Old Traditions or Is It Habits Hard to Break

Fiḍál (Grace), 1 Sharaf (Honour), 170 BE - Tuesday, December 31, 2013 about 9:50 am Pacific Standard Time

Old traditions habits hard to break. I can remember Grandma Mary preparing for New Year's Day, she always finished the laundry on New Year's Eve because she didn't believe in doing laundry on the first day of a New Year. Grandma said "Whatever you do on New Year's Day you'll be doing the rest of the year." That is why she didn't do laundry or most housework on New Year's Day. The only type of household chores she performed on a New Year's Day was making beds and washing dishes.

I seem to find that habit tradition hard to break because today I'm finishing up all the laundry that I can find because I don't want to do laundry tomorrow, January 1, 2014. Another tradition I have difficulty breaking fixing black eyed peas on New Year's Day. When I went to the store yesterday, I purchased one can of black eyed peas for my January 1 menu. Grandma always fixed black eyed peas on the first day of the year.

Normally, Grandma made them from scratch. She would put the dried black eyed peas to soak the night before and then on the morning of January 1 put them onto cook. Grandma usually seasoned the peas she cooked with with pigs feet. I prefer to season mine (when I make them from scratch) with a honey baked ham bone and pieces of the ham. However, this year I'm going to have the canned peas because I have no way to fix the dried ones at this time. Maybe I'll fix black eyed peas in March for Naw-Ruz.

Grandma Mary always fixed black eyed peas on January 1 because she thought they were good luck. I'll have to do some research on that superstition, I don't believe what you eat on the first attracts good luck, but it would be nice to know where the superstition originated.

Planning My New Year's Day 2014 Menu

Kamál (Perfection), 19 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Monday, December 30, 2013 about 11:08 am Pacific Standard Time

To say that I'm excited about the beginning of a New Gregorian Year is an understatement, it's also out of character or at least a little weird for me. Normally, I get excited about Naw-Ruz (the New Year I celebrate), but seldom about the New Year that starts on January 1. However, this year is different because it will be 13 months and 3 days after my mother's death and I have the feeling that it will be the beginning of a new phase of my life.

For my New Year's Day lunch I have decided to have a cod fillet, with potato surprise (I'll post the recipe after I finish making it), a can of black eyed peas, and a green salad. I don't think I'll have a desert of any kind, but I may change my mind about that tomorrow. Since I have a pound cake mix in the refrigerator I can make the desert.  I'm also going to make a carafe of fresh ground whole bean coffee made with a kona coffee bean blend.

Setting Goals for the Coming Year

Jamál (Beauty), 18 Masá’il, 170 BE - Sunday, December 29, 2013 about 11:40 am Pacific Standard Time

The way I set my goals for the New Year is fairly straight forward. I decide on the goals between December 29 to December 31 and then I make the plan for achieving the goals. I reevaluate the goals on or before Naw-Ruz, March21, and then finalize the plans for achieving the goals. When the end of the Gregorian year approaches, I again reevaluate my goals to see if I need to make any changes. At this time I also decide what new goals I want to work on for the coming year.

This year I am making my goals more concrete then in the past. I am also keeping a separate list of things I want to do once I have accomplished my goals consistently or completely. Some of the goals are those that once I accomplish them, I can move on to something else.

Goals for the Coming Year

• Join Humana's SilverSneakers program and go to the gym once a week. I may change this to twice a week once I have attended for a month.
• Participate in the 52 week money savings challenge and deposit the money in my savings account at the end of each week.
• Write 2,000 words a day consistently for 3 months. In this case, I am defining consistent as 6 days out of 7 and if I make it  7 days each week for 3 months then I will raise the word count.
• Create a group on writing.com called United in Our Grief.
• Create a website.

Those are the goals I have decided upon for the first quarter of 2014. I will list the other goals I will list the backup goals separately after I have completed the plans for accomplishing these goals.

I ate the last of the leftovers for breakfast

Jalál (Glory), 17 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Saturday, December 28, 2013 about 10:35 AM Pacific Standard Time

I ate the last of the leftovers for breakfast, so I'm going to have to fix something else this afternoon. I'm thinking perhaps a  grilled cheese sandwich with a salad. I purchased stuff for a salad on Thursday, so all I have to do is make it. I'll do that as soon as the dishes by the sink have drained.

I washed my dishes the old fashion way, but I don't dry  them with a towel. I let them drain by the sink and then put them away. It works just as good and since I don't have any dishtowels it's the best way for me to do it. I'll have to purchase some dishtowels in 2014, that way I can dry the dishes and put them away immediately.

Hot soapy water
warms my arthritic fingers
drives away the pain.

I still have a lot of work to do this morning, both online and in the house. Now that  the dishes are done I can focus on something else. I know I have to check Mom's room to see if everything is out of there. Once I do that then I can unplug the light and carry it into the dining room where I'm putting everything I want to take with me. I also need to check the other two bedroom to make sure I don't have anything in their I want to keep.

A New Year coming
a new residence and life
in 2014.

I'm looking forward to the New Year and living some place where I can keep warm without an outrageous power bill. I will be happy if that bill is less then $200.00; I'd like a place where the power and water are paid, but I'll accept a place that has a lower power bill even if I'm still struggling to pay it. I just have to place my faith in God, pray, and keep on keeping on.

A Productive Friday Morning

Istiqlál (Independence), 16 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Friday, December 27, 2013 about 10:44 am Pacific Standard Time

It's been a productive Friday morning. I finished the last of the leftover coffee a few minutes ago and, right now, I'm sipping it while composing this entry. I found the canister containing my teabags and wrapped candy, so I placed it next to the coffee maker. I finally reset the clock on the microwave, so now it's close to the actual time on my cellphone.

Things I still have to do. I have to finish setting up the coffee maker for morning by filling the water tank and putting fresh grounds in the basket. I also have to do the morning dishes, but I need to do a room check before I start that because I don't want to find any stray dishes, cups, or flatware when the dishes are washed and sitting clean beside the sink. I also have to do a load of laundry, but I'm going to have to do a room check before I start the machine.

If I wait until starting the washing machine before I do the room check then I end up leaving the lid open through the entire wash cycle and have to run the clothes through again. If I don't do a room check before starting the dishes then I usually end up finding stray flatware or cups in the living room, next to the compute, or sitting beside the coffee maker.

Midweek Reflections: December 25, 2013

‘Idál (Justice), 14 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Wednesday, December 25, 2013 about 8:29 am Pacific Standard Time

It's a joyous Christmas morning,
I inhaled the scent of woodsmoke
when I rolled the trashcan to the curb
and smiled
at the realization
that even on a holiday
some people are blessed with work.

It's a joyous Christmas morning,
I heard a nightingale singing
outside my kitchen window
and realized
how blessed I am
because I have the love
of both Christ and Baha'u'llah.

It's a joyous Christmas morning,
with a slight breeze caressing
a neighbor's olive tree
and bird songs
echoing
through the neighborhood.

At 67 My Birthday Gratitude List

Fiḍál (Grace), 13 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Tuesday, December 24, 2013 about 6:41 am Pacific Standard Time

 Since I am 67 years old today, I decided not to wait until Thursday to post my gratitude list.

Today I am thankful...

1. ...that, several years ago, I accepted the Revelation of Baha'u'llah. My greatest joy each day is intoning the prayers revealed by Baha'u'llah.
2. ...that I have family that is worried about my spiritual, material, and physical welfare.
3. ...that I have an internet connection and provider so that I can access the Baha'i Scriptures online at anytime of the day or night.
4. ...for coffee and the memories of my Grandpa Newland drinking a cup brings to mind.
5. ...for the large can of chilli and beans I received when I picked up my monthly food allotment a couple of weeks ago. I can now have chilli and crackers on Christmas day.
6. ...for the 66 years I was able to have my mother in my life and watch her joy when she read or listened to someone read from the scriptures revealed by Baha'u'llah.
7. ...that I have a paid membership to writing.com, with a portfolio to hold my poems and stories.
8. ...that I live in Las Vegas and can go outside to see the snow capped peak of Mount Charleston.
9. ...that I survived 67 years.

I know that I normally have ten things to be thankful for, but I think that nine things on my birthday is a good list.

Monday's Changing Plans

Kamál (Perfection), 12 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Monday, December 23, 2013 about 10:30 am Pacific Standard Time

Monday's plans have changed again. All this month, I've planned to go somewhere on Monday, but come Monday morning my plans change. This morning, as every other Monday morning, it changed because of laundry. I still have one or two more loads to wash, if I can find something to use as laundry detergent.

I'm out of laundry detergent. I'm out of the other soap I was using as laundry detergent. The only thing I have left is some old bottles of shampoo (at least I think that's all I have left). I'm not sure about using it because I think I was allergic to the shampoo in those bottles, which is why I still have them leftover. As soon as the other computer finishes its virus scan, I'll check my checking account to see if (by some miracle) I have enough money in it to purchase laundry soap.

If I can't purchase soap this afternoon, then I'll just have to wait for a few days until I can figure out where to get the money. I know this is my own fault because the only time I run out of laundry soap is when I don't buy it at the first of the month. Unfortunately, I may have to wait until after January 1, 2014 to purchase laundry detergent.

Two Days and Counting

Jamál (Beauty), 11 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Sunday, December 24, 2013 about 8:24 am Pacific Standard Time

In two day, on December 24, 2013, I will be 67 years old young. I was born on December 24, 1946 at eleven minutes before midnight. I am the oldest of four children and I have two brothers and one sister. Neither of my  parents are still alive.

I'm not sure whether I'm dreading looking forward to my birthday. I could be looking forward dreading my birthday, which would explain the way I feel this morning. I would like to live to be 100; however, my health problems will influence not only how much longer I live, but how well I live those years.

I'm not sure what I can do about my health at this point in my life. However, I'm going to attempt to do something about them. I have two doctor's appointments scheduled for 2014 and at that time I will find out what I can do. I'm also going to join a gym where I can get more exercise. I will also attempt to change my eating habits. The only other thing I can do is say healing prayers.

Writing this has helped my mood, so I guess I should do a little more writing in 2014 as well. Right now, my daily word could goal is between 1,500 to 2,000 words. I put it at that range because I become frustrated when I don't achieve this goal and frustration leads to stress. I intend to give myself three months to determine if I can meet or exceed the 2,000 words on a regular basis. If I exceed the 2,000 words then I will raise the range on March 21, 2014.

Winter Solstice: The Shortest Day of the Year

Jalál (Glory), 10 Masá’il, 170 BE - Saturday, December 21, 2013 about 10:29 am Pacific Standard Time

It's winter solstice. It's the shortest day of the year. It's the day that the sun stands still. All right, the sun doesn't stand still any more then the earth stands still. The earth is always rotating on its axis and revolving around the sun. While the sun does rotate, it doesn't rotate in the same manner as Earth, but it doesn't stand still either. In addition, the sun along with its planets revolve around the center of the galaxy.

After today, the day become longer until we reach the summer solstice. In between these two astronomical events, in the northern hemisphere, winter becomes spring and spring becomes summer. Plants grow and animals give birth life moves at a faster pace as the days grow longer and the nights shorter. Poets are inspired to write odes to nature, love, or bitch about how fast time flies.

I'm looking forward to spring and summer more this year then in the past. I'm cold. I'm chilly. I'm tired of wearing three or four layers of clothes in an attempt to keep warm. True, I live in Las Vegas so it doesn't get at cold here (most of the time) as in other parts of the country; that doesn't make me feel better or warmer. I want to enjoy something cold instead of having to heat everything (all right, almost everything) in the microwave so it doesn't make me cold when I eat or drink it. I'm tired of bundling up when I go to eat something cold because it makes my body colder.

I'm going to close this before it becomes a rant. I've finished the hot tea I was drinking and I need to warm me up another cup of tea or apple juice. I'd fix myself some hot soup, but I'm full at present and couldn't eat another bit. I'll be lucky to finish my next cup of hot tea.

Groceries to put away plus other stuff equals a lot of work on Friday afternoon

Istiqlál (Independence), 9 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Friday, December 20, 2013 about 1:05 pm Pacific Standard Time

I left the house this morning about 8:00 am and drove across town to pick up my December senior food allotment. After picking up the two bags of food, I stopped at the grocery store because I need carrots and an onion to finish the chicken soup I'm making for this weekend. I also purchased some bananas, clam chowder (I don't make this type of soup for myself), a pumpkin pie, and whipped topping. I think I also purchased a can of mushroom soup because I won't make that for myself either.

After leaving the grocery store, I stopped at the gas station (because I knew if I went home before stopping there I wouldn't want to leave the house again). I got home about 9:30 or 10:00 am and put some of the stuff away. I still have more items to put away, but I had to rest after my outing this morning. This is why I prefer to grocery shop when I don't have anything else to do. Walking around in the grocery store tires me out, but it's good exercise.

I still have to cook the carrots, onion, and more potatoes for my chicken soup. I had to was the glass turntable in the microwave because something boiled over yesterday and I couldn't cook anything else in there until I cleaned the turntable. Now that the turntable is clean I'm going to put in the rest of the stuff for the soup. I hope I can have chicken soup sometime tonight; the next time I decide to do this I'm making sure I have all the ingredients before I start making the soup.

Thankful Thursday: December 19, 2013 Gratitude List

Istijlál (Majesty), 8 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Thursday, December 19, 2013 about 12:15 pm Pacific Standard Time

Today I am thankful...

1.  ...for the nine chicken leg quarters I received last Friday from Lutheran Social Service. When I came home last week, the leg quarter were still froze so I put them in the freezer. I took them out of the freezer on Tuesday morning and put them in the refrigerator so that I could cook them when they thawed. They were thawed this morning, so I started cooking them this morning and just finished fixing all nine a few minutes ago. Now I can freeze them in baggies and have chicken the rest for the next three or four days (perhaps longer).

2.  ...for the three green pepper I was able to get last Friday. I am cooking them today so that I can have green pepper and chicken soup this weekend.

3.  ...for the 5 lb. bag of potatoes I receive last Friday, as well. I am going to cook them after the green pepper are done and put some of those in my chicken and green pepper soup.

4.  ...that my EBT card came in the mail earlier this month (I cannot remember the exact date) because I was able to purchase a container of coffee and some buttermilk. As soon as I rest up from being on my feet most of the morning, I will pour me a large glass of buttermilk.

5.  ...that I have an electric skillet because it is easier to cook chicken quarter in a electric skillet then in a microwave.

6.  ...that I have a microwave because I can cook the peppers and the potatoes in the chicken broth before I begin making my soup this afternoon.

7.  ...for the silence in the house because there are no noisy distractions to interrupt my meditation or writing.

8.  ...that I still have some yogurt with cranberry sauce mixed in it because I can have that for my afternoon snack.

9.  ...that I was able to make a fresh carafe of coffee this morning.

10.  ...for the beautiful, partly cloudy and warm winter afternoon in Las Vegas.

Midweek Reflections on Coffee and Buttermilk

Idál Justice, 7 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Wednesday, December 18, 2013 about 12:12 pm Pacific Standard Time

I went to the grocery store this morning to purchase some necessary and desired items. I intended to purchase only coffee with my food card, but when I stopped by the dairy section Smiths Food and Drug Store had buttermilk on the top shelf. Since I haven't had buttermilk this year, I decided to purchase a container. I bought the largest container on display because I knew I would pig out on it this week. I always do this when I haven't had buttermilk in over twelve months.

I also bought coffee, so now I don't have to worry about running out of coffee this weekend. I purchase a darker more full flavored coffee this time because I don't use as much of it when I make a fresh carafe. If I buy the lighter coffee I have to use five scoops in the coffee maker basket to get the flavor I want, but with a darker coffee I can use four scoops. If I use fewer scoops then I don't run out of coffee as quickly as using five scoop.

I still have the problem of warming the leftover coffee over in the microwave, but I will solve that problem in the coming year. Right now, the only thing that's important is having hot coffee on cold winter mornings. I'll just deal with the taste of the warmed over coffee, besides if I use only four scoops instead of five when I make fresh coffee the warmed over coffee may not be as bitter or taste as weird.

My Optometrist Appointment

Fiḍál (Grace), 6 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Tuesday, December 17, 2013 about 1:23 pm Pacific Standard Time

I went to the optometrist this morning for my normal six month eye examination. My appointment was for 9:45 am and I arrived at the office about 9:15. I sit in the waiting room for about 45 or 50 minutes before the nurse called me back to begin the normal battery of test. I enjoyed sitting in the waiting room because I could see the fish tank and watch the fish swimming around.

There were four fish nice sized small fish swimming back and forth, up and down in the tanks what was decorated with either faux coral or dead coral (I couldn't tell which). The fish in the tank were orange, striped, white with black spots, and charcoal. It was a pleasant wait sitting there watching the fish swim or sleep.

After the nurse or office assistant called me to begin the battery of tests my appointment moved rather quickly. I took a book with me, but I didn't have time to read much. I go out of the office between 11:00 and 11:30 am and drove back to the house because the doctor had my eyes dilated today and I didn't want to drive more then necessary. As a result, I still have to go to the grocery store which I'll probably do tomorrow morning.

A Blue Monday Afternoon

Kamál (Perfection), 5 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Monday, December 16, 2013 about 12:21 pm Pacific Standard Time

It's a blue Monday afternoon,
with a partly cloudy sky,
a day to remain at home
and complete
unfinished tasks.

This afternoon, the only thing that keeps me focused on any task is reciting the prayers reveal by Baha'u'llah or The Bab. This morning focus wasn't as difficult as this afternoon. Of course, this morning before starting word I prayed and meditated, so perhaps I need to stop what I'm doing to meditate and say prayers.

wisp of scattered clouds
decorates afternoon's sky
chilly a slight breeze

 I look out the window and watch wisp of clouds scattered across the blue sky. They don't seem to move while I'm watching them, but if I look away for a few minutes and then look back I can see that there is slight movement. I still have some newspapers to carry out to the garages, so I guess I should get up and do that. I think while I'm out there I'll stand in the warm sun for a little while.

Saturday Morning Thoughts: December 14, 2013

Jalál (Glory), 3 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Saturday, December 14, 2013 about 7:26 am Pacific Standard Time

Another weary morning,
after a short
and semi-sleepless night;
maybe,
another couple of prayers,
a second breakfast
(with a bite of protein)
and some more coffee
will make
the rest of the day right.

Another weary morning,
with a list of chores
that can't
be left undone -
perhaps
I should consider
an afternoon nap
or a walk in winter's
warm sun.

Thoughts on Friday, December 13, 2013

Istiqlál (Independence), 2 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Friday, December 13, 2013 about 3:50 pm Pacific Time

I spent most of the morning picking up food at one of the Las Vegas food pantries, which means I didn't get very much writing accomplished today. I'm attempting to catch up on what I'm supposed to write today without worrying about what I didn't get written yesterday.  Thursday was a busy day as well.

I had an appointment at 1:30 pm with wound care at UMC. I had to leave the house early because I need to stop by the bank and with draw some money to pay part of the power bill. After withdrawing the I went to the hospital and spent the rest of the afternoon in the outpatient waiting room or in an examination room. The doctor gave me a prescription for compression stocking, which I have to get filled as soon as I can raise the money.

Then last night, I went to the Feast of Questions with a friend. That was a nice experience and a refreshing break in my routine. I enjoyed the Feast and when I came home, I had a good nights rest. This morning's little outing wore me out and I've spent most of the day recovering and putting groceries away. I still have some canned goods to put away, but I may not get those done until tomorrow because I have a lot of writing to do tonight.

I had planned to go to the grocery store tomorrow, but I think I will stay home. I only have one item to purchase, but I haven't checked my bank account today so I don't know what came through. I'll probably check the account either tonight or in the morning. Since I know what's coming through there shouldn't be a problem.

Thankful Thursday: December 12, 2013

Istijlál (Majesty), 1 Masá’il (Questions), 170 BE - Thursday, December 12, 2013 about 8:43 am Pacific Standard Time

This morning I am grateful...

1.  ...for the Baha'i scriptures and prayers because they give me comfort and help me get through the day.

2.  ...that my car started when I went to back it out of the garage because that means I closed all the doors tightly when I put it in the garage earlier this week.

3.  ...for the chilly, but not too cold temperatures last night, because the heat did not come on all night.

4.  ...that I still have electricity in the house despite the huge electric bill I have to pay by Friday.

5.  ...for an automatic dryer because I can wash clothes and do not have to hang them over furniture to dry.

6.  ...that I received my SNAP card earlier this week because now I can get the makings for real homemade chicken soup instead of opening a can.

7.  ...for the feel of the warm sun on this chilly December morning.

8.  ...that I have enough gas in the car to get me to my doctor's appointment this afternoon and then to the bank to withdraw some money to pay on the electric bill;

9.  ...for hot coffee on a chilly December morning.

10.  ...that I have a cable modem to access the internet.

Midweek Reflections on Frustration

‘Idál (Justice), 19 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Wednesday, December 11, 2013 about 3:31 pm Pacific Standard Time

Since November, I'm been attempting to make appointments with specialist. I have three made, but the fourth one is taking longer then I thought and longer then it should. I've called my doctor twice with the proper fax number and, as of today, the  information still hadn't been faxed. I called my doctor again today with the proper fax number. I hope it gets faxed this time.

I'm frustrated! Part of the reason is the doctors' appointments, but that isn't the only thing that's causing my frustration. I'm still living in my mother's house because the house hasn't closed yet, which means I'm still saddled with bills I can't pay. I think I have enough for the power bill, but then I will still have to deal with the car insurance and other bills.

I'm tired. I'm cold. I'm frustrated . I'm repeating myself. Maybe I need to view this entire situation from a different perspective. The managers from the apartments, whose waiting lists I'm on, haven't called yet. Perhaps it's good thing that the house hasn't closed. At least, I still have someplace to live. All though next week I may not have insurance for the car if I pay the power bill. If I don't pay the power bill then I will have insurance for the car, but no power in the house.

A change in perspective doesn't help my frustration. It doesn't keep me warm. I think the best thing for me to do at this moment is post this. Then I will make myself a cup of hot tea with a candy cane in it. After I finish the tea, then I will say some prayer.

Thoughts on a Tuesday Afternoon in December

Fiḍál (Grace), 18 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Tuesday, December 10, 2013 about 3:51 pm Pacific Standard Time

Suddenly I want to cry,
I sigh,
I don't know why I want to cry.

This afternoon, I feel so alone. I'm still living in Mom's house wondering where I'll go when the sale of the house closes. I haven't heard from any of the waiting lists I'm on. Maybe I won't hear from them (at least, that's the thought going through my mind). I have to take some sort of action, but I don't know what .

I have bills to pay and I don't have the money to pay them. I may be without power after December 16 and I'm frightened. I have enough money to pay the power bill, but that will leave me short when it comes to the water bill and the car insurance. I don't know where the money for the car insurance will come from after I pay the power bill.

I'm so tired of worrying about bills. I'm so tired of being lonely. It's chilly in the house because I keep the thermostat down so low, but it doesn't seem to make any difference in the power bill. I just don't know what to do, except to write. Writing sometimes helps or at least it used to help me find a way to solve my difficulties.

Another thing that helps is prayer. I've been saying prayers off and on all day. They help when I'm saying them because then I don't want to cry. I'm rambling in this entry and that isn't any way to make a blog entry, but I don't know what else to do because I've started typing and I can't seem to stop. I think I'll close this entry and make me another cup of hot tea with a pepper mint candy cane in it.

At Sunset

Kamál (Perfection), 17 Qawl 170 BE - Monday, December 9, 2013 about 4:27 pm Pacific Standard Time

I may not be exactly sunset, but it's close enough to it. It's been a long weary day because I didn't want to get up this morning. Since I didn't want to get up, I didn't want to do much of anything. I accomplished a few things despite not wanting to get up.

I wrote, I downloaded an image from writing.com and then uploaded  it back to the website so that I could store it in my portfolio. I used the fleece throw that I purchased last week as an early birthday present to myself. The throw is black with a snowmen on it and, as soon as I can scan it into my computer, I will post an image of it on this blog.

Las Vegas sunset
sky fades from blue to off white
another day ends.

On a Cold and Windy Saturday in December

Jalál (Glory), 15 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Saturday, December 7, 2013 about 2:20 pm Pacific Standard Time

On this cold and windy Saturday in December,
the ice cream truck just drove by my house.

I heard the music playing
as he approached
with all his sweet cold treats that
in summer I would buy,
but today
it is too cold for an ice cream cone.

I think I'm getting old because today it's too cold for ice cream. The other day, I stopped at Marie Calender's to purchase a rhubarb pie. After I purchased the pie, I went to the grocery store to get a few necessities. I did not purchase any ice cream (which I normally eat on rhubarb pie) because it's winter and the ice cream with the pie would chill me.

When I was younger it didn't matter how cold it was outside if I wanted ice cream. I can remember eating ice cream on a snowy Christmas Eve because it was my birthday and I liked ice cream with my birthday cake. However, at 66 going on 67 I have stopped eating ice cream in the winter time. Now, when I eat pie or cake in the winter, I put milk on it and warm it in the microwave.

Thoughts at Sunset in Las Vegas

Istiqlál (Independence), 14 Qawl 170 BE - Friday, December 6, 2013 about 3:44 pm Pacific Standard Time

the sun is setting
neighbor's are returning home
from work and shopping

 I went to the store yesterday and wouldn't you know it, I forgot two of the items I went in to purchase. I forgot laundry detergent and dryer sheets. I have to check my account to see if I can purchase those this weekend. If I can't then I'm going to have to do without those items until the end of the month. Oh well, it won't be the first time I washed clothes without laundry detergent or dryer sheets.

the sun is setting
the cold day is cooling down
tomorrow hot soup

Setting up Doctor's appointments

Istijlál (Majesty), 13 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Thursday, December 5, 2013 about 1:44 PM Pacific Standard Time

I started on November 18, attempting to set up two appointment. I got one appointment, the one for the mammogram arranged almost as soon as I called. That appointment is for the early part of February 2014. The other appointment, was for wound care, which I was finally able to set up this week. That appointment is for December 12, 2013.

I went back to my doctor's office on November 26, for the results of a blood test. She gave me a referral to two specialist. One of the specialist called back on Monday and I made that appointment for the end of January 2014. I called the other specialist today and apparently my doctor's office has the wrong fax number, so now I have to call my doctor back and give them the proper fax number so they can send the paperwork that specialist needs to make my appointment.

I hope I can set that appointment up for January or February because I do not want to spend all of 2014 going to doctor's offices. As it is now, I suspect I will have to come into Las Vegas from Searchlight to keep the appointments I have already made. Oh well, that's life. I just need to take a deep breath and stop complaining because the only thing that complaining does is make  the situation worse.

Midweek Reflections on Fresh Brewed Coffee

‘Idál (Justice), 12 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Wednesday, December 4, 2013 about 6:12 AM Pacific Standard Time

Why is it that fresh brewed coffee tastes better then leftover coffee heated in the microwave? This morning, my first cup of coffee was leftover from Monday and I warmed it up in the microwave before brewing a fresh carafe. I finished the warmed over coffee and then poured myself a cup of the fresh brewed coffee.

The leftover coffee was hot and it was good, but when I tasted the fresh brewed coffee I noticed the difference.  Perhaps the difference in taste come from the fact that I let the coffee sit in the carafe since Monday or it could be that fresh brewed coffee simply tastes better then leftover coffee. I know it tastes better then instant coffee, but I did not think that there would be much of a difference between coffee that was brewed fresh on Monday and the coffee I brewed this morning.

Paradise
a cup of fresh brewed coffee
on a cold December morning.

The difference could also result from the fact that I warmed the leftover coffee up in a mug rather then my regular coffee cup. The cup I use for fresh brewed coffee is small then the one I use to heat up the coffee that is leftover from the day before, which could also be a reason for t he difference in taste. I usually finish the leftover coffee the day after I make it instead of letting it sit for two or three days.

I Wonder about the Temperature in Searchlight

Fiḍál (Grace), 11 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Tuesday, December 3, 2013 about 5:52 AM Pacific Standard Time

I wonder about the temperature in Searchlight,
is it colder there this morning
then here in Las Vegas.

According to weather.com, the temperature in Las Vegas, on this partly cloudy morning, is 44 degrees, but feels like 39.  After checking the weather in Las Vegas, I checked the temperature in Searchlight and its 42 degrees, but feels like 38. There doesn't seem to be that much difference this morning; however, I haven't moved there yet so I could feel a lot different once I'm living there.

The problem is isolation,
or at least the feeling of isolation.

I know that I have to accept the inevitability of moving to Searchlight, but I'm not looking forward to the experience or the isolation. All my friends are here in Las Vegas, true I can probably make new friends there but I can't find anyone there who is a Baha'i. In Searchlight, I won't be able to attend the nineteen-day Feast or the Holy Days. However, it's probably God's will that I move to Searchlight, so I may as well get used to it. Maybe there are advantages to living there that I haven't discovered.

Twentry-three days to go

Jamál (Beauty), 9 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Sunday, December 1, 2013 about 9:18 am Pacific Standard Time

In twenty-three days, I will be sixty-seven years old or perhaps I should say sixty-seven years young. However, I word it I will be celebrating another birthday. It is a birthday I both look forward to and dread. I look forward to it because it means I am still alive and writing. I would say kicking, but at may age kicking anything can be dangerous because I could break a toe or fall and hurt myself.

As anyone reading this entry can see, my sense of humor is still going weird and strong. The question arises, "Why am I dreading this birthday?" The answer is easy, this is my second birthday without Mom present in my life. I almost wrote this is my first birthday without her present; however, Mom died on November 29, 2012, so last year was my first birthday without her in my life. For some reason, I forgot my 2012 birthday.

Since I forgot my 2012 birthday, does that mean I can tell everyone I am only sixty-six years old? I doubt if that would work, but it could be a conversations started. I do not think I need any conversation starters because lately I have found myself with a lot say, but no one to say it to. Since I have no one to talk to my blog entries may be getting longer this month.

31 Days Left in 2013

Jalál (Glory), 8 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Saturday, November 30, 2013 about 9:56 AM Pacific Standard Time

The Good News: I wrote 54,658 words during National Novel Writing Month.

The Bad News: There are only 31 days left in 2013

and only about 5 months (19 days each) left in 170 BE.

A chilly morning
in late November when
oak leaves are turning orange.

The neighbor's oak tree has begun to change color and lose it leaves. Thanksgiving is past, while Christmas and New Year's Day 2014 is approaching. It is time to review my goals. It is time to consider what I have accomplished, what I have left to accomplish, and what I plan to accomplish in the New Year.

Falling leaves always
remind me of the New Year
and new aspirations.

I will not make any specific New Year's Resolutions until Naw-Ruz 2014, but I will consider everything I have accomplished since Naw-Ruz 2013. I will also look at everything I still have to accomplish and decide if it is worth the effort to finish the project or just toss it aside. I know one thing I need to do is to make my daily To Do List more specific and remove items from the C priorities.

One Year Ago Today

Istiqlál (Independence), 7 Qawl, 170 BE - Friday, November 29, 2013 about 8:46 AM Pacific Standard Time

One year ago today

my mother passed away

and ascended into paradise.

One year ago today,
I stopped writing
my 2012 NaNoWriMo novel
and it still lays in
my writing.com portfolio
waiting for completion.

One year ago,
I did not meet
the NaNoWriMo
50,000 word goal

This year,
on November 27,
I exceeded
the 50,000 word goal,
but I do not think
this year's novel
Midnight in Suburbia
is complete.

One year ago today

my mother passed away

and ascended into paradise.

Thanksgiving Day Thankful Thursday Gratitude List

Istijlál (Majesty), 6 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Thursday, November 28, 2013 about 10:44 AM Pacific Standard Time

On this cloudy and chilly Thanksgiving Day I am grateful...

1.  ...for Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen's Health Advice column, which appears in Thursday's Review-Journal, because today the main topic was Pain relief not limited to medication. Drs. Oz and Roizen give five self-care techniques to reduce the discomfort of chronic pain. I already practice one of the techniques on a daily basis, but today I will begin practicing more of them.

2. ...that I chose to spend this Thanksgiving by myself because now I can focus on prayer and meditation without interrupting anyone else's Thanksgiving Day. This gives me a chance to look at the changes of the past year and determine what I want to do for the next twelve months to make my life more productive.

3. ...for the turkey burgers I received when I went to one of the food pantries last week. For lunch I had two turkey and cranberry sandwiches. This is the first time I have ate a turkeys sandwich with cranberry sauce and they are delicious.

4. ...that I have a free senior cellphone with 250 free minutes each month.

5. ...for the beauty of a cloudy Thanksgiving morning with yellow and orange oak leaves falling to the ground.

6. ...that eggnog was in the grocery store when I went shopping yesterday. I had a cup of eggnog for breakfast for the first time in several years.

7. ...for the pumpkin pie I received when I went to one of the food pantries last Saturday.

8. ...that I have dentures so that I can enjoy a turkey and cranberry sandwich.

9. ...for being able to afford a cable modem so t hat I can stay connected with my family on Thanksgiving and every day of the year.

10. ...that I was able to enjoy a piece of pumpkin pie while watching the news this morning. This is a tradition that Mom and I started several years ago and I thought I might cry this morning but I did not. Instead, I remember how much Mom liked pumpkin pie.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving in the United States of America

‘Idál (Justice), 5 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Wednesday, November 27, 2013 about 8:46 AM Pacific Standard Time

"If the only prayer you said in your whole life was 'Thank you', that would suffice."

Meister Eckhart

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day in the United States of America. Today the writing.com newsletter were published and arrived in my e-mail box and the above quote by Meister Echart, is in the spiritual newsletter. A Season of Thanksgiving is the title of this week's edition and it got me to thinking about Thanksgiving and gratitude.

This year, I am planning a traditional-nontraditional Thanksgiving dinner. I am having turkey, but instead of a whole turkey or a turkey breast I am fixing ground turkey. I have some potatoes, so I will fix those with the turkey. I have pumpkin pie, I have some vegetables that I can fix as a salad, and I have a couple of melons.

I will purchase a couple of cans of whipped cream (I cannot remember what it is called) this afternoon when I go to the store to pick up a prescription and a couple of other items. I have some chicken bullion to make grave with, but I do not think I have any flour. I may purchase a small bag of flour this afternoon or I may just get some sour cream and margarine for baked potatoes. Since I do not have much money on me or in my bank account this late in the month, I have to be careful and purchase only what I need.

Despite the fact that I am not planning a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, I am grateful for what I have. I am also grateful to those who gave me these items because without the generosity of strangers and food pantries, I would not have much of a Thanksgiving. Tomorrow, I will make a Thankful Thursday Thanksgiving entry after meditating on the ten things I am thankful to have or to have experienced this year.

A National Novel Writing Month Poem

Kamál (Perfection), 3 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Monday, November 25, 2013 about 1:35 PM Pacific Standard Time

An empty coffee cup
and I still have about 10,000
words to write.

Hunger awakes
the desire for food
a grilled cheese sandwich
with hot sauce.

Is it too chilly
for a cold
cherry Dr. Pepper;
it doesn't matter
because I will open
a can anyway.

An empty coffee cup
waiting for me
to fill it
and warm the coffee up
in the microwave.

The Feast of Speech

Jalál (Glory), 1 Qawl (Speech), 170 BE - Saturday, November 23, 2013 about 11:00 AM Pacific Standard Time

I attended the Feast of Qawl (Speech) at the Baha'i Center last night. At the Feast, I could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit and Baha'u'llah. It is such a calming feeling and this morning I still have that tranquil feeling even this late in the day.

This morning, I pick up some fruit, vegetables, bread, cookies, and a pumpkin pie from one of the food pantries. I had not planned to go this morning because of the rain, but after a couple of cups of warmed over coffee I changed my mind. On the morning after attending a nineteen-day feast, I usually end up changing my plans about something or other. I am glad I went to pick up the free food because one of the items I received was a watermelon, which I think I will cut later today after it has sit in the refrigerator for a while.

on the Feast of Speech
the raindrops whisper to earth
about God's Glory

Thankful Thursday; November 21, 2013

Istijlál (Majesty), 18 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Thursday, November 21, 2013 about 6:48 pm Pacific Standard Time

Today I am thankful...

1. ...for coffee because I am going to have to pull an all nighter to catch up on my NaNoWriMo word count;

2. ...for the rain because it reminds me of a chilly autumn day in Oklahoma;

3, ...that I have been able to complete two thirty minute sprints today and, as a results, have written 1,604 words toward part of my catch-up word count goal;

4. ...for chocolate chip cookies because I have to catch up on my NaNoWriMo word count goal and I need the cookies to help me pull an all nighter;

5. ...that I have a microwave to warm up the leftover coffee to help me stay awake to catch up;

6.  ...for writing.com where I store my 2013 NaNoWriMo novel Midnight in Suburbia;

7. ...for the program Write or Die that I use to write my 30 minute and 15 minute sprint exercises;

8. ...for my afternoon nap because that may be the only sleep I get for the rest of the day;

9. ...for the oak tree, whose leaves are changing color, in my neighbor's yard;

10. ...that my cellphone has a calculator so that I can add my 30 minute and 15 minutes sprint exercise word counts together.

A Cloudy Tuesday Morning In Las Vegas

Fiḍál (Grace), 16 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Tuesday, November 19, 2013 about 8:23 am Pacific Standard Time

a cloudy Tuesday
charcoal gray clouds hide blue sky
the coffee is hot

I will be moving soon and one of the t hings I will miss is looking out this living room window at the sky. This morning, the clouds conceal the sun and the blue sky. There is a slight wind, blowing through the neighbors' oak and olive trees. The weeds in the front yard are turning from green to light gray, while the leaves on the oak tree next door are yellow and falling to the ground.

a cloudy Tuesday
the damp in the morning air
penetrates my bones

There are other things I will miss when I move out of this neighborhood, but then I will have new things to discover in my new neighborhood. I am, on one level, looking forward to the move and, one another level, I do not want to move. A move means changes and sometimes change is difficult or painful; however, it is necessary to the advancement of the individual soul and humanity.

Saturday Review of My Week: Encountering a few Senior Moments

Jalál (Glory), 13 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Saturday, November 16, 2013 about 9:42 PM Pacific Standard Time

It's been a stressful week, which may explain the senior moments I've encountered. The other possibility is that I didn't print off a To Do List, which I will do for the up coming week. I have to print off a print off a To Do List for the Week of November 17-23 otherwise I'm going to forget something. As it is, I'm not sure what I forgot this week.

I didn't realize I had been forgetting stuff until I go an e-mail message in my writing.com e-mail box about the Senior Center November contest. I had the check the forum because I couldn't remember if I entered a poem. When I checked, I found I had entered the poem Giving Thanks.

The only things I'm sure I haven't for got to do this week was write at least 1,667 words a day on Midnight in Suburbia. my NaNoWriMo novel for 2013. I also managed to achieve most of the goals I posted on writing.com, but that was only because I was keeping track of them in one of the journals I keep, in my portfolio, on that website. I obviously need to start keeping track of everything I want to accomplish and accomplish in a single week. I can do this when I print off a To Do List each day of the week.

Writing.Com is the premier online community for readers and writers of all interests and skill levels. Whether you are a casual reader searching for a good story or an enthusiastic writer looking for the perfect place to display your masterpieces, Writing.Com is the website for you!
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Thankful Thursday: November 14, 2013

Istijlál (Majesty), 11 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Thursday, November 14, 2013 about 1:18 PM Pacific Standard Time

This afternoon I am thankful...

01.  ...for the bananas I received yesterday when I went to pick up some food at one of the Food Pantries here in Las Vegas;

02.  ...that I had a black printer cartridge for my printer this morning when I went to print out a letter I needed to send;

03.  ...for the leftover coffee I warmed up in the microwave;

04.  ...that I got the trashcan rolled to the curb before the garbage truck began there run yesterday because if I had missed them I would not have anything to put my trash in today;

05.  ...for cottage cheese and tomatoes because I can eat them without worrying about there being a lot of salt in them;

06.  ...that I have a stool to put my left leg on when I am working at the computer because putting my leg up helps keep the swelling down;

07.  ...for the grayish sweater coat someone gave me because it keeps my arms warm when I have to go out on cloudy autumn mornings;

08.  ...that I received four sausages when I went to the food pantry yesterday, I at two of the sausages for my breakfast today and I can have the other two with eggs in the morning;

09.  ...for the inspiration of word prompts because they assisted me to write December Memories this morning, which I stored in my writing.com portfolio;

10.  ...that I can at least stand up for five minutes to wash some dishes.

Moving is a Traumatic Experience

Fiḍál (Grace), 9 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Tuesday, November 12, 2013 about 8:24 AM Pacific Standard Time

Moving is a traumatic experience, especially when moving from a three-bedroom house to a one-bedroom or studio apartment. I don't remember the last move being as traumatic as this one, but that was because we (Mom and I)  were moving from a three-bedroom apartment to a three-bedroom house. I also wasn't doing most of the packing myself nor were we downsizing..

I decided this morning that "I do not want to move!" The reason is that I have to downsize and make the decision on what I have to give away, store, or throwaway by myself. Other people can help me pack, but I'm the one who has to decide what to do with the items that I don't want to keep. I can't consult with anyone about those items, someone else can suggest where to take them, but I'm the one who has to decide and that is difficulty.

I'll do what I have to do. I'll give away what I have to give away. I'll throwaway what I have to throwaway. I'll store what I have to store. I'll do all those things and all the while the thought in the back of my mind is that I'm probably going to regret throwing away or giving away something that I might need later.

My Left leg went to sleep

Kamál (Perfection), 8 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Monday, November 11, 2013 about 4:32 PM Pacific Standard Time

I an a frightening experience today, while I was standing at the bookcase removing books my left foot and leg went to sleep. This is the second time in the last 30 days this has happened. The first time I was waiting in line where I had to stand in one place for more then an hour. Today I was standing at the bookcase removing books for more then an hour. When I take more books out of the bookcase, I will have to watch how long I stand up. Fortunately, I do not have to do dishes this evening so I do not stand up for a long time any more today.

I am sure that this indicates a bigger problem, but I am not sure what it means. I will have to talk to my doctor about this at my next appointment.  In the mean time, I guess I should do an internet search to see what this symptom means. I do not think I have any other symptoms, but I could be wrong because it is difficult for me to walk and my knees hurt when I stand on my feet for about a half hour.

Saturday Morning and the Blue Screen of Death

Jalál {Glory), 6 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Saturday, November 9, 2013 about 8:24 AM Pacific Standard Time

The other computer, the one I use to download to and upload from, blue screened this morning while I was attempting to make my weekly scanner upload to a survey website. I upload this scanner every week without encountering the blue screen of death, therefore the problem did not have to do with the scanner or its software. I am not sure what caused the problem, but this is the second time this week I have encountered this issue.

The first time was a couple of days ago, when I turned on that computer and it did not come on in the normal manner. I do not know what caused the problem then either, but I suspect I have to schedule some maintenance in the coming week. Of course, this would be the week when the computer wanted maintenance because this is the week I have to find some place to move and move.

This is the middle of November and I have just finished paying some bills with more bills to pay, if I can raise the money to pay them. I do not have enough money in my account to pay rent, a move in fee, or anything else that I need to pay to move into a new place. In addition, I have two prescriptions to turn in today and I need gas in the car.

This afternoon, I have to go look at a place which I probably cannot afford; however, I am going to look at it anyway. There is no use rejecting the place until I see it and figure out if I can afford it and then figure out where I will get the money to move in. Yes, I am attempting to be positive about this even though the computer blue screened, which is not a good sign, but at least it blue screened on Saturday, the end of the week, instead of on Sunday, the start of a new week.

A Weary Friday Morning in Las Vegas

Istiqlál (Independence), 8 Qudrat, 170 BE - Friday, November 8, 2013 about 8:54 am Pacific Standard Time

What's wrong with me today?
I'm tired,
I'm yawning,
I'm unable to focus,
I don't want to go to sleep,
but I can't write,
I can't think,
I can't review:
 What's wrong with me today?

Do I need more to eat?
I ate a peanut butter sandwich,
perhaps something else
maybe warm up the soup
that's in the fridge,
or make an egg and cheese sandwich:
Do I need more to eat?

Do I need another cup of coffee?
Perhaps a glass of chocolate milk
will wake me up
and get me going:
Do I need another cup of coffee?

Thankful Thursday: November 7, 2013

Istijlál (Majesty), 4 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Thursday, November 7, 2013 about 3:22 pm Pacific Standard Time

Today I am thankful...

1.  ...that I have enough coffee to last the rest of November.

2. ...for the jar o peanut butter I received with my senior food allotment.

3.  ...that I was able to purchase two loaves of sour dough bread when I went shopping this morning because now I can have a grilled cheese sandwich.

4.  ...for canned fruit.

5.  ...that I still have electricity this week.

6.  ...for the cooked turkey breast I have in the freezer because I can make a turkey and grilled cheese sandwhich.

7.  ...that I had a coupon for laundry detergent because I saved $1.50 on my grocery bill this morning.

8.  ...for the eggs I have in the refrigerator because I can have an egg sandwich for breakfast tomorrow morning.

9.  ...that I have dry milk so that I can have a cereal for a snack.

10.  ...for my internet connection.

Wordless Wednesday: Click on the link and check out my writing.com portfolio

Tuesday Morning Issues; November 5, 2013

Fiḍál (Grace), 2 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Tuesday, November 5, 2013 about 10:02 AM Pacific Standard Time

I've been up since 3:00 am, as a result I've accomplished a lot of writing. I complete 1,505 words of today's NaNoWriMo goal of 1,667 words. I completed five reviews on writing.com and made two entries in Snow Melt. I had to make two entries in (Snow Melt) my writing.com journal to meet the 200 words goal for that blog. Fortunately, I can divide the 200 word goal between my blogger blogs. I have to come close to the 200 word goal or I won't make the daily goal of 2,000 words written per day.

I have three cups of coffee, a candy cane, and two bowls of cereal this morning. I am about to fall asleep composing this entry, So I guess I better turn off the computer and take a short nap. I don't want to take a nap because I still have to finish today's NaNoWriMo writing goal for today. I have only about 100 words to write to finish today's goal and the chapter. I have to end this entry now because I'm about to doze off on my keyboard and I don't sleep well sitting up.

a cold wind blowing
tree limbs waving in the dawn
the house is silent

Monday: You Know it's Going to be a Good Day When

Kamál (Perfection), 1 Qudrat (Power), 170 BE - Monday, November 4, 2013 about 8:45 AM Pacific Standard Time

You know it's going to be a good day when...

1.  ...you see a neighbor riding his Harley-Davidson to work;

2.  ...you find the microwavable plastic container that has the leak before you put it in the microwave to reheat last night homemade chicken soup;

3.  ...you have enough left over coffee in the carafe to reheat four cups in the microwave before you have to make fresh coffee;

4.  ...you find enough laundry detergent to wash three or four loads before you have to purchase another bottle of liquid detergent;

5.  ...you don't have to put your cell phone on the charger before making the first call of the day;

6.  ...you find you have a large trash bag of aluminum cans ready to take to the recycling center to sell before Thanksgiving;

7.  ...you check the weather report to find out that there is 0% chance of rain even though there is a cloud cover;

8. ...your virus scan program doesn't take four hours to check you hard drive for threats;

9.  ...you access the internet and go straight to work instead of logging into your favorite online game website;

10.  ...you complete three blog entries before 9:30 AM.

A Painful Sunday Morning

Jamál (Beauty), 19 'Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Sunday, November 3, 2013 about 9:23 AM Pacific Standard Time

It's a painful Sunday morning,
getting up every fifteen minutes
so that the osteoarthritis in my knees
don't lock the joints
or sitting down every twenty minutes
so that my legs don't collapse under me.

It's a painful Sunday morning,
trying to live another day without heat
because if I turn it on
the power bill will go through the roof
and I still have to pay
last month's bill.

It's a painful Sunday morning,
but this too shall pass
like winter
when spring's
warm smile appears.

The thrid time in as Many Weeks

Jalál (Glory), 18 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Saturday, November 2, 2013 about 4:45 PM Pacific Daylight Time

I just finished manually reboot my cable modem. This is the third time in three weeks that I have had to perform this action. I have had the modem for over a year and this is the first time I have to reboot it so many time in a four week period.

I left my computer on when I went to the couch to get my cell phone. While I was away from the computer I ate something and then called my brother. I was away from the computer for about an hour and the modem somehow lost its connection to the Internet. In order to get the connection back, I had to manually reboot the modem. It is not a difficult process it is just a bit irritating to have to do it so often.

From now on, if I think I am going to be away for more then thirty minutes, I will just turn the computer off and turn it back on when I am ready to work again. Normally, I only turn it off when I leave it to look at television, go to bed, leave the house, or do house work. If the modem keeps acting this way, I will have to call my cable provider and ask about the problem.

I need to go to the grocery store this afternoon

Istiqlál (Independence), 17 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Friday, November 1, 2013 about 10:40 AM Pacific Daylight Time

I have to go to the grocery store this afternoon between 12:00 and 2:00 PM because I have to be back to the house before 3:00. I got off to a slow started today, which means I haven't written very much and I haven't reached the 834 word count yet. This is half of today's NaNoWriMo word count goal of 1,667. I need to reach that before I can leave the house today.

My Social Security check hit the bank this morning, so I can purchase some necessities and a little gas. I don't know how much more I can purchase though because I still have to figure out how much I'm going to have left for the power bill after everything else comes out, but I have to purchase a few personal items. I also need laundry soap and maybe some dish washing liquid because I don't want to run out before the end of the month.

I'll write a few more words on my NaNoWriMo novel and then I will check to see how much money I have coming out of my account this month. I had better remember to get coffee while I'm at the grocery store or I will be completely out before the end of the month.

I am usually a patient person

Istijlál (Majesty), 16 'Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Thursday, October 31, 2013 about 1:10 PM Pacific Daylight Time

I don't know what is wrong with me today, but I don't have the patience to complete a twenty-five or thirty minute survey. I have started two surveys sent to one of my e-mail boxes and managed (with difficulty) to complete one of them. I completed a thirty minute survey this morning; however, when I took a twenty-five minute survey I was unable to complete it because I was too impatient.

It's unusual for me to exit a survey before I complete it, but for some reason my survey patience went out the window today. I can write a blog entry without any problems, but when it comes to surveys I begin getting impatient less then halfway through. I'll fix me something to eat and see if that helps or perhaps I should just delete today's surveys. Give the surveys a rest today and try again tomorrow.

The problems with doing survey on Friday, November 1, is my commitment to National Novel Writing Month. Tomorrow I begin writing Midnight in Suburbia (the working title of this year's NaNoWriMo novel). I can work on the novel in the morning and then in the afternoon see how my patience is when  it comes to doing surveys.

A Gift from Grandma Mary

‘Idál (Justice), 15 ‘Ilm (Knowledge) 170 BE – Wednesday, October 30, 2013

As I was cleaning out dresser drawers, I found a potholder that Grandma Mary had embroidered in 1951 or 1952. I’m not exactly sure what year Grandma made the potholder. I know it was sometime between my fifth and sixth birthday because, according to the age she put on the potholder, I was five years old and I turned that age on December 24, 1951.

On one side of the potholder is an outline of my hand, in blue embroidery thread and on the other side is the outline of my sister’s hand in red thread, with her age as two and one-half. Grandma used our right hands and put each of our names under the hands, but above the age.

I’m not sure how Grandma got our hand prints, but I think she must have had each of us place our hands on the material and then she used a pencil to draw the outline. I don’t remember the occasion, I wish I did because it must have been something Grandma wanted both my sister and I to remember.

Look at the hand prints, I have that sad nostalgic feeling I get when I think about Grandma Mary or Grandpa Frank. However, I don’t remain sad very long because this gift from Grandma Mary makes me smile. Perhaps I should write a poem about the potholder.

Giving my portfolio a new look

Fiḍál (Grace), 14 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Tuesday, October 29, 2013 about 1:27 PM Pacific Daylight Time

I joined writing.com on October 31, 2002 and I am still a member. After eleven years, I have decided to give my portfolio new look. I uploaded a picture of Mom and me to the website, I used the picture as a portfolio cover. I also changed the header, so that it now features one of my poems.

I updated the map of my port and moved it so that it is easier for people going there to see. I also put the collection of my Mother's Poems, which I am editing, in the highlights so that it is one of the first thing people see. I have several other things I want to do over the next couple of months. I hope to have everything completed before December 31, 2013, but it may take longer to do everything I want with the port.

Somethings I still have to do...

1. Give all my books and folders covers;

2. Write a detained biography of my life.

3.  Purchase a premium plus membership.

October Wind in Las Vegas

Kamál (Perfection), 13 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Monday, October 28, 2013 about 6:22 AM Pacific Daylight Time

the wind was scary
things going bump all night
chilling the darkness

I am not sure what time the wind started blowing last night. I know I heard it when I went to sleep on the couch, which was between 6:30 and 10:00 pm. It blew hard enough to rattle the mail slot in the front door and it sounds like someone is attempting to break into the house. I have lived here long enough that I am used to the sound, but when I first moved into this house it frightened me until I figured out what made the noise.

the wind is scary
pushing trashcans down the street
waking me from sleep

I woke up, before the alarm sound this morning, to the noise of plastic trashcans blowing in the street. At least, I think it was sound of plastic trashcans blowing in the wind. It was still dark outside, so I did not open the door or go outside to find out what made the noise. I choose to remain in the house because 3:30 am is too early to go out looking for the cause of noises.

I am on waiting lists in Las Vegas and Searchlight

Jalál (Glory), 11 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Saturday, October 26, 2013 about 5:49 PM Pacific Daylight Time

I am on another waiting list for a one bedroom apartment, which I cannot afford. I cannot afford to remain in this house and I cannot afford the studio apartment I am going to look at on Monday. I can afford the rents, but I cannot afford the move in fees.  If I am accepted after they places do a credit check and a background check (it is not the background check I am worried about) then I will have to ask my siblings for help with the fees.

I know something will come up that I can afford, I just have to keep on looking. If I do get into the studio, then I have to continue looking for a place because I am not sure I can fit all my books into a studio apartment. I am downsizing as much as possible, but their are some books that I want to keep and take with me.

I looked at a place on Thursday that I like. I did not see the apartment but I saw the building and found out the about what they have going on. There are activities and other fun stuff. Oh well, if I move into the studio then I will have to schedule my own activities. If I schedule my own activities then the only place I will go is spiritual services and the gym. However, those may be the only places I want to go.

Contemplations on Moving

Istiqlál (Independence), 10 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Friday, October 25, 2013 about 5:43 AM Pacific Time

It is the last Friday in October 2013 and it is the last October I will spend in this house. I am looking forward to moving, which is an event filled with both joy and tears. I am sad to be leaving a house Mom and I enjoyed living in. I am happy to be downsizing my life by moving into a smaller place.

I am moving to a smaller place that will be easier for me to keep clean. I am looking forward to making new friends and getting involved in new activities. I am looking forward to re-involving myself in some old activities I enjoyed with Mom. I am looking forward to making new memories and writing poems or stories about the old memories.

I am looking forward to moving someplace where I do not wake up in the middle of the night listening for the oxygen concentrator. Mom died on November 29, 2012, almost eleven months ago, I still wake up in the middle of the night listening for the noise of the oxygen concentrator. I still wake up thinking I hear Mom calling me and then realize it was only a dream. Perhaps in the new place I can sleep through the night without waking up listening for those sounds.

The old sounds still haunt
this house, its bedrooms and hall,
wake me at midnight.

Midweek Reflections on the Last Full Week in October

‘Idál (Justice) , 8 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Wednesday, October 23, 2013 about 8:41 AM Pacific Daylight Time

It is Wednesday of the last full week in October. I know this because I checked the date on my "Happy writing.com Anniversary!" calendar.  My anniversary date is October 31 and I have been a member writing.com since 2002. I joined this writer's website on a whim one Halloween Day and I have remained a member ever since.

This is the last full week in October and I am in the process of downsizing. I have to downsize because I am moving from a three bedroom house to a studio or one bedroom apartment. I have gotten rid of a lot of stuff, but I still have more to either give away or throw away. This morning I put the dining room table with its four chairs on Free Cycle. Hopefully someone will want the table and chairs before this coming weekend.

Since I am moving to a smaller place, I am taking a small black breakfast table and two chairs with me. I am also going to take at least one of the bookcases. I may take the other bookcase with me, but I am not sure at the moment. I have a lot of books to give away, so I should put some of those on Free Cycle. I know what books I want to take with me and what books I want to give away. I need some boxes to put the books in I want to transport to my new place.

It is the last full week in October, I am looking forward to moving. I am not looking forward to packing up everything. I am having difficulty deciding what things I want to take, throw away, or give away. I am making those stressful decisions and learning to let go of the past. I am moving forward one step at a time.

I Saw the Waning Gibbous in Las Vegas

Fiḍál (Grace), 7 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Tuesday, October 22, 2013 about 5:31 AM Pacific Daylight Time

I took same trash to the garage this morning and when I looked up I saw the waning gibbous moon and several stars twinkling. It is a clear morning here in Las Vegas, if I look directly overhead I can see a stars twinkling despite the light pollution. Sometimes in the early morning or late evening Venus, Mars, or some of the other planets are visible in the predawn or night sky. I did not stay out long enough to see if any of the planets were visible on this chilly autumn morning.

One of the advantages of living in the suburbs is the view of the sky. It is difficult to see the night sky on the Las Vegas Strip because of the casino lights, but in the suburbs it is some times possible to see the stars. According to weather.com, Las Vegas can expect a sunny day with zero percent chance of rain. The temperature this morning is 59 degrees and today's high is predicted to be 82 degrees, which makes October 22 a nice day in Las Vegas.

the waning gibbous
smiles down upon the city
a beautiful day

Too Busy to Play Games in Las Vegas

Jalál (Glory), 4 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Saturday, October 19, 2013 about 4:32 PM Pacific Daylight Time

Today I was too busy to  play games. I did not log into my online games account and I did not play any of the solitary games on my computer hard drive. I did not think about playing games until about five minutes ago when I decided I needed to make an entry in this blog.Usually I play one or  two games of solitary to help focus my attention, but today I did not need to play the games.

This morning, I went to the Creekside Hospice Memoriam Gathering at the Las Vegas National Golf Club. I was there from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. After leaving the Golf Club, I came home and logged into writing.com. I made an entries in two of my books and wrote a background stories for my antagonist in Midnight in Suburbia. I also fixed me something to eat this afternoon.

I did not miss the solitary games today. I did not even want to play them, which is obvious since I did not think about them. I guess the best way for me to keep from wasting my time playing games is to be too busy at something else. I may be too busy to play them tomorrow, as well. I still have the closet in my bedroom to empty and I think tomorrow I will finish taking the stuff off the shelf and put it in the largest empty trunk I have.

Thankful Thursday: October 17, 2013

Istijlál (Majesty), 2 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Thursday, October 17, 2013 about 9:47 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Today I am thankful...

1.  ...that I was able to attend the Feast of  'Ilm (Knowledge) on the evening of Tuesday, October 15, at the Baha'i Center in Las Vegas;

2.   ...that I found my copy of The Book of Forms: A Handbook of Poetics by  Lewis Turco, while I was cleaning off a bookshelf and going through trunks;

3.  ...that I found a copy of the poem My Home by 'Abdu'l-Baha, which I can frame and hang on the wall when I moved into my new place;

4.  ...that I found my copy of One Day My Soul Just Opened Up by Inanla Vanzant, while I was cleaning off a bookshelf and going through trunks;

5.  ...that I was able to make a fresh carafe of coffee this morning because hot coffee tastes good on a chilly fall morning;

6.  ...that I found my dream journal The Dream Nothing Book: Sleep on It!, which I put in a trunk 10 years ago and forgot I had purchased;

7.  ...that I received a package of 4 Chocolate Chip Bagels when I pick up food at a local food pantry last week;

8.  ...that I have enough coffee in the container to last me the rest of October, I can make a fresh carafe of coffee every day if I want to;

9.  ...that I still have enough "Flat Steak Stew" to warm up for my lunch and eat with my bagels;

10.  ...that I have a package of salad (I picked it up when I went to the food pantry) to eat with my "Flat Steak Stew" or the "Chocolate Chip Bagels".

A Chilly October Morning

‘Idál (Justice), 1 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 170 BE - Wednesday, October 16, 2013 about 9:40 AM Pacific Daylight Time

On this chilly October morning,
I think back to last night's drive
across Las Vegas.

Traffic was heavy,
on Charleston Avenue,
as I drove west
toward Rainbow Boulevard
and the Baha'i Center
on West Oakey.

On this chilly October morning,
I contemplate the tranquility
at the Feast of Knowledge,
as I listened to the sacred scriptures
and the prayers
celebrating
the beginning of a new month.

A Busy Tuesday Morning

Fiḍál (Grace), 19 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Tuesday October 15, 2013 about 1:19 PM Pacific Daylight Time

After a busy Tuesday morning I simply want to take it easy. I was on one or the other of the phones all morning. I called my Internet provider, which is also my cable and land telephone line provider. I signed up for their new bundle because it was cheaper then the one I had with them, which expired some time ago. I now have a two year contract that is less expensive then what I was paying, but I have to move where they have connections.

I am looking for an inexpensive place to live in Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, or Boulder City. Those are the cities in southern Nevada that I am sure has the Internet and cable connections I need. I have to find a new place by November 25, at the latest. I talked to my real estate agent yesterday and found out that is when the short-sale of the house will close. Now all I have to do is find an affordable and safe place to life, preferably on the ground floor.

I have osteoarthritis in my knees, so walking up and down stairs is difficult and painful. I hope I can find a senior apartment in Las Vegas because this is where most of my friends are located, However, I will be happy finding one in the Clark County area because I can get a cable hookup. I would also like a place with less expensive utilities then this house. I am tired of trying to figure out how I am going to pay the electric bill. If I have to worry about paying a bill, I would rather worry about the rent then the electric bill.

I Am in the Process of Moving

Jamál (Glory), 17 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Sunday, August 13, 2013 about 7:40 AM

I am in the process of moving. I am packing my old pen and paper journals in a trunk to take with me to my new place. I have to decide which of the books in my personal library I want to take and donate the rest. The most stressful part of the whole thing is decided on the books I want to keep. It is a necessary decision because I cannot take all my books with me and I cannot pay to have them kept in storage.

I am not saying where I will move because I have several options. I cannot afford the rent at some of the options, but they are options so I will keep them in mind for a while. There is one place, I may be able to afford the rent, but I am not sure I want to move there. It would mean moving out of Las Vegas and away from my friends. I have to list  the pros and cons of this move in my pen and paper journal (yes, I have started keeping a pen and paper journal again). I also have to say some prayer because it may be God's will that I move to the affordable option even though it is away from my friends and Las Vegas.

The doorbell woke m up this morning

Jalál (Glory),16 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Saturday, October 12, 2013 about 5:46 AM

The doorbell woke me up about 3:30 AM. I got up, put on a robe, and answered the door. No one was there, so I closed the door, took my thyroid medication, said a morning prayer, and turned on the computers. Since the bell ring only once it is possible it was part of a dream or my subconscious waking me up. Whatever causes this phenomenon it has been occurring every 30 to 90 days since 2007 or 2008.

I am not worried, but I am not used to it happening. I still get up and go to the door to see if anyone is there. I know it is not a good idea to open the door like that, but the security screen is locked. I an not sure why I open the door, I suspect it is curiosity or the fact that I have had relatives ring my doorbell at odd hours of the day and night.

Normally, when this happens I go back to bed (or in my case I lay down on the couch) and go back to sleep. This morning I could not go back to sleep because I was wide awake and I have projects that I have to complete today. I will take a nap this afternoon if I get sleepy, otherwise I will pack couple of trunks and finish some writing projects.

I Took the Test for Depression Today

Istijlál (Majesty), 14 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Thursday, October 10, 2013 about 8:03 AM Pacific Daylight Time

October 10 is National Screening for Depression Day, therefore, I did an online search for Depression Test. I then took the test because I have been feeling unhappy and sad for sometime. I encourage anyone who is feeling down and cannot shake that emotion to take the test and then contact his or her doctor. The following is my results.

Disorder	Your Score
Major Depression:	High
Dysthymia:	Slight-Moderate
Bipolar Disorder:	Very Slight
Cyclothymia:	Slight-Moderate
Seasonal Affective Disorder:	High-Moderate
Postpartum Depression:	N/A
Take the Depression Test

Looking Forward to Dawn

Fiḍál (Grace), 12 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Tuesday, October 8, 2013 about 6:26 AM Pacific Daylight Time

I am looking forward to dawn and carrying the trash out to the garage. All right, taking the trash out is no big deal, but I like the idea of walking in the sun. I enjoy standing in the driveway listening to the birds or watching the neighbor's oak tree lose its leaves. Most of the leaves on that tree are still green; however, some of them have begun falling to the ground.

As I look out my window, I can see the sky turning from deep black to blueish gray. I think we may have a cloud cover, but I cannot be sure until after dawn. Las Vegas in a valley and at first light I cannot be sure if there are clouds or the sky just looks cloudy because the sun is still behind Sunrise Mountain. Since I have not turned on television to watch the news or checked the weather.com, I do not know the forecast for today.

I am planning on staying home, so I do not care what the weather is like. It does not matter if it is cloudy or clear when I am working in the house. All though, I may have to go into the back yard to get the ladder. I noticed  yesterday, when I went onto the patio that the ladder was sitting on the west side of the yard next to a huge oleander bush. I need to put the ladder in the patio or the garage where I can get to it easily.

An Interesting Request

Jamál (Beauty), 9 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Sunday, October 5, 2013 about 9:44 AM Pacific Daylight Time

I had an interesting request this morning, a man knocked at my door and ask if he could have one of the limbs that are lying in my front yard. The limbs were cut off the pine tree a couple of weeks ago and are still waiting for someone to carry them away. I told the man he could have the limb, I did not ask what he was going to do with it because it was none of my business. I glad to have one of limbs gone because it means one less item for me to deal with.

This close to Halloween, I suspect he wanted it for some type of yard decoration. People in this neighborhood are starting to decorate for Halloween. The neighbors across the street have a jack o' lantern grinning from their front window. I suppose a dead tree limb would make a interesting and possibly scary or spooky yard decoration.

I do not decorate for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, but I like to see how other people decorate for those holidays. One of my fondest Christmas memories is driving around looking at the yard decorations on the weekends before or after Christmas. Since I do not get out much at night, the only yard decorations I see are those in my neighborhood.

Midweek Reflections on Cars, Service Stations, and Clothes

Istijlál (Majesty), 7 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Wednesday, October 2, 2013 about 7:35 PM Pacific Daylight Time

This afternoon I was driving back from my grief counseling meeting when my car stalled. I stopped at the corner of Desert Inn and South Eastern for the light, when I went to turn north on Eastern the car stalled. This is the first time it has did that in a long time, I suspect it may have something to do with the amount of gas in my tank. Unfortunately, I cannot get any gas until my Social Security check hits my bank account. I expect the money to be deposited in my account on Thursday or Friday.

I have enough gas in the tank to get me to a service station, if I go to the one on the corner of South Eastern and East Sahara. I will use my debit card to pay for the gas, I have used my debit card at that station before. That is a full service station, if I chose to use that service bay. Since I need to have the transmission fluid and the tires checked, I think I will use the full service bay.

I should get the tank fill so that I do not have to worry about gas for the rest of the month. The Kia is easy on gas and I do not drive the car very much any more. Still it will cost about fifty dollars to fill the entire tank. I know that does not sound like much, but I am on a fixed income. If I fill the tank then I have to put off shopping for clothes this month. If I do not have gas in the tank then I cannot go anywhere, so it does not matter if I have anything nice to wear around the house.

I will get the gas instead of the clothes. I have two dresses that I can wear in public, all though there are a couple of things I desperately need. I also need to have my hair cut, but I will have to put that and the clothes shopping off until November. Oh well, that is the way life goes sometimes.

Check list for reviewing or writing my weekly To Do List

Kamál {Perfection), 4 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Monday, September 30, 2013 about 9:50 AM Pacific Daylight Time

After reviewing my weekly "To Do List" this morning, I realized there were a couple of items I wanted on the list. I think the only reason I have for not list them is lack of attention, which is the results of drowsiness. Therefore, I have decided to make a check list for writing and reviewing my "To Do List".

1. Drink at least three cups of coffee before starting the "To Do List".
2. Take a short walk in the morning or afternoon sunlight before creating the list.
3. Check the previous week's list for any necessary additions.
4. Pour another cup of coffee before starting this weekly list.
5. Use check marks or word counts to indicate accomplishments.
6. Use X or dash indicate items not accomplished or completed.
7. Write necessary additions at bottom of present "To Do List".

Some of the things on the list I need to do only two or three times a week. I have to do my A priorities everyday, while I need to do my B priorities three or four time during the week. My C priorities are once a week activities and those can be skipped until the weekend if I need to put them off. As much as I dislike making the list and setting the priorities, I need the discipline.

International Coffee Day: Thoughts about Coffee

Jamál (Beauty), 3 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Sunday, September 29, 2013 about 4:09 PM Pacific Time

I celebrated International Coffee Day, the same way I always celebrate it, with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The coffee maker I use brews twelve and I drink three cups this morning, so I still have about nine cups left. I will warm one or two cups up in the microwave this afternoon, the rest I will save for tomorrow.

I purchased the coffee maker while Mom was still alive. Between Mom and I we could always drink twelve cups and would empty the carafe. Now that I am by myself, I cannot drink twelve cups in a single day. I have fresh coffee one day and then the next I warm my coffee up in the microwave. Perhaps I should consider getting a smaller coffee maker.

A smaller coffee maker would work well in the fall and winter, but not in the spring and summer. When the weather gets warmer, I drink iced coffee. I make my iced coffee with coffee ice cubes, this means brewing, at least, twelve cups so I have enough coffee to freeze in the ice cube trays. I will consider getting a new coffee maker after I move.

Autumn Temperatures in Las Vegas

Istiqlál (Independence), 1 Mashíyyat (Will), 170 BE - Friday, September 27, 2013 about 11:02 AM Pacific Daylight Time

I wake up this morning shivering and thought I was sick until I looked at the thermostat . The thermostat read 76 degrees, the temperature dropped dramatically last night. When I went to bed it was 83 degrees in the house, so I did not use a sheet to cover myself. Tonight I will use a sheet and hopefully wake up a bit warmer on Saturday morning.

autumn temperatures
refreshing cool almost cold
a pleasant morning

It is autumn in Las Vegas with cooler morning temperatures and a wind chill factor. I have not turned off the cool air because it gets a bit warm in the afternoon. I will keep an eye on the thermostat for the next six or seven day to see if it get close to 80 degrees in the afternoon. If the indoor temperatures stays below 80 for the next week I will turn off the unit. In the mean time, I have a sheet or some light blankets to put over me at night.

Thankful Thursday: September 26, 2013

‘Idál (Justice), 19 ‘Izzat (Might), 170 BE - Thursday, September 26, 2013 about 10:40 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Today I am thankful...

1. That I found an empty memo book when I was cleaning out Mom's dresser. Now I have something to keep track of my daily word count.
2. That I still have some homemade vegetable soup in the refrigerator. All I have to do is warm it up for lunch and dinner today or tomorrow.
3. That I have all the worksheets printed of to use in my upcoming NaNoWriMo novel.
4. That I have all the laundry washed and dried for today.
5. That it is finally fall and the temperature is getting cooler.
6. That I was able to make a fresh carafe of coffee this morning.
7. That I had bananas for breakfast.
8. That I have the clothes out of two of the closets.
9. That I have a clothes dryer so that I do not have to spread the wet clothes over furniture.
10. That this is a beautiful day in Las Vegas.

Two bags of my mother's cloths setting in the hall

Kamál (Perfection), 16 ‘Izzat (Might), 170 BE - Monday, September 23, 2013 about 3:44 PM Pacific Daylight Time

I finished the closet in my Mother's bedroom and removed the remain clothes from hangers. I did not realize there were still so many things left in that closet. I put the clothes in trash bags and sit them in the entrance hall. On Thursday, September 26. a truck will be by to pick those bags and any others I have filled.

I still have clothes in two bedrooms to put into trash bags before I can begin moving out furniture. I will not worry about the furniture or anything else, except the clothes until Thursday afternoon. I need to get the clothes I am giving away into trash bags and the bags labeled for pick up on September 26. After I finish bagging the clothes I am giving away, I need to pack the clothes I want to keep. Fortunately, that will not be difficult because I already have one suitcase packed and ready to go.

The sale of the house will clothes on October 30, so I have to have almost everything out and a new place to live by then. I am more worried about getting the house packed then I am about finding a place to live. My physical conditions makes it a bit more difficult for me to get stuff packed and ready to give away. I know, even though I have to rest between bouts of packing, I am capable of accomplishing this.

On a Windy Sunday in September

Jamál (Beauty), 15 ‘Izzat (Might), 170 BE - Sunday, September 22, 2013 about 6:47 AM Pacific Daylight Time

The wind is blowing between at 15 to 20 mph. I do not know how fast it is blowing, but I know it is fast enough to slam the patio door and make the limbs of the oleanders move. Since the dead limb on the pine tree, in the front yard, was cut off last week I do not have to worry about it falling across the drive way.

oleander limbs
waving in the morning wind
a new week begins

I did not turn turn the television on this morning. I checked the weather.com for the information on wind speeds. According to the information on that website, the UV index in Las Vegas is "very high" and the humidity is 32 percent. As I look out my living room window, I can see that the sky is partly cloudy, but I have to go back to the website to find the temperature. Right now the temperature is a nice 64 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sunday wind and clouds
a nice day in Las Vegas
autumn temperatures

I think the autumnal equinox occurs about 1:44 pm local time. This morning, when I went outside pick up the newspaper, it felt like fall. It is time for me to start hot coffee instead of iced. The temperatures are becoming cooler, so I need a hot beverage to warm me up in the morning. I plan on finishing off the iced coffee today and washing the ice cube trays I use to make my coffee ice.

Midweek Reflictions on Autumn

‘Idál (Justice), 11 ‘Izzat (Might), 170 BE - Wednesday, September 18, 2013 about 11:35 AM Pacific Daylight Time

The Autumnal Equinox occurs on Saturday, September 22, 2013 at 4:44 PM Eastern Daylight Time, which is 1:44 PM Pacific Daylight Time. According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, this is the time the sun crosses the celestial equator. Equinox is a Latin word meaning "equal night".

Autumnal Equinox
brings cooler days and memories
of my childhood.

When I was a child, I always looked forward to the first day of fall. The days became cooler and we began harvesting Grandpa's garden. This mean digging potatoes and picking all sorts of homegrown vegetables. Grandma would can the vegetables and Grandpa would put the potatoes in the root cellar or storm cellar.

Digging potaotoes
anticipating a crunchy reward
childhood memories.

Once the potatoes were all dug, Grandpa would cut one or two so that we could eat a raw potato with salt and pepper. I can still remember the way the potato crunched when I chewed it and how it tasted in my mouth. I probably was not crazy about digging the potatoes, but now those memories are precious because of the time spent with my Grandparents.