Teaser Tuesday

Here's how to play.

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) 

Scarlett O'Hara was not beautiful, but men seldom realized it when caught by her charm as the Tarleton twins were. In her face were too sharply blended the delicate features of her mother, a Coast aristocrat of French descent, and the heavy ones of her florid Irish father. But it was an arresting face, pointed of chin, square of jaw. Her eyes were pale green without a touch of hazel, starred with bristly black lashes and slightly tilted at the ends. Above them, her thick black brows slanted upward, cutting a startling oblique line in her magnolia-white skin--that skin so prized by Southern women and so carefully guarded with bonnets, veils and mittens against hot Georgia suns.

Yes, I'm spending the waning days of summer with Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind. I haven't read it in years and it's good to spend time with my old friends in Atlanta and The County. Everything ties together so beautifully. It's well written, meticulously plotted, and highly entertainingly.

It's also beyond problematic. Maybe it's because I was raised in The Land of Lincoln, but I have never understood the fetish for the Confederacy. The Southerners were the least patriotic people in our history. They fucking fired upon the American flag, people! (No wonder those rioters on January 6 were carrying Confederate flag.) There is nothing "noble" or "brave" about them, regardless of how many times Melanie says it.

Then there's the language. I can throw "fuck" around with the best of them, but I never use really obscene words, like racial epithets. The way blacks are referred to on these pages makes me shudder.

Which is not to say I'm not enjoying the read. I don't like Scarlett, but I get her -- and at times I am her. Melly, Miss Pitty, Rhett, Ashley, Pa and Miss Ellen ... I feel like I know them all and I've missed them. When I put it down, I tell myself it won't be long until I can pick it back up and get back to them. Is there any higher compliment for a book?

And I think GWTW important. I don't think we should ever forget how popular these words and concepts once were, and question why for some convoluted reason The Glorious South and its culture are still celebrated today.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 27

Today's happiness: My credit card stayed in my wallet

My 2024 Happiness Icon

Monday was my doctor day. In the morning I went to an orthopedist for the first time time. He took x-rays of the knee that's been troubling me all month. Turns out I have a "slightly torn" meniscus and (here's the bigger problem) arthritis. While I am certainly not happy about this, I am relieved to have a diagnosis, grateful it isn't more serious, and glad to have a treatment plan.

In the afternoon I went to my PCP for my annual physical. I adore her. She listens! I have to go back after fasting for 8-10 hours and then have bloodwork, and she wants me to get a shingles vaccine.

Best of all:

•  Both of these doctors are within walking distance -- even with arthritis and a slightly torn meniscus.

•  I paid nothing out of pocket because of Medicare and Medicare supplement insurance.

I am very lucky to live here.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 25

 Today's happiness: I'm a Proud Auntie

My 2024 Happiness Icon

Sunday my nephew posted a column about the St. Louis Cardinals and their "dwindling playoff aspirations." Amid the comments, only one was negative. A reader dismissed my nephew's take because the website shouldn't "let Cubs fans do articles about the Cardinals."

Now this was silly on the face of it because my nephew's observation was based on math. The last game of the Cardinals' season is September 29, little more than a month away. The Cards would have to win the vast majority of their remaining games to earn a wild card berth.

EIGHT different readers leapt to my nephew's defense.* Here are the highlights:

•  "He is a professional journalist. You are not."
•  "Don't slander a paid journalist we all read."

 

Well, will you look at that! My nephew is respected by his readers, who think of him as a pro. If we had an August "Beyond Happiness" Challenge, this would rank.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

*None were his mom or me.

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 24

 Today's happiness: Cheap Eats

My 2024 Happiness Icon

Saturday I met my friends, Nancy and Paul, for lunch at a fast food place in my old hometown, just around the corner from where I got my hair cut. I got 2 pieces of broasted chicken, fries, and cole slaw for just $8.79. Paul got a hamburger and Nancy had the pita club. In this world of chains, it's nice to support a small, independent business.

 

It was also nice to see them. Especially since this time it was Paul's idea. Nancy texted me earlier in the week and said, "Paul is asking when it's time for your hair cut so we can get together." That made me happy, since Paul "got" me when he married Nancy. It's nice to know I'm his friend now, too.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: Sh-Boom (1954)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) 70 years ago this month, the Crew Cuts were singing that life could be a dream. When you awaken, can you recall your dreams? I'm glad I remember Thursday night's dream because it was so ridiculously random! My favorite ballplayer, Anthony Rizzo, and I were sitting on the sidewalk, our backs up against a brick wall. (I don't know where we were.) He was making me laugh. Then a car pulled up. Apparently we were waiting for my former coworker, Jamie, to pick us up. Only Jamie wasn't driving, he was in the passenger seat and beckoned us to get in. Alan Alda was driving. Of course he was.

2) The lead singer refers to his girl as "darling," "sweetheart" and "baby." Have you used an affectionate endearment lately? If yes, who were you speaking to? I just called my cat "Baby Girl."

3) Two members of this Canadian quartet are brothers, born 15 months apart. Do you have siblings? If yes, how close in age are you? One sister is just over a year older, the other is 8 years my junior.

4) A hit in Toronto, the Crew Cuts traveled by car to appear on TV in New York. How are your wheels? Would you give your vehicle a tune up before embarking on a 1,000 mile (500 miles each way) road trip? Since Alan Alda drives me places, I'll leave this decision to him.

5) In 54 and 55, they had five Top 10 hits. Then the Crew Cuts fell off the charts. Founding member Rudi Maugeri suspects it's because they were a "teen act" and teenage music tastes can change fast. Who did you listen to when you were in high school? I listened to the Beatles and Barbra Streisand. None of my classmates did, though. They were all into Elton John, Fleetwood Mac and James Taylor.

6) A well-maintained crew cut should be trimmed every 2-4 weeks. Is there an appointment with a hairstylist on your calendar? I may be at the stylist as you read this.

Let's look at the summer of 1954.

7) 70 years ago, Chicago Bears great Walter Payton was born. Today more than 1200 students are enrolled in Chicago's Walter Payton College Preparatory High School. Was your high school named after anyone? No, it was named for the town.

8) J.R.R. Tolkien's Fellowship of the Rings was published. It's the first of three volumes in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Have you read the books and/or seen the movies? Nope.

9) Sports Illustrated was first published. As a special promotion, the premier issue included baseball cards. With the introduction of online communities and trading apps, collecting baseball cards continues to grow in popularity. Are there any card collectors in your life? Not personally, but I feel like I do. Jen, my coworker at the card shop, gave her husband a display case for his baseball cards as a Father's Day gift. She agonized over choosing the right one.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 23

 Today's happiness: AAdvantage E-Shopping

My 2024 Happiness Icon

I love to earn extra miles. Especially since my annual spring flights from ORD to LAX are loooong and expensive. Saving on airfare and/or getting an upgrade does this old miles whore's heart good.

Which is why I'm tickled to have discovered AAdvantage E-Shopping. I get up to 3x the miles on stuff I'd buy anyway! When I'm done with this post, I'm going to order Icy Hot patches from Walgreen's. Who knew buying something that utilitarian would make me this happy? (Sing it with me: California, here I come!)

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 22

 Today's happiness: A box of cards

My 2024 Happiness Icon

At my suggestion, the employees at card shop where I work agreed to create birthday cards (and get a headstart on Christmas cards) to include in the lunch deliveries for our local "meals on wheels." I got the idea from Letters Against Isolation. Ceecee, my boss, likes it that we are concentrating our efforts to our neighborhood. 

Thursday I discovered a shoebox under the counter filled with beautiful, handmade cards! The women I work with are so talented and willing to pitch in during the shop's slow times. It's good for business, too. When customers come in and see us making stickers or embossing, it promotes the crafting tools we sell. No wonder I came home happy.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 21

Today's happiness: My City

My 2024 Happiness Icon

As I'm sure you've heard, Chicago played host to a get together at the United Center. I couldn't be more proud. Not only of Harris-Walz, not only of our very own Barack and Michelle, but of how beautiful and hospitable my city looked. It is the best place to live, you know. I'm glad the rest of America is now in on it.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

Thursday Thirteen #373

13 ways my life is different this year. "The days are long but the years are short." So wrote author Gretchen Rubin. I feel that more at this time of my life than ever before. Often my days run so seamlessly, one into the other, that I don't notice how much my life has changed over the last twelve months.

1. Henry's precipitous decline. Because I've been so consumed with his condition since his accident back in October 2018, I hadn't noticed how Henry himself had slowly disappeared from my life. I'm not talking about monitoring his medical care and physical well-being. I was always alert for news and forever researching what might be done or where. But I hadn't noticed how inexorably Henry himself had receded. Once he became unable to dial his own phone, I stopped hearing from him regularly. Somehow I truly didn't see this in real time so it was a blow when he died in June.

2. John died. Last summer, John and I were talking baseball. This July we would have celebrated his 69th birthday. I planned to take him to Reunion Restaurant on Navy Pier because he would've enjoyed dining on cuisine prepared by the Obamas' chef. Alas, he died in April. I miss him every day.

3. I restricted Kathy. Last year at this time, my friend Kathy was hassling me. She suffers from some sort of cognitive decline, but I'm reluctant to call it dementia or Alzheimer's because to my knowledge she hasn't been diagnosed. But she would text me, asking me to call her. I would and maddeningly, she wouldn't pick up, turning around to text me again as soon as I hung up. She would send me IMs and then, when I responded, scold me for using instant messaging because she believed "they" could access her messages. Day after day, often more than once a day, this happened. I finally restricted her access to my Facebook page. I felt like a bitch when I did it, but now I'm relieved. I don't think she understands how to communicate anymore, and I believe our relationship was causing me more stress than it brought her pleasure.

4. Back to work. My job at the card shop is not especially difficult and my take home pay is only between $50 and $100/week. But it gives my weeks structure and purpose. Last summer I was retired and more than a little uncomfortable with how slothful I had become. I began working a 40-hour week when I was 17, and realize I need to work.

5. Ceecee and Jen. They are my two supervisors at the card shop and the women I've become closest to. Now such a big part of my life, it's hard to believe I had no idea who they were a year ago today.

6. My back is full of surprises. Last year at this time I was slow to move in the mornings because my back was stiff. Yoga and adjustments from my chiropractor remedied that. But now my left knee is freaking KILLING me! My chiropractor suspects its because I'm on my feet so much at the card shop, and that has had an impact on my gait and the way back aligns. Sometimes my body feels like the space capsule in the movie Alien. I know there's a monster onboard, I just don't know where it's going to pop up next.

7. I wear a mouth guard at night. My dentist thinks my messed-up bite is wearing away at my teeth (and all his quality work) at an accelerated rate and hopes this will help.

8. Kiehl's. For at least a decade I used Clinique Repairwear Correcting Eyecream. I loved it. The bastards discontinued it. Now I used Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. I love it, too, despite the green color. (Avocado, don't you know.)

9. No caffeine after 8 PM. I don't drink coffee but I do have Coke every day. Usually two 7.5-oz. mini cans, but sometimes I make a 20-oz. bottle last throughout the day. Anyway, I've found I sleep better if I cut myself off at 8 PM.

10. New vet. After more than 30 years, my vet sold his practice. The new vet in charge is someone who subbed for him on occasion so Connie, Roy Hobbs and I know her. She's made some significant upgrades in terms of equipment/capabilities, which is nice.

11. I lost Elvis. I used to carry a Graceland mug filled with water with me from room to room. I accidentally broke it. The King has been replaced with my queen. I now sip from my Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years mug.

12. New glasses. Kate Spade Tianna. Affordable because of my new insurance. (See #13.)

13. My own insurance. Last year at this time I was still on CORRA for my dental/vision insurance. I assumed, incorrectly, that since the multi-national corporation I formerly worked for selected it, it was the best choice. I did my own (mind numbing) research and switched to CIGNA. It's only a wee bit more expensive than I was paying and the deductible is lower, so it's better than a wash. On the one hand, I'm proud of myself for doing my homework and making the switch. But I'm pissed at myself for assuming the economies of scale and trusting that COBRA and my former employer was a better deal. It wasn't.

How has the last year made a difference in your life?

Please join us for THURSDAY THIRTEEN. Click here to play along, and to see other interesting compilations of 13 things.

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 20

Today's happiness: This face!

My beloved Anthony Rizzo has not been in a game since mid-June and I have missed him so much! He is recovering from a fractured arm, he's not a kid anymore, and these things take time. I understand. But he spent his 35th birthday on the IL. Yes, he celebrated like he always has done -- sharing joy with pediatric cancer patients.* I've always loved how Rizz gives back. But this! This! Yesterday he was in the cage, taking batting practice!

I've been watching him since 2012. I know what this look means. He feels good and he's happy to be swinging a bat again. He may not be ready when the Yankees come to Wrigley Field to play the Cubs and while that is so very unfair, looking at this look still makes me very, very happy.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 *If that clip doesn't make you happy, you have no soul. Just sayin'.

Teaser Tuesday

Here's how to play.

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) 

The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family by Ron and Clint Howard. This is an engaging book by a pair of brothers about their family. The older brother is now an Oscar winner who is known to all as Opie and Richie Cunningham, and the younger brother is a staple at Comic Con because of his role as Balok, a citizen of The First Federation in a seminal episode of Star Trek. This makes the details different of their lives but the family vibe is universal. 

Here's how Ronnie remembers the moment he fell in love with filmmaking. He's 5 years old on a movie set.

Yul Brynner's character, Major Surov, intimidates the hell out of his captives by taking a bite out of the shot glass from which he is drinking vodka. Yul, with his shaved head and severe features, looked convincingly fearsome in his Soviet officer's uniform. But he was a kind and gregarious man who noticed that I was fascinated by the scene and didn't want me to get any dangerous ideas. So, between takes, he invited me to sit in his lap. He held the prop glass to my face.

"Taste this, Ronny," he said. "This is sugar, not real glass. It's pretend, for the movie. You would never bite real glass." He encouraged me to chomp on a little shard. It tasted just like rock candy.

"Whoa," I thought, "this is amazing."

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 19

Today's happiness: The laundry room all to myself!

My 2024 Happiness Icon

There are 24 units in this building, and only two washers and dryers in the laundry room. That means sometimes I have to wait for a machine and I always must be vigilant about watching the time to get my clothes out of the dryer so I'm not holding anyone else up.

Not today! For some reason I had the whole room to myself, all afternoon! I not only did my usual cold and warm loads, I bleached my whites and washed those new sheets I just got from Kohl's. (The tag said wash before using, and I follow the rules.)

I not only have fresh sheets and towels, I have a drawer brimming with white socks! I am happy.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 18

 Today's happiness: Kamilah Doesn't Hate Me

My 2024 Happiness Icon

Kamilah is one of the sales associates at the card shop. She has always regarded me warily and hasn't spoken to me unless absolutely necessary. Initially this bothered me because our boss, Ceecee, always talks about Kamilah as though she's one of the warmest people on the planet. Well, not with me. She's under no obligation to like me, and since we seldom work together for more than half hour at a crack, I can live with that.

Today I stopped by the card shop on my day off to (naturally) buy a get well card for my aunt. Jen was the manager on duty and Kamilah was on duty, too. I knew Jen would be happy to see me. I was surprised, however, that Kamilah was animated and participated in Jen's and my conversation.

So Kamilah doesn't hate me. That's so much better than Kamilah hating me. So I'm happy.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 17

Today's happiness: Lake Michigan

My 2024 Happiness Icon

I take our very great lake for granted. Most important, I'm grateful for the water that comes into my home. It tastes great and never leaves me with flat hair, like I sometimes have when I travel and visit places with mineral-laden water. Lake Michigan is beautiful -- every time I see it my tiny heart swells a bit, like the Grinch's -- and it keeps life interesting.

For example, here I was today, in my living room, less than 20 miles from Wrigley Field. It was sunny outside my window, yet they were rolling the tarp across the field, protecting it from the sudden downpour. Huh? What? Rain? Not in this neighborhood. Yet in Wrigleyville, it came down so hard there were two separate rain delays.

I mentioned this on my Facebook feed and friends all over Chicagoland chimed in. Just as we get "lake effect" snow, today we had showers only near the lake. It's amazing, fascinating. 

BTW, the Cubs won!

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: I Get Around (1964)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) 60 years ago this month, the Beach Boys were singing that having a cool car and helped them get girls. In your teen years, what did you drive? I was barely still in my teens when my family decided I'd get over my aversion to driving if I had my own car. I was given a massive old Impala. I hated it because every time it rained the car would cut out at stop signs and stoplights. I'd have to restart it with all the other drivers honking at me. (Where were all these people going in such a hurry anyway?) My dad would insist there was nothing wrong with the car. OK, then, it's me. I'm not only clumsy with steering, I can't figure out how to operate a car. I gave up. The bus was just easier. I still don't drive.

2) They are searching for a new place to party. This weekend, will you be visiting any bars, theaters or restaurants? Restaurants for sure. I have nothing defrosted so there will be few home-cooked meals this weekend.

3) When Brian Wilson was forming the group, he turned to his friend Al Jardine, his brothers Dennis and Carl, and his cousin, Mike Love. Though most of their songs were about cars, beaches and surf, only one of those founding members was a surfer: Dennis. Do you enjoy the beach? Are you good on a surfboard? I'm not a big beach girl, though I like to swim in pools, and I can't imagine myself on a surfboard.

4) They were originally from Hawthorne, California. Hawthorne was the early childhood home of Marilyn Monroe. Since Marilyn was one of the most iconic women of the 20th century, we know you recognize her image. Have you seen any of her movies? I've seen most of them. Just last night I re-watched part of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

5) "I Get Around" is included in Endless Summer, the greatest hits compilation released in 1974. Influential music critic Robert Christgau said Endless Summer should be part of any basic record library. What's one of your favorite CDs? This is one of my go-tos. Jann Arden's cover of "You Don't Know Me" is a highlight.

Let's look at the summer of 1964.

6) The #1 film of the summer of 1964 was Walt Disney's Mary Poppins. Have you seen it? Only about a gazillion times. It truly is practically perfect in every way.

7) President Lyndon Johnson accepted the Democratic party's nomination at the August 1964 convention in Atlantic City, NJ. Atlantic City is known for casinos and gambling. Do you often play the lottery, bingo, or any other game of chance? I buy Illinois State Lottery tickets at least once/month.

8) Billionaire Amazon founder Jeff Bezos was still a baby in the summer of 1964. What was in your most recent Amazon delivery? I'm awaiting my fave Body Shop moisturizer. I always bought it "buy 2, get 1 free" and realized I was down to my last container early in March. Instead of ordering it then and there, like I would have when I was working full-time, I decided to wait a couple weeks until I'd saved a little more discretionary income. Well, hell! By the time I had the money in late March, The Body Shop filed for bankruptcy and shut down their website! I discovered a "Body Shop Store" on Amazon but shipping takes for freaking ever! That's what I get for trying to be sensible with money.

Get here already!

9) Another little one born in '64 is Mariska Hargitay. The star of Law & Order: SVU is the daughter of a well-known movie star. Without looking it up, do you know who her mother was? Jayne Mansfield. I don't believe I've ever seen any of her movies, but she was on the game shows -- Password, To Tell the Truth -- when I was a little girl.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 16

My 2024 Happiness Icon

Today's happiness: Eggs Benedict

 

A new breakfast place opened on the other side of the railroad tracks. Today I finally made it over there. I haven't had Eggs Benedict in forever and I'd forgotten how much I like Canadian bacon. And here's a little thing that made me happy: instead of drinking glasses, they serve cold beverages in mason jars with handles.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 15

My 2024 Happiness Icon

Today's happiness: I made myself heard.

I've been seeing the chiropractor for more than two weeks now. My left knee is killing me. Actually, it's the back of my knee that hurts and there's inflammation on the inside. 

I usually like my chiropractor and appreciate her skills. Earlier this year she properly diagnosed my heels spur and between her adjustments and laser treatments, I was fine in no time. But this time, she hasn't been as successful.

Worse than that, she's been dismissive. When I told her Monday that the pain made walking any distance unbearable, she said she'd "bet nobody else would think it was so bad." 

In real time, I felt like she'd slapped me. I was shocked. I said that she had to understand that since I don't drive, I have to walk everywhere and the knee pain left me feeling vulnerable. She said, "I get it." But I don't believe she did.

I thought of my mom. My mother never questioned her doctors, never pushed back. After all, they were learned, they had degrees, so they knew best. I loved my mom, but I'm not her. Any doctor, dentist or chiropractor has many patients, but this is my one and only body. So my care is naturally more important to me than it is to them.

And so I kept turning what my doctor said, over and over in my head. I won't be dismissed. It's not fair and it's not helpful. I am in pain. It's her job to help make me well. I'm going to insist she do that job.

So today, instead of laying down on the table for my customary adjustment, I sat upright and pointed to my knee. "I'm wearing shorts so you can look at my knee." I told her it felt warm to me, not to the touch but from the inside. And it still hurts to walk. "That means inflammation, doesn't it?" I asked.

She did today what she should have done Monday when I reiterated the knee pain. She palpated it. She compared my painful left knee to my functioning right one. She agreed that there is something "up" there -- possibly a Baker's cyst or a ligament injury. Neither is that serious (after all, I'm still walking), but diagnosing them requires imaging equipment she doesn't have. So she's referring me to an orthopedic clinic.

If I hadn't spoken up, she would have just given me the adjustment and sent me on my way. So I am happy that I took control and made myself heard.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

Thursday Thirteen #372

Thirteen recent Amazon orders. When Amazon launched 29 summers ago, it called itself The World's Largest Bookstore. It sold only books. While it seems that hardly a week goes by that I don't receive an Amazon shipment, these days, it's seldom books (though I use Amazon when I send a book as a gift to someone). 

 

Here are 13 of my most recent Amazon orders:

1. 16-month pocket planner.

2. Cat litter.

3. MacBook Pro charger.

4. Hose repair tape.

5. Gerber Meats baby food (for my cat, Connie).

6. Clear shower curtain liner.

7. Package of 12-inch rules (delivered to the local back-to-school backpack drive).

8. Jewelry box.

9. "Get out the vote" postcards (mine say "Your Vote Matters!").
10. Earthworm Natural and Family Safe Drain Cleaner.

12. Mesh laundry bags "for delicates."

13. Laundry basket.

 

Looking at the list, it occurs to me that I don't order frivolous things from Amazon. I think I felt more genuine delight opening their boxes when they did contain books!

 

How about you? What do you order from Amazon?

Please join us for THURSDAY THIRTEEN. Click here to play along, and to see other interesting compilations of 13 things.

 

August Happiness Challenge -- Day 14

My 2024 Happiness Icon

Today's happiness: He/she chemistry.

You know how when you're watching a movie and you simply cannot wait for the leading man to plant one on the leading lady? That's how I felt twice today, watching two different movies starring (wait for it) Ann Sheridan and Ronald Reagan.

Yeah, I'm shocked, too. Politics aside, I never considered Ronald Reagan an objet de desir. Before today, I only ever saw him in one film, Nine Lives Are Not Enough (1941), and he was funny and comfortable in front of the camera but he was not especially romantic.

I've never been a big Ann Sheridan fan, either. In the 1940s she was considered a glamor girl, but I've always found her too hard-edged, too tough to be tender. 

Yet this morning I finished Kings Row (1942), a highly-regarded period drama that's been taking up space on my DVR. I found it overlong and overwrought, but damn! Rich boy Drake McHugh (Reagan) and the tomboy from the wrong side of the tracks (Sheridan) were charismatic and completely believable as lovers and I couldn't wait for them to live happily ever after.

I texted my friend Will, the moderator of our movie group, and asked him if he knew about this gem. After all, he's always sung Ann Sheridan's praises. He not only knew it, he recounted his favorite scene and recommended Juke Girl, released just months after Kings Row. This time Reagan is Steve, a migrant farmer looking for work and Sheridan is Lola, the girl of the title, who works in a saloon. It's kind of like Grapes of Wrath, if everyone in Grapes of Wrath had great teeth and a standing appointment with a hair stylist. OK, so it's not a great movie. But the romance between worldly wise Lola and idealistic, impetuous Steve* delivers.

Sigh.

Happy August Happiness Challenge!

 

Each day in August you are to post about something that makes *you* happy. Pretty simple. And, it doesn't even have to be every day if you don't want it to be. It's a great way to remind ourselves that there are positive things going on in our lives, our communities, and the world.

*Ronald Reagan, Mr. Trickle-Down Economics, as a desperate migrant worker!