Summer Vacation

A couple of weeks ago, I asked my son (soon to be 21) where he wanted to go for summer vacation. It's summer vacation time...and he'll have a week before summer school begins.

When the children were younger, we would take cruises. I've always liked cruising because the children and I could enjoy all of the amenities the ship offers, and I didn't have to worry about them being bored while trying to accommodate everyone's wishes. Most cruise lines have camp counselors to entertain the children. I don't know how much money the counselors make, but whatever it is, they are probably vastly underpaid...which is why I was more than happy to tip them.

As the children got older, we still enjoyed cruises. When they became teenagers, I allowed each of them to bring a guest on the cruise. The first time I made this offer, I told the parents of their friends that I would charge the cruise on my credit card, and they can pay it off. We've always been a family that plans vacations early. My intent was that the parents would have about 7 months to pay off the cruise for their child (less than $500 each). The reality was, I ended up paying for my 3 children as well as 3 friends. Needless to say, I learned my lesson after that first year.

This year, my youngest will reach the age of maturity. He's still undecided between, Florida (one of our favorite places for shopping and cruising), Vegas (the most popular spot for 21 year old birthdays), or San Diego. We'll probably end up flying to FL and cruising to the Bahamas...at least that's my choice.

Butt What?

A few months ago, I noticed that my "butt" was really getting big. I decided that I would change my workout routine to include more cardiovascular exercises and less weight training.

Although I know that muscles can build mass (especially if you use heavy weights), I didn't realize how much impact the squats and sit ups were having on my body. My waist was getting smaller, my obliques (side) was becoming more defined, and my "butt" was getting bigger.

It's always hard for me to find jeans, usually much too big in the waist...yet snug in the hips and thighs, but this was getting ridiculous; so I decided that I was going to get on my own personal "soon to be summer" workout program.

I began by having black coffee (my favorite morning beverage) with a plethora of vitamins and minerals, and a handful of nuts for breakfast. Lunch usually consists of a nice salad, with spring lettuce, garbanzo or red beans, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, bean sprouts, and any other vegetable I have handy, as well as some shredded cheese. I like blue cheese dressing, and vinagrette -- I usually choose between those two. Before dinner, I usually take a power walk...and sometimes will go for a walk with my daughter-in-law as well. For dinner, I usually eat whatever I have a taste for...however, I do think about calories, and carbs, and treat myself once a week to dessert.

When I have a taste for a snack, I will usually grab a handful of nuts (almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, pecans) or I will make my own trail mix with the 3 above and some raisins. I gave up sodas years ago...and will indulge in a martini or mojito about once a week as well.

I don't think it's a good idea to deprive ourselves of what we really love. I try to indulge in what I love (not what I like), and eat all of the healthy (and good for you) foods I can stand. For example, I don't love of cobblers or cakes, so I don't eat them, however, I really love ice cream from a favorite ice cream shop, and cheesecake from a well known restaurant, so I indulge in those treats when I really want to splurge (certainly not weekly).

Now, I'm not saying that I have the best diet (or body) in the world...however, I'm happy with my body and my lifestyle. I pray that the same holds true for you.

4th of July Fun

Behind Memorial Day, Independence Day is my favorite summer holiday. It's still early enough in the summer to enjoy the holiday...and the weather is usually quite favorable for barbecuing and picnics and then enjoying the fireworks.

Hosting summer barbecues is a favorite thing for me. I like to get up early, begin cooking around 4am and setting up everything for my guests (most family and Toastmasters). This year will not be different.

Happy Independence Day!

Another 3 Day Holiday

It's Memorial Day weekend -- and President Obama has asked all American's to pay tribute to our soldiers.

Earlier this morning, (before my run), I did something that I haven't done in many years...I went to the cemetery to pay tribute and bring flowers to fallen arms.

Unlike some people, I don't go to the cemetery to "visit" my late husband and brothers on their birthday, holiday's, or other significant dates. I find the experience very depressing. Sure, I love my late husband, as well as my brothers, however, it's not my intent to depress myself.

When my late husband died, I found out without a doubt, that these things that we work so hard to keep in shape and take care of...are truly only a shell for our soul. I saw my late husband's shell shortly after he made the transition. Although he wasn't a man of tall stature (he was about 5'10"), when I viewed his body, it seemed as if I could have carried the shell in my arms like a baby. It was then, that I realized with certainty, that our souls fill us up...our bodies become almost deflated when our souls rise to heaven.

I have no remorse about not "tending the graves of the dead", because I know in my heart, that the only thing left of the people we love is the decaying flesh that encompassed their soul.

The truth is that from time to time, when I find myself at the cemetery, I will visit the place where the bodies of those I love are lain.... but the truth of the matter is, the connection I have with those I love remains with me each and every day.

At What Point Do We Give Up

A few weeks ago, I began to wonder abou the process of aging, and why it seems that certain people give up on themselves after a certain age. For some people that age is 40, for others it's 50, and still for others it may be 60 or 65. Perhaps the age has more to do with a mental milestone other than a physical occurrence or even a place in their life. It' s rare to hear of a person (at least in my unofficial survey) giving up the quest to live life to the fullest at the age of 21 or even in their 30's.



I remember when I had my 30th birthday, it didn't affect me any more than my 24th birthday I didn't think of the magical age of 30 as the beginning of the end of my life. I'm happy to say with each subsequent birthday, I've felt the same as my 24th. Sure, there have been some health challenges along the way; a coule of years ago, I blew out my knee while cruising to Nova Scotia with my Mom and sister, and last year I fell down at work and messed up my back, however, those two occurrences didn't steal my zeal for living and life.



A few months ago, I began looking at people of various ages, (mostly at church) as that is when most people seem to want to look their best (even though the loose translation of the Bible says, 'come as you are'). Let me digress a bit -- sure I want to look good when I go to church, so I spend more time preparing for church than I do when I go out on a date, to a Toastmaster meeting or event, or to work.



Back to my original point, I look at both the men and women and church. It seems that those people (both sexes) who have a real zest for life, seem to be in better shape (not necessarily slim and svelte, but most certainly lighter in pounds than others), dress with more style and panache (just my opinion), and seem to smile brighter and step with a bit more pride in their stride.

For me, I've decided not to give up on life, my health, or my happiness. I want to live my life to the fullest. My belief is strong that by giving loving, respect, and admiration, you will get that in return (10 fold).

I challenge each person reading this, to be thankful for every good thing that they have, and have respect for the lesson learned as we go through our trials and tribulations.

When Is Your Birthday?

Stevie Wonder's birthday song has become the anthem for most birthday parties. We even rock to it at church.

Why is today a special day for us, when we should be honoring our mothers on our birthdays. After all, it was our birth mothers who actually did the hard work. We only had to allow the doctor to pat our bottoms...and then the antics began.

So what's the plan for birthday celebrations. A friend of mine told me that for his birthday, he had a milk and cookies party. He and one of his female friends, decorated his house, bought a variety of milk products (fat free, low fat, whole milk, soy, etc, etc, etc), and expensive cookies (some costing as much as $4.00 each).

I've also had friends who had theme parties for their birthday celebration: 70's Throwback, Inspector Gadget parties, It's Not Halloween Costume Party, etc.

Since my birthday falls in the winter, (yes, it does sometimes rain in L.A.) it's difficult for me to give the kind of party I love. I love to barbecue, and have the celebration start during the daylight hours and go on through the night. Having friends over, enjoying music, good food, playing cards (mostly BidWhist and Spades), and toasting the birthday girl with champagne, washed down with cake from Hansen's bakery.

It really doesn't matter, when your birthday is...because every day is a blessing. To that end, I wish you a Happy Birthday, and a fantastic life, filled with good health, great love, and peace.

How Do You Feel About Liposuction?

A few days ago, I watched an episode of Nip/Tuck. In this episode, an older woman (I'm guessing late 60's) underwent a beauty makeover. (I think that's what they call it). The gist of the story is that her husband was dying and he wanted to make it easier for her to find her next husband -- talk about an unselfish act of love. At the end of the show, she was shown in a form fitting dress -- I must admit, she looked good for a soon to be 70 year old.

Isn't it interesting how things just cross your mind. I guess it's true what they say about idle minds...so I guess I'll share a bit of the devilish side of me. I've seen the results of liposuction first-hand on a few friends. In the first case, two sisters decided to undergo liposuction and body resculpturing. Their results were fantastic. Prior to the surgery, they released a predetermined amount of weight (I don't use the word diet). The surgery was simply used to tighten their abs and slim down their thighs.

In the second case, the patient thought she could use liposuction and body resculpturing to make her thinner. Unfortunately, that never works. There is no way that surgeons can remove significant (15 - 20 lbs) amounts of fat from your body. The second patient looked just like she did before the $8k was given to the surgeon. Why didn't the surgeon share this information with her before he took her money? If he did, why did she still elect to undergo the procedure?

Sometimes, I wonder about people and their thought processes, don't you?

I Want to Create a New Position in President Obama's Cabinet - "Birth Czar".

Lately, the gossip columns have been filled with articles about the Octo-Mom. Although I don't read those types of magazines, or watch those types of "tattle shows", perhaps on a subconsious level, the messages have seemed into my (so called) higher sense of self. To that end, I questioned myself. What would I do if I had 14 children? I guess the first thing I would do if I gave birth to 14 children, is to ask someone to commit me to an insane asylum.

Yes, it's true, I love children (especially my own) -- however, would I willingly and knowingly give birth to multiple children? Heck no! It's a good thing I don't curse -- I guess I'd have an earful for parents who are ill equipped to rear multiple children.

Why would an unemployed mother with 6 children want more children?

I'm not saying there's anything wrong with large families. Why would any person want to bring more children into an already crowded household? I don't know this for a fact, but I've heard that foster parents can only have 2 children in a room? Why are foster parents held to a higher standard that birthparents?

I know this may sound mean and perhaps even too autocratic for America, but shouldn't there be some type of test for parenting? We can't drive, get married, or even do certain types of work without a license. Why not have a license to give birth? I kind of like that idea... Birth Czar....hmmm - nominate me for that position.

If I were "birth czar", I would not give license to adolescents, or those parents already on some type of public assistance. It's not fair that those of us who work, have a portion of our taxes to care for "professional baby-makers". You know who I'm talking about; people who know that having more babies means more money coming in, care of the hard working, highly taxed, middle class.

Isn't it time that we stood up to people like Octo-Mom? Instead of making them the celebrity du jour, let's do something to encourage these people to become financially self-sufficient. Sure, I've heard of the so called "welfare-to-work" program, but how many people are actual participants, and what are the program qualifications?

According to what I've read about Octo-Mom, she is college educated, and has a trade. Instead of giving her money to stay at home and take care of her children (some of who are disabled), why not mandate that she get a job? Octo-Mom is not disabled (unless her low self esteem is a disability), she should be encouraged to get a job, and labeled personal non gratis on the talk show circuit as well as the gossip circuit. The media, including Oprah, Dr. Phil, et al, should refuse to give her any media attention. Sure, there are some people who get a kick out of the absurdity of it all, (a la the current intrigue with so called reality tv), however, who really cares about Suleman and her antics? It's the children who deserve our concern, not some wanna be celebrity look alike.

Gazelles and Lions

Celebrating another year, reminds me of the African adage about the gazelles and the lions:

"Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will die. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the slowest gazelle or it will starve to death. It doesn't matter whether you are a lion or a gazelle; when the sun comes up, you'd better be running." ~unknown

Perhaps that's why my internal clock has been set for 3:30 am since I was a child. No from a point of survival -- but from a point of getting the most out of life and living. We're only granted 24 hours in a day. How much we get done in those 24 hours depends on our productivity, and ingenuity. The facts are what they are -- I'm not the most productive or the smartest person in my life. (I leave the honor of being super smart to my 3 children -- all who take after their late Dad, when it comes to gray matter). But that's another story for another day.

Back to my original point - I get up early to make sure that I get the important or useful things done before the sun sets. My health is vitally important to me -- which is why I spend at least 1 1/2 hours 4 or 5 days a week working on my body. After all, the truth of the matter is that our perfect bodies begin to turn against our perfect selves as we mature. For some, that change takes place much too early -- for others, there is a valiant fight to the end.

A couple of my co-workers does something that is enviable -- but not for me. For 6 days of every week, they eat only non-processed fruits, vegetables, and nuts and drink only water - on the 7th day, they splurge. They also work out 4 days a week. They look fantastic!

Well...that sounds good - especially the working out part -- however, I'm not that committed. My preference is to eat moderately well -- and work out religiously. There's only a few things better than the feeling that I get from working out -- however, I don't want to digress yet again, so I'll stick to my topic.

It doesn't matter if people think they're closer to the gazelle or the lion, the fact is, in order to live a healthy life, we must take care of our bodies. High blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes are top killers and life maimers for many people. We give in to the salt shaker, extra large fries, and cheesecake. While I'm not immune to the dessert tray or potatoes, however, I know my limit. When I take a bite of dessert or order potatoes, (I've never been a salt lover), my mind does a mental calculation of how many miles I need to run for that indulgence. That doesn't stop me from ordering those fattening foods and deserts, however, I eat those types of food in moderation.

Although I don't look up to people as someone to emulate (a la Octo-mom N. Suleman and her ideal of perfection), one of the greatest compliments that I've ever received from a stranger, was the similarity of my legs to Tina Turner. Even though this stranger will never know it, his comments spur me on to finish that last mile when I'm tired and want to give up.

Many times, we face challenges in life. Over the years, I've learned to never give up. Each of us must face difficulties in our lives -- the measure of who we are lies in how we accept those challenges and go on with our life. In the grand scheme of things, it's up to us to make our lives what we want them to be. For me, I choose love, and happiness. I choose not to give up on love; I choose to love myself first -- by loving me, I become lovable to others. Try it -- I guarantee great results.

Until next time.

When You Think of Antique, What Do You Think Of?

A few days ago, I was upstairs with my youngest son (20 y.o) and some of his friends, enjoying the remake of "Imitation of Life" (the remake from the 50's).

During one of the commercial breaks, we were joking about something... I think I mispronounced the slang term for marijuana; needless to say, the under 21 crowd thought that was hilarious. Similar to the laugh my friends and I had a few days earlier when my Mother said, "you know the singer Bounce say". After my son and his friends wiped their tears of laughter, my son said, "Mom you're so antique".

I thought about his use of the word "antique". Was this a new 'slangism' (that's my term for slang that I'm not familiar with), that I had yet to hear? My first thought was to challenge him to a jog off (to see who could run the farthest -- not the fastest -- after all, I may be crazy...but you know the rest...), but saner thoughts prevailed; I simply asked him what he meant. I found his answer endearing and flattering. To be called "antique" -- (in this new or is it his own vernacular?), means that you are precious, greatly valued, and one of a kind.

Although I consider myself a person who believes in the good of all people, that the majority of the population don't knowingly hurt each other, and that forgiveness is the greatest gift, we can bestow on each other, I was ready (for a split second) to take offense at the term antique. But then again, is it because when I think of old age, it scares me?

Many years ago, when I was pregnant with my first (of three) sons, the doctor told me that the best way to live a long and healthy life, is to exercise. Since then, I've been following his advice; however, this particular doctor died in the middle of a pap smear of a heart attack. Can you imagine how the woman felt? Speculum in place, when all of a sudden the next thing you feel is the doctor's head between your legs? Even to this day, I still laugh (thank God it wasn't me), at the image.

Like many of us, I should remind myself that every day is a gift. We should live our lives to the fullest, enjoying the great moments, relishing the special times, and (dare I say it), looking for the lessons in the challenges we face.

Most days, I wonder at the beauty of my world, my healthy children, a fantastic Mother who shows no signs of slowing down, a great sister, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, my Toastmaster family, and a plethora of other friends and acquaintances.

Am I afraid of aging? Not being able to run (jog) anymore.... Of living in a convalescent home? Having visitors only sporadically? What about the many horror stories of those confined to their beds, being tied down, beaten, and even sexually abused in those homes... My good Lord, it scares me to even think about the tragedies that can befall us.

Having children is not necessarily insurance against lonliness...as our children grow up and begin lives of their own, there is less time for us. Is it possible to make time? What's the key? That's the million dollar question.

My mother always said that you should have more than 1 child. This way, if something happens to the parent(s), the children can share the burden. I guess in a way that makes sense, however, the relationships between parents and children are always as close as they could be. At this stage in her life, my Mother finds herself driving from one end of the county to another visiting brothers (in 2 separate areas of town), as well as a family friend, and a host of church family members. She's putting more miles on her can visiting relatives and friends, than I do at work.

I'll end like I began, with the word "antique". My Mother is certainly "antique". I'm proud of her, (she was the first winner of the Channel 7 Jefferson Awards). My mother is precious, valuable, and the glue that keeps me sane. Through all of life's trials and tribulations, she has been my rock. I pray that I can be that same type of rock for my children, their wives, and my grandchildren.

What's Down With the Economy?

I consider myself to be a price conscious person. Lately, I'm wondering what else I can do to save money.

Since I've been shopping (for myself), I've been a coupon clipper (grocery stores and any other store or restaurant that accepts them). On days when I don't brew my own coffee, I bring my thermos to 7-11 for .99 coffee vs going to one of those high priced coffee cafe's.

Usually, I bring a selection of fruit and nuts to work. This usually is enough to satiate my appetite until I get home.

Because I get up early, I'm usually off work early enough to get matinee prices for movies and live productions.

Nordstrom Rack is my favorite shopping haunt. Why pay full price, when I can get last season's gear for 60% (or more) off Nordstrom prices. Back in the day, you could get some decent sales at Macy's...that's no longer true. It seems Macy's "jack s the prices...and bring them down a little, bit by bit".

When I hear about a store closing, (if they sell something that I can use, or that may be a suitable gift), I make it a point to check out their goods. Unless it's something that I really like, I wait until the last possible moment to visit the store remnants to see what kind of deal(s) I can get.

I've noticed that restaurant portions are getting smaller; the same as food in grocery stores. The prices are going up slightly or staying the same, but the packaging or portions are getting smaller. Just last year when I went to a restaurant, I was able to take some of my food home, which was good for another meal, this year, I'm finding that I can almost finish my plate.

I've also found that most of my favorite magazines can be read on-line. Although magazine subscriptions aren't that expensive, all dollars saved, can be spent on shoes (at DSW of course).

A few years ago, I was in Chicago with a colleague. She took me to some great consignment stores. I got a brand new pair of linen shorts for less than $4.00, and a host of other brand new (and yes, I'll admit it) some slightly used clothes for "a song". One of my favorite dresses, as well as one that I get the most compliments for came from the consignment store.

It looks as the economy is going to be in the doldrums for at least another year. Although it's not easy --- especially when unexpected expenses come up, a positive mental attitude and a bit of ingenuity will get us through it.

OMG Internet Scammers

When I receive mail, I stand over the trash can to throw away junk mail, put the bills in a "to do" file, and place the magazine in my work bag for later reading. Although I subscribe to a plethora of magazines, "Singular" was not among them. It almost got thrown away -- however, I guess the glossy cover gave it a reprieve.

One of the articles that caught my attention was about on-line romance scammers. I guess the reason it was of interest to me, is because recently I helped a friend create his profile. He had no clue about the rules on internet dating sites. Never put down your birthday, or income...I hope the rationale for this makes sense.

Shortly after his profile went on-line, he was innundated with "beautiful" women from all over the world vying for his attention. He was really naive; he thought that the pictures were:
1. recent photos
2. actual pictures of the person he was corresponding with
3. not men posing as women.

These are the rules I gave him:
1. Schedule a face-to-face meeting as soon as possible (this won't give people time to have that emergency liposuction, or sex change operation :-)
2. If they are out of the country, or even out of Southern California (PASS on these potential matches). These are the people who can make a case for you offer them financial assistance. Invariably, they may need cash to: Get to L.A., renew their passport, etc. Once again, I say "Pass"
3. Don't settle. There a thousands of people on various web-sites...if you're looking for a financially stable Christian , of a certain ethnicity, who lives within 30 miles of you, don't begin communicating (and possibly getting the hopes up) with an atheist, who lives in Eastern Asia.
4. Be truthful (but only) to a certain extent. While you want to post recent photos (after all, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder"), and write a profile that really gives a sense of who you are, your likes, and dislikes, etc, it may not be wise to give information that allows a stalker or scammer to find you.
5. First dates should always be "easy exit" meetings. I suggest meeting "daylight dates" (you remember them from Jr. High (now called Middle School) one of the many local coffee shops equidistance between the 2 parties. This way, if party A doesn't show up, party B didn't travel too teribbly far.
6. My final rule. Have the attitude that you're going to meet some interesting people -- I wouldn't advise going in with the expectation that you will meet the love of your life...but I promise, you'll have a ball as long as you're open to meeting a cadre of characters.

Actually some of the other articles weren't that bad. I even tore out a couple of pages relating to bargains. Even with the economy in the dumps, there still seems to be a number of people who would rather go to HE** than to clip coupons or shop at one of my favorite stores, the Nordstrom Rack.

Because I subscribe to more than enough magazines, mostly related to business, finance, exercise, purchasing, and holistic health, I wasn't in the market or the mood for (yet another entrance into the "do I really want to know this?") another frivolous magazine (a la "O", Jet, Vogue, Redbook--- you fill in the rest...

Although I'm not going to subscribe to this magazine, from time to time, I may log onto their web-site, www.singularcity.com, and read articles of interest. I really like living in this age of technology...as we can get information on interest on-line without the hassles of what to do with magazines and books. As often as I can, I try to review information on the internet.

What is there to remember on Memorial Day?

I'm one of a special club of (what I would consider) young widows. People who's spouse has died -- leaving them without a lifetime partner just after reaching the (still young) age of 30.

Imagine, marrying at 19 -- looking forward to "grow old in love with me, the best is yet to be" -- which is what I had engraved in my late husband's wedding ring.

How could it possibly be -- that I was left alone with three young boys to rear into young men. Sure, there are a lot of single parents who rear their children alone...but many chose that option. When I hear of single people making the decision to have babies without benefit of marriage --- it saddens me. If the parent to be is a teenager, or VERY MATURE, I feel bad for the child. In the case of teen parents -- many times, it's the new grandparents who are forced to change their life to care for their teen's child.

Grandparents these days are much different than those I remember. When I look back at my relationship with my grandparents...they were the "typical" (I guess Leave it to Beaver type) grandparents. Older (looking) people who wore conservative shoes, drank coffee, and were a bit fragile.

These days, the new breed of grandparents can be found at the club hanging out with people of all ages. Maybe my grandparents were 40 when I was born...but for some reason, I always thought they looked 65. If my memory serves me correctly, my grandparents were either retired or close to it when I was in elementary school.

Oooops -- once again, I digress. I began thinking of those to remember on Memorial Day...Today, I began to catch up on my much neglected magazine stack. One of the magazines had an article about death and "Deathday", which is a day to remember those who have predeceased us. That article reminded me of my late husband. Although I think of him regularly (his picture is on my desk at work), the only times I really conjur up memories are his birthday, our anniverary, Father's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and the day he passed (as it was a few days before Easter).

I also think of him quite a bit when my children pass a milestone, High School and College Graduation, wedding ceremony, etc.

It's never easy to raise a child alone --- I would never choose to take that journey.

On another note, I would never, never, never, choose to have a child late in life. Children require physical and mental stamina. There is no way, I would elect to give birth in my 40's or beyond. Sure, I know that we (supposedly) are living longer lives...I guess if you have great physical stamina, you'll be able to deal with running behind a toddler, acting as a taxi service for adolescents, and dealing with the lives (and sometimes lies) of newly licensed drivers.

In a perfect world, parents would never know heartache from children...but our progeny can sometimes break our hearts or disappoint us in words that life partners and lovers never have access to.

What is there to remember on Memorial Day? Well... I guess the answer is - remember everything. Life is filled with peaks and valleys, ups and downs, highs and lows, good times and bad, heartache, heartbreak, and love.

A good friend of mine told me some years ago, either you're going through something, just finished going through something, or something is on the horizon...

So remember -- don't choose to forget, because we learn from our life (if we're smart).

I Remember When

A few years ago, I was hypnotized and experienced "past life regression". Why is it that past lives are not history markers in our conscious mind? Why is it that we only catch glimpses of our past live(s) when we experience de ja vu?

The truth is --- I really want to remember my past. Not just the past from last week or last year, or even in my childhood. Perhaps if I could remember that I was a great contralto, the fastest distance runner in my age category, or a brilliant scientist, perhaps today, I wouldn't have no sense of rhythm, 2 left feet, and a real problem with math (unless of course you put a $ in front of the number).

Energy Thief and Proud of It?

Yesterday, something happened near LA county (technically, it was Riverside county) that hasn't happened in quite a while. We had twisters (tornadoes), heavy rain, hail, and flooding in May.

Wow! What a day...when I left for work, the sky was a bit dreary -- but I had no idea that by the time I left, the heavens would open up -- and a torrent of heavy rain would descend. What was even more interesting was that after driving West a few miles, the sun peak out tentatively -- and I was able to go running.

When I got to the track, I was surprised -- I had the entire track to myself. I was very excited...as this was a first...however, by the time I got around the track a few times....I was totally exhausted...not breathing hard...just simply exhausted; or perhaps it was boredom. I've been running for a number of years, and I guess I was just fed up with the process yesterday...or perhaps --- I was disappointed because there was no audience (so to speak)...perhaps my energy doesn't come from me but from others around me...

What if the truth of the matter is that in order to be productive...I need an audience???? Hmmmm, that's definitely something to think about.

Careful examination perhaps leads me to believe that I am more productive when I'm in front of an audience, or feel the need to prove something -- to myself??? to others???? I don't know who the proof goes to...I only know that I need to prove something to someone.

Ah ha...perhaps that's why when the media comes around for an interview, my personality becomes more energetic and animated -- my eyes seem brighter, my mind clicks faster, and my personality voltage increases exponentially.

Fabulous at 50

Today we begin the celebration of the big 50 for two close friends.

It's kind of interesting, we've known each other for 25 years...25 years is a long time to know someone...even yourself.

So how do you celebrate a 50th birthday? For my friends, we decided 5 years ago (talk about party planning), that we would spend my friends 50th (respective) Birthdays in San Diego. Why San Diego you may ask? Well...I guess because it's just a short drive from where we live, plus....one of my friends is single...and has met a Professor at UCSD. I guess the plan is for her to connect with him (at some point--- hopefully :-() ) during our junket.

We'll be staying at one of the nicest (aka most expensive and elegant) resorts in San Diego. My plan is to swim, run, play a bit of tennis, go biking, and yes celebrate until I return home. We're planning a huge Birthday Bash - Friday night -- many of our friends will be in attendance...even the one who is still (yes, I said it -- "still") trying to decide which man to choose.

It's funny about my "Man Rich" friend (--- saying that fast, after a martini or two can be a joke in itself...), she still hasn't decided which man to select. Although I still feel that her heart is with Perfect Man #2, at this point, I'm also in a quandry. While both men are nice...and one has better manners than the other...both are quite nice gentleman. "Have Mercy" -- y0u would think at her age (over 40), she wouldn't have this problem. Some women her age (even though I must say, she is stunning, smart, successful, and not needy) would be happy with just one great man, she has 2 strong contenders ...not to mention the ones waiting in the wings.

Perhaps, her aura pulls a multitude of men into her inner circle...but then again, perhaps it's the fact that 'she's out there' ... in other words, she's gregarious, out going, nice, and most of all, she believes in herself.

If I've learned anything in my life...it's the fact that it's so easy to love your life, when you love the life you live.

2 Perfect Loves for 1 Woman

Yesterday, I shared some personal information about my girlfriend, who was forced to choose between 2 wonderful guys.

Did I mention that Great Guy #1 is handsome, successful, intelligent, and not terribly needy?
Great Guy #2 is handsome, successful, intelligent, and not terribly needy? Hey...they sound like the same great guy...in essence, they look alike...the only difference is that Great Guy #1 is "old money" - while Great Guy #2 is "new money". What's the difference, you may ask... Great Guy #1 is tight-fisted with his loot...while Great Guy #2 is terribly loose with his loot.

Now let's see...do we go with Old -- Established Money --- that will probably be around forever...yet life won't be filled with adventure and extravagance.

Or do we select -- Loosey Goosey with the Looty? Hmmmm....with Great Guy #2....days, nights, weekends and holidays will be just one great party after another...compliments of Loosey Goosey.

Perhaps, this is where maturity comes into play. In our 20's (and possibly even 30's) the answer would have been very simple --- but now, as we "REALLY" begin to contemplate retirement.... I guess the real ch0ice would be to select Great Guy #1 -- to insure our future does not include the verbiage, "would you like a soft drink with your meal?"

My advice to my friend was to go with Great Guy #2. Why you may ask? Well...my rationale is very simple...after listening to my friend - I surmised that although she may truly love both Great Guys...her heart belongs to Great Guy #2. Sometimes --- all it takes is someone to watch your expression as you spill your guts...words are wonderful -- but expressions are exceptional.

Today, my friend went to tell Great Guy #1, that she didn't feel the chemistry between them was right...and he asked her to marry him. What could she do after that? She went to Great Guy #2 (almost like a poker game) and told her that Great Guy #1 asked her to marry him.

Great Guy #2, being the Great Guy he is, promptly and without hesitation...

Man Rich

Yesterday, I met a friend for lunch at a local cafe. She had a problem that many people (yes, both sexes) have had a some point in their life...but her problem is slightly different; check this out.



Currently, she's dating a very nice gentleman...they've been dating for about 18 months. Being over 40...she's ready to make the leap into "matrimonial bliss"...he, on the other hand (15 years her senior), is not quite ready to make the leap. His excuse...too much going on in his life. He has to help his children attain their post-bachelor education...his house needs remodeling...the economy is bad...the list goes on and on...



Well...here's the twist. Ms. X (this moniker is very fitting), she is an "Xtra good catch". She is a successful business owner, with a beautiful home, strong moral values, great sense of humor, very intelligent, fun-loving, great body and beautiful face. Ms. X recently ran into a man she dated a few years back, (To be quite honest, I thought they would get married) and decided that she wants to see if they can re-ignite the sparks -- that have always remained embers in her heart.

Now comes the hard part...how to tell Mr. Current about the expiration of their relationship. WOW!

I guess it's true...at a certain age (an age we all decide for ourself) that the expiration of a monogamous relationship needs to progress or expire. The difficult part comes when you're dating a wonderful person, but the tide of matrimony isn't on the horizon -- next step, the painful breakup.

Today is the day, that Ms. X is going to tell Mr. Current the news. My advice is that Ms. X take the high ground, and state in a simple and non-accusory way, that the relationship isn't progressing as she had hoped; therefore, she feels it's in her best interest to sever the relationship.

Now...what if he get's down on (the proverbial bended knee) and asks her to marry him? I guess we'll find that out tomorrow.

Until then