The Paper Clip Project

Hey there, friends … welcome back!

I've got to hand it to Terri for thinking outside the box.  Given the prompt, National Paper Clip Day, me? I'd probably throw up my hands and recuse myself.

I've never been particularly interested in history.  But the 'Paper Clip Project' gave me goosebumps.  In short: As part of a Holocaust education class, student volunteers began collecting paper clips.

6 million paper clips.  One clip representing one Jew who perished during the Holocaust.

The Paper Clip Project gained international attention, and by 2001 the students collected more than 30 million paper clips.  The school dedicated a Children's Holocaust Memorial which displays an authentic German railcar filled with a portion of the paper clips.

To learn more, visit Terri's blog or www.oneclipatatime.org.

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Now, I'm tickled to join the Merry Band of Meddlers!  Please, feel free to play along!

Terri asks ...

Wow!  Had you ever heard of the Holocaust Project involving paperclips?  It's a great teaching project, for sure!

No, never!

It's said the Norwegians were particularly persistent in the development of symbols.  The paper clip represented "sticking together."  (Until the Nazi's caught on ….)

Have you ever created a paper clip chain?  How long did it get?

Not on purpose, no.

Because small clips tend to get all tangled, I opt for the jumbo size.

Terri uses paper clips as hooks at Christmas time to put ornament on the tree.  Works like a charm!  What is something you used a paperclip for, other than holding paper together?

I agree! Our Christmas trees contain more paper clips than regular hooks.

 Theoretically, these aren't paper clips, but it's my favorite hack.

Terri is amazed at the shapes and colors of paper clips available.  She's found her favorite. 

Me, I opt for green and yellow (rubberized) plastic ones.

Say goodbye to May on this last Wednesday of May.  Be poetic if you will, or simply bid it adieu.

Thank you, May!  Like a debutante, you arose from the unkept bramble that defines the rear of our property.  

Thank you, May! 

…For continuing to preserve the silent anniversaries of my heart.

Thank you, May! 

...For new friendships beginning to germinate.

Thank you, May!  

… For giving me courage to let go.  Let go of others, whose only sins aren't sins at all; but challenge my peace of mind.

Thank you for your lessons.  

Good be with you,

God be with you.

Goodbye!

Tell us something about your week so far, please.  

Given the unseasonably warm hot temps, we didn't plan anything special for the holiday weekend.

Tom cleaned out all the rain gutters and power-washed the deck -- while I made super-spicy Pimento cheese.  Yum!  I just didn't stop to think how much it yielded.  What a shame I can't send some to y'all!

(1 of 3 containers!)

We also indulged in our once-every-three-months rib fest.

And I fell in love with my new Champs BBQ shirt!

Finally, just because the expression on Grace's face made me laugh out loud ...

Does this beg a caption, or what?!

Happy Hump Day … stay safe!

Hugs, Myra

Buyer's Remorse (aka, Water Cooler Monday)

Memorial Day is normally a paid holiday in offices throughout the nation.

Not so in Blogland!

Thanks for joining me for this week's episode of Water Cooler Monday!

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Who remembers Monty Hall's "Let's Make a Deal!"?  Any gamblers in the audience today?

Would you agree, every now and then we've all a little 'what if' deep down inside.  My dad, for instance.  I'll never forget the time he paid $5 for the privilege of choosing a 'mystery brown bag' at the local grocer.  When he got it home and opened it, however, it contained cans and cans of CAT FOOD.  (Of course, we had no cat.)

Well.  I guess I'm not as level-headed as I thought.

ThredUp has a promo where - for a mere $10 -  you can get your own 'mystery brown bag box.'

They asked me to tell them what I like …more importantly what I don't.  (e.g. Nothing blue, nothing sleeveless, no ruffles …)

Their personal shoppers assemble a variety of clothes, usually 10-12 pieces and ship free to your door.  If you buy one, or two -- or all, your $10 is applied to that cost. 

Well, good thing return shipping is free!  I was all excited when my box arrived and hustled to check out what they'd chosen.

While not an EPIC FAIL, I was seriously disappointed.

In the end, I kept a pair of Adidas athletic pants and a Lush new-with-tags white blouse.  Only because I've not owned a white blouse since 6th grade, and one never knows. 

So, I'm kicking myself over here.  In the first place, I could care less about designer clothing.  And in the second place, I don't NEED more clothes.  

What can I say?  Daddy, this one's for you!

Please. Can you tell me about a time you felt buyer's remorse?

I hope everyone's enjoying a safe holiday.  Let's never forget the reason!

Hugs, Myra

Road Tripping

..... If only via my armchair!

This Friday has been declared National Road Trip Day and serves as the official kickoff of the summer road trip season.  With two-thirds of leisure travelers planning to take vacations this summer, it's clear that the open road calls when long weekends and Friday's roll around.

We pack up, fuel up, stock up and then crank up the tunes!

To learn more, please visit Terri's space or visit NationalCalendar.com.

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This week Terri asks ….

Have you ever done a spur-of-the-moment road trip?  Where did it take you?

No. There were - and are - our pets to consider.   Plus, like my father, I find a huge part of enjoyment in the planning.  

If time and money wasn't an issue, what roads would you choose to travel and how long would you be gone?

I try not to let many things get to me anymore … but I still loathe freeways.

I'm seriously looking forward to experiencing the 'roads less taken' throughout the Deep South; perhaps even the Smoky Mountains.  Someday.  

When you go on a long road trip, what snacks and beverages do you take?  Do you pack a picnic?  Does the back seat turn into a nest?

Nope.  No picnics, no nests.

We're good with water (me), Coca-Cola (him), and a jar of unsalted nuts.  Both of us are really prone to getting drowsy if we eat too much.

Please tell us about something interesting or strange you have seen on the side of the road.

I know roadside crosses exist almost everywhere.  During my years in Phoenix, however, they seemed to be on every other corner!

One, in particular fascinated me:

In addition to the simple wooden cross, someone routinely put up decorations appropriate to the particular season: Valentines, St. Paddy's Day, Easter, etc., etc., etc.

I never witnessed anyone in the act of decorating, but was sure curious about their back-story.    

Who does the driving when you head out in the car?  Do you stop in the rest areas along our interstate highways when you have to use the facilities, or do you choose a fast-food restaurant on gas station instead?  Not TMI ... inquiring minds want to know!

Tom's truck is the surer of our vehicles, so he gets to drive everywhere.  I can use rear-view and side mirrors, but prefer to look over my shoulder.  With his shell, that's not possible.

Please - give me a fast-food eatery or a gas station.  Lots of people about and good lighting.

Please share something with us about your week so far.

Have y'all ever done something so foolish - albeit with great intentions - that all you could do is laugh?

As part of their 'hometown tour' series, WSFA-TV announced plans to broadcast live from Millbrook's Village Green last Friday.  Imagining food vendors and marching bands (yada yada, yada), Tom and I made plans to go.

Well there was a band, afforded its 30 seconds of fame.  But no vendors.  No crowds.

In fact, it was just me n' he, sitting in 91* weather, watching the camera crew and anchors holding little fans and mopping their brows..

I did get to visit with our favorite meteorologist who asked, "What brings you to Alabama?"  When I said something about wanting to escape the heat in Arizona he grinned and said, "How's that working out for you?"

* * *

Big thanks to those who shared encouragement and advice on my diet plan.  And to Sandra, who shared THIS nifty BMI calculator, complete with easy-to-understand explanations. https://www.smartbmicalculator.com/ 

Color me walkin' on sunshine!

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Are any of y'all planning a road trip this summer?  Gas prices aside, where would you like to go?

Where the Boys Are, 1960

Have a great rest of the week … let's all stay safe!

Hugs, Myra

Currently - Part 2

Hello there!

I'm pondering ...

Whether I really want to replace our villainous rusted dishwasher -- or, convert that opening into extra storage space.  A freezer, perhaps.

Tom's not on board, but I'm not letting it go just yet.

I'm feeling ...

Confused, impatient, annoyed.

Today is Day #26 of Atkins and I've lost not quite 5 lbs.  Unless my Biotin supplements contain sugar (ha), I've not consumed more than 5-6 grams of carbs a day.

When I first became a disciple (back in the 70's) I'd easily lose 5 lbs. in a week! I know 'keto' is all the craze now, but I refuse to buy their magic powders or do intermittent fasting.

I'm reading ...

 Anyone else? … Your thoughts?

This, the current focus of Ladies Bible study.  So relieved to learn there's more to the group than just reading the Bible!  

Good to know ...

My DIL is really a sharp dresser.  Think stylish, yet inexpensive.  Like many, she's fond of wearing long tunic tops over skinny pants or leggings.

Disappointed at the decline in quality of Target's women's wear, she recently turned to the nicer selection in the children's department.  Sure enough, a girl's dress (size 12-14) makes a really attractive tunic top!

Oh my goodness!

Talk about marked decline!  A year exposed to the elements under the trees has done a number on my car's paint.  Before it could worsen, Tom bought this cover.

But talk about a challenge getting it on!   The old phrase, "trying to catch a greased pig" comes pretty close.   Aside from the bungy cords I bought, does anyone have a suggestion?

Something to remember …

(Click to enlarge)

Be good … be safe!

Hugs, Myra

Currently - Part I

G'morning!   

Outside my Window

I blinked, and Spring turned to Summer.

I think these are some kind of gardenia bushes.  So very sad how quickly the blooms yellow … not unlike an ancestral bridal gown.

I'm Thinking

It isn't such a bad idea to have begun Ladies Bible study.

I was concerned they might be a bit pious.  Or worse, offended when they learned I haven't opened a Bible since 8th grade.

Everyone is really nice and down-to-earth.

I'm Thankful

Our oven door has finally been replaced.  Woot!

One of my Favorite Things

My olden camp trunk, turned keeper of blankets.  I love seeing my dad's distinctive print.

In the Kitchen

I'm going to try making this next week!

Super Pimento Cheese

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

8 oz. medium cheddar cheese

8 oz. Colby and Monterey Jack blend

1 can Ro-Tel

4 oz. jar diced pimentos

1 c. mayonnaise

Smidgen of red pepper

1/4 t. salt; 1/4 t. paprika

1/4 t. garlic powder; 1/8 t. black pepper

Put Ro-Tel and pimentos in colander to drain.  Leave at least 10 minutes, going by every few minutes to toss and shake out all the liquid.

Put cream cheese in a medium bowl and add all the spices. Finely grate cheddar and other cheese together in large bowl. Add Ro-Tel and pimentos to the cream cheese bowl and beat until well blended.  Add the mayonnaise and beat again.  Pour over the grated cheese.  Gently mix thoroughly.

Best when chilled overnight.

Dreaming about

Taking a road trip to Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe and/or Fairhope.

(If you read Sean of the South you understand where I'm coming from.)

A Thought to Carry With You

… to be continued!

Thank you so much for choosing to spend a few minutes with me.  Have a great weekend … stay safe!

Hugs, Myra

Silk Stocking Medley

Hi!  I'm happy to join Terri and her merry band of meddlers to commemorate National Nylon Stocking Day!

Today's posers include ...

Do you ever wear stockings today?

As in 'right now' today? No, only on Sundays.

Terri can remember her mom wearing hose with the seam in the back.  Do you have any memories of those?  No.  During the war, when stockings were scarce, women would draw a line on their legs to simulate wearing stockings!  How far would you go to superficially fake something today?

Aside from cosmetics and LOTS of hair gel/spray, I've become a 'what you see is what you get' sort.

Women actually rioted after WWII because Dupont couldn't keep up with the demand for nylon stockings.  Is there anything today you would riot for if the supply dried up (other than basic food and water needs)?

I'm probably the last person on the planet to participate in a riot! But yes. If my Social Security check was threatened …..

BTW, does anyone (besides me) recall their parents or grandparents referring to a grandiose neighborhood as the 'silk stocking district'?

Pantyhose were first called Panty Legs.  I'm sure we all have worn pantyhose at one time or another.  Do you still have a pair or three in a drawer?  Do you wear them?

Yes, I've one or two pair but now that I'm retired, there's little reason to do so.  I loved the way they keep my legs cool in the summer, and toasty in the winter.

Years ago, when I devoted a post to 'panty nylons' (Tom's term), one reader commented:  "I think women who wear upscale outfits without wearing hose look unfinished."

.

How about you fellows?  Do you care one way or another?  

This is also National Chocolate Chip Day.  Perhaps chocolate is something to riot for if we ran out?  Joe's favorite cookie is chocolate chip.  What is yours?

That would be raw!

Please share something with us about your week.

Backing up to Saturday afternoon...

Lois prepared a wonderful spread of pulled pork, burgers, Conecuh sausage, cheesecake … and something called Louisiana Crack Cake.  (Sure wish I'd given in!)

Love that my grand-dogs, cats and chickens were included on the card!

THEN (*shudder*) from the back of the house, I heard Lois' daddy yell and everyone jumped.

Belatedly, I arrived to see my DIL dragging a chicken snake by its tail, away from the hen house. Grand #1 was unsuccessfully whacking it's head with a rubber boot before Grand #2 employed the business end of a hoe.

My fear of snakes is of great amusement.  Later, when Troy texted me this photo I remarked, "If I have nightmares, I'm coming after you."   He returned, "Lois says, 'sweet dreams.'"  Stinkers!  

Oh, there's more, but I'll save that for an upcoming post.  'Hope you'll join me!  Meanwhile, be safe!

Hugs, Myra

Water Cooler Monday: Truth Telling

"I suppose she wouldn't be so bad if she only had eyebrows....".

Walking a few feet ahead, I couldn't help overhearing one of the Lindsey twins' critique.

54 years later, that still stings.  Isn't that silly?

Oh, there was never any doubt my parents adored their only child.  Unfortunately, they left me totally unprepared to accept any sort of criticism from my peers.

Thankfully, I've grown thicker skin … and a sense of humor.

Sure, there've been plenty of hits and misses along the way.  If ever you're feeling low and in need of a laugh, let me know.  I'll send photos.  Even as late as Tom's and my wedding in '04.  I didn't merely have eyebrows, they resembled wings.

You're wondering, why on earth didn't someone say something?  (Ya. Me, too.)

Last year Sean Dietrich turned his own eyebrow crisis into part of his stand-up routine.  And once again, I became brow obsessed.  Fascinated (sometimes repulsed) by some stars' pronounced features.  "Big brows are 'in' right now."  So informs my hairdresser.

Say, does anyone remember?

Back in the 70's, each month a ladies magazine (Glamour?) would feature candid "man/woman on the street" photos.   Here, for instance: "Miss Wrong" alongside "Mrs. Right."

… Intended to educate its clueless readers in the do's and don'ts of hair, cosmetics, wardrobe.

Wheels turning, turning.  Turning some more.

I could do that!

The advertisement might read, "Do you dare?"

Based totally on anonymity, the client might agree to spend 1-2 hours at a public venue -- a shopping mall, perhaps -- wearing a corsage or a specific patterned shirt.

A panel of judges (*smile*) -- unknown to one another -- would observe and critique. Obviously, I'm not talking about physical deformities … anything out of one's control, save plastic surgery.

Their impressions would be shared anonymously with the client a few days later.  And everyone would live happily ever after.

  

I never had the poor sense to speak of it out loud.  Until now.

So happy most of the people I know seem to have a healthy self image.  Others -- like my BF Debbie -- simply don't care what others think.

What about you?

Does what others think matter greatly to you?  Not at all?

Do you have someone in your life who you can count on to tell you the truth?

Happy Monday, everyone!  Be safe out there!

Hugs, Myra

Friday Letters

Woo-hoo, it's Friday!  High-time to write some thank-you notes.  Anyone care to look over my shoulder?

Oh, by the way.  I've not received (nor been offered) any compensation/reward for these vignettes.

* * *

Dear Thred-up,

How fun to receive not 1, but 3 polka-dot boxes!  I wouldn't have put money on it  … but everything fits!  Best, I spent only $58 for Ryka sneakers + 3 pair of jeans … that look nicer than those in my closet!

I had to chuckle at this reference to gold-digging!

New-with-tags + extra insoles and laces.  Score!

A (seemingly) sincere note from the CEO.  Color me impressed!

* * *

Dear Country BBQ,

Thank you for your consistently generous portions.  I've a new favorite roadhouse!

My pulled-pork salad, the size of a dinner plate!

Tom's roast-beef and onions sandwich.

Funky décor.  I've never  heard of chicken dinner candy.  Have you?

* * *

Dear Copper Chef,

A skeptic by nature, I'm delighted that your no-stick claims are really true!  Without even trying, I'm able to successfully prepare 'over-easy' eggs using only a rubber spatula.

* * *

Dear Tom,

Thank you for buying an extra pair of ramps.  When you fell while driving the mower out of your shed last week, I knew there was no way I'd ever attempt that on two rails.

* * *

Dear blog family,

Thank you for being my very own rainy-day friends.

Won't you sing along?

Have a sweet weekend … stay safe!

Hugs, Myra