Should we dance

Monday, April 30, 2007

If that's all there is, my friend!

In the 40's Peggy Lee wrote a song "If that's all there is, my friend, if that's all there is...then bring out the booze and let's keep dancing!

This song entered my mind today because a dear friend of mine was going over some things that were part of an estate.

Our kids can't take our things...you can't put 2 houses in 1 house. So what to do with these treasures that lined our wall units and made our houses interesting.

Is this what happens when a house is made barren by deaths and illness.

We collected over the years...and then ....all for naught.

Perhaps Peggy Lee was right. I really don't know!

Friday, April 27, 2007

Today I thought I messed up good!

Donna came to my rescue. I switched to fast access and the man who installed a new modem did something to my frontpage...and my blogs were not to be found.

My 'masterpieces'!!!! Well, not exactly...but some thoughts for an older lady at night.

Anyway, I put on my new headphones...so that Donna could talk me thru...but it wasn't necessary.

She fixed it on her end. I have guardian angels...so I won't worry so much the next time.

Thursday, April 26, 2007

All the would-be Democratic hopefuls for President spoke tonight!

I was really listening tonight to hear what all these 'learned' people had to say about how they'd run our country.

I don't know if I was really listening..or watching them to see the 'beautiful people' and how the rest of the world' would greet them if they were to win.

What was asked of them...and their answers didn't quite jive! And I wondered if this was like going shopping...when the upper part of you takes a different size than the bottom of you.

Like mix and match. No...that wasn't it.

Each of them spoke brilliantly...but if someone asked me who I would chose, I would say...not tonight I have a headache.

So...maybe on the campaign trail, they'll get a little smoother...a little firmer...then we'll re-think this whole thing.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

My friend Esty who works so hard for True Sisters!

Esty asked me why I write these blogs. And I explained to her that since my life is sooo interesting, I do this....very good company.

Here's her answer to me:


Don't mention about an exciting life! We all have to find our own place...& do whatever makes us feel good about ourselves. You hit it right, when you discussed not playing cards or mahj jongg...or whatever it is that keeps certain people content...all day long in the clubhouse. Well...that life isn't for ME either. I'd rather read a book than just sit over there playing cards. It seems that's what most of the people here like best...Maybe that's why I'm willing to take the Presidency another term...it keeps my mind (brain) working & I also feel like we're doing things for others, what little it is.
So be it...does any of the above make any sense? Please don't think I'm criticizing those who use the clubhouse for daily recreation...that's their choice. Maybe it's their mentality & that's all they know! (you can laugh now, if you please) Love, Es

Will we be just ships that pass in the night

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn.They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.

Perhaps that's our Virginia who moved in next door...made herself known to all of us....and then announce that she's going to be leaving.

Inside of me...I definitely don't want her to leave...but there's an old expression that if you love someone you must let them go.

So...selfishly I want her to stay...but I want her to sell her home and be on her way....to make life happy for the future folks who will meet her.

I look for her daily visits...a breath of fresh air...but I want the realtor to do his job too.

I'll treasure our friendship...and golly, we can still email.

Monday, April 23, 2007

Springtime in Florida

It's a pleasure to drive on the roads...no cars in front or behind.

They've gone NORTH!

I'm glad because I'm a resident. I would be very unhappy if my husband and I were still in business and dependent on them to make our living.

That was a long time ago...and since I'm rather a timid driver, this suits me just fine.

My car is a 99 and I just managed to get 14,000 miles on it. I guess I'm that preverbial old lady who just drives on Sundays.

Fact is...a lot of my friends don't want me to drive. I park far away from where we're going. It's deliberate...I need the walk.

They're unhappy and I hear complaints. Oh well...I don't have to fill my gas tank up that often.

I make it up by treating for lunch though. I'm not a freeloader.

So, if you see me on the highway, I'll wave to you....but I'll be in the 'passenger seat'.

Sunday, April 22, 2007

Ryan keeping vigil for Va. Tech Students

This was a very sad week for America and Students of Virginia Tech.

Ryan is my great nephew and he's in New York but he's with others who feel about this tragedy the same as he.

He's behind the Asian girl...and I'm so glad that he's taking a stand...even with a candle.

I wish our government would take a stand on gun control...or I should say lack of guns.

But they say...guns don't kill people...only people kill people. Not so...maybe if it wasn't so easy for this student to purchase a fun, this tragedy could have been averted.

Please G-d....let this not happen again. Maybe we can all learn from this.

Saturday, April 21, 2007

And we're still conserving water!

New drought rules county-by-countyAssociated Press Posted April 12 2007, 2:42 PM EDT

A county breakdown of outside water-use restrictions for lawns, gardens and car and boat washing:
Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Lee, Collier, Hendry and Glades counties, along with portions of Charlotte and Martin: Restricted to two days a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. for addresses that end in odd numbers, and Thursdays and Sundays for addresses that end in even numbers.

Yes, that's an update from the Sun Sentinel. The grass is getting a little yellow and our allowed shrubbery is a little peaked.

Should we do an Indian Rain Dance??? Will that help!! Maybe!

Friday, April 20, 2007

Today is Earth Day everywhere on our planet

We are responsible...so what are we doing about it. One woman I watched on tv said if we all used just one less napkin a day.

I can do that! But...will that really help! I've been using paper plates so that I can save energy and water. Am I not aiding...am I hindering our enviorment? Perhaps! I will need to delve further online to see what the solution is.

I want to go GREEN! I feel very guilty when Publix gives me all of those little plastic bags. If I took a cloth bag to put my groceries in...would people eye me like I'm a weirdo. Perhaps!

I don't know these answers. I will change all my light bulbs...and I shop very locally so I don't use much gas.

I watered a few plants in front of my patio today by schlepping buckets of water to these poor flowers who were drooping in my view.

I just turned out my living room light....now I wonder when I shut this... computer down for the night...should I turn it off completely.

I love our planet....can I make a difference. I will try.

My 'so-called" holdings

The stock market is doing crazy dances...spiraling upward. Now that's supposed to be a good sign...but I know we do have inflation. When I shop at Publix or Winn Dixie I see how the prices, especially on produce, have escalated.

Speaking of which, not only is our manufactured stuff all coming from Asia...but our produce is grown in countries that I know nothing about. No one ever visits them...but they do ship good fruits and vegetables.

Anyway, back to Wall Street. What is happening? If one owns mutual funds, and isn't greedy, would this be a good time to move that money to a money market...then when the market drops, brag to everyone how you had the foresight to move your money.

So, reader, what do you think? Any gurus out there!!!!!!

Thursday, April 19, 2007

The bottles remain on the floor ...deliberately!

Donna's Gator Aide is still on the kitchen floor because it's still so recent since they visited and I don't like to move them just yet. Or maybe I'm just a lazy housekeeper.

Just like Jeff's gigantic water bottle is still on the sink. Reminds me of when Jeff would come home for breaks from college and Herky was so happy to see him.

But when Jeff was ready to return back to school, I don't know what kind of instinct our doggy had, but he always stole one sock that was worn and had Jeff's aroma, and he would store it in his box.

I guess we all like our 'comfy blankets'. Jeff lost more socks that way and it always made me feel good.

I just wish a 'sock' would have done it for me. Jeff's dad and I would feel a void when he left....because he was so special to us.

April 19--another beautiful Thursday

I sit here at the computer my kids got me and I have lots to say but I'm extremely heartsick about what happened at Va. Tech...the college that Jeff attended...then Eric and then Ryan...the Hokeys.

There's soo much blame to go around...so many signs were missed or sluffed off...and it could have been avoided but no one really wants to interfere or listen.

Before this, nobody even heard of a little town called Blacksburg, Va. Now the entire world is aware of it. Will we be more aware of troubled souls who can do such evil.

I remember when we all made this trip with a 'dolly' to carry in Jeff's things...a little refrigerator...black and white tv....no computer since there weren't any. Jeff was taking computer science...a new subject..and he had a new Texas Instrument Calculator to replace his sliderule. Should we have kept them...would that be a 'collectible today!!!! We also schlepped lots of towels, blankets and sheets.

We weren't alone...every other parent was doing the same thing.

I remember on the return trip home, I knew that our lives would never be quite the same again.

And that's when Jeff took his first airplane trip home. We couldn't wait!!!

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

JUst to cute not to publish

http://www.frontiernet.net/~jimdandy/specials/life/life.htm

Monday, April 16, 2007

My computer is malfunctioning--did I break it???

Hi...I woke up this morning and the first thing I did was dash to my computer to see if anyone was thinking of me today. I did do one other thing but I'm not going to tell.

So I went to my home page....and no juice. I just couldn't believe it. This highly-sophisticated piece of equipment and it wouldn't send or receive anything....what the heck was going on.

What did I do wrong????So I shut it down....and didn't even watch my soaps but went once again to the computer. Same story.

So....I waited till 7:30 when I knew Jeff and Donna would be finished eating and explained my plight to him.

He laughed and said 'not to worry'. I should, and at my age, this is not an easy feat, to crawl under my desk and disconnect one by one all the connections.

Well....that was the magic! I did that the other day with my printer, but didn't even think of it once, for this problem.

So.....I didn't break anything. Goody...goody!!!!

My Migrant Mexican twin boys with blue eyes

It's Monday the day I get to spend some time with two dear little boys helping them with their homework and reading a book together.

They're 6 years old and very bright. Today one came loaded with a big box of chocolate bars that he was selling for his school. The outside of the box that held 60 was Reader's Digest.

We were working on homework and they were to estimate between inches and feet. I don't carry a purse in the school, but I pulled out of my pocket a $5.00 bill to explain to them that this is 6 inches long. Well, when Juvian saw the bill he asked if I would buy some candy. I had no other change with me, and I was his first customer, so I offered to buy 5 bars .. and if they were very good, I would give each of them a bar to take home, to be put in a separate place so that he wouldn't get it mixed up with his salable product.

There was just 15 minutes left in the day to play Legos...but I went up to him and said, why don't you ask some of the other volunteers if they would like to buy a bar of candy.

He was very eager and thought it was a good idea...so he is now an entrepreneur. I bought those candy bars because I remember Jeff and Paul selling candy for scouts and band camp. It brought alot of sweet memories back to me of the days when they were so young.

Sunday, April 15, 2007

Learning to Blog

.Hello everyone, I kinda feel like I'm in kindergarten 101. My kids are guiding my every word so I'm apprehensive about what I have to say next.

I just know that this is one of the greatest experiences of my life and I do feel as though I truly am living in the 21st century. I find it so impossible to believe that this is a living encyclopedia...anything I want to know or I find of interestcan be found on the internet

Now from someone who remembers when her father built a crystal radio set in 1928 with headphones, and listened to the first radio station ever, Pittsburgh's KDKA, this is quite a miraculous accomplishment.

When I was very young I only read the 'funnies' in our daily paper, either the Pittsburgh Press or the Post Gazette. Later New Kensington was able to put out the Valley Daily News. Now Jeff and Donna have arranged it that when I turn on the computer and go to my homepage, Florida's Sun Sentinel is staring me in the face...all I have to do is decide do I want the Front Page, editorials. letters to the editor...or what!!

Or what....the whole world is open to me and all I have to do us pay attention to what's going on around me...and if I do, then maybe when I'm out in company, I can speak intelligently and people will think I'm bright.

I'm not that at all...but this thing does keep one alert. I'd rather be on this than playing cards with impatient ladies, who can't wait until I lay my next tile.

So, for the moment, this Sunday, I have tons of things to think about so that my grown-up smart kids won't find me boring.

One moment please...I found this enchanting little note from Donna, my teacher and mentor.


1 comments:
Donna of Manassas said...
Wow!!! I wish I could write like you. It's funny how I find the computer stuff so easy but writing is so difficult for me. I suspect the opposite is true for you. We each have our talents don't we?Donna
April 15, 2007 8:54 PM


So long for today~

How things are wrapped!

Including packaging have sure changed. When we had our toy store, a blister package was a thin sheet of plastic over the item, and you would pull it apart as easily as peeling a banana.

Today, not so. It's just about the hardest chore on my schedule these days. However, I have a wonderful friend...Virginia, who lives right next door to me. One day she walked over with a present for me....a good pair of scissors made for slicing into todays's blister pack.

When she brought it over, I thought I would never have occasion to use it.

Well...this gift returned me from insanity to being very functional.

My old cell phone wouldn't hold a charge....so I made a new purchase of an upgraded one. Not only was the phone in rigid heavy-duty plastic....but the battery also came locked in a blister of it's own.

I wonder if the manufactures over in China giggled as they constructed these...............saying those stupid Americans will be cursing over this.

Anyway, back to Virginia and her magic shears.....cut right through all those heavy layers...and finally after cutting this way and that way.....hooray, I was able to retrieve my purchase.

Now....all I have to do is study the instructions. Help Virginia!!!!!!! And while I was struggling to open this...Jeff and Donna were on Skype with me...watching...and I don't want them to know how weak I am.

They were exchanging the $300. that they had entered into my old phone and putting that amount into my new cell.

Now I have to wait for someone to call me! I gotta use up some of that money!

Time is running out on 07

Thoughts from Hilda

These are my thoughts, during average days of my life. They're probably not of any interest to anyone other than my dear friends, my children, my nephews, grandnephews, and other people who have passed through my life.

Saturday, December 29, 2007

Time is running out on 07

Writing a blog is kind of a solitary thing. I sit here and ponder where did the old year go..and did I make the most of the days.

I was introduced to a computer bought and taught by my grown-up children. Their zeal encouraged me to try to learn...and I believe I'm in the search engine everyday. I got a gps which I'm not that thrilled with..but eventually I guess it does take you to where you're going.

My niece and nephew bought me a digital frame and put all the pictures from my Picasso gallery into it.

So..my technology keeps moving along.

My friends are the same and I intend to guard them because I cherish them.

I'm ushering on a regular basis at Florida Stage..and I love it. I wear a white top and black slacks and black enclosed shoes..my uniform. The patrons when they leave thank me for a wonderful show like I had something to do with it...but it pleases me that it gave them such a pleasurable feeling.


I've given up my migrant children because the new teacher aggravated me .. and so I left.

I did it for 7 years so...maybe that's enough of that.

Jewish people are very lucky. We get to have 2 New Year's. So you would think I'd get it right one of these times.

When I think of all the New Years' past...I can't get over the fact that I've celebrated so many.

And now once again...going into another year and wondering just what is around the corner.

Mathmatically, if one were to take a calculator and figure out all the hours, minutes and seconds, we'd say...where did they all go.

Time is an abstract!

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

My very first poetry--and it stuck

Hi...I was going back in the deep recesses of my old brain when this poem came to mind.

I was in first grade when my teacher Miss Kirpatrick read it to us..and it must have made some kind of impression.

I didn't recall all the words...but thanks to computers...it's in there.

In a way I tried to be like the best child in this poem...I was kind of a goody two-shoes child.

WHICH LOVED BEST? by Joy Allison (1917)

"I love you, Mother, said little John;
Then, forgetting his work, his cap went on.
And he was off to the garden swing,
Leaving his mother the wood to bring.

"I love you, Mother, said rosy Nell,
"I love you better than tongue can tell."
Then she teased and pouted full half the day.
Till her mother was glad when she went to play.

I love you, Mother," said little Fan,
"To-day I'll help you all that I can;
How glad I am that school doesn't keep!"
So she rocked the babe till he fell asleep.

Then stepping softly, she took the broom,
And swept the floor, and dusted the room.
Busy and happy all day was she;
Helpful and happy as a child could be.

"I love you, Mother," again they said,
Three little children going to bed.
How do you think that mother guessed
Which of them really loved her best?

Maybe these words came to mind when I heard an old Christmas Carol "Jolly jolly Santa Clause, lean your ear this way..don't you tell a single soul...what I've got to say...etc.

I guess all thru our lives there lives a Santa although he's called by many different names...sometimes just friend which is a great big word..and I've found out you have to be one to have one.

Today I had a nice experience...I went to the Boynton Mall with my friend Judy....and I saw children on the merry go round..
The  choo choo train  traveled all over the mall, even for those adults who can't walk too much.

There was Christmas and Hanukah in the air ... and it was very festive....and it made me feel happy.

After we left the mall, we dined at the Golden Corral...and that is an adventure in eating....so many stations with all good food....so much to choose from...and we're not camels, we can't store it.    I took no soup...didn't want to fill up on that.

I made a beautiful salad for myself....so satisfying...and for desert, which I always save room for, I had butter pecan ice cream.     So good.

Then I came home and the telephone was ringing...our Brooke had expired.   May Her Soul Rest In Peace.    There will be no service and she's being creamated....almost like she never was.

I need closure....I would like to have a small service here at our clubhouse for her.    I need a man to read the 23rd psalm and say a prayer in Hebrew.  

I'll ask around!

I'm a bit heavy-hearted tonight as I put my thoughts down.   A friend of 21 years is half dead tonight, hooked up to life preserving equipment.    Except  it isn't going to work...she's in a coma and she's brain dead.

She did have a living will, certified, but it's not enough...must have a family signature.    So the hospital can't do anything until her brother comes in and gives his permission in writing.

Her name is Brooke, although I know her as Myrna and I have many happy memories of her.   A good person always willing to put herself out to help you.

She was a very sick girl and woman ... but the irony is she didn't die from any of her operations...she went to the bathroom and fell and cracked her head on the bathtub.

I didn't put it on 63 yet...because she's not living...and she's not dead yet.    Tomrrow I will make the phone call when I know better.

I will go to her funeral to pay my last repects...but her memory will live in my soul forever.  I hope there is a memorial service for her here at High Point.

In the meantime...I have a deep sadness within me.    She was still in her 60's.

Jeff and Donna pointed me in this direction!

Why oh why do I write my blog???   Is it because I want to be published???     Is it because I think I have fantastic ideas???    Is it because I need to be recognized for my achievement???    Is it ego on my part?  Maybe in part of my brain I would have liked to be a writer but it never came to fruition.


I'm amazed at times how many readers spend some time reading my blog, and not just in this country

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Entry Pageviews

Today I was thinking about if I had my life to live all over again...would I do things differently .

No...the answer is definitely no.   I've mostly enjoyed my life, except for the tragic stuff.   I lucked out and had a wonderful husband who was very easy to live with...and then when Jeff came along, it was a wonderful time.   

My growing up years were sandwiched between the great depression and world war 2.   Now we're saddled with another depression.

I do worry a lot about my children and my children's children and if we're using up too much of everything and there won't be enough for them.

I wonder if my grandparents worried about the same things.   Interesting thought.

I know that God is watching over us...so I'll just let HIM do the guiding and everything will turn out all right.

President Obama sent me an email...he needs my help!

Today I  received an e mail from President Obama.   He's desperate.   Congress will not listen to him.

That's a terrible thing....seems to be there should be an arbitration.

write them an email, post it on their Facebook walls.

If Congress fails to act before the end of the year, every American family’s taxes will automatically  see their taxes rise $2,200 starting in 2013. Standing with middle-class families at the White House today, President Obama called on all Americans to speak out:.

So today, I’m asking Congress to listen to the people who sent us here to serve. I’m asking Americans all across the country to make your voice heard. Tell members of Congress what a $2,000 tax hike would mean to you. Call your members of Congress, write them an email, post it on their Facebook walls. You can tweet it using the hashtag #My2K.

 

Southwestern Pennsylvania

Today I had a lovely email from a dear friend who lived near me in Pa.    This is so much better than anything I can write...so I must print it to put in my blog...it's worthy!

Subject: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

True Pittsburghers: This is great - read the last poem--soooo true! Being a Steeler fan means so much more than football. It means being from a corner of the world unlike any other. It means being from a place where the people are so tough-minded that they survive the Homestead strikes, the Johnstown flood and most recently the Etna Floods. These people have the DNA of hard work, in mills and mines, without the necessity of complaint. They live simply, with no frills. They don't have movie stars or fancy cars. Instead, they have simple traditions like kielbasa, Kennywood, and celebrations. They live in distinctive neighborhoods like Polish Hill, Bloomfield, Lawrenceville, and the Hill District and all of the surrounding counties. These people are genuine. They don't have chic internet cafes and cappuccinos, but they have The Original Hot Dog joint, Primanti's, Eat n'Park and Iron City Beer. People from Pittsburgh don't have sunny beaches or fancy boats, but the rivers roll gently, connecting the small towns of people whose histories have been built on strength and humility. People from Pittsburgh don't have the biggest shopping malls or the best nightclubs, but they'll take Friday night high school football and Steeler Sunday over anything. Steeler football means so much more than you think. It symbolizes a Diaspora of generations who had the best childhood they could imagine. They ran free without a care or concern in the valleys of those Allegheny Mountains. Their blue-collar world was easy ... there was no one to tell them that they lacked material things. There was no one to tell them that they needed more. As the steel mills closed and the jobs disappeared, some of these people had to leave. While the world benefits because they spread their Pittsburgh values, they long for their home where things were simpler and more pure. They teach their kids about Jack Lambert, Lynn Swann, Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, Jack Ham, L. C. Greenwood, Joe Greene, and Myron Cope in hopes of imparting not just the knowledge, but the feeling that they represented. They are everywhere, those Terrible Towels. They wave, not just for the team, but for the hearts they left behind. They wave in living rooms in Fort Lauderdale, Naples, FL, Raleigh, NC and in the bars of Washington, D.C. They wave all the way to the Seattle Superdome! They wave for the Rooney family, whose values mirror our own - loyalty, grit, and humility. They wave for football players like Jerome Bettis and Hines Ward, whose unselfishness and toughness have allowed sports to be about the game and the team. Make no mistake that Steeler football is not just about football. I could not be prouder to be from the Pittsburgh area than I am right now!! Even if you no longer live in the area, you have South Western Pennsylvania in your blood no matter where you go. And deep down in your heart of hearts, you can still hear the Super Bowls of times past, the excitement in everyone's voices especially our fathers, cousins, and anyone else who gathered around the TV on Football Sundays! Make no mistake, it's just as exciting right now! It's not just about rivalries and who is better, it's about family, tradition and roots! It's more than football, but its football at its finest! If you now live in Arizona, Colorado, Ohio, Indiana, California, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, or Texas, be proud of where you were born and who your FIRST favorite football team was! Go Steelers!!! Picksburgh GO STILLERS! Ah yes! "Picksburgh" Yinz are from the Picksburgh area or maybe you grew up there: 1. You didn't have a spring break in high school. 2. You walk carefully when it is "slippy" outside. 3. You often go down to the "crick." 4. You've told your children to "red up" their rooms. 5. You can remember telling your little brother/sister to stop being so "nebby" . 6. You've gotten hurt by falling into a "jaggerbush". 7. Your mother or grandmother has been seen wearing a "babushka" on her head. 8. You've "worshed" the clothes. 9. I ask you to hand me one of those "Gum-Bands" an' you actually know what I'm talking about. 10. You know you can't drive too fast on the back roads, because of the deer. 11. You know Beaver Valley, Turtle Crick, Mars, Slippery Rock, Green Tree, Fox Chapel and New Castle are names of towns. And you've been to most, if not all, of them. 12. A girl walks up to three of her girl friends and says, "HEY, YINZ GUYS!" 13. You hear "you guyses" and don't think twice. Example: "you guyses hause is nice." 14. You know the three rivers by name and understand that "The Point" isn't just on a writing instrument. 15. Someone refers to "The Mon" or "The Yough" and you know exactly what they're talking about. 16. You remember the blizzard of 1993 (or 1976, or 1950, or 1939, or...) and remember not being able to go outside because the snow was over your head and you would have suffocated. 17. Someone starts the chant, "Here we go Still-ers!" and you join in. In the proper cadence, waving the appropriately colored towel. 18. Bob Prince and "There's a bug loose on the rug." hold special meaning for you. 19. You've either eaten a Farkleberry Tart or know someone who has. 20. You drink pop, eat hoagies, love perogies and one of your favorite sandwiches actually has coleslaw and french fries ON it. 21. You know what a "still mill" is. 22. You expect temps in the winter to be record-breaking cold and temps in the summer to be record-breaking hot. 23. You know what Eat 'N Park is and frequently ate breakfast there at 2:00 AM after the bar closed; and made fun of people. 24. You order "dippy eggs" in a restaurant and get exactly what you wanted. 25. You spent your summers, or a school picnic at Luna Park, Kennywood, Westview, Sand Castle, or Idlewild. 26. You've been to the Braun's Bread Plant or Story Book Forest for a school field trip. We went to the Heinz plant and the Isaly's plant. 27. "Chipped ham" was always in your refrigerator when you was growin' up. 28. You refuse to buy any condiments besides Heinz unless a Pittsburgh athlete's picture is on the side of the container. 29. When you call the dog or the kids you shout, "Kum-mere" and they come. 30. Franco, Roberto, and Mario don't need last names and you can recite their exploits by heart. Wonder how many of yinz guys actually understood all dat? Some folks just don't. It's winter in Pennsylvania And the gentle breezes blow Seventy miles an hour At twenty-five below. Oh, how I love Pennsylvania When the snow's up to your butt You take a breath of winter And your nose gets frozen shut. Yes, the weather here is wonderful So I guess I'll hang around I could never leave Pennsylvania 'Cause I'm frozen to the ground!! You'll send this on to family and friends who used to live in the Pittsburgh area as well as to those who have never lived there, just so they can appreciate how different western PA really is.

Anyone reading this is living in my time slot!   And how lucky we are!   We stand on the shoulders of the ones who came before us....all the way back to the very beginning.  We don't live in caves nor eat raw meat and we have clothing.   Back then, there were no designer labels...maybe like saying bear meat or divour dinosaur fixings.

We have learned from them...how to grow food...how to create shelter.even with stainless steel cabinets and granite counters..and even how to love and get married..

And here we are in the technology time of mankind.   Will people living one thousand years from now think that we were primitive beings.  I can't imagine how the world can expand any more than it has...except in curing illnesses such as cancer and dementia. 

I do imagine that people will be living longer because they work out and eat the right foods and don't smoke any longer.

Will drugs still hamper mankind?   Will automobiles be a thing of the past.   Will elections get more sophisticated?

I just know that I feel so blessed being alive in the here and now and seeing all this!

Will people know that this all didn't happen just by chance...it's all part of a Divine Plan!

Written by my friend, Joe P.

Hello again...my friend, who I respect and love dearly, suggested I put this in my blog.  These views do not necessarily affect mine.

Okay...here goes....

to me

HI HILDA,

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TODAY THERE WAS A VISITING PRIEST FROM RUSSIA GIVING THE SERMON. ORIGINALLY FROM SAN FRAN ,HE WAS A CHAPLIN IN A COLLEGE. WHEN THE WALL FELL HE DECIDED TO GO TO RUSSIA AS A MISSIONARY. AS YOU KNOW RELIGIOUS FREEDOM WAS DENIED BY THE GOVT. SINCE 1917. MANY PEOPLE TRYING TO PRACTICE JUDAISM OR CHRISTIANITY WERE PERSECUTED OR IN MANY CASES WORSE. HE SPOKE OF THE SECULARISM ,DIVORCE RATES ,ABORTIONS ,AND ORPHANS AS A RESULT OF THE BREAKDOWN IN THEIR SOCIETY.

THIS GUY SHOULD HAVE SPOKEN AT THE REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION AND MAYBE HE WOULD HAVE WOKEN A FEW PEOPLE UP.

DURING HIS SPEECH SOMETHING STRUCK ME. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ABORTION AND EUTHANASIA? ABOUT 75 YEARS I WOULD SAY. THANK YOU MR. OBAMA FOR YOUR WONDERFUL HEALTH CARE PLAN. AND THERE IS TALK AGAIN OF HEALTH CARE RATIONING.......DIDN'T A FORMER GOV. OF ALASKA MENTION SOMETHING ABOUT THAT A WHILE BACK?

NOW THAT THE CHURCHS INSTITUTIONS HAVE TO PROVIDE ABORTIONS (I KNOW IT'S THE INSURANCE COMPANIES,..........REALLY???) HOW LONG WILL IT BE THAT OTHER DEMANDS WILL BE FORCED UPON CATHOLIC AND POSSIBLY OTHER RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS. IS IT POSSIBLE THAT THE PEOPLE IN POWER ,WHO MIGHT JUST DECIDE TO NOT KEEP A RELIGION IN FAVOR ,DECIDE TO PUT RESTRICTIONS ON IT BECAUSE THE GOVT. MIGHT WANT TO PROMOTE ANOTHER RELIGION.

ABORTION,CONTRACEPTION AND A WOMENS RIGHT TO CHOOSE WERE BIG DURING THE CAMPAIGN. DISTRACTIONS TO BE SURE TO TAKE THE VOTING PUBLIC'S MIND OFF OF OTHER RATHER SERIOUS PROBLEMS FACING THIS NATION. THE DEBT,NATIONAL SECURITY,AND A HOST OF SCANDALS THAT MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT WERE QUIETLY SWEPT UNDER THE RUG BY A WILLING MEDIA.

IN A FEW YEARS ,GOVT. MANDATED "HEALTH CARE" WILL DICTATE WHO AND HOW YOUR CARE WILL BE PROVIDED. HMMMMMMMM...................WHAT HAPPENED TO A WOMENS AND FOR THAT MATTER A MANS RIGHT TO CHOOSE?

I THINK YOU SHOULD POST THIS ON YOUR BLOG. OR MAYBE I SHOULD START ONE MYSELF

SEE YOU SOON

The chicken or the egg...or the lyricist or composer !!!!!

Friday, December 3, 2010

The chicken or the egg...or the lyricist or composer !!!!!

It's always bothered me about music. I love to hear songs sung...with poetic lyrics. Now country music tells a complete story in so much detail that I don't enjoy listening.

But...let's take "Over the Rainbow"...the lyrics we all know were written by Yip Harburg. His name will not go down in musical history...but the melody and words certainly will.....and the music of course was composed by Harold Arlen, a familiar name for many compositions.

When Jeff was in third grade, he was in a piano musical recital...and that was his song. Of course, his father and I thought he was sensational.

It all started a year before. We had placed an ad in our local Valley Daily News in the classifieds...wanted cheap piano for beginner.

Somebody 3 streets away read our need because she phoned within an hour after the paper was delivered.

She had in her basement an old upright player piano with bench..asking price $10.00. How fantastic for us. We hired a mover and he had a problem getting this through our front door.

The guy said to us...how about us sliding it into your garage, then into your basement.

No way was our son going to practice in a cold damp cellar. So our front doorway was goughed getting it in.

Allen painted it the same color as our living room...and padded the bench with foam rubber so that little Jeff's tush would be comfortable.

Then we hired a blind piano tuner and he removed the player guts which were all rotted...another $25.00.

The piano teacher came to the house weekly to give Jeff , Schaum lessons....simplified but to this mother's ears sounded like Carnegie Music Hall. I even took the phone off the hook so that he wouldn't be interrupted.

But back to lyricists Tim Rile wrote the words for Evita. We all know about Andrew Lloyd Webber....but not a thing about Tim.

Charles Hart wrote the lyrics for Phantom of the Opera.....another unknown .

So....I'm trying to figure out if the lyrics are as important as the music.!!!!!!!!! I kinda believe that the words are more important.

But anyway...Jeff's recital was a complete success...his family made up the audience!

this was written in 09!

These are my thoughts, during average days of my life. They're probably not of any interest to anyone other than my dear friends, my children, my nephews, grandnephews, and other people who have passed through my life.

Friday, November 20, 2009

How much is a trillion dollars???

A million seconds is only 11.57 days

A billion seconds is 31.7 years

Obviously in today's world we need to add a trillion seconds, which is 317 centuries, or far longer than history.

We don't hear about thousands anymore...nope.

Nor do we hear much about millions....

What we are hearing daily is the word trillions. Scary....especially since we have such a big unemployment rate.

Tell these poor people about all the stimulus packages....and you don't see encouragement or happiness. No...we're seeing despair.

People want to work....working is good for the soul and spirit...so please, government, create more jobs in this country.

I don't know why I feel I have to write this.....I guess it makes me feel better!

We were an independent mom and pop toy store and I was thinking the other day as I was strolling through a super Walmart store, that thank God we're not in business any longer....we would have been among the unemployed.

Does President Obama have any idea at all what a trillion dollars is that he's handing out so freely. I would love to know...or Ben Bernake? Who knows!!!

Today I was a good citizen and went to vote...it was afternoon and nobody was there except the workers whom I know because they live where I live.

Craziness, Roseanne Barr's NAME  was on the ticket running for president.   I wonder how many discouraged people actually voted for this fool.

Can Obama finish the enormous task for cleaning up our country in 4 more years.   Time was when we were all so proud that the United States was number one in everything...but situations change.

Romney is trying so hard that he'll say anything you want to hear.   He'll make all the bad stuff go away..some of which he created.

I know there has to be a winner and a loser...but I'm always upset for the underdog.    Bad attitude I know...but that's my nature.

But however this all works out, I want our country to be #1 once again!

Michelle Obama called me on the phone today ~   wow... and even though I knew it was a recording, I guess I was still thrilled.

After all...she is the first lady~ and she asked if I would vote for her husband!   Maybe he does need another 4 years to get things done...I dunno! 

But one thing I do know is on his watch I lost a bundle on  my GM stock.   Yes, he saved the auto industry...he bailed them out....but in the process, he threw the preferred bondholders to the 4 winds.

Under bankrupsy laws, bondholders are supposed to get paid first.   But no, Mr. Obama saved the company and the union.

I'm not alone...many other people lost money this way...but it personally hit my pocket and I just can't get it out of my mind.

I did vote for him....but will I again...that just remains to be seen on Tuesday.   I like the camaraderie of voting in our clubhouse instead of early voting.

I don't expect that we'll know the outcome on Tuesday because it will be very close.

I don't know if I trust anyone anymore.....we worked very hard for that money

Re published!

As Time Goes On!

Is this what they mean by senior living....a bit scary and depressing!
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I've been so lucky...so far! I haven't had to use a crutch, walker or motor chair.

But that isn't too say that I don't feel like an accident waiting to happen...because as I look around me...I see aging......mainly forgetfulness. Do we lose brain cells every day when we reach a certain age. Is it because we're not stimulating ourselves enough....could it be that because we're not productive any longer...we just seem to fade.




However, it's affecting me mentally. It's really getting me down....seeing my friends using equipment to get around. When I go to our pool, there are three walkers lined up by the steps because the owners aren't able to take one step without help.

We have to crawl around in between to make our way to the stairs. And many times, I haven't been able to get down the stairs because ladies are sitting there...maybe they just wanted to get their feet wet. Many conversations are being held right in that spot.

I say...excuse me...excuse me.....and they move their tush's a little bit to let me by.

This is my social life too....but I'm here for ernest exercise which I need desperately. Maybe I'm labeled a 'loner' because I go and do my thing...I splish and I splash...and kick and squat.

As I'm doing all this...I hear various conversations taking place....where they dined last night....what hurts them today....is it going to rain....and then a little gossip about someone.

I'm not imune to gossip...so I head in that area to listen a little harder. Either it's something I've heard before....or something that's unbelievable.

What really bothers me is when I hear someone lost a child. That's not supposed to happen. That is a tragedy...unexplanable.

I love to hear someone child is expecting a baby. That is what life is really all about...procreation.

Anyway, I'm beholden to God for creating my ancestors through the thousands of years...because without them....I wouldn't be! Thank you, God!

Poop!

Thoughts from Hilda

These are my thoughts, during average days of my life. They're probably not of any interest to anyone other than my dear friends, my children, my nephews, grandnephews, and other people who have passed through my life.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Poop

As I was discussing my walk down my cul de sac with Jeff and Donna on Skype, I happened to mention that I saw a dog answering nature's call. I explained that I stood there waiting to see if the owner would do anything about it. And sure enough, she grabbed it with a plastic bag and that was the first time I'd ever seen that done.

I had witnessed pooper scoopers but I had no seen this before.

So...I asked my kids about it. Do you use regular plastic bags...is it awkward to grasp it...and all kinds of delicate facts like this.

So...Jeff gets a specially-store-bought bag for just this occassion and showed me how this is handled! While he was doing this, I snapped their pictures....because who else owns a picture...or wants to own a picture like this.

1. 1
   Poop scooping services are popping up all over the place.^[11] While this is a costlier option, it is worth the cost for some people, especially if the dog waste accumulates in a fixed place like your yard. And if there is no service in your area and you're an enterprising sort, why not start such a service?^[12] It could be very rewarding!
2. 2
   Ask dog owners you know if they know of any good "waste handling" services.
3. 3
   Ask a local landscaper or pet-sitter if they'd consider providing this service.
4. 4
   Look up a service in the Find-a-Scooper International Directory at http://www.apaws.org/search/adv/default.aspx.

Dealing with dog poop rebels

1. 1
   
   

   If you come across someone who won't pick up their dog's poop right in front of you, assert yourself.
   If you come across someone who won't pick up their dog's poop right in front of you, assert yourself. Explain to them how unhygienic their action is and how it is disrespectful to the neighborhood. As well, explain that it lets down all dog owners who get smeared with the thoughtlessness of the few who don't pick up the poop and ends up with more bans on where dogs can go. There's no need to make a song and dance but do insist, and if it's a violation in your area, contact your community association or other suitable contact and report the incident.
   • You might say something like: "Sir/Madam, I realize that it's not the most pleasant task but as dog owners we have to show everyone else we are responsible and care about both our dogs and our neighborhood. Dog poop harbors disease and people don't want to tread in it. So, I'd really appreciate it if you'd pick up after your dog, just as I do."
2. 2
   Offer the person one of your bags. The gesture is difficult to turn down because it's polite and it's showing the other person that you expect them to behave responsibly.
3. 3
   Set an example to others by being proud to pick up your dog's poop.^[13] This shows other dog owners an example of good dog ownership and lets people know that any mess around isn't from your dog.

I'm proud that my kids are good citizens!

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Unregistered Comment on December 17, 2008 at 6:32 PM9

 

Our starter-up home but we stayed over 30 years!

Our starter-up home but we stayed over 30 years!

This is where our young-married life began...and I loved our little home. I remember carrying Jeff who was 18 months old to his own room...and telling him that this is his very own.

Well, it appears Jeff had a different idea. He wanted his crib in our room, just like it was in our little apartment.

He screamed and screamed ...and then wanted to join us in bed.

Every day I carried him and said this is Jeffy's room...all yours. Your toys are here. We have our room--you have yours.

He still cried for a month. Then Dr. Spock said you just have to let him cry...and don't give in...and finally after 4 days we had peace in the house and the bed to ourselves.

That is, until he learned to crawl out of his crib and he would go to Allen's side to get in and he was never refused.There were many times that I ended up sleeping in the crib because I couldn't sleep 3 in a double bed. Triple beds were rare in those days and it never even entered our minds.

Anyway we had big retaining walls in our driveway and in the back to hold back the 2nd terrace. The street above us was being excavated...and every night after dinner, the 3 of us would go to gather big rocks. To this day the wall is still standing.....a labor of love

.Retirement came and everyone said maybe I could buy Allen an extra couple years down in florida. No more urging...I wanted my husband to live....so we moved....and here I am.

I'm truly glad we made the move...life is so much simpler here..

Written a while back about my library

We had to be very quiet...not speak a single word...or we would have been kicked out!

There were no paperbacks back then...only bound books and they were very precious.

My first document that I personally owned and was responsible for, was my library card. It was sacred. Nothing should happen to it! And if a book was overdue, I felt mortified...like I'd created a crime...all for 2 cents. The librarian took her job very seriously and, if asked, would refer you to a special section.

Besides getting a book for myself, my Mother wanted me to bring her back a novel. I recall asking for Edna Ferber....she's the lady who wrote the book that the musical Showboat was all about.

My Mother was an avid reader and during dinner she would present a book review to us letting us know what it was all about. How interested our little family of 4 was in her presentation. So, not only did we digest the best cooking in the world...and we had entertainment with it.

That was my Mother....and I adored her so much!

Now I go to a big library on Hagen Ranch Road...and what a myriad of books from which to choose....more authors than ever before in history. And most of them are very good...but we can't read everything so we must be select.

Ruth, my friend and next door neighbor, usually brings me back something that is just to my liking...no violence....no C.I.A. stuff...just lots of emotions.

Having a good book to read is such a great feeling.

This was written in 07.