Halloween

This is my least favorite holiday all year... it ranks even lower than Columbus Day. So I celebrated by eating more candy corn with peanuts. We don't get any trick-or-treaters in our neighborhood, which is one of the biggest perks of living in a retirement community. And I canceled my tutoring session with Thomas this afternoon because I know he's excited about today (he had to show me his costume last week), so I told his Mom it would probably be a waste of her money. Fortunately, she agreed.

I spent at least three hours on the phone with Comcast today working on network connection problems, only to finally be told I need to go to the store and trade my modem for a new one. I should have just done that to begin with because I've been there so often recently that they know me and are very patient. Old age has several perks that I certainly use to my advantage.

Candy Corn Day

I never liked candy corn until a teacher in Heber Springs brought some to school on Halloween mixed with peanuts. Oh my gosh, it's delicious... a perfect blend of sweet and salty. She brought it every year and even after I retired, she'd put aside a cupful for me and I'd swing by the school to pick it up. Once I left I forgot all about it, until today. So I went to the store and picked up a bag along with a can of peanuts and made my own. And this is a disaster in the making because I can't stop eating it. I convinced myself that since my cleaning lady comes on Friday, I'd give the rest to her, but the hard part will be not eating it between now and then. I suppose I'll have to hide it on the top shelf of the pantry and then, of course, I'll forget it's there and find it in six months or so... and the cycle will begin again. So my advice to you is, if you've never tried it... DON'T!

Oatmeal Day

It really wasn't cold enough for oatmeal, but it's always in my pantry, so that was my breakfast and it was delicious.

I went to Krause House this afternoon for activities with all the girls. We made pumpkins and they each wrote good qualities about themselves and cut them into the shapes of pumpkin seeds to put into their pumpkins. Then we told them that whenever they're feeling down, to take the seeds out and read them as a reminder of how great they are.

Tonight was a super fun Halloween party hosted by a remarkable woman named Linda. She hasn't been in our group long, but was in the dinner group at first and then because I liked her so much I included her in the Winettes, our Thursday night wine group. After the first couple of times I noticed that she only drank iced tea. I mentioned it to another friend who told me that Linda is an alcoholic who attends meetings on a regular basis. I was stunned and amazed. She also has MS and walks with a noticeable limp. But she loves being in the group and isn't bothered by our drinking. She's the one in the spider web costume sitting next to me. What a woman and a role model!

Chocolate Day

I know, haven't we had this before? But actually I've celebrated Chocolate Mousse Day and Dark Chocolate Day and probably other variations, but I'm sure not complaining. And while on our evening walk, I realized that I only need six things to be happy... family, friends, dogs, good food, wine, and chocolate. I had five out of the six this evening and feel pretty damned good right now. And I'm really looking forward to Thanksgiving at Rob's house when I'll have all except the dogs. I'm very blessed and truly love my life. Peace, out.

Navy Day

This is is a day to salute all of the women and men who have served, both past and present, in the United States Navy. So today I honor all those people by wearing navy blue (I know, that's pretty lame). And to explain the photo, we had wine night this evening and went to the one place that serves extra large glasses and where I always get a little buzz on. After we came home, one friend wanted to walk the dogs with me and when we were almost home I looked down and saw my shoes. Neither one of us had noticed and amazingly, I didn't even notice the different feel. The gray ones are very cushy and the white ones, not so much. How embarrassing!

Red Ribbon Week

Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and largest drug prevention campaign in the country. This week is for us all to take a stand for our children through a commitment to drug prevention and education with the ultimate goal being the creation of drug free America. Red Ribbon Week has been observed in every school I've taught in and is still ongoing. Each year has a different theme and there are dress up days with events and assemblies to get the kids' attention  While I was at the elementary school this afternoon, they were having an assembly with some of the Houston Rockets talking to the kids about drugs, as well as performing tricks for their entertainment. It's a super program, especially since they start it in kindergarten. Obviously it doesn't help them all, but it sure doesn't hurt and I believe in the long run, it saves lives.  

Greasy Food Day

How interesting that this day follows Food Day when you're supposed to eat healthy. I think they should be reversed. I don't eat fried foods anymore (only because they give me a stomach ache), but did have rotisserie chicken for dinner... one of my favorite staples. I usually remove the skin, which I love, so was happy to keep it attached today. Nobody makes barbecued chicken like my daddy, but this is pretty darned good.

This afternoon I had my first secondary cataract removed. My vision may or may not improve and I won't know for 48 hours, but I'm always hopeful, and yet have low expectations. It didn't get any better after my cataracts were removed, but I'm always willing to take the chance. I'd really like to keep my vision steady for four more years when I have to renew my driver's license.  That will be a huge milestone if I make it. If not, maybe we'll have driverless cars by then. If not, grocery stores deliver now and there's Uber, so I won't be stranded. Time will tell.

Food Day

When I first saw this, I was so excited... any food I wanted? And then, sadly, I read what it was about. Food Day is all about “cutting back on sugar drinks, overly salted packaged foods and fatty, factory-farmed meats in favor of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and sustainably raised protein.” I'm super glad this was on a Monday after a weekend of junk food because I always behave myself on Mondays, which I did today. I won't bore you with the list of healthy foods I had, but believe me, I celebrated Food Day correctly.

Thomas and I are working on multiplication tables... God bless us all!

TV Talk Show Host Day

So many hosts, so little time. I love talk shows because I can play games on my iPad while watching (listening). I record many talk shows and these are my favorites: Stephen Colbert, Ellen, James Corden, and Harry Connick, Jr. Harry's show is new and I love it because he sings and interacts with the audience for most of the show. I've watched Ellen since her first season, which began in September 2003. That was a month after Dad died and I recorded it on Mom's TV every day so we could watch it together while we ate dinner every evening. I've watched it ever since and still love her humor. Stephen Colbert and James Corden are the only two nighttime shows I record and they both can make me laugh out loud.

Changing the subject, one of the few perks of being over 65 is that I can now vote by mail. I spent more than two hours on the Internet this morning Googling all the candidates running in my precinct. I didn't know most of them, hence my dependence on Google. But I feel very good in my selections, except for president. That was the box I left for last because I'm not happy with who I voted for, but nor would have been happy with the opposition. And I'm telling no one who I chose because regardless of who wins, I won't like with the outcome. Let's face it, we have two crappy choices... a crook or a crazy man. And my birthday is the day after election day. How sucky is that?

Make a Difference Day

I sometimes I feel like I'm cheating when I don't go above and beyond my usual activities. but since today was my scheduled visit with Brianna, I'm using it. We're allowed to bring them lunch once a month, so today I stopped by McDonald's on the way. I'm delighted that's her favorite place because it's cheap and nearby. My other girls always had more exotic tastes, so this is a breeze. And she was so happy because I was visiting her for lunch and her grandpa is coming tomorrow. Also, she said she saw what they were having for lunch and it was "nasty," so she really appreciated her burger and fries. And she said her unit went to school every day this week and no one got into trouble, so they were having movie night today and free time tomorrow to do whatever they want. It really felt good to see her so happy. She's such a sweetheart!

I'll be playing Trivia tonight at the clubhouse, but don't expect to win any prizes because I'll have four subs (out of eight) on my team. They might surprise me, but we'll have a good time regardless. I'll let you know how it goes.

Garbanzo Bean Day

Good one! I love hummus and before I even knew what I'd be celebrating today, I had hummus for lunch. How I love hummus and normally even make my own, but occasionally get a little lazy and buy some. I bought a very large container at Costco not too long ago and enjoy it several times a week. Best use of garbanzo beans there is, in my opinion. And I'm glad they have their own day.

I really appreciate the comments I had for yesterday's post. I put it on Facebook, too, after much deliberation with myself. But it's something I feel strongly about and although I realize many people who read it may not agree with me, at least I got no negative responses. Love is love. Let's spread it as far as we can!

Spirit Day

This day is in conjunction with Freedom from Bullies Week. We were to wear purple in a stand against bullying and to show support for LGBTQ youth. I certainly don't have a problem with purple and I've worn it all day to show my support for these kids.  Rarely, if ever, have I spoken out on a controversial issue in this blog, but today I make an exception.

I'm the first to admit that I don't understand homosexuality or bisexuality or transvestites. But that doesn't mean I don't accept and love them as my equals. God never appointed me or any other person to the Judging Committee... He is the only member and I put my faith in His hands. And I really don't get why so many people judge these people, because they were created by God, as we all were, and God doesn't make mistakes (although I sure don't like mosquitoes or fleas). Adolescents have so much to deal with under normal circumstances, but when they feel different, all bets are off and sadly, only the bravest survive.  I pray that someday we will all learn to accept anyone who is different from us, whether it be through skin color or religious preference or sexuality, and love them as we love all God's children. Isn't that what Jesus would do?

 

Unity Day

The National Bullying Prevention Center started this day to send one large ORANGE message of support, hope, and unity to show that we are together against bullying and united for kindness, acceptance and inclusion. And I'm wearing my orange shirt to show support. 

I visited Sean, the 5th grader, at the elementary school this afternoon and explained why I was wearing orange. Then I tutored Thomas and although I had good intentions, we just didn't get around to the orange. He's just too hard to keep on task. I'm leaving soon to attend the Meet the Candidates forum at the clubhouse for our new board of directors. Two of my friends are running and need my support, so I'll be there for them, still in my orange shirt, and I will protect them from bullying!

Chocolate Cupcake Day

I cannot tell a lie. I had every intention of picking up a cupcake today, but here's what happened. I met the lunch bunch (Kitty, Cathy, Sharon, and Kay) at Federal Grill today to celebrate Sharon's birthday yesterday.  We always have such great food and desserts. So for just the five of us, we had blueberry cheesecake, a big slice of the most delicious butter cake I've ever put in my mouth, and a giant half-baked chocolate chip cookie with ice cream. I took one bite of the cheesecake and then I'm pretty sure I ate at least half of the other two desserts. My stomach hurt as soon as I stood up, but I'm not complaining. However, I had to table my plans to buy a cupcake on the way home for obvious reasons. And I'm fairly certain this is the first day I've totally failed at my mission to celebrate the day. But again... not complaining because I was just too happy.

As soon as I got home it was time for coloring at the clubhouse, fortunately with no refreshments, and I finished my salad from lunch for dinner. I'm still very full, but oh, so very satisfied. Thank you Cathy for the best lunch ever!

Pasta Day

Again... this one was a stretch. I didn't have any pasta but coincidentally had some leftovers of wonton soup from our Chinese dinner on Friday. Technically, wonton wrappers aren't pasta, but let's face it... pasta and these wrappers are basically both made from flour and water. And the soup from this restaurant is amazing. It even has shrimp swimming around in it (maybe not actually swimming since they were dead). I loved it, as did the dogs because they got all the extra juice.

Thomas was a bit of a wild man this afternoon, mainly due to Halloween and Pokemon. Several of his word problems referenced Halloween and pieces of candy, which started him explaining to me about trick or treating in his neighborhood. And other problems were about Pokemon cards which really got him wound up.  I learned a lot of unnecessary information, but at least the problems held his interest. Good teacher!

Dictionary Day

This is Noah Webster's birthday and I read that we can celebrate by learning a new word. But don't they know that no one actually uses a dictionary anymore? We all know Google, which is so much handier and offers so much more information, has replaced dictionaries. So using the website Wordsmith.org, I learned the meaning of objurgate. It's certainly not a word I'll ever use, but for any of you who don't know, it means to scold severely. You're welcome.

I had a panicky morning when I started out with the dogs and the automatic sprinkler in my front yard was running. It's set on a timer to come on at 5 AM and run for 20 minutes, so this was a definite aberration. So I immediately turned the whole system off, to no avail. At that point I had two antsy dogs to get on our way so I pretended it would be off when we came back and left. On our return 40 minutes later, still on and water is pouring down the street into the storm drain. So plan B was to turn off the main water line in the garage. I did that with no result except the water in the house was off. Keeping in mind that it's Sunday morning and all my neighbors go to church, I was still seeking a solution on my own. So I found the cover in the yard and pulled the lid off to see the hole full of muddy water. And what followed was one of the scariest things I've done in my life. I stuck my arm down that hole without even knowing how deep it was. But I couldn't think about snakes or other critters, so I felt for the handle but couldn't budge it. Then I caved and called my next door neighbor. When I asked if they were getting ready for church he replied, "Sort of." So I started talking really fast and explained my problem. And bless dear Richard's heart, he came over immediately in his pants and undershirt, wielding a giant wrench and headed into my backyard where he showed me where the sprinkler system was (I should have known this) and turned it off. Whew! God bless Richard.

I Love Lucy Day

In 1951 on October 15th, I Love Lucy made its debut on TV. And coincidentally, the jigsaw puzzle I'm working on now is called Comedy featuring all the great comedians of the last 50 years. And even more coincidentally, before I even knew what day I was celebrating today, I put Lucy together. Now I'm not sure if you'd call that karma, but it is interesting.

Glory spent all morning at the groomer for her semi-annual bath and defurring. She wasn't happy about it but mama sure is. Then I met Sally, Roy, and Allison for a late lunch and it was delicious as well as fun. Anytime I spend over two hours having a meal and the service is good (meaning we didn't do a lot of waiting), that's my idea of the best of times. Good food, good wine, and good friends... can't beat it.

When I got home I headed straight over to Ann Roe's for appetizers and wine with three local friends. This was an exceptional day!

Dessert Day

Oh my, I'm afraid I overdid this one. First I stopped at my local sweet shop and bought a dark chocolate cupcake truffle for dessert after lunch. And this evening our dinner group ate at a Chinese restaurant. Now we all know Asian restaurants aren't known for their fine desserts, which is why I bought the truffle for lunch. But since we had discussed this last evening with the Winettes, one lady brought two different kinds of bakery cookies to share with the group. So I buckled and had one of each and then as we were getting up to leave, the heavens opened and the rains came down. So some of us ordered another glass of wine and we all had another cookie. But I can't complain... I loved every minute there was sugar in my mouth!

No Bra Day

I realize this pic is no proof that I went braless today and actually I didn't until wine time. I informed the gang of the day we were celebrating and out of 15 women, I was amazed that four of us wore no bras. And the funniest thing is that one woman brought hers with her just in case we were going to burn them. Now that's funny!

I'm pretty sure we had a very new waiter because it took over an hour to get our checks. A few of us even went to the bar for another glass of wine because the waiting was interminable.  But all in all, the food and wine were very good as well as economical, so we will definitely try it again. However, one woman said she'd be happy to pick up our food ahead of time and we could go to her house because her patience was actually worse than mine (and that speaks volumes).

Free Thought Day

The purpose of this day is to encourage people to be free thinkers and to base opinions on facts, science, logic and reason. It occurs on the anniversary of the effective end of the Salem Witch trials on October 12, 1692 when Massachusetts Governor William Phips wrote a letter condemning the use of spectral evidence against the accused. At some point, the trials did resume and “spectral evidence” was allowed but largely discounted and those convicted were swiftly pardoned by Phips.

I learned about this today and am proud to say that, being a left brain person, I definitely feel I'm a free thinker and do use logic and reason most of the time. For example, today while tutoring Thomas, he had a new book that he really wanted to read with me. At first I thought, no way because we had too much work. But knowing his reading skills are as limited as his math ability, I chose to use it as an incentive to keep him focused on his work. And after he finished his math, I stayed a little later for the book (he wanted me to read it, but I insisted that he read it to me). We scored on both fronts. He finished his math and practiced his reading... win-win! 

You Go, Girl Day

To celebrate this day I made a donation to Krause House, the residential treatment center for teenaged girls, where I volunteer weekly.  It's run by the Presbyterian Church and although I'm certainly no expert, they seem to do a good job of giving these girls the therapy, medication, and structure they need. And I say to each of the residents, "You go, girl!"

I mentored Aiden, the second grader, today and I tell you now... this kid is gonna run me ragged. He's constantly in motion and if I look away for a second, he's out of my site. Fortunately we meet in the school library so I know he won't go far, but oh my goodness! He's a handful, but as long as we're reading, he's calm. This is definitely new for me, but really delightful. We finished the Captain Underpants book we started last week and then began another. I'm amazed.

Kick Butt Day

This is a day to give yourself a kick in the seat of the pants. So I did. I walked to my Tai Chi class at the clubhouse and then went to my class at the Y at 11:30. I haven't taken the dogs out yet, but hope to reach 10,000 steps today. My usual is between 6 and 7 thousand, so my kick in the pants helped a lot. It also helps that the temperature this morning was 56 degrees and it was the first day I've actually had to wear a warm jacket. The weather is nice again and that makes me so happy.

I tutored Thomas this afternoon and it's one of those cases of two steps forward and one step back, although I really feel like it was two steps back. He'll be tested on Friday so at least I have another day with him before then. I feel like I'm so invested in him that if he lived close by I really believe I'd offer some freebies just to keep him on his toes. God love him!

International Beer and Pizza Day

Wow, I can't even remember the last time I had beer and pizza, but pretty sure it was at least 15 years ago. But after today, I think I just might have to add it back into my lineup. I would have had it outside because it was such a beautiful day, but the Texans were playing and I couldn't have thought of anything more American than watching football with beer and pizza. And the pizza came from Whole Foods, so I'm assuming it had really fresh ingredients.Sadly the Texans lost, but the Cowboys dominated. So it was a pretty good day. (By the way, the beer is Michelob Ultra in an aluminum bottle, in case you don't recognize it,)

African Penguin Awareness Day

On this day the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) releases rehabilitated penguins back to the ocean as part of an annual festival in Simon's Town, South Africa. And that's all I have to say about that.

I feel like I need a do-over for yesterday. First of all, I shouldn't have mentioned the haze behind my eyes as that should make no one smile. Nor should I have told you all about Mary Ellen's nephew's death on World Smile Day. That news, while tragic, could certainly have waited until today.

Instead I should have told you my new favorite joke, sent to me by Joe. 

A man visits a new zoo in his town.  It only has one animal, a dog. It was a Shih Tzu.

And I shared that joke with my dinner group, which made most of them smile (there are always a few grumps in the crowd). And I feel better now.

World Smile Day

My intention was to make someone smile today, so imagine my surprise when it was done to me. I had an appointment with the retina specialist this morning who I see every three months. But after a thorough exam, he said I can now start coming every six months. This is huge! I feel like I just graduated and am still smiling. He did say there's a haze behind both eyes that can probably be lasered off, so I need to see my ophthalmologist, but insisted it's no big deal. So I came home, made an appointment for the 17th, and am still thrilled.

I did get a sad call from Mary Ellen, Mom's 91-year-old cousin, who told me that her niece's husband died last night. Mary Ellen lives with them in Missouri and he has been very sick for some time. I'm just so grateful that she's there for Lana, her niece, and that she has someone looking out for her. They are both in my prayers.

Mad Hatter Day

Unintentionally, today went according to plan. First I took my car to the dealership because my phone suddenly wouldn't sync anymore. I've synced it many times and tried multiple times before I gave in. The service technician got in the car and although I had to guide him a little, he got it connected.  I felt like an idiot.Then I asked him to check something else and when he seemed a little lost, I asked why I was telling him what to do. He said he'd worked for Nissan for 20 years and this was his third day with Acura. And he could still do things I couldn't. Dumb me!

Then I went to Home Depot to pick up an online order. When the clerk couldn't find it in the computer, she asked for my order number. And when I showed it to her, she immediately said I had it sent to a different store which was much farther away. And to make matters worse, that store was very close to the Acura dealership where I had just been. Dammit... I feel like a mad hatter!

We had 13 for wine time this evening and although everything went smoothly, we all seemed to get a little buzz on from our usual two glasses. Seemed like we were all acting as mad as hatters. But it sure was fun!

Walk to School Day

I had every intention of walking to the elementary school today to meet Sean, my new 5th grader. However, summer is back and I just didn't want him to see me for the first time all hot and sweaty, so I walked to yoga instead. It's only about three blocks, but it wasn't too bad because class is at 9:00.

I was surprised to see that Aiden, the 2nd grader, is a little clone of his older brother, Sean. We did a getting to know you activity and I feel bad because one of the questions is "When is your birthday?" Yesterday, Aiden had been clowning around a bit and when he got to that question, he answered, "Tomorrow." But the look on his face told me he was kidding, so I didn't really believe it. I asked Sean about it today and he said Aiden's birthday is indeed October 5th. Now I feel horrible and will make it up to him next week. And I'll start trusting him more. Bad mentor!

Vodka Day

Now we're talkin'! I was really busy today, so had to squeeze in my Clamato and vodka between other things. Normally I prefer to have this beverage just before lunch, but was going to the elementary school to meet with one of my new mentees, so not an option. Then I had a dermatology appt. after lunch, so still a no go. But coloring at the clubhouse was at 3:00, so I figured it might help my creativity. And I think it worked.

So now let me talk about my new kid. His name is Aiden, he's in 2nd grade, and he was recommended by his teacher for a mentor because he has anger issues. At first I was a little nervous because he was very high energy. But surprisingly, when I asked him if he wanted to play a game, he said he'd rather read a book. This was a first, but I was thrilled. He chose a book in the Captain Underpants series (new to me, but pretty darned cute). I asked him to read to me and after a few pages, he said he'd rather read to himself. I explained that I didn't come to watch him read to himself, so we shared reading duties. After he got his lunch, I told him I'd read to him while he ate. And after he finished, I was stunned. Even though I was holding the book where he could see it, he stood up and put his arm around me so he could see better. Then he continued moving gradually until he was completely draped over my back. I don't think I can explain how great that made me feel. Not only had he adapted to me so quickly, but he also was giving me a gift that warmed my heart. And as I was telling him goodbye, he asked if I would be there every Tuesday. I assured him I would and then he asked, "Till the end of the year?" I said yes and even until he was in 12th grade if he wanted me to. He was so excited, as was I. It was a great day!

Glory's Day

This is the day I adopted Glory in 2008. She was a year old and I don't know when her birthday is, so I celebrate her birthday today. The photo is how she looked back then, but now that she's 9, her muzzle is all gray and she thankfully is much less energetic. That little backpack she's wearing is filled with rocks in order to tire her out more on our walks. I'm just glad I was younger then, too.

To celebrate, every time I left today, which was three different times, she got super treats while Simon just got the usual. She's gotten me through a lot of rough times and I love her dearly. But I'm not going to lie, when she crosses that rainbow bridge I will definitely grieve, but my life will be so much easier. The older I get, the more difficult it is to walk two dogs and I guess my fear of falling is heightened (for obvious reasons). But I think in the grand scheme of things, she will always be my favorite. Happy birthday, Glory!

Name Your Car Day

This is not something I've ever really done, but Joe and Mary Jane name all of theirs... Chuckie, Nigel, and Alice, to name a few. When I got my white Honda In Heber Springs and they were visiting all the time, I tried to jump in on the fun and named the Honda Snowball. I've never named my Acura, but since it's also white, I'm going all in with Snowball II.

This afternoon I went to the play at the clubhouse. The Drama Club puts one on twice a year and they're always funny mysteries. I'm a little in awe of the actors because they memorize all their lines (for the most part). And if they forget a line, they usually turn it into a joke. So it's always entertaining, if not for the right reasons. But this one was one of the best I've seen. And again it was a beautiful day so Ann Roe and I walked to the clubhouse and got in a little extra exercise, too. That was a good thing since peach cobbler was served at intermission. And the Texans won today without JJ for the first time... yay!!!

Walk Your Dog Week

Thankfully Glory is back to her old self so we walked farther this morning than normal and again this evening. I didn't even have to drag Simon because of the nicer weather... he does not like the heat! It's also Ghost Hunting Day, so while we were out I looked for ghosts, but darn it, didn't see a one.

But I did see Brianna this morning and she was happier than usual. She told me it's because of her new meds and I hate to think that's true, but it probably is. I told her I was going to start mentoring at an elementary school this week and will have two brothers, a second and a fifth grader. Her face fell a little and she quickly asked, "Will you still visit me?"  Poor thing, I quickly explained that she is my number one priority and her smile came back. You just never know what these kids are thinking. At least I'm glad she asked.