Life in Color

Idea-less

2012-02-09T08:15:00.000-05:00

After pondering yesterday's post concerning the absence of words I have decided that words aren't the real problem after all. It's ideas. Creativity, or lack thereof. When an idea clicks the words follow.

It seems I am idea-less. A word I'm certain you will not find in Webster's. Perhaps the prepositions had a party inviting all manner of useless information who danced and drank the night away leaving behind a mess that no one has had the good sense to clean up. It must have been a doozy too, since my creativity has locked itself in its room and refuses to come out.

It's tough being a blogger. Even one with 11 followers.

And on a totally unrelated note I will be MIA for a few days. Check back early next week. Hopefully by then the prepositions will have come out of their stupor and cleaned up the mess.

I Hate It When That Happens

2012-02-08T07:47:00.000-05:00

I do. I really do. I hate it when the words won't come. When they play hide and seek with me in the dark. I hear their laughter. Low chuckles of amusement quickly stifled so as not to give away their hiding places. And there they remain ... out of reach. Inky shadows of what could be if only they would reveal themselves.

Maybe tomorrow. Perhaps then they will tire of their silly games. Emerge from the shadows. Jump up and down and wave their stubby little arms yelling pick me, pick me.

Until then a picture will just have to do.

After all, it's worth a thousand words.

What I Want To Know

2012-02-07T07:03:00.002-05:00

I found the following on my morning tour of the web. I could have written it. (That is if I could string words together with such beauty and grace.) I wish I had written it. Instead I'll share it.

what i want to know is

is it okay that i'm not trying to change the world?

that most days i'm content just to change my pajamas

and that most months, most years

i consider myself lucky to have made it this far

because it's all so damn complicated
and
is it okay that all i really have are questions
all i've ever had are questions and that i get sick
and tired of hearing all those answers being shouted
from other people's rooftops when i know they are
in just as much danger of slipping off as i am
and
is it okay that some nights i can't sleep
because the walls can't hold all the things
in my heart and my hands scribble scrabble
in a vain attempt to clean up all my messes,
knitting words that never see the light of day
and
is it okay that i don't need to be fixed
because surely i'm not broken, i've seen broken
and my soul is nobody's business but my own
in fact it's whole and beautiful even if it is
lined with purple shadows of doubt
and
is it okay that some nights i just want to sit
by the fire with a book in my hands
that takes me anywhere but here and it's not
because i need to escape my life
it's just that some days i'm tired
i just don't feel like changing the world,
some days i just want to be in it
feeling it squish between my toes
and dragging me down down down
before i float away?

~ Kelly Letky
that's mrs. mediocrity to you

Follow Me

2012-02-05T08:17:00.002-05:00

Follow Me

Vegas Headliner

2012-02-04T08:11:00.000-05:00

Yesterday at lunch I was asked to recite that pesky list of prepositions. There was doubt in the rank and file. Naysayers among friends. They were a tough crowd too. The kind that know you well enough to egg you on in public. I'm almost certain they were hoping I would fail and humiliate myself with my bold proclamation, thus providing them with an anecdote of embarrassment to trot out at future gatherings. I really thought this group had higher standards. Apparently I was wrong. You will however, be pleased to know that I did not disappoint. The sweet little list of forty perky preps flowed forth from lips like manna from heaven and the cheers and applause that followed was nothing short of inspiring. So much so that I'm thinking about taking this show on the road.

Look out Donnie and Marie.... Vegas here I come.

Impressive Yet Useless

2012-02-03T08:55:00.002-05:00

Spurred on by Chokoolonks (one of the ever increasing number of blogs I read on a daily basis. If this keeps up I'll do nothing more with my days than read what everyone else in the universe is writing and never get to writing my own.), who blogged the other morning about the useless things she knew or could do. Soon my feeble brain was off and running. I was certain my list would be long. Filled with a myriad of knowledge and skills that serve no purpose. I was wrong. I could only come up with three. But three is blog worthy and you know me, I have to share.

Did you know that I can recite a list of every preposition known to mankind. Or at least the list that was known to mankind when I was 11 and forced to memorize it. Did my 5th grade teacher actually believe that knowing every single preposition known to man would somehow make my life better? Pull that tidbit out at a cocktail party and see where it gets you. Valuable brain cells have been wasted with forty prepositions that can be spouted on command in alphabetical order. No wonder I can't remember what I had for dinner last night those darn prepositions are in the way.

I also know all of the words to the theme song from Mr. Ed. A horse is a horse of course of course and no one can talk to a horse of course, that is of course, unless the horse is the famous Mr. Ed. Go right to the source and ask the horse, he'll give you the answer that you'll endorse, he's always on a steady course, talk to Mr. Ed. Go ahead, Google it. I dare you.

36-24-36-16. No those aren't my measurements. It is the combination to my high school gym locker. Information that could be classified as useful if said lock could be located and wasn't consumed by rust and decay after 40 plus years in a landfill somewhere in western Pennsylvania.

I'm certain there are more. The Kid is always rolling his eyes in his "who cares" fashion when I spout these bits of useless trivia. But I can't seem to locate them in my head. It's the prepositions. I'm sure of it.

A Penny for Your Thoughts

2012-02-02T08:36:00.002-05:00

Do you pick up lost pennies? Or found pennies... because in truth once you notice them they really aren't lost anymore. That is unless you continue on your way too busy or too jaded to stop and pick them up. In that case is the penny still lost or is it found but rejected? An insult that compounds the sad plight of the penny even further.

Me, I'm a penny picker upper. Once I catch a glimpse of that little copper disc I am compelled to stop, stoop and pocket. I've been known to dig them out of the dirt and scoop them out of muddy puddles. Oh I've tried to ignore them. Walk on. Mind my business. But I can't do it. Something inside me disengages stopping all forward progress. "Find a penny pick it up all the day you'll have good luck" begins playing in my head, repeating itself in an annoying fashion until I give in. I turn. I stop. I stoop. I pocket.

I know pennies don't bring me good luck. I know because I've paid attention. Someone once told me they have to be heads up for luck. I know this is not true either. I know because I've paid attention. I've picked up pennies at little league ball games. I've rubbed them back to greatness hoping for one more hit. And still the game was lost. It matters not whether heads or tails; the luck thing is bogus. A cruel joke played on a gullible world by a simple minded soul. I know and yet I stop. I stoop. I pocket.

I look at it this way. I have not only saved the life of the little lost penny but perhaps my own. That is if one considers every stop, stoop and pocket as a squat. If I pick up twenty lost coins that equals twenty squats towards a healthier me. Five hundred might be enough to firm thighs fit enough for swimsuit season. If this idea catches on it could conceivably put health clubs out of business.

Not to be overshadowed by fitness is the purchase power of lost pennies. If I collect fifty I can score a senior coffee at Mickey D's. And just think of the possibilites of one hundred lost pennies at the dollar store. Why if I pocketed enough lost copper I could purchase a weeks worth of groceries at the local Publix and get into shape all at the same time.

Find a penny pick it up all the day you'll have.......a lot of loose pennies in your pocket.

A Life Confined

2012-01-31T09:28:00.001-05:00

She arrives tonight. A welcome break from the day to day of a life confined. Four walls, a ceiling, two doors, one window....and the hope that someone might stop by and relieve the boredom.

Eyes and ears clouded by age strain to catch a glimpse of the lives living beyond the walls. Those lives now the focus of a shrunken world, intwined in ways no one dared imagine. Spoken words are often tinged with anger and frustration, a last gasp at Independence in a world of dependency.

She arrives tonight. A welcome break in a life confined. Two new ceilings, eight new walls, three new doors, many new windows. New lives to watch and focus upon. Words will soften from the warmth of the Florida sun until complacency sets in. With that comes the realization that nothing has really changed.

She arrives tonight. A welcome break in a life confined.

One Month, Four Weeks, Thirty One Days

2012-01-30T06:00:00.016-05:00

We are approaching the completion of one month of healthier living. Four weeks of sensible choices. Thirty one days of eating with intent, walking with a purpose. How's that working out you ask? I would have to answer okay. Not great. Not wonderful. Not exciting. But okay.

Do I feel better? Yes. Definitely better.

Have I lost weight? Yes. Not a lot but the wardrobe has expanded as the waistline slowly shrinks.

Is it easy? No.

Do I get frustrated? Yes.

I have to keep reminding myself that this is a life style change. A marathon of living better not a three week sprint with a hot fudge sundae waiting at the finish line.

It is about intention. And choice.

As January draws to a close and February looms on the horizon with its twenty nine days of unique challenges, I choose to continue.

I choose to be intentional about the food I eat.

I choose to be healthier.

(Check back at the end of February to see if my resolve holds up under pressure.)

Doubly Exposed

2012-01-29T06:00:00.004-05:00

Relax, take a walk, grab a nap. Whatever you do today, make the most of it.

Tangled Threads

2012-01-28T06:00:00.005-05:00

My mind is never still. Never quiet. Never at rest. It is a slide show of thoughts and images clicking through the carousel in overdrive. Some so fleeting they can't be recalled. All connected by a thin silk thread that tangles and knots making it impossible to sort it all out.

Fleeting Thoughts

Sometimes I play a game with myself. Follow the thread, pick at the knots. A vain attempt to untangle the mess and slow it all down. It never works. Before long a new thought hitches a ride on the frayed strand leaving me frustrated at the lack of control I have over my own mind.

Occasionally one of the more notable notions will circle back around, perform a giant loopty loop before diving back into oblivion. Those are the ones I wish I could capture. Grab the dangling thread and hang on. File it in the recall bin before the carousel moves on to the next slide.

Unfortunately my mind doesn't work that way. I could cut the thread and start over; or better yet just relax and enjoy the ride. Some days that's easier said than done.

Feeding Time

2012-01-26T17:21:00.001-05:00

This morning I was gifted with the opportunity to get up close and personal with this feeding sea gull.

I love surprises.

The State of Our Union

2012-01-25T11:31:00.005-05:00

In keeping with the national policy that requires the President to report on the "state of the Union" each January, I thought it a good time to review the state of "our union."

Welfare Reform: I am happy to report that the welfare roll has been wiped clean. All former welfare recipients are now gainfully employed with little welfare recipients of their own.

Health Care: As long as we don't forget to write the check each month health care is provided.

Domestic Spending: The budget is currently balanced. Domestic spending is down due to a decrease in revenue, an unfortunate and unavoidable by-product of retirement. Chicos misses me.

Space Program: The space program could benefit from an additional revenue stream. The cottage needs a bigger bedroom.

Homeland Security: Henna assures us that everything is under control. In the event of an attack all intruders shall be licked to death.

Transportation: Let's not go there. I'm still bitter about the sale of my car.

Foreign Aid: All aid, foreign or otherwise, will be accepted just as soon as we set up that off-shore account.

Armed Forces: The fleet is aging. The southern vessel could benefit from a major overhaul or better yet, permanent retirement. As long as she floats she'll do. See domestic spending.

Domestic Relations: This department has been renamed. It is now referred to as the "Adjustment Bureau."

Foreign Affairs: Under no circumstance will foreign affairs be tolerated. Any such act would effectively dissolve said union.

The Trash Man Commeth

2012-01-24T08:09:00.001-05:00

It starts with a low, distant rumble, followed by squealing breaks, grinding gears, and the roar of a diesel engine coming to a screeching stop just outside my bedroom window. It is Monday. The trash man commeth.

It is also 5:30 a.m. and I am wide awake in the dark awaiting the sound of what I know will follow. Trash cans being lifted high into the air on mechanical arms that screech and groan in protest of the early hour. The discarded remnants of life rattle and clang their way into the hopper. Empty cans are slammed onto the pavement and the behemoth inches its way down the street hell bent on disrupting the dreams of the unsuspecting.

This scene is repeated without fail twice a week. On Thursday there are three trucks. Their arrival on the island timed with the precision of a swiss watch. Perfectly synchronized to insure that anyone who might have had the audacity to fall back to sleep after the first go round will not go unpunished.

It is evil. The work of a disgruntled sanitation engineer seeking revenge on the masses.

I'm not certain what to do about it. But I'm going to give it a lot of thought. On Monday and Thursday mornings. At 5:30 a.m. In the dark. With the aroma of deisel fuel wafting through house and the sound of breaking glass shattering my dreams.

Out of the Archives

2012-01-23T06:00:00.002-05:00

Every once in awhile I sift through the thousands of photos that reside on my hard drives. I am always amazed at the nuggets I find there.

Enchanted Forest

For whatever reason these images were passed over at the time they were taken; left for dead and buried deep within the archives.

Blue and Green

They have been waiting for a second look, a second chance at life.

Red Sky at Night

Everyone deserves a second chance. Don't you agree?

Breaking Dawn

2012-01-22T06:00:00.004-05:00

You know what they say, "the early bird gets the worm."

The Lens In My Head

2012-01-21T07:19:00.001-05:00

So I lied. Things aren't much clearer today than they were yesterday.

As a photographer I am granted permission to view the world through the lens in my head as well as the one in my hand. It makes life much more interesting.

Beach Glass

2012-01-20T06:00:00.024-05:00

Abstracts do it or me in so many ways. They draw me in and won't let go.

If you are one of the ones who doesn't get it might I suggest:

Open your mind.

Spread your wings.

Take flight.

Embrace the new and different.

Or just come back tomorrow. I'm certain things will be more focused by then.

Market Mayhem

2012-01-19T15:57:00.000-05:00

Wednesdays are important on the island. Wednesday is market day, Marco's version of an old fashioned farmer's market. Every Wednesday morning vendors roll into town at the crack of dawn, raise their tents, set up their tables and arrange their wares all while I lounge in my pajamas and sip my morning coffee. By the time I finish my java, walk the dog, eat breakfast, make the bed and take a shower their day is half over while mine has just begun. It's a retirement thing and also one of the reason I'm not a farmer.

Market day is one of the best things about winter in south Florida. Produce booths are stuffed full of tomatoes, squash, lettuce, bell peppers, red peppers, corn on the cob and the sweetest onions this side of heaven. There are oranges, grapefruit, mangoes and strawberries, stands with artisan breads and cheeses, and bouquets of fresh flowers for $5 a bunch. Last week I went in a driving rainstorm because I just had to have more of the feta olive mix an aging hippy serves up each week.

The market is always a hotbed of activity but this week it was crazy busy. There were so many people crammed into one small parcel of land that I was afraid the bottom might fall out of the island and everyone would disappear into the Gulf of Mexico. By the time The Kid and I arrived, after the coffee, the dog walk, the breakfast, the bed making and the shower, parking spaces were at a premium; and people crowded around produce booths pushing and shoving their way ever closer to the coveted grapefruit. It was market mayhem.

Me, I strolled the grounds and took a few photos before being forced to make a mad dash for the car.

Apparently those two elderly women I "accidentally" knocked over getting to the last tomato wanted revenge.

Tragedy at Sea

2012-01-17T16:44:00.005-05:00

When I selected this image I had intended to write about the Costa Concordia tragedy. But now, as I sit here typing there just aren't any words. No words for a captain who knowingly veers off course for sport and then abandons ship in the face of disaster. No words for a disorganized and dysfunctional crew who failed to take control of what must have been a terrifying situation.

Will this disaster deter me from future cruises? Absolutely not. One rotten captain does not spoil the entire fleet.

Will I be more cautious and attentive during muster drills where emergency procedures and abandon ship drills are explained? Absolutely.

But if by chance the ship does goes down while I'm on board, tell them to look for me in the casino.

Two Weeks In

2012-01-16T06:00:00.018-05:00

We are two weeks in on operation healthy eating. Weight is coming off, slowly, which is good. I am delighted that we are achieving the desired results. But for me this is more than a weight loss plan. It is a life plan. A commitment to making healthier choices every day.

Yet I wonder. How am I going to succeed when I am already craving a jumbo sized plate of pasta? I am quickly tiring of the steamed veggies and salads that accompany our grilled protein of the day. Where's the rice? The mac and cheese? The mashed potatoes?

Yesterday evening time was spent perusing the pages of a low fat cook book that has been gathering dust on a shelf for years. The Kid was on a mission to shake up the menu, an attempt to add more variety to the dinner table. Recipe titles sounded scrumptious. It was upon further inspection that they lost their luster. No fat sour cream. Butter buds deluded in water. Skim milk. No fat cream cheese.

The question begged to be asked. Where's the flavor? I have used many of these products in the past. They are tasteless and bland.

A tasteless and bland life plan will not work. I know this from experience. Soon butter and real sour cream will make their way back into the refrigerator and olive oil will once again reign supreme. Before long mashed potatoes will accompany roasted chicken and thick slices of garlic bread will cozy up to the spaghetti and meatballs whose portion size has exploded in an effort to squelch the cravings.

I am determined to make this work, to become more healthy. Shop the perimeter of the grocery store in spite of the high cost of skipping the center isles. I want a better life plan. The question remains, how does one find the balance that will sustain over the long haul?

If you know where I can find it, I would be beholden if you would pack it up and ship it to me. Express.

Islands In The Sun

2012-01-15T06:00:00.002-05:00

St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
A little slice of heaven.

Everyone Needs a Day Off

2012-01-14T08:31:00.000-05:00

Today is Saturday and I'm giving myself permission to take the day off. Everyone needs a day off once in awhile. Besides, I don't have anything to say.

It has been overcast, cool and blustery thus no outdoor adventure to report.

Senior softball is idle on Saturday. Have I mentioned that Crazies won their second game? No hero this time just a strong, solid team player.

In case you were wondering, we're still practicing healthy eating. We're extremely "intentional" about this, what with The Kid in training and all.

I have successfully completed thirteen days of Project 365: 2012. Today might be a day to click on over there and see if I'm on track. You know, since there's nothing happening here.

Enjoy your weekend.

Six

2012-01-13T08:27:00.003-05:00

She is six years old now, midway through her kindergarten year. She is sweet as honey and at times, ornery as a mule. Her smile lights up a room. Her giggles make me laugh out loud. Her legs are growing long, her pretty blond hair even longer.

She is protective of her little brother. Watches out for him in a crowd. Makes certain he gets his fair share of whatever is being handed out. Until......he angers her. And then all bets are off.

She loves to color and draw and wants desperately to learn to read. She plays board games by the rules. Has learned how to win and how to lose....gracefully. She loves to play imaginary games with her toys and dolls. And she wants you to play too. But has little patience if you don't follow the rules. Someone please tell me, how does one know the rules in a little girls' head?

Sadly she has outgrown replacing c's with t's. Cookies are no longer tookies. I miss it. It was so endearing.

She loves butterflies, bugs and worms. She's been known to catch butterflies and quickly run inside to release them in her bedroom. She loves to fish. She'll even bait her own hook with a little help. But the best part of fishing? Playing with the catch before tossing it back into the water.

She loves pretty dresses. And flip-flops. She'd rather go camping than play the piano; but maybe one day, she would like to learn to dance.

She eats Sushi. Loves noodles; dislikes french fries. Chocolate rocks her world. Add a little peanut better..... even better.

She's special. She's unique. She's our Allie. Our precious little girl; and I couldn't love her more.

Just wish she'd quit growing for awhile.

One Word

2012-01-12T06:00:00.008-05:00

There is a move afoot encouraging the selection of a word that will define one's year. A word to believe in, a goal to aspire to, a focal point for the new year. One word that holds all manor of possibilities in its grasp.

Carrying one word in the subconscious for 365 days is a much lighter load than dragging around a long list of resolutions in a peddler's sack slung carelessly over the shoulder. Empty promises that eventually weigh us down with imperfection until they are discarded one by one along the way. Left on the roadside for self-doubt to pick at the remains of our short comings.

I've given this one word thing a lot of thought recently and have decided to give it a go. It makes sense on so many levels. I have selected "intentional" as my word, my beacon for personal betterment in 2012.

Intentional: Done on purpose; deliberate

There are so many areas of my life that I need to be more deliberate about: healthy eating, relationships, photography, blogging, budgeting, finishing what I start. The list goes on.

You're welcome to join me. Choose a word. Write it down. Share it in comments or keep it tucked safely inside. We'll compare notes in 2013.

My Hero

2012-01-11T06:35:00.003-05:00

It may be a new season and a new team but it appears The Kid still has what it takes.

It was the top of the final inning, Crazies was down 7-5. There were two outs and two men on base when guess who steps up to the plate? He let the first pitch go by. The second one came whizzing in and wham, the crack of bat on ball said it all.

The ball soared over the center fielder's head dropped to the ground and started to roll. Like a run-a-way snowball on a downhill run, the darn thing headed for Naples. (In senior softball the last thing an outfielder wants to happen is to have one drop behind them. These old guys just don't have the stamina to chase them down.) There were a few moments of concern as The Kid puffed around the bases...would that hammy hold up? But when he crossed the plate and the dugout emptied in celebration, one thing was certain...The Kid was back.

Following the 3-run homer, the defense held and Crazies went on to win their first game of the season 8-7.

The team was so excited I think they would have carried The Kid off the field if they had thought their new hips and knees would hold up.

Play Ball

2012-01-10T06:00:00.002-05:00

Excitement is in the air. The kind that swirls about the room and bursts into a million tiny particles creating energy..... palpable and real. Can you feel it?

It's opening day. The diamond sparkles with thousands of little boy hopes and dreams getting their last shot at fruition.

Gloves have been oiled. Uniforms distributed.

Ice bags, heating pads, ankle and knee braces are waiting in the wings should the need arise.

The Kid is ready.

Let's play ball.

Monday Morning Musings

2012-01-09T06:00:00.021-05:00

I think it only fair to warn you that there will most likely be a lot of bird images over the course of the next few months. If you don't like it feel free to lodge your complaint with management. I'll file it in the circular with the others.

Today's photo is one of several great shots from an early morning beach walk last week...... in case you were wondering.

We saw Mission Impossible Friday evening. It made me laugh. Out loud. Seriously how realistic is it to think that three people can break into the Kremlin with four hours prep time?

We have renters next door who are here for a month with two large boxers. Their presence is driving Henna crazy.

Our elderly neighbors on the other side just purchased a 36' cruiser. Now all they need to do is learn how to drive it.

Senior softball starts tomorrow. Are you excited? I know someone who is.

And finally, the warm front we were hoping for has arrived. Mornings are still cool but those afternoons are heaven.

Until next time.

The Management

About Face

2012-01-08T06:00:00.004-05:00

Sure wish I could do that.

Off Schedule

2012-01-07T12:02:00.006-05:00

Our cottage neighbors to the south (and one of the 7 AM walkers), arrived on Christmas Eve. After a week in Orlando and not wanting to spend their Christmas Day in an airport they graciously accepted our invitation to share the day with us. What a blessing it was.

Joining us on Christmas day were our cottage neighbors to the north, who also winter in sunny southwest Florida. (Yes internet friends it is indeed a small world.) We ate too much, laughed a lot, and reconnected after our time spent apart. It was a good day all around.

Our house guests were not departing until the 27th, which left only one day to show them the sights and sounds of Marco and vicinity. There was a schedule, thanks to The Kid. One that was packed tight and ran behind the entire day beginning with an early morning beach walk that began 30 minutes late.

After a quick shower, breakfast and additional time lost, we moved on to the little fishing village of Goodland.

It seems M had an collage roommate that resides in our neighboring hamlet and a reunion was the order of the day. A local marina was the designated meeting spot. While the two roomies reminisced the rest of us wandered the docks and were delighted to spot several manatee soaking up the warmth of the December sun.

Even farther off The Kid's schedule and questioning our sanity for cramming so much into one day, we moved south, into the Everglades.

Our visit to HB Williams roadside park didn't completely disappoint. At one time this little park was teaming with alligators and other wildlife. I'm not certain what has transpired over the past ten years to cause the change but recently alligator sightings have been few and far between.

Our visit to the "Glades" was rounded out with lunch (late, of course) at the Everglades City Rod and Gun Club. This little tribute to a by-gone era serves up overpriced burgers with a heaping side of nostalgia. It is worth the price of a meal to relax on the porch, ceiling fans whirring above, and take in the sight of air boats coming and going along the waterway.

We were blessed, at no extra charge, with a real life alligator wrestler posing as our waiter. Local color, super sized. Our friendly server was more than willing to visit a spell and spin a yarn or two from his youth (which, by the way, wasn't all that long ago). Fact or fiction? It mattered not. He was pure entertainment, Everglades' style.

We arrived back at the ranch with little time to spare. The boat was lowered from the lift and we all piled in and headed out to sea for a sunset cruise.

It was the perfect end to a hectic but perfect day with friends.

And finally, we were on schedule.

S & M, we're so glad you came.

See you in May.

Baby It's Cold Outside

2012-01-05T06:00:00.006-05:00

You have to admit, 38 degrees is cold. In fact it's down right frigid. It was so cold this morning that even Henna, our cool weather pooch, wanted no part of it.

Sure hope there's a warm front heading south.

Chasing Perfection

2012-01-04T06:00:00.021-05:00

Looking back on 2011 there were many wonderful things to celebrate. But today is not the day. Today is the day to analyze short comings; evaluate things that weren't achieved in hopes of finding new insight.

Take for instance my failure to maintain a comfortable weight. On the surface the reason why is obvious...food intake is much greater than activity output. The underlying cause, not so easy to identify. Is it boredom? Stress? Laziness? Or just plain gluttony? I'll get back to you on that. A lot to digest (pun intended) before this one can be solved.

Now on to the item that really sticks in my craw. The big 2011 goose egg....Project 365. My attempt at taking and posting one picture each day... every day.... for one year. I started the project late in January with the best of intentions. By March I was struggling and in early April I sputtered to a standstill. Momentum was picked up by the end of the month and May and June were for the most part on target. In July I ground to a complete stop and the light went out. I waved the white flag and claimed the stress of blogging every day and posting a 365 photo was just too much. In reality what was too much was the chasing of perfection. The need to believe that every photo I post must be perfect. I lighten the reigns of perfection on the blog...some days the photos that work best are are more imperfect than not, and that's okay. But not on Project 365. Instead of a daily synoptic look at my life I turned it into a showcase for the best of the best of my best. In truth the best of the best occur randomly and rarely. In frustration I quit. Threw in the towel. Closed the door, turned out the light and walked away from my self-imposed challenge. It has bothered me since.

It is now a new year and you know what's coming don't you? I'm going to try again. It's a new day, a new project, new rules. I have vowed to squelch the need to chase perfection with what I hope is the greater need to finish what I start. Photos will be a snapshot of my day, not portfolio candidates. I invite you to join me. Cheer me on. Cross your fingers and say a prayer. Failure is not an option. Perfection is.

You can find Project 365: 2012 by clicking here. It will also be available as a link on the right side of the main page. Please, click on it often. If for no other reason than to make certain I stay focused and on track.

I may not be here every day but I will be there; and I can assure you, it won't be perfect.

Game On

2012-01-03T06:00:00.006-05:00

The gauntlet was dropped. The challenge was on. Photog75 vs Pattonbs1616 (the names have been changed to protect the innocent, but you know who they are). It would be a duel of words. Scrabble words.

If you know Pattonbs1616 you know that:

She loves to play Scrabble.
She is quite good at it.
No, she is VERY good at it.
She is competitive. Maybe even ruthless.
She hates to lose.

If you know Photog75 you know that:

She rarely plays word games.
She's not very good at Scrabble.
She is however, competitive. Not quite ruthless, she'll let the grandkids win once in awhile; and
She too hates to lose.

So there it was, the challenge was on the table. Photog75 was more than a little anxious, but couldn't turn her back on the challenge. Stubbornness won the day and it was game on.

It was a match of wills. Pattonbs1616 made big plays quickly and efficiently. Photog75 agonized over the possibilities, relentlessly searching the Scrabble dictionary to make certain no playable tile was left on the board.

The battle waged for three long days. When it came time for the last play of the game, the score was tied. With a little luck and a lot of determination Photog75 cleared her tray and claimed the victory 435 - 414. In a game for the ages the underdog had emerged victorious. The Scrabble Queen had gone down.

The celebration however was short lived. A rematch was underway within minutes. And although the game is far from over I'm pretty certain Photog75 is going down....in flames.

The good times just never seem to last.

2012: Day One

2012-01-02T08:12:00.001-05:00

In honor of the new year and my increasing desire to become more fit, I paid a visit to the beach early on Sunday morning. It seemed the right way to start 2012. I've become somewhat of a slug since returning to sunny Florida. It appears I forgot to pack my determination to rise early and walk five miles when we moved south.

The morning was crisp and clear, Chamber of Commerce weather to be sure.

The back-lit and dew covered grasses along the boardwalk were too pretty to pass by.

as were these shadows stretching elongated fingers seaward.

At one point I stumbled upon a snowy egret eager to preen and pose for the camera.

And how could I possibly pass up this abandoned sand castle;

or this tiny sanderling foraging at the water's edge.

I wasn't the only one on the beach New Years morning but our numbers were few.

It is now day two of the new year. It is 8:03 a.m. The sun is shining, the birds are singing and I'm still sipping coffee.

Someone please, boot me out the door!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T06:00:00.003-05:00

As the sun rises on a new year, I wish for you all the best in 2012.

Happy New Year.

Spending New Year's

2011-12-31T08:31:00.001-05:00

How will you spend your New Year's?

Our house guests had to cancel so we shall revel on our own. Left to our own devices the evening will hold few surprises. It will be quiet and understated. Perhaps dinner and a movie. We may or may not be able to hold our eyes open to welcome in 2012. But we will do it together, The Kid and I.

However you spend your New Year's, do it wisely and well and most importantly spend it with someone you love.

The Ipad Has Landed

2011-12-28T12:50:00.000-05:00

The era of the Ipad has arrived. It was a long time coming. Our children are happy that we have finally succumbed and are embracing present day technology. Our phones they say are outdated. "No one uses flip phones anymore." We don't text nor send and receive photos. What can I say, we're cheap. We have refused to pay outrageous fees for services we can live just fine without. What's wrong with the dark ages anyway?

The change of heart began a couple of years ago when e-readers were introduced to the unsuspecting public. (Even my 91 year old mother has a Kindle.) I liked the idea that one small light-weight device could hold several books and slip easily into my purse for travel. Yet still I resisted. This year The Kid took matters into his own hands and Brown delivered a shiny new Ipad on Christmas Eve.

It is taking over my life.

The number of available aps is overwhelming. When I finally commit to something there are 12 different versions of that something from which to choose. Not wanting to waste the $0.99 cost of a down load I sit and sputter. Analysis paralysis, that's what my friend would say. Yesterday I spent two hours attempting to download a book from the local library. At least it was free. When victory was finally declared I realized that although I had won the battle I had no interest whatsoever in the book that was standing sitting on my cyber bookshelf.

Angry Birds and little green pigs have crawled under my skin and demanded my attention. There is currently a heated game of Scrabble underway with B causing the Scrabble dictionary to be within reach at all times.

I'm afraid I've caught the fever.

Now if only they would come up with an ap that would clean my house and cook dinner.

Saint Thomas

2011-12-26T06:00:00.006-05:00

Now that the warm fuzzies of Christmas have passed and the realization has struck that those frigid temperatures outside aren't leaving any time soon, I thought a visit to the sunny Caribbean was in order. On tap today, the beautiful island of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.

We pulled into port just as the sun was inching its way over the horizon bathing the island in the soft light of dawn. There is something magical about turquoise waters, lush green mountains and the first light of day. I might even consider postponing my first cup of Joe to drink in the scene instead. It's that beautiful.

Someone rich and famous lives on that hill.... I'm sure of it.

Our home away from home.

and our companionable companions.

Incoming!

The Caribbean at dawn.... magic.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T06:00:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas

Blessings to you and yours on this Christmas day.

Twas the Day Before Christmas

2011-12-24T06:00:00.004-05:00

Santa sends his apologies. He was unable to be here. It is the day before Christmas and things were out of control at the North Pole. The elves were frantic, the sled needed loading and there were a lot of lose ends to tie. Mrs. Clause put her foot down. It was time for Santa to hang up his swimwear and head home.

But no worries mates. He sent someone in his stead. Someone with little to do on this busiest of days.

Meri Kirihimete

Christmas Cheer & Where's Waldo

2011-12-23T09:49:00.002-05:00

Originally scheduled for today was a group of photos from our recent trip. And then I remembered that Christmas is two days away. The Caribbean can wait; it's time for some holiday cheer.

The house is decorated inside and out. Gifts are beginning to accumulate under the tree. Christmas music permeates the air and hearts are light.

We are eagerly anticipating the arrival of company tomorrow afternoon. Who knew that the strangers we met a little over one year ago on a Pennsylvania lake shore would become fast friends and agree to share their Christmas with us. The little red cottage is the gift that keeps on giving.

And while there may not be any snow on the ground and the thermometer may be see the mid 80's today, it's Christmas just the same.

However you spend yours I hope it's merry and bright.

Souksan Van Christmas

Who's the Boss

2011-12-22T08:28:00.000-05:00

Yesterday The Kid informed me that he has tired of the Santa thing. He is ready for a real post. I informed him right back that as I recall this is still my blog and all executive decisions about said blog are made by the C.E.O. That would be.... ME.

I started this thing and I shall finish it.

Like it or not, Santa stays.

Until the 25th.

Sung Tan Chuk Ha

Merry Mistmas

2011-12-21T13:26:00.000-05:00

Merry Mistmas

San Juan

2011-12-20T08:06:00.001-05:00

Memories were made, food was consumed, tropical islands were explored. For seven delightful days we soaked in the sights and sounds of the Caribbean. There were a few late nights, a little dancing, a lot of music and much laughter. Our travel companions were companionable (as usual) and we enjoyed ourselves so much that we made plans to do it all again next year.

Over the next few days I will be sharing a few of the sights from our ports of call. First up....San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was late in the day when we steamed into port. Not much time for exploring before the skies darkened. Instead we enjoyed the sunset and the view from the comfort of our balcony. A glass of vino completed the scene and all was right with the world.

Santa was in complete agreement.

Bon Nada

Down Time

2011-12-19T06:00:00.005-05:00

Even Santa needs some "down time."

Hyvaa Joulua!

Out to Sea

2011-12-18T12:03:00.000-05:00

Gezur Krislinjden

Hey There Little Lady

2011-12-17T06:00:00.002-05:00

Well hey there little lady. Can you pull a sleigh?

Sea Day

2011-12-16T06:00:00.005-05:00

I don't know where I am right now or what I'm doing. But whatever it is, I'm certain I'm enjoying myself because it is a sea day. A time for lounging, reading, relaxing, and casinoing.

In honor of the occasion I thought that you should have a sea day too. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Christmas and enjoy the sights. When you're finished......

do a little lounging, reading, relaxing and casinoing of your own.

Doing The Most Good

2011-12-15T06:00:00.007-05:00

Feliz Natal

kala Christouyenna

2011-12-14T06:00:00.007-05:00

The View from the Top

2011-12-13T06:00:00.011-05:00

Every once in awhile the bureaucrats get it right, the men and women sitting on tall, leather chairs in the semi-circles of small town authority. Sadly, more often than not ambition far outweighs wisdom and common sense. But this time, this time they got it right.

I wasn't a fan of the project. It seemed overkill to have four lanes of traffic zipping on and off our little slice of paradise. But as usual the powers that be turned a deaf ear and the project went forth as scheduled. Following a year of gnarled traffic and much inconvenience for those living within a block or two of the project (that would be us), our new bridge was christened. (On budget and ahead of schedule, how often does that happen?)

Now that I'm back on the island and enjoying life in the sun again I see the value. No longer will traffic on and off island come to a stand still for hours on end when at 4:30 p.m. at the height of season there is a fender bender on the top of the bridge. But more importantly, the bridge is beautiful. The landscaping on both approaches is understated and welcoming. And the best part of all....the walkway. For the first time ever you can walk from one side of the bridge to the other and not fear for your life. And someone, somewhere had the brilliant idea to strategically space benches along the walk allowing residents to sit a spell and savor the sunset.

And the view from the top, nothing short of spectacular.

One night last week our dinner guests had the bright idea that we should walk the bridge. Since none of us had had the opportunity to experience the pleasure yet, it seemed like a good thing to do. The hour was late, around 11:00, but we weren't to be discouraged. Okay, so maybe The Kid was discouraged but the remaining members of the party were determined. (Our lovely daughter (in-law) was impressed. She thinks we still have a little spunk left for our advancing years. And number one son was concerned we might be arrested. So glad we didn't consult him prior to the journey.) At any rate we headed out and were completely smitten with the new structure. The view from the top was spectacular. (Have I mentioned that before?) The island lights sparkled in the night sky and glistened off the water. We didn't get hauled off to jail and enjoyed the experience so much that The Kid and I walked it the next evening to enjoy the sunset.

And the view I might add..... was spectacular.

Mele Kalikimaka

2011-12-12T06:00:00.010-05:00

I hope I didn't miss the boat.

More Greetings

2011-12-11T06:00:00.013-05:00

Bon Voyage

2011-12-10T06:00:00.012-05:00

Santa has that far off look in his eyes. Visions of lapis blue water, steel drums, and island girls in bikinis have replaced sugarplums dancing in his head. He has decided that a little pre-Christmas vacation to the Caribbean is needed to calm his frayed nerves before the big night. (Those elves can be trying.) And..... he has invited The Kid and I to tag along. Imagine that!

And so internet friends I bid you farewell as the three of us pack our bags and prepare to set sail for seven fun filled days at sea.

But do check in while we're away. You never know who might pop in.

Bon Voyage.

God Yul

2011-12-09T06:00:00.002-05:00

Victory

2011-12-08T06:00:00.020-05:00

Quick, someone draft the peace treaty. Break out the bubbly. I'm declaring victory in the war of the Christmas lights.

It has been two entire evenings, twelve blissful hours of uninterrupted outdoor holiday magic. (Sorry Aud.) After seven strands of lights and a consult with the palace electrician (who had no answer for us), it was a offhand comment from the lovely Sharon that turned on the lights. Permanently.

Apparently 18 strands of Christmas lights strung together running off of one extension cord is one strand too many.

Who new?

An Unwelcome Visitor

2011-12-07T06:00:00.061-05:00

It's not exactly like having a mouse scampering about the house. There was no standing on furniture. No screaming. There was however, a lot of jumping and yelling. There was a broom involved. And we may (or may not) have run into each other a couple of times. Yet it got away. Twice. And now it resides somewhere beneath the couch.

Internet friends, there is a gecko on the loose in paradise.

The chaos began when I decided to hose off the lanai. Apparently I dislodged it from wherever it was calling home. After finishing my work for the day I was kicked back in comfort enjoy what remained of the afternoon. The doors were standing wide open allowing the gentle gulf breeze to drift through the house. That's when I spotted him, standing just inside the pool doors. "Oh no you don't," I commanded. "Just turn around and head back outside; you're not welcome in here." For some unknown reason Mr. Gecko refused to obey the command. Does he not know who's in charge around here? Not only did he not listen but he darted across the floor making it safely to the sun room carpet before I could jump into action.

I yelled for The Kid and grabbed the dog's bone (hey it was the closest thing) in an attempt to steer him back through the doorway from whence he came. It was all working out just fine until he made a u-turn and scampered underneath The Kid's favorite chair. I poked with the bone. The Kid prodded with the broom. We turned the chair upside down. We shook the chair. But that little rascal was holding on for dear life. "Just let it go, he'll come out when he's ready," my dear husband advised. And so I did.

I settled in once more and got back to the task at hand. Eventually his little gecko face came out of hiding and the chase was on. Off he ran, under the dining room table, his tiny little head turning this way and that searching for the next safe haven. "There he goes," I yelled as it scampered across the floor and under the buffet. The next thing we knew it was climbing up the wall. The Kid grabbed a bucket from the garage and I manned the broom. If I could steer him closer perhaps I could knock him into the bucket and The Kid could quickly get it outside. At least that was the plan. But you know what they say about plans.

Mr. Gecko had his own agenda. He jumped over the bucket and disappeared beneath the chair cushions stacked at the doorway waiting for the newly cleaned lanai to dry. "Can't you just sweep him out the door," The Kid demanded. (And not in a polite and calm manner I might add.)

After a few more minutes of chaos and a little more shouting (okay, a lot), The Kid grabbed the broom from me. "I'll get him," he stated. I'm not certain exactly what ensued next. All I know for sure is this. There was a lot of scuffling, sweeping and jumping. And then our little visitor darted past the door, evading both The Kid and his broom vanishing underneath the couch.

And that's where he remains.

I just hope he doesn't decide to come out of hiding while our dinner guests are here tonight.

This Means War

2011-12-06T06:52:00.000-05:00

Five strings of lights in one day. Yes, you read that correctly. We replaced FIVE strings of outside lights in one day. Three of them in the same location.

The battle line has been drawn.

We're standing our ground.

We will not be defeated.

Operation Lights On has commenced.

A Perfect World

2011-12-05T06:57:00.000-05:00

In a perfect world:

Henna wouldn't run away.
My laundry would always be clean and folded.
The Kid would stretch his own hammies.
My grandchildren could spend the day whenever I wished.
Cookies would be diet food.
Procrastination would be considered a degree of excellence.
Christmas lights would stay on.
The Steelers would win every Sunday.
Toilet paper rolls would be replaced when empty.
The cottage would grow an extra bedroom.
Exercise would be fun.
Traffic would always be light.
The Post Office would forward Pottery Barn catalogues.
Bathrooms would be self-cleaning.
The sun would keep the pool a pleasant 84 degrees year round.
My coffee would be fresh brewed and waiting for me every morning.

It's not too much to ask. Is it?

Lights Out

2011-12-04T06:55:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, bolstered by Christmas music humming in the background and a joyful heart, I completed the holiday decorating..... inside and out. If you have been reading this blog for awhile (and I know how faithful the ten of you have been), you know I have struggled with this for the past couple of years. But this year I determined things would be different. The nudge to go "all out" coming from the highly anticipated arrival of house guests on Christmas Eve.

I battled the crowds at the local Wally World purchasing scented candles, yards of ribbon, and new wreaths for the windows. The outside lights had been carefully placed before we went north for Thanksgiving. Yesterday was all about ribbons and bows and wreaths and batteries. (Would someone please explain to me how you can test the lights on the pre-lit wreath at the store but once you get it home and out of the box you find it won't work. That it needs four D sized batteries, which of course means another trip to the store. They should tell you these things....shouldn't they?) We persevered and sometime mid-day proclaimed it finished.

As daylight faded we stood back to admire our handiwork. Little white lights wound their way around palm trees and twinkled on the shrubbery We were proud of our accomplishments (remember we havent' done this in several years). So proud that we strolled across the street and knocked on our neighbor's door. Surely they too should witness the great light-up. Soon a bottle of vino was uncorked and we drank a toast to our sparkling corner of paradise.

An hour later as I settled in for the evening, a contented smile firmly in place, the telephone rang. "Hey neighbor," the voice said. "Your lights are out." The lights. Out!! Already? Surely not.

The spell was broken. The mood was shattered.

When your lights go so goes your holiday cheer.

Bah Humbug.

Herding Cats

2011-12-03T06:00:00.017-05:00

Herding Cats: An idiomatic saying that refers to an attempt to control or organize a class of entities which are uncontrollable or chaotic. (Thank you Wikapedia.)

There are only five of them. How difficult could it be? That thought ran through my mind when the request was made to get a picture of the great-grandchildren on my side of the family, the second generation of cousins. It had been five years since their last photo session together. Allie was a baby and the G-man wasn't even a glimmer in his Mommy's eye. It was time.

The plan was to snatch them early, before dinner and before the Turkey Bowl. It was the only way to guarantee their cleanliness. We missed the mark by a meal, fortunately there were no gravy catastrophes.

Getting them to get close wasn't a problem. Getting them to keep their hands off of each other was. At one point the G-man decided he was no longer in the mood for family photos and began waging his own private war. Quick thinking Mom remembered the M&Ms in her purse and a crisis was averted. But he wasn't happy.

Patch grimaced from the pain of it all. Logan decided to take control of the art direction;

and apparently all of them had more important things to do with their time than look at the camera.

Ah, Allie. Gabe. Camera's this way.

This just might be the best one of the day from my end. (Hope you fared better B.)

Looks like it wasn't a minute too soon.

The cats are on the loose.

And I love each and every one of them.

The Day in Pictures

2011-12-02T06:00:00.011-05:00

One week ago today we celebrated Thanksgiving. From pecan pie to the Turkey Bowl traditions remained in tact. And this year, unlike last, I captured the day in pictures.

Tomorrow....herding cats.

Even the Coffee Tastes Bad

2011-12-01T08:25:00.002-05:00

Was it something I ate or something I contracted along the way home?

I can't blame the grands. I was only able to wave to them as we zipped past their exit on I77.

I know I ate too much for lunch. I blame The Kid for that one. He insisted we skip fast food and opt instead for a local diner. This one on a back road in the middle of Florida offered up a smorgasbord of all you can eat southern fried goodness. I ate all I could eat....and more. But that was hours before the storm.

Was it an errant bug clinging to a door handle in a gas station or rest stop? Lying in wait for an opportunity to hitch its wagon to my digestive tract? Whatever it was, it was brutal.

Awakened at 1:30 a.m., the rumbling in my abdomen heralded a long night ahead. I staggered out of bed and began the vigil of ridding myself of whatever was ailing me.

This morning. This morning, even the coffee tastes bad.

On the Road

2011-11-29T21:59:00.000-05:00

Again.

See you soon.

It's Over

2011-11-28T08:04:00.001-05:00

It's over. Thanksgiving 2011 is officially in the books. It also means that we have completed our first full season at the Little Red Cottage. It is time to pack up and head south.....again. This time for good.

It's also time to begin wrapping my head around Christmas, Florida and the Caribbean. It all seems so foreign sitting here looking out at the lake through drizzling rain and feeling the chill in the air. But starting bright and early tomorrow morning I will have 23 hours in the car to get used to the idea.

Something tells me that by hour 23 White Christmas will have a whole new meaning.

How Do You Do It?

2011-11-27T09:04:00.001-05:00

How does one fit five adults and two children into 800 sq. ft. and one bathroom for four days?

All egos are checked at the door along with the need for privacy. A sense of humor is a must. The rough edges are sanded smooth with laughter and an occasional step outside for a breath of fresh air. A turn on the swings with the little ones is an added bonus.

The little red cottage appears to thrive on the chaos. So much so that eight more are added for dinner. Her aging walls magically expand to accept each addition. Marbles are scattered willy nilly across the floor mixed together with discarded crayons and the ever present video game. Blankets and pillows are piled high in the corners, dishes accumulate in the sink. A warming fire dances on the hearth and laughter fills every corner.

Somehow it works.

As this Thanksgiving holiday draws to a close and the little red cottage slowly empties, a quiet air of contentment fills her once bulging spaces.

I think I see her smiling.

The Morning After

2011-11-25T07:03:00.003-05:00

The fishermen are gone. Early risers anticipating a long day on the water. It is 5:30 a.m. Sleep will not return. A thousand stars light up the night sky. The little cottage is still. The aroma of fresh brewed coffee beckons, a gift from the fishermen. The glow from the little heater in the corner lights my way.

Sitting quietly in the dark I offer my thanks for the sleeping children in the next room; for the cousins heading north on the Interstate in search of Steel Head Trout; making a memory.

The sky is beginning to lighten. The silver glow of the lake is now visible in the pre-dawn light. My stomach rumbles its rebellion from a day of over indulgence. Soon there will be footsteps and giggles as the second generation of cousins prepares for a trip to the theater. From 3 to 14 they sense the bond of family.

Life is good.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T06:00:00.003-05:00

May your turkey be moist;
your cranberries tart;
and your Pilgrims plump.

My hope is that you are sharing this day with the ones you love. I know I am.

Happy Thanksgiving.

November Passes

2011-11-23T06:00:00.017-05:00

Caught in a time warp between the splendor of fall and the promise of Christmas, November passes.

The earth lies dormant beneath gray skies and barren trees. The smell of burning wood permeates the air. It is dreary, dismal and depressing. I like it.

Perhaps because I know that sunshine, blue skies and warm Gulf breezes await my return. Or perhaps because I know that when November presents itself in its dull grays and browns Thanksgiving is just around the corner.

Textured Yarns

2011-11-22T09:24:00.000-05:00

There is no place in which to hide
When Age comes seeking for his bride.
Joyce Kilmer

Turkey Talk

2011-11-20T21:31:00.002-05:00

Who's baking the pecan pie?
Do you think a 23 pound turkey is big enough?
If we put 10 people here we can put 8 in the other room.
Who's sitting with the kids?
Maybe we need a turkey breast too....just in case.
I'll pare the potatoes ahead of time. Do you think 10 pounds are enough?
What about paper plates?
Cups?
Amy's baking all of the deserts????? Really??
How many people did you say will be here this year?
Maybe we should cook more potatoes. Have you seen Patrick eat lately?
I'll fix a salad.
An extra vegetable would be good.
We're short one oven this year. How are we going to do this?
Don't forget to take the turkey out of the freezer in time to defrost.
Sweet potatoes, who's preparing the sweet potatoes?

I may be crazy but it's still my favorite holiday.

Gobble, gobble

Silver and Gold

2011-11-19T06:30:00.000-05:00

Make new friends,
keep the old;
One is silver,
the other gold.

I must be worth a fortune.

Signs of the Times

2011-11-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

Several of you have commented on the new banner photograph. It was a lucky shot. A gift. A drive by. Taken somewhere in West Virginia speeding along the highway at 70 mph.

It seems I can no longer ride in the car for more than an hour without some sort of entertainment. The battery on my computer is shot and I am no longer permitted to use the adapter purchased for such circumstances. (The Kid believes it is the source of the electrical problems responsible for the demise of the Beast.) Reading for long periods makes me nauseous and I don't knit. There is only one thing left...my camera.

On our most recent trip I whiled away the hours taking snap shots of bill boards. I have gone through them with a fine tooth comb and have selected the ones I found most interesting. I believe they are the signs of our times.

More Than a Pet

2011-11-17T06:00:00.012-05:00

I am the rock star of her world. She watches my every move. She dogs my every step.

I trip over her in the dark of night. She never complains.

I keep her bowls filled with food and water. I walk her when she needs relief.

She gifts me each day with enough hair to assemble a coat of the finest golden fur.

I talk to her incessantly. She understands. Understands enough to sit quietly until the chatter stops; then drifts easily off to sleep.

When I am gone from the house she lies at the front door, anxiously awaiting my return. Day and night.

Her devotion knows no bounds.

She's more than a pet.

She's family.

So how do I tell her I don't want all of that hair?

Gratitude

2011-11-16T05:36:00.001-05:00

The quality of being thankful.

I am grateful for:

a friend who shares a bottle of wine on a September afternoon
the aroma of fresh brewed coffee
geese in the cove
the brother who places his life on hold in order to care for his dying sister
a neighbor who cares enough to clean my freezer after a week without power
the unconditional love of a dog
my sister who willingly shares her home with our Mother
the walkers who hold my feet to the fire at 7 a.m. every morning
a cold drink on a hot day
the return to health of someone I cherish. I'm glad you're back. I missed you.
rocks found hidden in corners and cushions, remnants of a visit from a special little boy
his sister whose smile lights up a room, and my heart
sons who call home just to say hello
a daughter (in-law) who always makes me feel welcome
Mimosas on Christmas morning
the golden light of sunset
the quiet of the pre-dawn hour
palm trees swaying in the breeze
twin fawns frolicking in the lane
family who cheats at Uno (you know who you are)
neighbors who welcome strangers and then call them friend
roast turkey
stuffing, the old fashioned way
and mashed potatoes whipped to perfection
The Kid, who is always there for me

For all of this and more,

I am grateful.

Embracing the Spirit, or Not

2011-11-15T06:00:00.013-05:00

I wonder. Do you have any idea how difficult it is to embrace the Christmas spirit when the temperature is 80 degrees and sweat is dripping off the tip of your nose?

I am decorating for Christmas, hauling out the holly and hanging tinsel on the evergreen boughs. Yes, you read that correctly. Moi, the procrastinator of all procrastinators is ahead of the game, decorated for Christmas before the Thanksgiving turkey exits the freezer. Damn I'm good.

It seemed to be a good idea to take advantage of our three week hiatus from western Pennsylvania's dreary skies and make advanced preparations for what is certain to be a hectic December. The problem, it's sultry. It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas feels more like A Tropical Heat Wave. The Kid offered to dig out the holiday Cd's in an attempt to aid the cause.

I think I'll just opt for a shower.

Capri Pants

2011-11-14T06:00:00.019-05:00

It's a disgrace. Heads should roll. Time should be served in retail purgatory. Someone must be held accountable. Because the last time I checked, this is South Florida. Winter consists of temperatures that dip into the mid 60s. The only visible white stuff is found blowing around on the beach. So why on God's green earth are there no Capri pants hanging on the racks in our local retail establishments? None. Zip. Nada.

I do not need wool sweaters. Down vests. Uggs. Jeans made from denim heavy enough for an Alaskan blizzard.

I need easy, breezy tops and t-shirts. I need shorts and sandals.

I NEED CAPRI PANTS.

It's a travesty. I should protest. Have a sit in. Start a movement.

Occupy Chicos.

I think I'm on to something.

Not Giving Up

2011-11-13T06:00:00.002-05:00

I may be relaxing in sunny Florida, but I'm not quite ready to give up on fall.

I think I detect a chill in the air.

What a Difference a Week Makes

2011-11-12T09:06:00.000-05:00

One week removed from seeing this,

and this.

We saw this,

and this,

and these.

And then there was this.

What a difference a week makes.

Something Old

2011-11-10T08:12:00.006-05:00

They beckon me. Draw me in on wings of age and decay and wonder. These structures of times gone by.

It was during the great family photo shoot that my eye wandered. To broken glass. To weeds meandering with abandonment. To bricks warding off decay like ageing centuries guarding the palace.

A million stories are woven throughout this tapestry of decay and ruin. This blight upon the landscape. What transpired behind these walls? What was created here? Who were the people laboring within? Where are they now? And why? Why was it left to fade and crumble?

Where others see blight, I see beauty. And charm. And grace.

And I want to know its story.

Time to Go

2011-11-09T06:00:00.008-05:00

Perched safely on high ground at the edge of the lake, the dock patiently awaits the onslaught of snow and ice, while the boat shivers in silence in the confines of the barn. Gold and red and orange have turned to brown and float quietly to earth. The wind gusting across the usually calm water beckons the arrival of the arctic express that will soon be storming across the plains.

"It's time to go" he said. It was stated simply, in the deep voice of authority. The one that commands respect and brokers no argument. The one I envision co-workers and subordinates loved to hate.

He had just returned from eight days spent in a warmer, sunnier clime, seduced by a serotonin high. There would be no discussion. Summer was spent and we were heading south. We would soon join the geese that gather in our little cove, assuming our position in the long line of snow birds taking flight for the annual migration.

I wanted to drag my feet. Hold on until the last leaf fell. But I knew he was right.

Summer is spent.

Autumn has wrapped itself in a blanket of dried and decaying leaves. Winter is knocking on the door. The arctic express has left the station.

It's time to go home.

Anatomy of a Photo Shoot

2011-11-08T06:00:00.004-05:00

Today's extremely photo heavy post is a behind the scenes look at a family photo shoot. What you get to see is the final product, the best of the best. Images carefully selected for perfection. What you do not see is the organized chaos that goes on behind the scenes to produce that perfection.

What it takes? Two eager parents; two adequately bribed children; an abandoned warehouse; a beautiful fall morning; an art director, photographer Momma; a lot of silliness; and a dash of tears for good measure.

And so, without further adieu I present Anatomy of a Photo Shoot.

The End.

Listening to the Music

2011-11-07T06:00:00.016-05:00

There is always Music amongst the trees in the Garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it. ~Minnie Aumonier

Are you listening?

Road Trip in Review

2011-11-05T16:55:00.006-04:00

She may be 90 years young but she's always up for an adventure. That's why I had to be certain in my mind that the trip wouldn't be too much for her; had to be sure before even mentioning it because as expected, when I did, she jumped on it without a minute's hesitation.

A road trip to NC to visit S, B and the grands was soon a reality.

We left early on a Thursday morning, in the dark and dodging rain drop as suitcases were loaded into the car. The weather was far from promising but scenes like this were prevalent as we made our way south through West Virgina.

She was a trooper, watching wide eyed as the miles rolled by, eagerly drinking in the sights as one parched from forced confinement might. The hours passed quickly as we rolled along reminiscing about the last time she traveled these highways.

We arrived in Hickory to hugs and kisses from two excited kiddos.

We were privileged to pick up Miss A from kindergarten;

watch cartoons with the G-man and his snugnuts;

enjoy some quiet time with B;

and walk the tracks with S.

All too soon it was time to say our farewells and point the car north.

We had five great days. Five days that passed far too quickly. Five days of fun. Five days of memory making all around.

When we arrived home, we were BOTH exhausted.

Hanging On

2011-11-04T10:49:00.001-04:00

When left to their own devices these Cosmos escaped the confines of their pot and spilled onto the ground creating a scene much more interesting than the manicured one I created.

They are hanging on to life providing one last breath of summer before succumbing to the first autumn frost.

Road Trip

2011-10-25T08:55:00.001-04:00

The Kid had to return to sunny Florida last week on business. What was I going to do with my time while he was away, I pondered? It didn't take long for the light bulb to click on and I knew...ROAD TRIP.

I hadn't seen the grands since early August and that in grammy years is an eternity. I quickly packed up the car and headed south to North Carolina.

I also packed up my 90 year old mother and took her along for the ride.

We're back now after a whirlwind visit and I will have more photos just as soon as I rake all the leaves that fell while I was away.

Best Time of the Year

2011-10-21T10:31:00.002-04:00

In spite of the rain and the wind of the past couple of weeks, we did experience Indian Summer. For five glorious days the sun shone brightly, the temperature topped the 70 degree mark and the foliage proudly unveiled it's fall wardrobe. The Kid got in some end of summer fishing and I blew the dust off the camera and snapped a few photos.

You've heard it from me before, but it is worth repeating.

Fall....it's the best time of the year, bar none.

Blown Away

2011-10-20T06:00:00.001-04:00

Fall has literally blown by this year. Per tradition this weekend should be peak for fall color but two days of rain and high winds put the kibosh on that.

This weekend will now be peak for leaf raking.

The Reveal

2011-10-18T21:44:00.003-04:00

I thought that since I have been absent from the blog for so long I should show you what I've been up to all of these weeks.

To start let's take a look back at what the little red cottage looked like when we moved in a year ago.

Lot's of dark paneling, out dated furniture and a rug well past its prime.

And today, after 3 coats of paint, a new floor, and several excellent flea market finds the room has a whole new look.

Believe it or not the chairs are the same ones from the photo above. They lost their skirts and are sporting a bright new apple green print fabric. (If you don't love it like I do, keep it to yourself...please.)

The little stand in the middle was a $5 flea market find. Score for me!

The coffee table also received a makeover.

The floors were our first purchase in the spring and the last thing installed. They were finally finished two weeks ago compliments of The Kid, nephew Josh and brother-in-law Jim. Thanks guys, you rock.

The table and chairs are on loan from my big sis. I always keep an eye out for one that fits our small space. Until one surfaces this one works just fine.

The bunk area, which truly is our second bedroom, is one of my favorite spaces in the cottage.

New mattresses were the first order of business. The ones we inherited were original to our 1950's home away from home. It was scary to think what might have been living in their depths.

This summer we had the mattresses slip covered,

and filled the corner with bright colored pillows.

I uncovered my grandmother's old sewing machine ( which is also vintage 1950's) and resurrected my sewing skills.

The bunk under the double window belongs to Henna. It is her perch and window on the world. The telephone stand belonged to my parents; the key holder is a cottage original.

Most of our time and money has been spent on updating the main room. We know (hopefully) that at some point there will be major changes to the kitchen, porch and bedroom and are trying to refrain from focusing our attention on things might eventually be removed.

While we don't have enough room to store a lot of "stuff" now for future use, I'm always on the look out for pieces that can be used both now and later. Things like this old shipping trunk I found in an antique shop in Ohio (for less than $50 I might add).

(I have challenged myself to find inexpensive items and give them new life. Flea markets and yard sales usually produce more keepers than antique shops which tend to be more costly. However nothing is off limits, not even sifting through a pile of old doors and windows sitting at the side of the road awaiting the trash man. There is nothing quite like the rush of finding a piece of a rusty iron gate sitting in the mud at a flea market and bringing it home for a mere $2. The bigger challenge is explaining to The Kid just why anyone would want a rusty iron gate part in the first place.)

The kerosene lamp is an old railroad lantern my neighbor (and partner in crime) found when they purchased their cottage several years ago. It is one of a pair she had in a bag to donate to a yard sale. After seeing how this one turned out, she decided to keep its twin for herself.

The kitchen is very much a work in progress and a reveal will have to wait until things are a little farther along. I'm not great at details and there are a lot of those left to finish. But hey, I've got nothing but time.

And now you know what I did with my time all summer. I hope you think it was time well spent.

A Dog's Life

2011-10-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

"Henna, I wish I had your life," stated The Kid as she lay napping the other afternoon.

Me: If you think about it, your life's not so different from hers. Eat, sleep, frequent trips to the bathroom, eat and sleep some more.

Retirement, it's a dog's life.

I've Lost My....

2011-10-16T13:17:00.000-04:00

Mojo
Vitality
Drive
Fire
Passion
Arder
Zeal
Moxie

or perhaps all of the above.

As a result I've been gone from here for weeks. You may be gone from here too. I wouldn't blame you.

The big question is have I found it? My mojo, vitality, drive, fire, passion, arder, zeal and moxie.

I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Most Uncommon

2011-09-02T12:14:00.003-04:00

Many years ago, perhaps in a land before time, we lived in a small town in western New York state. It was during our five year stay in Dansville that our good friend and pastor decided to form a "social" group composed of young couples in the church. The group dubbed themselves the "Common" and enjoyed many a meal and outing together.

However, we soon learned that the good Reverend had more than one definition for the word "social." Over the course of time he crafted our Common souls and expanded our social conscience. In addition to family picnics and progressive dinners, we visited the sick at heart, hosted an Egyptian missionary, accepted leadership roles we really didn't want, and learned to look beyond ourselves. He drew us in with the promise of fellowship and set us on our separate paths with a moral sense of purpose.

Last weekend the Common held a reunion of sorts. We came together on the pretense of celebrating a birthday (happy birthday Jerry), but it was far more than that. It was a time for fanning the flames of friendship that time and distance had reduced to glowing embers.

Old stories were told, old photos shared. Some of us found it difficult recognizing our younger, slimmer selves. Some of us looked exactly the same, and that's no easy feat at our age.

Unfortunately Irene took aim on the north east and one of our number was called home to help man the command center for the company who provides power for Washington D.C.

In our heads we know that your work is important. But from the heart, let me just say, things weren't the same without you two.

We all felt like this watching them drive away after only a few short hours.

The arrival of a couple of late comers helped ease the pain and soon the reminiscing was back in full swing.

In spite of Irene swirling around outside, the sun was shining brightly on the inside.

I was reminded that in the late 1970s we were all just common folk in a common town attending a common church. What evolved was nothing common at all.

In fact, it was most uncommon.

Where Did it Go

2011-08-24T06:00:00.007-04:00

Where did it go?

What did I do with it?

Is it yet one more thing I have misplaced?

For the life of me I just can't remember.

Summer,

Where oh where did you go?

Nine Years

2011-08-23T06:00:00.015-04:00

Nine years.
Three states.
Two beautiful children.
One happy life.

Happy Anniversary S & B.
We couldn't love you more.

Somebody Needs a Hug

2011-08-22T06:00:00.012-04:00

Somebody needs a hug. I volunteer.

Risky Business

2011-08-21T07:51:00.001-04:00

Being out on the lake at sunset sitting as close to the water as possible without getting wet is extraordinary. Usually my camera stays high and dry on shore but one evening last week calm water and the promise of something special nudged me into throwing caution to the wind.

I think it was worth the risk. How about you?

A Photo Shoot

2011-08-15T14:15:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday morning Pappy and Miss A went to town to do a little school supply shopping. Pappy loves, loves, loves to shop for school supplies. He always has. He likes it so much that once our boys were grown he shopped for nieces, nephews, and strangers. So it comes as no surprise that he would be more than willing to take his first born grandchild on this right of passage. He's such a good school supply shopper that he even purchased the "change of clothes" listed on the sheet for emergencies. Miss A was more than happy to pick her sweet self out a new outfit.

The G-man turned 3 years old on the 9th of July and it was determined a photo shoot was needed to document the occasion. So while Pappy and Allie were otherwise occupied B & I headed for the woods with G for some camera time.

This little man is such a ham bone.

We saw his serious GQ side,

his charming side,

and his much sillier side.

He posed. He giggled. He laughed out loud. He even blew a few kisses my way.

All of this for the two Dum Dum suckers that were hidden in my pocket.

Hey, I never said I wouldn't stoop to bribery.

Happy Birthday G-man. Three is a great age to be.

Deer Park

2011-08-14T15:16:00.000-04:00

Pymatuning Deer Park was established in 1953. I believe the last time I visited the park was in the late 1950s. Who could have predicted that 50+ years later I would return with my grandchildren to a charming, hands on little zoo.

Our expectations were low as we buckled the kids into car seats that morning. We knew there would be deer, after all it was a deer park.

We weren't disappointed in that department. There were plenty of deer. All eagerly sticking their necks through the wire fencing in hopes of a snack.

What we weren't prepared for were the myriad of other animals. Critters such as lions, tigers, bears, mountain lions and camels.

The petting zoo boasted miniature horses, goats, ducklings, calves, pigs and more. All easily accessible for visitors to feed and pet.

There was a train ride and peek a boo signs.

Miss A was particularly enamoured with the kangaroos,

while the G-man opted for a pony ride.

If you're in the neighborhood, I highly recommend a stop at Pymatuning Deer Park.

Miss A and the G-man give it two thumbs up.

Do You See What I See?

2011-08-12T15:58:00.000-04:00

Do you see what I see?

Perhaps we should wait until after dark.

Cottage Visitors

2011-08-11T21:25:00.000-04:00

The little red cottage has been hopping this week. Miss A and the G-man arrived early in the week and we haven't stopped since.

What have we been up to you ask?

Searching for deer in the Jeep.

Cart rides with cousins.

Swimming and fishing.

Visits with more cousins.

And even more cousins.

Daddy arrived tonight which means there is more fun in store for the weekend.

And me...I'm one happy Grammy.