Yesterday, as I walked out of the locker room at the health club, a nice gentleman approached me and offered to carry my gym bag. I thanked him and said I truly appreciated his kind gesture. During the past six years, since I joined the club, two other people have also made the same offer. Each time, of course, we chatted for a couple of minutes and thus became new “health club” friends.
But this time was a little different. When he took my bag he mentioned we know each other. This greatly surprised me as I didn’t recognize his face at all. He said we both belong to Beth El Temple, which is true. But I don’t ever remember seeing or meeting him at the temple. However, I don’t claim to have the world’s greatest memory, so obviously I have simply forgotten. When I got home I checked the temple directory and not only found his name but discovered he is the founder of Rocky Rocco’s Pizza Parlors, my favorite pizza restaurant.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
LESS TRAFFIC
A year ago, I received an average of 90-100 web site hits a day. And, of course, I was very pleased to have so much traffic. But in the last six months the hits to my site have drastically decreased. I didn’t know fewer people visited my site and feared that maybe my site had simply run its course and its short life was over.
But I heard good news today. I spoke with a woman who has a very successful website business and spends thousands of dollars on Google Adsense. And so, I asked her if she had also had a change in the traffic to her site. “Oh yes,” she replied, “The Internet has been hit just like the Malls whose business have diminished close to 50%.” I certainly didn’t feel any pleasure hearing about the misfortunes of other businesses, but to finally realize I was not alone was very reassuring.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
But I heard good news today. I spoke with a woman who has a very successful website business and spends thousands of dollars on Google Adsense. And so, I asked her if she had also had a change in the traffic to her site. “Oh yes,” she replied, “The Internet has been hit just like the Malls whose business have diminished close to 50%.” I certainly didn’t feel any pleasure hearing about the misfortunes of other businesses, but to finally realize I was not alone was very reassuring.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
APPRECIATION
I know my daughter appreciated it and she thanked me at the time. Plus I was more than happy to do it. But it warmed my heart this past Memorial Day at our family celebration when she said how great it was even though it took place 13 years ago.
When my daughter was born my Mother came to stay with me for the first two weeks so that I would have help taking care of my new baby. But I live only ten minutes away from my daughter so I wouldn’t be staying at her house when she brought Jacob, my first grandchild home from the hospital. In addition, my son-in-law owns his own business and works out of their house. As a result, I felt that they hardly needed me around as a possible intrusion during the day.
Thus, I told my daughter, that for her first two weeks home from the hospital I would do the grocery shopping and come to her house every evening to cook dinner. It was over 13 years ago, but I still remember quite clearly spending the time in her kitchen cooking, eating dinner with her and James, and enjoying my brand new grandson. But as time has past I hardly ever think of that time anymore. And so I beamed with pleasure when she mentioned those days and how much she appreciated my cooking for her.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
When my daughter was born my Mother came to stay with me for the first two weeks so that I would have help taking care of my new baby. But I live only ten minutes away from my daughter so I wouldn’t be staying at her house when she brought Jacob, my first grandchild home from the hospital. In addition, my son-in-law owns his own business and works out of their house. As a result, I felt that they hardly needed me around as a possible intrusion during the day.
Thus, I told my daughter, that for her first two weeks home from the hospital I would do the grocery shopping and come to her house every evening to cook dinner. It was over 13 years ago, but I still remember quite clearly spending the time in her kitchen cooking, eating dinner with her and James, and enjoying my brand new grandson. But as time has past I hardly ever think of that time anymore. And so I beamed with pleasure when she mentioned those days and how much she appreciated my cooking for her.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
CHILD RESITANT CAPS
No doubt child resistant caps on medicine bottles and other dangerous substances have saved the lives of thousands, perhaps millions, of children. And their parents have been spared the pain, anguish, and suffering of losing a child who has swallowed deadly chemicals. And I wouldn’t wish it any other way, but old fingers like young fingers have just as much difficulty opening protected jars, bottles, etc. And I have been stymied more often than I care to remember with bottles I have trouble opening.
This morning as I tried to open a new bottle of mouthwash, I struggled in frustration at not being able to release the cover from the bottle. But I live alone and with no one else to help me I had no choice but to curse, scream, and persevere until I finally succeeded. And only heaven knows how I finally got it open. It would help if manufactures would create easy to open bottles for us senior citizens. But I’m sure they won’t. And I will have to continue fighting with bottle caps forever knowing it will only get worse not better.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
This morning as I tried to open a new bottle of mouthwash, I struggled in frustration at not being able to release the cover from the bottle. But I live alone and with no one else to help me I had no choice but to curse, scream, and persevere until I finally succeeded. And only heaven knows how I finally got it open. It would help if manufactures would create easy to open bottles for us senior citizens. But I’m sure they won’t. And I will have to continue fighting with bottle caps forever knowing it will only get worse not better.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
PEST CONTROL
Summer weather has finally arrived. But along with the warmer temperatures have come many creepy, crawling creatures. Yes… in the last few days, I have killed or found a dead bee, a hornet, several spiders, etc. etc. throughout my house. It’s driving me crazy. But this is not new and almost every spring I call a pest control company and pay them to spray my house, inside and out, to prevent future bugs from invading my premises.
In the past I have paid about $75 for their service. But when I called for quotes today, I could hardly believe how much the price had jumped – in fact doubled to $150 for one company and $175 for another. The $150 company did tell me that if one or more of the neighbors in my 4-unit building also signed up for the service, they would drop the price to $125. I had hoped they might have reduced it a little more, but I’ll take whatever I can get. So, I’ve sent my neighbor’s an email and I’ll be anxious to hear their response.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
In the past I have paid about $75 for their service. But when I called for quotes today, I could hardly believe how much the price had jumped – in fact doubled to $150 for one company and $175 for another. The $150 company did tell me that if one or more of the neighbors in my 4-unit building also signed up for the service, they would drop the price to $125. I had hoped they might have reduced it a little more, but I’ll take whatever I can get. So, I’ve sent my neighbor’s an email and I’ll be anxious to hear their response.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Monday, May 25, 2009
NEW BABY
Yesterday my son and daughter-in-law, who live in Chicago, drove to Madison to spend Memorial Day with the family. As they are expecting their first child in Dec., the conversation at lunch naturally turned to raising children. Since both my daughter and I had babies that cried and cried a lot, we proceeded to describe our frustrating experiences.
But later that day after they had driven home, I felt just awful thinking of what a dismal picture we had painted for my son and daughter-in-law. They should be looking forward to this wonderful event, not dreading a possibility that may not even come to pass. And so, I sent her an email describing a better alternative. Although my daughter and I had to deal with lots of crying, I wrote, that doesn’t mean that you will. What we neglected to tell you is that every baby is different and there are lots of mothers who will say they had good babies who didn’t cry very much and were good sleepers.
In the meantime, one thing that is certain is that babies keep changing. When they are about 6-8 weeks old they start smiling. Around 3 months they start sitting up, about 6-7 months they start crawling, about 9 months they start standing and about a year or so they start walking. So if a baby does cry a lot, the good news is that it doesn’t last forever and will be over soon.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
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But later that day after they had driven home, I felt just awful thinking of what a dismal picture we had painted for my son and daughter-in-law. They should be looking forward to this wonderful event, not dreading a possibility that may not even come to pass. And so, I sent her an email describing a better alternative. Although my daughter and I had to deal with lots of crying, I wrote, that doesn’t mean that you will. What we neglected to tell you is that every baby is different and there are lots of mothers who will say they had good babies who didn’t cry very much and were good sleepers.
In the meantime, one thing that is certain is that babies keep changing. When they are about 6-8 weeks old they start smiling. Around 3 months they start sitting up, about 6-7 months they start crawling, about 9 months they start standing and about a year or so they start walking. So if a baby does cry a lot, the good news is that it doesn’t last forever and will be over soon.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
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Sunday, May 24, 2009
DRAINO
I bought my home 30 years ago when it was first built. So it’s not surprising that recently when I shower, the water in my bathtub is not draining properly. By the time I finish showering I am standing in a small puddle. My first thought was to call my handyman. But he suggested simply cleaning the drain with Draino. And so I tried several times, but it didn’t help. I called my handyman again and he offered another suggestion. “Try digging out the hair with a coat hanger,” he said.
I appreciated his efforts to save me money, but I just didn’t think a coat hanger would do the job. In the meantime, when I mentioned my problem at the bridge club last week, one of the men said that I should leave the Draino in the drain for an hour or so, not just the 15 minutes stated on the instructions. “You need to give it time to really work.” With nothing to lose I tried again. But in the back of my mind, I had decided it was time to consider calling a plumber. Luckily, the one hour Draino treatment actually cleaned out my drain and this morning, I showered without any water swirling around my feet.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
I appreciated his efforts to save me money, but I just didn’t think a coat hanger would do the job. In the meantime, when I mentioned my problem at the bridge club last week, one of the men said that I should leave the Draino in the drain for an hour or so, not just the 15 minutes stated on the instructions. “You need to give it time to really work.” With nothing to lose I tried again. But in the back of my mind, I had decided it was time to consider calling a plumber. Luckily, the one hour Draino treatment actually cleaned out my drain and this morning, I showered without any water swirling around my feet.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
SO MANY BOOKS
In 2003, I drove to Milwaukee to meet some Chicago college friends for lunch. To make the long drive more enjoyable, I checked out two audio books from the library so that I could listen during the drive. The books I chose, Silent Witness and Memoirs of a Geisha, were two very excellent books, but each one lasted more than ten hours. Since the round trip lasted only six hours, I had only listened to half of the first book by the time I arrived home.
Of course, I wanted to hear the rest, but what could I do. I had only one choice, to bring the books inside and listen to them on my tape recorder in the house. What a stroke of luck. In the past I only listened to books on tape when I drove long distances in my car. It never occurred to me to listen in the house. But as I finished listening to my two books while I cooked, cleaned, dressed, etc, very mundane and boring tasks. I thoroughly enjoyed having someone read to me. I had previously listened to the radio. But this was much better and I became an avid books on tape reader. In addition, since I live alone the audio books became a companion of sorts and keep me from feeling lonely.
But there is one problem. I listen to about three or four books a week. Thus, over the past six years, I have listened to about 1,000 books. I should have written down all the titles to keep track of the books. But I didn’t and over time many of the titles have slipped my mind. Thus, more than once, I have slipped a tape or disc into my recorder only to discover, sometimes half way through the book, that I already read the book. I not only had forgotten the title, but the story as well!!!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Of course, I wanted to hear the rest, but what could I do. I had only one choice, to bring the books inside and listen to them on my tape recorder in the house. What a stroke of luck. In the past I only listened to books on tape when I drove long distances in my car. It never occurred to me to listen in the house. But as I finished listening to my two books while I cooked, cleaned, dressed, etc, very mundane and boring tasks. I thoroughly enjoyed having someone read to me. I had previously listened to the radio. But this was much better and I became an avid books on tape reader. In addition, since I live alone the audio books became a companion of sorts and keep me from feeling lonely.
But there is one problem. I listen to about three or four books a week. Thus, over the past six years, I have listened to about 1,000 books. I should have written down all the titles to keep track of the books. But I didn’t and over time many of the titles have slipped my mind. Thus, more than once, I have slipped a tape or disc into my recorder only to discover, sometimes half way through the book, that I already read the book. I not only had forgotten the title, but the story as well!!!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Friday, May 22, 2009
WEBSITE CRITICISM
When I launched my website, www.FunnyPhotosContest.com, I had expected to make a lot of money. Unfortunately, I have earned almost nothing. And so, my business has turned into a hobby. Yet, I need to keep in mind my viewers on the other hand do see it as a business and so when I receive any criticism I must remember it is business not personal.
Each month, I send an email to all my previous contestants, to invite them to view the new contest. I also allow them to easily remove themselves from my mailing list by simply replying and typing unsubscribe. Nevertheless, I felt a bolt of shock, when one of my rather “loyal” contestants sent an email to unsubscribe and included the comment, “Your contest sucks now!”
Of course I initially felt awful. But I know that successful business owners always strive to keep their customers happy. And so, I sent a reply to tell her I was sorry to hear of her dissatisfaction and to inquiry what prompted her comment. Well you can imagine what a pleasant surprise I received when she apologized. She said, she thought it had been an automated message and never suspected that a real person would read it. She explained the contest had previously been a lot of fun. But now it seemed that fewer people entered the contest and the photos weren’t as funny. In addition, she said she would continue following the contest a little longer and even invite some of her photographer friends to enter.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Each month, I send an email to all my previous contestants, to invite them to view the new contest. I also allow them to easily remove themselves from my mailing list by simply replying and typing unsubscribe. Nevertheless, I felt a bolt of shock, when one of my rather “loyal” contestants sent an email to unsubscribe and included the comment, “Your contest sucks now!”
Of course I initially felt awful. But I know that successful business owners always strive to keep their customers happy. And so, I sent a reply to tell her I was sorry to hear of her dissatisfaction and to inquiry what prompted her comment. Well you can imagine what a pleasant surprise I received when she apologized. She said, she thought it had been an automated message and never suspected that a real person would read it. She explained the contest had previously been a lot of fun. But now it seemed that fewer people entered the contest and the photos weren’t as funny. In addition, she said she would continue following the contest a little longer and even invite some of her photographer friends to enter.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
COLLEGE REUNION
In June of 2003, my college sorority sisters got together for our first reunion since we graduated from the University of Illinois in 1962. Jody and I were the chairman and with my computer knowledge I took charge of sending all the emails for the reunion. We had a fantastic time and this June we are meeting again for another reunion.
As we decided to plan an exact repeat of our last reunion, there was no planning necessary. So instead of needing chairwomen, I just volunteered to send out all the emails again. The emails included deciding on the date and signing up for each of the events – Friday night dinner, Sat. lunch and dinner, and Sun. morning brunch. I also asked everyone to send me a summary of their lives over the last 47 years so that I could compile them all and send an electronic newsletter of our mini “biographies.”
Over the last several months, my sorority sisters have time and again sent me their grateful thanks for “all” that I’m doing. But in reality, I don’t feel like I am doing much work at all. I first began using a computer in 1982 when I was hired as a computer trainer at a local computer store. And so working on a computer is not only easy for me but my hobby as well. In addition, with the ease of cut and paste, I have really not spent much time on this project at all. Furthermore, the time I do spend has been great fun. I love reconnecting with the women who played such a significant role in my life when I was a young college student and receiving all their emails.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
As we decided to plan an exact repeat of our last reunion, there was no planning necessary. So instead of needing chairwomen, I just volunteered to send out all the emails again. The emails included deciding on the date and signing up for each of the events – Friday night dinner, Sat. lunch and dinner, and Sun. morning brunch. I also asked everyone to send me a summary of their lives over the last 47 years so that I could compile them all and send an electronic newsletter of our mini “biographies.”
Over the last several months, my sorority sisters have time and again sent me their grateful thanks for “all” that I’m doing. But in reality, I don’t feel like I am doing much work at all. I first began using a computer in 1982 when I was hired as a computer trainer at a local computer store. And so working on a computer is not only easy for me but my hobby as well. In addition, with the ease of cut and paste, I have really not spent much time on this project at all. Furthermore, the time I do spend has been great fun. I love reconnecting with the women who played such a significant role in my life when I was a young college student and receiving all their emails.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
WORKING OUT
Twenty-five years ago, I joined a health club knowing that exercising contributes to good health. Ever since that time I have worked out at the club two to three times a week swimming or walking around the track. And now that I have become a senior citizen I recognize even more the value of exercising to maintain good health.
But my membership at the club also provides another benefit. I have met some very wonderful people at the health club. And though I only see them when I visit the club I look forward to seeing them and have enjoyed many friendly conversations with them. As it turns out, this socializing may be almost equally as important as keeping physically fit. Current research suggests that friends and outside interests can make a difference in living longer and healthier lives.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
But my membership at the club also provides another benefit. I have met some very wonderful people at the health club. And though I only see them when I visit the club I look forward to seeing them and have enjoyed many friendly conversations with them. As it turns out, this socializing may be almost equally as important as keeping physically fit. Current research suggests that friends and outside interests can make a difference in living longer and healthier lives.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
LACTOSE INTOLERANCE
Several years ago I started eating Fiber One cereal because of its high fiber content – 15 grams per half a cup. However, since I never liked milk with cereal, I had to think of a substitute. It may sound crazy, but I chose ice cream. And why not, it is simply frozen milk. Thus every morning I ate Fiber One cereal with mint chocolate chip ice cream and breakfast became almost my favorite meal of the day.
However, it wasn’t long before I had to give it up. Because I suffer from lactose intolerance, my stomach became very bloated and hard from eating ice cream. Darn. I had to continue eating the cereal but what else could I use as a substitute. I decided to try yogurt and picked Yoplait whips. I loved their cafe au lait flavor and was happy again – though truth be told I didn’t like it as much as mint chocolate chip ice cream. But lo and behold, I soon started experiencing the same unpleasant stomach symptoms. Once again, I was back to square one.
A friend suggested ice cream made from soy. Yuk I thought and was skeptical but bought some soy butter pecan ice cream any way. I tried it and discovered that I liked it almost as much as mint chocolate chip. Now I just have to hope I don’t have a lactose intolerance to the soy ice cream.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
However, it wasn’t long before I had to give it up. Because I suffer from lactose intolerance, my stomach became very bloated and hard from eating ice cream. Darn. I had to continue eating the cereal but what else could I use as a substitute. I decided to try yogurt and picked Yoplait whips. I loved their cafe au lait flavor and was happy again – though truth be told I didn’t like it as much as mint chocolate chip ice cream. But lo and behold, I soon started experiencing the same unpleasant stomach symptoms. Once again, I was back to square one.
A friend suggested ice cream made from soy. Yuk I thought and was skeptical but bought some soy butter pecan ice cream any way. I tried it and discovered that I liked it almost as much as mint chocolate chip. Now I just have to hope I don’t have a lactose intolerance to the soy ice cream.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Monday, May 18, 2009
VANILLA ICE CREAM
On Saturday, my daughter told me she had to buy some vanilla ice cream for her husband. He wasn’t feeling very well and not eating much, but he wanted some vanilla ice cream. I smiled when I heard that as it reminded me of an incident that happened about eight years ago.
When he was only one and a half years old, my youngest grandson, Jared, was very sick with the flu or something for about 5 days. On the third day I took time off from work to help my daughter. But when I arrived I found my other grandson, Jacob who was 4, lying on the couch because he couldn’t walk. He stayed there all day and I spent my time amusing and taking care of him, while my daughter was busy with Jared.
With two “sick” children, the long day seemed to drag on. But late in the afternoon, my son-in-law arrived home and perked up all of our spirits. He had stopped at the store and bought some vanilla ice cream for us! Later that evening my daughter called to tell me that Jacob was feeling better. After dinner, she realized that Jacob had no doubt felt neglected because she had been giving Jared so much attention. And so she said, “Jacob I’m so sorry I haven’t been able to spend much time with you since Jared has been sick. But if you are feeling better tomorrow, I will take you to the store and buy you a toy.” Jacob looked up at her and smiled. ‘Mom,’ he replied as he stood up, “I think I’m feeling better.”
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
When he was only one and a half years old, my youngest grandson, Jared, was very sick with the flu or something for about 5 days. On the third day I took time off from work to help my daughter. But when I arrived I found my other grandson, Jacob who was 4, lying on the couch because he couldn’t walk. He stayed there all day and I spent my time amusing and taking care of him, while my daughter was busy with Jared.
With two “sick” children, the long day seemed to drag on. But late in the afternoon, my son-in-law arrived home and perked up all of our spirits. He had stopped at the store and bought some vanilla ice cream for us! Later that evening my daughter called to tell me that Jacob was feeling better. After dinner, she realized that Jacob had no doubt felt neglected because she had been giving Jared so much attention. And so she said, “Jacob I’m so sorry I haven’t been able to spend much time with you since Jared has been sick. But if you are feeling better tomorrow, I will take you to the store and buy you a toy.” Jacob looked up at her and smiled. ‘Mom,’ he replied as he stood up, “I think I’m feeling better.”
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
GETTING OLD
I guess after all these years of denying it I must finally recognize myself as old. At least my 13-year old grandson thinks so and brought it to my attention. As I drove to the restaurant to meet my daughter and grandsons for dinner last night, my grandson noticed the approaching cars, including mine and commented, “Bubbe is the oldest person driving a car.” And he was probably right. In another year and a half, I will be 70 !!!
Ironically, my age has in fact been a topic of discussion twice in just the last two days. At a meeting for my class reunion, one of the others mentioned her husbands 70th birthday party. “My goodness,” I remember thinking, “how is it possible that I am almost 70.” And again today at the health club, as I talked with another woman, age was mentioned once again and I had to confront the fact that yes, it won’t be long until I too am 70.
Other milestone birthdays have had an impact on me, but I think turning 70 will take the cake. When I turned 30, my ex-husband and I had just divorced and once again I would start dating. But I felt so weird. Dating was for teenagers and young people but I was an “over-the-hill” middle aged woman. At 40, I thought of the expression “life begins at 40.” And I optimistically looked forward to my birthday. But when I awoke on Jan 25th, I felt no different than the day before.
When I turned 50, I was dumb-struck. It seemed incredible and I could not believe that one-half a century had passed. It didn’t seem like I had lived all those many years. At 60, I retired and was too busy filling my leisure time to pay much attention to my age. But 70, ah yes, is old. And even though I dye my hair, wear mascara and pass for younger than I am, I can’t deny it or fool myself. Seventy is old.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Ironically, my age has in fact been a topic of discussion twice in just the last two days. At a meeting for my class reunion, one of the others mentioned her husbands 70th birthday party. “My goodness,” I remember thinking, “how is it possible that I am almost 70.” And again today at the health club, as I talked with another woman, age was mentioned once again and I had to confront the fact that yes, it won’t be long until I too am 70.
Other milestone birthdays have had an impact on me, but I think turning 70 will take the cake. When I turned 30, my ex-husband and I had just divorced and once again I would start dating. But I felt so weird. Dating was for teenagers and young people but I was an “over-the-hill” middle aged woman. At 40, I thought of the expression “life begins at 40.” And I optimistically looked forward to my birthday. But when I awoke on Jan 25th, I felt no different than the day before.
When I turned 50, I was dumb-struck. It seemed incredible and I could not believe that one-half a century had passed. It didn’t seem like I had lived all those many years. At 60, I retired and was too busy filling my leisure time to pay much attention to my age. But 70, ah yes, is old. And even though I dye my hair, wear mascara and pass for younger than I am, I can’t deny it or fool myself. Seventy is old.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
ARCH SUPPORTS
Six years ago, a physical therapist told me I needed to wear arch supports to correct my flat feet. But not just the standard arch supports you buy at any shoe store, rather the expensive orthotics that a podiatrist would custom fit specifically for my feet. Luckily my insurance company covered the cost and so I scheduled an appointment. When the doctor finished I asked if he would cut my toenails. I have trouble trimming them myself as my nails are calcified and hard as rocks due to a toenail fungus. He said sure, took care of my nails, and I left.
Recently a friend happened to mention that she needed new arch supports. “Really,” I said, “how often do you buy a new pair?” “My insurance company pays for a new pair every year,” she answered. Since mine were six years old, I was long over due. But when I once again visited the podiatrist, he looked at my orthotics and told me they were in good shape. The materials he uses are much improved and would last a long time. Fine, I thought, but as long I was in the office I might as well have my toenails cut. You can imagine my shock, when he finished and told me my bill was $59. “What,” I exclaimed! As he did not perform any medical procedure, he told me Medicare would not pay, so I had to. I wrote a check but was irritated that he hadn’t warned me before he started!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Recently a friend happened to mention that she needed new arch supports. “Really,” I said, “how often do you buy a new pair?” “My insurance company pays for a new pair every year,” she answered. Since mine were six years old, I was long over due. But when I once again visited the podiatrist, he looked at my orthotics and told me they were in good shape. The materials he uses are much improved and would last a long time. Fine, I thought, but as long I was in the office I might as well have my toenails cut. You can imagine my shock, when he finished and told me my bill was $59. “What,” I exclaimed! As he did not perform any medical procedure, he told me Medicare would not pay, so I had to. I wrote a check but was irritated that he hadn’t warned me before he started!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
THE ECONOMY
It’s not difficult to see that businesses are feeling the pinch of a poor economy. They are eagerly trying to stimulate their business by calling and mailing their customers with enticing offers to buy their products or services. And if my actions are any indication, then it works because I do plan to make some purchases.
The other day the local video store called to tell me that I could rent a video for free and pay only half price for a second. As they have never in the past called me, they are obviously anxious to increase their revenues. And yesterday, I received a promotion from Valvoline for $15 off on an oil change. In the past I have received other correspondence from Valvoline, but never with such a good offer. Lucky for me, I always change the oil in my car every May and November. So the timing is perfect and I’ll certainly take advantage of it.
A year ago, a landscaping company planted bushes in my yard. Unfortunately, this spring one of the bushes turned brown and died. Much to my surprise, I received a letter from the company to let me know that their one-year warranty would end on May 31st. What a coincidence as I had intended to call them. They had never sent me such a letter in years past when they had done other work for me. No doubt they are making every effort they can to please their customers.
Good business people have always known that advertising works. And now some of them are advertising even more than ever to generate more sales.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
The other day the local video store called to tell me that I could rent a video for free and pay only half price for a second. As they have never in the past called me, they are obviously anxious to increase their revenues. And yesterday, I received a promotion from Valvoline for $15 off on an oil change. In the past I have received other correspondence from Valvoline, but never with such a good offer. Lucky for me, I always change the oil in my car every May and November. So the timing is perfect and I’ll certainly take advantage of it.
A year ago, a landscaping company planted bushes in my yard. Unfortunately, this spring one of the bushes turned brown and died. Much to my surprise, I received a letter from the company to let me know that their one-year warranty would end on May 31st. What a coincidence as I had intended to call them. They had never sent me such a letter in years past when they had done other work for me. No doubt they are making every effort they can to please their customers.
Good business people have always known that advertising works. And now some of them are advertising even more than ever to generate more sales.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
WEBSITE CONTESTANT
When I retired, I missed working as a computer trainer at the Univ. of Wisc.-Madison. I had thoroughly enjoyed teaching such courses as “Intro to MS-Word and Excel”, Email”, and “Surfing the Web.” Thus, for the first couple of years, I was at a loss as to how to fill all my leisure time.
But three years ago, when I created a website, www.FunnyPhotosContest.com I began to thoroughly enjoy every minute of my retirement. I smile every day when I receive all the funny photos contestants send me and I have had many interesting experiences. Last night as I worked on my computer, all of a sudden an instant message popped up in the lower corner of my screen, “Do you head up the contests?” What a surprise that one of my contestants had “found” and contacted me in real time. And so we “chatted” for a few minutes on the computer. He told me he enjoyed the contest and had been entering it for several years.
Many people have emailed positive comments to me about the website, but this was the first time that one of my contestants had sent me an instant message. No wonder I’m having so much fun.
But three years ago, when I created a website, www.FunnyPhotosContest.com I began to thoroughly enjoy every minute of my retirement. I smile every day when I receive all the funny photos contestants send me and I have had many interesting experiences. Last night as I worked on my computer, all of a sudden an instant message popped up in the lower corner of my screen, “Do you head up the contests?” What a surprise that one of my contestants had “found” and contacted me in real time. And so we “chatted” for a few minutes on the computer. He told me he enjoyed the contest and had been entering it for several years.
Many people have emailed positive comments to me about the website, but this was the first time that one of my contestants had sent me an instant message. No wonder I’m having so much fun.
Monday, May 11, 2009
DUPLICATE BRIDGE
I enjoy the game of bridge, started playing duplicate in 1965, and have continued playing ever since. But today I left the bridge club feeling blue. The last two times I’ve played, my partner and I finished in last place. And I feel awful, because I blame myself even though I know I shouldn’t. My partner also carries some of the responsibility. In addition, more often than not, I play with different partners which itself presents obstacles as we are not familiar with each other’s playing style, etc.
I use to win often. But that was when my Mom and I played together. She began playing bridge when she was young and was an excellent player. As a result, we often won or placed in second or third position. Of course, because we played together so frequently we had the advantage of almost being able to read each other’s minds. But the last year of her life, my Mom moved to Las Vegas and thus, I’ve had to find other partners.
I won’t stop playing bridge as I find it a very fascinating and challenging game and I keep hoping I’ll do better. Of course, if I could play without a partner, I wouldn’t mind coming in last at all as I wouldn’t have to worry about letting my partner down when we lose.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
I use to win often. But that was when my Mom and I played together. She began playing bridge when she was young and was an excellent player. As a result, we often won or placed in second or third position. Of course, because we played together so frequently we had the advantage of almost being able to read each other’s minds. But the last year of her life, my Mom moved to Las Vegas and thus, I’ve had to find other partners.
I won’t stop playing bridge as I find it a very fascinating and challenging game and I keep hoping I’ll do better. Of course, if I could play without a partner, I wouldn’t mind coming in last at all as I wouldn’t have to worry about letting my partner down when we lose.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
MOTHER’S DAY 2009
Last week when I passed the Mother’s Day cards at the grocery store, I paused for a minute with a pang of sadness and walked on. My Mother had died in February and so I would not be celebrating Mother’s Day anymore. And not until a few days later when a neighbor asked what I would be doing on Mother’s Day, did it hit me that of course I would celebrate Mother’s Day. After all, I have two children and two grandchildren.
As my grandsons have a busy Sunday playing in their teams’ Lacrosse games, we couldn’t get together. Instead, we went out for dinner last night. And since my son lives in Chicago, I won’t get to see him, but I hope he will call me. However, if I don’t hear from him by 7:00, I will call him instead. “Rick,” I will say, “How are you doing. I am just calling so that you can wish me Happy Mother’s Day ;-) “. As they say if the mountain won’t come to you, then you should go to the mountain.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
As my grandsons have a busy Sunday playing in their teams’ Lacrosse games, we couldn’t get together. Instead, we went out for dinner last night. And since my son lives in Chicago, I won’t get to see him, but I hope he will call me. However, if I don’t hear from him by 7:00, I will call him instead. “Rick,” I will say, “How are you doing. I am just calling so that you can wish me Happy Mother’s Day ;-) “. As they say if the mountain won’t come to you, then you should go to the mountain.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
I LOVE CITIBANK
In spite of all the anger over bank failures, T.A.R.P, (toxic assets), and stress tests. I love my CitiBank credit card. Their program of cash rewards has paid me several hundred dollars in the past few years. They pay me two percent on every purchase I make. In the beginning they paid me five percent back on everything I bought at the grocery store, drugstore, and gasoline station. Now they only pay two percent. But still I can’t complain.
Furthermore, I trust that they will take good care of my account and keep it secure. Over the past several years, they have called me immediately on several occasions when they suspected suspicious activity on my account. And today they sent me two new credit cards, even though my current cards do not expire for another year. Sure enough, they discovered that someone may have comprised my account and so to prevent any problems, they simply closed my account and opened a new one for me.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Furthermore, I trust that they will take good care of my account and keep it secure. Over the past several years, they have called me immediately on several occasions when they suspected suspicious activity on my account. And today they sent me two new credit cards, even though my current cards do not expire for another year. Sure enough, they discovered that someone may have comprised my account and so to prevent any problems, they simply closed my account and opened a new one for me.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Friday, May 8, 2009
LES AND ANNE
When my Mom and Dad were alive, a couple they were friendly with was Les and Anne. I didn’t know them well, other than seeing them at a few social events, and occasionally calling Les after my Dad died to ask his legal advice for my Mom. But a few days ago, I learned that Anne just died and her funeral would be today at 11:00.
My first thought was that I would not attend the funeral. But I changed my mind. Les and Anne were always two wonderful people who always were so nice and kind to me whenever I encountered them. In addition, it occurred to me that I should be at the funeral as a representative for my Mom and Dad, for surely, if they were alive they would have attended the funeral. And so this morning, I went by myself to the funeral. And I’m glad I did.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
My first thought was that I would not attend the funeral. But I changed my mind. Les and Anne were always two wonderful people who always were so nice and kind to me whenever I encountered them. In addition, it occurred to me that I should be at the funeral as a representative for my Mom and Dad, for surely, if they were alive they would have attended the funeral. And so this morning, I went by myself to the funeral. And I’m glad I did.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
APOLOGY
I feel just awful and am so sorry for my rude behavior. When Dreyfus sent me a letter that they needed a copy of my daughter’s driver’s license, or social security card to verify her in the government’s database, I had little patience with them. “My daughter has worked for an international insurance company for over 17 years. Surely if she were a terrorist, they would have fired her long ago! Furthermore, she has paid taxes for years.” You need to check further and take care of this problem. As I had kept both my children’s social security numbers on file for years, I was able to easily send their numbers to Dreyfus when I initially filled out the paper work. So I assumed Dreyfus had all they needed when I applied for my new joint account.
But after speaking with the Dreyfus representative, I asked my daughter to tell me her social security number. And lo and behold, I discovered I had made a mistake. I had reversed my children’s numbers giving my daughter number as my son’s and vice versa. I immediately called Dreyfus, gave them the correct information, and apologized. But I still feel awful for being so rude. I hope this teaches me a lesson to be more patient and to realize I am not always as right as I think I am.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
But after speaking with the Dreyfus representative, I asked my daughter to tell me her social security number. And lo and behold, I discovered I had made a mistake. I had reversed my children’s numbers giving my daughter number as my son’s and vice versa. I immediately called Dreyfus, gave them the correct information, and apologized. But I still feel awful for being so rude. I hope this teaches me a lesson to be more patient and to realize I am not always as right as I think I am.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
MY MOM’S WILL
When my Mom moved to Las Vegas she bought a new house and wrote a new will. In addition, because my sister and Mother lived together, my Mom wanted to insure that after she died my sister would have a place to live and could continue living in the house. Thus, she stipulated in her will that when she passed away, my sister would have three months to decide if she wanted to sell the house or not. If she planned to stay in the house, my sister would have to pay me one-half of my Mother’s down payment on the house.
However, a few months after she wrote her will, my sister hood-winked my Mom in to giving my sister a quit claim deed on the house, without including me, so that the two of them alone became joint owners of the house. Sadly, my Mom passed away a couple months ago and I have been left wondering if I am still entitled to the payment or if the new joint ownership has changed that stipulation in her will.
I called my Mother’s attorney, who drafted the will and is also her executor, to inquire about the matter. But he has not returned my calls !! Meanwhile, it probably doesn’t matter. My sister does not have the money to pay me anyway. And since, I always saved my money instead of spending it extravagantly as my sister did, I’ll be fine without it. But I would still just like to know anyway.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
However, a few months after she wrote her will, my sister hood-winked my Mom in to giving my sister a quit claim deed on the house, without including me, so that the two of them alone became joint owners of the house. Sadly, my Mom passed away a couple months ago and I have been left wondering if I am still entitled to the payment or if the new joint ownership has changed that stipulation in her will.
I called my Mother’s attorney, who drafted the will and is also her executor, to inquire about the matter. But he has not returned my calls !! Meanwhile, it probably doesn’t matter. My sister does not have the money to pay me anyway. And since, I always saved my money instead of spending it extravagantly as my sister did, I’ll be fine without it. But I would still just like to know anyway.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
MONEY MARKET FUND
Recently I added my daughter and son to the money market account I have with the Dreyfus Co. When my Mother died, my sister and I had to pay for her funeral out of our own checking accounts. And so, I decided to put my children on my account so that someday they could use it to pay for my funeral rather than spend their own money. But I have had to jump through all kinds of hoops just to set up this new account.
First, I filled out their complicated form with my children’s names, addresses, and social security numbers. Then I had to have my bank manager stamp the form with their signature guarantee stamp. But after I mailed the form, the company called me two times about my daughter’s social security number. Even though my penmanship is legible, they couldn’t read it. Furthermore, a few days later they called again with the same request – they forgot they had already called me.
If all that was not enough, I received a letter in the mail today, that according to the Patriot Act, all new accounts require careful scrutiny. They could not find my daughter’s name in the government database. Thus, I had to send them a copy of her driver’s license, social security card, or birth certificate. Good grief…they need to get their act together. For 17 years my daughter has worked as a claim’s adjuster for an international insurance company. If she were a terrorist, they would have fired her years ago. Oh well, I called the company and told them this was all nonsense and they needed to take care of it – I was not going to bother. In fact maybe it would be easier for me to just withdrawal all my money and invest it in another company.
I’ll bet that tomorrow they will call me, apologize, and tell me they have completely taken care of it !!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
First, I filled out their complicated form with my children’s names, addresses, and social security numbers. Then I had to have my bank manager stamp the form with their signature guarantee stamp. But after I mailed the form, the company called me two times about my daughter’s social security number. Even though my penmanship is legible, they couldn’t read it. Furthermore, a few days later they called again with the same request – they forgot they had already called me.
If all that was not enough, I received a letter in the mail today, that according to the Patriot Act, all new accounts require careful scrutiny. They could not find my daughter’s name in the government database. Thus, I had to send them a copy of her driver’s license, social security card, or birth certificate. Good grief…they need to get their act together. For 17 years my daughter has worked as a claim’s adjuster for an international insurance company. If she were a terrorist, they would have fired her years ago. Oh well, I called the company and told them this was all nonsense and they needed to take care of it – I was not going to bother. In fact maybe it would be easier for me to just withdrawal all my money and invest it in another company.
I’ll bet that tomorrow they will call me, apologize, and tell me they have completely taken care of it !!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
FIBER
When my children were 2 and 4 years old and my ex-husband and I divorced, I vowed to start eating nutritiously so that I would stay healthy and able to raise my daughter and son until they were grown. No more white bread or carbonated beverages and lots of fruits and vegetables. Though I must admit, I had a hard time and just couldn’t give up chocolate or sugar!
To this day, 40 years later, I still eat well, in fact maybe even a little better. A few years ago, when I learned we need about 30 grams of fiber each day, I found a cereal, Fiber One, as a good source that provides 15 grams of fiber for every one half a cup of cereal. Ahhh this is great I thought. But since I don’t like milk with cereal very well, I simply substituted the milk with ice cream – the very delicious mint chocolate chip ice cream. Unfortunately, I am lactose intolerant and milk products, including ice cream make my stomach bloated and hard. I switched to yogurt, which seemed to work for a while, but the same symptoms appeared again.
Looks like I need to search for something else to eat with my cereal. Tomorrow when I go to the grocery store I will buy some soy ice cream. It will probably work, but I just hope I will like it!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
To this day, 40 years later, I still eat well, in fact maybe even a little better. A few years ago, when I learned we need about 30 grams of fiber each day, I found a cereal, Fiber One, as a good source that provides 15 grams of fiber for every one half a cup of cereal. Ahhh this is great I thought. But since I don’t like milk with cereal very well, I simply substituted the milk with ice cream – the very delicious mint chocolate chip ice cream. Unfortunately, I am lactose intolerant and milk products, including ice cream make my stomach bloated and hard. I switched to yogurt, which seemed to work for a while, but the same symptoms appeared again.
Looks like I need to search for something else to eat with my cereal. Tomorrow when I go to the grocery store I will buy some soy ice cream. It will probably work, but I just hope I will like it!
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
GRANDSONS
When my grandson was born and my daughter worked full time, my Mother and I (the grandma and the great grandma) baby-sat two days a week. Two and a half years later when my second grandson was born, we continued to baby-sit, but only one day a week. However, once the boys entered grade school, my daughter called us far less often to take care of them.
But my baby-sitting days weren’t quite over. On weekends, when my daughter and son-in-law went out for the evening they would drop off my grandsons, to spend the night at my house. Unfortunately, this too came to an end. When my oldest grandson turned 12, the boys were old enough to stay at home alone and take care of themselves.
Although I’m no longer needed as a baby-sitter, I am pleased when an occasion arrives that they do still need me. In fact yesterday, I received a delightful call from Jacob. “Bubbe,” he said, “Do you know how to play Texas Hold-em?” “Yes, Sweetie,” I answered, and explained the basics. “Great,” he said, “my friends and I want to play and now I can tell them how.” “That’s nice,” I replied and thought to myself, “it’s so nice to know I am still needed once in awhile.”
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
But my baby-sitting days weren’t quite over. On weekends, when my daughter and son-in-law went out for the evening they would drop off my grandsons, to spend the night at my house. Unfortunately, this too came to an end. When my oldest grandson turned 12, the boys were old enough to stay at home alone and take care of themselves.
Although I’m no longer needed as a baby-sitter, I am pleased when an occasion arrives that they do still need me. In fact yesterday, I received a delightful call from Jacob. “Bubbe,” he said, “Do you know how to play Texas Hold-em?” “Yes, Sweetie,” I answered, and explained the basics. “Great,” he said, “my friends and I want to play and now I can tell them how.” “That’s nice,” I replied and thought to myself, “it’s so nice to know I am still needed once in awhile.”
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Friday, May 1, 2009
SPRING
On Feb. 2nd, Jimmy the Ground saw his shadow to indicate six more weeks of winter. But almost two months have passed and I still have to turn on the heat in my house. In addition, rain has fallen more often than not, the sun seldom shines, and the temperature outside is cool.
Until this afternoon, I was almost ready to believe that spring would never arrive. I woke up to gray skies and the threat of rain. But by mid-afternoon the sun came out and I noticed for the first time that green buds and blossoming leaves have sprouted on the trees. Furthermore, in addition to some dandelions, I even spotted many daffodils as I drove to a friend’s house. The temperature hasn’t risen much above 60 degrees. But other signs of spring are sneaking up everywhere to make me hope that spring and summer will finally arrive.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
Until this afternoon, I was almost ready to believe that spring would never arrive. I woke up to gray skies and the threat of rain. But by mid-afternoon the sun came out and I noticed for the first time that green buds and blossoming leaves have sprouted on the trees. Furthermore, in addition to some dandelions, I even spotted many daffodils as I drove to a friend’s house. The temperature hasn’t risen much above 60 degrees. But other signs of spring are sneaking up everywhere to make me hope that spring and summer will finally arrive.
By Hannah --www.FunnyPhotosContest.com a photo contest for cute or funny photos and photo captions.
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