ME AND THE MOVIES
One thing is for sure: As time goes by, things change, even the way I see movies today.



CHILDHOOD

When I was a youngster, going to the movies was the big event of the week.

My mom would pack me a lunch, usually a salami sandwich, just in case I got hungry. After all, I child would need some nourishment after spending a few hours watching the news, the coming attractions, a short cartoon, and the main feature.

In those days I don't think the movie theaters sold popcorn or maybe because it was the depression era it was cheaper to make me a sandwich than to buy the popcorn?

TEENAGER

Going to the movies with your friends was the thing to do on a Saturday night.

After the movie we would go to the local ice cream parlor and visit with the boys and girls.

One big thing I remember as a teenager was taking my young cousin to the movies for the first time, I was as excited taking her to the movies as she was seeing her first film.

DATING IN THE FORTIES

When a young man took you out on a Saturday night it was to a movie and then a stop at a sandwich shop for a bite to eat. The fellows were just coming out of the service, money was tight, so it had to be a really special occasion if we went out to dinner.

I'm going to skip ahead now to the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's to the present day.

All these years I have been an avid movie goer.

If there was a good movie to see, I saw it. If a friend wanted to know about a movie, they would ask me. All this was happening before Google, I was their source of information and loved keeping up with the movies.

NOW


Image: Watch Full TV Episodes Online at XFINITY TV

How things have changed!

First, in my opinion, the movies have changed. There aren't many that I want to see, that's a turn-off right away.

It's been a few years since I've stopped going to the movies like I used to.

In the nine months that I have been living at Brooksby Village I have not been "off campus' to see a movie.

Recently on Monday nights Brooksby has shown Life of Pi, Lincoln and Les Miserables. Once a month a film with Jewish content and a foreign film are featured. That's a great opportunity for me to keep up with outstanding films.

I also get to see a movie on Comcast Xfinity ON DEMAND.

The other night I saw Neil Simon's "Brighton Beach Memoirs."



Now, that was a great movie!

I laughed, I smiled, I cried and remembered how wonderful a movie can be.





posted by millie garfield @ 6:00 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 3 comments

 
NINE MONTHS LATER: What It's Like to Live at Brooksby Village
Ordinarily when you hear or read something that says "nine months" you think of the word, "pregnant!"

In this case, I'm referring to the length of time that I have been a resident at Brooksby Village.


Image: Millie with new mirror at Brooksby Village

Here's a video that Steve took after I had been at Brooksby Village for one month.



What surprised me was that most of my thoughts and experiences were the same as how I feel today, nine months later.

SERVICE

The service is good, if I need some kind of help, I just make a call, and usually someone is Johnny on the spot or they refer me to someone that can provide the service I need.

RESIDENTS

Nine months ago I spoke about the friendly people that I was meeting. Well, that hasn't changed. As a matter of fact as time goes by I'm meeting more people, pretty much every day.

(Oh, if only I could remember their names!)

The other night my friend and I were seated at a table with a couple who had just returned from wintering in Florida. It turns out that the gentleman graduated from Chelsea High School a year after I did! We had quite a chat about the city, school and students that we both knew.

FOOD



While I was "doing all the things that you have to do" before making the "big move' I was under a lot of stress, I just lost my appetite. This continued for a few months. I kept losing weight even though the food was good and people were telling me that new comers get the Brooksby Bulge.

Not to worry, I'm back to normal, enjoying the food and do NOT have the Brooksby Bulge!

VIDEO

Steve did a great job zeroing in on my apartment and the beautiful grounds at Brooksby.

I've made a few changes in the apartment since I moved in.


Image: Millie's Bedroom at Brooksby Village

One recent purchase is an ottoman which will give me a place to put "out of season clothes and whatnots."

MY ADVICE TO PROSPECTIVE RESIDENTS

If Steve asked me the same questions today that he did nine months ago I would say, I feel the same way today as I did then.

Wouldn't change a word!

THANK YOU

Thanks to Steve and Carol for their moral support, physical help, encouragement and love.

I wouldn't be here without their love and caring.

Yes, after nine months, I can say, "I'm very happy living here at Brooksby Village."

posted by millie garfield @ 1:51 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 5 comments

 
STEVE TOOK HIS MOM FOR A RIDE!!!
I'm sure you have heard the expression, "I was taken for a ride", which when used could mean "I didn't know what hit me" or "boy did that cost me big bucks."

Well, here's my story:

Steve had the opportunity to try out a new 2013 Cadillac ATS for a week.

He also had the thought that he wanted to take his mom for a ride to see how she felt about all that the car had to offer.

It so happened that I needed new patio chairs.

Steve knew they were on sale at Home Depot and thought they just might be what I was looking for.

What a great opportunity that was.

I would get a ride in that beautiful brand new Cadillac and also get the chairs I needed.



We made a date, he picked me up, and sure enough after trying various chairs I found a model that only looked good but they were also comfortable to sit on.

Anyone who's a senior and reading this knows, "the chair has to have arms and be easy to get out of!" Heaven forbid, if you sit in a chair without arms, you have a problem!

The attached video will tell you a lot about my experience that day and why I said "I was taken for a ride!"



I DID NOT KNOW that Steve had a camera going during that conversation!

If I could I would edit certain parts of the video but believe me, it's all au natural!

The chairs are great!



posted by millie garfield @ 6:42 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 5 comments

 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RONNI AND CRABBY OLD LADY
Today's the day that Ronni and her buddy Crabby Old Lady share another birthday.



Just the other day Ronni's buddy made a post about "all the things that could go wrong in a day, went wrong."

She said she didn't have a 'meatier story' that day:

Crabby Old Lady is acutely aware that this is a post so self-indulgent and so light and airy you may not be able to see it on your screen. She has several meatier stories in various stages of production but couldn't make one of them ready because her time yesterday got eaten up by ephemera – stupid, ordinary errands and chores that repeatedly went wrong. All day.

Well Ronni, I hate to say this on your birthday but "you were wrong."

That was not only a meaty post, but it was a great one!

We have all had days like that and your sharing it with me made me think, "Oh, that happens to the best of us."

No matter what you write about, whether it's serious stuff, fun stuff or your Saturday stuff, it's always something that I can learn from or something that gives me a smile!

Enjoy this birthday, wishing you good health, happy days and very few days that you might have Crabby Old Lady share with us!

Happy Birthday!

posted by millie garfield @ 7:00 AM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 5 comments

 
Passover - NOW AND THEN
Last Friday was Good Friday, tomorrow is Easter Sunday, and for the past eight days the Jewish people observed Passover.

These Spring-time holidays got me thinking about all the different ways, and different people I have shared Passover with over the years.


Photo by Howard Walfish CC BY-NC-SA

THEN

CHILDHOOD
When I was a child, Passover was celebrated at home with my mother, father and a few close family members.

The highlight of Passover is the observance of the Sedar which is held on the first and second nights.

During the service there is a point where we welcome Elijah to drink the wine that has been poured for him.

Every Passover, that I remember as a child, this took place.

I was a trusting child but I had my doubts about there really being an Elijah.

One Passover I had just "had it."

How could this happen? Who was this strange person, and how did he know to show up every year?

I JUST DIDN'T BELIEVE IT, so I decided to take a small piece of matzo and stick it on to Elijah's glass and see if he really did show up and take a drink!

No, he did not drink any of the wine!

Imagine what would have happened to him if he did partake in every Jewish home!



ADULT YEARS
Many of those years were shared with my family and my husband's family.  Most years  were at their homes and in later years when the families grew we would celebrate the holiday at a temple or a function hall.

As time went by changes happened - close family members were no longer with us. When the family got smaller it was back to observing Passover at home.

FLORIDA YEARS
Being in Florida during Passover was a totally different experience! One year Aaron and I held the Seder at our Condo. There were a handful of cousins living in Florida at the time so we shared the holiday with them. One year we invited new and old friends for the evening.

One year we joined an organization which was holding a Seder at a fine country club. There was a Rabbi there to take us though the seder, there was a fine kosher meal with all the trimmings AND there was a band to dance to!

What a way to celebrate Passover! ONLY IN FLORIDA!

There were years that we went to restaurants that had a token service, not much of a seder but plenty of good food!

In my last few years in Florida my dear cousins invited me to share the holiday at their home with family and friends. Those get togethers were very special to me, every Seder had something special about it, the food was always great but the most memorable thing about it all was sharing the holiday with them.



NOW

BROOKSBY
Never did I imagine that I would be sharing a Seder with Steve and Carol at Brooksby Village.

There is a Jewish Council here that offers Friday night services, Jewish Films, a Yiddish Class and much more.

We joined a group of about one hundred people for a service and dinner right here on the premises.

A good time was had by all,  the guests participated in the service, the gefilte fish, chicken soup with matzo balls and the brisket were all delicious - and I didn't have to cook one bit!



posted by millie garfield @ 8:43 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 7 comments

 
IF YOU DON'T GO OUT, NOTHING HAPPENS
How many times have you decided that you would rather stay home and watch TV rather than make the effort to get dressed, put on your makeup or if you are a guy, take a shave and get out of those comfortable jean, just to maybe have a fun or interesting experience.



I've heard all kinds of stories about people who have said to themselves, "maybe I'll just stay home, why make the effort, last time I went to that meeting it was dull, no one of interest was there, it's cold out, it's hot out."

They think negatively, so nothing happens.

When I was growing up I learned many things from my parents. Some things I learned by observing, some things I learned by listening, and some by what my mother told me.

One of the best things she ever told me was - "IF YOU DON'T GO OUT, NOTHING HAPPENS."

There are times when I choose to stay home. I'm tired, I don't feel well, there is a TV show I want to watch, or there's a book I want to read.

That's ok, but really nothing much happens.

And then there are times that I join some friends for dinner, for a a movie, or go to a meeting.

That's a good thing.

Sometimes there is an event that I want to go to, but no one I know is available or interested.

I go myself, and what do you know, I have a great time.

I recently went(myself) to a musical event that featured music of the 50's.



I enjoyed it immensely.

Seated next to me was a woman who had also gone to the event by herself.

We got to talking and she told me about a book club in the area that she attends and told me where and when this group meets.

I marked my calendar!

There have been other occasions when I got to talk to people, learned about them, and what they enjoy doing.

Sometimes it's something I'd like to do too.

I'm not a gambler, but sometimes it's good to take a chance and try something new.

Now that I've told you about my mother's most impressive saying, I want to tell you what my favorite saying is to myself at this time in my life.

LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO BE LITTLE!

posted by millie garfield @ 6:28 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 6 comments

 
KINGS POINT DOCUMENTARY TELLS THE HARD TRUTH ABOUT AGING
First off I want to thank Ronni Bennett from Times Goes By for her Saturday "Interesting Stuff post" about the  "Kings Point Documentary" which was shown on HBO Sunday night.  My husband and I spent many wonderful winters there and if I had missed seeing this documentary I would have missed something that was very special to me.



From the very moment the film started I was captivated by how "they explained" what was going on in New York in 1972, there were population changes, thefts and serious crimes that were affecting the daily lives of the residents.



At that time a Senior Retirement community in Florida started offering  condominiums at a very reasonable price.  When the New Yorkers learned about Kings Point they stood in line to buy a little bit of heaven.  They packed up, left friends and family and started a new life.

This film was ten years in the making and follows the lives of six people who express their thoughts about their life experiences.

So much of what they had to say are things that I have felt, thought and discussed with my friends as time goes by.

For example:   One gentleman explains to a lady friend - he loves her, enjoys the companionship but
he doesn't want anymore than that because he says, "he buried one wife and that's enough for him."

A woman says, "my children want me back up North."  "My daughter has her life - my grandchildren have their lives."  "I'm staying here."

Another woman said,  "A man would like me to take care of him, I just have to take care of myself. (that reminds me of a saying I heard in Florida -" the man wants a nurse with a purse.")"

I found most of the documentary sad because it was mostly about what has happened to the residents in recent years.  For example:  One scene takes place in the ballroom on New Years eve, the place is jumping,  as only seniors can jump, not much.

The next scene shows the same couple dancing years latter. There are just a few people present and the lady says to her gentleman friend, years ago you had to stand in line to make sure you got a ticket for the NewYears Eve dance.  "Sad."

What I did enjoy about this film was when they had shots of "my familiar hangouts like the Burgundy Pool, the Flanders Clubhouse, Monaco clubhouse and even where we dumped the trash!

I was always a snowbird, only there for the winter and did not own a condo so when it came time to stay up north, I just walked away.  Seeing this film got me thinking about how lucky I was to be at Kings Point in its hey day and  able to share good times with family and friends.

posted by millie garfield @ 12:58 AM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 6 comments

 
MORE SNOW ON THE WAY
When I was a kid one of my favorite sayings was,  "Snow snow, go away, come again another day."

Today as an adult I don't like that saying at all.  I want that snow to STOP coming and not come back for a very long time.



The weather man says that white stuff is going to start again tonight and continue through the day tomorrow.

I don't have to go out in the snow, rain or wind,. Whatever I have to do, it can wait for a nice sunny day whenever that will happen!!!  At this point in time I want to put away the heavy coat, wool sweaters, gloves and hats.  Oh, to go out in a short sleeve top and shorts!!!

What to do to bring the sunshine in, or at least pretend that it is here?

I needed ideas and what do you know I got them from Beverly Beckham who writes for the Boston Globe.  Her articles appear in the North section of the Sunday newspaper.



Well this past Sunday Beverly had a column entitled "Think spring...spring...spring."  Her approach was so different from the way I had written about "snow' in a recent post.  I enjoyed her positive approach dealing with winter!

She wrote about some tried and true tricks that could ward off those winter blues.



Here are a few of my favorites  that I'd like to share with anyone who can't wait for spring to arrive.

1. Listen to summer songs. "Summertime," "Those Lazy HazyDays of Summer," "Old Cape Cod."

2. Buy tulips and set them in a clear glass vase on the kitchen table.

3. Get a pedicure. Sit back, relax, put your feet in the water and think summer!

4. Wear something colorful like yellow or pink.

5. Look at photos of summers past and smile.

Beverly, I'm going to keep your "Think spring" until the real thing comes along.

Every time I read it, it does make me feel better.  Thanks. ;-)



posted by millie garfield @ 5:39 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 3 comments

 
WHAT IT TOOK TO WARM ME UP
For many winters I've been taking off for Florida, escaping all that "cold stuff" that happens up in New England.  Well I am now living the life of a Northerner, no longer a "snowbird."

For months now, I have had the same question asked of me, "do you miss Florida?"

My answer, up until very recently was, "no, not at all."

Well let me tell you after all the snow, cold and wind we've had I can't help but think of the sunny days at the pool, just taking a walk at the beach, and enjoying  those beautiful cool evenings  in Florida.

If someone asked me that question today I'd say, Yes, I do miss all that!

It's the middle of February, Winter is almost over, but there is still March, and even April, to get through.

Before I go out to do an errand, I make sure it's not freezing, windy or slippery out there.  Whatever I have to do can wait until the "sun shines Nellie."

It's snowing right now - I'm home, I have the heat on and it's working just fine.

Snow. Boston. #cnnireport vine.co/v/bgv3Zl0Mlb1

— Steve Garfield (@stevegarfield) February 24, 2013

I'm wearing a sweat shirt, long sleeve shirt and sweat pants but still feel chilly.

Maybe it's mind over matter or maybe it's a cold coming on.

RELIEF IS ON THE WAY

This morning when I read the Boston Globe there was a very interesting article about one of my very favorite actors, the 90 year old Carl Reiner, who has written a new memoir "I Remember Me."

What I found especially interesting was what George Shapiro, Carl's manager, tells the readers in this piece.

"Carl recently acquired an iPad, which he is learning to use. It's great because if he wakes up at 3 in the morning and has a tweet, he can just get it right out. I think he's the oldest living tweeter."

Aha, Carl's 90 - I'm a close 87! I tweet too!

When I see something like that in the paper  I share it with my son Steve.  I sent it off to him and "what do you know" no sooner could you say, "in the blink of an eye," I received an e-mail from Steve telling me that he's sending me a copy of Carl Reiner's book, "I Remember Me."

He also shared his purchase on twitter.

I just bought: 'I Remember Me' by @carlreiner (90) for my mom @milliegarfield (87) via @amazon amazon.com/dp/1477264566/…

— Steve Garfield (@stevegarfield) February 24, 2013

Now that's something that warms my heart!

posted by millie garfield @ 5:47 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 5 comments

 
MILLIE GOES TO THE OPERA
I did something very exciting and special yesterday!  I attended  a matinee of Verdi's Rigoletto that was telecast to theaters around the world.  It was broadcast live to 1,900 movie theaters and I was present to share in that experience!

Our group arrived an hour before showtime, no sooner did we get settled when the screen took us to the opera where we saw the workers preparing the set.

We also saw the people arriving, getting settled in their seats as we had done.


Renee Fleming To Host Metropolitan Opera's Live In HD Broadcast Of Verdi's Rigoletto Featuring Piotr Beczala, Željko Lucic, Diana Damrau.

Before the opera started the HD host Renne Fleming interviewed the producer Michael Meyer who spoke about how he felt Rigoletto could be transformed from the 16th century Mantua to a 1960 hotel and casino on The Strip in Las Vegas.  Both had plenty of shady characters, drinkers, gamblers and womanizers in their towns.

When it came to casting "The Rat Pack" was a natural - The Duke of Mantua was the 60's "Old Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra (wearing a tuxedo most of the time).


I've never been to the opera or had much exposure to the music so seeing it in a modern setting was an ideal way to get familiar with it.  I wonder how the died in the wool opera goer feels about that.

I read the story of Rigoletto beforehand, but you know how that goes.  It's like a twisted soap opera.

What helped a lot was that there were subtitles throughout the entire performance so I was able to put two and two together.

Between the three acts there were 15 minute intermissions where Renee Fleming interviewed various cast members.   To see them as individuals and hear  them speak after having seen them perform was a treat.  And Renee herself is no slouch.  What a charmer she is!

The high drama takes place in the last act.

I don't have to say that the following is a spoiler because if you are familiar with the story line you know that Gilda, Rigoletto's daughter, dies at the end but it's the way she dies!  She's stabbed to death and is placed in the trunk of a car.

Dad finds her in the trunk and is devastated, sings to her, she's dead but she responds - Then she dies!!!

Ha!

Now that I've seen Rigoletto I'd like to see and hear more of the music that I just experienced!

I'd love to hear from fellow bloggers who are opera goers or have been to an HD presentation.

posted by millie garfield @ 8:18 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 5 comments

 
DOWNTON ABBEY STUFF
Time did not fly in the two hour presentation of Downton Abby, which I watched last night. The goal of the show was to tie up all the loose ends of the many characters who's lives had to be tied up!

Glory be, as the season progressed, I began to know the names and status of many of the residents of Downton Abby. Let me tell you, it wasn't easy, and I'm still not sure who's who.

ROSE


Last night they introduced a young lady who had a zest for life. Who needed her? If they had left her out that would have shortened the show by at least ten minutes, and we'll probably never see her again!

EDITH


For those of you who haven't watched this program, I'll tell you a little about the older single daughter of Lord and Lady Grantham. She was left standing at the alter by her noble groom, who felt is was not fair to marry her because of his age and health.

Why did he wait until he was at the alter to walk out on her?

I'll tell you why, because it made a good dramatic scene and now it ties in to what is happening in her life!

Edith applied for a newspaper writing position, was hired by Gregson the editor. He recognized her ability and found her attractive. Before she took the job, she made a phone call and found out that he was A MARRIED MAN.

Today when we want to find out about someone we check with Google.

In the early 20th century who would you call? I was surprised she was given Gregson's personal information.

I'll tell you why, because it made a good dramatic scene, and it will open the door to a romantic situation!

The time they spent telling Edith's story was worthwhile.

---

Voting is still open in the SeniorHomes.com Best Senior Living Awards 2013.

PEOPLE'S CHOICE: VOTE for My Mom's Blog HERE by Facebook LIKE or Google +1.

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STUFF
If I had been watching last night's show with a friend, I would have called out, "what was that?!!!"



Lady Grantham, the charming and refined lady of the house used the word "stuff"?!!!

Next thing I know they will have Maggie Smith, who plays the part of a Dowager Countess, saying "stuff."

Ben Schmidt also noticed the anachronisms.

Update: Ben Schmidt looks into, What sort of "stuff" would the Crawleys use?

I discussed this with Steve this morning and he reminded me about the times that his father would correct his English especially when he used the word "stuff."

Aaron, your efforts paid off, you would be very proud to hear how well spoken our son is.

BONUS: DOWNTON SIXBY
A while ago I saw Jimmy Fallon and company do a take-off on Downton Abbey. It was very funny and the characters were very well done.



posted by millie garfield @ 5:51 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 6 comments

 
Vote for my mom! Best Blogger Best Senior Living Awards 2013
Hi! Steve here.

My Mom's Blog has made it to the finals in the SeniorHomes.com Best Senior Living Awards 2013 in the Best Senior Living Blogs by Individuals 2013 category.

---

Voting is still open for PEOPLE'S CHOICE: VOTE HERE by Facebook LIKE or Google +1.

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Image: My Mom, 87 year old blogger!

As a finalist, she's entitled to post the official finalist badge on her website.



Yay!

Her website will be evaluated against other finalists in her category by their panel of expert judges.

They’ll be selecting two winners per category:

One People’s Choice Winner (based on popular vote, so keep voting!)



Click through to the Best Senior Living Blogs by Individuals 2013 site, and her page, FINALIST: My Mom's Blog, and vote for my mom by clicking Facebook LIKE or Google +1.

One Overall Winner as determined by average judges’ ratings.

Vote Mom!

posted by Steve Garfield @ 8:46 AM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 0 comments

 
MEET "SLEEPY TIME GAL"
This morning I had a telephone conversation with a friend that moved into Brooksby one week after I did.

We see each other periodically, check up on what we have been up to, help each other with what we find interesting, and pass the word along.


Image: Cookies


Ha ha ha. Only kidding! ;-)

As you've gotten older, has your sleeping routine changed?


posted by millie garfield @ 9:05 AM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 6 comments

 
LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW
As a matter of fact, it isn't snowing now but it is very cold, colder then it's been in two years here in New England.


Image: Boston Area Weather

And you know what, it doesn't bother me one bit!

This is my first winter up North in many years and because I'm at Brooksby Village I don't feel locked in because of the weather.

If I need my hair or nails done, all I need to do is take a short walk over to the Salon and "I'm there."

Same  goes for the bank, it's right next door.

If I need any medical care, or pharmacy, I take "the shuttle" to a building that's near-by.

While I'm there I can stop by at the library and/or have a cup of coffee in the lounge.  You never know who you'll meet while relaxing with a good cup of coffee.

KEEPING TRACK OF EVENTS

A few weeks ago I wrote about the challenge of remembering the names of all the people I'm meeting.

I'm also trying to keep track of all the activities that are being offered.  Many times there are a few things going on at the same time.


Image: Brooksby Village Events

Choices, choices, choices!

For the month of February I have elected to do the following outside events, which the Brooksby bus takes us to:

An Evening with Award Winning Author Andre Dubus III.

He's the author of five books one of which is the New York Times bestseller, House of Sand and Fog.



House of Sand and Fog

I loved the book and saw the movie. As usual I enjoyed the book more than the movie.



I've  heard some authors say they have no control of what goes into the movie!  That explains it!

Met Opera Simulcast - Verdi's Rigoletto

I have heard many positive words about seeing an opera via "Simulcast."  "It's like seeing the opera LIVE."

I'm looking forward to a special experience, and I won't have to drive to get there!

And if it snows, it still won't stop us from getting there!

posted by millie garfield @ 11:04 AM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 6 comments

 
Vote for My Mom's Blog in the SeniorHomes.com Best Senior Living Awards 2013


My Mom's Blog has been nominated for Best Individual Blog in the SeniorHomes.com Best Senior Living Awards 2013.

CLICK HERE to go to the 'Vote for My Mom's Blog page', then CLICK on FACEBOOK LIKE or GOOGLE +1.


Image: Voting page. Click on FACEBOOK LIKE or GOOGLE +1

Thanks!

Check the STANDINGS for Best Individual Blog here, and see some other nominees.

posted by Steve Garfield @ 10:02 AM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 3 comments

 
RSVP and LIPSTICK #708
I have alway been proud to say that I am "Thoroughly Modern Millie."

Times change and we have to change with them. I could make a whole post about all the things that I have witnessed in my lifetime, many changes have been for the better.

Today I want to tell you about something that I just became aware of.

RSVP PLEASE
In one of those advice columns, I read the other day, the question was, "is it ok to RSVP via e-mail when you receive an invitation to a party?

The answer was:

"If you were invited to the party via e-mail, it is ok to response in a similar manner even if it's to a formal affair."

That very same day a friend of mine told me that she received an invitation to a wedding in the mail, one of those small return cards was not enclosed.



That's the card I would fill out, let the person know if I would be attending, and write a note of good wishes.

No. No little card was enclosed, but there was an e-mail address noted on the expensive invitation!

It so happens that my friend does not have a computer. Some people still aren't thoroughly modern. ;-) She had to ask her son to RSVP for her.

In my opinion, a formal invitation, to an event that is "a big deal," should have that little card enclosed, and used in the good old fashioned way.

LIPSTICK #708
I guess I'm like all the people that have been around for a while, "we don't like changes."

Some changes are hard to adjust to, but we have no choice, and do what we have to.

Some changes are minor inconveniences, like when the lipstick you have been using for a million years is DISCONTINUED.

About forty years ago I discovered Revlon's Apple Polish lipstick.



A few years ago I found that when I looked in that spot on the shelf that should contain number 708, it was empty!

Oh, what to do? I would go looking for that lipstick in other stores and when I found it, I would load up!

I think what might have happened at that time was, they were cutting back on producing that shade BUT the general public made them bring it back.

When I shopped recently for some new tubes, no more 708! I called the company and they told me Apple Polish was discontinued. The operator suggested I try Coral Berry #674.

OK, I'll give it a try. In the meantime I'll use my #708 until it's down to the bare bones!

Changes, changes, changes.

What minor changes bother you?

posted by millie garfield @ 5:29 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 14 comments

 
TWO HOURS WITH DOWNTON ABBEY
Last night was the long awaited start of season three of Downton Abbey.

If you are reading this post and are a fan you have become aware of the trials and tribulations that have affected the lives of the aristocratic household and their hard working and devoted staff.

So much happened in this installment that I just might do what I always have done when I have watched Mad Men...

I watch it again and catch so many details that I might miss the first time.


Image: Downton Abbey Cast

If you haven't seen Downton Abby before, this would be a good time to get familiar with the family and their staff. It will take time to get to know a cast of about fifteen people.


Video: Fun overview of Downton Abbey's first two seasons

Each member of the family has their own unique history and personality, the same can be said for the downstairs help.

The highlight of this episode for me was when 76 year old Shirley MacLaine appears as Martha Levinson, the mother of Cora, Countess of Gantham. She's visiting from New York and portrays a person so opposite any of her relatives.

What I'll write about now is not a spoiler, it's just something that I particularly enjoyed.

A very special evening has been planned for invited guests, extra special place settings, gorgeous flower arrangements, and extra special meats that the staff plans to serve.

Well, the night that all this is to take place - a lot goes wrong. Of all things, the OVEN breaks down and nothing gets cooked!

Leave it to the American, Shirley MacLaine (Cora's mother) to save the day!

She turns this elaborate and formal dinner party into a "help yourself buffet." Mind you, this takes place in the early 20's and you know what, the guests loved it!

That's just a small taste of what can happen at Downton Abbey!


Video: Downton Abbey, Season 3: The Wait is Over (Preview) | PBS

posted by millie garfield @ 5:23 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 6 comments

 
I HAVE A GOOD BAD MEMORY PROBLEM
Perhaps you have heard this old joke before, it goes something like this:

An elderly couple is shopping in a large Florida supermarket. Some time goes by when the wife realizes that her husband is nowhere in sight What to do!

She is very upset until she sees a store clerk and starts telling the clerk about her missing husband.

The clerk is not unfamiliar with handling upset customers, suggests the lady calm down and describe what her mate looks like.

"He's short, wears glasses, has thinning gray hair and has a pot belly."

"Lady, every man in this store looks like that!"

I thought of this old joke because I have a situation that is somewhat similar.

It's been five months since I have been a resident at Brooksby Village and I keep meeting new people. That's a good thing!!!

My problem is, I have trouble remembering their names or recognizing them. Most ladies are not too tall, some are skinny, some are not so skinny, most have short white hair and wear glasses.


Images: Betty White Google Image Search

Everyone is very friendly and when I pass someone in the hall they say "hello." I don't know whether I have met them before or they are just plain friendly.

For example the other day a lady said, "Hello, Millie."

She really knew me - who's that lady, I thought until she said, "how did the slacks fit?"

Oh, then I realized she's the dressmaker that came to my house to alter a pair of pants!

When I meet a small group of women I try to connect their name with something. If her name is Dorothy, I think of a dot, if her name is Sue, I think of a lawsuit.

The other night I met six women at dinner. Wow, I'll be lucky to be able to recognize them when I see them again.

After dinner I spoke to one of the ladies privately.

I told her how I felt about "not remembering." Her response was, "don't beat yourself up, it takes at least six times after meeting someone new to remember their name. I'll remember her!

How do you remember the names of new people that you meet?

posted by millie garfield @ 4:45 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 10 comments

 
Setting Up A New Computer

Image: Millie and Steve

Hi,

Steve here setting up my Mom's new computer.

Lots to do when setting up a new system.

Email addresses. Web sites. Taking a break for a muffin and hot chocolate.

I'm sure my mom will have more to say soon.

--Steve

posted by millie garfield @ 4:09 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 15 comments

 
A BOOK FOR PEOPLE OF ANY AGE
When I first picked up the book Amazing Things Will Happen: A Real-World Guide on Achieving Success and Happiness (Affiliate Link) I thought, "what an interesting title. It's only 175 pages and has short chapters." 

Good.

I love a book with short chapters.



Then I thought, what could the author, C.C. Chapman, who I met at a blogger conference back in 2007 , write about that  a lady of a "certain age" could find rewarding?

Well, what happened was, certain chapter titles were appealing, so I started by jumping around and started reading, "Success of all Sizes," "The Magic of Turkey Pot Pie," and "Life is too Short for Bad Wine."

By the time I finished "jumping" I had read most of the book!

The next day I finished the whole book and reread the chapters that made the most impression on me.

I 've read a lot of self help books in my day. 

C.C.'s book gave me a fresh perspective on "how to."

My favorite chapter was the one entitled "The Power of Writing it Down."

I have always made it a point to carry a small notebook and a pen in my purse for the times when I need to write down a piece of information.

Well, in this chapter the author takes that idea to a much higher level.

"You never know when an idea might hit you, and it's always better to write it down than to forget it."

Boy, at this age that is the greatest suggestion!

C.C.  - If I'm ever at a book reading of yours, or at another event with you, I'll hold up my notebook and show it to you and we'll smile. ;-)





posted by millie garfield @ 3:26 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 3 comments

 
ALL THOSE HATS - WENT TO OUR HEADS!
For many years when Hanukkah came around, one of the traditional things my family and I did to  celebrate the holiday was to share a meal together and exchange gifts.

This season, instead of gift giving, I thought it was time for something different. 

At this point in time I wondered, "what do you give your children?"  Instead of buying something, I had the greatest idea! 

"How about going to the Peabody Essex Museum and seeing their current exhibition - "Hats" and then out to dinner?

Yes, they'd love that.





We spent a wonderful day touring the four sections of the exhibition.  Each hat was clearly marked with the date they were created.  We had fun trying to guess the date - sometimes we were right, sometimes way off.

There was one area where the visitors were allowed to TRY ON the hats and take photos. 



Was that ever fun!!

Another area was set up so you could choose a hat on a computer screen, and then place the hat however you pleased on your head and then press a button and get that photo taken.



And then, lo and behold the photo was framed and shown on the wall as a piece of art!!??

After all that excitement we went to the gift shop and Steve became the proud owner of a handsome wool hat.



Don't you think he looks like a cast member of "Mad Men?"

The day wasn't over yet - it was off to dinner at Legal Sea Foods.



Food is always good there.

What kind of hat do you wear?  I only wear one when I really have to - just something to kept the head warm!

posted by millie garfield @ 5:42 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 15 comments

 
A FAMILY JOKE
There are a few things I could blog about today but "first things first!"

There are many things I like about The Boston Globe, local and world news; movie, TV and theater reviews; health updates, business news and even the comic section.

The other day my favorite comic "Zits" gave me the biggest laugh!  Why?  Because it was the Garfield's very favorite joke.  I think  it came to pass as a real exchange between father and son.

This is it:



After that first time it was a funny line that was used time and time again!

Do you read the funnies? - they are very adult these days- sometimes I don't understand them!!!



posted by Millie Garfield @ 8:54 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 7 comments

 
Hi, World
"Hi, World"

It was nine years ago when I sat down and made my first post.

I didn't know what I was going to blog about and had no idea what doors it was going to open for me but one thing I knew:

"Hi, World" was a good title!

Not until recently was my mind refreshed by an interview I had with Setarreh Massihzadegan who writes for Brooksby Village's Erickson Living Tribune.


Image: Erickson Living Tribune

Apparently she did her research and looked back and read my very first blog and used "Hi, World" as the lead-in to the write up.

Read all about it here, ‘Hi, World’, One of the Internet’s most seasoned bloggers begins tenth year with new material:

“Hi, World,” Millie Garfield addressed readers of her first blog post, written more than nine years ago. At 77 years old, she was diving into a world created and managed largely by younger generations.

An article in The Boston Globe piqued Millie’s curiosity about blogs—online discussions or diaries created by a series of “posts.” She conveyed this to her son Steve, a video blogging expert, who asked if she wanted to give blogging a try. Seeing it as a way to connect more with Steve, Millie said yes.

“My Mom’s Blog by Thoroughly Modern Millie” launched in 2003 with her shy greeting, an admission that she was new to the scene, and a promise to “write something exciting” the next time. Initially, her short, comical, and honest musings didn’t elicit many comments from readers.

“How come you people aren’t responding to me? I’m 78 years old!” Millie says she posted in frustration.

Fame and reward
In the years since, the world has responded. Millie, who now lives at Brooksby, an Erickson Living community in Peabody, Mass., gained fame in the blogosphere for her status as one of the Internet’s most seasoned bloggers. She has grown her readership with her optimism, humor, and thoughtfulness.

continue reading...

Thanks Setarreh for your visit and nice write up. You really got me.

posted by Millie Garfield @ 4:32 PM | Permalink | I LOVE COMMENTS >> 6 comments