The Top Five Regrets of the Dying ....

 

 



“To laugh often and love much:

To win respect of intelligent people

And the affection of children;

To earn the approbation of honest critics

And endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty;

To find the best in others;

To give one’s self;

To leave the world a little better,

Whether by a healthy child,

A garden patch,

Or redeemed social condition;

To have played and laughed with enthusiasm

And sung with exultation;

To know even one life has breathed easier

Because you have lived…

This is to have succeeded.” 

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

 

"Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly" ~ Unknown

 

I haven't posted in awhile because I was out of town for the holidays and when I returned home I immediately became ill with a bad bout of bronchitis.  I had a flu shot at the end of November but evidently it doesn't prevent bronchitis!

 

If you choose not to get a flu shot, there are many things you can do to prevent becoming ill this winter.  People are remiss about washing their hands everytime they use a bathroom, after they travel on public transportation, use an ATM, or use a shopping cart.   And, needless to say, cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze!

 

NSF International, the Public Health and Safety Company, found that the germiest spots in our homes are the kitchen sponge, the kitchen sink, and toothbrush holders.  The kitchen harbors so many germs which we can reduce by diligent cleaning. Kitchen sponges, brushes, towels, and cutting boards are major culprits in hiding nasty germs. In addition to thorough washing in a dishwasher, I zap my sponges in the microwave for two minutes.

 

"To disinfect and clean your wood cutting board or butcher block countertop, wipe them with full-strength white vinegar after each use. The acetic acid in the vinegar is a good disinfectant, effective against such harmful bugs as E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus. Never use water and dishwashing detergent, because it can weaken surface wood fibers. When your wooden cutting surface needs deodorizing as well as disinfecting, spread some baking soda over it and then spray on undiluted white vinegar. Let it foam and bubble for five to ten minutes, then rinse with a cloth dipped in clean cold water."  http://www.rd.com/food/6-effective-ways-to-clean-cutting-boards/.

 

White vinegar is an effective cleaner for kitchen sinks and garbage disposals.  In additional to other cleaning uses with vinegar, this website recommends that you pour one cup of vinegar in a sink or garbage disposal for one hour or more to remove odors:    http://www.thenewhomemaker.com/vinegar.  We also need to be diligent in cleaning refrigerator, oven, and microwave handles.

 

By all means, clean your computer keyboard, your smartphone, your telephone ... and wash your hands!  Stay well .... ♥

 

 



 

“An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.” 
~    Henry David Thoreau

 

 

I recently read an article in the L.A. Times confirming that a single bout of vigorous exercise releases norepinephrine which can enhance memory in seniors.  Researchers at the University of California in Irvine "recruited 31 healthy older adults with an average age of 69, and 23 subjects who had been diagnosed with 'amnestic' mild cognitive impairment -- memory loss that is problematic but which falls short of Alzheimer's disease. All were shown a series of 20 emotionally positive images -- beautiful landscapes, baby animals, sports scenes. And then, half of those in each group were put on treadmills to exercise for six minutes at 70% of their aerobic maximum. Subjects in the other half of each group were allowed to sit quietly."

 

An hour after the workout (or sit) the subjects were given a "free-recall" test and asked to describe in detail the photos they had seen.  The subjects with normal memory function had increased recall of 30%, and those with amnestic mild cognitive impairment who were included in the exercise group improved their recall even more by remembering twice the number of photos and details than did those who didn't exercise.  http://www.latimes.com/health/boostershots/la-heb-memory-seniors-exercise-20121128,0,6260485.story.  Researchers further determined that for both groups even a brisk walk around the block boosted recall of information learned just before the walk.

 

An earlier study, funded by the National Institute on Aging, was conducted at the University of Colorado in Boulder reflecting that a small amount of physical exercise can protect seniors from long-term memory loss which may happen suddenly following infection, illnesses or injury.  "Past research has shown that exercise in humans protects against declines in cognitive function associated with aging and protects against dementia. Researchers also have shown that dementia is often preceded by bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, or other immune challenges."  CU-Boulder Research Associate Ruth Barrientos stated that the study found that "small amounts of voluntary exercise prevented the priming of microglia, the exaggerated inflammation in the brain, and the decrease of growth factors." http://www.colorado.edu/news/releases/2011/08/09/small-amount-exercise-could-protect-against-memory-loss-elderly-cu-study.

 

We all know exercise is good for our bodies but it is important to know that it is equally necessary for our memory and mental well-being.   To stay healthy mentally and physically we must keep a positive attitude, endeavor to have a full and creative life ... and, by all means, keep on moving.♥

 

 

 





 

"All that we behold is full of blessings." ~ William Wordsworth

 

 

 

On this Thanksgiving Day, I am grateful for so many things ... my beloved family, my many wonderful friends, the many freedoms we enjoy, and good health.  When we are young we take good health for granted, however, as we age we become more aware of our mortality.  In my case, I am eating healthier and exercising far more than when I was working full time in a stressful career.

 

And it seems that the older I get the faster the years fly by.   I cannot believe that we are nearing the end of 2012 already!  This Psychology Today article suggests that to slow down the pace of life as we age, we should "take advantage of new and unique experiences" . . . . and that we should focus "on positive (rather than negative) past memories, trying to live more in the present, and holding a positive perception of the future - envisioning a future full of hope and optimism.  In other words, use time wisely."  http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/201004/why-time-goes-faster-you-get-older.

 

As we approach the sunset of life we learn to appreciate more what really matters and is important in our lives.  It isn't things . . . it is quality time spent with those we love and care about.  I hope you are making the most of your Thanksgiving Day.  Carpe Diem! ♥

 

"If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading."  ~ Lao Tzu

 

 

 

Another political campaign is behind us.  I am so glad we don't have to watch any more political ads on TV, but I am dismayed that the mainstream media did so much to shape this election.  Regardless, we must support those elected by the majority and hope they lead this country down a better path.

 

All Americans need to be very concerned about the fiscal cliff approaching us.   Please, you should and must watch this video link below if you care about the future of your children and grandchildren.



  Why Congress Does Not Pass a Budget

 

It is incumbent upon the citizens of this country to monitor Congress and stand up and speak out when the actions of our elected leaders are fiscally irresponsible.  You can find the contact information for your state here:  http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml.  We need to be diligent and exercise our right to due process! ♥

 

To everything there is a season,
a time for every purpose under the sun.
A time to be born and a time to die;
a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

~ Ecclesiastes 3:1-4

 

Happy Halloween!   I haven't blogged lately because the hard drive of my PC (which I bought only 3 1/2 years ago) crashed and it took several days to get it repaired.   I will post more later when I have more substantive matters to write about (maybe after the election!).  I stood in line for 1 and 1/2 hours so that I could vote early on Monday.   I am so concerned about the future of our country.  This election is crucial ... please be sure to vote!!! ♥

“Death is not the greatest loss in life.
The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live.” ~ Norman Cousins

 

 

 

My beloved friend with pancreatic cancer is in the last stages of that horrible disease.  It is so painful to watch her life slipping away.   All who know and love her have so much admiration for her in how she has courageously battled this illness, always keeping a positive attitude and hopeful outlook.  Sadly, now the hope is gone and she is succumbing to the fourth highest cause of cancer death in this country.  The best that we can do for her is pray that her suffering ends peacefully.

 

I vividly recall watching Diane Sawyer's interviews with Randy Pausch, the young college professor who also fought this horrific disease, who finally gave up his fight in July 2008.  I was so touched by his book The Last Lecture that I gave copies of it to all three of my grown children.   And, of course, Steve Jobs died just a year ago from pancreatic cancer, but a less aggressive form. 

 

Experts say that the biggest causes of pancreatic cancer are smoking and heredity.  But the fact that all types of cancer are now so widespread must also be due to all the chemicals we ingest and the air that we breathe.   Ironically, it seems that deadly cancer, which saps the physical attributes of its victims, brings out an inner strength and resilience that defies medicine.   Perhaps it is the soul preparing for its journey. ♥ 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BOwuQy4HmU

Postscript:  October 17.  She gave up her courageous and valiant battle very early this morning.  Please join in the battle against this deadly disease:  http://www.pancan.org/index.php.

"Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be." ~ Robert Browning

 

 

 

I just received my Golden Passport (free Metro Pass - see post from March 2012) today, in time for jury duty at state criminal court on Monday.  Ever since I retired from my full-time job, I have dreaded driving downtown in the awful traffic.  So, now that I have my pass, I only have to drive to the Metro Station and park my car, thus avoiding the rush hour traffic.  My hometown has the infamous designation of having some of the rudest drivers in the U.S.  I'm all for performing my civic responsibility to appear for jury duty, but the biggest inconvenience is simply getting there!

The good news is that in most states and in federal courts you may be permanently excused from jury duty after you reach the age of 70  (alas, something to look forward to as we age!).  The last time I was summoned for jury duty was for the criminal court in Montgomery County, Maryland.  The attorneys for the prosecution and defense proceeded with voir dire and questioned me at length about my background and beliefs.  I made it to the last round, but the defense ultimately decided they didn't need a female, middle-aged WASP on a jury in which the defendant, a 19 year old Latino male, was accused of murder.  I'm hoping that a similar determination will be made of me on Monday!  I will keep you informed on the performance of my civic responsibility .... ♥





"Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson



My morning started off well yesterday when I read in the newspaper that "Cocoa may have cognitive benefits."  http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/09/04/2983409/cocoa-may-have-cognitive-benefits.html.  I know that eating a small piece of dark chocolate each day is good for our hearts and that it is full of antioxidants, thus helping rid our bodies of free radicals.  And now research published in the American Heart Association journal, "Hypertension," reports that older subjects given a daily drink with intermediate to high amounts of cocoa had higher overall cognitive scores, lower insulin resistance, and lower blood pressure and oxidative stress than those given smaller amounts.

Dark chocolate can also reduce the risk of stroke in men and women.  It is a rich source of flavenoids, the same plant-based polyphenols found in fruits, vegetables, red wine, and legumes, and can thus reduce inflammation throughout the body.  Additionally, it can reduce the aggregation of platelets causing blood clots which cut off blood supply to the brain or the heart.

Everything in moderation, however, because chocolate is also high in fat and calories.  But, with fall approaching, it is soothing to know that we can curl up at night with a good book and a healthy cup of hot cocoa and not feel guilty (low sugar, of course)! ♥

"A good leader takes a little more than his share of the blame,
a little less than his share of the credit."~ Arnold Glasow

I saw a funny quote by Jay Leno the other day, "If God wanted us to vote, he would have given us candidates."  I laughed out loud when I read that.  We have yet another presidential election before us and so many voters are still undecided ... but this country is not at all what it was when I was a child.

 

The first president I really remember was Dwight Eisenhower.  We all looked up to him and respected him so much.  Ike was a West Point graduate, Supreme Commander of NATO, and the country was proud to say, "I Like Ike."  Then came Jack Kennedy ... oh, how the youth of America loved him!  I recall exactly where I was on the day he died and heard the announcement, "The president is dead," reverberating across campus.  In spite of his philandering (which we didn't know much about at the time), I still looked up to the President.  And no one was a more elegant and polished First Lady than Jackie Kennedy. 

 

There have been good and bad presidents from both political parties but I am disappointed that the respect I once had for the presidency is long gone.  These days the President finds it natural to hang out with celebrities and appear on TV talk shows.  But the First Lady,  well, I was a little taken aback when she competed in a race on TV against Jimmy Fallon and in a push-ups contest with Ellen DeGeneres, but even more surprised when she was interviewed last week on national TV with her barefeet on the couch.  She was talking about a discussion with her daughter and said, "What would we be if me and Dad did that?"  Me and Dad????  Sorry, I was an English major in college and that jumped out at me.  I would have expected her to say, "if Dad and I did that."  You can watch it here:  http://www.ivillage.com/guest-editor-michelle-obama-active-not-overscheduled-kids/1-h-481792?category_id=6331.  Am I too old school?  I welcome your comments. ♥

 

 

"Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life; not so much by what happens to you as by the way your mind looks at what happens."

 ~ Khalil Gibran

I have a dear friend who was diagnosed a year ago with pancreatic cancer.  She handled the news with courage and, throughout all the agonizing chemotherapy and radiation, she has kept her sense of humor, she has stayed busy doing things with friends, and she has spent quality time with her family.  My friend has possibly the most positive attitude of anyone I know.  Last week her doctor told her that her body cannot withstand any more chemotherapy and that she is entering the last stages of her illness. 

Needless to say, she suffered a meltdown upon hearing the confirmation of what she suspected.  But the next morning she awoke and decided that she will make the most of each and every day she has remaining on this earth.  She put a smile on her face and went about her daily routine. 

Today, she and her husband left on an Alaskan cruise, one of the many items remaining on her bucket list.  I promised her that when she returns we will go to a honky tonk bar (which is 100 years old) to have one of the best burgers in town.   (She joked that she might even try  pole dancing!)  I so admire her courage, her determination, her endurance and strength in remaining so positive throughout her illness.

Our attitude defines our joy in life.  We can choose to be happy, or we can choose to be sad.  We can look at the cup as half full, or we can look at it as half empty.  The choice is yours.  I repeat, "Carpe diem." ♥

"Improve your spare moments and they will become the brightest gems in your life"

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

I am an ice cream freak!  I consider it a comfort food and every summer I seem to crave ice cream.  And, yes, I know it is fattening and not a good choice when battling cholesterol.  But I just found a healthy alternative.  I honestly wouldn't be mentioning this if I were not so pleased with my new Yonanas banana ice cream maker.

I love bananas, thus this machine satisfies my craving for ice cream without clogging my arteries.   The texture is the same as soft serve ice cream and is yummy!  All you do is simply push a frozen banana through the machine for an instant healthy treat.  In addition to frozen bananas, you can add other fruits and the Yonanas website lists additional recipes (http://www.yonanas.com).   I purchased mine from Amazon.com (see link on right), or you can purchase it at Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Sears, or directly from the Yonanas website.  If you own one, please share your recipes here.  Yonanas is a healthy indulgence! ♥



"Make each day your masterpiece." ~ John Wooden

Prevention magazine's September 2012 issue has some great tips in it, some of which have been discussed previously in this blog.  For example, "Foods That Fight Pain" beginning on pg. 75 lists cherries, which target arthritis and muscle pain (what did I tell you a few weeks ago!); ginger (1/4 tsp. daily) to target migraines, arthritis, and sore muscles (I drink ginger ale when my stomach is upset); cranberry juice (1 cup daily) to fight ulcers (also good for preventing UTI); salmon, herring, and sardines - which target an achy back, neck and joints; turmeric (1 tsp. daily) for achy joints and colitis; yogurt for digestion (or a probiotic); and coffee (two 4 oz. cups) to target headaches.

This issue also states on pg.  20 that "new research says you can counteract [warnings of Alzheimer's disease] by living life with a purpose. 'Someone who is focused on having meaningful experiences has about 30% less cognitive decline over 10 years,' says researcher Patricia Boyle, Ph.D., of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago . . . . Positive behaviors promote cognitive health as we age,' Dr. Boyle says."

So ... as stated several times throughout this blog, make the most of each and every day ... carpe diem! ♥

P.S.  I had previously heard that mixing cinnamon with honey alleviates arthritis pain, but I recently learned that a lifelong friend of mine has a blog about all of the advantages of using honey (including putting it on your face to reduce wrinkles!).  You can review all of his sweet tips and recipes here:  http://www.honeyitsforyou.com/.

 

        "May there be a silver lining back of every cloud you see ...."

                       

I took this photo tonight with my iPhone while walking to my car to make a quick trip to drop something off at a friend's house.  The gorgeous sky gave me goosebumps yet the photo doesn't actually capture the sky's full beauty.

While driving to my friend's home on a busy road near where my family home used to be, I noticed a male and female couple on bicycles, both wearing helmets.  I turned left onto the road to my friend's house, ran up to her door to deliver a book, and got back in my car to return home.  While driving back down the same avenue, I slowed to a standstill for two police cars, a mangled  bicycle, and a female body lying in the middle of the road.  My heart sank and I wanted to cry, "That's someone's mother, wife, or daughter."  There was blood pouring out of her mouth and she appeared lifeless.  I pulled over to the side of the road so fire rescue could approach the scene and prayed with all my heart that she made it.

I am blogging about this tragic incident because I am so appalled at how distracted and rude drivers are in today's world.  I don't know who hit her or anything about the accident, but I can't help but wonder if the driver was texting or distracted while talking on a cellphone.    My state won't consider legislation banning texting while driving and won't mandate using  hands-free cell phones . . . . but how many more people have to die? ♥

                                                                                 

   The sun shines not on us, but in us ... the rivers flow not past, but through us ~ John Muir     
         

As I age, I find that I don't enjoy going shopping as much as I used to.  Perhaps it is because I really don't need much anymore as well as the fact that my income is now limited.  However, I do enjoy shopping online -- where I don't have to go out in inclement weather, spend money on gas, or search for a parking place.

In early spring I purchased a Kindle Fire from Amazon.com which I not only use for reading (I haven't given up on books but I can increase the font on my Kindle and I find I read faster), but also to check email, play games, and surf the web.

After receiving a free month's Amazon "Prime" membership with my Kindle Fire and, after previously having shelled out a good bit in shipping charges for prior purchases, I enrolled in Prime.  One of the major benefits of Prime is that you get free two-day shipping on most purchases.  Since joining, I have bought water filters, HEPA air filters, hair mousse, birthday gifts (including multiple Star Wars figures for my grandson's 3rd birthday -- he was thrilled!), and today I received a new cordless phone (my old one died on me after 15 years). And, when searching for an item online, I always read customer reviews to determine quality and value.   In doing so I have not only saved time ... but money as well. ♥

“Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” ~ Dr Seuss.

So often we lament that our lives now are not as they were when we were younger.  But thank goodness we had those opportunities and life experiences when we were young!   I have so many fond memories from all of my childhood, teen years, early adulthood, and even into middle-age.  And I am so pleased that I am still friends with so many dear people whom I have known for most of my life.  Last year I attended a milestone high school reunion and, even though we have lost many from our class, I found it very endearing.  It was very poignant to reminisce with friends of so many years. 

And, within the same month, I traveled to San Francisco for a reunion with sorority sisters from college.  Through the Internet and Facebook (yes, it is for older people too!) we have reconnected and stay in touch.  We have shared so many fond memories and special moments in time. 

Rejoice in the past but make the most of the present ... keep making memories, and tell those you love and care about just how much they mean to you. ♥ 

Happy Belated Birthday, America!  I couldn't find this image last week in order to do a July 4th post.  I took this photo from a ferry boat in New York Harbor in June 2004.  It is one of my favorite photos! 

I finally found the digital photo yesterday in a folder of transferred files from my old PC.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty, a universal symbol of freedom and democracy, is a must for all Americans.  The idea for a national monument for the U.S. was proposed by Frenchman Edouard de Laboulaye in 1865.  "Ten years later, with the help of friend and sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, Laboulaye turned his proposal into a reality. In September 1875, he announced the project and the formation of the Franco-American Union as its fundraising arm. With the announcement, the statue was given a name, Liberty Enlightening the World. The French people would finance the statue; the American people would be expected to pay for the pedestal."  http://www.nps.gov/stli/historyculture/edouard-de-laboulaye.htm.

Many people think the Statue is located on Ellis Island; it is not.  The Statue is on Liberty Island, thus you have to take a ferry to and from each.  Visiting the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a humbling experience, envisioning the millions who came to our country seeking the American Dream.  If you have not already made this visit, the operating hours are listed here:  http://www.nps.gov/elis/planyourvisit/hours.htm.  And did you know that Irving Berlin, who wrote our unofficial national anthem, "God Bless America," was an immigrant who left his home in Siberia when he was only 5 years old?  "Stand beside her and guide her  ...." ♥

Be heart healthy ... and knowledgeable!   Last week I took the American Heart Association's Heartsaver course at a local hospital and I am now CPR certified.  I have taken CPR classes previously through my employment, however, this class was four hours and more detailed.

We were instructed in CPR and AED procedures for adults, children, and infants. If you want to become CPR certified or become up-to-date on life saving procedures, visit the AHA website:  http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/CPRAndECC/WorkplaceTraining/HeartsaverCourses/Heartsaver-Courses_UCM_001295_SubHomePage.jsp.  It is imperative that we call 911 and immediately begin CPR when someone is in distress -- it literally is a matter of life or death. ♥

Cherries -- the fruit with the highest anti-inflammatory content of any food!  In case you didn't  know this, eating cherries or drinking cherry juice can really reduce joint inflammation. "Anthocyanins, the antioxidant in tart cherries that lead to their bright red color, are the compound that have been specifically linked to high antioxidant capacity and reduced inflammation, at levels equal to common pain medications."  http://www.treehugger.com/health/new-study-says-tart-cherries-are-highest-anti-inflammatory-food-can-ease-joint-pain.html.

As mentioned earlier in this blog, I am one of the millions suffering from osteoarthritis.  Certainly eating healthy plant-based foods and getting a lot of exercise is beneficial, but eating cherries daily or drinking tart cherry juice twice a day can really reduce inflammation.  I have been experiencing severe joint pain this week (much worse than usual) and have taken anti-inflammatory medications.  I was still in considerable pain this morning and took two ibuprofen tablets.  I felt a little better thus decided to go grocery shopping.  While in the produce section, and having completely forgotten what I already knew about cherries (Dr. Oz calls tart cherry juice the "ultimate antioxidant"), I noticed that cherries were on sale thus I bought a pound.

By the time I got home I really ached and went to bed ... taking a small bowl of cherries with me.  I ate the cherries, took a brief nap and, when I got up, the pain had almost completely subsided.  In 2006, the USDA reported that eating cherries can reduce the inflammation of arthritis, heart disease, and cancer:  http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2006/060511.htm, and Medical News Today reported in 2009 that cherries relieve post-exercise muscle pain: 

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/151881.php.

Hereafter, I intend to keep my refrigerator stocked with fresh cherries during the summer months and make tart cherry juice a staple the remainder of the year.  Eat more cherries! ♥



As we age, we become more concerned about memory loss.  I frequently write notes to myself or send myself emails and phone messages of things I need to remember later when I am at home. 

I have found a few free online memory assessment tests which you may take if you are concerned about memory loss.  The Alzheimer's Reading Room provides one fairly simple test:  http://www.alzheimersreadingroom.com/p/topic-test-your-memory-for-alzheimers.html.   The website states that "The research from this Alzheimer's memory test, Self-Administered Geocognitive Examination (SAGE), shows that four out of five people (80 percent) with memory issues will be detected by this test. Ninety-five percent (95) of people who are normal thinking (memory) will have normal SAGE scores."

The Working Memory Institute also provides one for adults and students which may be found here: http://www.workingmemory.com.au/free-emory-assessment-quiz/.  Fortunately, most of us just have occasional mild memory lapses which may be frustrating but are not cause for concern.  But, as mentioned previously in this blog, we need to continue to "use it or lose it."  By deciphering crossword puzzles, playing word games, brain teasers, card games, reading, learning a new skill or hobby, acquiring good sleeping habits, eating healthy and getting frequent exercise, we can fight further memory loss and dementia. ♥

As I mentioned several weeks ago, I love my smartphone and have it with me all the time.  Previously, I suggested several helpful smartphone apps and I have  a few more to add which have served me well.

My travels this past week required a change of planes twice on both the outbound and return flights.  I downloaded the Delta Airlines app (and American and United Airlines) in order to keep informed of all flight details, including layover time, specific gate departures and arrivals.  If you are on a WiFi flight, you can access the airline app enroute for free without having to purchase WiFi service.  Additionally, the apps show your frequent flyer number and up-to-date frequent flyer miles.  I find it so much easier than trying to obtain that information online from my laptop. 

I travel home on Thursday and the airline app provides me every bit of information I need and, if any of my return flights are delayed, it will keep me updated.   I can check in via the app and download mobile boarding passes if I wish.   JetBlue, Southwest, and many other airlines also have mobile apps; US Air does not as yet.

Traveling is such a hassle these days that I am all for anything that can make airline travel easier; these apps serve that purpose. ♥

Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there.  I hope you know how special you are and how important you are in your child's life.  I was close with my dad.  His final words to me were, "You'll always be my favorite daughter."  (I have 4 brothers and was his only daughter!)  He has been gone almost 17 years and I still miss him.

There are too many men in this world who have fathered children who are not dads. A dad takes an active interest in his child's life, is a role model, and encourages his child into adulthood. 

To this day, when I hear Mike & the Mechanics song, "In the Living Years," I still get choked up.  "I wasn't there that morning when my father passed away.  I didn't get to tell him all the things I had to say."  My dad was ill for many years and there were many times when we thought we would lose him and I was at his bedside;  however, when his time came there was no family with him ... no one to squeeze his hand and say, "I love you, Dad."

If you are lucky enough to still have your dad, make sure he knows how much you love him.  And if you are a dad, treasure the moments you have with your children.  ♥

I will be heading to the Northwest early Wednesday morning to share in the celebration of my precious grandson's 3rd birthday.  Most of my friends became grandparents many  years before me, and I frequently spent days going shopping with them, watching them buy clothes and toys for their grandchildren.  I was so envious!
 

Being a grandmother and spending one-on-one time with my little grandson brings me so much joy.  He knows that my time is all his  when I visit and we have so much fun playing games, puzzles, dancing, coloring, reading books, etc.  He is already into Batman, Spiderman, and Star Wars and he told me in our recent video call that he will take me for a ride in his Batmobile when I am there.   (Yes, he has a vivid imagination!)

Grandmothers are entitled to bragging rights thus I have to brag that my little grandson is incredibly smart!  He soared through the toddler stage and is now a little person that I can have conversations with.

We grandmothers know how fleeting childhood is and just how precious these moments are.  Children grow up too fast, particularly in today's society, thus I want to make the most of every treasured moment.  You may not  be hearing from me for a couple of weeks  ... but know that I will be loving every minute I am away! ♥ 

Germs!  They're everywhere, they're everywhere!  I have had a relapse of the bad cold virus I had a few weeks ago which has led me to think of all the places where we are exposed to germs.  The gym (probably one of the easiest places to pick them up -- from weights, mats, bikes, any exercise equipment), the ATM, money, public restrooms (why do so few people wash their hands?), doorknobs (I recall that Howard Hughes was paranoid about putting his hands on a doorknob after washing them), computer mouse and keyboard, escalators, all forms of public transportation, shopping carts (I always wipe the handle before using), and especially in our own kitchens.

Garbage disposals harbor germs and bacteria, thus I often pour hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, or baking soda in the disposal and let it sit for awhile.    And sponges are the biggest culprits of harboring germs!  WebMD states that kitchen sponges are the number 1 source of germs in the whole house.  I usually replace sponges every couple of weeks.  To kill possible bacteria in the sponge in between replacement, I slightly wet the sponge, place it on top of a paper towel, and microwave it for 2 minutes.  Stay germ-free and stay well. ♥

I saw the sweetest show on TV tonight titled "Over 90 and Loving It."  It highlighted men and women from 91 to 100 who are still living life to the fullest, staying active, exercising, some even working full time, and who are spending quality time with friends and loved ones.  "Move it or lose it" -- which these darling elderly citizens heed and they are still making the most of every day.  One 94 year old man still competes in track and field events -- and often wins!

By comparison, I think of my own mother, almost 92, who spends her day in an electric scooter, a recliner chair, or her bed.  Other than arthritis, she has no major ailments.  I tried to convince her years ago that she needed to be mobile and keep walking and exercising.  I hate to see her so stiff and immobile now but she won't make any effort to improve her flexibility.  Regardless, I am encouraged by these active seniors featured in this TV show and it motivates me to continue exercising as much as possible, being mentally active, and spending as much time as possible with those I care about most. ♥ 

On this Memorial Day, I am reminded of a springtime visit many years ago  to Arlington National Cemetery where I took a photo of the tulips near the headstones.  I looked at the photo later and was reminded  of Pete Seeger's memorable song sung by Peter, Paul, and Mary, "Where Have All the Flowers Gone?"    "Where have all the soldiers gone ... gone to graveyards everyone." 

When will we ever learn?  On this Memorial Day, may we never forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom.♥ 

There is a nasty cold virus going around that has knocked many of us for a loop.  You awake in the wee hours (at least that's how it began for me) with a killer headache that won't go away, begin sneezing, your nose will not stop running, and you just feel rotten ... literally rotten.  Needless to say, I've gone through several boxes of tissues (the ones with aloe are less abrasive on a tender nose), taken Coldeeze, cough drops, Sudafed -- and today I added Mucinex.  I am  finally beginning to feel a little better.

I am perplexed as to how I became ill.  Perhaps it was when I vacuumed and dusted the refrigerator coils ... or when I used free weights or the mat at the gym?  I wash my hands constantly and I help keep the antibacterial gel manufacturers in business.  Regardless, no matter how healthy our lifestyle, no one is immune to the common cold.  The only cure is time ... and patience is a virtue.  Stay well. ♥

"Two things you give your children ... one is roots, the other is wings" (author unknown).   In my lifetime I have been a daughter, wife, mother, career woman, and grandmother.  My greatest role has been as a mother (and grandmother is a close second).

I will never forget the joy of having my firstborn; she was born the day before Mother's Day and today this beautiful young woman celebrates her birthday.  Nothing was more precious to me than holding a beloved little newborn in my arms.  I was blessed with three children and I spent so many nights rocking, soothing, nurturing all of my children,  treasuring every moment.  

Whether a woman works outside the home or is a stay-at-home mom, being a mother is still a full time job, 24/7.  A mother cooks, cleans, launders, teaches, trains, disciplines.  She is a taskmaster, tutor, chauffeur, and nurse.  We are not taught how to be good mothers, and some of us had better role models than others.  But a mother loves her children always and unconditionally  ... with a bond that is everlasting.   Happy Mother's Day. ♥

The loss of a beloved pet is always painful, but I think it is even harder to accept when we are older.  We may be living alone with family members far away, thus our pets fill a void and are our constant companions who comfort us and love us ... always unconditionally.

A dear friend of mine lost her little dog yesterday due to kidney failure.  Like me, she was devastated by her loss and I literally feel her pain.  My little Shih Tzu was my constant companion for almost 15 years.  She made me laugh, she licked me when I cried, and she always looked at me with those adoring eyes.  All she asked for in return was food, a warm bed, and lots of TLC.  After she crossed the "rainbow bridge" a couple of years ago, I grieved when I came home from work and she wasn't there to greet me, I imagined I saw her lying on the floor by my side when I worked at my computer, and I even thought I heard her.  That sweet little dog will always have a piece of my heart.

Now that I am retired, and even though I have a fairly active life with many friends nearby, I am feeling the need for another little furry companion. Many of my friends are cat lovers ... but from my experience, nothing can compare to the loyalty of a dog.  Stay tuned. ♥