Last day

It is the last day before I turn 61. The shock of being in my 6th decade is fading, somewhat. I still have a hard time saying the year, but I am sure that will come within the next year or two.

As I wrap up this year, I am going to ramble about several things. So read on, and see where my mind has been over the last year.

Everyone seems to make New Year's Resolutions and then break them within a few weeks. I have never made a resolution. Why make myself feel guilty about one more thing in my life? I would say that I would like to be kinder and more understanding. However, when I see or hear something stupid, it is just not in my soul to be kinder and more understanding. I have inherited a family trait of not filtering the thoughts before they come out my mouth (or in the case of the internet ) my fingers. So dear reader, deal with it.

Now for random thoughts on the last year. I will start with the "Occupy Wall St." movement. I support the movement and am happy to see that the middle class are mad as hell. I would like to see the movement grow over the spring and summer. It is about time that we told the wealthy that they must pay their fair share. It is time to take down some Bankers. I would love to see them do time in some of the poorest places in America. I would like to see a majority of the Middle class move their money to Credit Unions and small local banks.

These thoughts aromatically move my thoughts to the Republicans. What a bunch of Bozos! I've watched as the candidates debated and stormed Iowa. Holy crap, it is like watching the most far fetched comedy that could have ever been written. It only validates what I've always believed. Republicans are just on the edge of insanity and some have gone all the way around the bend.

Also, I would just like to say. that when our former VP finally passes out of this world and on to hell, I would like to petition for that day to be declared a legal holiday and a Florida state holiday when our idiot Gov. Scott is finally out of office.

The shooting of Gabby Gifford. While I hate that some wacko felt that he had to take such drastic measures to get his point across, and that a child was killed as a result, I wonder if Ms. Gifford had been a middle or lower class person would she have received such specialized care? Would the person with average health insurance (paid out of an average paycheck), medicaid, or medicare received the same level of care? I truly doubt it. We pay for her insurance through our income tax, yet as an average American, we can't get the same level of care. How fair is that?

Now on to more personal tidbits. Humor is still my saving grace. I can laugh at nearly anything or in any situation. More importantly, I can laugh at myself. Seems most folks take themselves way to seriously. Time to lighten up folks.

In the past year I have come to the conclusion that cell phones are a necessary evil . It is nice to have one in case of emergencies, but folks have become downright rude with them. I have seen people texting and talking and taking photos and who knows what else with cell phones. When you are visiting with someone, I find it beyond rude to answer a phone or look at a text. Now, there are exceptions. My grandson, who is in Afghanistan can only call for a few minutes at a time. So anytime he calls our family drops everything to hear his voice. Or if one of the kids or grandkids call then it is only right to answer. I've seen people walk into poles or veer when driving while talking or texting. Have some manners with your phones.

The past year has brought some old friends back into my life. What a truly wonderful thing to happen. I have reconnected with people from my childhood and friends from adulthood that have drifted to the far flung corners of the earth. There is nothing that can lift a spirit like an old friend.

There are some folks that have passed on to their next realm. Friends and family that will never be forgotten. It seems as a person ages there are little holes in your heart from the people who have passed. Maybe, that is what finally gets us. Those little holes add up over time.

On to the New Year. What joy and sadness will it bring? Happy New Year to everyone. Love your family and friends. Forgive those who have hurt you. Look for good, rage about the bad, and have a passion for all things.

Look for a new blog in the coming months.

Random Thoughts

Being at the start of what sociologist call "young old", I have found that there often moments where my mind wonders and wanders. Because our mind controls the rest of our being it is often this wondering and wandering that finds us thinking random thoughts. Also, because our minds are having these random thoughts at inconvenient times we tend to embarrass ourselves. When this happens all a person can do is sit back a laugh uncontrollably and try not to embarrass ourselves very much.

A few weeks ago, I went shopping. Shopping every few weeks is fun. I never buy much, but I love going to the junk stores and looking. While I was out and about I thought I would call my daughter-in-law and make arrangements to meet her and my granddaughter. The following is why you shouldn't talk on the phone while driving. Especially a very large pick- up truck. I called and we decided to meet at a little strip mall. Well, I then noticed that I had just left that mall and was now past it. Ok, so just turn around. Not so easy for me. I turned to the left and was going to proceed through another strip mall. I didn't realize until I had turned that I was going in the out way. They have a curb built so people won't enter that way. Thank goodness I have a very large pick- up truck.

Can't stop a grandma on a mission. Boom, Boom, over the curbs I went. I am sure the folks at the rather trendy upscale store were having a stroke. A large red pick up, with a gray haired granny, and an Obama for President bumper sticker gunning the motor to get over the curb. Now I have the giggles thinking about what these uppity people must be thinking.

I finally get back to where I was to meet up with my girls. I parked the truck and it occurred to me that I should get out and check the tires and such things because that was a pretty good bump that I had given this old truck. The truck looked ok but I noticed that the wind had picked up and it was getting a little chilly. Back in the truck I tried to put on my cardigan sweater. For most folks this is a simple task. Not me! For some reason I couldn't get the arm holes to accept my arms. I tried to put the sweater on three times to no avail. It was then I noticed a man sitting in a car a few parking spots in front of me. Good grief! I hoped that this man was not watching me fighting with my sweater. Then I got the giggles again. How weird it must be to watch a woman wrestling with her sweater. It is such a simple chore, she must have mental problems. Yeah, well he may have had that one right.

By the time my girls showed up, I was nearly in tears from laughing so hard.

Now on to other random thoughts on aging. Phone calls made in the morning will not be remembered by nightfall. I was talking with my sister and had asked what she would like for Christmas. She stated a couple of things that she would like. We went on to chat about our dogs and our schedules for the day. By the time nightfall came, I no idea what she had told me about Christmas. So I had to call and ask again.

This isn't an isolated incident. I had thought of something that I needed to ask my youngest son. I emailed and asked that he call me when he got off work. Again, by nightfall, I had no idea what it was I wanted to know. I twisted my pea size brain all day and just couldn't remember what it was that I needed to know. When he called all I could do was laugh! Thank goodness he just kept chatting until I finally remembered. Sometimes, I think he just chats using "key" words in the hope that I will remember the question. It must be like rebooting a very old computer.

I have found that these little lapses in memory and abilities that slow me down are really funny. It is like I am a science project on aging. I don't find it frustrating or bothersome (other than the occasional embarrassment) because most of the time it is just to funny.

So to all of you out there who are still young, as you age keep laughing. There is nothing you can do to avoid it, so you may as well have fun.

The Holidays are here. Let me tell you, dear reader, that I am a scrooge. I see no point of all the crazy hubbub. I get cranky. I have never been a fan of the season.

Oh yes, I know the adage "the reason for the season". Ya, well, I happen to think that if we are going to celebrate one religion, we should celebrate all religions equally. Plus, being a non-Christian I feel that I am forced into all this joy and goodwill.

Don't get me wrong. I love seeing my Grandchildrens'faces delight in the holidays. I love their wonder and excitement. It has always been the best part of the holidays. Other than those lovely little faces and the ooohs and ahhs, that is about it for my enjoyment.

Oh and I forgot about the food. I use to do the cooking, but over the years that has been given/taken over by the younger crowd. I don't really care, and the food is wonderful and I don't have to stress if it all got done and is tasty. Thank goodness my boys married girls that are good cooks or can do a decent job of the holiday dinners themselves.

I do miss my Grandma Toberman's chicken and noodles, and her wonderful spice cake. I miss Grandma Best's fried chicken and Angle food cake. I miss my Mom watching to smoke rise from the oven and saying, "Shit, the rolls!" My bother-in-law, Denny would always respond, "That's ok Margie. A little carbon helps filter out the system". I miss my cousin Larry saying grace as "Bless the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, first to the table gets the most". We have always been a bit irreverent. Funny, but irreverent.

So now it is on to trimming the house in green and red. Pretty lights, and bows. Only to have to take it all down again in a month.

As my husband and I came home from my son's Thanksgiving night, there were houses that already had their Christmas lights on and decorations out. I feel like Charlie Brown, "Good Grief"!

I worked at Hallmark stores for many years. I feel so bad for anyone who is working retail this time of year. While the season is supposed to be happy and merry, there are some real assholes out there that a retail person would gladly shoot. So, I try very had to be as nice as possible when shopping this time of year. I have been known to point out to someone that they are being an asshole, when I see some new cashier or service person near tears. Until you have waited on someone, tried to help someone, or have been a cashier; don't be mean. What ever is the problem is usually not their fault.

Now, on the gift giving. This year I have decided to give the silliest thing possible to each and everyone on my list. Something they may never use, but when they look at it they will know that it could only have been given by me.

My sister told me a day or two ago what she would like from me. Hello, that was a day or two ago. I don't remember what she said, so I asked her and she couldn't remember either. Soon, we not even remember why we are sending gifts to each other. Or we may call and not remember who or why we are calling. Old age is an interesting time. Mostly funny and an amazing journey.

Well, folks, one more month to go and my 60th year will be over. What, oh what should I write about then?

Halloween and Zombie Spiders

Zombie spiders have come to my front door just in time for Halloween. No, they are not toys nor made of plastic with tiny motors to make them come to life. These are real and very BIG spiders. Here is the tale of the Zombie spiders.

Last week I went out to get the mail. Here in rural Florida we still have mail boxes at the end of the drive way. Upon returning with my daily mess of junk mail and a bill or two, I noticed a huge spider in the bushes next to the door. Let me note here: I am insanely scared of all creepy crawlies. My brain tells me, "they are much smaller and more scared of you". My heart tells me, "oh crap, look at how big that bug is". An insect may not hurt me but it can make me hurt myself in trying to escape its presence.

Anyway, I declared war on this spider. Go for the chemicals. (Dow chemical would be so proud of me). I will admit that I do have a tendency to drown the subject way before any chemical has a chance to take affect. My attempt at the use of bug spray was useless. I could almost hear the spider laugh in a tiny little voice. Have you ever seen the original 1960's version of the "Fly"? If you have you will know the tiny little voice I heard. Only this time the voice was saying, "ha, I laugh at you and your chemicals".

Time to pull out anything that might stop this monster. You might know that, (in my mind), this spider is now getting larger by the moment.

I have a craft room off the screen porch for all my little projects. Aha! Spray glue! That should stop him in his tracks. A quick spray and that seemed to stop him. My turn to laugh and feel that I had won the battle.

Day two of the Zombie spider battle. Again, out to the mail box for the daily load of junk. Coming back to the door, I noticed (NO, IT CAN'T BE) the Zombie spider! Come back to life. This time I used spray fixative. Again this seemed to stop him in his tracks. His web now covered in an assortment of modern chemical warfare.

Whew! Finally victory on battlefield of the front door. Or at least I thought!

Day three of Zombie spider battle. Again, to the mail box and back to the door. I am doomed! As I looked to see if the Zombie was indeed dead, I noticed a movement on the other side of the door. Dang, there is now his Mom. Bigger, badder and much scarier. Zombie Mom spider seemed to be glaring at me with her multitude of eyes. ( I am not sure about that, but it seemed possible). I had lost the battle. I needed a Prince to my rescue.

My prince came in the guise of my Grandson. He laughed at my tale of the Zombie Spiders and simply took care of the matter with a shoe. Ha, I never thought of that!

Happy Halloween to all my friends and family. BOO!

Meditation with Basset Hound

Feeling a bit tense this morning, I thought a bit of meditation might be needed to calm my mind. Lyle Love-It, my Basset Hound, also need a bit of sunshine to calm his mind. So we went to the back yard. While he contemplated all the new smells on the yard, I contemplated on my need to calm my "monkey" mind.

After a bit of listening to my breathing and trying to bring some calm in my day. I sat and watched this lovely, funny, and sometimes very serious dog.

Lyle is a beautiful dog. Perfectly Basset. Anyone who has ever had the pleasure to be in the company of a Basset Hound, will tell you that they are unlike any other dog.

While he walked around, I sat and watched. His beautiful tail straight up with the white tip as his flag. His nose to the ground and those wonderful soft ears gathering up any scent of interest. Calmly, he investigated all that there was of interest in and around his area of the yard. I could almost see the information flowing up his nose to his brain.

What scents he recognized and the ones he didn't. There were scents that required him to scratch over with a flourish of dirt flying from his back feet.

Lyle discovered a strange noise this morning from the neighbors yard. They have just started to raise chickens. Wow, that really confused him and required loud howling to let them know that he was there. I could tell by the look on this face that he just couldn't figure out where that strange noise was coming from.

When he decided that the chickens were aware of him, he then had to come and tell me all about it. Lately, he has had to tell me a lot of things. He puts those big front paws in my lap and then has an entire language of growls, yips, and grumbles that he uses to tell me the latest news. He does this with a sincere and serious expression on his face. Maybe he thinks I do understand. It is really funny and it is hard not to laugh when he is being very serious. I say things like: " really? are you sure? that's good." Or other things one would say when having a conversation that you don't really understand. When he thinks I have been informed well enough he gets down and moves on to what he thinks is his next task. Usually, a nap.

I found that watching him was as calming as meditation. Plus, he gives such nice loves as he drapes those wonderful ears across my hands and looks at me like I am the only one who understands him.

Basset Hounds are truly wonderful dogs. My advice: get to know one and you will need little if any meditation.

October 2, 2011

There is finally a chill in the air here in North Florida. If you will remember, some time ago, I mused on where my internal temperature was the most comfortable. Well, when I went to bed last night I was aware that is would be cool this morning. I refused to turn the AC on for another night. Opened a window and turned on the fan. That didn't work so well. We have one very small window that opens in our bedroom, so it took most of the night to cool down. I awoke this morning and it was 48 outside. Ahhh, the wonderful cool. I opened the doors and turned the ceiling fans on to cool the rest of the house. Duh, that took about 10 minutes. It got down right cold. Shut the doors and turn the heat on to take the chill off. My attire went from tank and pj bottoms, to t-shirt and pj bottoms, to socks, jeans, and 3/4 length sleeve top. The heat is still on until the sun moves enough to warm the house. Then I will reverse the attire for the day. It is hard being temperature challenged.

Yesterday, I spent a wonderful afternoon with my daughter-in-law. We went to lunch and then shopping. We laughed and it was wonderful to spend some time with her.

While we were eating lunch we noticed a bunch of "Red Hat" ladies. I just don't get that society. They look so silly. Maybe that is the point. I wondered what would make someone join such a seemingly stupid group. I wondered if they were rejected cheerleaders, sorority girls past their prime, or just needed something to belong to. Maybe all the above.

One of the ladies seemed to be the one in charge. She wore a huge hat with very large feather plumes in it. She resembled a cartoon character. She was at the head of the table and seemed to be the one giving the instructions to the rest of the seemingly adoring fellow chickens. It was fascinating to watch these 60-something women.

I came home, put on a new CD of blues music, had a glass of wine, and played with my basset hound, Lyle Love-it. I truly think as I get older the more rebellious I become. I like that. I like the freedom of my age to say and react as I want. I like the fact that I don't really give a hoot who likes me and who doesn't. There seems to be a lot less pressure to conform at this age.

So maybe the "Red Hat" ladies are rebelling in their own way but I really like the fact that I don't need to dress up in silly clothes or belong to a group.

On to history of the year 1951. In October of 1951, "I Love Lucy" debuted on CBS. Now you can see reruns of Lucy somewhere on T.V. nearly everyday. Lucille Ball was wonderful comic, but more than that she was one of the first strong business women. She knew what worked and what didn't about her talent and her business.

Also pertaining to women of the 50's and 60's, a Mexican chemist, Luis E. Miramontes synthesized the first oral contraceptive. This would free women forever from the fear of unwanted pregnancies and free women to pursue and achieve things beyond their biology. It would also, allow families to grow at a rate that allowed for real success. Especially the middle class. Seems that some would like to take that away these days.

There was an alarming amount of Nuclear testing. Both the US and Russia racing to see who could destroy who first. The really scary part of all that is that now we have every rouge government in the world trying to attain the same capabilities. There are powerful idiots all over the world looking to promote their agendas with this capability. The USA has just as many crazies wanting that power as any other nation in the world. Scary!

Well, as we move into fall, the autumn of my 60th year, I am finding that there is a reflection of who I am, and wonder who I will become. There are so many possibilities. I do know however, that I will not be wearing purple with red, nor big silly hats with feathers. Ha, I can't even decide what I will wear the rest of damn day.

Happy October, everyone!

September catch up

September is nearly over. For most folks that means the weather is cooling and leaves are starting to change. Here, in North Florida, it is still very hot and very humid. Our fall comes near the end of October. The oak trees do shed their leaves and we get cooler days. The coolness will be a welcome relief this year. We have had a very very hot and humid summer.

Thank goodness, only one real hurricane threat this year. However, we do still have a month to go before we can rest easy.

September brought my oldest son's 40th birthday. He is an amazing man. Of course, I had to tease him a bit about being the big 40. He got me back in fine form. I called him on his birthday, and as soon as he answered there was no "hello", it was "so, how old do you feel right now". Yep, he was right. I find it hard to believe that I have a 40 year old son. Also hard is that my baby boy, is 34. Can that really be possible? That these two boys are now middle aged! When I look at them, all I can see are those little boy faces. I don't see the receding hairlines. I don't see the laugh lines around the eyes. I don't see that they are now so much taller than I am. I still see my boys. Thank goodness their laughter hasn't changed. I do love to hear them laugh. It is music to my heart.

September has also moved me one more month ahead in the journey of being 60. I've noticed that to see the guide on the television I have to put my glasses on and to hear someone on the phone I have to make sure the volume is at maximum. I walk a tad bit slower after a day of shopping. My stomach that once loved tacos or a bowl of popcorn before bed, now engages my brain with the question of, "really? you want this now or major heartburn later".

I did learn that I can still dance. Last week as I was walking back from our mail box a snake slithered in front of me. Oh you should have seen the "oh crap a snake" dance I did in my front yard. I haven't moved that fast for a very long time. I am sure my neighbors got a chuckle out of it. No one has admitted to seeing it though.

September has been quiet. One more month to put away on my journey.

Books and My Generation

I've been thinking about my love of books and that what we read says exactly who we really are. Also, that we display our books for visitors to see, to make the statement of who we are.

I looked at the books on my bookshelves and understood that they really say who I am.

From left to right on my books are as follows:

Barrack Obama:

The Audacity of Hope

Edward Rutherford:

The Forest

London

The Princes of Ireland

The Rebels of Ireland

Maureen Dowd:

Bushworld

Tom Robbins:

Villa Incognito

Jitterbug Perfume

and on my Kindle: B is for Beer

Zen Gardens

Jimmy Buffett:

Swine Not

Salty Piece of Land

Michael Moore:

Dude, Where's My Country

P. J. O'Rourke

Eat the Rich

All The Trouble In The World

Age and Guile

Molly Ivins

Who Let The Dogs In

David Wrobleske

The Story of Edgar Sawtelle

Gregory McGuire:

Wicked

Ken Follett:

Pillars of the Earth

World Without End

Lewis Black:

Me Of Little Faith

John Kennedy Toole:

Confederacy of Dunces

David Sedaris:

Naked

Augusten Burroughs:

Running with Scissors

Ann-Marie MacDonald:

Fall On Your Knees

Frank McCourt:

Angela's Ashes

Christopher Paolini:

The Eragon Series

Wally Lamb:

I know This Much Is True

Now, that is just one bookcase. It is the most prominent one. The one that everyone that would visit my home would see. So what does it say about me?

I believe that it says that I am definitely a left-wing liberal, that I enjoy humor, but that I love history, and just a damn good story.

I have a kindle e-reader and I do enjoy it. However, it has not deterred my love of real Books. I usually get my books from second-hand stores or when the library has a book sale. Some are given to me, there is never a better gift than a book.

I also believe that my choice in books shows that I still believe in a world without war, prejudice, injustice, and equality for all people. Next to my bed I keep a copy of "Zen Miracles" and it is my most valued book. I can look at a page or two and know that I am indeed the Captain of who I am. No one else, no mythic being, no political idealism, just my own mind.

One other thing before I close. I've been listening to all this silliness going around in the country. I think my generation (or at least some) owe our children and grandchildren an apology. We grew up thinking we could achieve a world without wars, without racism or sexism. We failed miserably. Some of my generation have back peddled to the 1950's. Lost their way, or prayed to the almighty dollar sign. I, for one, will keep up the good fight and hope that my kids and grandchildren will know that some of my generation stood for something greater than ourselves.

The Illinois State Fair was just a week ago and I am thinking how much I would love to go to the Fair just one more time in my life.

The State Fair was something that our family never missed. It meant getting everyone together and heading to Springfield for an entire day. We arrived as the gates were opening and staked out a couple of tables and plenty of chairs in the Farm Bureau tent. It was located behind the Dairy Building. This was a good place to meet and always used as the center of the Fair day. Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, or Dad would be there waiting for us at the end of the day for the journey home.

The Dairy Building was a wonderful place. There was always a sculpture made out of butter. Usually, a full size cow made of Butter. I always wondered how long it took to sculpt it and how much butter was used. One other thing about the Dairy Building was the cheese sandwiches and chocolate milk. I have never found a cheese that was that full of flavor, or colder chocolate milk.

After the visit to the Dairy Building we were off to see the cows, pigs, chickens, and rabbits. However, the favorite of Daddy's and mine were the mules. What wonderful animals they are. There is such intelligence in their eyes. I've always wanted a mule not to work, but for a pet.

Next, it was off to look at all the new farm equipment. Shiny new John Deere tractors, the latest combines and corn pickers. You could see the wishes rolling of Grandpa, Daddy, and Uncle Wayne.

There was a visit to the 4-H Building to see all the exhibits of the 4-H kids. Always fun to see the projects they came up with and if you knew anyone who had won a Blue ribbon.

Next, it was off to the Exposition Building. This building contained all the handiwork of the people of Illinois. Pies, Cakes, canning jars full of fruits and vegetables, handmade quilts. Wonderful to see the talent of the people of Illinois.

One year when I was very little, my sister and a friend took me to ride the rides when a huge rain storm came up. We got lost and ended up at the fire station. I remember that a kind fireman wrapped me in his coat and took us to the Farm Bureau tent to find Mom and Dad. I will never forget how scared we were.

In later years, as teens, we would go to the Fair to ride the carnival rides in an area known as "Happy Hollow". Also, to see the Grandstand Show and fireworks that followed. I got to see "Paul Revere and the Raiders", "The Beach Boys" and several other 60's groups there. Always great fun!

I've not been to the fair in over 40 years now, but I sure would like a cheese sandwich, chocolate milk and see a few mules again.

If you get to go to a State Fair don't pass up the opportunity. You never know what magic they really are.

August 11, 2011

The heat continues to zap the life out of nearly everything here in North Florida. The afternoons are timed by the 3 p.m. thunderstorms. Survival depends on air conditioning and fans.

I couldn't find much happening in August of 1951. So, I thought I would ramble on a few things that I have had on my tiny little mind.

I urge all to read the book or, at the very least, to see the movie; "The Help". It is wonderful novel that shows a unique side to "domestic" help, that the majority of people might not think about.

After reading this wonderful book, I got to thinking about how I was brought up to interact with different races of people.

My mother was the original "Archie Bunker". I guess her ranting never took with my sister and I. I tried very hard to raise my boys so that they wouldn't judge folks by the color of their skin, nationality, or gender. One son learned the lesson, one son still has issues with some of different color or nationality, but he would never be mean or hateful to anyone, because he is a kind and gentle soul.

Growing up in a small southern Illinois town didn't give for much interaction with anyone from a different race. There were black families, but due to the time in history, I guess I didn't really give it any thought, until I was in high school. Even then I don't remember thinking about race relations that much.

I knew what was happening in the south was wrong, but like so many folks today, it didn't seem to affect me, so I just didn't think about it.

When the Equal Rights Movement started, that is when I became more aware of all inequalities. The Women's Movement spoke to me in ways that nothing else ever had. I guess I could see how women had been second class citizens and were indoctrinated to believe that we needed to marry, have children, and that was it! The whole Cinderella myth. What I wanted to know was, what happened to Cinderella when her kids moved out, or her husband left her for Snow White? What if Cinderella didn't find a Prince Charming but a frog? What if Cinderella found that she wanted the whole kingdom and to heck with Prince Charming? No one could answer that until the women's movement came along.

Now, I see things like the "Bachelorette, The Real Housewives of (you put in the place name), Toddlers and Tiaras, " etc. What, just what, are we teaching our daughters and granddaughters? Also, what kind of messages are being sent to our sons and grandsons?

Then we have the ultra right-wing, trying to put us all back in the 50's. What the hell is that all about?

Now, don't get me wrong, I am a housewife and I love being at home. However, when I am home, I am not cleaning and cooking for 24/7. I get a lot of art work done, and just have the freedom to do what I want, when I want. I love having the freedom and space. It seems that at 60 I am just discovering who I am. It is a wonderful thing.

I admit that I do still see the colors and nationalities, but I try with all I have to ignore those distinctions. I encourage my grandchildren to see people as just people. I hope and pray that at some point in the future there will be no need to fight for anyone's rights.

Crazy Days

The past week has been really strange. The dog days of summer are upon us, but someone has informed my dogs ( Lilly Belle and Lyle Love-It ) that the best place to be is in the house with Mom. This requires me to become a dog wrangler. Lilly hates Lyle, but Lyle loves Lilly. I have no children, but still have to deal with baby gates.

The dog days of summer also brings daily afternoon storms to Florida. You can nearly set your watch by them. Anywhere around 3p.m. and 4p.m., it will assuredly rain, if not out an out thunderstorm with crazy winds and monsoon rains.

These daily storms also play havoc with the electrical and phone systems of the house. About two weeks ago, my phone started with static and random ringing or not ringing at all. I went to their web site and decided to do an online chat with a tech, to see if I could solve the problem without having someone come to the house. Now, if you've seen the commercial for a credit card company and the tech named "Peggy" then you will know my frustration and the near hysterical laughter provided to me via "Windstream". As I typed my problem into the little slot provided for the online chat, I see this typed: "Hello, my name is Peggy. How can I help you today?". I was laughing so hard that I couldn't type anymore.

Next, thing is that I must call them. So I call from a kindly neighbors house and Windstream sends out a fella to fix the phones. The minute he opens the box several wasps fly out. Wasps have a bad attitude problem. I think they are like Republicans, teenagers, and (yes) old ladies just damn angry all the time.

Finally, phone fixed. Then it is on to a neighborhood meeting about an access road (which no one really cares about) and maybe forming a neighborhood watch. We have had some strange goings on in the neighborhood, so it might be a good idea to know who the neighbors are and just to keep an eye out.

A representative from the County Sheriffs Dept. was supposed to come and relay information on setting up such a watch. Unfortunately, the local Sheriffs Office is about 30 miles away, and there is not a lot of concern about the citizens of our neighborhood. The representative just didn't show up. Makes me feel very safe.

Saturday night, after my husband had gone to bed, I hear what sounds like a loud firecracker go off just outside the back door, thinking someone had some leftover fireworks I just continue watching my television program and then off to bed. The next morning, my husband goes to town to get a newspaper and the required Sunday morning doughnuts for breakfast. Our truck needed a small repair and a tire aired up, so he pulled into the back yard. Low and behold, the entire top of a large tree had fallen out and it just missed our back deck. So, it was not a firecracker, but the tree. Guess, from now on when I hear something out of the ordinary I will take the time and effort to look out and try to determine the source.

This got me to thinking about the neighborhood watch thing. I guess, I wouldn't be very good at it. I don't seem to really care about strange noises and such. The neighbors might not feel any safer with me in their group.

The dog days of summer have put me in a stupor. Ready for some cooler days or a very large pitcher of Margaritas in the blender, Jimmy Buffett on the stereo, me and Lyle Love-It on the screen porch. This could be one of the reasons for my lack of attention to things in the neighborhood. If nothing else, the margaritas may make me see things to report to the Neighborhood Watch.

Have a wonderful week all my friends and family.

July 27th, 2011

Today is Don and mine wedding anniversary, we have been married for five years. I am always amazed that we seem to make this work no matter what.

We have both had previous marriages that for one reason or another didn't work out. Maybe, those marriages taught us something. I don't really know.

While Don is not my first love. You know the one that makes you hear bells and all that other stuff. He is the one that no matter what, I know will be there for me. He is my rock and my soft place to land when all seems to falling apart.

I guess I really can't ask for more and I really don't want more than he already is: Just my Don.

July 2011

July 13, 2011: Oh My God, it is so dang hot! It is nearly like having a "hot flash", except it just doesn't go away.

I've found that as I get older, it is harder to adjust my inner core to extremes of hot and cold. Living in Florida, anything below 70 degrees is sock and long sleeves for me. Anything above 73 degrees is "strip it all off" weather. So as you can see, I am limited to a few degrees of change. I hope as the years pass that the margin doesn't decrease any more, because I will be very confused about proper attire for the day. I don't want to be one of those old ladies that has to wear socks with sandals.

I have also found that I perspire a lot more than before. As with "hot flashes", my face seems to take the brunt of the sweat. OK, so some time soon, I expect to see myself with socks, sandals, and a terry cloth head band. What a lovely sight that would be!

I just don't remember ever being this dependent on Air Conditioning. When I was little, our family had a huge window fan that pulled cool air into the house. I remember, on sultry summer nights, there would be a pallet made on the floor in front of the front door and we would sleep there. Odd, people don't know what a pallet is anymore, or make them on the floor. I would bet that if you asked anyone under 50 they wouldn't have a clue as to what your were talking about if you said, "I made a pallet on the floor".

The other thing about summer heat is that even though it is unbearable at 60, I still look forward to warm days and nights. I seem to have this fantasy about enjoying the summer evenings on the porch. People just don't sit on the porch anymore. Or there are planned communities that emulate the old neighborhoods, where it is fashionable to sit on the front porch. Disney has one in Orlando. I don't like that you have to plan to have a real neighborhood. It is a shame that folks just don't enjoy their communities, and neighborhoods.

So, grab a glass of lemonade or a beer, and go sit on the front porch and give folks something to talk about. Like, did you see that old woman, with the socks on with her sandals, sitting on her front porch.

July 1, 2011

July has arrived. The heat and humidity is now a fact of life. It seems a good time to celebrate our nation's birthday, however, I prefer to just celebrate my youngest son's birthday. He is much more important to me.

I look at this boy (man) and am truly amazed by him.

Timothy, from day one, has been a smile in my heart. He has always seems to have a smile within him and a sense of goodwill that is unbounded. So, I am wishing him a wonderful day. As, I talked to him this morning, his daughter was hugging him and I could hear her laughter. That is what I remember most from his childhood, the hugs. Nothing better.

So, yes, we are celebrating our Nation's birthday as well. While we have the most wonderful nation, I see that those on the right side of the debate want to destroy all that has made it one of the best countries in the world. Astounds me.

This will be 60 years of enjoying the 4th of July. Mostly, I remember family get togethers. At Grandma and Grandpa Best's farm. There would be the most wonder fried chicken. I don't know how Grandma did it, but the chicken was perfection. At the end of the evening, there was homemade ice cream and a cake. Or watermelon. Now, you have to understand, for 60 years, I've tried to like watermelon. Every summer I convince myself that this will be the summer that I will finally understand the wonderfulness of the melon. Then, I try to eat it. Ugh, the smell, the texture, the taste, is all wrong. Do you think that makes me nearly un-American?

Another 4th memory is with my sister and her family. There were battles with the next door neighbors. They would fly the Confederate flag and we would fly the Stars and Stripes. Whoever, using whatever means possible, stole the others flag won the bragging rights. Now, these battles would get out of hand sometimes, depending on the amount of beer consumed. Also a bit dangerous. Firing bottle rockets at the opposition camp, sent many a running for their lives.

Another 4th memory, is my hometowns fireworks celebration. It was always held at the lake. The "audience" would sit on the rolling hills surrounding one side of the lake and the fire department would be on the other side of the lake, at the Country club to fire off the display. And every year they would catch some part of the woods around them on fire. Almost a tradition in irony.

The celebration still continues in a more calm way now. My niece saves her Christmas tree for the 4th and it is entwined with thousand of firecrackers. Just at the right moment it is set a blaze. Tree recycled for yet another year. I wish I could be in Illinois one more time for the 4th. It is such fun.

My 4th will be very quiet. Probably watch the fireworks on T.V., as most of northern Florida has been on fire for a couple of months, no fireworks are allowed.

I will also hope that this year brings an end to two made up wars, and peace. All we need is love.

Education (yes, again)!

June 30, 1951 the NAACP begins their push against segregation in the public school systems. With some success the goal has been met, however, it all depends on how deeply you look.

Here in Florida and much of the south, there are private schools that cater to a segregation of sorts. Some are Christian schools, others are just very private and uppity. There are those districts, that because of the area they are in, are afforded to only those children whose parents live in mini-mansions, gated communities. Other less fortunate kids are stuck with inner-city schools that continually fail to perform to some perceived goal. These schools are not supported by a wealthy tax base.

So, I guess it is how you look at the topic of segregation to see if the lofty goals of each child getting their deserved education really has taken place in the last 60 years. I don't think it has.

60 years of trying to solve larger questions than the human mind can comprehend. Until, all people are seen as equals, treated as equals, true goals will never happen.

As a 60 year old, I don't know why such things bother me. My kids are grown and out of the school system, even my grandchildren are nearly done with the Public education system. None the less, it does indeed bother me. Every child should be given the opportunity to succeed, no matter his economic standing. Arrrrgh! I want to scream!

At 60 years of age, I think I see the injustice more clearly. Not just of education, but basic human rights.

Yet, I watch the rants of the Right and am amazed at the narrow little minds that prevail in the world.

Please, someone tell me that I am not the only one who sees that to survive, we must now think of humanity and not nationality, religion, or gender.

Ahhh, the rants of an old woman!

Last day of school

Today is the last day of school for my grandkids. No more getting up early, no more stresses about classes, grades or peers. An entire summer before them.

I was remembering what the last day of school was like for me. In grade school, there was always the class picnic. Everyone brought a lunch to school and we went to the park for the afternoon and played games, such as Red Rover, Tag, and such. The school always provided the Orange Soda. Today, I can not stand Orange soda. It reminds of school picnics.

I hope my grands have some wonderful memories of the past year. Something to take away and store in their memories about the year and what they have accomplished.

Memories of their school years will be vastly different from the 50's when I was in school. The learning and school experience is very different. The summers are vastly different from the 50's. It all seems so very structured now. Seems so little freedom is now given to kids. I wonder how much more structured my youngest granddaughters school years will be. Worries me.

I've known kids that are home schooled and yes, they have more freedom, but somehow it seems, that not a lot of learning happens. So I don't think that is the solution to giving our kids more freedom or learning.

I guess if I could figure this all out I would win an Education prize of some sort. No one seems to be really thinking about kids as people. As well, rounded people. While we emphasize math, science ,and literature, we seem to have lost focus on Art and Music. I would like to see a inclusion of all things into schools. I would start with history. If you are going to teach about the French Revolution, include not just the history, but the art, the music, the math, the science, etc. of that period.

Oh well, I hope my grands have a wonderful summer. Hope my readers also have a wonderful summer.

Remember, your last days of school years with fondness.

June 1,2011

It is lovely this morning. Sun is shining and so far it isn't very hot. Not much was happening in 1951 on this day. The first titanium plant opened in Henderson, Nev.. I guess that is worth mentioning for those of you who care about such things.

I remember, June, as being the first full month of summer vacation. Summers filled with swimming and playing. I don't even remember thinking about anything else. There were bike rides, friends, and just having fun.

This summer, one of my Granddaughters, will be in Drivers Education. While I love the woman she is growing into, I sure miss that little girl that she was. Another Granddaughter, is off to several camps and serving communities through her church. Again, I can see them both swirling in fancy dresses for a wedding, and being thrilled that the dresses swished. Sweet cherub faces aglow with little girl things. Yet, there still is one Granddaughter to discover swirling fancy dresses, dolls, and such.

One Grandson (now all grown up) is off doing Army stuff. He is fulfilling a dream and I wish him well. But I miss the sweet little boy that was always thrilled to see Grandma. Another Grandson has a few jobs here and there to keep him busy, but he did tell me that he would like to spend most of his summer with me. I know that would last about a week, as I don't have a gaming system, or first run movies on the t.v., but I would love to have him here.

I remember spending time at my Uncle Wayne's farm in central Illinois. Oh, it was truly magical for me. My cousin, Larry, had horses and I would spend lots of time talking to his horse "Rascal". My cousin Linda was, to my way of thinking, beautiful and wonderful. Uncle Wayne let me hang out with him, ride the tractor and help build a fence around the farm. My Aunt Geraldine, was a wonderful cook and I helped (?) there. There was always something wonderful going on at their house.

Well, here is to summer childhood memories. I hope my readers have their own

May 2011

Well, we were all supposed to be "raptured" yesterday. I'm still here and all my favorite folks are still here, as are all my favorite dogs. Guess, maybe, they had it all wrong. This prediction was supposedly based on mathematical predictions from the Bible. I was never any good at math, so like me maybe they just did the math wrong.

The same folks predicting this "end of the world" scenario also got it wrong back in the 90's. I do hope that he/she doesn't try again. I guess, though, as long as there are fools, someone will take advantage and offer to be the bigger fool.

I did like all the anti-rapture stuff on the internet. Some of it was just to funny.

So now we move on the end of world scenario of the Mayans. I tend to think that they just couldn't (again with the math) figure out what came after 2012, or they ran out of space on the rock calendar they were using to keep time.

There have always been predictions of the end of the earth and it certainly won't end with this silliness.

Seems to me the more likely scenario is that we will be our own demise. Our minds and beliefs are narrow. Until we can see the "big" picture we are surely doomed.

So here we go on to 2012 and the hope that the Mayans were just as bad at math as I am.

May 15, 2011

Beautiful morning. The Endeavor Space Shuttle launched this morning. Usually, I can see it streak across the sky but I missed it this morning.

The Endeavor will resupply the Space Station and run physics experiments on the origins of the universe while in space.

I got to thinking about the space program and how my generation is the first to experience the wonders of space travel.

Sputnik was launched on Oct. 4, 1957. I was six and remember sitting on the trunk of our 1951 Ford watching it fly across the sky. My Dad was thrilled to see it. I thought it looked like a falling star and wondered if I should make a wish on it.

When I was a senior in high school, NASA landed astronauts on the moon. I remember watching it on television. It seemed miraculous that they really had gone to the moon.

Now the last of the shuttle missions has happened in my 60th year. I do wonder what will come next. I hope that we will never give up the exploration of space. I guess my Star Trek is showing. I really would like to know what is out there. I may never know, but hopefully my grandchildren or great-grandchildren will know.

May 9, 2011 Mother's Day

What a lovely day. Sun is shining and it is warm. It is Mother's Day, so I thought I would take this opportunity to write about Moms.

My Mom was a combination of strength, love, and humor. My Dad was a truck driver and on the road a lot. So it was up to Mom to raise three kids, keep everything going and try not to crack under the pressure. She was also the main caretaker for her mother. Not an easy task in any of it.

I would say that she was tough but I do believe that we all knew that she loved us.

Her humor was incredible. She would laugh at the littlest things and could laugh at herself as well. She also taught us three to laugh. One of her gifts to us. Carole, Jim, and I are always finding something to bring a smile and a laugh. And we certainly laugh at ourselves.

She taught us to be passionate about our beliefs. She was a woman who was not afraid to stand up for herself, her kids, or her beliefs.

A born Democrat, and successfully, made both of her daughters into strong Democrats. The son, got wrapped up in all the hate that the Republican party adheres to, so she lost her battle with that one. She wasn't one to back down when it came to politics or her beliefs.

She died at a very young age, 54. It seems incredible that she has been gone for nearly 40 years. I miss her, but I don't think she would have enjoyed becoming a very old woman. So, while death took her young, maybe that is the way she would have preferred to be remembered.

Now with kids and grandchildren of my own, I find that I compare myself to her. She knew that being a parent was not a popularity contest. I find that some that I know think parenthood is just that. It never works. So I have said to my boys and grands that, I am not in this to be popular. I am here to love them and that is the bottom line.

Oh, I've had my boys tell me they hated me. And my reply was always, "Well, I love you". They have pointed out that I was stupid, only to find out that this was not necessarily the case. Especially, when they had their own children. Amazing, how smart your own parents get once you have kids of your own.

But, I've had my boys' love and I know it. They have always proven it in little ways. A hug or a peck on the cheek. A phone call when they haven't talked to me in a while. The sparkle in their eyes when I can make them laugh. It is all there. Wrapped in two men's eyes. A sparkle that brings an untold warmth and love to my heart.

You will never know how much your Mom loves you until you have loved your own children. Sometimes it's to late to let Mom know that you learned this lesson. If your Mom is still with you, let her know everyday that you love her.