November 2003

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The last day of November a lot of years ago two significant things happened. My friend S.'s father died, and my ex walked out on me. That particular November 30 was also a Sunday, and I guess that's why the two events have been on my mind today. Yes, I am one to recall anniversaries, but most of the time they don't jump up and down in my brain like these two have today.

S. had been my neighbor for a couple of years while she finished college. We got to be good friends, in part because we both were owls who liked to watch late-night television. She moved back to her hometown after finishing school, but we're still in touch.

And I had long known both of her parents. They both had wicked senses of humor, and we shared a lot of jokes, many of which are still active between S. and me. I enjoyed getting to spend time with them.

I won't dwell on the ex. I will point out that he demonstrated his remarkably bad timing in the breakup as clearly as he had a few other times in our relationship. He showed up fairly late in the evening with his little announcement, knowing full well that I had to get up and go start a new job the next morning. Shall we call him a jerk for this? Yes, that's a nice, clean word to put in. Feel free to substitute your choice of expletive.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Enough of those two things. A more pleasant subject: since today is the first Sunday in Advent, I took the moment to get out my Advent Wreath ornament and hang it on the wall behind the piano. Doing that made me smile. Smiling is good.

November 29

Bev has come up with an idea that I like, "Self Esteem Saturday," and has invited people to join her. I'm all in favor of people recognizing the good in themselves, and acknowledging it where and when appropriate.

So what five things would I like to bring to your attention? In no particular order of importance to me, they are:

1.) I did a damned good job taking care of my mother the last few years of her life. This is not only true in the care of her person sense, but also in the sense of taking care of her finances and her home. And I managed to keep my own sanity through the process. I won't say I did all this single-handed; that would be a lie. I will give myself all sorts of credit for recognizing good advice and doing my best to act on it.

2.) I am a very good musician. I have a good ear for it, and some good interpretive skills. I am particularly good at musical improvisation.

3.) I am a damned good friend. Conversely, I am a formidable enemy, especially to those who would hurt my friends.

4.) I do really lovely handwork. I am good at crocheting, embroidery, and hand sewing. Mixed in with those is that I am good at designing things to crochet and embroider, and altering existing patterns to suit my whim. I'm not afraid to take chances with this sort of work.

5.) I write what I write pretty well.