12/31/2024

"Baby it's cold outside!"

13° and holding . . .

Actually, 13 is such a

magickal number . . . 

 . . . and yes, there are 

those who will understand 

that additional "k"!

Methinks, I got all mixed

up as I tended to think that

autumn was winter and we

were about to enter spring.

Poor winter, I was dissing

it completely.

Going to think about all the

good things winter brings . . .

-snow, much needed moisture

-a time of rest for the land

-a stay at home time for us

-sitting in front of the fire

-hot drinks, no alcohol needed

-visits from those crazies who

  need to get out

Here's wishing you a cozy

day. So hope you don't need

to go out.

 - - -

Baby it's cold outside!

Written by Frank Loesser

in 1944 and popularized 

in the 1949 film Neptune's

Daughter.

12/30/2024

What are friends for?

Obviously, for both the

good times and the bad

times! And the true friend

will remind you when you

are getting off the mark.

I received a note from my

friend this morning, telling

me to get off my suicide 

kick. She's been there, done

that and doesn't want to hear

about it anymore.

I sooooo needed to hear this.

As I suffer from SAD, seems

I go on and on about suicide

all winter. I can't even imagine

just how old that must get.

She's absolutely right. Time

to man up and live right. Tis 

the season to be jolly after all.

   I'm alive!

   I'm healthy!!

   I'm content!!!

Sooooo, get off it already . . .

I don't think Mr. SAD is going

away, but since it's a yearly do,

I need to get over myself and

enjoy the good things.

My thanks to my friend, for 

the courage to reprimand. I

needed that.

12/29/2024

"I've got a lot of life left in

me, but I am moving closer

and closer to the, Best used

by this Date, designation.

Zen to Zany

I'm 175 . . . okay, 75 . . .

 . . . and I guess, doing still

quite well for all of that.

I stand tall, walk straight, 

have a lengthy stride . . .

and all of that makes me 

feel good about this whole

aging process.

On the other side of all this 

entire debacle, I can't recall

what my good friend told 

me yesterday!

Have I taken my vitamins? 

Did I wash today's dishes?

Sooooo need to sweep the

kitchen, but it's too cold,

below freezing, to shake 

the rugs!

I like to think that it's not 

that I am forgetful, but that 

my brain is full and only

pays attention to the most

important!

As the new year approaches,

I'm trying to figure out how

to get rid of some of the 

mundane so more things will

fit in my brain.

Anybody have any ideas? 

Guess not! So, I may as well

open that New Year's Eve

bottle of champagne as surely

today is the 31st. 

Right?!

12/28/2024

We approach 2025, hopeful!

Yet, we find ourselves still

overwhelmed with grief for

the loss of loved ones; fam

and friends.

Other losses matter as well;

jobs to keep our families in 

food and a roof over, as well

as the actual loss of hearth

and home.

How can we possible remain

positive, look forward to the

new year, when so many are

not even coping?

Truly I have no answers. The

questions; too vast, too many.

One thing that occurs to me

is concentric circles. They're

everywhere. The surround us.

If every person in the entire

universe, would tend to those

within their concentric circle,

the world would be a happy

place.

Obviously, not going to be.

So many love to hate, like

their wars, and need to feel 

superior.

Methinks 'tis time to lose

the guilt, define our own

concentric circle and serve

as each best can.

For some, it will be sharing

a bit of food. Others will

write letters. Still, there are

those who will find coats

and blankets to share.

We need to stop worrying

about that which we cannot

change and do what we can

around us.

Trust me, it will indeed make

a difference!

12/27/2024

Had a teacher dream this 

early morn. Anyone who is 

a teacher will know exactly

what I'm talking about!

It was the last class of the

day and the last class before

vacation. Final exam time!

The kids walked in halfway

on vacation already and got 

the rest going once in front

of the test.

I couldn't remember their

names . . . sooooo not moi!

They scooted their chairs

around, huddled in groups

and played music rather 

than taking the final.

I picked up radios, phones,

until my arms were full.

Couldn't find my key to 

open the my locked cabinet.

How could all of this be?

How could it have happened?

All of my students have ever

liked me, respected me and

I've always loved them.

Having given up on the entire

mess, I took a good look 'round.

No wonder I didn't know their

names. They weren't my kids!

My own adorable students were

Mexican kids learning English.

I had no idea who these little

monsters were.

Praise whatever woke me up,

but I had a good laugh rather

than a good cry.

Sooooo love, like, adore, all 

my students from 40 years of

teaching in two countries! I

much enjoy following them

and their stories on FB. A few

have even come to visit.

Many wondrous memories

and a dream is only a dream

after all . . .

12/26/2024, Ode to Joyce

I got a call last night at 9:30

informing me that we had 

lost Joyce.

The comments and accolades

she received on her post would

have much pleased her.

Joyce and I taught together at

Adams City 23 years. We had

morn coffee, FACd, and shared

student concerns and stories.

We were friends out of school

as well and had good times. In

common, we both had purple

in our hair, adored our students

and loved to party. Methinks

'twould be well if I didn't tell

on us; we might need a good

spanking!

Joyce liked to come over to the

cabin for crafting and a good

catch up. Naught was ever dull

when Joyce was around.

She was also part of my spiritual

circle and for that I am thankful.

I can't believe she's gone. I want

someone to tell me it's all been

a mistake. I still have her x-mas

card up on the mantle . . .

Well loved! Well remembered!!

Well enjoyed!!! No finer epitaph

for an amazing woman, teacher,

friend . . .

Here's hoping the heavens throw

you a party at your arrival!!!

Missing you already . . .

12/25/2024 - Christmas Day

'Tis o' dark thirty and I 

am left wondering what 

this x-mas will bring to 

one and all.

And, even though I'm of 

the Yule ilk, rather than 

the Christmas, I have so 

many friends and family

who celebrate Christmas. 

I just know I love all of

us no matter which days

we choose to celebrate.

Today holds a bit of mystery

as we have nothing planned.

We do know one of the kids

is coming over for a while.

I'm looking forward to it!

'Twill be most interesting

to see what happens through-

out the day. I'm sooooo open

for surprises!

Merriest of all Christmas

moments for those of you 

who celebrate this wondrous

time.

Do enjoy every minute!

12/24/2024 - Christmas Eve

I have such fond memories

of x-mas eve w/my parents.

Somewhat impoverished,

our eves were small, but

most wondrous.

The usual unders, a new

book to read and a doll

for me. I've shared before

that I was expected to share

my old doll the following

day. And, if it wasn't as 

nice as the new one, then

I was to give the new doll.

Trust me, I took good care

of my dolls.

I so enjoyed reading my

new book! I was actually

given license to read thru

the night. Fab memory.

We'll begin readying the

cabin for the New Year

today. I find, I'm well

pleased that I'm looking

forward rather than back.

Have a delightful x-mas eve

and here's hoping you get

more than unders!

12/23/2024

Part 1

Sooooo strange . . .

Woke up this early morn at 

quarter to two. The sense of

foreboding was incredible.

Quite frightening actually!

Not sure where all this came

from. It might just be SAD

in action.

I ask myself yet again, how

to cope? I tend to forget all

remedies when in the midst

of a SAD attack. So, I keep

a list . . . and check it twice.

Ha!

Methinks, 'tis off to bed I go

again and see if I feel better

in the morning . . .

 - - -

Part 2

Awoke again around 9:00

this morning and indeed I

feel much better.

I may owe it to a brisk walk

out to the mail box with my

thank you notes. It's 33.3°

so when I say brisk, 'tis

exactly what I mean.

Think I'll spend a few hours

putting away Yule and setting 

up my annual altar for dear

Saint Brighid.

'Tis off to work I go . . .

 - - -

Saint Brighid of Ireland is the

patroness saint of Ireland. She

was the abbess who founded

the abbey of Kildare, as well 

as several other monasteries.

Died Feb 1 525 AD, Kildare.

Wikipedia

12/22/2024

'Tis morning of the day after,

alas!

This particular Yule Eve and

Yule were both phenomenal.

We were lucky enough to 

spend them with friends and

family. And, these are my two 

favest days of December!

Sooooo, where to go from

here?! How will I cope with

these upcoming days of dark

December?!

Perhaps first of all, I simply 

must remember that today, 

the light begins to return, 

just a tiny bit each day.

I so love postcards. Might be

fun for me to send as many

as I can during the upcoming

days . . . might even get an

answer to one or two.

I need to make an effort to

sit by the fire as it feeds my

soul and comforts me.

If outdoors is just too cold to

deal with, the porch for a few

moments each day should do.

I should make more of an

effort to cook. Especially 

in winter, I tend to open the 

fridge to see what falls out

rather than preparing a meal.

Bottom line, I'll be doing all 

of these and any other I can

come up with.

 Here's to growing light . . .

12/21/2024 - Yule

Yule has finally arrived . . . 

Methinks that little kid within

my soul has been waiting for

ages, but truly, we're only 

three weeks into December.

Yes, today is known as Yule,

but it is also called the Winter

Solstice, and 'tis the first day

of Winter.

We're gathering with family

today. So excited to see every

one. Our co-in-laws have

traveled far to be here with 

us as they do every year.

Seasonal celebrations ahoy . . . 

Yule, Christmas, Hanukkah!

Enjoy yours!!!

- - -

Yule is one of the oldest Winter

Solstice festivals in the world,

with origins among the ancient

Norse. It was later incorporated

into the Christian holiday of

Christmas. Today, Yule is

celebrated by many Pagans.

~Al Overview

12/20/2024 - Yule Eve

For moi, the Winter Solstice

is the most wondrous part of

winter . . . kicking it off to a

good start!

And, although I have personal

issues with winter, I simply

adore this holiday, thus starting

the celebrations on the eve.

If you're not familiar with Yule,

and/or Yule Eve, 'tis the first

day of winter. It is celebrated

similarly to Christmas Eve,

which celebrates the birth of

the Christ child.

Meeting with family, friends,

preparing special foods and

gifts, holiday decor all 'round.

This is Yule Eve.

My guy and I intend to sit

before the fire in our lessers,

and simply enjoy each other

and the eve.

Happy Yule Eve to one and

all . . . may light join us as

the days shorten . . .

 - - -

Yule Eve is the night before

the Winter Solstice, Pagan 

holiday celebrating the rebirth

of the sun and the return of the

light and warmth. The Winter

Solstice is the shortest day and

longest night of the year.

~Al Overview

12/19/2024

I imagine this is the time of

year that brings on pondering.

Seems my mind can barely

keep up with all the things 

I find myself thinking about.

The increase in traffic outside

my window makes me think

of hard working families. The

school bus stops for a young

lass every morning just outside

the cabin.

So, why is this so important?

'Tis the darkest time and the 

coldest of days . . . and it isn't

even winter yet.

I think about the holiday 

shoppers; their hurry, their

spending and their exhaustion.

I find myself thinking about

the people I would love to see.

Then, I look outside . . . piles

of snow and sleet everywhere. 

Ever so glad to be retired.

None of this is negative; it

simply is. I am determined to

get through these cold dark

months of SAD with the best

attitude I can conjure. Still

glad for my happy pills though.

12/18/2024

"If you are always trying 

to be normal, you will never

know how amazing you can 

be." ~Maya Angelou

I tend to associate normal

with cookie cutter . . . 

sooooo not who I want to be 

when I grow up!!!

Methinks my entire life I've

been attracted to the different,

the unusual. Same song, second

verse simply doesn't work for

me.

My father, most fab eccentric

of all times, used to call us,

the odd man out. He was the

one who showed me how

wondrous it was to be one's

own self.

My own eccentricities tend

to crop up in me only wearing

black, nigh onto 20 tats, reading

a book a day (or should I say

night?), painting deep blue in

my white hair, but wearing no

makeup, not shaving (that one

hurts!) I could go on and on.

I would encourage each of us

to think . . . think about what

we do that signifies the diff in

each of us. Might even be a

bit of fun.

I avidly await your comments . . .

12/17/2024

"We need beauty because it

makes us ache to be worthy

of it." ~Mary Oliver

Sooooo love Mary Oliver

and her eternal wisdom!

Looking out my window at

the beauty Mother Nature

has gifted often leaves me

breathless.

There's this place on the

highway where going under

the overpass, you're assailed

with an almost 360° of pure

mountain beauty. All seasons,

different views. I've seen it

hundreds of times and every

single one of them takes my

breath away.

The pines up the mountain

beside my cabin can compete

with any beauty one has to

offer. I feel so lucky to live

here. I just ignore the road

noise on the other side! Sigh!

Then there is the beauty in

our children, their kids and

their babies. Naught like it

in the entire universe. Add

in friendship and I'm full up

with beauty.

My heart overflows with

gratitude . . .

12/16/2024

As the year closes down . . .

I get that each of us have our

own doings, rituals, for saying

goodbye. And, many a good 

thing has happened worth

remembering. Alas, 'tis time

to bid adieu. 

I find myself rereading a fave

book or two. I go through the

snail-mail letters I've kept and

reread those as well.

As the day ends and rest is nigh,

I mentally visit scenarios of the

happenings throughout the year

that I wish to remember. I find

there are many.

Something that always amazes 

me, one thing, one tiny little thing

can happen in a 24 hour period

and that's what we remember.

Not the 23 hours and 45 minutes,

but that one little 15 minute thing.

So, indeed I am insistent on

remembering the good moments;

visits from fam and fave peeps.

A good show whilst holding 

hands with my lover, an amazing

meal with my girlfriends, FACs

with our dear friends, neighbors.

In less than a couple of weeks,

this year will simply be a walk

down memory lane.

Let us remember . . .

12/15/2024

Half of December . . . gone!

Seems the days pass ever so

fast. And yes, I do know there

are 24 hours in a day!

I am ever and always amazed

by how fast the days go by,

but in this case, I wish they

would hurry faster!

So looking forward to the

Winter Solstice, Dec 21st.

You may think of the day as

first day of Winter, the first

day the sun starts to return.

As I honor eight specific

holidays throughout the 

year, I tend to call the day

Yule. And 'tis the day I

celebrate in December.

For those of us who are a

tad archaic, we may call it

the Hibernal Solstice.

I guess since I am Linda-Dale,

ld, jennings, mom, teacher,

maestra . . . the first day of

Winter can have several names

as well.

Prepare to greet the day. There

is something about it that is

pure magick! And, you only

have five days to prepare!

Do something special!

12/14/2024

"We must be willing to let go 

of the life we planned so as 

to have the life that is waiting 

for us." ~Joseph Campbell

Methinks Joseph Campbell

must have been the wisest

man on earth! Every time I

read his words, I find myself

inspired.

My mother used to say about

me that I had my life planned

from the cradle to the grave.

Alas, not far from the truth!

Planned to stay home; left at

15. Planned to live in the US;

lived in Mexico 20 years.

Planned to have two; now I

have eight kids. Planned to

live in my beautiful home; I

live in a tiny, tiny 145 year old

cabin.

I could go on and on . . .

Still, I have had an amazing 

life, regret none of it and have 

memories that fill up many a

mental scrapbook.

Ever so grateful for my life . . .

 - - -

Joseph John Campbell was an

American professor of literature

at Sarah Lawrence College who

worked in comparative mythology

and religion. His work covers many

aspects of the human experience.

1904 - 1987 Wikipedia

12/13/2024

"There is hope in people, 

not in society, not in systems, 

but in you and me."

~Jiddu Krishnamurti

Just what I needed for right 

now. And, no need to go over 

those things that are troubling 

me within the system.

I needed to be reminded that

all I need to be thinking about

are my people . . . our children,

friends, those who teach us.

The children, albeit born of my

body, or born to me through

marriage . . . every single one of

them are absolutely phenomenal

people. We are sooooo blest!

And friends . . . I could tell tales

out of school. Fab peeps; make

no mistake. I am so blest within

these circles of friendship.

Methinks, I'll be concentrating 

on these gifts to moi and not

concerning myself with what

I consider as odious politics

within the system.

Bless our children! Praise god

for friends . . . and yes, I will

continue to learn from those

who teach me . . .

12/12/2024

Not only do we live in a 145

year old cabin, but yesterday

we went through some 145

year old experiences.

We had seen men installing

telephone poles, so losing

our electric was no surprise.

That came throughout the

afternoon and evening as

the outage lasted eight and

a half hours.

Funny how you do so many

things by rote. I put in a load

of wash, no electric! Went to

get a beer out of the fridge,

no electric! In the jane, tried

to flush, no electric!

On the fun side of these dark

hours, a fire in the fireplace

and candles glowing every-

where. So beautiful. Even

better, our friends came over

to see how we were faring

and we enjoyed the p.m.

together.

Funny . . . we were sound

asleep when the lights came

on. Go figure!

Sooooo, today we have electric

but I have to go to the dentist.

Methinks I'd rather have lights 

out!

12/11/2024

December . . . simply 

brimming with holidays 

begging to be celebrated! 

Rather promises to be a ton 

of naughty fun!

-13th, Friday the Thirteenth

-20th, Yule Eve

-21st, Yule

-24th, Christmas Even

-25th, Christmas

-31st, New Year's Eve

I'll be celebrating a great deal 

of joy in these upcoming 

December days. But, I fully 

intend to behave myself and 

mind my manners. Right?!

Still, I must be careful as I 

have no intention of drinking 

the lush. Mother is watching

after all! And, I better watch 

how much I eat as I always 

gain weight in December. 

Sooooo looking forward to 

visits from family and friends,

phenomenal foods, surprise 

packages and sweet drinks!

January is diet time; make no

mistake . . . and no drinks for 

30 days! Love me my dry

Januarys!

And, methinks 'tis a phenom 

idea to honor the promises I 

make to myself.

Cross my heart and hope to

die . . .

12/10/2024

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

7° and 6" snow . . . and we

are still 11 days 'til winter.

I'd protest, but it's too cold

to march.

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

I'll shut up now . . .

12/09/2024

"What you think, you create.

What you feel, you attract.

What you imagine, you become."

~Buddha

 

I am overwhelmed . . .

Everywhere you turn, wisdom

abounds. Albeit ancient, old or

new, it's there for the taking.

Alas methinks, we've come to

the point where we're so busy

we don't notice said wisdom

that surrounds us.

We live in a world of Hurry!

Hurry! Hurry! Do! Do! Do!

We struggle to survive, to

make ends meet, to live yet

another day. Not much time

for wisdom.

I thought that retirement and

old age would at last bring

these to my door.  And yes, I

have the time, the inclination,

but perhaps not used to paying

attention.

I see one has to be consciously

at the ready to receive this gift.

Even, consciously searching.

I approach these latter years

of my life. Having said that,

I know I must find wisdom.

I need to learn to act within

the parameters of the wise.

I so pray I find the answers 

before 'tis my time to go . . .

Blessed be!

12/08/2024

"I am made of water,

of course I am emotional."

~Rupi Kaur

I much enjoy the the five

directions and elements. 

Part of my belief system

and ever so important to 

me.

I know this will not be

understood by one and 

all. Still, I find this has so

helped me to understand 

myself, and has served 

many of my friends as 

well.

See what you think . . .

North, Earth – wondrous,

glorious place where we live.

East, Air – that which allows 

us to breathe and represents

our intellect.

South, Fire – our love and

passion for life.

West, Water – gift of life

and blessing of emotion.

Center, Spirit – the greatest 

gift of all, that which allows

us to live with ourselves in

peace.

I so identify w/Rupi Kaur, 

in the above quote as I am 

water and ever so emotional.

Perhaps 'twill serve you as 

well.

12/07/2024

One of the things I dearly

love about winter is when

I can deal with it properly.

You know, like a normal

person; cold okay, mud

okay, snow okay!

Can't claim to do so every

day. Days when I get the

shakes, or the downs, even

tears. But today was fine!

Oh that's right, I had guests

in the morning and others

in the afternoon. And yes, 

I do know by now that this

truly helps. Makes a diff!

Really, the only thing that

scares me is I keep thinking

it's winter and that it's almost

over. And damn, winter does

not even start for two more

weeks.

Methinks an inheritance is

needed! Going to buy a little

cabin in New Mexico or AZ.

I'll leave Linda here and send

Dale there!

Ha! A split personality awaits!

12/06/2024

Sooooo loving me my friends!

In the afternoon, our neighbors

and besties came by. 'Twas

most lovely; I hadn't expected

them 'til the morrow.

Then came my dear, dear friend

from up north and today we'll

be joined by our third.

One might ask why this is so

important. Surely, we see our

friends all the time.

Living out in the boondocks, 

by choice, I might add, we do

not see many people. So bless

our neighbors who check in on

us weekly, sharing laughter, 

drinks and friendship.

I do love living here, especially

now that we're three quarters 

of a century. We have quiet on

the forest side and noise from

traffic on the other. I tune that

out completely. Alas, my guy

doesn't seem to be able.

So, what are all these musings

really about?! Just thinking

out loud?! Or, is there a reason?

Indeed, these ramblings are all

about gratitude. The people in

our lives make a difference in

the quality of our actual living.

This is Thanksgiving spilling

over into December. Bottom

line, my cup runneth over, as

the good book says!

12/05/2024

"Your time on Earth is limited.

Don't try to age with grace,

age with mischief, audacity,

and a good story to tell.

The Death Deck @case.kenny

Sooooo just what I needed 

to hear this early morn!

Still hear my mother telling 

me to be a good girl, my dad

suggesting I live a little . . .

Mom - Comb your hair and

put on a clean dress. Dad -

Put on some jeans and climb

a tree or two. Is it any wonder

I'm Linda to my mother and

Dale to my dad. Go figure!

This is good as well. I owe 

college to my mom and my 20

years in Mexico to my dad. In

fact, 'twas my dad who aided me

in leaving home at 15 whereas

mom wanted me to stay at least

another year.

So, 'tis my mother within that

washes the dishes and my dad

who whispers in my ear, "Just

let them drip dry!"

I want to be just like him when

I grow up . . .

12/04/2024

"Friendship is born at that 

moment when one person

says to another, 'What! You

too? I thought I was the only

one!" ~C.S. Lewis

No can do wait 'til February

to think of friendship! 

As I struggle with Seasonal

Affective Disorder, SAD . . .

I thrill in the reception of the

odd card, an occasional visit,

an unexpected gift, friends

checking in to see how I'm

faring.

There are friends who have

been there, done that. Others

haven't, but on some level get

that winter is a devastating

time for those who suffer SAD.

As I sit under my special light

each day, I think of the friends

who pay special mind during

these dark months.

It has also been recommended

to spend some time outdoors

each day. Here's hoping going

to and from the mailbox counts!

And bright blessings to each of

you who help me through . . .

12/03/2024

Can't help but wonder what

surprises the month of Dec

holds for us . . .

Will our children visit? Here's

hoping, but I know 'tis a busy

month for all.

What friends will we be able

to see, weather notwithstanding.

I would confess, visitors are a

fun happening; make no mistake!

Will we be trying new foods?

We have a close friend who is

a phenomenal chef. He lets us

try things on for size now and

again. Think I feel the calories

before he ever reaches the door.

What about Yule gifts & x-mas

presents?! I find myself in this

time and place of nigh onto a

hundred years old. Makes me

want to share my treasures

rather than rush out to Wally

World and buy just any old thing.

Sometimes, it's hard to let go of

one's treasures. But, ever so nice

to place them in the hands of a

loved one and know they'll be

cherished.

Just have to wait and see what

happens. Buy? Share? Guests?

Special foods? 

Still, I have this sneaking feeling

that December is going to be a

lot of fun . . . yes, I am working

on my winter attitude!!!

12/02/2024

Did our Dec shop this early

morn; most likely we'll not

be stepping out any more 

this month.

Hit the bank for available

shekels and off we went.

Did it all in three stores

and mailed my packages.

Upon arrival at the cabin,

checked my list twice in

honor of Mr. Clause him-

self. 

Realized we'd done three

bottles of wine for Yule

as well as groceries . . .

but where are the gifts?

Damn! Rather makes me

think we'll have to go to

town again. Don't like to

shop per se, but December

is a huge no, no.

Alas, methinks lack of

planning . . .

Come on over and we'll

share a beer!

12/01/2024

December falls under the

category of admonishment

for moi . . .

I have enough DON'TS I

could write another set of

Ten Commandments!

1) Don't spend shekels you

don't have.

2) Don't eat too much holiday

food.

3) Don't drink every day and

don't drink too much.

4) Don't use paper plates; 

wash the dishes already.

5) Don't go out unless in dire

need. 

6) Don't wrap presents; place

in bags as they are reusable.

7) Don't forget to send Yule

cards.

8) Don't drive on usual party

times.

9) Don't burn the house down;

watch that fire.

10) Don't let the mice in; it's

cold outside and they're waiting

in line to come in.

I know I complained about Nov,

but maybe we could go back to

it for just a few more days! 

Or . . .

We could just skip winter entirely!

11/30/2024

Just heard from my son. 

Safe arrival from TG trip 

to see my daughter and 

nephew. Sooooo would 

have liked to have been

there, but were concerned

about hauling the travel

trailer in snowy weather.

One of the things I recall

'bout being younger is that

"no fear factor" as I tend

to think about it. I well

remember teaching all day,

night classes as well, and

then crawling into the car

for a four-hour trip to see

my dad. No could do it now.

It occurs to me that youth

are blest with fearlessness

and oldsters with wisdom.

Think I prefer the latter,

but do wonder why. Is it

that in our youth we didn't

fear death and now that

we're old, we do? Or is it

that we're simply holding

onto life with everything

we've got because we've

learned to love it so much?

Thoughts to ponder and 

here's hoping I've a few

more years in me to think

about things!

Like I said, here's hoping . . .

11/29/2024 - a very liquid TG

Normally, TG is a colorful

kaleidoscope of family and

dishes . . . paling beside any

meals 'fore and/or 'aft!

We'd sooooo hoped to travel

to parts unknown to join in

familial bliss, but umpteen

inches of snow and not 'bout

hauling the travel trailer kept

us home.

Sooooo, we decided we'd do

drinks rather than dishes . . .

carefully, of course. We started

the day with my daily column

and my usual buttermilk.

We graduated to a fun show,

old time MacGyver and drank

plenty of water . . . "Craful,

craful" as my little bro used

to say.

First course really began with

that delish box of chocolates

my hijita gifted me for my 75th.

We each had a piece with a

glass of champagne that one

of my dearests and bests had

just gifted me.

We then took cautionary naps

and awoke to an iced glass of

ld's famous margs. Truly, we

were clever to stop at the one!

I had somethings to do on FB,

so we each enjoyed a beer, Mex

for moi, and dark German for

him!

'Bout that time, mister treated

himself to one of the four TG

games offered on the telly and

I served a red . . . along w/a

new book by one of my fave

authors.     

Obviously, a long day of fun

and pleasure had to end with

a very special coffee from

Guatemala, along with a decent

dollop of Baileys.

There may not be a repeat in

the midst of such indulgence,

but . . .

. . . Oh my Goddess, it 'twas

ever sooooo fun; make no

mistake!

Salud . . .

11/28/2024 - Thanksgiving

I've always appreciated

that on this day we are

somewhat mandated to 

be grateful.

Still, I certainly value 

that a reminder is always 

a good idea! Didn't our

parents always tell us, 

"Say thank you to . . . "

One way or another, I have

no real issue with being 

reminded to cherish certain 

people, values, facts.

I praise the gods daily for 

my babes; make no mistake!

I thank the universe for my

man, my home, my comfort.

I honor the fact that we ever

and always have food to eat

and warmth in winter.

Indeed, I am thankful, grateful,

and don't mind one iota being

reminded. One thing for certain,

I certainly hope I ever recall

daily, the blessings I have been

given.

And, not just for today, I am

in awe of the love I have for

my children, my friends, my

life.

Indeed, I am grateful and not

just for today . . .

11/27/2024

"Paradise has never been 

about places. It exists in 

moments. In connection. 

In flashes across time."

~Victoria Erickson

I so value this unusual 

look at the word paradise.

There must be many a

different concept re the

term.

That glorious culmination

of love making, an actual 

place where we intend to 

end our days, even a high

end eatery.

I like Erickson's take on

the word. Words! "It's a

boy! Your daughter rocks!!

You are a hell of a friend!!!

Actually, I fear most of us

have forgotten, or never

even realized the power of 

words.

Sweet words, kind words,

loving words, words of 

encouragement and healing,

just what we need on a

daily basis.

Words bear thinking about,

both to hear and to give . . .

Methinks I'm going to gift

a few today!

11/26/2024

"Age is irrelevant. Ask me

how many sunsets I've seen,

hearts I've loved, trips I've

taken, or concerts I've been

to. That's how old I am."

Happy Hippies Life

I was so taken with this that

I shared it. Still pondering

True inspiration!

Somewhere 'twixt & 'tween

the fear of dying yet still 

longing for release, I've lost

those precious memories of

a life well lived.

The quote truly says it all.

And yes, I've seen many a

sunset, loved hard, traveled

far and even taken in a few

concerts.

More importantly, I've given

birth to two of the grandest

souls in kingdom come. No

greater privilege!

Sooooo, lose the fear already!

Love hard! Live each day as

'twas the last . . .

11/25/2024

"Your soul already knows 

the answer. You just have 

to be quiet enough to hear

the whispers and brave 

enough to follow them"

~The Universe

So love me those bits and

pieces of wisdom that pop

up in the strangest places!

This particular one is ever

so important!

I find myself saying to moi,

"Just shut the f--- up and

listen already! Stop talking

for a while and you might

just learn something!"

I fear we don't often listen

to our higher selves. It's

almost like we don't really

believe that we have any-

thing important to say and

apparently no wisdom at

all.

As I draw nearer each day

to the century mark, think

I'd better get going on that

whole learning curve, 'cus 

not much time left anywho!

I swear, listening here . . .

11/24/2024

"I am looking forward to the

small things that bring me joy."

Goddess Love

Love the concept of enjoying

the small gifts life brings us!

You'll laugh, but . . .

Buttermilk in bed at o'dark

thirty is delish! Coming up

with a new seasonal table is

pure fun for moi. No idea 

what to eat and then recall

my neighbor left me a treat.

Methinks 'tis important to

get into this! Every day,

think about three small 

happenings that made you

smile. After a while you'll 

do it automatically and then 

find you can't stop at three.

I find I do this more in the

warmer months. This year

I'm going to make a point

of doing so during winter.

It occurs to me that I'll find

myself cheering up whether

I like it or not!

Ouch! Does this mean I like

to wallow?! Something to

ponder. Bet I need to grow 

up and get over myself.

Go figure . . .

11/23/2024

"live with intention. walk

to the edge. listen hard.

practice wellness. play with 

abandon. laugh. choose with 

no regret. continue to learn. 

appreciate your friends. do 

what you love. live as if this 

is all there is." 

~mary anne radmacher

 

A true list to live by; make

no mistake. She only forgot,

"adore your children!" 

which I do with abandon!!!

I tend to watch out for words

of wisdom. I find the short

quips stick in my memory 

longer.

Actually, this list could be 

mine, all except, "practice

wellness." Now that I'm

nigh onto a hundred, I like 

to eat ice cream for break-

fast and other naughtiness.

Always thought 10 mandates

were too many. I've always

lived by three. Since there

are 11 here, or 12 if you add

in mine, I may have to change

my mind.

Thoughts?

11/22/2024

¡Qué rayos! 

Noche a noche, sueño con 

mi familia, mis amistades 

y los veinte años que viví 

en México. ¡Será que estoy 

por pasar a mejor vida antes

que después?!

En mi sueño, vamos al sur

de México para vacaciones.

Estamos invitados a pasar 

el día con unos mariachis 

quienes tocan, cantan y 

bailan. ¡Qué día!

Pero en la tarde, finalmente

le toca a mi Sr. informarme

que se ha enamorado de una

de las bailarinas y que va a

quedarse con ella.

Lo curioso para mí es que

esto nunca pasó en realidad.

Pero, el dolor que siento en

mi sueño es más allá del

más allá. Despierto . . .

sollozando casi a gritos.

He estado soñando así por

varios meses. No es que 

tenga miedo necesariamente,

pero siento que el fin de mis

días reina cercano.

Ha de ser una advertencia

pero aún así, ¡no estoy lista!

Simplemente, no quiero

irme todavía . . .

11/21/2024

"Sometimes you need a

"stop doing" list as badly

as you do a "to-do" list.

The Defiant Crone

Ran into this bit of smart

at o' dark thirty this early

morn and simply couldn't 

stop laughing.

Sooooo true . . .

I've ever and always had 

that simple "to-do" list;

-change sheets

-do the dishes

-pay the bills

-time to sweep

-water the plants

No biggie. Prob don't even

need a list. But I'm liking

this whole "stop doing" list

idea.

-don't focus on the negative

-lose the attitude already

-stop obsessing & worrying

Rather like this whole still

learning in my old age thing!

11/20/2024

Glory in the unexpected!

I thought I had a couple

of friends over . . . seems

I noted the wrong date.

Sooooo, as my guy had

built the fire, he suggested

we make it a couple's day.

Asked me to make margs

and put on some music.

Oh my God, does it ever 

get better than this?!

We sat contentedly by the 

fire, drinking our margs, 

and eating the food he 

brought in. Glorious!

In the background; Kenny 

Rodgers, Willie Nelson 

and other of his faves. He

made the day happen, had

to be his choices.

Hated to head off to bed, 

but had to happen. Rather

makes me want to mess 

up arrangements another

day, if you know what I

mean!

The thing I love? We still

enjoy each other one way

or another . . .

11/19/2024

"There are two rules on the

spiritual path. Begin and

continue." Sufi

Ran across this bit of wisdom

upon awaking at 3:30 a.m.

Really spoke to me.

How many times in life do we

begin something for whatever

reason and then abandon it for

the same?I

Now that I'm a hundred years

old and trying to suss out the

meaning of life, I'll be damned

if I give up on my search!

During these past two weeks,

and again yesterday, I have 

been reminded of the power 

of friendship.

I don't think for a moment that

one's friends need to be on the

same belief path. We each

travel to Nirvana in our own

way.

So hoping my elder years and

my path bring me the answers

I seek . . .

11/18/2024

Awoke to 18° this early morn.

Does this mean it's winter yet?

Nah, methinks 'tis still autumn.

In spite of SAD and elections

and the go withs, I'm going 

w/Norman Vincent Peale's

Power of Positive Thinking.

Friends have given me many

an idea as well . . . short time 

outdoors each day. Hey, it's 

only 18° right now . . . good 

meals. Does buttermilk and a 

banana sound about right?

For today, I'm going with a

fire, sweet contemplations

and a decent bottle of red.

One of my old friends from

the 'hood will be joining me

and I bet my 'tude and I are

going to be just fine!

Here's hoping the sun comes

out, melts away those last bits

of 33" snow and reminds me

again what autumn is supposed

to look like . . .

Oh well, autumn is as autumn

does . . .

11/17/2024

A new week, a new day . . .

So hoping I can now begin 

to get beyond this depression;

33" of snow in three days, 

the election, world chaos.

What's to be done to improve

the downs, as I like to call 

them.

My guess would be that we

all know the secrets. The trick

would be to do them, right?!

Eat right, bit of daily exercise,

drink not at all or very little, 

sleep your eight, read some 

light-hearted literature.

And never forget the power 

of sweet visitors! 'Tis the 

best . . .

Hey, I'm going to get right on

this! Especially this last one!

11/16/2024 - Sacred Night of Lady Hekate

Many of you know I named my cabin,

The Lady Hekate. This ancient goddess

was known to stand at the three-way 

crossroads and as my cabin is such, 

thus I named her.

November 16 is her anniversary, The

sacred night of Lady Hekate. I thought 

you might like to know a bit about her.

I like the below text; am only sorry 

the author is unknown . . .

"She roams the earth with her hounds, 

new initiations are made for those 

who follow her. Hecate’s Supper is 

left  out on the steps of her followers 

dwellings, usually consisting of honey 

and mushrooms. Hecate then blesses 

those inside.

On the night of Hekate, she draws very

nigh. She is known by many as the

mother, maiden and crone, goddess of 

the night, the full and dark moons, 

crossraods, life and death, transitions and 

transformation. She is a keeper of wisdom, 

the unconscious mind and is considered 

to be the queen of magic.

Hekate holds the keys to the Gates of 

the Underworld and to all mysteries. 

Ancient Greeks placed statues of her 

at the doorways for protection. For 

those who honor her, she will bestow 

many gifts, including magical abilities 

and prosperity."  ~Unknown

11/15/2024

Today we are celebrating 

Lady Hekate, Goddess of 

the three-way crossroads. 

In days of yesteryear, 

"Pillars called Hecataea 

stood at three-way cross-

roads to keep away evil 

spirits." Wikipedia

As my little cabin sits on 

a three-way crossroad, I 

named her after this fab 

goddess.

My guy created a space 

for an outdoor altar in 

the center of three trees.

It is quite stunning and

the statue has withstood

13 years of weather of

all kinds.

One of the things I so 

love about my Lady

Hekate cabin is the fact

that it houses a true

sense of spirituality!

I often ask myself why

I am so moved by this

particular goddess. Part

has to be the three-way

crossroads as three is 

my number. I also love

her symbol, the key and

I have keys all over my

cabin and property.

No can do the snakes 

though . . .

 - - -

"Hecate is a goddess in 

ancient Greek religion 

and mythology, most often 

shown holding a pair of 

torches, a key, snakes, and

accompanied by dogs."

Wikipedia

11/14/2024

What a fun, delightful wedding!

Just before the bride came in,

a chap danced up the isle, 

throwing popcorn, snacks and

beer to the audience. He then

brought each of the wedding

party a beer.

I simply loved speaking to this

young couple. For the first time

in about 35 years, after marrying

dozens and dozens of couples,

I shared my points for a good

marriage. You might think this

a bit much as I've been married

three times! Oh well . . .

#1 - Know yourself and be

yourself. Of course, naught

wrong with discussing certain

things even if you have to agree

to disagree. 

Compromise R O C K S !!!

#2 - Work at it. Take turns at the

dishes, straightening up, changing

the sheets. Share the bills, share

in anything and everything.

#3 - Make lots of love. And, that

doesn't mean just going to bed.

That odd touch or look, holding

hands, being playful together,

and lots of little kisses.

I would add, couples are going to

fight. Having said that, I don't get

why two rational, intelligent adults

shout at each other. Why can't 

opinions be stated and discussed?

Raise your glasses . . . here's to

these sweet, young newlyweds.

And, here's to us enduring and

enjoying . . . Salud! 

11/13/2024

Ever sooooo excited . . .

Today, a young couple join

hands in ceremony, promising

to love and honor 'til death do

them part.

They will be surrounded by

the beauty of family, friends,

and well-wishers. Smiles and

teary eyes, nods of approval,

simply sheer joy embracing

the young couple.

See those sweet, secret looks 

'tween those long wed, others

looking forward to their own

someday soon. Bottom line,

naught but joy abounds . . .

Today is a day of promises

given, happiness abounding,

hopes for a glorious future.

But, what about us? Those of

us who witness all? Those of

us still hoping and praying?

Methinks we've an opportunity

here to evaluate. Maybe even

begin a plan. 

Yes, there is much out of our 

hands, yet there are also things

over which we do have control.

I say we use today's joy to

inspire ourselves to take steps,

albeit baby steps, towards

reclaiming our own joyous

moments.

Joy awaits . . .

11/12/2024

a.m.

Today is going to be a 

good day! 

We're off to my niece's 

wedding rehersal. So special 

when I get to marry family.

Wedding on the morrow . . .

two whole days of getting

out, seeing family, simply

enjoying.

Methinks I've died and 

gone to heaven . . . sooooo

NOT kidding!

Surely, good reports soon

to follow . . .

p.m.

Oh, it was so good to get

out in the sun! Sooooo

needed it!

Such lovely people in my

family . . . the bride so

gorgeous and her mom, 

one of my dearest cousins.

So impressed with the bride's

entourage. Lovely people,

very friendly.

Methinks seeing their love 

was just what I needed to get 

my mojo back!

11/11/2024

Sooooo, what's to be done

with depression?

Trying to think here . . . 

been so down, I've not 

been able to do so properly. 

Spoke to my daughter yester-

day and that helped a great

deal. Friends came over and

brightened the mood. 

But really, where do we go

from here? 

-Perhaps it's time to lose 

the murder mysteries I enjoy 

both reading and watching.

-Too dangerous out there 

to take a ride . . . maybe 

find a scenic show to watch.

-The answer has to lie in 

sitting by the fire. Might 

even indulge in an eggnog.

Something's got to give. 

Not a place I want to be in

much less live in . . .

Help! Drowning here . . .

11/10/2024

"The dark does not destroy

the light; it defines it. It's 

our fear of the dark that casts 

our joy into the shadows."

~Brené Brown

Just when I'm feeling over-

whelmed w/an early winter,

33" of snow and fear of the

unknown, I read this bit of

wisdom.

I've always enjoyed Brené 

Brown. She seems to be able

to capture the depth in the 

simple in a way that amazes

me.

I need to remember that light

follows dark and hope is ever

present in despondency.

And, tomorrow is another day

after all . . .

 - - -

Brené Brown is an American

professor, lecturer, author and

podcast host. Wikipedia

11/09/2024

Alas, sooooo not coping;

where do I go from here?!

I swore to myself that I

wouldn't use my daily

column as a gripe site . . .

yet here I am.

Still, I find that by sharing

my sorrows here allows 

me deal with my plight

somewhat better.

Obviously, I get that one

cannot change this winter

weather, the outcome of an 

election, and other things

that are off putting.

Sooooo, methinks sitting

by the fire with a spiced

eggnog might just distract.

This bit of brilliance was

suggested by my lover.

Feel free to send your

suggestions . . . I'm all ears!

11/08/2024

"Some of the brightest

lanterns are held by those

who have known darkness.

Brave beacons of hope for

others to find their way."

Sunlight and Shadows

Alas, 'tis that time of year

when I just want to curl up

and die. The good thing is

I know it's not real and I'm

ever learning how to cope.

The thing I consider best

out of my SAD months, is

the empathy one feels for

others in the same space.

So, what I want to learn 

from this would be how to

encourage those suffering

from Seasonal Affective

Disorder.

As I wasn't diagnosed for

years, there may be people

in the same situation I was.

Knowing is coping!!!

Bottom line, if you suspect

you might have SAD, get

properly diagnosed. Find 

a group to talk and share.

'Tis most likely the reason

I'm still alive today . . .

11/07/2024

"Dance before the music is

over. Live before your life 

is over." Hippie Zenlighten

Methinks this dear heart 

was sending a message 

straight to moi!

I've ever and always had 

my own secret dances . . .

and I have lived, oh how

I have lived!

Having said that, I find

aging can tend to move 

one's self into a more 

contemplative mode.

Right or wrong, I tend to 

do my living in front of 

the fireplace, in the pages

of a good book, in the

glory of a fab meal and

drowning in delight in

wondrous conversations.

Obviously, there's naught

wrong with that. Still, not

to forget dancing whilst

living in any manner one

chooses . . .

 . . . there are, after all,

many kinds of dancing!

11/06/2024

"Hardships often prepare

ordinary people for an

extraordinary destiny."

~C.S. Lewis

Obviously, we all have

experienced and endured

hardships of different kinds.

We know what it's like to 

be out of work, have a half

empty fridge, suffer illness,

lose a loved one.

We all have experienced

joy as well . . . that 

unexpected raise, a long-

awaited pregnancy, a small 

lotto win, our children's 

achievements.

So I would ask, why is it

human nature to focus on

our hardships rather than

our wins? Surely, the least

we could do would be both!

Think I'm going to go all

out and make that supreme

effort to focus on my wins.

Wish me luck . . .

11/05/2024

"They who dream by day 

are cognizant of many 

things which escape those 

who dream only at night." 

~Edgar Allan Poe

I may as well admit it . . . 

as everyone already knows 

this about me. I am indeed 

a daydreamer.

I remember as a child . . .

my father would say, "Get

your head out of the clouds,

Linda-Dale."

My parents would have to

call me more than once as 

I tended to be off in Never,

Never Land.

Not sure if it's a personality

trait, a coping mechanism 

or a place I simply like to be.

My guess would be, probably

a bit of all three.

Methinks daydreaming is a 

gift from the gods. It allows

one to escape uncomfortable

situations. It's fab for planning.

Maybe even a different use

for the mind.

Obviously, 'tis not a place to

live. It's important to live life!

But, daydreaming has its place

and I indeed visit quite often!

11/04/2024

"We are mosaics. Pieces of

light, love, history, stars. Glued

together with magic and music

and words." ~Anita Krizzan

Any time I'm feeling down,

all I have to do is read some

Anita Krizzan. Be that the case, 

I should have one of her books

in every room!

Obviously, life isn't quite that

simple. There are genuine 

reasons for the downs, as I

tend to call them. Winter being

the obvious one for moi as I

have SAD.

So, adding insult to injury, my

guy tells me we got 8" - 10"

inches of the s-word last night.

I'm going to try and be brave!

I'll look out the window and 

say, "Praise God, we needed

the moisture!"

And it's true! We desperately

need the moisture and I am

going to try and be braver

this winter! SAD be damned.

Wish me courage . . . Where's

Anita when you need her?!

11/03/2024

"Shall I cook, clean or  

do the grocery shopping? 

Okay, reading it is."

Crazy Book Lady

Once Days of the Dead

have passed, I like to think 

of November as a month

all about gratitude . . .

And indeed, I'm certain I'll

have my days as such. Still,

I'm feeling all wintery. And

yes, I do know it's autumn. 

So, how to cope? Dealing

with the cold and dark days,

snowy weather, reading it is.

I find moi treating myself to

old faves. Then I try a few

new ones on for size. I like

reading all the books I have

by one author and then going

on to another.

Should the gods ever ask me

how I made it through winter

without killing myself or any

one else, the answer will ever

and always be . . .

 . . . by reading!

11/02/2024, Día de los Muertos, Adultos Perdidos

Today, I honor my ancestors.

The altar is beautiful, these

old framed black and whites

of my parents, grandparents,

and greats are ever so sweet.

I recall stories told by my 

father. He loved his gran so

much. I know I too, was 

ever so lucky to have known 

all my grands. Lucky as well, 

to have heard dad's tales of 

the greats.

I like looking at the photos

as I place them on the table.

Old style, of course. Small,

black and white and not

taken as closeups. Still, I 

see magic there.

I know I am ever so lucky

to have spent 20 formative

years in Olde Mexico. So

love me the many traditions

taught me. Still, some of the

absolute best surround the

Days of the Dead.

Most wondrous . . .

 - - -

November 2nd is dedicated

to those adults; family and

friends, who have passed

before us.

11/01/2024, Día de los Muertos, Niños Perdidos

Just imagine, today all 

Latin American countries

will be celebrating The 

Day of the Dead.

These sacred days begin

on October 31, Samhain.

November 1st will honor

those small children we

have lost to Mr. Death.

You will find our homes

with decorated altars . . .

Marigolds are a must and

might just explain all the

colors of orange found.

Photographs of our much

morned children, as well

as gifts of food and coin

will adorn the altars.

Some will find jocularity

questionable. Know that 

has to do with mocking

Mr. Death. We turn our 

fears into rising to the

occasion and laughing 

in the face of he who has

caused us such pain.

Stories will be told, many

a tear shed . . . But know

this, We love our children

lost and pray they are safe!

10/31/2024 - Samhain

"Samhain is the third and final

harvest festival of the Wheel 

of the Year that signifies the 

midpoint between fall equinox

and winter solstice. Starting at 

sunset on Oct. 31st and ending 

at sunset on Nov. 1st, this day

marks the end of summer and

beginning of winter on the old

calendar. It was considered an

important time for giving gifts

to the dead and communing." 

Spirit Nest

Fam and friends often ask about

Samhain, hence the above. One

of the things I love about Latin

America as well as Samhain, is

that space in time for recalling

our loved ones who have passed.

Obviously, not everyone feels

this way; might even see it as

morbid. But for me, there is a

need to celebrate mine who've

passed before.

Wishing us a wondrous Samhain

and you a glorious Halloween for

sisters and brothers all are we . . . 

10/30/2024 - Samhain Eve

Samhain is a Gaelic festival

on November 1, marking the

end of the harvest season and

beginning of winter or the

darker half of the year. It is

also the Irish language name

for November. Celebrations

begin on the evening of Oct

31, as the Celtic day began

and ended at sunset. Wikipedia

Not exactly certain as to why,

but in all celebrated holidays,

I always prefer the eve over

the day. Might just be because

there's always a tad of mystery

to the dark of night.

This evening I see us sitting

by the fire, perhaps enjoying

a tad of eggnog and thanking

the divine for the gifts of love

from those who have gone

before.

Pray, may we each appreciate

and enjoy these next four days.

May our hearts and minds be

inundated with sweet memories.

Indeed, we are so blest . . . 

Happy Samhain eve!

10/29/2024

Celebrating my 75th,  

I planned seeing fam 

and friends every day 

of this month. Fun do's,

and some fun don'ts as 

well. Glorious eats, to 

say naught of secrets 

shared.

But, today 'tis the first 

day I have nothing on.

Can't help but wonder 

how the day'll progress. 

Will anything exciting 

happen?

I know one shouldn't 

plan every iota of life. 

Room must be left for 

surprises, for the un-

expected. 

I'll just have wait and 

see what happens . . .

10/28/2024

I know . . . perhaps I've ever

known . . . I am rich beyond

measure!

The first friend I made in US

when I returned from 20 years

in Mexico, came to visit from

afar last night. 

We talked, reminisced, laughed,

cried . . . sooooo glad we were

well into our brewskis as neither 

of us recall this early a.m. just 

how much we shared last night!

She comes not often as she hales

from far, far away. But, when she

does, she brings treats, I put forth

the naughties and we eat Mexican

food until we're speaking Spanish.

One of the things I most value

about a special birth year, is the

celebration of friendship. Frankly,

arriving alive and well at 75, and

living all over Kingdom Come . . .

leaves many a memory to share.

So, last night we solved all the

world's problems and this morn,

we started all over again. Alas,

methinks those in the upper

eschelon of our world today, never

think to ask our opinion . . .

Oh well, 'tis their loss!!!

10/27/2024

'Twas a most glorious day . . .

My annual mole making, at

last shared with a friend. 'Til

now, family only and sworn

to secrecy.

I remember my son asking

quite nicely, if he could 

share the recipe with his best 

friend and I said, "NO! And, 

don't forget you promised!"

Methinks, just might have 

something to do with being

at the other end of aging. A

tad closer to the other side,

as it were.

     Day 1: deseeding.

     Day 2: four hour boil

     Day 3: blending, sieving

     three times over

     Day 4: herbs and spices

     Day 5: eat, drink and be 

     merry

Make no mistake, I am so

looking forward to the whole

Day 5 part of this magic! I

just bet I eat myself sick!

Salud . . .

10/26/2024

Just keeps getting better and

better . . .

Early a.m. coffee w/two of 

my besties. Dressing up and

hitting an amazing restaurant

usually denied to the likes of

us. Unbelievable! No wonder

we only go ever five years!

Coming back for afters . . .

Two kinds of cake, two kinds

of ice cream. two kinds of

presents. If this b-day month

doesn't end soon, I'm going

to weigh 200 lbs and won't

fit in either the cabin or my

clothes!

Best gift ever though, is such 

incredible friendship. We talk,

really talk. Seems we never

run out of topics to discuss,

things to share, a comparison

of points of view.

I know not everyone has such

friendships. My heart bleeds . . .

Ever, ever so grateful . . .

10/25/2024

Best birthday ever, this whole

turning 75. I've so enjoyed

celebrating one special person

each day.

Last night, my bestie came in

from far, far away. We lit up

the place with candles, ate fun

foods, and talked so long and

hard that we were constantly

interrupting each other.

What a gift of life I have been

given! Such shame in thinking

of the times I gave up, didn't

wish to live any longer. I'm

ever so grateful I'm still here.

It's going to be fun actually

finding out just how long I'll

be given. Must be time to 

start telling tales out of school.

Well actually, my friends tell

me that I'm not already doing

that, but I'm telling some of

them over and over. Damn

embarrassing if you ask me!

So, here I am . . . loving life,

adoring my fam and friends

and finding myself somewhat

overwhelmed!

10/24/2024

Sooooo loving my age

and some of the things

that go with it . . .

Exercise - up and down

the stairs all hours of day

and night.

Groceries - once a month

or so; don't like to go out

much.

Meals - open the fridge

and see what falls out.

Oddities - ice cream for

breakfast, living in the

bedroom, no phone. 

Time spent - books and 

movies, visiting w/friends, 

writing e-mails and letters.

Trips - none of late; most

likely, it'll stay that way.

TV - good for watching

old movies. Don't watch

it otherwise.

Almost wish I had been

born this age . . .

10/23/2024

We were gifted a sweet

surprise last eve. Friends

from the neighborhood

surprised us with a visit.

A tad chilly, so my guy 

lit the fire. Not only did 

it add to the ambiance, it

truly warmed the cockles

of our souls!

We talked and shared a

couple of brewskies. Best

of all, our kid came home

from work and not only

brought a fab b-day gift,

he dressed up for us in 

his Halloween costume.

Taken several weeks to

put it together, 'twas

phenomenal. Scared me

just to look at him.

It's been so cold here at

night. To think we were

able to sit out by the fire

for a couple of hours is

simply incredible. Still,

'twas just what the doctor 

ordered!

Methinks I need to adjust

my attitude regarding fall.

I'll enjoy the days I can

and just have issues with

winter. Ha!

10/22/2024

I awoke this earl morn with

sweet thoughts of yesterday.

The gods blest me as I was

able to spend time with one

of my dearests and bests.

I can only imagine the smiles

our angels must have shared 

as we sat and talked, talked

and talked.

Obviously, there is much to

share when getting together

from afar only once a year.

Then, slowly but surely, once

the news is caught up on, true

conversation begins.

There is naught in this world

to compare to this kind of

friendship and sharing. My 

heart is full, my mind reeling 

and I feel fulfilled.

Alas, at one point, I needed

rest and thus ended our sweet,

perfect day. I will admit, I

wept as she drove away . . .

10/21/2024

I believe in the magic of 

each new day; absolutely 

essential in order to keep

going on!

The days are shorter, 

the dark longer. Not quite 

sure how I'll survive or

even if I will.

I pray you do not suffer

from SAD, Seasonal

Affective Disorder. Not

something I would wish

on my worst enemy if I

had one.

It's like being taken out

of time and place. All you

can see or sense is dark.

Cold and dark. It's much 

like being caught in a child-

hood nightmare and there's

no way out. And, there's no

daddy to come to the rescue.

Already taking precautions;

time outdoors daily, meds,

meditation and prayer . . .

Oh my God . . .

10/20/2024

Oh my God . . . I don't think

I've ever had so much fun in 

my life as turning 75 . . .

I'm just about partied out.

Didn't even know that could

happen. 

Five friends showed up

yesterday with picnic in tow

and I just sat there . . . felt

about a hundred. 'Twas a ball.

Best part, Michael serenaded 

us with both a six string and

a 12 string. He is phenomenal.

You've probably heard him at

one of my guy's Gypsies in

July.

Today, I'm blest with a visit

from my past. Old friend and

student coming over for Sun

margs after church. Now a 

PhD, a bigwig in education,

one my favest people ever!

One of the greatest gifts of

being a teacher, would be all

the incredible students one is

blest with. Watching the adults

they turn into is pure magic!

Methinks 'tis one of the best

b-day pressies E V E R !!!

10/19/2024

'Tis morn of the day after and

I'm feeling my age . . . I don't

know if it's psychological or

maybe I've partied too hardy!

For me, the day after has to 

do with gratitude. Before I 

was diagnosed with SAD, 

Seasonal Affective Disorder, 

I wasn't long for this life.

Knowing the issue, meant

being able to cope. My guy

has been phenomenal in

helping me deal with those

dark days of fall and winter.

Hard to believe I was born

in my own time of undoing!

Go figure . . .

So, I am grateful . . . 

 . . . for sunlight that staves 

off SAD, for those who have

loved me in spite of my ills

and woes, for reaching this

incredible age, for glorious

years of teaching and the joy

found in loving my students.

I am grateful . . .

 . . . for coming to understand

those things that never made

sense, for learning new ways

to love and live, for life itself.

Indeed, I am grateful . . .

10/18/2024

O' dark thirty this early morn

brought me the most gorgeous 

moon I've ever laid eyes on . . .

Was it Mother Earth gifting me

a special Harvest Moon? Was

it a present for all born on this

lucky day? Did the entire world

swoon as I did when viewing

her beauty?

Indeed, I feel ever so blest! 

Feels like this moon was the 

bow on the package Life has

gifted me these 75 years.

Wondered how I'd feel?! I say, 

"I've finally arrived, guess I

can go now." No, these words

did not occur. What I'm truly

feeling is, "Let's see what 

Mother has up her sleeve from 

here on out!"

Looking in the mirror, I'm ever

surprised . . . "When did that

happen?" I think. See the beauty

marks on my arms? "When did 

that happen?" 

Nah, doesn't matter . . . I'm ever

so lucky to stand tall, firm stride,

no need for a cane just yet.

So pray I'm gifted yet another

few years . . .

Happy b-day to moi . . .

10/17/2024

"The richest people in the world

are those who have learned to

appreciate simple things in life."

~Samuel Bizimana

This spoke to me . . .

For me, 'tis proof that I've at 

last arrived! I love my age, my

understanding of life and its

various happenings . . . and I

love all sweet, simple things 

in life.

Methinks my only sorrow . . .

it takes nigh onto a lifetime

to reach this point. I finally

get it. Why, oh why can't we

understand this bit of wisdom

at a younger age?!

This month, glorious October,

has brought this home to me

over and over. Coffee with a

friend, an unexpected card,

a telephone greeting, the odd

e-mail. All are simple and all

have brought me joy!

I ask myself, "What simple

things could I gift to others?

That unexpected compliment

in the grocery store, dropping

a post card in the mail, taking

the time to write a proper letter.

Since turning 75 has been so

special for me, I'm going to

dedicate this year to gifting 

the simple. One small thing

a day . . . and I bet this will

benefit me even more than

any recipient!

Need to give this some thought!

10/16/2024

One of the things I enjoy about

celebrating my b-day an entire 

month rather than just a day 

would be all the fam and friends

I get to see.

Today, I get to enjoy my son.

He is such an interesting man.

Phenomenal artist, reader of the 

classics, gifted conversationalist,

simply a joy to be with.

There are times methinks I've

given him all my good points

and haven't saved anything for

moi . . . ha!

What a gift it is to have children

turning out to be glorious people.

Talking with them, enjoying their

points of view, their insights, even

their vocab usage . . . utter delight!

At the end of the month, I'll be

offering my gratitude for this 75th

birthday. I'm thinking of different

things I could do, but have yet to

decide. 

Ideas welcome . . .

10/15/2024

Sooooo excited . . .

I get to spend this early morn

with my younger daughter!

Alas, now that I'm about a 

100 years old and rarely leave 

the cabin, I don't get to see the 

kids as often as I would like.

On the other side of the quest,

these priceless visits warm my

heart to a slow burn.

One of the things I love about

this particular age, would be

seeing the children as adults

and watching them rear their

own.

I bless my x-wife for sharing 

her babes with me. She is an

amazing mother.

Today, my heart is full . . .

10/14/2024

"We are here to heal, not harm.

We are here to love, not hate.

We are here to create, not destroy."

~Anthony Douglas Williams

Methinks we all need a daily

dose of A.D. Williams; we need

reminding!

Alas, I fear we exist rather than

live and we do so without a great

deal of thinking on our part.

Today, I meet with my niece and

her fiancee for wedding planning.

Part of me trembles at the courage

a young couple must have in order

to join the matrimonial rat race.

Yet another part of me cheers them

on and wishes them well.

For me, October becomes a time

of pondering, rethinking time- 

honored practices and choosing to

deal with things a tad differently. 

May we all have a look/see and a

good think about how we proceed

from here . . .

 - - -

"We destroy life, and we pollute 

oceans and skies, yet we have the

audacity to call ourselves superior

beings." ~A.D. Williams