Saturday, February 04, 2006

Hello from Richard Roe

Hi Folks, I have just returned from five lovely days in the solitude of the Northern California mountains.

I saw a comment about To Catch A Thief. In fact this was when Grace and Rainier met for the first time. He had nothing to do with the film, but noticed this beautiful woman in Monaco. The great scene with Grace and Cary Grant when they are driving down a curvy mountain road, was, ironically, the exact same mountain she was driving down when she had her fatal accident in 1982.

I appreciate all of the upbeat, nice comments on the blog, and please keep them coming!! Best to all, Richard Roe

80 Comments:

Merry Mary said...

Hi Richard, Glad you made it home safe and sound. Grace was a beautiful lady and I can't wait to hear your stories first hand.
Willey...Do you think we could get by paying our taxes that way??? The mouse story was cute.
Val I heard a comment on Oprah last week that reminded me of something you would say...We are not human beings having spiritual experiences but spiritual beings having human experiences. Pretty good,don't you think???
I loved Skywalker Ellies comments too. I really enjoy our R.R. blog.
Take care ...Tomorrows the big football day.
MM

Saturday, February 04, 2006 2:52:43 PM  
willemina said...

Hi Richard...that's us...upbeat and nice...Welcome home.

merry mary
You are the cutest! Skywalker Ellie? I'm glad you enjoyed the mouse story and I guess we could try sending the government some $600 toilet seats ( hey, I'll let them have em for $500!...what a deal!)but somehow...I don't think that will go over very well. I also heard the comment on Oprah about us being spiritual beings having human experiences...which is what I've always believed.

Today is my daughters' birthday and I'm cooking dinner for 10 so I better get back to the kitchen. I'm making schnitzel, red cabbage, fried potatoes with onions and salad...one of her favorite meals.

I'm not a football fan but I will be going with my mother to a Super Bowl party at her senior center. I'm going for the wonderful food and wine and they're a great bunch to be around.

Saturday, February 04, 2006 3:32:38 PM  
Josie said...

Hi, Richard, I'm glad to hear you're out enjoying yourself. I just saw To Catch a Thief this morning. My gosh Grace Kelly was so absolutely beautiful. It must have been devastating for your family when she died so young. I think we would all love to hear more of your stories. Good luck to you.
JosieM

Saturday, February 04, 2006 3:57:02 PM  
dreamweaver18 said...

Hi 'Richness', Joe, Posse and Peeps
When I stumbled across 'To Catch A Thief' last night and watched Grace Kelly and Cary Grant driving down the winding mountain road, I wondered if it was the very mountain where she met her demise. Now that you mention it Richard, how ironic, in fact the whole movie was quite prophetic in a sense and can see why Prince Rainier was quite enamoured with Grace!
Looking forward to reading more about your exciting adventures with your boys and Monaco.
Hugs
Senior Bachelorette:)
Valerie
p.s. I am going to look for the movie 'High Society' where she sings 'True Love' with Bing Crosby

Saturday, February 04, 2006 7:42:12 PM  
dreamweaver18 said...

ooops...forgot to mention...I would love to hear the story of how Prince Rainier arranged to meet Grace Kelly

MerryMary: Yes, I have said that too, Oprah is spot on .....We are not human beings having spiritual experiences but spiritual beings having human experiences! Mary you are such a sweet lady, don't miss a beat:)

Watched an amazing documentary on Italy, specifically the Lake Como area which is where I yearn to go, my Parents had a beautiful painting of Lake Como which I would stare at for hours. Years later I met an American man working for IBM, living on Lake Como, he seemed to be quite enamoured with me at the time and asked me to visit him there. We met again in Greece in 1975 but I declined his offer to visit him at beautiful Lake Como. In retrospect, it is quite magical how people's lives are entertwined and to see the synchronized patterns going back many many years before!
I have never spoken about this only the pages of my journal contains these stories and anecdotes! See how this, Richard's blog has inspired me to write again!

Arrivederci
Ciao
Val

Saturday, February 04, 2006 7:58:15 PM  
dreamweaver18 said...

His 'Richness' and Entourage
SUPERBOWL SUNDAY
I am hoping the 'new kids on the block' win the SUPERBOWL tomorow as the Steelers have had their fair share of the limelight for now ;) time to pass the baton to the team that has never before played Superbowl!
I better take cover before I get caught in the crossfire ;)
Sweet Dreams
Hugs
Val

Saturday, February 04, 2006 8:13:37 PM  
young at heart said...

Hello Richard,

Glad you're refreshed from your stay in the mountains.

I think I finally " logged on " to the blog! My internet access is usually very limited at the library. Since I am new at this ... is the idea sort of like posing a thought or a question out to the universe, so anyone can respond?

Any tips and suggestions are welcome!

Sunny in Lexington KY

Saturday, February 04, 2006 8:31:05 PM  
chicagotricia said...

Richard,

Tomorrow I hope you will enjoy another wonderful Family Sunday, dig your toes in the sand, chase after your beautiful grandchildren and escape as much as possible from your worries.

Still praying...and sending a smile your way...Tricia

Sunday, February 05, 2006 12:19:35 AM  
Skywatcher-'ella' said...

RR's in the 'STARS'
February 5, 2006


You may wonder today how you can lend a hand toward helping others expand their awareness. Perhaps you feel inclined to share the insights that come from your wealth of personal experiences. Doing this may help someone in need of guidance with how to move forward on their path. The things you share may bring them to a new level of understanding.

Think about sharing your wisdom freely today, especially if it pertains to life matters where you feel blessed, knowledgeable, or grateful.

When we wish to help others expand their awareness, we can do so by sharing our insights and experiences with them. Personal growth is a product of experience. When we share our stories with others, we are contributing to their personal development. Our experiences give them additional insights that can help illuminate their personal journeys. We may even save them the time and effort of making the mistakes we've already made.

Our experiences can serve other people's growth as much as our own, and we contribute to the transformation of the human collective every time we transform ourselves. We also can see how far we've come down our paths when we see how much more we now offer to others.

RR, allow others to drink from your fountain of wisdom today, and you will be doing them an invaluable service.

xxx

Sunday, February 05, 2006 12:38:03 AM  
leslie said...

Hi to everyone from Arizona! I flew in yesterday morning and Suzanne was waiting at the airport. Down to Dale's for dinner with the group - Cheryl, Lin & friend Laura, Mary Rose and Dale's daughter. You should have seen Mary Rose arrive! All decked out in a leather USA flagged jacket, bright red helmet AND flowing red boa around her neck! Will post photos later. Great dinner, wine, and cappuccinos. I was saying to everyone there that it was amazing to me to me sitting out under the stars dining by candlelight on Feb. 4th! Glorious weather - not too hot, but does get chilly once the sun goes down. Suze & I are heading to the Grand Canyon today for a loooooong day's journey and we'll let you know all about it next time. Hope everyone's well.

Welcome back Richard - good to know you had a rest and are ready for battle.

Sunday, February 05, 2006 9:22:39 AM  
Merry Mary said...

I just got this from a friend and thought you friends in RRland would also enjoy.Geese and Swans


Where we live, on the eastern shore of Maryland, the gentle waters run in and out like fingers, slimming at the tips. They curl into the smaller creeks and coves like tender palms.



The Canada geese know this place, as do the white swans, and the ducks who ride an inch above the waves of Chesapeake Bay, as they skim their way into harbor. In the autumn, by the thousands, they come home for the winter.



The swans move toward the shores in a stately glide, their tall heads proud and unafraid. They lower their long necks deep into the water, where their strong beaks dig through the river bottoms for food. And there is, between the arrogant swans and the prolific geese, an indifference, almost a disdain.



Once or twice each year, snow and sleet move into the area. When this happens, if the river is at it’s narrowest, or the creek shallow, there is a freeze which hardens the water to ice,



It was on such a morning, near Osford, Maryland, that a friend of mine sat at the breakfast table beside the huge window which overlooked the Tred Avon River. Across the river, beyond the dock, the snow laced the rim of the shore in white. For a moment she stood quietly, looking at what the night’s storm had painted.



Suddenly she leaned forward and peered close to the frosted window. “It really is”, she cried out loud, “there is a goose out there”. She reached to the bookcase and pulled out a pair of binoculars. Into their sights came the figure of a large Canada goose, very still, it’s wings folded tight to it’s sides, it’s feet frozen tight to the ice.



Then from the dark skies, she saw a line of swans. They moved in their own sigular formation, graceful, intrepid, and free. They crossed from the west of the broad creek, high above the house, moving steadily to the east.



As my friend watched, the leader swung to the right, then the white string of birds became a white circle, floating from the top of the sky, downward, until at last, as easily as feathers coming to earth, the circle landed on the ice. My friend was on her feet now, with one unbelieving hand against her mouth. As the swans surrounded the frozen goose, she feared what life he still had might be pecked out by those great swan bills.



Instead,--amazingly instead,--those bills began to work on the ice. The long necks were lifted and curved down, again and again,--it went on for a long time--until, at last, the goose was rimmed by a narrow margin of ice, instead of the whole creek.



The swans rose again, following the leader, and hovered in that circle, awaiting the results of their labors. The goose’s head lifted. It’s body pulled, Then the goose was free and standing on the ice. He was moving his big webbed feet slowly--and the swans stood in the air watching. Then, as if he had cried, “I can’t fly”, four of the swans came down around him. Their powerful beaks scraped the goose from top to bottom, scuttled under it’s wings, and rode up it’s body, chipping off and melting the ice held in the feathers.



Slowly, as if testing, the goose spread it’s wings as far as they would go, brought them together, accordian-like, and spread them again. When at last the wings reached their fullest, the four swans arose and joined the hovering group. They resumed their eastward journey, in perfect formation, to their secret destination.



Behind them, rising with incredible speed and joy, the goose moved into the sky. He followed them, flapping double time, until he caught up, and joined the last end of the line, like a small child at the end of a crack-the-whip of older boys.



My friend watched them until they disappeared over the tips of the farthest trees. Then, only then, in the dusk, which was suddenly deep, did she realize that tears were running down her cheeks, and had been for how long she didn’t know.



This is a true story! It happened! I do not try to interpret it. I just think of it in the bad moments when nothing seems right, and from it comes only one hopeful question: “If so for birds, why not for man”?



--Charlotte Edwards-- I have an ice cream cone bet on the Seahawks so will be rooting for them today.
Lelie hope you have a wonderful time in Az.
XXXOOO
P.S. Val, I think Shoeless Joe from Hanible Mo....Go go go was from Oklahome. I watched a good Cary Grant movie last night North by Northwest...Alfred Hitchcock movie....How did the birthday dinner go Willemina?????

Sunday, February 05, 2006 10:37:01 AM  
KarenJW said...

Hello Richard and all the Blogettes out there!

First let me say happy Super Bowl Sunday to everyone!

I haven't been on the blog in awhile, as things have been hectic for me the last few weeks. But I catch up when I can.
For some reason, I've been giving thought to what I have learned about myself during this odyssey; then this morning I read the 'stars' posting for Richard that 'skywatcher-'ella' shared with us.
That's when I realized that that is what the feelings I'm having are all about. The fact that I joined in on Richard's adventure just to shake up my life and have some fun, and it has lead me to a study of self that I couldn't have realized would happen.

Richard has already shined a beacon on me, and I'm sure others, that helps me see that there is so much more to me than I've ever thought. Just giving us this opportunity to see ourselves as vital, beautiful, and precious women; helping us feel that we should not bury or cover up the people we are. That we have laughter and sincerity, intelligence, and kindness of spirit, and a treasure of other things to give to this world and to a man, if we can find one who is as Richard appears to be, and can appreciate us, and share love, and walk beside us through this life.

I have been a bit of a pain to Richard I think,as I have been e-mailing him every now and then, and my new found exuberance has probably had him perturbed. I do apologize, and I am not afraid to share this with you ladies, because that's what's happening to me. I sometimes feel as if I'm about to burst with happiness because I am finally letting myself be free to be me. There are thoughts and ideas pouring out of me that had been held in or ignored so long. Suddenly, my thoughts are clear and I can write again, which is one reason I've enjoyed this blogging.
There is a quiet expectation of the possibility of love being in my life again and sharing my life with someone again.
In a way, I've been using Richard to practice being able to talk to and interact with a man again, and liking Richard and his demeanor, really helped me blossom into a much more open and expressive woman, than I ever thought was inside of me. In reality, it's just a reawakening of the woman I was when I was young, before I packed away the woman I was, to take on the responsibilities and challenges of life.
Now as I enter the second half century of my life,(and I do plan on being here another fifty years),I have found the key that opens that box of long ago dreams and hopes I had put away. This adventure with Richard was the catapult I needed to re-energize myself and focus on me, and try to gain the life I dreamed of long ago. I've raised two fine kids and being home alone is a sweetness I now savor. Well, as alone as you can be with a 95 pound rottweiler that follows me everywhere.
I really, really thank Richard and all you folks of the blog, also, as reading the life stories of you women has been enlightening, and inspirational to me. If I could line you up, and hug you all, I would!

God Bless,
Karen

Sunday, February 05, 2006 10:52:08 AM  
KarenJW said...

Merry Mary,
That is exactly what I just tried to explain; that beautiful story brought me to tears also. Being able to feel this deeply again about life is sheer joy for me. Mary, thanks for sharing such a lovely story.

Karen

Sunday, February 05, 2006 10:59:17 AM  
dreamweaver18 said...

Howdy 'RICHness';) Joe, Posse and blogettes!
Countdown to SUPERBOWL....Rolling Stones at half time.....WOW!!!!
Keep ya eyes on the one I refer to as the Jaguar #43 Troy P. of the Steelers, he is as smooth as molasses, I am still hoping the Seahawks win tonight;)

RICHness: good luck for Tuesday 7th you're in my thoughts and prayers, then the 23rd(keep seeing yourself totally healed and free of that 'nasty business') Creative visualization works, remember the ball is in YOUR COURT! A suggestion:
LEND YOUR EARS TO POSITIVE COMMENTS ONLY...I learnt this from my Parents and all I can say is WOW, it WORKS!

MERRYMARY: thank you so much for sharing that beautiful true story, let the truth be told, it made me cry! Nature at it's best!

Enjoy the SUPERBOWL tonight and pick a team.....
Val = SEAHAWKS

Hugs
Senior Bachelorette:)
p.s. 'RICHness' please share your insight here on the blog, you are very deep, a wellspring of wisdom and knowledge!

Sunday, February 05, 2006 11:11:35 AM  
JoeInMB said...

Hello All,

Getting ready for the Super Bowl-- to be OVER! Nancy, as you may recall, is a native Seattle-ite. It's been insufferable. Turns out we have to Tivo it as Taylor's basketball game is at 4 and kickoff is at 3:30-- thank goodness for Tivo. I only pray that Seattle wins- or gives it a good go. I can't contemplate life with Nancy if it goes the other way!

Glad to see several of you are enjoying Arizona. I grew up in Tucson from the age of 12 on and the desert really grows on you. It was a hard adjustment from the green east coast to the desert but in the late 60's it was so serene and pristine. Many happy memories of hiking and camping while there. Be sure to try get out in a dark spot in the desert at night and see the stars. They stretch from horizon to horizon. Amazing.

Willy, watch it, I may tap you on the shoulder to watch the kids! Willy, I just saw something in the today's Travel Section about the whale watching trips leaving from Ventura and heading towards the Channel Island. I'm thinking of taking the family up there in March as the kids have Friday, March 17 off from school. My only concern is would we be too late for the northern migration of the gray whales- with their babies. They say it peaks in March. Do you know when?

Thanks!

-joe

Sunday, February 05, 2006 12:47:01 PM  
KarenJW said...

Hello Joe,

Tell Nancy she might as well get ready for it now; the bad news is, it's gonna be PITTSBURGH!
LOL, :):):)


Karen

Sunday, February 05, 2006 12:59:45 PM  
M.M.Corbett said...

Merry Mary, I like that statement about us being spiritual beings having human experiences. Unfortunately, the human things seem more real to us because they are the things that we can see. It's so strange that most of our joys, sorrows, and circumstances that we think we are in charge of are caused by our spiritual strengths and weekness. It's only when our humanity lets us down that we realize there has got to be a better way. I was told once that spiritual mind people only used our way of thinking as something to lean on when we felt like loosers. That bothered me for a long time until I realized that I'm only a looser when I don't lean on the strongest part of me.

I really enjoy all the messages from all of you. It's proof that humanity was intended to be a gift to be shared though love. Love M.M. Corbett

Sunday, February 05, 2006 1:48:01 PM  
willemina said...

Merry Mary
What a beautiful story! Isn't mother nature amazing? "If so for birds, why not for man?" Indeed why not?

My daughter's birthday dinner was a big hit...this was her favorite meal when she was younger and we were living in Germany. We have been to some German restaurants and tried their schnitzel and my children always tell me that mine is much better. It's not something I make often as it's certainly not the healthiest way to cook but it's just great comfort food and the aromas in the house were wonderful. I topped it off with yellow cake topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries and some of my fresh ground coffee. Yum...

Hello Karen
I have been wondering about you...I appreciate everything you said and realize that I too feel the exact same way that you do! I am actually very comfortable with my life right now...don't know if I will ever marry again...but it sure would be nice to have someone special to share in the good times and in the bad. Someone who cares about you and someone for you to care about. It may happen...and that would be nice, but if it doesn't...I'm okay with that also.
Thank you for sharing your deepest feelings with all of us...I think many of us feel the same...you just said it so eloquently.

Hello Leslie and Suzanne
The Grand Canyon! Wow! Have a wonderful time...I'll be checking your blogs for pictures when you return. I have only flown over the Grand Canyon and that in itself was amazing but to actually be there!

I'm ready for the Super Bowl party with my mom...I made 7 layer dip to share with Tostito scoopers. I recently lost 10 lbs and it looks like I'll probably put it all back on after this weekend. I hope not...everything in moderation.

Hi Joe
I looked up some information about gray whales for you...now this is for the Big Sur region...but I'm sure it applies to all areas along the coast from Baja to Alaska. I'm sure the kids will love this experience and so will you and Nancy!

WHEN YOU CAN SEE THE GRAY WHALES
Gray whales can be seen from the highway turnouts in Big Sur from December through April. December to early February the California Gray Whales are migrating south. Beginning in February you begin seeing whales migrating back to Alaska with their newborn babies by their sides. There is sometimes what appears to be an overlap in migration patterns with some whales still heading south while others are moving north. On their northern migration they swim close to shore, with their babies on the shore side. It has been said this is to protect them from attacks from Great White Sharks. This is often when the best viewing can take place because they are moving more slowly because of their young calves and also they are swimming against the current.

Another spectacular site is watching them as they migrate south. Occasionally the water is filled with spouts going off one after another, looking like a long line of steam locomotives spouting out in the ocean.

The entire population of Gray Whales migrates past the Big Sur coastline twice a year. Once when going south to the lagoons of Mexico (late fall-early winter) and once again when returning to Alaska (late winter-early spring). Bring your binoculars and enjoy this spectacular site from the many roadside turnouts, restaurants, and cafe's.
Whale Watching at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
There is a wonderful little trail that takes you out to a point that is great for whale watching. In addition you get the best view of McWay Falls from this trail.

DESCRIPTION:
Gray whales are medium sized whales, reaching up to 45 feet in length. Males grow to 45 feet - longer than a city bus - and females are slightly larger. The average weight of a gray whale is 16 tons (32,000 pounds) and some have reached weights of 30 to 40 tons.

They are gray with white patches, which mostly consist of areas where barnacles and lice have attached themselves to the whales. They have no dorsal or back fin. Instead, they have a low hump and a series of six to twelve knuckles or bumps.

The gray whale is a baleen whale and has approximately 300 plates of cream-colored baleen hanging from its upper jaw. Two to five throat creases which allow for limited expansion of their throats during feeding. Sparse hairs are found on the rostrum, especially in young whales.

Gray whales surface every three to five minutes to breath and can remain submerged for up to 15 minutes.

RANGE/HABITAT:
Today, 23,000 gray whales are found only in the Pacific. The main population summers north of Alaska in the Bering and Chukchi Seas and winters in the waters of Baja California. Another population in the Pacific, found in the waters of Korea and Japan, is close to extinction with less than 50 individuals. A population of gray whales once lived in the North Atlantic Ocean and became extinct in the 17th century, due to hunting. Gray whales generally stay around the continental shelf and are truly a coastal species.

NOTES:
Gray whales have one of the longest migrations of any mammal. During summer, they live in the Arctic in areas rich in their food, bottom-dwelling organisms. As fall approaches, there is less sunlight, less food, and the water turns cold. This is when the whales travel to Baja California, where they enter lagoons to give birth and mate. Gray whales can be seen passing by California in December and January during their southern migration, and again in March and April on their northern journey.

Gray whales feed differently from other whales. They stir up shallow coastal areas, sucking in the bottom dwelling animals, mostly amphipods (which are related to shrimp). Muddy plumes of water are often seen in places where gray whales are feeding.

Female gray whales usually give birth every two to three years, and gestation lasts twelve to thirteen months. Newborn calves are 12 to 15 feet in length and weigh about 1,500 pounds. Calves are weaned at about eight months, after they have journeyed with their mothers back to the northern feeding grounds.

Gray whales have returned from the brink of extinction. In the late 1800's, the gray whale breeding grounds were discovered, and whalers decimated the population. The drop in population made it no longer profitable to hunt gray whales; they were left alone and their numbers recovered. However, the early 1900's brought the invention of factory ships, which processed whales aboard the vessels. This new technology allowed intensive hunting on the grays once again, and their population again dangerously dropped to probably fewer than 2,000 individuals. Protection came finally in 1946. Since that time, the population has grown to over 21,000--probably what it was before modern day whaling. As a result of this population recovery, gray whales were removed from the endangered species list in 1994.

Since gray whales migrate relatively close to shore, whale watching for them has become very popular. Many opportunities are available for viewing whales from coastal cliffs and headlands or whale watching boats. In recent years, "friendly whales" have been encountered in San Ignacio Lagoon in Baja California in Mexico. Here, gray whales will sometimes swim near small skiffs and allow themselves to be touched. Concern has grown about the impact of boat traffic around whales, and the number of boats allowed in the breeding lagoons is restricted. Along the migration route, boats' proximity to whales is also limited.

PS...I would love to tag along on your trip and watch the kiddies...just let me know when.

Richard
I apologize for taking up so much room here. I find whales fascinating and hope others find it interesting information also.

Take care everyone and enjoy this very beautiful Sunday.

Sunday, February 05, 2006 1:55:21 PM  
Richard Roe- Senior Bachelor said...

For the last two weeks there have been whales swimming a few hundred feet from the shore here in Manhattan Beach as they head south. Truly a magnificent sight to see. RR

Sunday, February 05, 2006 6:55:32 PM  
CallmeLin said...

Hi from Arizona, Wow what a wonderful evening we had and the dinner was great. Dale did a super job even though the power was out. It was wonderful to see my Manhattan Beach Friends again and we finally got to meet Cheryl from Montreal. Thank you Richard once again for bringing us all together the friendships will last a lifetime.

The Gem show was unbelievable, it was so big that we only saw a small portion of it in two days. I tried to be good and let me tell you that it was verrrry hard. The garnet beads and seed pearls are beautiful and I can't wait to string them into something beautiful. Lapis, jade, and crystals OH MY.......well you get the picture.

I think we decided that we should make the Arizona trip an annual event.

Mary Rose, hope you made it home ok with the Bike, let us know ok.

Richard, glad to see that your mountain get-away was good, take care...........Lin

Sunday, February 05, 2006 8:07:17 PM  
Linda P. said...

Richard,
Good Luck to you on Tuesday as you have your cataract surgery done. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Linda P.

Sunday, February 05, 2006 8:22:35 PM  
Neva said...

Humpbacks play (and give birth to their calves) on the west side of Maui each year between December and March before they return to Alaska.

Many of my days are spent reading, writing and drawing/painting at the beach as well as whale watching. They are incredible and stop traffic from time to time.

Boating between the islands is curtailed during that time since the whales can damage the boats and vise versa.

Photographers and tourist have a photo op field day every day trying to catch breach and tail.

This past month two great white sharks were also spotted and photographed.

Today as I sat on the Kaanapali beach for about 3 hours I saw at least 20 tails not to far from the shore. The tradewinds were strong and the whales were extremely playful.

For some light reading and a few good laughs, may I suggest
You're Only Old Once.

According to the author Dr.Seuss (in answering the question) Is this a children's book, the answer is "Well...not immediately. You buy a copy for your child now and you give it to him on his 70th birthday." Enough said. Take care.

Sunday, February 05, 2006 9:07:28 PM  
Skywatcher-'ella' said...

RR's in the 'STARS'
February 6, 2006

Putting Life's Pieces Together...

You may be even more tuned in than usual to your personal aspirations today and feel confident in your ability to manifest your goals. Perhaps you'd like to make improvements in your health and fitness regime and are considering implementing a new exercise program or following a more nutritious diet. You may also want to create more fulfilling work, try a new hobby, or improve the quality of your personal relationships. If so, your curiosity about how to make necessary changes could compel you to seek answers from more experienced individuals in the hopes that they might help you reach your goals.

Today you might consider seeking out the guidance of professionals or trusted confidants. If you do, try getting more than one opinion so you can get the feedback that best aligns with your unique vision and life path.

When we are trying to piece together the puzzle of our future, we can get help and guidance from other people. Everyone we interact with has something to contribute to our journey. As we engage with others and listen to their advice, we can formulate our image of the right path, solution, or action for ourselves. Each person we question can add a small piece to the puzzle of our future.

Seek recommendations and guidance from others regarding your aspirations today, absorb the wisdom that benefits you, and watch a new piece of your life's puzzle fall into place.

XXX

Monday, February 06, 2006 6:01:07 AM  
Vicki In Brazil said...

Richard,

Good luck with the eye surgery tomorrow. I guess now us older women will just have to hope for more dusk, dawn, candlelight, moonlight and blackouts when in the pleasure of your company!!! I don't know about everyone else but I sort of prefer a man with a little impaired vision!! It only seems fair as I search for my glasses!! Nonetheless, I still hope all goes well for you tomorrow......

xoxo
Vicki

Monday, February 06, 2006 6:40:57 AM  
Richard Roe- Senior Bachelor said...

To the Arizona get-together women. It does my soul wonders to know that there have been so many friendships formed since we started out on this Journey less than one year ago. One of the main reasons for Senior Bachelor was, and remains, to create situations and events whereby we can meet like minded contemporaries to do fun things.

I am writing this week's Newsletter to go out tomorrow with the tentative title of "To Catch A Thief." Bye for now (and thanks for the well wishing re my eye surgery tomorrow). RR

Monday, February 06, 2006 7:50:30 AM  
REDTBIRD said...

HI GAL, Click on my name and it will take you to the pictures on my blog.
Have a good day.

Monday, February 06, 2006 8:08:37 AM  
REDTBIRD said...

Good luck on your eye surgery. There's nothing to it and you'll beable to all of us better :)

Monday, February 06, 2006 8:19:28 AM  
dreamweaver18 said...

Dear RICHness!
'To Catch A Thief'....purrfecto....cute one 'squirrel';) I look forward to the Newsletter! After tomorows surgery your eyesight will be 20/20.
Everyone I know who has gone through this procedure says the clarity with which they see is enhanced 100%! 'Seeing' is believing... yada yada yada...ok I tried ;)
Thinking of you
Hugs
Senior Bachelorette:)
Valerie

Monday, February 06, 2006 1:05:19 PM  
willemina said...

Richard
After tomorrow your eyes will be good as new! Lucky you! I wear glasses for reading as I'm farsighted and it's awful because I keep setting my glasses down and forget where they are. I do have some chains to wear them around my neck...I really should get in the habit of wearing them that way all the time. Seriously though, good luck with the eye surgery tomorrow.


Re: the whales...I used to love watching them from the cliffs in Palos Verdes.

Lin
It sounds like you all had a wonderful time together in Arizona. 2 days at the gem show and you still didn't see it all? Sounds like Disneyland. And Dale managed to pull off a delicious dinner party even though there was a power failure...what a guy!

Neva
Weren't you in Manhattan Beach? I think we met briefly...purple is your color, right? Thank you for sharing a typical day in paradise...now that's living!

I won $25 in the football pool yesterday. My numbers were 3 and 0 in the 1st quarter...yeah! I loved some of the commercials! My absolute favorite was the Fed Ex caveman and the dinosaurs...the Rolling Stones were just okay for me...nothing to rave about. Guess I expected more from them.

Sweet Dreams to all and a big hug!

Monday, February 06, 2006 9:59:11 PM  
KarenJW said...

Hello Richard,

Good luck today on your surgery; I know it will be great to se clearly again.


Hello Willemina,
It's always good to hear from you, you're such a sweetheart! Thanks for thinking of me. I must agree that the Rolling Stones did'nt do anything for me either, but I want Nancy to know I was already starting to stir the big pot of crow I thought I was gonna have to eat, by halftime! I thought it turned out to be a great game, though!
Take care Willemina,:):):)

Karen

Monday, February 06, 2006 11:13:05 PM  
Skywatcher-'ella' said...

RR's in the 'STARS'
February 7, 2006

Richly Intimate...

You may yearn to connect with others on an emotional level today and feel inclined to express yourself from your heart rather than your head. Perhaps you find yourself drawn today to those you are close to. Consider setting aside superficial pleasantries in favor of having genuine, meaningful discussions with them.

Speaking from the heart often allows us to express how we truly feel. The heart directly channels what is in our souls. If you interact with more casual acquaintances today, you might also want to speak from a higher level of compassion or sincerity than you normally would. Your feelings, concerns, and wishes can be the substance of any discussions you have today.
Intimacy happens when you allow others to experience you as you truly are.

Engaging with individuals we are closely connected to can allow us to experience the richness of true intimacy. We tend to feel secure and comfortable around the people we're close to. This makes it easier to express our thoughts and feelings from the heart. Our loved ones, in turn, pick up on our honesty and respond in kind. Authentic expression is key to true intimacy.

Be open, honest, and expressive in your discussions with friends and loved ones today, and you will feel the 'rich'ness and beauty that comes from having authentic relationships.

XXX

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 4:59:09 AM  
Merry Mary said...

A Friend Is
One of the Best Things in Life


Though we don't see each other very much
nor do we write to each other very much
nor do we phone each other very much
I always know that, at any time
I could call, write or see you
and everything would be exactly the same
You would understand everything I am saying
and everything that I am thinking

Our friendship does not depend
on being together
It is deeper than that
Our closeness is something inside of us
that is always there
ready to be shared with each other
whenever the need arises

It is such a comfortable and warm feeling
to know that
we have such a lifetime
friendship

-Poem by Susan Polis Schutz


I will always treasure our friendship.
Have a great Tue. Love, Mary

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 6:18:29 AM  
chicagotricia said...

Richard,

Good luck with your surgery! I might have to add a vail to my Crazy Hat now!!

Tricia

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 10:01:01 AM  
M.M.Corbett said...

Hey Ladies, I haven't had a chance to look at the services for Ms. Correta King today, but I've been reflecting on what makes great people great. I think that there are a lot of great people out there who never get recognized, but after all that's not the objective of they're greatness. My belief is that what makes them great is there courage to reach outside of they're own selfishness and change the lives of other people for the better. The leadership that they exibit is a leadeship that is not a title that comes from controling people, but an attitude of persuation, and influence that is based on the real desire to see good come of other people's jouney through life. I don't think these people are spared trials and tribulations but they have learned to turn them into learning experiences that reflect a spirit of love that draws others to trust in that higher power that has the master plan for all our lives.

Well, that's all I have to say today, but I am looking for a real funny joke to tell so that I don't get the label of being too intense. I love you all and wont to always share the best of what I think. M.M.Corbett

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 12:07:39 PM  
dreamweaver18 said...

Hello RICHness, Joe, Posse and Peeps on the blog!
RICHness,thank you for the heartwarming and exciting Newsletter, as usual!
G-D Speed Ms. Coretta Scott King on your Journey Home! Watching the
Funeral Service today and in awe listening to the wonderful words from Maya Angelou, loved it when She told the tale of how the two of them Maya and Coretta would refer to one another as 'Girl'. Maya said it was a 'black thing' well have I got news for you dear Sister Maya, I am fair skinned, blonde blue/green eyes and I love using the word 'girl'. I guess born in South Africa there is more African Soul in my blood than I could care to think ;) I just had to smile when I heard that...love it!!!
Pres. Clinton and Hilary, powerful words too...and OF COURSE OPRAH, goes without saying! Well I gots t' get back to watching the ongoing Service. I can hear Stevie Wonder.....ciao for now :)
To quote my Brother Martin Luther King " I Have A Dream"
In Love and Light
Hugs
Senior Bachelorette:)
Valerie
p.s. hoping you are feeling ok after today's eye surgery Richness!

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 12:51:11 PM  
dreamweaver18 said...

pssst...me again ;)

SOFT_RAIN: hoping all is well with You and Yours...haven't seen you blogg'n for a while
Luv Val

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 12:56:10 PM  
dreamweaver18 said...

oooops! bloggin'

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 12:57:57 PM  
DesertFlowers said...

This post has been removed by the author.

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 2:07:39 PM  
DesertFlowers said...

Hi Richard - I'm hoping that all has gone well with your eye surgery and that your recovery is a comfortable one. Of course, you are still the subject of we ladies conversations whenever we meet up.

The Tucson trip was so fabulous. I picked up Leslie at the airport on Saturday, and then drove down to meet with Callmelin from Santa Cruz California and her girlfriend Laura from Scottsdale. Mary Rose drove up from a little town called Sahaurita which is east of Tucson "On Her Motorcyle" - decked out in a red white and blue leather patriotic jacket with the American Flag on it.
Cheryl aka Canadadian BLoggette aka Beading Diva was in Tucson on business buying gems for her jewelry business. Frannie "La Dolce Vida" called about the time Mary Rose drove up and we all ran to the phone to talk to her and giggle like silly school girls. We took gobs and gobs of pictures which we all promised we share equally on all our sites. So watch for the upcoming show.

Dale lives smack in the middle of the Desert at the foothills of the Cantalina Mountains.

Leslie and I got a little lost, but saw a family of Havalina's or maybe they were Peckories, Ma, Pa and babie crossing right in front of us across the dirt road. I was screaming at Leslie to get her camera and she was just having too much fun watching the little critters scittle along. We finally found Dales place and then saw a stately Roadrunner jutting along the road. The Desert is full of wild life. Out last critter was a little fox that ran across the road way when we left.

Cheryl and Dale were busy preparing our dinner (with no electricity - I might add) Dale's daughter started gathering candles and lit candles throughout the house and while we ate the most delicious meal, which was mouth watering to say the least, we sat at dinner with the soft glow of candlelight and some very good classical tunes chatting like we were long lost family.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever thought that these incredibly talented women would mean to me as much as they do.

Leslie, Cheryl and myself have been long time friends since the conception of this wonderful adventure. I met Leslie and Callmelin in Manhattan beach and met CanadianBloggette aka beadingdiva for the first time this week.

We spoke of fond memories of meeting Richard in Manhattan. CallmeLin and Leslie shared their feelings of the senserity of "Richard the man", and why they think he would be such a great catch for any woman and how Richard was so accommodating to such a huge crowd and I agreed that he does have a very charming sweet side and mannerism.

We spoke about finance, real estate matters, astrology, music, the busines world, love and romance, travel. It was a beautiful evening sitting outside and chatting about our lives gazing at the stars that seemed so close you could reach out and pluck them from the sky.

Mary Rose when she started to leave found out her motorclycle wouldn't start and we tried everything but finally the little engine popped into action and off she went.

These women have become my best friends. They are sweet and kind beyond compare and we have Richard to thank for this new friendship.

I presented Cherly and Dale a beautful oil painting from my own works for giving apart of themselves to our adventures in life and one to Leslie because she truly is like an Angel to me. Her attitude about life is positive and never faulters.

Richard take good care of yourself, we are all thinking of you and very much want you to get better and to do so quickly.

Hugs Suzanne aka Desertfox

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 2:18:50 PM  
DesertFlowers said...

Oh my goodness, I forgot one aspect of the fun time Leslie and I had. I drove Leslie from Queen Creek, up through Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon (Slide Rock), Flagstaff all the way to the Grand Canyon. She was absolutely astonished at the beauty of Arizona and the weather has been fantastic. When she saw the first glimps of the canyon her Canadian accent was all whoo'sss and ahhhhh's.

Hugs SUzanne

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 2:22:37 PM  
soft_rain said...

Richard you are in my thoughts.....

All will be well....Giving you a great big hug!!!

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 2:40:40 PM  
soft_rain said...

Val my Gal Pal....Luv you back big time !

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 2:43:36 PM  
Richard Roe- Senior Bachelor said...

Hi, Just back from cataract surgery. My left eye is still blurry but hope to be OK by tomorrow.

I will say again how great it is to read about "you gals" getting together to do fun things. Really, this makes everything seem worthwhile!! RR

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 3:41:37 PM  
young at heart said...

Way to go Richard!

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 4:04:50 PM  
willemina said...

Hi Richard
So good to hear from you so soon after your surgery. Just take it easy now and you'll be just fine.

I have to agree with you that it's great reading about the women and Dale getting together in Arizona.

Suzanne
I loved reading your descriptive post on all the happenings. I'll be looking forward to seeing some pics. When Lin returns, we'll have to put our heads together and get the ball rolling on our travelling California get-together. If anyone is interested...check my blog or Callmelin's in Santa Cruz...we'll give an update when we have a date/dates chosen.

Mary Corbett
I'm going to see if I can find some funnies in my e-mail today for you.

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 4:09:55 PM  
willemina said...

I know this is an old one but I like it so here it is again...


Bubba And His Boss

Bubba was bragging to his boss one day, "You know, I know everyone there is to know. Just name someone, anyone, and I know them. "

Tired of his boasting, his boss called his bluff, "OK, Bubba how about Tom Cruise? " "Sure, yes, Tom and I are old friends, and I can prove it. " So Bubba and his boss fly out to Hollywood and knock on Tom Cruise's door, and sure enough, Tom Cruise, shouts, "Bubba! Great to see you! You and your friend come right in and join me for lunch! "

Although impressed, Bubba's boss is still skeptical. After they leave Cruise's house, he tells Bubba that he thinks Bubba's knowing Cruise was just lucky.

"No, no, just name anyone else, " Bubba says.

"President Bush, " his boss quickly retorts.

"Yep, " Bubba says, "I know him, let's fly out to Washington. " And off they go. At the White House, Bush spots Bubba on the tour and motions him and his boss over, saying, "Bubba, what a surprise, I was just on my way to a meeting, but you and your friend come on in and let's have a cup of coffee first and catch up. "

Well, the boss is very shaken by now, but still not totally convinced.

After they leave the White House , grounds, he expresses his doubts to Bubba, who again implores him to name anyone else.

"The Pope, " his boss replies.
"Sure! " says Bubba. "I've known the Pope a long time. " So off they fly to Rome.

Bubba and his boss are assembled with the masses in Vatican Square when Bubba says, "This will never work. I can't catch the Pope's eye among all these people. Tell you what, I know all the guards so let me just go upstairs and I'll come out on the balcony with the Pope. " And he disappears into the crowd headed toward St. Peter's.

Sure enough, half an hour later Bubba emerges with the Pope on the balcony. But by the time Bubba returns, he finds that his boss has had a heart attack and is surrounded by paramedics. Working his way to his boss's side, Bubba asks him, "What happened? "

His boss looks up and says, "I was doing fine until you and the Pope came out on the balcony and the Japanese tourist next to me asked, "Who's that on the balcony with Bubba?

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 4:14:23 PM  
willemina said...

Just one more

The Husband Store!

>

>A store that sells husbands has just opened in New York City, where a woman may go to choose a husband. Among the instructions at the entrance is a description of how the store operates. You may visit the store ONLY ONCE !

>

>There are six floors and the attributes of the men increase as the shopper ascends the flights. There is, however, a catch . . .. you may choose any man from a particular floor, or you may choose to go up a floor, but you cannot go back down except to exit the building! So, a woman goes to the Husband Store to find a husband . .

>On the first floor the sign on the door reads: Floor 1 - These men have jobs and love the Lord.

>The second floor sign reads: Floor 2 - These men have jobs, love the Lord, and love kids.

>The third floor sign reads: Floor 3 - These men have jobs, love the
Lord, love kids, and are extremely good looking.

>"Wow," she thinks, but feels compelled to keep going.

>She goes to the fourth floor and sign reads: Floor 4 - These men have jobs, love the Lord, love kids, are drop- dead good looking and help with the housework.

>"Oh, mercy me!" she exclaims, "I can hardly stand it!"

>Still, she goes to the fifth floor and sign reads: Floor 5 - These men have jobs, love the Lord, love kids, are drop- dead gorgeous, help with the housework, and have a strong romantic streak.

>She is so tempted to stay, but she goes to the sixth floor and the sign reads:

>Floor 6 - You are visitor 4,363,012 to this floor. There are no men on this floor. This floor exists solely as proof that women are impossible to please.

>Thank you for shopping at the Husband Store. Watch your step as you exit the building, and have a nice day!

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 4:19:49 PM  
leslie said...

Hi everyone! I'm baaack! Well, Suzanne has said it all already! I had an absolutely fantastic time in Arizona - what an experience the desert is! When Suze told me to bring a warm jacket, I didn't really believe I'd need it, but I sure am glad I took one! There was ICE in the Grand Canyon! It is TRUE that it gets cold at night in the desert. The scenery was spectacular, I learned so much about the flora and fauna and it was a real treat to see those wild javelinas strolling along the dirt road down in Oro Valley. Sedona was beautiful with the red mountains surrounding the town. Next trip - and there WILL be a next one - I want to see more of the wildness of the state. Suze took photos of me with a saguaro cactus as well as with other types of cacti. Also LOTS at the Grand Canyon, which we will post over on our sites later. Dinner at Dale's was delish - as I mentioned in an earlier post - and it was so good to see the gals again. We got lots of exercise trekking around the Canyon and had a wonderful lunch at the 100-year-old lodge up there.

Well, I'm now back to reality as I went directly from the airport to school for two meetings - yes, count 'em TWO! Yuck! Back in the classroom tomorrow morning so off I go for some dinner and sleep. See y'all later.

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 5:26:44 PM  
leslie said...

Hi Richard So glad your cataract surgery went well and that you're up to posting on the blog. All of us who reunited in AZ thank you for being the reason that we met each other. We all spoke kindly of you while enjoying the evening air over dinner on Saturday and we reminisced about MB.

Oh! Both Suzanne and I forgot to tell you about our experience at the Grand Canyon with the deer! We got some really good close-ups of three of them nibbling at the trees. Afterwards, we saw signs that said it was illegal to approach or feed the wildlife. Oh, Oh...

Oh...one more thing. Suzanne laughed when she served us oatmeal for breakfast on Sunday and I said "MMM...good porridge!" I guess you guys think the word "porridge" is funny - well, I guess it is. But that's Canajuns for 'ya. Off I go.

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 5:33:17 PM  
wanderlust said...

Val,
I am just rereading Maya Angelou's
ALL GODS CHILDREN NEED TRAVELLING SHOES, a first edition signed by her. Even her signature is interesting.
I was under the impression that adults calling each other GIRLS and BOYS is an American thing.?

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 6:10:50 PM  
Vicki In Brazil said...

Willemina,

"The Husband Story"...really funny!! On a serious note here's "The Apple Story."

WOMEN ARE LIKE APPLES ON TREES

The best ones are at the top of the tree!!

Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt.

Instead, they just get the rotten apples from the ground that aren't as good, but are easy.

So the apples at the top think that something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're AMAZING!!! They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who's brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree to get them...............................

Cherish the thought...........................

Vicki

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 6:35:35 PM  
CallmeLin said...

Hi from California, yes I'm home too after a wonderful trip to Arizona.

Yesterday Laura and I visited the Herd Museum and it was fantastic. A really wonderful showing of American Indian Artifacts so beautifully done.

Richard I don't know how to reach Umberto so maybe he will read this or you can let him know. The Mavericks Big Surf contest was here today. The waves were 30 and 40 feet and an Australian won the contest. He can view the video on line at abc7news.com. I'm sure he would love to see some of the photos of that great but scarry contest.

So glad that you are feeling well and the eye surgery went well.

Now Willy and I need to get busy with the March get-together along the Calif. Coast, I am already looking forward to it.

Tuesday, February 07, 2006 6:50:07 PM  
Merry Mary said...

Laughter=Best Medicine...Thanks Willimena and I love the Apple story vicki. I got this this morning.JACK (age 3) was watching his Mom breast-feeding his new baby sister. After a while he asked: "Mom why have you got two? Is one for hot and one for cold milk?"

MELANIE (age 5) asked her Granny how old she was. Granny replied she was so old she didn't remember any more. Melanie said, "If you don't remember you must look in the back of your panties. Mine say five to six."

STEVEN (age 3) hugged and kissed his Mom goodnight. "I love you so much, that when you die I'm going to bury you outside my bedroom window."

BRITTANY (age 4) had an earache and wanted a painkiller. She tried in vain to take the lid off the bottle. Seeing her frustration, her Mom explained it was a childproof cap and she'd have to open it for her. Eyes wide with wonder, the little girl asked: "How does it know it's me?

SUSAN (age 4) was drinking juice when she got the hiccups. "Please don't give me this juice again," she said, "It makes my teeth cough."

D I (age 4) stepped onto the bathroom scale and asked: "How much do I cost?"

MARC (age 4) was engrossed in a young couple that were hugging and kissing in a restaurant. Without taking his eyes off them, he asked his dad: "Why is he whispering in her mouth?"

CLINTON (age 5) was in his bedroom looking worried. When his Mom asked what was troubling him, he replied, "I don't know what'll happen with this bed when I get married. How will my wife fit in?"

JAMES (age 4) was listening to a Bible story. His dad read: "The man named Lot was warned to take his wife and flee out of the city but his wife looked back and was turned to salt." Concerned, James asked: "What happened to the flea?"

TAMMY (age 4) was with her mother when they met an elderly, rather wrinkled woman her Mom knew. Tammy looked at her for a while and then asked,"Why doesn't your skin fit your face?"

The Sermon I think this Mom will never forget.... this particular Sunday sermon..."Dear Lord," the minister began, with arms extended toward heaven and a rapturous look on his upturned face. "Without you, we are but dust."



He would have continued but at that moment my very obedient daughter (who was listening!) Leaned over to me and asked quite audibly in her shrill little girl voice, "Mom, what is butt dust?"

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 4:47:02 AM  
Skywatcher-'ella' said...

RR's in the 'STARS'
February 8, 2006

You could feel overwhelmed today with seemingly small duties and responsibilities. Maybe you have a lot of errands to run in order to keep life running smoothly, like shopping, cleaning, or paying your bills. If this is the case today, you might benefit from interrupting the time you spend running errands to give yourself time to relax. Consider slowing down, spending your downtime reading, savoring a favorite snack, doing a few relaxing yoga poses, or simply resting in a comfortable position with your eyes closed.

Making time for relaxation during a busy period allows you to maintain a healthy balance in your life. Today is a wonderful day to discover that you can get a lot done with the least amount of stress.

We can remain calm and willing to 'see' to our responsibilities if we balance our workload with time spent caring for ourselves. Indulging in a bit of personal time renews and revives our energy stores. Once our energy level has risen, we can then tackle our responsibilities with greater efficiency. We then can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment, as we are able to easily and efficiently work our way down our to-do list. Being productive also allows us to appreciate and enjoy the time we make for ourselves.

Balance your responsibilities with activities that soothe you today, and you will calmly and easily accomplish your tasks.

XXX

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 5:30:40 AM  
dreamweaver18 said...

Top 'oer the morning to you RICHness, Joe, Posse and GG's
Girls and Guys ;)

NANNYNANNYBOOBOOSISTERHOOD: love reading about your getting together in Arizona, what an amazing heart to heart gathering it must have been.

LINDAINTUCSON: you are very quiet 'girl' ;) hoping all is ok in your world!

DESERTFLOWERS/FOXY;) owwww

WANDERLUST: I will pick up a copy of Maya Angelou's book that you are rereading, will be a good read, of that I am sure. The Girl/Boy thing may very well have originated in the U.S. As long as I can remember my peers and I always 'played' with those words when growing up in South Africa.
Wishing you a sun shiny day!

VALentin'es Day is around the corner, all the shop windows looking pretty, love the hearts n' stuff!
Wishing everyone on the blog a happy VALentines Day, keep thinking
LOVE!
Hugs
Senior Bachelorette:)
VALentine ;)

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 5:34:55 AM  
dreamweaver18 said...

OOOOPS....VALentine's

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 5:38:31 AM  
chicagotricia said...

Good Morning.....wondering how the eyes are doing today? Are you styling in those lunar sun glasses? I hope you left eye is no longer blurry.

In my business I receive a minimum of 400 emails a day so I have such limited time to blog or email but it is still great to read here and realize how many people have come together because of the Senior Bachelor. When I have a chance I grab a cup of cup of coffee and read...it is like going to coffee with the girls. Real life, real people who care. Good effort Richard....

Take good care

Tricia

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 7:22:34 AM  
JoeInMB said...

Thanks, Arizona Ladies, for sharing your Tucson trip with us. Brings back such great memories for me having moved to Tucson in the late '60's and growing up there. Glad to see the javalina and road runners are still around! I remember the smell of the desert too- mostly from creosote bushes, I think.

And Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona and the big hole in the ground. Amzaing spots to see. Leslie, was this your first trip to Arizona?

For you avid cyclists, there is a group called the Greater Arizona Biking Association which provides support for bike rides from the Grand Canyon to Mexico. I did it in 1989 and will never forget it! Want to do it again with my kids.

-joe

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 7:46:08 AM  
DesertFlowers said...

Hi Joe and Ricard: Joe I didn't know you were from Tucson. It's truly beautiful there, surrounded by all the mountains. There is plenty of wild life as well and SNAKES! Lots of those critters. I haven't heard of the bike ride, but I'd sure like to do it someday, before I get too old.

Hugs Suzanne

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 9:55:16 AM  
dreamweaver18 said...

Hi RICHness, Joe, Posse and Co.

RICHness: hoping that you feel more comfortable today with your left eye and that you will resume
20/20 clarity asap!

JOE: the cycling journey from Grand Canyon to Mexico sounds like an ideal way to see the countryside, enjoy good weather and FUN FUN FUN, what a hoot! How long is the trip? Your kids will love it too of that I am sure!
I know of people who travel every year to another destination overseas with an organized cycling tour group, last year they toured through Tuscany etc. and said it was awesome, to say the least!
Wishing everyone a fun-filled day
Hugs
Senior Bachelorette:)
VALentine ;)
p.s. I love bike riding, haven't since my fall April 2004, but intend to start again this coming
Spring/Summer!

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 1:04:44 PM  
leslie said...

Hi Joe, Yes - it was my first trip to Arizona. I loved everything about it but I did miss the "green" of my own area. And, of course, thankfully, we didn't see any snakes! :(

I haven't had much time yet to be still and reflect on the trip, but by the weekend I should have my photos developed and will share my experience with my 2 daughters. D#1 is coming over with GS#1 (Noah) to visit, so I'll tell them all about my trip then.

Today in class, I read the storybook that I bought - about javalinas "Don't Call Me Pig" - and all the kids now want to act it out for the assembly we are scheduled to do on Feb. 17th. So now I'm working on that!

I'm behind in my marking, so must go and get that done right away. See you all later.

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 5:59:12 PM  
leslie said...

SIGH! Well, I'm back and I haven't even done any of my marking yet. My sister phoned with the bad news that her breast cancer is not going to be a lumpectomy as previously thought. It is now going to have to be a mastectomy. The good news is that it is contained and none of the muscle wall will have to be removed. She cannot have chemo, and radiation could cause a heart attack (she already has cardiomyopathy) so she has a lot of reading material to go over before the surgery. She sees the plastic surgeon on the 23rd (or sooner if she can get in) and will go for reconstruction if at all possible. Robin (sis) sounds extremely tired and stressed out but is trying very hard to maintain a positive attitude as the doctor has said it is not life threatening. But the complication is her heart. So...I'd appreciate warm wishes and prayers from all my friends here for our whole family. We haven't told our Dad yet because he's dealing with his own colon cancer and we're afraid this could just do him in. Thanks for letting me vent here, everyone.

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 6:35:13 PM  
CallmeLin said...

Leslie, my prayers are with you and your whole family. Hang in there Girl Friend, you will need to be the family strength.

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 8:25:35 PM  
willemina said...

Leslie
I pray that your sister Robin and your whole family will find the strength to get through this very rough time in her life. I understand that there are many circumstances to consider and I am asking God to help her to make the right decision for her particular case. I've said it before and I'll say it again...Miracles Happen to those who Believe. I Believe and I will be praying with all my heart for Robin... and also for your dear father.

God Bless...Love and Hugs from Willy

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 8:27:00 PM  
willemina said...

Hi Vickie
Thanks for posting "The Apple Story". I remember reading that one quite some time ago...it's a keeper.

Hi Tricia
I can't imagine reading 400+ e-mails a day! When I came home from my cruise, I had about that many and it took me 2 weeks to go through them all...and that was after deleting most of them. I do understand that it's related to your work but it's still a daunting task :)

skywatcher ella
Richard is lucky to have his own personal astrologer on a daily basis. I enjoy reading what you have to say and apply some of your advice to my own personal life. Thank you :)

Karen
I'm glad I wasn't the only one who thought the Rolling Stones were a flop. I am not really into football...now my daughter-in-law....that's another story. She loves the Denver Broncos (she even has their logo tattooed on her back) I enjoy the commercials and the half-time show (sometimes) :)

merry mary
cute jokes...keep em coming.

Welcome home Leslie, Suzanne, Lin, Cheryl,and Mary R. Also welcome home to Ada who was in Costa Rica. Now let's plan a get-together in California...

Good night everyone

Wednesday, February 08, 2006 9:35:30 PM  
dreamweaver18 said...

Good Mornin' RICHness, Joe, Posse Guys and Dolls!

I am feeling 'chipper' this morning, up early tidying cupboards etc. I was scheduled to go away for a few days today, it has been postponed to the end of February.

LESLIE: thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this challenging time, stay positive in thought and attitude, it sure helps one jump over the stumbling blocks. Love to you!

UMBERTO: considering VALentines Day is around the corner, what is the scoop with Clementina and Ettore? I guess their potential Soulmate Relationship is on hold until further notice! An update would be appreciated ;)

VICKIE: thanks for the 'apple story', the arrow flies straight to the mark with that one, sooo true!

carpe diem
Hugs
Senior Bachelorette
VALentine ;)

Thursday, February 09, 2006 4:28:06 AM  
Skywatcher-'ella' said...

RR's in the 'STARS'
February 9, 2006

You may experience some anxiety when thinking about your obligations today, and this anxiety could manifest through your body. You may have muscle aches, headaches, anxiety, restlessness, or some other physical upset.

To help alleviate uncomfortable sensations, you might consider trying one of the following: Go for some restorative bodywork; soak in a hot bath sprinkled with calming essential oils; do some deep, slow stretches, focusing attention on the uncomfortable areas of your body; ask a friend or a loved one to give you a long hug; discuss what is on your mind with someone close to you.

You may also want to spend time figuring out what's really bothering you. Acknowledging your worries and emotions allows you to release them so that you won't store them in your body as physical ailments.

We can alleviate physical manifestations of anxiety by doing what bring us comfort. We store tension in our bodies unconsciously. When we become aware of when we are doing this, we can then take conscious action to release that tension. Every small action we take with an 'eye' toward relieving accumulated pressure gently wicks tension away from our bodies. We feel results and relief instantly, becoming more relaxed and comfortable with each action we take.

Be conscious of how your body is storing and experiencing tension today, and you will be able to take action to relieve negative sensations and bring yourself comfort.

XXX

PS- Thank you, Willie, KarenJW, Merry Mary, & Dreamweaver for your kind words... Love to you!

Thursday, February 09, 2006 5:04:55 AM  
Merry Mary said...

Leslie and girls that went to Az. I am so happy you got to see the sights there. I have good friends that moved from Tulsa and retired in Surprise,Az. and built a second home in the mountains in Flagstaff. They invited Bill and I for a weeek in the mid 90's and they had every monute planned to show us the entire state in that week. It was awsome.
Willy, this laugh cones to you this morning from my old junior high boy friend who lives in San Diego now.....An atheist was walking through the woods.
>> "What majestic trees"!
>> "What powerful rivers"!
>> "What beautiful animals"! He said to himself.
>>
>> As he was walking alongside the river, he heard a rustling in the
bushes
>>
>> behind him. He turned to look. He saw a 7-foot grizzly charge
towards
>> him. He ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked over his
shoulder
>> &
>> saw that the bear was closing in on him.
>>
>> He looked over his shoulder again, & the bear was even closer.
>>
>>
>>
>> He tripped & fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up
but
>> saw that the bear was right on top of him, reaching for him with his
left
>> paw & raising his right paw to strike him.
>>
>> At that instant the Atheist cried out, "Oh my God!"
>>
>> Time Stopped.
>>
>> The bear froze.
>>
>> The forest was silent.
>>
>> As a bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out of the sky.
>>
>> "You deny my existence for all these years, teach others I don't
exist
>> and even credit creation to cosmic accident." "Do you expect me to
help
>> you
>> out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer???"
>>
>> The atheist looked directly into the light, "It would be
hypocritical of
>> me to suddenly ask You to treat me as a Christian now, but perhaps
You
>> could make the BEAR a Christian?"
>>
>> "Very Well," said the voice.
>>
>> The light went out. The sounds of the forest resumed. And the bear
>> dropped his right paw, brought both paws together, bowed his head &
>> spoke:
>>
>>
>> "Lord bless this food, which I am about to receive from thy bounty
>> through Christ our Lord, Amen!"
>>Leslie, your sister and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Skywatcherer Ella I get my horoscope every morning too. If it's good I listen to it if not I ignore it but it's fun to read it and the one you do for Richard.
Val, when my sis was here she cleaned and rearranged all my cabinets...It was sweet of her but now I don't know where anything is.
I lost a bet because I took Sea Hawks so had to take this really good looking, single,bachelor out to lunch yesterday. Poor me.....It was fun....in fact Ronnie is who i HAVE MY HEAD ON HIS SHOULDER IN MY blog picture. That was taken at a Christmas party in 2005. He's one who has a girl in every port. I think he's unhookable. His wife passed away from cancer 6 years ago so now I think his mission is to take care of all the widdows.
It's almost day light so I think I'll go make coffee. Love to all, MM
>>
>>

Thursday, February 09, 2006 5:43:17 AM  
Richard Roe- Senior Bachelor said...

Leslie, So sorry to hear about your sister. These things resonate a lot more with me now!!! Good luck. Richard

Thursday, February 09, 2006 7:47:31 AM  
dreamweaver18 said...

His RICHness, Entourage, Gals n' Guys!

Bonjourno: NEWZ FLASH NEWZ FLASH
Don't forget to watch the 'Opening Ceremonies' in Turin Italy for The Olympic Games tomorow Friday February 10th! Enjoy...I know I will ;)
Viva Italia
Arrivederci
Senior Bacheloretta ;)
VALentina

Thursday, February 09, 2006 11:46:29 AM  
dreamweaver18 said...

SKYWATCHER 'ELLA':
sending rainbow hearts your way :)

Thursday, February 09, 2006 1:03:53 PM  
willemina said...

California Get-Together

Some of us are getting together in the Los Angeles area soon and I would like anyone interested to send me an e-mail or post a message on my blog so we can make some plans.

Ada will be flying in from Baltimore, MD either the weekend of Feb 23-25 or March 2-4. I spoke with Lin in Santa Cruz and she is planning to drive to Paso Robles to meet up with me and then I will drive down to LA. I was thinking...maybe we could book a couple or a few rooms at the Ayres in Manhattan Beach (depending how many are interested.

Either weekend works for me and also for Lin...we just need to know what works best for most so that Ada (or anyone else) can make their travel plans...so time is of the essence.

I hope to meet some of you in LA!

Thursday, February 09, 2006 6:54:25 PM  
Skywatcher-'ella' said...

RR's in the 'STARS'
February 10, 2006

Strong Together...

You may find yourself looking for a project partner or brainstorming buddy today as you awaken to the benefits of cooperation. Sharing your work and the resultant accolades could seem more appealing than usual. You may be more cognizant than ever before of the fact that all successful unions require that everyone contributes to success and receives equal benefit.

Opportunities for positive collaboration can present themselves in your home or workplace. You may also be driven to tackle a personal project with your friends by your side. While working with others, you may discover that the collective is always greater than the sum of its parts. The skills and knowledge you contribute to any collaboration today can become part of a beautiful team effort.

Just as various elements in the body work together to sustain life but would be of little use by themselves, humans working collectively can accomplish more than a person working alone. This collective power magnifies and pools the strengths of each individual's knowledge, skills, and manpower. Each participant has unique skills and talents to contribute to a collective, and they can draw from the combined strengths of the group to enhance their own.

The power of the many enhances the power of one. Give your full efforts to any collaboration today, and you'll increase your chances for success.

XXX

Friday, February 10, 2006 5:03:22 AM  
JoeInMB said...

Good Morning Ladies,

Just found out I am a "grand uncle" again! My niece and her husband just had a beautiful baby girl- named Reese! It's their second and their first is a pistol. Very active bunch- I wish them well. That now makes 8 grand nieces and nephews. Whew- I'll have to have my granddad experiences through them for a while as I am many years away from having my own grandkids. What fun, though, as I am close to most of my nieces and nephews and remember them well as babies. I changed a lot of diapers as a young man and was well prepared to have my own kids. In April we visit my nephew and his family in Colorado. He gets back from Iraq in a few days (a captain in the Army). Can hardly wait to see them and play in the snow with their 3 year old son.

Leslie, our prayers go out to you and your family. At times it just seems to all happen at once. May our prayers help give you strength to help and comfort your family.

The "Ride Across Arizona" was about 500 miles as I recall over about 5 or 6 days- in October. At the time I did it in 1989 it was a wonderful way to revisit one of my favorite states. I flew with my bike into Grand Canyon. We rode around the south rim and headed south through Flagstaff and went east of Phoenix, I think. I'll have to dig out my old T shirt that has the map printed on it! What was nice is they carried all your gear to the next stopping point so you only had to carry what you needed during the day's ride. Lots of mountains to climb (and coast down!), alpine meadows and finally the desert. I always said I "bike to eat." Well, I still eat but don't bike as much. You can guess the results!

Got Nancy with the Wheel of Fortune trick! I must be a glutton for punishment as she is faking being upset at me for tricking her. The cold shoulder is worth it, though! The kids couldn't believe their old man could be so devilish. I'm glad they appreciate a good joke! Thanks, Mary!

-joe

Friday, February 10, 2006 6:42:38 AM  
chicagotricia said...

Hi Willemina

400 emails....I operate a recruitment firm so I am keep very busy reading resumes and sorting through junk mail. The LA week looks like funny however it is coming up quickly, I will email you for details.

Take good care...Tricia

Friday, February 10, 2006 8:06:10 AM  
chicagotricia said...

I am going to have to learn more about how to blog. Of course I meant to say I am kept busy!

I better get back to work!

Bye for now...

Friday, February 10, 2006 8:15:13 AM  
DesertFlowers said...

Willy I got your email about the next get together. I can’t do anything for the rest of February (already spent my play money). But I would love to get together with a group in March, so keep me posted.

Leslie I’m so sorry to hear about your sisters health problems. You know that she is in our prayers and the power of prayer does work.

I hope you get the pictures posted soon. I wanted to make a cd for everyone that was there and put all the pictures together, so when you get a chance if you’l like to email me the photo’s I make the cd’s and send you one as soon as they are ready.

Callmelin Keep me informed on the March events, because that will be close enough to me and I can come and play. Don’t forget to ask Laura to email me the photos she took, that is if she doesn’t mind. It looks like this year is starting out to be a better one for you and I truly hope that all your dreams will be realized through out the year.

Joe Congra’s to you and Uncle again. Aren’t they wonderful? Nothing is the world is more precious than children’s laughter. When my two grandchildren are together they are without doubt always putting a big smile on grannies face.

Hugs to everyone Suzanne

Friday, February 10, 2006 11:57:14 AM  
willemina said...

I have received a few e-mails re the California get-together...

Michelle and Sylvia send their regrets as the timing is wrong for them...other committments...but...
I did receive notes from Tricia, Lois, Suzanne, and Doris (aka Neva)
and it looks like most of them can make the March dates so let's go with March 2 thru Mar 5th. If you can come for only one or two days...that's fine too. I'll probably spend 3 nights...Thur, Fri and Sat and return home on Sunday March 5th. I'll post again when I have more information...

Friday, February 10, 2006 3:23:56 PM  
Vicki In Brazil said...

First let me say that I hope everyone's loved ones are feeling better today and well on the road to recovery.

Richard, I hope the eyes are healing and that you're seeing everything more clearly these days.

Since Umberto and I have this whole "blonde joke thing" going on I thought I'd post this for him and also all the other "natural" blondes just like me!! ha ha

Blonde's year in review:

January: Took a scarf back to the store because it was too tight.

February: Fired from pharmacy job for failing to print labels...duh...bottles won't fit in typewriter!!

March: Got excited...finished jigsaw puzzle in 6 months...box said "2-4 years!"

April: Trapped on escalator for hours...power went out!!!

May: Tried to make Kool-Aid...8 cups of water won't fit into those little packets!!!

June: Tried to go water skiing....couldn't find a lake with a slope.

July: Lost breast stroke swimming competition....learned later, other swimmers cheated, they used their arms!!!

August: Got locked out of car in rain storm...car swamped, because top was down.

September: The capital of California is "C"...isn't it???

October: Hate M & M's...they are so hard to peel.

November: Baked turkey for 4 1/2 days...instructions said 1 hour per pound and I weigh 108!!!

December: Couldn't call 911..."duh"...There's no "eleven" button on the phone!!!

It's tough being blonde!!!!!!!

xoxo,
Vicki

Friday, February 10, 2006 3:45:33 PM  
leslie said...

Thanks to everyone for your kind wishes and prayers for my sister. It is truly appreciated. You all have become just about like family to me, too, since this whole venture began.

Have been very busy since returning from AZ but am now caught up at school. Took photos in today (had to finish up the roll) and will have any good ones scanned and posted tomorrow. I'm also hoping that Cheryl aka canadian bloggette aka beading diva will send me the ones she took at Dale's on her digital. That's my next purchase, for sure! My old Ricoh TF-900 is definitely on its last legs.

Last weekend seems so long ago already, but at least our weather is warming up now and we've seen the sun for a couple of days. My lilies are sprouting and soon we'll be seeing the daffodils and cherry blossoms.

Richard hope your eyesight is getting better day by day and you're feeling rested up for your next challenge. Maybe you and my sister will be in the hospital at the same time. Thanks for your kind words.

Joe Congrats on becoming a GrandUncle again. I will see my grandson Noah tomorrow morning and it is always so good to see the world through baby eyes again. Suzanne's 5-year-old grandson Dylan is a doll - SO smart and polite, too! Your day will come when you'll have your own grandchildren and I guarantee that you'll adore them. Also, your prayers for my sister are greatly appreciated, too.

Well, off to dinner with friends tonight, so will check in again later.

Friday, February 10, 2006 5:37:14 PM  

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