Joanne, Charcoal and I annually "snowbird" in Key West, the southern most point of the continental United States and home of mile marker 0 on the US-1 highway. My birthday is in two days and, as per our 10 year tradition, we memorialized it by photo opping at the appropriate mile marker (Leigh Connell picture). Our friends Leigh and Jim Connell have ferried us there the past 2 years and there is talk of the beginnings of an annual tradition. I sure hope so, because they get it, they get me and I'm all about Tradition.  

I dropped Flo off and was looking for a spot to park in the restaurant’s lot. After waiting patiently behind a car blocking the way, I noticed a spot in a next row.I made my way and turned into that row, but was blocked by another car.

Most of us know when there is tension and stress in your life, there comes a point where you must unwind and take a break. Well I did that last week. My family and I just got back from a weeklong cruise where I disconnected with the world except for those around me. I had no internet or phone service. It was a bit difficult at first, but I got used to until the second to last day when that itchy feeling came back. But for anyone needing a break, that is the way to do it.

I am going through a stage right now where several of my regular doctors are retired or retiring.  Most often, they are breaking the pact we made where they promised not to retire until I offered my approval – but let’s move on from there.  

I have written several blogs about ads for certain products “magically” appearing on my Facebook or Instagram feed after I spoke about them.  For example, a Van Cleef & Arpels ad had popped up on my Instagram feed after my son and I discussed a necklace he was thinking of purchasing. I questioned, in those blogs, whether my devices were actually listening to me as I never searched for any information about that necklace.  

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.