Heaven knows, she needs it! There’s an impeachment “trial” going on sans witnesses, of course. It’s a David vs Goliath scenario and, yes, David is about to be annihilated. Does anyone really believe that any Republican is open to the compellng evidence against their leader? Of course not. They’re too busy wiping his ass, hoping he’ll get them reelected.
Why? They all took the same oath to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law and yet, they now bow to Trump and Putin. The Republican Party?! The same people who are supposedly the “patriotic” party, who wave the flag and claim liberals hate their country. The Republican Party who refuse to bring a bill to the floor to outlaw foreign interference in our elections.
Are you watching the impeachment proceedings? I regret to say I am not. I actually wonder who is watching it? After three years of thousands and thousands of lies, does anyone believe anything this guy and his minions say? There’s a very good reason they don’t produce documents. They’re obviously guilty of bribing a foreign county to interfere in our next general election. Who doesn’t know that?
And what is their argument? The Democratic Party has never accepted the results of the 2016 election, hence, the impeachment proceedings. Which, of course, has nothing to do with the two articles of impeachment that they’re supposed to be arguing against.
They must be very worried about 2020 to invite foreign interference. To refuse to pass laws making foreign interference illegal. To pass laws making it increasingly difficult for every citizen to exercise their right to vote.
It’s already a foregone conclusion that the Republicans will stand lockstep with this President and enable him to continue to flaunt the rule for law and the Constitution. With that vote, the legislative branch will become impotent. They are endorsing the President’s obstruction of justice, his refusal to turn over documents or his forbidding of staff to testify. The courts will be stacked with conservatives that will take decades to undo, if ever.
Is anyone out there worried about the future of our democracy? I know, I know you’re probably thinking I’m way over the top and everything will turn out just fine. Really?! I don’t think so. We’ve elected a highly unstable man and entrusted him with the nation’s nuclear codes. A man who doesn’t listen to anyone with any sense, a man who never reads anything of substance. A man who believes no one is smarter than he is. The same man who gets to decide when to set off nuclear bombs.
2020 will be one of the most important years in our country’s history. It is not a year to sit back and see what happens. A lot of people did that in 2016, and we’re dealing with its aftermath. Will there be a democracy left for our progeny? It’s just as serious as that.
My days of rallies and marching are behind me, but, I did plenty of that in my youth. Now, I’m grateful that I have enough resources to help elect citizens who understand the value of public service. As with most Dems, I will support the top of the ticket no matter who it is. Getting this madman out of the White House is the most important goal of 2020.
But, it is certainly not the only goal. Nothing would make me happier than to get rid of Mitch McConnell. Please Amy McGrath, DITCH MITCH! And Lindsey Graham is right up there, too. There is one hypocrite if ever there was one. Leader of the Never Trumpers?! Until….
Note to my kids: Some of your inheritance is going to the preservation of our democracy for you and my precious grandchildren. It’s a gamble but it’s all we’ve got. God Bless America!
Saturday, January 25, 2020
Saturday, January 11, 2020
Annual Assessment
No, not talking about the tax bill, just my yearly reflection on the ups and downs of life. Lots of positives, less negatives which equates to a pretty happy 2019 overall. Of course, I am deeply disturbed by our president and his henchmen, but I refuse to let them influence my well being…if at all possible.
The most wondrous event was the birth of my fifth grandchild, my second granddaughter. Not so little Frances June made her appearance on August 19th weighing over nine pounds. Already, she tries to keep up her end of the conversation such as it is in the midst of family gatherings. Of course, I am highly prejudiced but she is beautiful with a full head of dark wavy hair and a smile that lights up the room. My son was gobsmacked. He had no idea how head over heels he would be for this baby. His first and truly a miracle.
On the home front, we tackled practically every room in the house and Marie Kondo-ed it. We kept what we loved and got rid of what we didn’t. I admit it wasn’t always easy. God knows, this practice tests even the best of relationships. There are things I loved that he didn’t and vice versa. But, with some negotiation, we mostly agreed and ended up with what I consider a happier, more serene home.
However, I don’t know if I would ever paint four coats of white paint over a red maple bunkbed again. And, I’m pretty sure BH wouldn’t spend four hours straight putting together a corner cabinet from Overstock to surprise me when I returned from one of my trips to Maryland. He couldn’t move for days nor could I from the bunkbed paint job. These are fierce reminders of our senior status!
Goodreads sent me an email last week informing me I had read 57 books last year. Is this an accomplishment? Maybe, but I can tell you that it was quite an eclectic mix of literature, not all of those books landed on the New York, Times Best Books of the Year. I have loved to read since the age of 6, when I read Alice and Jerry, my very first book. I don’t think I can fall asleep without reading at bedtime. It relaxes me and often launches me into my dreams.
I have no idea what BH was reading last night but I’m somewhat concerned since he tapped my arm around 3 in the morning. “Wake up, wake up,” he whispered. “What’s the matter?”
“Invasion,” he says. “Invasion of what?” “Aliens.” “Oh, okay.” “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it.” “Good. You do that.” So, around 8, I tapped him on his arm and whispered, “Invasion.” We both howled. Who could make this up?
We enjoyed a couple of bridge cruises in the Caribbean and played in several tournaments. We splurged on season tickets for the Venice Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Braves spring training games. Our Venice life is very quiet out of season and very busy in season. Thankfully, we have maintained good health overall. Not perfect, but who could expect that at our age?
Amazingly, I lost 10 pounds last year and have maintained it! It’s a combination of intermittent fasting and my personal no chips, no fries, no booze diet. Of course, I do not stick to that diet 24/7 but I know exactly what to do if I happen to add a pound or two. I kid you not, I could live on kettle chips.
Sadly, the worst of this year was losing two precious souls to pancreatic cancer. A horrible disease that took them both way too soon. My son-in-law’s brother was 35 and left behind his wife and year old son. I also lost one of my best friends, who retired at age 56 and was diagnosed six months later. I still hear her voice constantly. I am still reeling from those losses.
And, yes, I still have my scoliosis issues but I keep it in perspective. It could be so much worse and I am not scooter girl yet nor do I intend to be!
I used to make resolutions for the new year but now life is much simpler. I adore my family and friends and wish them all health and every happiness. I am hopeful for another year of fun times with my honey. Maybe, I’ll read 60 books this year and earn more master points in bridge and enjoy good movies. Maybe the Ravens will win the Super Bowl.
And, maybe, just maybe, we can restore civility and integrity to our nation.
The most wondrous event was the birth of my fifth grandchild, my second granddaughter. Not so little Frances June made her appearance on August 19th weighing over nine pounds. Already, she tries to keep up her end of the conversation such as it is in the midst of family gatherings. Of course, I am highly prejudiced but she is beautiful with a full head of dark wavy hair and a smile that lights up the room. My son was gobsmacked. He had no idea how head over heels he would be for this baby. His first and truly a miracle.
On the home front, we tackled practically every room in the house and Marie Kondo-ed it. We kept what we loved and got rid of what we didn’t. I admit it wasn’t always easy. God knows, this practice tests even the best of relationships. There are things I loved that he didn’t and vice versa. But, with some negotiation, we mostly agreed and ended up with what I consider a happier, more serene home.
However, I don’t know if I would ever paint four coats of white paint over a red maple bunkbed again. And, I’m pretty sure BH wouldn’t spend four hours straight putting together a corner cabinet from Overstock to surprise me when I returned from one of my trips to Maryland. He couldn’t move for days nor could I from the bunkbed paint job. These are fierce reminders of our senior status!
Goodreads sent me an email last week informing me I had read 57 books last year. Is this an accomplishment? Maybe, but I can tell you that it was quite an eclectic mix of literature, not all of those books landed on the New York, Times Best Books of the Year. I have loved to read since the age of 6, when I read Alice and Jerry, my very first book. I don’t think I can fall asleep without reading at bedtime. It relaxes me and often launches me into my dreams.
I have no idea what BH was reading last night but I’m somewhat concerned since he tapped my arm around 3 in the morning. “Wake up, wake up,” he whispered. “What’s the matter?”
“Invasion,” he says. “Invasion of what?” “Aliens.” “Oh, okay.” “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it.” “Good. You do that.” So, around 8, I tapped him on his arm and whispered, “Invasion.” We both howled. Who could make this up?
We enjoyed a couple of bridge cruises in the Caribbean and played in several tournaments. We splurged on season tickets for the Venice Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Braves spring training games. Our Venice life is very quiet out of season and very busy in season. Thankfully, we have maintained good health overall. Not perfect, but who could expect that at our age?
Amazingly, I lost 10 pounds last year and have maintained it! It’s a combination of intermittent fasting and my personal no chips, no fries, no booze diet. Of course, I do not stick to that diet 24/7 but I know exactly what to do if I happen to add a pound or two. I kid you not, I could live on kettle chips.
Sadly, the worst of this year was losing two precious souls to pancreatic cancer. A horrible disease that took them both way too soon. My son-in-law’s brother was 35 and left behind his wife and year old son. I also lost one of my best friends, who retired at age 56 and was diagnosed six months later. I still hear her voice constantly. I am still reeling from those losses.
And, yes, I still have my scoliosis issues but I keep it in perspective. It could be so much worse and I am not scooter girl yet nor do I intend to be!
I used to make resolutions for the new year but now life is much simpler. I adore my family and friends and wish them all health and every happiness. I am hopeful for another year of fun times with my honey. Maybe, I’ll read 60 books this year and earn more master points in bridge and enjoy good movies. Maybe the Ravens will win the Super Bowl.
And, maybe, just maybe, we can restore civility and integrity to our nation.
Saturday, December 21, 2019
WWJD?
What would Jesus do, especially, in the current political climate we find ourselves? Sadly, I’m constantly appalled at our country’s leadership. A daily exercise of outrageousness. What to do with that anger? Where to go? Stuck here in one of the reddest places in Florida where none of my representatives truly represent me or care to.
Most parents I know have decent values that they want to impart to their children. Basic values like love one another, trying your best in whatever you endeavor, speaking with respect even with those you might not agree with. How wise was Buddha with the three questions we should ask ourselves before speaking: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?
Okay, as an aside, I know that’s a fake Buddha quote with no clear idea where it’s from. Some say Rumi, some say Socrates. Beside the point, however. The questions are meaningful and make so much sense, especially, today.
How do parents explain the crudeness of our president? It pains me that these children see Trump as the President of the United States. The man they’re supposed to admire and aspire to. The ultimate bully, which schools and parents across America are on a constant crusade to counter. Even his wife alleges that her first priority is to stand up to bullying children.
And, yet, she’s married to the bully-in-chief! He’s so egomaniacal, he goes after climate activist 16 year old Greta Thunberg, chosen as Time’s Person of the Year. And, this is the person who has access to the nuclear codes.
Yes, he was impeached by the House. We already know he is not going to be convicted by the Senate. There will not even be a trial just a vote down party lines. There will be no witnesses called and the president’s chief apologist, Mitch McConnell, has already stated he is not an impartial juror. It’s pretty much a foregone conclusion. I seriously don’t think any of those Senate Republicans are asking What would Jesus do?
Or are they? I never would’ve given it another thought until a little noticed editorial was published this week in Christianity Today, the evangelical Christian periodical founded in 1956 by Billy Graham. The op-ed written by it’s editor in chief, Mark Galli, wrote the following:
‘Whether Mr. Trump should be removed from office by the Senate or by popular vote next election—that is a matter of prudential judgment That he should be removed, we believe, is not a matter of partisan loyalties but loyalty to the Creator of the Ten Commandments. We believe the impeachment hearings have made it absolutely clear, in a way the Mueller investigations did not, that President Trump has abused his authority for personal gain and betrayed his constitutional oath. The impeachment hearing have illuminated the president’s moral deficiencies for all to see.
None of the president’s positives can balance the moral and political danger we face under a leader of such grossly immoral character. To the many evangelicals who continue to support Mr. Trump in spite of his blackened moral record, we might say this: Remember who you are and whom you serve. Consider how your justification of Mr. Trump influences your witness to your Lord and Savior. Consider what an unbelieving world will say if you continue to brush off Mr. Trump’s immoral words and behavior in the cause of political expediency.”
Naturally, the president dismissed the criticism, calling the publication a “far left magazine.” Hilariously funny, except that we’re dealing with a seriously unhinged individual.
But, I thank Mr. Galli, who’s leaving the magazine in two weeks, unfortunately. At least, he put it on the line. Why did it take this long to reach that conclusion? It's been pretty apparent as long as Trump's been around. He's certainly no Christian.
Do I think he’s going to change the minds of Trump’s base of white evangelists? Probably not too many, but he sure scared the you know what out of Trump.
It’s a glimmer of hope. I welcome that. It’s the season, right? WWJD? We all know the answer to that. Live in love. Live with hope. And keep your kids away from the TV news shows.
Most parents I know have decent values that they want to impart to their children. Basic values like love one another, trying your best in whatever you endeavor, speaking with respect even with those you might not agree with. How wise was Buddha with the three questions we should ask ourselves before speaking: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?
Okay, as an aside, I know that’s a fake Buddha quote with no clear idea where it’s from. Some say Rumi, some say Socrates. Beside the point, however. The questions are meaningful and make so much sense, especially, today.
How do parents explain the crudeness of our president? It pains me that these children see Trump as the President of the United States. The man they’re supposed to admire and aspire to. The ultimate bully, which schools and parents across America are on a constant crusade to counter. Even his wife alleges that her first priority is to stand up to bullying children.
And, yet, she’s married to the bully-in-chief! He’s so egomaniacal, he goes after climate activist 16 year old Greta Thunberg, chosen as Time’s Person of the Year. And, this is the person who has access to the nuclear codes.
Yes, he was impeached by the House. We already know he is not going to be convicted by the Senate. There will not even be a trial just a vote down party lines. There will be no witnesses called and the president’s chief apologist, Mitch McConnell, has already stated he is not an impartial juror. It’s pretty much a foregone conclusion. I seriously don’t think any of those Senate Republicans are asking What would Jesus do?
Or are they? I never would’ve given it another thought until a little noticed editorial was published this week in Christianity Today, the evangelical Christian periodical founded in 1956 by Billy Graham. The op-ed written by it’s editor in chief, Mark Galli, wrote the following:
‘Whether Mr. Trump should be removed from office by the Senate or by popular vote next election—that is a matter of prudential judgment That he should be removed, we believe, is not a matter of partisan loyalties but loyalty to the Creator of the Ten Commandments. We believe the impeachment hearings have made it absolutely clear, in a way the Mueller investigations did not, that President Trump has abused his authority for personal gain and betrayed his constitutional oath. The impeachment hearing have illuminated the president’s moral deficiencies for all to see.
None of the president’s positives can balance the moral and political danger we face under a leader of such grossly immoral character. To the many evangelicals who continue to support Mr. Trump in spite of his blackened moral record, we might say this: Remember who you are and whom you serve. Consider how your justification of Mr. Trump influences your witness to your Lord and Savior. Consider what an unbelieving world will say if you continue to brush off Mr. Trump’s immoral words and behavior in the cause of political expediency.”
Naturally, the president dismissed the criticism, calling the publication a “far left magazine.” Hilariously funny, except that we’re dealing with a seriously unhinged individual.
But, I thank Mr. Galli, who’s leaving the magazine in two weeks, unfortunately. At least, he put it on the line. Why did it take this long to reach that conclusion? It's been pretty apparent as long as Trump's been around. He's certainly no Christian.
Do I think he’s going to change the minds of Trump’s base of white evangelists? Probably not too many, but he sure scared the you know what out of Trump.
It’s a glimmer of hope. I welcome that. It’s the season, right? WWJD? We all know the answer to that. Live in love. Live with hope. And keep your kids away from the TV news shows.
Saturday, December 14, 2019
It's the Most Wonderful Time of Year
I know what you’re thinking. Christmas. The holidays. Winter Break. New Year’s Eve. But, actually, you’d be wrong. At least, for me. I love this time of year because, FINALLY, all the good movies surface to the light.
I’ve always been more a lover of indies, documentaries and foreign films and took for granted The Charles Theatre, that bastion of all the best movies one could ever hope to see, conveniently located in Baltimore. More than a few days I spent going from one fabulous film to another. Sometimes, seeing three movies in a day. In case you’re wondering, yes, I paid for every one.
But, this move to Florida put the kibosh on that! There is one independent film theatre in Sarasota but there only two movie rooms and absolutely no parking. Our theatre in Venice used to show a few indies before it went bankrupt, which resulted in a large percentage of broken chairs, and more than one report of fuzzy rodents scurrying around your feet.
Thankfully, it was bought by some big midwest chain which promised state of the art reclining seating. The promise was that it would be thoroughly renovated by now. That dream has been deferred for at least a year. No indies in sight.
BH is a more eclectic movie goer. He’s primary interested in what the critics write, although he’s not interested in Marvel Comic movies, horror, thrillers, and sequels. More a lover of old movies, he almost panicked when Comcast got rid of the Turner Classic Movie channel. Once free, now we pay.
Up until recently, we hadn’t seen many movies we could recommend. I loved “Booksmart,” but he wasn’t all that impressed. I think it’s more fun for the ladies, especially, those who were nerds in their former lives. “Harriet” was well worth seeing for the acting, the cinematography and its powerful message.
Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” was nothing if not hilarious with Leonardo DiCaprio, an aging TV western star, and Brad Pitt, his stunt double. I’m not a big fan of either one but they were both as good as it gets. Usually, I abhor the violence in Tarantino’s films but not only could I stomach this one, but I found myself a devotee.
Now, we come to the most wonderful time of the year! All the best movies bombarding us at once. I am waist deep in movie watching right now. Here are my faves so far in the order that I enjoyed them:
1). “Marriage Story.” Far and away the best writing, acting and directing I’ve seen in years. One of my top 5 for all time. They should win every award. If I had to whittle that down I would hands down give Best Actor to Adam Driver. Who knew? One amazing performance from a former Marine. Best Supporting Actress to Laura Dern who portrayed the witchiest divorce lawyer ever. And Noah Baumbach ….who writes better relationship stories than him?
2). “Ford vs. Ferrari.” I’m not a race car driver nor do I care about NASCAR or any car racing. But I absolutely love Christian Bale. To me, he is his generation’s best. However, Matt Damon is no slouch in F v F either. The movie is just over two and a half hours long and I was never bored for a minute. A first for me. Generally, two hours is my absolute limit.
3). “Knives Out.” Described as a murder mystery with kindness, it’s a laugh out loud experience that is all too rare these days. It’s just a fun who dun it. The only thing I couldn’t wrap my head around was Daniel Craig with an over the top southern accent.
4). “The Irishman.” Thank goodness for Netflix! Really, who can watch a three and a half hour long movie in the theatre? Not me! We watched it over two nights and it’s one helluva of a story and I do mean story, because it’s become increasingly clear we will never know the real Jimmy Hoffa story. Hats off to Scorsese….it’s epic! Out of the three leads, I thought Joe Pesci was the best and Al Pacino the weakest.
Well, that covers it for now. Hoping to see “Farewell” and “Parasite” on Netflix. As usual, we will be debating our Christmas Day movie for the next couple of weeks. My choice? “Little Women,” of course! I am enchanted with Greta Gerwig, its director and screenwriter. Plus, she and Noah Baumbach are quite the creative genius couple! What a year for them!
I’ve always been more a lover of indies, documentaries and foreign films and took for granted The Charles Theatre, that bastion of all the best movies one could ever hope to see, conveniently located in Baltimore. More than a few days I spent going from one fabulous film to another. Sometimes, seeing three movies in a day. In case you’re wondering, yes, I paid for every one.
But, this move to Florida put the kibosh on that! There is one independent film theatre in Sarasota but there only two movie rooms and absolutely no parking. Our theatre in Venice used to show a few indies before it went bankrupt, which resulted in a large percentage of broken chairs, and more than one report of fuzzy rodents scurrying around your feet.
Thankfully, it was bought by some big midwest chain which promised state of the art reclining seating. The promise was that it would be thoroughly renovated by now. That dream has been deferred for at least a year. No indies in sight.
BH is a more eclectic movie goer. He’s primary interested in what the critics write, although he’s not interested in Marvel Comic movies, horror, thrillers, and sequels. More a lover of old movies, he almost panicked when Comcast got rid of the Turner Classic Movie channel. Once free, now we pay.
Up until recently, we hadn’t seen many movies we could recommend. I loved “Booksmart,” but he wasn’t all that impressed. I think it’s more fun for the ladies, especially, those who were nerds in their former lives. “Harriet” was well worth seeing for the acting, the cinematography and its powerful message.
Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” was nothing if not hilarious with Leonardo DiCaprio, an aging TV western star, and Brad Pitt, his stunt double. I’m not a big fan of either one but they were both as good as it gets. Usually, I abhor the violence in Tarantino’s films but not only could I stomach this one, but I found myself a devotee.
Now, we come to the most wonderful time of the year! All the best movies bombarding us at once. I am waist deep in movie watching right now. Here are my faves so far in the order that I enjoyed them:
1). “Marriage Story.” Far and away the best writing, acting and directing I’ve seen in years. One of my top 5 for all time. They should win every award. If I had to whittle that down I would hands down give Best Actor to Adam Driver. Who knew? One amazing performance from a former Marine. Best Supporting Actress to Laura Dern who portrayed the witchiest divorce lawyer ever. And Noah Baumbach ….who writes better relationship stories than him?
2). “Ford vs. Ferrari.” I’m not a race car driver nor do I care about NASCAR or any car racing. But I absolutely love Christian Bale. To me, he is his generation’s best. However, Matt Damon is no slouch in F v F either. The movie is just over two and a half hours long and I was never bored for a minute. A first for me. Generally, two hours is my absolute limit.
3). “Knives Out.” Described as a murder mystery with kindness, it’s a laugh out loud experience that is all too rare these days. It’s just a fun who dun it. The only thing I couldn’t wrap my head around was Daniel Craig with an over the top southern accent.
4). “The Irishman.” Thank goodness for Netflix! Really, who can watch a three and a half hour long movie in the theatre? Not me! We watched it over two nights and it’s one helluva of a story and I do mean story, because it’s become increasingly clear we will never know the real Jimmy Hoffa story. Hats off to Scorsese….it’s epic! Out of the three leads, I thought Joe Pesci was the best and Al Pacino the weakest.
Well, that covers it for now. Hoping to see “Farewell” and “Parasite” on Netflix. As usual, we will be debating our Christmas Day movie for the next couple of weeks. My choice? “Little Women,” of course! I am enchanted with Greta Gerwig, its director and screenwriter. Plus, she and Noah Baumbach are quite the creative genius couple! What a year for them!
Saturday, December 7, 2019
Travel Tips?
Travel tips? I’ve got none. Basically, I’m not much of a traveler….one week and I’m done. Get me back home in my own bed. But, how could we miss that bridge cruise in the Caribbean on the Symphony of the Seas….basically, a luxury 18 story hotel with the best food I’ve had in decades.
I had the dreaded flu shot prior to embarking and sanitized my hands five times a day on the ship and yet on the fourth day, there it was. The Sore Throat. Noooo….even wine and pina coladas didn’t knock it out of me. Believe me, I tried but no luck.
As the sore throat subsided, the congestion, cough and sneezes ensued. As soon as we got home, I went to my go-to: DayQuil followed by NyQui. Gotta love that NyQuil. Sleep is imperative and NyQuil is quite the aid.
Then, there’s my mother’s cure for everything: Sun. “Go sit in the sun,” she’d say, “it cures whatever ails you.” Yes, I definitely believe in that but weeks later and sporting a good ole Florida tan, the cough lingers. It didn’t help that we flew to Maryland for Thanksgiving….now both of us are cold bearers chugging NyQuil. Apologies to both of our families.
The plane ride there was uneventful though I had to pay $3 for a very tiny bottled water on Spirit Airlines. Lesson learned. BYO water and snacks. The plane trip back was slightly more turbulent but we landed safely and I thanked God profusely.
Only problem was I couldn’t hear out of my left ear. Even after round-the-clock swallowing, my hearing is still impaired. Hopefully, it’s just a side effect from congestion and I’ll stop asking “What?” after anyone speaks to me.
Truly, I haven’t been sick in about 20 years. That time I caught the flu flying back from St. Maarten’s. That was the worst…couldn’t get out of bed for a week. Of course, it’s all relative. It wasn’t terminal and I returned to my normal energy with about a 10 pound weight loss.
Being a teacher can be hazardous to your health. We are exposed to germs constantly and I always prided myself on having a pretty great immune system, except on winter break. I cannot tell you how many years I was sick during the holidays.
I’m sure it was from trying to get everything ready for Christmas for my family, burning the candle at both ends, wrapping gifts until the wee hours of the morning, hoping the children wouldn’t catch us playing Santa, sipping Bailey’s and listening to the Pope’s midnight mass. There were many late nights leading up to it….going out to late night sales at Toys R Us and the bigger department stores. Going out in freezing cold temps cutting down our tree and desperately trying to keep it standing as the dogs and cats played with the ornaments.
Ahhh….the good ole days pre-Amazon. Who goes out to shop anymore? I am ashamed to admit I rarely do.
I loved those days with all the excitement of the children and the fun we had, but, now our children are doing that with their children. As for us? We order a wreath from LLBean, go out for Christmas Eve dinner and choose a movie to see on Christmas day. Last year, we chose a Will Ferrell movie which, after the fact, was panned as the worst movie of the year. Not the best decision. Not one review was written prior to its release. Note to self: do not select a movie that has not been reviewed!
So, as you can read, I’ve got no good travel tips. All I can say is I’m happy to be home for a few months. You’ll find me out on the lanai soaking up the sun, baking the tail end of this congestion out of me, hoping to restore my hearing!
I had the dreaded flu shot prior to embarking and sanitized my hands five times a day on the ship and yet on the fourth day, there it was. The Sore Throat. Noooo….even wine and pina coladas didn’t knock it out of me. Believe me, I tried but no luck.
As the sore throat subsided, the congestion, cough and sneezes ensued. As soon as we got home, I went to my go-to: DayQuil followed by NyQui. Gotta love that NyQuil. Sleep is imperative and NyQuil is quite the aid.
Then, there’s my mother’s cure for everything: Sun. “Go sit in the sun,” she’d say, “it cures whatever ails you.” Yes, I definitely believe in that but weeks later and sporting a good ole Florida tan, the cough lingers. It didn’t help that we flew to Maryland for Thanksgiving….now both of us are cold bearers chugging NyQuil. Apologies to both of our families.
The plane ride there was uneventful though I had to pay $3 for a very tiny bottled water on Spirit Airlines. Lesson learned. BYO water and snacks. The plane trip back was slightly more turbulent but we landed safely and I thanked God profusely.
Only problem was I couldn’t hear out of my left ear. Even after round-the-clock swallowing, my hearing is still impaired. Hopefully, it’s just a side effect from congestion and I’ll stop asking “What?” after anyone speaks to me.
Truly, I haven’t been sick in about 20 years. That time I caught the flu flying back from St. Maarten’s. That was the worst…couldn’t get out of bed for a week. Of course, it’s all relative. It wasn’t terminal and I returned to my normal energy with about a 10 pound weight loss.
Being a teacher can be hazardous to your health. We are exposed to germs constantly and I always prided myself on having a pretty great immune system, except on winter break. I cannot tell you how many years I was sick during the holidays.
I’m sure it was from trying to get everything ready for Christmas for my family, burning the candle at both ends, wrapping gifts until the wee hours of the morning, hoping the children wouldn’t catch us playing Santa, sipping Bailey’s and listening to the Pope’s midnight mass. There were many late nights leading up to it….going out to late night sales at Toys R Us and the bigger department stores. Going out in freezing cold temps cutting down our tree and desperately trying to keep it standing as the dogs and cats played with the ornaments.
Ahhh….the good ole days pre-Amazon. Who goes out to shop anymore? I am ashamed to admit I rarely do.
I loved those days with all the excitement of the children and the fun we had, but, now our children are doing that with their children. As for us? We order a wreath from LLBean, go out for Christmas Eve dinner and choose a movie to see on Christmas day. Last year, we chose a Will Ferrell movie which, after the fact, was panned as the worst movie of the year. Not the best decision. Not one review was written prior to its release. Note to self: do not select a movie that has not been reviewed!
So, as you can read, I’ve got no good travel tips. All I can say is I’m happy to be home for a few months. You’ll find me out on the lanai soaking up the sun, baking the tail end of this congestion out of me, hoping to restore my hearing!
Saturday, November 9, 2019
November Arrives
The day after Halloween. November 1st. I cannot tell you how relieved I am not to be a teacher facing over 100 students hyped up on their Halloween candy! Tough enough on a “normal” day.
The day after Halloween walking through the neighborhood lie dozens of deflated pumpkins and goblins strewn all over lawns. A testament to the seriousness of holiday decorating in our neck of the woods. We’re the bah humbug neighbors. Our days of decorating ended when we became empty nesters. At least, BH still sits outside with 150 pieces of candy which lasted all of one hour.
The day after Halloween, also known as All Saint’s Day, commemorating all saints whose good works have landed them in heaven, also known as All Hallows’ Day. We dress up on All Hallows’ Eve to ward off all evil spirits. But I’m not a believer in heaven or hell or evil spirits with the exception of the one sitting in the White House.
The day after Halloween also means the snowbirds have landed. Add at least another 15 minutes to get anywhere due to the intense traffic and the fact that every senior citizen has to drive in the left lane even though they have no intention of turning for at least five miles.
Don’t even try to go out to eat unless you’re way more patient than me. A 45 minute wait is usually the minimum. Most restaurants will not take reservations unless you have a party of eight or more. You will notice a lot of Publix salads and Amy’s frozen dinners in my fridge.
November 1st is one fantastic day for us, because that is the day we open up the house after living in air conditioning for seven months. This past September and October has been the hottest and driest months on record. How BH goes out there and bikes every day in that stifling heat and humidity is beyond me! I prefer my indoor exercise in the AC watching Morning Joe!
We are not lovers of AC, although how I ever slept without it growing up in Florida pre-AC is mind boggling. We didn’t even have fans. I know my kids are rolling their eyes right now! Truth, though.
So when that nighttime temp goes below 70 degrees, all the windows go up and the sliding glass doors open and there exists this divine cross breeze flowing through the house. The birds return, waking us up to their happy noise. And, I think to myself, is this what heaven is like if I believed in heaven? I think so.
The day after Halloween walking through the neighborhood lie dozens of deflated pumpkins and goblins strewn all over lawns. A testament to the seriousness of holiday decorating in our neck of the woods. We’re the bah humbug neighbors. Our days of decorating ended when we became empty nesters. At least, BH still sits outside with 150 pieces of candy which lasted all of one hour.
The day after Halloween, also known as All Saint’s Day, commemorating all saints whose good works have landed them in heaven, also known as All Hallows’ Day. We dress up on All Hallows’ Eve to ward off all evil spirits. But I’m not a believer in heaven or hell or evil spirits with the exception of the one sitting in the White House.
The day after Halloween also means the snowbirds have landed. Add at least another 15 minutes to get anywhere due to the intense traffic and the fact that every senior citizen has to drive in the left lane even though they have no intention of turning for at least five miles.
Don’t even try to go out to eat unless you’re way more patient than me. A 45 minute wait is usually the minimum. Most restaurants will not take reservations unless you have a party of eight or more. You will notice a lot of Publix salads and Amy’s frozen dinners in my fridge.
November 1st is one fantastic day for us, because that is the day we open up the house after living in air conditioning for seven months. This past September and October has been the hottest and driest months on record. How BH goes out there and bikes every day in that stifling heat and humidity is beyond me! I prefer my indoor exercise in the AC watching Morning Joe!
We are not lovers of AC, although how I ever slept without it growing up in Florida pre-AC is mind boggling. We didn’t even have fans. I know my kids are rolling their eyes right now! Truth, though.
So when that nighttime temp goes below 70 degrees, all the windows go up and the sliding glass doors open and there exists this divine cross breeze flowing through the house. The birds return, waking us up to their happy noise. And, I think to myself, is this what heaven is like if I believed in heaven? I think so.
Saturday, November 2, 2019
Only 35 Years
That’s how long it took me to actually hit my goal weight. And I am shouting it from the rooftops! That’s how long it’s been since my third and final pregnancy. It’s been a ridiculously long journey and I blame it all on potato chips. Okay, there’s also the wine.
For the first 30 years of my life, I could literally eat anything and not gain a pound. Even in college when I contracted mononucleosis and was down to 87 pounds and had to live in the infirmary, the nutritionists fed me three milkshakes daily and very, very slowly I got back up to 95 pounds.
After my first child was born, I bounced right back. Even the nurses were calling in their colleagues the day after I delivered to gawk at my flat stomach. What did I know? I’d never had a baby before so I was puzzled by all the fuss.
Twelve and fourteen years later, I had my babies 20 months apart in my late 30s and, let me tell you, no nurses were coming to gawk at my fall stomach! No, no, no. I was appalled! What happened to me?
Heaven knows, I tried. I played racketball, took long walks, went on Weight Watchers, and became a huge fan of Jane Fonda’s workouts. There was Jazzercise and high and low impact classes. I tried yoga and water aerobics. I kept a diary of everything I consumed. That dreaded muffin top was going nowhere.
I’m an organizer but never seemed to be able to plan weekly meals. Basically, I was overwhelmed by a stressful job and being a single parent didn’t help. Plus, all of our schedules didn’t make for a Leave It to Beaver dinner time with the family. Sad to say, fast food and Domino’s pizza delivery found its way to our home on way too many nights. Not good for someone trying to lose 15 pounds.
Needless to say, I didn’t. By the time I retired, I weighed the most I had ever weighed. One of my vows when I retired was to workout every day, which definitely helped but it didn’t get me to my goal weight. I recorded my intake and exercise on my Lose It app daily, but, then, I’d get discouraged when I hit a plateau and couldn’t make that scale move in the right direction.
I thought the South Beach diet was the answer. Tried it but wasn’t wild about the no-wine-for-10-days rule. That should’ve told me something right there but I soldiered on reducing my carb and sugar intake drastically. Not enough, though.
And, then, intermittent fasting became the craze. My cousin turned me on to it and he was living proof that it worked. I started it three years ago and it was okay, but it didn’t get it where I wanted to be. In March of this year, BH and I took a Caribbean cruise and, of course, I ate everything in sight….it was just all too delicious. But, when I got off that boat, my whole attitude changed.
This time I was determined. And that is what was missing. I had a goal: get to my goal weight before I get on the next cruise which is coming up on November 16th. It appears I needed more discipline. I got serious about intermittent fasting, eating under 1000 calories daily and only eating between the hours of 10 a.m to 6 p.m. It also helped that my wine intake has been drastically reduced to one glass a week. And, I don’t even miss it. Never thought I’d say that!
On Wednesday, I hit my goal weight of 115. Time to set another goal, maybe 110. But, first, I’m going to reward myself with a delectable piece of key lime pie!!
For the first 30 years of my life, I could literally eat anything and not gain a pound. Even in college when I contracted mononucleosis and was down to 87 pounds and had to live in the infirmary, the nutritionists fed me three milkshakes daily and very, very slowly I got back up to 95 pounds.
After my first child was born, I bounced right back. Even the nurses were calling in their colleagues the day after I delivered to gawk at my flat stomach. What did I know? I’d never had a baby before so I was puzzled by all the fuss.
Twelve and fourteen years later, I had my babies 20 months apart in my late 30s and, let me tell you, no nurses were coming to gawk at my fall stomach! No, no, no. I was appalled! What happened to me?
Heaven knows, I tried. I played racketball, took long walks, went on Weight Watchers, and became a huge fan of Jane Fonda’s workouts. There was Jazzercise and high and low impact classes. I tried yoga and water aerobics. I kept a diary of everything I consumed. That dreaded muffin top was going nowhere.
I’m an organizer but never seemed to be able to plan weekly meals. Basically, I was overwhelmed by a stressful job and being a single parent didn’t help. Plus, all of our schedules didn’t make for a Leave It to Beaver dinner time with the family. Sad to say, fast food and Domino’s pizza delivery found its way to our home on way too many nights. Not good for someone trying to lose 15 pounds.
Needless to say, I didn’t. By the time I retired, I weighed the most I had ever weighed. One of my vows when I retired was to workout every day, which definitely helped but it didn’t get me to my goal weight. I recorded my intake and exercise on my Lose It app daily, but, then, I’d get discouraged when I hit a plateau and couldn’t make that scale move in the right direction.
I thought the South Beach diet was the answer. Tried it but wasn’t wild about the no-wine-for-10-days rule. That should’ve told me something right there but I soldiered on reducing my carb and sugar intake drastically. Not enough, though.
And, then, intermittent fasting became the craze. My cousin turned me on to it and he was living proof that it worked. I started it three years ago and it was okay, but it didn’t get it where I wanted to be. In March of this year, BH and I took a Caribbean cruise and, of course, I ate everything in sight….it was just all too delicious. But, when I got off that boat, my whole attitude changed.
This time I was determined. And that is what was missing. I had a goal: get to my goal weight before I get on the next cruise which is coming up on November 16th. It appears I needed more discipline. I got serious about intermittent fasting, eating under 1000 calories daily and only eating between the hours of 10 a.m to 6 p.m. It also helped that my wine intake has been drastically reduced to one glass a week. And, I don’t even miss it. Never thought I’d say that!
On Wednesday, I hit my goal weight of 115. Time to set another goal, maybe 110. But, first, I’m going to reward myself with a delectable piece of key lime pie!!
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