My holiday.

We went to my sisters in northwestern New York state where NJ, NY and PA meet. Her family live atop a mountain and have the most amazing view of the rolling hillside punctuated with stone walls that look as if they've been there since the Mohicans. In fact thats what the view from their breakfast room reminded me of. On a clearer day you can see High Point, NJ which is ten minutes away. Not being a great photographer I have no visual proof to offfer but I'll try to remedy that in a future blog.

Dinner was ready at the same time I wanted to nap, probably around three pm. After driving since 7am, I was beyond tired. We took Mum which I thought would make her very happy. The idea of seeing her 8 year old grandaughter open her American girl dolls and other gifts sounded very appealing. Wrong! Let me just say that next time I'm going alone! I'll spare you the details. Yet it was all so worth it to see my sister and her family so happy in their newly built home. They seem like the ideal happy family. As an engineer her hubby has moved them around the country several times and this is the closest they've been in fifteen years. I could not be happier!

Now its back to the real world and I am determined to make the new year one filled with happy memories. Thank you all for the gifts you've given me this year. Let's vow to make the new year the BEST filled with peace and love.

Have a Happy!

No matter what holiday you celebrate this season. My wish for you all is happiness, peace and joy!

What a day for holiday?

Well the shopping is done and the gifts are wrapped. The sun was shining and the cold didn't seem to be noticable this morning. A beautiful day to be on holiday mode and so apparently was everyone else. When I couldn't get a parking space at Trader Joe's I knew that the mad, mad rush was on. Not the kid, no I did not need organic extracts and dried fruits that badly. I got the idea to bake a version of the much maligned fruit cake for my Mom who thinks they are great. Instead I indulged on a delicious expresso with cherry syrup topped with whipped cream and a hint of chocolate syrup at Borders. They called Black Forest Mocha. I called it heavenly with every sip. Uhmm...The Brits are right about one thing, holiday sounds better that vacation. What a nice day to hang out and lunch with friends this holiday.

Humm! Can you say cookies?

One holiday tradition that did not escape this season was the baking day ritual. See Pax Romano's blog. After sorting throught through dozens of recipe cards, magazine pages and a cookbook or two, I got down to business. Even invited Mommy dearest, but alas she was out shopping. So I whipped up a batch of peanut butter, some gingerbread, chocolate candy and butterscotch almond bars. That was after baking an easy cheesecake. The chocolate chips that Bubba made on Friday are already gone...wonder where they went? I cannot find my recipe for pizzelle's. Does anyone have a recipe they could share? Today its oatmeal rasin, chocolate marble brownies (my sisters recipe) and yes the anise cookies...Hummm! Got milk?

Holiday hopes

Never thought I'd say it but I'd like to skip Christmas this year. Well at least in the traditional ways of over decorating the house and buying gifts for family that they don't need or don't have a place to store. I have gotten more joy from giving gifts to children and to charities than any thing else.
When friends ask what is on my wish list I am often at a loss. I am happy to have time and laughter with each and everyone of the friends in my life. Friends (and you know who you are) provide me with more gifts than I could ever put under a tree.
Let me say thank you for the gifts that I received every day:
Laughter: the kind that makes me cry and makes my face turn an unflattering shade of red. To those who find the humor in everyday events and to see the irony that is all around us if we just open ourselves to it.
Challenges: to those who are honest/brave enough to say what is in their hearts and minds and yet present it in a way that is sensitive. Even hardships can be tools for teaching.
Sharing and discussions about timely and thought provoking movies, books and entertainment over a cup of tea or coffee. OK, even blogging! I've left out politics purposely.
Music: Don't know what I'd do without it on a daily basis! Something about taming the savage... I am convinced that a christmas concert is one way to start the season with spirit!
Knowledge: that there are a few people that I can depend on whenever things are too much to bear and the world seems a little too chilly!
Family: A woman really needs her sisters/brothers. What would we do without one another? Even if we do not share the same DNA. There are those who promote spirituality, serenity, authenticity, honor and humor. Each is a precious gem not to be taken for granted.
Love and peace are not cliches, they are what we all really want and need. Happy holiday!
XOXO

Pride & Prejudice review

Last week faced with three eagerly awaited films I end up going to see another remake of P&P which had been in theaters the longest. A bit sceptical at first, I succumbed to the advertising campaign. I thought nothing could replace the last version with Emma Thompson and Colin Firth. Either I have memory loss or the story was told with a new spin and yet kept to the original witty dialogue and humor. Kiera Knightly was pretty good as Lizzie and Donald Sutherland as her father, not bad! The actress who played the neurotic Mum was excellent. I cannot remember her name. She's been a few good (English) films. If you know her name please share it with me. Overall, I'd give it 3 out 0f 4, you may want to wait for DVD, but it is worth watching once again.
I cannot wait to see RENT and am intriques by Walk the Line. I'll keep you posted. HA HA

Bochelli & Brigantine

Every once in a while employees of the casinos get free tickets to wonderful performances. Last night at the spur of the moment I had the rare treat of joining friends from Brigantine to see a dress rehersal of a Christmas special with "Maestro Andrea Bochelli." There were excerts from the nutcracker performed by the Bolshi ballet, a Hungarian dance troop that had to be seen to be believed. Ever seen the Russian sitting dance performed other that on Ed Sullivan. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performed some of the traditional but many european favorites.
Mozart, Bach, Greensleeves and Ave Maria (2 versions). My mom would have been in heaven had she heard it. Hearing Bochelli sing Ave Maria is like nothing else......I forgave that he arrived at 11:10p.m. The "sleighride" and "Adese Fideles" are etched into my memory. This event was a dress rehersal for a traveling show, not to be performed in AC. A concert is a wonderful way to get into the christmas spirit! Thanks to P, B, and N for thinking to include me!
WOW! What a night!

Bochelli & Brigantine

Every once in a while employees of the casinos get free tickets to wonderful performances. Last night at the spur of the moment I had the rare treat of joining friends from Brigantine to see a dress rehersal of a Christmas special with "Maestro Andrea Bochelli." There were excerts from the nutcracker performed by the Bolshi ballet, a Hungarian dance troop that had to be seen to be believed. Ever seen the Russian sitting dance performed other that on Ed Sullivan. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra performed some of the traditional but many european favorites.
Mozart, Bach, Greensleeves and Ave Maria (2 versions). My mom would have been in heaven had she heard it. Hearing Bochelli sing Ave Maria is like nothing else......I forgave that he arrived at 11:10p.m. The "sleighride" and "Adese Fideles" are etched into my memory. This event was a dress rehersal for a traveling show, not to be performed in AC. A concert is a wonderful way to get into the christmas spirit! Thanks to P, B, and N for thinking to include me!
WOW! What a night!

GO OUT and VOTE!

Autumn Sunset

My Mom used to say "pink sky at night, shepards delight." This is an example of the beauty that is mine driving home from the office each evening since the time changed. OK, some of you know there is only pine trees and no water view along highway 57. The pink and orange sky is accurate enough to illustrate how beautiful the world can be depending on our point of view. Keep looking up and faith will be rewarded!

Cha Cha Changes

I am a month, more or less into a new assignement at work. Change is something that I welcome but not all changes are for the best. Change stimulates thought processes and cleans out the cobwebs, so to speak. Some changes are not welcomed or expected such as Bubba's recent hospital visit. Luckily he has no serious damage. Thanks to all who visited and sent cards. He is pleased with the attention.
Peace and love

Top Ten -On and Off

From the cerebral outpost: name the top ten turn on's (non-sexual) and then your top ten turn off's. Here we go:
Top ten turn on's (non sexual)
!. From Carol, the smell of coffee brewing in the morning.
2. Likewise, changing the furnture around. My husband says he's afraid to walk around in the dark.
3. Friends who know the answers before you aks the questions.
4. The smell of fres baked bread and chocolate chip cookies.
5. Lavendar
6. A warm bath, good music and a glass of good red wine.
7. Laughing until my eyes are teary. Thanks PAX!
8. When the dog greets you at the door.
9. Eating at Almish restaraunts, reminds me of my Grandmothers kitchen.
10. Any book, so well done that I can't put it down.

Turn off's
1. The endless soundtrack of the ice cream truck in my neighborhood.
2. Smelling the cat when I come into the house, no more cats for me.
3. A cluttered dining room table
4. A dirty bathroom
5. Bad manners (my Mom is British, what would you expect?)
6. Procrastination of unfinished projects around the house. Ahhhh!
7. T.V., do you think they would improve the content if we all stoped watching?
8. Slanderous political tactics, give me a break and stick to the issues.
9. Lying, liars and the lies ....yeah we've heard this before.
10. Raking leaves, yes its that time of year again.

What's on your list? You don't have to name ten.

Drain Bramage?

What a week its been without sleeping properly it feels like brain damage or drain bramage? Hope it's only temporary. Seems Bubba will get to come home from the hospital in a few days. What a lucky guy he is. Wether he realizes it or not remains to be seen. This wake up call will hopefully serve as a reminder that he is not the hulk or superman. Guess if you've been generally healthy, a first visit to the hospital is a shocking experience. No pun intended.

I have been so tired at times that I've been down right silly. I get like that sometimes, what can I say?

Thanks once again to all who have provided support during the past week. Don't quite know what I (we) would have done without our extended family.
Peace and Love

Festivites of the fall

Unless Pax wants to run off to the party for Antonio this weekend (yes I got an invitation). This weekend I am taking a breather from hanging out with hunks and hearthrobs to do my domestic goddess routine. Yes, unless you're Martha or the Donald somethings must be done. There is a couple air conditioners to put away, furniture and grills store. I have not planted a single mum or weeded any garden beds since Javi, the gardener has been on strike around here.

My nephew is getting married on Saturday and I cannot think of a single reason except that I do not feel like going. Will send the obligatory gift card but when did brides register at Target? How insipid can we be? He is obviously from the other side of the family tree. Oh well, everyone has a dark side.

Have a fine weekend if I don't talk to you.

A Road less traveled.

It seems that I've been going throught this midlife reevaluation far too long. I am trying to keep my focus on the long run and act accordingly. There comes a time in everyones life when they may opt or be forced to reevaluate their place in the world. When everthing you thought/believed gets challenged and may never be the same again. Maybe it"s just me, perhaps some just ignore the nagging and live a life without examination. Thats fine for some, not me. Many of you know that I went through a scare with cancer a few years ago. Seems that started me down a road less traveled and sometimes I got a little lost, despite my good sense of direction. That was the same year my favorite senior citizen passed through this world into the next, but not before she said to me in a dream, "everything was going to be OK girlie." I have no reason to doubt but cannot help thinking of my Gran as it is now the anniversary of her departure. Her final words reverberate in my mind, "you must take the bitter with the sweet."

Whatever happens next, I know that I can face it without worry and remourse because there are trials and tribulations that we all must endure. Nothing is so bad that I cannot enjoy the simple pleasures in life from the first cup of coffee in the morning, to the friend who adminsters first aid. The friends who gently remind me that it's time to snap out of it and they would be right. These are the best friends I know. It's not always easy to hear what we don't want to face.
I am ready to put this test to an end and hope that in the future I will only see the beauty; of the sunsets, the purr of the ocean as it breaks on the shore and the laughter of those I care about most. I promise to stop making those self depricating jokes and stop wanting the body of my youth. Truth is I wouldn't trade experience and maturity for endless days of sunbathing on the beach. I have learned that we have no time to waste, no time to leave kind words of love unsaid. There are a great many lessons in life and this is just one that I am ready to put aside....God williing.

Pet Peeves

It seems that I have nothing but gripes these days, what is that about? Time for a vacation or what?

1.My favorite pooch seems to prefer to defecate in the house rather than outdoors. Too many steroids perhaps?
2.Men who call their wives the "old lady."
3. How bubba will run the air conditioner with the windows open upstairs.
4.When you drive a safe distance from the car in front of you and someone cuts into the too small space in front at 60+ mph.
5.Fake people. Sometimes I just want to tell them .......
6.Clutter around the house after I spent the weekend cleaning.
7. Spending nearly one hundred dollars for hair that is not what you asked for.
8. Lying, liars and the lies .............
9.
10.

Well I could not think of ten, bet that you have some of your own that you could add to the list?

Less is more?

I had been procrastinating for weeks about having a yard sale to reduce the unneccessary stuff from my home as well. Stuff seems to multiply like rabbits. One of my first blogs was about moving a family member from their home and all the treasures that they could not bare to part with. Now I wonder if the apple doesn't fall far from the tree? Is this a heriditary trait? If so, I'm in big trouble as both my paternal Grandmom and the maternal side of my family have a penchant for saving things well beyond their time. Now I ask myself when was the last time I painted? Why am I keeping supplies for crafts I've long ago lost imterest in? Why do I have gold flatwear and a silver service? AHHHHHH! There is fabric enough to make a quilt for each of my blogger friends. Forget about the books........six bookcases in this house. How many books do we really read again? Help! Maybe George Carlin was right that we buy bigger houses to keep all of our stuff. Is there a cure for this insanity? This is the Saturday that all the insanity stops....if it doen't rain you'll find me in the side yard, coffee in hand, sellling stuff I just had to buy, for much less than its worth. Because misery loves company I'm enlisting my neighbors in this foolishness as well. That is if they haven't read this yet. Hurry over, treasures like these will not last long! Help.............

Fall rememberences and Garbo

I've tried to watch Garbo films playing on TCM this month, but still have not caught Camille that Mercie reccomended.
With summer offically fading this week I'd rather take in one more walk at the beach, one last stroll down the boards. Being near the ocean is the place most likely to remind me of my Dad, of fishing trips, riding the waves through the AC inlet surpasses any rollercoaster ever built. Fall also reminds me that its time for a trip to Lancaster, Pa. The Amish restaraunts serve hearty fare homes in a homestyle setting. The rapidly fading vistas of horse drawn carriages are getting pushed aside for traffic of all kinds. Faster yet, the farm houses and red barns are becoming housing developments. I enjoy visiting Lancaster as it reminds me of my childhood in Ohio. Life was simple then and in the fading summer days we'd sit at the fishing pond with bamboo poles and red and white bobbers that sink when a fish was on the line.
As for the beautiful Garbo, I don't believe she wanted to be totally alone, more likely misunderstood. She probably just wanted a little solitude and serenity. Who doesn't?

What a Week?

I hardly know where to begin to descibe the roller coaster of a week that I've had. Last weekend I told of the Jack Johnson concert at Penn's Landing. Didn't mattter that there were only a handfull of "old folks" like me. The crowd was adrift with the local college students. What a night!

Later there was an attempted break in at the Garden of Eden. Thirteen years without a problem, but this is not the same neighborhood of friendly Italians that looked out for one another.

By Tuesday, I was interviewing for another job! Thanks to all for the e-mails of congradulations on Friday. Most importantly to Merci, who has always been helpful and supportive. Within a day we were told out office is moving and for some its too long a drive. While some were doing their happy dance others were crying and complaining. Really too much complaining if you ask me, but then my drive doesn't change much. I see the drive as an opportunity to unwind befor you go home. This may or may not happen anyway. Why worry now?

I must decide if I am going to attend a class reunion, yikes. There is my nephews wedding in October. Would it be wrong not to go? I am not really in the mood for it. Add that the bridal tea/shower is being held at my Mothers former home. Seems strange to me.

There are so many changes before me I don't know where to start but I do believe that change is a good thing and the future is waiting for us to make the best of any opportunities. As long as we live everyday the best we can and never forget to tell those we love what they mean to us, thats all that really matters in the end.

In closing, I hope that we can rally to aide those persons who need our help in the Gulf Coast. No matter how large or small, we should all help if we can. You never know when we may be the ones in need.

Peace and love.

Summer Vacation

Wow, time to return to the office already and I was just starting to enjoy this vacationing concept. As I may have mentioned must have worn myself out and was sick with allergies/cold symptoms at the start. Went to the movies (of course) to see Broken Flowers and the 40 year old virgin which was very funny. Walked around at the Morris Arboretum in Chestnut Hill after spending an extra hour trying to find the place. We tried to ask directions of a gentleman who lived in the area but had no ideas about it....Hummm. It is smaller that Longwood but equally impressive to any gardener or architect. There are fountains and ponds, the english garden and the highlight is probably the train garden. The kid in all of us should enjoy that site. It is probably a lot more colorful in spring when the flowerering trees are in bloom, but it is a great place to visit. If you don't get lost like I did its only minutes outside Philadelphia off Lincoln Drive and Germantown Avenue.
The highlight of my vacation was the Jack Johnson concert at Penn's Landing. He was GREAT! He had his friend G Love and the Animal Preservation Orchestra. The APO was not too impressive until some of its members played with Jack and G. There was another opening act but I missed most of that. I am please to tell you that this concert was the best one this summer. In a summer where there was a concert scheduled every month, this one was the best. Thanks to my friend for this belated birthday gift, it was a wonderful. Without a real plan it turned out to be a wonderful vacation! I must apologize to the girls for bailing out on the theater yesterday, thanks for being so understanding.

Happens Everytime

Maybe I wait too long to take vacations. The past few weeks have been very stressful professionally and personally. With only three days till vacation I came down with what I thought was a cold last Sunday. You know I'm sick when I don't go out of the house for four days. I didn't read one book and didn't talk because I had a horrible sore throat. Maybe the allergy medicine is just is not working? The message is clear, I need a break! Sometimes it has to be about yourself. Giving too much can be costly and I am paying a price. Happens all the time, I catch something just enough to annoy me, rob my energy, and cause me to become a couch potato eating Ben & Jerry's for comfort.

I cancelled all my appointments and activities and just watched the sad excuses that t.v. programming has become. Saddest of all is what is happening in the Gulf Coast states. Wake up America, wake up GW! Why weren't there troops and supplies arriving the morning after the storm passed. Homeland Security indeed! Perhaps there is something I can do to help? Contact the Red Cross, send money, something? If every adult sent just one dollar, imagine the power that could have?

Since I am not contageous I am going to carry the tissues and go out to face the beautiful world today. Running errands yesterday doesn't count. So where will I go and what will I do? Hummm, summer is winding down fast and there are plenty of things that I haven't done yet? This is supposed to be my vacation and it will be over before I know it!

Top 5- II

In the spirit of sharing and making lists (easy when you're struggling for other blog ideas). Please list you top five places that you go to relax and unwind on a hot summer's day:
5. Lancaster, Pa. - Favorite B&B
4. Longwood Gardens
3. The local park
2. The backyard deck with a glass of Pinot Grigio
1.Walking at the shore/boardwalk

Top 5

List five songs you're currently digging. It deosn't matter what genre they are from, wehter they have words ....or even if they're any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying right now. Post these instructions, songs and authors, and consider yourself tagged if you'd like to play along..
1. Carole King- "It's Too Late." The Tapestry CD has been in the deck a lot lately, and many of the songs survive the test of time.
2. James Taylor- "Secret of Life."
3. James Taylor- "Handy Man." Seems the entire greatest hits is not far from my car.
4. Bruce Springsteen - "Man's Job & If I should fall behind." There are few Bruce songs that I don't like really.
5. And for something new...."Devil's in the Details" by Lowen & Navarro. I may be off a little about the author on this one.
OK...that's six, so what? I never was good with math! Have fun!

Is it karma?

I went shopping for historical novels of American history for my Mom's upcoming birthday. I cannot explain it but something kept pulling me to "The Alchemist," by Paulo Coehlo. It seemed to be everywhere but that was not my mission. Mom wanted to read American history and I was determined to start with the newly released "1776." I need new books like I need another pair of shoes. Determined to read those that I have at home before buying new ones I trecked on. Several books stores later I was loosing my determination as this book seemed to be everywhere. Humm, was it some kind of karmic sign or what? While reading on the net curiosity got the better of me. I had to find out what this book was about. To try to keep my vow to abstain from any more purchases I went to the local libary which to my suprise had one copy (with my name on it). If you haven't read it, let me suggest you do so. It's only 177 pages, a quick read by any standard. If you've read it please feel free to share your thoughts and comments. It calls itself a fable about a shepard boy who follows his dreams to find treasure. He travels across the desert to the Pyramids meeting interesting characters along the way. Each has a special role in his journey of self-discovery. There are messages about spirituality, culture and following your heart. Another recurring theme; when you make a decision to follow you dream the world conspires to support you. I loved it, it was the right book at the right time. Hummm, is there a pattern here? One things always leads to another. In the same way after watching "The Sea Inside" I wanted to read Ramon Sampedro. Following "Before Night Falls" it was Renaldo Arenas. After watching "Must Love Dogs" I went in search of Yeats. You never know where your next inspiration may come from. Happy hunting!

Mad about the movies

Yesteday I was feeling kinda low and thought a light hearted romantic movie would do the trick. "Mad about Dogs" was not exactly a formula film, Diane Lane and John Cusack were hard to resist for this movie buff. Turns out that the film star of the day was Christopher Plummer. He was great, no villious, vile behavior like I'm accostomed to. During the film John Cusack's character was always watching Doctor Zhivago. That got me thinking......
A few favorite tearjerkers:
Casablanca
Legends of the Fall
Out of Africa
Now Voyager
Jezebel
Sophie's Choice
Can you add some of your own to the list?

Thank God it's Friday

Thank God it's Friday was never more appropriate. I can honestly say that I like my job as a social worker and most of the people act like a supportive team in a professional emergency.

Some very weird stuff occured this week. A co-worker announced that she was terminally ill and asked that we respect her privacy at home, as these were her last few days in the office. Withing minutes you could not walk anywhere without hearing a discussion of the annnouncement. The worker was the only one who was calm and apparently accepting of the situation. Perhaps she was trying to lead her peers by example, demonstrating that her faith gave her the comfort that she needs during this trial. There were cards, gifts, and an impromptu luncheon in her honor the second day. There has to be a lesson in all of this and I want it to be about more than living every day to the fullest. None of us has any time to waste that's for sure. I hope that the faith of this strong woman saves her from pain and can be an example for her family/friends/co-workers to follow.

Day three we had a visitor from Transylvania, not exactly. There was a bat flying around and someone trapped it under a wastebasket untill the proper authorities were called in. Why not release it outdoors? Although I did not volunteer to perform this task. Humm, too weird, thought bats flew around during darkeness. We needed to lighten up, that's for sure and soon postings for a save the bats campaign started poping up. There were pictures of bats and batman logos multiplying faster that you can say, " To the batcave, Robin." There is important work to be done here!

Even if we are not sure what it all means while its happening, there has got to be a reason to believe. Hope, love and faith can be the most powerful forces on earth, if we would just utilize them.

She's Back

I am pleased that my sister and her family are moving from Michigan back to the east coast. Her husbands engineering jobs have moved them from NJ to Boston, Cleveland, Michigan and now NY. They are having a house built in a small town a hour from NYC. The best news is that she'll be close enough for a weekend visit now and then. We usually get together for holidays and then it's always with family. On Friday afternoon we had sandwiches at Billy's, laughed and talked, just the two of us. It seems like forever that we'd spent time together without children, parents and husbands. She is usually very shy around new people. I guess I didn't know how funny she can be, in her own way.
Getting settled into another new home will not be easy for them; a new school for my 7 year old niece, new friends, etc. I for one cannot wait till they are settled in. She already making plans for us to go to NYC to see "Wicked." Welcome back kiddo!

Top Ten albums

My top ten classic albums: (Although I could easily name twenty)
10. Harry Chapin-Gold Medal Collection
9. Queen-Night at the Opera
8. Bowie-Ziggy Stardust
7. Carole King-Tapestry
6. CSNY-So Far
5. Phantom of the Opera-soundtrack (original version)
4. D.Henley-End of the Innocense
3. Springsteen-Born to Run
2. Eagles-When Hell Freezes Over
1. Springsteen-Live in NYC

Honorable Mentions:

Bowie-Station to Station/Young Americans
Al Jerreau-Breaking Away
Elton John-Goodby Yellow Brick Road
James Taylor Greatest Hits. Vol. 1
Springsteen-The River
Josh Groban
Jim Brickman-Simple Things

Is it safe?

Sometime ago I'd renamed the local paper the "-------- crimes journal." I've not been totally oblivious to the decline in my area. The once quiet little Italian neighborhood that I moved into is apparently no more. My little area of Paradise is reported the be the highest crime area in all of NJ. Not only the county, but the town I live in? Go figure. Violent crimes especially domestic violence is double that of the rest of the five surrounding cities. We have almost doubled Camden's crime rate. Until reading yesterday's newspaper my only concern was about the children playing in and near the street where young men drag race their small cars. Little cars sound big laden with glass packs and window rattling sound systems. Before the security alarm and iron gates are added to the windows I have a few things to say. This used to be a beautiful little town with 18th century architecture line the mile long main street. It was a treat when Mom took me to shop for the best gowns & prom dresses. Its a place where antique cars still parade down the "avenue."Just one year ago this was reported to be one of the best places to live due to low taxes and plenty of open space. I believe the town could be as beautiful as Haddonfield or Morristown if those in power were not so resistant to change. There is not one coffee shop, let alone a tea house.
A beautifully landcaped yard was something that I'd dreamed of having and gardening gives me a outlet to be creative. In the backyard it's hard to imagine all bad press about Bine Land. Leaving will be hard to adjust to, like a child leaving home. So on this beautiful summer weekend we are working on the punch list with a "for sale" sign in mind when we should be minding the summer skies. I am going to have to adjust to a change that was not in the plans, but life is like that sometimes. Despite the razzing I take this is still a beautiful place to live!

Thanks

Wow thank goodness for the rain last evening it's safe to go outdoors. Bubba worked yesterday paving roads and driveways while tractor trailers were melting onn the highway. What's up with that! Don't know how he does it?
Thanks for a good night sleep maybe no one will get hurt today!
Thanks for the news that my sister is now living in New York, maybe I can see her more than the usual holidays.
Thanks for Pax and Freudian Slips who always have something interesting to say and have got me started blogging.
Thanks that I can go to work indoors despite the cooler temperatures. I get so irrugular when I'm tired and overheated.
Thanks that our nephew is now in Germany and not Afghanistan. Thanks to the troops who are doing their duty to protect our country despite the political debates about it all.
Thanks that GWB will not be able to run for president again.
Thanks for the latest book that PAX lent me, it's so intriguing I don't want to put it down.
Thanks to friends who make each other laugh to get through the tough days...you're the best!

I did it again

This will be the summer to remember! I did it again, we went to the Camden waterfront (wiggins park) for the All about the Music festival. On Sunday afternoon everyone was friendly and relaxed especially after laughing at the jokes of Loudon Wainwright III. One bit of advice, jokes about drug dealers on every corner did not go over well with the families that attend such an event. Most eveyone was wearing tie dye as if it were a rite of admittance. The highlight of the afternoon was the Indigo Girls belting out "Closer to Fine" and "I'm in Love with your Ghost." The breeze was crisp across the Delaware and I was drawn to view the sunset over the Philadelphia skyline. It was a very relaxing afternoon and a good was to wind down before returning to our workplaces. Peace and tranquility was the order of the day!

Tales from the Garden

With a small reprieve in the heat I decided to go out early this morning to complete a few gardening chores. At 6:30 a.m. with a quick cup off coffee on the deck it was time to clean up and weed some of the overgrown garden beds at the Parker/O'Reilly home (otherwise known as Bine Weed gardens). O.K. maybe it's not that bad but there were grasses along the driveway that were taller than my car and had a nerve to be in bloom. The annuals are almost all dried out so off to the compost pile they went. After two and a half hours we'd cleaned down the back pathway and across the new picket fence,not bad. Maybe those morning glories will have a chance to bloom. Every new garden structure means new garden beds underneath. We'll need a tractor trailer of mulch delivered. All the container plants were limp and lifeless despite looking more like Longwood a few weeks ago. We managed to clean only what was in line of sight from the dining room windows before the temperatures started to soar. With a mountain of weeds collected I noticed that cars passing by were all looking our way. Was it the rich purple crape myrtle and butterfly bushes they admired, or could they see two garden nuts with dirty hands and knees and wondered what are they doing outdoors while air conditioners ran inside? By 11 am, I'd cleaned the deck and just in time for an unannounced visitor who asked why we didn't answer the phone this morning? About three, no distractions I announced that I was going to read "American Gods" in my favorite deck chair. Before five pages were complete I'd drifted off to sleep but not before Bubba announced that he was planning to buy a pool. Reluctantly, I said OK, if that makes him happy why not, at least there'll be fewer weeds.I hope!

Favorite things...

A few things I really enjoy include:
1. Waking up to the smell of good coffee without the alarm clock.
2. A few minutes of serenity and a beautiful sunrise in the morning.
3. My garden at its best.
4. Walking at the boardwalk and in the surf.
5. An inspirational book or thought provoking film.
6. Outdoor summer concerts (you already know that one).
7. Relaxing on my favorite park bench enjoying nature.
8. New shoes.
9. Reading the creative blogs out there and yours is among them.
10. Spending time laughing with family and friends.

Concert Week

Last Saturday I wrote about some of the adventures at Live 8. Went to Cooper River Park on Monday evening for the Freedom festival. I am not a Joan Jett fan but I must say that the band enjoyed playing as much as the crowd enjoyed her. She really can still rock. This is one of the best venues to watch fireworks. You could see the fireworks from Philly to Collingswood and a few other towns that I don't even know the names of; there were four displays in view.

The event of the week almost never happened due to the rainy weather. Thank God that the rain stopped. The clouds cleared enough to enjoy one of the best singer songwriters today. James Taylor's voice resonated through the Tweeter center and believe me there was not an empty seat or piece of lawn anywhere. The sun tried to come out and just enough to inspire another sunset story (for another time). There were fireworks at the Phillies stadium. Each song was better that the next. There were two encores and although he did not sing "You've Got a Friend," there were plenty around me. It was a night I won't soon forget! Three concerts in a week is a record for me. Usually I go to three concerts all summer if I am lucky! Wow! It's looks as if it's going to be a great summer!

Earth Day Founder

You may not recognize the name Gaylord Nelson more likely you'll remember Earth Day. It was founded in 1970. In 1995, the Wisconsin democarat received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his environmental efforts from President Clinton. Monday's Inquirer reported his passing and according to W. Meadows, president of the Wilderness Society,"Anyone who cares about the quality of our air, water, and land should be grateful for the life of Gaylord Nelson."

Live 8

WOW! Went to the concert by 9 a.m. We made the acquaintance with Tim from Temple U., Justin, Mike, and Tim's Mom. Tim had arrived at 6:45. His Mom was designated the concert Mom! They shared much more than their space on the lawn with us! You guy rock! There were plenty of beautiful women in the landscape as well. On the other side was a big man that reminded us of a friend from work, GS. Very funny guy who knew how to stir things up! You'll find me in today's Inquirer photo's, left of the monument and near the trees! Very close!

Will Smith was GREAT! I went to see Dave Matthews, Sarah Maclauglin, and Josh Groban. Got "jiggy" with Will and his pal JZ, lots of fun! To my suprise it was Bon Jovi that stuck in my head and all day long I kept singing; "It's my life.... take my hand...we'll make I swear.Oh, Oh, living on a prayer." Dave Matthews was energizing, opening with "Too Much, Dream Girls, and American Baby." A duet between Sarah and Josh was simply blissful.

I hope that this event does what it set out to do. Bring attention to those at the G8 summit next week. Africa needs our help, children should not be dying of starvation and disease in a world where there is enough for all. Every three seconds a child dies...click...click... Did you see the commercial on t.v.? Very powerful in its simplicity! Living on a prayer seems like the mantra of the day, our humanity is being put to a test. Jack Johnson said it best; "We only receive what we demand and if we want hell, than hell is what we'll have."

Great Concerts

Channel surfing last evening and I stumbled across one of the best concerts that I'd ever seen on t.v., no less. Thanks to Bravo channel, I could revisit the excitement and the memories of seeing the Eagles Farewell I tour, from 2003. The Eagles were GREAT and everyone of the band members had their time to shine singing the material that they'd created outside of the group as well. Don Henley is among my favorites.....the version of Hotel California was the best one yet! I asked Bubba many times to go to the show but he declined. After watching a few numbers last night he said, "I think I could enjoy seeing these guys." Go figure? Thnaks to Bravo for taking me back to that wonderful evening.

My dear friend Sylvia finally stepped away from her Society Hill home long enough for us to catch up this afternoon. Sylvia managed to tear herself away from her dear Saul at Feinsteins footwear, otherwise known as "Saul's Soles." First to the Walnut for a viewing of West Side Story and we lunched at Pompeii. The lamb chops are to die for. We decided to spend the resmaining afternoon by the pool at my place. It was a pitcher of dirty martini's that set the afternoon at ease. Juan, the pool boy, was just finishing up and brought out our drinks. Forgot how much I liked this pool. You know I'm not one to talk but, Sylvia said that no good for nothing child of theirs took off again with Saul's gold card, Syl's engagement ring and worst of all her new Manolo's. She thinks that she is following that film maker Klaus to San Francisco. What for I don't know? Oy, poor Syl and Saul, at this rate they'll never get to retire to Boca with the rest of the Feinsteins! Enough already, Don't worry Syl, I told her Saul will provide, he sells the best shoes in all of Philadelphia.

TGIF

It's Friday and I could not be happier about it. Maybe I'll go to the beach, or get my nails done tommorrow. What ever I decide will not involve any work. Seems I have been spending too much time cleaning, talking on the phone about peoples personal problems. ENOUGH, What about my needs? How about dinner al fresco, candelight and a great sunset? Humm, I'm getting all sorts of ideas.......Hey Bubba peel me a grape?

Summer Concerts

Queen
Summer is finally here and that means concerts with friends. Nothing like good friends and great music. The first concert I remember was Queen's "Night at the Opera." BJ, Richard, Mike G. and I could not get enough of this band. We went four times in the seventies. There is nothing like Brian, Rodger, John and the iconic Freddy Mercury. Being unique is important to a teenage girl. There was and never will be anyone who can match the range and tonal color of Freddy Mercury. It's hard to pick a favorite song: Liar, Bohemian Rapsody, Tie Your Mother Down, We will Rock You, We are the Champions or Under Pressure wiith my other fav, Davie Baby.The band is rumored to have hired a new lead singer and touring again. Hey guys, you don't need me to tell you that no one can replace his spectacular dramatics on stage. Thanks to the DVD industry, I can now enjoy one of my favorite concert experiences anytime. We miss you Freddy!

Eat your Spinach

Eat your spinach, chili peppers and raspberries. Yesterday's Inquirer (Vrazo) writes that biotech drugs are showing success in the fight against cancer.BIO 2005 at the Convention Center for the next few days, focused on foods that help the bodies own cellular system to fight off cancer growth. There are several new drugs mentioned in the article. The concept seems to build the bodies own immune system. Actor Richard Roundtree who was diagnosed with breast cancer twelve years ago, offered the following advice: "be alert to symptoms and get an early diagnosis, eat healthy foods, and exercise." If medications can one day replace chemotherapy it would be a landmark event. To scientists keep up the good work. Meanwhile, we can all eat healthier foods and most importantly lets get moving!

Fathers Day II

We celebrated Father's Day and a friends birthday last evening. Shrimp cocktail and steamed clams followed by steak, baked potato, broccoli, mushrooms & carmelized onions.Yummm!. The cheesecake for dessert with chocolate sauce or pinnapples was the best I've had in some time. The final course of the eveing to sit in the hot tub looking up at the stars. The moon coming through the darkened trees looked like something from a SKing novel. There was nothing horrific about this evening except that we all had to get up early this morning and return to work. After a few cosmos I wasn't sure what the morning would bring. One thing is certain good times never last long, but friends celebrating birthdays should go on forever.

Fathers Day

Happy Father's Day ! Sunday morning and I happened to awaken to view the pink and indigo striations of the sunrise. At 5:45, the sun was peeking through the clouds and it looked like it would be a beautiful day. Where the sun went I can't say, but for all you Father's its probably found in the faces of your smiling children. Enjoy!

Tagged, Oh joy!

Pax Romano (Pax Romano's Ramblings @ blogspot.com/) tagged me this time to discuss five things that most of society at large enjoys, but I for the most part, just don't get:
Big Screen T.V's- Why do I need one when there is hardly anything on that I want to watch. If I need a big screen I can always go to the movies.No thanks!
Swimming Pools- One August I took care of my Sister-in-laws pool for the liberty of using it. I spent more time cleaning water lines, testing for the chemicals, etc. that I did splashing and relaxing. Found it to be too much work. No thanks!
Golf-I tried it a few times, even took lessons and have to admit I am not a great athlete. However, its just a good walk interrupted by hitting a little ball with a stick. What's with the specialty fashions? Don't forget how exorbitant the fees are. No thank you!
The Media coverage and current fascination with stories such as the runaway bride and the Michael Jackson trial. Are these issues going to further world peace, improve the environment, feed the starving, abolish third world debt, provide all Americans with health care coverage, house the homeless, et. al.No thanks, I'll read a good newspaper and skip tv journalism all together.
Finally I could probalby find five on this topic alone:
Fashion treands-Low cut jeans- Fine if you're young and in great shape. They are not meant for everyone, nothing more distasteful than a little pouch hanging out. We are not kangaroos, we are supposed to be ladies. (Maybe I'm jealous, or maybe if you wore them in the 70's, you probably should not be wearing them now. Exposed boxers and thongs- While I'm on a diatribe, let me add that undergarments are just that. Don't need to see them either. No thanks! Ponytails on otherwise bald men- Come on fellas who are we kidding? Body art/Tatoos- Must I explain? Noo thanks, not ever!

I'd like to know what ET, Justrose and Medbh would have to say. Come on ladies, your turn! Want to play? Its ladies night.

Belated Happy Birthday Al

Pacino
Did it again,I want to wish a belated birthday to one of the greatest actors of our day. Al Pacino turned sixty seven on April 25, 2007. You still look "mavelous dahling." Everyone has their favorite and most would agree its the "Godfather II". I would have to say its hard to beat the long hair and bearded "Serpico." During "Dog day afternoon" I learned the price men who would pay for love. Whoahhh, the "Scent of a Woman" performance just sweeps me off my feet (pardon the pun). So whats next I've been waiting too long for another fine performance? As a fan of great movies, there is nothing like sitting alone in the dark with Al (on the screen of course).

I want to be alone

Garbo
I took a few days off to relax in hopes of finding serenity in the garden. There have been phone call from family, half days for my spouse and I've been anything but alone. We spent this extra long weekend consumed with overdue spring cleaning chores. Freudian Slips author Joe wrote about his house of a hundred tasks. This must be the house of a thousand and one tasks. Now you can see through the windows, new paint and porch columns, and as always there weeding and lawn care chores. This morning I've done laundry, vacuming and put up clean summer sheers all before 10 a.m. The chicken is cooked for tonights' Caesar salad. I like a clean house as much as anyone but there has got to be more to life than work.
This is my last day off and I know what I must do....NOTHING else!
"Life is great if we know what to do with it."...Greta Garbo

Murphy's Law

Yesterday I turned down a fun invitation thinking that I'd do the responsible thing and help out a senior in need. What an idiotic idea! After spending more than eight hours, over the past few days hanging pictures (21 in all), drapes, putting together furniture kits, weeding, etc, etc. This morning my phone is filled with messages demanding that I call, "call me immediately or I'll drive up there, I know you're home." (I had no battery on the phone and turned it off for charging). It turns out that the mail which I brought in from the box could not be located. Guess where it was? Give up? Placed neatly on the desk! After being chastized I can't help but think of Murphy's Law; "no good deed goes unpunished." So much for peace and quiet on a Sunday morning!

No Place Like a Garden

Few things are more relaxing than sitting in a garden taking in natures beauty. No this is not my garden, but as any gardeners knows it is always a work in progress. Before it gets too hot today, I want to enjoy the simple pleasures of cardinals singing and wild rabbits munching on clover. There are new flowers and trees blooming every day. So like Ferris Bueller I'm taking a day off for the fun of it. I've got a good book, something cold to drink and my favorite lounge chair out on the deck waiting for me!

Off to Elmer

This past Saturday afternoon I joined some friends and parkered my beach chair in the midst of Elmer, NJ for the annual Appel Farms festival. You can still finds fields of corn and cows growing there. A bad omen the cows were all lying in the grass.....(Gramps said that meant rain was in the forecast). It may be the last vestige of undeveloped land in all of SJ?
See PaxRomano.blogspot.com for pictures. What a photographer that one?
Rufus and Loudon Wainwright, John Gorka to name a few. By the time Aimee Mann was winding up there was a beautiful orange sunset falling behind the trees! WOW! Best festival they've had in years!

I believe...

I believe that John Lennon was right, "all you need is love."
I believe that there is good in most people and sometimes you have to search hard to find it.
I believe that a little empathy and compassion goes a long way.
Embracing diversity and tolerance would benefit everyone.
I believe that spring flowers signal the earth being reborn. There is nothing quite so welcomed as crocus bursting through the snow toward the sun. Spring bulbs bursting into bloom are a thing a beauty.
We should all plant a tree for Arbor Day(or contribute to a better world in some way).
I believe we should strive to be the person our dog thinks we are.
I believe that it does take a village to raise a child.
Random acts of kindness can change the world.
A few like minded individuals can make change happen.
No one should ever go hungry in a world full of resources.
There is no better medicine than laughter.
The smile of a friend is always a welcome sight.
(Loyal) friends are a gift you give yourself.
I believe in telling the truth, even when it may not be what you want to hear.
Coffee and chocolate should be a separate food groups.
I believe that you can never have too many shoes, or books to read.
Otherwise, less is definitely more!
Finally that we should not continue to ask men and women to give their lives in the middle east. The cost is too great!
What are your thoughts? Dare you to share?

Under a Tree

During the past weekend it was likely you sat under a tree in your backyard or at the public park to relax or enjoy a picnic. We take for granted how trees protect and shelter, provide cleaner air and shade from the opressive heat of summer.
You might think the present administration is too busy in the middle east, they are reported to be preparing to dismantle acts that prevent the deforestation of America's unpaved and tree filled spaces. That would be wrong. The Sierra Club Sierra Club.comhas posted the information and is asking that we inform our representatives to stop the rampant destruction of acres of trees in the Tognass(alaska) and other remaining undeveloped areas of this country. Please speak out against those who are intent to rape and exploit the land for profit. Memorial Day reminds us more than ever that the rights of all Americans come with responsibility to protect and defend that which is most important to all.

Where everybody knows his name...

After helping a friend move some things into their new apartment we went to dinner at Billy's Oak Grove in Egg Harbor, NJ. You'd easily drive by this pub/restataunt if you were motoring toward Atlantic City down Route 30. If you go you must try the homemade desserts. Just imagine Chocolate Peanut Butter pie, two inches tall. So tempting I wanted to eat desssert first!
Everyone that goes there goes to see their friend Billy. He smiles radiantly, as if you are his long lost friend, which in my case is true. Friends in high school we just lost touch with each other. He greets everyone by name...some classmates still stop in from time to time. None of them are recognizable to me however. Billy's is comfy quaint little setting with antiques, newspapered walls, and good food.
There were six or seven beers on tap. Every seat filled with patrons trying to enjoy an extra happy hour. The old oak bar had icicle lights tastefully hanging above with some seasonal floral display. Against the old oak walls the lights/flowers are like twinkling stars in the night sky. The dining room menu is limited, mostly well made sandwiches, salads and appetizers. The highlight was the homemade Peanut Butter Chocolate Pie. You must try it next time you're in the neighborhood. I first went to see an old friend, but I'll keep going for good food and GREAT desserts!

Hot Javier

I just read that my favorite spanish actor(Javier Bardem), is talking with Milos Forman to star in a film bio-pic about the 18th century painter Francisco de Goya. Natalie Portman may be the leading lady. Move over Antonio fans! See Variety or Google news. His latest movie Mondays in the Sun received less than stellar reviews on mlive. com. If you haven't seen The Sea Inside what are you waiting for? It is the story of...nah, see for yourself! Where are the pic's you ask? Well, I'm still working on that......

HERE COMES THE SUN

I awoke to the sound of birds singing. Yeah, Yeah, yeah. It appears that the bright blue sky has returned to sounth jersey's largest city. Let me suggest that you take a walk at the park, play ball with the kids, or get out there and do some gardening. Whatever make you happy. It's not too late to plant a tree, if we hurry. Did you know that one acre of trees will provide enought oxygen for eighteen people every day?

Home Sweet Home

A moving company, my nephew and a few friends have finally gotten my Mom from her too small two bedroom house into a one bedroom apartment. Every step along the way was a battle as I tried to pursuade her to rid herself of fourty years of excess stuff. Do you really need three vcr's and a dvd? Love my Mom but...why when you redecorate do you keep the old style stuff? Why would you think that someone else would want it if you didn't? I never thought that she would actually sell her home and move to an apartment, no less. Forty years we lived in EHC all I remember is her saying that she did not like the town,or the house chosen by my Dad. That it was too small for a family of five, yada, yada, yada...I think of myself as a reasonable adult and decide that all these boxes are at her new home, not mine. If she is happy so am I. When I left you could barely get the bathroom door shut or walk down the hall. But when I noticed we were carring the same boxes back and forth I nearly lost it. Irony abounds there were about three hundred pieces of plastic storage ware and three sets of cookware for a woman who only cooks apple pies and specialty dog foods. (that's another story). My dear Mom has become like my paternal Grandmom who was never her favorite person. For forty years all I heard was that Gran was a packrat. She believed in saving everything for recycling and reuse but come on when you cannot walk down the halls, hang a cost in the closet, enough already. I guess the stress was overwhelming for Mum, now 70 plus years of age.
Remarkably she transformed that energy into something positive. I hope that she'll be happy in the new place without all the maintenance and garden chores. As a parting gesture I sat with a friend on the covered patio that my Dad built so many years ago. I will miss the old house and the fenced in garden. I know my Dad would not approve of me venting this way. I can almost hear him now saying "kid what goes on in this house, stays in this house." Too bad that didn't apply to stuff! s

A greener world.

Junk mail is a bi-product of modern life and most fothe time you probably just throw it away or shred it. Last week I received something with RFK, Jr. in the corner and I admit I was curious. RFK is the attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council. His letter had some interesting things to say about pending legislation and actions that may bring DESTRUCTION to our envioronment. Did you receive this and just discard it? I implore you to visit the NRDC web site:www.nrdc.org for more information on issues of air quality, deforestation, mercury poisoning, pollution of our waterways, oil and gas drilling in places like Yellowstone and redrock canyon. Heard enough the reports are that they are trying to excuse major corporations from the Clean Air Act. The NRDC is asking for petitioners to speak out against dismantling safeguards that took thirty years to get where we are today. They are asking for quick responses and action of the American people to let our senators and the President know that this is vitally important to us all!
As a gardener I feel responsible to protect the environment that is beyond my backyard. When I wrote the first draft this morning I heard birdsong and saw beautiful skies full of billowy clouds. Do you want to live in a world where there are no birds to greet the morning, no amber sunsets due to polluted skies. Do we want a world that is unsafe for ourselves and our children? Please support the NRDC, Sierra Club and others who advocate for a greener world.
"www.nrdc.org"

Zelda Parker