MY FUNNY VALENTINE

The one gift I have never received, but always yearned for, was a passionate love letter from the love of my life (my husband, of course). I will admit that for our 25th Anniversary, in 2002, he composed a beautiful love poem which is framed and hangs in our den. Although thoughtful and beautiful, it's not a letter that is handwritten professing the hows, the whens, the whys, and the wheres of our romance and love. This would be an object I would cherish above all else-something I could read for the rest of my life. It would be the ultimate gift. Today, I thought it fitting to compose something from my point of view that might capture a small glimpse of our almost 47 years together. Full disclosure-I am not a writer of love letters. I am a stream of consciousness ranter, so it's more of a composition that will reveal the Love story of Debie and Jud. Our eyes first locked on Locust Walk. Your eyes beckoned me. I wanted to meet you. Later, we sat on a bench and talked. Something clicked right then and there-Could it be Magic? I wanted more of you. You lived on the 5th floor and I on the 10th floor. You created some bogus excuse as to why you just happened to show up there. Laundry, I think? On our first date, I took your hand as we crossed the street to enter Winston's. For you, that moment and gesture was grand. On another date, I leaned over to the driver side of your car to unlock your door (no electric locks in the olden days!) That was another special instance in our timeline. Anyone familiar with the 1993 movie, The Bronx Tale, must remember the door test that determines if a girl is a "keeper". Chazz Palminteri explains to a young man that if a girl leans over to unlock the door for her date, she is a keeper. If she doesn't, he says to "dump her!" Mind you-that movie was made in 1993. But, I unlocked the car door in 1974. Way ahead of that movie. Driving home for Thanksgiving vacation, we stopped at The Fortune Cookie and feasted on a Chinese buffet before meeting our respective families. My very pregnant sister met you at the front door in a bright red dress and you were not deterred from the enormity of the moment! Seeing my pregnant sister and meeting my parents in one fell swoop. Not easy. Nor, was it easy meeting your parents. Cindy, your little sister, was and still is a bright moment. You graduated from Penn, summered in Europe with your buddies and I missed you terribly. Your parents took me to the airport to greet you on your return and I was so happy to be back in your arms. You started Law School and I returned to Penn. Each weekend you made the trek to Phila. and spent the weekend with me. You studied most of the weekend. But, your visit wasn't over until we watched Welcome Back Kotter with Travolta as Vinnie Barbarino (up your nose with a rubber hose). We'd kiss goodbye until the next Friday. Missing you, I decided to graduate early in December so that I could be back home nearer to you. We got engaged in front of the Plaza at the fountain. It was a romantic proposal and one of the best days of my life. You presented me with an Eagle Boy Scout ring (I still have it) to hold the place of the diamond that would be forthcoming. We celebrated with drinks at The Plaza and called our parents. Then we headed to Maxwell's Plum where we discussed plans for our future and celebrated into the evening. That restaurant would be a cherished spot where we would often take our girls throughout the years. Sadly, it's now gone. We married at MRCC a year later on June 11, 1977. The most beautiful wedding ever, in a place that holds and still creates so many dear memories for our entire family. We moved into a condo in Little Falls, and it had a painted graphic on the wall; a three foot candy jar always fully stocked; shadows on the carpet that I thought were stains, and a dancing washing machine that had us beckon the neighbors in order to help us balance its legs. On to our first home at 13 (my lucky number) Westminster Drive in Livingston. A house where we had a white (deck painted) bedroom floor, a babbling brook next to our property, and an endless number of the most disgusting spider crickets living among us. Danielle was born (1980) while we lived there, and so was Alexis (1983). They are by far our two best creations! 0H BOY OH BOY OH BOY-IT'S A GIRL! Then on to our 2nd home which was at 36 Highland Ave. in Short Hills. Many happy times through the years were celebrated here. Birthdays, Anniversaries, Thanksgivings, Jewish Holidays, New Year's Eve Parties, Barbecues, and Big Chill Weekends. It was a special home in a special town with special friends, and it was ALWAYS filled love and happiness. There was just one blip in that great house: a pee wee Herman doll that talked on its own at various times of the day or night! Twenty glorious years spent here-the girls gone off to great colleges, graduated, and ready to start their lives. So proud of them and their accomplishments. Now it's time to downsize. Moving on to 164 Dezenzo Lane in West Orange-it's been 20 years here! Can you believe it? The view never gets old here-exquisite views of Manhattan at sunrise, sunset, midday, the nighttime sky line -it's beyond beautiful. Neither of us ever get tired of looking out our windows and seeing a view that makes us so grateful. The magnificent view is a metaphor for my feelings for you. Jud, I feel that exact same way when I glance over at you-I never tire of having you so near, and I am always so grateful for any view of you. It never gets boring-you renew me each and every day. Over the years, as in all families, there has been illness, death, job changes, and difficult times. But knowing your love for me and my infinite love for you has sustained us and let us power through. Mostly though, it's been a fabulous roller coaster ride with you by my side cheering us on. Thrills and Happiness abound... There have been trips to France, Italy, Ireland, Turkey, Greece, Spain, Portugal, England, Mexico, Canada, St. Maarten, Arizona, Bermuda, Florida, California, Louisiana, Tennessee, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Washington DC, Vermont, Maine, Connecticut, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Illinois, Nevada, Michigan, Texas, Washington State, and Puerto Rico. Hopefully, we will continue to travel to many fun and interesting places where we can create new and happy memories. Anywhere I go with you by my side is a place I want to be. After knowing you for almost 50 years, having 2 fabulous daughters, 2 wonderful son-in-laws, and 5 miraculous grandchildren- all I know for sure, is that I never want this to end. I never expected to have a love so deep, a life so fulfilling, and a partner that is so kind, charming, handsome, intelligent, and giving. I hit the jackpot-I couldn't be richer. I adore you and hope we spend another 40 Valentine's Days celebrating our love. I KNOW YOUR EYES IN THE MORNIN' SUN i FEEL YOU TOUCH ME IN THE POURIN' RAIN AND THE MOMENT THAT YOU WANDER FAR FROM ME I WANNA FEEL YOU IN MY ARMS AGAIN (Barry, Maurice, and Robin Gibb) MY FUNNY VALENTINE SWEET COMIC VALENTINE YOU MAKE ME SMILE WITH MY HEART (Chet Baker) If you haven't told the people in your life, how much they mean to you, Tell Them. You will be giving them the most special gift they will ever receive. HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! PEACE OUT-ONE B ,

Prioritizing Self Care

I never make New Year's resolutions. That's my only resolution-not to make any. But, over the last few years, I have experienced a lot more anxiety than I did in my younger years. I'm sure 95% of this anxiety stems from the current political atmosphere, the blatant hate crimes, the constant mass shootings, the ongoing Israeli and Ukraine wars, and frankly, the daily news. As self preservation, the one thing I can try and control is taking care of myself. This involves setting aside time just for me-and only me. In what ways can I achieve this? I can get a facial or a massage; a manicure or pedicure; see a movie or a show; exercise at the gym or go for a long walk; read a book or listen to a podcast. Caring for yourself is an act of survival. If you nourish your body properly, you will become more productive. We all need to relax, decompress, and rest. If you need assistance with an issue or it seems too overwhelming to deal with on your own, don't be afraid to ask for help. And, dont make excuses about not having enough time to exercise. "Those who think they have no time for exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness." [Edward Stanley] When I'm feeling anxious, stressed, or depressed; the first thing I do is turn off the news. If I'm driving, I turn the channel to music which always puts me in a better place. Stop saying YES when what you really want to say is NO! Create boundaries with the people you care about. Friends, family and colleagues will hopefully respect and understand your requests. Be honest and don't lie. Everyone's time and energy is precious, and we must try to prioritize ourselves and honor others in the process.. Ask yourself-will saying yes prevent me from focusing on something more important? Will it make you feel angry, more tired, or burnt out? If so, offer alternatives that may work for both parties. Take some time to consider the consequences of committing to a request or saying yes. I am constantly trying to please others. I get pure joy out of being a good wife, a kind and caring friend, a loving sister, a devoted aunt, and an everpresent, adoring grandmother. It makes me happy to see others happy. It gives me pleasure to help out someone in need. I love to cook for others, buy gifts, entertain, and provide comic relief! But,that should not negate that you can nurture yourself as well. In essence, Save something of you for you. "Self compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves we would give to others." [Christopher K. Germer] PEACE OUT-ONE B

HEADLINES, RANTS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

HEADLINES GOP fails to pass a bill to give more funding to Israel and Ukraine. Repubicans insist on linking the border battle to this bill. Biden is willing work with this request. However, Everyone has gone home for the holidays, and left these countries in chaos. Last night Trump parroted Adolf Hitler saying that "immigrants are poisoning the blood of this country." Our grandparents were immigrants who made this country a better place to live. He continually incites hate with his vitriol. Yes, We do need a balanced immigration policy, but it should not be tied to a bill providing funding to Ukraine and Israel. An impeachment inquiry has been initiated on President Biden. Lyndsay Grahm admitted this morning there is no smoking gun that shows Biden financially benefited from his son, Hunter's, business dealings. Let Hunter have a public (and not private) hearing. Trump should also have public (and not) private hearings. Honestly, Hunter is no saint, and he freely admits all his wrongdoings, while battling a major addiction. But, this literally has nothing to do with his father. And, for the record, let's have some empathy for someone who is battling an addiction-we all know or have known people that have or have had these issues. Say goodbye to Rudy-He was ordered to pay $148 million dollars to the mom and daughter election workers who were defamed by him. What is worrisome, is Giuliani's lack of money. Stephen Colbert recently quipped, " He can't even afford full length pants." These two women deserve every penny of that $148 million. Hoefully, they will get the money, but I'm not exactly sure how. Rudy should be in prison. Good Riddance! The Ivy League Gets a BIG FAT F. They failed miserably. The presidents of U.of Penn, M.I.T., and Harvard should be gone (Penn's McGill is-sort of). When questioned if genocide against Jews counted as harassment, NONE of them answered with a resounding YES. Their next day apologies were way too little and far too late. Shame on all of you. Ken Jennings selected as the sole host of Jeopardy. Mayim Bialik (Punky Brewster) is out. U.S. pushes Israel to scale back the war in Gaza. Casualties of both Israelis and Palestinians continue to mount. Lack of food, medicine, fuel, and water are periously low. The U.S. wants a cease fire and the release of all hostages, as well as a two state solution. Netanyahu must go! DeSantis says that Trump will declare the Iowa caucuses stolen if he loses. I don't agree with anything that DeSantis says, but I DO agree with this statement. He's 100% correct. Texas Supreme Court rules against woman who sought court-approved abortion. Next, the Supreme Court announced it would decide on the availability of a commonly used abortion pill. It should be a women's constitutional right to make choices about her body. No ifs, ands, or buts. End of conversation. We are going backwards and it is horrifying. Despite a clear majority of people complaining about high food prices and the increased cost of living, the economy has been thriving. Gas prices are down. The market closed to an almost all time high last week. 199,000 jobs were created in November. 14 million jobs have been created since Biden took office. Intetest rates fell from 5.1% to 4.6%. Americans have also ramped up their budgets for holiday gifts this year. The malls are booming and Amazon touts a record sales season! Paul Ryan calls Trump an "authoritarian narcissist". He goes on to say, "Whatever makes him feel good at any given moment, Trump will say and will do". Again, WAY TOO LATE, Mr. Ryan! We need more of his silent colleagues to speak up. Unlikely! FOOD Uncommon goods personalized shortbread cookies-they are delicious and you can write any message or name on them. 24 cookies for $39.00 and there's free shipping. Dan+Day's Burgers and Shakes-598 Valley Road. Upper Montclair. The owners of unstuffed grassfed burgers have a new venture In addition to burgers, there will be sandwiches, salads, fries, and veggie options. Jayce Baudry bakery-17 Church Street. Montclair. Formerly from Restaurant Daniel in NYC, his pastries are outstanding. Do not miss his Paris Montclair-a puffed choux dough filled with homemade hazelnut praline, crushed toasted hazlenuts and a creamy hazelnut mousse. Divine. Playa Taqueria-206 Bellevue Ave. Upper Montclair. Authentic corn tortillas, tacos, bowls, and burritos. TELEVISION Fellow Travelers-SHO. I'm really enjoying this series. Based on a fictional novel, the story is about two gay political staffers in love that must be discreet about their romance. Takes place from the 1950's through the 1980"s.. The series stars Matt Bomer (beyond handsome!) and Allison Williams. Excellent! Julia-HBO MAX. Fabulous Cast and brilliantly acted and written. Two seasons based on the life of chef, Julia Child. 5 stars. Love every second. The Crown-Netflix. The sixth season released some episodes on Nov. 16 and the final episodes were just released on Dec. 14. We all love this series-can't get enough. Archie-Britbox. A four part series about Cary Grant. I'm not sure how to watch it, but it appears that a free trial of Britbox is offered on Prime. Looks wonderful. He was so suave and debonnaire. MOVIE Maestro-In theaters now, but also coming to Netflix on Dec. 20th. Starring and directed by Bradley Cooper, who plays Leonard Bernstein. Carey Mulligan stars as Bernstein's wife. Lots of great actors-Matt Bomer, Sarah Silverman, Jeremy Strong. Supposedly, the BEST movie of the year. The Color Purple-The new version staring Fantasia and Tariji P. Henson is being released on Christmas Day. This will be a blockbuster once again. I loved the original, and I'm sure this will be equally amazing. The Holdovers-This has been playing for quite a while in the theaters. Should be streaming soon. Stars Paul Giamatti. Dominic Sessa a newcomer gives an outstanding performance. The plot is about a curmudgeon of a professor, at a prep school, who must remain on campus for Christmas break with students who didn't go home. A story of lonliness and isolation ends up being uplifting. I cried from the beginning to the end. The actress who plays the Cafeteria chef steals the movie. She deserves an academy award. Da'Vine Joy Randolph-you heard it hear first. PODCASTS All There Is-Anderson Cooper's podcast on grief and its complexities. Not for the faint of heart, but how do we live on after a loss? He helps us figure it out. Smartless-I mention this everytime! It's a fun listen hosted by Sean Hayes, Jason Bateman, and Will Arnett. Their interviews are fabulous and the banter amongst the three hosts is hysterical. A very fun listen with diverse guests. Great while exercising. BOOKS ON MY NIGHTTABLE The Fraud-Zadie Smith Wellness-Nathan Hill My Name is Barbra-Barbra Streisand MUST HAVE PRODUCTS Dazzle Nail Polish-quick drying. long lasting (2 Weeks). No UV lights or gels. Buy the starting set on Amazon for $38. There's a prep coat, a base coat, the polish color, the top coat, and a revive coat. It's the best I've ever used. Expensive but worth it. Chantecaille Liquid Lumiere. I use "Sheen". This is an anti aging face illuminator that highlights and brightens. Available at Sephora, Ulta, Blue Mercury, and Amazon. $46.00. IGK Good Behavior-Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray. Use in between keratin treatments to keep your hair smooth, shiny, and not frizzy. Spray on wet hair and blow dry. It works! Available at Ulta and Amazon. $34.00. Trish McEnvoy Instant Eye Lift-shade 1 is the fair-medium. An undereye cream that takes away dark circles and brightens. It's very good-not cakey or heavy. Avaiable on Amazon. $46.00. WISHING EVERYONE A YEAR OF PEACE, HEALTH, HAPPINESS, FRIENDSHIP, AND LOVE. HAPPY NEW YEAR! PEACE OUT-ONE B

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?

This is the time of year when we enjoy amazing meals, wonderful quality time with family, and reflect on what we are grateful for. We can and should choose to be thankful all the time, and not just on Thanksgiving. Dont let the attitude of gratitude disappear. Choose to be grateful each day. Yet, as we tune into the news each day, it is far too easy to only see the negativity around us. The world is full of violence, pain, hardship, war, and turmoil. While people are dying in Israel, Ukraine, and Gaza; giving thanks seems disingenuous. Actually, though, as I watch these horrific stories unfold, it makes me realize how fortunate and lucky I am. We need to focus on what keeps us grounded. Our culture suggests buying and acquiring more will bring happiness. But, the true key to our contentment is in our relationships. This is what brings us infinite joy. Start with contemplating who you appreciate and why. Everyone likes being appreciated! Tell your spouse, your children, your grandchildren, your parents, your friends, your relatives, and co-workers how much you value them. Tell them often! Your appreciation lifts spirits for you and them, AND at the same time makes them feel validated. Marcel Proust said, "let us be grateful to the people who make us happy, They are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." Each day when you wake up as you open your eyes and place your feet on the ground-enjoy that moment! You're here, you're strong, you're resilent! Check out the sunrise and how beautiful it is. "When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive-to breathe, to think, to love. Then make that day count." (Steve Maraboli) If we recognize the small and big blessings in our lives, it will allow us to be show humility and compassion. It will alter your spirit and transform your negative energy into something positive. "Gratitude is the closest thing to beauty manifested in emotion." (Mindy Kaling) Wishing all of you a wonderful holiday season! PEACE OUT-ONE B p.s.-other things I am truly grateful for: Literature-which adds wisdom Music-which lifts my spirit Diners-NJ has the BEST diners! Sunrise/Sunset/the NYC skyline-which makes me appreciate beauty Netflix-which eases my insatiable appetite for television and, finally-peanut m&m's and twizzlers

BAKING IS LOVE MADE VISIBLE

My Grandma Fanny used to make the most delicious cookies! I vividly remember they were in the shapes of moons, stars, clovers, and hearts. I always looked forward to our holiday meals, and the times my parents would go away on vacation. Grandma Fanny and Grandpa Max would come to stay with my sister and me. We actually sat down to three home cooked meals each day, and it was such a treat! Sadly, my mother didn't inherit my grandma's talent for cooking and baking. Weekly, my mom would go to the grocery store and come home with an excess of toilet paper! While we were well stocked with that, there was not a lot of food. She could make a "mean" salad though. Generally, our meals were basic and boring. As a result, my sister and I learned to cook and we both love to cook. One can never have enough food, and we enjoy having company for the holidays. My true passions are creating soups and baking desserts. It was the logical progression that once I got married and had my own children, I became the host for many holiday celebrations. Family gatherings are my happy place. I love to convene around the table, feed everyone, and observe the different generations interacting and conversing about the topics that are relevant to each of them. Baking for others also helps me remember the joyous times from my childhood when my Grandma cooked for me. Eleven years ago, my first grandchild was born. When he turned one, I baked him a Birthday Cake. Since then, it has become a tradition for Nonni (that's what my grandchildren call me) to create a cake for each of my five grandchildren's birthdays. Since May, I have baked five Birthday cakes! (I am now done until next May! phew). Each child always has a different request as to the theme: i.e. Minnesota Vikings, Witches, the cake shape in a number or as a donut, Van Gogh's Starry night, a Rainbow, etc. Next they tell me the cake flavor(s). Then, the shape and colors of the actual cake. And finally, the type of icing and the exterior accessorizing with edible decorations. We start discussing these demands months before so that I am sure to obtain the necessary ingredients! My goal, of course, is to honor all the requests AND make a delicious cake for them. But, primarily, I just delight at the sight of these children when they first spot the cake design. There is no greater pleasure for me than to watch their faces light up with wide smiles. And, then, if I'm lucky, I am rewarded again with their joy once they take that first bite. No ask is too much for me. I will bake exactly what they want, no matter how many steps it takes. I want them to know how important they are to me, and how much I love them. Baking is an authentic way for me to show my love to and for others. In my opinion, my birthday cakes are meant for my SPECIAL people on their most SPECIAL days. Now that I have finished decorating my grandchildren's houses for Halloween, and that craziness is over, I immediately start the baking for our Thanksgiving feasts which take place on both Thursday and Friday! Its been a tradition for me to make between twelve to fourteen desserts each year. Each member of my family has a favorite, and I intend to honor them as long as I am able. One enjoys the Gramercy Tavern Brownies, another loves Emeril's chocolate bread pudding with fresh shlag, another must have my famous 3 day rice pudding, and yet another enjoys Kahlua Cake or the molasses cookies! At the same time of providing stess relief for me (because it requires focus on measuring ingredients and paying attention to technique), it eases physical and emotional hunger for everyone. These desserts are my own way to enjoy quality family time. It is a method for me to create and give my individuality to those I love. It is the fashion in which I bring the family together and hopefully, it's a reminder of the sweetness of sharing time together. If and when I can no longer do all this, I have ensured that my daughters will be able to take over. When each of them had their bridal showers, I presented them with a binder of all my recipes. My hope is that when I am no longer here they can make my recipes and pass them on to their children and grandchildren. I know they will get just as much pleasure from this as I have! "The people who give you their food give you their heart." Cesar Chavez "Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all." Harriet van Horne PEACE OUT-ONE B

ACCEPTABLE TOPICS AND TIME LIMITS (AT A MEAL, ON THE PHONE, WHILE SOCIALIZING)

Everyone has the honor of being young, but not all of us have the honor of growing old. As we age, not surprisingly, we obsess more about our health, longevity, our children, and our grandchildren. I began to think about what are the acceptable subjects we can discuss with our family, friends, clients, and acquaintances. 1)TALKING ABOUT OUR MEDICAL AILMENTS: I have a dear friend who suggests we can only speak of one body part for only 5 minutes, and then you must be done! It's a great rule. (Thanks, Scottie) 2)SHOWING PHOTOS OF YOUR GRANDCHILDREN: I always groaned when people pulled out numerous pictures of their grandchildren. However, now that I am "NONNI" to five magnificent grandchildren, I have become one of those obnoxious grandparents who love to flash photos in your face! A good rule of thumb is to only show one photo of each grandchild. BUT, only if someone makes the request. 3)BRAGGING OR TALKING ABOUT GRANDCHILDREN: Again, this is only acceptable if asked about them. THEN, you should limit it to 5 minutes! There is an exception however-if you have a new grandchild, you can show all the photos you want, and discuss the newborn for as long as you like-no limits exist! 4)VENTING ABOUT YOUR AGING(55-80)BUT GENERALLY HEALTHY PARENT(S): My feeling is that this is never acceptable to talk about with your friends. I think you can vent privately to your siblings or spouse. Try to remember that while they may be aggravating to you at the moment, your parents act out of love, always. And, you are extremely blessed that they are still around to occasionally annoy you! I wish mine were still here. 5)COMPLAINING ABOUT AILING OLDER PARENTS(80-100+); At a meal with contemporaries, there should be a 5 minute limit! On the phone, you can discuss for as long as you want. With your spouse, I think you should limit this topic to 5-10 minutes a day, and NEVER while being intimate! Many of us care for our parents on a daily basis. It's trying and mentally exhausting-I get it. But complaining gets old real quick. 6)VENTING ABOUT YOUR CHILDREN BECAUSE THEY UPSET YOU BY WORDS, ACTIONS, OR INACTIONS: In my opinion, it is NEVER acceptable with friends. I'm okay with you complaining to your spouse, siblings, or sister/brother in laws! Maybe, it's occasionally permissable with your closest friends. 7)BRAGGING ABOUT YOUR CHILDREN: Never really acceptable at a dinner with friends unless they specifically inquire. With good friends, you do have a genuine interest in their children, and you sincerely want to hear about their lives. 8)WAXING POETIC ABOUT AN UPCOMING HAPPY EVENT OR OCCASION: This is always fine to discuss whenever and wherever for as long as you want with anyone who will listen! 9)DISCUSSING YOUR ANXIETY, DEPRESSION OR SADNESS: ALWAYS, ALWAYS ACCEPTABLE TO YOUR FRIENDS,SPOUSE, CHILDREN, RELATIVES, OR A PROFESSIONAL. NEVER HOLD BACK-EVER. 10)UPCOMING DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS: Generally, not acceptable at a meal with contemporaries. It doesn't make for great dinner conversation. Rather, it's totally cool with your besties either in person, on the phone, or while texting each other. 11)POLITICS: If you are with those who have similar political ideas, it is totally okay. If you are with those who have opposing views, don't broach current events-it will not go well. 12)LOOKING AT YOUR CELL PHONE OR TAKING CALLS: This is totally UNACCEPTABLE at a meal or an event. The exceptions are if you have a sick child or parent. Or if a babysitter needs to reach you. Looking at your cell phone or texting while you are socializing with others is rude and unnnecessary, unless it's for an emergency. 13)COMPLEMENTING SOMEONE: It is always acceptable to give someone a complement about clothes, shoes, accessories, physical appearance, job performance, their intellect, their kindness or generosity, their spouse, or their children. SO, IS THERE ANYTHING LEFT TO TALK ABOUT AFTER I'VE LIMITED YOUR TOPICS? BUT, OF COURSE! THERE'S ALWAYS: THE WEATHER YOUR UPCOMING TRAVEL OR RECENT TRIP SHOWS, CONCERTS, MOVIES, TELEVISION, LITERATURE, MUSIC ART, EXHIBITS, MUSEUMS HOBBIES CARDS, BRIDGE, MAHJONG RECIPES, FOOD, RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS NEWS(EXCLUDING POLITICS AND RELIGION) THE STOCK MARKET TEAM SPORTS, PLAYERS, SCORES YOUR GOLF GAME, SKIING, TENNIS, PICKLEBALL CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES "Count your age by friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears." John Lennon "If you're blessed enough to grow older,there's so much wisdom to be gained from people who are celebrating the process with vibrancy and vigor and grace." Oprah WISHING FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO CELEBRATE: A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR. MAY YOU BE INSCRIBED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE. PEACE OUT-ONE B

A POST APOCALYPTIC DYSTOPIAN SOCIETY

My friends have suggested that we are currently living in a post apocalytic dystopian society. That seems like a depressing and drastic opinion, but lets examine it further. In a post apocalyptic time, life is threatened on a global scale. Natural or man-made circumstances have threatened society and we are forced to navigate the new physical and social landscape after a disaster. Our focus becomes attempting to survive together. Disease and natural disasters immediately come to mind. Covid has killed 6,907,932 people spanning 229 countries. As fall approaches, we are seeing this virus reappear and are being warned to take heed. We are advised to get new vaccines and wear masks in crowded venues AGAIN. As if that isn't enough of an issue, Florida has recently reported new cases of malaria and Leprosy appearing. These are diseases that were essentially eradicated in our country, but are slowly invading. Those of you who deny that climate change is real, just look around. Globally, June was the hottest month on record and August, too, threatens to be one of the hottest on record. The extreme heat has caused warmer ocean water which means more moisture in the atmosphere. This, in turn, has produced flooding rains all over the U.S., rip tides, melting glaciers in Alaska, landslides in Norway, flash floods in Maine, trees falling and electrical outages. This extreme heat has also caused the wildfires in many areas of our country, Canada, Mediterranean Europe, northern Africa, Greece, and southern Italy. Currently, fires are burning in Maui and much of this beautiful island is destroyed. These environmental disasters are caused by the combination of natural variations within the climate system and human-caused climate change which emit warming greenhouse gases into our atmosphere. These dangerous weather patterns, the pandemic sicknesses which cause extreme loss of life, and natural disasters are challenging our survival. Oh, and have we even touched on the topics of insects and sea life? Where did Spotted Lanternflies come from? Native to parts of Asia, they arrived a decade ago and are a detriment to our plants and can create widespread harm to our economy. Specifically, the wine industry is in fear! These insects love grapevines. We are encouraged to kill them so they don't destroy our plants and trees and our beloved wine. Shall we move on to discuss Shark Bites? This summer has been especially scary. Supposedly, the cause of shark attacks is, again, due to climate change. The higher ocean temperatures are pushing sharks from the warmer, less populated Southern Hemisphere towards the cooler and more crowded Northern Hemisphere. The sharks are swimming closer to the shoreline looking for food, and this causes an increased possibility of humans coming into direct contact with the hungry sharks. What else is affecting sea life? In Southern California, the horrid smell wafting from dead sea lions and dolphins is unbearable. Red tide or toxic algae is believed to be partially caused by human polution. In addition, climate change can increase the growth of these toxins in fresh and salt water. In a post apocalyptic society, we see the possible causes of the collapse of our earth's civilization. It can be due to war, environmental disasters, pandemics, or plaques. It appears as if we are, in fact, living this nightmare. A dystopia suggests a society where there is possibly a political or social struggle. In books, it's often an imaginary place where everything is as bad as it can be. It might be a place where women no longer have rights. Or, where technology causes the loss of individualism. It's overuse causes the world to be "less human and less humane." Consider the reversal of Roe V. Wade, or the use of AI for creative outlets like television, music, and literature. A dystopian society may appear to be intact and functioning, but the future is disturbing, dark, and may be on the brink of collapsing. So where do we go from here? How do we turn things around for a bright future and thriving society? Hopefully, these dire situations that I have mentioned will incite awareness. Hopefully, this will catalyze broader knowledge that will in turn stimulate all of us to make significant changes in our lifestyles. We all need to accept that climate change is real, and we must modify our behavior to save the planet. This is not a partisan issue. Everyone is affected. PEACE OUT-ONE B