HAPPY HALLOWEEN

How cute is this......Clever, bright and cheery.

Well that's no fun....where is my broom?

Sheila all set to celebrate. . . trick or treat. . . some scarecrow.  Have fun.

One of the nicest ways to carve a pumpkin and fill it with pure joy . . .flowers make a room come alive and our world a little brighter.

Here at Ridgemont we had a pot luck dinner to celebrate Halloween last evening and there was a good showing of folks.   The dishes were many and plentiful and delicious.    We had home made bread, mac and cheese, chicken, and dozens of special salads and deserts, hot coffee, cider and water.    Karen, our manager, was so delighted that so many came she said we could put another one in in a few months.  Something to look forward to.   I think we learned that we overdid the size of our dishes as we were all too generous.  

I put this picture on my blog the other day but think it is a good reminder to watch out what kind of candy the children bring home and to warn them not to eat anything until they get home and sort it out.   Most folks are good, happy to share the holiday with the children but there are some who have other ideas.    Better to be safe than sorry.

 

So dress up, get out there and trick or treat and be happy...slap happy is good.    Treat yourself to your favorite desert and share it with someone you love.   

 

October is ending, November about to start along with the cold crisp days of our winter months...   Dress warmly,   get out the boots and the shovels and put away the rake now that all those leaves are picked up.   Speaking of leaves, I looked out the laundry room window onto a beautiful tree with brilliant red leaves.   The wind was up and the leaves were blowing, some falling to the ground, others doing a dance that was graceful and fulfilling as it made the leaves drop and swirl away as they built piles under the tree.   It made me smile to watch the tree in action, bending, swaying, changing the leaves from red to browns and back again as they folded and unfolded in the wind.  It was like watching a symphony and I was delighted to be so entertained.    How lucky we are...just a glance out a window and nature puts on a spectacular show, just for us.  I hope you have a windy day and take time to look out and see what ballet is waiting just for you.

 

Be generous, be kind, be patient with your trick or treat little ones tonight.    Be sure to admire their costumes and make them feel proud and happy to be out having fun.    If you are brave enough, put on a costume of your own and knock on a few doors.   Someone may have some hot cider and a donut or two.   

 

Enjoy the spooks and goblins and binge a little, you can start a diet tomorrow.

 

Don't forget one good deed, two if you have more time and share YOU with those you love  . . . be good, be kind, be gentle and go spook someone, just for fun.  Hugs to all.

 

Different

A wooly pig...wow.....now that is something different.  There is a new find every day if you look around.   Never saw or heard of this fancy little beast.   Does fur make the bacon taste better?   I'll never know.

think about that...a truism

ha,ha, and you never know when bone loss starts, hopefully not first in your jaw.

Jennifer is showing her dahlias blooming in her yard despite the weather change up in Nevada.

An interesting reflection of the trees, quite beautiful.

I know, I know, it is Friday, all day, and almost the end of October, where did all those seconds go?    I am looking forward to the pot luck tonight and some real food.   I am thinking back over yesterday when I griped and groaned over my outing and not having a chance to shop in a store with a little bit of everything.    I mentioned in my blog that I  wanted to buy some inexpensive drapes for the winter months and in the spring I would put back the lovely sheers that are long and touch the heaters.   My beautiful , wonderful Sullivan niece immediately offered to go out and find just the right material and colors for my little space and make me drapes....how special her thought...how special she is and how much I appreciate her loving and caring.    Just goes to show how important family can be.  I really hated to say no to such an offer but her hard work would be wasted  and the time short before the sheers go back up and are just perfect for this little studio.   I hope you are lucky to have a family member , or a few best friends in your life to make your world a much happier place.   I am blessed. 

 

It was quiet around here in Ridgemont yesterday.   The lunch bunch were happy to see a hamburger on the menu  along with some real tasty cold slaw.   They , the cooks, can do a good job when the mood hits them;  we'd like it to hit more often.  Industrial food seems to have mastered the trick of teaching us how to burp graciously and head for the alka seltzer.     Our pot luck tonight should prove to be healthier and a lot more delicious as the residents plot and plan to bring a few of their favorite dishes.   I am taking that marsh mellow salad that is a holiday favorite ...and I forgot the mandarin oranges.  I'll be right back, have to go Skype my daughter and ask her to pick some up for me.  Don't go away.   Okay, I just 'skyped' my daughter and hope she reads her message before she leaves for the store.  What is that old saying about 'losing ones head if it wasn't tied on'...well I am getting pretty good at it.

 

A festive weekend coming up, so, get  the store, list in hand, and pick up some treats and invite some folks in to celebrate  the ghosts and goblins big and small.    Have some fun and no tricks;  there are enough of them happening in our lives as it is.    Speaking of tricks, did you watch the debate?   Pay attention to those who are not afraid to speak up about things that are not as they should be.    We have a few brave souls willing to stand up and be counted and maybe they are the ones you should consider for your vote.    Okay, no politics...I'm  off to make my coffee and find something to go with it...i'd settle for a big juicy jelly donut but that is not going to happen.  Peanut-butter toast is always second best.   Try it with a little applesauce .   Go...have breakfast and take out that smile for today....get out there and make some folks glad they know you.   Give them something to smile about...a touch, a word, a big bear hug ...um...I'd like one of those...open the door to your heart and let some love come out.   Hugs to all.

 

 

 

Seasons

Fall in all its beauty.   The little cottage facing the lake reminds me of Minnie and  Hobe's little cottage on Boone Lake . Rhode Island where we spent a lot of time  a very long time ago.   The cottage wasn't as big as the one pictured but close.  I painted a picture like this, wonder if it is hanging on some wall somewhere.    

Mt. Rainier, snow has  fallen up there already.   A great hiking spot for many.   Wonder if there is a ski lodge up there.   Looks like ski country to me.   

Ah, lunch time.

Another vie of Mt. Rainier  as the sun begins to rise.  

I am very thankful to the photographers that take such beautiful pictures and I wish I had their names to give them credit.   I have a camera but right now we are having a rainy week and no good light for pictures.    We did get off to our bus ride to Gig Harbor and I am sorry to say it rained cats and dogs all day so no pictures.   It wouldn't have done any good to take pictures anyway as we really didn't go into the town to see anything but two stores, both of which I could have done without.  The ladies were not up to much walking so after the first store they slowed down and by the second store they had had it and we started back to Ridgemont.    To say I was disappointed would be the understatement of the year.   We didn't go near one store that had clothing or home items such as drapes and things I was interested in.   I have taken down the sheers for the winter as they are so long they touch the heater and warm up.  I am afraid of fire so took them down and intend to find some short drapes for the winter months.   I sure can't find them in a hobby store.   So my telling you of the trip is short and it was.

 

Daughter Patricia is off to Seattle and a doctor visit today.   Take a few seconds out of your day and say a prayer for her.   We hope there is some good news of the new medication she has been given.   It doesn't seem so as she has had a lot of down days because of it...I think...some would argue but I don't see a good change at all.   M.S. is an insidious disease and a scary one.   If you pass a church, light a candle please.

 

Well yesterday was not a complete dud as Christine and her crew had a session to make the little door prizes for the upcoming Christmas tea.   One of the creative artisans came up with a small white marble Frosty the snowman to put into a wire base as a Christmas ornament and gift for those attending.   We had a small shaped cardboard, like a tree, and wrapped wire around and around to make a holder for Frosty.   They are clever and cute and we had fifty to make....and we did it....nothing shy about us.

 

I think the pizza and salad helped egg us on.   The ladies are fun to  be with and I met a couple of new ones.   I had a problem facing a wall of beautiful art work and couldn't decide which one I wanted to own.  The price alone fixed that problem and I came home empty handed.    I also got to judge some new work coming in and critique it.   Both sets were from photographers and they are very talented .   The pictures were amazing.   One photographer has a lady friend who loves to grow flowers and has a garden to write home about.  He goes over to her yard with his camera and makes magic pictures.   I sometimes think we do not take time to really truly look at things.   The intricacies  of the stamen of flowers is unbelievable when you get down close and personal.   No wonder the bees love flowers.    The other photographer only entered three small pictures of her work and it was enough to show how talented she is.   She settled for the closeness of animals and had three very beautiful shots. . . talk about smiling eyes....animals have it down pat.  So my day ended with hugs and a smile and now a new one to conquer.

 

A rainy day again...so....who cares;  I don't.    I cannot go out and walk to the corner and back but I can walk the hallways for exercised or get off my duff and use one of the machines out in the activity room and stretch the muscles.    So, get up and get going as you have places to go and things to do today.  Thursday....yep, it's here already and it is going to be a busy weekend with Halloween to celebrate.    Get ready for the neighborhood spooks and scare the be jeepers out of those ghosts and goblins heading your way.    Just do not forget those who cannot participate and stay all alone and lonely;  they have a need of a second or two of your time. . . put those pearly whites on display;   a sparkle in your eyes and get on your 'broom' and have some fun scaring them into a laugh or two.    We are having a pot luck here in Ridgemont...now that should bring about a tale or two.  I'll be back.    Hugs to all.

 

 

 

Old Stuff

I first heard of the Moody Blues when Grandmother Minnie Mouse asked if I thought it would be a good record for son John for his Christmas present...it was as it was his favorite band at the time.    I wonder if he still has the record.   When I downsized and gave away about fifty records, it was one of them.  The biggest change in down sizing is getting rid of things you love.   Records, from way back when, were always a favorite and having a day to listen to favorite bands was one my favorite things to do.   I think I miss my little radio the most;  um....Christmas is coming...I'm making my list. 

The bark of a tree...how fascinating as you hunt for pictures and designs and marvel at the beauty of the coating of a tree.  An animal face, could be an elephant, an owl, a dog or a cat or an old grandmother like me....makes me want to reach out and touch it.     Age, wisdom, beauty . . .its all there.

A nice walk along a river, ripples and bubbles the song of nature.

A truism.

Good morning.    Hump Day and we, here at Ridgemont, are off to Gig Harbor today.   I hear it is a lovely small town with lots of little shops in old town and a nice size mall on the other side of the highway.    A chance to think about the upcoming holidays and gifts or just sightseeing in a new place.    I'll let you know what we find tomorrow...reminds me, yes, I'll take the camera.

Well Vinnie and I had our drop in company who want to sit and discuss anything to avoid going back to a lonely room.   It carves into our reading time but we made up for it and read for an hour, good read, and we are more than half way through the book.   We are back in history during the Roosevelt years and the Lend Lease bill which was a way of helping England without getting enmeshed in a war, but . . . it is working up to having to make a decision no one wanted to make until the Japanese decided to bomb Pearl Harbor and we jumped in both feet.   Meanwhile the family saga continues , Pug is going to finally get his battleship;  son Briney is waiting for his Jewish wife to return from Italy;  Rhoda ends her extra marital affair and a war to end all wars is about to begin.   Fascinating history I paid little attention to in my teens.   Where were you ?  What do you remember of the beginning of World War II?   So many memories hidden in the recess of our brains.

 

I have a new friend, Sue.  She came knocking at the door, magazines in hand, a treat and settled in the rocking chair and waited for her tea.   she has decided she likes my green tea.   We had a nice visit and I talked her into joining us on our bus trip today so hopefully we will both be able to do a lot of walking and sight seeing with hope that the rain will let up for awhile.    The season must be upon us as we have had rain for two days in a row.  

 

So, if you have rain, put on your rain coat and get out there and let the rain drops fall on your umbrella or your rain coat.  Don't hurry, a little rain wont hurt you at all.    A good soaking is what is needed to let you know you are alive and well.   Happy tears of rain making the whole world a little healthier and the weeds to multiply.    Just enjoy the weather as there is little or nothing you can do about it.   It comes from a higher place and the 'rain-master' is not taking any guff from us.  Go, have a day to remember and share YOU with those you love and like.    Be good, be kind, be gentle, be a true friend today.  Hugs to all.

Politics

The political cartoonist have a way with words.    I wonder if these two ever thought to retire...it sure is time.

We knew that before he did....why would he even be considered?    almost eight years of doing nothing but making a clown out of himself.

It takes two to tango.....when "Jo" ran the first time his words were a far cry from playing the 'buddy' role;  he was his own person then but oh how he changed.    Politics in its true form.

No cola raise once again...good thing paper plates are cheap.

reminded me of a few politicians promising sunshine on a snowy stormy day.


Politics....another whole year to go and we will be inundated with a lot of rhetoric.    I received an attachment yesterday so thought I'd share a few of the cartoons.    I'll be good and change the subject.

Let me see, it is Tuesday and it is three thirty in the morning.   I know, but what can you do when your body clock says you have had enough sleep for awhile.   I think I do my best sleeping in my chair with the Television on to put me back to sleep.   I hear the ladies and gentlemen here, making the same statements about their sleeping habits.. . what is that old song about meeting in the hallway.....we could probably have a party.   I bet  a lot of you are in the same boat.    I had one of 'those' days yesterday.   I was in my own way...ever have one...bet you have.  I thought it was Tuesday but found it was still Monday.   I had conversations at the lunch table about the upcoming trip to Gig Harbor and talked a couple into coming along saying the trip was going to be today....well it is going to be on Wednesday....so I took my walker for a walk around the building to tell my friends that they had one more day to get ready.    It was nice to find out where the ladies lived and I got to admire their quarters.    One of our ladies has some lovely pictures on her walls and a story to tell about each one.   I got to meet her great grandchildren by photographs and what cuties they are.   The other lady was hunkered down in her blanket in her easy chair surrounded by books.  She was having a personal bible study and was doing some research.   She is so smart and a wonder.    We are talking of starting a book club although neither of us has an idea how to do it.   Maybe Google will help.   Reading to Vinnie didn't last long as he had a date with Don to go out shopping and to the bank.   Vinnie can get Don to take him out in his car with a promise of  an ice cream sundae.   Both are ice cream eaters and it doesn't take much for either of them to come up with an excuse to go shopping.  

 

Daughter Christine had been off for the weekend and surprised me with a visit last evening.  She and Pam went to a special tea at one of the galleries down at the beach area quite some distance from Port Orchard.   Pam  played the part of Alice in Wonderland and loves playing the part.   They won a few prizes at the silent auction and had a long drive back home in teeming rain.   It was a nice break for both of them.   Pam is a brand new grandmother and is enjoying her new granddaughter.   It wont be long before she has a brag book and we can hardly wait to meet this new little wonder. . . new babies, aren't they wonderful!!!

 

Okay, enough prattle, it is four sixteen so time to put the coffee on and wake up.    I love you all for listening to my blather and wish I had a lot going on to share with you , but life at Ridgemont is not what you would classify as exciting, but it is the life of a nonagenarian .   It was fun to get a phone call from an old friend yesterday and catch up with her news.   I love my e-mails and enjoy reading about all that is going on in 'your' lives.    The trouble is I miss you all and would love to share some time with you in person.   but I guess we will have to settle for things the way they are and not as we want them to be.   Really verbal hugs are fun too.

 

So today, give a few of them out and get a few back....Know that you are important to someone...maybe even more than one; so you have your work cut out for you today.    Put a gleam in your eyes;    reach out and hug  a few lonely ones and know how important you are to the folks in your life.    A soft touch, a kind word, a good deed can make someone be glad to be alive.    Times a wasting, get up, get going, and share YOU with those you love and like.  Hugs to all.    

Hello

Good morning to friends Marcia and Jim , Brooking friends I miss a lot.    Both looking great and keeping busy.   Happy to see their photograph on Facebook yesterday.   

A pert and saucy Woodpecker.   Looks like those feet want to dance.

Maybe that is a good thing.

I'll have to check with my daughters and see who wants to play cook today;  I'd bring the bubbly.

Speaking of wine;   or just thinking about it, a place to buy some is here in Napa Valley.    California Wine country.

 

Here it is Tuesday already, following a rainy Monday.  Yes, rainy, real rain, came teeming down like it is suppose to.   Felt pretty good although our Emma, our beautiful Golden retriever was not happy having to make a trip or two outside.   The towel is at the ready when she comes in and she stands there waiting for a rub down enjoying every minute of it.   She had her favorite toy in her mouth and wanted to play.   I am always afraid the pulling will do damage to her teeth but she doesn't seem to think so.   Maybe she wants to keep them sharpened up when she visits Christine and the two black cats.   She walks in the door and they look her over and disappear.   The cats are not afraid of her, and they do their 'thing' about ignoring her hoping she will stop sniffing their food and turn her  nose up. 

Here at Ridgemont, Vinnie returned happy with his eye operation being over and done with and a big success as he said he could read without glasses.   He goes back later in the month to have the other eye checked , one that was already operated on, but something is going on and the doctor wants to find out just what is going on.    It was good to see him in fine spirits.   He didn't turn an eye when I said I broke my reading glasses so wouldn't be reading for a bit.  He spoke up saying he would read to me...well on half sentence later I closed the book...he is not a  'reader' .  I will take my other glasses up and try them out today.  We had two others join us at the table so we had a gab feast for an hour.   One tale begets another and soon an hour had gone bye.  I think Vinnie just likes having people around and he loves to talk.   Don, had a sad tale.  His wife is over in the hospital wing with Alzheimer and has her days of being stubborn.   She seem to have wanted to pick something up on the floor from her wheel chair and fell out on her face.  She wound up with cuts on both arms and damage to her face.   It is so very sad .   We never know what goes on with someone else until 'we walk in their shoes'.     A small lesson in counting ones own blessings.

So today, take time out to light a candle and say a prayer or two for those who have a cross to bear.   We all have them , time after time, and we know what it is like to 'hurt' ;  be benevolent , be gracious and kind, and most of all be loving.    Today is a good day to start thinking about someone you know and love who needs YOU in their day.    Someone hurting. . . words that make you sit up and listen.   Think, 'there but for the grace of God, go I' and so something about making someone dry their tears and reach out for that big bear hug you have waiting for them.    Go....be YOU!! Hugs to all.

Apples

I think it was the Andrew Sisters that sang "Apple Blossom Time"   Well those blossoms worked hard and every fall, just about now, there are barrels filled with juicy apples...think apple cider, apple juice;  apple pie and my favorite apple turnovers right out of the oven...oh yum.....there is something about eating apples that makes the body feel really good.

An attachment came in yesterday with some interesting pictures I have never seen before.   This is a geyser before bursting.

I wonder how long it takes some of us to realize we just do not have to please everyone.    I wonder who ever put that thought in our heads.    The most important person to please is yourself.    If you are smart enough to know that then you are smart enough to spread a little of YOU with those you love.....and like.

Victoria Falls in Africa.    A sight to see.   How beautiful rainbows are.  Imagine what it must be like to be able to stand by the side of the huge cliffs and hear the roar of the falls.  

Well here it is Sunday morning , all over again, seems the days go bye faster than a heavy duty freight train.    Last evening we met in the activity room where Marcus gathered the group of would be singers together for a sing-a-long.  Even some of the men came this time, unusual, but good to see.    We need a leader, someone to get the right pitch so we could all sing out but the happy medium has not been reached yet.    Some of the ladies brought some treats so there was a break time to enjoy them.    It made Saturday night a bit brighter .

I find it hard to believe that October is almost gone.    It has been a good month of desirable  colorful Fall;  a bit of rain that showed promise and made the grass green again.    The chill is in the air , a forewarning sign of the winter months approaching fast.   There is going to be a pot luck supper on the 30th to celebrate Halloween.    Karen, our manager, is bringing chicken and the sign up sheet has the names of some fancy dishes.   It should be fun and a treat to some delicious food.  

 

Now there is a good idea for you;   make a few phone calls and invite some family and friends to get together for a pot luck.  Each one to make their specialty and share.   A great way to celebrate each other.  It doesn't have to be a big affair, just a small friendly one with a desire to appreciate one another.     A good way to enjoy each others company.  If I lived close by, I'd come and bring a dish.   I might put the water on for tea and I have a tin of cookies. . . um . . . wonder who might be foot loose and fancy free today.   This uprooting, downsizing, moving away from friends leaves a desire, a hunger to travel and visit all of you.    I'd love to knock on your door and see your expression as you found me on your doorstep.    A reunion like no other.    I'd go back to Massachusetts and my beginnings but there is no one there anymore.   Maybe a side trip to Pennsylvania and a welcome mat at Lynn's door  way.    I'd like to see Mike and Mari In Virginia and travel some of those old roads once again.   On to Arkansas and a visit with Paula and family.  I'd find time to go to Maryland and see if my old friend Mary is still with us, then on to Rhode Island and make a few special stops.   I would not miss out in spending time in Nevada so I could raise a toast or two with Helen, Kathy and Judy, but Judy might be in Colorado and I'd have to make sure I didn't miss her company.    I'd stop in Delaware and visit John and Jo and catch up on all those changes they have been making to their abode.    I'd stay with son Michael and drive him crazy for a week or so...we'd have such a good time...Of course I would go to Arizona and stay with Bob and Andrea, Christmas time would be good as Wendy will be home for a visit.    I wouldn't miss out on Brookings, Oregon as there are a couple of folks that might let me in for a visit.     Well if wishers were horses beggars would ride;  as the old adage goes.    Back to reality and figure out if I really want to put my shoes on today.   Take time out to dream a little it is good for you.   Hugs to all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hey There

Many folks think Nevada is an ugly state but it really truly is not. It is very beautiful state with so much of offer.  It was one of my favorite states to live in.  

Go get up and give it all you've got.



This should provoke a smile or two...yes, we all know one or two people like that. 



And the Indian People take pride in their names.    It is a pride and a privilege to have something named after you.

The Boston Red Sox used to have a huge following  and were well loved and respected.   

Here it is Saturday morning  and the quiet of the morning is peaceful.    I have not opened the shades so have no idea what the day will bring weather wise.    I have not turned on the television so I haven't found out how that hurricane Patricia is doing down there in Mexico.  It sure sounded like it was going to  be a terror;  um . .. some Patricia's are like that.   My Pat is liking having a hurricane named Patricia but is praying that it will not create a huge upset and suffering for so many folks living in its path.    I am glad of a new day as yesterday proved to be one of those when you are 'in your own way';  I pushed my walker into the leg of the small table in my hallway and the picture and swan went flying out and the glass in the picture frame became a thousand pieces of broken bits of glass.   No vacuum so it was not easy to get all those tiny slivers up.  It was housekeeping day so I left Gina a note so she would vacuum the hallway really good.   If there was something to spill, drop, break or even think about, the little man with a cloud over his head was at the ready to see that I qualified  as 'dunce' of the day, and that doesn't include breaking my reading glasses. . . that' s what happens when you sit on them....look ma, no stems;  maybe I should go for one of those single glass eyes....pez nez or something like that.  

I had drop in company which was nice.   Ron came to check on the puzzle, took one look and shook his head as it had not gotten much further than the last time he looked at it.   He is riding around on his new 'wagon' and is getting under control.   He gets the elevator all to himself these days.   Rose called and wanted company so I went down to find her cooking hot dogs and sauerkraut and setting a place for me.   I had already had my dinner so had to say no but the smells were so good I was tempted to taste but there was no room.    She is failing a little more each day, has a desire to have another small party for the folks here on her real birthday , November first.    She received so many beautiful cards she wants to meet the folks who took time to write a note in them.  She has decided on making up a game and put the cards out and have the owners claim them so she can meet them.    she was so pleased and happy to have so many write a note on their card celebrating her one hundred years....wow say that out loud.  Meanwhile,  Doris stopped in with some of her left over fish and chips and I did not say no to them.   All the while I had been wondering what I would put together for my dinner....all that worry over nothing . . . just leave the door open and all kinds of things happen.     I knew I should have packed my small kettle....guess I'll have to replace it.

 

I did get out to Walmart and found that they did get the new sweats in.  They came in beautiful colors but, there is that word again, they didn't have matching bottoms to go with the tops so I didn't get my winter set.    I got my exercise going up and down those aisles.  The basket works wonders and you can move right along.    It is good to move along the aisles and smile at the folks passing by.   The response to a smile is good for the most part.  There are always one or two who scowl and look at you like you are some kind of loose nut.  As usual , no list, so I didn't remember to pick up a few things I thought I couldn't live without.   I will have to because I wont be going back for another week or so.   

 

so today, if you are going shopping, don't forget your list;    Be sure you bring a smile along as some folks need it.    Enjoy today, a whole new day to live your seconds and be thankful for all you do have.    Say a prayer or two for the folks living through a big storm.    That reminds me I had candles on my list and forgot to buy some;  and I must check out a lantern inn case we lose the lights this winter, you just cannot read in the dark.    Make 'hay while the sun shines'   and put your boots on if it is raining...live a little...dance in the rain.    Hugs to all.

I'm Back!

She is not Maxine but she comes in second best.   What a tongue....Now if we could bottle the energy of the very young, retain the shape of a model and gain wisdom then when you turned ninety you could impart some wisdom . . .  we'd have it made.  Two out of three isn't all bad.  

How well we know this one.   

Now cut that out and paste it on your mirror and recite it every day.   

I had an unexpected call from a friend yesterday....such a boost to the morale.    I keep telling you how important it is to reach out and touch someone you have not seen for awhile and let them know they are missed and that they are still important to you even though you don't see each other as often as you would like.    The morale needs stroking and an unexpected note or a telephone call can make the difference between a tear and a smile.     Hum along....; 'that's what friends are for.......'     Yesterday was my day as I had a letter from an old friend telling me about his trip to Washington, D. C. and I shared it with all of you in an extra blog last evening.    Friends.....can't live without them, nor, would I want to.

 

Here it is Friday, laundry day for me..    Chasing a few dust kitties is a good idea also.    My new neighbor, Evelyn, knocked on my door with a big fat cinnamon bun from Freddy's;   and I have to admit it was very tasty at two a.m. when I woke up and thought about it.    I cannot be trusted with cinnamon buns.    I tried reading,  I tried tossing and turning, but to no avail...cinnamon buns have a call all their own.    

 

We could talk a bit about politics and Hillary's day with the Bengasi committee.    She tried very hard to make it like a session of running for President but it fell flat after a while when the serious questions came about.   One could almost feel sorry for her . . . I said 'almost' . . . but that woman has more gall than most and doesn't mind letting you know she is perfect....haven't figured out what  ....but I know one vote she wont get;  in fact after some conversations, I know several votes she will not get.    Speaking of voting, I go my first local ballet in on time.    We have a few positions to be altered or not, it will be interesting to find out if I had any knowledge of local politics when the results came out.   I parlayed with an expert on town knowledge and found out about some political posturing before the ballot came.    Speaking of voting remember it is very important that you vote, don't waste it.

 

So your week ends and the weekend is about to come up and the sigh can be heard all the way across the country.    I know you have some catch up 'stuff' to do, but organize and make your list, get the pesky stuff done and over with so you can relax and enjoy some free time.    the body needs it and it is good for the soul.     think of someone to treat, someone who 'doesn't get around much anymore' and have a bowl of chowder or some fish and chips or maybe an ice cream cone.   As the old song goes..."Make someone happy . . .  and you will be happy too."     Hugs to all. 

EXTRA ....EXTRA.....EXTRA

HONOR FLIGHT  9/29-10/2/2015

I had a letter in my mail box today and I want to share it with you.   It is from Bob Williams, an old friend, from Nevada.  He is the veteran in the front row, hands crossed, no smile, waiting patiently to go on the Honor Flight.

HONOR FLIGHT

"Our first meeting before the flight on September 29th was at four a.m.  We met our guardians, the men who would be looking after us and pushing those who needed wheel chairs, I was one of  them, and I met my companion, Dave Shaw, a Vietnam vet.  Dave a pilot on the F-4 (phantom) who flew 123 missions, a truly honorable record.    Dave pushed me around for four days, we ate together and slept in the same room, and became good friends.

 

We changed planes in Denver and arrived in Baltimore around four p.m. on September 29th.   Breakfast and dinner were provided buffet style and lunch included a boxed sandwich with chips and apple slices.  We were bussed to the various memorials..  I thought Los Angeles was congested but the Washington D.C. area was just as bad if not worse.  We were on the road at least three hours on September 30th.  However on October 1, we had a motorcycle and police car escort with the warning lights blazing and sirens sounding cutting the travel time by half..

 

On September 30th, we arrived at an aircraft Museum close to Dulles airport.  I had heard of the place and was delighted to finally see it.  It contained every bird from the Wright Brothers flyer to the Discovery shuttle that was sent into outer space and glided back to earth.  The ship was left in the same condition upon landing, and showed the effects of the tremendous heat as it entered the earth's atmosphere, burn marks and loose tiles on the nose and lower fuselage.  The WWII bombers I was familiar with, B-24, B-25, B-26  and B-29 were thee by not my B-17.   I asked why ad was told that thee were eleven of them still flying and as soon as one became grounded the museum would get it.  this was a special day for me and one I will never forget.

 

On October 1, we awoke to rain, not a drizzle but RAIN all day.  Our first stop waws the Arlington Cemetery.  I had brought a small umbrella but not hardly adequate for the deluge. We watched the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier.  It was so precisely done with the clicking of the heels and rifle inspection, but strangely very touching for me.  

 

Our next stop next stop was the U.S. Air Force memorial.   They had a wall commerating the Army Air Corp, the only one at the memorials so I had to see it.   Incidentally myself being a B-24 pilot wee the only AAF vets on the flight so we hd a chance to talk and compare experiences.  The WWII memorial was so well done and impressive.  It reflected the various theaters of war the Services were involved in.   Dave and I spent a lot of time there and I met several ROTC high school students who shook my hand and thanked me for my service.  I must say I added a little ore moisture to an already wet face.  I was soaked to the skin as was almost everyone else and we still had the Korea and Vietnam memorials to see.  The bus stopped at a distance away and I knew that Dave wanted to see the Vietnam memorial, so rather than pushing me, I told him to go ahead and I stayed on the bus with several water soaked vets.

 

The responses we got at the various airports were touching and gratefully received.  Our return to Reno was very special.  We had flags, music, drums and many friends and strangers shaking my hand and thanking me for my service.  A day I will cherish and never forget.

 

Signed by Bob Williams....a World War II veteran.

 

 

 

 

 

 

WOW!!

Murmuration

Murmuration when flocks of starlings take to the skies weaving patterns of their beautiful awesome gyrations.  I have not seen starling amass like this but the geese over at Earl Lake in the Crescent City area of California put on a show similar to this every year .   It really is a wonder and a marvelous sight to see.

And he has no intentions of running away.

Now this should be pasted on every mirror and read every day.    You are who you are and thank God for that.

Yes, I miss Brookings, more every day.    I miss my walks at Lone Ranch Beach, stopping for a veggie sandwich and eating it over the overlook at Harris Beach.  Walking along the boardwalk after a bowl of delicious clam chowder.   Getting a hug from a friend who is happy to see you.   Ah, memories stir up a longing for places and faces that mean so much.   I am working on new places, new faces, and the old adage about new friends are silver but the old ones are gold.    I found that out with each move I have had to make in my lifetime.   Friends become family and you never let them go.

The police are releasing this picture to show you the kinds of pills that look like candy and are poison  to the children.   Take a good look at it and show the children what they look like so that they do not pop one in their mouth on the way home from trick or treating.    It is sad our world had changed to one of uncaring, violence and misery for a holiday that used to be a lot of fun.    Copy the picture and show it on your computer so others will be aware and take caution.

Here in Ridgemont it is quiet.   I have a new neighbor, Evelyn, who is happy with her move here.  She is getting to know everyone and is taking her turn at every table to learn the names.    That seems to be the hardest chore for all.  Names......I think we should wear name tags for at least six months.   The brain seems to go brain dead when you look at some one and greet them with that blank look that your mind is saying,,, name, name,  oh...I know it....name, name..... well it does take time and eventually you can meet and greet folks by name.   Evelyn is easy to remember as she wears the most gorgeous Indian jewelry , gifts from her husband over the many years as they trekked to Arizona every year.   I haven't seen a squash blossom necklace yet, but I bet she owns one.   I notice she eats very little and tells us she has not eaten a supper in years.  She is not hungry.    Another one who is frail and not feeling good.   Food is fuel for the body and without it energy depletes.  

Meanwhile, Vinnie is off to the VA hospital having his eye operated on this morning.    He was a little upset over his lady doctor, a tiny person according to him, who said 'I will do my best' and he took it to mean she wasn't sure of herself...leave it to Vinnie.  If there isn't something to worry about he will create it.  He is in good hands I am betting he comes back being able to read for himself.   He warned me he was going to read to me.....oh dear, how to get out of that one!!!  More than that he is threatening to get a car and drive...let us hope not, one more senior driver could tip the scale, especially when the hands shake and the feet don't want to work.  So add a little prayer for Vinnie today.

A lovely lady, named Sue, came for a tea party yesterday afternoon.   She came to see the puzzle and she tried to put a piece of two in but it was not as easy as she thought.   For each piece she put in had to be taken out again as it just didn't go in that one spot.    She gave up and had a cup of tea and some cookies and we talked about starting a book club for the avid readers.   I am not sure either of us know how or what to do but we will figure  it out.    There are a lot of folks who love to read but as to whether they want to join a group, we have yet to find out.    We need to get some of the folks out of their rooms and out of the doldrums.

So today, look around and see what mischief you can get into.    Maybe you have a friend or neighbor who needs a helping hand.  Someone to spark their interest in living.    It is so easy to fall into depression at any age.   Go on a hunt today and see who really truly needs a bit of your sunshine.... a hug, a word, a touch....it all helps to make the world go around.    Be good, be kind, be gentle as only YOU know how to be.   Make someone's eyes light up just because you walked into the room.   Mine would light up if I could get a hug from YOU.   Hugs to all.

Sayings

I just do not have to worry;  how about you?  

The Anthem veterans memorial in Arizona.    Once a year on Veterans Day the sun peeps through and lights up the emblem.  I'd like to visit this memorial.   A modern Stonehenge.

Aah!!!   Some days are just perfect.

The new Boeing 797 which will carry 1,000 passengers.   The blended wings and fuselage are new and different.   Wing is 265 feet;  new created air terminals, 555 seats, 262 feet wide . . . Date not decided as yet  so don't rush out to buy a ticket.
 

We are a little remiss in taking care of our earth, but it is never to late as we have time to stop and do a little fixing up of some of the damage we have done....it takes a village to raise a  child, so a saying goes;  it takes a city with lots of folks to even start making up for some of the damage we have done.   Get busy, one deed at a time starting in your own back yard..

 

Hump day, mid week, Wednesday, here once again ready or not.   What does one want to do mid week;   rush the days to the weekend, or just relax and enjoy the day as it trickles the seconds out.     Shopping comes to mind, there are a few things I would like to pick up today.    I put wrapping tape on my list several times now and still have not picked some up.   I want to start replacing some of the necessary items that are slowly meeting their end.   I don't think I can squeeze much more out of the tooth paste either.   One more item to add to my  list.    Yep, shopping it is, now all I have to do is convince my chauffeur that she needs to go shopping too.    It wont be easy as I treated the ladies to Chinese dinner last evening and the boxes were full as we left the restaurant.    The food was tasty but the service was extremely slow with only one waitress to wait on several filled tables.   I think there must have been only one chef on duty also as the dishes came out very slowly.  I had my order long before the girls got theirs.    It took forever to get the check and the boxes to fill.    I'd say the owner better pay attention and hire another waitress or two or folks will find somewhere else to go.   The one thing good about the restaurant is it faces the sound and the view is spectacular.    The mountains were shrouded with heavy cloud cover for some time; then cleared and it was a beautiful sight.    The small ferry came in from Bremerton  and unloaded passengers at the dock.   A few small pleasure craft were out sailing.    All in all it is a quiet time of day.  The day is ending and everyone seems ready to relax and enjoy being 'home'.  

 

I hope you decided to take yourself out to dinner and enjoy the company of family members or friends.     It does you good to get out of your 'rut';   such creatures of habit;   break loose and treat yourself to some time away from your kitchen.    Call a family member, or a friend or two, and join together for a little chatter and some good food.    Think how much fun it is to leave the table and all the mess behind.    Nothing lazy about us,  we just enjoy the freedom from kitchen duties now and then, and I for one, think it is good for the body and the soul.     Take your brag book along and share whatever tidbits that make your world go round.    A chance to listen and learn as well.    Don't forget a joke or two, and don't forget the punch line.   Be of good cheer and share YOU with those you love and like.    A smile, a hug, a kiss....um....wonder who I could talk into going out tonight?    I'll have to work on that.    Hugs to all..