The new upscale Man Bag!

I was at the Mall the other day and noticed so many men were carrying the new "Man bag".  Well, they are not really new, they have been around for a long time now.  Most stores are calling them "Messenger Bags".

They now have gone upscale. I've certainly noticed them before but the upscale ones are over the top price wise!

Designers have gone wild making them in all kinds of shapes and sizes.  Yikes, these prices are absolutely crazy!

Ralph Lauren makes a $22,000 alligator attache.  Louis Vuitton sells a $2,780 canvas men’s backpack emblazoned with the label’s monogram print, and pricier backpacks are sold by Valentino ($3,695) and Fendi ($5,000).

And men thought women were outrageous with their pricey handbags!

 

Fendi bag in Milan, Italy.Photograph by Vanni Bassetti — Getty Images

Unmistakably, these aren’t your dad’s briefcases–they tend to serve multiple purposes as users commute, go through their work day, transitioning into evening activities, and some can also serve the user for overnights.  Remember, Dads did not have laptops years ago.

I just hope the media refrains from calling them “murses”!  

There are plenty of reasonable and fashionable choices a guy can make today.  It seems that for many, using a man bag became the norm a while back, it’s just that there weren’t so many luxury runway pieces like they have now.

The reasonably priced ones are nice and I personally don't see much of a difference then carrying a briefcase.  In fact, these are easier to carry because of the cross body straps.

Will this be on your gift list for Father's Day?

Bruce Jenner has revealed his struggle with gender dysphoria!

Bruce Jenner has revealed his struggle with gender dysphoria last night with a scheduled interview with Diane Sawyer.  Yes, we all remember him as the  "decathlon gold medalist," "world's greatest athlete, super handsome man.  At least, I remember him that way years ago. 

His second wife, (Linda Thompson) also known as one of Elvis’ girlfriends……just one day after Bruce's interview posted her story..........gosh, seemed like it waiting to go hot off the press.  It was written so eloquently and almost a perfect story for a movie deal.  It seemed like the story was already written and only need to click on the "send" button.

She praises her ex-husband and vowed to keep his secret.  She said the Bruce she knew back then was an easygoing, down-to-earth, casual, romantic, good and loving man.  She was extremely happy to have found such a remarkable partner with whom to share her life. She found him to be honorable and, well, just too good to be true. Just too good to be true indeed.

The 2^nd wife does add:  She wouldn't be completely forthcoming if I didn't disclose in her writings that after Bruce and Kris married, there were periods of several years going by without Bruce attempting to contact or visit his sons. No birthday cards or phone calls, no "Merry Christmas," no "Everything OK?" after the big Northridge earthquake.

Brandon and Brody will never have those "Hallmark memories" of father-and-son moments. They were saddened by his lack of participation in their lives, and her heart ached for them. When Brandon asked her, "Mom, what kind of a father doesn't come to his son's graduation?" she meekly replied, "Honey, your dad may have been the world's greatest athlete physically, but emotionally, you have to view him in a wheelchair".

As I watched TV last night during Diane Sawyer's interview, she blatantly asked Bruce if this was all a ploy for publicity for his reality show with the Kardashians?  I have to admit, it crossed my mind immediately and his facial expression and response made me think about it again.  I’m still wondering!    I knew Diane Sawyer was going to ask this question.  Just knew it………..I would have asked it too!  Anyone remotely that close to the Kardashians has to be questioned.

  

Why was Bruce married so many times to women when he clearly felt he was a woman?  And clearly stated that he is not a lesbian.  Has never been with another man.  I don't understand the part of him not being in touch with two of his other sons after he married Mrs. K.

I'm sure many watched the Interview last night.

Bruce has his own life to live how he chooses.  I don't think he should have dragged so many other women into it.  He should have told them all before he married them.  That is my opinion.

There is always trouble brewing when you mention the name Kardashian or Kanya!  I’m sure there is more to reveal.  Smells like more money needs to be made by this clan!  I was not aware that the TV show Keeping Up with the Kardashians was Bruce's original idea and that he put it all together!

Bruce said it himself last night, that the real story in the Kardashian’s show was HIM!  His eyes twinkled when he said it.

I remember him as the handsome athlete.  And when Bruce gave Kanya a compliment last night explaining that he was the man who explained it all to Kim.  And he seemed to have loved that coming out of Kanya's mouth.  Barf!!

Oh my………anyone that can put Kanya into their story is Uh..off the charts with me.  

Shall we place out bets now?  Think there is a movie forthcoming?  Wow.

I do however, feel extremely bad if Bruce has struggled all these years with gender dysphoria or is just running out of money.  Hey, the Kardashians don't come cheap!  The also lack any form of talent to have a TV show!  duh.

Celebrities surely mess up their lives because they have too much damn money!

I'm sure he has a couple of other wives that may want to cash in on this.

If Bruce's story is true then I apologize for thinking badly about him and he needs the support from everyone but on the other hand.........I don't trust The Kardashians and I really don't trust Kayna!

I, normally don't like writing about celebs.  I see enough of their untruths in the junk papers while checking out my groceries and just viewing the front covers of the papers only because I'm standing in line waiting...........Junk papers like stretching their stories and that is not fair to the celebs.  But, when the celeb themselves start talking, it better be the truth or shame on them.

Keep in mind, it is the fans that keep them rich!

I'm begging all of you to see your Dermatologist!

I’m begging all of you to make an appointment with a Board Certified Dermatologist right now.  Do not procrastinate.  You will want someone skilled in this field to examine your entire body for any disease, infection, skin abnormalities and the harsh effects of aging and sun damage.

If you are married or living with someone, please examine each other’s body looking for some warning signs that may indicate basal cell carcinoma, an open sore, a reddish patch, a growth with an elevated border, a bump or a nodule and a scar like area.

I, faithfully have an annual appointment with my Dermatologist.  And in March, 2015, I was diagnosed with Basal Cell Carcinoma and four weeks later had surgery to remove the cancer and burn the area.

My doctor had a patient that ignored for years a spot on her arm.  She lost an eyeball because of not seeking medical help!  This is very serious.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer.  It occurs most frequently on sun exposed regions of the body.  Yet, mine is located in an area that I would have to have gone sun bathing topless!  I'm not a sun bather because I hate to sweat.  I live in Florida and can’t avoid the sun while walking to my car or doing errands.  I used to use my pool but only after 4:00 PM when the sun was coming down.

I now have a hole on my right side right under wear the elastic of my bra would hit and it digs in.  Ouch!

I went back to my doctor’s office the other day, as I was concerned about the red ring around the wound and just not looking like it was healing properly to me.  Well, my doctor was super busy and I walked in unannounced with no appointment which I have never done before but I was only a block away from his office when I decided to make an appearance out of concern for my health.

The nurse was not as gentle as my doctor.  My doctor never hurts me and this nurse with ruthless!  She dug in deeper and deeper and called me a wuss!  She later put something on my wound and warned me it would burn real bad.  I dug my nails in her arm!  The burning lasted throughout my 20 minute drive home.  Ugh.  My doctor will hear about this experience during my next appointment for sure!

When I arrived home, all I wanted was to do was yank the bra off and get into my bed!  Well, the gal in the next door condo just had her third child and the infant was crying and crying…. Give me a break!  

We all take so much for granted!

We all take so much for granted including myself of course.

I get so involved with the everyday tasks and chores that must be done ASAP that most times, I miss the beauty of today.

I try to do what my daughter does, she carries her camera with her at all times and of course she has her smartphone to capture a picture right then and there.

I stopped by my lovely new Library last week because I was getting impatient trying to download a book from my Library to my Kindle to read.  Every book I selected popped up that I had to “Put on Hold”.  I had an upcoming surgery and needed a book to read while mending.

While sitting out at my Library’s patio enjoying a cup of coffee from their Cafe, I forgot how lovely the atmosphere is there.  I used to frequent my library constantly in the past.  I just love my Kindle for the convenience and also that I’m able to set the font to my liking and that background light is also easy on my eyes while reading.  But sometimes, there is a waiting game for that book and it maybe on "hold" for quite some time before being able to download it.

I did a dumb thing the other day with my Kindle and getting impatient waiting for a book I wanted to read and download from the library; so I decided to buy the book from my Kindle.  After reading a couple of chapters, I realized that I have read this book before!  LOL  Thank goodness purchasing books to download to your Kindle is so much cheaper than buying a book.  $6.99.  I keep a log of all the books I have read on Shelfari so I'm surprised this one slipped by me!

I enjoyed the couple of hours I spent at the Library.  I was mesmerized by the loveliness all around me.  I seldom look up from my daily routine of things to notice some spectacular surroundings.  My library is fairly new and very unusual compared to most old, stuffy libraries.

The sky was so blue and the grass was so green.  The palm trees were swaying with the slight breeze.  What's not to love!

I need to pay more attention and appreciate the treasures of my immediate surroundings more often. 

It’s a nice peaceful feeling.

Happy Easter Everyone!

Mistakes!

We all make mistakes that we know for sure.

With every mistake, there is learning process they say, but not every mistake has to be your own. Just as our society uses history to learn from the mistakes of earlier generations, so can we.

We can save some time and frustration and look to those around us and learn from their experiences as well.  For example, instead of being defensive when an older person passes on advice listen and appreciate the learning they have gained over time. Really tune into their mistakes more closely than their successes.

Focus on why things went wrong and tuck the learning experience away in your memory bank for your own future challenges.  There is always something new to learn every day!

“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” 
― Albert Einstein

Dealing with Retirement!

Most of my friends are finally retired now.  Some worked longer than others.

Retirement is filled with time, but it’s quickly being used up. There’s nothing you can do to stop it, but there’s a great deal you can do to make it count.  Sometimes people switch demographics, you have to deal with unpredictable economic markets and rising health care costs. 

The wasted and idle moments in your life add up. If you always have something ready to do with them, they can add up to great value in your life.

I noticed that some people still procrastinate knowing that they have more time now. In fact, the limits on your time are really a blessing in disguise. Those limits motivate you to use your time in the ways that are most meaningful.

You are more aware of your health and try to take better care of yourself.  You will experience feeling lonely at times especially if you are a widow/widower and living away from your family.

It is important to surround yourself with people who make you happy.  People who make you laugh, who help you when you are in need.  People who would never take advantage of you.  People who genuinely care.  They are the ones worth keeping in your life.  Everyone else is just passing through.

Eat healthy, exercise and keep a good sense of humor.  Keep your family close.  Keep yourself busy.  Enjoy the beautiful sunsets.  I didn't say it would be easy!

Have you all heard about the “Ethical Will”?

As we go through life, we acquire wisdom and life lessons that can benefit others. One way to pass along your stories and experiences is through an ethical will. Unlike an ordinary Last Will and Testament,  an Ethical Will is not a legal document and has less to do with material possessions and more to do with non material gifts and spiritual well-being. It's a love letter of sorts for your family, friends and community.

Writing an ethical will benefit you.  You receive the same benefits from blogging!  It can:

• Help you to make sense of your life and the aging process.
• Provides a way to share your hopes, dreams and values with family and friends and your blogger friends who mostly are strangers you met online that follow your blog and you follow theirs.
• You learn a lot from reading other blogger’s insight on life.
• Help you take stock of your life experience and the values and wisdom that you have gained.
• You can share some chuckles along the way and include some photos and how your week is going for you.
• I happen to love adding animations to my blog to make it colorful and interesting to read.
• You can also vent when you have had a bad day!  And, cheers to a wonderful day!
• As we age, so doesn’t our lifestyle.  With a blog, we have it on record of how we are going down life’s pathway.

Regardless of your age, it is a good idea to create an ethical will. You can choose to share thoughts.  This is an ongoing process - put the document aside, read it over as the years pass, and revise it from time to time as you see fit.  Also, add a “Time Capsule”, I have a box filled with years of memories!  Priceless!

It is just another form of writing; when I was young, I started writing “Dear Diary”!  Same concept whether it is called a Diary, Blog, Personal Journal, Ethical Will; it all means sharing your thoughts!  You can elect to keep your blog private or public.

We Post entries on our custom made blogs!  So, whichever you choose to call it, an ethical will or your personal blog.  Share it with your family and friends.

I found it the best way to share my experiences and stories to my family and friends that live in other states. I come from a very large family and I don’t want them to forget about me living here in Florida as they are all basically in New England!

I also created a blog for my classmates of 1962!  It is my pleasure to keep us all together.  We all live in different states now and it is so heartwarming to keep connected.  We were a pretty large class of close to 500.  It is amazing to think we have all been friends since grammar school, all through middle school and onto high school.  Not many people have experienced that kind of friendship.  Priceless! 

Fifty Shades of Grey Movie....and Happy Hour at Vic & Angelo's with Diane W.

For the most part, Fifty Shades of Grey’s big-screen adaptation is very true to Book #1.  Starting with Ana and Christian’s interview at the very beginning to a few scenes featuring dialogue lifted directly from E.L. James's novel. (Not to mention the many lip bites and spankings in between.)

But, I left the theater and felt like I only saw the first book on screen.  Where is the rest?  Is it forthcoming soon?  Other strangers in the movie theater were saying the same like "Is that all there is"????

Where are all the other characters that were in the books (trilogy)? Christian Grey had more people in his life than who was in the film.  His driver, Taylor also had a bigger role in the book.

Where was Dr. Flynn, Christian's psychiatrist? And, Mrs. Jones, Christian's housekeeper, she certainly played a big role in Book 2 and 3. She was not in the film!

Kate's brother, Ethan was not in the film either!

Christian's mother's friend who played a big role in Christian's life when he was young and explained how and why he is the way he is????  Did the filmmaker think that was not important?  That to me was extremely important.

Some very notable sex scenes that were missing include Ana and Christian having sex at his parent's boathouse......... but in the film, they just had an argument about her going to Georgia while standing in what appeared to be a pool house and not a greenhouse like the book stated.

And, there are no silver balls in the movie!  

What about Ana's first publishing job which was a huge oversight in the movie?

All in all, the changes and oversights are fairly minor if there is going to be a sequel to this movie. Odds are, book readers will feel slightly cheated with the film.  And, those of you who only read book number one, will not notice anything different.  

With all that said, the contents of the movie was well done and the actors were excellent.  I just wanted more because there were three books involved and I felt it only covered Book #1.  This was a beautiful love story.

I shouldn 't be calling the other Books by number as all three had different titles:  Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker, Fifty Shades Freed.  3- volume boxed set, even though I purchased all mine separately at the time because I was unaware it was a trilogy.

I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of the trilogy on the big screen.

I recall that I blogged about reading the Trilogy in July of 2012! And the movie, Magic Mike all in the same week!  LOL

Snow Melters!

My Boston family and friends are getting super frustrated at this point and who can blame them.

I never knew Boston had "Snow Melter" equipment before.  I guess I've been away from my home town too long!  I'm sure that is a super expensive piece of equipment that most snow removal companies don't have or can't afford.

As of Tuesday morning, Boston has received 77.3 inches of snow this season.  The governor for Massachusetts signed an emergency declaration for the entire state.  I remember the Blizzard of 78 and this has surpassed that already.

I was curious as to why they couldn't dump the snow in the ocean and my son told me that it's against the law.  The Clean Water Act prohibits dumping snow in the ocean and the Wetlands Protection Act says no dumping in rivers and lakes because those truckloads of snow would contain contaminants like road treating chemicals, salt and even oil and gas from cars.  Not to mention garbage picked up off the road.  All stuff that doesn't belong in our waterways.

I guess more Snow Melters are needed.  What are they going to do?

Stay safe folks.  Don't drive.  Be careful. Sending hugs!

 

I feel guilty signing off here in sunny South Florida!  

NORTHEAST, BUNDLE UP!

NORTHEAST,  BUNDLE UP!

I just got home two days ago from Boston!  It was a tad too cold for me then when the temps dipped to the low 20's.  My R/A was flaring up.

Residents across the Northeast have been warned: It's brutally cold and getting colder.

Frigid air is blowing across the United States. National Weather Service wind chill advisory for much of the Northeast for Thursday warns of "dangerously cold air" with strong winds that could result in frostbite if people don't put on their scarves, hats and gloves.

I don't want that photo above to be deceiving, as it is actually 69 degrees here this morning and will warm up to the mid 70's by afternoon.

I'm sure my daughter and son-in-law's next door neighbor will not be walking around without a shirt on today!  John, I hope you are bundled up this morning! LOL  I doubt the fire pits will be burning up today!

Me and John Cherry

I had a fabulous Christmas, New Years and also celebrated my 70th birthday with my children and friends.  Ouch, even typing 70 hurts!

Jimmy and Me

Bill and Michelle

Michelle and Me

Rhonda and Me

Bill and Michelle

Danny, Jimmy and Me

Danny and Jimmy

Brian and Danny

Donna, Diane and Me

My Revere Friends!

I have the best friends in the world.  Dearest, Paula crocheted scarfs for everyone and cooked lasagna, gravy, meatballs, pork, etc. and stuffed clams that I'm still craving now!  Linda provided her lovely home for this wonderful gathering and also eggplant and chicken marsala and antipasto. Diane provided a beautiful Italian rum birthday cake.  Thank you for all that you do and your generous gifts.

Most of my pictures came out blurry for some reason, as the one above is not that clear either.  I'm hoping the photos that Paula took will be better and will post them later. Thanks ladies for a lovely celebration!  I was the last one out of our class to turn 70 and you all made the day special.

A special thank you to my children and my special friends for a delightful trip to my home town and celebrating the holidays including my milestone birthday.

Huggggggggggggggggggggggggggggs, Rose