"Women who Run with The Wolves"

Going to Bozeman Montana to visit my three grown daughters, Nicole, Lesa, and Aimee, for Thanksgiving a few weeks ago, was reason enough to be excited.  The snow capped mountains that surround Gallatine County made Big Sky country more inviting than ever. 

 

Another reason for my excitement was a little plan of mine to treat my daughters to a night away at Howlers Inn Bed & Breakfast and Wolf Sanctuary, thirteen miles outside of Bozeman.  Living on the east coast meant I didn’t get to see my daughters very often.  So, I wanted to do something unique and really special to celebrate them and their lives. Once I came across the web site for Howlers Inn, I knew it was time to make a reservation. www.howlersinn.com

 

Howlers Inn offers a haven for the stress laden and a hearth for warm relaxation all with a wolf pack serenade to lull you to sleep. The simple abundance of the spacious rooms, the log cabin set on 42 pristine acres of natural beauty, and the engaging hospitality of the inn keepers, Mary-Martha and Chris Bahn, was just the kind of experience I was seeking.

 

It had started snowing.  My daughter, Lesa, was driving us in her Jeep Cherokee in 4-wheel drive, but it was still slow going due to the increasing snow.   Once we spotted the Inn nestled up on the hill our excitement grew and we piled out with enough scarves, hats, gloves, satchels, boots and bags to start a boutique! 

 

Upon entering the kitchen and being greeted by Mary-Martha, my daughters and I were immediately enveloped by her friendly and welcoming charm.  The pine dining table was by large windows with a view of the three acres enclosure that held the wolves.  We could see them heading up their well trodden path to the boulders, trees, and seasonal creek that is their home.  Howlers Inn houses 6 wolves that could not survive in the wild and are cared for by Mary-Martha and her husband.

 

That evening after another snowy drive, we enjoyed a wonderful evening of fun and great food at Montana's Rib and Chop House, in Historic Livingston.  Bewteen the stretch limo out front and the TV stars dining a few tables away, it was a nice addition to our already affable time.  We caped off the wintry night with a dip in one of the many amenities, the hot tub, and the soundest sleep you could imagine.

 

The keystone of our visit to Howlers Inn was when the wolves treated us to their signature howling.  It was an incredible gift to hear six wolves howling in unison and then each stopping simultaneously as if on cue by an orchestra conductor.  It was the most amazing symphony we’d ever seen and heard. 

 

After breakfast the next morning of a scrumptions blueberry french toast souffle with crisp bacon and steaming hot coffee from our wolf mugs, we relunctly bid good-bye to our delightful host and enlightening mountain retreat.  Somehow, we all knew ... we'll be back. 

 

Top Blond taking the day…Jennifer

"My New Best Friend"

As my girlfriend, Beverly, and I turned down the tree lined street that wound down and around into a cul-de-sac, we both could feel the rise of excitement and anticipation.  Glancing at our map we searched for the house and driveway.  Within minutes she would be witnessing the live reunion of two majorettes who marched together in the Redwood High School Marching Band, Visallia California, forty-two years ago.

The year was 1963, the valley was hot, Ricky Nelson's records were regularly played on the radio, and while only rivers and lakes provided our water, we dreamt of Surfin' U.S.A. in the Pacific Ocean.  That year, Audrey Hepburn graced the cover of Vogue.  Bubble hair was big and cat eye glasses were the ticket.

It was a real coast to coast deal.  In June, I’d gone home for a milestone birthday and then wrote a piece about my experience for my hometown newspaper, The Visalia Times Delta.  My article was to appear September 6, the day after Labor Day.  As people began reading it, I began receiving email.  The very first email was a shocker.  It was from a lady named Jeannie in Morristown, NJ.  Jeannie and I had marched together in parades and on the football field at half time, and she now lived in Morristown, less than two hours away!  

And, now, within minutes we would be meeting again.  Will we recognize each other?  Will we have anything in common?  What will we talk about after more than four decades?  Well, first off, we good to go…we’re women!  It’s our nature to dish and get all the details; children, marriage, husbands, moves, relocations, and all the other goodies that unite kindred spirits.

Five hours later that included a tour of Washington’s Headquarters, lunch downtown, laughs galore, and a tour of the local municipal parking structure while searching for our lost car…we all three embraced.  The renewal of friendship warmed our hearts as I said good-bye and “I’ll see you soon,” to my new coast to coast best friend. 

Top Blonde Taking the Day...Jennifer.

 

 

"Cruising Down the Hackensack River on a Friday Afternoon"

It was a crystal clear day with an almost cloudless sky.  Our group of about a dozen of us wound around through turns and warehouses in the Meadowlands making our way to the boat launch at Laurel Hill Park on the Hackensack River.  Our church "senior group" enrichment outing on the environment through the Hackensack Riverkeeper Eco-Cruises turned into an exciting photo op for me.  With my new digital camera in hand and no worry of how many pictures left to snap, I found myself hanging over the edge of the specially–rigged Edward Abby angling to capture the perfect and most winning National Geographic shot possible for this novice want to be photographer. 

 

The brilliancy of the day enticed the fowl which were in abundance and created blue/black glass across the expansive river. One could momentarily pretend how Katherine Hepburn must have felt aboard The African Queen.  As least we didn't have to wear nets on our heads.  In spite of feeling alive and adventurous on our ride through Mill Creek and the Saw Mill Creek Water Management Area, and other marshes and coves, it was the massive and magnificent draw bridge that struck a chord.  It was beyond description.  My shot may not rank in the Ansel Adams category, but, for some unknown and less understood reason, it moved my soul.  It isn't usually the rock solid strength of iron and concrete that draw me, but with laughing gulls nested on nearby pilings it was one of the most interesting views I've seen in a while.

 

When we docked after our cruise of over two hours, we all felt invigorated.  No, we didn’t come across Jimmy Hoffa.  But, with the Continental Arena and Giants Stadium on one bank and the Empire State Building just five miles in the distance on the other, we witnessed serene beauty, awesome majesty, and brilliant views.  Thanks to the Hackensack Riverkeeper, views that previously had been hidden by sewage, trash, and pollutants have been restored to their natural brilliancy and wonder. 

 

The captain of our boat, Bill Sheehan, proved to be a walking encyclopedia on the restoration of the once muddy and putrid waters of the Hackensack River that empties into Raritan Bay.

 

It’s amazing what challenges an afternoon cruise on the Hackensack River can incite.  Made me ponder how my life would be if I cleaned up my own environmental estuary. 

 

Until next time, Top Blonde Taking The Day...Jennifer

"The Cinderella In All Of Us"

You know how it is ... you drive into the bank parking lot, park, and dash inside.  You skirt up to the window, exchange pleasantries with the teller, complete your transaction, and hustle back to your car. 

Your mind is awhirl and by now, auto pilot has kicked in.  You find yourself ready to insert the key into the ignition to depart only to find … what’s this?  No keys?  That’s right.  It seems the keys and you became disengaged somewhere along your route.  So, you do what we all do on our scatterbrained days.  You retrace your steps.  Unless, that is, you are one of those consummate sublimely astute individuals who seamlessly execute your days without flaw.

Quietly and unobtrusively as possible you reenter the bank lobby, slowly and sweetly flashing a chagrinned smile, and quickly glance around to see if you dropped your keys or perhaps left them laying on the counter.   As you can guess, this is exactly what happened to me.  But, what happened next was an epiphany of sorts.  

“Oh, there’s my glass slipper,” I said aloud, surprising myself while spotting my keys from across the lobby.  There on the counter lay the clear plastic shoe standing upright as if purposely arranged and on display in a shoe store.  Being quick witted or funny isn’t usually my strong suit … but it had been one of those days where heaven’s rays were shinning down and I was feeling quite well.  Thus, the words just popped out of my mouth nearly effortlessly.  What came next was even more astounding.  “Oh, I am Cinderella after all…and I have my prince! I said, laughingly.  “My prince has come and his name is Harrison".

The tellers smiled politely and I quickly exited.  What a dope, I said to myself.  I am Cinderella?  What was I thinking? 

What I was thinking was that, well, I did have a glass slipper and I do have a real prince of a man in my life, for a change.  Cinderella was quite a lucky lady and lately luck had been on my side.  What if my glass slipper is just a cheap key chain from the dollar store?  It’s symbolic isn’t it?  It’s emblematic of the hope we all have for love in our lives.

            And, what I was really thinking took me back over thirty years ago to a card that I still have from my longest and dearest friend in the world, Cheryl.  In 1973 she gave me a birthday card and wrote “Dear Cinderella,” on the front of the card.  It’s an American Greetings card with an authentic Kewpie design and held the following inscription: “I know your smile by heart …and I know your heart by your smile.” 

            To have a friend, and to have people who love, support, and accept us as we are would make anyone feel like Cinderella, wouldn’t it?

Top Blonde taking the day...see you next time. 

Jennifer

Renissance Romance

If you want a little romance or wish to enjoy a lazy jaunt by a serene lake, or are a little more devilsh and want to witness the naughty and bawdy delights such as the likes of The Brothers Grime at The Mud Hole (a spoof on the Brothers Grimm), the New York Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo, NY, is where you'll find all of this and more.                                           

The moment my boyfriend, Harrison, and I stepped through the entrance to The Village of Sterling, we were immediately enveloped by maidens and Lords.  Being surrounded by intrigue and mystery our imagination took over and we found ourselves stepping into character.  Harrison became Lord Royal, and I became Lady Genevieve.

Friar Tuck skirted past on his way to a duel.  A lovely maiden in a navy Italian Renaissance costume glided past.  We discovered a world of jousting, Queens and Kings, Sirs and Ladies, Wench singers, Crimson Pirates (no, we didn't see Johnny Depp), and Royal Pipers and Crown Madrigals.  Even a plump caged condor for the Birds of Prey Show.

In the middle of all this was a brightly colored May Pole for the  Peasants of Shire to dance around in celebration.

The moment that made my day was after the Archery Tournament/Royal Joust when her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, with great pageantry moved through the crowd.  When she came upon my friend and I, we curtsied, falling under her spell and joining in the merriment of the Villiage of Sterling.

Top Blonde taking the day...   

Making a Difference

It's amazing how a phone call can help spring you into action.  Yesterday, I was frustrated because, so far, all I was doing was praying.  Today, though I'm still in the talking stage and still praying, I'm energized because now, I have a plan!  A plan of action.  It's amazing what that can do for you. 

I just got off the phone with my daughter, Nicole, Lesa's older sister.  We've learned that Chris, from Bridger Fire (see blog for 9/8), Lesa's friend, is in Franklinton, Louisiana.  Franklinton is about 75 miles north of New Orleans in the southeast corner of the state and was hit with winds that topped 100 mph. I read they suffered large amounts of damage to businesses and homes.  Some parts of the parrish are without power.  It will take 4-6 weeks to get it back on.  But, they are receiving help from across the country and that's where Bridger Fire comes in.  Chris, along with a crew from Bridger, has been sent to work in a distribution center there.  My plan?  Firemen may not be muffin men but might like chocolate chip cookies.

What has energized me is that since getting off the phone with Nicole I looked up Franklinton on the Internet.  A phone number for Franklinton Fire Department was listed.  I called and reached operator, Fran Gains.  She was so helpful.  When we hung up I had the address to send my cookies to Chris and friends (the other firemen).  Maybe I'll even throw in a few muffins after all.  It's not much and it's not medicine, but maybe it will bring at least a measure of encouragment.

Nicole works for the Bozeman, MT police department and they are preparing to send two large trucks with clothes and other supplies.  She had contributed two bags of clothing. I'm so proud of her!  Yesterday, I heard through the TV coverage that right here in New Jersey, 25 firemen have gone down to help.  My heart is warmed.

We are a long ways from recovering from this titanic natural disaster but bit by bit, person by person, together through our prayers and actions,we can make a difference. 

Tob Blonde taking the day...

 

The Katrina Crisis

The past twelve days we've watched hour after hour the devastation and deadly havoc Hurricane Katrina has cast upon the Gulf of Mexico.  Most of the time we have felt helpless to make a difference.  I sit in the comfort of my cozy and dry apartment in the Northeast and watch with horrow at the scenes splashed on the TV as people wade through feet and feet of water fighting for their lives.  I can only imagine the horific nightmare they have faced for I have never trudged through tainted flood waters or clung to a tree for endless hours.  Nor, have I had to sleep in a convention center that was supposed to be a haven, even if a short term one, fearing for my life.

Today, I saw one woman who had spent the last ten days in water up to her shoulders with no food.  She had drunk the dangerously polluted water to stay alive but still was declared dehydrated when she was rescued.

My daughter's friend, Chris Johnson, in Bozeman, Montana was sent south with with Bridger Fire the beginning of last week to help.  She is still waiting word on where he might be and how the rescues are going.

Many years ago I heard a lady named, Hansi, speak at a retreat in the San Bernardino mountains at a place called Forest Home.  It was a popular retreat center and once Billy Graham visited.  Hansi was from Nazi, Germany and had an amazing story.  She shared with us a verse from 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (NASB)  I never forgot that verse and tonight, for some reason, it has come to the forefront of my mind.

When I say to myself, what tangible thing am I doing to help, I can be reminded that the power of prayer is never to be underestimated.  Still, a few days ago, I called my local chapter of the American Red Cross to volunteer.  The operator answered but no one ever came on the line to take my call after that.  My friend, who works there, said that they were inundated and overwhelmed and to keep trying.  In the meantime, I want to make a batch of muffins to send.  That will help me feel like I'm making a difference. 

Yes, local and national protocol must be accessed.  But, even with the finger pointing and current blame game that is pervasive among our politicians, there is a higher calling for us all.  We are called to be Americans and stand on the truths we hold dear.  And, maybe...even pray a little more so that God will not only heal our land but heal our hearts too.

Top Blonde taking the day...Jennifer

 

Festivie Friends Soiree

Maybe you're like me.  You don't need a current occasion to celebrate.  Any occasion, such as a Saturday Soriee will suffice.  So, that's what I did this past weekend.  The very handsome new man in my life, Harrison, was away for the weekend so I decided to call my girlfriends and see if anyone was around to help me celebrate the big 6-O.  Even if it was last month. 

Yes, yes.  I know.  It seems impossible for a zany, serrendipitious and whimical lady like me to actually turn sixty years of age...I mean, I remember when I was fifteen and my beloved grandmother was approaching 60 years of age  ~ she really seemed old.  But, thankfully, today is a different story especially for women.  Many of us are just now reconciling with our lives and our past.  And now we are ready to embrace life as never before and reclaim our personhood.  We know the best is yet to come.  For now, some of the best occured this past weekend. 

After a stop at the supermarket to gather the ingredients for spinich lasagna, roasted vegetables and carrots to bake a carrot cake, I made a quick stop at my local $1 store.  Within minutes I'd picked out a bouquet of birthday balloons and cute little bags for the cute little party favors I'd collected.  Whimical, huh.  You bet!  One of the White Elephant gifts we did was a little pillow with script that read, "Until further notice, celebrate everything."  After our collective toast for everyone's birthday...you can bet we bid each other good-night recharged, renewed and inspired to tackle the madness and minutia of each of our own lives.

Until next time...Top blonde Taking the Day...

Jennifer

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make it a Golden Day

This morning I sent an email to my friend, Joan, and signed off with "make it a golden day."  But then found myself wondering, just how do you make it a golden day?  What was I thinking?  What did I really mean?  And now, tonight, I know, for it truly has been my very own golden day.  Tonight, I met Goldie Hawn. She was at a book signing at Bookends in Ridgewood, NJ for her new book, GOLDIE: A LOTUS GROWS IN THE MUD.  Like the other 999 people in line for about ninety minutes, I wanted a photo with Goldie!  Though photo's were allowed from behind a cordoned off area, none were allowed with Goldie.  We were all, understandably, quickly whisked through the line with no time for chit chat with the eternally effervescent star.  After Anna and Yukiko and I got our books signed, we walked to Starbucks up the street to relive our momentous evening.  Afterwards, we wandered back to the bookstore where things were wrapping up and I decided I'd tryone more time to get a photo.  I singled out Goldie's publicist and after telling her I wrote a monthly column she motioned, "Go now."  Without hesitation, as Goldie now had her coat on, I placed the camera in Yukiko's hand and asked her to snap a picture.  In that brief moment I got to tell Goldie how great I thought she was.  When she responded with a beaming smile, her signature giggle, and a compliment that I'll never forget, it wasthen I learned what helps makes a day golden.  No hesitation.  No excuse.  No negative self-talk about why you can't or won't go for what you want.  Later, when Goldie's entourage pulled out, Anna, Yukiko and I were among the send off crowd.  Goldie rolled down her tinted limousine window and smilling and waving left us all feeling warmed and ebullient by her personableness.  When your moment arrives; be ready.  Step out and make it your own golden day.

See you next time...Top Blond Taking the day!

I'll never do THAT again

Life is teaching me to never undestimate God's ability for meeting our needs.  Even in relationships.  Even if you think you've done everything wrong and there is no hope.  Even if you think you're almost over the hill.  Now, I freely admit "relationship expert" is not my calling. Head of the broken hearts club of dunderwomen, could possibly work. So,at the start of this year after recovering from a bout of relationship discouragement from past and most unsuitable choices in men, I decided to revamp my values in that category.  It was time to never again settle for less than God's best.  Over a weekend of reexamination and journaling I raised the bar, wrote down exactly what I wanted should someone special come into my life,and wrote down what I wouldn't tolerate.  No more losers in my lane.  No more overlooking red flags and flat tires. Period.  Maintaining dignity and self-respect was worth whatever the cost and if I was to meet someone, he had to be of sterling character.  Gentle kindness, sensitivity, respectful to women, caring and communicative were also high on my list. It's funny how letting go of what we think we want leads to grace at work.  After vowing to never do that again, to never settle for less, God has indeed brought me the best in the form of a wonderful man named Harrison.  Hold onto your dreams, hold onto your standards, raise your own bar, open your eyes, and embrace each new day with gusto.  Your dream man may be closer than you think.

Until next time...Top Blonde Taking the Day!

Personal Best

Several years ago I'd developed a seminar called, Changepoints.  My material was partly based on a book I'd read and partly based on my own life experiences.  The seminar is on how to deal with the unexpected, unplanned and inevetible crises of life that land in our path from time to time.  Things were going fairly well in my own life ... that is until last fall when the fellow I was seeing blurted he'd met someone.  Just like that; I was out, she was in.  No mind that he wasn't the least right for me...pieces of my heart still litered the floor.  However, God has designed our bodies with amazing restorative abilities and when we seek Him in our times of weakness, He makes us strong.  By January and after a trip home, rejuvenation and recovery had taken root and once again I was embracing each new day with enthusiasm and expectation.  And then my very own personal change point emerged and we were all face to face.  Gulp!  For a split second I wished could glance at my seminar notes...let's see now, what did I teach in my class?  A change point can either break us or become a time of self-discovery and a personal best.  And so it was for me that day.  I whispered to myself, I can do this and stepped out in poised confidence congratulating them on their upcoming wedding.  I don't know the state of their hearts but mine was at perfect peace .......I'd experienced my very own personal best ... and was free.  It was time to celebrate. 

Until next time...Top Blonde Taking the Day! 

 

Two Swans A-Flying

The past couple of days have brought us folks in Northern New Jersey near pristine evenings.  Sparkling clean air almost made you feel the shimmer and sheen of dusk as the sun began dipping against colbolt blue skies.  Whether you only had five minutes to spare or fifteen, the clear signs of spring were beckoning.  Last night I was helpless to resist and called my friend, Stephanie, to see if she wanted to take a jaunt around the lake at Wooddale, one of our local parks,  Now, you've probably seen swans gracefully gliding across a pond or lake, right?  But, have you ever seen a swan fly?  I hadn't ... untill last night.  Suddenly, Stephanie and I heard a swosh and looked up to see the two swans flapping their expansive white wings while circling the lake.  They continued and then crossed the lake and began descending for their landing.  Gradually, they skidded across the water and came to a stop.  That answered my question, do swans fly?  I had wondered if park officials placed the swans in the lake or they arrived on their own.  I guess if they can fly, they can choose their favorite lake.  Curiously, answers come to us ... and sometimes from the birds.  The previous night while rounding the lake on the adjacent walkway, I kept hearing squaking sounds and wanted to know what they were from?  Soon, I discovered the near screeching sounds were coming from the Red-Winged Blackbirds nesting in the reeds and cattails.  Now, just why they make all that racket or what they are squaking about is unbeknowst to me at this time.  If you have that answer, enlighten me.  Of course, I was delighted by witnessing a couple robins.  They are quieting to the heart since they are our signature sign of spring.  Well, so much for hanging out with the birds...maybe today I'll run into a few bees:>.

Until next time ... Top Blond Taking The Day!

Graduation into the 21st Century

Yesterday, I finaly sucumbed to some of the youth of America's directives to update my antiquated cell phone.  A few months ago I said, OK, I'll at least call my cell phone carrier and find out if I qualify for an upgrade.  So, I called and learned not only did I qualify, I qualified a little over two years ago!  Well, if it's taken me nearly the life of the phone to figure it out and it works, why upgrade?  But, when a member of the opposite sex slipped me his and I saw how fancy and flirty it was...and how sleek it looked when he slipped it into my handbag, I thought, humm.  Mabe it is time after all.  Knowing I had a free upgrade coming cinched my consideration and my decision was made.  Of course, stepping into the 21st Century with all the swank features quickly prompts madness as one now trys to use the phone.  If I can decipher the handbook along with decoding the accompanying CD-Rom before my two-year contract ends ...that will be my saving grace at least in the eyes of the communications savy teens of today.

See you next time....Top Blond Taking the Day!

It's Never Too Late for Baskets of Hope

Sometimes, life is just a mystery.  OK, more than sometimes.  Like yesterday, for instance.  A mysterious Monday mood that seemingly came out of nowhere.  Typically, I love a new day because it's like you have a brand new slate.  No matter what your life slate has been, a new day brings hope.  Maybe that's what happened yesterday?  My hope got up and went and everything seemed to be falling on my head.  Spring has hit, and I'm still wiggling into those jeans...but making progress;>  Easter Sunday is coming and my family is 3,000 miles away.  It just seemed that many things in my life are hanging in the balance with an uncertain future.  Well, that was untill this morning when my long time friend, Sandy, called.  She was stuck in bumper to bumper traffic on a Southern California freeway on her way to work.  After our initial catching up, I wailed a little about my dilemma's and then she went on to tell me her husband is coping with cancer.  They had planned to retire in Idaho but now said it looks like she'll be going to Idaho ... alone.  She said she didn't like being alone after being in a partnership for so long.  It was a second marriage and happier than her first.  She quickly piped up, "Jennifer, don't postpone your life.  Don't let something that might or might not happen keep you from today." 

We do get in ruts from time to time and feel down by the mysteries of life.  It's the ebb and flow but Sandy's words and reminder to not postpone living were grounding.  Thus, I've started!  I've cleaned off a shelf in my office ridding space of unwanted CD's, books, and other paraphernalia cluttering not only my shelf, but my mental space. It is a new day, the sun is shining, and I'm recharged:>  Sandy's phone call was special for it was like a personal delivery of a basket of hope.  See you next time...Top Blond Taking the day.

 

 

 

 

 

"Spring Jeans with Jiggles and Giggles"

Oh, my.  I did it!  I slid into my newest pair of spring jeans just freed from the dryer.  After sucking it in, assuming a few acrobatic positions for the zipping, and nearly fainting for the buttoning, I'm actually now seated at my computer talking with you.  Now, in the event you are of the male gender and reading this you likely won't be able to relate to these amazing feats just for a trip to Bed Bath and Beyond for a new wooden salad bowel.  I heard if you eat lots of salad it helps reduce these sumatra antics.  But, the, "jiggle gender," unless you're Courtney Cox that is, just might be able to relate.  And, if Liz Curtis Higgs, author and humorist, is reading this perhaps I've evoked a giggle or two.  Liz, if you're not familiar with her, is one of those lively and amazing down to earth, home and heart kind of woman with a uniquely spirited sense of humor.  Not only will she keep you in stitches but you'll be giggling all the way to the lettuce aisle.( www.LizCurtisHiggs.com).  Well, now that I've manuevered the "seating" in the dryer fresh jeans, it's time to see if I can actually manager the "walk and breathing" at the same time.  Have to get that salad bowel...maybe by June, it'll be a smooth slide without that last the jiggle to wiggle into summer jeans:>

Until next time...Top Bonde taking the day!

 

Spring Clean

The other night I was out of my semi-expensive face washing solution.  So, when I was rumaging underneath the bathroom sink among the shampoo bottles and "volume & body" mousse containers, I came across my travel soap container.  Ah!  I could use the Dove creamy complexion soap I'd put in the container that had, "Dove" etched on the lid.  It was a gift from my friend, Doreen, and I loved using it for travel.  It would work just fine until until I could get to my dermatologist's office for a refill, I thought to myself.  But, after a couple nights I kept thinking as it was sudsing up that it didn't quite smell like Dove.  As I recalled Dove has a gentle and really clean scent.  This scent seemed stronger and manly. And, it was a little blusih green too....Dove was white.  Pure white.  Oh, No!  As I was rinsing off the greenish bubbles from my cheek and chin it came to me...Irish Spring!  This is Irish Spring deorderant soap!  It was then it came back to me!  It was on sale at the supermarkt and I'd picked up a couple bars and now I was washing my delicate face with Irish Spring deorderant soap!  Nothing like being Irish Spring clean.  Think it's time to make a run for that refill now! 

Top Blond taking the day...see you next time:>

Unladly Like Landing

You just never know what your next step will bring.  This afternoon when I was dashing out my front door on my way to work, it seems a few things might have happepned to cause my sudden transportation to the pavement.  One, I simply missed the last step.  Two, my feet adorned in knee high boots for our near freezing temperatures, got tangled with my long skirt.  Or, three, my head was getting there before my feet.  Because, with my handbag slung over my shoulder, small tote and water bottle in one hand, and my Dannon Light'n Fit Strawberry Banana Yogurt in the other, there I was being thrust in flight and landing skimble-scamble on the side walk.  Splat!  Guess I was neither light nor fit!  Not quite the position that matched the cosmopolitan image I was seeking.  So, what does one do when finding themselved splayed out on the street for all the neighbors to see?  First, you check your pluse.  If you have one, you smile and pick yourself up with whatever remaining grace you can muster, dust yourself off and search for cuts and scratches, and then continue to your vehicle and never look back.  To my surprise my body survived with no fractures, no apparent cuts or scratches, and essentially, pain free.  And though my pride suffered, I was blessed.  Except, all afternoon I worried about the container of Light 'n Fit Yogurt.  It must still be rolling around in the street and run over by now with a creamy mess everywhere.  I'd picked up my water bottle but going for Yogurt must have been beyond the call of duty.  At that point, all I cold think of was leaving the scene of the fall pronto before the passengers in the passing car started gawking my way.  I guess sometimes in life things comes back to you because when I arrived home, the container of yogurt had been retrieved by some kind soul and placed on one of the steps where it safely survived in natures natural refrigeration.  And now that I'm back where I started from with all my belongings, my unfit body at least in tact, and my wounded pride on the mend....tomorrow is a new day. 

Tobblond taking the day!  See you next time!

Oranges and vinegar do not mix

It's been one of those days...actually, a really good day since not feeling well the two previous days.  But, knowing I had to work today I prayed to feel better when turning my light out last night.  To my thankful surprise, I did!  And then, there were some very nice surprises before the day ended that made me feel happy.  In fact, by the time I got home I was cherry and feeling upbeat and just well, maybe trying to do too many things at once.  Because, that's when it happened.  That's when somehow I managed to knock over the vinegar bottle.  Life is funny isn't it?  I've liven in my current apartment for the past seven years and never even ever had vinegar on the table before.  But, in January, when visiting mom and dad in California, mom prepared fresh spinich a few times and served it with vinegar.  So, I promptly came home and got into the "Popye mode" believing I'd become stronger...and found myself buying bag after bag of fresh spinich!  Like mother, I wanted vinegar with it...thus taking out my cute little hardly used, eggplant purple vinegar bottle from my Ethan Allen Hutch.  For some reason, in the middle of dashing off an email, I dashed off to the kitchen for some important reason...which now escapes me...to retrieve something...which now escapes me...and somehow manged to tip over the apple cider vinegar bottle which totally surprised me!  The watery liquid oozed over the dollar bills and change I'd set out for the car wash tomorrow and all over my coveted Steven Covey papers on, "Find Your Voice."  Wtih a dramatic reach I saved my date book.  As I was saying earlier about oranges...I'd just sliced some fresh oranges and had sprinkled them with walnuts for a late night snack...but the sweet aroma of oranges and the tart smell of vinegar do not mix.  Oh, well.  Tomorrow is a new day and in spite of spills...flops, or lack of memory, see you at the top:-)  Top Blond taking the day...!

Whispering wind in the Woods

It's March 1, 2005.  A fresh blanket of white greeted us this morning from the near foot of snow that fell last night.  After brushing the glistening soft powder from my Jeep, the wonder and mystery of a gray winter day had me.  I found myself going for a walk around my condo complex breathing in the fresh air and throwing snow balls into the woods.  For a moment, I longed to have someone special to share the fun and frivolity with. But, this morning, I was going solo and making the best of it.  I discovered it was much more fun aiming snow balls at tree trunks and seeing how far I could throw them than hurrying back to empty the dishwasher.  I wasn't really sure I was finished with my outdoor jaunt but it was time to head to the post office to mail a batch of cookies to my sister.  It was then I knew for sure I had to give in to the last vestiges of winter and continue in my call of the wild venture.  But, where?  Where could I get away from shoveled pavement and noisy streets?  As I pulled out of the post office parking lot, my destination suddenly became clear.  Emerson Woods only about fifteen minutes away. After arriving I found that no one was venturing out on the snow covered paths...no one, that is, except me.  I couldn't resist.  Perhaps a cardinal will land on a tree branch.  Or, a deer will saunter through and I'll snap my first award winning photo!  However, neither cooperated; not even a rabit!  But, that didn't stop Top Blond. And so with a long twig that served me well as a walking stick, I began my trek into the woods.  I couldn't have been happier!  It would have been so easy to ignore my inner voice for one reason or another.  It's not every day that I have the opportunity to act on a whim and follow my heart. But, today was mine and I would have missed natures gift.  The wind whispering high in the barren branches, the scrumptious crunch, crunch of my boots as I made footprints along the pristine path, and the shadowy images of the spindly trees sweeping across the fallen logs and twigs when the sun peeked through the steely gray sky were like healing balm.  And like a hug I gave to myself...to reaffirm that no matter what the day brings...Top Blond is taking the day and it's going to be a good one...see you next time.

Supernatural night of light

It's snowing.  With my blinds up and the lights out, it almost seems like an all's right with the world kind of night.  But, all isn't right in our world.  Chaos surrounds all of us in one form or another.  A 9 year-old little girl, Jessica, is missing from her grandparents home in Florida.  Pope John Paul II is struggling for his life. Our troops are still in Iraq.  My daughter in Montana has a broken leg in two places and I'm in New Jersey.  How do we reckon with a troubled world let alone our own lives?  A continuing mystery for sure.  But, perhaps if we honor ourselves by living lives that reflect our passions and beliefs, we can make a difference.  Yesterday, I went into New York City to see The Gates.  You may have heard of them...the more than 7,000 gates, each 16 ft. tall, over the paths and walkways in Central Park.  In spite of the brisk 30 plus degrees temperature, a flood of people were bundled up, clicking cameras, and strolling the slopes and pathways under saffron panels beautifully billowing in the wind.  For the next few hours the child in me came out to play as I jumped and skipped along and tried to touch the hem of one of the pannels.  I walked over the Bow Bridge and sat daydreaming by the fountain on Bethesda Terrace, considered to be the center of Central Park.  Dusk came too soon and walking past Strawberry Fields onto 72nd Street on Central Park West, The Carlyle Hotel, with its ethereal architecture, stood in the distance.  Above the barren trees in the inky night a full moon shone over the Upper East Side.  All may not be right with the world but the reminder that God is in the heavens and still shedding His light over the world was my saving grace.  And my hope...Top Blond still taking the day...See you next time.

 

Hearts

This is what's on my mind tonight.  Hearts and how the varried aspects of what's in our heart affects us.  Though Valentine's Day is just past, with a little effort, we can keep the beating of our heart going strong.  Hearts have the capability to keep on giving and it's up to us to listen to our heart, follow our heart, act on what's in our heart, share what's on our heart, and have heart.  But, what kind of beat drives us?  This afternoon, I was laying on a hard medical table for an echocardiogram. An echo, as typiclly called in the heart field, is where the technician has you lie on your side and slides a probe across your chest to view your heart on a screen.  I had to lie still for 30-45 min., which totally goes against my nature.  About all availabe was daydreaming.  It was then my lips slowly broke into a soft smile as I recalled the plight of the original owner of a card meant for me on Valentine's Day.  You see, that morning, Bob, had tucked the card safely inside his shirt to give to me later that afternoon.  But, he then got caught in a rain storm which caused the crisp white envelope to wilt. So, what does a caring and sensitive American male do to remedy a damp situation...place it the microwave!  Once zapped it became wrinkle free.  What a thoughtful gesture!  Some men wouldn't have even noticed let alone bother with.  By the time it landed in my hands it was near perfect and came with added warmth.  So, what does a microwave have to do with hearts?  This is the way I see it.  Every day we make decisions from the tone and texture of our heart.  Are we going to be kind?  Are we going to forgive?  Are we going to go the extra mile to make someone else happy?  For Top Blond, it's the little things that mean a lot.  It's the song of our heart that gets played out every day that makes us dynamic or dormant.  See you next time...Top Blond taking the day!

Reaching for the Stars

Saturday before Martin Luther King, Jr.Day and I'm pulled to run errands and be responsible with my life, yet there is a part of me that wants to fly.  Reach for the stars and have it all happen today.  Maybe it's the coffee that's creating this happy high, but my feeling is when it hits, go with it.  It's much better than how I felt Thurday when seeing my nephrologist for a kidney disease I have; PKD.  He told me I'm in stage 3 of the five stages and that my bones are crumbling due to decreasing kidney function.  Oh, lovely!  Not quite the uplifting news I'd hoped for...that the test results had improved.  They had not.  However, it sounds simple enough.  The doctor is just going to give me a prescription for yet another pill along with the two I'm already ingesting for this aspect of my disease.  Or, how this morning when I heard on the grapevine my former boyfriend got married.  Oh, glory!  But, once the sting passed, a surge that started in my toes finally reached my brain and now Top Blonde is seeing the light.  I'm actually the lucky one.  What was I thinking?  I've raised the bar and will only entertain someone who passes my own personal litmus test of standards and scruples.  In the meantime, if Mr. Really Wonderful apears on the horizon, or between the carrots and lettuce in produce..., Top Blonde is a little wiser and ready to make better choices.  See you next time!

Discombobulated

Yesterday was just one of those days.  You know, the kind of day where nonsensical things just keep happening.  So, here's the deal.  On my way to pick up my new Gucci glasses...I know.  But, if you have to wear glasses and contacts aren't an option, you might as well wear class, right?  Glasses now are part of our accessory  line and can reflect our style.  OK, so getting back to on my zany day.  This older then me woman was wandering around the parking lot like she was searching for water in the Saraha Desert searching for her car.  You can't imagine the relief I felt that it wasn't me this time!  Then, while shopping for leather balm for my winter boots, it seems I dropped my gloves.  Well, do I have the missing glove stories.  But, back to the current discombobulation.  Because after paying and with keys in hand, they were unvisible!  After wandering around the store ...like I was searching for water in was the Saraha Desert, I located them in the Slipper department.  And now, for the one that takes the cake.  I finally found a great pair of black sweats only to get home and discover they are of the New Addition Maternity line!  Top Blond taking the day!

Can't Sleep...But I did it!

Yes sir, ree, Bob.  I made my column deadline.  To my surprise, it came together after starting out with free floating writing.  Sometimes I have to do that..just start and see where it takes me.  And then, it jells.  My point comes to mind and I'm off and running with it.  And then I email it to my mom in California who gives me the "Mom's Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval."  She has made suggestions from time to time but they are usually limited to maybe adding a word here or a word there.  It's kind of a special thing we have.  She's in her eighty's and quite computer savvy so it's a joy to be able to communicate through this connection.  I know it won't last forever I make the most of it now.  See you tomorrow...Top Blond.

Whirling Kaleidoscope

Today has me trying to catch up with myself.  My monthly column is due tomorrow and I haven't even started.  But, then, that's my style.  Writing under pressure.  I mean, why do it sooner when you can wait till the last minute?  Besides, perhaps the experience to write about hasn't happepned yet.  Still, I've jotted down some notes on the theme for this month and have an idea for my topic but we will see what tomorrow brings and if I can find my notes!  This morning, I was working at clearing my desk, going on a few quick errands, and then gluing myself to my computer chair for the afternoon.  However, on the drive home from my last stop, my Jeep, Madame Merlot, died right in the middle of the road!  Just stopped running.  Pulling over, I took a deep breath and figured if I focused enough, I might be able to will Madame Merlot to start up again.  She did and after a semi-anxious call to my mechanic, Bobby, Madame Merlot and I pulled into his shop.  Ah, just a valve malfunction.  Simple enough and no charge.  Even better!  Once home, it was time for tea, Jeopardy, dinner, and then the treadmill while catching tonight's Lifetime movie, Dawn Anna, based on a true story of a mother's courage and bravery.  And, if that story doesn't inspire a person, I don't know what will.  Maybe after a good night's sleep my whirling kaleidoscope will actually land tomorrow and Top Blond will make deadline afterall.   

 

Celebrating Life

In a flash our lives can change.  Long before I evolved into Tob Blonde my life was very different.  One bright sunny afternoon when I was living in Southern California just south of Santa Monica, my life changed forever.  I was attacked in my home at knifepoint.  Seven years later, I wrote my story in a book, "Nice Girls Don't Get Raped."  After a long road to recovery, healing came.  Probably if I could have one wish it would be, Justice for Jennifer, because the person who assaulted me was never arrested.  Never even found.  Untill that time comes, my greatest victory over what happened is in embracing each moment.  God spared my life that day for a reason...and now twenty-six years later, Top Blond continues to take the day and savor each and every experience, joy, goodness, and glimpse of God.  As a late bloomer, I have hope that the best is yet to come!  That the blue bird of happiness will land on my porch.  No matter what you or I face, it's never too late to step up to the plate and hit a home run.  Mine is yet to come.  What about you?

Serendipitious fun

You just never know what a day will bring.  This afternoon I had to take care of an errand where my friend, Joan, works.  While taking care of business, I wanted to slip in to her office and say a quick hello.  But, she wasn't available and I didn't press.  She was at the fax machine when the receptionist dialed her extention, I later learned.  After mentioning to the receptionist that before leaving the parking lot, I was going to zip into Whole Foods next door, I dashed out the door.  Being somewhat ADD, my medical term for semi-scatteredness, I changed to Plan B, did an about face, and headed home.  Upon returning, my message machine light was blinking.  Sure enough my brillant brunette friend had not only tried to catch me, but had me paged as well to the tune of, "Will Top Blonde please come to the customer service desk." In Whole Foods no less!  Now, that is a visual viscissitude to rellish and I was so sorry to miss it.  Um, wonder what surprises await at my next stop.