Roses Are Read

A Gift of Love to a Friend On Valentine's Day!

2012-02-11T10:16:00.000-05:00

I've nothing else to offer,

So, to you, it's love I'll send

it's nothing that I borrowed,

And it's nothing that I'd lend.

It has no dollar value,

And it can't be overused;

It isn't fragile, so it can't break,

Though, often it's abused.

I've given it to others

But each time it's unique,

Its meaning's always different;

It depends on what you seek.

It's something you can store away

To feel when you're in need

But never is it on display;

Its beauty can't be seen.

I'm giving it "no strings attached,"

No costly warranty;

This love that I am sending

Has a lifetime guarantee.

~Author Unknown~

I feel pressured by Life!

2012-02-05T17:48:00.000-05:00

There are times when I feel pressured by life and I’m sure we all do, well, I know we all do. But more so now that I’m getting older and quite afraid I might add. Losing another Sibling is so difficult to deal with.

Bills and deadlines are looming, household appliances suddenly break, I’m constantly sleep deprived and sometimes people put unexpected pressures on me. I feel temporarily overwhelmed. I think the loneliness sets in and the oneness is a battle to confront daily. The “To Do” list gets so long and it was much easier to handle when you have a partner in life.

It’s time for a mental break! Most times, my mind is racing, or close to tears with tiredness and frustration and that is when I reach for my meditation DVD to calm me down. I love Deepak Chopra!

I have to learn to leave the housework behind, walk away from the computer and its huge list of emails and go outdoors and go for a brisk walk or do some water aerobics in the pool. It is a must for me to leave my inner chaos behind and experience the magic of nature.

Ever notice that it's easy to view other people's problems and difficulties as their issue. It has nothing to do with us and we would never be in their situation. Who can really tell? No human being can ever know what the future has in store. Scary, isn't it? It is possible that you will never be in the same situation as this person.

I’ve learned a great deal since I became a Widow 11 years ago; I pay attention to my challenges, while keeping in mind that those challenges do not have to consume me. There is always plenty of goodness flowing. I just need to grab a hold of it. Not always an easy thing to do.

I realized that today was a beautiful day, most all days in Florida are beautiful days filled with value and possibilities. I should have taken the opportunity to build upon life’s goodness but it ran away from me as I didn’t grab it fast enough but I learned from it.

I have learned to find peace in simple things, because those are the ones that will always be there. I’ve been thinking back and remembering the good times and try real hard to forget the sorrow and pain, for the good times reminds me of how special life is.

My spirit was lifted by my beautiful daughter who is making it possible for me to spend Mother's Day with her this year and in the city I love. Looking forward to seeing my large family and other siblings that are failing in health.

Life is good again!

In Loving Memory of my brother, Tony

2012-01-29T15:07:00.000-05:00

In Loving Memory of my brother, Tony who passed away yesterday, January 28, 2012.

Each family has its own special history and the shared bonds that are a part of that history. When a sibling dies, the bonds are shattered, and the history forever has a void that cannot be filled.

When your parents die, it is said you lose your past; when your spouse dies, you lose your present; and when your child dies, you lose your future. However, when your sibling dies, you lose a part of your past, your present, and your future.

Rest in peace brother, Tony

With Love & Affection,
Your Sister and Loving Family

Insomnia!

2012-01-13T16:49:00.000-05:00

Insomnia often leads to sleep deprivation, which causes you not only to be tired but also to feel irritable and lethargic and have difficulty focusing on tasks.

People with insomnia (that’s me) become anxious about sleeping. We worry about not getting enough rest; for some, and this describes me…. just getting ready for bed makes me tense and uneasy and that is exactly what I experience. I panic just walking into my bedroom knowing from experience, all the issues that lie ahead of me for the evening. And, not surprisingly, these feelings make falling asleep enormously difficult.

Everyone has an occasional sleepless night. And a mile-long to-do list makes getting a nightly 8 hours of sleep a challenge. However, for more than 40 million people in the U.S., their chronic lack of sleep is the result of a sleep disorder and poses bigger risks than dark circles under the eyes. Are you part of my group of tossers and turners? You may also suffer the effects of sleep deprivation.

I just recently went through a bout of 4 days of NO SLEEP at all and then finally last night I got some sleep with the aid of my nightly sleeping pill, they do not always work because I’ve been on them for so long. Walking around like a Zombie is not pleasant. It put a halt to my regular daily routine and I didn’t dare go behind the wheel until I finally achieved some very much needed rest…...sigh!

My husband was sound asleep the minute his head hit the pillow. Most men sleep just fine.

I recently viewed on Diane Sawyer’s segment on this topic for women regarding insomnia and a recent study for over 10 years is now completed making doctors aware of the seriousness of insomnia…previously, they would just ignore us or give us a script that after a while, it just stops working. Doctors don’t know too much about prescriptions. They rely on that big book in their office to look up a drug that describes the symptoms their patients are complaining about but they have no clue about the side effects or which one actually works best. I’ve personally seen them do this when I worked in an office of Cardiologists.

I recall once during lunchtime and the doctors were also seated in the lunch room, I asked out of curiosity, how to they select which drug to prescribe for their patients when there maybe four or five prescriptions to choose from. The doctor laughed and said, “do you really want to know”. Yeah, I really wanted to know…his reply was “It’s the Rep of the day”. Hmmmmmmmmmm! Have any of you noticed how extremely good looking these Reps are? The women are beautiful and the men are gorgeous! So, your script relies on the Rep of the day…that good looking person coming in pushing their drug from the Pharmaceutical Drug World!

For many, simply changing a few nighttime routines and lifestyle habits and practicing good sleep hygiene relieves sleep difficulties. But for those whose sleep problems are ongoing and disrupt daily life like me require more treatment. If you suffer from chronic sleep problems or aren't satisfied with how you're sleeping, hopefully your Primary Healthcare provider can help pinpoint the cause and work with you to find an appropriate sleep therapy. Good Luck, I’m been suffering like this for well over 11-12 years. No doctor has been able to help me so far.

I decided to revert to alternative medications from Health Food Stores. If any of you have any suggestions, please leave a comment. Keep in mind, I have tried just about everything out there, from old wives tales to doctor’s suggestions of sleeping in a dark room, keeping the room at 68 degrees, do this and not that, yatta, yatta, yatta.

I believe in the power of prayers. I also decided to bring God back into my life. We all stray away from church and it’s time I go back. I need to feel secure again and to stop letting problems rent space in my head. I need to be number one again and care about me again. So, that is on the top of my “To Do List”!

I'd also like to thank God for bringing good friends into my life!

"Looking for Answers"

2011-12-30T13:23:00.000-05:00

We don’t always know why things happen. We all experience frustrating situations that may never ever be explained.

Losing sleep worrying about why someone may have hurt you or why you may have been passed over for a big promotion or how did your life end up the way it did?? No doubt there will be times in your life when you are left baffled and scratching your head trying to figure out, “Why?”

Letting go when there is no understanding that “Why?” is very hard. Our society places strong emphasis on finding answers. Life does not stop when you don’t understand “what the heck just happened here.” Instead, you must learn to let go.

So, it’s best to let go of the frustration of asking “Why” and stop letting the frustration rent space in your head and strive for a brighter and better days ahead! Sometimes, it is easier said than accomplished!

They say everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance or by means of good luck. Illness, Injury, Love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul.

I guess it is all about the “Law of Attraction”. It makes you wonder????

I suppose life would be boring if everything were perfect and comfy but I guess would also be dull and senseless. The accomplishments and pitfalls that we all experience, I think creates and molds who you are……..the bad experiences should teach you something and learn from the mistakes in life. Not all things are mistakes and we are undeserving of misgivings and mistreatment from others. But life goes on and you just have to remain strong and forgive.

I’m so grateful that I’m blessed with wonderful friends whenever I’m having a meltdown. They are always there to catch me when I fall.

Happy New Year to all my Internet Friends!

2011-12-27T13:03:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2011-12-24T12:25:00.000-05:00

Do you feel uncared for and unloved?

2011-12-14T10:54:00.000-05:00

We all experience days when we feel down and out and totally depleted, uncared for, unloved. The world was certainly not my oyster yesterday. Yet, we are the same person we were yesterday, today, and will be tomorrow, even though our circumstances may try to convince us otherwise. I was feeling perfectly fine this yesterday morning but who knows how the remainder of one day can change your life.

I created “Time Capsule” many years ago and filled it with items that I collected over time: a special card from a favorite relative, my children’s first handmade cards from kindergarten with the words “MOM, I love you,” a photo of me and my best friend. The pretty sea shell I found on the beach, the wine label from my first date with my husband; all this helps me to re-align my spirit and see the world as the wonder that it is.

My “Time Capsule” represents tangible items of the love and joy that were present in my world each and every day that has passed. My Time Capsule is quite full and I may start another one. I guess the idea is to look in it years later and reap the joy of past memories! I don’t know if I will have pleasant memories to put in the second Time Capsule.

It is hard to make happiness the number one thing in your life when you are a Widow. I’m the only one responsible for my happiness now. When you have a special someone is in your life, that person contributes to your happiness……that helps a bit more. I never thought I’d feel so much alone. So distant from everyone I love even my children since we live in different states.

I made a list once of one hundred things about me and posted it on my Blog. I try not to expect others to behave in a way I want, so I will be happy. Be as it may, we are the only ones in control of our happiness and it is a choice, no matter what anyone else thinks. I did instill in my children to respect themselves and others.

The items I collected throughout the years in my happy box is wonderful. I need to make new memories and start a new Time Capsule.

The combination of widowhood and aging creates a constant challenge for someone to try and be more positive all of the time. I hope your children and family remain close to you and care about your happiness.

Love and respect yourself completely!

Dear Santa,

2011-12-06T11:08:00.000-05:00

Dear Santa,

I don't want much for Christmas, I just want the person reading this to be happy and well.

Friends are the fruit cake of life --- some nutty, some soaked in alcohol, some sweet ... but mix them together & they're my friends!!

At Christmas you always hear people talking about what they want & bought.

This is what I want:

I want people who are sick with no cure, to be cured.

I want children with no families to be adopted.

I want people not to have to worry about food, shelter and heat.

I want my children and family to be safe, happy and healthy.

I want peace on earth, goodwill and love to everyone!

Hugs, Rose

Do you still color within the lines?

2011-12-04T12:35:00.000-05:00

I was blessed to be surrounded with great people in the neighborhood I grew up in. Across the street, was a lovely family and the father was a great artist. I played with his children and he provided me with my very first coloring book and crayons, as I didn’t have many toys coming from a large family of 12. Let's say, I didn't have any toys at all is more like it!

This wonderful artist taught me how to color within the lines and my family taught me how to live my life within their lines! My parents were old enough to be my grandparents and most of my brothers and sisters are old enough to be my parents. So, my upbringing was totally different than my friends that I grew up with.

My friends are very dear and special to me and their parents are special to me as well. They helped me grow into the woman I am today outside the boundaries of growing up in a very large, strict, Italian family household.

The parents of my freinds were much younger than mine and they encouraged me to give myself permission to break the rules, to move outside the boundaries of my family's way of looking at things.

Dare to go beyond the self-censorship that comes from worrying about what other people think! I bought a brand new car the minute I acquired my first job out of highschool at the age of 18. All of my sisters got married and had large families. They didn't have their own car or wore lipstick, nailpolish and had a stand-in appointment at the beauty shop like me and hungered for higher education. But I did.

I enjoy following my heart and dismiss unimportant “shoulds”. I want to open the door and turn my blogs into the possibility of EBooks or any form of books to be downloaded onto a Kindle would be interesting. I owe this current idea to my dear nephew along with many others that suggested similar ideas in the past. I truly don’t know what avenue to follow, and I don’t know where to begin. I would like to make a personal breakthrough but much research is necessary.

About five years ago, I researched in the library on how to go about publishing a book and I followed the instructions and contacted a huge list of Agents and received many rejection letters and a few that offered hope. Then I just gave up on the idea as other obstacles fell on my lap at the time.

I have moved beyond more obstacles than I can remember and it isn’t enough for me to sit and just hope.

I could use some help and normally I would be bashful and hate to impose on others for help but I need opinions from my family and friends that are following my blogs and perhaps tell me which Post they enjoyed the most, I could actually compile a few together to make a cutesy little Ebook or some sort of book!

I also would love some input from my classmates for which I also write a blog just for them. So, I write two blogs……….one for my personal thoughts and the other to keep my classmates woven together and remain “forever friends”.

I need to form a plan and make a path to be my guide. No one with a map has ever gotten lost on the road! So, even if I don’t have a preplanned path……….I just might be able to leave a trail!

Are you Trustworthy?

2011-11-27T13:05:00.000-05:00

Humility is the quality of being respectful to yourself and others but you only can attain it when you can get free from the demands of your ego. I learned that when you practice genuine humility, you will find enormous power.

It’s a must to get beyond the desire to control others, and only then can you improve your ability to control your own actions. Let go of the need to be right, and you open yourself to experience new truth.

Don’t you just hate listening to people who are constantly boasting, bragging and valuing their opinion above others? Ugh! So, why don’t others give up the thought that they are better than everyone else?

Don't you think if everyone lived each moment with humility, love, respect and gratitude, everyone will find a treasure that has no end?

Do you ever watch and notice how others treat other people? I always appreciated seeing someone treat the elderly or children no different than other people. Treating each person as someone of value despite their position in society, profession, age or economic status certainly demonstrates great humility.

Before retirement, I used to love to spend my lunch hour out on a park bench near work eating my sandwich and “people watch”. I still “people watch” whenever out in a restaurant or at a gathering. Amazing how many people make an *ss out of themselves.

How do you treat yourself? Everyone should value themselves but not spoil yourself. Everyone knows there’s nothing worse than a spoiled child, a person who gives into their own desires continually develops self-centered behavior patterns. It's just insane!

Humility allows people to see you as “Trustworthy”.

Thanksgiving is Approaching!

2011-11-13T13:28:00.000-05:00

“Thanksgiving”…………the word alone creates images of family reunions, roasted turkey with stuffing and of course the pumpkin pie………and, if you are Italian like me, all this turkey stuff comes after you have had your lasagna, meatballs and gravy, antipasto, etc. LOL

Let's not forget the football games!

Italians living in Italy do not celebrate Thanksgiving as we do here in North America although they do have many holidays called La Festa del Ringraziamento (Festival of Thanks). These holidays, or "feast days' refer to a variety of religious holidays held throughout the year to honor patron saints.

Giving thanks was, and still is, the primary reason for ceremonies or celebrations.

Here is what I think everyone perceives of Thanksgiving: It's less about focusing on giving thanks than it is about gorging on turkey and stuffing. Ironically, perhaps, during the same week as our Thanksgiving, my girlfriend who lives in London said that they celebrate National Thank You Week. It's not just about this vague notion of thanks -- it's aimed at helping us thank the people we encounter every day.

Thanking people isn't simply a matter of common courtesy. Yes, there was a study on this topic; does that surprise you? There is a study on just about everything these days. A 10-year study of 200,000 managers and employees showed that saying "thank you" correlates with bigger profits. This isn't surprising, because giving thanks is a great motivational tool; who doesn't like to be thanked? What is surprising is how hard it is to do the thanking.

For example: Lawyers should be thanked. I’m not joking! The American Bar Association estimates that nearly three-quarters of all lawyers provide free services to disadvantaged people or the organizations that serve them -- about 20 million hours a year. Let's say these lawyers usually bill about $250 an hour. That's about $5 billion a year in donated value to the not-for-profit sector -- an enormous gift, and especially for small shops without huge corporate accounts to rely on, a big strain.

So think twice before telling a lawyer joke. And if your group gets pro bono help, try to steer your lawyer some business that pays.

The Bee Attitudes!

2011-11-06T20:13:00.000-05:00

understanding to your enemies.

loyal to your friends.

strong enough to face the world each day.

weak enough to know you cannot do everything alone.

generous to those who need your help.

frugal with that you need yourself.

wise enough to know you don't know everything.
foolish enough to believe in miracles.
willing to share your joys.
willing to share the sorrows of others.
a leader when you see a path others have missed.
a follower when you are shrouded by the mist of uncertainty.
the first to congratulate an opponent who succeds.
last to criticize a colleague who fails.
sure where your next step will fall, so that you will not tumble.
sure of your final destination, in case you are going the wrong way.
loving to those who love you.
loving to those who do not love you, for they may change.
Above all, yourself.

Don't forget to turn the clock back!

2011-11-05T10:30:00.000-04:00

Are you taking generic drugs? If so, listen up!

2011-10-22T12:02:00.000-04:00

I’m sure many of you out there are on some prescription drugs to lower your cholesterol or your blood pressure, etc. I’m very upset and annoyed with the pharmacists and doctors who believe that a generic drug is identical to the brand name!

Many, including myself have experienced adverse reactions and nothing is being done about it. It just becomes a trial and error situation whereas; the doctors just prescribe another generic and see how your body deals with it. Duh!

I have had severe leg pain, tingling feelings on the bottom of my feet and my left hand, twitching of my left eye and discomfort in my left ear! I stopped taking the generic cholesterol medication and the symptoms are now starting to subside after a little more than a week. The doctor's answer to this is just put me yet on another generic statin drug! It is dangerous to be on it and dangerous to be off of it!

I requested blood work to detect if any muscle damage has occured.

If a patient is offered a brand name drug for $200. And, then what they claim to be an identical drug but is a generic for $10.00! Shouldn’t that alone raise an eyebrow!

Most pharmacists routinely tell patients that generic drugs are identical to brand name medications. That is bull. This is what pharmacy students are told during their education process. It is also what the FDA states on its website:

"A generic drug is identical--or bioequivalent--to a brand name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use. Although generic drugs are chemically identical to their branded counterparts, they are typically sold at substantial discounts from the branded price."

Now, I don't know about you, but when I see the word identical, I assume that means exactly the same as.

Here is how Dictionary.com defines the word identical:

1. Similar or alike in every way
2. Being the very same
3. Agreeing exactly

Related Words for: identical
Indistinguishable, one and the same, selfsame

Medical Dictionary
1. Exactly equal and alike
2. Of or relating to a twin or twins developed from the same fertilized ovum and having the same genetic makeup and closely similar appearance; monozygotic."

The use of the word identical, when describing generic drugs, is misleading. First, the inactive ingredients (colors, binders, fillers, etc.) do not have to be "alike in every way" to the brand name product. In fact, they are often quite different. These so-called inactive ingredients or "excipients" may influence how the product affects patients. For example, a patient who is allergic to a particular color may develop a rash when switched to a generic product. The formulation may also differ dramatically from the brand name.

Plus, according to the FDA, 80 percent of the active and inactive ingredients in our pharmaceuticals come from abroad. It is estimated that 40 percent of the finished pills come from abroad including countries such as India, China, Brazil and Mexico.

When patients experience problems with certain generic formulations, doctors and pharmacists should offer a sympathetic ear and report the problems directly to the FDA's website (MedWatch). Perhaps if pharmacists insisted that the FDA do a better job both approving and monitoring generic drugs, patients would have more confidence in these money-saving pills.

What troubles me even more is that there are many patients out there with ailments and complaints of aches and pains and have no clue that their medication is responsible for it. My question is “why the pharmacists and doctors not reporting all the complaints received from the patients regarding the generic drugs”?

You have to be your own medical advocate otherwise you are royally playing Russian roulette with your health and life! Don't ignore those aches and pains and think it is just caused by aging.

I'm livid!

Ballroom Dancing!

2011-10-16T05:04:00.000-04:00

I normally look forward to watching Dancing With The Stars on TV but I'm really getting uninterested, as it is no longer a dance competition but rather a popularity contest which upsets me.

I was a ballroom dancer all of my younger life and entered several competitions and did very well. It is a lot of hard work and won ribbons and trophies for dancing the ballroom dances perfectly by judges.

I was exhilarating to glide across the that beautiful dance floor with the mirrored ball on the ceiling! I loved every minute of it. It was a wonderful time of my life.

Dancing With The Stars has eliminated superb dancers and kept individuals that cannot dance at all. I don't consider climbing a flight of stairs dancing! I suppose if your mother is "Cher".... you will get millions of votes. This individual can't walk let alone dance!

I have nothing against transgender individuals but if you can't dance you should be eliminated! Dancing with the Stars started out to be only with Dance Instructors and Celebrities........so if you are a child of a celebrity........how does that make you a celebrity?

All these shows that allow people to vote is not fair. You should not be selected the best dancer just because your friends are voting for you and/or your mother is a major star! This competition should be graded by talent and hard work by judges only.

I have been voting every week for who is the best dancer in my personal opinion because I know what the dance steps involves to all the various ballroom dances. I'm not going to bother anymore! The show is getting ridiculous!

This is already a wonderful Day!

2011-10-04T12:05:00.000-04:00

This is already a wonderful day!. Expect it to get even better!

I received two telephone calls and one email today from close friends that just started some new adventures in their life and some are experiencing different life changes.

Even though some of you are facing new challenges with new jobs or changing careers or letting go of a relationship, we all know how overwhelming and stressful it can get.

There are many interesting and useful things you already know. Expect to learn even more.

You all have successfully navigated through every past challenge. Expect to reap even greater success from the challenges you now face. However, do not let others take advantage of the new kid on the block. Some issues need to be nipped at the bud before it progresses.

There is already great value in your life and in your world. Expect to create even more.

As good as life is, you can make it even richer and more fulfilling. Expect to move forward today and you’ll find a way, no matter what, to make real progress.

If you knew without a doubt that you would get what you expect, what would you expect? Truly expect the best of today and you’ll find those expectations leading you steadily forward.

Best of luck to all of you! I’m praying that you will experience the best of today, tomorrow and the following days thereafter!

When you assert yourself, you make your own Choices. You make room for your confidence to Explode. Practice confident assertion by saying, "Yes" to the things you want to do and, "No" to the things you don't.

Don't be afraid or feel guilty for asserting yourself. You have nothing to lose. You will only become Stronger and more self sufficient, and in turn your Self respect and self worth will shine!

I’m praying for all three of you my special dear ones! I want to see all of you SHINE!

Dreading sitting in the Dentist Chair!

2011-09-13T09:04:00.000-04:00

I’ve always feared the dentist chair due to aggressive dentists which cause unnecessary pain to the patient. I now have to make an appointment again and my heart continues to race. Let’s say, I have extreme case of dental phobia! I’m well aware that my fears are not uncommon and many steer clear of the dentist each year due to anxiety.

I have been letting this dental issue linger longer than I should have and now it’s time to pay the piper!

I got some referrals from friends and found a great woman dentist a few towns away. She was amazing and calmed my fears. She explained to me that new technologies have made dental procedures shorter and state of the art instruments mean less discomfort.

Plus, she stated that the younger dentists today acknowledge patient stress.

Unfortunately, this new found wonderful dentist does not accept Medicare patients or any form of insurance for that matter. With Humana Gold Plus, I’m allowed free cleanings and xrays. That alone is costly. So, I thought I’d try the Humana way and hate to leave the lovely woman dentist that doesn’t hurt me sitting in that “chair”.

Keep flossing everyone!

Don't Let Life Discourage You!

2011-09-04T08:10:00.000-04:00

I had one of those “melt down” days over something stupid!

It started when I left my Silvers Sneakers Class the other morning and this “road rage” poured out of me when I was leaving the parking lot to my gym. I counted seven (7) freaking cars that the drivers did not use their directionals to alert me that they were pulling in the parking lot I was pulling out of…..and yes, they all had their freaking cell phones glued to their ears! That got my blood boiling!

I think if all these Cell Phone users had to take their driver's license test over again, they would all flunk the test! They are all forgetting the rules of the road because they are letting their cell phones distract them!

Yes, I have Bluetooth in my car so I’m fortunate that I don’t have to hold my phone to my ear but I care about my safety and the safety of others that I do not use my cell phone while driving unless it was an emergency.

How many years have we all gone without “cell phones”? Are all these calls really that urgent while driving?

I know there will be days when we all end up having a melt own, freaking out, and going into an emotional tailspin. It’s completely normal, I understand that.

What’s important is, once it’s over, I need to pick up the pieces and regain my composure. My problem is I beat myself up over it because I lost control.

We all expect bad days every once in a while. These days may scare me and upset me, but I realize they are all part of life. A great day is just around the corner!

I just imagine all the great things I could do if I were calm, peaceful, and relaxed while at the same time being highly determined and persistent. Though I often think of determination as stressful, anxious, hard-edged, and I also realize that it does not have to be. In fact, calm determination is every bit as effective as frenzied determination -- in most cases even more effective. And, it is a heck of a lot more enjoyable.

I try real hard to give my best to when my day starts in the morning and give my best to all my efforts and pray that good things will come from it. I know that Hurricane Season here in South Florida is not helping my “feel good” days!

I wish I had more beads to make a pretty necklace or something with my newly found craft making “Fashion Jewelry”. I truly enjoy it and it calms me as well.

We all know what happens when we get older!

2011-08-18T16:08:00.000-04:00

I’ve have not written in a while. My mind has been focused on family members that are ailing with one in a wheelchair suffering with Parkinsons, another sibling that has been falling and losing balance, two others with hip replacements, and one that is bedridden, and one that had a bad fall.

And very recently, my adorable niece just lost her husband and a young age of 55 from cancer. So very sad! All live out of state so I feel helpless living here in Florida and they are all in the Boston area. As you must realize by now that I come from a very large family!

Where have all the years gone that my siblings and myself are getting older and we all know what can happen as we get older: memory loss, aching bones, weight gain, diabetes, heart problems . . . But the real culprits aren't the problems per se; the biological mechanisms that cause them in the first place are. They are called the major agers.

Your genes determine how you age -- and what conditions and diseases you're most vulnerable to getting. You can't change your genes, but you can help control the way they take over your body. I’ve learned to protect myself from sunburn, I quit smoking four and a half years ago and I try to meditate almost every day to reduce my stress, I have become a Vegan (modified) and I exercise.

So…..

STOP SMOKING!

EAT HEALTHY!

EXERCISE!

I purchased a DVD to try Chi Gong, a series of meditative movements that help calm the immune system to reduce chronic inflammation. It really helps me a lot and I continue with my Silver Sneakers Classes at my gym three days a week.

We live in a world with chemicals -- from cars, cleaning products, pesticides on our food and fumes from factories. Some of the toxins make themselves obvious (for instance, they smell bad), but many are colorless or odorless, so you may not notice that they're seeping into your world and your body.

A few years ago, I purchased a floor steamer to steam my tiled floors and my rugs; I’ve also purchased special cleaning cloths to eliminate the constant use of paper towels for cleaning. Going Green is not that hard and it will save you tons of money as well.

I think it is important to detox your home the best you can.

Right now my mind is spinning with so many concerns and foremost the pain my young niece is experiencing right now with her loss. I know only too well that going from widowhood to selfhood is more than coping and overcoming. We are dragged unwillingly into this so-called life passage, as always there will be good days and bad days and all the little inequities that comprise life at any time.

I know that acceptance is the final stage of recovery for widows and when you reach that stage you will be able to function independently and to make a new life. I wish I could lighten her burden but unfortunately, it’s a road one has to travel by yourself to accept the final stage and it is not easy and I say this from experience.

Ready or not, here it comes!

2011-07-23T09:55:00.000-04:00

Whether high tech changes are good or bad depends in part on how we adapt to them. But, ready or not, here they come.

I personally can’t imagine the world without the Post Office but I surely see it coming soon. They are so deeply in financial trouble that there is probably no way to sustain it long term. E-mail, Fed Ex, and UPS have just about wiped out the minimum revenue needed to keep the post office alive. Most of us pay our bills online these days and the mailbox is just filled with junk mail.

The end of reading most Newspapers is coming. I now read mine online. It was just a thing to do after retirement and trying to cut back on expenses. But I have noticed that the younger generation simply doesn't read the newspaper. I do feel bad that so many people will be unemployed because of our new high tech way of life. I still miss the “Milk Man”.

I no longer purchase Magazines either.

No, I have not given up the physical book yet for the “Kindle”. I still love going to my local library to select a few books to read.

I’m considering dropping my landline and just keep my cell phone but I get a little uncomfortable of letting go of it just yet. All the cell phone companies will let you call customers using the same cell provider for no charge against your minutes but then again not everyone is on the same provider!

I’m upset that my CD player stopped working. I had the 6 CD changer which I loved. I have invested a great deal of money on CDs to enjoy my personal selection of music. Try and find a CD player today………….I truly don’t want to buy an IPOD.

But I do miss my music especially when I’m doing my housework or cooking. There is the option for the very expensive "Bose" but who can afford it and it is quite pricey should it breakdown leaving you still searching for a CD player?????

I’m very much aware that most of my prize possessions I own today may not even be around in the future. Today my computer stores my photos, music, graphics, blogs and documents.

We live in a virtual cyberspace world, you can access your music or your books, or your whatever from any laptop or handheld device. You can purchase just about anything you want or need via the computer or your fancy phone. That's the good news.

But, will you actually have any of this "stuff" if it disappears at any moment in a big "Poof?" Will most of the things in our lives be disposable? It makes you want a backup system and pull out that photo album, grab a book from the shelf, or open up a CD case and pull out the insert.

We no longer have privacy…that is gone. It's been gone for a long time. There are cameras on the street, in most of the buildings, and even built into your computer and cell phone. But you can be sure that 24/7, "They" know who you are and where you are, right down to the GPS. We are constantly being put in a position to keep buying the same concept but in a different package over and over again.

As much as I love my computer, the “simple” life was comforting and certainly less expensive. We are left with the memories!

Tips for Staying Young!

2011-07-17T13:01:00.000-04:00

Scams!

2011-06-30T13:08:00.000-04:00

What’s with all the scams on the Internet Lately! Yikes!

First, I get a phone call from a friend to inform me that her computer had been compromised and her contact list was snatched. Well, I did receive an email and many others did as well that she was stranded in Spain and needs money!

Then not that long ago, a family member called me to say that a message keeps flashing on the computer screen “Warning” Your system requires immediate anti-virus scan.” A free scan is offered. What do you do?

Well, I personally saw that flashing message too. I recalled reading somewhere to DO NOT CLICK ON IT ANYWHERE NOT EVEN DO NOT CLICK ON “NO THANKS” AND JUST MANUALLY SHUT DOWN YOUR COMPUTER BY PRESSING THE BUTTON ON YOUR TOWER.

Another solution is to hold down the Control and Alt keys and hit Delete. Once the application tab pops up, select “End Task”. Then always do a full scan on your computer with the anti-virus software you already have. I find it strange that the anti-virus programs we have installed in our computers don’t already detect these scams and throw them into a scam folder immediately. I’m a self-taught computer person and I don’t have all the answers but I try to learn as much as I can.

Just recently as yesterday, I received a Scam that claimed they were from AOL and that I had to provide them with updated information within a certain amount of time otherwise my service would shut down. They asked for usernames and passcodes. Well, I forwarded that email along to AOL for them to try and investigate who was doing this.

Many of us have received scams that look just like it is coming from our banks with their logos. The banks say: they do not email their customers requesting personal information of any kind. And always be warned when you see “Dear Customer” instead of your real name.

How good are you at recognizing a scam or a con? More important, we all have to learn as to what to do to avoid being ripped off or having your identity stolen or being conned out of your money.

Recently, on the News, it was stating that the ATM machines are another scam……….is anywhere safe these days? They said that only after the light flashes should you proceed with entering your PIN, and to cover the keypad to block prying eyes or cameras. I avoid ATM machines altogether. Is life so busy that you can’t go through the drive through or walk straight in to the bank to withdraw funds?

Sad that we have to shred our junk mail or any mail we no longer need. People actually go through the trash bins for personal information. What has this world turned into? Surely, if something is illegal, it is definitely something the con artist is interested in. Heaven forbid these people should work a regular 9-5 job for income instead of stealing it from innocent citizens, who work hard for their paychecks to support themselves and their families.

IrreSISTIble Baubles!

2011-06-26T09:01:00.000-04:00

Fashion jewelry is popular, but it can be expensive to buy. And you can't always find pieces in the colors or styles that you like. There are some pieces you can make that won't cost you a lot, and you can design them specifically for your needs and have fun doing it.

My daughter's girlfriend, who is a newbie to South Florida taught me the basics of making fashion jewelry. She created a "Monster"! I've been living in Bead Shops and researching tips online for tutorials ever since my first lesson. She is a great teacher!

Well, after purchasing the necessary tools to create these amazing pieces of jewelry, I also purchased the desk style magnifying glass which certainly made my life easier.

I started off easy with making my first pair of earrings and then wanted to learn and make more and more.

Recently attended a Bead Show was amazing to see all that is available.

P.S. Thank you to Kathy (from the gym) for naming the title of this Post!

Honey is Sweet but Bees Sting!

2011-06-12T12:27:00.003-04:00

There are two days in every week about which we should not worry, two days which should be kept free from fear and apprehension.

One of these days is Yesterday with all its mistakes and cares, its faults and blunders, its aches and pains. Yesterday has passed forever beyond our control. All the money in the world cannot bring back Yesterday. We cannot undo a single act we performed; we cannot erase a single word we said. Yesterday is gone forever.

The other day we should not worry about is Tomorrow with all its possible adversities, its burdens, its large promise and its poor performance;

Tomorrow is also beyond our immediate control. Tomorrow's sun will rise, either in splendor or behind a mask of clouds, but it will rise. Until it does, we have no stake in Tomorrow, for it is yet to be born.

This leaves only one day, Today. Any person can combat the battle of just one day. Ever notice when you and add the burdens of those two awful eternities Yesterday and Tomorrow that we break down.

It is not the experience of Today that drives a person mad, it is the remorse or bitterness of something which happened Yesterday and the dread of what Tomorrow may bring.

Therefore, I try to live but one day at a time.

Memorial Day Weekend!

2011-05-28T11:31:00.000-04:00

Nothing special to do this weekend, not even a BBQ to attend because a lot of my friends are away for the long weekend, so I headed out to my condo pool.

There are some Craft Festivals going on in Delray tomorrow and I may go to that weather permitting………the forecast is predicting rain for Sunday so that is an iffy thing marked on my calendar!

Wow, just about everyone is on Facebook, Twitter and Bebo and now I understand employees even use it at the office!

It makes me wonder, are all these young professionals hanging out in cyberspace wasting the employer’s time?

This topic came up while I was sitting by my pool today and I got a different perspective on this subject. I was speaking to a businessman that owns a small business. His view was that allowing his employees to use his computers on his dime sometimes was essential to team building and a sense of collective purpose. What purpose?????

He claims he did his research with other employers of small business companies and they feel it can actually increase a workers productivity. Well, you can’t prove that by me. I’m retired now but for 42 years of being in the Legal profession, I didn’t have time to go pee let alone socialize on Facebook while working on the clock! Then again, we didn’t have all this technology 42 years ago either! LOL But we did have it the last 20 years of me being in the workforce.

I feel that allowing this, it opens up portals of communication to the world and can also have serious drawbacks for businesses and most definitely damage to a company’s confidentiality and reputation if employees who post rumors, leak company information and being the office bully to other colleagues. Employees forget that their boss has the capability of reading their emails, so keep your opinions of the company and co-workers to yourself.

But my neighbor said that when he gives his people a deadline and they meet it, he didn’t care how they used their downtime. He actually feels that it makes his employees more loyal and dedicated.

I disagree with this man but that is my personal opinion. If I were the employer and I’m paying someone to work 8 hours a day and that person is spending 4 of those hours on Facebook, I would feel like I’m getting screwed! I’m sure there is always something to do in a busy office! Or at least, make yourself look busy! LOL

One thing is for sure is that Social networking is here to stay! I’ve known that employers check on potential employees behavior just by googling their name or checking to see if they are on Facebook and check out all their photos just to see if they are misbehaving.

I just heard on the News today that the DMV is now allowing young 16 year olds to take their driver’s license test ONLINE! WHAT? What about the “on the road” test? Dah!

You have the draw the line somewhere! What the hell is the Governor of my State thinking?

Have a safe Memorial Day Weekend!

“Shoulda,Coulda, Woulda"

2011-05-08T10:16:00.002-04:00

I’m not always able to stick to my plans every day when looking at my “To Do” list, and heck, I have to accept this fact upfront because it certainly could alleviate a lot of unnecessary stress for myself.

My moods were swinging all over the map the other day rushing to get to the dealership for a repair that was still under warranty yet, I was informed once I got there that the part needed to be ordered. Therefore, I was less likely to follow through on my original agenda for the day, as I have a tendency to be a methodical person and like things done in an orderly fashion.

Once I got home, I received an email from the Dealership that the part had arrived and I could go back to have it put in. Did I forget to mention that my wait turned into four and one half hours! Grrrrrrrr! I don’t even what to go there with the details!

I tried to suppress my feelings so I could remain open to them but I was annoyed that I missed my Silver Sneakers Class because of this.

Maintaining objectivity now became exhausting and my day was unproductive. I kept telling myself that I would feel much better once I gave myself permission to temporarily relinquish control.

So, I went home with my day all screwed up and as usual my phone is always ringing off the wall the minute I put the key in the door.

Do you have friends that continue to ask you questions about things that happened 20 years ago, that perhaps you choose to forget about them? Hmmmm! And, people wonder why I have such severe insomnia??? I don’t want to continue reliving my past…

I try so hard not to focus on the past but to focus on the future instead. When we spend too much time looking back at past events, we get caught up in the “shoulda, coulda woulda,” mental talk.

I’ve learned from my past and I had a hard time of letting it go. Yet, sometimes, people want to keep bringing up painful memories for some reason or another.

Life is best when you can allow what you do to flow directly from who you are. I realized that when my actions are filled with purpose and meaning, they are the ones that create the most value.

Life hands us many different situations and circumstances.

There is a wealth of abundance in the person you are. To fully tap into that abundance, you just gotta let your actions be guided by real and meaningful purpose.

I work hard to allow my efforts to flow from who I am. And, I find that real value will flow from those efforts. I find that energy grows stronger and stronger when I commit to make something meaningful to happen, it truly creates a new source of energy.

Ever notice that what you must have, you suddenly have the ability to acquire and what you must know, you suddenly are able to discover? True intention is not merely a mental exercise. It is a powerful, gut force.

Today is Mother’s Day and I’m anxiously waiting for my son’s visit from Boston.

Happy Mother’s Day to all out there that apply!

The Bathing Suit!

2011-05-06T10:09:00.000-04:00

When I was a teenager in the late 50s, the bathing suit for the mature figure was-boned, trussed and reinforced. They were built to hold back and uplift, and they did a good job.

Today's stretch fabrics are designed for the prepubescent girl with a figure carved from a potato chip.

The mature woman today has a choice, she can either go up front to the maternity department and try on a floral suit with a skirt which made me look like a chubby cheerleader!

What choice did I have? I wandered around, made my sensible choice and entered the chamber of horrors known as the fitting room. The first thing I noticed was the extraordinary tensile strength of the stretch material.

The Lycra used in bathing costumes was developed, I believe, by NASA to launch small rockets from a slingshot, which gives the added bonus that if you manage to actually lever yourself into one, you would be protected from shark attacks. Any shark taking a swipe at your passing midriff would immediately suffer whiplash.

The problem is that modern bathing suits have no bra cups. The mature woman is meant to wear her boobs spread across her chest like a speed bump. I realigned my speed bump and lurched toward the mirror to take a full view assessment.

The bathing suit fitted all right, but unfortunately it only fitted those bits of me willing to stay inside it. The rest of me oozed out rebelliously from top, bottom and sides. I looked like a lump of Playdoh wearing undersized cling wrap.

As I tried to work out where all those extra bits had come from, the prepubescent sales girl popped her head through the curtain, "Oh, there you are," she said, admiring the bathing suit. I replied that I wasn't so sure and asked what else she had to show me.

I struggled into so many bathing suits that I got so exhausted. I tried on a pretty black bathing suit with such a high cut leg I thought I would have to wax my eyebrows to wear it!

Finally, I found a suit that fitted; a poka dot, sarong style with a loose blouse-type top. It was bulge-friendly, so I bought it but still not happy but when you live in South Florida and most pools have chlorine, it ruins the bathing suits fast.

Most complexes now are transforming their pools to salt water which is better for your skin and cheaper to maintain. Wish my Condo Association would step up to the plate and make the change over but I doubt it.

So, if you happen to be on the beach or near any other body of water this year and I'm there too, I'll be the one in a long wrap coverup.

May Your Cup Runneth Over!

2011-04-12T12:58:00.000-04:00

Now that I am older and celebrated another birthday at the beginning of the year, time seems so quickly to pass, but each day is a gift to enjoy as long as it lasts. Seems only a short time ago that we celebrated Christmas day, then New Year’s Day and now Easter is almost here and I hardly know what to say! I would like to write something profound, but where do I begin?

I recently attended an all-Women’s “Tea and Testimonies” at a Community Church which a member of my gym invited me to. It was lovely and each table was decorated in fine china and each table had a different theme going on. All the ladies wore dresses and wearing hats (the one thing they forgot to tell me about) the hats! LOL

At the entrance stood a lovely young lady dressed in an all white paper dress. I thought it was a statue at first until she moved!

I’ve been spending less time at the pool lately…for one thing, it is too damn hot out there and the other, I’m waiting for all the snowbirds to go home so I can enjoy the pool all to myself again!

I also received an Invitation to a Champagne and Truffles Mixer for this week! Looking forward to that. This should be interesting.

Since I’m retired now, I have more time on my hands to think more………well, with my insomnia; my head is always twirling and thinking. I think that I spend a lot of time every day to recognize what I’m grateful for and it helps me keep things in perspective. Gratitude carries me through the tough times, and gives me the strength to surpass the stress of challenges. Well, that seems to work for me.

I surely would sleep better if I would let my mind rest a bit.

My thoughts reflect on my family and friends and where I’m currently living so far away from them. I receive great satisfaction that my children give me with just a simple phone call or email. I’m blessed with many phone calls from friends and many laughs I share with my children.

I find myself focusing more on my health lately as it seems after my recent fall and then a weird allergy reaction while at the gym, I find myself concerned about my health and mental or physical attributes. I’m guessing I’m not the only senior citizen that thinks about these things now. Well, I know these thoughts never entered my mind before that Medicare Card arrived in my mailbox! LOL

Looking back at small and large moments – the affection of family, and what I consider my success in the garden of a growing gratitude. These are all things that nourish my gratitude. And, gratitude makes life worth living!

Life is good!

Dollar Signs flash in front of my face!

2011-03-29T12:58:00.000-04:00

When did you last clean out your closet? I try to prepare myself mentally first. Dollar signs flash in front of my face when I look at all those impulse buys that never worked, the outfits with tags still on them and I finally retired those too-tight jeans that I knew would never fit into again.

Does everyone have three sizes in their closet? Whew, felt good to get rid of the “too big” sizes was the only time I felt wonderfully cleansed and organized after losing 20 pounds. But the regret that I can’t fit into the much smaller sizes…ugh. Means, more days at the gym and less calorie intake!

Let’s not even get on the topic of “Shoes”. It hurts that I can no longer wear my beautiful high heels. Love, love my shoes. I don’t want to wear Granny shoes and I’m too short to wear flats……..way to unflattering for me! I got rid of all the stilettos but I will hold on to my 3” heels and wedges.

Why is it that I filled up 5 trash bags and it doesn’t even look like I made a dent in my closet? I have a walk-in closet and no storage space, so I think it looks cluttered because the bottom part of my closet is for luggage, boxes of stuff that I don’t know where to put……….ugh. Things I don’t want to part with for some reason.

I know I can't part with my "Time Capsule" box filled with many memories, so that's a keeper.

I need a good mental cleanse to get rid of some old memories that cause the guilt, fears, doubts, and images that no longer need to rent space in my head and my closet.

I try to imagine the accomplishment of letting go of STUFF!

Why do we hold on to STUFF?

Don't Forget Daylight Savings Time this Weekend!

2011-03-10T15:01:00.000-05:00

The Daylight Saving Time 2011 time change is fairly simple:

Most anything computerized, from a cell phone to a laptop, jumps ahead on its own. Watches and clocks need to be reset manually, so we can inevitably forget to change one and confuse ourselves the next day. And, I always forget to reset my clock in the car!

Why can't we just leave the clocks on Daylight Savings all the time?

Mardi Gras!

2011-03-05T12:32:00.008-05:00

"Mardi Gras" means "Fat Tuesday." Traditionally, it is the last day for Catholics to indulge—and often overindulge—before Ash Wednesday starts the sober weeks of fasting that come with Lent.

I recall my husband telling me stories of his trips to New Orleans when he was young with his buddies and other fun-seekers to celebrate the festivies there in their grand scale with colorful parades in such a party-loving city. He also was celebrating his birthday as well.

I personally have never been to New Orleans have you?

After watching the devastation of hurricane Katrina slam into New Orleans at the end of August 2005, I was surprised that within a few months the city decided that Mardi Gras would go on. Kudos to all that made it possible!

Fortunately, they had safely stored their parade floats before the hurricane. Some of the most popular parade routes, including St. Charles and Magazine Streets, were spared in the storm. For after-parade decadence, the French Quarter also emerged relatively unscathed.

Decisions, Decisions!

2011-02-13T10:14:00.000-05:00

I had a week filled with many decisions to make. I needed new eyeglasses and I think I should have taken a friend with me that would give me an honest opinion selecting new frames but I didn’t want to impose on a friend’s time, so I did it alone like all the other times. I selected the frameless glasses. I like them but the Progressive lenses are a pain to get used to. It is not my first pair of Progressive either.

I fussed with the position of my computer monitor, my chair and even enlarged the font. Heck, I should not have to enlarge the font with new glasses! I’m still very annoyed with these new futta, futta, glasses!

I was told by the eye doctor that I have to wear them all the time now instead of just for reading and computer……Ugh! I’m trying to be a good patient and wear them for a week like I was told and try to get used to them…………but damn……the fine print is still hard to read, if I got a new script to improve my vision………I should be able to read it with no effort! The only good feature that I selected that I like is the transitional so they turn into sunglasses when outdoors which allows me to read a book by the pool with comfort.

More decisions, I still have to have a handyman come in my house to do some work and two reasons are stopping me, one being financial and the other, I’m not sure what choice to make replacing a mirrored wall with what color paint and I’m sure the wall will need some repair as well so I’m told? I obtained several estimates and took a step further and contacted the Licensing Bureau to make sure the companies are insured as taking down a wall of mirror could be dangerous if the person got hurt, I don’t need someone slapping me with a lawsuit. Well, as it turned out, one company did not have insurance or workmen’s comp so took him off the list………………Ugh……………Sigh!

When I find myself facing a complex decision, I have to do a balancing act and weigh what is truly important to me. It may sound selfish, but it’s not. It is essential for me to make the best possible choices. In the past, I remember when most of these similar decisions needed to be addressed, my husband used to make for me or when I lived in New England, my brother-in-law and nephews would all lend a helping hand and I never had to pay for labor. I always had help and now facing all my decisions solo gives me reason for concern.

I hate when someone pressures me to make a decision that I’m not sure of. I may start out with the best intentions but I need to be motivated to carry it out, and may live with regret of my decision because I didn’t think it out thoroughly. I don’t like being pressured.

More decisions, my Primary Care doctor left it up to me regarding when I can go back to my Silver Sneakers Class after my knee injury. I was hoping she would give me a time frame as to how long she thinks it may take to heal????????????????? I tried going back the other day and it was too painful……….Yeah, that told me I needed to rest up some more………I miss my classes. I miss the gang there too. Getting cabin fever.

I guess self-awareness is the key to how the best decisions are made.

You are on the top of my list for Valentine's Day!

2011-02-12T13:10:00.000-05:00

On Valentine’s Day,

when I think of the people

I care about and value,

you are at the top of the list.

Like a rainbow

glistening through the rain,

like a glowing green spring

after a cold gray winter,

you are a joy and a delight.

Like a good book, a cozy fire,

or a cup of cocoa (with marshmallows),

you are a comfort to me.

I appreciate you.

~By Joanna Fuchs~

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Get real picky - really picky!

2011-02-05T13:26:00.000-05:00

Be picky. I have always set high standards for myself and I don't settle for less. It starts with self-respect. Respecting others is very important as well. All goes hand in hand of what your mother taught you. I don’t believe there are mothers out there teaching their children to be disrespectful bullies and complete morons!

I stopped reading boring emails that say it might have something in it you need to see, or watching violent nightly News that leaves me feeling helpless and afraid. I could care less about the celebrity sightings; they only make you feel like everyone else is living a great life but you. Nope. No good!

Who cares what celebrities are doing, what they are wearing, who is cheating on who….who gives a damn? They are all landing in Rehab these days so all that wealth and fame is not doing them any good. And get over the Designer clothes. I wear what I like…

I do admit most times when I look at the label, it might have a designer name in it but it was selected because my eyes liked the garment first and not the label.

Years ago, before retirement, I learned to stop listening to the latest drama story at work or to the friend who's been complaining about the same damn thing for years. Ugh.

It's exhausting and it's creating a pathway that leads to nowheresville. We have all had that kind of friend in our lifetime. Time to dump them! Seriously! Enough with them having pity parties on your time and dragging you down into depression.

I learned to get real picky - really picky! I also remembered what my mother told me about selecting my friends. I also applied this theory to who I select for my doctors, my hairdressers, my dentist, where I shop for groceries and also department stores.

Be Picky! I select quality organic foods to put in my body and I also like a bargain like everyone else. I’m not ashamed to cut out coupons and see the savings at the end of that receipt. I also like the coupons for the department stores for the discounts and check for online coupons as well before making a purchase. Don’t forget to check for the free shipping and handling!

We have all experienced moments in life, when we feel burdened by situations beyond our control. Perhaps there is a serious situation or the threat of a layoff, or a rebellious child or grandchild - whatever the major issue is……….we have no choice but to feel pressure and completely overwhelmed by the weight of it all. Yikes!

I would rather take a good book out to lunch than a friend who's made "woe is me" her personal motto for life. And, that possessive friend that hates it when you spend time with other friends. What’s up with that???? Dumb!

After becoming a Widow, I have read many inspirational books whenever I felt the need for a good dose of "feel good" thoughts. The libraries allow you to hold onto that book longer than they used to and you can make this request online now if you decide you need two more weeks! Cool Beans!

As a matter of fact just recently, a dear classmate, friend recently recommended a great book titled “The Last Time I Saw You” ~ by Elizabeth Berg ~ Recommending a book to read came at the right time while I'm still nursing my injured knee from my fall and waiting for it to mend. It is a novel about women and men reconnecting with one another—and themselves—at their 40th high school reunion.

My gym has turned my life around. I don’t just do boring machine routines. Different exercise classes makes me enjoy exercising! It is also nice meeting new friends at the gym. A variety of friends is a good thing. Well, right now, my injured knee has put my gym classes on hold until I mend.

(Mama was right - you do become the people you hang around with ) Good friends are very important to have in your life.

A good life starts with good thoughts.

Practice Mindfulness!

2011-01-30T14:20:00.000-05:00

I recently fell in my house! I was on my way out the door and went back inside to make sure I turned off my curling iron.

It is always off but for some reason, I have to double check every time. Well, I slipped and fell and took a Dixie on my shiny, hard, tiled floors in the hallway and came down real hard on my right knee! Ouch!

I was in a hurry to get o my Pedicure Appointment that I have been looking forward to since I received a gift certificate for my birthday at the beginning of the month from a dear friend for this Pedi at Susanne’s, so I was anxious to be on time. I’m always on time no matter where I go so there was no reason to be in a hurry in the first place.

Well, it hurt lifting my foot from the gas pedal to the brake pedal while driving to my destination. When I got there, I went in the back room to pull down my jeans to see the damage….Ugh. Nasty, swollen, red, skin peeling……….Ouch!

Suzanne only has a small tiny fridge and only had cans of “Coke” to apply to my knee. Thank goodness only all girls were there as I sat in my bloomers with a towel wrapped around me from the waist down! Not a pretty sight! Jeans are too tight to roll up above the knee so they had to come off so I could feel the cold from the cans of Coke. Oh my.........LOL

My toenails sure look pretty but I was in great discomfort. The two glasses of wine helped! I couldn’t wait to get home and apply ice to my knee.

LG, I’ll remember that you declined to buy a bag of frozen peas for my injury because it was a $1.69 for such a small bag! Hehehhehe

I called my doctor the following morning and she reminded me that I have to practice mindfulness, as many trips and falls happen when we’re in a hurry or not thinking about what we’re doing.

She told me to practice focusing all of my attention on what I’m doing when walking and watch where I place my feet and to pay attention to the journey and avoid thinking about the destination…..even if you are only walking from the bedroom to the kitchen.

Same applies when outside, watch for tree roots, uneven pavement, garbage, slippery leaves, fallen branches, etc.

Yikes, I got the talk! The talk given to most older seniors!...Sigh!

Government Monopoly!

2011-01-16T07:50:00.000-05:00

Our Society continues to get worse!

I have learned throughout the years to never talk about politics, religion, etc. because it only opens up an venue for a heated argument with others, as we all have different views and opinions but lately, even if I try to avoid the News on TV, it is boldly hitting me on my Welcome screen on my computer the first thing in the morning.

I know now why my insomnia continues to get worse; it is because I stay awake to watch the 11:00 PM News filled with senseless tragedies like the most recent shootings in Arizona. It leaves my mind filled with horror and rents space in my head for days because of all the updates that follow on our daily News.

So, they lock up the crazy 22 year old and the taxpayers have to pay some 20 odd years for him to be in prison. I find something wrong with this theory.

What a waste of money for all these prisoners that are eating free, a roof over their heads free, free water, free gyms, free education, free representation. Makes me sick especially to the ones that killed innocent people.

Then we have to hear all about the local politicians who point fingers of disdain at corrupt public officials yet the people continue to elect them over and over again.

We need to become a civilized society again. We have to have the ability to disagree without being disagreeable.

We are an intelligent bunch, I’m sure the politicians can meet on common ground. We don’t have any other options, yet we have these stubborn idiots that get paid well, fly on private jets, have the best healthcare and even get free expensive haircuts on our dime! Hmmmmmmmm! Sounds like they get special treatment like the prisoners! Why do we treat prisoners and politicians like royalty?

Frazzled!

2011-01-08T12:27:00.000-05:00

I learned to recognize that things are what they are, regardless of perceptions. I have to accept things as they are and not as I want them to be but I’m stubborn and I find it hard to accept certain things “just the way they are”. Strange, sometimes we welcome change and other times change takes us out of our comfort zone.

I try to check-in with myself now and then to see if these perspectives are working for me. I recently checked in my own radar system and said to myself…. I will never be alone on Christmas ever again. As I get older, I have to learn to gain greater inner control and smooth out the rocky road of life!

We have all heard Financial Planners on TV such as Suzie Orman say: Pay yourself first. Well, I think this theory applies to other things such as: Be good to yourself, trust yourself, know what you want and need. Put yourself first! I need to let my feelings be known. My feelings are important.

My girlfriend and I were discussing “feeling important” not that long ago.

Every time I need something, I talk myself out of it. Even if I can’t have it, it’s ok to need. Where there’s a will, there’s a way! We both agreed that we have to transform frustration into an achievement.

Then I learned to get some perspective and step back and look objectively at the reasons why I get frustrated. I zeroed in and focused seriously on this matter and came to the conclusion that I don’t feel important.

Perhaps the distance between me and my family due to living in different states is the cause…….you know “out of sight, out of mind”. I was dwelling on the closeness I had for years yet now seems to be vanishing away and it scares me the older I get.

I know my frustrations were telling me something. I just had to find it and bring it to life and express my feelings. My mind was all over the map jumping from one issue to another. Gosh, I was a total mess over Christmas all because I was alone. It is terrible to be alone for Christmas. I come from a very large family and I was never alone.

So, with nothing to do that day, as all my friends were jetsetting to visit their family, it only made me dwell on my “To Do” List and that most things on that list I don’t know how to do! Sometimes, things just become overwhelming for an older women to do things around the house and handle repairs and make decisions and then try to figure out how the hell am I going to pay for this????

I was a little upset with myself because when I was younger, I was able to handle these matters that pop up but the older I get, I get the crazies trying to methodically find the right contractor, or can just a handyman take care of these freaking issues.

I remember when I was able to paint, wallpaper and dance around a 6’ ladder with ease. Well, I fell off of that freaking ladder not once but twice so NO MORE ladders for me so hence, no can do repairs nor do I want to do them either! Enough of this, when does it ever end?

They say: Life is what you make it. No one is responsible for your happiness, sadness or success. No one but you. Yes, you! We all have to take complete responsibility for ourselves and our choices we make are the ones that the allows us all to take that journey toward personal fulfillment.

I am well aware that accepting responsibility without excuses, frees your power to achieve. I know I'm responsible for my own wellbeing footprint! But no one told me it all becomes more difficult to do all this stuff when you are alone and older!

OK….that venting felt good for a while! Oh the stress! This rocky road has so many obstacles to climb.

Oh, and I won’t even discuss the new computer issues and troubleshooting, reading and more reading. Researching and more researching. I’m exhausted….where is that bottle of wine?

Whereas, Windows 7 has some nice features but I really liked my XP, it also seemed faster.

Things to Ponder About!

2010-12-26T13:14:00.000-05:00

~ I ponder about what will be on that list for us to say goodbye to at the end of 2010?

That list of people, brands and products and companies that have been a part of our lives for many years. I know my car is on that list that they no longer make anymore. My old computer will be on that list too, as XP…….. I think was everyone’s all-time favorite. Vista didn’t cut it so I’m grateful to now have the Windows 7. It is taking some time getting used to as I am one of those XP lovers.

~ A friend once mentioned to me that she designated me to clear her computer history if something should happen to her!

~ Nothing is more embarrassing than that moment during an argument when you realize you are wrong.

~ We all need a sarcasm font don’t you think?

~ What’s this I hear, they are not teaching the kids how to write in cursive in schools?

~ Bad decisions make interesting stories to tell.

~ I wish Google Maps had an “Avoid Ghetto” routing option.

~ Gosh, I love technology but it’s getting expensive to keep up. Can we all agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray and IPad? Enough already! And, I love the stuff but it is getting to be overkill!

~ I still find it difficult to fold a fitted sheet properly……..don’t you?

~ Obituaries should include how the person died.

~ Families should get together more often. Life is too short!

~ Every state should outlaw texting while driving and walking on the sidewalk bumping into people and trees! And, also that cell phone glued to their ears while driving is very distracting. I get so furious especially when I see a car seat with a baby in it while Mom is texting away or chatting away. Don’t they care about safety?

~ Restaurants should outlaw cell phones ringing and annoying others that are trying to enjoy their dinner but instead are forced to listen to other people chatting away. Come on people, where are your manners?

~ Companies should be fined when they leave automated messages on your phone!

~ How come every time I exit out of my “Word” document, they ask if you want to save your changes when you have not made any???? But, be careful, it will change the date on your document if you click “yes”.

~ What do you ponder about?

Happy New Year 2011

2010-12-25T10:27:00.000-05:00

Hugs, Rose

Christmas E-Mail

2010-12-18T11:52:00.001-05:00

I have a list of people I know, all logged in my computer, and now at Christmas time I have gone to take a look.

And that is when I realize that these names are a part, not of the computer they're stored in, but of my heart.

For each name stands for someone who has crossed my path sometime, and in that meeting they've become the rhythm in each rhyme.

And while it sounds fantastic for me to make this claim, I feel that I'm composed of each remembered name.

And whether I have known you for many years or few, in some way you have been a part of shaping things I do.

And now that Christmas has come, I realize anew, The best gift life can offer is having friends like you.

Old Friends!

2010-12-02T23:10:00.005-05:00

All through school, my friends and I all lived in a constant proximity to our age peers and made friends almost without effort. Later on, especially after marriage, many of us grew apart and failed to renew. Then we found each other again and what a joy for all of us!

Old friends can cheer us up, provide a sense of community and continuity, share memories because they new our parents, rejoiced in our triumphs and commiserate in our sorrows.

I’m blessed that I have renewed my long dear friendships from elementary school to high school until today! I also do a separate blog just for them. Yes, I’m blessed. We are such a special bunch for sure! We share what is going on in our lives and we genuinely care about each other.

It’s unrealistic to believe that one friend can meet all our needs. A few treasured friends and some if we are lucky are relatives too adding richness to our lives and we share decades of memories together.

Other friends enter our lives for a reason and then they are gone. But even brief friendships can have a purpose and value. As vital as good friends are, less than good friends can suffocate you and may need to be jettisoned.

There are no friends like old friends who knew you “when”….knew your parents and siblings and matured into adulthood with you. So, if you miss your old friends from the old neighborhood, why not look them up and have a get together. I just had one last October with my Forever Friends and had a blast. Some travel from other states like I did for these luncheons and some still live in the old neighborhood. Oh, the memories and the pleasure it is to see them all again. They are like mini reunions.

Fortunately for me, I visit the old neighborhood at least twice a year because my family still lives there so I have the opportunity to see my friends during my visits. Our 50th Reunion will be in 2012. Oh my, where did all those years go?

How many of you still keep in contact with friends you had from school days?

Try tracking down long lost friends by either looking on the Internet through Google or other search engines…….try Classmates.com or Facebook and you will be amazed of all the long lost friends you will find. Go to your Reunions and have a blast from the past.

I’m blessed having my Forever Friends in my life. They mean a lot to me even though we are miles apart. I wish I were traveling up north for the holidays but my budget is tight and I’m in need of a new puter so perhaps I’ll go up again when I find a reasonable airfare.

I will miss seeing my children and family and the snow at Christmas time. Remember sticking your tongue out to lick the snowflakes coming down? It just doesn’t feel like Christmas here in Florida……never did. Plus, Santa wears shorts down here!

Giving Thanks!

2010-11-12T14:09:00.002-05:00

A dear blogger friend, (DB) wrote the following in one of his posts recently:

“I once worked for a chef. One day during a slow period we all sat down to have lunch. The chef ladled out a bowl of soup for himself. Then he took a slice of bread out of a package in the refrigerator. He normally baked bread in the morning but for lunch he would use store bought bread. I watched him as he carefully studied that slice, turning it over in his hands a few times.”

“I asked him if he thought there was something wrong with the bread. He said there was nothing wrong with it, and then he talked about American farmers, wheat fields, the big machinery that harvested the wheat and left it in windrows to be picked up, put into a truck and taken to where it was processed into flour. He told about how the flour would be poured into large cloth or hardy paper sacks, loaded onto trucks and delivered to consumers.”

After reading DB’s post on his blog, my mind kept thinking about it every time I made myself a sandwich. It rented space in my head. Do we just give thanks only on Thanksgiving?

Now, it makes me think every time I eat a meal and recognize the dozens of people who did hard work to get food to your table…..the farmers, the grocery store clerks, the friends and relatives or restaurant chef who transforms raw vegetables into a bowl of delectable soup or side dishes.

During my last trip to Boston and while having lunch with 20 of my dearest friends at a local restaurant, one of our friends (Joanne Nardone) said grace before the meal. We all agreed that her words were absolutely lovely and coming from the heart.

Saying grace with a group of people around the table suggests not only the grazie of thanksgiving but also the calm, gracious elegance of living fully and well. Something we all don’t take the time to do.

I know I don’t find grace rushing around, gobbling down food, eating over the sink or eating too fast and polishing off a meal in 5 minutes.

I now try to sit down to eat all my meals and say a small prayer all my by myself to give thanks that transforms a meal for one into an act of celebration, focus, gratitude and Giving Thanks!

Oh, and thanks to “DB” for my thoughts while preparing this Post.

Veteran's Day!

2010-11-09T19:59:00.000-05:00

November 11th

Veterans's Day honors all members of the Armed Forces who who served this country valiantly, and in a very big way. They served and fought to protect us, to keep our country safe, and to preserve our way of life. Veterans gave their time, and risked their lives for you and me. In some cases, they made the ultimate sacrifice.

The brave men and women who serve and protect the U.S. come from all walks of life; they are parents, children and grandparents. They are friends, neighbors and coworkers, and an important part of their communities.

We are all proud of all who served our country. I have five (5) brothers: two were in the Air Force and three were in the Army. I remember, as a young girl how I prayed for them every night. It was a joyous time when they all returned home!

Add a habit of success to your life!

2010-10-30T12:36:00.001-04:00

Whatever you do again and again turns into a habit just like putting on your seatbelts which is a great habit! My habits have a profound effect on the quality of my life. The last 10 months have proven that to me without a doubt.

My horrible lab work results at the beginning of the year has drastically changed my habits! My eating habits, exercise habits and total lifestyle has changed with one blood work results that was so frightening and continued to get worse every two weeks and blood was drawn repeatedly out of concern.

I was feeling fine on the outside other than some weight I have gained during the last four years or so. I learned to control my actions and habits and chose what I had to stop doing and develop a new and healthy way of life or things would turn grim. I thought just my exercise in the pool was enough cardio but I was wrong……..need a lot more than that.

Though you can’t get rid of bad habits overnight, you can indeed choose and control them. I added so many new life changes and I certainly got rid of so many destructive ones that dramatically improved my life. I believe I was scared enough to do as I was told by my doctor. It took 10 long months to see improvements but they finally came. Thank goodness!

The Vegan Diet is the most difficult to do for me. I’m now allowed just a few things back like fish but still NO meat, dairy and grainy stuff like bread and crackers. Just eating fruits and veggies is boring but I have learned to make some new recipes that I enjoy some and some I don’t but I have programmed my head to be strict with myself. I didn’t say it would be easy!

I couldn’t believe that even small little habits made big differences. Because each time you do it, you steadily add more power to it. I added two more days to the gym. I now eat breakfast and lunch which I seldom ate………not to lose weight, I was just never a breakfast person and I was always running around at lunchtime doing errands but I now make it a must to eat breakfast and lunch. Actually, by not eating those two meals was causing me not to lose weight!

Think of what you can do, beginning right now to rid of an addiction. We get addictive to certain foods just like over the counter drugs or smoking or alcohol or any other addictive destructive things…………..Don’t wait until you become a senior citizen to start changing your life. Your quality of life will be so much better………trust me! Keep in mind, your environment, selection of friends and choices of certain social activies can create bad habits!

I recall feeling like an outcast four years ago when I was the only one still smoking when all of my friends have stopped. Now, I'm with the "In" crowd and on the right track! I'm praying that some will kick the habit......you know who I'm talking about!

A dear friend recently gave me the recipe for WW muffins made with pumpkin. Well, they tasted so good but were personally very addictive to me! I did not have the willpower to have a dozen of these delicious things in my house so I had to give them to a neighbor! LOL I'm still craving them like I did the cigs when I stopped smoking so habits in all forms become addictive!

I got those new “Rocker” sneakers on sale for $32.00. A fraction of the cost than the New Balance or other brandnames that cost $100. First, let me start by saying that I was very skeptical and was an extreme doubter of the hype of this shoe. Such a weird shape and profile can really set anyone on the path of apprehension. But they certainly force you to stand up straighter and align your spine. You have to get used to them at first and be super careful. I love them now! You definitely feel the burn in the back of your legs after a long walk or a Silver Sneakers Class routine! I only wear them for walking and a workout.

P.S. There was an 80 year old lovely lady in KMart that was wearing these Therashoe sneakers.....that sold it for me! LOL If she could handle the Rocker, then I knew I could do it too!

Add a habit of success to your life!

Hugs, Rose

My Trip to Boston October, 2010!

2010-10-20T10:36:00.000-04:00

I just got back from visiting my children, family and friends in Boston. I had a fabulous time and couldn’t request better weather for New England breathing in cool, crisp air with the exception of the last day or so when a nor’easter approached! Brrrrrrrrrrr!

Yes, I was on the MTA with the trains and buses and the homeless people sleeping on the benches. Brought back memories of the days I went to work everyday in Boston. It is an amazing city. I truly miss it. My daughter and I had a fabulous day and met Rhonda for lunch.

Every time I go back in to the city…….there are new changes that I have not seen from the trip before.

My son cut and colored my hair and did his magic to make me look 10 years younger!

I’m happy I had the opportunity to visit with a sister who is ill and other siblings as well. I have such a large family and I don’t rent a car so it is so hard for me to see everyone during each trip.

I was disappointed not to be able to see one brother that was rushed to the hospital the day that was planned for a get together. The matter is under control now.

I had a blast with my classmate Forever Friends. I don’t believe I know anyone else that still is in contact with their classmates from childhood and all the way through high school and still have such a close friendship with a 50th Reunion approaching in the year 2012. We had a lovely luncheon at DeMaino’s Restaurant in which is one of my favorite restaurants.

And, my dear friend, Nina drove a long distance to have breakfast with me the day before my departure. I have the best friends in Boston and here in South Florida!

On my return flight home, oh my, I was taken out of the line at the airport to go through that new security machine that can see through your undies! And a women in uniform still patted me down………………Ugh!

I met very interesting people on my flight to Boston……a women doctor and her husband and during my flight back, a gentleman originally from Newton, MA that knew some of the same people I know. So both my flights did not require me to dig into a book and get focused on anything but the flight. I’m not the best flyer!

I had the pleasure of seeing my son again here in South Florida as he flew down two days before me to surprise me. Rhonda and Brian came too. We had dinner together last night and they surprised me with boxes of lovely gifts. They are tanned already! People who live in Florida year round stay out of the sun.

I thought I took care of everything before leaving for my trip…….you know, the “need-to’s,” “have-to’s,” and “ought-to’s,” yet, I somehow forgot a few things! LOL

I spent the first day getting my bills up to date, then sending off a card I forgot to send and the endless phone calls to return and the numerous emails to open……sigh, now my vision is clear!

Living away from my hometown for 21 years now, circumstances have changed, and with change there is great challenge. And with that challenge comes opportunity. With each change, new positive possibilities are born. It is hard to put your energy, your awareness and your creativity into figuring out what those possibilities mean.

One thing you can always count on is that the world will change. And even in the difficult changes, there is value to be found. I will try to be ready and willing to uncover that value, and hope to make the most of it. And no matter what happens, I’ll always have the ability to get where I decide to go or need to be. Decisions always need to be made daily.

It is great to be away for a while but always feels good to be back in your own bed! I missed my make-up mirror the most! LOL I can't see in a normal mirror. I need that magnifying side that allows me to put my eye make-up on to perfection! At my age, my eyes are not what they used to be.

The time went by so fast, I can't believe I'm home already! A special thanks to my children who spoiled me rotten!

Meditate! (I am)

2010-10-05T13:03:00.000-04:00

You only live once. And, it doesn’t hurt to think of this, from time to time. The worst thing would be to look back on your life, wishing you could have been happier or done more. Unfortunately, I allow too much junk to rent space in my head. I try hard to let go of unpleasant things but sometimes it is not easy. There are many things I would love to change right now but with today’s economy, it has put a halt to my plans.

Recently, I learned how to meditate. For years, I found it difficult to do and a dear friend gave me Meditation CD and it did not work for me but watching Dr. Oz one day and Deepak-Chopra was a guest on the show. Deepak-Copra also provided a video on how to meditate.

http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/deepak-chopra-meditation

Just click on the blue lettering to view

Whoooooooooohooooooooooo, it worked! I have to turn on the video each day for it to work for me. I can’t do it alone like most people.

Now is the time to take a good look at your life and make changes so that you have no regrets.

We all know time flies by too quickly. The days, weeks, months, and years slip away. I’m getting older and I feel like time is passing me by. I need to make some changes to allow and create more joyful memories back into my life, so I can look back with no regrets.

I found that Meditation allows me to go deep into my thoughts about events, people, etc. Deep down inside there is a longing to explore and to express more of myself. It requires a lot of solitude time and deep concentration to let go of certain things and allow other things into my life. Sort of like the “Law of Attraction”.

There is plenty of joy to be lived in this moment. I have now learned how to turn the uniqueness of the moment to help me discover new ways of enjoying life's real pleasures.

Hope the Meditation site helps you as well.

Values!

2010-09-25T10:10:00.000-04:00

Being raised by strict Italian parents and a Catholic upbringing and coming from a very large family of 12, I pretty much had clear standards and values set out for me.

My foundation was set in stone and I never had to doubt or second guess myself until I became an adult and questioned a lot of things in my life.........all the whys?????? due to all the restrictions from my religion and my Italian heritage.

I lived with a lot of hand-me-downs and clothes and shoes that did not fit me properly all through childhood and high school, so of course, I went overboard starting with my first job to make a promise to myself that I would have the finest shoes and outfits! I loved "payday" !

Ah, the days of Filene's Basement in Boston that allowed me the Designer clothes for a fraction of the retail cost!

When I became a parent, I then learned to realize and practice my own beliefs with high levels of self-confidence and esteem and doing what was best for me and my family. I didn't allow my religion to dictate my life and I didn't allow some old fashioned Italian beliefs to put a strain on me. I'm still Catholic but not so in fear of my religion as I was when a child. I love my Italian heritage but some strictness was overbearing and unnecessary.

I believe that family comes first above all. My values are still in embedded in my mind from my upbringing but with my own personality thrown in the mix.

I taught my children to be caring, respectful and trustworthy; they have turned out to be responsible adults.

I'm one proud Mama!

In Memory of September 11, 2001

2010-09-09T21:39:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, September 11th, 2010, an American flag should be displayed outside every home, apartment, office, and store in the United States . Every individual should make it their duty to display an American flag on this anniversary of one of our country's worst tragedies. We do this to honor those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those who today are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedoms.

In the days, weeks and months following 9/11, our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, those flags have all but disappeared. Our patriotism pulled us through some tough times and it shouldn't take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity. Our American flag is the fabric of our country and together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds.

Action Plan:

So, here's 2 suggestions

(1) Take a moment to think back to how you felt on 9/11 and let those sentiments guide you.

(2) Fly an American flag of any size on 9/11

God Bless You and God Bless America!

Music is the soundtrack of my life!

2010-09-02T19:26:00.001-04:00

From a young age, I recall that music can move the soul. It can be a very strong influence. Some music can calm me down; some music can make me feel lively and wild! Music definitely affects all of us in some way!

Music is used in a variety of ways. It is used in the medical field as a source of research and as a sort of therapy as well. Music has been used as therapy for seizures, to lower blood pressure, aid in healing, and treat stress and insomnia. I remember a dentist once put earphones on me to listen to music for a lengthly procedure. Ever notice how parents always sing lullabies to their infant children.

The tune of "Happy Birthday", for example, conjures images of birthday occasions and memories and we all understand how music becomes embedded in courtship and romance. A piece of music heard even just once might be forever glued to a personal sense of place with detailed memories. What was your choice of wedding song as you walked the aisle? How was the theme of your high school prom played, by a live band or on a CD? What songs do you find most exciting or sad?

How come most country tunes are sad?

What song did you select from the Jukebox?

Music can unlock and evoke powerful religious emotion. The church has a centuries-old history of music in worship. The churches now incorporate more modern tunes in their chapels.

We all listen to music when in our cars that’s for sure.

I, personally love to put on a CD when cooking my Sunday gravy listening to Jimmy Rosselli and all the Italian songs. I listen to other tunes when cleaning the house that makes me move faster! LOL Then I like it when the house is quiet with no music at all.

And, I can’t wait to start my new Zumba class with loud, wild Latin music and fast steps. Even Richard Simmons helped many lose weight with “Sweatin’ to the Oldies”. Dancing with the Stars put out a Cardio Dance DVD doing the Cha-Cha, Samba, Paso Doble and Jive………Maksim is nice eye candy too and for you guys out there, Ashly and Kym are pretty amazing too! LOL

I always wanted to learn how to play the piano but never did. Yeah, I think music is a big influence on ALL!

Can you play a musical instrument?

I remember one of my brother's took lessons for the Clarinet. I remember I liked the taste of the reed which was this wooden thing near the mouthpiece and had an unusual scent. LOL

And, we all can't forget the impact Elvis left on all of us! I have a girlfriend that is so crazy about him until this day.

Wow! We women hoard our makeup products!

2010-08-19T12:33:00.001-04:00

Wow, I was cleaning out my makeup drawer and dollar signs appeared before my eyes realizing I spend a major fortune every year for a new eye shadow or a new shade of lipstick and some I hate and should have returned to the store but remains in my huge makeup drawer only to be thrown out a year later or so! Sound familiar?

We all know that mascara's shelf life is only three months or so as bacteria sets in every time we open it up and expose it to the air.

We women are all suckers for wanting to believe that a certain trade secret in some makeup product will make us look younger and remove the wrinkles and frown lines, etc. We are all afraid our eyes will betray our age and those dark circles under our eyes will go away if we buy their miracle product advertised all over the TV and Magazine Ads. If they worked, wouldn't we all look about 22 years old by now? LOL

Well, I'm a firm believer of keeping your face clean and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. And, stay out of the sun! Why would you want your skin to look like your leather handbag? If you must bake in the sun, apply your sunscreen every hour. I’m very fortunate that I have found a product that works well with my sensitive skin. And, that a dear practically family member keeps me supplied with this product as gifts. You know who you are darling! I can't thank you enough and I always look forward to my next supply. Fortunately, my daughter has inherited my genes and this same product works well for her too, yet is is costly.

We all have that half bottle of nail polish that turned into thick glue. The old trick of adding a little nail polish remover no longer works!

Wealth can by you a face lift, not sure I would want to go under the knife and have that pulled, plastic look. Stop smoking and stay out of the sun...............It is on the News almost daily but no one is listening!

Wealth can by you Botox but who wants poison injected in your skin and freeze your face???? I also hate those big wide lips that look like the "Carol Chaning lips"..........Ugh!

Who doesn't want to look the best you possibly can look? No woman or man likes to lose their youth but it is out of our control. We can exercise, eat healthy and off the land and you will notice a difference in your complexion and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. And, moisturize some more!

We are all aware that makeup surely does its wonders and makes us look vibrant and sexy......I'm all for that even at my age! LOL Time for a relaxing bubble bath.

A Picture Can Paint a Thousand Words!

2010-08-15T12:46:00.000-04:00

A picture can paint a thousand words, but a thousand words can't paint that picture quite the same! But do pictures reveal the truth? With our high technology where picture editing software are available, photos can be deceiving.

Everyone that joins the online dating sites and Facebook or other social networking sites post their pictures online, yet most often things are never what they seem. Have you noticed?

About 5 years ago when I ventured on a site to see what all the rage was all about, I recall a man posted a picture of his nephew instead of himself.......now that was deceiving! Of course, he also lied about his age big time. Dah! Women do it too………why? Eventually, if both intend to meet, that photo will not match up to the real you!

Getting back to this guy, with a little investigating, his entire story was true about all his wealth, homes, cars, hobbies with the exception of his age and photo. The stupid dumb ass was obviously not computer savvy enough to realize that others can do some minor background checking with a click of a mouse! And, Viola, the real age pops up!

Spruce up your pictures with PhotoShop, as it does some pretty amazing things and quite delightful for other purposes other than to deceive. You can animate photos, take out the red eye, brighten a photo, create a cartoon, etc. It is truly quite an amazing program but requires a lot of reading and practice I might add. And, did I mention patience?

Photo editing has never been so much fun! My photographer, daughter does not need PhotoShop to edit, as all her photos are so perfect! She is so talented!

On a Scale from 1 to 10!

2010-08-12T10:44:00.000-04:00

On a Scale from 1 to 10!

What am I without a man? We Widows for some reason place ourselves on the negative side of the ledger if we are without a man. In my Widow’s Group, if someone is dating or getting married, the congratulations are glowing.

When we were young, we were taught to be wives and mothers, we were not taught or prepared to be Widows.

I think congratulations are equally in order when a Widow writes out her first check and makes her first major decision all by herself to buy a high ticket item. I recall how I felt the first time I went to the movies all by myself or ate in a restaurant alone. I realized that I can appreciate my own company and most importantly, I can realize the difference between loneliness and solitude. I won’t lie; there will be many boring long days and nights. But, think about it, you can have those feelings when there is someone in your life too sometimes!

I loved being married and being a couple. It was wonderful but then again marriage is not for everyone either. Being a couple is not necessarily better than living alone and without a man in your life.

A woman can be celibate without sacrificing her sexuality and sexual without compromising her independence. It is wonderful to have good friends in your life. Actually, it is very important to have family and good friends to share fun days with.

We are all survivors when we go from widowhood to selfhood. I didn’t say it was easy, as it came with a great deal of coping and overcoming. You may not even recognize yourself after you experienced the long hard journey filled with fears and tears. We all still have good days and bad days, however, no matter how many years have gone by; acceptance is the key in order to go forward with you life.

Sometimes, I feel because a woman is alone, others take advantage and challenge you and put you in uncomfortable situations on purpose or take advantage of your time and kindness because they must think you must have so much time on your hands. That recently happened to me this past week and I didn’t appreciate being used that way.

I’m grateful that I have a good friend that brought to my attention that it is o.k. not to feel guilty about such things and to stop others from taking advantage of my time. Thank you dear friend, you know who you are.

My comfort zone feels safe again and relaxing. It takes a great courage to do what is unfamiliar and uncomfortable. Your self esteem rises along with your self confidence.

We all fear the new and find comfort in the stability in what we know is familiar. So, having to cope with all the unknowns, I think I’m doing o.k.

So, I think I am a 10 without a man!

Contagious Emotions!

2010-07-31T13:04:00.000-04:00

I don't remember the last time I ate a doughnut but I love this graphic! LOL Jelly doughnuts used to be my favorite many, many years ago in this little bakery in Revere, MA!

I guess, like everyone else, I get excited about accomplishing something important. I didn't realize how my enthusiastic emotions were so contagious!

I received numerous emails from friends stating that they were also concerned about their health and bad blood work results and appreciated that I shared my story with them and I felt the same vice versa. I swear, I think I have half of South Florida drinking Green Tea! I have two friends that wrote to me to tell me that they also joined Silver Sneakers. Kudos!

My enthusiasm obviously communicated good karma to many which pleased me a great deal. I strongly believe that my instructor at my gym motivates me tremendously. I did try two other gyms previous to the one I attend now and did not enjoy their Silver Sneakers classes. This instructor drew me in like a magnet which makes me look forward to my gym classes. She is also funny and entertaining which makes the workout not a grueling task. Well, don't get me wrong, it's hard work for sure. The last ten minutes of the hour class, I start looking at the clock because my body is telling me I'm getting very tired and was pushed hard!

When I discussed my experience with others, it somehow effortlessly attracted the support of others into my life and joining me in my Silver Sneakers Classes and also eating healthy. And, the Green Tea factor was a major influence on my last lab report for sure! Don't forget to count those carbs! My Nurse Practioner said, if you want to drop 15 pounds.........stop drinking wine! I love my wine but I stopped drinking it and replaced it with Green Tea. I even put my Green Tea in a wine glass! LOL I personally like drinking it luke warm. If you must drink wine, at least drink red wine and limit it to only one glass per night! Yeah, I know.........we wino's want more but you have to love yourself more and be a good patient. And, give up the cigs!

Even my smallest accomplishments made me continue to move forward during the past seven months of medical issues. Out of fear, with super high liver counts, I seized every opportunity available to me, the gym, the Vegan Diet book (the doctor told me to buy called "Eat to Live"), help from my friends, help from my blogger friends, Gastro Specialists, etc. I was the model patient and did exactly as I was told even though my Primary doctor is a total jerk with bad manners! The Nurse practioner knows far more and has a much better personality.

I think I may have found a new Primary Doctor only one town away from where I live that was referred to me and a woman doctor at that. I've never been to a woman doctor before. I have to seize the opportunity to obtain better healthcare that I deserve. My Insurance Company advised me to interview this new doctor I have in mind to see if I would like switching over. We all deserve better healthcare but you have to play a role and do your homework in order to get it. Don't ever just accept what is given to you.

Get healthy my friends. Take your lab results seriously and be in charge of your own health. Not all doctors are created equal!

I'll be happy when?????????

2010-07-24T10:26:00.000-04:00

Postponing, Excuses, are you ready to give it up yet?

I hear people say:

I’ll be happy when I lose 25 pounds, I’ll be happy when I get a new job or new car, I’ll be happy when I fall in love again, I'll be happy when I can finally quit smoking, I'll be happy when I get out of debt, I'll be happy when I stop drinking, etc. And, they do nothing about it but say, I'll be happy when???????

Why put off your health until Monday when you say you will start your new diet or start eating healthy. Or say you will stop smoking after the holidays....Stop postponing........well, stop making the excuses! We are all guilty of those excuses including myself. The real enjoyment in life is the journey – I believe we all have lost the importance of enjoying the present moment and being healthy. Gosh, it took me to turn 65 and run into medical issues to give me a wake up call. Thank you to the caring people that have experienced their issues with me and how they conquered their liver count blood tests results to get back to normal.

I learned to stop postponing things in my life and you should stop too! I plan on enjoying my life, right here, right now! I was thrilled when I conquered and stopped smoking almost four years ago and now I’m focused on the liver and weight issue. I’m working real hard at it in order to get my blood tests back to normal. I want to be healthy. Wish I knew half of this stuff when I was in my 40s-50s. We all ate poorly and some still do………they all have excuses as to why they should stop smoking, they say they know people who have died that never smoked a day in their life…..gosh…….more excuses! I know, I had those same excuses for 47 years that I smoked cigarettes.

I recently received a wonderful email from a Blogger friend that gave me a wake up call after my post regarding "Going Vegan". I was so upset and concerned about my blood work and confused with the medical care I was receiving that I was a mess with worry! Thank you dear Special Blogger, you know who you are! And, I'm pleased to announce that my last blood work and appointment with the Gastro doctor yesterday showed a great improvement on my liver enzime! Whooooooohooooooooo!

I also drank tons of green tea and gave up the wine and took contol over the carbs! Now, time to concentrate on reducing the cholesterol. It went down but not low enough. Also, a big thank you to a family member regarding "Green Tea". I was off of all meds and all over the counter meds too for 7 long months so the doctor could find the culprit that was spiking the liver. So far, they think the culprit was the weight. I also need to thank my dear friend who is a Nurse Practioner. She puts all these doctors to shame!

With the right knowledge, you can conquer all! High technology is wonderful and Blogging and sharing thoughts and your life with total strangers is amazing with the knowledge you can obtain in return along with some serious researching on your own! You have to get involved with your own life and body and not just rely on what your doctor is saying, you know…….that doctor that rushes you out the door and is great on just writing out another script!

Remember to always ask the doctor for a copy of your blood work results and a copy of any tests that were performed. I’ve been doing this for quite some time. Ask some of your friends if they even know what their Cholesterol count is or their Liver count. They will tell you, “I don’t know”………they will say “the doctor said everything is fine” or they will say “the doctor said to lose weight”. And they have no clue what is going on in their own body and who should care more than you?

I have a hard time clearing my mind of the distracting thoughts. I've learned to discipline myself when necessary in order to reach my goals I've set for myself like keeping up with my exercise routine. Years ago, I hated going to the gym, now I look forward to it. I’ve lost 15 pounds so far and I need to lose a bit more to be in the right range for my height. Yep, I did gain weight when I stopped smoking like most people do but don't let that discourage you to stop. The toxins in tobacco is brutal and dangerous to your health.

I realized that at any age, in any condition, whatever the circumstance, you can bring to life the highest vision that is within you. I learned this from the 80 year olds that I have in my Silver Sneakers Class. Boy, they are such a strong group. They also have amazing personalities!

Yes, I know that I can. And this is the day for me to begin to help myself when my doctor is not doing his job to provide me with better care. With most of these doctors, it is an assembly line and $$$. With me, it is my life! Don’t get me wrong, there are some great, caring doctors out there, I just got stuck with an awful Primary Care doctor which I’m working on replacing.

Hugs, Rose

Have you planned for your retirement?

2010-07-17T14:23:00.000-04:00

Have you planned for your retirement? It doesn’t matter your age. You have to be prepared and plan well in advance now that many people retire earlier and live longer. It seems likely that the majority of the population will spend much of their adult life in retirement while remaining physically and mentally active for a good deal of this time. Yet some people approach this major period of their lives with no idea of how they are going to manage financially or with what activities they will fill their new free time. And, don’t leave your 401Ks with your former employers! I just heard that on TV the other day. Not that I have a 401K but I did once and lost it all at the end!

Financial planning for your retirement is essential. I sure wish I did this in my twenties! Of course, with the roller coaster rides of the stock market……..there were the beautiful highs and then the depressing lows. The economy is not stable. Also, raising children, there is never enough money for their needs whether necessity or pleasure.

Growing old with your spouse, friends, relatives and neighbors are one of the best recipes for a happy old age. Think about this before moving to another area when you retire. I know now, I would have never moved from my roots.

You might find it difficult to make new friends and fit into a new community, as you become less active. I’m blessed with wonderful friends but I have become less active for sure, I guess that comes with the territory of widowhood and not being a couple anymore.

You have to help preserve good health into retirement, you should follow an active lifestyle like walking, climbing stairs rather than using the elevator…..but I sure wish I had an elevator today…….Ugh. The days of going grocery shopping and carrying all those heavy bags up and down the stairs can be exhausting and painful for my sore back!

It’s not unusual nowadays for 70-80 year olds to go out jogging or to play tennis or at the Silver Sneakers class at the gym which I absolutely love and I’m 65 and when I started this class, I couldn’t keep up with them! LOL

So, start preparing for retirement regardless of your age! Pay yourself first and put that savings away as time goes by so fast and it gets scary with the cost of living rising and the cost of medical expenses that are so high. I know only too well how tempting it is when payday rolls around and you march straight to the Mall and shop away.

Now, how many pairs of shoes do I actually need? I don’t even want to tell you the count. LOL But, I sure do love my shoes and handbags. Now, it is sneakers and gym clothes! Goodbye are the days of glam and glitter! I miss those days!

It is hard to make that dollar stretch on a social security check so start saving now! It is important to remember that Medicare will not cover all your needs. When you are younger, these thoughts don't enter your mind..........so take some advice and start saving now!

My progress on the Vegan Diet with a twist!

2010-07-10T20:33:00.000-04:00

Ever since that Medicare Card came in the mail, my second home is the doctor's office! What happened?

At first, yes it is very difficult to stop eating meat and dairy and no alcohol.

We are addicted to cheese, dairy and meats. When I was first told to do this Vegan diet by my doctor, I looked at it as a serious problem to deal with. I went through a phase of wanting and craving and then it's over. How long that goes on depends on the people around you and your lifestyle.

Eventually you start to feel better and better, and have more energy than you've ever felt. Foods don't weigh you down anymore. Everything digests as it should. You start losing fat and gaining muscle tone.

As time passes, cheese and meat starts to look like lard! I've learned to make a very good vegetable pizza without any cheese.....not even the Vegan cheeses........I don't like them at all. I also don't like the Tofu which people use to make fake looking chicken and meat dishes........Ugh.

I was told that I could have a piece of fish once in a while. Fish was never one of my favorite foods....I miss a veal cutlet and my meatballs in my Sunday gravy. I only ate steak once every two weeks or so. Kansas City Steaks sells an American Heart Association steak that is only 4 oz. and less grams of fat than the veggie burgers....go figure.

I do have to ask my doctor if I can go back on my muli-vitamin, as he took me off all meds including over the counter meds and supplements to try and find the culprit that is messing with my lab work. So far, no luck and going on 7 months of this process and elimination..ugh...so frustrating.

The Gastro Specialist that I was sent to told me I could go on a low fat diet, so I was excited and stopped at the Market on the way home and bought a boneless, skinless chicken breast to introduce back into regular food. Well, I had a super stomach ache that night..........I was warned that my tummy may not like the animal fats again and that this would happen.

Tilapia was a bit easier on my stomach. Whew.......wish my doctor could resolve this issue soon. I also added three more days to my exercise routine.

Eating off the land is a lot easier, as you don't have to read labels as there are none on fruits and fresh vegetables!

So, I think I'm more of a Vegetarian now than a true Vegan! You would think it would be cheaper to just eat fruits and vegetables but it is not. As, most of these fruits and veggies should be organic to make sure you are not getting pesticides in your body.

I still look forward to my Silver Sneakers Classes three days a week and I have added some walking on the other days to hopefully lose more weight and tackle this blood work issues that are giving me great concern.

I have a sister-in-law that a few years back went through the same high liver enzymes and she started to drink lots of green tea and she now has normal results on her lab tests. So, of course, you know I went out to buy two huge boxes of Green Tea! And, ordered Green Tea Kcups for my Keurig brewer!

I'm certainly trying! I've shed a few pounds, so that is great but I need to lose more. I think I need a drink! LOL

Hugs, Rose

4th of July!

2010-06-30T20:38:00.005-04:00

American Tribute July 4th

CLICK ON THE ABOVE TO VIEW

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-18T15:26:00.000-04:00

Clutter, Clutter, Clutter! Cleaning, Cleaning, Cleaning!

2010-06-15T10:44:00.000-04:00

I started with my medicine cabinets…trashing old expired medicines, giving away stacks of books and clothes I never wear. And, why am I saving Christmas cards from years ago (well, I do not throw away cards from my children), piles of papers, oh and the tower of magazines and catalogs stacked on my den floor next to where I sit on the couch and drawers full of who knows what. It’s called clutter, clutter and more clutter and the more it collects the less I wanted to deal with the mess. I miss my home office and file cabinet but no room for one now. I even bought a junk drawer organizer and it is now overflowing and looks like a typical junk drawer again!

Eliminating clutter and did I mention the (dust) in areas where it is hard to get to? Oh my.....makes me feel good to clean up this mess. Don't get the wrong impression, I'm not a slob or have a dirty house, I just need more space. I just don’t want anymore of anxiety and hours of frustration added to my day, as I pull wrinkled clothes from my closet because they’re jammed in there so tight. I want to regain my space back which is hard to do in a very small condo. I have tons of clothes that are too small and believe it or not some are too big.........why am I saving this stuff? I think it's because I see dollar signs dumping them......not so much that I think I will fit into that size 8 again.......when you grow up living in hand me downs from a large family.......my clothes and shoes mean a great deal to me because I worked hard to be able to purchase them in the first place.

I started clearing out my clutter over the weekend. I reminded myself to start small, by clearing out one drawer in my dresser, one closet, or one shelf and started in my bedroom first. The last time I did this, I was so overwhelmed and stopped half way through the process as I lacked the motivation to complete the unpleasant task with the excuse that I ran out of large green trash bags to dispose of all the stuff I no longer need.

I used to be more organized when I lived in a larger home and had a place for everything! I have to get my power back and stop fighting against what I have to do. I have been procrastinating and dreading and avoiding this awful task of decluttering as I did this just a few years back and I guess I accumulated more clutter again!

The first change I have to do is to change my attitude. And, that can be done without any bending or lifting or throwing stuff in a trash bag……….then that other awful chore of carrying all this stuff to the dumpster.

I realized that changing my attitude to accomplish and complete the task surely helps. Only one problem……about six months from now………there is more CLUTTER AGAIN! I went through this last year and only made a mild dent. Which to me means, I need more SPACE or I just have to stop shopping to fill in the spaces I just cleared! LOL

Sex and the City 2

2010-05-30T13:02:00.003-04:00

This is a Movie for entertaining and if you think you aren't going to be, then don't go see it. The movie critics get paid to recommend a selection of films for the Movies section of your Newspaper. The recommendations are based solely on that critic's personal opinion of the film.

Trust me, your opinion is the only opinion that counts! I never went to see a movie based on the opinion of a critic. And, they were sooooooooooooo wrong on this one! This movie was fabulous!

With that said, I absolutely loved, loved this movie……….the actors, the clothes, the shoes, the laughter……….Oh and MR. BIG! He had me drooling as always! LOL

The movie started off with the Gay Wedding which was out of this world and the end of the movie was my favorite part! I also, loved everything in between!

It is a must see! And, don’t forget your Cosmopolitan!

My Experience going Vegan!

2010-05-16T12:11:00.000-04:00

Well, since my last lab work at the doctor's office for a regular routine exam with a new Primary doctor, my results were totally off the charts! I was quite disturbed by this. He took me off my statins and all vitamins and suggested the Vegan Diet for six weeks, as a process of elimination to find the culprit of why my numbers on my blood work are out of whack!

Sigh, the first week without any meat was o.k. But no dairy definitely added more frustration, as I can't start my day off without cream in my coffee in the morning, so I began to read about antibiotics in poultry and other diseases of fish, cow's milk, etc. Oh my.......what is there left to eat? That soy stuff doesn't do it for me. Forget about Tofu.....not my favorite thing. (it just won't go down)

I read that a Vegan is a very strict vegetarian who does not choose to eat or use any animal products at all, from dairy and eggs to leather, wool and honey. While this is a major transition from my eating habits and forget about the leather, wool and honey.............do you think I would actually give up my Gucci, Prada, and Coach????? I wear wool when up north for warmth........I love honey in my tea when I don't feel good. Who started this Vegan stuff???? I can understand a Vegetarian more than I can understand a Vegan.

The doctor suggested I purchase the book "Eat to Live" and use it as guidance and understanding eating off the land.

Grocery shopping is a challenge and exhausting reading labels. I take a list of all animal ingredients to avoid, and look for them on the label. There are hidden animal products in an amazing variety of foods, so this was depressing and time consuming for me.

I started to look at my natural foods I used to eat and the ingredients were short and understandable, I didn't have to figure anything out whether the product came from an animal or not.

I was getting so frustrated trying to modify my own recipes. Most non-vegan recipes can be made vegan by substituting some of the products using what they call simple tricks like replacing eggs with cornstarch and water in baked goods. Most introductory to Vegan sites online explain these tricks. Those tricks don't make your own recipes taste the same and, therefore, I'm not enjoying my food!

The cravings for normal food is overwhelming. Eating a salad twice a day is so boring...............tons of fruit daily, I'm really have a hard time with and you cannot substitute it with juice as your fruit. I tried to explore a variety of vegan food that is available in "WholeFoods", the pricey organic store.

I hate to tell you the amount of money I wasted on food that tasted like cardboard and ended up throwing away or down the disposal. I love vegetables but having it for your main course is so different than having it as a side on your plate!

Did I forget to mention the doctor said no alcohol........that means no wine with my dinner! He dare say that to an Italian?

Well, two weeks have gone by and I spent a great deal of money at Wholefoods and I have lost 12 pounds.......that part is great but I'm miserable. I want a pizza, I want a veal cutlet, I want to smell my Sunday gravy simmering on the stove with meatballs and sausages!

I want my wine and a visit from Johnny Walker or Mr. Dewars now and then would be lovely.

Did I forget to mention the gas that is associated with being a Vegan? LOL My next lab work is Tuesday and I'm praying for a major improvement in the test results!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-05T09:42:00.001-04:00

M - O - T - H - E - R

Author: Howard Johnson

"M" is for the million things she gave me,

"O" means only that she's growing old,

"T" is for the tears she shed to save me,

"H" is for her heart of purest gold;

"E" is for her eyes, with love-light shining,

"R" means right, and right she'll always be,

Put them all together, they spell

"MOTHER,"

A word that means the world to me

If all my wishes came true!

2010-05-01T12:15:00.001-04:00

We all dream and wish for things that we may never have……….some of us have achieved greatness and attained the good life by good old hard work and some by born with a silver spoon.

But if all my wishes came true, would my life be perfect?

Taking into account of all the people I have met throughout the years, and viewing the celebrities on TV…..people who have what they want are all over rehab centers, divorce courts and jails! Hmmmmmmmmmm! Now they call cheating on their spouse a sickness and there is a special rehab for that. It’s like a new app for your fancy IPhone. Bull crap on that theory!

I believe being blessed with good fortune has side effects just like medications you see advertised on TV. Scary to hear that the medication you selected and/or advised to take by your doctor can kill you! Basically, any external thing we eat and/or breath in, we depend on to make us feel good has the power to make us feel bad. It’s all about making good choices. Some are not easy but for the most part, we all know right from wrong so no excuses! A lot comes from maturity and wisdom. It is your duty to research and take good care of yourself.

Ever notice when you stop depending on tangible rewards, they often materialize somehow. I guess it is the Law of Attraction. Ever pay attention to when your body tenses or relaxes, it is telling you something………it is telling you to consider choices you have to make whether a simple choice or a major decision. Listen! Instead of weighing pros and cons, notice your physical reaction to each option. You will then make the right choice.

Many of us have dreamed of winning the lottery or fantasized about how happy we would be if only we had great wealth.

Compared to the large bulk of the world, we are already enormously wealthy. We have possessions that most people only dream of, and access to opportunities that many women can hardly even fathom. I have food in the fridge, clothes on my back and a roof over my head. Most of us have the wealth that others only dream about. I'm trying real hard to stay healthy. I've had a few medical concerns and with the help from my doctor, I'm working on it. Gosh, it is hard to tell an Italian cook to turn into a Vegan!

I can’t help but feel blessed when I look at life through my window of gratitude!

What's New on TV!------ What's New with Me!

2010-04-22T15:35:00.000-04:00

What’s New on TV?

TV has been boring the hell out of me. I love “Dancing with the Stars” because I’m a ballroom dancer but when the season ends……I’m searching for something of interest to keep me company. Insomniacs need something to do during the wee hours of the morning when the entire world is sleeping and that includes a lot of channel surfing and finding a good book to read!

Here are my favorite pics so far on Dancing with the Stars:

“The Marriage Ref” which premiered on NBC in March is quite entertaining. It is a sort of stand-up/reality TV show that features clips of real couples in real verbal struggles. Plus, it has a panel of celebrity “experts” and Tom Papa, who is the referee and who ultimately declares the husband or wife in each standoff the winner.

If you’ve seen the show, you already know that the petty stupid issues of other people’s lives provide its share of chuckles. For example, the husband that insists his Harley requires a place in the living room instead of being parked outside! Or, the husband that loves his dog so much but the dog hates and bites the wife!

Some of these people have a screw loose for sure! The celebrities are a hoot with their comments.

Seinfield said the idea for this show started when he had a spat with his wife and thought a ref would be good to see it through another person’s perspective to solve marital disputes.

I think Jerry Seinfield has another winner here! I do like shows that make me laugh. You need some chuckles after seeing the depressing News every night.

Well, what's new with me?.........

not much. I'm still enjoying my Silver Sneakers classes at the gym. Actually, I truly enjoy it very much. I'm motivated and I can now bend down and pick something up without being stuck to the floor! LOL

The weather has improved so I also incorporate my acqua aerobics in my pool which is refreshing and back in the house in time to watch Dr. Oz! He is the man! My favorite doctor!

I have a nurse friend that worked with Dr. Oz in New York when he was just known as Mehmet! That was many years ago when she first graduated Nursing School. Who, knew he would be such an amazing doctor and have his own TV show today.

My social life needs to be upgraded! I hardly ever go out much in the evenings anymore. I really need to push myself and enjoy more.

My new Primary Care doctor saw some things in my blood work that requires some serious attention! Ugh! This has been going on for several months now. Tough getting older. I'm trying real hard to eat right, exercise and be healthy. Thank goodness I stopped smoking 3 years and three months ago! So, if any of you out there are still smoking...........please stop! Stop eating unhealthy foods, sugar and fatty foods. My doctor now wants me to eat living off the land. Being a Vegan is not easy, as I like meat and dairy. Hey, take notice.....I have the map of Italy on my face! I like good Italian food so this is going to be a challenge for me. I'm hating it already!

Give yourself the gift of life.

The "To Do" List Never Ends!

2010-03-28T14:49:00.014-04:00

I miss having a man around the house to handle my “To Do” list to complete some major and minor home repairs which would certainly go easy on my wallet. It is understandable that maintenance and repairs are necessary but I guess I was spoiled when living in New England and coming from such a large family.......most of the men in my family always were able to handle most repairs for me. Purchasing an item is usually not bad, it is the labor that is very costly and that is what I can't afford.

We all know that we can pay our auto mechanics a little now for routine service, or pay them a lot later for a major repair. The same idea holds true for your air conditioner or heating unit. If you don't service your air conditioner or heat pump regularly, you'll find yourself uncomfortable and broke.

I have been real good replacing my a/c filters faithfully (I have my computer to remind me with an alert feature) and I was also instructed by an a/c tech to add a little white vinegar in the air handler in that back narrow pan about every 90 days. And, I call for a maintenance service once a year. This year, however, I was just about to make that call and the other night my a/c was not running properly. It was running all night long yet the condenser outside was not moving so I knew something was wrong. I was beginning to sweat and very uncomfortable to say the least. I like to keep my house “meat locker” cold as I overheat easily. Most women out there understand! Of course this happened during the night so I tried to sleep with three fans facing me in bed! I did not sleep very well to say the least. My insomnia is an issue to begin with but I have to be cool at all times.

Well, I called my a/c company that provides high quality work and comes within a reasonable time, so that discomfort is not too bad. Hey, I live in Florida so it’s important to have the a/c working properly.

This maintenance visit was disturbing; as I was informed I need a new condenser outside. Heck, it is 9 years old but I always thought they would last a good 12-14 years!

Here is the whopping price $1,795.00! Yikes! I also included the One Year Maintenance Agreement so I wouldn’t forget to call for the twice a year maintenance which was another $150. raising my bill to $1,945.00. Holy Crapola! Looks like I won’t be doing any Happy Hours for a while. I don’t remember the last time I’ve been to the Mall to treat myself to something new………….Ugh. I have no choice, so the installation is tomorrow morning.

I’ll officially get it off my mind but I have not recovered yet from my recently replaced water heater last December and my new washer/dryer last August. It never ends!

Sometimes, I wonder if it would be better to rent than own? (provided you would have a very good landlord) I’m in a small condo and for the most part, I enjoy it. And, there are times; I do get annoyed with the Condo Commandos! That is when I miss owning my own home and I’m the solo commando of my domain! LOL Plus, the rents today are more than my social security check!!!!! What would I do?