Free Stuff and Visitors

You would think that after being alive after 66 years, and not being completely stupid, I would have a little thoughtful intelligence about inviting unwanted spam into my inbox.  But no...I just couldn't leave well enough alone!  My sweet daughter-in-law, Shanna, posted a link on Facebook inviting "only her friends" to register for a $500 Costco gift card.  What could go wrong?  Well, let me count the ways.  After navigating a plethora of screens (during which I never did get to the screen enabling me to register for the card), I gave up in frustration.  I should have realized then that this was nothing more than a marketing ploy, but apparently my unrealized greed overshadowed my good sense.  Today alone, I have (it is 10:00 a.m.) received 500 marketing e-mails.  Interesting, though.  I can train to become a paralegal or a nurse; charter a jet plane or take a cruise; buy a hybrid car (that was on a jobs site); or publish a book.  I have also received multiple e-mails for the same service or product.  Luckily, most of these have shown up in my spam folder, but I have painstakingly gone through each and unsubscribed. I could be at this for the rest of the day.  Take my word for it, DON'T try to get a $500 Costco gift card!  It will cost more than $500 in wasted time!

It has been a busy summer with friends and family.  The mountains are such a wonderful place to vacation and entertain and this summer has been no different.  Between now and the last posting, my sister has come, along with my friend Wilma and her sister, Linda.  Also, we had the Big Chill, and my cousin, Anne (whom I have not seen in many years), came with her daughter Tracy.  I always love these visits and I think of them often when the long winter days weigh heavy.

Sister Mary, the FireBug

Linda and Wilma

Tracy and Anne

The Big Chill, a gathering of our college friends, was small this year.  Kenny and Jane were unable to attend (this is the first one they have missed) because of some family plans; Keith and Carol (whom we invite every year, but who have not actually ever attended) are expecting their first grandbaby.  We forgave them this time.  But Marti and Dave were here, as well as Bob.  Claudia's mother was ill so she did not accompany him.  I suppose all those things are to be expected when we get older. Nevertheless, a good time was had by all and we look forward to this gathering every year.  Our friends, Chris and Curt also came as they do every year to help us celebrate long lasting friendships.

Marti and Bob

Jim, David, and Curt

Blogspot has a new format that is causing me serious consternation.  I would really like to add to my reading list, but I can't figure out how to do it.  Does anybody know?  Will add when I become somewhat competent at this new "improvement".  Oh, I figured it out!!! My reading list is now up to date!  Am available for tutoring.  :):)

The inexorable march of the seasons continues, and now it is fall.  The colors are not as vibrant this year as in years past, but the air is crisp and bracing, and the view across the mountains is still breathtaking.  I will leave you with a couple of "porch portraits".  Love to all.

Fall 2012

Sunrise