Currently, it's Sunday in Coosada

G'evening!

Outside my window 

Spring is in the air.

And with it, Macie Ann's enduring love lust for the wee lizards.

I'm feeling 

Nostalgic … and a wee bit foolish.

One of my favorite memories dates back to '57:
Each afternoon while crossing the North Atlantic, Cunard stewards would settle us on deck lounges, cover us with heavy blankets and bring around bowls of hot bouillon … to settle tummies or ease sore throats.

Since that time, that's been a favorite, comforting beverage on chilly nights.

Well, imagine my distress a few months ago when I realized the low-sodium version was no-where to be found.  Of course, then I wanted it even more!

Of course, no.  It hasn't been discontinued.  Not until I paid $20 for two little bottles on Amazon, did I learn Target routinely carries it.

Is there a certain food/beverage product from your childhood that still brings you 'warm fuzzies'?

I've decided 

The "Y" and I should part ways.

The aquacize class has become incredibly boring; and more often than not, after the fact, I wind up perched atop the heating pad.

Makes me smile

Speaking of heating pads!

I thought this was such a clever idea … no more greasy, stinky fingers.

Then I realized it bears a striking resemblance to another personal hygiene product.

Ouch!  Can you imagine getting these mixed up?

I'm thankful

For the young lady at Food Outlet who - when, for example, I ask for $20 cash back - always asks what denominations I prefer.

(I'm not sure why, but $20 bills are annoying - ha!)

In the kitchen

I like oatmeal, and I love peanut butter ... but I never thought about turning them into frozen pops!

Mine aren't as pretty as Sandra's, but practice makes perfect! 

Click HERE for the how-to's.

Also in the kitchen … oh, my goodness

Per our insurance company, the folks at Serve Pro delivered these Friday.  Someone was out to check them this morning and said, "another 3-5 days."  Between the noise and the hot air, 'grumpy old grits' is practically beside himself. 

Looking forward to

Celebrating Tom's 77th birthday day after tomorrow.  Don't know how much 'celebrating' we'll do; rather, enjoy a nice dinner at Long Horn steakhouse.  DIL's birthday was yesterday, but she had outpatient surgery on Friday, and I suspect the last thing she's wanting to do is be out and about.

I can't wait to hear about your weekend! 

Have a beautiful Monday and don't forget to play safe!

Hugs, Myra

It's a Pet-Friendly Medley

Today's one of my 7 favorite days of the week, because I get to join Terri and friends for the Wednesday Medley!

Today?  Today is National Love Your Pet Day … something I think we like-minded folks can all get behind!

* * *

Terri asks ...

Have you ever had a special pet in your life?  Will you tell us about it?

Every one has been special!  

But there was only one Caraleigh.  My heart-dog.  So sweet and smart!  She knew each of her 'babies' by name and would retrieve whichever one I asked for.  I still smile, recalling how she'd scoot closer anytime I'd say, "I can't reach you."
Because I made a big mistake 'humanizing' her, I've vowed to never again let another fur baby get that close.

Did you grow up with pets in your home?  What did it teach you? 

My parents gave me a Miniature Schnauzer for my 10th birthday, in hopes it would teach me responsibility.  It didn't take, and Pepper became my father's little shadow.

Do you ever wonder what animals are thinking?

Doesn't everyone?  I suspect, when we eventually get where we're going, we'll find out (that) they understood everything all along.  Remember the Tower of Babel?

Sometimes a pet gets out and doesn't return for a few days.  What do you think happens to them when they go on a walkabout?

Being a bit of a helicopter parent, that's my worst nightmare!  I can't even allow myself to speculate.

With cats and dogs being the most popular pets, what is the most exotic pet you have personal experience with (didn't have to be yours)?

The only thing that comes to mind is a parrot belonging to one of Tom's friends.  It used to visit everyone's shoulders -- except mine.  I'm pretty sure animals can sense when someone's intimidated … or creeped out. :)

Please tell us something random about your week so far.

Those of y'all on Facebook probably saw my pictures Saturday documenting Tom's leak-detector journey.  

Turns out, the culprit was the dishwasher!  We'd not noticed anything amiss prior because it wasn't used for many months until the holidays.  Anyway, he discovered the underside all rusted and wired wonky … and the pump is DOA.  Oh, and someone had kindly left empty food containers and plastic utensils beneath.  Uck! 

 

The flooring will have to be replaced, but that's OK … we both disliked the laminate.  We're going with a ceramic tile that looks for all the world like hardwood.  Actually, a weathered barn look, aka Chip and Joanna Gaines.  The dishwasher has to go, as well, but that can wait for another day (another year).  Nice, but certainly not a necessity!

In other news ….. 

We saw the Occupational Therapist about Tom's hand this morning.  She's ordered two braces, and is sending a note to his primary, strongly suggesting a referral to an orthopedic surgeon.  Fingers crossed!


As ever, thank you so much for visiting!
  

(Hope we won't need these!)
We've more severe weather forecasted that's playing havoc with the internet, but like the postman (ha!) I'll do my darndest to visit everyone!  Stay safe!   

Hugs, Myra

Oh, I wonder, wonder

Color me curious.

Is it just me, or has anyone else sent someone a Facebook friend request by mistake?

I'll never forget the time I opened my tablet and saw where so-and-so had accepted my friend request.  Not only could I not recall ever having done so, but this was/is someone I thoroughly dislike!

Unfortunately, over the years this has happened again and again.  More often than not, I don't even know these people!  So why did they accept my request?  And why am I all reluctant to hurt their feelings and unfriend them?

When you choose to dine out -- whether it's breakfast, a casual lunch or relaxing dinner -- what's most important to you?  The food, the service, the atmosphere?

Obviously, I think we'd like all 3.  But recent experiences make me vote for service.  Maybe it's my exaggerated appreciation for a certain menu item that keeps me wanting to return.  In spite of the poor service.  

We're hardly demanding types; I always say 'please', 'thank you' or, 'when you've a moment' ... and when possible, use our server's name.

We don't eat out often, but the last few times have been really disappointing.  Friday was the worst!  Servers were moving about like drugged snails, pointedly avoiding customers' eye contact.  Two couples up and walked out ... but darn it, I wanted my Poblano omelet!  It was near 30 minutes before our food arrived, and poor Tom was fit to be tied.  

Oh my, you should have seen his face when he asked our server, "Do you have straws?"
"Yes", she replied.  (1-100, 2-100, 3-100, 4-100, 5-100 ...)  Then, "Would you like one?

Do you ever feel like you could jump in and do someone else's job better?  Sorry.  I've never worked in food service and I'm pretty sure many days are thankless.  But it doesn't take a degree in psychology to pick up your feet, stick a smile on your face and practice empathy.   Fake it 'til you feel it.   Mostly I blame the manager who stood apart.  Instead of 'working the room', offering apologies and complimentary beverages, he just stood there.

So why on earth am I sitting here days later, feeling guilty for giving her less than my usual 20% tip?   What would you do?




Dear Abby,

I've really come to love my new church family.
Except. I struggle to embrace some of their ways, their missions.

  Unlike the Unity church we attended in Phoenix, this part of the Country seems far more traditional, Bible-centered.  I don't know, less contemporary.

A few of the ladies are becoming friends.  But each week without fail, someone will invite me to join their Bible study.  In all honesty, I really can't think of anything I'd enjoy less … but shrink at the thought of saying so!   Any words of wisdom are sure appreciated!


* * *

Finally, a PostScript poser -

How do you refer to your weekly disposables?  Trash? Garbage? 
I recently spotted a sign aways down the road, prohibiting 'rubbish.'  I'm not sure if that's a southern 'thing', but it sure made me smile! 



Thanks for visiting … have a great day!

Hugs,

Myra

    

Aesthetic Sunday Stealing

Good morning!   It's been a while since I hopped aboard Sunday Stealing's train of thoughts.   Bev asks, we respond … as honestly as we dare!   Come on along!

Aesthetic? ... or plain creepy?

When did you last sing to yourself?

First thing each morning over coffee (mine) -- Macie and Grace snuggle up on either side of me and 'we' sing, "Jesus Loves Me."

If a crystal ball could tell you the truth about anything, what would you want to know?

Arghh … this is a toughie!

Probably, not when I'm going to die - but how.  That might eliminate any fears I still cling to like air travel, mammograms, dementia (etc.)

What is the greatest accomplishment of your life?

I hope this doesn't sound flippant … 

(but) that I'm right here, right now.  Despite some foolish choices and poor planning … I'm right where I want to be.

What is the first happy memory that comes to mind, recent or otherwise?

Totally random!

For almost 10 years I couldn't wait to go to work (WTSP-TV) each weekday morning.  We're all scattered now, but I feel blessed that several of these folks are Facebook friends.

If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living?

Sure!  I'd pay less attention to my food choices -- and buy a carton of cigarettes.  Everything else is good.

   

Do you feel you had a happy childhood?

Prior to my teen years, yes.  I sure did.

Would you ever have a deep conversation with a stranger and open up to them?

Is alcohol involved?

If we were like ships passing in the night, absolutely!  Easier than risking a valued relationship.

What would you title the autobiography of your life so far?

Funny you say that; I've actually pondered such a thing -- to be opened in 100 years.  (*smile*)   

A few possibilities:  Thursday's Child … I Dreamed a Dream … or, You Don't Know Me.   

How do you feel about tattoos and piercings?  Explain.

There's nothing to explain; I don't care for them.

(LOVE what my DIL once asked, "Why would anyone put a bumper sticker on a Bentley?)

Do you wear a lot of makeup?  Why/why not?

Not so much anymore.  Because my eyebrows are virtually non-existent and my eyes smallish, those are the only areas that get daily 'do's.'

The world is listening.  Pick one sentence you would tell them.

Yes, I shared this in my last post ... but it bears repeating!

Who is the world would you most like to receive a letter from, and what would you want it to say?

I'm not comfortable sharing details, but it would be a voice from long ago offering forgiveness -- and friendship. 

Do you have a desk/workspace and how is it organized/not organized?

Hardly the desk of my dreams, but for now this area (in a guest room) works. I'm religious about keeping track of deadlines, etc. via my tickler file. 

What's your Starbucks order, and who would you trust to order for you, if anyone?

I don't patronize Starbucks.

What is the most important thing to you in your life right now?

Faith, family, friends.

* * *

Have a lovely Sunday, my friends ... stay safe!

Hugs,

Myra

Just a HEARTfelt Medley

A little history, if you will, from our lovely hostess, Terri ….

VALENTINE’S DAY

Valentine’s Day began as St. Valentine’s Day, a liturgical celebration of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus.  February 14th, Valentine’s, Day first became associated with romantic love during the High Middle Ages as the tradition of courtly love was then flourishing.  During 18th century England, this day evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery and sending Valentine cards.    

Credit is traditionally given to Pope Gelasius for declaring February 14 as Saint Valentine’s Day around the year 496 to separate the church from the Roman celebration of Lupercalia, an ancient pagan fertility festival which occurred on February 15th.  

* * *

If you'd like, please play along!

Terri believes St. Valentine's Day is for everyone, whether you have a romantic love interest or not.  She received a Valentine card from her sister - case in point.  It is all about LOVE, not just romantic love.  What are your traditions for celebrating Valentine's Day?

Um, that would be my old friends Slim and None.

We'll probably collaborate on a yummy dinner at home.

I used to work with a fellow who -- in lieu of Christmas greetings -- sent Valentine's cards with a pack of wildflower seeds.   I think that's so neat!  Maybe I'll write myself a note to remember next year.

When you were in elementary school, did you decorate a shoe box and delivery little Valentines to all your classmates?  Perhaps in Sunday School?

Rather than decorated shoe boxes (I never heard of that!), we each affixed decorated white bakery bags across the bottom of the chalkboard. 

Do you enjoy playing Cupid?  Have you ever introduced a couple who really clicked?

I'm a Yenta at heart!  But no, I wouldn't want the responsibly for anyone else's happiness -- or hurt.

Which traditional Valentine's Day gift would you rather receive: Chocolate, flowers or a card with a personal message?

I'm not especially fond or chocolate or flowers … so a card would be lovely!

 A sampling of my grandma's Valentines....

postmarked February 1911!

What is the best movie to watch on Valentine's Day?

Okay, call me weird.  'Not your traditional 'happily ever after' flicks, but both of these are on my short-list of favorites.   No matter how often I've watched, they still make me sob like a baby.  

Tell us something random about your week!

Well, I'm pretty sure no-one's interested in hearing me belly-ache about income taxes or our laminate flooring that's begun to buckle.

How about, a plot-less story board?

Inspired by blog-friend Pam (aka, "Ma"), I resurrected this little duck from the hope chest.   For a number of years, my mother's passion was 'trading' with the pueblo Indians near our home in northern New Mexico.   (I once wrote about that here.)  Anyway!  As the story goes, I traded a stick of Juicy Fruit chewing gum for it back in '58.   (Yes, he/she's lost her head a time or two...)

Grand-loves at Troy University.

Clothing hooks in a consignment shop's dressing room.

Spotted near the entrance to I-65.  I was running late to the "Y" but couldn't resist doing a U-turn and going back to capture this!

Finally, a quote to share ...

This really speaks to me!

Have yourselves a sweet day and be safe.  

 ..... Because I love you!

Hugs,

Myra

 

A Foodie Medley

Say what?  
It's National Frozen Yogurt Day!

If you're interested in learning more -- including 4 DIY recipes -- please visit Terri, right HERE.

Now, let's talk about food!

* * *

Frozen Yogurt Day!  A cold dessert on what must be a very cold day for most of you reading this today!   

Actually, no.  It's prematurely warm in these parts.  (Insert sad face.)

Do you enjoy frozen yogurt?  

If you're talking about the soft serve, yes!!!

Does it matter what the weather is?  

I'm afraid so.  I'm a seasonal eater, so frozen foods/beverages don't  sound appealing until June rolls around.

Share with us your favorite flavor and/or topping!  

No toppings, but I'll fight you for a peanut butter cone!

What food do you know you shouldn't eat but can't help yourself?

Speaking of peanut butter …..

Years ago I brought my jar of JIF on board a cruise.  One of my hubby's colleagues was delighted and asked, "Might I have a taste of your peanut paste?"  (They were from Australia.)

If you life was a meal, what kind of meal would it be?

Oh man, I can't decide!
It's a toss-up between an ordinary-but-comforting, pot-roast stew and this Hatch chili enchilada casserole.

 … a little sweet, somewhat smoky, more than a little spicy.

Do you like spicy food?  (Why or why not?)  What is the spiciest food you have ever eaten?  

Having grown up in New Mexico, yes.  I adore spicy food.  
The rudest food I've tasted, however, goes to jalapenos.   In my opinion they stun rather than enhance.

Because Terri has been sidelined with a bad cold, she asks:  What food do you eat or crave when you have a bad cold?

Nothing does the trick like matzo ball chicken soup.  Just thinking about that served at Lucky Dill in Palm Harbor is making my mouth water!

Please tell us something about your week!

Last Thursday at first light I dropped Tom at the airport … dashed home and changed the bedding, cleaned the bath, etc.   
When my BF Debbie arrived a few hours later, yes.  Our 5-day food fest began in earnest. :)    

First on the agenda was supper at Mellow Mushroom (win-win!).   Unfortunately, the next day's steak and eggs at WindCreek Casino were a huge disappointment.  (Don't you hate it when someone asks how you enjoyed the meal? - Then, when you tell them they act like they don't even care?!)  

Debbie had never been to a casino before!  I'm not especially fond of gaming, but she had a ball.

I was super excited to try Chicken Salad Chick.  12 - count 'em - different varieties of chicken salad!!!  While my choice (Lauryn's Lemon Basil) was delicious, I'd definitely enjoy it more in the summer months.

Of course, a visit to Jackson Lake Island and the old movie set was a must!

Concerned what to feed their resident goat population, I assured the caretaker my box of whole wheat crackers was unsalted.  He just laughed and laughed and said they'd 'ravage' us for whatever we had to share.

Due to Debbie's limited mobility, her inability to walk very far or do stairs, our tourism options were few ... but we more than made up for it by yakking and chortling for hours on end -- even ridiculing each other's food choices. 

Ironic!  She and I are practically polar opposites; and haven't in all the years, actually spent that much one-on-one time together.   Never having had a sister or a nearby friend in so many years, I've grown accustomed to living a solitary-but-happy lifestyle with Y'ALL here in Blogville.  Tom's a dear, but it's different, you know?
  
Anywho!  Debbie left yesterday and a few hours later Tom's plane arrived.  (The dogs are so confused!)  Not to push the envelope, but I want to check-out costs for a pet-friendly VRBO near St. Pete or Sarasota later this year.

It's all good .. but I've missed you!
As ever, thanks for visiting … be safe!

Hugs,

Myra