Beautiful lilacs;  wonder why more are not in our gardens.   I haven't seen any around here at all.  They smell so good;  look so beautiful, make a room come alive. . I'd say grow some lilacs.

The only thing is reading in the wee hours is not the time to be out traveling around;  I'd say a boring book would be the answer to waking up in the wee hours and sleep escapes to that somewhere we cannot find it.    Three,  four, quiet time and we should be sleeping through it, but there are those nights and then we really enjoy the words between the covers of the book and the bed.    Last night I spent my time reading about escaping from  a jungle , then was to scared to go back to sleep. 

As I just talked about sleeping or not sleeping , last night was one of those reading nights.    I have a Clive Cussler going and you know he just doesn't let you relax and get sleepy.  He winds you up and keeps you wide awake chasing around and finding ways to thwart the bad guys.  You are just to tired to sleep.   Come to think of it that was big easy chairs are for.

I had fun yesterday as I had a ride to Paulsbo and the casino there.   My girls went shopping at an estate sale and came back to rescue me for brunch.   We sat outside in the sunshine and wind so it was a bit chilly in the shade, but not chilly enough to send us back inside where the noise and chatter are loud and disrupting.   The acoustics are bad, a few simple potted plants or small trees could remedy that.    I had to laugh as we leave the waters edge and go inland and order fish fro the menu.   I had Haddock and chips which were delicious , Chris had salmon and said it was very good.  Pat had a salad and enjoyed it.    I didn't come home with a pocket full , but I did come back with  my original funds so I'd say I was a winner.   It was fun.   I like to play the Keno machines and I 'almost' won as I got six out of my seven spot...that one number just missed its hole....but a little win is almost as good as a whole one...well not quiet...I find myself wishful thinking;  isn't that what 'gamers' do?

Here at Ridgemont, I have taken a sabbatical reading to Vinnie.    He seems to be having difficulty making it out of his room lately.  I don't think he feels that good.    He has been detracted and ill at ease for a few of the last readings.  I am am not sure if it is the book, or if he is just not feeling good I think a little time off may be the answer.  I have been having some ocular migraines lately so may have been overdoing it, or age is catching up with the eyes.    I just had an exam and no changes found, a slight difference in distance but not enough to warren new glasses.    So a rest for both of us sounds like a winner.

A knock on my door, and there is Pat with a new little round beautiful table for my apartment, and she added a table cloth she found yesterday.   The table is dark wood, very pretty, and looks great by the rocking chair.   Chris had a hand in it to so I thank both my girls for being so good to me.   It is amazing what yard sale items can do for an apartment or a home....some ones junk is another mans treasure and that is a truism.     

So go find a yard sale and find a treasure for your home.    I miss going to them, used to be a lot of fun and there was always books to collect.    For someone who was not going to collect books again, I seem to have added a few more recently...let me see.....fourteen....I'm doing pretty good.

So today, grab a good book and go out and sit under a shady spot and read awhile.    When you have had enough, make yourself some kind of a snack and invite a family member or friend in and enjoy an hour of giggle talk.    I had a loving friend who used to keep little clippings of funny sayings and she would invite me over and we would sit at her table reading them , laughing our heads off and enjoying time out.   Try it, you may find it is a lot more fun than watching TV all by yourself.  Go, be good, be kind, be gentle and share hugs, hugs, hugs....Hugs to all.

Little Miracle

Little miracles blowing in the wind.   

Beautiful flowers to welcome you at the Gallery.

Gardens, the miracle of beauty in your own back yard.

Flowers, a welcome sight inside or out.  How much they lighten and brighten a room.   They have a special way of enveloping you in the spirit of life and love.    Inside or out, they bring a sense of joy and fulfillment:  everyone should have a garden or a garden box or even a pot or two within their walls.    One of life's greatest miracles as the little tiny seed is planted and the end results of beauty bring peace and harmony to your world.    We are having a special event this morning  here at Ridgemont as our Gina has just become an American Citizen and she is very proud and happy.  A special bouquet is being delivered , a lovely surprise to a lovely young lady we all love and admire.  

The heat wave is still on but I have a  new air conditioning unit , thanks to my girls, and the room stays nice and cool.   Note the font has jumped up a notch or two, makes for easier reading.  I have no idea how or why it does that.   Now if I learned how, then I could use the larger print and we  could all stop squinting.

The girls and I had a date to go out for dinner last evening but the heat is extremely hard on Pat so we opted to stop at the Mexican restaurant in town and ordered some dishes that were very tasty, and joined Pat at her house.   I had one taste of a 'hot' pepper that was a surprise but not all that bad.   A gallon of water later and one is all cooled down.    All in all I would say we enjoyed our dinner and Christine showed Pat how to remodel faces and become a painter of cartoon characters on her little computer so you know she had a ball.   A new toy, we are all going to be such characters, with faces only a mother could love and that would take effort on her part.

So today we have a new day and we are off to Bainbridge Island, although I may be dropped off at the casino to try my luck for awhile.   I want to do both, but given a choice you know where to find me...smile.    Hey, Marcia, wish you were here to join me.

That is my news for this morning, not a lot, but something....July is ending and we have hot August to contend with.   Beach weather.    I think we should all retire to a beach. . . Hawaii would be nice.    Brooking wouldn't be at all bad...smile.    But, beggars cannot be choosers and a shady spot in the back yard isn't all bad.

Do make some lemonade, fill your glass with ice cubes and enjoy.  Invite a friend to sit in your back yard and spend some time reminiscing .   Some of those memories will bring a lot of joy into your life today.    Be good, be kind, be gentle and one good deed is a cinch for you.    Make it a good one.    Three little words mean a lot so whisper them often today.   Make your world a happy place as YOU spread a little joy.  Hugs to all.

Mornin!

A new day......coffee...tea...latte .....water......whatever turns your thermostat on.....wake up....sit up...get up and greet your new day.

Yeah....ME!!!   One more sip and maybe I'll get to the blog.

Some mornings the words flow and then there are mornings,like  this one, when the words lie hidden in the mind and don't want to come out and play with you today.

There is nothing new and different.   There is really nothing but politics to even talk about and I don't want to talk about them.   Do you?   I am betting you are sick and tired of all the rhetoric .  Yesterday I spent having a quiet day, finished the puzzle, read more of my novel, ate anything and everything that was glued down.   Enjoyed the quiet and cool of the apartment as the air conditioning unit works great and it stayed nice and cool in our almost 90 degree day.  Hot, hot, hot and staying in seemed like a great idea.    Christine brought over a few envelopes for me to address and I find my writing has changed with age.  I use to have a very good penmanship and loved to write but age takes its toll and the fingers decide to go their own way and I wouldn't get any gold stars for penmanship anymore.     Lack of practice probably as it is so much easier to push a few keys and relax and let the computer do all the work.

Ron came to visit yesterday and that was nice.  We do a lot of reminiscing   about the early days and tell tales of long ago. .  boy, does that tell you a lot about getting older.    

My coffee cup is full and I have one of the breakfast rolls Doris made yesterday....delicious....she assures me that the frosting has no calories.    I thought about cooking a dropped egg on toast but that seemed like a lot of work, nothing lazy about me, and the roll has a much higher calling to answer to.   Sweet over salt. . um. . . choices.   So I will love you and leave you to your breakfast and your waking up time.    It may be another hot summer day here but I have a new air conditioner thanks to my two girls and it works great.    I had to revamp the floor space and find places to put things and I could use an interior decorator but that isn't about to happen so I will push, pull and struggle until I get the feeling I want.    

Interior decorating...um...maybe you want to try your hand at it today.  Maybe you are satisfied with things the way they are and will open the door, walk out and find something fun to do.   Go....have fun and enjoy your day.  Hugs to all. 

A Birthday Lady

Here is an old picture of Darlene and Peat at a birthday party when our Sultan used to lead us in and out of the restaurant where we celebrated a birthday.  Pete has gone on to pave the way for us and we miss him more every day.  Darlene has moved away to be close to her daughter and grandchildren and we miss her . . .but . . . it is her birthday time and we don't want to miss that. Happy Birthday to YOU....Happy birthday to YOU....Happy birthday dear Darlene, how we miss you.....

One of my favorite flowers.   He loves me, He loves me not.....smile.

I didn't know some one took my picture...smile.

Hump day is over and we had a Santa Workshop at the gallery last evening.    We tried to master the art of metal wrap where you take a long piece of wire and shape it to a small jar;  sounds easy, well I have news for you, it is not and the end results were sad to say the least.    I don't know who comes up with some of the designs to work on but they sure don't show up to put them into action.  We struggled and got a few jars done but I hate to tell you that they are not objects to be admired.  I think the whole idea should be swept under the rug and something new and different thought up as a decorating item for one of the affairs.    The pizza was good, as was the company, I brought a few pieces home and shared them with friend, Doris, down the hall and she was all smiles.  She loves pizza.   I never thought I'd live to see the day that pizza would cost thirty dollars delivered to your door;  outrageous, and not worth it in my estimation but then I have that old depression pocketbook and mentality,  although some folks take it for granted that it is worth it.    Life sure has changed in so many ways and not all to my liking.   I wonder if the stores carry the pizza dough.  I remember a bakery that used to carry the dough and you could buy it by the pound, take it home, pat it out and make a pizza that was delicious and healthy as well, and it didn't cost an arm and a leg.

It is hard for some of us old timers to accept all the changes that have come about, especially in the price of food.   We came up in the Depression era and we learned to make do.    We certainly didn't waste ..anything....and back in our old neighborhood we shared.   There was no way anyone would not share what they had as it was a want not , waste not neighborhood.   Speaking of waste, I was in a thrift store yesterday and was amazed at the prices.  The cast offs are given freely, then priced like the stores.  I don't get it.   The societies want to clothe the naked, fed the hungry and then price the free items sky high .  It just doesn't make sense.   Another 'idea' of change.   

Okay, enough griping and groaning about the changes in or world.    We cannot talk religion or politics so I've used up my griping space.   Guess we will have to find something else to talk about....Netflick and Madam Secretary is a good show.  The second season has started and I enjoy it.   Pat is very good about inviting me over to watch it in the cool of her air conditioned home.   Nice....cool...great tea and good company.    Madam Secretary reminds me a little of West Wing, well done and interesting.    I enjoyed Cedar Cove also and am waiting for a new season.   

We cold talk about Ridgemont but then there really isn't much new news.   Vinnie has not shown up for several days for a read.    Not sure what is going on with him.   There seems to be a no talk clause in the works as we never hear any news of our fellow citizens here  and rumors abound.   I heard yesterday one of our men, I thought was in the hospital, had died;  not a word and it doesn't make sense.   The majority want to know how their fellow neighbors are and some take time to visit, to send a card, to make a call to let them know they are 'neighbors'.    It is a strange and different rules seem to apply, and you thought I was going to share some gossip. . . no way.

So today, stay in tune with your neighbors.    Be sure to take time to wave, smile, call, invite.....little words mean a lot.    Hugs mean more.     So set your rule for the day, one hug, two, three. . . how many can you fit in today?    I'll take a verbal one.    Know I like you, I love you, and I wish you contentment today.    Be content.  Hugs to all.

Bits and Piece

A painting Christine bought for me because I laughed out loud.  It really is precious and it does make me laugh.   I have shown it before, but like all good things that make us laugh out loud, it is worth another look.

One of the waterways here in the Northwest.   There are many.   It is not the ocean but second best...smile.....

A view of Seattle from the wharf at Manchester.  

Good Morning.    A quiet day yesterday, did a bit of the puzzle which is a fun one, read some of Cussler and the shenanigans  of the characters in his story, had the fan going most of the afternoon as it heated up, and even took a walk out  to the corner and back.    Pat stopped in to check on me, and find a few puzzle pieces.  She is very good at it.   So a quiet day and not a sound from anyone here at Ridgemont.    It is after four a.m. so it is dark outdoors.  I have my door wide open so the cool air will fill the room and then I will close it off when the heat rises.  We are due another hot day today.   

The political battles go on and on and on;  just read an article about Hillary that was down right scary.   She is not a person I would vote for, as her history is quite frightening to say the least.  We again have a choice between the lesser of two evils and that is a shame.  Whatever happened to strong willing candidates who want to run this country as it should be led.    Whatever happened to honesty, caring and a proud America. . . the old adage of all good things must come to an end seems to be happening more each year.    I hope you all take time to stop, look, listen and vote.

I caught up with the daughter of my old pen pal of some sixty years and she was kind enough to respond and catch me up on the children and grandchildren of my old friend.  She even sent some pictures along and it was so good to see the grandchildren and great grand children.  She would have been so happy and proud of all of them.  My friend and I were pen pals for over fifty years and we  spent time on paper sharing news of our children and grandchildren.   A history all by itself.   She has been gone many years and I still miss our correspondence.  I am very thankful to this wonderful daughter of hers and stop to think how proud she would be of her family.   It is sad her grandchildren and great grandchildren didn't have the chance to meet her and have her in their lives. 

She was one of those homemakers who greeted you with a hug and a smile, sat you down at the kitchen table and served up a plate of her fresh baked blueberry muffins.    You were always welcomed.  You were always sent away with the feeling of being accepted and loved.   

So today, take a page from her history book and see what you can do to share that same kind of feeling with those you like and love.    Take time to open your door and your heart and have a 'coffee clatch' or a tea break and share YOU with those you like and love.   The time you spend will be heart warming and you will come away feeling like a million . . . dollars??? Nah!!!  Smiles....and a warm heart to carry you through the day.    AND, be good, be kind, be gentle as you go about your day today.   Take time to think.....someone needs a hug;   a kiss;   a smile and a few moments of your time.   Give generously, that's because you can.   Make today a day to remember.  Hugs to all.

Manchester

The little tug was bumping the pier, have no idea why.    

One of the signs on the pier at Manchester

The little girl was dressed up in high heels and dancing on the wharf.   Her mother was sitting in her car watching closely as we snapped her picture.   We smiled and said 'cute' and she nodded.   

Our favorite run away spot to have lunch.

Christine was over yesterday and checked out the computer for me and, lucky for me, put the pictures I took of the trip to Manchester last week onto the computer.   I did take notes.  I hope I can do it myself in the future as it will give me a whole new area to show you of our Northwest.

There are times when one wants to run away for a day and we have found that Manchester is a delightful ride , not to far away, and the 'grill' has very good food.   We have had their breakfast and their lunch and best of all Christine took me there last week for Prime Rib that was tender and delicious.   

It is a delightful small town with lovely homes over looking the water.   The Ferry boat landing is there and it is a 'hilly' little town.    Not a lot there, the library was closed and there are no shops, yet it has a little draw all its own.  

  

You can see Seattle, the Space Needle and the Navy yard from the water's edge.   We do have a couple of other areas we like to travel to also and one is rarely out of sight of the water.   I often speak of missing the beaches of Oregon but I am slowly finding a lot of beauty in the waterways here in this area.   My gripe being the distances to go where you want to go and Christine laughs out loud as she tells me they are only minutes away.    

So the camera is working fine, now all I have to do is find some little trips to take it on, so I can introduce you to a little more of the northwest.    We have a heat wave coming on so the talk is of a trip to the ocean some two hours away.    I have't been there as yet but when and if I do, I'll take my camera with me and show you a little of Washington's beach area.

Here at Ridgemont it is quiet.   Alzheimer has claimed two of our men and both have been moved to other facilities where there is special care.   One of our ladies returned after having a pace maker operation and is doing very well.   It is nice to have her back.    Doris, who will be one hundred, next birthday, is still baking up a storm and made some breakfast rolls to share.    Baking is her way of coping with boredom.   There have been fewer at the dinner hour this week, probably because it is vacation time and families are getting together for a few days.  It makes a nice change for the folks that are confined most of the year.    

So think about folks in your family and if they are living in a senior residence, take time to give them an outing.   Take them shopping and stop for a special treat.   You may give little thought to getting older and having limitations put on you as to 'getting around' but it comes to all...sooner or later...age is the price we pay for living so long.    It isn't all bad, but it can get lonely.    You are busy, that is natural for you and once they were busy and didn't think about the future. . . well give the future some thought as you are heading in the same direction.  It is inevitable.    Just remember that all those good deeds come back and that is really a God send....a blessing in disguise.   Do today, give a little of YOU to the someone you like and love.    Some one person in your life needs a little of your attention. . . why???  because they LOVE you.    A two way street and it is wonderful. . . make a date and share a belly laugh or two.    Go!!!  BE YOU!!!!  Hugs to all.

Weather

 I went searching for some old weather pictures and this one caught my eye.   It looks like a giant spider caught dancing in the night.    

Sunset , the sun fades slowly behind the clouds.   A lovely picture, one I've seen many times when we used to go to a lovely restaurant by the sea in Brookings, Oregon and waited for our food to be brought out from the kitchen.   The panorama of the sun fading slowing behind the clouds brought peace and serenity.

What a terrific picture.   One of beauty.    Nature at its best.

What is going on around here???  No much.    The weather has stayed cool and lovely.  We did get some sunshine yesterday but I chose to stay indoors and be lazy.    I have a puzzle going so it takes time to find the pieces.   Pat pops in and puts a few in  and that is fun.    She brought me the local newspaper which I do not ordinarily look at;  no special reason;  just like the cryptoquote which is always difficult to complete.   Pat and Christine made jam out of the big blackberries growing in Christine's garden.    I am looking forward to tasting it.   

The blinds are open, the  sky is like the colors of a rainbow spread out in a huge cloud with a light blue backing of pure sky.  No breeze so the trees are still.  Quiet prevails.  The tree tops look like little tiny Christmas trees with their branches bending waiting patiently to dance in the wind.   It makes for a lovely scene and brings pleasure to the eye as one waits for the day to begin.  No special plans for today, probably get to the grocery store as 'there is nothing in this house' as the proverbial cry goes....meaning....nothing good, nothing sweet although that isn't true as Doris made breakfast rolls and put some in a bag and hug them on my door.    I am not eating them...yet....smile......waiting for the girls to drop in.   I am running low in some of the staples so will make my list and be ready when the girls plan a trip to the store.   

We have been told to expect a heat wave this week so the thought leads to a trip to the beach.  I have not been there as yet, think it is about two hours away.    All we have to do is convince Christine she needs to take some time out.  She really does as she is always so busy and all work and not play makes for  stress and strain.    She really could use a break, now how do I talk her into it?   I hope I can be persuasive.    So if you do not see a blog for a day or so, you will know I was successful.

So start your new week off with a smile, a load of ambition to complete all the tasks you set out for yourself.    The garden produce is coming through so canning might be in store.   Then you could have company so you may have to take time out to show them around town and relax and enjoy yourself.  You know the adage of 'all work and no play' . . . so get out there and play a little.   If I were there I'd join you , work can always be done another day. . .if you can get away with it. . .smile.

Take time out to do some one thing you really want to do today.    Start your week off the right way.  Be good, be kind, be gentled and make it two good deeds today.    Stop in and visit your church, light a candle for a few of the souls waiting to get into the garden gate.    I am off to  add water  to the beautiful garden bouquet Pat brought over yesterday.    Huge white mums and some yellow whatcha macallums.... so beautiful and so lovely to look at.    Go out to your garden and pick a bouquet and make your room shine.    Flowers light up a room . . . ah!!!Light up the soul is more like it.   How lucky to have a flower garden.    

All together now....be kind, be gentle, be a welcome mat;  open the door and let a few folks in for a cup of hot coffee, chocolate, tea, water....you have plenty so SHARE....and add YOU to the mix.,  Make it a 'banner' day....filled with love and laughter, a bit of hard work, a bit of lazy time out and don't be stingy with the hugs.    It is amazing how folks really truly need a HUG!!!!   So 'hug' away and have a great day.  Hugs to all.

Church Day

Harry Belafonte comes to mind with his rendition of 'Yellow Bird"   

I did treat the 'girls' to a pizza dinner tonight with salad;  not like this one, but close..smile.

The Passion Flower, lovely to look at, delightful to own.

Hello, Sunday morning and it is quiet out there in the parking lot already filled with worker's cars,    I notice they do not park in the same spot so it is first come, first served.    I think we are going to see the sunshine today. It has been awhile.  Weather here is usually overcast which keeps us cool so we are not complaining.  Here at Ridgemont quiet prevails.  The inspection by HUD is over but no results.  I am sure they found everything to their satisfaction.   I had put the pan on for the last of the pancake batter , got busy and have an apartment filled with smoke, no alarm which means the new system is working better and the fan is on and door open so it should dissipate soon.    I know better but forget I cannot blog and cook at the same time.  I used up the last of Jock's blueberries.  I hope he is growing a banner crop for next season as they truly are delicious, so big and beautiful and tasty.   

Pat just stopped in with some coffee filters for me.  I ran out.   I never run out of coffee filters, but I did...getting forgetful in my dotage and they were on my grocery list.  She and Emma are heading for the park so Emma can run.   If you asked Emma she would say she would rather stay right here and be petted.   She is a wonderful dog, gorgeous eyes, sweet disposition and loves to be loved....like others I know ....smile.

I have some lovely flowers from Pat's yard so had to give them some attention this morning.   They brighten a room and makes you wonder how truly miraculous they are, truly beautiful and warm the very soul.Yellow gladiola and white mums, a lovely combination.

So today, take a walk around your flower beds and pick out some lovely flowers to brighten your room.    Share some with a neighbor who does't have any and make their day brighter and lighter.    If you have some to spare, take a bouquet to the church and place them on the alter where everyone can enjoy them.   They truly are miracles of God.   Take time to really look at a flower. . . it is awesome.

The smoke is gone.  The eyes are still teary . . . I'm off to get dressed and go for a walk around the block.   It is much too nice a morning to waste indoors.    So open your blinds , check your weather, and if it is nice as ours here in the Northwest, then put on your shoes and go for a walk.    Put a smile on your face, a welcome in your eyes and greet your neighbors and indulge in a bit of over the fence chatter.     Be good, be kind, be gentle.     Be a good neighbor, a friendly one, one who brings a little love and laughter with them.     You will make someone person happy you are in their lives.  I am happy to have you in mine even if I don't get to see you or visit with you;   YOU are a giver of words that have a lot of loving meaning to them, so keep up your good deeds and words and send a little love this way.     Hugs to all.

Word

Some days it is just one that is needed;  some days it may take a few more.   It is so easy though, all you have to do is stop for a second, lift up your thoughts, your deeds, your actions for the day and your whole world becomes brand new.

A truism

We live by words and deeds, so today make a pact with yourself that you will only use words that heal, words that show love, words that ease and caress with the softness of a butterfly that lights upon a flower.

You have a weekend to make your seconds spin.   What are you plotting and planning?    I had my work in day yesterday and caught up with my household chores, then went off to Manchester where Christine said the best Prime Rib was cooked.   We met her friend, Marcia, a lovely lady not quite my age but working towards it, and we had a gab fest as well as a feast.   I don't know who discovered where Prime Rib is cooked just right, but my hat is off to them.    It really was a treat and very delicious.    The ride there is one Pat and I take quite often when we want to run away for a day.  It is a very tiny town that has no room to grow as the channel is there, the ferry boats dock there and the folks that live there wouldn't want to be anywhere else.    It is probably twelve to fifteen miles from Port Orchard and the heavy traffic road, but there is another more  quiet way which Pat and I travel on which is a little bit longer but oh so much more beautiful and peaceful.   Riding along the waters edge brings back some of our rides in Brookings, yes we both miss it and our friends there.    Making a move for whatever reasons is never all good, but it is also not all bad.    New faces, new places become familiar and soon you have one foot planted and hopefully some one day decide that life goes on no matter where you are.    What is it that Christine says all the time...."Wherever you are, you are there."   so true.  And Mary Englbert , not sure of the spelling, the author offers advice to 'grow where you are planted."  Good advice, but following good advice is not always easy. . .well, one does have to work at change no matter what.

So today, talk stock.   Find out if you are happy being planted where you are.  Find out if you are ready, willing and able, to share YOU with those you like and love.    Maybe you can be the leader today and start a parade of your own to a friend's house for a cup of coffee, or open the door and invite someone in for a cup of coffee;  choices....we all have them.    Do not cry lonely if you are not willing to work at fixing the lock on your door and your heart.    Be a carpenter today and see what you can build.   .....  Love, Friendship, and sharing YOU with those you love and like.     Hugs to all.

Week ending

My favorite chair, My best snooze . . . AAH!!!

Peace, Serenity after the storm. . . reflections. . .

The thunder roared in the middle of the night, enough to wake me up and listen for a second or two.   The roads are wet this morning, the cars are all parked and quiet prevails.   Another Friday and a weekend coming up.   I spent a lovely day with daughter Patricia going for a drive down to Manchester, one of our favorite rides.  I did take my camera and I do have pictures to show you once I learn how to put them on this new laptop.   It should be easy but I am going to need some help as I am not finding my way around the right spots to put them on.    The lady at the only restaurant there greeted us like long lost friends.  It was early so the breakfast menu worked just fine and they had biscuits and gravy that tasted very good.    The library was closed and there are not many shops there so we didn't stay long.  It is just a lovely ride there and back.

I took a walk around Pat's yard and visited the garden boxes.  She has done a tremendous job and everything is growing and producing.  I brought home some lovely fresh beets to cook up, one of my favorites and they were delicious.   The tiny grape tomatoes are delicious too.    Pat has become quite the gardener and loves it.    She has a daily fight with the winged creatures that want to beat her to her produce.    The birds are fighting for her blueberries and her grapes.   

Laundry day today so I'll be busy.    I think later I have a date with the girls and we are going out for a treat.  Christine has been really busy this week and we have not seen much of her.   It seems the more she does the more she gets to do.    She is happiest when busiest, we all know that one.   But, there comes a time in the week we have to alert her to the gap in our time and that means she has to make room for us as we tell her all business and no play makes for a dull companion.   She just laughs and says 'yes' to one more job that needs doing.    She delegates well , I might add, and we find ourselves busy too.   

So today, be busy, find things that need doing and get them all done.   You can rest for the rest of the weekend and get out and about doing the things you love to do.    Take your 'buggy' for a ride.  Find a country road to ride on.   Find an out of the way spot that will leave you feeling rested and content.    Treat yourself to time away from your work area.   Rest is good for the soul, and the body appreciates a little time out.    Be good to you so you can stay healthy, wealthy and wise.    Be a winner.    You really are you know.  Hugs to all.

HUD Day

A truism

This picture reminded me of a Bev Doolittle painting without the horses.   

The kitchen is all cleaned up and ready for inspection...the HUD folks are coming around to check this place out.   Inside and outside.  The girls have been busy sprucing things up all week.   I had no idea HUD had anything to do with this complex.    I had to take my towels down.  I hope 'they' say I have to have a new kitchen linoleum as mine is rather bumpy...it is very old.

Yes, today is inspection day for the complex and the management has been on their toes.  Every little crevice and crack has been looked at.    I don't know why they are worried as they really do a great job of keeping this place up.   The girls do a wonderful job and can tackle anything.   Karen has been trying to hold down two places for the last six months, not fair to her, but she has done a great job for management and they should think seriously about getting some new folks working.   We are lucky to have the two young ladies working in our building.  They have a routine that is hectic yet they make it look easy.    There will be a big sigh of relief when the inspection is over which I am sure will pass with flying colors.   

I opted not to go to the luncheon at Debby's on the waterfront yesterday as I had a date with daughter Christine who forgot and didn't show.   But. . .all was not lost, Pat rescued me and we went for a ride over to the fancy drug store, a huge store with some of the loveliest articles, like blankets from Alaska, or the scenes were, probably made in China if we looked close....no, I am kidding, they were the real McCoy and beautiful and pricey.    I love going to this one drug store as it is huge and the aisles are filled with wonderful different items to look at;  prices are high so not many things go in my basket.    I don't have room for 'things' anyway, but they are nice to look at.

Pat brought me a puzzle and the puzzle board went back on the table and the frame is already done.  She is a puzzle person too.    This one is bright and colorful so will be fun to do.    We finished the one of all kinds of signs and I forgot to take a picture of it so I lose my bragging rights.  If you haven't done a jig saw puzzle in awhile, choose one and set it up and have some fun.   It really is a lesson in patience.

So today, be patient.   You can do it.  You only think you can't.    Some folks count to ten.   Some folks just are patient.   Some have no idea what patience is.   So today is a good day to practice.   If someone gets your 'goat' ignore it and them, count your blessings quietly and when they cannot upset you they will go away.    You can help just smile.  Be good, be kind, be gentle, be generous with YOU. . . open arms beget hugs;   a smile begets a hug or two;    a sparkle in your eyes begets a lot of loving so get in the mood and share some hugs today.   Hugs to all.

Mid Week

A yellow rose always reminds me of my daughter Eileen who loved yellow roses and grew a lovely bush in her small garden.   There is never a day that she is not in mind and heart.   

AH!!  Coffee.  I have mine right next to the computer and it looks like time for a refill.  i'll be right back.      Here I am cup in hand,   ah!!  As long as I am thinking of those who left us I have to give Pa credit for my love of coffee.  It was pretty special to walk out into the kitchen and have a big tall cup filled with coffee , hot and tasty, and such a wake up call.    

A tiny pebble with a big job.

Here it is Hump Day and the Ridgemont folks are going off to a luncheon at a house over on the water.  Debby, the daughter of one of our ladies, La Verne, has two luncheons a year for the whole crowd here and what a terrific lunch she puts on.  Her home is big, lovely, and on the water.   She goes all out to make her luncheon special and everyone has such a good time.    I am not going this time, I've been to two and they have been great but I have another date and it is one I want to keep.  The ladies and I talked Vinnie into going and I know he will enjoy it as he will find his way to the patio and a view of the water.  He is a water lover and has wanted to go for a ride to the ocean or a river and today he will do just that.  He will sit on the patio and overlook the water.

The new computer is working great and I am still learning my way around.  It is not a lot different than the old one but it is still a bit on the touchy side.   I have to lighten the fingers or I'll be all over the key board.    Now if I could think of some interesting tidbits, we'd be in good shape.

Pat and I went for a ride to a thrift store where I checked out some books.   I had read all that I had in my bookcase and needed some new reading material.   I found a couple of Clive Cussler books which should make Vinnie happy.   He is not one for those romance novels.  Pat was not having a good day. That MS can kick in and make her life miserable so we opted to go to her home and fire up the television and catch up the characters in Cedar Cove.    No complaints from me as I enjoy the series and the first season is ending.  Now I'll have to wait until the next season comes out.    

There is a new little blue and white car that pulled into the parking area.  One I haven't seen before...a new worker I guess.   It is a small soldier blue car wth white stripes and a white top.   I have no idea of the make but it is 'cute'.    The workers are starting to come in.   It is a beautiful morning, a few gray clouds passing by but some nice big holes in the clouds showing some beautiful blue skies;  another pretty day;  another cool day.  So far summer has been just right but, there is always a but, August may make up for all this coolness.  Time will tell.

i was looking at some of the old pictures of the beaches in Brookings and it brought back memories of how we found our way to Brookings and the fourteen years we lived there.    I didn't really want to leave it but sometimes life dictates a path we have to take and this was one of those times.    The pictures bring back so many good memories and I miss my friends there.    I had an open door and they came to share a cup of coffee or tea and whatever I had to go with it.   We had some good times, a lot of laughs and some great trips around town to see what the yard sales had to offer.  We often had yard sales of our own and they were always fun.   I have not been back , as yet, to see the changes in the house I lived in, but I have seen pictures of the new ramp in the front and it looks well built and useful.   I could have used a ramp when I came back from Freddys with my groceries...smile.     I have a special little cart I use here so I can roll my groceries to the elevator and have no problem getting my groceries up to the apartment.But, I miss Brookings, the house, the friends and the beach and my life style there.    Change.....a word that means  a lot in our lives, not always bad , not always good, but a necessary evil.

So if you have changes on going, accept what it is you can.  Remember the Serenity prayer:   "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things i can and the wisdom to know the difference."   Keep that in mind as you go about your day today.   Be 'serene' . . . a lovely word, a peaceful way, a great way to think about what is going on in your life today.   Be good, be kind, be gentle, be serene.   Hugs to all.

Old Pictures

Old Barns are beautiful like Old Folks, full of strength, courage and life.

One of the oldest flowers and one of the most beautiful, simple beauty.

A morning visitor , a picket fence, a beautiful start for a day.

Some where in the computer is a couple of paragraphs of 'words' I had written this morning.  Where they went and when they will show up is a guess.  There was no special reason for it to disappear but disappear it did.   Where did it go???

Can I recall what I said...I doubt it.  I am one to ramble on and get on with new and different thoughts.    I did tell you about the sameness in out weather.   I remembered to tell you about the workers coming into the parking lot , a daily routine, same cars most days;  maybe a new one or two another time but then some have to have a day off.  

I did tell you we had a very tasty dinner at Pat's last evening.  She made her special spaghetti sauce and a lovely salad.   A glass of red wine.   No desert, we just didn't have room for any.  I had a chance to watch more of "Cedar Cove" which is very good.   A series from our local author, Debbie Mac Comber.   It is on Netflick if you enjoy family drama.

I told you about reading a new book, one of mine, to Vinnie yesterday.   He couldn't make up his mind what book he wanted to read next.   His choices would be more Navy lore o politics and I wasn't in that kind of a reading mood so I opted for a choice and introduced him to one of mine.   He had no idea I wrote a book so he listened.  No comment though.

There is talk of a ride to the Lavender fields and that is always a fun day.  I am looking forward to the ride and the shops where I can pick up a few lavender stalks.    Not sure when we will go as there are a few things on going around town.    There is a special dinner out for the volunteers of the Gallery, and I am one of the unofficial ones, smile.

I don't remember what else I told you but it couldn't have been news worthy or it would have come right back in mind.   We wont talk politics there is enough of that going on...yetch!!!!  We wont talk crime as there is too much of that going on.   We just wont talk until tomorrow when I have something new and different to talk about....just don't hold your breath as there really is nothing going on right now.   The folks here in Ridgemont are docile, quiet, and happy to see a new day.    So, be good, be kind, be a person who brings laughter and love into the lives that surround you.    What you 'throw' out there comes back a thousand fold.    Hugs to all.

New Week

A truism

It is voting time here in Port Orchard

When I was a teenager my ear was glued to a radio just like this.

I had to go back in time to find a few pictures this morning.   Probably posted them a few years back.    Hard to believe I am still trying to blog after a daily eight year run.    I am finding it harder to find things to talk about that would be of interest to you as we have ongoing horror news these days and at this age I am not getting out and about as much as I would like to.   I get out enough, not complaining but not getting out to where I'd like to....a trip to Italy would be nice, but overseas travel loses its appeal with all the horror going on in our world.  I would like to make the trip to Carson City and see son Michael down in the valley.    I might get to do that before the year is out,  time will tell.    A trip to Brookings and meet up with some friends would be fun.   It may seem like I am complaining;  heaven forbid, I am just stating a few facts about getting energy, time and money together all at the same time.   The old adage of 'if wishes were horses beggars would ride' comes to mind.   

The quiet of the morning, the workers coming in to park their cars and head for another work day.  A new week beginning  making me wonder what is in store for us this week.    The news a harbinger of violence makes it hard to turn on the television and hear of a new horror.   So many families suffering the loss of a loved one.   I find I repeat myself over and over just like the news of the day.    Violence begets violence;  peace begets peace;  we seem to have lost our way.  We do not have all the answers but we can work a few little miracles in our own back yard.   If we love our neighbor it would be a start.   If we do one act of kindness it would help.   If we took time to listen and not be a 'know it all' life would be easier.    So let this day be the beginning of your good deeds.  Stop, look and listen . . . what could be easier than that?    Be a 'stop sign' today;  stop arguing; stop showing off;  stop being a know it all;  stop and open up your mind, your heart and your arms and pass out a few hugs today...the body hugs that mean so much.    Go . . hug someone, right now.

Hugs to all.

Cousins

Wendy Davis and her dad, Bob, went to the shooting gallery for a bit of fun and I am sure challenged each other .  It looks like a bulls eye to me.   

Wendy brought home some lovely ladies from Japan where Wendy lives and teaches.   One day I hope Wendy will visit and I will get to hear all about her life in Japan and the lovely folks she loves .  

The ladies took the kayak out on Lake Watson for a spin.  The ladies had never been out sailing and you know they had such a great time they are ready to go again and again.   Bob and Andrea look forward to a visit from their daughter and this time she brought her friends with her and they are enjoying the Arizona sunshine and the love and friendship of Bob and Andrea.   It looks like a great time, and I for one , wish I were right there with them. 

Okay lost a couple of paragraphs and now the print has changed and all I did was even out the sentences so they looked neater.    So much for neat.   So much for blogging on a new computer.   It is all white,  loaded with good things to learn about...some day....when the brain is working.

I am going to say goodbye for today as I am not sure just what is going to happen next.  I could lose the entire blog and that would not set well.  

Make your seconds count today.  Get up, get out, and be alive.......remember YOU only get out of life what you put into it, no more, no less.    To have a friend you have to be a friend.    To have a lover you have to be a lover.    To be bright and cheerful you have to shine . . . so shine today.  Hugs to all.

Hello

Qrr

Think about that.  You know what you have to do today.
 

Fog and mist, serenity at its best.    Quiet time.   I love pictures like this, gives you time to relax and think.

I am not going to get far today as the computer is doing strange things like jumping letters back into words that have already been typed in.   It  needs an expert to go over it and find out what some of the glitches are.    My expert is sleeping right now but I sure hope she has some time to check this computer out.    

So, I am going to love you and leave you until I find out a little more on how to settle this baby down.  

I hope your weekend is everything you want it to be.    I know you will be good, kind and gentle, just because YOU are.   Look for the silver lining, it's there;  just make good use of it.     There is an old adage about walking in someone persons shoes so you know what it is like for them, try it and you will find the patience, the love and the inclination to help make their day brighter and better.  Remember YOU are someones best friend.   Hugs to all.

Yum!

chocolate Raspberry Creme Pie . . . not for breakfast . . . maybe for lunch . . . better for high tea. . . looks a bit much this time of day.  Now if I could keep that thought in mind I'd eventually get skinny . . . I wish.

Obama at work.

Good morning.   How are you this morning?    The computer is acting strange or I am still trying to wake up, either way my fingers are all over the keyboard and my thoughts are wandering.   the workers are parked, the young ones have a spring in their step and the older ones take time to go from the car to the doorway to get on with their busy day.     It is quiet, as usual.   the blinds are still drawn, the sky is gray and there is no breeze.  A typical North West morning.  I am waiting for my coffee to brew and once I get that first wake up mouthful we can try to communicate . . well, I'll try to write a few words and you will try to figure out if I lost my mind yet or not.     A daily blog, what was I thinking. . . Katrina the Great . . . sometimes is at a loss for words. . . but not often,  smile.

Coffee . . . AAH!!!!!   The news is on, another attack by the hate people , horrific and sad, if not downright scary.   There seems to be a new 'holocaust' every day and in every country.    We often heard that bad news travels fast; but now it is bad deeds that occur on a daily basis and takes over the air waves.  We thought we had it tough coming up;  we had it easy in comparison as to what is going on today.    These bad guys make the Klu Klux Klan seem like angels.  Hate is detestable . . . an abomination and is the harbinger of war and terror.    Wouldn't it be nice to turn on the television and see and hear some news of folks doing good things in life.  Spreading a bit of love and laughter for a change.   We know it goes on somewhere but it is something the newscaster shun.  They think we want to hear about the seamiest side of life . . . not true we like to read about those who are the do good folks of our world and believe me we have many.

So mentioning good deeds, be sure you do one or two today.   Someone in your life needs a little attention today.  Someone is having a sad day and needs to be uplifted.  Someone is wishing they had a friend surprise them with a telephone call, with a surprise invitation to go for a ride and lunch out . . . sit by the wayside and have a good long talk;   walk along a pathway and look for a four leaf clover; a lucky charm to share a smile or two.    Yes,  a few moments of your time and it change their world from sadness to joy.    So today, besides being good, a calm, and delightful, be a harbinger of love and spread a little joy.    Be YOU!!   Hugs to all.