A glorious sunny sunday, may 18, 2014
I am another transitioning phase. As I move from one life to another, I am needful of time to clean up pieces to one life, in order to begin anew in another. I have a need to have as few lose ends as possible. It is exhausting, stressful, and I am fully aware that the neurotic goal of mine is nearly impossible for me to achieve… accenting my impotence.
My life on either side of the Atlantic is never squared away. I am always leaving bits of myself on each side. Which is a bit unsettling at its decadent best.
I am fully packed. Too full. Always. I have this deep seeded belief that air in any suitcase is a waste of potential. I hate to waste potential. Consequently, I am a pack-horse of sorts. I have even packed a 'dive skin' to swim in the fresh lake waters. "Fresca" in Italian is equal to frigid in Floridaspeak.
I have never denied my wimp leanings. Having goose bumps happen when swimming, is not a pleasure center.
This afternoon I went for a long walk on Siesta Key Beach… the number # 1 beach in the USA. I went with my 'first born' Astrid, her two boys and her partner. Watching my two grand babies skipper down the beach: the sun shining, as they would chase Ibis, sandpipers…. or find shells, filled their tiny fingers with gobs of sand. Life at its purest. No worries. The sky was a vibrant blue with bright crisp clouds, giving design to the view above. The water shimmering as it played upon the sand. We walked the beach and then walked through the village. We had a vacation dinner: sliders, fried mozzarella sticks… and a well earned double maker's mark with ginger ale. We sat outside, with the misters blowing. Bamboo fence, surf boards as bars, and a VW Bus is where the food comes out from the kitchen. Very 'island' kitsch and all American. Walked back home. Enjoying my island life style. Loving it with my family.
Happy Sunday
SMiles
Judy
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Looking for that glass, which is half full!
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
You know when every single thing goes to the way of the worst case scenario?
That has been the story of my life for awhile. It hasn't stopped. At least these things have a beginning and an end.
I am so over it. I am over thinking about all those things that I have that could and will absolutely go astray. Because everything dies: even our machines meant to serve us. The microwave. The dishwasher. The washer. The disposal. The insta-hot. The roof. One of the air conditioning units needs attention. I keep thinking to myself that I was LUCKY. The compressor on this unit created a lithe fire , melted the covering, and tripped itself into STOP.
So, rather than thinking that I am compressor needy, I need to frame my mind into saying "aren't I lucky?" I could have lost my home to a fire for a silly air conditioning compressor!
I am working on that mind frame thing.
Now? Hmmm?
Tomorrow the refrigerator guy comes. My refrigerator says it is compressor needy too! Yikes: I have exactly 6 things in my fridge as a solo person. I have this huge sub-zero….. which must be lonely without food. It is rebelling. I have exactly 4 things in my freezer.
I am so glad I had a much needed massage yesterday. My body feels more pliable: and living.
I had a glorious evening with one of my best friends. I love this man. He has been a safe place for my daughter- a man/ father figure… where she could find a balance. It has been far too long. He is my yogi teacher. He is my sounding board. He has been a quiet strength in my life. A constancy. A safe place, even for me. He gave me yoga and a way to care for me. I only need to look to myself. It is that easy and that difficult.
We had sushi: and great talk. He seemed tired. We are all getting older. All of the people I know. And, it is all showing- form the wrinkles on the neck, to moments of hesitating in the midst of conversation…to … a whole litany of body and mind parts that begin to lag.
Life continues. That is the good news. That is the glass half full.
As always,
Judy
You know when every single thing goes to the way of the worst case scenario?
That has been the story of my life for awhile. It hasn't stopped. At least these things have a beginning and an end.
I am so over it. I am over thinking about all those things that I have that could and will absolutely go astray. Because everything dies: even our machines meant to serve us. The microwave. The dishwasher. The washer. The disposal. The insta-hot. The roof. One of the air conditioning units needs attention. I keep thinking to myself that I was LUCKY. The compressor on this unit created a lithe fire , melted the covering, and tripped itself into STOP.
So, rather than thinking that I am compressor needy, I need to frame my mind into saying "aren't I lucky?" I could have lost my home to a fire for a silly air conditioning compressor!
I am working on that mind frame thing.
Now? Hmmm?
Tomorrow the refrigerator guy comes. My refrigerator says it is compressor needy too! Yikes: I have exactly 6 things in my fridge as a solo person. I have this huge sub-zero….. which must be lonely without food. It is rebelling. I have exactly 4 things in my freezer.
I am so glad I had a much needed massage yesterday. My body feels more pliable: and living.
I had a glorious evening with one of my best friends. I love this man. He has been a safe place for my daughter- a man/ father figure… where she could find a balance. It has been far too long. He is my yogi teacher. He is my sounding board. He has been a quiet strength in my life. A constancy. A safe place, even for me. He gave me yoga and a way to care for me. I only need to look to myself. It is that easy and that difficult.
We had sushi: and great talk. He seemed tired. We are all getting older. All of the people I know. And, it is all showing- form the wrinkles on the neck, to moments of hesitating in the midst of conversation…to … a whole litany of body and mind parts that begin to lag.
Life continues. That is the good news. That is the glass half full.
As always,
Judy
Monday, May 12, 2014
The power of Q-Tips, and breakfast in bed
Monday, May 12th, 2014
Good early morning.
My birthday is November 5th: or 11-5
My Grandma's birthday was May 11th: or 5-11. Yesterday, she would have been 123! She passed away when she was 94. She is 60 years older than me.
I used to love that detail in our birthdays, as it made us like birthday conspirators. I was one of 13 grandkids, but was the super lucky one who got to travel Europe with her as a teenager. Grandkid birth order dictated that fortune for me….quite accidental.
I have had a marvelous week, including a super Mom's Day, which began with a 'breakfast' in bed…graciously cooked by Carlyle. Eggs, fresh sweet potatoes, onions, zucchinis and mushrooms with a touch of parmesan and voila! YUM. It was topped with freshly squeezed orange juice, and a black/white cookie. Health and decadence in one bountiful breakfast. She brought along a stargazer lily plant. My fragrant fave: I hope it can stay alive….it says it needs tons of sun. That is one thing I have lots of. Fingers crossed!
Then, my other 'first born' came with the grand babies, and some German friends. We all spent a few hours at Siesta Beach. There was just enough overcast, as to be pleasurable. The gulf is perfect. Turquoise, not hot, not cold. I loved dipping into that luscious liquid .
I have spent time this week with my dear LeeLee. I have missed having time with her. And other gal friends…. who joined in: refreshing, bright, and nice ladies. I also joined in and helped LeeLee feed the homeless on Saturday at Payne park. LeeLee brings the food for the first Saturday of the month. We set up tables outdoors…..and being the sweet and caring person, she includes packs of foods for cats & dogs. She brings tons of hotel sized soaps, perfumes, Q-Tips, shampoo, conditioner and lotions. I was humbled when one lady was ecstatic that she got a pack of 4- Qtips. She was delighted. I was humbled and grateful. And glad to be able to hold the bowl that held and presented this lady with her treasure. The gift made GREATER, by its simplicity.
A treasure is a treasure.
I woke up this morning to a treasure: a photo of twin girls born of one amniotic sac….. arriving into this world …. bring born, holding hands.
How precious!
Had fun fun fun luncheons & dinners with dear gal friends ~Drinking Maker's Mark or Pinot Grigio, talking italy & men, listening to music, sitting outdoors…. taking the time to enjoy my amazing circle of women whom I adore and admire. I am stocking up on my 'gal time' , American food & ethnic fare ~ before I change gears… and head to life in Italy.
Heard from my son: so, the day was complete. All my babies accounted for on this day.
Smiles and warmth
Judy
Good early morning.
My birthday is November 5th: or 11-5
My Grandma's birthday was May 11th: or 5-11. Yesterday, she would have been 123! She passed away when she was 94. She is 60 years older than me.
I used to love that detail in our birthdays, as it made us like birthday conspirators. I was one of 13 grandkids, but was the super lucky one who got to travel Europe with her as a teenager. Grandkid birth order dictated that fortune for me….quite accidental.
I have had a marvelous week, including a super Mom's Day, which began with a 'breakfast' in bed…graciously cooked by Carlyle. Eggs, fresh sweet potatoes, onions, zucchinis and mushrooms with a touch of parmesan and voila! YUM. It was topped with freshly squeezed orange juice, and a black/white cookie. Health and decadence in one bountiful breakfast. She brought along a stargazer lily plant. My fragrant fave: I hope it can stay alive….it says it needs tons of sun. That is one thing I have lots of. Fingers crossed!
Then, my other 'first born' came with the grand babies, and some German friends. We all spent a few hours at Siesta Beach. There was just enough overcast, as to be pleasurable. The gulf is perfect. Turquoise, not hot, not cold. I loved dipping into that luscious liquid .
I have spent time this week with my dear LeeLee. I have missed having time with her. And other gal friends…. who joined in: refreshing, bright, and nice ladies. I also joined in and helped LeeLee feed the homeless on Saturday at Payne park. LeeLee brings the food for the first Saturday of the month. We set up tables outdoors…..and being the sweet and caring person, she includes packs of foods for cats & dogs. She brings tons of hotel sized soaps, perfumes, Q-Tips, shampoo, conditioner and lotions. I was humbled when one lady was ecstatic that she got a pack of 4- Qtips. She was delighted. I was humbled and grateful. And glad to be able to hold the bowl that held and presented this lady with her treasure. The gift made GREATER, by its simplicity.
A treasure is a treasure.
I woke up this morning to a treasure: a photo of twin girls born of one amniotic sac….. arriving into this world …. bring born, holding hands.
How precious!
Had fun fun fun luncheons & dinners with dear gal friends ~Drinking Maker's Mark or Pinot Grigio, talking italy & men, listening to music, sitting outdoors…. taking the time to enjoy my amazing circle of women whom I adore and admire. I am stocking up on my 'gal time' , American food & ethnic fare ~ before I change gears… and head to life in Italy.
Heard from my son: so, the day was complete. All my babies accounted for on this day.
Smiles and warmth
Judy
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Being a Dream Merchant, Eating Well and enjoying the Sun as it dances across my floors
Tuesday, May 6th
I am finishing being a travel agent: doing a trip for clients who are going to the World Soccer Finals in Rio! Part cultural, part free time for self expression, and part adventure: I have been planning trips for this family for decades. What a beautiful thing: to be a dream merchant for folks who are also friends.
It is a super duper coups.
I had breakfast with a long time friend the other day. I indulged in my new favorite breakfast spot. I don't understand breakfast spots: they always seem a bit generic. But, this is a new original breakfast restaurant with an omelette of brie, fresh chives, sautéed Maine lobster chunks ~ all whipped together in an original and succulent repast and served with onions, cheese and hash browns. Total yum. Top it off with freshly squeezed orange juice, and I found Breakfast heaven. It is called Another Broken Egg and it is located in the heart of Siesta Village. I finished my day with another new oral addiction: Sub-Zero ice cream , created by liquid nitrogen being infused into the combination of ingredients: Flavor of addiction: Pepsi, Vanilla and wee brownie bits. Not exactly a balanced diet… but a satisfying one, if palate pleasing is paramount.
I am putting things in order, yet again. Changing gears. I am enjoying the light as it filters through the Plantations shutters, allowing the peach glow of sunset to filter through the windows and touch the walls, the ceilings, and glaze over the horizontal edges of the furniture. Fleeting glimpses of light, marking time.
Thanks for visiting,
Smiles from Judy
I am finishing being a travel agent: doing a trip for clients who are going to the World Soccer Finals in Rio! Part cultural, part free time for self expression, and part adventure: I have been planning trips for this family for decades. What a beautiful thing: to be a dream merchant for folks who are also friends.
It is a super duper coups.
I had breakfast with a long time friend the other day. I indulged in my new favorite breakfast spot. I don't understand breakfast spots: they always seem a bit generic. But, this is a new original breakfast restaurant with an omelette of brie, fresh chives, sautéed Maine lobster chunks ~ all whipped together in an original and succulent repast and served with onions, cheese and hash browns. Total yum. Top it off with freshly squeezed orange juice, and I found Breakfast heaven. It is called Another Broken Egg and it is located in the heart of Siesta Village. I finished my day with another new oral addiction: Sub-Zero ice cream , created by liquid nitrogen being infused into the combination of ingredients: Flavor of addiction: Pepsi, Vanilla and wee brownie bits. Not exactly a balanced diet… but a satisfying one, if palate pleasing is paramount.
I am putting things in order, yet again. Changing gears. I am enjoying the light as it filters through the Plantations shutters, allowing the peach glow of sunset to filter through the windows and touch the walls, the ceilings, and glaze over the horizontal edges of the furniture. Fleeting glimpses of light, marking time.
Thanks for visiting,
Smiles from Judy
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Judy1, Judy 2, and Suss in Safety Harbor
Sunday, May 4, 2014
I just spent two days with my college roomie, whose name also is Judy….. in Safety Harbor, Florida.
Again the circle of life shows itself in all its magnificent glory, found in the bounty of a lifetime friend.
Judy and I both had moms who were Christian and dads who were Jewish. Both of us went to the same Congregational Church in Manhasset. Judy was from Sands Point in Port Washington. I was from Manhasset. Two towns. Two girls. One church. She was cool. Too cool for me. I was a dork… unmemorable. I knew her. She didn't know me. Then…. years later, we were arbitrarily assigned as roomies at Wheaton College in Massachusetts. Despite my reservations and apprehensions at the time: we have been dear, tight friends since. Two Judy's. One light, with her half of the room decorated in camouflage olive green. One dark, with her half of the room covered in Lime Green & Pink! One Judy who loved ice growing on the windowsill, cooling the air. One Judy, who loved heat and warmth. No wonder today, one Judy lives in Denver. One Judy lives in Florida.
I am Judy 1. She is Judy 2.
The grand circle of life's meanderings didn't stop at college. It just so happens that Judy 2's parents used to own the Safety Harbor Spa, lived and retired there. Just over an hour north of me ~ that detail provided a lifetime of annual visits, and the ability to have at least 24 hours of never enough talking time. Both of Judy's parents are gone, but there are a handful of folks who have been part of her life for her lifetime. They are her family. They are her friends.
This week-end Judy 2 arrived and stayed at SUSS's house ( Suzanne). Suss arrived in the US over 40 years ago from Denmark as Judy 2's au pair. As it turns out, Suss met a fetching Indian gent who worked with Judy 2's father, fell in love, married and created a fabulously warm, welcoming, bright, energetic family. Suss is 70, a widow, and grandmother to 5. She is petit and very blond, blue eyed, lovely lady. She has lived in the same home for 4 decades. Just like me. She designed every inch of her home. Just like me. She has lots of windows, glass and Mexican tile. So do I. In so many ways: her home is simpatico with me: open to lots of folks from all over the globe. With the Safety Harbor bay front as her front yard, lots of windows, Mexican tile, a mix of modern and antiques… with things from years of travel: Suss's home has a soul which speaks to mine. Looking out, you eyes graze on sea grapes, mangroves… and the delicate and striking pink of spoonbills, lollygagging on Suss's pier…. with the outstretched span of the bay looming in the background. Beautiful in the evening with city lights glittering far beyond the bay. Beautiful also in the grey of a stormy day, making the pink of the spoonbill even more glorious in the contrast to a gray sky.
Judy 1, Judy 2, and Suss had a grand girls' day, going to see the movie "The Other Woman". Funny and a perfect rain day diversion, we sat and talked, dined on Thai food and enjoyed the easy camaraderie and banter of gals, including Suss's eldest daughter.
This morning included the advent of men. Suss's son, and then her longtime friend, who she refers to as her brother. For me as the 'new kid' on their block ~ It was pure delight to see the affection, experience the laughter and feel a part of this extended family, which now also, hopefully, includes me. I feel privileged.
For those of you who are not familiar with Safety Harbor ~ it is a small town, built in 1917. Before that, it was a magical place known for its 'curative waters'. It is just one main street. Filled with old town charm. A wee tiny gem on Florida's west coast, where history is appreciated.
Have a great Sunday.
Smiles, as always, and thanks for visiting
Judy
I just spent two days with my college roomie, whose name also is Judy….. in Safety Harbor, Florida.
Again the circle of life shows itself in all its magnificent glory, found in the bounty of a lifetime friend.
Judy and I both had moms who were Christian and dads who were Jewish. Both of us went to the same Congregational Church in Manhasset. Judy was from Sands Point in Port Washington. I was from Manhasset. Two towns. Two girls. One church. She was cool. Too cool for me. I was a dork… unmemorable. I knew her. She didn't know me. Then…. years later, we were arbitrarily assigned as roomies at Wheaton College in Massachusetts. Despite my reservations and apprehensions at the time: we have been dear, tight friends since. Two Judy's. One light, with her half of the room decorated in camouflage olive green. One dark, with her half of the room covered in Lime Green & Pink! One Judy who loved ice growing on the windowsill, cooling the air. One Judy, who loved heat and warmth. No wonder today, one Judy lives in Denver. One Judy lives in Florida.
I am Judy 1. She is Judy 2.
The grand circle of life's meanderings didn't stop at college. It just so happens that Judy 2's parents used to own the Safety Harbor Spa, lived and retired there. Just over an hour north of me ~ that detail provided a lifetime of annual visits, and the ability to have at least 24 hours of never enough talking time. Both of Judy's parents are gone, but there are a handful of folks who have been part of her life for her lifetime. They are her family. They are her friends.
This week-end Judy 2 arrived and stayed at SUSS's house ( Suzanne). Suss arrived in the US over 40 years ago from Denmark as Judy 2's au pair. As it turns out, Suss met a fetching Indian gent who worked with Judy 2's father, fell in love, married and created a fabulously warm, welcoming, bright, energetic family. Suss is 70, a widow, and grandmother to 5. She is petit and very blond, blue eyed, lovely lady. She has lived in the same home for 4 decades. Just like me. She designed every inch of her home. Just like me. She has lots of windows, glass and Mexican tile. So do I. In so many ways: her home is simpatico with me: open to lots of folks from all over the globe. With the Safety Harbor bay front as her front yard, lots of windows, Mexican tile, a mix of modern and antiques… with things from years of travel: Suss's home has a soul which speaks to mine. Looking out, you eyes graze on sea grapes, mangroves… and the delicate and striking pink of spoonbills, lollygagging on Suss's pier…. with the outstretched span of the bay looming in the background. Beautiful in the evening with city lights glittering far beyond the bay. Beautiful also in the grey of a stormy day, making the pink of the spoonbill even more glorious in the contrast to a gray sky.
Judy 1, Judy 2, and Suss had a grand girls' day, going to see the movie "The Other Woman". Funny and a perfect rain day diversion, we sat and talked, dined on Thai food and enjoyed the easy camaraderie and banter of gals, including Suss's eldest daughter.
This morning included the advent of men. Suss's son, and then her longtime friend, who she refers to as her brother. For me as the 'new kid' on their block ~ It was pure delight to see the affection, experience the laughter and feel a part of this extended family, which now also, hopefully, includes me. I feel privileged.
For those of you who are not familiar with Safety Harbor ~ it is a small town, built in 1917. Before that, it was a magical place known for its 'curative waters'. It is just one main street. Filled with old town charm. A wee tiny gem on Florida's west coast, where history is appreciated.
Have a great Sunday.
Smiles, as always, and thanks for visiting
Judy
Thursday, May 1, 2014
New friends, Manhasset memories and a painting party!
Thursday, May first, 2014
I feel errant in not having written yesterday. I missed it, really. I have had a wonderful couple of days- filled with wee tiny happenings, which make a full life.
I had the opportunity to meet 8 future guests of mine in Italy: but, was mortified by being over an hour late while everyone waited. I never looked at my telephone calendar that day. Not once. Even I know that the only way a calendar works: is if one actually uses it and looks at it. Silly me. I made it from Siesta Key to Michael's on East. This group of septuagenarians were a kick and forgiving of my obtuseness. All four couples were on their second marriage. One couple was married for 24 years. Another couple is getting married while guests at my home. And, the other two couples were like newlyweds after 4 and 9 years. It gives me inspiration that there is love, romance and partnership ~ all possible in the future. These folks are all golfers to some degree and live in a golf community: what lovely camaraderie.
Had lunch with a new girlfriend who will also be in Italy…. while I am there. This lady is a kick. She brought her beautiful fluffy puppy, named "trinket"! What a perfect name for a little fluffy cutie thing. A fun part of our newly budding friendship is also that some of her grown kids live in Manhasset ~ where I grew up. It is fun to go back to visit my childhood neighborhood in just hearing stories she tells, like taking the family to "LOUIES"- a seafood restaurant on the north shore of Long Island. I grew up going to Louies and spent a few years also living down the street in Port Washington…. It is that circle of life, appearing and shining its delight upon me.
And, last night, I joined a bunch of girlfriends from the days of raising our kids at Out of Door Academy. All grown- it is evidence that our kids school, was also the center of our social life, too.
Who knew? And so…. we celebrated the birthday of a sweet, little whippet of a woman and friend. We went to a place called "Painting with a Twist". The fee was a donation to SPARCC (Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center), making it an even more dear of a girl gathering. We all had canvasses and a free spirited art teacher led us through painting the same image: albeit with each women's interpretation.
Oh…artistic creation is always enhanced with a little vino: which makes the TWIST part of the title, appropriate.
New friends, old memories and new experiences in a short couple of days. Isn't life great!
Warmth and smiles …. thanks for visiting.
Judy
I feel errant in not having written yesterday. I missed it, really. I have had a wonderful couple of days- filled with wee tiny happenings, which make a full life.
I had the opportunity to meet 8 future guests of mine in Italy: but, was mortified by being over an hour late while everyone waited. I never looked at my telephone calendar that day. Not once. Even I know that the only way a calendar works: is if one actually uses it and looks at it. Silly me. I made it from Siesta Key to Michael's on East. This group of septuagenarians were a kick and forgiving of my obtuseness. All four couples were on their second marriage. One couple was married for 24 years. Another couple is getting married while guests at my home. And, the other two couples were like newlyweds after 4 and 9 years. It gives me inspiration that there is love, romance and partnership ~ all possible in the future. These folks are all golfers to some degree and live in a golf community: what lovely camaraderie.
Had lunch with a new girlfriend who will also be in Italy…. while I am there. This lady is a kick. She brought her beautiful fluffy puppy, named "trinket"! What a perfect name for a little fluffy cutie thing. A fun part of our newly budding friendship is also that some of her grown kids live in Manhasset ~ where I grew up. It is fun to go back to visit my childhood neighborhood in just hearing stories she tells, like taking the family to "LOUIES"- a seafood restaurant on the north shore of Long Island. I grew up going to Louies and spent a few years also living down the street in Port Washington…. It is that circle of life, appearing and shining its delight upon me.
And, last night, I joined a bunch of girlfriends from the days of raising our kids at Out of Door Academy. All grown- it is evidence that our kids school, was also the center of our social life, too.
Who knew? And so…. we celebrated the birthday of a sweet, little whippet of a woman and friend. We went to a place called "Painting with a Twist". The fee was a donation to SPARCC (Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center), making it an even more dear of a girl gathering. We all had canvasses and a free spirited art teacher led us through painting the same image: albeit with each women's interpretation.
Oh…artistic creation is always enhanced with a little vino: which makes the TWIST part of the title, appropriate.
New friends, old memories and new experiences in a short couple of days. Isn't life great!
Warmth and smiles …. thanks for visiting.
Judy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)