funny

Touch Down Tucson

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After hearing all day from pilots that turbulence was expected it finally occurred on the Tucson touchdown. And what a touchdown it was with massive extra points. I even had to use the barf bag for re -breathing. This I’ve never done in my 50 years of flying.

My first layover on this trip was in LAX for 5 hours. It was wonderful to see the new airport under construction. Delta has donated 1.9 billion. Glad some of that tax break to companies we are paying for is being used to some good. Maybe they can do roads next?.

Now I am in Tucson at a ritzy spa and have to pinch myself to believe I’m here. You never know what Expedia comes up with. After a snobby greeting at the desk from a pretentious 20 year old male and his 18 year old female counterpart I paid my $230 resort fee. A supersized golf cart then took me to my room. Being left off at the elevator I realized the guy probably thought I wouldn’t tip so got rid of me quick. Later as I watched him schlep others directly to their rooms and open the door I grimaced, then laughed. Guess the Motel 6 demeanor never leaves you, however, his loss as I probably tip better than those “classy” customers he took to the door.

The pools, of which we have 7 at this “spa,” and the views are to die for. The sunrise and sunset in the desert is spectacular. Have to go as I am off to see the garden sites today and a Mission Church. Keep in touch.

AM in Tucson From the “Spa” Sliders

Thank you, Big Bang

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It’s been 12 days since the Big Bang Theory went out with a bang on May 16th. Since I love happy endings I adored the finale. I still lament the uncanny ending of Seinfeld. Why couldn’t Elaine and Jerry have gotten together?

Back to Big Bang.. after debuting on September 24, 2007 and with 12 seasons completed their departure was eminent. How many children can Bernadette have? And poor Raj, will he ever find the right girl? So many unanswered questions that perhaps a reunion in 5 years will be in order? I look forward to 2024.

Thanks again, writers, cast, and yes, even crew, for giving us all the laughs.

Complaining Blog………………………2 of 2

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Chubby People on Plane, Buses and Trains

I was a fat kid and mercilessly abused in school. At 63 I still have the emotional scars and insecurities from that abuse.

Now I am a “normal” weight, which in American society appears to be anything under 200 pounds. I cringe when I hear the words, “Fat Shaming.” Where was everyone for me when I was being fat shamed? Now, those former skinnies are fat and insulted.

About 4 years ago I spent 6 hours on a bus going from New York City to Montreal sitting next to a blimp of a woman. Yes, I have the right to use that phrase since I have been taunted with it. I cringed when I saw her coming down the aisle and realized the only seat on the bus was next to me. The ride was 6 hours of discomfort and oppressive as her massive body lay upon me. I felt pain when she moved. It was a scary ride.

I understand why others are concerned taking mass transit with these grossly obese folk. You could easily be injured if they fall on you. But besides that I am concerned for these folk’s health. Blood provides nourishment to our bodies. With blood redirected to fat areas the brain is compromised and starved of this vital nutrient as is other organs. This is turn causes a decrease in the brain’s ability to think and function, energy dwindles and bodily functions are impaired.

We need to take better care of our bodies. We only have one.

It’s Kathleen and if you don’t like what I say It’s still Kathleen.

I hope I’ve given you something to think about.

Please take some action. Start small, walk 20 minutes every day.

Complaining Blogs Series………….1 of 2

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THIS IS THE FIRST OF TWO COMPLAINING BLOGS.. YOU CAN STOP READING NOW IF YOU WISH.

SCREAMING KIDS ON AIRPLANES AND THEIR PARENTS

I hate screaming kids on airplanes. On 3 of my last several flights this occurred. I can understand a baby crying on take off and landing with the changes in ear pressure but kids that are 3 and 4 years old? Give me a break or them a lollipop.

On my horrific plane ride to Jordan the kid not only cried on take off and landing but sporadically throughout the red-eye flight. Then when the kid was quiet the stewardess decided to chat with the mom. I wanted to sleep however they were giggling about God knows what in what language. While I considered this rude I kept my mouth shut as I was in the Middle East.

Finally, after an ear deafening death wail curdle of the umpteen time I said something. While everyone looked at me like I was the bad guy I didn’t care. The cries ceased.

On the next flight the kid started early on. I turned to the mom and told her of my Jordan flight. Apparently she was so intimidated by me she said something to the kid and he was quiet the rest of the flight. Maybe she told him Santa wasn’t coming this year if he cried but who cared as long as he shut up. This was another 3 year old and upon departure I thanked the mom for controlling the kid.

The crying on the third flight caused me to have a migraine headache. Once the kid was switched to dad he was silent the rest of the flight. At one point mom wanted the kid back and I politely but resolutely told her he’s happy with his dad and please consider the other passengers. That and a bit of a glare made her return to her seat childless. Mission accomplished and I didn’t even need Tom Cruise’s help for that.

I know what you re thinking, “Wait till you are a grandmother?” Well, between you and I, I may be the only woman on the face of the Earth who has no aspirations for that role, and if it happens the kid won’t fly till he’s 18.

Oh, gosh, there goes another screamer. Can you tell I’m on a plane??

Next time I’ll discuss sitting next to the “chubby” passenger. Another friendly topic.

It’s Kathleen and if you don’t like what I say it’s still Kathleen.

Mother Daughter Relationships

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I think one of the hardest things in the world is mother-daughter relationships. Whenever I think of these critters I recall the grandmother in the Parenthood movie talking about the roller coaster of life and these relationships sure are that.

My daughter is now 36 and I believe and am hopeful we are finally on the right track. With the tempestuous teen years behind us, and the early to mid 20’s into the 30’s a blur, I took a year break from this relationship catastrophe.

On the night of Hillary Clinton’s political demise she emailed me stating, “Hey, mom, she won!” At that moment I knew she cared even though wrong. I was in the midst of hysteria, tear filled for Hill and our country as I felt Hillary’s pain, and growing up a New Yorker knew what was to come.

After that fitful night we began some minor texts and even got together for 2.5 days at Thanksgiving. I flew out to Salt Lake City and we toured the town then drove through Idaho and Wyoming. T Day dinner was at a pricey movie star condo place with a restaurant overlooking the Tetons and impressive.

Staying overnight at The Spud Drive-In was a hoot. Here we sat in winter regalia watching Mrs. Doubtfire on the big screen from our cabin porch drinking wine. A priceless moment. Google the place if you don’t believe me. You’ll want to make a reservation.

Now 6 months later I’m driving out for an Austin visit as that is where she lives. I’m practicing how to keep my mouth shut and bringing duct tape just in case with hopes for a wonderful visit. Since she never reads my blog I’m okay.

So, for all those going through this kind of stuff with your adult children, have faith and don’t forget the…

The Limelight: St. Augustine’s Finest

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11 Old Mission Avenue
St. Augustine
great parking available

This week I attended St. Augustine’s community theater, The Limelight, and took in Father of the Bride. Having seen both the Spencer Tracey/Elizabeth Taylor and Steve Martin/Diane Keaton versions I decided to give this a go.

It was a delightful community theater performance with actors and actresses alike on cue hitting their jovial lines with grace. The Limelight has much to offer and I wondered if any tourists were in the audience as it brings a welcome relief from the busyness of touring the historic city.

The story is based on the Banks family and their preparation for a June wedding. While set in a time frame of many years ago the sentiments and concerns remain in current day. Who do you invite to the wedding? How do you cut costs? And then there is the drama of love in the mix among all these decisions and concerns.

I look forward to the theater’s next performance, Calendar Girls. I’m sure it will enchant as well.

Internet Angst: Where did the “x” go??????

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As I scanned the internet today I realized how overcrowded it is. When searching a site another site rises covering the site being reviewed. To date I have not been able to figure out how to remove this offender. They seem to hide the “x” and it no longer lives in the screen’s right hand corner. Why did they move his or her home? This is what I knew.

In attempts to peel off this offender I am lost as several other offenders arrive blocking the site I wish to review. I understand all these sites make advertising money when you review their site but am I actually reviewing the site as I attempt to X out? The sites multiply further. What insanity this is. And the worst part I finally x off in frustration and no one wins. Kind of like our present government.

It’s Kathleen and if you don’t like what I say it’s still Kathleen.

Caveat: Send me a person to be retrained on the internet. I need to learn how to find the x.

Day 3 Evening: Cuba Here I Come — The Tropicana

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Welcome

Welcome to the Tropicana, a casino cabaret which opened in 1931 and has operated 7 days a week since. Wikipedia and our tour guide stated Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra and Jack Nicholson have performed at the club. The revolution stopped the gambling portion and mobsters Lucky Luciano, Frank Bishop and Santo Trafficante were shown the door for trafficking drugs among the gambling operations. Today the cabaret is exclusively Cuban with song and dance all performed by scantily clad females and males who don feathers, glitter and head gear sometimes 3 feet tall. The club generates 2 million a year in revenue for the government who pays these dancers/government workers a top salary of $400/month. Currently the club has a school to teach young people how to become professional dancers for the venue.

This was a must see and while it is loud a seat close to the stage is the best vantage point.

Enough with history … a picture is worth a 1,000 words. On to the show!

Tropicana stage
Dancer close-up
Elegance among the feathers
Performers carrying chandeliers on their heads

Cuba at it’s finest. Hope you enjoyed the show.

Is golf for me?

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Photo by tyler hendy on Pexels.com

I live on a golf course so why am I asking this question. I am surrounded by noises of carts and individuals grunting and raving about their putt. So, after 2 years of this I finally decided to visit the golf house or whatever it’s called.

Since trepidation was in my veins I brought Biscuit with me for protection. We were greeted by a charming woman who worked one day a week and while her information was limited she eagerly gave what she knew.

Leaving the clubhouse, ah yes that is what it is called, I held the information on the women’s league in my hand. Time will tell as I add up the costs of clubs, balls, perhaps shoes, lessons and fees. These costs verses a trip to Switzerland? Which money is better spent?

As Biscuit and I continued our stroll we past my condo on the way to his home. In front of my condo was a golf ball in an unlikely spot. Was this a sign? Switzerland verses golf is a hard choice. Perhaps they golf in Switzerland?

Thursday Art Group: Cuba Closing???

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Several times a month on Thursday I attend an art group. The four gals of the group are talented and since I do not possess that gene I watch, happy to be in their presence. The conversation is insightful and lively. Our leader has cruised extensively and I receive many travel tips from this gal.

Today I learn that regulations on visits to Cuba from the US are changing. I listen closely as Cuba was and is on my bucket list for travel. While on the Jordan trip many had been to Cuba, however, they were residents of Canada or the UK. When I arrived home from Jordan I reviewed the travel agencies they used and found them to be too “active” for me. While I long to see more than Havana, mountain biking in home stays is not the accommodations I seek. I also believe time is of the essence before the doors are closed.

Returning from art group I scanned sites as I had some time free in April. I found a 4 day cruise on a bargain site using a reputable cruise line. I depart in 3 days. Need to pack my bags! Cuba, here I come…

Photo by Leonie Fahjen on Pexels.com