no idea Chicago had such a love for Marilyn Munroe;   bigger than life sized statue in the square.   I'd like to hear a comment or two you are thinking about right now.....

Now that is a tree that is a tree and it is in Africa.     Just think of playing tag around that.   

How odd. . . how beautiful....like a stained glass window.  have no idea what it is.  Looks like a jewel.

A tree in New Zealand.   I gather the winds blow like they do along the Oregon coast where you see the trees bending in the wind  .  I wonder if this is what is meant by 'three sheets to the wind ?"

Three thirty and it is quiet around here, everyone with good sleeping habits are enjoying their dreams .  My body clock says wake up. . . um. . . I have a few words for it . . but, I'm off to pour myself a cup of coffee so I can greet you with a smile on my face.   I'll be right back.........

"Ah!"  that first sip. . . wakes up the taste buds so I added a bit of pumpernickel toast, so on to blog, but. about what???  I didn't go anywhere, do anything special, can't think of anything you would find of interest here in Ridgemont.  I hear the rent is being raised, not good . . . hear one of our greeters is down after a bad fall and in the hospital.   "they" don't tell us anything about a missing person around here;  probably a rule, but we do care about our missing person and want to send a card to let them know that they are missed and wish them a speedy recovery.    On the other hand, I have been busy visiting our one hundred year old Rose who has a negative down right lonely existence.  She was sitting out in the main foyer hoping to see someone alive and moving, couldn't stand being in her apartment another minute all alone.   No one stops by to say hello and cheer her up  all because of her negative attitude about the life she didn't lead and the one she did . . . regrets. . . isn't there a Sinatra song about that?  I think so.    I stopped and said hello, followed her back to her apartment and found out she had not eaten.  She is so feeble fixing herself something is a huge chore.   I made her something hot to eat, visited and got her to call her daughter.    It did some good as last evening when I was there to fix her something to eat, a lady walked in from the 'visiting angels' and will come by twice a day, early in the morning and again in the evening.  So Ms. Rose is going to bloom again.  She will be moving to new quarters as soon as a bed opens up in a smaller six unit spot down the street a way.    She will get twenty-four hour care and that she needs, being one hundred isn't all that it seems to be as she voiced her concern about maybe hanging in for another year.  She wondered if she would make a record of some kind.  Rose is stubborn, Rose is determined, Rose is Rose and  she blooms right where she is.    So when you bend your knee tonight, keep her in mind, she can use a few good thoughts and words.

Vinnie and I had our reading session and it was a good one.    Last time we left off with four bombs heading towards some Japanese ships, but missed, the chapter ended and we didn't find out what happened to them and the new chapter went on about a family member so I guess we have to wait a bit longer to find out.    "War and Remembrance" is the book in case you want to read along with us.   Vinnie has a tendency to borrow. . . stamps, candy, cookies, whatever he runs out of . . .but pay back is a foreign word to him and he got his first 'no' yesterday.   He'll survive.

Some of our elders have gone off on a trip.   Sounds good to me.    If I had a healthy bank account you can be assured I would not be here....where...who knows, but it would be somewhere  with walking paths and open doors where sharing is caring and laughter reigns.

So today, the same old tale, think about someone you care about who is alone, lonely and needs YOU to pick up a phone and say hello, I am thinking of you, or I'm stopping by to get a hug. . . some one person in your life is hoping for a glimpse of YOU .    Be a visiting angel and show how much you really care.     Just remember, what goes around comes around, and you want good things to come back around to YOU.     Be good, be kind, be gentle . . . show up with a smile and a treat and spend a few of your seconds with those you like and love.  Hugs to all.    

P.S.   If I told you all or some of this before. . .chalk it up to "she's getting senile"  or just plain "old".   Well, it's that time of life when you can repeat and repeat...just remember three little words says it all....I love you.   Bye for now.

Winners

Big Bear Lake by Maggie Joyce  A fantastic photograph of evening,  the sun setting, profound silence wrapped in winter's cold.



Stanley Park by Darlene Labelle  I would be tempted to title this one "Waiting for the Splash" 



Sunshine Coast by Kelly Findlay  A sunset and the last splash of the wave, such an unusual sight on a rocky shore.

untitled  . . .  A heart shaped sunshine, a gorgeous rainbow, a lonely tree, and a flowering bush . . . A gift  as it reminds me of the story of the burning bush and the promise of better days.   Nature has a ay of telling stories if we take time out to look.

The Cat . . . I am sure you have heard his song.  You have to laugh out loud at this one.   Talk about Caruso. . . dulcet tones. . . a happy song or a lonely howl. . . your choice but know it is loud!
  

These pictures were only a few of the fifty shown from an attachment sent on the Best BC Weather Window Photos of 2015.   Each one was more beautiful than the other.   It must have been hard for the judges to pick and choose.   These were a few of my favorites. I hope it is an incentive to grab your camera and find the perfect shot to enter this years contest.   After the blizzard, I am sure there must be some terrific shots.  When our Pineapple Express quits, I'd like to take my camera for a walk and see what sights I can find around Port Orchard.    We have a few high hills to match San Francisco;  we have a bay filled with boats of all kinds.   The Navy shipyard is across the way and the size of the ships there would fill a camera lens quickly.    There must be some winning shots to take of the sunsets over the bay.  

 

It is Hump Day, the promise of seconds flying bye as we look forward to a brand new weekend to indulge our fantasies of rest and relaxation.   A good time to take yourself to one of the movies that is touted as a winner.   Place me in a dark easy  chair in a theater and it is a sign that nap time is here.   Oh the joys of being 'old';   I was always a movie buff but now it is television or home movies and I can sleep through the best of them.  

 

 I am off for a refill.    I have been doing the puzzle and it is a fun one, a mean one, one that defies you to find a piece which is right there in front of you all the time.     A mystery puzzle.  If you haven't done one in a a long time, find one and put it up and test your mettle.  I think it teaches patience.  Some folks think it teaches them bigger and better swear words.   Let me know which way you find it.

 

Today is reading day with Vinnie.    A week is a long time to find out what happened to those four bombs that were let loose underwater, heading for the Japanese fleet and missing.   where did they go?  What damage did they do?   We are about to find out.

 

I hope your day is a good one...filled with love, beauty and a treat or two.     You really get out of it, what you put into it, so think about what you want your day to be like and make it happen.    Be good, be kind, be gentle . . . only give 'them' the finger when they cut you off, otherwise be a lover and hug someone you love and like.     Hugs to all. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sights

Sheep going through a gate . . . similar to Black Friday after Thanksgiving.

I wonder if this is the calm before the storm.    Rainbows were being made as the storm passed. An awesome sight.

Talk about beach rocks . . . can't put those in your pocket.  

Be prepared for a lecture this morning as the two sided coin makes its way into the blog.    Those of you who have families should get down on your knees and thank the Almighty for giving you a gift that is beyond measure.   Here at Ridgemont there are forty five 'old' folks , some with family members that care, some without family at all, some with family that have distanced themselves living their lives without a thought to the  one who spent a life time giving them the best they knew how to give.    You want to shout out and say 'yes, you have a busy life, and I am happy for you, but take a second to remember I am not useless, I am not selfish to want a second or two of your time;  I earned it. . . I really don't want all of your time.  I just want to hear your voice, see your smile and hear the three little words. . .I love you.  It is the difference between being loved or being rejected.  

Yesterday I went down to mail a letter and found one of our ladies sitting all alone in the main entrance room.   I stopped to say hello and was greeted with . . . "I feel so depressed, can't shake it.  I couldn't stand to be in my apartment a second longer.   Why wont someone stop by and say hello" . . . A good question .   She asked if I would get her mail for her and I did.  I pulled up my walker and sat down and visited to find she had not had lunch or dinner.   Her age has caught up with her and she can hardly move, yet those who lead think she is fine and she is far from it.   I followed her to her apartment and fixed her something to eat.   It takes a minute of my time to heat something up and make sure she has something in her stomach.    She felt better, ate some of her plate but her appetite is not strong.    Food is our fuel....how often I say that...and it is, but some folks just lose their appetite and fade away.    While there her daughter called and I was put on the phone to hear her say how glad she was that I was there.....she has no idea that I am not ''there' and she should be.   Her mother had used up all her medications and she was sending them by mail. . . meanwhile the 'game' is being played and the results yet to follow.  

I do know there is two sides to every coin.  I do know how difficult it is for some to give of time and themselves when they have demands of living their lives with their own family and friends.   But, the proverbial but...one has to budget their time so that they can give a second or two of quality time to the 'old' folks.     That second or two can be the difference of feeling loved or forgotten.    The arguments go on and on about the dilemma ,   and each one is a right one  . . . or is it?

Today, sit down with your cup of choice and think.   Ask yourself if you are doing all that you can to let your family know how much you truly care.    Bury the hatchet if you are on the outs.   Life is too short.    Do what YOU can to make your world a better place.    Take the second or two to pick up the telephone or whatever your modern method of correspondence is, and, break the silence.    Write a note and end it with the three little words...."I love you."    It could be the phase that makes their day one that is bearable.    Remember when you were tiny and needed to be taken care of?  Well, for some folks a second childhood has come about and the needs are still there. . . you have an answer to some prayers. . . so . . . don't sit there, act on your thoughts and feelings and bring your family together with all of the kindness and love within your heart.  Be a GIVER . . . and a RECIEVER. . . as it is truly a two way street of life. . . Be a 'healer';   be YOU and start the ball rolling in your court and watch what happens in your lives.

 

Be a two blue footed Boobie....and share your day with those you like and love. 

Hugs to all.

Awesome

World Trade Memorial, a piece of the building;  steel hands with the names of each victim .  An awesome display, a memory to share and never forgotten.  

My granddaughter took this picture on a beach in Hawaii.  I have no idea what it is and I really don't want to know.  Yuk!! BUT interesting as long as I don't  have to touch it.

When it snows and earth shaking blizzard there is always good use of the snow;  an outside refrigerator!!  How clever can you get?    Someone has an imagination  and a sunshine look at using up some snow.

Another picture of the service man who stood duty at the grave of the Unknown Soldier.   That is snow on his cap.   I hope he wore 'long johns' ;   blessings to the young service men who stand watch.  An honored tradition.   Such pride and love.

Something to think about when you plan your garden this coming spring.    What would we do without our beautiful Monarchs?  

It makes me think of a song I learned a very long time ago . . . "One summer day, in the month of May, a burly bum came hikin,, down the shady lane through the sugar can, a lookin for his liken.  He roamed along and he sang song of a land of milk and honey, where a bum can stay for many a day, and he don't need any money.   Oh the buzzin of the bees in the cigarette trees, near the soda water fountain, near the lemonade spring where the blue birds sing, in the big rock candy mountain."

 

How's that for a Monday morning?   Yeah, I'm awake, had one cup of coffee and more than ready for a refill, so hang tight while I go get one and think up a few words for you this morning.

 

"Ah,   Taste good . . .  I'm back!!!   I'd pour you a cup if you were here. . . I'd like that.  We could sit and enjoy some of those fancy donuts you stopped to get.....well my imagination  runs over....but....you could do just that and stop in and surprise a friend this morning who would be happy to share time with you.  I know I would.

 

I got to walk the Walmart aisles yesterday for a short time.   I went looking for some of their warm and cozy sweat sets to add a new set to my worn out ones.    I have to tell you that they are very comfortable, do not ride up, and after a few years the material stretches. ...a first...I never had that happen before.  I know I haven't shrunk so what makes the material 'grow' is beyond me, never happened before.  Usually they just wear out and you go buy a new set.   Now I am curious as to just how big they will stretch as the bottoms get longer and the shirts get shorter....go figure...it is a mystery.   Cloth with a mind of its own.  A bit spooky too.  The store was crowded, haven't heard if it is to be one of the Walmart stores that is closing.   I can't imagine them closing any stores as they always seem to be doing a big rushing business....wonder if China's problems have anything to do with it.    Wonder why they are having to close anyway. . . a lot of folks depend on them as it fits their budget.   Maybe the owners just made enough money to retire in a style they were never accustomed to and want to get away from it all.   

 

We had a bit of sunshine yesterday and it felt so good.    It is nice to be able to open the door and let a bit of fresh air into the apartment.    Hopefully we will get a bit more today and be able to take a walk around the block in fresh air and sunshine. . . I'd like that.    Hopefully those who got snow up tot he kazookas and back are out enjoying the sunshine, a sled ride down a big hill and a hot chocolate party when they have had enough.    Dress warmly, find a big hill, slide and laugh out loud.   Have a fun 'snow' day.  Invite a friend along;  maybe a snowshoe hike across a field or meadow would be a good idea.   You can go back to work when the snowplows open the pathways;  just hope they don't rush . . a little down time never hurt anyone.

 

YOU can make someone happy today . . . didn't know you had it in you did you?    Well, you do. . . so share you with those you love and like.    It is so good for you and those on the receiving end think so too.   The best of all is that it doesn't hurt one bit . . . in fact it makes you 'glow'.    So be a ray of sunshine today and shine.   Hugs to all.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wondering

One of Erin's dishes while visiting Kauai;  looks delicious.     

A truism

no matter what the weather a strong, brave, service man walks the walk and never lets a  bit of weather stop him from his guard duty at the tomb of the unknown soldier.    I wonder who pulled duty and how he made out in that blizzard that hit the D. C. area yesterday and probably still on going this morning.   Say a prayer or two for the dedicated person who never shirks his duty.

Sheila's cats.  she has three and here are two of them that cannot share a rug but have to have one of their very won.  Smart cats know how to stay warm  and cozy during the winter rains. 

The blizzard arrived  in Virginia and along the entire east coast.   The news on television was full of pictures and stories about the blizzard which arrived on time and shut half of the east coast down.  The cities were at a stand still , people were smart and stayed in.   Those snow plow drivers sure should get a medal.  

Trucks were backed up for miles on the turnpikes.    We will be hearing a lot more today about the horrendous storm that gusted and howled its way across the entire east coast.   The storm brought back memories of my early days in Massachusetts when we had heavy snow storms that closed school for the day and left us to shovel our way to a play day.   I would imagine the children of today, living in those towns where the snow is piled high are up and out helping to shovel and make forts, snowballs and  have their sleds out ready for a wonderful day.  

 

We, my daughters and I , went to a Bavarian dinner at a private home that was big and beautiful and all set up for ten guests.  It was a Kiwanis  fund raiser and the Bavarian gentleman and his wife donate their time and talent to cook a special dinner up twice a year.   They donate their time and talent to a great cause.   I had no idea what Bavarian food tasted like and I was about  to find out.   We were greeted and introduced to a special drink that looked like cola but was different and not effervescent.  I don't drink sodas so didn't taste it, but I did take a few of the pre dinner crackers and cheeses that were spread out on a table with a dozen other tasty treats.   The hostess warned us not to over indulge as the dinner would be served soon and there was everything from  soup to nuts.  She was not kidding.

 

Our first course was a tomato soup to die for.  I don't even like tomato soup, but this one I'd like the recipe and make it often.  I don't know the names of the food that came to the table but I can tell you that it was all delicious and plentiful.  There was no way I could eat it all, so I nibbled and tasted and went home with a very large doggie bag.  In fact, I just had a left over sausage and bread leftover for breakfast this morning and it was just as delicious as it was at dinner yesterday.    We had stuffed yellow peppers with cabbage;  we had a roll filled with spinach and a creamy cheese;   we had taste treats that defied the taste buds and no room for it all.    So, if you are invited to have Bavarian down home foods, don't hesitate.

 

I understand from our hostess that they put on another dinner in the summer time and roast a lamb on the outside pit.   I have only seen a roasted lamb in a cowboy movie, not sure I'd like to see one cooking on a spit.    I bet it is delicious and wonder what sides they put with it..  Maybe we will find out and attend the one next summer but we will have to save as the dinners are far from cheap.  I know, a good cause, so I'll start saving now.

 

As for the guests, great folks, good conversations, some world travelers with stories to tell and I would say a great time was had by all.    I think they should be called "Indulge to Bulge affairs".

 

So, it is Sunday, all day.   I think you could manage a feast in your kitchen today.   If you are in for the day, why not cook up a special dinner . . . a chicken pot pie is easy;   spaghetti and meatballs always hit the spot;   just call in a few family members or friends and settle around the table and enjoy.  Of course  'they' will bring the sides , the wine, and regale you with stories to make you laugh out loud.   What a way to spend a Sunday, stormy or not.    Don't forget desert, there is always room for desert.    We had cookies of all kinds and a real 'Greek' coffee  in a tiny cup which was very strong to end our dinner yesterday.   I'd say it was okay...but....I prefer my coffee not quite so strong in a much larger cup...think it is demitasse, not sure...but an acquired taste.    Tea isn't all bad but water with a bit of lemon is always good.   You choose and have a wonderful Sunday using your seconds wisely.   Hugs to all.

 

Pieces

No you have admit that this is a prize possession;   Clever and endearing.

A lovely picture of  the 911 memorial build near Jerusalem.  The only foreign tribute which has the names of all who were lost  both in English and Jewish.     

The first family coming back from vacation.   No one is smiling.

Mike and Mari live in the path of that huge storm that is heading their way and this is just the beginning.  

We should be seeing lots of pictures on the television today about that huge storm that was coming in late yesterday.   It was to be a blizzard and there was plenty of warning so everyone should be hunkered down safe and off the roads.    Our little rain bursts seem like nothing in comparison.    it is my first winter up here in the north, haven't any idea of how much stormy weather we will get.  So far we had a dusting of snow but mostly rain and it does rain, a lot.   

 

I read a short missive about Facebook and its contents...Each one telling where they went, what they ate, who they saw. . . reminded me of me and the blog.    Some folks are interested in what a person, they love or like, wants to share.    Our lives are not always filled with excitement, travels and good times, but are more or less mundane with just daily living.   Walking around the block and talking with ones neighbors may be the high light of the day, but special because you had a chance to share a bit of your seconds with those you like and love.    Maybe sharing a trip to the grocery store is the highlight of the day, or fixing a cup of tea for someone who drops in to find out how you are doing.   It is just life, as it is, not overly exciting, not filled with glamorous doings, just everyday existence which creates a bit of love and laughter in ones existence.   Some folks have no one to share their seconds with.    They hunger for a word, a deed, a touch.    Loneliness hurts.  

 

So today, keep those words in mind.   Show you care just by listening.   Maybe even sharing a few humdrum words of your very own.    Maybe, just maybe, you will make some one person feel needed, wanted and loved.    I think that is number one on our priority list. . . to be liked. . . to be listened to. . . to be cared for. . . . to be needed. . . to be loved.

 

Go, share the love you feel today.    Don't hold back;  give a little and get back a lot.   Today is the right day to be loving.  Hugs to all.

Crayons

John Wayne

A seascape

Jesus

Don Marco is a master Crayola artist.    I cannot imagine being able to paint such master pieces with crayons.   Some folks are just born with a talent that has to be shared. 

Speaking of talent, there were eight of us who joined Sandy, a lovely lady who brought the makings of cards with her and gave us the opportunity to make two.    She had chosen the materials wisely and all materials were pre cut so it was a matter of making a decision as to where you wanted to place the pieces.    It was a simple procedure but old fingers had a way of making things a bit crooked, but, they were fun to do and came out pretty good.   We dabbled in two kinds of glue.   You try picking up a tiny sparkle and place it in one spot....not as easy as it looks.   If we had wet our finger it would have been a cinch, but after a little serious picking up one tiny little sparkle after another we did get the hang of it.    One card was a picture of a cute little girl from another era, with curls and a smile to wish you well;  the other was a Valentine with all kinds of hearts to choose from and we had to decide where and how to place them.    We made not be artists but we had fun and our finished products will only be sent to those that love us in spite of our 'talent'.    Everyone enjoyed dabbling in the arts and I would say we all would like her to come back again with another project.

 

Quiet settled in here in Ridgemont as the rain poured buckets, or cats and dogs, as we used to say.   The wind was up, not too much, but enough to move the trees leaves .   We have many trees around us , what I think must have been like a forest before the medical folks took over.    You would be amazed at the size and scope of the buildings here in Port Orchard,. everything from clinics to medical offices and many fancy complex apartment buildings for the elderly.   Ridgemont is a senior apartment complex, probably forty five apartments in this one building.  There are two other buildings also.  Then going either north or south on Pottery Avenue you see bigger and fancier buildings with a price tag to stagger the imagination.  

 

Everyone settled in and quiet prevailed until the fire alarm went off and stayed screeching at top level for what seemed like a half hour.   The fire men had just checked the fire alarm out recently, I think they turned the volume up.   It is so loud it vibrates my apartment.  My neighbor came out and said it gave her a headache.   It seems Carolyn was cooking something for her dinner and it started to smoke and wouldn't quit thus the alarm went off.    It doesn't take much, believe me.   I don't know what we would do if we had a real fire, probably ignore it.  

 

So today dabble in the arts.   If you have a talent great, go for it and share.  If you don't dabble in the creative arts with a leader and enjoy an  hour or two of trying to be a creative genius.   The month is winding down and the winter storms keep us hunkered down and the want for something to keep us busy.    Each of us has a hidden talent so winter is a good time to perfect it.   A batch of cookies would be fun to make today.    I'd go for a piece of carrot cake, just invite me and I'll show you how age perfects the taste buds.    Maybe you would rather paint or try crayons and see what you can do and come out of the shadows with that talent you have.    Just top it  off with a good deed.   There is some one person  in your life that needs a second or two of your time today.   Someone who needs a smile, a hug, and a bit of your attention.   Use that 'talent' and share YOU with those you love and like.    Hugs to all.

 

 

Old Ship -More News

A fallen tree, just under the water, tore the hull and the boat sank.  It was lost for one hundred thirty two years.

A beaver hat in pristine condition

A fancy shoe

a whole crate of real china dishes

I put the picture of the ship being unearthed a couple of days ago.    Today I received a new computer write up showing many pictures of the ship being discovered in 1980 on a Kansas farm.   Legend led Bob Hendy and sons to find it and a treasure trove of articles , items, and artifacts that museums will want in their rooms.      It just goes to show how little we know what is in the ground beneath us.   

 

I had read the book "A Long Walk In The Woods" and enjoyed every word.  It was a fun read.  I sent my sons a copy and now the movie is out with Robert Redford and Nick Nolte.   Pat picked it up for me at Walmart,  and we watched it .  It is well done, so don't hesitate to pick it up and enjoy.   But, read the book first.    The movie is great, well done job, but they did leave a lot out.   It is the type of movie you want to go on and on....more, more....smile.

 

Some of our folks at Ridgemont are having bouts of falling.   Not sure what is going on but it is dangerous and painful.   Two have been hospitalized with broken 'wings' but doing fine and coming along so they should be back to their apartments soon.   Several of the men are getting weaker as one has had several falls over a few days...a loss of balance out of no where.  The other has had one fall and no real damage but it doesn't sit well when they want to go out and about.    The sun came out for awhile and everyone wanted to get outside just to feel it in their bones.    Can't blame them for that.    

 

Karen, our manager, had a birthday to day.  Her office was filled with lovely flowers , a package or two and she was smiling.  I sang her Happy Birthday and she got a kick out of that.     A busy and lovely lady who tries hard to make our stay here in Ridgemont a good one

 

Vinnie and I had a good read today, over an hour and got to a good part where the submarine was letting four of its bombs loose on some Japanese boats.   They missed. . . why, how, yet to be found out as the next chapter started off with another family member in a Christmas setting.  Vinnie wanted to go on until he found out what happened to the bombs but that has to be another day.   I could have skipped some pages and found out but that would be cheating!!

 

So today, be good, be kind, be gentle. . . . don't cheat. . . be wise. . . be careful and make your seconds count so you are 'king' or 'queen' of the hill today.    Be pleasant . . . that means a smile, soft voice, and light touch. . . ah. . . you can do it. . . try. . . you will be amazed at how really 'good' you are.   I already know!!   Hugs to all..   

 

 

 

And . . .

I didn't know that.    Wish I never heard of it as campfires are always fun to share...brilliant starry night, good friends,  marsh-mellows and maybe a cowboy song or two..... one never thinks of carcinogens.

I have never seen anyone devour twenty tacos in one sitting;    two seems to be the magic number  and one margarita . . . although we could change that and have one taco and two margaritas;  with or without salt?   The choice is yours . . . Poncho's here  we come....well if I were in Brookings I would be there for lunch or dinner.  

Isn't that the truth!!  But. . . wait a second or two and February and March will show us a bit of what winter is really all about.  Don't put that snow shovel away just yet.

I am not sure if I posted this picture before or not, but it can stand another look see. . . our ladies.... our warrior ladies....we don't hear much abut them and what they do or have done . . . or . . .the fact they are wounded warriors too.   They deserve some notice and our thanks for being brave wanting to fight for our country no matter what.    Say a prayer for each and everyone of them. 

Hump day, mid week, time flying by . . . I had planned to take the girls out for a snack last evening but the weather was so stormy, wet, cold and miserable we opted to wait for a better time.   I fixed that I invited them for blueberry pancakes this morning so I am going to be out in the kitchen  making up the batter and trying to figure out how I can cook them in one tiny cast iron frying pan not much bigger than a pancake.   I miss my Brookings kitchen. . . I miss my oversized pots and pans;   I gave up cooking, how come I still keep trying  . . . guess I cannot give up those  'jean' dishes.    it will all work out, it always does.  I just have to get out there and do it.

It was quiet around here last evening when I heard a big thump.   I thought, for a minute, that my neighbor may have fallen so I went over and knocked on her door.   It took Evelyn a while to get to the door but she was fine .   She heard the noise too but we couldn't tell where it came from.   I looked outside and went out on the little porch to see a huge truck trying to park in a small space.  Maybe the driver hit the fence;  not sure, but at least it wasn't one of our 'patrons' lying on the floor.   Several of our folks have fallen lately.   Balance seems to be a bit of a problem when you get to this age.   Rose, one of our ladies that had a fall about a month ago and has been in the hospital wing, came for a visit yesterday with her contraption that rests her arm when she is out for a walk.   It is quite a stand on wheels.   She must have done a lot of damage to one arm as it is still wrapped up tight.  She tells us she will be returning to her apartment by the end of this week.    It isn't going to be easy with only one hand to work with.  

Aggie came for coffee yesterday.   She is Norwegian and a coffee drinker.   She carries her own thermos of hot coffee but had drank her coffee up so I put on a new pot.    We had a nice visit, lovely lady, easy to be with.    Today is reading day with Vinnie;.  We are trying a once a week deal, so it is going to take some time to get the sequel read.   Be good, be kind, be gentle and make someone you like and love content with your company today.    Stop at the store, pick up a bit of something delicious and join someone for a cup of tea, a visit, and find reasons to laugh out loud.   

The computer just went down, the blog was saved so I am ending before I lose it completely.   Go . .  have some fun today, doing things you love to do.    Share YOU with those you love and like.  Send me a note, I'd love to hear from you.   Hugs to all.
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