I was talking life/politics with one of my like-minded friends. I told her that it bothers me that I feel such pain due to the horribleness in the world: trump, floods, school shootings, trump, children caged and separated from their parents, racism, trump, trump, trump. Why can others just ignore the injustices of the world and pretend they don't exist? What is wrong with them? Or should the question be, what is wrong with me? So with this blog, I decided to force myself to focus on things that made me smile this year, to realize that not all is trump-trash. Life can be good. So here goes. In no particular order, a recap of the Happy of 2019.
1. The Full Monty. This was the most exciting theatrical experience I've ever had. I actually sang a solo, on stage, in front of a big audience. I was funny. I got lots of laughs and rounds of applause. I held my own with theatre professionals, and hopefully earned their respect. I met new and wonderful people. At sixty-six years old, I accomplished a milestone when I thought all of my milestones were over.
2. Flowers. I am still thrilled that my former student, Martice Huff, sent flowers to me on opening night. I taught seventh grade; do you realize how long ago it was that he was in my classroom? To have a former student remember me so fondly warms my heart which too often feels cold. And who can forget flowers on my birthday? Thank you always Ronnie and Lou. You're the best!
3. Hamilton. How lucky am I that the Cohens had an extra ticket to this Broadway show and they chose me to go see it with them?
4. Surgery. I had my thyroid removed this summer. Surgery went well, recovery was swift, my sister took care of me, and I did not have cancer!!
5. Visitors. My dear, dear high school friend and her husband came to visit. It has been at least ten years since I last saw Cathy Beaver, and yet, we were as close as if no time had passed. It's FUN to show off Havre de Grace. They got a Barbara S. Special Maryland Tour, and it was wonderful. I realized as I showed off my hometown (well, technically I reside in Ceciltucky; but my heart resides in Havre de Grace) how proud I am of where I live. And, how lucky I am that this part of the world is where I landed.
6. St. John's Food Cupboard. I work this Cupboard every Friday. Sometimes I dread getting up and going over, wondering what problems are going to give me a headache that day. I leave every Friday feeling so full for having provided real help for people in need. Thank God this project has given me an insight and a personalization of a problem that plagues our country. I have a genuine compassion for those in need, and a chance to help in a meaningful way. Our clients depend on us, and know we will help. We treat them respectfully and offer them dignity that they rarely get anywhere else. They worry about me - my aching knees, my cold hands and ears, my surgery - and they pray for me. They make me aware of blessings that I take for granted.
7. Winnie Poo Poo. My new dog has helped to heal my broken heart. She's got me walking because she won't do her business without a walk. She has allowed me to become reacquainted with my old neighbors and she's helped me meet new ones. They may not always remember my name, but they always have a big hello for Winnie.
8. Gambling. Once a week I join two friends, Sheila and Edith, for an evening at the casino. We have dinner and beer...cold, cold yummy beer. I do ok. Sometimes I break even, lots of times I lose, once I won $500. I like the slots. I like the lights, the bells, the whistles, and the absolute positive escape from the real world. It's numbing, which is sometimes just what I need. I enjoy talking to people who are there for the fun. Sometimes I am entertained just watching and rooting for the big spenders. Whatever. I am Barbara. I like to gamble.
9. Key West. My family (and our extended family friends) took its second Thanksgiving trip to Key West this year. We are so lucky to visit this paradise of sun, water, friendly people, glorious sunsets, entertainment, and margaritas. No matter what else happens or happened this year, what a joyous way to begin closing it up.
Blessings of the new year to you. Look for the good. And celebrate it.
