Turn, turn, turn...

Hello!  This week's Hodgepodge questions fit the season and are about leaves and things that turn.  Read on.

1.  Elizabeth Lawrence is quoted as saying 'Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn.'  So, have you done just that?  And what did you leave undone in order to do so? 

I have a few local friends who have taken a couple of days off to drive west to the mountains of South and North Carolina.  The leaves are changing there now, and it is more majestic than the change of seasons here along the shore.   As for me?  I have not specifically planned a trip to a region where the fall leaves are colorful, but I will say that whatever the time of year, I take time to sit - to be still - and to watch nature around me.  It keeps life in perspective.  It also brings me peace.  I do not do well being on the run 24-7, and I learned long ago to "stop and smell the roses"…or to stop and watch the ocean waves, or to see the leaves change color.  

Do I leave anything undone?  Not really.  I plan my day to include time of quiet and reflection.  

2.  Since we are talking turning… what's one thing you feel you're doing 'every time you turn around'?

One thing?   Sorry…   got to make a list!   lol      I do a lot of repetitious things each day, like I walk the dogs, do laundry, make the bed, and go to the grocery store.   Little things?  I close a lot of cabinet doors (someone in my house likes to leave them open), and I pick up glasses, spoons, etc. left around the house.  I replace the toliet paper rolls, and I carry out the trash.

3.  How hard is it for you to turn the other cheek? 

Oh wow.  A question that hits home.  In general, I can say I can turn the other cheek easily…BUT, when it comes to loved ones it is harder.   I struggle to forgive and forget.   It's hard for me to let something said to me just slide off my back and I have been known to let words cut through me.  I may hold it inside quietly, but it hurts and I can't just turn the other cheek.  

But, I will say that I do not lash out - and for that I am thankful.  I know words said in anger are toxic.   I would rather stay quiet, walk away….or 'turn my cheek' vs. yelling or being purposely mean.

4.  When did you last turn a drawer,  your car, a room, or your entire house upside down looking for something?  Did you find it? 

Most recently (and not just once) I have had to search for my eye glasses.  I have several pairs that are prescription.  One pair are sunglasses, one pair for everyday life, and one pair especially made for "music stand distance."    I have had lasik surgery on my eyes twice now and each eye's prescription is different, one eye is for up close/reading & one for distance viewing.  But the surgeries were not completely successful.  Thus, the need for glasses.  But, I don't wear them all the time.   Therefore I'm constantly setting them down…. and looking for them.  

5.  'One good turn deserves another'…. were you most recently on the giving or receiving end of that sentiment? 

I like to think I was on the giving end.   I make a point to give whenever I can.  And, I don't keep score.   But, I am fortunate in my life so I am also on the receiving end many times.   This is maybe not the last good turn, but my hubby came home one evening and surprised me, walking in with my favorite chinese takeout dinner.   I had to run to a rehearsal and had not planned anything to eat so it was a perfect gesture.

6. Red, yellow, and orange are the colors of fall. They are also the colors of fruit.  If you were permitted only one color of fruit in your diet, which would you choose? 

Red - red grapes.  I love grapes and keep them around the house most of the time.

7.  The Hunt for Red October, October Sky, Halloween…   which October film is your favorite? 

Well, I HATE scary movies so Halloween is out.   I can't even think what October Sky  is about or who is in it.  So,  I have to go with The Hunt for Red October because I have seen it, and I liked the drama, and I liked the actors.  

8.  My random thought.

Who's with me and ready for the midterm elections to be over???    I am tired of seeing the political signs on every street corner, and major roadway.   It's basically litter and has no meaning.   The commercials are usually stupid and lies too.  Cynical?  oh yes I am.   Okay…one good thing about pre-election time:  it gives Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert - and their writers - endless amount of material for jokes!  

Have a good week everyone.  We are getting ready to turn the calendar page, and the clock too.   These shorter days are rough.   I already miss summertime….        turn, turn, turn.