12/31/2014
Couple of things. Starting tomorrow you are going to mentally wrestle with yourself to write down 2015 for a couple of days. And, for some of us slow learners maybe more than just a couple of days!
Last night Jeff and I watched the movie "42" which is about Jackie Robinson. Now I don't know squat about sports of any kind, but I have heard about this baseball player. I know that he eventually played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and was the first black man to play baseball for a major team.
This is a good movie. The acting is good and parts of the story will make you uncomfortable because of the harassment that Robinson had to put up with.
Facts about Robinson: At the end of his rookie season, he had
become National League Rookie of the Year with 12 homers, a
league-leading 29 steals, and a .297 average. In 1949, he was selected
as the NL's Most Valuable player of the Year and also won the batting
title with a .342 average that same year. As a result of his great
success, Jackie was eventually inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame
in 1962.
I highly recommend the movie. I hadn't heard about it before, but I'm sure glad that I found it in the TV Guide and recorded it. It is truly worth watching.
P
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Resolutions
12/30/2014
Yes people, it's time to stop drinking the eggnog, and start putting pen to paper, literally or mentally, to prepare for Thursday. Yeah, a new year and while it's all new and shining, the possibilities are endless.
You know how much I love research, so I wanted to see what are the top resolutions people make year after year. Keep in mind, that these resolutions are generally gone before the 1st of February!
So looking at this list, I need to work on #1, #7, #8 and #9 (big time). I would like to take a trip, and grocery runs to Frederick don't count! And for the record, I have tried volunteering this year and none of my efforts have paid off for me. In fact, at my last run at volunteering, I was more or less fired. The lady couldn't seem to get the words out of her mouth, so I just told her that I was going to look for a different opportunity. She was relieved.
I know as I sit here this morning and look at the list below, that my working on losing weight, is a "losing" battle. I have gained and lost the same number of pounds for nearly 40 years. I get really motivated and then when the numbers on that stupid scale don't start to go down as fast as I would like, I begin to think what difference would a cookie or a piece of candy make? Apparently, one cookie or one piece of candy, not much. Many cookies or candies cause the scale numbers to move to the right, as in bigger numbers! Arrgh.
I haven't been able to handle stress very well over the years, and even though I have all the "tools" to help me deal with stress, I still struggle. Perhaps I'm just a certified worrier, and if everything is going well, then I worry that the other shoe is about to drop!
There you have it folks. Pick and choose your favorite ones so that you can promptly forget them!
P
Yes people, it's time to stop drinking the eggnog, and start putting pen to paper, literally or mentally, to prepare for Thursday. Yeah, a new year and while it's all new and shining, the possibilities are endless.
You know how much I love research, so I wanted to see what are the top resolutions people make year after year. Keep in mind, that these resolutions are generally gone before the 1st of February!
So looking at this list, I need to work on #1, #7, #8 and #9 (big time). I would like to take a trip, and grocery runs to Frederick don't count! And for the record, I have tried volunteering this year and none of my efforts have paid off for me. In fact, at my last run at volunteering, I was more or less fired. The lady couldn't seem to get the words out of her mouth, so I just told her that I was going to look for a different opportunity. She was relieved.
I know as I sit here this morning and look at the list below, that my working on losing weight, is a "losing" battle. I have gained and lost the same number of pounds for nearly 40 years. I get really motivated and then when the numbers on that stupid scale don't start to go down as fast as I would like, I begin to think what difference would a cookie or a piece of candy make? Apparently, one cookie or one piece of candy, not much. Many cookies or candies cause the scale numbers to move to the right, as in bigger numbers! Arrgh.
I haven't been able to handle stress very well over the years, and even though I have all the "tools" to help me deal with stress, I still struggle. Perhaps I'm just a certified worrier, and if everything is going well, then I worry that the other shoe is about to drop!
There you have it folks. Pick and choose your favorite ones so that you can promptly forget them!
- Lose Weight
- Volunteer to Help Others
- Quit Smoking
- Get a Better Education
- Get a Better Job
- Save Money
- Get Fit
- Eat Healthy Food
- Manage Stress
- Manage Debt
- Take a Trip
- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
- Drink Less Alcoholo
P
Sunday, December 28, 2014
A Change of Scenery
12/28/2014
I bet you think I'm going to write about seasonal weather changes. Nope. Not even close.
I'm talking about the scenery in stores. Yesterday, Jeff and I went to WalMart, which by the way was packed. At the back of the store you could get wrapping paper, ornaments, decorated gift giving boxes, fake trees and anything else remotely related to Christmas. I admit 75% off of some of those things was a good buy, but not for me.
In the bowels of the basement, which is pretty a "no woman" zone, I have a small box where I put wrapping paper, tiny bits of ribbon and gift boxes. The thought of bringing something home that I would have to store for 12 months quickly clears my mind of the insanity of even contemplating buying.
What I do find disturbing and it's not just at WalMart, it's everwhere, the shelves were already cleared of all things Christmas except for the very back of the store. Now the shelves were filled with a few New Year's Eve goodies - special plates, hats, stuff like that.
Where once the shelves that held candy canes and all manner of red and green candy, now is being stocked with candy for Valentine's Day! Good grief Charlie Brown. Can we not let each holiday pass before jumping ahead to the next one. I'm pretty sure that by February 14th, the Easter parade of goodies will begin.
So if you're pining for deep discounts on Christmas stuff, including those garish sweaters, now is the time to get out your credit card and start buying. I've left lots of things in the store for you to buy.
P
I bet you think I'm going to write about seasonal weather changes. Nope. Not even close.
I'm talking about the scenery in stores. Yesterday, Jeff and I went to WalMart, which by the way was packed. At the back of the store you could get wrapping paper, ornaments, decorated gift giving boxes, fake trees and anything else remotely related to Christmas. I admit 75% off of some of those things was a good buy, but not for me.
In the bowels of the basement, which is pretty a "no woman" zone, I have a small box where I put wrapping paper, tiny bits of ribbon and gift boxes. The thought of bringing something home that I would have to store for 12 months quickly clears my mind of the insanity of even contemplating buying.
What I do find disturbing and it's not just at WalMart, it's everwhere, the shelves were already cleared of all things Christmas except for the very back of the store. Now the shelves were filled with a few New Year's Eve goodies - special plates, hats, stuff like that.
Where once the shelves that held candy canes and all manner of red and green candy, now is being stocked with candy for Valentine's Day! Good grief Charlie Brown. Can we not let each holiday pass before jumping ahead to the next one. I'm pretty sure that by February 14th, the Easter parade of goodies will begin.
So if you're pining for deep discounts on Christmas stuff, including those garish sweaters, now is the time to get out your credit card and start buying. I've left lots of things in the store for you to buy.
P
Saturday, December 27, 2014
It's on Sale!
12/27/2014
If you haven't noticed, and I'm not sure that's possible, right this minute is the perfect time to buy things on sale! The newspaper is crammed with full page ads declaring that everything from your favorite sweater to some weird kitchen gadgets that you didn't know you needed.
It's the right time of the year to buy appliances, large or small, and televisions big or bigger. But I don't need any of those things, so I merely glance at the pretty pictures and keep going. I did do some research to see what it cost to advertise in the Washington Post, for example.
If you haven't noticed, and I'm not sure that's possible, right this minute is the perfect time to buy things on sale! The newspaper is crammed with full page ads declaring that everything from your favorite sweater to some weird kitchen gadgets that you didn't know you needed.
It's the right time of the year to buy appliances, large or small, and televisions big or bigger. But I don't need any of those things, so I merely glance at the pretty pictures and keep going. I did do some research to see what it cost to advertise in the Washington Post, for example.
Clearly, the advertiser has to make the big decision about a daily ad or just one on Sundays.
12 Pages is $605 daily or $853 on Sunday
24 pages is $578 daily or $819 on Sunday
24 pages is $578 daily or $819 on Sunday
36 pages is $558 daily or $793 on Sunday
I am not the consumer that advertisers are targeting. They are likely more interested in younger people who have expendable income. It's not that senior citizens don't have money, we're just no longer "hip" and tend to be stuck in ruts, which is fine with all of us.
But I wanted to show you some weird kitchen gear that you didn't know you needed, much less that it was even made:
An Oreo cookie dunker, a "tater" glove and a biscuit and drink cup:
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Christmas - Not So Much
12/25/2014
Everyone knows that Santa arrived last night bringing lots of toys. He also gets to eat his share of cookies and milk. The reindeer get zip.
At our house this year, Christmas had already been celebrated last weekend, and for the first time in our marriage, Jeff and I were alone today. But before you feel sorry for us, let me tell you about my day.
I slept in. Stayed in my robe and slippers while I ate my toast (the breakfast of old ladies) and read (or glanced if you prefer) the paper. I grow tired of reading about who shot who and why, so I tend to just skip over those stories and head for the comics!
After I did a few household chores, I returned to my computer where I began coloring in my new grown-up coloring book. Each page is intricately decorated and it takes a lot of time to color all those tiny leaves and flowers. Luckily, I also have a new set of markers so I have lots of colors to choose from. In the beginning, I was coloring this garden scene as if it were real. Then I went back and looked at the title of the book "Secret Garden" and decided that since it was secret, I could color things as I wished. So you might see blue flowers and purple leaves. It's free expression and it's all mine.
I made myself lunch and curled up in the recliner with a book. It was, after all, a very tiring day! I became a bit sleepy so I took old Sam and we headed for the bed for a nap. The beauty of having an old dog that he never objects to sleeping.
Dinner was Chinese and we have enough leftovers for lunch tomorrow. Television shows at the moment pretty much suck, and I couldn't find anything worth watching on Netflix, so I decided to just turn the television off and return to coloring.
Admittedly the day felt a bit odd, but both Jeff and I adjusted. Jeff has his computer upstairs and mine is downstairs and both of us spent some quality time in front of our monitors!
It's late and I'm typing up my blog - have to get it in before the end of day!
I hope all of you had a very Merry Christmas.
P
Everyone knows that Santa arrived last night bringing lots of toys. He also gets to eat his share of cookies and milk. The reindeer get zip.
At our house this year, Christmas had already been celebrated last weekend, and for the first time in our marriage, Jeff and I were alone today. But before you feel sorry for us, let me tell you about my day.
I slept in. Stayed in my robe and slippers while I ate my toast (the breakfast of old ladies) and read (or glanced if you prefer) the paper. I grow tired of reading about who shot who and why, so I tend to just skip over those stories and head for the comics!
After I did a few household chores, I returned to my computer where I began coloring in my new grown-up coloring book. Each page is intricately decorated and it takes a lot of time to color all those tiny leaves and flowers. Luckily, I also have a new set of markers so I have lots of colors to choose from. In the beginning, I was coloring this garden scene as if it were real. Then I went back and looked at the title of the book "Secret Garden" and decided that since it was secret, I could color things as I wished. So you might see blue flowers and purple leaves. It's free expression and it's all mine.
I made myself lunch and curled up in the recliner with a book. It was, after all, a very tiring day! I became a bit sleepy so I took old Sam and we headed for the bed for a nap. The beauty of having an old dog that he never objects to sleeping.
Dinner was Chinese and we have enough leftovers for lunch tomorrow. Television shows at the moment pretty much suck, and I couldn't find anything worth watching on Netflix, so I decided to just turn the television off and return to coloring.
Admittedly the day felt a bit odd, but both Jeff and I adjusted. Jeff has his computer upstairs and mine is downstairs and both of us spent some quality time in front of our monitors!
It's late and I'm typing up my blog - have to get it in before the end of day!
I hope all of you had a very Merry Christmas.
P
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Twas the Day Before Christmas
12/24/2014
It's Christmas Eve and years ago when the boys were young, this day was very hectic and exciting all at the same time. Now - not so much.
Jeff and I celebrated Christmas last weekend, so there is no last minute baking to be done and no packages to wrap. I could, I suppose, go to a store, any store and walk around and take in the last minute madness of gift buying. Generally, this last minute thing is mostly men (sorry fellas) who can't thing of what to buy the little woman.
Jeff is spending the day with Scott working on the townhouse that Scott is remodeling. Me? Since it's a gray, rainy day, I'm going to stay inside and read. My neighbor gave me a wonderful grownup coloring book for my birthday, so I will probably spend some time coloring today. Who knows maybe I'll even take a nap!
While it doesn't feel like Christmas, I think that has more to do with my age than my non-existent plans. I am, as everyone would agree, a recluse. I like my own company and the quiet that being alone brings. When my life is peaceful, I am less stressed and truly that's a good thing.
What will I do with myself tomorrow? Hmm. A movie and a bag of buttered popcorn perhaps.
Our life journey goes through many evolutions. We grow up, we have children, we work at our career. Our children then grow up, get married and have children. We retire from work, some of us sooner than we thought we would and have oodles of free time. I'm currently in that free time part of my life. No setting of the alarm clock or checking on the weather to see if it's going to snow. I can, after working 40+ years and raising my family, feel justified in doing exactly what I damn well please. This phase of my life is a good one.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
P
It's Christmas Eve and years ago when the boys were young, this day was very hectic and exciting all at the same time. Now - not so much.
Jeff and I celebrated Christmas last weekend, so there is no last minute baking to be done and no packages to wrap. I could, I suppose, go to a store, any store and walk around and take in the last minute madness of gift buying. Generally, this last minute thing is mostly men (sorry fellas) who can't thing of what to buy the little woman.
Jeff is spending the day with Scott working on the townhouse that Scott is remodeling. Me? Since it's a gray, rainy day, I'm going to stay inside and read. My neighbor gave me a wonderful grownup coloring book for my birthday, so I will probably spend some time coloring today. Who knows maybe I'll even take a nap!
While it doesn't feel like Christmas, I think that has more to do with my age than my non-existent plans. I am, as everyone would agree, a recluse. I like my own company and the quiet that being alone brings. When my life is peaceful, I am less stressed and truly that's a good thing.
What will I do with myself tomorrow? Hmm. A movie and a bag of buttered popcorn perhaps.
Our life journey goes through many evolutions. We grow up, we have children, we work at our career. Our children then grow up, get married and have children. We retire from work, some of us sooner than we thought we would and have oodles of free time. I'm currently in that free time part of my life. No setting of the alarm clock or checking on the weather to see if it's going to snow. I can, after working 40+ years and raising my family, feel justified in doing exactly what I damn well please. This phase of my life is a good one.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
P
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Post Bassett Christmas
12/21/2014
"Christmas" has come and gone at the Bassett house. On Friday, Jeff and I shopped, prepped and made the food that we were going to have on Saturday. I, being the chief elf, finished wrapping up the last minute gifts and running the vacuum just one more time!
Andrew et al spent Friday night at the house and, as promised, Saturday morning breakfast was hot iced cinnamon rolls out of the oven. The rolls are a bit hard on the diet (that is definitely an understatement!), but with a cup of coffee, yummy down to the last bite. Benjamin wasn't sure about eating a cinnamon roll, he prefers Pop Tarts, but after downing his first one, he was all about eating a second one. They could easily be habit forming.
Friday night after Andrew and family came to the house, we opened up a few gifts before bedtime. Benjamin's big gift was wrapped in two large black trash bags - I simply didn't have enough paper or energy to try and wrap up an electronic keyboard.
Scott came over on Saturday and we finished up opening gifts and Jeff hurried to set up the stand for the keyboard, so Benjamin could get to the business of playing music. In the afternoon, Scott's neighbors came for dinner and at best I would describe the atmosphere in the house as "controlled chaos". The dishes that Jeff and I prepared are family favorites and everyone seemed to enjoy them.
Last week I had gone to my favorite "mart" store and bought this large plastic container filled with all sizes of plastic boxes and lids. The plastic boxes are not of very high quality, but good enough to send food home to people and tell them to keep the containers.
This morning after I finally woke up at 10:00, all that is left for me to do is empty the dishwasher, wash the tablecloth, make myself a cup of coffee and read a book! While Jeff and I will be alone on Christmas, there is something sinfully peaceful knowing that my to do list is empty and I have days and days of doing nothing, while the rest of the world is still going crazy in stores, wrapping presents and addressing cards.
So what will I do on Christmas? I think I'll take myself off to see a movie and eat buttered popcorn!
P
"Christmas" has come and gone at the Bassett house. On Friday, Jeff and I shopped, prepped and made the food that we were going to have on Saturday. I, being the chief elf, finished wrapping up the last minute gifts and running the vacuum just one more time!
Andrew et al spent Friday night at the house and, as promised, Saturday morning breakfast was hot iced cinnamon rolls out of the oven. The rolls are a bit hard on the diet (that is definitely an understatement!), but with a cup of coffee, yummy down to the last bite. Benjamin wasn't sure about eating a cinnamon roll, he prefers Pop Tarts, but after downing his first one, he was all about eating a second one. They could easily be habit forming.
Friday night after Andrew and family came to the house, we opened up a few gifts before bedtime. Benjamin's big gift was wrapped in two large black trash bags - I simply didn't have enough paper or energy to try and wrap up an electronic keyboard.
Scott came over on Saturday and we finished up opening gifts and Jeff hurried to set up the stand for the keyboard, so Benjamin could get to the business of playing music. In the afternoon, Scott's neighbors came for dinner and at best I would describe the atmosphere in the house as "controlled chaos". The dishes that Jeff and I prepared are family favorites and everyone seemed to enjoy them.
Last week I had gone to my favorite "mart" store and bought this large plastic container filled with all sizes of plastic boxes and lids. The plastic boxes are not of very high quality, but good enough to send food home to people and tell them to keep the containers.
This morning after I finally woke up at 10:00, all that is left for me to do is empty the dishwasher, wash the tablecloth, make myself a cup of coffee and read a book! While Jeff and I will be alone on Christmas, there is something sinfully peaceful knowing that my to do list is empty and I have days and days of doing nothing, while the rest of the world is still going crazy in stores, wrapping presents and addressing cards.
So what will I do on Christmas? I think I'll take myself off to see a movie and eat buttered popcorn!
P
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Birthday in Review
12/18/2014
I had a wonderful birthday yesterday. The sun was out in all her glory and the temperature was mild enough that a heavy coat wasn't needed.
I took myself off early to do the nails and toes thing - heaven. When I came home, Jeff suggested a trip to the store called 5 Below to see what kind of things they had for sale. Shopping is not something Jeff does eagerly, so I was thrilled with the invite.
Once inside the store, we found a number of low priced goodies for Benjamin's stocking at Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's house. All the items at 5 Below are really inexpensive so the quality of the items reflects the low prices. Still, it was fun to push my cart around and grab up a few things.
After we left the store, Jeff took me to Scott's townhouse that the two of them have been working on for most of the year. Scott bought new cabinets for the kitchen and there is now a granite counter top that looks really good. I believe Scott intends to put in a dark wood floor which will go nicely with the white cabinets.
There is sawdust everywhere from cutting wood for floor boards and the like. The bedrooms which were painted in very dark colors, has the first coat of paint, but because of the dark colors, will require a second coat.
New toilets and vanities, a nearly new washer and dryer that Jeff and Scott found sitting in front of someone's house being sold for a ridiculously low price. To be frank, the washer sitting in Scott's townhouse is years newer than the one I have.
Next step was to our favorite restaurant for Mexican food and Tres Leche (however you spell it) cake. I also breezed through Tuesday Morning but saw nothing I felt I needed to buy.
Once home, I needed to give my hip a break, so I enjoyed a couple of Judge Judy's television shows. My friend Kim came over in the evening and brought me a gift certificate to the salon where I go for sparkly nails, which is always a great gift. She also gave me a book called "Secret Garden, An Inky Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book". Apparently on each page in the book are "hidden" objects that you have to look for. There's a "cheatsy" sheet at the back of the book, in case you can't find anything! Kim is a very good friend who remembers that I love to color and have some very grown up type markers that I use when coloring.
Kim was a complete stranger to Jeff and I until Benjamin was born. Our friendship started when I was taking Benjamin for a walk in his stroller and she came out to meet me. Kim and her family have been helping us take care of Benjamin every since. When Benjamin visits, he spends most of the day with Kim, who can and does takes him out for walks, the trampoline, etc. After a day with Kim, he comes home to Mom-Mom for quieter activities. It's a win-win all around for Benjamin.
Today, is not my "day", and I do have a number of people coming over to the house on Saturday for dinner, so I best get myself dressed and start dusting!
P
I had a wonderful birthday yesterday. The sun was out in all her glory and the temperature was mild enough that a heavy coat wasn't needed.
I took myself off early to do the nails and toes thing - heaven. When I came home, Jeff suggested a trip to the store called 5 Below to see what kind of things they had for sale. Shopping is not something Jeff does eagerly, so I was thrilled with the invite.
Once inside the store, we found a number of low priced goodies for Benjamin's stocking at Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's house. All the items at 5 Below are really inexpensive so the quality of the items reflects the low prices. Still, it was fun to push my cart around and grab up a few things.
After we left the store, Jeff took me to Scott's townhouse that the two of them have been working on for most of the year. Scott bought new cabinets for the kitchen and there is now a granite counter top that looks really good. I believe Scott intends to put in a dark wood floor which will go nicely with the white cabinets.
There is sawdust everywhere from cutting wood for floor boards and the like. The bedrooms which were painted in very dark colors, has the first coat of paint, but because of the dark colors, will require a second coat.
New toilets and vanities, a nearly new washer and dryer that Jeff and Scott found sitting in front of someone's house being sold for a ridiculously low price. To be frank, the washer sitting in Scott's townhouse is years newer than the one I have.
Next step was to our favorite restaurant for Mexican food and Tres Leche (however you spell it) cake. I also breezed through Tuesday Morning but saw nothing I felt I needed to buy.
Once home, I needed to give my hip a break, so I enjoyed a couple of Judge Judy's television shows. My friend Kim came over in the evening and brought me a gift certificate to the salon where I go for sparkly nails, which is always a great gift. She also gave me a book called "Secret Garden, An Inky Treasure Hunt and Coloring Book". Apparently on each page in the book are "hidden" objects that you have to look for. There's a "cheatsy" sheet at the back of the book, in case you can't find anything! Kim is a very good friend who remembers that I love to color and have some very grown up type markers that I use when coloring.
Kim was a complete stranger to Jeff and I until Benjamin was born. Our friendship started when I was taking Benjamin for a walk in his stroller and she came out to meet me. Kim and her family have been helping us take care of Benjamin every since. When Benjamin visits, he spends most of the day with Kim, who can and does takes him out for walks, the trampoline, etc. After a day with Kim, he comes home to Mom-Mom for quieter activities. It's a win-win all around for Benjamin.
Today, is not my "day", and I do have a number of people coming over to the house on Saturday for dinner, so I best get myself dressed and start dusting!
P
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Happy Birthday To Me!
12/17/2014
It's official folks, I am now joining the masses of "older" people. My medicare was effective on the first of December, and so far has been accepted by the doctors that I see. Obviously, you really don't want to see a doctor who doesn't take Medicare, because the cost of the visit or tests would be on you.
I remember wanting to be 18, thinking that somehow when I reached that magical age I would be all grown up - boy was I ever wrong. Then being 21 was my next "great" age. I wasn't and am not a drinker, so turning 21 wasn't about my being legal to drink. It just seemed like a cool age to be.
I have always thought of my age as a ladder. When you are heading toward a birthday that ends in a five, as in 65 as an example, you have sloughed your way to the top while you went from 60 to 65. Now that I'm 65, I'm on the downward side of that ladder and will begin my descent to my next big birthday, which will be 70. That probably doesn't make sense to you, but it's how I have always thought of my age. I'm either near the top or the bottom of a ladder.
For as many years as I can remember I have disliked having a birthday so close to Christmas. My birthday seems to get wedged in just before Santa makes his appearance!
This year Andy, Stacey and Benjamin are coming to the house on Friday and Stacey and Benjamin are making me a chocolate birthday cake. Add a little ice cream to the cake and it's all good.
Truthfully, I don't feel any wiser than I did yesterday. By being 65 I can now get a senior Metro card which discounts the fare. Jeff and I don't go into D.C. often - or never - but I intend to get my senior card just the same.
For my birthday present to myself, I am going to the "salon" today to get my fingers and toes spruced up. Who doesn't love sitting in swirling water while the chair massages your shoulders and back? After that, perhaps a trip to the library to check out more books - you can never have enough books.
I hope you enjoy your day as much as I'm going to enjoy mine. Yesterday was a gray day with lots of rain. Today, the sun is shining bright and reminds me of the song from the movie Annie - the sun'll come out tomorrow, tomorrow.
P
It's official folks, I am now joining the masses of "older" people. My medicare was effective on the first of December, and so far has been accepted by the doctors that I see. Obviously, you really don't want to see a doctor who doesn't take Medicare, because the cost of the visit or tests would be on you.
I remember wanting to be 18, thinking that somehow when I reached that magical age I would be all grown up - boy was I ever wrong. Then being 21 was my next "great" age. I wasn't and am not a drinker, so turning 21 wasn't about my being legal to drink. It just seemed like a cool age to be.
I have always thought of my age as a ladder. When you are heading toward a birthday that ends in a five, as in 65 as an example, you have sloughed your way to the top while you went from 60 to 65. Now that I'm 65, I'm on the downward side of that ladder and will begin my descent to my next big birthday, which will be 70. That probably doesn't make sense to you, but it's how I have always thought of my age. I'm either near the top or the bottom of a ladder.
For as many years as I can remember I have disliked having a birthday so close to Christmas. My birthday seems to get wedged in just before Santa makes his appearance!
This year Andy, Stacey and Benjamin are coming to the house on Friday and Stacey and Benjamin are making me a chocolate birthday cake. Add a little ice cream to the cake and it's all good.
Truthfully, I don't feel any wiser than I did yesterday. By being 65 I can now get a senior Metro card which discounts the fare. Jeff and I don't go into D.C. often - or never - but I intend to get my senior card just the same.
For my birthday present to myself, I am going to the "salon" today to get my fingers and toes spruced up. Who doesn't love sitting in swirling water while the chair massages your shoulders and back? After that, perhaps a trip to the library to check out more books - you can never have enough books.
I hope you enjoy your day as much as I'm going to enjoy mine. Yesterday was a gray day with lots of rain. Today, the sun is shining bright and reminds me of the song from the movie Annie - the sun'll come out tomorrow, tomorrow.
P
Sunday, December 14, 2014
Wrapping Presents
12/13/2014
My friends and family know that I'm absolutely on board about searching for and getting gifts for my family. I can literally spend hours on the computer in search of this or that for someone. And, I love it. But here's the part of Christmas that I do not like - wrapping! On this subject I am definitely Bah Hum Bug.
Jeff and I had sons. Sons, unlike girls, don't give a dang what the package looks like. It's all about what's inside. In the beginning, when the boys were young, I wrapped all the presents - more or less. I'm not a bow person or a crafty idea person. You want wrapping paper, with a lot of tape to hold the paper in place - I'm your girl. Fancy - not so much.
Once the boys were mostly passed getting toys for gifts, a lot of their presents came in shirt boxes, which spelt B-O-R-I-N-G to them. It wasn't long before retailers came out with "decorated" shirt boxes, snowflakes and the like. Well this revelation was a boon to me, stick the dreaded piece of clothing inside, tape on both sides, name tag and voila I'm done. Yeah for me.
My daughter-in-law is beyond excellence in all things to do with crafts. The presents she wraps are beautiful, from the paper to the ribbon and bow. I have always stood in awe of people who are able to take a box and turn it into something beautiful. But, if you're waiting to receive that kind of wrapping from me, you're going to wait a very long time.
I have done most of my wrapping which is marginal at best. And yes I need to go tomorrow and buy the dreaded shirt boxes. What do you buy adult sons? Tools would be Jeff's department. I don't buy tools and for the sake of the boys it's probably a good thing!
It seems likely that once I have secured the necessary number of shirt boxes, all of which are going to be gifts for the boys, I will more than likely put the item inside the box and tape it shut. I can't find my leftover gift tags, so in the meantime I am using post-it-notes secured with more tape.
Martha Stewart, and the like, should rest easy because I'm so not a viable contender in the art of wrapping.
I found the following on the internet. The company is called Crap Wrap from England. Here is an example of what I consider a well "wrapped" package! Notice the attention to detail to make sure that the paper won't come undone.
P
My friends and family know that I'm absolutely on board about searching for and getting gifts for my family. I can literally spend hours on the computer in search of this or that for someone. And, I love it. But here's the part of Christmas that I do not like - wrapping! On this subject I am definitely Bah Hum Bug.
Jeff and I had sons. Sons, unlike girls, don't give a dang what the package looks like. It's all about what's inside. In the beginning, when the boys were young, I wrapped all the presents - more or less. I'm not a bow person or a crafty idea person. You want wrapping paper, with a lot of tape to hold the paper in place - I'm your girl. Fancy - not so much.
Once the boys were mostly passed getting toys for gifts, a lot of their presents came in shirt boxes, which spelt B-O-R-I-N-G to them. It wasn't long before retailers came out with "decorated" shirt boxes, snowflakes and the like. Well this revelation was a boon to me, stick the dreaded piece of clothing inside, tape on both sides, name tag and voila I'm done. Yeah for me.
My daughter-in-law is beyond excellence in all things to do with crafts. The presents she wraps are beautiful, from the paper to the ribbon and bow. I have always stood in awe of people who are able to take a box and turn it into something beautiful. But, if you're waiting to receive that kind of wrapping from me, you're going to wait a very long time.
I have done most of my wrapping which is marginal at best. And yes I need to go tomorrow and buy the dreaded shirt boxes. What do you buy adult sons? Tools would be Jeff's department. I don't buy tools and for the sake of the boys it's probably a good thing!
It seems likely that once I have secured the necessary number of shirt boxes, all of which are going to be gifts for the boys, I will more than likely put the item inside the box and tape it shut. I can't find my leftover gift tags, so in the meantime I am using post-it-notes secured with more tape.
Martha Stewart, and the like, should rest easy because I'm so not a viable contender in the art of wrapping.
I found the following on the internet. The company is called Crap Wrap from England. Here is an example of what I consider a well "wrapped" package! Notice the attention to detail to make sure that the paper won't come undone.
P
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Holly Run
12/13/2014
What is a Holly Run you ask? In the first week or so of December, local pilots give of their time to fly their planes loaded with holly, toys and school supplies to an island in the Chesapeake Bay. Santa arrives in a large plane, rather than on a sleigh!
Tangier Island is a fishing village in the Bay. The only way to get in and out of Tangier Island is by plane or boat. There are 700+ people living on the island and most of the villagers have jobs off the island and use their boats to get to work. There is a school, church, restaurants and there was a doctor that came in weekly to see patients. That doctor has passed away and I don't know if a replacement for him has been found.
The local pilots fly in to a airport near the Bay Bridge. They have coffee, donuts and can talk "pilot talk" to one another. There is also a briefing about weather conditions, etc. When it's time to fly, the planes fly off one after another. The bigger plane takes Santa.
Flying in to this tiny island, the first thing you notice after you've landed is all the children lined up next to the runway to welcome Santa and all of his "elves". The planes are unloaded in record time because these children are anxious to see Santa and get their present.
The reason this is called Holly Run is because holly does not grow on Tangier Island. So the pilots bring the holly with them to decorate the church and school. It is a very rewarding experience for the pilots because they know that with one simple trip to the island, they are doing good work.
P
Friday, December 12, 2014
Tiffany Lamps
12/12/2014
I'm reading a book entitled "Clara and Mr. Tiffany". The book is about Clara Driscoll who designed and made Tiffany lampshades and windows in the 1800's. As a working woman during that time, she and the ladies in her department, were subject to ridicule by the men who also worked for Tiffany.
If a women got married during her employment, she was terminated immediately. Women's rights were not alive and well during Mrs. Driscoll's (she was a widow) time. The company men had a union that they joined, but women employees were excluded.
Mrs. Driscoll's department was responsible for many of the beautiful Tiffany lamps and large windows that graced the houses of the very rich.
Mrs. Driscoll designed and her department made beautiful lamps. Her lamps had either irregular upper or lower borders. The flowers group followed a nature, or botanical, design using flowers, dragonflies, spiders with webs, butterflies, and peacock feathers.
Here is an example of a reproduction of the original dragonfly lamp:
I'm reading a book entitled "Clara and Mr. Tiffany". The book is about Clara Driscoll who designed and made Tiffany lampshades and windows in the 1800's. As a working woman during that time, she and the ladies in her department, were subject to ridicule by the men who also worked for Tiffany.
If a women got married during her employment, she was terminated immediately. Women's rights were not alive and well during Mrs. Driscoll's (she was a widow) time. The company men had a union that they joined, but women employees were excluded.
Mrs. Driscoll's department was responsible for many of the beautiful Tiffany lamps and large windows that graced the houses of the very rich.
Mrs. Driscoll designed and her department made beautiful lamps. Her lamps had either irregular upper or lower borders. The flowers group followed a nature, or botanical, design using flowers, dragonflies, spiders with webs, butterflies, and peacock feathers.
Here is an example of a reproduction of the original dragonfly lamp:
The Holy City (1905) – St. John's vision on the isle of Patmos, one of eleven Tiffany windows at Brown Memorial Presbyterian Church in Baltimore, Maryland. It has 58 panels and is thought to be one of the largest Tiffany Studios windows
The women employees of Tiffany did not, obviously, earn as much as the male workers. And for the most part the male employees didn't have the "eye" to find the right colors to use on the lamps and windows.
I checked the internet and there are original lamps for sale. Here is an example of one lamp, which is on sale!!! A Meyda Tiffany Original Tiffany Acorn w/Tobacco Leaf Table Lamp is on sale for only $41,500.00. At that price you'd have to have that lamp listed as scheduled property on your homeowners insurance policy!
P
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Ugly Sweaters
12/11/2014
I have never felt the need to adorn myself with seasonal clothing, particularly sweaters! But according to the paper today, I'm definitely in the minority - who knew?
I turned to my trusty Google to search for ugly Christmas sweaters. To my surprise there were a lot of hits. At Macy's, for example, you can buy yourself an ugly Christmas sweater kit. The kit includes everything you need to make a custom ugly sweater! This kit includes your sweater, felt accessories, glitter glue, jingle bells and much more! This kit is on sale right now for $24.99, such a bargain.
Apparently, you can buy "ugly" on Amazon, Target, Walmart and on a website "tipsyelves.com". You can also buy an ugly Christmas suit - you'll have to see it to believe it. I'm sure that anyone of these is at the top of Jeff's list!!!!
So this Christmas, like all the others I've had, I'll be dressed in plain vanilla fashion. I know I'm just no fun. Sorry.
Today is National Ugly Christmas Sweater day, so you'd better get your ugly on!
P
I have never felt the need to adorn myself with seasonal clothing, particularly sweaters! But according to the paper today, I'm definitely in the minority - who knew?
I turned to my trusty Google to search for ugly Christmas sweaters. To my surprise there were a lot of hits. At Macy's, for example, you can buy yourself an ugly Christmas sweater kit. The kit includes everything you need to make a custom ugly sweater! This kit includes your sweater, felt accessories, glitter glue, jingle bells and much more! This kit is on sale right now for $24.99, such a bargain.
- Cotton
- Machine washable
- Imported
- Unisex ugly sweater kit
- Crew neck; long sleeves
- Kit comes with red sweater, sheet white felt, reindeer, snowflakes, pom poms, glue, felted red bows, googley eyes, assorted ornaments, green glitter glue, jingle bells, wrapped presents, gold bead necklace & a sewing kit
Apparently, you can buy "ugly" on Amazon, Target, Walmart and on a website "tipsyelves.com". You can also buy an ugly Christmas suit - you'll have to see it to believe it. I'm sure that anyone of these is at the top of Jeff's list!!!!
So this Christmas, like all the others I've had, I'll be dressed in plain vanilla fashion. I know I'm just no fun. Sorry.
Today is National Ugly Christmas Sweater day, so you'd better get your ugly on!
P
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Plane Crash
12/20/2014
We had another local plane crash this week that killed the three people in the plane, as well as a mother and her two children that were in the house. The plane crashed into the house and burst into flames. Unfortunately, the mother and her children never stood a chance of survival.
Plane crashes always get a lot of media attention, and this one was so tragic, that it will remain in the news for days, perhaps even weeks.
Of course the media was able to find out that the pilot of the plane had crashed at the same airport ten years ago. Pilot error or mechanical? It will be quite a while before NSB will be able to make a determination. Obviously, even if you assign blame to the pilot, it won't bring back those people who died.
Jeff and I have longed touted the advantage of our plane with a built-in parachute that you can use if your engine fails, for example. As a friend of ours said this week, it was too bad that the plane wasn't a Cirrus. The parachute aboard a Cirrus plane saves lives, a lot of lives.
There have been several plane crashes in our area over the last few months and somehow it feels like planes are just dropping from the sky. This plane is a Cirrus and I know that when we are flying somewhere, there is a calm that comes over me, just knowing that we have a safer way to land if something goes wrong while we're flying.
P
We had another local plane crash this week that killed the three people in the plane, as well as a mother and her two children that were in the house. The plane crashed into the house and burst into flames. Unfortunately, the mother and her children never stood a chance of survival.
Plane crashes always get a lot of media attention, and this one was so tragic, that it will remain in the news for days, perhaps even weeks.
Of course the media was able to find out that the pilot of the plane had crashed at the same airport ten years ago. Pilot error or mechanical? It will be quite a while before NSB will be able to make a determination. Obviously, even if you assign blame to the pilot, it won't bring back those people who died.
Jeff and I have longed touted the advantage of our plane with a built-in parachute that you can use if your engine fails, for example. As a friend of ours said this week, it was too bad that the plane wasn't a Cirrus. The parachute aboard a Cirrus plane saves lives, a lot of lives.
There have been several plane crashes in our area over the last few months and somehow it feels like planes are just dropping from the sky. This plane is a Cirrus and I know that when we are flying somewhere, there is a calm that comes over me, just knowing that we have a safer way to land if something goes wrong while we're flying.
P
Monday, December 8, 2014
Hallmark and Lifetime Movies
12/8/2014
Yes folks it's that time of the year. What time of the year you ask? The showing of "schmaltzy (sp?) movies with commercials heavily sweetened, especially if you're on the Hallmark channel.
To be fair, I love these holiday movies, they are just so absolutely perfect! It's cold, there's a touch of snow, and everyone loves, eventually, everybody. They are all so predictable and yet I set my Tivo to record each and every one of them.
Last night my holiday television watching went to a new low. I watched the movie about Grumpy the cat. The cat is adorably cute, which is about the only good thing I can say about the movie. I'm not one to give up on a sinking ship, or movie, so I hung on to the end, but I have no idea why. The movie was genuinely that bad.
In years past I would watch movies that I had seen before, some of them, more than once. This year I decided I would be more discerning and only watch new movies. Even though I'm only going to watch new movies, there is still a lot of them scheduled for December.
I think the allure of these Christmas movies is that the whole family appears to get along and any troubles that the family encounters is quickly dealt with. Would that real life be that simple!
Happy television watching.
P
Yes folks it's that time of the year. What time of the year you ask? The showing of "schmaltzy (sp?) movies with commercials heavily sweetened, especially if you're on the Hallmark channel.
To be fair, I love these holiday movies, they are just so absolutely perfect! It's cold, there's a touch of snow, and everyone loves, eventually, everybody. They are all so predictable and yet I set my Tivo to record each and every one of them.
Last night my holiday television watching went to a new low. I watched the movie about Grumpy the cat. The cat is adorably cute, which is about the only good thing I can say about the movie. I'm not one to give up on a sinking ship, or movie, so I hung on to the end, but I have no idea why. The movie was genuinely that bad.
In years past I would watch movies that I had seen before, some of them, more than once. This year I decided I would be more discerning and only watch new movies. Even though I'm only going to watch new movies, there is still a lot of them scheduled for December.
I think the allure of these Christmas movies is that the whole family appears to get along and any troubles that the family encounters is quickly dealt with. Would that real life be that simple!
Happy television watching.
P
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Just Call Me Chester!
12/6/2014
There maybe some of you out there who doesn't know who "Chester" is/was. Chester was in the television show Gunsmoke (again, you have to be of a certain "age" to know about that show. Anyway, Chester walked with a limp, and now I do too!
Yesterday I took myself off to the podiatrist because my right foot was giving me some trouble (i.e., pain)! Apparently, I have a bone spur on my heel which is causing the arch of my foot to be very painful. I was outfitted with not one, but three different "things" to wear on my right leg. There is the walking cast in a beautiful shade of gray and black equipped with more Velcro straps than I've seen in a long time.
I also have a walking shoe - again Velcro. I'm not supposed to use that shoe often, only when I have to drive. That shoe is again black and gray. And the piece d' resistance a boot like thing that I wear for only one hour at night before bed. And I bet you can guess the color!
While I was getting instructions for getting in (harder) and out (easier) of each of these semi-torture devices, I wondered why these kind of devices can't come in another color - red comes to mind or patterned. Is there some medical law that says if you have hurt yourself, you must not only be stuck walking around with a cast that goes clump when you walk, but it must be butt ugly as well? I'm going to be limping around until the end of next week. Stairs are particularly difficult because the boot is so heavy and I'm sure that I shouldn't be overdoing it with housework or cooking! Luckily, I have a large stack of library books and a fire in the fireplace - so I'm all set.
P
There maybe some of you out there who doesn't know who "Chester" is/was. Chester was in the television show Gunsmoke (again, you have to be of a certain "age" to know about that show. Anyway, Chester walked with a limp, and now I do too!
Yesterday I took myself off to the podiatrist because my right foot was giving me some trouble (i.e., pain)! Apparently, I have a bone spur on my heel which is causing the arch of my foot to be very painful. I was outfitted with not one, but three different "things" to wear on my right leg. There is the walking cast in a beautiful shade of gray and black equipped with more Velcro straps than I've seen in a long time.
I also have a walking shoe - again Velcro. I'm not supposed to use that shoe often, only when I have to drive. That shoe is again black and gray. And the piece d' resistance a boot like thing that I wear for only one hour at night before bed. And I bet you can guess the color!
While I was getting instructions for getting in (harder) and out (easier) of each of these semi-torture devices, I wondered why these kind of devices can't come in another color - red comes to mind or patterned. Is there some medical law that says if you have hurt yourself, you must not only be stuck walking around with a cast that goes clump when you walk, but it must be butt ugly as well? I'm going to be limping around until the end of next week. Stairs are particularly difficult because the boot is so heavy and I'm sure that I shouldn't be overdoing it with housework or cooking! Luckily, I have a large stack of library books and a fire in the fireplace - so I'm all set.
P
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Protests
12/4/2014
You would have to be living under a rock not to notice the protests in Missouri, New York and in D.C. Our regular television show was overridden with breaking news from New York. Rows of police and people walking down the roads carrying signs and chanting. Traffic, obviously, was at a standstill and I can't even imagine what the drivers were thinking while they were sitting amid all the protesters.
I never have, nor will I ever, make my opinions known when it comes to situations like yesterday's protesting. I will say, without knowing all the facts, that it seems like the police have perhaps been overreaching in trying to turn around rampant chaos. I know that I would definitely not want to be a policeman, particularly in today's environment.
While watching the breaking news last night, got me to reminiscing about what I now consider the peaceful 60's. Oh we had some drugs, hippies and peace rallies, but compared to what is going on presently, it was, for the most part, a peaceful time.
I know that we will never return to a simpler way of living, and on some level that's a shame. In the past, we didn't have 24/7 media blitz or social networking - and we all managed to survive!
P
You would have to be living under a rock not to notice the protests in Missouri, New York and in D.C. Our regular television show was overridden with breaking news from New York. Rows of police and people walking down the roads carrying signs and chanting. Traffic, obviously, was at a standstill and I can't even imagine what the drivers were thinking while they were sitting amid all the protesters.
I never have, nor will I ever, make my opinions known when it comes to situations like yesterday's protesting. I will say, without knowing all the facts, that it seems like the police have perhaps been overreaching in trying to turn around rampant chaos. I know that I would definitely not want to be a policeman, particularly in today's environment.
While watching the breaking news last night, got me to reminiscing about what I now consider the peaceful 60's. Oh we had some drugs, hippies and peace rallies, but compared to what is going on presently, it was, for the most part, a peaceful time.
I know that we will never return to a simpler way of living, and on some level that's a shame. In the past, we didn't have 24/7 media blitz or social networking - and we all managed to survive!
P
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Luck
12/3/2014
There is an old saying in the Bassett house that if we didn't have bad luck, we wouldn't have any at all! And that saying was never more true than this morning when Jeff took our car back to the dealer for service.
Our regular mechanic handles all the ordinary stuff like oil change, rotating tires, etc. But when we had the car in last week for him to look at, he told us that we needed to take the car back to the dealer. He also happened to mention that the repair, if not under warranty, was probably going to be expensive!
Jeff made an appointment for this morning to take the Benz in and had arranged to get a loaner car since we have to go to Baltimore this afternoon. The service writer felt bad (or not) when he told Jeff that our warranty expired on November 15th! Curses, fouled again.
The car has to be fixed, so there is little you can do. Leave the car, hope that we won't have to take our a second mortgage on the house to pay for the repairs! They did, however, give us a bright red little Mercedes loaner car. And, the service people at the dealership are, of course, helpful as well as nice.
Did we need a loaner car? Hmm, probably not. We have the little "z" sitting in the driveway, but it's so ugly out today, and I hate being in that car with the top up - something about close places.
I don't remember the last time we took the car back to the dealer, so in my mind, the loaner is just a perk, that I'm getting for "free" (ha)!
I hope it's sunny where you are, because it's downright gloomy here.
P
There is an old saying in the Bassett house that if we didn't have bad luck, we wouldn't have any at all! And that saying was never more true than this morning when Jeff took our car back to the dealer for service.
Our regular mechanic handles all the ordinary stuff like oil change, rotating tires, etc. But when we had the car in last week for him to look at, he told us that we needed to take the car back to the dealer. He also happened to mention that the repair, if not under warranty, was probably going to be expensive!
Jeff made an appointment for this morning to take the Benz in and had arranged to get a loaner car since we have to go to Baltimore this afternoon. The service writer felt bad (or not) when he told Jeff that our warranty expired on November 15th! Curses, fouled again.
The car has to be fixed, so there is little you can do. Leave the car, hope that we won't have to take our a second mortgage on the house to pay for the repairs! They did, however, give us a bright red little Mercedes loaner car. And, the service people at the dealership are, of course, helpful as well as nice.
Did we need a loaner car? Hmm, probably not. We have the little "z" sitting in the driveway, but it's so ugly out today, and I hate being in that car with the top up - something about close places.
I don't remember the last time we took the car back to the dealer, so in my mind, the loaner is just a perk, that I'm getting for "free" (ha)!
I hope it's sunny where you are, because it's downright gloomy here.
P
Monday, December 1, 2014
Phases of a Life
12/1/2014
Krikee, it's December already! It seems like just a day ago, we had the a/c cranked up and swore at hot as the sun steering wheels. Once it gets real cold, then we'll be complaining about icy hands as well as cold seats and steering wheels. Let's face it, we're not always happy with the weather - and, there isn't anything we can do about it.
As a teenager, I wanted to be in my 20's because then I would be an adult and be my own person, more or less.
I was married at 25 and had babies, 18 months apart. To the children who are only 18 months apart, it's delightful. They have a nearly constant playmate. To a mother, and a working mother as well, it meant dealing with sickness, generally times two and potty training one right after the other. When I was a new mother, employers had not yet "seen the light" about helping out working mothers. I absolutely hated calling into the office to let them know I wouldn't be in because of one illness or another. I'm happy to say, this many years later, employers are better about meeting the needs of parents.
I pretty much sailed through my 40's and 50's. The boys became adults, bought homes and moved away. And I was an empty nester before I even realized what was happening. People let me tell you that the time between a slightly annoying child to an adult is really short. It only seems like a long time when you're in the midst of dealing with your child's issues.
Well once you've entered your 60's then the countdown begins on enrolling in Medicare and supplemental insurance. If you dilly dally, there are penalties of time that the government puts on you for being late to enroll.
Today, is December 1st and as of today I am a Medicare card senior citizen. When you're young you believe you will never be old, but then the calendars keep turning over and then you have hit retirement age, if you choose. You can keep working as long as you like or need to, but being on Medicare is not an option. You must enroll and then you keep your fingers crossed that the doctors you have been with for years, take Medicare. Argh, getting old is not for sissies. I don't mind turning 65. What I do mind is the endless parade of junk mail that I've been receiving for months offering me the "best" supplemental gap insurance. Thankfully, Jeff made the decisions regarding gap insurance for both of us, and all new gap insurance junk mail can be fed into the shredder!
P
Krikee, it's December already! It seems like just a day ago, we had the a/c cranked up and swore at hot as the sun steering wheels. Once it gets real cold, then we'll be complaining about icy hands as well as cold seats and steering wheels. Let's face it, we're not always happy with the weather - and, there isn't anything we can do about it.
As a teenager, I wanted to be in my 20's because then I would be an adult and be my own person, more or less.
I was married at 25 and had babies, 18 months apart. To the children who are only 18 months apart, it's delightful. They have a nearly constant playmate. To a mother, and a working mother as well, it meant dealing with sickness, generally times two and potty training one right after the other. When I was a new mother, employers had not yet "seen the light" about helping out working mothers. I absolutely hated calling into the office to let them know I wouldn't be in because of one illness or another. I'm happy to say, this many years later, employers are better about meeting the needs of parents.
I pretty much sailed through my 40's and 50's. The boys became adults, bought homes and moved away. And I was an empty nester before I even realized what was happening. People let me tell you that the time between a slightly annoying child to an adult is really short. It only seems like a long time when you're in the midst of dealing with your child's issues.
Well once you've entered your 60's then the countdown begins on enrolling in Medicare and supplemental insurance. If you dilly dally, there are penalties of time that the government puts on you for being late to enroll.
Today, is December 1st and as of today I am a Medicare card senior citizen. When you're young you believe you will never be old, but then the calendars keep turning over and then you have hit retirement age, if you choose. You can keep working as long as you like or need to, but being on Medicare is not an option. You must enroll and then you keep your fingers crossed that the doctors you have been with for years, take Medicare. Argh, getting old is not for sissies. I don't mind turning 65. What I do mind is the endless parade of junk mail that I've been receiving for months offering me the "best" supplemental gap insurance. Thankfully, Jeff made the decisions regarding gap insurance for both of us, and all new gap insurance junk mail can be fed into the shredder!
P
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks
11/29/2014
The old dog I'm referred to is me. The new trick is trying to teach myself how to crochet. I bought a children's crochet kit that comes with everything you need to get started, including instructions. Once I got home, I opened up the box and since there was only one hook, started reading the how to's on page one. I never made it to page two!
Following instructions is something I've never been particularly good at. I can see the picture and arrows pointing up or down, but somehow in my brain that all gets twisted around until all I end up with is a slipknot on the needle and an hour of frustration!
I bought myself a children's book of crochet yesterday and it comes with all sorts of brightly colored instructions and yet I couldn't manage to make a chain stitch which is apparently the first stitch you need to know how to do.
Not yet ready to throw in the towel, but close to be sure, I went to my computer and typed in learning to crochet. Up popped dozens of YouTube videos as well as written instructions that I found on the internet. I was, at this point, feeling really disappointed, but brought my yarn and needle to the computer and watched the same video over and over again. Eventually, the under/over maneuver necessary to make a stitch started to sink in.
The reason I decided to try my hand at crocheting was there was only one needle involved. In my mind having to deal with only one needle would make things easier for me. Initially, that was not the case.
After many, and I do many, unsuccessful attempts at making my first stitch, I managed to do something right and there was a stitch! Hurrah. This morning I took my yarn and needle and was able to make many chain stitches - and I'm proud of myself.
For those who know me well, also know that arts and crafts don't come easily to me. I can never seem to grasp written instructions and I had a mother and grandmother who were both very talented with all manner of needle crafts and produced some beautiful needlepoint and crocheted things. I don't aspire to even begin to contemplate matching their skill level, but I'm teaching myself crocheting one stitch at a time!
P
The old dog I'm referred to is me. The new trick is trying to teach myself how to crochet. I bought a children's crochet kit that comes with everything you need to get started, including instructions. Once I got home, I opened up the box and since there was only one hook, started reading the how to's on page one. I never made it to page two!
Following instructions is something I've never been particularly good at. I can see the picture and arrows pointing up or down, but somehow in my brain that all gets twisted around until all I end up with is a slipknot on the needle and an hour of frustration!
I bought myself a children's book of crochet yesterday and it comes with all sorts of brightly colored instructions and yet I couldn't manage to make a chain stitch which is apparently the first stitch you need to know how to do.
Not yet ready to throw in the towel, but close to be sure, I went to my computer and typed in learning to crochet. Up popped dozens of YouTube videos as well as written instructions that I found on the internet. I was, at this point, feeling really disappointed, but brought my yarn and needle to the computer and watched the same video over and over again. Eventually, the under/over maneuver necessary to make a stitch started to sink in.
The reason I decided to try my hand at crocheting was there was only one needle involved. In my mind having to deal with only one needle would make things easier for me. Initially, that was not the case.
After many, and I do many, unsuccessful attempts at making my first stitch, I managed to do something right and there was a stitch! Hurrah. This morning I took my yarn and needle and was able to make many chain stitches - and I'm proud of myself.
For those who know me well, also know that arts and crafts don't come easily to me. I can never seem to grasp written instructions and I had a mother and grandmother who were both very talented with all manner of needle crafts and produced some beautiful needlepoint and crocheted things. I don't aspire to even begin to contemplate matching their skill level, but I'm teaching myself crocheting one stitch at a time!
P
Friday, November 28, 2014
Post Thanksgiving
11/28/2014
It's the day after Thanksgiving, and all is calm in the Bassett house. Yesterday we had our dinner at Crackle Barrel, and unfortunately while we had to wait for a table, I was able to shop. Pretty much I've never met a store that I didn't find something that I wanted and yesterday was no exception!
We brought home enough food for lunch today, as well as one piece of pie that wasn't eaten last night. I, of course, ate mine! Jeff has more control of his urgings when it comes to sugar, particularly since his gastric surgery years ago, his body has trouble with sugar. My body has no trouble with sweets - unfortunately.
After we left the restaurant we headed to a nearby WalMart and Target. When the boys were very young and there was a certain "it" toy, Jeff would go out late at night to buy that particular toy. Since the "invention" of online shopping, as well as having adult sons, I don't feel the pressure of having to buy a special something for them before stores empty their shelves! Both of them have up-to-date electronics and televisions and with the exception of buying a DVD for Ben, don't buy many movies.
Our first stop was WalMart where the line to get in the store was super duper long. The crowds wound around metal gates, for lack of a better word, much like you would herd cattle, which is what we felt like when we finally got into the store.
Not having experienced the rush of a limited supply of something, I was completely baffled by the people literally hanging on to pallets of large televisions, stereo equipment, etc. Apparently, the pallets in the store were going to be unwrapped at some predetermined time during the evening. Who knew that people would literally stand in line for a chance to buy something. I hope those people know that you can buy those same items on line while sitting in your chair drinking coffee.
All I wanted at WalMart was trail mix. I have been eating a trail mix that has some M&M candy mixed in with the nuts. Since I'm trying to be good about eating too much sugar, the trail mix allows me to enjoy some chocolate every day. Once we had found the trail mix, we asked someone in a WalMart shirt where was the line for the cashiers. She pointed to the back, and I mean back, of the store. We both decided that it was nuts (literally) to stand in line for trail mix, we abandoned the trail mix and left the store.
Target is just across from WalMart and their merchandise is many degrees better than at WalMart. We sat in our car until Target opened at 6:00 and then went inside. Aisles were blocked off, people were everywhere and good manners had flown out the doors when they opened!
Again, trail mix is all I wanted. Bag in hand walked to the front of the store and was told that I would, once again, have to wait in a very long line to get to the cashiers. Every cart in line was bulging with Target's special on sale items and there didn't appear to be a special express check-out for people who were just buying nuts! Left without the trail mix.
We came home somewhat exhausted from trying to maneuver through the throngs of people who were desperate to get the big ticket items that were on sale. As we drove, we reminded ourselves that having experienced Black Thursday and hated it, it's an experience we won't have to have again. Thank goodness!
Today, Jeff is going to work at Scott's house preparing his tractor for snow plowing (at least I think that was the plan). I'm going to put on my shoes and head to the library to return books and check out some new ones. Compared to going to a mall, I'm not expecting an overflow of people at the library.
Have a good day.
P
It's the day after Thanksgiving, and all is calm in the Bassett house. Yesterday we had our dinner at Crackle Barrel, and unfortunately while we had to wait for a table, I was able to shop. Pretty much I've never met a store that I didn't find something that I wanted and yesterday was no exception!
We brought home enough food for lunch today, as well as one piece of pie that wasn't eaten last night. I, of course, ate mine! Jeff has more control of his urgings when it comes to sugar, particularly since his gastric surgery years ago, his body has trouble with sugar. My body has no trouble with sweets - unfortunately.
After we left the restaurant we headed to a nearby WalMart and Target. When the boys were very young and there was a certain "it" toy, Jeff would go out late at night to buy that particular toy. Since the "invention" of online shopping, as well as having adult sons, I don't feel the pressure of having to buy a special something for them before stores empty their shelves! Both of them have up-to-date electronics and televisions and with the exception of buying a DVD for Ben, don't buy many movies.
Our first stop was WalMart where the line to get in the store was super duper long. The crowds wound around metal gates, for lack of a better word, much like you would herd cattle, which is what we felt like when we finally got into the store.
Not having experienced the rush of a limited supply of something, I was completely baffled by the people literally hanging on to pallets of large televisions, stereo equipment, etc. Apparently, the pallets in the store were going to be unwrapped at some predetermined time during the evening. Who knew that people would literally stand in line for a chance to buy something. I hope those people know that you can buy those same items on line while sitting in your chair drinking coffee.
All I wanted at WalMart was trail mix. I have been eating a trail mix that has some M&M candy mixed in with the nuts. Since I'm trying to be good about eating too much sugar, the trail mix allows me to enjoy some chocolate every day. Once we had found the trail mix, we asked someone in a WalMart shirt where was the line for the cashiers. She pointed to the back, and I mean back, of the store. We both decided that it was nuts (literally) to stand in line for trail mix, we abandoned the trail mix and left the store.
Target is just across from WalMart and their merchandise is many degrees better than at WalMart. We sat in our car until Target opened at 6:00 and then went inside. Aisles were blocked off, people were everywhere and good manners had flown out the doors when they opened!
Again, trail mix is all I wanted. Bag in hand walked to the front of the store and was told that I would, once again, have to wait in a very long line to get to the cashiers. Every cart in line was bulging with Target's special on sale items and there didn't appear to be a special express check-out for people who were just buying nuts! Left without the trail mix.
We came home somewhat exhausted from trying to maneuver through the throngs of people who were desperate to get the big ticket items that were on sale. As we drove, we reminded ourselves that having experienced Black Thursday and hated it, it's an experience we won't have to have again. Thank goodness!
Today, Jeff is going to work at Scott's house preparing his tractor for snow plowing (at least I think that was the plan). I'm going to put on my shoes and head to the library to return books and check out some new ones. Compared to going to a mall, I'm not expecting an overflow of people at the library.
Have a good day.
P
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Happy Thanksgiving
11/27/2014
Happy turkey day! This is the one day of the year where most if not all people eat their favorite foods at the table and then stagger to the sofa to rest and/or sleep! A perfectly wonderful tradition.
This year, Jeff and I are going out for our turkey dinner. This is the first time in many, many years where I haven't spent the entire day before preparing food that needs to be refrigerated. While it will seem odd not to have to peel potatoes, make stuffing and gravy, I find that I'm okay with that. The less food in the house is better for me. As you know, a nibble here and a nibble there and before you know it you've eaten half the pie!
I remember as a child visiting my Grandmother who raised turkeys. She kept the Tom turkeys separate from the hens (or tomettes if you prefer). The Tom turkeys were scary creatures with a large wing span. My brother and I were supposed to go to the pen area where the turkeys were kept and make sure that the feeders were full of grain and water. I also remember that Grandma told us we had to make sure that the turkeys didn't sit on top of the aluminum feeders, because apparently they were/are so dumb that they would sit there until their feet were hot.
Because it's the day before "Black Friday", the ads in the paper weighed a ton. Since I have done most of my shopping, I find I'm not terribly interested in what the stores have up for sale. And since I have a gimpy hip, I do most of my shopping on line anyway.
The hardest person(s) to buy for are the boys and Jeff. Jeff is not a clothes horse so he has never pined for new shirts, etc. and I know virtually nothing about tools. Besides in the past every time I manage to get instructions on what tools to buy for him, generally end up in one of the boys' houses!
After we eat our mid-day meal, then we can either brave Lowes or Home Depot looking for something that the boys, or more likely Jeff needs!
I could spend the afternoon wrapping up the things I've bought, but I hate wrapping. As the boys got older, I found myself more and more taking boxes and sealing them with packing tape. I know, I know, it's not pretty, but most guys don't care about fancy paper and bows.
I hope you enjoy your day regardless of how you spend it.
P
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Snow Happens!
11/26/2014
Well the forecasters can pat themselves on their backs, because as I sit here this morning, a little bit of snow is falling. The snow is light and mixed with rain, but technically it's snowing! Other than taking myself off for physical therapy, I don't need or want to go anywhere else.
Because of the very gray day outside, I decided that today would be a very good day to use my "SAD" light, which emulates sunshine. There is something about gray days that can bring a person down emotionally.
Since we're not having a Thanksgiving dinner at our house, I don't even have to prep, bake or refrigerate anything! Jeff and I have decided that it makes much more sense to eat our turkey in a restaurant and Cracker Barrel comes to mind!
If we don't have any 'tovers" in our kitchen. there won't be any of our favorite foods sitting around just waiting for a nibble. In my mind, if you're just nibbling, then calories don't count! Calories only count if you are sitting down with plate in hand (don't I wish)!
The stores if you've noticed have a glut of pumpkin mixes: cheesecake, pumpkin brownies, pumpkin bread, etc. And, I have made all of those so I'm pretty much pumpkined out. I think tomorrow's dessert should be coconut cream pie, which is a real favorite of mine.
Hard to say what I'll do with the rest of tomorrow. My shopping for Benjamin is done and I'm almost finished for Stacey. The boys and Jeff are always a bit of a challenge. When the boys were younger, a new set of Legos was nearly the perfect gift. But they're men now and I suppose they want power tools or something manly like that. I'll leave shopping for the boys up to Jeff, since he knows what they need as far as tools or other equipment necessary for their garages. And we all know how dear a garage is to a man!
Enjoy your day and I hope it's sunny where you are.
P
Well the forecasters can pat themselves on their backs, because as I sit here this morning, a little bit of snow is falling. The snow is light and mixed with rain, but technically it's snowing! Other than taking myself off for physical therapy, I don't need or want to go anywhere else.
Because of the very gray day outside, I decided that today would be a very good day to use my "SAD" light, which emulates sunshine. There is something about gray days that can bring a person down emotionally.
Since we're not having a Thanksgiving dinner at our house, I don't even have to prep, bake or refrigerate anything! Jeff and I have decided that it makes much more sense to eat our turkey in a restaurant and Cracker Barrel comes to mind!
If we don't have any 'tovers" in our kitchen. there won't be any of our favorite foods sitting around just waiting for a nibble. In my mind, if you're just nibbling, then calories don't count! Calories only count if you are sitting down with plate in hand (don't I wish)!
The stores if you've noticed have a glut of pumpkin mixes: cheesecake, pumpkin brownies, pumpkin bread, etc. And, I have made all of those so I'm pretty much pumpkined out. I think tomorrow's dessert should be coconut cream pie, which is a real favorite of mine.
Hard to say what I'll do with the rest of tomorrow. My shopping for Benjamin is done and I'm almost finished for Stacey. The boys and Jeff are always a bit of a challenge. When the boys were younger, a new set of Legos was nearly the perfect gift. But they're men now and I suppose they want power tools or something manly like that. I'll leave shopping for the boys up to Jeff, since he knows what they need as far as tools or other equipment necessary for their garages. And we all know how dear a garage is to a man!
Enjoy your day and I hope it's sunny where you are.
P
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Mother Nature
11/25/20014
We have all known that Mother Nature is a fickle woman, prone to changing her mind about the weather in a flash. Yesterday was perhaps unseasonably warm for our area. We had windows opened wide and a fan in the window while we slept.
Today the temperatures will begin to drop a bit and it's possible that if we open any windows at all, it will be the ones in our bedroom. We like our bedroom to be cool and/or cold because there is nothing nicer than making a mad dash to the bed and curling up underneath a down comforter!
Tomorrow, however, the weathermen are using the "s" word - snow! Probably not a lot of snow, but the first snow of the season is always fun. Of course, the longer winter is, and the more snow that falls, it tends to lose it's luster. While snow is pretty to look at, somebody has to shovel the driveway and since the boys are no longer at home, that chore unfortunately belongs to Jeff.
During winter, and we haven't decided if it's officially here, we take the "z" (convertible) car to our son's house for hibernation. While it's true that if we had two cars in the driveway, there would be less snow to shovel, but the "z" would really be in the way and she isn't a car you want to be driving in when there is snow/sleet on the ground.
If it's a big snow and we have to get out, we use the truck "Blue Ox". She's a big girl and sits high above the ground and also has four wheel drive that you can use if needed. My car, while she would probably be okay in some snow, sits like a prima donna in the garage waiting for streets to be plowed before venturing out!
The other thing about snow is that while it's beautiful falling and "icing" all the trees, once it starts to melt on the roads, it quickly turns gray and mushy, which in turn, makes your car very dirty. Perhaps if I owned a darker color car (mine is white), then the mush wouldn't be so visible!
Jeff is already making plans to make chicken soup for tomorrow and he makes very good soups. Sometimes to make sure I'm paying attention, he tosses in a can of mushrooms (ick), which I then have to daintily toss out of my bowl. Still, anybody who is up for the chore of chopping vegetables, a chore that I hate, should probably also have the right to use "rooms" if he wants.
P
We have all known that Mother Nature is a fickle woman, prone to changing her mind about the weather in a flash. Yesterday was perhaps unseasonably warm for our area. We had windows opened wide and a fan in the window while we slept.
Today the temperatures will begin to drop a bit and it's possible that if we open any windows at all, it will be the ones in our bedroom. We like our bedroom to be cool and/or cold because there is nothing nicer than making a mad dash to the bed and curling up underneath a down comforter!
Tomorrow, however, the weathermen are using the "s" word - snow! Probably not a lot of snow, but the first snow of the season is always fun. Of course, the longer winter is, and the more snow that falls, it tends to lose it's luster. While snow is pretty to look at, somebody has to shovel the driveway and since the boys are no longer at home, that chore unfortunately belongs to Jeff.
During winter, and we haven't decided if it's officially here, we take the "z" (convertible) car to our son's house for hibernation. While it's true that if we had two cars in the driveway, there would be less snow to shovel, but the "z" would really be in the way and she isn't a car you want to be driving in when there is snow/sleet on the ground.
If it's a big snow and we have to get out, we use the truck "Blue Ox". She's a big girl and sits high above the ground and also has four wheel drive that you can use if needed. My car, while she would probably be okay in some snow, sits like a prima donna in the garage waiting for streets to be plowed before venturing out!
The other thing about snow is that while it's beautiful falling and "icing" all the trees, once it starts to melt on the roads, it quickly turns gray and mushy, which in turn, makes your car very dirty. Perhaps if I owned a darker color car (mine is white), then the mush wouldn't be so visible!
Jeff is already making plans to make chicken soup for tomorrow and he makes very good soups. Sometimes to make sure I'm paying attention, he tosses in a can of mushrooms (ick), which I then have to daintily toss out of my bowl. Still, anybody who is up for the chore of chopping vegetables, a chore that I hate, should probably also have the right to use "rooms" if he wants.
P
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Bits and Pieces
11/22/2014
Benjamin had a sleep over last night at Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's house. He didn't like sleeping in the spare room, because he much prefers sleeping in our bed. Once all of his objections were raised, and there were many, he fell asleep quickly.
This morning Benjamin was up before me and while I was still asleep, Pop-Pop "lit" (gas fireplace) a fire to warm up the back of the house. When I came down, Benjamin was happily playing with literally bits and pieces of toys he found in a toy chest I keep downstairs. He built a railroad out of pieces of wooden track in a zigzag pattern and added little cars. He had a name for his newly built town and provided that the dogs don't come in and out of that room, his little town will be safe.
One of the toys he is playing with is something that his father and Scott both played with as children. It is now considered a vintage toy on Ebay, if you can even find it. While searching for it today, I found accessories, like pieces of track and buildings for $.99, which is a steal. But wait - the shipping is $28.00! Nope, not going to be something that I'm going to buy.
The nice part of the the racetrack Benjamin is playing with is that after you play, you close up the track like a suitcase. When not in use, it sits nicely under my sofa.
Years ago I bought Benjamin a large amount of foam blocks of different sizes. I wanted foam because if he built something on one of my tables, there would be no damage to the wood. Also, when he was younger, if a tower of blocks fell on him, there was no bodily damage! I keep the blocks in a very large plastic container that I store in the spare room until it's time to play.
I may not have complete sets of many toys, just bits and pieces, but when Benjamin comes to visit, those bits and pieces become treasured toys to him.
Happy playing.
P
Benjamin had a sleep over last night at Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's house. He didn't like sleeping in the spare room, because he much prefers sleeping in our bed. Once all of his objections were raised, and there were many, he fell asleep quickly.
This morning Benjamin was up before me and while I was still asleep, Pop-Pop "lit" (gas fireplace) a fire to warm up the back of the house. When I came down, Benjamin was happily playing with literally bits and pieces of toys he found in a toy chest I keep downstairs. He built a railroad out of pieces of wooden track in a zigzag pattern and added little cars. He had a name for his newly built town and provided that the dogs don't come in and out of that room, his little town will be safe.
One of the toys he is playing with is something that his father and Scott both played with as children. It is now considered a vintage toy on Ebay, if you can even find it. While searching for it today, I found accessories, like pieces of track and buildings for $.99, which is a steal. But wait - the shipping is $28.00! Nope, not going to be something that I'm going to buy.
The nice part of the the racetrack Benjamin is playing with is that after you play, you close up the track like a suitcase. When not in use, it sits nicely under my sofa.
Years ago I bought Benjamin a large amount of foam blocks of different sizes. I wanted foam because if he built something on one of my tables, there would be no damage to the wood. Also, when he was younger, if a tower of blocks fell on him, there was no bodily damage! I keep the blocks in a very large plastic container that I store in the spare room until it's time to play.
I may not have complete sets of many toys, just bits and pieces, but when Benjamin comes to visit, those bits and pieces become treasured toys to him.
Happy playing.
P
Friday, November 21, 2014
The Fly on the Window
11/21/2014
Yesterday, I was in a multistory office building, sitting in an office waiting for the doc to come in. I at first was browsing the magazine I had so wisely brought in with me, when I noticed a fly in the window behind the blinds.
A couple of questions immediately came to mind. How did a fly get inside an office building, up three floors, behind closed exam room doors and on the window? I know the obvious answer is he must have come up through a vent somewhere and found himself stranded.
Putting all rational thought behind me, because who ever thought I was rational? Can you just imagine the fly coming through the front doors of the building while they were open and then getting in an elevator while those doors were open. Still with me? He gets off the elevator, on the right floor, of course, sees an open door and flies in. Buzzes around the waiting room for a bit, gets bored and once the receptionist opens the office door, takes a chance on finding a better place to land. He does this because the magazines that are out for patients don't interest him and he has trouble flipping the pages over with his bitty wings!
Now he's in the hallway and finds another room open and goes in. He spots the window and flies over hoping that the window is his means of escape. He gets between the blinds and the window and flits back and forth, looking for an opening, which he doesn't find.
The doctor finally comes in and I put down my magazine and pay attention to what the doctor is saying. After my appointment, I look one last time at the window and the fly is still there basically caught between a rock and a hard place. Perhaps while he lingers on the window he might be recalling some advice his mother gave him about flying through open doors!
P
Yesterday, I was in a multistory office building, sitting in an office waiting for the doc to come in. I at first was browsing the magazine I had so wisely brought in with me, when I noticed a fly in the window behind the blinds.
A couple of questions immediately came to mind. How did a fly get inside an office building, up three floors, behind closed exam room doors and on the window? I know the obvious answer is he must have come up through a vent somewhere and found himself stranded.
Putting all rational thought behind me, because who ever thought I was rational? Can you just imagine the fly coming through the front doors of the building while they were open and then getting in an elevator while those doors were open. Still with me? He gets off the elevator, on the right floor, of course, sees an open door and flies in. Buzzes around the waiting room for a bit, gets bored and once the receptionist opens the office door, takes a chance on finding a better place to land. He does this because the magazines that are out for patients don't interest him and he has trouble flipping the pages over with his bitty wings!
Now he's in the hallway and finds another room open and goes in. He spots the window and flies over hoping that the window is his means of escape. He gets between the blinds and the window and flits back and forth, looking for an opening, which he doesn't find.
The doctor finally comes in and I put down my magazine and pay attention to what the doctor is saying. After my appointment, I look one last time at the window and the fly is still there basically caught between a rock and a hard place. Perhaps while he lingers on the window he might be recalling some advice his mother gave him about flying through open doors!
P
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Retailers and Christmas
11/19/2014
We haven't even cooked our Thanksgiving turkey yet, and already the retailers are rallying for our business, particularly our on-line business!
With the exception of one or two of the "mart" stores, I haven't been in an actual department store in a number of years. Why? For a host of reasons: parking issues; crowds; noise from music that management believes you want to hear; no assistance from clerks and least but no less annoying, the perfume counter. Don't get me wrong I love perfume and have worn Chloe for over 30 years and have never tried anything else. So when I walk past the cosmetics area, I don't need a clerk trying to push some fragrance on me - or worse - spraying me with said fragrance. Aaaaack.
I shop online because I can literally find anything for anyone. And, since my left hip is not completely in working order, it's easier for me to sit and shop. I received Benjamin's Christmas list this week complete with the requisite number of !!! for each item!
First on his list was a Barbie and she scored !!!. Must want a Barbie pretty bad. He also wants a guitar, microphone and a paint set. These last items were only worth !!, but I'm sure that he wants them equally as much as Barbie. Buying a microphone is no biggie, but a guitar could be tricky. Jeff and I are thinking about buying him an electronic keyboard which would come with a microphone and he could spend endless hours dancing away in the living room. And, not to brag or anything, but he's a very good dancer!
Target has announced that it will not charge for shipping until December 20th. That's tempting but my go-to online shopping place, other than Ebay, is Amazon. Returning things to Amazon is easy and I have a prime account so most of the things I buy are eligible for free shipping.
I want to be fair so I will check out Target and see how their prices compare to what I would/could buy on Amazon. I think it might be hard for retailers to compete with the hugeness of Amazon, but we'll have to wait and see when the Christmas shopping season is over.
Happy shopping.
P
We haven't even cooked our Thanksgiving turkey yet, and already the retailers are rallying for our business, particularly our on-line business!
With the exception of one or two of the "mart" stores, I haven't been in an actual department store in a number of years. Why? For a host of reasons: parking issues; crowds; noise from music that management believes you want to hear; no assistance from clerks and least but no less annoying, the perfume counter. Don't get me wrong I love perfume and have worn Chloe for over 30 years and have never tried anything else. So when I walk past the cosmetics area, I don't need a clerk trying to push some fragrance on me - or worse - spraying me with said fragrance. Aaaaack.
I shop online because I can literally find anything for anyone. And, since my left hip is not completely in working order, it's easier for me to sit and shop. I received Benjamin's Christmas list this week complete with the requisite number of !!! for each item!
First on his list was a Barbie and she scored !!!. Must want a Barbie pretty bad. He also wants a guitar, microphone and a paint set. These last items were only worth !!, but I'm sure that he wants them equally as much as Barbie. Buying a microphone is no biggie, but a guitar could be tricky. Jeff and I are thinking about buying him an electronic keyboard which would come with a microphone and he could spend endless hours dancing away in the living room. And, not to brag or anything, but he's a very good dancer!
Target has announced that it will not charge for shipping until December 20th. That's tempting but my go-to online shopping place, other than Ebay, is Amazon. Returning things to Amazon is easy and I have a prime account so most of the things I buy are eligible for free shipping.
I want to be fair so I will check out Target and see how their prices compare to what I would/could buy on Amazon. I think it might be hard for retailers to compete with the hugeness of Amazon, but we'll have to wait and see when the Christmas shopping season is over.
Happy shopping.
P
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Let's Talk Chicken
11/19/2014
I know you have heard the statement "Let's Talk Turkey", but today we're going to talk about chickens. I saw a segment on television about a woman who has restaurants in New York but buys her chickens from organic farmers in Pennsylvania. Seeing that show made me wonder what was the difference between your old regular chicken in the grocery store and primo organic birds.
My grandmother raised turkeys and they were kept in an area where they could eat grass as well as the food that my grandmother gave them. The "Toms" grew into big boys and Grandma always said that after a certain weight, turkeys just didn't taste as good as a leaner bird did.
Apparently one of the big differences between the two types of chickens is: non-organic, unprocessed or minimally processed produce is treated with a variety of growth-enhancing substances and is also commonly subjected to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grading and quality standards (voluntarily), while organic produce is not.
That's the main reason that chickens in the grocery stores all look alike and likely all taste the same. And I think most processed chickens come from one or two major chicken producing companies.
So how much does an organic chicken cost:
A whole, generic store-brand chicken typically costs about $1.50 per pound, the price for organic chicken is $2.69 a pound at Trader Joe's, the U.S. grocery chain, and $4.99 per pound from online grocer Fresh Direct. Whole Foods sells boneless, skinless organic chicken breasts for $8.99 per pound. That's a whole lot of money for a chicken.
Since I've never eaten an organic chicken I can't comment on the taste. But I am speculating that there would be a tremendous taste difference between a regular chicken and an organic one. Trouble is I can't see myself spending nearly $9.00 a pound for chicken! At that price the chicken cost nearly rivals the cost of a steak, and if I had my druthers, I'd rather have steak!
P
I know you have heard the statement "Let's Talk Turkey", but today we're going to talk about chickens. I saw a segment on television about a woman who has restaurants in New York but buys her chickens from organic farmers in Pennsylvania. Seeing that show made me wonder what was the difference between your old regular chicken in the grocery store and primo organic birds.
My grandmother raised turkeys and they were kept in an area where they could eat grass as well as the food that my grandmother gave them. The "Toms" grew into big boys and Grandma always said that after a certain weight, turkeys just didn't taste as good as a leaner bird did.
Apparently one of the big differences between the two types of chickens is: non-organic, unprocessed or minimally processed produce is treated with a variety of growth-enhancing substances and is also commonly subjected to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grading and quality standards (voluntarily), while organic produce is not.
That's the main reason that chickens in the grocery stores all look alike and likely all taste the same. And I think most processed chickens come from one or two major chicken producing companies.
So how much does an organic chicken cost:
A whole, generic store-brand chicken typically costs about $1.50 per pound, the price for organic chicken is $2.69 a pound at Trader Joe's, the U.S. grocery chain, and $4.99 per pound from online grocer Fresh Direct. Whole Foods sells boneless, skinless organic chicken breasts for $8.99 per pound. That's a whole lot of money for a chicken.
Since I've never eaten an organic chicken I can't comment on the taste. But I am speculating that there would be a tremendous taste difference between a regular chicken and an organic one. Trouble is I can't see myself spending nearly $9.00 a pound for chicken! At that price the chicken cost nearly rivals the cost of a steak, and if I had my druthers, I'd rather have steak!
P
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