Arf! Arf!

I know, I know...I have blogged at least 5 times about my favorite fruit the Humble Lemon, so let me apologize in advance because I have another lemon product to share. But trust me, this one is a winner!

A few weeks ago, during our awful hot spell, I was craving something tart with a bit of spirit. I was at T. J’s, walking down the wine aisle when I stumbled upon Renegade Lemonade. Lemon Wine? Wine Not? It was only $10 so I decided to give it a try. One sip and I was addicted!  

Curiosity got the best of me, and I did a little digging. It all began in 2020 when 2 people with a passion for wine and a lot of time on their hands decided to turn lemons into lemonade and then into wine. Best of all, the wine is named after their beloved dog Renegade. Great story and great summer wine.

A Typical Monday
 

I am a list maker. According to AI, people who make lists often exhibit specific personality traits, such as being organized (yep) and detail-oriented (yep). This habit can enhance memory (?), reduce stress (yep), and improve productivity (yep) by providing structure and clarity to tasks and goals. 😊

 

Don’t stop me now
I’m havin such a good time, I’m havin a ball

It was way back in the early 80’s when I first heard the British Band Queen. At the time it wasn’t my fancy because I was more into nursery rhymes than rock music.

Fast forward 40+ years later when I really listened to Queen. I GOT IT! They were wonderful and IMHO deserved all the accolades they received. I have since seen 2 Queen documentaries and the wonderful film Bohemian Rhapsedy, starring Rami Malek.

I always thought as an almost 80-year-old that I couldn’t change, but I did. Change is inevitable and how we approach it makes all the difference. For me, aging is just another phase of life. One that is full of potential, discovery and endless possibilities.

 

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Long time ago I read an article about writing a letter to your younger self. I’ve thought a lot about doing it, but until recently I had no clue as to what I could say to little EllenB that would make a difference. That is, until yesterday.

I saw my reflection in the mirror and frowned when I looked at my hair. And then it hit me. One of the things I have spent a lifetime hating about myself is my frizzy hair. I was bullied about my Brillo hair in school, but I never told anyone. I knew the bullies were right. I did have ugly hair. 

Dear Sweet EllenB,
You are loved just the way you are. You have wonderful frizzy hair, and it frames your face like a halo. A living angel.
Love, 

You, all grown up

Starting today, I am going to look into the mirror every day and tell myself that I like my frizzy hair.

 

9/11

In 2016 Tony and I went to NYC. We had 3 goals for our visit, see Casey, a Broadway show and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. I have many happy memories of our mini holiday, but what still haunts me is the 9/11 Museum. As we entered, it was so quiet that I felt as if I was in a house of worship.

In one area there was a small alcove where photos graced the walls. I glanced over and saw a man in a wheelchair quietly sobbing. His hand was caressing one of the photos, and I knew it was of a loved one of his who had been lost in 9/11. I quickly turned away because it was such a private moment.

When we left the Museum, I told Tony that they needed to supply free tissues because I knew that no one could view the remnants of such sadness and terror without being brought to tears.

 

Plane Tips - that no one talks about!

1. For woman only - Wear a sleep bra. Lightweight, no wires and the girls will thank you.

2. Do not wear wide legged pants if you plan on using the restroom. Remember, you will be sharing it with lots of men. Use your imagination.

3. I have read that under the seat in planes is just plain nasty. If you plan on putting anything under the seat in front of you, this tip is for you. Prior to your flight, take a plastic garbage bag, cut in half and fold. Once on the plane, unfold and place under the seat in front of you. Your expensive purse will stay clean.

Bon Voyage and have a safe trip!

 

You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown

Thrilled to announce that The Great Pumpkin has arrived at my local Trader Joe’s. Tony and I went shopping at 8 AM yesterday and spent $138.98. Here’s the menu at our house for the week.

1. Pumpkin Bisque Soup with Mango Stilton Cheese & Pumpkin Cranberry Crackers.

2. Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli with Autumnal Harvest Pasta Sauce.

3. Sweet Potato Bowl with Tofu, Roasted Butternut Squash and Dried Cranberries.

4. Pretend Turkey Sandwiches with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Cranberry Sauce.

I still have 3 more meals to plan but am consumed right now with the Perfect Pumpkin Dessert. Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies? Pumpkin Cheesecake? Pumpkin Cheesecake Croissants? I’m heading back to TJ’s tomorrow to finish my shopping spree for The Great Pumpkin Menu Marathon!