Today I'm starting a new blog and saying goodbye to Penny Lane. The new link is http://celebratewithpenny.blogspot.com and you will be able to post comments on this one. I won't be posting here anymore because I feel it has run its course. I'm a little sad about leaving this blog behind because it began the day after I retired to chronicle my journey with Mom in the last years of her life. I'm so happy now that I wrote daily because I can go back and relive some of my most treasured moment with her. But now we're moving on...

It's 6:00, I have a party to go to in 30 minutes, and I'm exhausted. Sitting down at the computer is the first time I've been off my feet since 1:00. I went with some friends to Krause House this afternoon to decorate cookies with all 60 girls. We did four groups for 30 minutes each and they absolutely loved it! Some liked eating their cookies better than the actual decorating (much like me) while others really got into fancy artwork. It was fun for all of us.

Then when I came home I had to start cooking for a New Year's Eve party, which happily, is a block from my house. I'm also taking champagne, chocolates, and eight champaign glasses which I had to very carefully pack. I'm sure the party will be over by 10, which is fine by me, even if I wasn't tired already.

So I'm off to celebrate. Tomorrow will be a new start in more ways than one. Stay tuned...

I watched a documentary today about Glenn Campbell's last tour while battling Alzheimer's. It was gut-wrenching but an important story about living with the disease. The hardest part for me was when he sang a song written by his daughter.  The lyrics, "Don't worry, Daddy. I'll do the remembering," just about sent me over the edge. Since I started taking an anti-depressant several years ago to help me sleep I haven't been able to cry. Occasionally I well up, but tears never roll down my face. I kind of miss crying although I cried way too much for a normal person. At least I can go see a sad movie without worrying about what I look like when I walk out. But I digress... one tear did fall on my face while watching this movie. Alzheimer's is a truly horrible disease and I'm so grateful I didn't have to face it with either of my parents. I pray for those who do.

This was one of my favorite gifts from Mary Jane and it was oh, so true. I wasn't the only wine drinker (but the only dedicated one), so I was the  opener of all the bottles.  I was delighted when I learned on Christmas morning that it was part of an exercise program. I'm happy for the shirt, but especially appreciative of all the wine. Thank you, MJ!

Winter finally came to Houston... happy for us, but sorry for all those who are experiencing severe weather, as well as those having trouble getting home (Andrea and Kevin). The dogs are happier so we went on a longer walk this morning, even though the wind wasn't pleasant for me.

And now I'm back in the grind. Went to aerobics this morning, although I'm very happy to report that I didn't gain a pound on my trip (how does that happen?) Maybe I eat too much food at home, even though it's healthy? Cannot figure this out, but will keep up the little exercise I do because moving is better than sitting.  And that's the truth.

Part of our family on Christmas day. I love these people very much, but was aware of the ones who were missing. God bless the Charles Wiggins family as well as everyone in this photo. It was a wonderful Christmas and would have been just as great with no presents at all (but I'm not complaining).

I feel very fortunate to have made it home safely without encountering any serious bad weather. I have a friend stuck at Love Field in Dallas having to find shelter from a potential tornado and I'm sure this scenario is playing out elsewhere as well. I'm praying for all the families of those who lost their lives yesterday due to tornadoes and hoping there aren't more.

On a very happy note, one of my Katy friends has a 25-year old granddaughter who has cystic fibrosis. She volunteered with us at Krause House last summer and really connected well with the adolescent girls there. But since October she's been in and out of the hospital fighting for her life and awaiting a lung transplant. And yesterday she got her very own Christmas miracle... a new set of lungs. So far she's responding well, but of course, has a long way to go. And now we continue to pray for Hailey, as well as the family of the donor who made a very difficult decision on Christmas Day.

A very merry Christmas to all! We left the rental for Joe and MJ's this morning so we could open gifts as soon as we got there. Uncle Rob was extremely generous and gave us all a nice gift card for Amazon (cha-ching). My favorite, however, was a set of colored markers and a new coloring book. I love to color! After a delicious breakfast, David and Brandon left for a trip to New York City... I'm very jealous, but happy for the two of them.

This afternoon Rob, Kevin, Lyscha, and I went to see The Martian. It was one of the best movies I've seen in a very long time and we all felt the same. We had our Christmas dinner this evening (loved by all... again) and then played a game before heading home for bed. It was a great Christmas!!!

A very happy Christmas Eve to all! Everybody in our gang went to see Star Wars this afternoon except Joe and me. They all loved it and we were happy to be at home. Mary Jane made her traditional pizzoli for dinner, after which we had a white elephant Christmas. It was hysterical! One of the gifts was a box of disposable underwear in a pop up box, which sadly, Rob got and was afraid they weren't his size. MJ had a few backup gifts so Rob ended up with bacon bandages, which he loved. So now we're all safe in our beds (almost) and waiting for Santa. Sweet dreams, y'all.

David, Lyscha, and I went to Eureka Springs this afternoon, followed by a tour of the Turpentine Wildlife Refuge, which was a-ma-zing! They rescue big cats, many of whom have been turned over to them from people who bought them as pets. We loved it! When we got back, Rob was here and we all went to eat pizza for Joe's birthday.

Afterwards we had dessert at Steak and Shake where Brandon works and he was our waiter... too cute! Then back to Joe and MJ's for birthday presents. It was a super day!!!

I made it safely to Fayetteville today. Andrea, Kevin, Brandon, and David are here (Lyscha is flying in later tonight). Mary Jane made a delicious salmon dinner just for me, after which we all played Apples to Apples, a fun, senseless game. Then all but Joe and MJ left for the rental house, with a quick jaunt around the town square to see the lights. They were spectacular! Rob will be here tomorrow to celebrate Joe's birthday. Yay!!!

One of the ladies at our party last night gave us all these signs that she got at her church. She said she was a little nervous afterwards that we wouldn't all like it. Since they all go to the same Baptist megachurch, I assumed she meant me. Are you kidding? I love it!

The first party today was kind of a mini-reunion of the Heights Exchange Club. Brenda was one of our buddies way back in the 90's and we hadn't seen her in a very long time (none of us knew how long). But I recently found her on Facebook and we all had a very fun lunch. I actually named it the Boots Wiggins Memorial Luncheon because today is Mom's birthday.

This evening my travel buddies and I had a progressive wine party through the neighborhood. We had gumbo at Ann Roe's house, then a glass of wine and a Christmas cookie at my house. After that we drove through the neighborhood oohing and aahing (and occasionally criticizing) the Christmas lights. Our last stop was champagne, strawberries, and chocolate. Talk about a great day!!!

 

Today was the Lyons family Christmas party hosted by Adrienne and Charles. I missed Santa Claus, but got there in time for the magician who impressed the children as well as the adults.

There was a woman there who painted faces and made balloon animals as well as lots of light sabers. Can't imagine why! Not really sure who this kid belonged to, but he was proud to be a pirate.

More than 100 people were there... Kitty's kids plus spouses, their children and spouses, and her grandchildren, some with spouses, and then lots and lots of Kitty's great-grandchildren.

We all sang happy birthday to Jesus.

And the young men played basketball all afternoon. You would have never known there were so many people there because there were so many different places for groups to congregate, thanks to a beautiful day. Kitty made her famous gumbo and as usual, there was way more food than everyone could eat. But it was all delicious! I had a great time and am so glad they include me in their family gatherings!

Kay and I took a class today for decorating Christmas cookies. Actually we had to roll the dough and cut them out with cookie cutters first, but the actual decorating was the main part. We weren't very impressed with our instructor because he basically decorated one cookie and then just turned it over to us. Some of the women were naturals. I was not. Kay and I probably ate more than we decorated, but it was a fun thing to do. And then we went to lunch, so I skipped out on the dinner group this evening.

These are my best ones and it's quite obvious that this is not what I was born to do.

And on a very exciting note... I got an email from Chris's wife, Brenda, the other day saying that they're hoping to visit Tanzania this summer and I'm invited to join them. Omigosh, this is the only thing on my bucket list! Can't wait!!!

Today I had Christmas with Bryanna, the 4th grader. She brought me cards from Mason, her aunt, and herself, all with heartfelt hand-written notes.  Her aunt wrote that every day that they spend time with me, they come home talking about how much fun they had and she thanked me. I almost cried, but told Bryanna that she needed to tell her aunt that it means as much to me as it does to them. Then she asked, "Now don't you wish you had kids?" I told her I wish I had grandkids and she laughed. You just can't tell a 9-year-old that you chose not to have children. She also gave me a small box of chocolates from the finest chocolate store in Katy. Can't go wrong there!

How I hate a thunderstorm in the middle of the night. Simon starts digging into the pillows by my head and panting befor it even arrives. It takes me about a half hour to realize what's happening and then anothe half hour while I try to wish it away before I have to really wake up and deal with it. By the time I get up, get him a Benadryl, and mix it with peanut butter, I'm wide awake. Once we go back to bed he huddles beside me and I massage his back to try and calm him down. In another 30 minutes the pill finally takes effect and the storm is gone. So I lose an hour and a half of sleep and both dogs wake up at our normal time. Sucks!

Happy Tuesday wa cut a little short with Mason this morning. We always talk (mostly him) while he eats lunch and then play we games. Today we made his snowman Christmas ornament, but just before we finished, another student came to get him for some sort of meeting. Fortunately I gave him his Christmas gift before we started and I'm proud to say that he loved it. At least I think he did... he is so thoughtful and always tries to make me happy. For example, occasionally I'll eat one or two of his Doritos because he never finishes them. Today he said he got the cool ranch flavor because he knows I don't like spicy food. Can you believe that? From a first grader? I love this kid!

We had a woman down at aerobics this morning. I'm not really sure what happened, but was amazed at how efficiently the emergency was handled. The teacher hurried to the back, still giving instructions, sent someone for the nurse (the YMCA is well-equipped for this sort of thing). The teacher never missed a beat and the woman was up and walking by the end of class. I was seriously impressed.

I've now decided that Thomas definitely has some sort of learning disability because after three sessions on money he still has difficulty recognizing a quarter, nickel, and dime and what they're worth. I told his dad that they need to work on it daily, but I'm not real hopeful. It certainly hasn't worked in the past. I guess I should look at it as job security.

This afternoon I finally finished with all my Christmas decorations. This is the hand-carved nativity scene that Mom bought on her trip to Israel. I'm not sure exactly when she went, but I think it might have been in the 80's. She went with a church group and I know it meant a lot to her. When we lived together, she spent a long time setting this up... probably because she was reliving the trip and reflecting on the birth of Jesus with each individual piece. And as I took out each piece, I felt close to her and thanked God for her devotion to the Lord.

I feel guilty having fun when Charles, Karen, and John are enduring such pain without Charlini, but they are constantly on my mind and in my heart.

Kay and I had lunch today at Federal Grill, then went downtown to see A Christmas Story, the Musical. It was entertaining, but didn't top the movie in my mind. That is my favorite Christmas movie of all time and the only one I absolutely have to see every year.

 I got home just in time to change and head to the Christmas pajama party at the clubhouse. All of my decorations came straight off my tree. And now I'll never figure out where to put them back. But we drank some wine (and maybe a little pecan flavored bourbon) and laughed a lot. Now hoping for a little cooler weather tomorrow after torrential rains this afternoon.

I saw Bryanna and Mason today and it was so much fun, as usual. Bryanna and I made a snowman Christmas ornament that was adorable. Mason and I will make it next Tuesday. I'm glad I did it with Bryanna first because there is a glue gun involved, which I have no experience with. She knew how to work it and showed me because I'll be in charge of the gun with Mason. It's a messy thing.

There were 15 women at dinner tonight. Maybe it's just me, but I think I enjoy it more each week. We laugh so much (mainly because no one can remember anything) and I always enjoy the company. They are all good friends and I'm so happy to be here.

Back is pretty much back to normal after sleeping on my old pillow last night. Yay!!!

Here's some excitement for you... had a 3D mammogram this morning. Not exactly sure what that means, but it's all free and felt the same (ouch). Supposedly they get more in-depth views.

We had 10 for wine night this evening. The group is growing by leaps and bounds. We had a new woman tonight who's married but her husband is in a nursing home with Alzheimer's and doesn't know who she is. We decided she needs a drinking group more than the rest of us, so who cares if she's single or not. Always a good time!

I had every intention of going to aerobics today, but I blame Costco. I bought new pillows there on Friday that are memory foam and about 4" thick. I thought they would be great because most pillows I try are too flat. So the first night I slept great as I'm mainly a side sleeper and they didn't cause me shoulder pain. Each morning since I've had a little back pain when I get up, but what else is new?  I do sleep on my stomach part of the night and this morning when I got out of bed, I thought I'd gone back in time two months because my back was very sore. So no aerobics today and the pillows go back tomorrow. Too bad, so sad!

Happily however, I got my 2016 National Day calendar in the mail today and I can't wait until January 1st when this blog will get an overhaul. And I'm sure you're looking forward to it, too, so you don't have to read about my aches and pains every day. I'm hoping it will be fun for all of us.

 So, the front of the house looks good. There are wreaths around the two garage lights which you can't see at night, but look beautiful in the daylight.

And then there's the tree. You can see that it is only a very small portion that is unlit, but it's driving me crazy. I got replacement bulbs from Amazon, but it's only the bulbs. So I have to remove holder, then the bulb, and rethread a new bulb into the holder. Theoretically there should only be two culprits... the ones next to the last lit bulbs. I'm too tired to try to figure it out now, so will work on it again another day. I don't have very high hopes, but I'm not going to quit trying!

Today was the holiday luncheon at the clubhouse and it was a huge success, as usual. Thankfully I didn't have to work this year, but just got to enjoy it as a guest.Volunteers decorate each table individually and they are spectacular. You can't really tell from this photo, but they were all beautiful. There was even a Hanukah table and the children's choir who entertained us sang the dreidel song. Very cute kids.

Thomas came this afternoon and he is now learning about money. I thought this would be a piece of cake, but not so much. The bright side is that when we started using the iPad games to practice his math facts, I can see that he's getting faster. I'll take what I can get.

Just re-read yesterday's post. I must have enjoyed my wine at dinner because there were several glaring typos, which have now been corrected.  Sorry.

I met the Heights gang at Federal Grill for lunch today. We stayed two hours even though service was excellent, just catching up. I love those guys!

When I came home, decided it was time to put up the tree. I ordered a new,  smaller one after Christmas last year and when I got it, I briefly set it up to make sure everything worked before storing it for this year. And it did. However, when I put it up today, a portion of the lights were out. I had an extra plug that I couldn't decide where to put and after probably an hour of deliberation, called my neighbor to come help. Turns out, the outlet where the plug was to be inserted was covered with green tape (now that's just wrong). But even after fixing that, the lights were still off. Then we discovered a broken bulb and the instructions stated that replacement bulbs were included, but nooooo... no extra bulbs. So then I went in search of a receipt of some sort. I didn't get it at Amazon, so then was stumped. How stupid can I be! So tomorrow I go in search of new bulbs. Stay tuned, but don't hold your breath. And I know that none of you really care about this, but this was my day. Sorry.

Today I put up my outside lights... well, not put up exactly, but got em out there. I bought a 6 ft. lit twig tree that I had to stake to the ground (praying that the first strong wind doesn't take it down). Then I laid lights in the bed all around it so it would look like it's in a snow covered forest. The sun was so bright that I couldn't tell if everything was placed correctly, but looking at it tonight, I think we're good!

This evening went to a sushi restaurant to celebrate two birthdays of my traveling friends. One was sick and the other had been Christmas shopping with grandkids all day, so it was an early night and I'm not complaining. After listening for the last two evenings about the nightmare of shopping for kids and grandkids, I've decided that December is the only month out of the year that I'm not jealous of my friends with grandchildren.

My little 4th grade girl was complaining today about how annoying her little brother is. I told her about my little brother's email telling me that his student thought I was his mother. She then told me about a good friend she had in Louisiana and that other friends said bad things about that friend, which she then passed on to her good friend. Later her mom told her that maybe she shouldn't tell the friend about the bad things being said about her because it probably hurt her feelings. How perceptive for a 9 year old.

I had an appointment in Houston this morning with the TSA. I've now registered for pre-screening at airports, which means a shorter security line and I don't have to remove my shoes or a jacket. Why didn't I do this sooner? Now hoping I'm approved before I fly at Christmas.

On a sadder note, I got this email from Rob today:
One of my students tonight told me "I saw you at Target the day before Thanksgiving with your mom." I told her you were my sister. She was suitably chagrined. 

My first thought was that I should have been wearing makeup, but later I realized that Rob must just look very young. I mean, he doesn't have wrinkles and colors his hair so maybe she was just sucking up to him. Or maybe she just heard me telling him what to do and didn't see my face... yeah, that's the ticket. 

I spent most of the afternoon watching the news about the killings in California. As of now, it seems that two suspects are dead and one is missing. I wish I'd waited and just watched the recap... too stressful and I can only pray for all those involved. I'm just sick of these shootings and they're coming with greater frequency. It's so very sad and I don't see anything happening to turn this around. It breaks my heart.

I think Tuesdays are my favorite day of the week. I go see Mason, the 1st grader, and have no other responsibilities for the rest of the day. As I've said before, Mason just brings joy to my heart, and I try to have a plan for something to do in the afternoon. I started by taking out a few outdoor decorations and then got sidetracked and packed up some boxes for donation (funny how that works). Now I think I'll wait until the weekend to decorate because I know you're all anxious for me to get this done.

Back in the swing of things... aerobics this morning and tutoring Thomas this afternoon. He's such a cute, goofy kid. I wish I could record how he turns a math problem into an amazing fantasy story with huge made-up numbers. Maybe someday I will.

I really wanted to get out some Christmas decorations this afternoon, but I'm not allowed (by my own rules) to begin until December 1st. And since it takes me several days, maybe I'll be finished by the weekend. Since retirement I just don't feel the stress of one day decorating. And that's a great thing.

I'm happy to report that being a slug at Rob's house and being a slug at my house are two completely different things. Today was slug day and I went to the grocery store, walked the dogs twice, watched some football, messed around on the computer, and cooked dinner. At Rob's, you get comfortable in his theater seating and only get up to go to the kitchen or the bathroom. I feel better now that I've resolved this issue and don't feel so worthless.

Also excited that I didn't gain a pound while I was gone. It doesn't make sense, but I'm not complaining... just hoping that I don't decide that Ben & Jerry won't hurt me!

This was the Memphis airport at 10:35 this morning. And I get stressed on holidays. I need to refer back to this date next year. And when I got dressed this morning, I decided to wear the same outfit I wore on the plane going because certainly I wouldn't see anyone I saw on Tuesday. But noooo, the same couple that I was in line with before, were right in the same place. We'd chatted on Tuesday, so I had to explain to them why I was dressed the same. The wife said it was just smart traveling.

I'm always so happy to see the dogs and had every intention of taking them for a walk, but it's raining. The dog sitter walked them three times a day, so they're not suffering. Just thought I could use some exercise today. Oh well...

So now I really know what it feels like to be a slug. Joe and MJ left this morning and Rob and I have done absolutely nothing since except sit in front of the TV, only taking breaks for the bathroom and eating. I had turkey and dressing for lunch and dinner followed by a bowl of ice cream after both meals. If I walked back to Houston, I don't think I could work off what I've eaten. Can't wait for the 4th of July when we start this all over again!

What a lovely Thansgiving we had. I impressed myself by making a turkey roll, stuffed with cheese and dressing, and wrapped in bacon. Mary Jane did the sides and assisted as my sous chef. It was all amazing and we had Ben & Jerry's for dessert.

Since the Cowboys were losing when we checked in after we ate, we decided to watch Help, the old Beatles movie that I love. Apparently Joe and Rob do, too.

I'm so very thankful for my family, those here and far away. I was always afraid that after Mom and Dad were gone, we'd all kind of go our separate ways, but I'm so happy to have been wrong. Life is good and I'm very grateful for all my many blessings.

Rob and I did a little more grocery shopping after we went out to lunch. Mary Jane and Joe came in this afternoon and because the weather was gorgeous, we sat out on the partio until after dark. I grilled steaks and we had a delicious dinner. I'm happy that the sibs minus one are back together!

Happily, I got to Memphis safe and sound. Rob picked me up and we had dinner before running our usual errands... grocery store, liquor store, and drug store. And now we're ready for Joe and MJ tomorrow. I'm excited because Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and I'll be damned if all these early Christmas folks (and they're everywhere) are gonna take the fun out of my turkey day!

Brrrr, it was a cold morning, but we persevered (actually the dogs love it). Getting ready for my trip tomorrow, telling myself that terrorists could care less about the Houston to Memphis route.

Thomas and I played math games on the iPad this afternoon because he didn't have any homework. I'm glad we could have a day like this where he doesn't always feel like he's working hard. Now I just have to find more apps because after playing a few levels, the ones I have all want more money to continue. Not gonna happen!

Kay and Kori came over this afternoon after stopping at a nearby outlet mall so Kori could get some new shoes. Kay called to say she'd lost her car and would be late. After connecting with a security guard and an hour later, it was found. Kay was frazzled, but I tried to reassure her that the security guards are probably accustomed to it and these are just little things we have to deal with now, she relaxed a bit. Of course, the beer and cigarette probably helped, too.

Theresa (far left), my old friend from the 70's who is now a neighbor, called me this morning to tell me that a mutual old friend, Manolo, had died on November 2 and the Celebration of Life was this afternoon. She asked me if I wanted to go and I absolutely did. Mo was from Cuba and was a very dear friend for many years. However, we took different paths and although I saw him occasionally over the years, I hadn't seen him for probably the last 15. But the weird thing is that Theresa and I were talking about him last night at dinner and said that we needed to find him and get back together. The woman in the center of the photo was also a ski club friend who Theresa had recently run into at her church. But she moved to California for 30 years and everyone had lost touch with her. Well... we had a great afternoon together, remembering Mo and rehashing the past. And we will continue. I'm so very sorry that it took Mo's death to bring us back together, but I hope he's looking down and smiling on us.

After two days of diarrhea I had to take Simon to the vet. The only good part at this point was that he always goes in the laundry room... bless his little heart. However, it's still a horrible mess to clean up. After tests determining that nothing major is wrong, a shot, numerous medications for the next week, and $263, we're hoping for the best (okay... mostly me). The middle of the night is prime time for pooping, so tonight we'll see how he's doing thus far. But I really have to hand it to the little guy because he gets out of bed and goes into the laundry room during the night. I doubt Glory would be so thoughtful in similar circumstances. Just grateful it's not her.

I had my annual well woman exam today and everything was fine except for one glaring problem. When he asked me about drinking I truthfully stated that I have two glasses of wine daily. He immediately reacted and said that was too much. I started by saying, "But that's my only..." and he said, "Friend?" At that point I had to laugh out loud and replied, "No...  thing I enjoy at the end of the day. But if I have to drink less, I may need to find new friends." And then he had the nerve to ask, "Don't you have a history of falls?" I emphatically told him that none of my falls were alcohol related (other than the fact that the bad fall in Memphis was because we were out looking for a liquor store). His last words to me were, "Cut down on the drinking." So I've decided that the next time I see him, I'll lie.

Wowzer, it was a busy day today!  Four activities and five clothing changes later, I'm glad to be all tucked into my home. I had yoga at 9:00 and aerobics at 11:30 (to atone for little exercise next week). Then at 2:00 I went to a new elementary school to read to 4th graders. The Katy school district has a program called Promise to Read once a year during which adults from the community volunteer to read to an individual class. I only did one session, but will sign up for more next year because it was really fun and the kids clearly enjoyed it, too. At 4:00 Thomas came for tutoring and his dad told me  that Thomas has brought his math grade up from a D to a C. I'm not thrilled, but neither am I surprised. Baby steps.

It was a crazy weather day, as happens to all of us on occasion. I went to the elementary school in 75 degree weather with high winds and rain. I got pretty soaked going in, but was careful not to run because the last time I did that I ended up on medication and in physical therapy. When I came out, the temp had dropped 20 degrees and I was freezing (mainly because I was wet).

Mason gave me a Thanksgiving card he'd made for me, which is just adorable. He gets his lunch in the cafeteria and then we go to the library where he eats it. He loves to make me laugh, so he started by dipping his mini corn dogs into his chocolate pudding. He seemed to like it which made me laugh even more. Then he dipped his carrots into the pudding and for a finale, stuck a carrot into the bottom of a corn dog like a stick. When I laugh, he laughs more...  what a fun time I have with him!

It felt good to get back in the saddle again. Grocery shopping this morning follow by aerobics (kicked my ass!) and then tutoring this afternoon. I probably didn't so well in the eating department however because I had to finish the last of my birthday lunch leftovers... but it was still delicious!

And so it ends. The 10 day birthday celebration is finally over and not a moment too soon. I've decided that the birthday week is actually a better option, but I'm not complaining because I've loved every minute. Today I had brunch with Sally and Allison (Roy is out of town) and we started tentatively planning a celebration in New Orleans next year. We had a large group who attended every birthday from 40 to 44, so it's about time to return to the scene of the crimes.

I've eaten so well for the last 10 days and now have to seriously cut back before I head to Memphis on the 24th for Thanksgiving. Healthy eating is not an option at Rob's house, but I have to admit, I always look forward to it. It won't be a happy January because that's when I'll get back to reality. I've always said... first there's my birthday and then it's January 2nd. Time flies when you're busy and having fun!

Another birthday lunch with the Lyons sisters and Kitty, plus our good friend, Ann. Today is actually Mary Helen's birthday (as well as my bro, Charles) so we shared in the love and fun. I obviously didn't get the memo to wear something dark, but you know how I like to stand out in a crowd. However I'll know better next time because my boobs are very obviously hanging too low. Maybe I need to buy a new bra as a belated present to myself.

But I digress. Lunch was great and the company was better. I am so happy to be a part of this family!

Kay gave me a birthday card but didn't sign it because she wanted me to send it to Charles. Since his birthday is tomorrow, I chose to take pictures of it and email it to him. It's cute for the techno-generation, so decided to share it. Happy birthday to Charles! I love you and am so proud of all you do.