12/31/2021 - 12th day of Yule, Wassail

"Here we come a-wassailing

Among the leaves so green.

Here we come a-wand'ring

So fair to be seen.

Love and joy come to you,

And to you your wassail too;

May the gods bless you and

Send you a happy New Year!"

traditional English New Year song

There will ever be a part of me that 

yearns to have been there, done that 

in those olde days of yesteryear.

Still, somewhere 'mongst the trickle 

down effect, we have similar customs 

in today's world.

Even now we go to holiday parties 

where there is plenty of wassail, 

spiced ale and/or mulled wine. And,

perhaps those souls willing to brave

the elements will go a-wassailing,

singing fave holiday tunes, from

door to door.

Tonight's Wassail ends those infamous

12 days of Yule. I have much enjoyed

delving into the English history and

learning all about them. Pray have 

your own wondrous Wassail this New

Year's Eve and if you're up to braving 

the cold, a-wassailing you shall go!

let us celebrate

hard times demand hard measures

not to be beaten

12/30/2021 - 11th day of Yule, Perseverance

"Perseverance is persistence in

doing something despite difficulty

or delay in achieving success."

Webster's Dictionary

Can't help but wonder if the word

perseverance means the same to

everyone?! A sweet little word that

works for me is, sticktoitiveness,

albeit a real word or not.

Methinks that all good teachers try

to instill this trait in their students.

Now by teacher, I mean all those

who actually exemplify the word . . . 

parents, sibs, friends, neighbors.

Bottom line . . . sticking to those 

things you've committed to doing, 

honoring perseverance . . . is

incredibly important to me, as well

as anyone of honor.

Good idea to choose wisely that with

which you'll honor your perseverance.

For me, it's good relationships with 

my children, maintaining good quality

friendships, living in a way never to

make me ashamed.

It matters, it truly matters . . . to honor 

that which is important, sticking to the

commitments we've made, holding up

our end of the stick!

personal honor

isnt that what its about 

living with myself

12/29/2021 - 10th day of Yule, Self-reliance

"Dare to live the life you have 

dreamed for yourself. Go forward 

and make your dreams come true."

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

I grew up in the tail end of the era

in which women were subservient 

to men. I was incredibly fortunate

as my mother was college educated

and worked for the Atomic Energy

Commission for thirty odd years.

She didn't have a single subservient

bone in her body! My shero!

And thusly, self-reliance was born.

My mom would have crowned my

ass had she ever caught me doing 

the whole bow down and worship

thing!

So, how does one instill said virtue

in our children and young people? 

Comes to me that it must be through 

positive role modeling. Example;

priceless!

I pray I can ever live in a self reliant

manner without being inappropriate

in any way. We owe it to our youth

to demonstrate standing on our own

two feet in the most positive of ways.

stand up with courage

must face life with backbone staunch

i can and i will

12/28/2021 - 9th day of Yule, Industry

"To industry, nothing is impossible."

Latin Proverb

I find myself tempted to scream, "Oh

my God, my mother has risen from 

the grave!"

Growing up, the word, industry, may

have been one of her faves if not the

absolute fave! And, in all fairness,

she was one of the most industrious

people I would ever encounter in my

entire lifetime; a mentor to emulate!

I've come to recognize that for her,

any moment wasted on the idle, 

was slothfulness to her. I bet you

never guessed that slothfulness is

a four-letter word!

Here I am, nigh onto a 100 years

old, and I can still see her looking 

over my shoulder admonishing me, 

get busy or laziness will conquer.

Near the end of my own days, I

suppose I've formed some of my 

own ideas. I do believe that industry 

is of supreme importance. I also get

that times of relaxation, moments

of pondering, are also of great

value! 

Interestingly enough, I don't think 

for a moment that mom was trying 

to rob me of such. It's just that she 

valued achievement and believed

this would not only serve me well,

but also keep me out of trouble.

Sooooo, industry it is, my lads and

lasses . . . get on with whatever is

important to you and all will be well.

am busy busy

heaven by another name

it has to matter

12/27/2021 - 8th day of Yule, Discipline

"Self-respect is the fruit of discipline; 

the sense of dignity grows with the ability 

to say no to oneself." ~A.J. Heschel

Discipline is a hard one at best . . . 

Methinks none of us have relished it

any time 'twixt and 'tween childhood 

and adulthood. Yet, seems to me that

once we became adults, we felt the

rules no longer applied!

Everywhere I look, discipline comes

to visit! It's required in running a good

home, maintaining a successful business, 

keeping a loving relationship, rearing

wonderful children! And I would deem,

with positive outcomes, we don't tend

to resent said discipline too much.

But, how about that wretched word when

it comes to sticking to a diet?! Saving our

shekels, washing the car and cleaning the

damn house?! I see myself frowning even

as I write the words!

It comes to me that one is never too old

to face discipline head on, do the duties,

if only to feel good afterwards! Ouch!

That doesn't sound very mature, does it?

Bottom line . . . we ARE never too old to

discipline ourselves; guess we just need

to bite the bullet! 

making the effort

dont really want to grow up

will if i have to

12/26/2021 - 7th day of Yule, Hospitality

"Nothing is more noble, nothing

more venerable than fidelity.

Faithfulness and truth are the most

sacred excellences and endowments

of the human mind."

~Marcus Tullius Cicero

We have only just been introduced

to a supreme example of hospitality.

Coming to enjoy the grandchildren

for x-mas . . . and finding the kids

are moving! I am sooooo not joking;

moving! We knew it was coming up, 

just didn't realize it was x-mas day 

weekend!

Imagine what it must be like to prep

a move for a family of six in just a 

few days and have to accommodate

grandparents whilst so busy?! I add,

the kids were nothing but loving in 

every way!

Frankly, rather reminds me of a Maya

Angelou quote, "People will forget 

what you said. They will forget what 

you did. But, they will never forget 

how you made them feel."

Hospitality matters! In my twenty

years in Mexico, I witnessed what

the true face of hospitality looks

like! Found myself ever amazed 

at every turn!

Bottom line though, the gift of

hospitality needs to be freely

given to those approaching one's

door! In this day and age and all

the existing horrors, it's a scary

thing to do! Still, if one cares,

all must be tried!

call it what it is

lets be nice to each other

hospitality

Merry everything and a happy always!

WritersAfterDark

12/25/2021 - 6th Day of Yule, Fidelity

I grew up with the word fidelity as

part of a sound system for record

players. The advert, High Fidelity,

comes to mind. 

'Twas living in Mexico for 20 years 

where I came to understand its true 

meaning . . . faithful. Not a word

one particularly hears bandied about

today.

So I'm thinking, what would make

fidelity or faithful, more meaningful?

Many a couple hold the concept of 

faithfulness dear to their hearts. Just 

take a look at divorce rates if you're 

in doubt. 

On the other end of the stick, pun

intended, there are many faithful

pets in our homes. The fidelity of

dogs has been touted for centuries.

Sooooo love the stories about them.

Perhaps, there's a kind of fidelity

we've lost sight of . . . 'twould be

the faithfulness we owe ourselves.

We could ask . . . 

What do I believe in, am I faithful 

to that belief? What characteristics 

matter so much to me that I would 

fight for them? Am I faithful in love, 

in friendship, to the people I feel for, 

in the causes that matter to me?

Hard call . . . we believe, we care! 

But, we're tired, we have too many 

responsibilities.  What to do? A good

look at our priorities . . . sort them

out. Which ones are worth being

faithful to? Methinks it matters!

faithfulness matters

says much about who we are

tis a kind of trust

12/24/2021 - 5th Day of Yule, Honor

There are quotes that come to mind

when the word honor is brought up.

"Honor thy father and thy mother

that thy days may be long upon the

earth." Ex. 20:12 . . . And of course,

"Honor among thieves," along with 

its own lurid history.

I have always understood that honor

is important; hugely important! I

often heard my father referred to as,

"a man of honor." I know this meant

a great deal to him. We all know that

person about whom this can be said.

We get it!

I believe the way one treats others

directly reflects the honor one 

possesses.  This is truly important

to me; I certainly hope this will 

always be so!

A new year is soon approaching,

so obviously, we're all thinking

about those things in which we 

wish to do better. I am certainly

going to pay attention to honor.

This matters . . .

"Honor is a gift man gives himself."

~Ricky Gervais

as my father lived

longing to live with honor

so matters to me

12/23/2021 - 4th Day of Yule, Truth

"Say not, I have found the truth,

but rather, I have found a truth.

~Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet

Truth! The word makes me

tremble! 

Obviously, there has to be some

kind of universal truth that we all

try to understand and adhere to.

Doubt very much if we have any,

The earth is flat peeps left!

I think where it breaks down, may

be in our individual belief systems.

Each person believes the way they

see fit, that which makes sense to

them, and nothing can sway them

from it. Surely then, this means that 

said beliefs are each person's truth! 

Then, there are those who would

argue that partial truths are not 

truths at all. Most likely there's a

reason why one must swear in

court to, "tell the truth, the whole

truth and nothing but the truth."

What about people's feelings?

When asked, "Do you like my

new hat?" Would you say, "No,

I don't really care for it." Or,

would it be better to say, "It's

really quite interesting. Where

did you ever find it?" 

Methinks, we are all enamored

with the idea of truth. However,

I imagine we all harbor different

feelings regarding exact meanings!

pray dont lie to me

only the truth serves me well

god that was painful

12/22/2021 - 3rd Day of Yule, Courage

On the third day of Yule, we honor

and celebrate Courage. Methinks we

all know there is more to courage

than meets the naked eye, to coin a

phrase! I like Pauline Clynch's view 

on the subject!

Six Types of Courage

Physical - Keep going with resiliency,

balance and awareness.

Social - Be yourself unapologetically.

Moral - Do the right thing even when

it's uncomfortable or unpopular.

Emotional - Feel all your emotions,

both positive and negative, without

guilt or attachment. 

Intellectual - Learn, unlearn and 

relearn with an open and flexible 

mind. 

Spiritual - Live with purpose and 

meaning through a heart centered 

approach towards all life and oneself.

I find there are days I can do some 

of these and others, alas I flounder. 

We would all wish to be courageous. 

'Tis in our nature to strive for it. I can 

not help but wonder what it is that

inspires us to be courageous.

Obviously, our children come first

to mind. We long, nay need . . . 

to exemplify it for them. No one likes 

to appear weak in front of our spouses, 

family and friends. The time honored 

question, how to achieve this?!

I find meditation to be an answer to 

most of my own issues. If I can just

slow down, both physically and 

mentally, give some proper thought

to things, I can usually come up 

with an answer. And then, ask the

higher power for the needed strength 

to be courageous.

I pray we all find it as we need it . . .

pray give me courage

life hands out difficulties

need to pass the tests

12/21/2021 - 2nd Day of Yule

Yule has finally arrived . . . just like

a little kid, I thought it never would

come! I love all the names; Yuletide,

Yule, Winter Solstice, and of course, 

'tis first day of Winter.

Today, we will be celebrating Mother

Earth and the changes she brings to

the table with our Winter season. I

also enjoy that we celebrate it for

twelve days rather than just the one.

My guy will help me make a Yule

log today. We will enjoy it each of

the 12 days and then burn it on the

12th day of Yule. I have had some

so gorgeous that it nigh onto breaks

my heart to burn them.  Don't tell

anyone, but I've cheated a couple

of times and stowed them away!

And, not to forget our song; we're

the only ones who celebrate the

12 days of Yuletide.

On the first day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

A partridge in a pear tree

On the second day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the third day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the fourth day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the fifth day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the sixth day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Six geese a laying

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the seventh day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Seven swans a swimming

Six geese a laying

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the eighth day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Eight maids a milking

Seven swans a swimming

Six geese a laying

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the ninth day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Nine ladies dancing

Eight maids a milking

Seven swans a swimming

Six geese a laying

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the tenth day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

Ten lords a leaping

Nine ladies dancing

Eight maids a milking

Seven swans a swimming

Six geese a laying

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the eleventh day of Yuletide

My true love sent to me

eleven pipers piping

Ten lords a leaping

Nine ladies dancing

Eight maids a milking

Seven swans a swimming

Six geese a laying

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

On the twelfth day of Yuletide

My truelove sent to me

Twelve drummers drumming

eleven pipers piping

Ten lords a leaping

Nine ladies dancing

Eight maids a milking

Seven swans a swimming

Six geese a laying

Five golden rings

Four calling birds

Three french hens

Two turtle-doves

And a partridge in a pear tree

~Sammy Cahn and James Van Heusen

12/20/2021 - 1st Day of Yule

I find myself having to admit that I

might actually enjoy all these holiday

celebrations! Sooooo didn't see that

one coming!

I fear, I sin on the side of being a

homebody, as it were. Actually have

friends who make that extra effort

to drag me out of my comfort zone!

Once I get out and about, I begin 

to enjoy the upcoming adventure,

whatever it may be. Methinks 'tis

called, going with the flow! All this

adds up to a bit of fresh air, new

sites, fun happenings and delightful

encounters. I sense a lesson coming

on here!

I'm feeling a new year's resolution 

presenting itself. Perhaps, I need to 

think in the realm of getting my ass 

out and about from time to time. Just 

think of all the mischief I could get 

myself into!

Feel free to make suggestions to this

almost new and improved me . . .

Well, surely I don't have to give in

right away!!! Home is such a lovely

place to be . . .

homes where the heart is

feel free to come and join me

lucky to feel thus

12/19/2021

December is nigh onto two thirds gone;

I would have to ask, "Where the hell did

it go?!"

Perhaps it has something to do with the

flurry of cleaning, decorating, shopping, 

gift wrapping or standing in line at the

post office for two hours . . . preparing 

in general!

Then it seems, as gifts are delivered,

visits made and foods eaten, we can

hardly wait to get everything put away

and let the preps for the new year begin!

Alas, I feel a loony-tuney coming on.

This year, I am determined to enjoy

each and every day, all presents, our

little tree and drop in visits. I am NOT

going to allow myself any kind of rush!

I'm not even going to put away my

paltry decor until the first week in Jan!

 . . . and not to forget, this week is

supposed to be warmer than the five 

degrees we woke up to yesterday!

Here's to a Happy Decembrering!

loving me this month

so enjoy every day

no hurry to end

12/18/2021

We awoke to five degrees today. The

first day of Winter is four days away;

rather scary to think it can get this

cold in Autumn.

We still have a couple of inches of

snow on the ground. Our walk is icy.

Sirens going by on a regular basis.

Just have to admit it, Winter is truly 

on its way.

Methinks we're simply going to have

to accept that Lord of Winter is here 

to stay for a long, long time. Where 

we live, Winter actually begins well 

prior to its supposed date of arrival,

December 21st.

Equally annoying, it tends to leave

well into Spring. I can't help but

wonder just what the Universe is

trying to tell me . . . My beloved

Summer is the shortest and my

abhorred Winter is the longest. I

actually thought each season was

to have its six weeks, but not so.

At least the holidays are fun.

Going to ponder, for a little

while, the lessons I could learn 

from this upcoming season. 

Grrrrrrrrrrrr ~!@#$%^&*()_+

its so cold outside

winter winter everywhere

help me understand

12/17/2021

Today begins Saturnalia, ancient

Roman holiday with festivals to 

honor Saturn. Perhaps not mine

to celebrate, but this day rather 

opens the floodgates of seasonal 

celebrations.

So, wishing a Joyous Kwanzaa to 

our African American friends. Merry 

Christmas to all fellow Christians. 

Happy Hanukkah to our dear Jewish 

families. Feliz Navidad, my beloved 

Mexican family, friends, colleagues!

And always, a Blessed Yule to all 

my dear Pagan sisters and brothers.

One can't help but love this time 

of year. Everyone is so cheerful.

The buying of delightful gifts,

the planning of meals, well to be

remembered . . . and embracing

all that surrounds us with genuine

affection!

Methinks my one wish would be

that we could maintain all this

wellbeing throughout our entire

upcoming year. Perhaps at least,

we could make a stab at it! 'Tis

my one New Year's resolution!

happy holidays

a time to be remembered

love surrounds us all

12/16/2021

Methinks halfway through December

begins the holiday countdown. Five

day until the Solstice. Eight or nine 

days to Christmas Eve and Christmas.

Looking forward to last minute post

office lines, shopping, decorating, 

meal planning, as well as making 

space for stay-over family.

I love that part of sitting on the floor

wrapping presents, attaching names

and getting them under whatever tree

has been put up. Large or small, real 

or fake, green or tinsel . . . all fun!

I find myself checking the mail most

religiously. Cards arriving, along with

the odd package, as well as presents 

ordered from catalogues and on line.

Some cards have page long catch up

letters whilst others are only signed.

Once in a while, there is one hand

made and I am WOWED! Back in

the day, we used to string 'em along

the fireplace mantle. Today, I put

them in a basket on the table and

look through them fairly often.

I hate to think about it, but I have

one more Post Office trip . . . think

I'll wait until sometime between

x-mas and New Year's.  Nothing

wrong with receiving a package

after all the holiday brouhaha!

Rather adds to the fun!

boxes wrap ribbons

last minute buys and sendings

too tired to plan

12/15/2021

Having me some fun today!

I'm making my infamous . . .

Secret Spice from ld's Cauldron

I've been experimenting and

making these spice blends for

50 years, 20 I lived in Mexico 

and of course, the 30 I've lived 

in the US of late.

'Tis my child within at play;

make no mistake. I use taste

tests with combinations most

unusual. And of course, I get

a kick out of using my fave

magick numbers!

Over the years, I've used the

odd numbers 3, 7, 9, and now 

13 different types and kinds of 

chiles. And in direct contrast, 

I like to use even numbers of

spices and herbs.  

Experiments are indeed a fave

part of the process. Added to

salsas created for dipping, a

tad sprinkled over homemade

refried beans, a shake or two

on cottage cheese, and any

recipe that requires chile for

heat and flavor.

Me thinks we need to do some

serious dipping somewhere

'twixt and 'tween all these

December holidays. Come on

over and have a taste!

the value of heat

never to be discounted

lets experiment

Note: The words chile and

chiles are spelled in Spanish.

12/14/2021

I've stood in the post office line,

for half an hour or so, three times

now. What I didn't know was that

it could be quite enjoyable . . .

When you're there for 30 or 45

minutes, you tend to fall into

conversation with those closest

to you. Seems we humans just

can't help ourselves; we'll 

probably all die open-mouthed 

and spitting words 'til the end!

Yesterday, I carried an old gal's

packages for half an hour. She

was mortified and I made light

of it (pun intended) to put her

at ease. Last year, I actually

fainted when finally reaching

the beginning of the line. So,

didn't want that to happen to

her.

Having made three trips,

I actually get it . . .

'Tis all about getting those

holiday gifts in the mail, on

time. I don't care so much about

that, just want the packages to

get there!!!

I have just one more trip; have

to see if I'm up to it. Now, if 

only this could could count as

exercise and I'd lose a pound 

or two!!!

get me to the box

mail most fun in december

heres hoping for some

12/13/2021

"I wish I could show you when

you are lonely or in darkness

the astonishing light of your

own being." ~Hafiz

I imagine by now you've come

to realize just how much I love

our archaic authors; Rumi and

Hafiz being two of my faves!

Wisdom of the ages . . .

You'll smile, one of my greatest

longings is to grow properly old

and wise. There is so much to

learn and so little time. I've ever

and always been on the quest.

But, part of me feels as if I didn't

question hard enough, seek more

thoroughly, gain in wisdom . . .

and grow!

In seeking this elusive wisdom,

where do I go? Who do I ask?

How may I acquire it? What is

the magic? Will I be a better

person for acquiring wisdom?

I ask these questions each and

every day. Pray I have time to

listen and to hear the answers!

tell me teach me show

so long to be an elder

illuminate me

12/12/2021

"It's your road and yours alone.

Others may walk it with you,

but no one can walk it for you."

~Rumi

I have ever and always loved 

Rumi. But I swear, sometimes

he speaks truths so harsh that

he'd have to deal with me if he

weren't already on another plane.

I would have to admit that there

are times when I am desperately

lonely on my path. But . . .  this 

changes. A friend will walk with

me for a while. My guy makes

the effort when he can. Still, we

must each walk our own path.

I confess, there are moments 

when I dearly wish the Universe

would give me a time out. Alas,

I've even assigned myself a few, 

much to my own detriment!

I must remember, I am called to

walk my path. So far, I've walked

it for 72 years. And, I don't think 

NO would ever be an acceptable 

answer!

So pray I have to strength and 

courage . . .

walk a while with me

the path long and arduous

i fear i falter

12/11/2021

Methinks the gods are playing

with me since I've bitched so

much about Winter . . .

'Twas snowing this morn upon

waking and now 'tis snowing 

yet again when I'm sleeping!

Got about 4" this a.m. Should

be interesting to see now much

we get this p.m.

Somewhere 'twixt looking on

the bright side and 'tween the

power of positive thinking, 

I'm going to be working on my 

happy side!

On the agenda for today, baking

some cookies, making a couple

of snowmen, and taking a long 

winter's nap!

Nothing wrong with the snow, 

just wish people would stop 

mucking it up . . . messes with 

its natural beauty!

Now, when I'm queen of the

universe, I'm going to have 

summer's lovely sun and 

winter's stunning snow, all 

at the same time! Feel free 

to vote for me . . .

 

confusing weather 

what kind of day will it be

just smile mister sun

12/10/2021

A third of December gone; 

go figure . . . Me thinks 2021 

is well on its way out!

I look over this year . . . I have 

it in my head that at least it was 

better than 2020. We've all bern 

dealing with the harsh realities 

of COVID-19; family, friends 

who've gone through the ordeal 

and survived, a few who haven't. 

Times of sorrow, fear, death.

Not sure where we go from here.

Seems the plague has resurged

just as we're hoping for a break.

Can't help but wonder if 2022

will bring a diminishing or an

increasing in all things both 

good and bad.

I'm in that time of life, seeing

where I've been and where I'm

going, evaluating, reevaluating. 

I do get that focusing on the

positive is healthier than fearing

the negative.

I keep longing for just a little

more time before its my turn

to go. I do recognize that I'm

in that final round and wish to

do myself proud.

Maybe just time to stop musing,

thinking, and get to celebrating

whatever time I have left. Come

on, let's party . . . join me?!

might be the last dance

love me the lights and music

midnight approaches

12/09/2021

Got me a check from the IRS 

in the mail yesterday. Let me out 

a hoot and holler that the whole

neighborhood could hear! Said 

to myself, "Well, it's about time!"

Then, made the mistake of opening

the envelope . . . and there before 

me, a check . . . wait for it . . . for

$2.76!!! Good thing there wasn't a

mattress in the middle of the road,

I'd have fainted and most likely

gotten run over!

Been thinking non-stop what I'm

going to do with my new fortune!

Hawaii comes to mind; always

wanted to visit. New car? I mean

pickup . . . black, of course. Or,

maybe throw a party. That would

be kind of fun!

But, in looking at the entire picture,

holding said check in my hand,

think I could sponsor, let's see . . .

Naught! NADA!! N O T H I N G!!!

Hey, feel free to ask me for a loan!!!

Need a quarter? A dime? A nickel?

I'm your guy!!!

Guess, I'll just put it up on the fridge

and sneer at it from time to time.

my tale of the day

laughs at a dime a dozen

color me tickled

12/08/2021

"I still don't quite yet know who

I really am, and that excites me."

~j.r. rogue

I find quotes inspiring. Sometimes,

I just go looking for the odd quote 

and wait to see what happens . . . 

and the above just did!

Rather made me wonder . . . I've

always thought I knew myself, but

do I really?! Now, at nigh onto a

hundred years old or so, I can still

surprise myself from time to time.

Does that mean a character trait I

may have overlooked lo these many

years? Perhaps, I'm adding bits and

pieces to my personality . . . maybe

even trying them on for size!

I've always thought that I'd like 

to be the author of me rather than 

allow someone else to write my

script! So, what gives?

I'm going to give this some think

time and see what I can come up

with! It's kind of along the lines

of, "Who do I want to be when I 

grow up." Ahhhhh, maybe it's the 

ghosts of New Year's Resolutions 

past coming to town . . . hadn't 

thought  of that!

Think maybe I'll do some add ons

while I'm about it . . . not going 

to mess with the take aways . . .

they're just no fun at all!!!

make lists and check twice

santa aint the only one

having me some fun

12/07/2021

"I don't always learn my 

lesson, but when I do you 

can bet I learned it the hard 

way." ~Unknown

If ever there were words straight

out of the mouth of gods . . .

In my lifetime, there has always 

been family, as well as friends, 

who have felt free to dole out good,

sound advice. Now, just ask me if 

I ever listened or even attempted 

to follow it?!

"Maybe you should get a second 

opinion! Why don't you consult a

doctor? You could try this another

way, you know! Stop doing that!

Give it a rest! Let it go!"

Doesn't matter . . . complex or

simple, advice given meant, do

the exact opposite, every single 

time! Sounds to me like someone

needs to get a clue already! 

Bottom line, I'm very familiar

with . . . the hard way. We've 

been close friends for a long,

long time! Been thinking though, 

now that I'm about 100 years old, 

maybe it's time to try a different 

way of doing things.

I do know that it's damn hard to

teach an old dog new tricks. Still,

methinks 'tis time to try it. So, feel

free . . . I'm giving my permission.

Fork over all the advice you'd like.

One can only hope I'll listen . . .

not sure what to do

most likely i need advice

have any for me

12/06/2021

"I need a time out until I can play

nicely with others . . . this may take

a while." 2drunkladies

I got to thinking last night, while 

it was snowing, that I'm not being 

a very good sport about winter . . .

So, I had this little talk with myself!

Winter doesn't even start until

December 21st and here I am

moaning and groaning as if I 

were being tortured to death. 

Good thing my d) all of the above

reminded me just how much we

need the moisture!

Sooooo, looking on the bright

side here, (Is there any bright in

winter? God, there I go again!)

I'm going to give some serious

thought to alternatives to said

moanings and groanings!

Think I would enjoy sending a

few cards in the mail on a daily

basis. That short walk to the

mailbox might even do me good!

I could also get my ass into the

kitchen to cook something rather

than standing in front of the fridge

to see what falls out!! And, once

in a while, a nice reward like ice

cream would be nice!!!

See how clever I am . . . now if 

only I can remember to behave

myself . . . they do say that the

road to hell is paved with good

intentions . . .

brighten up my day

try positive attitudes

create a new me

12/05/2021

"I came, I saw, I forgot what I was

doing, retraced my steps, and got 

distracted on my way back. I have 

no idea what's going on and now 

I have to pee." 

Sassy Sarcastic Journal Publishing

I can actually remember back when

I thought this was funny . . . and now

it's a reality come back to haunt me.

Go figure!

The bad side of this joke on me, is

that I have to do the stairs both ways,

and then forgetting what I was going 

to do is sooooo NOT funny! The good 

side of this little game I seem to be

playing, is that I'm actually getting 

some exercise . . . ha!

I'm trying to figure out this annoying

conundrum . . . Have I always been

this forgetful and simply don't recall?

Or, is this really part of the surprise

hand I'm dealt as I get older? Or, is

it that I've housed so much clutter 

in my brain that no new data fits?

Or  is it . . .  d) all of the above?! 

Wondering here if maybe I could

make some extra shekels inventing

an attached at the waist notebook

for oldsters?! We could wander

the world with said notebook in

one hand and a pencil in the other.

"Making a list and checking it

twice . . . " But, knowing me, I'd

probably lose the pencil or break

the lead!

I was going to take a class on

improving memory, but I can't

remember where I put damn

paper work! ~@#$%^&*()_+

say what is your name

i barely remember mine

no laughing matter

12/04/2021

"I'm a feminist. I've been a

female for a long time now.

It'd be stupid not to be on my

own side." ~Maya Angelou

Been pondering this of late.

I grew up in an era where we

were yet to be considered

equals. I am so lucky that my

mom was educated, worked 

30 years for the AEC, Atomic 

Energy Commission, and was

highly respected.

She exemplified a woman 

well deserving of equality 

and insisted, nay demanded,

to be treated as such. So not

bloody likely that she'd ever

place herself in a subservient 

position. Amazing role model!

In my 40 adult working years 

as a teacher and prof, I never

made equal pay with the men

I was lucky enough to teach

with. I liked them, enjoyed 

them, admired them and even

loved a few. Alas, although 

I often had more degrees, I

couldn't match their salary.

I so admire the young women

of today. They are receiving

a treatment of equals that my

generation of women fought

for. In fact, they wouldn't even

think, on any level, that they

were less than their male peers.

It merits reminding ourselves

that some progress has been

made over the years. And, 

in today's world, others fight

for their equality as well. 

Pray they win their battles 

in less time that it took us!

fighting for my creed

equality stands alone

praise for battles won

12/03/2021

"Sometimes when you're in a

dark place, you think you've

been buried, but you've actually

been planted." ~Christine Caine

It's no secret that I suffer from

SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder.

I'll admit, I do tend to go on and

on about it! Still, sometimes I'll

read a quote like this one from

Christine Caine, and it gives me

courage to live through the dark

of the winter months.

Indeed, there are things that help.

A short walk, being out for a bit

in the winter sun, sitting by the

fire and looking out the window,

watching silly movies, reading

uplifting material . . .

Sadly, (pun intended) when SAD 

hits the fan, it's nigh impossible

to remember these things. I make

a list, post it and read it everyday.

I assign myself things to do on 

the list. And, with the help of my

guy, I make it through.

I need to stay one step ahead . . .

so, I'm delighted winter hasn't

hit us hard yet, but I'm making

ready . . . and you can take that

to the bank!

stay with me a while

im scared of the dark daddy

make it go away

12/02/2021

One of the things that December 

puts under the tree is errands and

lots of them . . .

My list for today is so long, me

thinks 'twill never be finished.

Pay some bills, get drinking water,

pick up some last minute gifts, get

'em wrapped.

Ought to put on some seasonal

music whilst wrapping presents,

might help with the mood. Some

snow would give a hand with that

and I know we need the moisture.

Still, it's pleasant outside.

Maybe one of my self-assigned

errands should be to start thinking

about my New Year's resolutions.

I want to have them ready to go in

about four weeks time. These things

bear thinking about, don't they?!

Looking at my words here, seems

to me that I may have issues with

living in the present . . . I've waited

so long for this month of joy, family

and sharing to arrive . . . and what

do I do? I start talking about the

New Year. Sooooo going to give

this some thought!

recall yesterday

learning to enjoy the now

leave tomorrow mode

12/01/2021

"Hi, I finished my free trial of

adulthood and I'm no longer

interested, so I would like to

cancel my subscription. Is 

there a manager I can speak to?"

Adulthood.jpg

December finally arriving at

o' dark thirty . . . and I can

really feel my inner child

kicking and screaming to get 

out! Methinks I may actually 

accommodate her!

What shall I do first? I should

probably begin by having ice

cream for breakfast . . . in bed

of course! I'd watch cartoons,

but the only other parent in 

the house won't let me have 

a TV!!!

Think I'll go play with pressie

fixings. There's pretty paper,

ribbons and bows, stickie tape

and scissors . . . although I'm

not sure that old guy upstairs

will let me play with scissors.

He's sooooo protective!

Maybe, if he's in a good mood,

he'll take me shopping. I just

love buying gifts for everyone.

Perhaps, he'll treat me to an

icecream cone . . . 

God, I so hope that's coming

from my child within and not

some middle age pregnancy!

its holiday cheer

daddy daddy lets go shop

heres my allowance

11/30/2021

Sooooo in love with December

and it's only just a few hours 

away . . . 

Me thinks 'tis no matter whether

one observes Hanukkah, Yule, 

Christmas, or the entire season.

Just celebrate the joy!

 

This morning, we looked outside

and there was the first Christmas

package on the doorstep. Thought 

it was something I had ordered or 

I wouldn't have opened it.

An absolute gorgeous essential oil

humidifier. Wow! I had whispered

in my daughter's ear that I wanted 

something like this and she did the 

entire Santa bit!

Posting my Yule postcards on the 

morrow . . . always a first step in

celebratory mode for me . . . and

I have wrapping paper calling my

name!

high expectations

so love me the holidays

what tomorrow brings

11/29/2021

Times were when I liked to

decorate the entire house for the

holidays . . . Alas, 'tis not to be! 

Being somewhere around a 100

years old, I have the decorating 

down to the dining room table

and the mantel. Still, it's fun!

Perusing and ordering tablecloths 

from mail order as I hate to shop, 

awaiting their arrival . . . and once

here, the decorating begins.

Dragging the holiday cheer, out 

of a very dark closet, I begin to 

play in the sand box, as it were.

Some items are a bit of old hat;

others are much loved mementos. 

Mix and match, place and move

until everything works . . . wow!

Just WOW!

I like to give myself the last three

days of November for decorating.

It's rather like prepping and giving

birth to December. I love awaking

on that day, as excited as the child

within can be, looking around at

the room and feeling that holiday

excitement.

So love lighting a few candles,

putting on that old holiday music,

sitting on the floor and wrapping

my simple, little Yule gifts. 'Tis

well-pleased I am, to find my 

inner kid alive and well!

reds and greens ahoy

announcing fave holidays

come lets make mischief  

11/28/2021

December is nigh onto upon us,

which means all sorts of Yule prep

in my case and x-mas prep in yours.

I've confessed, many a time, to

barely enduring winter, but the

seasonal holidays are an entirely

different matter.

Cards to send, packages to mail,

gifts to wrap, tree to put up, table 

to decorate, and holiday cheer to

acquire . . .

I do love the entire premise of the

December holidays. You'll weep;

I asked the internet, "What is the

essential essence of Christmas?"

The answer? A complete list of

movies to watch. Dear God in

heaven . . .

At my end of Kingdom Come,

think I'll decorate the table and

put up my little tree. There are

stockings to be hung and lights

to deal with, along with actually

finding mistletoe. Alas, no could

do find it last year!

give us a kiss miss

standing under mistletoe

demands attention

11/27/2021 - Thanksgiving V

After following the wagon train

west for a few days, my mind 

has wandered down Vocabulary 

Lane once again.

I expected to speak of right

rather than left, farms instead  

of cities, animals not pets and

provisions for understanding

food.

'Twas not to be! Virtually, same

lingo, but having said that, some-

thing felt different. Just couldn't

put my finger on it.

Part of it had to do with the arrival 

of a long awaited holiday, the

looking forward to seeing fam up

close and enjoying the weight gain

of the TG banquet.

Then, I got to thinking that perhaps

what I was feeling had more to do 

with older vs younger, working hard 

and fast as opposed to a much calmer

approach. Maybe even, needing to 

go to bed earlier than the family

proper.

Caught 'tween the pain of saying

goodbye and those joyous feelings 

of going home, my heart actually

physically hurt.

So, I bid my sweet, sweet family, 

"So long,farewell, auf wiedersehen,

good bye," adieu and shed those

tears painfully held back.

vocab aint for moi

still trying some on for size

call it what it is

11/26/2021 - Thanksgiving IV

Plan for weeks, make lists,

track down recipes, buy food,

send invites, cook for days,

finally sit down to the banquet . . . 

and in a blink of the eye, it's 

over?! 

Methinks part of the joy is to

look back, remember who said

what, which dishes were so fab

that seconds seemed only right

and hope to house the memories

of the day for weeks to come.

Thanksgiving actually defines

the term afterglow for me. I

feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

So wish I could hold onto that

feeling to warm the cockles of

my soul in the upcoming winter

months!

Sooooo feeling the gratitude . . .

my family and friends, that

sweet little cabin to go home to,

and all those joys of daily living.

Pray I never forget, never ever

forget . . .

not for just a day

loving me my family

gratitude abounds

11/25/2021 – Thanksgiving III

In thinking about it, I find I am

truly grateful to Mother Nature.

I imagine it has something to do 

with how I was reared . . .

All through my childhood, my

parents took us on rides . . .

rides through the mountains, 

hills, and valleys. We had picnics 

by lakes and waded in shallow 

streams.

Full moons, rainbows, small whirl

winds, the odd sprinkle of rain . . .

all celebrated. By day, bird nests 

with  their precious cargo of eggs,

and by night, lightening bugs all

aglow . . . pure magic!

Of course I developed a rock fetish,

why wouldn't I? Nature walks

meant all my pockets and both hands 

full. Sometimes, I would even put 

them in my upturned blouse.

So loved picking wild flowers. In

water, pressed or dried . . . always

beautiful. In time, I learned to 

mash the petals to make a kind 

of paint or dye. So much fun to

experiment!

everywhere i look

so loving me my mother

breath taking beauty

11/24/2021 – Thanksgiving II

I know every holiday deserves its 

day in the sun. I get it, I really do!

Still, I see Christmas everywhere 

I look! All the stores, Amazon, 

Facebook . . . even some of my 

friends are already putting up trees.

I can't help but wonder what it's

all about. Maybe it's that our child

within waits the entire year for

Christmas to come around again.

It takes ever so long, and once

November rolls around, we just

can't wait any longer!

But in thinking about it, I realize

Thanksgiving is truly important.

It's that one holiday which reminds

us to set ourselves aside and think

about all those misplaced reasons

for which we have to be thankful.

Family and friends, obviously! 

But, not to forget the food we put 

on the table, nor the clothes on 

our backs and the jobs that provide 

them. 

The fact that that we haven't

experienced forest fires as so many

have. Floods have not come our

way and my heart so goes out to

those who have suffered. 

All we have to do is look around

the world to appreciate just how

blest we have been. So, let's

celebrate Thanksgiving, remember

all those wondrous things for which

we have to be thankful. And may

we please, oh please, help others

who have suffered so much.

take a look around

remembering we are blest

thankfulness matters

11/23/2021 – Thanksgiving I

Methinks the absolute best thing

about Thanksgiving is seeing our

families!

We tend to live so far apart in this

incredibly amazing world of ours.

Christmas often brings the gift of

harsh weather, but Thanksgiving

provides a time when we can

safely gather.

'Tis the best part of Fall . . . the

entire TG weekend. We catch up,

tell tales out of school, make

future plans, eat amazing food, 

and sometimes, even go shopping.

I find that Thanksgiving serves 

as a reminder of all those things

for which I wish to express my

gratitude. First and foremost . . .

my family. 

There is nothing like family in 

the entire world. No matter our

differences, albeit philosophy,

religion, politics. Obviously, 

our different experiences have

shaped us and led us in different

directions. Still I find within the

familial circle, the love shared 

dissipates any and all animosity

created by our differences. 

I actually enjoy hearing my

adult children share their own

experiences that have led them

to the point in which they find

themselves. Both interesting

and entertaining, although 

sometimes sad.

One thing I would like to take

a peek at, would be the actual

historical beginnings of this

familial holiday. Studied in 

our youth, needing a brush up.

so thankful for you

loving family of mine

ever in my heart

11/22/2021

Does anyone remember,

The Wizzard of Oz? "We're

off to see the Wizard . . . "

Methinks I need one! Not

been up on the wisdom 

wagon any time of late! 

Call in the Wizard, any 

wizard, and hurry!

Don't know if it has to do

with being nigh onto a 100

years old, that phenomenal

eclipse of late, or just me.

But, I seem to be making

the craziest calls on even

the simplest things!

Buy two of the same items

and find out when I get

home that I already have

them! Pull in to gas up and

the tank is nigh onto full!

Get a lotto ticket when the

big one has just been won

instead of going for the

jackpot! 

Frankly, I don't even want

to talk about the big baddies!

One can only share so much!

So, what to do?!

Realize that big bad winter

is truly coming on . . . get

ready for SADS!!! Know

that sitting outdoors will

happen only a precious few

more times?! Send out the

elves to purchase those

much needed x-mas pressies

for the grandkids!

Sooooo pray I'll be ready . . .

so many requests

cant help but wonder whats up

off to see the mage

11/21/2021

I appropriated a day . . .  

I'm feeling ever so naughty!

Did not wash a dish, cook a

meal, move a broom, shake 

a rug . . . like I said, naughty!

We spent the day abed, watched

movies for hours, even had the

odd snack. Wasn't totally naughty

though, just had water! Color me

saint!!!

I would have to admit, one of

the things I love about being

retired is being able to do those

zany things that appeal.

We had so much fun that I can

hardly wait for another such day.

A blackout maybe? A trip up an

unpaved road in the mountains?

A camping weekend in a little

town . . .

 . . . all I know is I want another

day like today!

tis a pretty day

feel a caper coming on

hey lets misbehave

11/20/2021

I feel bereft somehow . . .

So much time spent in awaiting

this phenomenal eclipse and it's

all over. It was such an amazing 

experience! One of those times 

and places you know you will 

never get to visit again.

In the days prior to the eclipse,

I felt physically jittery, a sense

of unease, almost a negative

reaction to high expectations.

Now only a day later, and those

feelings of anxiety have bid me

adieu . . . Funny how we are so

affected by all those things that

surround us. 

I can't help but wonder if there

is anything similar in kind to

look forward to. I do have on 

my Thanksgiving calendar that

Venus, Saturn and Jupiter will 

be lined up just after sunset.

I'll be keeping an eye out, one

way or another . . . And, I do

love the new moon upcoming

on the 4th. Always gives me that

fab feeling of new beginnings.

adore mother earth

but so love me father sky

illuminating 

11/19/2021

Sans paroles . . .

 . . . Never in my lifetime have 

I experienced anything like this 

amazing eclipse!

We planned for it, took naps in

the afternoon so we could stay

up. Even as I nodded off, my

guy would elbow me in the ribs

and say it was time for another

look-see.

Living in a forest of the tallest

trees imaginable, we had to 

wait until the moon was high

in order to see anything. Our

friend and neighbor kept us

up on celestial activity via

photography until Miss Luna

was a la ready.

We ran out, and I say ran out

as it was only 20 degrees, 

'bout every half hour during

the actual eclipse. Our Lunar

Lady was absolutely exquisite

each and every time.

Words being bandied about

using phrases such as hundreds

and hundreds of years, make

me feel even more grateful for 

being able to appreciate this

incredible event. We are ever

so blest . . .

miss luna pray come

awaiting your curtain call

madam take a bow

11/18/2021

"Words without actions is like the

sun without warmth." ~j. ironwood 

I so enjoy the author J. Ironwood. 

In reading his work for several 

years now, I find much wisdom 

therein. Me thinks 'tis a good idea

to pay attention!

I am indeed, a woman of words. I

love words! I use them; I write them.

I like the taste of them in my soul. I

enjoy the nuances of each and every

one. Absolutely delicious! Delightful!

And, so love me those sweet nothings  

in my ear . . . but loathe, hate, despise, 

detest, fighting words!

That sorrowful side of words . . . 

that negative aspect. Fights are started 

in homes, at schools,  in bars . . . all 

down to words. Hell, wars can be 

started with just the right words. 

Still, the actions that spring from 

words are the most priceless. I

aspire to actually listen when

someone confides in me. I long to

act rather than just speak. Even as

an elder, there are simple things 

I can still do to help.

words name of the game

pray be careful what you say

words make or break you

11/17/2021

Me thinks perhaps my sin is 

pondering wayyyyy too much . . .

 . . . and 'tis not likely to change

that much, what with being about

a hundred years old and all . . .

Today, pondering what tomorrow

will bring  . . .

"Earth's penumbra will start covering 

the moon around 11:02 pm Thursday.

At 12:18 am on Friday morning, the 

partial lunar eclipse will begin. The 

maximum lunar eclipse will take place 

at 2:02 am, with the partial eclipse 

ending at 3:47 am and the penumbral 

eclipse ending at 5:03 am."

My child within is all a dither. I find

myself dancing for joy at the mere

thought of being gifted this experience

in my lifetime; and, let me assure you

that dancing at my age takes its toll.

So, where to being? What to wish for?

Do I resume dancing? Meditate? Pray?

I wish to revel in this experience, yet

I also want to honor it in the most

auspicious way possible.

I'll be pondering, just as I confessed!

anxiously await

lunar lady come to me

tell me your secrets

11/16/2021

Been pondering that amazing 

word friend of late . . .

There are so many levels and so

much vocabulary to describe it.

I've actually found that Spanish

serves even better descriptives.

When we were children, we all

had what we would have called

our best friend and everyone

else would be just friends. As

adults, we probably use the term

friend and let it go at that.

I'm one to use a spinoff, bestie 

as a term of endearment. Love it!

Me thinks most adults are less

effusive and would find me

amusing.

In Spanish, we use compañero 

de trabajo (coworker) as another 

descriptive for friend. Conocido

(acquaintance) would indicate 

someone known, but not a friend.

One way or another, so glad we're

friends or even acquaintances,

ever so much better than enemies.

loving me my friends

are you a bestie a pal

lets enjoy friendship

11/15/2021

I find myself thinking about my

students and missing them of late.

I've been ever so blest in teaching,

both in Mexico and US. In thinking

about it; different cultures, different

languages . . . still, same students.

Having taught for just over 40 years,

I always have en eye out for interesting

topics to share with my kids. I found

that journaling increased language

learning, hence the search for ideas.

Their journey to the states and the

circumstances surrounding that

parental decision, finding lodging,

jobs to support hearth and home . . .

all intense things to write about. I

can only imagine how both painful

and amusing these memories must

have been for them.

In looking at my own life and the

memories housed therein, I can't

help but wonder if these musings

are good or ill for the soul. Both

probably.

Still, insisting that my students

write daily, rather makes me think

I damn well better follow suit!

parchment pen and ink 

mysteries to be conveyed

put mind to paper

11/14/2021

"I've never seen a moon in the sky 

that, if it didn't take my breath away,

at least misplaced it for a moment."

~Colin Farrell

Last night, lightly sleeping, I heard

my guy waking me. "Hey ld, come

down and see the moon; it's amazing."

Oh my God, he was sooooo right! I

simply sat on the stairs and breathed

her in for a long while . . .

What is it about the moon, anyway?

Me thinks 'tis pure magic! Does it

matter if it's new? Full? Half way in

between? Hell no!

For as long as I can remember, I've 

revered the moon. It simply cannot  

be helped. A certain mystique seems

to surround our lunar lady. She takes 

my breath away . . .

I find my inner child telling Miss Luna

my darkest secrets, making her my

confidant, sobbing as she holds me in

her radiant emanations. Not sure I

could do this ever so demanding life

without her. Pray, I never have to!

moonbeams in my gloom

lunar lady come to me

so need you tonight

11/13/2021

Me thinks communication is the

name of the game . . .

Being nigh onto a hundred years

old, I can still remember snail

mail, telegrams, greeting cards . . .

all before the age of e-mail.

But here and now, I will confess

that one of my fave modes of 

staying in touch, would be the 

infamous postcard.

It's ever so much fun collecting

them on trips, buying them at the

post office, ordering them on the

internet. Best of all for me though, 

is making them myself.

I like to collect cards, old and new, 

along with certain kinds of special

papers, to create postcards. I'm 

not particularly adept at any kind

of hobby, but so love me some

postcards.

And best of all, one of my most

prized treasures, would be my 

grandma's postcards from around

the turn of the century.

They are precious beyond belief.

The stamps are most wondrous.

The handwriting is ever so sweet;

the messages, priceless. What a 

thing to pass down, generation to 

generation.

Sooooo, send me a postcard if 

you like . . .

who will i hear from

pray send me a card or two

best love notes ever

11/12/2021

Me thinks 'tis a rare man who

indulges his woman in the most

interesting of activities . . .

So love me some eating in bed.

It's incredibly fun to have a movie

fest on a given afternoon. Much

enjoy hitting a pub (never a bar) 

from time to time. The odd trip,

a drive up through the mountains, 

luxurious picnics . . . I love it all!

I absolutely must both credit my

guy and thank him for indulging 

me in my somewhat silly notions.

I find these bits and pieces add 

sweet spice to our lives.

If I could give any advice to 

the marrieds, both young and 

old, 'twould be to salt and pepper

their relationships with small

surprises, out of the ordinary

activities, and whatever comes

to mind outside the box. 

And frankly, not a bad idea to

amuse oneself as well . . .

playing with notions

so love me small bits of fun

surprises are us

11/11/2021

"What if our religion was each 

other. If our practice was our life.

If prayer, our words. What if the 

temple was the earth. If forests 

were our church. If holy water--

the rivers, lakes, and ocean. What 

if meditation was our relationships.

If the teacher was life. If wisdom 

was self-knowledge. If love was the

center of our being." ~Ganga White

Yoga Master Ganga White, offers 

us food for thought with the above 

words. I will ponder them at length.

The older I get, the more accepting

I am of others' beliefs. It matters, 

doesn't it?! It's important that we 

all have the freedom to believe as 

we are so moved. And frankly, 

what would make it right for me  

to repudiate someone else's beliefs? 

Again, food for thought.

In my dotage, have to admit I much

enjoy pondering these issues. I still

have a long way to go obviously, but 

I hope to be invited to the other side 

with even more understanding and 

acceptance under my belt!

pondering my doubts

pray open my heart and eyes

need to understand

11/10/2021

Having trouble with blanket

statements of late . . . the terms

'all' and 'always' being a bit of 

a clue!

"All men are assholes. Women 

are such meddlers. Mothers-in-

law hate their children's spouses. 

The kids of today are so spoiled. 

Grandmothers overindulge their

grandkids."

These statements simply cannot 

all be true. We know there is both

good and bad in every category . . . 

and somewhere in between as 

well.

There are phenomenal people 

who have made mistakes. There 

are rather wretched citizens that

from time to time do something

unexpectedly wonderful. And

we all have done various of both.

Where are the answers? What

solutions entice? And, how can

we each be of help?

It occurs to me that acceptance

may be the answer. Worry about

our own actions rather than those

of others. Trust that the Universe

is unfolding just as it should . . .

and ever and always help all of

those that we can . . . 

 . . . and let's lose the blanket

statements already!!!

believe in the good

we will always have that bad

lets focus on right

11/09/2021

Broken? So what . . .

We all are to some extent. 

It might be depression, the

onset of winter. It could be

that painful apathy in a

long-term relationship. 

Some are out of shekels and 

need the money. Owe bills all 

over town. Can't sleep at night

with bill collectors on the mind.

I struggle with winter; you may 

have issues with the heat in 

summer. One way or another it's

always something.

Been there, done that . . .

Let's just get on with it!

Having said that, it's simply not

that easy. Depression needs to

be dealt with and relationships

decided about. Money has to be

found to pay those pesky bills

and surviving winter SADS or 

summer heat are real!

So, how to cope? For some, it

will be their faith. Others feel

they just need to buckle down

and deal with it. Still, there are

those who trust in miracles.

One way or another, we seem

to get through.

I think it's probably a good idea

to remind ourselves that every

single soul on the planet is

going through something. We

are not alone in our dealings

with misfortune. 

I pray we each find a way of

coping with whatever difficulty

we've been dealt! Perhaps, the

coping itself will bring relief.

trying to survive

tis hell in a handbasket 

wheres glinda the good

11/08/2021

So interesting the things that

couples do together and don't

do together . . .

Trips, mini vays, eating out

watching movies . . . all fun

things that are enjoyed by

couples all over the planet.

Still, there are things that we

all enjoy doing on our own. I

know a lot of women like to

shop on their own. A couple 

of gals get a kick out of eating

lunch out. I even know there

are those who run and exercise

on their own; heaven forbid!!

I'm thinking this is healthy,

perhaps even the way things

ought to be. But, what to do

to make certain we're both

taking care of our marriages

and ourselves?!

Me thinks 'tis a good idea to

keep watch on our intentions,

our needs. It matters! Ask the

difficult questions already!

Am I more interested in me or

in my relationship? Or, am I

certain I'm taking care of both?

Do I remember that a marriage

is an investment and it matters?

Am I remembering to be kind

to me as well as my better half?

Good stuff to be reminded of.

Think I'll take it to heart. Here's

hoping I take my own advice!

are you listening

some good things to think about

pray make the right calls

11/07/2021

Birthdays ahoy . . .

Funny how grandparents get 

such a kick out of attending 

their grandkids' b-day parties. 

In thinking about it, it occurs 

to me that witnessing the joy 

of children is so refreshing.

That kind of innocence . . .

priceless!

Might be a lesson here . . .

I've never been just quite sure 

where that sweet innocence 

comes from. It occurs to me

that it could be their lack of

experience in the real world.

So, my question would be . . .

"How could we oldsters 

possibly get back some of that 

innocence we lost so long ago?" 

Me thinks it might be the key 

to some of that misplaced 

childish joy.

Answers? Look on the bright

side? Strive to be positive?

Hang out with the little ones?

Know this! I'll be pondering!

who holds the answer

what is the price to be paid

joy at any cost

11/06/2021

"When you're deeply sensitive,

love is ecstasy. Music is godlike.

Heartache is a wide, somatic 

wound. Visual natural beauty 

is jewel-drenched, wild bliss.

Tension and conflict are muscle 

tightening and toxic, straight 

down to the cells."

~Victoria Erickson

Love some of Victoria Erickson's

insightful ramblings . . . words to

live by; make no mistake! Alas . . .

I've had some rather different 

life experiences from being 

deeply sensitive. I would argue 

that the other side of love is 

heartbreak, but music does save 

the day!

Mother Nature, on the other hand, 

is one of the greatest loves of my 

life. Me thinks she's responsible

for all of it . . .  both the love and 

the music . . . along with her 

amazing, glorious self!

How I wish we honored her, took

care of her, and kept our damn

trash off her magnificent arenas!

When are we ever going to grow 

up and get a clue?! We've destroyed

the entire planet, used up precious

resources, and overpopulated to our 

hearts' content! Not really sure we

actually deserve any more chances.

so wish i could help

pray give us another chance

feeling your sorrow

11/05/2021

I dreamt I found us in England, 

much enjoying most wondrous 

and well deserved travels. 

We ambled along river banks,

enjoyed store fronts, and most

especially, the teas! It was

almost a mission, having tea

each day in a different venue.

I so longed to serve my own.

Somewhat by accident, we ran

into some old friends, Wes and

Heather . . . incredible! Clearly,

I needed to invite them to tea.

We were staying in an ancient, 

three-story mansion, currently 

being use as an inn. I explained

to the majordomo exactly what

I wished to do and obtained

permission.

I swear, I scrounged the entire

palace, searching for the exact

pieces I wanted. Lace and linens,

embroidered napkins, old silver

serving dishes . . . I ordered the

goodies and we were set.

Our guests were sweet and even

took us on a most harrowing 

drive afterwards . . . other side

of the road and all that. Still,

rather than worrying about being

killed, I was concerned about

getting all those tea pieces back 

to their right spots by curfew. 

Go figure!

Can't help but wonder if Wes

and Heather enjoyed the tea as

much as I did?!

wonder and wonder

will i ever go again

so miss my travels

11/04/2021

So excited . . . we're off to see

the wizard; I mean the kids!

I do seem to enjoy doing things

by the month and November is 

indeed all about Thanksgiving. 

Above and beyond all else, our 

children are the most special of

all to us!

So fun . . . we get to enjoy our

youngest; birthday ahoy! I find

it rather amazing to watch the

children, young with their entire

lives ahead of them . . . and here

we are about a hundred years old

and well on our way out!

Seeing family is not only a miracle,

but it's rather a panoramic view of

life as we know it . . . We are the

elders; parents, slash grandparents.

Our children follow, with children

of their own . . . our grands, as I

like to call them. Three generations!

Looking at this amazing picture book

in front of me, I find myself wayyyyy

beyond thankful; I feel ever so blest.

blest beyond belief

adore our little rascals 

so love all of you

11/03/2021

It's hard to say goodbye . . .

Seems that the entire month

of October has been about

getting ready for the ancestors,

for our beloved dead.

And all of a sudden, although

not quite so suddenly, it's time

to take down the altar, wipe

our tears away and bid our loved 

ones adieu.

In a way, it's both painful and

a relief. One simply cannot live 

forever on the street of the dead.

Transition time . . . greeting that

special day of Thanksgiving and

all that goes with . . .

House to clean, calls to make,

invites to prepare and send, a

meal to plan and thanks to be

given.

This does rather distract from

the sorrow of recent days, as

well as giving something to

look forward to.

I love seeing my children in

their adult roles of hosts, cooks,

entertainers. It always wows me.

I will be taking along the odd 

contribution to the meal, but

this time around, I'm a guest

rather than the mom. Feels a

bit odd, make no mistake!

so looking forward

leaving my sorrow behind

a kind of balance

11/02/2021 - Día de los Muertos

In spite of the many names we

use to honor today, it's all about

those adults we've lost in our

lives.

That wondrous altar we've used

during the month of October to

honor our dead, stands at the

ready for today. By now, we've

added those precious photographs

of our lost ancestors and perhaps

other loved ones lost to us.

The 31st, we paraded through the

streets dressed as the dead. The 

1st, we honored the loss of those 

precious souls dearest to our hearts,

our children. Today, finally meeting

at the familial altar, the storytelling

begins.

Perhaps, we have beer or wine 

to sip. A few snacks to munch 

on as we tell tales out of school.

Bits of cloth to dry our tears . . .

Let the stories begin!

Me thinks the reminiscence tends

to be somewhat the same year

after year. Some details may be

added and others dismissed, but

we do know and recognize our

stories.

We chuckle at Tío Pepe's antics

at parties, the fine cuisine of mi

abuela Clemen, the jokes la

cuñada used to so badly tell, and

on and on. As we embrace the

memories, tears may begin to

fall 'midst the laughter, but one

and all, precious beyond belief.

I find, just in the telling, that my

heart already pains me. I feel that

lump in my throat and tears nigh

onto brimming over . . .

dios me ayude

le ruego me consuele

dolor me puede 

11/01/2021 - Día de los Angelitos

Today, in those wondrous Latin

American countries where we

celebrate the three Días de los

Muertos, we honor the precious

children we have lost.

At the familial altar, photographs

our lost family members and 

ancestors are moved closer to the 

rear of the altar. Near the front, 

we place pictures of our sweet,

dear children, lost to us.

We often use toy kiddy plates 

and cups to put out their favorite 

foods and beverages. Small toys

little cars and dolls are also placed 

amongst the pictures.

We have honored our ancestors

and loved ones, but naught can

compare to the enduring pain

and sorrow of losing our little

ones. Those tears, copiously

falling at the altar, are precious

to the gods.

Oh, to hold our babes close to

our hearts, just once more . . .

niño chiquito

ay como te extraño

anlloro verte

10/31/2021 - Samhain

Most likely, we all know plenty 

about Halloween. I for one, have 

been celebrating it for about 60

years and you have probably been 

doing the same for less time.

In days prior to the three Días de 

los Muertos, we dress our familial 

altars. Depending on our customs,

the altar can be riotous with color,

quiet in sepia tone or somber in 

black and white.

Framed photographs of our lost

loved ones are arranged on the

altar. Small plates of favorite 

foods and tiny glasses of drinks

are placed to appease the gods.

Throughout the day, the altar is

visited, photos kissed, stories

told and retold . . . and never 

forget to genuflect. 

Let's take a look at the first of 

three days of the dead in the 

Latin American tradition. 'Tis 

one of the things I most value 

from my 20 years in Mexico.

Today is known as Samhain in 

our vernacular. In it, we dress in 

the scariest of costumes, go house 

to house, have parades and parties. 

We are making fun of death and 

showing publicly that we are 

fearless; death has no hold on us.

longing for family

pray visit with me tonight

missing you always

10/30/2021

"I like canceled plans and rainy day naps.

I like old bookstores and empty coffee shops.

I like muddy gardens and the smell of melting 

chocolate. But mostly, I just like the sweet, 

simple magic that this life has to offer."

~Brook Hampton

One of the things I find happening as the latter

part of the year drives us indoors is, re-thinking

our tastes, our passions, those loves of our life.

I've always enjoyed hiking; now I love drives.

So adored running my 26 K a day in Mexico,

now it's short walks, and I mean short. I loved 

my children living with me; nowadays it's time

to go visit them. Used to have so much fun 

dressing up; alas, sticking to my all black 

these days.

In taking a look-see, I think I actually want

to dig deeper. Needs be acknowledgement

of aging issues, must ponder the now rather

than yesteryear. What can I actually do that

works with my age, taste and experience.

Admittedly, love my who-done-its on DVD.

Like eating foods not usually consumed at

normal hours. Ice cream for breakfast and

granola for supper works for me. Sending

cards and short notes to family and friends

tickles me. Re-reading fave books never

fails to put a smile on my face.

Still, there's a catalogue of 70 years of

experiences that needs re-exploring. 'Tis

best not to overlook something I'd quite

get a kick out of! 

So, climbing Mount Everest is off, but

writing a letter a day is def on! Probably

will pass on the whole driving five days

to spend a couple won't work on half a

retirement, but perhaps meeting half 

way or helping with tickets might work.

Bottom line . . . needs me thinking out

side the box, damn it!!!

whats for fun these days

try some old things on for size

guess i love it all