I wish the world was a safer place in so many ways. Although there are phenomenally good people out there, there are many horrible people out there. We have to be ever vigilant and follow our instincts as well as the 'see something, say something' philosophy. It's sad to think of how the world is a scary place although I try to think of the good aspects.
Overall, I had a really good week. No drama and no trauma which is always a good thing. A long time dear friend visited with baked goods and we went out to a fantastic lunch. We spent a few quality hours together catching up. I met up with my sister for a leisurely lunch as we tried a restaurant we have not tried before in search of the elusive pumpkin ravioli (her favorite). Alas, they were on the dinner menu not lunch...at least it's an excuse to go back. I had a girl's get together last night with my sister and niece. We tried a new restaurant, yes they had pumpkin ravioli (YEAH!) and came back to the house and relaxed. We actually never put on the TV, we talked/relaxed. They are both sleeping in and then we'll decide about breakfast. I think we wore Lady out as she was not sure what to do with so many people around. She popped her head up this morning when I went to shower and went right back to sleep.
The neighborhood here has me laughing many days or just shaking my head. There are many good people out there and they are all doing their best to get by. Every community has do-gooders, cliques, jealousies, and nosey types, etc. Sometimes I have to laugh as I hear from one or another and I try to be like Switzerland. Many of the people on this street have pups like Lady, who does not like other dogs. People are ok, but no dog friends. Many of us go out of our way to avoid each other so as to not upset the dogs. We wave from a distance or yell hello to warn that we are out there. Some times it is unavoidable and we scurry on by. There is always that one neighbor who walks his mini dog without a leash and that mini dog likes to charge anything in her wake and lets her go anywhere. Drives me crazy, but the man is about 90 and just does not get it.
I have been asked to speak at the community Veterans Breakfast this coming weekend. A neighbor has been putting this breakfast on for a few years (twice a year) and it is a nice event. As there have been so many changes and losses in the community this past year, the breakfast will be on a smaller scale than in the past, but it will be just as meaningful. I had volunteered to do anything they needed to make it a success, but did not expect a request to speak and call the names of those who passed. What an honor!
I am grateful for many things in my life which include the greatest friends and support systems. I never know who I'll hear from or what will be in the care packages I receive - coffee thermos, baked goods, wool trail socks, etc. I am truly blessed that my friends keep in touch and tolerate my lag in response time.
My mom/mema had a pretty good week. She was tired, but ate well and was in good spirits most days. Lots of activities and confusion for many residents as they cleaned the unit from top to bottom. They had some room changes and such which is always disruptive. Caused disruption for a day or two and then the full moon came. Things will start to get back to normal this week. For those that followed the drama of the past few weeks, things have started to get better. I did find out that there were several people written up over what I reported and some other actions taken to improve overall conditions.
November is a month for being grateful and thankful. Two things I try to practice every day. Lots happening here in Plymouth with a parade and lots of events involving the history of the area. According to everything I'm reading, November is a time of transition and significant personal and psychic growth as a new chapter begins. I wonder what's in store for me? I have to get back to meditation. I love to learn about energy and changes.
I've been reading again - focusing on murder and mayhem at the moment, but at least I'm reading. What are you reading these days?
I have to give a huge Happy Birthday to my sister Marion! We will celebrate on Wednesday with a sister lunch.
I am leaving it here for today. I hope you have a good week. If you are in an area that is voting this week, get your butt out there and vote. Stand up and be counted. I sent in my absentee ballot to VA. Take care. Chat soon. Marie
The following sayings come from: POWER OF WORDS QUOTATIONS & PROVERBS by MJF Lion Kishore Bansal
"THE ONLY GIFT IS A PORTION OF YOURSELF."
"CEASE TO BLAME OTHERS FOR YOUR OWN FAULTS."
"CELEBRATE THE SUCCESS OF OTHERS. BRING PEOPLE UP - NOT DOWN!"