Lately, I've been getting rid of stuff. Some stuff is really good, some stuff is really old, some stuff is really kitschy and just plain junk. It seems that every week Lee takes a box or two to the local thrift store. Most of each donation is good...really good. I have recently sent leather briefcases, perfectly good electronics (with remotes) and even fairly expensive Christmas decor. I sincerely hope someone knows and appreciates the value and enjoys my purged items.
Sadly, some of these were gifts :-( This reminds me how important it is to give caring, necessary, well-thought-out gifts to friends and family. I think (hope) I have always done this. I remember Lee getting a shirt one Christmas that was red and white striped and definitely came from a second-hand store. It would have made a wonderful "Where's Waldo" costume. It was definitely the thought that (dis) counts....and there was little. I do not re-gift and I do not thrift gift unless it still has the tag on it or it's a joke.. Actually, I seldom frequent second-hand shops unless I'm on a quest for an object and it's for something other than clothing! On the other hand, antique and rummage joints are right up my alley...So I guess I'm a junk hypocrite! I can live with that!
But back to the gift angle. I listen and watch for things that might be mentioned by friends and family. Things that they enjoy or might not be able to afford or feel the need to purchase for themselves. Lately, for my family, I like to contribute to something they might like to do as a family or enjoy by themselves. This year I bought concert tickets for my grandgirls and tee shirts of the band. I gave a "scholarship" to preschool for my grandson in a cool frame where all of his artwork could be stored. Jett and family now have gift cards to Diggerland where he can ride and "drive" all the big, real construction equipment. Jeff has a golfing gift certificate and Jess got working attire and shoes she couldn't afford. I know all these things will be utilized and enjoyed and not stuck in a drawer or cupboard till they decide to purge too.
Friends are some of my favorites to gift. They are truly appreciative and are great givers themselves. Recently everyone was chiding me for already purchasing a few gifts for Christmas 2019.. When I see it and I know it will be liked, I buy it. Not only does it put me ahead of the game but it allows me to purchase nicer things throughout the year. I can't really do that for my family as their likes and dislikes and wants and needs may change throughout the year but by August, I generally have several ideas for all of them.
I think I really would have loved being a personal shopper. I seldom hit the stores themselves just to randomly shop. I peruse online, compare prices and occasionally order and send to the box store for pick up. It's not because I'm lazy (although my knees definitely are) but rather I might impulse shop and get something I don't really need....like chocolate! I think looking for just the right gift for just the right person is a gift in itself. The only gift I know for certain that most will enjoy is my gift of gab. I've been told by many that I have been blessed by that virtue (if you may.) It's definitely one gift that few have returned and one that keeps on giving...😉
Monday, January 28, 2019
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
An urge to purge!
All of the sudden, I have an urge to purge... not physically, thank heaven but OBJECTively! I'm sorting, filing and burning!
Yesterday, I got rid of every single duplicate checkbook I had..and there were lots....way back to 2007 and even a bit of bookwork from 2005... Decided that it was time to remove some leftover files of Dad's. He's been gone 12 years and I can still hear him telling me why I should keep...pretty much everything. My broker sends monthly statements..Dad explained that they wouldn't be pre-hole-punched it they didn't intend me to keep them in a binder. Really Dad. get away from the typewriter and your used paper and pencil and step into the 21st century. He never did and was completely happy right where he was. I am now completely unhappy with all this stuff and it's headed to the burn barrel. I understand the need to keep some things for IRS purposes. I used to keep everything for 7 years. I just had a nice chat with my broker who said I suggest you keep 3 years as some companies (and banks) tend to change their names through buyouts and the like. The older you get, you may want to keep 5 years for Medicaid purposes. So, by tonight, everything in my den closet will be no older than 5 years old..... YAY ME!!! All has to be burned or shredded and shredding is a tedious job that seems archaic next to burning. So, if you see smoke signals coming from EIEIO during the next few days, you'll know it's my financial insecurities going up in a blaze of glory.
Now for purge # 2. Books and magazines. I have kept every HGTV magazine I ever purchased.... They'll all be gone soon and I'm fine with that. I'm not so fine with parting with my books. 99% of the books I have read in the past 5 years have been enjoyed on my Kindle. I can make the print bigger, take it with me anywhere and get my mail and Facebook on it. It's a treasure! I could actually have my books read to me if the need were to arise. But, now my heartbreak...what to do with the books. Mind you these are not classics or national treasures but to me they are. Many are from my treasured authors. Sidney Sheldon was the first author to make me not want to put a book down. I probably could reread these books and completely enjoy them over again. I saw a photo the other day of a giant tree stump that some gal repurposed into a book lending spot. Wouldn't that be wonderful....maybe the giant tree at the bottom of Oak Hill....just another pipe dream. All "we'd" need is a corner of someplace that is always open. Maybe the little building next to Jennings or a sliding window in the old firehouse. Maybe some shelves at Millstream. We just need bookshelves...somewhere!! You could borrow a book, read it, return it and borrow another. Books for kids, for Moms, for cooks and for Dads....Dads read too! I just don't want to give these books to Goodwill. Something will come up.
Purge # 3. Boxes....empty boxes. phone boxes, Kindle boxes, camera boxes. firestick boxes...just a lot of empty boxes... The label with possible serial numbers will be photographed and the boxes will be following the checkbooks to "The Barrel!"
If these 3 purges happen by the end of the weekend, it will have been a successful week. The double closet will be much lighter and I won't have had to stick my finger down my throat once! ;-)
Yesterday, I got rid of every single duplicate checkbook I had..and there were lots....way back to 2007 and even a bit of bookwork from 2005... Decided that it was time to remove some leftover files of Dad's. He's been gone 12 years and I can still hear him telling me why I should keep...pretty much everything. My broker sends monthly statements..Dad explained that they wouldn't be pre-hole-punched it they didn't intend me to keep them in a binder. Really Dad. get away from the typewriter and your used paper and pencil and step into the 21st century. He never did and was completely happy right where he was. I am now completely unhappy with all this stuff and it's headed to the burn barrel. I understand the need to keep some things for IRS purposes. I used to keep everything for 7 years. I just had a nice chat with my broker who said I suggest you keep 3 years as some companies (and banks) tend to change their names through buyouts and the like. The older you get, you may want to keep 5 years for Medicaid purposes. So, by tonight, everything in my den closet will be no older than 5 years old..... YAY ME!!! All has to be burned or shredded and shredding is a tedious job that seems archaic next to burning. So, if you see smoke signals coming from EIEIO during the next few days, you'll know it's my financial insecurities going up in a blaze of glory.
Now for purge # 2. Books and magazines. I have kept every HGTV magazine I ever purchased.... They'll all be gone soon and I'm fine with that. I'm not so fine with parting with my books. 99% of the books I have read in the past 5 years have been enjoyed on my Kindle. I can make the print bigger, take it with me anywhere and get my mail and Facebook on it. It's a treasure! I could actually have my books read to me if the need were to arise. But, now my heartbreak...what to do with the books. Mind you these are not classics or national treasures but to me they are. Many are from my treasured authors. Sidney Sheldon was the first author to make me not want to put a book down. I probably could reread these books and completely enjoy them over again. I saw a photo the other day of a giant tree stump that some gal repurposed into a book lending spot. Wouldn't that be wonderful....maybe the giant tree at the bottom of Oak Hill....just another pipe dream. All "we'd" need is a corner of someplace that is always open. Maybe the little building next to Jennings or a sliding window in the old firehouse. Maybe some shelves at Millstream. We just need bookshelves...somewhere!! You could borrow a book, read it, return it and borrow another. Books for kids, for Moms, for cooks and for Dads....Dads read too! I just don't want to give these books to Goodwill. Something will come up.
Purge # 3. Boxes....empty boxes. phone boxes, Kindle boxes, camera boxes. firestick boxes...just a lot of empty boxes... The label with possible serial numbers will be photographed and the boxes will be following the checkbooks to "The Barrel!"
If these 3 purges happen by the end of the weekend, it will have been a successful week. The double closet will be much lighter and I won't have had to stick my finger down my throat once! ;-)
Monday, January 21, 2019
Alone
When being alone is a choice, I love it. I'm not quite sure how I would feel if being alone was what was handed to me. I am not insecure, or depressed, or anxious around people. I can hang with the best (and the worst) and hold my own in most any environment. I can don my frilly frocks (who am I kidding, my last frilly frock was my wedding dress) and rub elbows with the elite or sit by a bonfire and tell dirty jokes while the men (and sometimes the women) drink and fart. I can enjoy both crowds but if choosing, I'd be by the farters. I enjoy our morning breakfast club and have for over 30 years. Some of my tablemates may change but it's always light-hearted and enjoyable. Generally, these folks know more about me and mine than me and mine! That's OK! I also have a lunch bunch group of old friends that I enjoy immensely. Once a month, I cleanse my impure thoughts and my pent up frustrations on these poor gals! They listen and love unconditionally. I have those old friends who know me best and still care about me. I enjoy going out to dinner...mostly because I don't have to cook! I wish I could snap my fingers and be there and back as so many restaurants I enjoy are too far away now. Maybe it's actually just a chauffeur that I need. What I like best about all these outings is going home. The anticipation of my home, my recliner, my TV, my TiVo and my phone are all a jumbled mess of old and new that I have become wonderfully accustomed to. ( I know..sentence ending in a preposition..got it.) I actually like being alone!
Being alone is cathartic. I can do whatever I please, whenever I please for as long as I please. I probably shouldn't look up spoiled ...that's liable to be the definition. I justify my joy in my seclusion by thinking I have earned it. I raised my kids to the best of my ability...some failures and successes. I have built, what I feel, is a lovely home where I can enjoy my grandkids and live out my golden years. I owe little and can spread a bit of unsolicited happiness when the mood strikes me. To me, alone just means that I'm by myself...it doesn't mean lonely! I love some of the definitions of alone: unattended - that's ok, abandoned - not, forsaken - doubtful, abnormal - probably but the best is retired - exactly.
As long as alone is a choice...and so far it is!, I'm fine. I have communication when I need it and I have isolation when I crave it. I have my surroundings when I yearn for solitude and beauty and I have my family and friends when I need frivolity, love and companionship. For now, I'm good. "All by Myself " may be my melodic mantra in years to come but for now I live by four easy rules:
Being alone is cathartic. I can do whatever I please, whenever I please for as long as I please. I probably shouldn't look up spoiled ...that's liable to be the definition. I justify my joy in my seclusion by thinking I have earned it. I raised my kids to the best of my ability...some failures and successes. I have built, what I feel, is a lovely home where I can enjoy my grandkids and live out my golden years. I owe little and can spread a bit of unsolicited happiness when the mood strikes me. To me, alone just means that I'm by myself...it doesn't mean lonely! I love some of the definitions of alone: unattended - that's ok, abandoned - not, forsaken - doubtful, abnormal - probably but the best is retired - exactly.
As long as alone is a choice...and so far it is!, I'm fine. I have communication when I need it and I have isolation when I crave it. I have my surroundings when I yearn for solitude and beauty and I have my family and friends when I need frivolity, love and companionship. For now, I'm good. "All by Myself " may be my melodic mantra in years to come but for now I live by four easy rules:
- Take care of my home - try to keep organized, uncluttered and clean ( I've mastered a couple)
- Find Beauty in the Ordinary - My Ordinary surrounds me completely...from birds and animals, to trees to the rising of the sun and moon... I've definitely got this one!
- Watch out for Noisy Thoughts - They can be my best friend or my worst enemy. I have learned to keep mental monsters at bay and summon joyful noise on command. It might be eagles chirping or the Beach Boys singing and of late, a tune on the Ukulele by Miss B. A great rendition of Somewhere over the Rainbow does the trick every time♥
- Love my grandchildren unconditionally - and never stop teaching them what I've learned through my successes and failures...even when I think they're not listening!
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Anticipation
Having versus anticipating! We all want stuff. Some of us save for it and finally, it becomes a reality. Once we have it, it's part of our everyday life and we begin to want something else, something new. So, we save for it or plan for it, get it, enjoy it and it becomes part of our everyday life!......... So maybe we should break the cycle and anticipate experiences instead of just stuff. I'm not a big traveler so seeing the world, or even the good ole USA, probably isn't in my new experience folder but short jaunts, projects and even experiences for those I love can fill a folder to bursting!
Taking my family on excursions usually fills me up. They generally can't afford the bells and whistles so I buy them and blow them myself. My soul is happy to see them happy. Their anticipation is mine! My projects make me happy too and as of late, I've decided I need to make me smile a little more. Once again, it's the anticipation, the planning, the research even if it's just a me project. Me projects are things like our theater, our Culture Cottage, Jim Bob, the pool fence...I enjoy these projects because it makes me happy.... Imagine that!♥
Possessions can be exhilarating but anticipation really matters according to clinicians who actually study it! They have found that anticipation of an experience causes excitement and enjoyment, while anticipation of obtaining a possession often causes impatience. (I may have to argue that point a bit...I still love the thrill of the wait and the joy of its arrival or completion!) Experiences are enjoyable from the very first moments of planning, all the way through to the memories you will embrace forever.
So, the variables of having versus anticipating (or possessions versus experiences) can be summed up kind of like one man's trash is another man's treasure. Do what makes you happy! If it's buying for others, do it. If it's planning family outings, do it. If it's dragging a 60-year-old truck into your front yard, do it! Just like beauty is in the eye of the beholder, happiness is in the mind of anticipator♥
Monday, January 14, 2019
Monday, Monday
Ahhhh..Monday, my favorite day of the week. Everybody thinks I'm crazy and most abhor the thought of Mondays. Those are usually folks who have to get back to the grind and deal with coworkers, students, crappy driving weather and the like. I'm on Daylight Sandy time all year round! Works quite nicely for me and keeps my need for mood enhancers at a minimum. I never "did well" with other folks timetables whether it be an employer, a friend or a child.....as I look at it now...it's kind of the World according to Me! You can ask most anybody and they'll concur with my findings that I like my schedule. If I say 8, I mean 8 not 8:15 or even 7:45...I mean 8:00! That most likely shoves me quickly into the bitch column but I've always been OK with that too. Flexibility has never been a strong suit with me... I know it, my family knows it, my friends know it so as Bailee used to say as a toddler, "Deal about it!"
It's not that I can't be flexible.... often necessity demands it and I begrudgingly adjust. Somethings though, are just set in stone....like laundry... I do laundry on Monday...so don't bring me a pair of jeans that you'd like to wear on Wednesday night, Wednesday morning. They should have been in the laundry Monday and they'd be all ready. (You do understand that I no longer have children in my household.)
I don't like to eat dinner late.... that would be most anytime after 7p.m. Earlier, I've been growing accustomed to (hey, I'm old now!) I seldom eat lunch so when 5-6p.m. rolls around, my stomachs are growling (not a typo.)
I'm a bit of a planner. I have purchased one thing for Christmas 2019 and I also have a list of ideas. I keep my ears and eyes open when folks mention likes and dislikes and wants and needs. This usually leads to purchases people need (like) and seldom return. Jett's birthday (2-6) has been done and wrapped since before Christmas. Valentine goodies are in the bag and cards are addressed. No, I don't have Easter ...but I'm on it!
In August I booked a family get-away to the Outer Banks for early April. I called and spoke with the rep last week about getting the pool heater turned on and she explained that the pools and hot tubs wouldn't be opened until April 20th. NOT what we had discussed several times in the past 5 months. It seems they were "notified by maintenance 2 months ago" of the pool opening date. No notification was given to the renters....Pretty sure I'm not taking my grandkids to a huge house with a pool and hot tub and then tell them they can't use it. Lee has a sign at his shop that states: Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part! Guess what... no trip to the OBX this spring.
Needless to say, sometimes Gramazon's staunch "her way" style doesn't sit well with everybody. Hard to teach an old dog new tricks so often we must take the bad with the good. There is far more good and everybody generally benefits. So, on Monday when the world is grumbling, I'm saying "Ahhhhh" and enjoying the day.......and laundry!
It's not that I can't be flexible.... often necessity demands it and I begrudgingly adjust. Somethings though, are just set in stone....like laundry... I do laundry on Monday...so don't bring me a pair of jeans that you'd like to wear on Wednesday night, Wednesday morning. They should have been in the laundry Monday and they'd be all ready. (You do understand that I no longer have children in my household.)
I don't like to eat dinner late.... that would be most anytime after 7p.m. Earlier, I've been growing accustomed to (hey, I'm old now!) I seldom eat lunch so when 5-6p.m. rolls around, my stomachs are growling (not a typo.)
I'm a bit of a planner. I have purchased one thing for Christmas 2019 and I also have a list of ideas. I keep my ears and eyes open when folks mention likes and dislikes and wants and needs. This usually leads to purchases people need (like) and seldom return. Jett's birthday (2-6) has been done and wrapped since before Christmas. Valentine goodies are in the bag and cards are addressed. No, I don't have Easter ...but I'm on it!
In August I booked a family get-away to the Outer Banks for early April. I called and spoke with the rep last week about getting the pool heater turned on and she explained that the pools and hot tubs wouldn't be opened until April 20th. NOT what we had discussed several times in the past 5 months. It seems they were "notified by maintenance 2 months ago" of the pool opening date. No notification was given to the renters....Pretty sure I'm not taking my grandkids to a huge house with a pool and hot tub and then tell them they can't use it. Lee has a sign at his shop that states: Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part! Guess what... no trip to the OBX this spring.
Needless to say, sometimes Gramazon's staunch "her way" style doesn't sit well with everybody. Hard to teach an old dog new tricks so often we must take the bad with the good. There is far more good and everybody generally benefits. So, on Monday when the world is grumbling, I'm saying "Ahhhhh" and enjoying the day.......and laundry!
Friday, January 11, 2019
Don't Panic
A fun night in Buffalo despite the snow and cold. Gramazon gave the grandgirls (and Mom) a trip to Buffalo to see Panic at the Disco. (Btw, that's a band) The weather was a little scary so Papa offered to be their chauffeur for the trip.
Back to September...Bailee had left a note on my desk with all the information necessary to get tickets for a concert with a band I had NEVER heard of. Unfortunately, it was in the middle of January in Buffalo....one of the snowiest cities in the northeast, I said, "No way was I driving to Buffalo!" Then Aunt Lacie volunteered and said, "Julz would love that too..I'll drive them!" Fast forward to Christmas and that was their big gift. Fast forward again...and we had 10 inches of snow and schools closed...
Yesterday: They loaded into Gramazon's car and headed to the Marriott Harborside for a girls night out and a Papa night in! Travel was good, girls were relaxed, Papa had a nice dinner and I had the entire king-sized bed and a fart-free room. TMI but I did make Papa take an unworn Christmas gift from years ago ....pajama pants. Didn't want to scare the girls as Gramazon was too cheap to get another room.
Papa hit the sack early and the girls headed to the Key Bank Center for the show. As a piano floated above the crowd and showmen shot up through the floor, they watched, listened and videoed intently. Here are some pix from a fun night on the town!
Back to September...Bailee had left a note on my desk with all the information necessary to get tickets for a concert with a band I had NEVER heard of. Unfortunately, it was in the middle of January in Buffalo....one of the snowiest cities in the northeast, I said, "No way was I driving to Buffalo!" Then Aunt Lacie volunteered and said, "Julz would love that too..I'll drive them!" Fast forward to Christmas and that was their big gift. Fast forward again...and we had 10 inches of snow and schools closed...
Yesterday: They loaded into Gramazon's car and headed to the Marriott Harborside for a girls night out and a Papa night in! Travel was good, girls were relaxed, Papa had a nice dinner and I had the entire king-sized bed and a fart-free room. TMI but I did make Papa take an unworn Christmas gift from years ago ....pajama pants. Didn't want to scare the girls as Gramazon was too cheap to get another room.
Papa hit the sack early and the girls headed to the Key Bank Center for the show. As a piano floated above the crowd and showmen shot up through the floor, they watched, listened and videoed intently. Here are some pix from a fun night on the town!
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
"Let" it Be!
I often enjoy reading the AARP magazine. Let me be perfectly clear, I totally disagree with the majority, if not all, of their politics but if I want their supplemental health care, I must join and get the magazine and occasional perks!
They often have money saving articles for those of us in their senior years. The last advice tendered was some innovative ways to "live it up and keep costs down." Obviously, their target audience is varied. Here are a few of their suggestions.
Obviously, I don't take advice very well..these could be some of the reasons why. The motorhome option has crossed my mind as we've owned a few campers and a couple of motorhomes. Renting would be the way to see the USA and the grocery or market would be the way to get eggs...maybe not the freshest but at our age, old is OK. I, on the other hand, would miss slipping in chicken shit. watching Herb chase the girls around the yard for a quickie and giving the girls those names I always wanted to name children..... Better run.....gotta go feed Shaniqua and the girls!
They often have money saving articles for those of us in their senior years. The last advice tendered was some innovative ways to "live it up and keep costs down." Obviously, their target audience is varied. Here are a few of their suggestions.
- Traveling in a motor home can be expensive. Even a 20ft RV would set you back a minimum of $70K. Unless you plan on living in it, those costs are bit prohibitive unless your ship came in! They suggest you rent, don't buy! Possibly an Internet search on RVshare or Outdoorsy can secure you an RV for a vacation for as little as $1300. a week.. Let it be!
- If you enjoy camping (I'm a glamper) outdoors, on the ground gear could be $1000+. Camp gear outfitters will rent you a tent, sleeping bags, cook stoves and more for $157 for three days. I actually know NO seniors that would enjoy either option. Let it be!?
- Bird watching? Elephant watching? Neighbor peeping? Why buy a telephoto camera lens or a drone for thousands when you can rent for $100-200. Let it be!
- Here's my all-time favorite money-saving advice from the agricultural geniuses at AARP. "Your personal egg dispenser" WTF. "For really fresh eggs, rent chickens and a coop from sites such as Rent-A-Chicken (no shit....well you know what I mean) or RentACoop. For only about $240.................you'll get 2 egg-laying (well duh) hens, feed and gear for four weeks. You can expect about a dozen eggs a week. Or you could go to your local farmer's market and buy a dozen for $3.00. Don't Let it be!
Obviously, I don't take advice very well..these could be some of the reasons why. The motorhome option has crossed my mind as we've owned a few campers and a couple of motorhomes. Renting would be the way to see the USA and the grocery or market would be the way to get eggs...maybe not the freshest but at our age, old is OK. I, on the other hand, would miss slipping in chicken shit. watching Herb chase the girls around the yard for a quickie and giving the girls those names I always wanted to name children..... Better run.....gotta go feed Shaniqua and the girls!
Monday, January 7, 2019
The Doctors
Pre Dr. visit.....
The Doctors...used to love that soap. Love most of the doctor shows on prime time with the exception of The Good Doctor which I think is the worst doctor show to date. Today is a 90 day med check up... The receptionist said it was required for Medicare. We'll be having a little discussion when I hit the exam room today. If Medicare requires one well visit per year (and pays for it), then one well visit it should be.....unless, of course, I find myself ,,,,,,well....not well! Doctors are probably my least favorite folks. I've never had a great relationship with them as usually someone is dying or about to......takes all the warm, fuzzy feelings right out of the visits. I'm especially disillusioned with one right now and I think I'll pick the brain of mine today and see what words of wisdom she offers. Hoping it isn't really a band of brothers (or sisters) and she gives me some useful tips in ethical quack evasion. Prescription happy clinicians make my stocks soar but my psyche sorer!
Post Dr. visit...
Good talk! My instincts were pretty much right on! I'm thankful for that and that I was able to read the clock, remember what I had for dinner last night and knew the date! Always good to pass a test!!! There is definitely a difference in physicians but I was able to see my issue from a few different perspectives. I have a direction now and that's a good thing.
I still find immeasurable strength and validity in pharmacists and their skills but will now have the wherewithal to approach and question a physician! Once again, Grandma knows best!
The Doctors...used to love that soap. Love most of the doctor shows on prime time with the exception of The Good Doctor which I think is the worst doctor show to date. Today is a 90 day med check up... The receptionist said it was required for Medicare. We'll be having a little discussion when I hit the exam room today. If Medicare requires one well visit per year (and pays for it), then one well visit it should be.....unless, of course, I find myself ,,,,,,well....not well! Doctors are probably my least favorite folks. I've never had a great relationship with them as usually someone is dying or about to......takes all the warm, fuzzy feelings right out of the visits. I'm especially disillusioned with one right now and I think I'll pick the brain of mine today and see what words of wisdom she offers. Hoping it isn't really a band of brothers (or sisters) and she gives me some useful tips in ethical quack evasion. Prescription happy clinicians make my stocks soar but my psyche sorer!
Post Dr. visit...
Good talk! My instincts were pretty much right on! I'm thankful for that and that I was able to read the clock, remember what I had for dinner last night and knew the date! Always good to pass a test!!! There is definitely a difference in physicians but I was able to see my issue from a few different perspectives. I have a direction now and that's a good thing.
I still find immeasurable strength and validity in pharmacists and their skills but will now have the wherewithal to approach and question a physician! Once again, Grandma knows best!
Friday, January 4, 2019
The end...of the Season
January 4th and the sun is trying to shine, the grass is a shiny green and the puddles are frozen. Bruce's tail feathers are rapidly growing and getting closer and closer to the ground from his perch. The chickens are on strike till there's more daylight and my focus is shifting from holiday pick up to Jett's birthday, purging unnecessary stuff and our spring trip. This year we're OBX bound.
The tree is undecorated and down...all three pieces. I'm not sure how it will get put away in the storage room downstairs as my knees hurt, Jeff's sciatica is flaring and Lee hurt his back. He suggested that we needed a dumbwaiter.......I replied, "We have one!" JimBob will remain in winter mode with Frosty still lighting up at night and the plaid ribbons replaced by hearts. Cogitating about his spring/summer appearance. I thought an old gas station scene would be nice until I researched old gas pumps.... Way too much $. Pinterest and I will figure out something.
We'll be celebrating Jett's 3rd birthday in 4 weeks but I already have his gifts wrapped and ready. A trip to Greek Peak may be in order for Winter break and Bailee has already begun rehearsals for Mamma Mia... just a bit part but she loves the music and it keeps her busy!
The temps are heading to a balmy 46 degrees today so the snowflake can come off JimBob, the wreath removed at the cemetery and maybe a short stroll around EIEIO....catch you later!!
The tree is undecorated and down...all three pieces. I'm not sure how it will get put away in the storage room downstairs as my knees hurt, Jeff's sciatica is flaring and Lee hurt his back. He suggested that we needed a dumbwaiter.......I replied, "We have one!" JimBob will remain in winter mode with Frosty still lighting up at night and the plaid ribbons replaced by hearts. Cogitating about his spring/summer appearance. I thought an old gas station scene would be nice until I researched old gas pumps.... Way too much $. Pinterest and I will figure out something.
We'll be celebrating Jett's 3rd birthday in 4 weeks but I already have his gifts wrapped and ready. A trip to Greek Peak may be in order for Winter break and Bailee has already begun rehearsals for Mamma Mia... just a bit part but she loves the music and it keeps her busy!
The temps are heading to a balmy 46 degrees today so the snowflake can come off JimBob, the wreath removed at the cemetery and maybe a short stroll around EIEIO....catch you later!!
Thursday, January 3, 2019
The Price is Right...or is it?
Did you ever watch the game on the Price is Right called "That's Too Much?" Well the producer at EIEIO might just have played that game a bit too long.
The beginning of a new year is not only a time to clean the windshield to help see things coming at you a bit more clearly but also a time to make sure you have enough fluid going back to your rear window as well. The crazy volatility of the market makes it a bit prohibitive to buy the good washer fluid so you stock up on the less expensive stuff that still relatively does the same job. Now that your vision is clearer, it's time to get back to the game and decide whether it just might be time to shout out, "That's too much!"
For those having trouble catching up to my weird way of thinking, I'll make it a little simpler. How long is too long to give financial help to your grown children? To me, that's a bit like asking how the Internet works and how it is possible to pick up a phone and speak with someone in Africa? I will never know much less understand.....but that doesn't mean I shouldn't try. So I went on the Internet (that I know nothing about!) A recent survey by Merrill Lynch studied 50K respondents over four years. 84% said they would like to educate their family on ways to be more financially independent, while 70% said hey would consider cutting back on support to post-college children. I'm assuming post-college means after college....period... whether they studied (yeah right) for one year, one semester or even one month :-/ Among those who contributed to those adult children, the average amount was $6,800 a year..WOW!
Let me digress a bit. I had a very generous Dad but nothing was expected! I never asked for financial support! His generosity always came as surprise gifts when the mood struck him. (Here was a guy who always gave us gifts on his birthday!) These gifts had no timetable and could have been $20, $100 or $1000. When each unexpected and gratefully accepted envelop appeared, (sometimes on my car seat, or back door or even in the mail) it was accompanied by words of wisdom (written on a used piece of paper or an old envelope) and might say something like......."I have much and you are young and struggling. It gives me great joy to be able to help you in some small way. Use this wisely and I trust your judgment and your choice" Always signed, Love, Your Dad.
Back to the present. So as I aged and had children of my own, some of which I should have eaten, I have tried to pay it forward. A down payment here, a house there..(WTF)...................????? I thought I was doing a good thing while helping them, making Dad proud at the Pearly Gates Golf Course and keeping the welfare and best interests of my kids and more importantly my grandkids at heart! Resuming the game.... I think it's time to say, "That's too much!" The game will end and the player will either win the prize or just be grateful that she had the chance to play at all. Either way, she'd have done her best to get on stage.
Now the bigger question, When has it been too much for too long? That would be now. Now I know what the hell the phrase "The Buck Stops Here" really means...or at least my interpretation. It literally stops here.... 2019 will be an awakening of sorts. I have tried giving financial advice but it has fallen on deaf ears (no. not Lee's.) So this year, Mom or Gramazon has my granddaughter has dubbed me, will be the Keeper of Books....the checkbooks. You probably have surmised that the bottom fell out of the market for one child and the negotiated contract (literally) put me in charge of finances after a government bailout of sorts!
So far, so good. My reservoir is relatively full and the windshield is clear and clean. My rear view is visible and allows me to know I no longer wish to go in that direction. I have a clear conscience that my sanity must come first, my grandkids welfare is dependent upon it and unquestionably, Mother knows best because Father knew best♥
The beginning of a new year is not only a time to clean the windshield to help see things coming at you a bit more clearly but also a time to make sure you have enough fluid going back to your rear window as well. The crazy volatility of the market makes it a bit prohibitive to buy the good washer fluid so you stock up on the less expensive stuff that still relatively does the same job. Now that your vision is clearer, it's time to get back to the game and decide whether it just might be time to shout out, "That's too much!"
For those having trouble catching up to my weird way of thinking, I'll make it a little simpler. How long is too long to give financial help to your grown children? To me, that's a bit like asking how the Internet works and how it is possible to pick up a phone and speak with someone in Africa? I will never know much less understand.....but that doesn't mean I shouldn't try. So I went on the Internet (that I know nothing about!) A recent survey by Merrill Lynch studied 50K respondents over four years. 84% said they would like to educate their family on ways to be more financially independent, while 70% said hey would consider cutting back on support to post-college children. I'm assuming post-college means after college....period... whether they studied (yeah right) for one year, one semester or even one month :-/ Among those who contributed to those adult children, the average amount was $6,800 a year..WOW!
Let me digress a bit. I had a very generous Dad but nothing was expected! I never asked for financial support! His generosity always came as surprise gifts when the mood struck him. (Here was a guy who always gave us gifts on his birthday!) These gifts had no timetable and could have been $20, $100 or $1000. When each unexpected and gratefully accepted envelop appeared, (sometimes on my car seat, or back door or even in the mail) it was accompanied by words of wisdom (written on a used piece of paper or an old envelope) and might say something like......."I have much and you are young and struggling. It gives me great joy to be able to help you in some small way. Use this wisely and I trust your judgment and your choice" Always signed, Love, Your Dad.
Back to the present. So as I aged and had children of my own, some of which I should have eaten, I have tried to pay it forward. A down payment here, a house there..(WTF)...................????? I thought I was doing a good thing while helping them, making Dad proud at the Pearly Gates Golf Course and keeping the welfare and best interests of my kids and more importantly my grandkids at heart! Resuming the game.... I think it's time to say, "That's too much!" The game will end and the player will either win the prize or just be grateful that she had the chance to play at all. Either way, she'd have done her best to get on stage.
Now the bigger question, When has it been too much for too long? That would be now. Now I know what the hell the phrase "The Buck Stops Here" really means...or at least my interpretation. It literally stops here.... 2019 will be an awakening of sorts. I have tried giving financial advice but it has fallen on deaf ears (no. not Lee's.) So this year, Mom or Gramazon has my granddaughter has dubbed me, will be the Keeper of Books....the checkbooks. You probably have surmised that the bottom fell out of the market for one child and the negotiated contract (literally) put me in charge of finances after a government bailout of sorts!
So far, so good. My reservoir is relatively full and the windshield is clear and clean. My rear view is visible and allows me to know I no longer wish to go in that direction. I have a clear conscience that my sanity must come first, my grandkids welfare is dependent upon it and unquestionably, Mother knows best because Father knew best♥
No more babies..aka Jett's 1st day of preschool
Thirty-five days shy of three and Mr. Jett Hewitt Hatfield walked in the door to his first "educational" experience! "I so excited!" No worries, no qualms, no shyness, no fears....hung up his coat in his new cubbie and headed to explore and play. He did have to be reminded that chairs are for sitting and not standing but a quick jump and he was grounded again. Mom, Dad and Grandma left with a couple of smiles and one mini frown. Fast forward three hours..........Dad called to report he was a good boy and can return for day # 2. We're all hoping every report is as good and he makes new and lasting friendships.
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Still Mine... A movie to see!
There's a fine line between maudlin and light-hearted reflection. I started to watch a movie in 2018 and finished it the next year......a mere 12 hours later but light years in perspective. The story began in the waning years of a couple in their eighties. I thought how old and wrinkly they appeared. How their gait was slow and each step was contemplated. I happened to look at my hands....not a smart move. The wife was content living in her house of many years. She had raised her children, many of them, and was growing old on her own terms... until the signs were no longer ignorable. The story went on to tell how hard it is for octogenarians (or any seniors) to cope with change. It pretty much sucks! Things move faster and rules are different. It doesn't make a difference if it's making a phone call, paying your taxes or disciplining children. We have old rules, good rules, rules that made sense for decades. Change is inevitable..I know that and the characters in the movie knew that but...we are wise, they were wise and wisdom should make a difference. Simple is good, always was but I still want my lights to come on when I flip the switch, the TV to bring me good entertainment and my toilet to flush when engaged. What I really want.......................................is a phone call or a visit just because, an affirmation that maybe it wasn't any of my business but the advice was good nonetheless, unsolicited "I love yous" and the realization that a lot of this time is not all that much fun.
Life is indeed short but passes at the speed of sound..(Ok, maybe not for Lee;-) I have promised myself that I will hoe out and throw out for the next few weeks. Emotions are on high alert but remembering is still a valued sense and I'm usin' it before I'm losin' it.
Life is indeed short but passes at the speed of sound..(Ok, maybe not for Lee;-) I have promised myself that I will hoe out and throw out for the next few weeks. Emotions are on high alert but remembering is still a valued sense and I'm usin' it before I'm losin' it.
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