Well that was a Tuesday... :)

So yesterday - $22.20/$8.25 7:10 a.m. check out time Shoprite day sans senior discount. Ran dishwasher. Walk.  Picked up W&T book.  CA DC.  SD DC.  Trying to finish Gauguin book.  Today walk with family friend, clean apt, noon EOLD, 2 p.m. annual FEN volunteer meeting, 7 p.m. Lansing.  BOS meeting that I will watch on computer tomorrow.  FBI episode from Monday I have not watched yet.  Got reminder from ROV about tomorrow. "Try and arrive by 5:15 a.m."...  Will have to get my coffee and breakfast in before I leave the apt.  4:57 a.m. as we speak, so I am thinking I better set an alarm for tomorrow a.m.  Wanted to walk up and back, but rain and time might dictate that decision tomorrow.  :)

Working on my words to share at the BOF meeting on May 18 about adapting to change due to financial constraints...and wham-o...checking my receipt at Shoprite and no Senior Discount.  So I go back to checker and discover no mas discount.  5% a week of not a big number but a number nonetheless.  So now I will give ALDI a try for 4 weeks and see if I can come in at the same or better numbers of Shoprite and begin a new tradition.  New day for shopping?  New time of day for shopping (ALDI does not open until 9 a.m.)  Just tried the ALDI web site...they are not wasting money on IT.  :/  Will have to work on my "relationship" with a new vendor.  Exactly what I am suggesting to town leaders as to really looking at what they are spending on and if they are locked into practices that need to be replaced.  Never fun but maybe the town needs a reason to "go ALDI" on some things.  

Discovered this on LinkedIn yesterday - new documentary at Tribeca Film Festival - Death Boom:  From director Jessica Chandler and producer Eli Roth, Death Boom flies in the face of the safety and sanctity of most documentary films. Crossing the country and diving deep into our recent history, this Mondo-style doc faces a growing dilemma head on: If 77 million bundles of American Joy arrived during "the Baby Boom" from 1946 to1964 and they are currently all clocking out in a similar generation of goodbyes called "the Death Boom," then what the hell are we going to do with all those bodies?! Fun but funereal, gonzo but philosophical, Death Boom literally opens the casket lid on the industrial complex handling or grief and our earthly remains. Master of Horror Roth (Hostel) and savvy documentarian Chandler (A Fine State This Is) explore the political, environmental and ethical ramifications of this startling and fascinating situation, asking an important question: If we are all headed to the same final destination, do we want to arrive open to its profoundly beautiful possibilities, or closed off in denial and fear?  Maybe us boomers can redeem ourselves by how we handle death?

Heard this yesterday in SD that stuck with me. "Wise people have the ability to hold two paradoxes as equally true at once.  Not to resolve the tension between them, not to choose a side, but to stand in the middle of multiple truths and let both be real.  To be deeply disturbed by the state of the world, and at the same time, genuinely grateful and humbled by the gift of life."  

Will see where the day takes me.  I was where I needed to be yesterday.

As one of the zodiac’s Air signs, you know that brain beats brawn every time, so resist the urge to hit back at a rival on the physical level today and use your head to find ways round the obstacles they have put in front of you.

Having fun with loved ones could unearth long-forgotten memories, sweet Libra. As the Aries Moon, south node, and Pluto enter a yod formation, forget your cares and spend time with friends. Creative aspirations also benefit from these vibes, and digging around in the past can inspire your next great work. When it comes to romance, sharing secrets strengthens bonds. As Luna and Saturn unite, it’s important for others to understand how certain challenges have shaped you and your approach to love. Feeling accepted with all cards on the table signals that you are in a mature and sustainable partnership.

The only good thing about being on an emotional roller coaster is that you never feel the same way for long, Libra. One moment you're up, the next you're down. You can't figure out what it is you want today. Rather than bring your loved ones along on this wild ride, why not take some time away from your usual environment? You'll be a lot better off alone. Who knows? Something important may come out of these moments of solitude!

I did send in my notice that I am backing out of the Neighbors Helping Neighbors this weekend.  Person who reached out to me is the owner of our local Shoprite...my silent protest on another level.  :)  Lots going into Wed, Thu, Fri this week and will cocoon on Sat/Sun.  Have another week before sister #1 and friend from Paraguay arrive.  I will need every minute to prepare myself.  :)  Have a good Wednesday. 

Interesting start to the week

Mettle and ZEN were the focus of yesterday.  Good walk.  Lots of thoughts and talk.  Town budget and I was the only one to show up for the Mettle "de-brief" from Friday's discussion, so I got an hour of time with the facilitator.  Sent off "memo" to Park & Rec about Senior Center application process.  Made it clear that I was not a joiner so I would go quiet going forward - they have enough thoughts from me and it is pool time as of June 18.  Looking to Thursday and glad it looks like it will be a rainy day so I won't mind being inside all day working the polls for budget.  Did work on what I plan to share at the May 18 BOF meeting - in person.  Comments might change based on how the budget referendum goes.  Lunch, snacks, dinner provided.  Need to work on the timing of getting up and getting my coffee/breakfast done and get myself to the polls by 5:30 a.m.  Now that it looks like I will driving up rather than walking due to rain.  Hope the money is worth it.  I have so few "have to be somewheres" these days and this week I have a few... Voting, massage, spring musical, Saturday work day...

Also via LinkedIn post heard about a documentary premiering at Tribeca film festival - Death Boom. In this eye-opening and comprehensive documentary, director Jessica Chandler and producer Eli Roth, who serves as both narrator and on-screen guide, take viewers on an all-access-granted look at this under-discussed issue and how the funeral industry is handling it, sitting down with experts in the field for a firsthand report from the ground level. While never losing sight of the topic’s seriousness, Chandler’s shrewdly accessible doc is a wake-up call of a film that’s also highly entertaining and often quite funny.  What happens during this wave of death to the 77M who were born during the baby boom?  

So yesterday - walk, Mettle, ZEN, washed clothes.  Today:  Shoprite, run dishwasher, Walk, CA DC, SD DC.  Have to pick up W&T June book.  

If you must disagree with someone in a position of power today, you will need to be smart about it and make sure you have the facts on your side. Just because you have a “feeling” about something does not mean they will take it seriously.

The Pisces Moon aspects the Sun and Venus before slipping into a void-of-course state, highlighting how messy change can be. Though you'll feel inspired to take charge of your life and make better decisions, it's important to be patient with yourself. Instead of piling on demands, use this energy to appreciate small victories. Positive reinforcement makes it easier to stay on track and expand aspirations while Mercury and Jupiter align. Romantic surprises offer a pleasant escape once Luna enters Aries and aligns with Uranus this evening. Indulge your impulsive side and bring someone special along for the ride.

A new phase in your life is beginning, Libra. The previous phase could be interpreted as having taught you to be serious and devoted to professional responsibilities. And you did accomplish some good deeds to boot. Now you can relax and look ahead to what's next. Let yourself feel the welcome tug of the future.

Relax and look ahead... "Relax" - that is a concept.  :)  Today is pick of the week around here for weather so I will try and make the most of it.  Have a good Tuesday.  

Holidays

Yesterday was an interesting day of thoughts.  Happy Mother's Day to me - new asphalt on my walk south on rails to trails, text from student from former school #1, son, PD buddy, son's friend from Tarpon Springs, NC friends who recently moved to the next level of their CCRC life and times, young boy with him father on rails to trails who stopped to share with me that it was his first time riding his bicycle 3 miles.  Got the text from former student at 1:11 p.m.  Picture from his graduation day in 2019.  My biggest thought for the day is not to overthink or overplan the next days or months...go into a react/respond mode.  Answers will come.

This week Mettle this afternoon, ZEN DC tonight, tomorrow CA DC, Wednesday - EOLD, FEN volunteer meeting, Lansing DC and a BOS meeting that I will watch on Friday, Thursday is referendum - 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday noon psychedelic presentation, MASSAGE, Spring Musical at former school #2 if all stays on plan, Saturday - Neighbors helping Neighbors if I stick with that.  Looks like rain on Thursday which will be fine with me as I will be inside all day.  :)

So today - walk, Mettle, ZEN.  Wash clothes. 

Something very fortunate will happen today and you may wonder why you have been singled out for such attention. The answer is you have done so many good things for other people recently that the universe needs to balance the cosmic books.

The Taurus Sun and Jupiter funnel lucky vibes to your career and partnerships, dearest Libra. Unlock your inner boss and prepare to make some power moves. Leverage your experience and influence to secure a better position or increased compensation. When entering negotiations, push for a little more than you're comfortable asking for. You may be surprised by how quickly others agree to your terms. Matters of the heart also benefit from this celestial exchange, clearing the way for major relationship steps. The Pisces Moon and Mercury align this evening, bringing focus toward wellness goals and changes needed to reach them.

 New investment possibilities could present themselves to you today, Libra. This could involve an investment of time, money, or other resources. You might also consider an exciting new start of some sort. Don't let yourself get so excited that you move ahead before you consider all the pros and cons. You might want to consult a friend or your partner. This would make an excellent excuse to schedule a romantic evening!

I will look for the cosmic books rebalancing.  :)  Keep a good thought for that.  Have a good Monday.  Lots coming at me this week.  Will see where things land.  

Food day :)

Day started way early even for me yesterday but it all evened out.  Early walk and I ran into a high school classmate and her husband who I rarely see.  Nice treat.  Got through my full loop and a bit more with no rain.  Nice.  Had a text from family friend to see if I wanted to go to dinner with her and her husband.  Nice.  Cookies on my stoop from landlady when I got back from walk. Nice.  Text from PD buddy that rails to trails to Unionville is done and open for my Sunday walk.  Nice. Family friend shared a pic from my son's instagram that he was DJ'ing in CDMX last night.  Glad to see something developed after the cancellation of their big show due to outdoor venue and bad weather forecast.  No William Basinski in CDMX anoche.   

Read some more of my book about Gauguin.  Dinner topped off with a complimentary piece of cake for all the mothers.  I loved that!  Cleaned my plate at the restaurant and ate the cake when I got home at 8 p.m..  Amazed that I slept through the night.  

Today - 4:47 a.m. as we speak so more reasonable hour to be writing and starting the day.  Walk to Unionville.  Painfully paid COMCAST bill.  Will see what else the day brings.  

One-to-one relationships will be under the spotlight in the days ahead, so promise yourself now that no matter how obstinate or unreasonable some people may be, you won’t get angry. If you want to be a winner, you’ve got to stay calm.

Show yourself the same level of romance and sweetness you'd offer a significant other, dearest Libra. Cultivate a healthy sense of self while the Aquarius Moon and Chiron align, and enjoy activities that cater to genuine interests. The universe may send you a side quest when Luna enters Pisces and squares Uranus. Heed the call of adventure, and search for deeper meaning along the way. Even if no grand epiphanies arise, you'll at least have gotten away from predictable routines. Opportunities to partner up with someone you admire could emerge, thanks to a sweet connection between the Sun and Jupiter. Embrace restorative bedtime rituals once the nodes of fate activate tonight.

 If you've been feeling deep anger, today isn't the day to let it out but rather the day to consider its source. Any large gatherings of family or friends should be avoided at all costs. No, this doesn't mean you get to take the day off! Just be extra careful about your temper. A little isolation will go a long way toward easing your tension, and may give you some important insights.

Avoid gatherings. Check. Isolation. Check.  Stay calm, no temper, no anger, ease tension...keep the good thought.  HMD to all appropriate parties.  

Kindness

Did not feel kindness when I looked out my window onto Main and saw the superintendent of schools car parked front and center.  Oh well.  Will let that go.  If he feels the need to do that in spite of retail needs for his own convenience, so be it.

Yesterday - watched Thursday shows, walked, Mettle Health webinar, talked to sister #6.  She called to say that at 11 a.m.-ish the power went out at her school and they had to dismiss for the day.  She was a happy person.  :)  She does have to go in today to do placement testing for students coming in for 2026-27 school year.  Her Key Club is making pancakes so the kids have breakfast before their testing.  She and sister #4 are/were incredible teachers - and people.  

Today - Boston Blue, All-In, walk.  Nothing on my paper calendar today or tomorrow.  Awaiting electric and cable bills.  Notice from electric that it might be lower based on some legislative action, notice from cable that it might be higher due to whatever they do to justify it going up and up.  Will see what I see in my inbox over the next few days.  

Reminding myself about Wickham Garden in the area. Trying to decide what is around for when son comes in June.  Also looked into TURO in the area.  Have that be my key to mobility with my decrepit car...will ask son about that when he is here.  There are people in my town who participate.  Rent a car for a day or two every once in a while is cheaper than buying a new car...just a thought for some summer visits.  Son will be renting a car for when he is here. 

Just looked down and it was 2:22 a.m.  :)

Just because you don’t understand why certain things are happening does not mean it’s OK to ignore them. Make it your business this weekend to dig deeper into the fabric of current events. Some of the things you find may shock you.

Although the forecast is stormy, the day ahead may give you an opportunity to free yourself from your family, literally or figuratively. Be wary even if the course seems clear to you. You could be in danger of being swayed by a powerful person. The resolutions you make today could have a major impact on your future.

Partnerships can be limiting and take away from your shine, dearest Libra. Consider if your bestie or significant other has been eating too much of your time while the Aquarius Quarter Moon squares Mercury. Avoid placing blame, but have open discussions to address the issue. Simply acknowledging that you've hit a slump may be all that you need to discover simple solutions. Collaborating on a creative project or making space for individual interests can strengthen your camaraderie. As motivation builds, sparks will reignite when Venus stirs midafternoon. You'll feel fully renewed and motivated for fresh starts once Mars activates tonight.

I will wait for the spark.  :)  In the meantime, have a good Saturday.  

Town politics and the budget... :)

Lots of info in my inbox yesterday!  Town officials, town political party chair - guess I have my marching orders for budget referendum next week.  Swimming lady sent a quick note as she moved down the east coast for a college graduation for her granddaughter.  

Balance of yesterday - watched my Wed shows, listened to Adam Carolla talking to Bobby Rahal, walked.  Did not go to town hall to see ballot test for next week.  I will go in "cold" on Thursday and let life happen.  :)  Also with all the flurry at the end of day re budget, I did not have the concentration to listen to the library consortium discussion.  Oh well.  Did connect with former school #2 boss.  We will go to Spring Musical at school next Friday.  No dinner before, she is on weekend duty.  That works for me since will be coming off 15 hours at the polls working on Thursday but in the PTL category - Friday will be my monthly massage day!  

Today watch Thursday shows, walk, Mettle Health - Guilt and the Caregiver Experience - no one would ever pick me to be a caregiver, but I always learn something from who is in the room when Mettle Health does their monthly discussions.  Will see if I hear any more scuttlebutt re all the communiques that hit the wire yesterday re budget.  

Sad about son's concert in CDMX that was cancelled for tonight.  Will see how he lands for the balance of his time in the country.  Also sad about the NCAA and their new "monstrous size" March madness proposal...  Money, money, money...another good idea gone astray due to money.  

Don’t take it badly if a friend seems determined to pour cold water on your plans. They are not being deliberately obstructive and may in fact be able to see potential pitfalls that you have missed. Maybe you should listen to their advice.

You'll play well with people who get your point of view, and creative partnerships could emerge. Share visions with artistically inclined friends while the Aquarius Moon aspects Uranus and Neptune. Put your thoughts in order before laying them on the table, but stay flexible and open to feedback. A second wave of inspiration strikes when Luna and Pluto commingle, and projects might head in a completely new direction. Don't let pride prevent you from evolving, understanding that empowerment and change often intersect. Do some restructuring to make more space for artistic endeavors, romance, and self-care once Saturn stirs this evening.

The mood is one of bustle and change, Libra. It's a good day to clear out your wardrobe or other belongings. Out with the old, in with the new! You may consign the old stuff to the basement or give it to charity. The main thing is to make room for your new tastes and new relationships. A new person is being born in you. Clear the path for this being to come through!

New me, new direction...  :)  Looks like the rollercoaster picture was more appropriate than I thought.  Have a good Friday.  

More mental "cliff climbing" today

Got this message via one of the swimming ladies regarding the budget referendum and state legislature activity and the email title - "How do you spell shenanigans?"  Yikes.  One week from today is the vote.  Heard back from First Selectman and Board of Finance chair...earlier in the day before this info drop below...

Hi all,  There's been a new development regarding the state aid legislation--seems the house and senate passed different language, and it may be the case that the senate language makes it so that towns that have already passed a budget can't use the new money to reduce their mill rate.  If that's the case, then Canton Dems may actually want to encourage everyone to vote NO on the referendum next week so that the budget can be revised to incorporate the aid.  Craziness!  In that case, you'd get to send postcards for the second referendum (with the additional joy of adding a change of date sticker to them!) 

So yesterday - cleaned apt, walk with family friend, ran into 4 PD people as we wandered.  Too funny.  Lots to talk about with town business.  Good EOLD discussion.  Rupture and Repair as to doula relationships.  I shared with rupture and unrepaired but with what I learned from it.  Talked to sister #4 as we both walked.  Talked to TX/NM friend.  She had driven 14 hours yesterday - NM to TX.  Drop off her sister #1 in Dripping Springs then drive on to home in College Station.  She is off to Atlanta next week.  Italy for most of the month of June.  Had my landlady meal #2.  :)  

Today - referendum ballot test at town hall at 3:30 p.m.  7 p.m. library discussion - "On Courage, Turmoil, and the Transformative Power of Love with Marjan Kamali"  Watch Chicago shows.  Walk. Hope to hear from people in the know as to yes or no for referendum vote to make sure property tax relief is still possible.  

What you hear from a trusted source may actually be lacking in factual evidence, so check what you are told and then check again just to be on the safe side. If there is even the tiniest doubt in your mind, don’t act on the information.

Take stock of what is and isn't your responsibility, dearest Libra. Professional and household demands ramp up as the Capricorn Moon aspects Jupiter, Mars, and Chiron. Many will feel overwhelmed by their duties and may try to push some of their burdens onto you. While it's kind to offer help whenever you can, now is the time to look out for yourself. If saying "no" makes you uncomfortable, use this energy as an excuse to face this issue head-on. When forced to choose between denying requests and stretching yourself thin, consider which path is more grueling in the long run.

This is a good moment to adapt your logic and reason to reality, Libra. If you don't, you're going to run into some intellectual problems. Everyone knows that you find new ideas plentiful, but unless you have plans to be a novelist, link your thinking to reality. The "pie in the sky" thinking that you engage in isn't particularly useful to the rest of us living here in the real world.

I will try to be discerning on many levels.  Will let go of the fact that the Superintendent of Schools still stands behind "his need" to park on Main St taking a spot away from possible customers of Main St retail...  Son's project in CDMX was cancelled for tomorrow night - outside venue and weather issue...feel bad about that, but I am sure my son snaps back faster than I do from disappointment.  :)  No new news there that he is "snappier" than I am.  :)  GA DC group had lots of back and forth after a person many of them knew went to VT from MA to take advantage of non-resident MAID...another issue I hope CT comes to grips with.  

Have a good Thursday.  I hope things become clearer in my mind on many levels.