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 hallo. 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!

 

Five Hours in the Air

Before I travel to NY, I like to watch YouTube videos to see what other travelers take on their plane trip. Before my recent trip, I watched a video of a gal who brought 43 items, not including her phone and wallet. This includes everything but the kitchen sink - from a mini sewing kit to chopsticks. Not to be catty, but I did wonder how she manages to leave her home without carrying a suitcase filled with “what if” items.

In comparison, besides my phone and credit cards, I take just 8 items. Earphones, hankie, pill case, hand sanitizer, wipes, glasses, back pillow, mints and a folded piece of a garbage bag. 

PS. For more on the garbage bag check out my next blog.

PSS. I am happy to report that I made it to NY and back home safely. Without the need of chopsticks!

 

Say Cheese

I can’t remember my 7th grade science teacher’s name, but I do recall an adventure she took during the summer break. She went to Africa on a photo safari. She told us all about it and I was mesmerized as she took us along on her trip of a lifetime. As she spoke, I said to myself that one day I would also take a photo safari.

It never happened. And, at 79 ½ I know even if I won the lottery I wouldn’t make it to Africa. Surprisingly I am not sad, because one thing I have learned is that sometimes having a dream is enough.

 

Aunt Jean’s gift #2

Aunt Jean was a wonderfully colorful artist. She loved color in her art, in her dress and in her life.

Once I told her that if I could have a meal with anyone who had passed, it would have to be Van Gogh. I dreamed of taking his hand in mine and sharing with him how he is considered the greatest post-impressionist artist the world has ever known. If only.

Aunt Jean understood my love and gifted me this painting she did of Van Goghs Entrance
To The Public Gardens in Arles. I framed the painting and it hangs in our bedroom. I look at it every day and smile knowing that this gift from Aunt Jean is also a gift from Van Gogh.