The Flowers

I don't have a picture, nor am I going to stop and take one. But ... if you turn up Locust Lane from Rt. 22, on the right side there is a yellow brick house that has a gorgeous front yard. I really appreciate the looks of this place and since Tom suggested I say thank you ... to whomever you are, thanks for the beautiful yard.

Beautful Yards ... Beautiful Drive

I am not the first person in the world to tell people I don't like going to work in the morning; don't like anything about it, especially the drive. But today something made me really enjoy myself. While travelling to work, I took time to "see" the flowers.

The last few days of sunshine have brought out the beautiful trees and flowers. I think a lot of Harrisburg people spent the weekend working in their gardens and mowing their lawns. It sure made my trip to work so much more enjoyable. I travel up Locust Lane and across Arlington Avenue to Londonderry Road. I have to say that some of the front yards were breath-taking today.

So from those of us who live in apartments with no yards or grass ... I'd like to say thank you to all the folks who have worked so hard for the rest of us to enjoy.

Take time to "see" the flowers.

PDA's or PDA's

Recently I wrote a blog about acronyms. Well this story is about two of my least-favorite acronyms ... PDA's and PDA's. What are they...#1. Public Display of Affection and the other is Public Display of Affliction.

Let's look at the first one. So you "love" each other. What is Love? (Oh yeah, that's a song title, at best). Anyway, why does everyone in the world have to witness it. If you truly love each other, it would show in your respect for each other, reaction to the other's conversations, body language, etc. You certainly don't have to kiss in public to show the world. For God's sake people, keep your personal life just that ... personal. More than once I have wanted to say to someone "get a room", but they just don't get it. They think they have something to prove to everyone but they are only kidding themselves. I don't get it.

Second one -- I live in a neighborhood in Harrisburg that could be classified as "The Hood". Although it has cleaned up quite a bit, we still have a lot of "low" quality people who like to get outside and scream and yell at each other. They expect everyone wants to hear the latest about how "you didn't get home until midnight", "I'm not your baby's daddy", "what did you spend it on", and so it goes. Can't you keep it inside? My feeling is these people are the same ones that started out in the first group. Instead of being mature and moving on to being able to sit down and talk like adults, they scream for all the neighbors to hear.

What's up with these folks? Now that the nice weather is here and everyone wants to enjoy evenings and weekend's outside, how about taking your personal life someplace PERSONAL!!!

Fat Girls in Bathing Suits

Now, I can't swim. Never learned; never had the desire to learn. I really don't much like the water. When I was a child we spent lots of time in Atlantic City and I loved playing on the beach or in the surf but never went too far out. Swimming pools just weren't heard of except for the super rich; so I wasn't exposed to swimming. By the time I was a teenager and pools were more bountiful, I had developed a real fear of water.

HOWEVER, I do enjoy playing around in a pool, getting wet, and cooling off. I won't go into a creek where there are creepy crawling things. I like to know with whom I am swimming. Also, thanks to an older brother who always wanted to pull me under, I am scared to death of water deeper than my waist.

In the past few years, I've only swam in private pools with my family. I did venture into Montego Bay in Jamaica but the water there is just like a pool.

One of the reasons I don't like to venture out is because I do not have the figure for a bathing suit. However, today I saw one bathing suit at the store I thought I couldn't live without. It was cheap and God knows, I'll probably never wear the damn thing, but I had to have it. And then I got to thinking ... if fat girls are not supposed to wear bathing suits, they why in God's name to they make them in plus sizes. Apparently someone in the fashion industry thinks us chubbies like to swim, too. So in spite of popular demand, I just might break out my new suit this summer. Hope it is warm in June!!!

(Please excuse the writing "Sample" over my pic above; I "stole" it off the Internet.)

Week-End; Who Thought of It???

Now I am one for enjoying my week-ends. I love just being able to laze in bed, read, do as I please, and be my own boss. (And my favorite -- napping) But come Sunday night, all that goes away and we have to once again think about the start of a new work week.

I am wondering who thought up the work calendar. Why do we work five days and have off two.? Why not split it in half; I'd even take work four and have off three. It just doesn't seem fair. Of course folks would then say "how could we get our required 40 hours of work in"? Well, who says we need to work 40 hours. Who made that rule? I'll bet if we were only working a 24 or 30 hours a week, we would have learned to survive on that. Of course there is always the folks who have to work two jobs or work excessive overtime just to get by. I feel sorry for those people. Been there--done that and what does it get you? Bad health, more stress, etc. etc.

Time off is for spending with families, relaxation, and doing things in your own home that get behind when you are "at work". People are always complaining they don't have enough of that time to themselves. If they would try more to live within their means, they would at least have that tiny two-day weekend. But if we ALL rallied, maybe we could change the calendar.

I seriously doubt it, but it is a good thought, right?

MONEY: IS IT WORTH IT?

I guess most of us like money. I suppose we couldn't live without it. Most of us want more and a lot of us don't have enough and the supply and demand for it goes on and on.

Money can do lots of things. Most people feel if they had lots of it, they would be happy. Money can't buy happiness. I've been both happy and unhappy and it never had a price tag. Money cannot buy health. Many rich people have died horrible deaths because they could not buy their way into recovery, treatment, or else they lived with suicide ideation because of their money. Money cannot buy love ... someone may love you because you have money, but true love would last through famine and depressions and many other hard times. Money does buy food, medicine, and the other essentials we need to survive. But I am convinced that a simple life would be just a pleasurable as one with lots of money.

Myself, I don't have much. I have very little to show for my sixty-plus years on the planet. But I have the love and respect of friends and family. I have pretty decent health for my age, and I've travelled and seen a lot in my life. My legacy is my children.

Who says "the one who ends up with the most toys wins"????

Pen or Pencil?? Which is write (right) for you???

I was sitting at my desk today writing with one of my favorite writing instruments ... a 9 mm mechanical pencil. Someone came by and said "Wow, do you really use a pencil?" Well, I do. Not all the time, mind you. I am somewhat of a pen/pencil freak and have about a million pens, pencils, markers, etc. at my disposal. But this incident made me reflect.

Back when I was learning to write, we used thick pencils. You had to turn a wheel on the pencil sharpner to fit your big pencil in, after the teacher used it to sharpen her "adult" pencil. They were messy and you got "lead" all over your finger tips. Of course, penmanship class held a real thrill because you got to use a pen ... not a ball-point but a real live honest-to-God pen, dipped in the ink well. You made ovals to practice and you had to "dip" many times.

The desk itself was something else. It had a hinged top and inside you were supposed to keep your books, papers and supplies. You only got one tablet per six-week marking period and one thick pencil, so you made them last. They were treasures. Of course, you could keep other treasures in your desk also, if you teacher didn't catch you. Above the hinge on the top was a small round hold that held the ink bottle. Of course, teacher didn't keep the bottles there all the time. They were placed and displaced for writing class. Otherwise, the old inkwell trick would come true and Susie's braids would get dipped.

Through most of my school years, I wrote with a pencil. It was required. If you were lucky enough to own a ball-point pen, you kept it to yourself. Pencils were made for erasing and if you made a mistake, a pen would never do. Besides, back in those days your supplies were given to you by the school district. I think my parents got a lot more "bang for their buck" in those days. Now you have to buy everything yourself, and still pay higher than "H" school taxes.

In today's world, a ballpoint pen is like a rubberband. You can find hundreds of them in any given office. It is a very viable means of advertising and the drug companies have handed them out by the millions. Wouldn't that have been a treat for us elementary kiddos in the 50's.

Well, like the title to my Blog, I am sixty (almost 62) so these memories are old, but fond. If you are younger than me, I am really sorry you missed the old ink wells. Those were the days!!!!

A Little Bed Partner

This past weekend while visiting in Baltimore, I had a little (??) bed partner. My granddog, Chai, slept with me for two nights.

I especially like this because I am always cold and she keeps you warm. Her little body generates a lot of heat. However, sometimes she stretches and the "paws of steel" will shove you right off.

She is a good partner as long as you can trick her. First you have to give her her own blanket and pillow, or she will steal your's. Second, if and when you get up for the bathroom, you have to make sure she is sound asleep and then cover her head. That way she won't move into your spot while you are gone.

There is one thing though. American Bulldogs snore. I wonder if you can get c-pap for dogs???

ANOTHER ROAD TRIP

WELL, READERS AND FELLOW BLOGGERS ... I'M OFF ON ANOTHER ROAD TRIP. TOMORROW MORNING I WILL BE HEADING SOUTH TO BALTIMORE TO VISIT MY SON AND SON-IN-LAW AT PRETENTIOUS POOCH. IF YOU GET INTO BALTIMORE AND ARE ANYWHERE NEAR 1017 CATHEDRAL STREET, LOOK ME UP ... I'LL BE THERE ALL DAY TOMORROW.

SUNDAY WE WILL BE HOSTING A BOOTH AND SELLING INDIVIDUALIZED TAGS FOR CATS AND DOGS, FERRETS, CHIPMUNKS, SNAKES, AND ANY OTHER ANIMAL YOU WANT TO TAG AT THE MARYLAND S.P.C.A. WALK OF THE ANIMALS IN DRUID PARK. BRING YOUR CRITTERS AND JOIN US.

I'LL BE BACK IN THE BURG ON MONDAY NIGHT AND MAYBE I'LL BE BETTER EQUIPPED TO BLOG NEXT WEEK.

HEARD THE WEATHER IS TO BE GREAT TOMORROW, BUT CLOUDY SUNDAY. HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND.

MY KIDS; MY LIFE OR HOW DID I GET SO LUCKY

I hear people complain about their kids all the time. "Johnny is living at home. I have his laundry to do. I wish he'd get a job." Suzie got pregnant and leaves me with the baby all the time; I love my grandchild but am sick of being tied down." "Billy got busted for drugs again; I just don't know what I'm going to do." And on and on it goes.

This blog is for my three most favorite people ... Christopher, Kelly Jo and Tom. You are wonderful people. You all a very responsible adults who contribute to society every day. You ask me for nothing, give me everything and I am very proud of you.

I don't like to be too sappy and I'm not going on and on but I need you to know that you are wonderful individuals and I couldn't be a luckier person to know that I have you in my life.

Love ya!!!!!!!

BITCH, BITCH, BITCH!!!

Yes, I agree. Chris is absolutely right. All I've been doing lately is bitching. Today I got into ANOTHER bitch session at work. It seems like gloom and doom have been following me lately and it needs to stop. Everytime I make a promise to myself that I will "be good", something happens to set me off ... and away I go -- bitching. As a matter of fact, when I got back into the office yesterday I sent my one (friendly) co-worker an email with the title "the bitch is back". So you see, I know what I am.

HOWEVER, in my defense, the argument I got into at work did come to some good and I think I won this "round". But it is ashame that I had to start a bitch session to get somewhere. I mentioned in a previous blog about people who are lazy and not dedicated to their job. I am fortunate enough to belong to the "old school" group who gives a shit about what I do to earn my paycheck. I got in trouble this morning for just doing my job.

I have to admit that some of the comments made really hurt me (and I am not a person that is easily hurt). I usually can walk away. I have the ability to sit or stand right next to a person I don't want to talk to without even seeing them there. Even though I may be burning inside, no one will know it. (Yes, I've done it.) But lately it seems I've been wearing my "heart on my sleeve" and that isn't a good characteristic for me. I don't like it.

I guess I will remember my old philosophy. You do not go to work to make friends. Your purpose there is to earn your living and you do it the best you can. Doing that job may sometimes step on toes or make people mad at you, but the bottom line (if you want to keep your job these days) is C.Y.A. at all times. I guess I forgot how to do that and still keep people thinking you like them. After all, whenever I never socialized with workers and kept my personal life and my work life separated, I got along better. Won't be letting my guard down again...I trusted coworkers and thought they were friends, and I got hurt in the process.

I'm sorry I've been so bitchy lately, Chris. I really do not care what people think of me. At the end of the day when you look in the mirror you only see yourself; and that is the person you have to take care of.

The only important people in my life are my family and I apologize that my actions have been rough on them

And I still don't like driving in the rain!!!!!

Thank God I'm Home

Let me tell you, folks. I went away for Easter -- as mentioned in my previous Blog -- and I did get to see family and have a good time. However ... let me tell you, I drove most of the time in the rain. Saturday morning I drove from Harrisburg to Baltimore in the driving rain. Was really exhausted when I got there but had a little break.

Later that same afternoon, I had to get back behind the wheel to go from Baltimore to Philadelphia to visit my sister and her family. This occurred after picking up my daughter at BWI in the driving rain, going to lunch in the rain, etc. etc. Well, we got into Phila. late afternoon and the sun tried to come out off and on. Easter Sunday was sunny but very cool and windy so no one wanted to venture outside then, either. Monday morning we travelled back to Baltimore and it was once again sunny and cold. We spent time in Baltimore touring Fells Point and ate out in the wind.

Once my daughter got on the airplane it was rush hour, so my son suggested I wait until after dinner to drive back to Harrisburg. At this point I was very tired and wished I lived about a mile away. Coming out of the restaurant from dinner -- you guessed it -- it was raining and Nancy had to get behind the wheel in the rain once again. I arrived in Harrisburg a little after 9:00 pm -- exhausted! Bed seemed like heaven. I also know tonight will be an early one.

I had a good time but guess what ... Saturday I get to drive to Baltimore once again and I sure hope it doesn't rain.

Hope everyone had a happy Easter.

ROAD TRIP

Well, folks, this will be my last blog for the weekend. I am heading out on a small "road trip" tomorrow. Me and the Suzuki are heading to BWI to pick up my daughter and then going up 95 to Philadelphia to visit my sister. (seems airfare is cheaper, coming in that direction). Then on Monday morning we are heading back down 95 to spend the day with Chris and Tom (and Chai, maybe). I am hoping for good weather the whole time. Even with new tires, I do not like to drive in the rain!!

Oh, and a happy birthday to son-in-law Tom, who is the big 38 today. I wish him many more. It looks like he had a great cake and I love cake!!!

Hope everyone has a safe and blessed holiday weekend. See you next week.

A HONEY BUNNY

Well, for today I am keeping this Blog short. Two a day is becoming too much when I get lengthy and so I need to shorten things. Besides, I am not sure anyone reads this s ---(JUNK) anyway. But I do truly enjoy writing it.

I must apologize for my attitude yesterday. I wasn't in the mood to share anything ... I had a bad day, which we all do sometimes, and just couldn't get my act together.

It has occurred to me that today is Thursday. This is the day my Grand-doggie, Chai, goes to daycare at Good Doggie Daycare. I sure hope they had a little Easter parade today. See her picture above. Doesn't she make a "honey bunny". (However, the picture is attitude because she HATES things on her head.) Hope she found all the eggs; I know she's a good hunter!!!

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Happy Easter. (Or Blessed Passover, if you are Jewish). The spring holiday is a time of new beginnings. The grass is starting to get green, trees are blooming, bunnies are being born, chicks are hatching, etc.

This is a good time, as any, to wish each and everyone reading my Blog a wonderful Spring. I am hoping to get to see all my family this weekend. What a joy it will be to have my daughter, son and son-in-law together again ... just like Christmas. Call me corny, but that is the greatest joy of my life.

Oh, yeah ... and I hope you get some of those gummy peeps and rabbits in your basket. They are so famous and come in really neat colors now. But, remember they are ALL SUGAR, so eat sparingly. HOPPY EASTER!!!!!

TOO TIRED TO WRITE BLOGS

No postings today, folks. I am tired, not in the mood and have nothing to say. Catch you all later.

TOO POOR TO PAY ATTENTION???

You know one of my favorite "Maxine" cartoons is the one where she says "There is no vaccine against stupidity." One of my co-workers and I had a conversation the other day about stupid vs. lazy. Her opinion was that a person that is honest-to-God stupid can be tolerated. What can't be tolerated is someone that is too "lazy" to do a good job. Giving thought to her opinion has made me realize she has a good point.

One person in my office drives me crazy with her constant "stupid" mistakes. I finally stepped back and realized that she likes to gossip, goof off, and have fun. Therefore, she is not stupid; she really just hurries through her assignments so she can get back to her office mates and play.
Another pet peeve of mine is the telephone. Now I am on the phone about 75% of most days. Don't you love it when someone calls you for information -- you get ready to give it to them -- and the first words out of their mouth is "wait until I get a pen and paper." Now, if they CALLED YOU, shouldn't they have been ready??? I keep a pen in my hand and paper by my phone all day long.

How about when you have to repeat everything you say. Business professionalism dictates that we can't just say "I already told you that a minute ago", but wouldn't you just love to say that sometime.

I think the thing that amazes me is the lack of work ethics. I know I am "old-school" and today anything goes. But, damn -- people need to get a grip. I am sure they pay attention when they get short-changed on the paycheck they barely earned.

WHICH SHOES SHOULD I WEAR (or what is appropriate)???

Well, since we had the discussion about the shoes of the Holocaust, I decided to write another shoe blog.

I work in a hospital. Now-a-days most health care professionals wear either clogs or sneakers. They look nice. They aren't as professional as their white oxford predecessors, but they are OK. However, the nurses in my particular office are allowed to wear street clothes with lab jackets over-top, so the shoes can be anything from spike high-heels to sneakers. We are not allowed sandals and flip-flops for the obvious reason. And -- now you see a lot of Croc's (fake Croc's) and as much as I am a fan of them around the house, wearing them out in public should be banned.

Now I have to clue you in on a conversation I overheard today in my office. Two nurses and a social worker were discussing their "foot" issues. Apparently with today's fashion nonsense, the health of our feet is the last thing we think about. Therefore, foot doctors and shoe manufacturers are making all the money. One particular person is presently undergoing a CAT scan to see what her foot problem is. She said her doctor told her to wear her sneakers because she has a stress fracture and the tight lacing would support her foot. Her response to her co-workers about this was "...well, it isn't very fashionable, but I'll have to do it for now..." What is wrong with sneakers? They cost more than just about any shoe out there if you buy a decent pair, they can be washed in the washing machine which certainly makes them more hygienic, they come in so many colors and styles that you can wear them anywhere. Yes -- even to church because I'm sure God doesn't care -- his Son wore strapy sandals if I recall.

Anyway, wear those sneakers, wear those Doc's, wear those clunky oxfords, wear those spike-high heels if you so desire. Even wear your Croc's (at home); but don't be ashamed.

I would be more upset if I couldn't afford shoes for my feet. (Oh yeah, and don't forget washing or polishing ... nothing takes away from appearance any worse than sloppy feet.)

SHOULD WE "LABEL" PEOPLE???

I grew up in the 50's and 60's. We didn't know what PC (politically correct) was back then. We called a spade a spade and that was it. If you saw a black person, they were a Negro, a red-skin was an Indian, and so on. We meant no harm; we just didn't know any better. We called Asian people "orientals" and I suppose made a lot of other mistakes.

In today's society, we have to be very careful. If we label a person or a thing with the wrong name, we could be sued, ostracized, or worse (even with the best intentions).

So, how come now-a-days everyone everywhere has to wear some type of ID that gives out their most personal possession ... their name. Also listed on that badge could be their employee number, their department, their title, the location, etc. Of course the employer is always listed so stalkers know right where to find them.

Badges can be misleading. My personal badge lists my Department which is Outcomes Management. I've already had the darn thing on in retail stores and people walk up to me because they want to talk to a manager. Damn if I know anything about retail. My title is "Payor Specialist". People just assume they can tell me about how their hospital bill didn't get paid and what can I do about it. My job has nothing to do with billing and I don't know a debit from a credit.

ID tags are for people and things that get lost. We put them on children to go off to Kindergarten. My children both wore Red Roosters so they could get on the correct bus to arrived home. We could put them on older senile people who wander so the police could get them back home. Diabetics and other ill people should wear a tag so they can get proper medical treatment in the case of an emergency. Of course we put ID tags on our animals because we want those well-loved pets returned from one of their trips out of the yard.

BUT why do we have to label people? I suppose since 9-11 it has become necessary to make sure you belong where you are employed. And of course, don't forget the photo ID, even though some people can change their hair color and looks on a daily basis.

I don't mind wearing my ID at work because it is required of me. But when I get off the clock, hopefully I will remember to unclip it because I don't think the world needs to know what I've been up to for the past eight hours.

Speaking of tags, please read my prior post ... we will be selling ID tags for dogs soon!!!!!

A PLUG FOR PRETENTIOUS POOCH

This blog is a plug for my son and son-in-law's pet boutique in Baltimore, Maryland. If you have a pooch and live within the driving distance of this city, I would ask you to please stop by and take

a look at their shop. It is a charming little location on Cathedral Street in heart heart of the Mt. Vernon District, just a few doors up from the City Cafe.

Their wares include all kinds of collars and leashes to match from a cheap little ribbon-type up to the most expensive leather, crystal or metal trim your pooch desires. They also carry a couple tiara's for that pooch that just has to be queen for the day.

Add on some really neat raincoats, sweaters, winter jackets, and t-shirts, not to forget birthday party packets,

original Xmas ornaments, books, and many other miscellaneous items too numerous to mention.

When it comes to food items, the well-loved dog can come out with all kinds of speciality foods, gourmet treats (many home made) or perhaps some bagged sweet-potato treats. They also custom-make pooch birthday cakes. Holistic foods and supplements are also featured.

The store also features a very unique shopping experience. Items are not displayed on peg boards and hanging on hooks. You will find everything displayed in reproduction antique amories, tables, and stands. You will be greeted by the store cat, Schnutzer, and if it isn't a Thursday, you might also get to meet the store mascot, Chai, who is an American Bulldog and also famous for being MY GRAND-DOG. You will see a crystal chandelier, a bakery case with goodies, and a very unique paint job.

Also joining the collection is all up-scale brands of grooming products to keep FIDO looking his best and feeling clean and comfortable. You'll also find a small selection of cat toys, which certainly keep Schnutzer happy.

Another item is unique dog and cat dishes and feeding mats, dog beds, dog carriers, cat collars, and personal ID tags.

If you cannot make it to Baltimore, please visit their web store at http://www.pretentiouspooch.com/ and check out the supply (and make a purchase or two).

I sometimes am in the store also, and will be assisting Chris and Tom at the Annual Walk of the Animals, to benefit the Maryland SPCA on April 19th. We will have a booth there and will be custom engraving tags so stop by and visit. Chai will be looking for you!!!!!

Is Schnutties a bad boy??

Like I've said in prior posts, I have three cats at my house and I also have several grand-kitties. You've already met Miss Jane from Boston. On this post let me introduce you to "The Schnutzer". He is the shop cat at Pretentious Pooch in Baltimore.

He came as an adopted baby kitten...a little gray and white bundle of fur. His adoption was brought on by some mice that had mysteriously appeared in the store and his job was to be the mouser. He was presented to them as a "she", which my son thought was good because mother (female) cats make better mousers. Upon visiting the next weekend, I had to inform them that Schnutzer was indeed a male.

He got to stay and his name got reduced to Schnutties. He is very cute and I would love to have him if I could have another cat. (out of the question!) He is definitely what is known in our family as a "Strisha" cat -- one with their own agenda that is strong willed and doesn't do what they are told. In my opinion, this is the neatest cat.

Now Chai, the grand-dog, doesn't really like sharing the attention with Schnutties, and growls occasionally but I don't think she would hurt him. I've heard it rumored that they nap together in the store window.

My son says he is bad. He isn't bad. He just has a strong personality and I think he likes to challenge Chris as often as he can. Cats are very smart. They know your next move and they are always one step ahead of you. That is why they can be so annoying. The real person you are mad at is yourself, because you can't fool "that damn cat".

Secretly, I think Chris really likes Schnutties and I think he will be around PP for a long time. If not, Grammie will make room for him, somehow. Isn't he cute????

PS--He ain't never caught a mouse ... but there are no mice in the store so I guess he's doing his job.

TALKING IN THE MOVIES????

Last evening a friend and I went to see "The Reader". It is an excellent movie and I highly recommend it (be aware though, there is full frontal nudity). Anyway, the story was quite dramatic, taking place in Nazi-ridden Germany.

There was a couple sitting behind us that was about 40ish. They talked through the whole movie. She was asking questions or assuming the next line ... anything to be annoying. Now, when the concentration camps scene came up and they showed the bunks, the showers, and the shoes, this woman kept saying "Oh My God"...over and over.

Here is my opinion. The price you pay for a movie - whether in a cheap or an expensive theater is for a "night out". If you wanted to talk, surely you would stay home. If you needed to ask questions and make comments, you would wait for the DVD and watch it in your own living room, thereby not annoying others.

Teenagers talk in movies. You have to watch the ratings because on a Friday night, a PG-13 movie is not the place to be if you like quiet. We've learned that. But on a Saturday at an R movie, a 40ish woman should know better. I finally had to turn to my friend and say in a rather loud tone "I wish she would shut the H___ up!" Upon hearing me, she took the advice.

The other thing I would like to ponder on is this. How did she get to that age and was unaware of the horrors of the camps? Did she get that age and never see the showers, hear about all the shoes, etc. ? There is no excuse for this but if I was so dumb, I'd visit a place called "The Holocaust Museum" in Washington and educate myself. Everyone should be aware of that horror. Her ignorance was even more disgusting that the talking.

Just my opinion ... take it or leave it!

Three Little Kitties

I have three cats. They are my constant companions and I sure do enjoy them. People who live alone will tell you that there isn't anything nicer than having someone greet you at the door when you come home. You actually look foward to it.

Well, theses days I am greeted by three little faces when I get in. Mittens, the old fat girl, is 11 and very skittish. She came from "the Ranch" in York Haven and is a gray cat that had a wild mother who teamed up with a polydactyl male; and therefore Mittens's name follows her big paws. Next is a little yellow and white boy named Minxie. He is 13 and came from a farm in Perry County and is a Manx (no tail). He has this little stub on his rear end. He is a very sweet boy -- a small cat with a heart of gold. He is my bed mate.

The third variety is a black and white tuxedo that came from the streets of Scranton, named Trisha Jayne. She is approximately 7 and is a little monster. She is a smaller cat, but a bad one. She is into everything and very vocal. She has a motor that constantly runs and is always one step away from where I am, checking what I am up to.

Yes, it is nice to have companions and these three are the best.

Like Sands Through the Hourglass...

...these are the days of our lives.

Do you remember when you were a kid and the summer seemed to go on forever. It was one day after another of play and fun. Many serious forts built, bicycle rides, doll babies, playing house, etc. By the time September rolled around, even though you complained, you were ready to go back to the classroom.

It was like that for Christmas vacation, Spring break, heck - even the weekends. Older folks told you to enjoy it, because when you got older, time went a lot faster.

Well, now I am old. And yes time does go faster. The older I get the faster it goes. Why do you supposed that is? A minute is still 60 seconds, an hour 60 minutes, a week still 7 days and those still only come in the 24-hour variety. I wonder if, as you get older, someone comes in and slips a little less time into each of those elements without your permission?

How is it that ten years ago (in my party days), I thought a weekend went on forever? It was drinking and dancing and hanging out with friends. Now that I am sixty, it seems that I come home on Friday night, and turn around three times and go back to work on Monday.

Just yesterday I was on Christmas vacation (the fabulous, germy one in WV) with my family. Now all of a sudden, I'm counting down the days to visit my sister at Easter. Someone came in my life and took a lot of time away from me when I wasn't looking??

What do you think the answer is???

THE BUSIEST DAY OF MY LIFE

Everyone loves Friday. At the end of the work day it means we have two glorious days all to ourselves to do what we want (well for most people). Sunday evening most folks start to dread Monday and that first day back at work. On Monday people are crabby, sluggish, and just want to get through the day. The rest of the week is down-hill.

Well, did you know that Tuesdays in Baltimore are more famous than Monday. It is well-known at Pretentious Pooch as "the busiest day of my life". My son and his partner own that little pooch boutique and their weekend is Sunday and Monday. That makes Tuesday, Monday, and so on. Please don't bother Chris on Tuesday. I've found out that if I call down there on that day, unless I am bleeding to death and on my way to the casket, DON'T CALL. Even the dog, who is tired out from being in Day Care all day Monday, knows better than to ask for any special treatment on that day.

Now we all know that if we take a couple days away from the work place, the first day back is usually the make-up-for-lost-time day. I try to respect the Famous Tuesday in Baltimore. I do wonder if, being a working mother, I got Monday's off from bothersome children?

Oh well, we all have our little peeves, and I've learned that at the top of Chris' list is Tuesday.

Chris in his "old" office before famous Tuesday

WHAT DOES ABC STAND FOR??

PUZZLED BY ACRONYMS???

ABC (always be cool) -- or AFA (a friend always) -- SWAK (sealed with a kiss) -- these are some of the oldies, but goodies.

Did you very really stop and think about how this world has become a victim of acronyms? Yeah, kids ... you didn't invent them for the texting world. They've always been around. For example, the medical profession uses them quite extensively. You might think you had a heart attack, but your doc will write AMI. A stroke, he'll write CVA or maybe TIA. What about ACS,CAD, CHF, COPD, an on and on and on. Oh, and the latest one PCOS (polycystic ovary disease).

Well, now there is LOL (laugh on line), OMG (Oh My God), WTF (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday ... no wait that's not right, isn't it What The ?????). If you are really into learning all these crazy letters, a good website is Acronym Attic. http://www.acronymattic.com/

Well, if I was a cat I'd say MEOW (Milk Everyday Or War); or a dog might say WOOF (We Only Offer Farts).

For myself, I think I will keep the old ABC and Always Be COOL (Crazy Ornery Old Lady).

LOL !!!

MY ATTEMPT AT POETRY

SHOULD A GIRL WEAR A MAN'S HAT?

SHOULD A MAN WEAR WOMEN'S CLOTHES?

SHOULD A DOG WEAR A DIAMOND COLLAR?

SHOULD WOMEN WEAR RINGS ON THEIR TOES?

IS THERE ANY RULES SET

AS TO THE PROPER WAY TO DRESS?

AND DOES IT REALLY MATTER??

IT'S UP TO YOU, I GUESS!!

LOL

(credits: girl in hat: my daughter Kelly Jo; man in dress: my friend Carl; dog in collar: Chai; and toe ring pic courtesy of the Internet)

ARE TATOOS A SIN???

I was playing around on the Internet and found an article entitled "Are Tattoos a Sin"? It seems that they are. Our good old friend Leviticus seems to think so (19:28). Of course Leviticus doesn't like much of anything. If we took his advice, we would be wearing our hair down to our ankles, not bathing, having quite a different diet, 20,000 kids, etc. etc. Times have changed!!

And, of course, man has interpreted the Bible so many times in so many different ways that I'm sure we could find the actual reading of it a sin if we look hard enough.

I have a tattoo. It is on my left ankle and it is a tattoo of my cat, Trisha Jayne. It was custom done in Rehoboth Beach. It is a black and white cat with white paws, green eyes and a pink nose. If you know Trisha, you will recognize her in the cartoon form. I had it put on my ankle so she could peek out of my sock. I love it. (and by the way, I didn't have it done until I was in my 50's)

Now I guess tattoos can be dangerous. You could go to a "back door parlor (or one at a carnival) and get HIV...but if you are smart enough to go to a very clean place with a fine reputation. that isn't going to happen. Some people say the ink gives you blood poison ... did you ever see bikers? They seem fine and healthy to me. Some people say you could get an infection. Hell, you can get an infection if you slice your hand peeling potatoes -- if you don't clean and take care of it properly. Some people say tattoos are too expensive. That they are. Probably if my own wasn't a present from a very good friend, I'd have never put out the bucks it cost. But I still love it and think it is worth every cent David paid.

Now tattoos are a sin!! Well, if I am going to Hell for this little kitty, I sure hope God has a longer list of worse things I've done in my life that get a little ink on my skin.

LIVE DANGEROUSLY -- GO GET ONE!!!

REAL MEN DON'T HURT PUPPIES

Michael Vick makes me sick. I open up my computer this afternoon and his mug is the first one I see on the daily news. Now he is being praised for taking a $10/hour construction job when he gets out of jail. The man who offered it to him (because no one else would hire him), says "he is not a bad person; just made some bad choices." Well ha! ha! -- Bad choices make a bad person. Sure people can repent but I doubt they change. They say he deserves a second chance. What about all those puppies? Where is their second chance. Oh, that's right ... they were just animals. I'm starting to think the only species that acts live an animal is man.

Michael Vick isn't taking this job out of the goodness of his heart. Even his lawyer states "his bankruptcy plan is based on the goal of returning to professional football." Now there is the truth. He thinks if he does some "good" for awhile at a position hundreds of people would kill for, they will reward him with another multi-million dollar contract. Did he hit himself in the head a few too many times???

All I have to say is if professional football welcomes him back, shame on them!!!!!

PS--The opinions in this Blog are the opinion of me (Nancy) and me alone. No one else's opinion matters to me!!!! (so please don't give me your's)

Hey, a Grand Kitty!

My last blog about Forgiveness was really long. This one is going to be short (and sweet). See the picture above. It is my Grand Kitty. Her name is Jane and she lives with her mommy in Jamaica Plain, near Boston. She is an old kitty, 13, and her mommy says she is cranky.

PS - I have three more grand kitties in Baltimore which I'll tell you about another time.

Well, Miss Jane, I don't know how they figure cat years - but I do know that we are probably chronologically the same age and I get cranky too. It is not only allowed, but expected, in your old age.

Sleep on sweet baby and be as cranky as you want. I'll see you in June!!!

WHAT IS TRUE FORGIVENESS...IS IT POSSIBLE?

What is forgiveness? I don't mean the kind where you say you are sorry; but then bring up the wrong every chance you get. I mean the true God-given forgiveness that we are taught about as children in Sunday School. Is any human capable of true forgiveness or is it a little like agape love -- coming only from God?

I ponder this because I've been wronged many times in my past, as I am sure many of you have been. I was wronged and wronged over and over again by certain people and many times I thought I had forgiven. But along comes the next time and the human mind seems to be able to dig up those old wounds and because they weren't properly healed, the scar goes deeper.

Now we all know that if you rip off the scab, the wound never properly heals. That is just common sense. I often yell at my son because he is a scab picker -- as many people are (me included but don't tell him). Anyway, back to the story ... if someone wrongs us, even in the most tiny fashion, and we can't keep that scab on that wound, then it cannot be true forgiveness.

I have always maintained that you cannot forgive without forgetting. I thought I was smug and could do that. I even preached it. I now know (BEING 60, YOU KNOW) that absolute forgiveness takes a very special person. And I am not that person.

If a drunk driver killed your only child, could you forgive him? If a angry neighbor beat your dog to death for no good reason, could you forgive him. If your husband cheated; if your best friend lied, if your co-worker used you to advance, etc., etc., could you forgive them?

I do think it is probably easier to forgive our immediate family members but that is because we want them to stay by our side. I truly believe that a mother's love is the closest to agape love that is humanly possible. I think that is because you carried that child for 40 weeks next to your heart. But certainly no all Mothers feel that way (mine didn't, I don't think); and there is nothing to say a Father can't have that kind of love. But in the natural order of things, usually it is flesh of my flesh, etc. ANYWAY, I got off of the subject.

I hear people say all the time "Life is too short for this; life is too short for that, blah blah." Is life too short to hold grudges? Maybe and maybe not but we ALL do it. In my sixty years I haven't met that perfect person yet. We can pray for God's forgiveness on us, but that is not the same thing. Can we forget?

There is one thing certain that is without a doubt. As long as the human mind has a decent memory, no one will completely forget any wrong. And like that old scar from where you picked that scab, it will remain and remind you that once there was an infection there.

I can't do it. I thought I could but I was wrong. I am being honest. I want friends and I like being around people. But I've learned that no matter how much history two people have between them, sometimes it isn't worth the effort.

Remember...the definition of insanity is "Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result." I don't want to be tagged insane, so I'll admit. I am human...and to err is human; to forgive Divine.