The importance of Wise Adults in Children’s Lives

 

Recently I have been realizing how important it is for children to be exposed to adults who set an example of integrity, honesty, maturity  and happiness.   Ideally, this will be modeled by the parents, but that is not always the case, especially in today’s society.

When I first moved to LA, I was trained by dance teachers who were worldly, disciplined, artistic, sensitive and caring.  This had such a powerful influence on me.  We watched foreign films, listened to classical music and admired the ice skaters on PBS.  We cooked and ate together, and had meaningful conversations.  I knew I could trust them and depend on them.  They were consistent and kind.

I worry with the extreme trends in home schooling, living in remote areas, and protecting kids from the dangers of society that they may be far from the support they need to realize their potential.  Some children that  I know seem desperate for connection, especially with adult women.  I was fortunate to have many sources of feminine wisdom growing up: my Aunt Mary, my dance teachers, schoolteachers, friends’ moms, and neighbors.

Who were the wise adults in your life as you matured into a young adult?

Our family read a lot of books, and that exposed me to other cultures, people’s feelings, and ideas.  It was inspiring, entertaining, and developed our imaginations and vocabulary.  

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Preventing Fraud

 

Happy Thanksgiving to all of your who celebrate it.  I just made this persimmon cake.  It's very moist and flavorful.  I gave some to my neighbor who loves persimmons.  My one tree gave us a huge harvest this year.  It had hundreds of Hachiyas.  I still have more fruit at the top of the tree to pick.  It's difficult to reach, so I will buy a fruit picker with a basket on the end.  It's so rewarding to plant a baby tree and have it continue to produce and feed you decades later...

As a senior, I have been shocked at how much fraud is occurring in our society, much of it by phone.  You have to be extra diligent these days.  It's wise not to answer calls from numbers you don't recognize.  If they hang up and keep calling you, that's a red flag.  

The other day a woman called here, claiming to work for a well-known health insurance company.  She told me they were updating their records, and asked for my birthdate.  "I don't give out that information over the phone," I answered, matter of factly.   She quickly thanked me and said raced off the phone, nervously.  

Whether it's protecting your cash, investments, land, home or possessions, our intuition is an excellent predicter.  I utilize my cameras, listen to the dogs, (and check why they are barking,) and I don't carry a phone that has my information stored on it.  A simple senior flip phone is fine with me.  The alarm is on 24 hours a day.  I have some excellent neighbors who keep a close eye on my place and I do the same for them.  We call each other if we see anything suspicious and take video.  

Have you experienced any fraud?  Did you catch it in time?

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Fishing and Kayaking

 

This summer has been fantastic for fishing and kayaking.  Because of all the snow we received, our lakes and reservoirs are full.  I met a friendly and grounded lady who was also out on her kayak the other day.  We sat in our boats and chatted about how simple and relaxing it is.  She confided that she sold her jet skis and boat, and prefers the simplicity of the kayak.  I agree.

On the bank, I ran into one my neighbors.  She was fishing with her children.  This is one of the trout that she caught.  She is a master fisherwoman.  That afternoon she brought three freshly frozen fish to my cabin.  I cooked them in a fry pan with butter, garlic, and spices and they were absolutely delicious.  We both love to garden.  Her lush flowers and front yard look amazing.

The weather for swimming and sunbathing has been perfect.  We really experience four seasons up here.  The chill of the lake water feels so refreshing on the skin.  It cools down the entire body.  I ran into another neighbor as I was walking home.  She is a blues singer and invited me to her performance that evening.  She and the band members rocked the house!  I was so impressed with their talent and enthusiasm.  

How are you enjoying these hot summer days?

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A Bear Has Been Visiting

 

This morning as I was drinking my coffee,  I looked over the security footage from my cameras.   I noticed several paper plates piled in my parking area, and decided to reverse the tape.  I thought someone had littered as they drove by...no.  As I studied the playback, a very large bear came ambling into the area where I get in and out of my vehicle every day.  

He carried a bag of trash in his mouth from one of the neighbor's homes.   I don't keep any outside garbage in Wrightwood, for this reason.  He tore open the plastic, and started to munch.  As you can see, he is very large and healthy.

A car drove past and turned around at the end of our cul de sac.  The lights from the vehicle seemed to make him nervous.  He left the remnants and ambled down towards my cabin.

I think he's kind of funny.  I had just watered those roses early in the morning.  I have made an effort to keep my land very natural and pleasant for the wildlife.  I didn't realize how much use it was getting.  Bears eat grasses and berries.  They also like acorns, (which are plentiful on my land,) and they will eat bugs and predator animals.  This was an amazing surprise.

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The Thigh Master

 

Last week I received my thigh master in the mail.  I have just started using it.  I bought it from Suzanne Somers' website.  I used to be a backup dancer for her at MGM.  She has the most beautiful legs!

I have only used it a few times, but already see and feel a difference.  It's a real workout.  Suzanne says it's like having a gym in your home.  I like that it's portable.  I can take it with me to both locations.  

I took the dogs on a long bike ride this morning.  There's nothing like intense cardio and fresh mountain air.  I passed some of my neighbors on the way and stopped to chat.  Jacques gets so many compliments.  He is a gorgeous dog.  His voice has deepened and matured.  

I got my taxes completed and paid.  Phew!  It's always a relief to get that done.  I will mail the returns tomorrow,  I have a fabulous accountant.  She's intelligent, kind and wise.  The older I get, the more I appreciate trustworthy personal and business relationships.  It makes life easier.

Have you done your taxes yet? 

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The Emotional Climate of Where You Retire

 One thing that is very important when choosing the place you will retire is the thought processes of the people around you.  Many people seek out small towns for their later years, citing the lower cost of living.  But what is the cost on other levels?

Will the locals in that place accept your lifestyle?  Are people open minded?  If you love art and culture, is there an abundance of that in the new place?  Is everyone the same religion?  Will they judge you if you practice yoga, are a Buddhist, or if your family is Jewish?  What if you're not married and you chose not to have children?

My favorite part about retirement is having the time to pursue hobbies.  I am close to fantastic kayaking spots, incredible hiking trails, and have access to live performances.  I love the symphony, museums, Broadway shows, the ballet, and fine restaurants.  I didn't realize how important this would be.  I have always worked with other professional artists in my field.  They are talented, disciplined and successful.  (the creme of the crop.) I still keep in touch with many of these people online and by phone.  We are a tribe.

Another thing to consider is your neighbors.  Are you comfortable where you are?  I have several people on my street who I enjoy chatting with and discussing how our lives are going.  There's an easy, relaxed vibe between us.  I like the familiarity and comfort of being here.  

Often people over fifty sell their homes to move closer to their adult children.  This doesn't always work out for them.  What if the kids get transferred?   There's no going back, once your house has sold.  If you are a private person, a city can give you some anonymity.  This may suit you better than a tiny town with a vigorous rumor mill. Moving is an expensive proposition, and sometimes it's better to stay where you are.

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Picking Persimmons

 My Hachiya persimmon tree has provided an amazing harvest this year.  For the last few years, I was afraid the tree had died.  During the last several seasons, it didn't produce.  I'm not sure why, since it's a mature tree.   I fed it some compost tea and straw mulch, and what a difference!  The whole tree came back to life.  I have picked at least 150 persimmons so far...it's  a thrill. They are lined up in long rows on the counter, the windowsill, the dryer and the kitchen table.   I love growing fruit; it's so rewarding.

I gave some to my neighbors, and dropped off a bag on the porch of  the woman who runs our co-op in Wrightwood.  She uses them to make persimmon cookies.  I will leave a bag in the mailbox for my mail lady.  She is always so appreciative of homegrown fruit.  I also gave some to the lady that sells produce at our local fruitstand.  Her eyes lit up and she told me that she loves persimmons.  I will take her some more tomorrow.  

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Snow Covered Cabins

 The recent  blanket of snow that we received made all of the local homes and cabins look so Christmasy and peaceful.  We live among all kinds of wildlife:  deer, mountain lions, big horned sheep, raccoons, bobcats, and woodpeckers.  It's such a special setting.  I love it.

Last night I received a phone call from one of my close dancer friends who I sent a check to...she was so enthusiastic and appreciative of the gift.  It feels good to be sending donations to people that I know directly.  (That way I am not concerned about how much of the balance is eaten up by fees.) 

I picked lots of fruit yesterday.  The Navel Orange tree had nearly forty oranges on it. They are so sweet and delicious.  I stripped it entirely, and  shared some of them with my neighbor.  The Algerian Tangerine tree in the potager garden is also loaded.  Citrus grow so well here.  

I got my laundry done, it's drying in the sunshine, and I am busily cleaning the house.  All of the Christmas decorations have been put away until next year.  I made a batch of chicken enchiladas, and will toss a salad to enjoy with it.  I found out that Vons opens at 6:00 a.m. I went there early this morning and got my grocery shopping done.  What have you been up to lately? 

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Would You Bake A Pie For One Person?

 

I met up with my neighbor this afternoon, and we were discussing what we were baking and preparing for Thanksgiving.  She enthusiastically told me that she was making her pumpkin pie with a butter pie crust, eggs, and whipped cream.  She looked so happy and excited that it made me go home and do the same thing. 

I used to make pumpkin pie for my mom, my brother, and I, when I was growing up.  Just a few of us in the family liked it.  I would make a fruit pie for everyone else, too.  (usually apple or berry.)  My mother was always so appreciative when I made them, telling me that my homemade crust was much better that the store bought pies.  It does make a difference.  So does the freshness.  She'd have me bake the pies the  day before Thanksgiving, , then on Thanksgiving morning, we would cook all day together.  My dad always helped.  ( and he did the shopping and dishes.)  We started early, chopping onions and celery for the stuffing.

I  baked an apple crisp yesterday, but decided to go ahead and make a pumpkin pie today, too.  Why not?  I had the ingredients. I whipped together the eggs, sugar, spices, pumpkin, and canned milk.  It brought back memories of making this dessert for so many years for my family.  I rolled out the homemade crust, and placed it in a beautiful hand painted pie dish from Poland that used to belong to my mom.  

 After placing the pie dish on the rack, I carefully poured the pumpkin mixture into the shell.  Ever so slowly, I inched the wire rack back into position, closed the door,  and let the pie bake for one hour.  I wish my mom was here to have a slice.  As I carefully removed it from the oven, I told her to help herself, if she was listening.  You never know, she might be around...  "It looks so pretty," I felt like she whispered back to me.  The filling had come together, and the top was lightly browned.  When you come in the front door the cottage smells buttery and delightful.

I'll enjoy it tomorrow, after the stuffed chicken with all the trimmings.  All of the side dishes are already made.  I may give some pie to some of the kids in the neighborhood, if they want it.  I will ask a couple of the women who live on my street.  It will last in the fridge.  How is your cooking going?

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Enjoying Free Movies on Youtube

I have been happily watching documentaries and movies at home, since the virus hit.  (I never used to be a movie buff.)  I don't care for car chases or violence.  Last night I watched Hello Dolly, and absolutely loved it.  I was heart warming for me, because  both Tommy Tune and Michael Crawford became stars after filming it.  They each helped my career as a performer tremendously, giving me opportunities to break out of the chorus.  I just love seeing their early work.  How fortunate it  was to cross paths with them in my career.  They both were exciting, energetic, and outstanding in the film.

Yesterday I took a long walk with my neighbor.  Lula joined us.  The weather was spectacular!  It is so pretty up in the mountains with the sun is shining.  We meandered down the narrow streets returned along the Wrightwood Trail.  Our walk took an hour and a half.  I really enjoy living in such a walkable town.  It saves  so much money on gas, and it feels healthy to get out in the mountain air each day.

I just watched a fascinating documentary called The Hearst and Davies Affair.  Once it is safe to travel again, I want to visit Hearst Castle.  I am going to research the trip online.  It's a few hours drive from the cottage.  Cambria is supposed to be a gorgeous area.  I love that whole era: the glamour, furniture, clothing, and architecture... 

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Dog Day at the Country Club

 Today was Dog Day at the country club.  Lula and I had a fantastic time.  It was so entertaining to watch all of the different dogs playing and swimming happily together in the lake.  It was really dog heaven.  There were tennis balls everywhere.  Lula was so excited and vocal.  She paddled like her life depended on it.  I was in the water with her until one of the dogs squatted and pooped.  I had made sure that Lula did her business before we got there.  They are draining the lake for the cold season after Dog Day, anyway.  Maybe I'll put a swimming hole in, up at my cabin.  Lula is such a water dog.  She didn't want to stop playing ball, and slept deeply during her long nap, after we arrived home.

While watering my pines and oaks, I chatted with my sweet neighbor about posting "No Trespassing" signs.  I put them at each entrance to my land when the evacuation warning hit.  I discussed some concerns with my insurance agent and he replied that the signs  do help.  The main thing is, you don't want a hazard, like a broken sprinkler on your property.  He said that the best thing you can do to prevent problems with suspicious individuals is to maintain the property.  That makes sense.

My neighbor mentioned  that she had seen some adults and kids walking on my land.  There have been some locals I know that have sneaked on it at times, too, but I caught them.  ( I have photographs.)  It's too bad that some people take advantage, but I'm prepared.  I don't let things slide when it comes to my safety, my home, or my animals.  It's so important to take the steps you need to take in life when your boundaries aren't being respected.  Documentation is everything.  My sweet neighbor is also a hard working woman who owns her own beautiful home.  She lives with her mom, who is one fabulous lady.  We stick together; she's really a great ally.   

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Cake For My Neighbor

Today I baked an old fashioned yellow cake using a recipe from my Betty Crocker cookbook.  It's simple and classic, and includes butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, flour, and baking powder.  You blend the ingredients on high with an electric mixer.  I was thankful to have all of that list in my stockpile.  I have been reading Depression recipes for cakes that people used to make when they had food shortages.  In my case, I make an effort to be sure to use up what I have before it expires.  The rest of the milk needs to be used by tomorrow.  I will make a cream of cabbage soup.  I can adapt the broccoli cheese soup recipe that I have.

I had a carton of whipped cream in the fridge, and I wanted to use it.  I was planning on making a batch of lemon curd, as well, but I just didn't have the energy.  I decided to keep the cake simple, and see how it tasted.

I whipped the cream and added vanilla extract and sugar.  I spread it over the top of the cooled cake, and added some colored sprinkles.  I was very pleased with the effect.  Baking a cake in a large, rectangular pan is so easy.  I like the square slices  and the way they look on a plate, too.

I called my neighbor and asked if she would like some; she is always very appreciative of cake.  She go all excited and said that she needed a treat.  That made me feel so happy.  It's the little things that we can do for each other.  I left a very large piece in a pyrex container by her door.

I think the child inside of everyone gets excited over the thought of enjoying a slice of homemade cake.     

I have been getting requests for a few things that I just can't do right now.  People have been asking me for soap, ballet classes, and masks.  I just have to say no.  I feel badly, but it's too much.  We have to stay home.  I''m not able to take photos  on my mini ipad, either.  I don't have the storage space.  I deleted a lot of stuff, but it's still not working. 

I will still be posting regularly on the blog, but not always with photos.  I have been feeling a bit  pressured, and I'm just trying to not worry about the things that I can't control.   It's easy to get overwhelmed with this pandemic.  I'm just taking things one day at a time, and focusing on cleaning, cooking, baking, and the garden.   Are you feeling pressured and getting requests from people, too?


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Therapeutic Sock Knitting

The other day I started a pair of Hermiones Everyday Socks.  I tried  making this pattern once before, but I messed up the eye of the partridge garter stitch edged heel. I  ended up frogging them.  This time I decided to do a pair  in just one color.  It's easier than changing balls of yarn to making contrasting cuffs, heels, and toes. I'll work up to using a second color the next time I do this pattern.  It's a free and very popular one on Ravelry.


So far, so good.  I goofed up the heel the same way I did the first time, but ripped it out and started again.  I had forgotten to start  on the wrong side. I should have known, since the instructions said to pearl to the end of the row. It's very relaxing and soothing to knit outside on the porch again.  I also love to get at 5:00 a.m., light a beeswax candle, and knit on the couch with my coffee.  Socks are one of my favorite projects.  This one has texture, but it's still fairly easy.

I baked a batch of chocolate chip cookies and took them to some sweet little kids in my neighborhood.  I also did my grocery shopping and splurged on some new and exciting foods.  I made fettuccine with a tomato meat sauce, and plan to bake rhubarb crisp tomorrow.  It's amazing how eating new foods jazzes up  life.  I bought some red grapes on sale for .99 a lb.  They are a rare treat around here.  I am out of butter, so I will pick it up in bulk at Costco.  They have it at the best price.

I stopped at the library and checked out a couple of books. I have been reading a lot about retirement.  Now that my parents are both no longer living, I feel like I am in a new phase of life. I don't have to worry about them anymore.  I didn't realize how much energy I expended in that direction until now.   I feel like I have taken flight.  The retirement preparations have gone into effect.  There are many plans for adventure in the works.  How are things going with you?

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Putting Air in Your Bicycle Tires

The other day I rode my bike down to the nearby gas station. I had noticed that my back tire was getting  low, and  I needed to pump some air into it. I have a small travel pump, but it doesn't seem to  work very well.  I needed something more powerful.

I ran into my neighbor while I was there. He was picking up several bags of ice for a family  trip to the lake. He helped me with the pump. There are spaces on the machine to insert six quarters, but there is also a sign that says, "For free air, ask inside." He went in and they told him just to press the button. It's  on the left hand side.  I pressed it, the machine fired up, and the air came whooshing out through the nozzle.

He filled the back tire for me, and I added some air to the front one. It was quick and easy, and boy did it make a difference! I hadn't realized that you need to add air to your bicycle tires on a regular basis. I have spent so much money having the inner tubes replaced and adding tuff tube, maybe this is all that I needed to do.  Well, except for things that cause punctures,  like thorns and nails.  It makes me shake my head. I need to make it a habit. Even if your bike is just sitting in the garage, the tires can go flat.

My neighbor mentioned that he has a compressor pump if I ever need to use it. He's so nice. I usually stop and chat with his wife when I am out walking the dog.  I came home and oiled the chain. The owner of the local bike shop always reminds me that I need to do that whenever it gets dry.

When the tires have plenty of air in them, the ride feels completely different. You have support. It's the opposite of that feeling when your tires deflated or getting low. I am excited to be more proactive about this part of bicycle maintenance.  How is your tire situation?

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The Hens Are Settled In Their Coop

Today I spent some time fixing up the chicken coop. I needed to remove the cobwebs, wash the French windows, and have some of the chicken wire repaired. My neighbors came over and helped me. They reattached the chicken wire to the side of the coop, where it had come loose in a few places.

The chickens slept in Lana's old dog crate last night. I lined it with straw.  They were huddled together for safety. This morning they started to venture out, so I removed the dog crate and let them transition to the hen house. I just love this chicken coop. It is beautifully designed, using recycled French windows and doors. Because of the windows, they can see the orchard.  You can also hear the neighbor's chickens and rooster. It's such a natural environment for them. It feels good to be using the coop again.

After they've been in here for a week, I will open the door, and let them start free ranging. It's a large yard, so they will get lots of exercise and sunshine. They will be able to scratch in the dirt,  and take dust baths. They gobbled up the spinach, red wiggler worms, and mealy bugs from the compost pile that I gave them. I am hoping that they will start laying soon. I cooked up some hard boiled eggs and fed them those, too. The protein seems to help them lay. We'll see...

I finished these socks a few days ago. I just blocked them, and will deliver them to my friend next week. I think this yarn will go very well with blue jeans.     

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Lula's Family Visit

Today Lula's family stopped by to visit. They had to give her up when they moved. We are neighbors. We went for a short walk together, and then came home and sat on the porch. I have a tiny wooden porch swing that the girls used for their dolls. It was so sweet to watch them carefully pushing it.

They got to try out the new glider chairs, as well. Patio furniture is especially fun when you're a child. Their mom  brought a blanket with them for their brother that was knit by a local knitting teacher. She taught me the design, and I sell them in my Etsy shop. Hand knits look so sweet on babies. His mom likes it because it has boy colors. It's so old fashioned and soft. I love the windowpane design. It's by Debbie Bosstick.

At first it was hard for the girls and Lula to see each other. There were tears and confusion. I wasn't sure if we would be able to continue the visits, but everyone has adjusted. Lula will always love her family, but she is also very happy here with me. She seems to understand that this is her new home. We took a fabulous hike this morning at Vasquez Rocks. The horse trail wound up and around the mountain, and the sunshine was glorious.  How was your day?

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