Leap Day

All I had on my calendar today was tutoring this afternoon, so decided to celebrate the day by doing things that I enjoy (plus a load of laundry). I played computer games, colored, although this isn't one of my favorites, read, and played with Glory. I was grateful for the extra day and really enjoyed myself.

It's also Rare Disease Day, which is celebrated the last day of February. It was created in 2008 to raise awareness for rare diseases. Interesting fact: In Europe a rare disease is one that affects fewer than one in 2,000 people while in the United States the standard is 1 in 200,000. Huge difference if you ask me, but no one did, so there you have it.

Chocolate Souffle Day

I would have figured out another option if Kay hadn't been coming over this afternoon. She's my partner in sweets. Funny story: I ordered this from Carrabba's to go. I was so delighted when I realized they bring it to my car that I got a little careless. The total was $8.65 (totally worth it) so I gave the girl a bill and as she was walking away, I told her just to keep the change. When I got home I realized I'd given her a 20 and my instant reaction was to go back. And then I realized that I absolutely could not... I'm sure I made that girl's day. So was it worth $20? Pretty damned close.

When Kori got up from her nap, Kay realized she'd forgotten her flavored water.  I suggested clamato juice since I'd just had some with vodka (thank you Tommy Lyons and Frank Wiggins). Actually the face she made when she first tasted it was much worse than this, but I wasn't quick enough with the camera. This was several minutes later. Kay finally appeased her with some chocolate souffle cake. And I felt terrible that I'd even made such a stupid suggestion. But her mother should have known better. And the worst part was that we laughed. Mea culpa!

Strawberry Day

You know what? Strawberries are one of those things that are really good when they're perfectly ripe, but not so great when they're not. Although I usually buy the latter, today was a goldmine. Not only were they juicy and sweet, but they were also huge!!! I bought some Lite Cool Whip to dip them in and had a delicious dessert after lunch.

For Glory and Simon it was Dead Squirrel Day. Fortunately it wasn't recently dead, but flat as a pancake and crunchy like... well, like squirrel bones. Simon had a little, but Glory got the big prize and refused to obey the "Drop it" command.  I managed to get half of it out of her mouth (only because I was wearing gloves), but she had quite a nice breakfast. But I showed her... only a smattering of dog food when we got home. I doubt seriously that she learned her lesson.

Pistachio Day

These pistachios have been in my pantry for a long time. These are the ones whose shells aren't open far enough to eat easily. Hence, the pliers. I ate six or seven before calling it quits and dumping the rest. Next time I think I'll bite the bullet and spring for the shelled nuts. At least I celebrated the day.

We had 14 for dinner tonight and went to a Japanese restaurant similar to Benihana's. It was so much fun and very tasty, so this place will move into our regular rotation. I can't say enough about this group of women that I hang out with. Friday nights (or should I say evenings because we're always home by 6:30) are always a blast. Love them all!

Chili Day

I've never been a big fan of chili, so was delighted to learn that Wolf Brand makes a chicken, white bean chili. I ate it for lunch and it was actually pretty tasty (with my sweet potato tortilla chips), although I won't be buying it again. I'm getting used to eating different things and don't hate it as much as I did at first.

Back to the podiatrist this morning and since my foot isn't much better, he told me to wear the boot for 4 to 6 more weeks. Yuk!!! Actually, I really only wear it to walk the dogs and when I go to the elementary school, so it's not that bad... just a big, fat nuisance! This time if it doesn't get better, I'll have to have an MRI. Matters not, I've just gotta be able to walk. And I have two little furry friends who agree.

Tortilla Chip Day

Well you know I would go the healthy route if possible. I actually bought these before I knew I'd be celebrating them one day. And believe it or not, they're quite tasty and I couldn't tell the difference between regular store bought chips. Granted, I never eat tortilla chips without some sort of dip, so I made guacamole for lunch plus a little turkey jerky for protein (not in the guacamole). This just may make it into the lunch rotation. It was good.

I saw the eye doctor this morning and she said there is some improvement that I'm not able to discern, so I got a new prescription and will order new glasses at Costco tomorrow. She also said that the astigmatism was reduced dramatically and that made her happy. Didn't really matter much to me because all I care about is the prescription. I'll get back to you on how that goes.

Dog Biscuit Day

Known internationally as Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, this is the day we celebrate dog biscuits. I guess the rest of the world feels the need for the word "appreciation" just so no one would be compelled to eat them like on all the other food days. Isn't that silly? As a special treat, I gave Glory and Simon some new organic peanut butter and carrot biscuits... yum! Now who the hell would think to put those two flavors together? But they loved them and they're good for Simon because he can't eat grain or meat due to a skin allergy. So his dog food is salmon sweet potato. That I can deal with because sometimes that's what I have for dinner myself. I'm just grateful today wasn't all about a food I have to eat. Sometimes I wonder if this wasn't the stupidest ideas I ever had (to quote Frank Wiggins... and he would have told me that for sure).

Margarita Day

Well, I had to make a run to the liquor store this morning because I tutor on Monday afternoons and couldn't put an outing together. But my little second grader has decided recently that he doesn't like coming here. So, since he is obviously the decision maker in his family, he now only stays to do his homework and then is allowed to leave. So what it boils down to is I only help with the homework and don't get in any extra tutoring. He used to love math games on the iPad, but has grown tired of them and I've been through all the free ones I can find.

I'm certainly okay with it, but never know how long he'll be here. He chose to leave at 4:30 today, so I invited Ann Roe over for a margarita and to see the new sofa. It's actually the same style as hers, but a different configuration since it's a sectional. So we had a mini-celebration and caught up with what we've each been doing. It's nice to have good friends as neighbors. Ole!

Snack Food Month

The only national day today was Sticky Bun Day. Nope... not doing that just for the sake of the blog. And then I discovered Snack Food Month.  And these are two of my favorite healthy snacks.

It was interesting to learn that this was created in 1989 by an MBA graduate who most likely worked in marketing for a snack food company. The idea was to increase consumption of snacks during a month when snack food consumption was traditionally low. The promotion now kicks off on Super Bowl Sunday and the result has been a substantial increase in snack food sales during February. I swear we're all pawns in the giant chess game of big business.

Love Your Pet Day

Seriously? This was just like Drink Wine Day. Both are things I do every day of the year, so it's a little difficult to celebrate. I love Glory and Simon and spoil them too much. But they motivate me to get up in the morning and go for a walk. And another walk in the evening. They lower my blood pressure, welcome me home like I've been gone a month when it's only been 20 minutes, and make me laugh. What's not to love? Okay, maybe vet bills and dog hair all over my house, but the pros far outweigh the cons.  I think I'll keep em!

Chocolate Mint Day (Friday)

I didn't blog yesterday because I was having too much fun (and judging by my headache this morning, I'd say way too much). Shirley and Greg came into town and stayed at Sally's, while I spent the night at Aliison's. There was some serious fence mending to do and it was a resounding success. Sally prepared a wonderful grilled salmon dinner and I brought chocolate mints for dessert.  A great day in my book!

Drink Wine Day!!!!

Now we're talkin! I couldn't plan any kind of group celebration because I had a new sofa delivered late this afternoon and I love it! The dogs are still a little unsure about it (they jumped down as soon as I took the pic). After rearranging the furniture several times, I finally got it right and immediately had a glass of wine to celebrate. And I can't eat dinner without a glass, nor eat my square of dark chocolate without a small glass of red, so I'd say I celebrated all by myself and enjoyed every minute of it. Surely there's another Wine Day in my future (since today was Drink Wine Day).

Cabbage Day

I'm really disappointed in myself because today was also Random Acts of Kindness Day and I failed to do something that seemed so simple. The only thing that came to me off the top of my head was to pay the bill for someone behind you in a line. When it came right down to it, I'm not really sure how to do that. I was in line at Trader Joe's and noticed the man behind me. He only had a few items (although that shouldn't matter) and appeared to have more money than me (also shouldn't matter). But I didn't know what to do. I mean, do you stand there and wait until he has his total and then jump back in? I feel fairly certain that he wouldn't have accepted and probably would have thought I was crazy. So I let it go.

The only other place I went today was my insurance agent's office to discuss my coverage for the coming year. I did thank him profusely for even inviting me in to do it because no other agent I've ever had in 40 years has done that. I also said that I'm certain the reason he does it is to up coverage instead of lowering it, but that's why I was there and he didn't put the hard sell on me, so I really was grateful. But that doesn't count.

And then I was stumped! I'm still clunking around in my big boot, although my pain is almost gone... praise be to God. So I didn't want to wander the neighborhood looking for someone to help. And that's why I'm disappointed. I don't think I should have to work at how to perform random acts of kindness, so this is my new mission... be observant and try to do it whenever I can. And sadly, I might need to research how to do it. I'm embarrassed!

So I bought some cabbage slaw and made a big salad for dinner. Not a good day.

Almond Day

Today we made a road trip to the track, and Kay joined us! We all lost a little money, but enjoyed a large buffet and cocktails. Since we ate for a good part of the afternoon, I wasn't hungry when I came home and enjoyed a handful of almonds for dinner. Perfect for today!

It's also Do a Grouch a Favor Day and I planned on it, but didn't see any grouches all day long. Can't really complain about that.

President's Day and Singles Awareness Day

Flags are flying in the neighborhood to celebrate Presidents Day, but I was especially interested to see that there is another day to celebrate on February 15th because it's the day after Valentine's Day. It's to show the world that there's nothing wrong with being single. And I should know! I've had some good relationships over the years that never lasted for various reasons. But in hindsight, I truly believed that everything worked out for the best. I love my life and have for many years. Who knows why things turn out the way they do, but I have no complaints.  And candy is half off!!!

Valentine's Day!

I've never been very fond of Valentine's Day, but this one was special! Sage, my mentee, made me the big valentine and I love it. It's three-dimensional with stuffing inside and she stitched it together. I took her lunch and a big teddy bear that said "Happy Valentine's Day." I told her that I didn't think you were ever too old for stuffed animals and thankfully. she agreed.

The other two were from my elementary-aged kids. They included pizza gift cards (their counselor is very thoughtful) as well as personal notes that were extremely heartwarming. I will keep them forever in my keepsake file that I pull out and read occasionally. I love all these kids so much and I thank God for having them in my life.

Tortellini Day

Now don't get me wrong... I like tortellini a lot, but try to avoid it due to high caloric content. I didn't really want to celebrate today until I realized I had some Trader Joe's Organic Pesto Tortellini in the freezer. And although I didn't make it my dinner, I did microwave it and have a bit with my meal because I had delicious pork chop leftovers from dinner out last night. The tortellini was so-so and I doubt I'll buy it again, but by golly, I celebrated.

Glory's shedding has been the bane of my existence for the past few weeks and this morning, she was Furminated. I let Simon ride with us to the groomer and he started crying when I got Glory out of the car and left him. Man, he loves going to the spa!

Lincoln's Birthday

Although not an official national holiday, my only other choice was Plum Pudding Day and what the hell was I supposed to do with that? So I learned a few things. Black History Month has its origin in 19th century celebrations of Lincoln's birthday by African-American communities. By the early 20th century, black communities were celebrating Lincoln's birthday in conjunction with the birthday of former slave and abolitionist Frederick Douglass on February 14. The precursor to Black History Month was created in 1926 when the second week of February was designated Negro History Week. And by the 1970's, Negro History Week became Black History Month. And I thought this was something new. Since history was always my least favorite subject, I'm kind of glad I'm learning about these things now. Who knew?

Don't Cry Over Spilled Milk Day

The original proverb was "No weeping for shed milk" as referenced by James Howell in 1659. Not really sure what "shed milk" means but 1659 was a very long time ago, so I'm sure it meant spilled. Obviously unexpected things happen in life, sometimes daily. With a positive attitude, life is so much brighter and easier. And actually more fun, which is what I'm all about.

I have no one but Frank Wiggins to thank for my ability to think positively. It really does make life so much easier. At our wine night gathering, everyone saw me in my big boot for the first time. I briefly explained the problem and then told them about today's national celebration. We laughed about it and the conversation moved on. And that's exactly the way I hope to deal with any future misfortunes...  laugh and move on.

Umbrella D

Another beautiful day in Katy, Texas and I didn't need an umbrella. But FYI, the word is derived from the Latin word "umbra," which means shadow or shade.  The first known use was in 1834, but I can't believe it wasn't earlier. Somebody should have figured that out.

But enough about the umbrella. I got my eye patch off this morning and I feel like I can already see as well as I was before, so that's a good sign. Maybe it will get better in a week or two.

I also saw a podiatrist about this pain in the bottom of my foot. After x-rays, he said he could see osteoporosis in my foot and suggested a bone density scan. His diagnosis was bone stress, which sounds to me like he has no clue. But he told me to wear a boot for two weeks, which I have no intention of doing, but I must admit, walking with the boot is much easier than without it. Unfortunately it's my right foot so I can't drive with it and I'm not going to haul it around to put on when I get out of the car. But I can wear it to walk the dogs and take advantage of the dog park. So... no biggy.

Pizza Day

I always keep frozen flatbreads from Trader Joe's in my freezer because they're delicious, quick and easy. For dinner tonight I had mushroom truffle and it was great!

Surgery went well, but this patch over my eye is so annoying. Luckily my appointment tomorrow is at 9, so I don't have to wear it much longer. I can't take the dogs out because I can't bend over to pick up poop and they're chomping at the bit. Glory hasn't left my side since after lunch. Oh well, they could have it much worse. Actually they have, since I got them both from a shelter and I wish they could remember that so they'd appreciate what they've got.

Clean Out Your Computer Day

This one was way too easy. When I googled how to clean up a Mac, I was told to empty the trash. Wowzer, that was definitely something I hadn't done in a long time and is just so easy. I switched to a Mac maybe three years ago and I just wish I'd done it sooner. It's just so much easier and safer than a PC... love it!!!

I took the dogs back to the dog park this afternoon, since my foot still hurts and I only spent two seconds cleaning out my computer. We were alone so it wasn't as much fun as yesterday, but Glory still got to run a bit.

Cataract surgery is in the morning and the only thing I'm anxious about is getting up 30 minutes early. I'm so spoiled now that I can get up whenever I want. Typically in the winter I get up at 7:15, so any time that starts with a 6 causes me anxiety. That's so silly. I'm sure the surgery will be just fine and am trying very hard not to get my hopes up. I'll let you know...

Send a Card to a Friend Day

This one was fun (and very unusual for me). I actually sent out several cards as long as I was at it.  I wish I would think to do that more often.

But here's the best part of my day... Yesterday while at the ATM of my bank, I noticed a small dog park nearby. I've been to that bank many, many times and have never seen it, but I decided then and there that I would take the dogs there sometime. Then last night, while walking to the bedroom, I developed a sharp pain on the bottom of my foot. I have no idea what it is, but it still hurts and I could barely walk the dogs around the block this morning. So this afternoon, off to the dog park we went! There was a family there with their two dogs and Glory had a ball. Simon just kept to himself, as Simon does, but the other three dogs romped and played together. What a godsend because I didn't have to do anything. Yay!

And now I'm off to a super bowl party. Go Panthers!

Lame Duck Day

First of all, it's also Frozen Yogurt Day, which I was going for, but couldn't find in the allotted time. I drove the dogs to a nearby park for a walk and then headed to TCBY, but to no avail. It was all locked up because they hadn't paid their rent. I was in a time crunch so stopped at the closest convenience store, but all they had was ice cream. There was a Mardi Gras party at the clubhouse tonight and I had to get ready, so the search ended.

And now we're to Lame Duck Day. The 20th amendment was proclaimed by the US Secretary of State on February 6, 1933. The amendment reduced the amount of time between Election Day and the beginning of Presidential, Vice Presidential and Congressional terms. 

The term “lame duck” originated as a description of stock brokers in 1700s England who could not pay off their debts. The term later carried over to businessmen who, while known to be bankrupt, would continue to do business. And don't tell me that's still not going on!

Later the term transferred to politics, which is how we know it today... a person currently holding office who has not been re-elected for various reason. And that's when the mayhem occurs. Office holders are no longer responsible to their constituents and focus more on personal gain. It's just wrong no matter how you look at it. 

This was way more than I intended to deal with today, but there you have it... we're grateful for the 20th amendment!  

Wear Red Day

Heart disease and stroke kill one in three women. These diseases are 80% preventable according to Go Red for Women's official website. The campaign started in 2004 when the American Heart Association took on the challenge of raising awareness about the number 1 cause of death in women.

So this was our dinner group for tonight. All proud to be wearing red for women everywhere. The food and wine were wonderful, as well as the company. I love these women!

Homemade Soup Day

Man, I squeaked this one out at the last minute. It's also Thank a Mail Carrier Day, which I had every intention of carrying out, but ended up with a very busy morning and missed her! So then I tried Create a Vacuum Day... turns out it can't be done, so I don't know what bozo started it.

But fortunately, I still had some homemade bean soup in the freezer that I made in January for Soup Month. So it's defrosting now and will be my dinner. I figured this was fair since it's not National Make Some Homemade Soup Day. I just have to eat it and that I can do!

The Day The Music Died

On February 3, 1959, Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens died in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa. Don McLean in his famous song, "American Pie," referred to it as the day the music died. It's odd that I remember it since I was only 11, but maybe it was because I had older brothers who listened to the radio. However, I'm guessing it was Charles because my memories are of Joe listening to jazz. I actually still enjoy "Take Five" by Dave Brubeck because I heard it a lot in our house and it's a good memory.

But I digress. I also loved "American Pie" without ever realizing at the time what the song referenced. I'm not real sure when I figured it out, but it probably wasn't until someone explained it to me, since I've never been able to interpret lyrics (or poetry or any form of literature). I'm a numbers person and my brain just doesn't work that way. So, I now know that all this had to do with February 3rd. I'd like to say that I'll remember it from now on, but that's doubtful. I'm old, you know.

Groundhog Day

Unless you live in a cave (in which case, you're not reading this), Punxsutawney Phil didn't see his shadow today which means we're in for a short winter. If Houston is any indicator, I could have told you that. We've had the prettiest January I ever remember!

The tradition of predicting the length of the remaining winter is intertwined with the Christian holiday, Candlemas. Clergy would bless candles symbolizing the "light of the world" to give to their congregation. Who knew?

And I spent another beautiful day at the horse races, but sadly lost $22. A small price to pay for a fun afternoon. I'm happy that I have friends who enjoy it as much as I do (and are willing to drive).

Freedom Day

February 1, 1865 was the day that Abraham Lincoln signed a joint Congress resolution that outlawed slavery. It wasn't ratified by the states until December of that year and later became the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. In June of 1948 (the year of my birth) Harry Truman signed a bill proclaiming February 1st as the official National Freedom Day. Little history lesson there... you're welcome.

Totally off subject... I went to the eye doctor today for my pre-op appointment because I'm having a cataract removed from my wet macular degeneration eye next Tuesday. She's not real hopeful that it will make much difference, but her rationale is to remove anything that could possibly be a cause of my poor eyesight, other than the MD. And I'm with her!