Gian's Nanny

A Brand New Year!!

2012-01-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

Time just goes by so fast these days that I can hardly keep up.Lots of things going on in Nanny's household.
We had a lovely wedding shower for our future daughter-in-law in August. Thanks to my sister-in-law and her amazing entertaining talents, it was very elegant. My niece hosted it at her home. They received many lovely gifts and a good time was had by all.
I made a trip to upstate NY in September to assist my daughter. She is pregnant with grandchild # 3 and was feeling poorly. I did some cooking for her and tried to let her get some rest. She has a 5 year old and a 2 year old. I adore them and they are wonderful children but it takes a lot of energy to get through each day. We had a good time. I got to go to my grandson's school and participate in the morning prayer as well as be there when he got out of school.
I turned 51 in September and hubby turned 67 in October. Wedding plans were in full swing and invites went out in late Oct./ early November.
Daughter and her family arrived on Dec. 1st and we all had a wonderful time being together for 12 days. The wedding was gorgeous on Dec. 11th. Lots of old friends and family were in attendance.
Christmas arrived in one fell swoop~ I knew it would be quiet since the wedding festivities were over. I cooked a traditional Christmas dinner which was attended by my sister-in-law, her husband and the newlyweds.
It's now time to march on to spring~ grandchild # 3 (it's a boy) should arrive around late April/ early May. I'll be there to assist in whatever way I can.
Hubby has been able to get some fishing in which has helped us economically. Another year of blessings ahead.

Long time, no posts!

2011-07-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that nearly 15 months have passed since my last blog. WOW!! Let me back track and see what has been going on--The summer of 2010 moved by without any particular fanfare. We made a pilgrimage to upstate NY in September to visit our daughter and her family. My husband and oldest son made the trip by car- stopping to golf up the East coast. I flew up as I didn't have much time off from work. We all loaded into 2 vehicles and made the trek over to Montreal (where hubby hails from). He got a chance to show the older of our children where he was born as well as a bit of the city. Had a nice lunch with family and celebrated my 50th birthday. It was an all in all wonderful trip.
Christmas was bit different this year. Hubby had the chance to go fishing and earn some much needed extra cash. He asked me if I minded- meaning minded waking up alone on Christmas Day. I replied that I didn't. Youngest had left for San Francisco to help a friend move the week before so he wasn't at home, either. Oldest son and his fiance (they were engaged in Nov 10) did come to the house mid-morning. It was just a wee bit unusual- I hadn't been alone on a Christmas morning in many years. We spent Christmas evening at my sister-in-laws as her husband was recovering from open heart surgery- I made dinner, packed it up in my car and the 4 of us ate together. It was very nice. Oldest son was offered a position with the Florida Historical Society in February of 2011- it is a job that he's well suited for. He bought me a ticket to NY for Christmas so I got to go up to visit the daughter and fam while it was still snowing. I also did Career Day at my grandson's parochial school. Great fun! Now, the wedding planning is in full swing as oldest son will wed in December 2011. All of my children and grandchildren will be in one place for a week or so. I can't wait! I have been at my job for nearly 2 years and it has worked out very well. Youngest son has a new love and they are both working to finish school in Gainesville. I like her very much and hope she's "the one." Hubby and I are trying to age gracefully! That's my update ---

Sickness Beyond my Wildest Dreams

2010-04-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Easter came with no particular fanfare. We had a nice dinner and homemade dessert- watched a little television and toddled off to bed. Hubby awoke around 3 am to begin a journey in his boat that would lead to the holy fishing grounds south of us. I bid him good-bye and went back to bed. Around 4 am, the strangest feeling washed over me- I haven't had one like that in years. I was going to be sick and NOW. I raced to the bathroom to begin what was to be an additional 8 hours of stomach virus. Now, I had been feeling pretty cocky as this particular virus has hit our county twice and I have not been privy to it. The joke was on me. I've never been so sick in my entire life. Of course, husband was gone as well. I had my son phone my place of employment as I could barely speak. Monday was a blur and I felt as though I was in stomach virus hell. I figured it would be over by Monday evening at worst. SURPRISE! My son came in on Monday evening to check on me- I was shivering as though I was in the middle of Antartica. Couldn't get warm no matter what I did. We managed to find a thermometer to see what was going on- I had a fever of over 102 degrees. I was delirious. Couldn't make it to work on Tuesday. I called my boss who was very understanding and told him I'd shoot for Wednesday. I still couldn't move on Wednesday morning but managed to attempt work around 10 am. By noon, I was in tears and had to go back home.
I finally managed to work all day Thursday and Friday. I feel like I lost part of my life last week- I guess it's more difficult when you get older.
Moving on---hope this week will be better.

How Quickly the Seasons Pass

2010-04-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

Seems like it was just last Easter and I was posting about our new arrival, our granddaughter, Mia. She will turn 1 year old next week. Life continues to whoosh by as I get older. Thanksgiving and Christmas roll together- then comes Valentine's Day and before you know it it's the fourth of July.
This new year has started out on a relatively good note. After surviving 2009, I figured we could get through anything that this year threw at us.
I took a mental health day off from work today. I've been at my new job for 7 months and have been working very hard to learn the in's and out's of the business. I was not familiar with the accounting software at this new job and had to fly by the seat of my pants as the previous bookkeeper had already left and there was no one to train me. Our CPA doesn't know the software at all. I have managed, though.
I just felt plain old worn out tired this morning. I am sitting here sipping coffee and watching an old Ginger Rogers movie on TV. A cool breeze is blowing through the window over my shoulder and I plan on enjoying this day- in this season of my life.

Sunday, Sunday

2010-03-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

I love Sunday's. They have such possibilities. You know that you have to return to work on Monday but on Sunday you can still remain cool and aloof to that fact. This particular Sunday afternoon will bring a big dinner at my sister-in-law's house. She is a fabulous cook and I can't wait. She always has good wine, too.
She put me in charge of desserts so I am going to make a little something for everyone- some Italian cookies (tortaluce) like my mother-in-law used to make, (only better because I use real butter)some caramel turtle brownies and a cinnamon streusel loaf. That should accomodate everyone's taste buds. I will get to see my pregnant niece and make a fuss over her. We always have a good time being together. It's a good way to end the week-end and begin the week. When you've been with family over the week-end, nothing in the day to day work world can touch you.
At this moment, I am watching "CBS Sunday Morning" and finishing my coffee consumption. I will then turn on the radio to hear the tail end of Sunday Morning Acoustic on our local radio station and begin my baking shenanigans.
Have a great week!

Letter to the President

2010-03-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

I've been fuming since last week and decided to do something about it. I wrote a letter to the President this morning- no, not President Obama but the President of my bank.
Last week I had a minor slip-up in my checking account. This has rarely happened to me since I opened this particular account back in 1992, when the bank opened it's doors.
Mind you, through the years, I've paid a monthly $10 service fee long after most banks were offering free checking. I only got them to discontinue this on my account last year. I can use that $120 per year much more than they.
Anyhoo, the bank charged me a $30 fee even though my paycheck was already posted in the upcoming transactions column and was "there." I called and explained that $30 to me right now might as well be $30 million. They wouldn't budge- explained to me that "even the banks have fallen upon hard times and been losing money." Really?? Gosh, that is not what I've been reading this past year.I also got a little "don't write a check until you have the money in there" pep talk from the young buck who's young enough to be my son who is in charge of customer service. Hey, thanks, Dave! I wasn't aware that I should have actual MONEY in there before I write a check!
I was going to let it go but the more I thought about it over the week-end, the madder I got.
I composed a nice but very brief letter to the bank President this morning. He is also an attorney so will probably laugh and toss it in the waste basket but at least it made me feel better.
You would think that the banks would try a little harder in times like these to keep their long-time customers . I would also like to think that someone in the system has some compassion. May be a pipe dream on my part but I'll write another post if I get the fee refunded. If I don't, I may have to toilet paper the trees in front of the bank one late evening.

Nanny got an A-

2010-03-18T18:03:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, my doctor tricked me into getting a physical. He figured since he had me in his office for the first time in nearly a year and likely wouldn't have me back in there for another year, he'd better pounce. He was also aware that I had recently gotten decent health insurance coverage from my new employer so I wouldn't be in debt for a few tests.
He ordered a full blood panel, chest x-rays, EKG and urine testing. I wasn't thrilled but went along to be a good sport. Not to mention, I hadn't had any of the above done in nearly 10 years so I was curious as to the condition of my innards.
I went back today for the follow-up visit and was pleasantly surprised. Everything was fine- cholesterol is borderline. He told me to avoid ice cream and cow's milk- I consume neither. The only milk I drink is soy or almond. I use soy creamer in my coffee. I do love cheese but don't eat it as often as I used to. We do have a steak every lunar landing when they go on sale but I am otherwise a pretty healthy eater.
I was pleased, especially since my 50th birthday is looming, to know that I am in pretty good shape. I need to lose a few pounds but am going to the gym at least 3 times a week (which in itself can help with the cholesterol) .
I didn't tell the kindly doc that tonight's menu was roast beef and provolone toasted subs. I was too happy with the knowledge that everything else was ticking along as it's supposed to be.

Regular Life

2010-03-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

Not too much exciting to post. Youngest was home for a few days last week as he was on spring break. We put his car (my old car) in the shop and got some much needed, long overdue things done. One was brakes and the other was timing belt and water pump replacement. It hurt our bank account but needed to be done.
We had rain much of last week accompanied by a blinding wind but on Saturday we finally got some sunshine. Amazing what a little sun can do! Opened up the house and mopped floors, washed rugs, just made things feel fresh after all of the sludge of the previous week.
Spent yesterday at an outdoor event eating, laughing and playing games. It was such a lovely day. The food was out of this world- had my first of the season raw oysters and steamed clams. I slept like a baby last night as a gentle breeze blew in and cooled my sunburned face.
Today - back to work as well as annual PAP exam. I always leave that particular appointment with my feelings hurt even though I have a fabulous and caring physician. I think it's just a mental thing.
Hoping that this week goes along quietly and quickly. Heading to the gym after work for a quick workout and then home for episodes of "Pickers" and " Pawn Stars" on the History Channel. Have a great week, all!!!

LIfe, Lent and Taxes

2010-02-23T11:32:00.000-08:00

My last post was a bit harsh, I know. Was just feeling cranky and tired of hearing someone complain. I am better now....I've finished all but one of the tax returns that I committed to. Lent began last Wednesday. While I typically avoid church during Easter and Christmas, (as that is when those that do not attend the rest of the year decide to go) I was awake early last Sunday morning and decided it would be nice to start the Lenten season off right.
I had a little bit of a selfish reason as well- my husband is having some health issues and I wanted to send up as many prayers as humanly possible that we will get through this with no complications. I have kept my fears under wraps so as to comfort him. However, when I am alone, a feeling of panic captures me.
I feel confident that all will turn out well--I just feel bad for him.
I've been doing well with my gym attendance. I went to breakfast with my oldest son and his girlfriend last Saturday near a nice shopping center. After we parted ways, I went into a couple of the shops and ended up buying myself some clothes. I purchased my normal size only to find out (to my delight) upon arriving home that they were too big. YIPEE! Of course, I realize that it depends on who makes the clothing. It's a crap shoot.
After looking at what I had spent and even though I need new clothes, I took the whole lot back to the store. I supposed that I've been shopping in thrift stores for so long that I just couldn't keep the "full price" -although -on -sale stuff.
I mentally calculated just how much I could get at the local thrift for a fraction of what I spent in the retail store. Go me! I'd really like to lose a few more pounds as well as firm up a bit more before splurging on new clothes, anyway.
My youngest is coming to town on Friday and he loves nothing more than a good thrift store run...we can each afford a bag full of clothes AND lunch with some left over now that I got my refund .
Hope everyone has a wonderful Lenten season and takes time to reflect on how truly blessed we are.

Constant Complaining

2010-02-15T08:28:00.000-08:00

I always have an ear to listen- friends and family alike always come to me with their issues or problems. Sometimes, even strangers in the grocery store tell me their tales of woe- I don't mind- especially when they take action and try and solve their dilemna du jour.
What I am totally sick and tired of, however, are acquaintances who are in a state of terminal pity party- folks who do not a thing to help themselves yet expect others to feel sorry for them. Over and over again- month after month and year after year.
I know of one person who got laid off around the same time as myself last summer. She has not searched for work - I am not quite sure what she does except moan and groan and expect others to pay her bills and lavish her with items that she should be out working for.
At Christmas, she posted her "wish list." I was flabbergasted- then had the nerve to complain that none of her "real" friends had given her anything for Christmas. Now, I am acquainted with a good number of her other friends- they have done for her for years now. I know I can go back at least 3 years and recall what I did to help her out of what I thought was a temporary situation. She is one of those who never seem to get her shit together and doesn't look as if she ever intends to. She always has an excuse as to why she CAN'T move forward. I discussed it with one of the mutual friends and he is also beyond caring. Thing is, this isn't a young person- this woman is nearly 50. I've taken into consideration that she has no family or husband. We all have- the aformentioned friend and his wife even paid several years worth of property taxes for her. He told me that even when she was working, she never stuck to any re-payment plan that they put before her.
I am learning that there are users out there that never really want to stand on their own two feet. Why would they?? It's so much easier to let others be responsible.
I got an email the other day from someone I've known for years. I haven't seen or spoken to this person in probably 3 years or more. Out of nowhere, he sends me a link to his blog telling how he nearly died and was in the hospital. Again, this person never did anything to take care of himself- always pitiful and depressed. He throws out the word "disabled" at every opportunity. I was like ,"Why are you sending this to me?" You haven't contacted me in years and now I am supposed to be all horrified and saddened at this 5000th trip to the hospital???
I may be getting cynical in my old age but I swear, I'd rather help a stranger in the street than the people I mentioned above.
Get over yourself- we all have problems--get a job, get a life, stop the pity party!

Late.....again!

2010-02-08T07:22:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post on February 4th, which was my daughter's 25th birthday. Well, the day got away from me and it didn't happen. I did remember to send her a card on time with some gift cards inside. I also called a neat little cupcake bakery in her town and had them deliver a dozen yummy cupcakes. My grandson, who is nearly 4 years old, told her after eating one,"I have an idea, let's keep these in the pantry." The pantry shelves are at his level and I am sure he envisioned having access to them at any time of day or night. ( I actually would have let him had he been at my house but then that's the advantage of being the grandmother!)
It surely doesn't seem like a quarter of a century ago that I gave birth to my wonderful daughter. She's always been an interesting girl. Being our only girl, she pretty much had her way with my husband from day one. She had him wrapped like a bandage around her finger. Her brothers came along in rapid succession and she became very protective of "the boys" as she calls them.
We had a couple of bumps during the teen years but nothing out of control. She met and married her high school sweetheart. We were able to give her a nice, traditional wedding . They will be married 7 years this summer. She has given us 2 wonderful grandchildren and is a great mother to them. I am proud of her in ways that I can't even express.
So, although belated, Happy Birthday to Catherine!!

Week-End Shenanigans

2010-01-31T16:34:00.000-08:00

I had plans to take a friend out for her birthday on Saturday- then realized that I was pretty much broke so she took a rain check. Thank goodness she is an understanding friend.
I decided to get started on our taxes instead for the reason I just mentioned- I am broke. I have the software and a friend said she'd pay for me to upgrade it for 09 if I'd do their taxes. Fair enough. I went to install the software and the CD drives were not working- AT ALL. This was Friday evening after a particularly grueling Friday. Work wasn't bad but I attended the memorial service of a young lady that attended grade school with my daughter. She was in an accident last week-end and died. I saw all of these faces from Divine Mercy School that I hadn't seen since they all graduated from the 8th grade. Young people shouldn't be burying their own. It was a tragedy that could have been avoided.
Anyway, I wasn't in the mood for this computer crap after all of that. I saw that one of my computer friends was online on Facebook so I asked him what it could be. He got the real geek online and he diagnosed the drive as being dead...GREAT! I've got our taxes as well as other folks to get done this week-end. He offered to repair it at his home on Saturday morning. These guys are great- known them for nearly 15 years.
I got up early on Saturday morning to get the grocery shopping knocked out- did my usual tour of 3 different stores to stay within budget. Lugged it all home and unloaded- the unhooked CPU and put it in my car to take for repair. Poor guy ran into a couple of snags and he ended up spending nearly an hour and a half on it. He wouldn't take a dime. Like I said, these are great guys. Hearts of gold.
Lugged said computer back home and began doing what I needed to do in between cooking some BBQ chicken and potato salad which I had had a hankering for all week.
By 9 pm last evening, I was toast. Crawled into bed and slept like a baby. Woke up this morning with a slight sore throat and a very sore back. I am attributing the back to all of the loading and unloading I did yesterday. The sore throat- I don't know. I just want it to go away...Made a nice dinner for the fam of spaghetti and Italian sausage , kale greens, salad and garlic bread.
I am going to take my shower and call it a night very soon! Am going to post on Feb. 4th as that is the 25th birthday of my daughter who is also my oldest child. I can recall her birth like it was yesterday.
Hoping everyone has a good Monday and a great week!

Nanny Needs Ben-Gay - stat

2010-01-25T13:36:00.000-08:00

I decided that the only way I am going to get into shape is to return to my beloved Health Plex. I've been a memeber there off and on since they opened over 12+ years ago. It is an excellent facility. At one time, the whole family had membership but now it's just moi. They offer many classes and things that our local YMCA does not. Our Y is quite small and the only pool is outside. They also share the pool with the junior college swim team so it's often hard to be able to use it.
I haven't really been able to afford the monthly fee but decided I'd rather do without something else and renew.
I ventured out yesterday afternoon as I figured it wouldn't be crowded. There was a good sized crowd but most were in the over 70 age group. I didn't feel so intimidated.
Had a nice 45 minute workout that included the treadmill. It is much kinder to my knee that got hurt in the summer car incident than the pavement outside is.
A lot of my friends have membership there as well so it will be nice to have some companionship while sweating like a pig.
The workout went well and I didn't feel anything until I decided to get out of bed this morning- OUCH! I can sure tell that it's been a while! I wanted to wear my jammies to the office and bring a big old tube of Ben Gay.
I plan on going every other day and working different parts of my body- God knows it's all out of shape. I've got my work cut out for me, for sure. It felt nice to be back in a familiar place that will help me to get in better shape-esp before I turn 50 in September. My plan is to return to Montreal with the whole family and have a birthday soiree. Wish me luck!!

Women and Middle Age

2010-01-18T10:33:00.000-08:00

I have a good friend who recently moved into her own apartment after 30 years of marriage. She has no intention of getting a divorce- they just couldn't see eye to eye on too many things. I think she just needed some space. She married young and went from her mother's house to her husband's house and then proceeded to raise 5 children. It's exhausting.
I have another friend who mentioned the other day that she had thought of getting her own apartment as well.
I think when women reach a certain age, we become wary. It's not like it was in our mother and grandmother's era- women now also add working outside of the home to their already full agenda.
Another issue is that our children still continue to need us long after they have left the nest. I am happy that my children value my opinion and want to share with me- there are some days, however, when it just makes me worry.
The first friend I mentioned is so happy in her own space. It's not as if she's living a wild , party life --she just enjoys not having to listen to someone who isn't in a happy place. She can sit alone and enjoy the quiet.
Perhaps divorce could be avoided if women could have their own space at about age 50 - just for a year or so. Our hormones and our bodies are going through drastic changes at this time. It's therapeutic to have some down time.

A new year and not a moment too soon!

2010-01-04T13:05:00.000-08:00

This hasn't exactly been one of the best years of my life- HOWEVER, it's over and that's a very positive thing. I feel very hopeful and optimistic about 2010. I am still in good health (albeit for losing a few pounds but that's manageable), I have a job ( I also received a very generous Christmas bonus) and my children, grandchildren and husband are doing fine.
My youngest was home for nearly 2 weeks with his new puppy and we really enjoyed having both of them. That dog is so darned cute- I didn't want to like it but I couldn't resist. My oldest son graduated from college with honors on Dec. 18th.It was a very emotional day for both myself and my husband. We went out for a very nice family dinner that evening and invited along my husband's sister and her husband. They've always been very supportive and loving to us and our children. It was nice to be able to include them.
Christmas was quiet and uneventful as was New Year's Eve and Day. I did cook a bunch of Sesame Chicken, rice and eggrolls for NY Eve dinner. Invited same sister in law and husband over- it was nice. We laughed and reminisced about old times. Both of our sons were home as well. I enjoyed it very much. Being Southern, I prepared the ribs, collards, black eyed peas and cornbread for New Year's Day. It's not that I really believe that they bring good luck- I just like the taste of the food and hey, why take any chances??
I hope that everyone in my circle of family, friends, blogging buddies and even those that I don't know personally has a very blessed 2010. It can only go up from last year.

Thankful

2009-11-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been 22 days since my last post and I honestly don't know how 3 weeks have gone by so fast!
So much has happened- our daughter and family told us that they were going to come for Thanksgiving- Yipee! It lit a fire under our behinds to get our guest house finished and ready for occupants. My husband was also simultaneously revamping his boat for kingfish season. Kingfish season is what puts extra money into our home or at certain times just brings us up to even. I honestly don't know how he does what he does given his age and past health history. He is truly amazing.
I've been slowly getting things ready for the holiday dinner as well as trying to clean my house so that my grandchildren didn't get some disease from the dust that has accumulated in my home.
Last week-end, I visited my Mom and step-dad in Tampa during their brief visit to a long time friend of theirs. My oldest son and his girlfriend accompanied me. We lunched at a restaurant that is owned by 2 former high school friends from Birmingham. They were also our neighbors growing up. It was a nice day.
My new job that started out sort of rocky has actually turned out to be alright. I got a small raise and found out that I will be paid for Thanksgiving and the day after even though I haven't been here that long. That was a huge relief!
Our children from NY arrived last night. It is so nice to have them at home. My youngest will arrive tomorrow evening so my circle will be complete. Our dinner will be the traditional fare- simple yet satisfying. We have much to be grateful for this year. I am especially happy that we will be together. I am a very lucky woman-
Happy Thanksgiving to all .

Ramblings and General Observations

2009-11-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

This past week was relatively normal. Work, home, walking, bla bla bla. Trying to get into a regular exercise routine. My back has been unusually sore but I attribute it to a very bad chair at work. I bought one of those pads that are supposed to help your lower back but it doesn't seem to make a lot of difference.
I took myself on a date yesterday. I went a bit south of here to some thrift stores that I like. Found quite a bit of winter clothing for the grandchildren- some new with tags. Got a few things for myself and only spent a grand total of $20. The main thrift was packed. I suppose in these economic times that many are turning to thrift stores for their clothing, etc. I've always been a fan.
I went to Mass yesterday for the first time in months. I like to get there early and observe people. A lot of older couples attend the Saturday afternoon Mass and I watch them as they hold hands during the Lord's prayer. It is very touching. I imagine that many of them have retired to Florida after living their lives elsewhere. I want to ask them questions like how many children they raised, where they lived, was she a stay at home mom, what was life like in the 50's and early 60's raising a family? I should start interviewing folks and write a book as this generation will pass and I won't get a chance. I notice some women alone as well as men. The men look lonelier than the women. Women seem to travel in pairs or more. Men tend to sit alone and look sad.
We didn't get any trick or treaters last night but we haven't for years now. Since our own children and their neighborhood friends grew up, it's been quiet on Halloween.
Woke up not feeling well today as I've got a tooth that needs to be filled. I lounged around most of the day and then decided to run by the store for a couple of things. I don't usually go to Winn Dixie but today I did. There is only one left in this area . I enjoyed watching the people stopping in still dressed in their church finery- especially the African America clientele. They really do dress sharp for church- hats, heels for women and the men looked so dapper in their suits with matching hats.
I am now sitting here hungry but afraid to eat much so as not to disturb the hurting tooth. I may have to close the left side of my mouth for a bit and only eat on the right side.
Tomorrow- back to the grind. Have a good week, all.

Change of Life

2009-10-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

There are more connotations to that phrase than I ever realized. Not only am I feeling the physical parts of it as a middle-aged woman but have recently been dealt the pangs of empty nest syndrome.
I never thought that I'd be one of those people who wishes her children were still at home. Not only do I wish they were at home, I wish they were little again. I think it's the Fall season that gets to me the most. I miss holding little hands and going trick-or-treating. I miss going to their school for carnivals, I miss listening to them read aloud - I just miss them, period. I suppose if I didn't like them, it would be easier.
The house seems so big and quiet at night. Sometimes hubby doesn't feel like chatting with me so I retreat to watch mindless TV or read.
I can typically ward off this feeling but I feel that this past year in particular has been one emotional upheaval after another. Perhaps it's all finally catching up to me - along with the empty nest feeling. Too many deaths and a lot of emotion.
Our youngest stopped by the house last Sunday en route from Miami back to Gainesville. It was all I could do not to throw myself at his feet and beg him not to leave. It's pathetic, I know. However, he will be home this week-end for 3 entire days so I will have a fix. Maybe I'll dress him up and take him around the neighborhood trick or treating. :)

Back on Patrol

2009-10-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

I guess it suffices to say that I've been "out of it" for the last few months. My last post reported the car accident and subsequent related info.
Hubby and I went ahead and took our planned trip to New York and Montreal. We had a marvelous time and I chose to deem it our honeymoon as we never got to have one when we wed over 25 years ago. The weather was great, being with our family was great and the food was out of this world. I catch myself going on the Schwartz's Deli website just to reminisce over the fabulous food that we had there. We did bring some smoked meat back to the US to share with our daughter and family as well as our family here in Florida.
Once back from my dream world, I had to find a job and pronto. The unemployment checks were helpful but not quite covering the whole kit and kaboodle.
We had a family wedding to attend on September 13th (which was also my birthday)and I had a scheduled interview the day after. It is coincidentally right next door to the firm that laid me off. I still get to see my friends next door- how cool is that?
I did take a pretty good pay hit but I am glad to have a job. The first week was spent with my eyes glazed over trying to get used to a new place,different accounting software, etc. The company has a VP and a General Manager. The VP was pretty rough going in but has mellowed. Bonus fact is that he is retiring in December. The General Manager is near my age and we get along great. I just have to hang in there.
Hubby celebrated his 65th birthday on October 4th. Seems so strange- when I met him, he was in his 30's and I was in my 20's. Time flies!!
Grandchildren are thriving and enjoying a nice, cool fall. Hey, why aren't we having a nice, cool fall??? No fair!
My leg has just about healed 100% from the accident. It was a little rough on vacation as I couldn't walk very far or for very long but it has come a long way.
I will forever feel bad for folks with leg problems. I found myself trying to judge the distance between parking spaces and store entrances during my recovery. I should have gotten a temporary handicap sticker as I sure could have used one.
Life is overall treating us well. I am supposed to get a salary increase after 90 days which will bring us up to broke status instead of broke minus. ha ha
Happy Fall !

Vacation

2009-09-03T04:47:00.000-07:00

I know, one doesn't usually take a vacation after losing a job. However, we already had tickets and our daughter and her family were expecting us.
Will write more details upon our return home. Nanny has had a wonderful time.

Running Oneself Over- Literally

2009-08-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

Last Monday started out as a pretty good day. Went to a couple of places and left resumes, spoke with a person in the personnel department of a local municipality and finished off with a stop by our local Job Link for a couple of referrals. For some of the jobs in this county, you must have a referral from them to even apply.
Later in the day husband and oldest son came home to do some auto repairs on son's old clunker of a truck. They decided to use "The Beast" , aka my husband's Suburban, to push the clunker up onto the ramps. They accomplished their mission and began to do whatever it was they were going to do. I noticed that the Beast was still running so told husband that I'd turn it off for him. As I reached in to do so, it started rolling down our driveway. I wasn't sure what was happening but knew that I was being taken with it. Husband was shouting "jump" but my feet were getting tangled up in the planters that line our driveway. Finally, I was able to break free and landed in a big pile at the bottom of our driveway. The Beast kept going and managed to take out our mailbox and a small tree before coming to rest on our neighbor's palm tree. It was like a surreal dream where you realize it's all happening but there's nothing that you can do to stop it.
Husband and son came to try and pick me up off of the ground- I told them to just wait and let me lie there for a bit--I was enjoying the sunshine through our bushes!
I really wanted to make sure that my legs were not broken. I gradually stood up and saw blood and wounds but was thankful that there were seemingly no broken bones. They escorted me as I hobbled in to wash my wounds and maybe cry where no one could see me.
I came back out and realized what damage had been done to the Beast. This is a huge vehicle that can take on just about anything---however, this little trip took out the driver's side door, smashed the back window and damaged the rear folding door.
I'll bet State Farm has never had a claim quite like this one!
I've made a couple of trips to the doctor for X-rays and wound cleaning, etc. It's truly been a crazy week. I am really hoping that things can settle down for a bit and get somewhat back to normal. I don't need any more excitement in the Nanny household.

Self-Doubt

2009-08-09T07:05:00.002-07:00

I think the biggest part of transition (at least in my case) is self-doubt. I hear it's little voice inside my head saying "You can't do it- you'll never succeed in a new job- they are on to you- give it up." I tell it to go away and leave me alone- I hear my father's voice telling me that I could have done better instead of telling me that he's proud that I did my best. I feel the nausea in the pit of my stomach at the thought of going to a job interview and trying to sell myself at the age of 49.
I'd like to hand them my resume and say, " Here's my experience, do with it what you will. Hire me or don't- I really don't give a damn. I am tired and not up to playing the game."
However, this approach will not likely open too many doors! :)
I must fight the negative voices inside my head and listen instead to my positive ones of which there are many.

In Limbo

2009-08-09T06:12:00.000-07:00

I've been laid off since July 29th. The first couple of days weren't too bad- had Avon to deliver and little errands to run. Filed for unemployment and tried to get over the shock that I had lost my job. Also worked on getting past the ill feelings that I have towards my bosses. I think they made a bad business decision by getting rid of me. They have the habit of being reactive rather than proactive- hence their financial difficulties. However, I did not make a fuss when they gave me the news. I need them for a reference and there is a chance that they will call me back in a month or so. At that time, I will have to decide if I want to go back into the mess that will surely still be there.
Begin week #2- hubby and son went to help a friend with some tile work. They left the house around 8 am and I was alone. I am not used to being home during the week unless I am ill. It's a strange feeling. Most mornings I've been awake by 5:30 or 6 am. I did the usual tidying up ,emptied the dishwasher, did a few loads of wash and then THUD. I've had coffee with friends, made several trips to our local library, (movies are free and I've enjoyed that) sent out more job applications and resumes than I care to count. There are jobs out there in my field but the pay is much, much less than what I am used to making.
I did receive notification that my unemployment benefits have been approved. I have the joy of filing for my first week this coming Tuesday. It's less than half of what I was bringing home but I am happy to have it. So far, we are doing alright financially. We had scheduled a trip to New York to visit our daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. Hubby wants to proceed with the trip since we've already purchased our tickets. I think the trip would do us both some good. We'll just have to be careful with our spending while away.
If I don't have a job to return to before we leave, I guess Labor Day will be a turning point for this job seeker.
Keep a good thought for me--it's tough at nearly 50 to be doing this .

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You can order online and have products delivered to your door.

A Week of Change- Some Expected -Some Not

2009-07-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

My youngest son leaves for college tomorrow morning. The U-Haul is out front ready to be loaded at the crack of dawn . Hubby and I will pull the U-Haul full of his things.
He is 20 years old and ready for a change. He's never lived anywhere except this house. I am excited for him yet the normal Mother feelings are there as well. He is a bright young man and I am so glad that he has set his goals and is ready to make them happen.
On Tuesday of this week, I got laid off from my job. It wasn't totally unexpected as the company I work for has been struggling. The powers that be don't do too well with fiscal management, either. There are a couple of others in the company that could've been laid off instead of me but it wasn't my decision. Boss said he hopes to bring me back in September but he can't promise anything. Great!
For the last couple of days, I've been in a sleep deprived panic. We need my income and I am really afraid. I am hoping that once we get college boy situated and drive back home that I can get a grip on myself.
Keep a good thought for me and my family.

The Thrill of New Undergarments

2009-07-13T12:17:00.000-07:00

Many of you women can relate when I confess that I wear my bra's until they are completely without elastic and threadbare. I have 2 that I've been switching out but found that last week one of them had died. I had one prior to using those 2 that had pooped out a couple of months ago- the wire had broken free and was digging into my ribs. That was one heck of a trooper, that bra! I don't know how long I had had it but it took a licking and kept on ticking. I had ordered several bras from Ebay as well as Lane Bryant but they just didn't do the trick. They ended up in the thrift store pile.
This past week-end, I decided that enough was enough. My breasts have enough issues without being thrown into a bra that does absolutely nothing to hold them up. I also decided that I was going to have the lady in the lingerie section measure me so that I wasn't simply guessing on my size.
My first stop was our local Target- they typically have reasonably priced bras. Their stock was very low, however and I found nothing. The lady at the check-out at Target ( I had purchased some coconut M&M's to cheer me up) suggested I try JC Penney. Eureka!
I had forgotten all about good old Jacq Penne'. I was assuming that I'd have to trail into Macy's and pay a king's ransom for an undergarment.
I got there to discover to my delight that they were having a sale in the lingerie department. I began to look around- out of the corner of my eye, I caught 3 racks of the original bra that I loved (the one where the wire had popped out) in many different colors. They originally sell for $30 but were on sale for $17.99. I think I let out a little squee of joy at that moment!
I reluctantly asked the very young and slim sales girl if she had access to a tape measure to measure me. She was happy to do so although I felt keen embarrassment- she was likely thinking , "Geez, I sure hope MINE don't sag like hers when I get older."
They had white ones and tan ones in my size so I went wild and bought one of each color. I left the store feeling so happy! I am sporting the white one today. While it feels different as I was used to wearing nothing more than a rubber band around my middle, I am so happy that I found what I was looking for and in a price that I could afford. Life's simple pleasures......

Jen in July

2009-07-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

My youngest sister turns 37 today. Seems like just yesterday she was trailing behind me or riding home in my car from attending kindergarten at St.Mark's. (We have an almost 12 year age difference) She was a happy child and I often took her out to lunch at a local Chinese restaurant called Hong Kong House. They always gave her rock candy for dessert. She felt very grown up eating there as it had an elegant atmosphere. Her other favorite treat was a frosty from Wendy's. We also took her to the beach with us on a regular basis. She was a sweet little girl and I enjoyed taking care of her. I think a lot of folks thought she was my child and that I was a teen mother. I didn't care- where I went, she went, too.
She is now a mother of 4 children and lives halfway around the world. We talk on a weekly basis if not more often. When she and my other sister and I get together, we can laugh ourselves into delirium. On this day, I am especially grateful that she was born.
She is the smallest one in these photos--

I AM TURNING INTO PAULA DEEN

2009-07-05T14:28:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I decided, in the words of my sister, to fore-go the usual greasy 4th of July fare. I settled on a menu of sauteed boneless chicken breast cutlets, Italian beans with ground Italian sausage and hot peppers, spinach sauteed with garlic, fresh kale sauteed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, fresh crusty bread and fried skillet potatoes. We also had salad with oil and vinegar and fresh tomatoes from our garden.
While preparing the chicken cutlets, I thought it would be a good idea to not only sautee them in oil but to add a little butter as well. I dipped them in egg and Vigo Italian bread crumbs and got them all prepared. I added my butter to the oil and fried away--they smelled so good! After draining them, I wanted to keep them warm until dinner time so I fetched a covered casserole dish. I thought, "Why not butter this dish so that the cutlets will stay nice and moist?" So I did! Well, let me tell you, those were the best chicken cutlets I've ever made or eaten- my husband and guests agreed.
So today while cooking, I've added some butter here and there and everything smells so good and looks so pretty! Except for the hardening of the arteries that may ensue, I think I am on the Paula Deen path to butter happiness!!

Angry Seniors

2009-06-24T12:26:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wonder why senior citizens are often so impatient and angry?? I know that living in Florida exposes me more than normal but geez...I look at what they have going for them : Most are retired with adequate retirement funds (esp here in Florida), their children are grown, their time is their own and there is no particular rush to do anything. Yet , in the grocery store lines, they are often the most vocal when there is a small wait. Some even take to pitching fits and acting more like children than grown-ups who know better. Some are even fortunate enough to have homes in Florida as well as up North. I will never have that type of income.
I often envy them their freedom but quickly realize that I have many more years of life ahead while their days are numbered. Perhaps this is what makes them so angry and impatient--I just don't get it. Some seem to think it's their right to be abusive to store clerks and the like.
I hope that when I reach a certain age, I will remember these thoughts and try to be a more grown-up grown-up. I pray that I live long enough to have a choice.

Memory Triggers

2009-06-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

I wonder why certain foods or smells seem to trigger memories out of nowhere. Last night I made a Southern dinner- salmon patties, field peas with snaps, fresh tomatoes from the garden , kale greens and cornbread. It was quite delicious but as I was cleaning up the kitchen, a very clear picture of my Aunt Shirley came into my head and I started to cry uncontrollably. She passed away from cancer this past March. I could see her as clear as a bell walking into her kitchen. I think it was the cornbread that made me cry as we used to eat that quite a bit at her house.
It came on so suddenly and after a few minutes, I felt better. I guess I just miss her and wish that I could talk to her just one more time. I'd give anything to sit down at her kitchen table and have some cornbread.
**She is the one pictured at left with her sister (my Mom)

My Heart and Soul

2009-06-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

These are my precious grandchildren- they have my heart now and always.

Midwest Bound

2009-06-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

I will be leaving on Thursday to go and visit my sister in Minnesota. I've never seen her new house and haven't been to visit her at all since her 40th birthday party and it was a few years ago...we won't mention any ages!
I am very excited as I know it will be cooler than it has been here in central Florida. I also adore the small town that she lives in. I wish I had more time to spend there but am grateful to have 3 days. I am also looking forward to being out of the office for a couple of days.
I have done my grocery and sundry shopping for the week, have cleaned my house (as much as it's going to get cleaned this week-end) and am now going to rest until time for 4:30 Mass-- after which, we will cook some steak on the grill and watch one of the movies I rented. I chose "Gran Torino" and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."
Wishing you a pleasant week-end and a fabuolous week ahead.

Whining

2009-06-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

Last month, in order to cut down on some of our monthly expenses, I had our television cable cut down to basic. It didn't seem so bad at first- we got the local channels, WGN out of Chicago, CW and quite a few religious and Spanish channels. I don't speak Spanish and most of them appear to be really badly produced Spanish soap operas. We have a local religious channel that plays old shows like Father Knows Best and My Three Sons in the evenings. I can handle that.
However, I was home sick yesterday and would have given my right arm to watch the old movie channel. Heck, I would have been happy to watch Animal Planet and I am not an animal lover. I surfed to the TBN channel that airs religious shows out of southern California. The lady was on with the piled-high pinkish hair that is teased beyond belief. I stared incredulously as she cried and prayed for a chicken that had gotten hit by a car. No kidding! She sort of reminds me of a cheap spin-off of Tammy Faye Baker- who's former husband now has a new wife and a new TV show. He was on daytime TV as well hawking his wares for money. Some things never change! I actually became a fan of Tammy Faye in her later years- she was a hoot. She often made fun of herself and I applaud her for that.

I keep calling the local cable company to see if they are running any specials. I am secretly hoping that they will feel sorry for me and turn the standard cable back on at no extra charge--hey, I can dream can't I???

I know it's an unnecessary expense and that we don't need it. I cut the bill down by nearly $40. I've given up my monthly pedicures, which costs about $40 with tip. So, I was thinking, MAYBE I could justify turning the cable back on. Any suggestions??

I think that perhaps I should just quit whining and be thankful that we have any TV at all!!!

May Flowers

2009-06-02T10:28:00.001-07:00

Today is June 2nd. Can hardly believe that the year is nearly half over! It's been crazy since the month began. To begin with, on May 6th, my husband departed for New York with my daughter, son-in-law, grandson and granddaughter. I had driven up to Georgia on the 5th to help where I could and to say good-bye. I told myself I wouldn't cry and I didn't until I started driving home. My daughter shed a couple of tears and that in itself broke my heart. I knew it would be a while before I would see all of them again.

He (husband) drew the short straw and ended up driving the U-Haul with the 2 family dogs and the second car in tow on back of the U-Haul. I was so happy that he was going along as he's good at stuff like that. The story got complicated - they made it there in excellent time. However, the house that the kids had rented with only seeing photos, turned out to be not so great. Our daughter said it reminded her of something out of "Texas Chainsaw Massacre." The photos were great- I would've rented the place myself. So, they've driven for 2 days with aforementioned toddler, newborn, Pop, dogs, etc. They were exhausted and literally homeless.

The search began for their new digs. They really wanted to find something before Pop was supposed to fly home on Sunday afternoon. Luckily, after 2 days of feeling tired and helpless, they found a lovely condo to rent . They are brand new and very lovely. They were able to get the U-Haul unloaded and returned before Pop had to fly back home. Fortunately, the temperature in upstate New York was very mild so they didn't suffer from heat exhaustion.
The family is now settled into their new home and trying to create a day to day routine for themselves. Folks have been most friendly and helpful--except for one neighbor but I think he's just one of those pain in the ass people who complain no matter what.

Work has been stressful and though I've applied for a couple of other positions, nothing has come to fruition.

We had a nephew turn 50 (I am an aunt by marriage so not quite that old!) and my sister-in-law threw him a big surprise party about 2 hours drive from here. Husband and I attended and had a good time. They recently completed the building of a new 4000 square foot home on a couple of acres. The house is beautiful- a bit too rural for me but very modern .

On May 24th, our youngest turned 20. Since this is probably the last birthday that he'll be residing with us, we decided to throw him a casual surprise party. Thanks to his buddy, word was spread and about 20 of his friends showed up on Sunday afternoon to surprise him. It was a really great day. I had forgotten how nice it is to have young people in the house. Some of them live on their own and are struggling college kids- I offered doggie bags and I was greeted with very positive responses. One young man took salami and sliced onions and was very excited that he could make 3 sandwiches that week. I sort of laughed. I remember those days!

Last week , we were sitting on our front porch when something bit me. It really stung and started itching like crazy. I scratched (too hard) and ended up with cellulitis, an infection of the skin. Foot swelled up like a balloon and I had to get antibiotics and a tetanus shot. I was so mad at myself.

I will be flying up to visit my sister on June 18th. She lives in Minnesota and I am so looking forward to escaping this oppressive Florida heat for a few days. I am sure we will find time for some sisterly shenanigans. My other sister and her fam will be arriving from overseas but not sure of the dates. They will land in Alabama so I may need to make a quick jaunt up there as well. July will be here before we blink and that's when 20 year old moves to Gainesville. Prior to that, he and some friends are driving to Michigan for the Rothbury Music Festival. He has volunteered to work so his ticket is free- they just have to pay for their gas and food while traveling. His older brother is "renting" them his car as it's economical and they are too young to rent one from a rental company. They will pay him what equals his car payment and they will save a few bucks. Everyone wins!

I admire their tenacity in obtaining the funds for this trip- one of his friends is working 3 jobs. My son is selling his surfboard. Good thing they can't sell plasma or organs- I would be worried!

Here's to a relaxing and peaceful rest of summer.

Wishing for the Lottery

2009-05-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

Not for myself, you understand. I would like to win for the following reasons: to be able to give my mom enough money to pay off her house and some to spare, send money to my siblings for whatever they'd want to use it for, give money to some of my friends who have lost their jobs or their homes or both, to my friend who is battling cancer - a little savings so as not to worry, give money to our local food banks so that children are not missing meals this summer when school is out, give money to my 91 year old grandmother so that she can call a limo when she needs to go somewhere and buy whatever she wants at the grocery store, have enough so that my sons can finish college without struggling, set up a fund for my grandchildren, send my daughter and son-in-law funds to have in case of emergency since they are a 1 income family.
My list goes on and on and on---I see folks walking in the Florida heat with their children- I would pull over and give them the money to buy a car with A/C.
Then, maybe, if there was anything left over, I'd buy myself a little something and get rid of my debt. Then, I'd sit back on my porch and happily watch the newly planted tomatoes and sunflowers grow.

My Friend

2009-05-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

I spoke to my childhood friend last evening. We haven't spoken to each other in several years- not for any particular reason . We've both been caught up in our own lives and the time has marched on at warped speed. She is a beautiful woman and a strong one.
This friend and I have been through many things together- some wonderful and some not so wonderful. I met her in 1969 when I was 9 years old and she was 10. Her family had just moved into our apartment complex from Georgia. I invited her to play with my little band of hooligans .
You must remember that in 1969, children didn't have Nintendo or X-Boxes or anything of the like. We played outside- all day, every day. We played kickball, hide and seek, and cards. Summers were endless in those days but I digress.
She has struggled with Parkinson's disease for the last few years. Unbeknownst to me, she had also been diagnosed with colon cancer . She underwent surgery for the tumor as well as chemo and radiation as part of it had spread to her lymph nodes. This past March, she had brain surgery for her Parkinson's in an effort to stop the shaking and help with other motor skills.
My own silly problems seemed so idiotic after speaking with her. We picked up our conversation as if we had seen each other yesterday- like we always do.
She and I share many things from our childhoods- some of which are very dark - some of which children should never have to experience. I am one of the few people on this Earth who understands some of her pain without her having to explain. We were each others' bridesmaids over 25 years ago. We both had very chaotic relationships with our fathers. We didn't have much money as teens so we swapped clothes every morning before we went to school. We likely had our first alcoholic beverage together. :)
I love her like my own sister and my heart was broken last night after speaking to her. This isn't fair and she doesn't deserve it. I pray with all of my heart that she is able to heal from the cancer and get her Parkinson's under control so that she may live to see and enjoy her grandchildren- I am blessed and if I didn't fully realize it before, I realized it last night.
My love goes out to her--now and always.

Here's to you, Mom

2009-05-04T05:58:00.001-07:00

I know that not everyone feels this way about their mother. I know that I do and my youngest son said that he did after reading it. Bless his heart! This was written by Washington Irving , which surprised me as he wrote some scary stuff in his day.
However, for those of us who have those special kind of mom's , a salute by Mr. Irving and myself.

"A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still she clings to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts."

Guilty Pleasure

2009-04-28T05:54:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or does anyone else feel sort of secretly happy when Oprah gets fat again??
I figure that with all of the tools at her disposal, she should be able to keep the weight off. Simple folks like me , who cannot currently afford their YMCA membership, at least have a more viable excuse for being pleasantly plump.
She's never even given birth ! I still like to use the excuse that I have some " baby weight " left. The only problem is that my "baby" will turn 20 years old next month--so that one doesn't fly.
I really and truly hate exercise. I've done it for years but mainly because other people felt that I should.
My heart is healthy and my bones are in great shape. Shouldn't that be enough?
I think Oprah and I should get together and down some of those mashed potatoes that she's always spoken so fondly of. I am sure she can get us into restaurants that I wouldn't otherwise be able to patronize. Come on , Oprah, eat up!

A Happy Heart

2009-04-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a good week so far. My new granddaughter is thriving, my daughter is getting some sleep and both of my sons are doing well. My son-in-law is on his last week of being away from daughter and family. My husband has been able to go fishing several days in a row, which makes him very happy. It also makes him very tired which is the reason he locked his keys in his car last night. Thankfully, it was in the driveway AND we have AAA. They were at our house only moments after I hung up. (and he says I am forgetful)
I have come to grips with my debt to income ratio and made a few changes in our budget which are minor but will help in the long term. It's not that I've taken exotic vacations- just been trying to survive.
The boss and his father have been out of town this week which makes for a nice work environment.
The only issue that is really of concern to me at this moment is the health of my step-father. He is in need of a kidney transplant and has other health issues. It's not been a good week for he and my Mother. I hate to hear her cry. She only recently lost her sister and is now dealing with this.
I feel helpless and wish I could do more.
My youngest niece turned 5 years old today- she's a pistol!
Here's to an equally pleasant week-end. Enjoy your family and your blessings.

New Life

2009-04-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

We are very proud to announce that we have a new granddaughter as of 12:20 pm today. She weighed in at 6 lbs and 12 oz.
After a bumpy start to 2009, this is indeed a good way to celebrate Spring and Easter.

Welcome to the world, Mia Celeste Brown. I love you already.

Feeling the Pain of Others

2009-04-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

I almost didn't go to 4:30 Mass this afternoon. I was tired and sweaty and had been doing errands all day. Our sweet neighbor , who recently lost her husband, had been taken by ambulance from her home as I arrived home from buying groceries. I've been checking on her and taking her food since he died. Some different neighbors had been in her yard doing work when she came out to greet them and fell. She has had several foot operations and her feet are not steady. Not to mention the fact that she is a new widow after having been married for nearly 60 years. Her heart is as unsteady as her feet these days. They believed that she had broken her hip. With a heavy heart, I went home and unloaded my groceries.
Around 3 pm I decided that I would pull myself together and go to Mass after all. I needed to be still and quiet and pray for her as well as my daughter who is about to give birth. I needed to feel some peace as well.
The Mass was very nice and our priest spoke about taking notice of others and being kind to each other. He spoke of how we can often be cruel to one another and how many feel abandoned.
Toward the end of the service, I noticed an older woman sitting 2 pews in front of me softly crying. She had no tissue and kept dabbing at her eyes. She looked so sad. I had some tissues in my purse- they were crumpled but clean. As we left our pews, I waited for her and handed her the tissues. She thanked me and I walked on. When I reached the parking lot, she was beside me and still crying. Her words were "He was much more religious than me---he went to church every day when he could." I assumed she was speaking of her spouse and I also assumed that he had died. She then grabbed my hand and held it in hers while we walked towards her car. Her hand was so soft and she felt so fragile. I said good-bye and told her to take care . I then got into my car and cried most of the way home. I have no idea who she is or what her story is. I just felt her pain as she held my hand and cried. I felt the same way 2 weeks ago when I took the widowed neighbor some dinner and listened to her tell me how her husband died. People just want someone, anyone to listen, to care and to perhaps lend a tissue now and then. I am no saint and am often very impatient with people...but sometimes, sometimes , listening and comforting is the right thing to do. As my sister said in her blog a while back , "Don't surround yourself with yourself." Take a look around- pass out some time to others and the occasional crumpled tissue. It's worth it.

The Mulling of Life

2009-03-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've ever thought more about death than I have since 2009 began. Our father died in January which was strange to say the least. At the end of February, two very good men who had been our neighbors passed away. Then, on March 4th, my beloved Aunt Shirley succumbed to the lung cancer that she had been fighting for over a year. Losing an aunt is bad enough but losing her was one of the most terrible things that have ever happened in my life. You'd have to be in our family to know what a wonderful woman that she was. Open heart, open home and endless love - always. I wouldn't be the woman that I am now had it not been for my Mother and Aunt Shirley. My Mother got to be with her beloved sister until the undertaker came to take her away. I kept humming the song "Will the Circle be Unbroken" that entire day. It never had the same meaning as it does to me now. My sweet cousin no longer has her Mother and I know her heart is broken. She has a strong faith that has gotten her through her Mother's illness and will get her through the grief and pain.
I know that death is the natural order of things- I know all of the facts such as she's not suffering any longer. However, what you know in your head and what you feel in your heart are two very different things. It was very difficult to see my 90 year old Grandmother grapple with the fact that her oldest child was gone before her. It isn't supposed to happen that way. She was only 17 when she gave birth to Aunt Shirley so they had grown up together.
My Mother and her only sister were closer than any two sisters could've been. I could see the pain on my Mother's face when she picked me up from the airport- she asked me "Do I look bad?" I replied , "No, you simply look sad."
It knocks the very wind out of your being when these things begin to happen. Sadly, it goes on for the rest of our lives. I have faith but I can verbalize that I don't like any of this one bit. I feel cheated. This world will be a much smaller place without my dear Aunt Shirley roaming among us. She will live in our hearts forever.

Week of Love

2009-02-25T16:00:00.000-08:00

Today officially marks our 25th wedding anniversary. This past Sunday, our wonderful children and my sister and brother in law managed to pull off a surprise party for us. We were blown away. My daughter was in town although she was supposed to be on bed rest due to her pregnancy. They were coming and going out of my house but I didn't have any idea why--they were down the street decorating and getting things ready for the surprise. A lot of our friends were there as well as our family that live close. It was magical - much like our wedding reception. The same sister and brother in law hosted our reception 25 years ago at their home.
Our children had blown up our wedding photos and they were placed all around the party . Our oldest son gave us a toast that truly brought tears to my eyes as well as those around us.
Today we learned that our daughter got back home and has contracted the flu. She is nearly 8 months pregnant with a toddler and a Navy husband who is currently in Virginia. She sounded so pitiful today when she phoned me from the ER. I immediately phoned my husband to see if he could go up and lend a hand. He has had a flu shot so he would be safer than I being around her. She has wonderful friends in town but at a time like this, you need parents. He came home and packed his bag and hit the road. So, tonight, on my official anniversary, my sweet spouse is off to nurse our first born through the flu. That is what family is all about and perhaps one of the reasons our marriage has survived a quarter of a century- taking care of each other in whatever situation may arise. It's not always easy but it is certainly worth the effort.
On we go to 50 years!!

So Many Things!

2009-02-20T09:08:00.000-08:00

As I am writing this, I am looking down at my hands. The skin on them is beginning to resemble the shell of snakeskin after they shed. I am sure the ever present loss of estrogen has something to do with it- as well as the dry and cold weather we are having. (In Florida, mind you!)
I have so many things running through my head at present that I can barely keep up with my thoughts. My very dear aunt is in her final stages of lung cancer. I can hardly stand to think of it as she is such a beloved person. She and I have always been close- not sure if it's because we are both the oldest of our families but whatever the reasons, I love her as much as I love my mother. I feel an overwhelming grip of sadness for the entire situation. Her daughter, my cousin, has always been like an older sister to me. She is an only child and is watching her Mother fade away. My heart breaks for her..then there's my nearly 91 year old Grandmother who is losing her oldest child. I cannot fathom how she is feeling at this point. My own dear mother is leaving today to be beside her sister. They have always been 2 peas in a pod. While I know that my mother has accepted the facts, her heart is breaking as well.
My daughter is expecting our second grandchild in a month or so. She will then be moving to upstate New York. These are the happy things in my life that I am hanging on to at the moment. Not to mention that our 25th wedding anniversary is this week. Loving someone for a quarter of a century is indeed an accomplishment.
My Dad died at the beginning of January and that stirred up a variety of emotions. He was an emotionally distant person with a passle of problems- some real and some simply brought on by his own stubborness and self-will. He, unlike my Aunt Shirley, died alone and with ill feelings in his heart. He played his hand the way he wished and I have let go of any guilt that I may have felt. I did what I was supposed to do as a daughter- he did not reciprocate as a father. That was a shame for him.
It's just been a whirlwind in the Nanny household but I am trying desperately to keep myself in check.
I am expecting daughter and grandson at any moment to spend the week-end with us. I have fruit snacks, gummy worms, raisins, new crayons and coloring book, new sippy cup and lots of energy stored up for Gian. He is a wonder and brings us much joy. I can pat my daughter's tummy and talk to my granddaughter. I need to encourage her not to come too early like she tried to last week-end! My son-in-law is military and is currently having to live away from them in Virginia. It's been tough on them all around but that's the military life.
Job is going well and although our hours were cut, I am among the very fortunate that still have a job and paycheck. That is a huge thing to be grateful for.
Ta ta for now and have a great week-end!!!

The Sweetest Man I Know

2009-02-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

I've had a rough go of it lately- sort of on the edge of tears daily and struggling with some health issues. I've never had any real problems. When I checked in for my pre-op shenanigans, the nurses were amazed that the last surgery I had was nearly 20 years ago when I delivered Caesarean. I could, however, tell that my being in the hospital was bothering my spouse. He has had cancer several times and a liver transplant. I have always been the nurturer and now it was his turn. I could tell that he was a little afraid. Long story short, he sat right beside me in the hospital (which is more boring than watching dust) and waited on me hand and foot once I arrived home. He made a lovely dinner on the night of the surgery as well as the night after. He bought me one of those giant balloons that play a song- this one plays "You're Still the One."
The downside was having to pay $2500 towards my insurance deductible prior to the surgery. However, we managed to turn that into a joke--our 25th anniversary is this month. The hospital provided him with a lovely 8 x 10 glossy of my uterus, before and after, while I was under anesthesia. It's a doozey! I told him that for our $2500, we got a lovely photo that we can frame in homage to our 25th anniversary!
Gotta have a sense of humor...otherwise, we never would have lasted 25 years. We've been through thick and thin together but he's certainly a keeper.

What a Ride!

2009-01-31T05:15:00.000-08:00

The new year has started off like a roller coaster ride- and I hate roller coasters.
My job hours got cut to 32 hours per week on the first day back from Christmas vacation. Being the bookkeeper extraordinaire that I am, I quickly calculated that the cut would result in a $600 loss for our family each month. OK- we can work around that somehow. More chicken and beans and rice- although chicken is not actually cheap these days.
The following week I learned that my Dad had passed away. This news came in a very rough manner from my step-mother . She left it to me to inform my siblings. I don't know if it's because I am the oldest or that she didn't want to deal with any of us.
That's another post for another time. We were left to piece the details together through a family friend and through a funeral director. No services, no closure, no nothing.
We created an obituary for our hometown newspaper (where Dad had grown up as well as ourselves) I think it made some of us feel a little better although it was very weird to see my Dad's name at the top of an obit.
Next-----have to have some minor surgery to get rid of some long standing female problems. That happened this past Thursday and I feel somewhat human today. The biggest downside to that was that we had to pay $2500 up front towards my deductible before they'd do the surgery. American health care- gotta love it!
My sister had a pipe break in her basement week before last- she lives in Minnesota and cannot open windows to dry out this mess. As an extra bonus, her homeowner's will not cover anything since the pipe was OUTSIDE. How ridiculous is that??? I have felt so bad for her that I can't stand it. I would've rather sent HER the $2500 so that she could hire some help.
On a good note, my mother gets to retire on Monday and stay at home with my step-father, who has some health issues. Anyone got a spare kidney that they are willing to donate?? He is waiting on a transplant. She has worked hard all of her life and I am so happy that she can retire at this point. She should write a book about her life. No one would believe parts of it. She is amazing.
My oldest will turn 24 next Wednesday and that is a joy- she's a wonderful daughter, wife and mother to Gian. She is expecting grandchild # 2 in April. A new adventure will await me as well as another person to love. My heart has plenty of room. They say when someone passes, another soul takes their place. Perhaps little Mia will take Dad's place.
I so hope that the next 11 months of 2009 will fare better than the month of January has!! I did get to spend some time with my sweet grandson, Gian, last week-end. He's a busy 2 1/2 year old but loves me and is always happy to see me. I supposed the fact that I let him have and do whatever he wants has something to do with it. That's ok- that's the best part of being Gian's Nanny.

Happy Day

2009-01-15T09:56:00.001-08:00

I wore my nice, new brown "Life is Good" tee under my sweater today. Figured since the day was starting out with a filling at the dentist (and the bill to go along with it), it couldn't hurt to wear something positive as part of my ensemble.

Hope that all of you are having a good day! Life really is good!

PS- That is not me wearing the orange version and frolicking outside...too bad.

Photos of Happier Times

2009-01-08T11:51:00.000-08:00

Shown are some photos of myself and my Dad in happier times.
RIP- 1940-2009.

New Year, New Challenges

2009-01-05T06:42:00.000-08:00

It is now the 5th day of 2009. WOW! The holidays were extremely relaxing and quiet. The new year has come in with a bang, though. Our workplace has decided to cut everyone to a 32 hour work week due to the uncertain economic times. One employee got laid off this morning. He is old enough to collect Social Security, though, so he will be alright. He also has a pension from a former employer that he can begin collecting. I have felt a bit of panic since we have 2 still at home and in college. I am feeling better, today, however. I know that when one door closes, another opens. We have been through much tougher times than this.
I go back to my doctor today to schedule my minor surgery for something that she discovered during my annual exam. I am hoping that it remains minor---she sent a sample to pathology to be sure that there are no cancer cells. Otherwise, a simple D & C should take away the problem. I just don't like going under anesthesia. Makes me very anxious.
Our daughter is expecting in March and will then move to NY. That, also, is making me anxious. She's never lived so far away before.
I am going to have to use every ounce of my being to be patient and stop worrying about all of these little things.
I am hoping that 2009 will bring much happiness to all of us--President-elect Obama certainly has a daunting task ahead of him.
Happy New Year!!!!!!!!

Holidays With Your Head in the Toilet

2008-12-20T03:53:00.000-08:00

Literally- what's Christmas without at least one family member getting the stomach virus?? Oldest son awakened me at 5 am by frantically ringing the doorbell and yelling , "Mom, Mom, let me in!" He is nearly 22 years old and spends most nights at his girlfriends parents home. I guess he had started throwing up around midnight at their house- why he didn't come home then, I don't know. It had already been a somewhat crazy week as I had gotten sick, husband was out of town in Montreal as our brother in law had passed away and it was my last week at work before vacation. I had to drag myself in every day to accomplish certain tasks before leaving on Friday. Not to mention that the CPA was coming in to spend all day Friday with me to go over the year end close-out.
So, 5 am and he's beating down the door. My kids know that when hubby is out of town, I double bolt the front door and set the burglar alarm. NOT that anyone has ever tried to break into our house- I am just paranoid about being home alone at night. I disarmed the alarm, unlocked the door, thinking he'd been in some kind of accident or something - to see my son standing on the porch in a jacket that we gave him in 8th grade, some weird pair of pants and one Christmas sock on his foot. The other foot was bare. I said "where's your other sock?" He replied that it had been lost somewhere along the way. His fiance had driven him home. Bless her heart, she had been up all night cleaning up after him. She had to be back home by 5:30 am to drive her father to the airport as they, too, had a death in the family. I know she was totally exhausted. I got him inside and settled down but had to go to work for above mentioned reasons. My youngest son was here to watch over his brother for a bit. I felt so bad for the sick one- seems like one of my children has always gotten this over Christmas break at one time or another. After I got home from work last evening, he wanted me to sit and watch TV with him. He was very pitiful and I even saw his lip tremble a couple of times. Funny how little a 22 year old can become when he doesn't feel well! Guess everybody wants their Mama at times like that. I was happy to oblige though I could hardly keep my eyes open from the 5 am wake-up call and a full day of accounting. I felt as though someone had hit me in the head all day long.
Hubby returned safely from Montreal with his own stories to tell--amazing how families behave (or misbehave) at funerals and such. That's another post for another day!
I am slated to cook baked ziti and homemade pizza to take to my daughter's house tomorrow so that we can have some holiday time with them. I pray that my stomach stays still today!! Nanny doesn't have time to hang her head in the toilet.

Bring on the Mistletoe and Egg Nog

2008-12-16T11:43:00.000-08:00

I only have 3 more full days of work until I am off for Christmas vacation--it can't come a MINUTE too soon! My boss has been in a foul mood since Thanksgiving and it's only getting worse. I typically arrive to work in a decent mood and must put up my "shield" on a daily basis to keep from falling into his pit of darkness. We are not getting any bonuses this year but I am happy to have a job in this economy.
I don't usually buy mistletoe nor do I drink egg nog unless it's Silk brand as I am lactose intolerant. I don't drink alcohol either---however, I may just eat some extra holiday treats in order to keep my sanity for the next few days. :)
Once I leave the office, I will have a joyous holiday season with my family. We will have a pre-Christmas get-together with our daughter, son-in-law and grandson this Sunday. I am baking and taking some food for us to eat. She loves my pork chops and doesn't cook them for herself. Since she is pregnant, I am happy to oblige. I am also making a confection called buckeyes and a family fav called date squares.
My husband had to leave for Montreal this morning as we had a death in the family--I feel bad that I couldn't accompany him but we just don't have the funds and I have work obligations .
All in all, I think it will be a lovely holiday. Wishing you and yours the best holidays ever!!!

Holiday Recipes from Generation to Generation

2008-12-07T15:05:00.000-08:00

I just baked a fudge cake that is my Grandmother's recipe. It was actually HER mother's recipe . While visiting my Grandmother over Thanksgiving, she released several of her tried and true recipes from her "vault." I even have them in her own handwriting. Some of the instructions are vague, for instance one says "stir a while." No time, just "a while." Sort of makes me laugh. She also lists one ingredient as oleo instead of butter--that's OK- I knew what she meant. One ingredient in the fudge cake itself and it's icing is buttermilk. Sort of made me nostalgic.
I made one of her recipes for the Thanksgiving dinner that is my Mother's favorite- they call it a lemon cheese cake although it has nothing to do with cheese. You make whatever kind of cake you like, white or yellow. The icing is a concoction of 8 egg yolks, 2 sticks of butter and 2 cups of sugar. This gets cooked for "a while" ( 45 minutes) in a double boiler. When smooth, you squeeze in the juice of one lemon. Since egg yolks and butter don't make cheese, I don't know where they got the name but it, too, came from my great-grandmother . I must admit, it was a yummy icing though obviously not good for the arteries.
I think that it is wonderful to pass down these recipes for all to enjoy- thanks, Grandmother Catherine and Great-Grandmother Ruby.

A Blessed Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T10:59:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving trip to Alabama couldn't have been more wonderful!! My cousin and I re-connected after many years and spent 2 solid days preparing dinner for 30 guests. We laughed and reminisced about old times. My dear Aunt Shirley has cancer but looked as beautiful as she always has- even sans hair.
The food was fabulous (if I do say so myself) My cousin and I prepared cornbread dressing, fresh zipper peas, fresh turnips from the garden, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, creamed corn, green beans and many other dishes. We made some recipes that had belonged to our great grandmother as well. Our grandmother is 90 and was ready to pass the cooking baton. She was thrilled to just be able to sit and eat and visit.
I saw relatives that I hadn't seen in many years and I am so thankful. My Mother's family has always been so very sweet and giving. I was glad to be able to return something to them. My son and I even stopped in front of a cotton field and picked us a piece of cotton!
We came back with food from the garden and many warm memories that will last us both a lifetime.

Alabama Get-Away

2008-11-21T06:17:00.000-08:00

My oldest son and I will be Bama bound on Monday. This will be the first Thanksgiving that I have spent with my Mother's family in nearly 20 years. Youngest son has to stay and work and hubby has commitments .
My dear Aunt Shirley has lung cancer and this will likely be her last holiday with us. I am so looking forward to seeing her. My step-father has been very ill , too, so I want to hug them both. He's really been like a father to all of us since he married our Mother. He is my Mother's soulmate and I want him to get well. My Aunt was an integral part of my childhood and basically saved us from homelessness. I will always be grateful to her for putting a roof over our heads. She is a dear, sweet woman and I hate that she's suffering.
My husband's family is local so we've shared Thanksgiving with them most of our married life. They are Italian and while I adore their food, I am SO looking forward to some cornbread dressing as well as other Southern delights that I haven't had in years.
I will also get to see my 90 year old Grandmother, my mother, my brother and sister in law, my nephew, my uncles and aunts, cousins , etc. It should be a glorious time and I feel blessed that I can make the trip.
Wishing you and yours a blessed and safe Thanksgiving!!!

Tuesday Twitters

2008-11-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

This last week-end was wonderful- drove hubby back down to the Grant-Sebastian area south of us so that he could bring his boat back to our port. The trip would've been much more palatable had it not taken place at 4:15 am. I survived by taking a power nap at 6:15 am after returning home. I then put in a day of house cleaning and grocery shopping.
I woke up early on Sunday and went to 8:30 am church service. It was extremely uplifting . The final moments of the service were bittersweet as they paid tribute to a young lady who passed away last week. She was younger than myself and I knew her through the years . It made me take pause and REALLY, REALLY thank God for my blessings.
I went home and made sauce with Italian sausage and steak for the evening meal . I also baked some oatmeal raisin cookies and brownies. Young son was away at a music festival so there were only 3 of us for dinner. That's a small crowd for a Sunday at my house. It was almost too quiet. I ordered the "Toy Story" movies for my grandson and watched a "Godfather" marathon . All in all, a lovely week-end.
Monday morning came fast and I really dreaded returning to work. I was still on my week-end high but felt the negativity as soon as the day began. I work for people who are extremely self-centered as well as greedy. The almighty dollar is all that matters to them. They are also very discriminatory when it comes to women in this workplace. I have to try and remember the good things in my life to get through each day. However, jobs are scarce and I can't afford to quit until I have something else in place. I told hubby last night that if this is what having money does to people (and I felt as though I'd had a revelation as I've been obsessing about money and the lack thereof) that I'd rather be poor for the rest of my life..........however, I am not poor in the real sense of the word. I have a terrific family, friends and most of all, love. The rest is gravy.

Hope

2008-11-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

I don't think that our country has felt as hopeful since the elections of 1960, the year I was born.

Counting our Blessings

2008-11-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

It is nearly Thanksgiving- a time when many of us give thanks for our blessings- whether it be a good job, a loving family, freedom of disease, etc. I tend to give thanks on a year round basis for many reasons. One of the reasons is that my husband is a true walking miracle. Ten years ago last month he was diagnosed with liver cancer and was only given a few months to live if he did not receive a liver transplant. His body was beginning to shut down and we were fearful that he would not live to see the spring. We were blessed that the fabulous team at Mayo Clinic found a donor within 3 days of his first chemo treatment. We had precious little time to make the decision as a second chance might not come around. We had no counseling as we were scheduled to meet with the Mayo social worker the following week. We went in head first---not knowing what was ahead but had to put our faith to the test. The surgery was a success although the weeks to follow were very difficult for the entire family. I had to leave my children here at home and stay with my husband until we were released from Mayo. Thank God for family and friends that were on the ready for us. We pulled through. A few months later, however, he was on death's door once again. He had returned to Mayo for a routine biopsy of the new liver. An error was made that put a small hole in his diaphragm- I hadn't accompanied him on this trip as it didn't seem necessary. He returned to his hotel room after the biopsy and phoned to say that he didn't feel well- he was dizzy and his insides hurt. He hung up from me, phoned 911 and passed out. He was bleeding internally and his blood pressure was almost non-existent.
No one phoned me until the following morning to inform me that he had been hospitalized. Once again, adrenaline kicked into high gear and I headed to Mayo. The physician that had performed the biopsy tried to explain that they couldn't get the bleeding stopped. I thought, "we've come this far and now he's going to die from a simple procedure??" I walked over to the corner near his room and began to sob. Fortunately, they located a doctor who explained to me that if they preformed a thoracotomy, they could drain the blood that was killing him and he would survive. I quickly signed the form to allow this. Again, he was saved. A few years later, cancer would rear it's ugly head again, this time in the form of prostate cancer. It was found during a routine exam (MEN OVER 50, GET YOUR ANNUAL EXAM!!!) We phoned Mayo and got right in with the specialist. The diseased prostate was removed and once again, he pulled through.
I am thankful that he was here to give our daughter away at her wedding (when he walked through the church doors that day, the sun was shining behind them both and there wasn't a dry eye in the place!) to see our children graduate from high school, begin college, to witness our grandson's birth (and cut the cord as our son-in-law was deployed) and to be here for whatever the future holds for us.
Happy Thanksgiving from a very grateful woman!!

Stepping Back in Time

2008-11-10T06:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was one of those beautiful, cool Florida days. My husband left around 4 am to go kingfishing. I got a call around 2 pm that it was too rough to come back into our port so he had pulled into Sebastian Inlet. He asked if I could come and pick him up. It's about a 45 minute ride south from our house. I was already on the road and heading south so I agreed. I had never been to the dock where he was going to park the boat but my oldest son had. I phoned him for directions. They were very simple--"Mom, once you pass Ozzie's Crab House, look to your left for a green barn. Make a U-turn and head back north and then turn in by the green barn." Couldn't be more simple than that.
The drive down to the Grant- Sebastian area was absolutely gorgeous yesterday. Once you get past Melbourne, the scenery is primarily water. I felt so happy--once I got to the green barn and turned in, I felt as though I had been transported back in time to the Florida of the 1960's- the Florida that I grew up in and so dearly miss. While my town is a small one, the Grant area is smaller still. I pulled into a small area and parked- just in time to see my husband's boat heading to the dock. The dock consists of 4 places to park and is owned by a very nice man named Albert. I sat and talked to the fishermen and my husband while he was cleaning the boat. Had there been a hammock, I could've fallen fast asleep. The air was crisp and cool, the sun was not too hot . It was a perfect day. The fishermen addressed me as "Ma'm," which is so unusual to hear in this day and time. We drove home holding hands and rejoicing in togetherness and the beautiful area that we call home.

Vintage Photos

2008-11-07T11:58:00.000-08:00

Thought that I'd post some photos of Gian's Nanny and siblings circa 1960's and early 70's. You can see the lovely furniture in the early photos that they so cleverly called "Early American." I think a more fitting title would've been "Poor American." It was so ugly and depressing looking.
It seems as if no one was paying any attention to our clothes until we got into the 70's. The early ones of my brother and myself look as though our pants had shrunk in length but we kept wearing them anyway. In one photo, we are only clad in underpants and tee shirts. Must've been one of the hotter Alabama summers. You can see an AC window unit and knowing how difficult times were, it likely didn't work.
I like the one of my Mom and the 4 of us standing in the sun. My youngest sister was in the "car seat." From the looks of that flimsy plastic, I doubt it would have saved her had we been in an accident.
So, that's a blast from Nanny's past.

PS- Some of the photos published twice- can't figure out how to get rid of them.
PPS- The scraggly haircut in some of my photos were courtesy of myself or my brother taking a pair of scissors to my hair.
PPS- Got rid of twice published photos- guess Nanny isn't as slow as she feels today!!!

Frank Could've Gotten the Job Done

2008-11-05T12:20:00.000-08:00

Too bad that he passed away---he would've made a great candidate!!!!

Election Day 2008

2008-11-03T12:24:00.000-08:00

I don't think I've been this excited about voting in many years! This year, my youngest son became eligible to vote. He stood in line last Friday evening for over 2 hours for early voting. He was so happy to be able to participate. We couldn't get in to the early voting but will be in some sort of line tomorrow.
I am tired of seeing all of the mudslinging that has taken place both locally and nationally. There is no need for that kind of shenanigans. My mail box has been full of cards and mailings for weeks now- most of them not so nice.
We have a local guy who is running for re-election of the Sheriff's office. His ad was great-- he said "Hello, my name is **** and I'd be honored if you would vote for me on November 4th." End of ad. I was going to vote for him anyway because I know him indirectly. He is the ONLY Republican that will win my vote. He has made a lot of difference in our county and he's a genuine nice guy.
I am going to attempt to vote before work but will gladly stand in line after work until I get to mark my votes.

Halloween candy--then and now

2008-10-30T10:07:00.001-07:00

I was just reading Wide Lawns and Narrow Minds blog reminiscing about Halloween candy.
Brought back a lot of memories. My sister and brother and I were strictly out for the treats--didn't do much egging or toilet papering. Those things were too hard to come by in our household and had we wasted them, we would surely have gotten into trouble.
I think in those days (60's, 70's) we took pillowcases to haul our treats in. I don't ever remember seeing those plastic pumpkins like they have now. Sometimes we took plain brown paper sacks. You could REALLY put a lot in those. In Alabama, it would've been a bit cool by October 31st so we always wore jackets. One lady in the neighborhood always baked cake- I liked it because she would hand it to us still warm and it tasted so good in the cool night air. Most gave decent candy but you always got those peanut butter things wrapped in black and orange paper- YUK! I liked Chic-O-sticks, which have lost their pizazz over the years. There was some kind of peanut butter striped hard candy. Didn't care for those- did enjoy the Sugar Babies, Sugar Daddy's, etc. I was one of the weird kids who also liked Bit O' Honey as well.
We would take home our pillow cases or sacks and dump them out on the floor, separate the candy by good stuff, ok stuff and simply horrid that would end up in the trash.
It was such a pretty sight to see all of that candy lying on the living room floor for our consumption. Those were definitely good times.
Have a safe and happy Halloween!!!

Fried chicken, collard greens and black-eyed peas

2008-10-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

After reading my sister's blog this morning, southernmuslimah.blogspot.com, I became very nostalgic and got a hankering (yes, that is a word, at least in my house) for some Southern food. As I have mentioned, funds have been tight and I haven't been eating out. Brown bagging is a good thing and I am certainly not knocking it. It's just that the weather is cool and a nice plate of Southern comfort food would surely be welcomed by my stomach.
I suddenly realized that I had sold something on Ebay and have an $11 balance on my Paypal debit card. That is certainly enough for lunch for one person!
There is a local cafeteria a few miles from my office that cooks Southern wonderfulness. My usual order is a fried chicken breast, collard greens, black eyed peas and a cornbread stick. They make macaroni and cheese but not to my standards. I enjoy dipping the cornstick into the collard juice or "pot liquor" as some refer to it. My family often used to drink the juice from the pot. It's supposed to be very healthy.
I know it is wasteful to use gas to drive nearly 5 miles for lunch but my morning started out rough and that $11 is burning a hole in my purse. I am also visualizing no lunch tomorrow after my dental appointment. At best, they might say I can have a creamed corn sandwich.
Me thinks that I may be hopping in my car in an hour or so and heading for Southern food heaven. I think that I've justified it , don't you??

Fall.......Finally!!

2008-10-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

Seems as though Fall has finally reached central Florida. I am actually in a long sleeved shirt today. I kept open toed shoes on just in case--when you live here, you may wake up to a 40 degree temp but by noon, it has reached 80 degrees or above. I've been fooled too many times by Mother Nature of Florida. Today, however, it has been consistently cool. I feel more vigorous when the temps are reasonable. The heat here is so oppressive in summer that one often feels as though a furnace is on for months at a time. Fall and Winter here sort of make up for it. This kind of weather makes me happy and frisky, much like my dog. This is the time of year that I met my husband many years ago----I always like him best from October through April. Once the heat sets in, so does my foul mood. I hope to someday be affluent enough to afford a "summer home"in the Midwest or Northeast so as to avoid the ghastly heat.
Now for more mundane goings on- I am finally going to the dentist on Thursday morning. I've had a chipped back tooth for a couple of months now. I've sort of "closed" that side as I currently have no dental insurance. This little temporary filling is sure to set me back around $200. I still can't afford it but the tooth has let me know that it will be ignored no longer without severe consequences. I wish to avoid a root canal as I've never had one and only heard negative things about them.
I've created a new budget for myself so that I can reasonably get my debts paid off in the next few years. I'd like to face retirement knowing that I won't have to eat food with names like Fancy Feast or Nine Lives. At this point, it's questionable. I think once the college boys graduate and move out on their own, we will feel some relief. Grocery shopping has simply become a sad event. When a package of pork chops cost as much as 4 gallons of gas, you know times are bad. I haven't had a lunch or dinner out in quite some time. Soon, my Mexican restaurant, you will see me again!
Don't forget to set your clocks back one hour this Sunday, November 2nd. At least I will be well rested AND broke!!! Don't forget to vote!!!

The Window of My Life

2008-10-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

In our living room, we have a huge floor to ceiling window / sliding door. This past Thursday evening, we had one of the common freak storms that so often occur in Florida. I had pulled out the ingredients to make our dinner and the electricity went out. The storm was furious, reminding me of a tornado. I had a feeling that we'd be without power for quite a few hours.
I prepared some cold tuna salad for my hubby and oldest son which they ate by candlelight. It wasn't too hot in the house so I settled in on the sofa in front of the window in the living room. I stared out watching the 60+ year old trees sway to the constant wind. I thought back on all of the times over the last 22+ years when I have sat and stared out this particular window waiting for one thing or another.
Years ago,I would sit and watch for my husband to come home from work. I watched my children play in the front yard. A few years later, I would watch for my children to make it home safely from school once they started to drive. I've watched for the postman to bring the mail, for an ambulance to arrive, for my husband to return from Mayo Clinic with his prognosis, for my oldest to return from college, for the limo to arrive to take my daughter to her wedding, for visitors to arrive from out of town, for the power company to arrive after one of many hurricanes, etc. You get the idea--this window has been a source of joy and sadness. It's just glass but I have spent a lot of time in front of it . It's a comforting place to be- in front of this window of my life.

Sunday morning comin' down

2008-10-06T05:48:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was one of those Sunday's that just seem to last forever- in a good way!
Woke up and had the usual coffee while watching "CBS Sunday Morning." Decided not to rush into getting dressed. It was cloudy and threatening rain outside and I had nowhere to be. After my program was over, I decided to watch a thriller that I had gotten from Netflix called "The Invisible." It was very good and kept me guessing until the end. Snacked around on some various foods and decided to take a little nap. Still not dressed and it's 1 pm. I did do one chore- a load of white clothes. Hubby was out back working on the new guest house as well as working on a new fish box for his boat. Boys were scattered about elsewhere so it was very quiet in the house. Dark and quiet- just the way I like it on occasion!
I basically lounged around until time to prepare dinner . Hubby came in around 5 pm and we ate while watching yet another movie. Took my shower and it was time to go to bed - took in the latest episode of "Mad Men" at 10 pm before falling asleep.
It was a wonderful day, indeed!

Deja Vu

2008-09-27T17:11:00.000-07:00

I was channel surfing an hour or so ago. When I got to the local PBS channel, they were playing an episode of "The Lawrence Welk Show" from around 1969. I stopped to watch for a bit- I soon felt my eyes tearing up. When I was a small girl, I spent most week-ends at my great-grandmother's house. Lawrence Welk was one of her favorite stars. She always said that she'd love to be on his show and picked out of the audience to dance . They often showed couples dancing while the music was playing.
We would huddle downstairs every Saturday night in her tiny den to watch Lawrence. She had a piano in this small room and a red leather sofa. I think red must have been the color of choice in the 1960's as my other grandmother had one as well.
So, for a few moments this evening, while sitting on my eggplant colored leather sofa, I was transported back in time to 1965.
When the program ended, I found myself singing the theme song (and knowing the words by heart) - Good night, sleep tight, and pleasant dreams to you. Here's a wish and a prayer that all your dreams come true. And now, until we meet again, adios, au revoir, auf wiederschen. Good night!

Nanny's Back in the Swing of things

2008-09-26T07:08:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday. I feel happy and less anxious about the things which I have no control over. This has always been a difficult thing for me- I worry all of the time. I worry that I won't have anything to worry about! I feel anxious when my children are feeling anxious. Only thing is, they are not children any longer. They are all over the age of 18 and doing fine. I worry about them, anyway. I have a step-father who is having critical health issues. I have an aunt who has lung cancer. However, these are the things which I have absolutely no control over. I worry about my daughter and son-in-law and grandson. They will be making a major move this spring. I will no longer be able to reach their home in 2 hours by car. It will now have to be 3 or 4 hours by plane. Again, no control.
I've been a worrier since I was a small child. Back then, I had a lot of responsibility thrust upon me --I worried constantly . I couldn't concentrate in school because I was worried about my family situation.
I try to let things go and be happy. That is another difficult thing- being happy JUST BECAUSE. Being happy that I have a nice home, a nice car to drive, enough to eat, a job that helps to pay our household bills, friends and family that are supportive, grown children that are kind and responsible young adults.
So, that being said, my new mission in life is to let go, be happy and QUIT WORRYING!! It doesn't do any good and only increases my anxiety. As the saying goes:
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. Simple yet to the point.

Gian's Nanny- Sad Edition

2008-09-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

I've had the blues today. Real bad. I don't get them very often but every now and then I am overwhelmed. Today is one of those days.
Men typically don't understand- they assume that it's always hormonal. It may be indirectly since the change of life is at my heels. I called my daughter and cried in her ear. She's pregnant and likely has her own hormonal issues. She didn't need to hear her Mother, who is usually the voice of reason, have a meltdown on her lunch break.
Sometimes the little things in life just pile up and we need a good cry. I think that tomorrow will be better.

Pretty Confection

2008-09-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

These are photos of the lovely birthday cake that my future daughter-in-law and her sister made for me on Saturday. It was a dense, lemon cake with a marzipan-like icing. It was VERY YUMMY!!!

Happy Birthday to me!!

2008-09-13T05:23:00.000-07:00

Today I am 48 and feeling great!!! (well, sort of!) Other than the inner ear infection that I've been fighting with all week, the after-effects of the antibiotics to treat same, I am feeling great.
I had my first facial last night. Boy, was that a wonderful treat. She (my esthetician) applied some sort of mud mask that smelled like heaven. My face has never had such a silky feel to it. She wouldn't even charge me for it since it was my birthday. She is a wonderful lady and friend.
My sweet husband is taking me to see the new DeNiro / Pacino movie today and then out for Mexican food. This may not sound like much to many folks but (a) My husband detests sitting in movie theatres (b) My husband detests Mexican food even more. I may let him off of the hook on the Mexican food part of the deal. We can compromise on that one! I am thinking that he is agreeable to the movie only because it stars 2 of his favorite fellow Italian countrymen. :)
My oldest son left me a very sweet card and the new Al Green CD. I've been a fan of Al Green since I was about 12 years old.
I received a very sweet card from my daughter and son-in-law. It's funny how my daughter has begun to appreciate me in a different way since she now has a family of her own. Perhaps she has realized that I wasn't QUITE so stupid after all!! We had some rows during her teen years but she is an excellent Mother to my grandson and is expecting a new baby in the spring. She is married to a great guy and they have accomplished more in their early 20's than most do in a lifetime--and all on their own.
My youngest son had to be at work at 7 am but has invited me out for breakfast tomorrow. That means a lot since he works in a restaurant and going out for food is probably the last thing he wants to do---but then again, I have exceptional children. It means a lot as a parent to know that your children love and respect you- we are always here for our children no matter what the problem and love them unconditionally. I guess there's a lot to be said for "what goes around, comes around."
This promises to be a lovely day and for all of the above reasons, I am most grateful.

September Song

2008-09-08T11:56:00.001-07:00

I've always looked forward to the month of September with much anticipation, though I've spent many while living in Florida evacuating or moving back home. I am most grateful that none of the above have occurred thus far in 2008. For me, it signals the beginning of Fall as well as the holiday season. It is the month in which I was born as well as my younger sister. When I was a young girl, we typically began getting cool weather in September. This does not happen in Central Florida but I can turn down my A/C at home and pretend.
We had a good trip to visit with our daughter and her family over Labor Day week-end. I so enjoyed being on the floor and playing with my grandson. He is such a joy! My husband commented that my back doesn't seem to hurt when I am rolling around with Gian- he's right. Even if it did, I'd ignore the pain. Our daughter is beginning to show in her pregnancy. She looked a little green a couple of times while we were visiting. Took me back to my younger days. My son-in-law prepared a lovely dinner of chicken scampi for us on Friday evening after our Mayo Clinic appointments. While I still have areas of concern, my tests hadn't changed in the last 6 months so I was one happy camper.
All in all, September is starting out on a good note.....I have much to be grateful for and much to look forward to.

Labor Day Week-End

2008-08-27T07:37:00.001-07:00

Where I come from, Labor Day signals the end of white pant wearing, Fall is just around the corner (along with cooler air) and Alabama football becomes the religion of the South.
I don't live in Alabama any longer but reside in Florida, where folks wear white pants (and white belts and white shoes if over age 70) year-round, there is no real Fall and I hate watching football.
My Labor Day week-end will consist of visiting with my daughter, son-in-law and precious grandson, who phoned me on Tuesday at work to say ,"Nanny, I just pooped on the potty- Yeah!" and having brunch on Sunday with 2 of my former Museum co-workers whom I adore. One has moved to Tifton, GA but will be in town. The other is still the Curator at said Museum. The 3 of us had wonderful times when we worked together. They are 2 of the brightest women that I have ever known. It will be nice to catch up.
I think that I will clean out my desk on Sunday as it is stuffed with old bills, papers and the like. It drives my spouse crazy so that would be a nice gift to him.
We are both going to Mayo for check-ups on Friday before visiting with our daughter and her family. I hope that we both leave with clean bills of health.
Be safe and have a lovely Labor Day week-end with your friends and/or family.

The Pretty Scenery That is My Home

2008-08-12T11:19:00.001-07:00

I often take for granted just how pretty it is where I live, especially during the oppressive summer heat.
This morning, however, I actually LOOKED at my surroundings while driving. I am typically in an early morning funk while on my ten mile commute. I pass over the Indian River ,which is the river only a few hundred yards from my home. I then pass over Sykes Creek and then the Banana River. On this particular day, the sun was hitting the water just right and it made me feel happy.
I went outside on Sunday just as the sun was going down. We have a hammock hanging out there that my son brought back from Costa Rica a few years ago. I decided to lay there and just relax. I looked around at my lovely, manicured, green yard, (thank you, sons)
my tomato plants and the gorgeous plants that my husband worked so hard putting into the ground this past spring. We have a large piece of property that is very quiet and off of the beaten path. It gave me cause to stop and be thankful. We've been very lucky to live in this spot for nearly 23 years. I often get itchy feet and think that I am ready for a change--after the past few days of reflection, I have decided that I'd like to stay in my little paradise just a while longer.

The Circle of Life

2008-08-07T06:15:00.000-07:00

Found out last night that my husband and I are going to be grandparents again! I am very excited!! My daughter tried to tell me in a cute way by sending me a photo of my grandson in a tee-shirt that said "I am the big brother." I read it before bed last night but didn't catch on to the hint that she was sending. I assumed someone had bought him a shirt without paying attention to what was written on it.
Upon waking at 6 am this morning, something went "ding" in my head and I realized what message she had been trying to send.
My daughter is an early riser so I called her- she answered the phone by saying "It's about time you caught on."
I am thrilled for her as this is a good age for her to have a baby . My grandson will turn 3 years old when the new little one arrives.
I may have to change my blog to Gian's and _____________ (fill in the blank) Nanny.
Life is good.

Back to High School -One Night Only

2008-08-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

I attended my 30 year high school reunion on July 26th. I wasn't quite sure what to expect as I had never been to one in the past. When the 10th reunion came around, I was pregnant with my youngest child. When the 20th arrived, my husband was ill with cancer so I couldn't attend. The week-end of the 25th reunion was the same week-end in which my daughter was getting married.I figured I'd at least try and go to one as I was curious.
I know that I've gained weight and that my hair is turning gray. I am also aware of the clothing that is taboo for my age, weight, etc. I was thinking that I'd look worse than most of the other women there. Boy, was I wrong!
The venue was one of our local hotels that has a good reputation. I decided to go with an old friend and his wife. I picked them up and we headed over at the appointed time.
We were some of the first to arrive. We donned our name tags and proceeded inside. As the other classmates arrived, I strained to see their name tags as I didn't recognize anyone.
They had the usual prizes for the ones with the most grandchildren, the one who traveled the farthest, ones who had been married the longest, etc. The food was good, the entertainment was mediocre. The REAL show was looking at people behave as if they were still 17 years of age. Some didn't leave the bar all evening- others were sneaking outside to smoke pot. The clothing on some is fodder for an entire blog! Fat arms jiggling in sundresses, breasts popping out where they shouldn't have been and lots and lots of bleached blonde hair! Most of the men had pretty good sized guts, balding heads and bad comb-overs. At one point, a bunch of the old football team sort of huddled together for a picture- I don't think any of them could've run out of the hotel had it been on fire much less pass a football!
Apparently, there had been a "bus" party the night before. Some of them looked like they had been hit by a bus!
I looked at the reunion web page after the reunion as there were photos, etc. posted by various class members. The party apparently moved from the ballroom to the hotel pool late on Saturday evening where many stayed until sunrise. There was mention of the local Sheriff's Dept. being called in....I guess a lot of folks took it as far as they could. I had a good time just visiting with old friends and enjoying a good meal. Pictured is myself (left) and my friend's wife.

Who made THESE rules??

2008-07-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

I am mad but don't know who to be mad at. While at the chiropractor's office this week for some wonderful ice treatments for my wrenched back, the nurse took my blood pressure. I have always had perfect blood pressure- even when about to give birth to my children. I really didn't give it a thought. The nurse seemed surprised at the reading so she took it on the other side- not much better. The doc said to wait until the next morning to take it again since I was hot, stressed and in pain that afternoon. I agreed. Went back the next morning only to get a similar reading. Not good. Called our family GP and made an appointment for this morning at 7:30 am. Went in sans coffee or food in order to get a nice, clean reading as I had heard that caffeine raises your blood pressure, albeit temporarily. The reading was even worse than it had been at the chiropractor's. My doc said "Welcome to middle-age." I responded that I don't WANT to participate in middle age!! He told me that he's been on blood pressure meds for 17 years or more. Somehow, that didn't make me feel any better!
He gave me a prescription for a really low dose med that should alleviate the problem.
He informed me that a lot of it is hereditary- the rest just COMES WITH AGE. Damn. While losing weight will help as well as regular exercise, he said that most folks with high blood pressure will need to have some medicinal help for the rest of our lives.
I don't like to hear things like that. He also said that high blood pressure often sneaks up on you- no warnings or sickness. BUT I HAVE THE SPINE OF A 20 YEAR OLD- DOESN'T THAT COUNT FOR SOMETHING????

Getting older and all that goes with it

2008-07-24T08:13:00.000-07:00

While preparing a lovely dinner on Sunday, I wrenched my back. I simply bent down to pick up a pan and out it went! I've done this one time before and it's so very painful.
I hobbled through the evening but by Monday morning, couldn't move out of the bed. My husband gave me one of his pain pills (which I've never taken) and I was in La-la land all day. Didn't have a thing to eat or drink- just had crazy codeine-induced dreams and laughed out loud in my sleep. By nightfall, I came out of the stupor and decided to eat some food. I felt hung over and lousy all evening. I don't know how folks take those things for recreation.
I rested on Tuesday and felt well enough to return to work on Wednesday. One of my co-workers suggested seeing a chiropractor. I have never been to one but we do have a family friend that is a chiropractor. I gave him a call and got in yesterday at 3:00. While in the waiting room, a one legged elderly black gentleman arrived. The piped in music station began to play "Let's Get it on" by Marvin Gaye. The gentleman closed his eyes and began to sing it out loud to me. In my mind I was thinking, "Pal, I don't think either one of us is in any position to get it on!" Doc did an ice therapy treatment to reduce the swelling and an adjustment to my pelvic bone. I felt so much better! While there, he took 2 x-rays. The good news is that I have the spine of a 20 year old- I asked him if he'd make me a wallet sized copy of that X-ray so that I can show folks and say "Yes, the rest of me is falling apart but DIG THAT 20 year old spine!" :) I also have fabulous bone density which assures me upright walking in my golden years.
My 30 year high school reunion is in 2 days. I am picking up an old classmate and his wife as my husband isn't interested in attending..it should prove to be a very interesting evening. The year I graduated was the year that John Travolta made the famous movie "Saturday Night Fever." I have a feeling that the soundtrack from that movie will be played as dance music on Saturday evening. I hope that my 20 year old spine is up for some dancing.

Church

2008-07-15T10:40:00.000-07:00

I have very diverse church affiliations. I was baptized as an Episcopalian. My parents weren't big church goers so I typically attended when visiting my grandmother in Florida. There was an Episcopalian priest who counseled my parents before they divorced for the first time- I remember him being very kind and trying hard to help them. His name was Father Works, if memory serves.
I didn't attend church very much as a young adult. When I married, I attended my mother-in-law's church. She was an Italian Pentecostal missionary as was her husband, my father-in-law. The first time I heard someone speak in tongues, I almost wet myself in the pew. I had never heard anything like that and it frightened me. I tried but just couldn't bring myself to stay in that church. My husband and I attended another Non-Denominational church for a few years but again, we just couldn't go along with some of the teachings. I am not one to go around shouting "Praise the Lord" to everyone I come into contact with. I did , however, enjoy some of the music of the mother-in-law's church. It reminded me of my Southern roots as it sounded like bluegrass.
As the children came and our first child was enrolled in Catholic school, I began attending at the parish of the school. After a year or so, I decided to convert to Catholicism. I found it to be very similar to the Episcopal Church . There were some issues that I didn't (and still don't ) agree with. When I spoke up during my Cathechism classes, the very nice Religious Ed Director said to me , "Take what you want and leave the rest. We will never all be in agreement. We have to agree to disagree." I thought, OK, I can live with that. For many years, the children and I attended this parish. As the years went by, the very wonderful staff of the school and parish got transferred elsewhere. The new priest was very business like and made it clear that he did not want to be at our parish. He was not a pleasant man and we stopped attending. My children had moved on to high school at this point. Many of the families that we felt commaraderie with in the past soon left as well. It just wasn't the same. His homilies were filled with anger. It was a shame.
I then decided to attend our local Unitarian Universalist Church. I truly believe in their principles. It is a small church , most of the members are Pagan. I liked the smallness of it and attended off and on for a couple of years. As is often the case, disharmony broke out between many of the members. Angry words were exchanged and I could see that it was becoming a church run by a handful of members and not by the by-laws set forth by the UU Church. I didn't want to be a part of that upheaval. However, there is a small Zen Temple located on the same property as the UU Church. I began attending the informal meditations held there on Wednesday evenings. It was very nice and helped me through a difficult personal time. I did a lot of reading about Buddhist beliefs- again, I took what I needed and left the rest. My sister and I accompanied part of the group to Miami to see the Dalai Lama. That was quite an experience. Though there was some language barrier, it was a diverse gathering of people at the University of Miami campus. Rumor had it that Richard Gere was there though we didn't see him.
I sort of floundered around for a couple of years after that and didn't attend church at all. Recently, I began going to Mass at the local beachside parish. I really enjoy the priest and the people are very friendly. It gives me some peace and keeps me going through the week. Two weeks ago, there was a young man playing the violin with the contemporary choir. It was so lovely that it made me cry twice. Last week, there was a young woman singing who had the voice of an angel.
I think it's important to explore different religions. There are parts to all of them that we can get something out of. If I had to describe my religion, I'd have to say that I am a Uni-Cat. Part Unitarian and part Catholic. The ideals of both churches appeal to me . I do love the ceremony of the Catholic Church. I like it when they burn the incense during Mass. Takes me back to the days when my grandmother took us to the Episcopal Church- (we had to cover our heads back then. )
The only church that I likely won't visit is the one where they dance with snakes---that one freaks me out a little. Anything else is open for discussion.

From one extreme to another

2008-07-12T15:26:00.000-07:00

The current state of the economy hasn't seemed to slow down America's consumerism. I still see just as many huge SUV's on the road as I did before the gas crisis. Most of them have a single passenger. I live in a small town where there are also a lot of pick-up trucks- not that there are a lot of farmers here- just a lot of "yee haw" type folk. I don't understand the fascination with these huge vehicles.
Just as many people seem to be purchasing the huge screen television sets. You will never see one of those in my home. Television is not a priority here. My son works at the local Starbucks and he reports that business hasn't slowed down one bit. That is another item that I refuse to purchase- overpriced cups of latte/ frapachino whatevers. I can buy a pound of imported Italian coffee that lasts us about a month for just around $9.00. Bottled water is another item that I don't purchase. The water from my sink is just fine.
My other pet peeve are the super duper expensive phones- Blackberries, Iphones, etc. I can't imagine that most of the owners of these devices are so ultra important that they MUST be in reach at all times- via phone or internet.
On the other end of the spectrum, you have folks stealing gas (which only makes it more difficult for the rest of us) robbing stores and in my town, trying to drive off with the local bank's ATM machine. I guess the geniuses responsible for this recent botched robbery forgot to detach the machine from the proper area thus bringing the entire bank drive-thru crumbling down.
Times are tough for everyone- we all need to pitch in and do what we can. Robbing and stealing isn't the answer. There are many readily available jobs in our area. They may not be glamorous but they will keep food on the table and gas in the car.
Many today feel it their right to take whatever they believe they deserve. There is a huge sense of entitlement.
For those with a few extra bucks, skip that overpriced coffee and send a donation to your local food bank. Put a couple of extra dollars in the poor box at your church. Forego the expensive phone purchase and donate a less expensive phone to a battered women's shelter. You'll feel better and we can make some positive changes however small.

The Summer Blogging Blah's

2008-07-09T10:52:00.000-07:00

My sister in law commented that I hadn't posted any new blogs lately. She inquired of my health, etc. I told her that while I had been sick a couple of weeks ago, I just haven't had much of interest to say lately. I think it's the summer blah's.
It's hotter than the hinges of hell here in Florida at this time of year. It seems as though I barely make it home from work each night before I am in my PJ's relaxing on the couch.
Hubby and I have been enjoying our movies from Netflix lately. My sister and I discussed how we've been scaling down- whatever isn't necessary is going by the wayside- either for sale or in the trash. Netflix, however, IS necessary. We can't afford to go to traditional movies- it now costs over $20 for two people to get into a movie in our town. I can rent unlimited movies, 3 at a time, for $18.00 per month. I can pick from a huge list, I can watch in the comfort of my home without the aggravation of the general public and I can pause to get a snack or go potty , if necessary. They provide a postage paid return envelope as well. It's the greatest.
Other than that, all of the post-graduation ho-ha has settled down, work is palatable and I am just counting down the days until Fall arrives.
Have a cool and refreshing beverage and enjoy a movie from Netflix!

The ABC's of Religion

2008-06-25T05:28:00.000-07:00

I think of some crazy stuff while falling asleep at night. I decided to make a list of the various religions that my friends and family follow, according to the ABC's. I will not make any wise- ass comments beside any of them. :) Some of the letters will be blank because I either can't think of a religion that fits or if I can, I don't know anyone who practices it. My point is, WHY CAN'T WE ALL GET ALONG???? Feel free to add any religions that I don't have on my list if you know someone who practices it.

A- Agnostic , African Methodist Episcopal
B- Baptist , Buddhist
C- Catholic, Christian Science
D-
E- Episcopalian
F-
G-
H- Hindu
I- Interdenominational
J- Judaism
K-
L- Lutheran
M- Methodist, Muslim
N- Non-Denominational
O-
P- Pentecostal , Presbyterian, Primitive Baptist, Pagan
Q- Quaker (my deceased neighbors)
R-
S- Seventh-Day Adventist
T- Transdenominational
U- Unitarian Universalist
V-
W- Wiccan
X-
Y-
Z-
I watched a PBS special this past week-end called "The Power of Forgiveness." Two men from totally different backgrounds and religions now tour the country giving speeches about forgiveness.One of the men lost his son at the hands of the other man's grandson. The shooting was senseless. One man was raised Muslim while the other was a black man raised Baptist in the South. They couldn't be more different. The men have become best friends. They had to forgive to move on. At the end of the program, one of them said "If everyone in the world could forgive, what a wonderful place we'd live in." Religion plays a huge part in forgiveness. Amen. Hum. Omen. Ameen. Om. Blessed Be.

My long-awaited massage therapy!!

2008-06-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

I have decided that I am going to get a massage this evening, come hell or high water (which is extremely likely given the violent storms that our area has had the last few days) We actually had a woman rescued from her car last night while driving on a nearby road that was suddenly under water. I digress.
My youngest graduated on May 31st. I worked very hard to give him a nice party that week-end and promised self a massage the following week. One thing led to another (likely finances) and I postponed the massage. I then proceeded spend a week-end preparing piles of Italian food for sick friends as well as a relatives birthday soiree. I haven't always known HOW to cook Italian food. Remember,I am from Alabama- same as Forrest Gump. Anyhoo, I spent the week after that trying to get oldest son and husband ready for a long planned fishing expedition in Canada. OK- I will get that massage as soon as their plane wheels leave the tarmac. I am tired, I am bitchy and my back hurts. Son came down with some violent, horrible sickness the day before the trip. He was nearly in tears but couldn't lift his head to get on the airplane. I felt bad for him and also spent several days (in addition to my FT job) tending to him and keeping him hydrated.
In my stupor, I had also planned a big house cleaning and subsequent garage sale this past Saturday. What was I thinking??? In addition, we were also entertaining some family from Canada at my sister-in-law's house. What dumb ass volunteered to make pizzas and desserts for 25 people?? My back now hurts twice as much! I tried to rest last night by going to bed early- after about 10 minutes of "Keeping up with the Kardashians" , I decided that TV as we know it has gone to shit. (Who the hell are they, anyway??) I borrowed some huge tables from my employer, hauled them home, unloaded them and then did the reverse after the local thrift store came last night to take away the remaining garage sale debris. The garage sale was a bust- I guess it's just too hot here at this time of year.
Long story short, I called my massage therapist yesterday and I will be basking in the non-glow of a dark room with soft music and a very nice lady making it all go away.

Matchmaker, Matchmaker, send me a match!

2008-06-16T13:05:00.001-07:00

Every now and again, I take a gander at the personal ads and see who is looking in our area. Most of the time, I recognize a few faces and have a laugh. I am not looking, mind you. After what I have seen on there recently, I would spend my life in a convent atop a secluded mountain in Austria before I'd EVER date one of these guys.
I will share some of my recent findings. I don't know whether they are funny or just plain pathetic-
One guy is dressed from head to toe in a NASCAR outfit- he's NOT a NASCAR driver. A couple of them look as though they pulled out their prom pics from 1977 to put on their ad. The spelling on most of them is atrocious. One fellow is sporting an eye patch but requests that his "dream woman" only be a little chubby, NOT overweight. He's wearing an eye patch, for God's sake. Would he even be able to see just how chubby a woman is?? Oh, and long, gray hair accented with a cowboy hat and a Harley Davidson shirt. That's such an attractive look.

Following are some of the actual headings taken from these gents sites:

"Sinbad seeks partner for flying carpet." Ah- how original! Would he wear pointy little shoes and a turban on his head? That might be worth seeing!

"Lifelong student of everything." What the hell does that mean??

"Do it in the Wind." Doesn't he realize how messy that would be??

"Will have a cup of coffee with whoever responds." This guy must not have seen the prices in Starbucks lately! What a desperate statement.

"Fast Cars and Slow Women." Does he mean slow as in mentally? I can only picture a mentally challenged woman being slung around in a Mustang convertible.

"Part teddy bear and part social butterfly." This is my personal favorite- I just can't figure out how he came up with those two phrases and thought that it would MEAN something to anyone.

I am so glad that I am married.

Food, Fun and Lots of Italians!!

2008-06-16T11:53:00.001-07:00

After last Thursday's near death experience, I decided to try and have fun over the week-end. I had promised to deliver a home cooked meal to a friend who has been taking care of her ill mother as well as her son after his surgery. This woman was always the first person at my door during the dark days of my husband's illness and subsequent surgeries several years ago. She would leave food in our spare frig in the garage if we weren't home. She was a life saver on more than one occasion. It would certainly be my pleasure to return the favor. (She is Italian and used to own a local deli so I couldn't take just any slop over there) I had decided to make homemade pizza, baked ziti and a nice, big salad to take over.
We had also decided to have a surprise party for my brother in law, Sam, who was to turn 75 on Sunday. He is one of the sweetest people you'd ever want to know- he and my sister in law, Rose, were also life savers when my husband was ill. Sam would hand me gas credit cards and big wads of cash to make my trips to Mayo Clinic, which is about 200 miles from where we live. They know what needs to be done in times of crisis and they do it. No questions asked! Our nephew, Carmine, had been operated on this past week so until we knew the severity of his illness, we had put the party on hold. Luckily, it was just a gall bladder removal so Vivi la Sam was back on! I volunteered to make homemade pizzas and desserts for a crowd of around 25-30 people.
I got the first round of pasta, etc cooked on Saturday - sauce from scratch in the morning, pizza and then the baked ziti. I delivered this to my friend around 4:30 and she was very happy. They devoured the pizza before I left and complimented me. Mind you, this is TWO generations of Italian cooks, my friend AND her mother. I left feeling quite happy.
Now, round 2 of cooking for the birthday soiree. Went to 8 am Mass so that I could get back and break out the Betty Crocker gloves for one more batch--this time, I had to double the pizza recipe. I know our family and how they like to eat. I had also decided to make a strawberry cake, cut up fresh strawberries and take whipped cream to have on top. Not satisfied, I also baked a vanilla cake and made homemade chocolate frosting. I was getting a little tired during the chocolate frosting mixing and must've forgotten the 3rd cup of confectioners sugar- I thought it tasted kind of bitter but didn't realize my faux pas at the time. Slapped it on the cake and off we went.
My brother in law was truly surprised and even shed a tear when we all yelled , "SURPRISE!!" We all had such a great afternoon of food and laughter. It was one of those days that you hate to see end. My other sister in law made homemade manicotti- I can't describe how delicious they were. Melted in our mouths!
We don't get together as often as we used to due to work schedules, etc. I realized yesterday that we need to do this more often- life is short and days like yesterday are rare and wonderful.

Shrimp, stay away from my door!

2008-06-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to save a few bucks so I packed my lunch from home every day last week until Thursday when my co-worker suggested we go out. I was hungry for something in the seafood department so I happily agreed. We went to a local Thai restaurant where I have eaten at least 50 times. Lately, I've noticed that they've gotten busier than in years past. I know that when this happens, often times things are overlooked. Food is served that has outlived it's expiration date, etc.
Anyway, I ordered the salt and pepper shrimp, one of my faves. I noticed that they didn't taste like they normally do but I ate with gusto. About a half hour later, I felt a funny pain in my side and all hell broke loose. I managed to stay at work until quitting time , mostly because I was afraid to attempt the 15 minute ride home. Once home, my entire body collapsed. I was in the bed for 13 hours and couldn't move.
It will be a long, long time before I eat shrimp again. I probably dropped about 5 pounds the hard way. I will have to politely decline any future invites to that particular restaurant. It's a shame but I am thankful that it wasn't any worse than it was.

Location , location , location

2008-06-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

I work in a sort of dumpy part of town. It lies on the fringes of a very wealthy beach town but there are some stark differences.
From my office front door, I am privy to seeing a pawn shop, a tattoo parlor (with flashing neon sign for extra ambiance) and a half-assed, hole in the wall surf shop. There was a BBQ take-out joint called "Hog Heaven- Where all good pigs go to die." It's no wonder that it didn't last long with a name like that. I wouldn't have eaten anything out of there if someone paid me. It's a run-down little strip mall that is in desperate need of a face lift.
My last job was in the downtown section of the wealthy beach town but we still had a topless joint across the street--I could sure make some blackmail money if I were to list the "town swells" that I saw going and coming from there! The rest of the area was pretty nice, though. The job prior to that one was located on the west side of SR 520 where there is a whole lot of nothing.
I guess the nicest locale that I worked in was down near the river in an old south county town. I worked for the local museum of art . You could safely walk around in the small river front community. There were nice places to eat or just sit in front of the library and enjoy the river.
My ideal spot would be an office overlooking the Atlantic Ocean- or any ocean for that matter. Retirement sounds good as well.

My Apologies to President Bush regarding my Mexican restaurant

2008-06-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

I will have to say that I was wrong--I know, I know, it's a rare occurrence. Word on the street is that the aforementioned Mexican restaurant will re-open at the end of June. They REALLY WERE closed for remodeling, it seems.
That makes me very happy and I guess I owe old George some sort of apology---nah! If he shows up in my town, I would happily take him to dinner there where I can discuss a thing or two with him. Quite frankly, he needs a good, old-fashioned Soprano style beat down but I would settle for giving him a piece of my mind over a burrito and some salsa. Perhaps a margarita if I am feeling charitable.

Still can't do it..........

2008-06-04T06:09:00.000-07:00

I am nearly 48 years old. I have been married for nearly 25 years. I am a mother. grandmother, aunt and daughter. I have a very responsible job and can act like a grown-up when necessary.
However,as I rediscovered last evening, I can't let my hands hang down off of the bed at night for fear of something grabbing them. It's ridiculous, I know. I tried last night but that old feeling came over me and I jerked them back up onto the bed.
I know that there is nothing under my bed except lots of dust bunnies- actually, there are probably enough bunnies to make an Easter parade. Those don't jump up and bite hands, though.
I guess that I have read too many scary stories and watched too many fright movies. For now, my hands will have to remain under my pillow where they will be safe!

Sex and the City movie

2008-06-03T17:44:00.001-07:00

I have only one word to say about this film---------FABULOUS!!!!

Graduation and wonderful week-end!!

2008-06-03T10:42:00.000-07:00

My youngest child graduated from high school last week-end. I had my crying jag on the morning of graduation but managed to hold it together at the ceremony- likely because it was hotter than the hinges of hell and standing room only. The only reason I wanted to cry at the ceremony was that my feet were swollen and my underwear was stuck to me like glue--as my son in law says, we all had "swamp ass," a common Florida affliction.
My 2 year old grandson was very well behaved considering that he was also hot and not able to move freely. Luckily, someone had left the gym door open with full AC blasting so we snuck in there until my son's name was called so that he could run around and be himself. It was a proud moment when he graduated and I think he is as glad as I that the days of high school are over.
My daughter, son in law and grandson were able to come for the graduation so we had all of our children together . It's nice to look around and see how the family has grown. The original five of us has now turned into 9 with the girlfriends thrown in.
We had a nice family get-together on Saturday evening to celebrate. We are a tight-knit bunch that always enjoys each others company.
I am very proud to be the Mother of my children as they have turned into kind, caring young adults . It was a lot of work to raise them. At times, I thought I'd never get out alive- but I did and it was worth every sacrifice.

President Bush closed my favorite Mexican restaurant

2008-05-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

We (until recently) had a wonderful Mexican restaurant in our neighborhood. We always celebrated family birthdays there. It was good food at exceptionally reasonable prices. I've noticed that the last 6 months or so that business has been slow there. My son's took me there on Mother's Day week-end. The following Monday they had posted a sign that said "Closed for Remodeling." I immediately panicked! I called the phone number and got the disconnected message. My entire family is heartbroken!
While purchasing a birthday card for my son last week, I noticed a "going out of business" sign at the Hallmark store located in our mall. This store has been there for at least 10 years. The owner told me that business has been too slow to afford the high mall rent. Again, I am heartbroken! This was a neat little store that was family owned and operated.
I blame all of this on President Bush and his Administration. I can barely afford to fill my car with gas on a weekly basis. My grocery bill just keeps climbing and we aren't eating any differently. How many more Mom and Pop businesses are going to go under ?
I am just sick over it and am looking forward to this chapter in America's history to be over . President Bush belongs back on his ranch in Texas.

Memorial Day week-end

2008-05-27T05:44:00.001-07:00

It's always nice to have a 3 day week-end. I took some time this week-end to remember those who have lost their lives during a conflict. I had no idea that more lives were lost in the Civil War than in any other war. How horrible that we lost more young men fighting amongst ourselves. Thanks to CBS Sunday Morning Show for being so informative. I also found out that Arlington Cemetary began as sort of a "Potter's Field" for soldiers whose families couldn't afford burial. It also served as a burial ground for the unknown and the USCT- which stands for United States Colored Troops. They were among some of the first to be buried there. Arlington only became such a desirable burial ground after President John F. Kennedy was buried there. I have visited Arlington and the Eternal Flame is indeed a somber sight.
I think (and I will have to research this) that my husband is eligible to be buried there since he served in Viet Nam and earned a Bronze Star for valor. Sometimes the spouses are eligible as well. I asked him if this would be a desirable resting place and he said "Yes, at least I'd be out of Florida." I will certainly look into this.
Hope that you all had a nice week-end. We entertained some cousins on Sunday and celebrated my youngest son's 19th birthday. WOW! I can barely remember age 19.
He will "cross the bridge" at his high school this Friday evening and graduate- nearly 30 years to the day after his Mom graduated. Time is indeed marching on.

Kind of Tired

2008-05-19T10:21:00.001-07:00

The county that I live in smells as if there has been a month long barbecue. On Mother's Day, we couldn't even go outdoors as the smell was so sickening. Ashes were landing in our front yard. I have always had upper respiratory issues and this certainly doesn't help. They have arrested several folks on arson suspicion. Today it was reported that several of the homes that burnt were in foreclosure, now casting some different lights on the subject. It's so very sad.
My job is not one that I love going to so I decided to take a mental health day today. Our family joined the local YMCA last week and I did quite a bit of exercise and swimming this past week-end. I thought that exercise would help me to sleep but I only slept soundly for about 2 hours last night. Hence the mental health day--I will weep halfway through a day if I am not properly rested. My boss jangles my nerves when I feel good so I knew that today would be a weeper if I went in. It will make tomorrow super busy for me as I have payroll and other tasks to accomplish.
The highlight of today will likely be the hot dog that I had for lunch, the nap I am about to take and the fact that Oprah is having a Mary Tyler Moore reunion show at 4 pm that is sure to make me weep (for other reasons) I always wanted to be Mary Richards and watched the show religiously every Saturday night. Oprah has re-created Mary's apartment and will be featuring the cast members that are still alive.
Hope that everyone else's Monday is going well...off to nap.

Meditations on Menopause

2008-05-14T15:39:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in a recent post, I am in the throes of menopause. It started for me around age 43. I tried very hard not to jump on the hormonal bandwagon and was very successful until recently. Tried as I might, I just couldn't take it anymore. My nights were sleepless leaving me not only exhausted but extremely irritable most every day. My monthly cycles had gotten out of hand as well. Between the hot flashes, mood swings and PMS, I had roughly 2 good days per month. I finally found a nice , young female GYN who really listened to me and helped me to find some relief.

I don't think that most women realize what is happening to their bodies during this very real change of life. When your hormonal levels drop to a level of next to nothing, it messes with everything in your life, physical and emotional. I am not advocating that hormonal treatment is for everyone but I think it saved me in more ways than one. I can think more clearly and am certainly more rational. I don't feel as many heat waves pour over my body and I can sleep like a baby at night. I don't plan to stay on this treatment for a long time but it's nice to feel like myself again and not a raging lunatic. I think my family likes me better, too!

Your thoughts are welcomed.

Ross the Intern

2008-05-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have included some Youtube videos of Ross the Intern at the bottom of my blog- no particular reason except that I think he's hilarious. If you need a laugh, click on one of them. My personal fav is the one with the late Steve Irwin, Crocodile Hunter. "Pineapple, pineapple." Great stuff!!

It's the little things........

2008-05-14T05:52:00.003-07:00

My husband and I must have some sort of ESP after nearly 25 years of marriage. He thinks ahead for me which is a wonderful thing seeing as I have entered a nearly 3 year long brain fart. I know that it is pre-menopause and that it won't last but I can't remember anything for longer than a minute or two---then, it's gone like the wind.
For instance, I was using the bathroom off of our bedroom on Sunday. We keep a little container in there with extra rolls of bath tissue. It's a wonderful little convenience. As I sat there , I thought, "I must fill this up as there are no extra rolls." By the time I left the bathroom, that thought had already left my noggin and gone who knows where.
Yesterday morning, I returned to aforementioned bathroom and looked down in horror to see an empty toilet paper dispenser---it's a terrible feeling to think of drip-drying or waddling down the hallway to fetch a roll . I glanced into the tissue container to see that it had been filled up by some very sweet and thoughtful person aka my husband.
This may seem trivial to some but these are the types of things that make one appreciate their spouse.
My memory has improved somewhat since I gave in and decided to take some hormones (short term) until my body and brain decide to co-operate with me again at some point in the future. Until then, I will have to depend on my spouse to provide me with toilet tissue as well as little memory jogs so that I don't lose my way too often.

My brother-in-law and the $100 Grouper

2008-05-08T11:17:00.001-07:00

About a million years ago when my husband and I were dating, we had a little adventure that began with my deceased brother-in-law, Johnny "D." My husband had recently finished repowering his boat and we decided to take it out on it's maiden fishing voyage.
As we were leaving the Port, we noticed a man standing on the rocks of the Jetties waving at us. As we got closer, we realized that it was my husband's older brother, who everyone called Johnny "D." He owned the mini-warehouses in the Port and was quite a character. Everyone loved him.
He was holding up a $100 bill and shouted that it would be the prize for the first person to catch a fish on the newly repowered fishing vessel. I didn't think much of it as I was pretty much just along for the ride. I didn't have any intention of doing any fishing. I wanted to catch some rays and lounge around. I should've had more ambition to fish as $100 in those days was half of my rent.
At some point during the day, we were bottom fishing. I decided to try my hand and pull in the line to see what would happen. Imagine everyone's surprise when I pulled up a grouper- a nice, big $100 grouper!! I was ecstatic but not too sure that Johhny "D" would still be willing to part with those funds.
He was and I graciously accepted. That was quite a day that we often recall when sitting around our dinner table.
Johnny "D" passed away in 1989 from cancer and we still miss him but our youngest carries his name. Thanks again, Johnny "D!"

My morning office routine aka leave me alone!

2008-05-07T06:05:00.000-07:00

I don't think that my boss realizes that I don't actually come to life until around 9:30 am , even though we must report to work at the unholy hour of 8 am.
On occasion, he arrives before me which typically means a rough morning. He is very hyper and extremely loud. When he gets to the office early, it usually means that he has had a feud with his spouse or is just pumped up enough for whatever reason to get on our nerves. He swirls around all of the departments shouting about inventory, coffee not being made and general nonsense.
He starts asking me all kinds of questions about A/R, A/P, deposits bla bla bla. I stare at him with glazed over eyes wanting to put a muzzle on his mouth.
If I were the boss , I would allow my employees to EASE into the morning ---I like to check the obits on the local online newspaper, check my account balance with my bank, read a couple of blogs and pop open a Diet Coke. THEN and only THEN am I at all ready to pounce into the accounting portion of my day. Until that point, please speak softly and stay out of my work area. The day will be much more pleasant for the both of us. :)

In addition to my Mother's Day gifts....

2008-05-06T11:43:00.001-07:00

This is the man who is responsible for the lovely gifts pictured prior--though I am not his Mother, he is indeed the other love of my life.
He is pictured doing his favorite thing. (he is the one in orange coveralls)

Mother's Day gifts

2008-05-06T06:09:00.000-07:00

I received my gifts quite some time ago-- they are all the gift that I will ever need.
They are pictured here.
(the one in the middle of my 2 son's is a nephew but a blessing just the same!)