A new milestone appears within reach. Four decades together for Rachelle and this commentator. Actual date is tomorrow. Sometimes it meant taking in a Broadway show; occasionally a concert. Last year we dined out for brunch with our children. This year, the kids plan gathering here at Grand Junction (as Marisa named this abode on FourSquare years ago) this afternoon to barbecue. Marisa is breaking out a bottle of fine wine purchased at a winery in the Galilee on our family tour of Israel where we celebrated two years back.

This is an actual conversation:   Starbucks employee: Hi...welcome to Starbucks what can I get started for you?  

I admit it, I spend an inordinate amount of time, pre sun up to post sun down, on my Key West front porch observing and engaging with the passers by.   We are situated on an intersection corner and there is multidirectional incoming traffic enhanced by lots of southern hospitality inspired "Good Mornings" which pave the way for easy conversational interaction.  What could be better for a natural born networker? So many relationships and friends have been engendered. 

When I realized that my blog day this week fell on the Spring Equinox, I cast aside my drafted blog to celebrate the arrival of Spring. (My sympathy to those of us who live - permanently or temporarily - in warmer climes where the significance of Spring goes unappreciated.) For me, Spring is the time for growth and, more-importantly, optimism. The barren branches and stems begin to show signs of rejuvenation and life. Our faith in nature is restored. So, celebrate this first day of Spring. 

A few Sundays ago, I got up and dressed to go out for a run. It doesn’t take much to get ready. My gear is laid out the night before, and truth be told, I could dress with my eyes closed. Or so I thought. 

Rona’s vacation theme started me thinking about how I plan to visit a new city.  

Anyone who knows me, knows that I believe that we all need to take vacations. We all work hard. For me, vacations are critical to recharge, our bodies, minds and souls.    My husband and I have recently been discussing how to maintain that sense of calmness we feel after a vacation. We have used the term vacation afterglow and discuss often how to maintain it.  

Shelly and I shared a nice show last night with Marisa.  It's special when you can still share great and meaningful songs by an original artist with your children.  Burton Cummings of The Guess Who sang and played the hits and more in a worthy performance at The Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair.