Beth Kaplan's Blog, page 200
August 3, 2015
Veuve Cliquot and thou
Movin' slow. A perfect summer day in downtown Toronto, and the birthday girl is in recuperation mode. Quite the party!
Saturday - cooking. Chaos.
Sunday - the flowers from my friends at the Y ...
... and from the universe.
When the 20 or so guests arrived, we sat outside on a beautiful afternoon, eating hors d'oeuvres, drinking rosé and thinking about dinner; I'd set up a series of tables on the grass so that we could all sit together.
However, nature had other plans. Just as we were preparing to eat, the sky grew dark and suddenly erupted into a full force storm, almost a hurricane. We had to grab food, wine, tablecloths and especially bring in my mother's antique mahogany table from the lawn. It reminded me that at my 60th birthday party, which was even bigger with 60 people, there was such a big storm in the morning that the house lost power. Now, as then, my capable guests had no problem rearranging everything, setting up new tables and beginning the meal again, inside. My birthday celebrations seem to bring forth apocalyptic weather. Something to remember for next time.
Everything was delicious. And then we had cake and toasts with three bottles of Veuve Cliquot Champagne provided by my ex. Eli played with Emilie, who's eleven and a wonderful babysitter, and many of the other guests, who didn't mind getting down on the floor and making car noises. Ben mostly slept in his carseat but also enjoyed being passed around and fondled by nearly everyone - "He's so SMALL!" It was sheer joy to be surrounded by so many interesting and kind people, who all had a great deal to say to each other. A great moment when I introduced my friend Donny to Lani, who'd taken the train in from Stratford to be there. "I know you," he said immediately; it turned out they grew up on the same Mississauga street and Donny went to school with Lani's younger brother. They spent the next half hour getting caught up on the last fifty-five years.
People had been forbidden to bring gifts, but they did anyway - fine bottles of wine and other wonderful things, and a card from my children with messages that made me - of course - weep. After everyone had gone home, Lani and I sat in the dark kitchen and watched the sky light up with flashes, an eerie light show.
Today Lan went home, Sam left for a cottage, I distributed leftovers to various friends and neighbours - I'd made enough potato salad for an army - and went for a bike ride on this tranquil holiday Monday. Came upon the Panamerican food festival, where people were learning to dance the salsa in the street-
and rode down to the lake, where I sat in the shade and counted my infinite blessings.
And so dear friends, on this note I'm going to leave you for awhile. It will be hard; I am so used to shaping experiences in my head to share instantly with you. It'll be good for me to simply live for a bit. I'll miss you. Back soon. Happy August to you all.
Saturday - cooking. Chaos. 
Sunday - the flowers from my friends at the Y ...
... and from the universe.When the 20 or so guests arrived, we sat outside on a beautiful afternoon, eating hors d'oeuvres, drinking rosé and thinking about dinner; I'd set up a series of tables on the grass so that we could all sit together.
However, nature had other plans. Just as we were preparing to eat, the sky grew dark and suddenly erupted into a full force storm, almost a hurricane. We had to grab food, wine, tablecloths and especially bring in my mother's antique mahogany table from the lawn. It reminded me that at my 60th birthday party, which was even bigger with 60 people, there was such a big storm in the morning that the house lost power. Now, as then, my capable guests had no problem rearranging everything, setting up new tables and beginning the meal again, inside. My birthday celebrations seem to bring forth apocalyptic weather. Something to remember for next time.
Everything was delicious. And then we had cake and toasts with three bottles of Veuve Cliquot Champagne provided by my ex. Eli played with Emilie, who's eleven and a wonderful babysitter, and many of the other guests, who didn't mind getting down on the floor and making car noises. Ben mostly slept in his carseat but also enjoyed being passed around and fondled by nearly everyone - "He's so SMALL!" It was sheer joy to be surrounded by so many interesting and kind people, who all had a great deal to say to each other. A great moment when I introduced my friend Donny to Lani, who'd taken the train in from Stratford to be there. "I know you," he said immediately; it turned out they grew up on the same Mississauga street and Donny went to school with Lani's younger brother. They spent the next half hour getting caught up on the last fifty-five years.People had been forbidden to bring gifts, but they did anyway - fine bottles of wine and other wonderful things, and a card from my children with messages that made me - of course - weep. After everyone had gone home, Lani and I sat in the dark kitchen and watched the sky light up with flashes, an eerie light show.
Today Lan went home, Sam left for a cottage, I distributed leftovers to various friends and neighbours - I'd made enough potato salad for an army - and went for a bike ride on this tranquil holiday Monday. Came upon the Panamerican food festival, where people were learning to dance the salsa in the street-
and rode down to the lake, where I sat in the shade and counted my infinite blessings.And so dear friends, on this note I'm going to leave you for awhile. It will be hard; I am so used to shaping experiences in my head to share instantly with you. It'll be good for me to simply live for a bit. I'll miss you. Back soon. Happy August to you all.
August 1, 2015
August 1 horoscopes
IF TODAY IS YOUR BIRTHDAY: This year you often go back and forth between different points of view. This behaviour is unusual for you, as you generally are very clear about what you think and how you feel. [Beth adds: WRONG!] You seem to be gaining more insight into others and their motives. You also see more possibilities than in the past. If you are single, the ability to see past the obvious enhances your dating potential. [Beth adds: YEAH RIGHT.] You have the skills and wisdom to make peace more often and walk away from dissension. PISCES creates some interesting scenarios with his or her imagination.
Birthday Persona Profile
People born specifically on the 1st of August are believed to be jovial, open and focused with the usual zodiac Lion enjoyment of luxuries. [Beth adds: Luxuries? Who, me?] The ruling astrological planet selected for this particular day is the Sun, the same ruler of your star sign, intensifying your warmth and generosity. If you have this birthday plenty of self esteem, wit and impulsiveness makes you loveable but also occasionally arrogant and thoughtless too. [Surely not.] Assertive and highly persuasive, your warm heart is full of loyalty and you are likely to always stand up for things you believe in. [Throw Harper into the Ottawa River.] You are charming, creative and stylish with an energetic optimism and the determination and ability to bounce back quickly from any setback. Individuals with an August the first birthday are self sufficient but they can sometimes be very demanding and dependant on others emotionally. [God no, I'm so totally independent. Don't you think so? Don't you?] You will usually view the world as it is without any illusions or overly high expectations. [Thanks to Jon Stewart.]
Work and Finances
Choosing
A suitably paid and stimulating job may be difficult to a person born on the first of August. [WHY IS THAT?] You can have a competitive element in career choice and will ordinarily go to great lengths to work for an income to facilitate your desire for a luxurious lifestyle. [Really? Are you sure about that?] Your skilled talent of persuasiveness directs you do especially well in sales, marketing and advertising professions. [Could this be more wrong?] Your financial management plans will usually involve the allocation of some saving funds for the future. An impulsive streak in your temperament can once in a while disturb your usual good intentions to save.
Personal Relationships
For a Leo, the person born on the first day of August is typically friendly and easily approachable with an idealistic view of romance. Your sociable charm and touch of perfectionism can guide you to be sometimes prone to disillusionment concerning love unions in your youth. [No kiddding!] Loving and naturally protective, you tend to need a partner who is frank, uncritical and understanding of your continual need for affection, appreciation and attention. Despite the confident proud front you normally display, you seem to require frequent emotional reassurance from a soul mate. [Are you listening, soul mates?] Expressive and broad minded sexually, your strong lustiness can prompt the occasional episode of unintentional selfishness in bed. [Let's not even begin to go there.] Passionate, giving and loyal, you are particularly receptive to flattery and can often be flattered into submission by it if your fiery temper surfaces. A perfect partner will keep you calm and quell your primary insecurities. [Eli, this means you.]
More: http://www.gotohoroscope.com/birthday-horoscopes/august-1st.html
Leos born on August 1 have a somewhat haughty personality but are lovable people. They need the validation of others, yet they are not likely to sacrifice their true self to that aim. These people set themselves a goal and go after it with little thought of how much time or effort it will require. [AKA: writing books.]Friends and Lovers
August 1 natives have a real genius for creating interesting and fulfilling relationships. They have a difficult time finding partners who meet their needs and may need years to "settle down." [File under: NEVER.]Children and Family
Because of their rebellious nature, August 1 individuals often separate early from their families. They are not greatly interested in becoming parents, since they often have demanding careers. However, if they enter parenthood, they tend to have a liberal attitude. LEO INFORMATION FOR AUGUST 1
You should embrace: High energy, pragmatism, generosity [YES!]You should avoid: Crass behavior, intolerance, poor personal choices[Gosh, that's strange.]
I share this birthday with: Dhani Harrison, Yves St. Laurent, Jerry Garcia and Herman Melville. My peeps.
Birthday Persona Profile
People born specifically on the 1st of August are believed to be jovial, open and focused with the usual zodiac Lion enjoyment of luxuries. [Beth adds: Luxuries? Who, me?] The ruling astrological planet selected for this particular day is the Sun, the same ruler of your star sign, intensifying your warmth and generosity. If you have this birthday plenty of self esteem, wit and impulsiveness makes you loveable but also occasionally arrogant and thoughtless too. [Surely not.] Assertive and highly persuasive, your warm heart is full of loyalty and you are likely to always stand up for things you believe in. [Throw Harper into the Ottawa River.] You are charming, creative and stylish with an energetic optimism and the determination and ability to bounce back quickly from any setback. Individuals with an August the first birthday are self sufficient but they can sometimes be very demanding and dependant on others emotionally. [God no, I'm so totally independent. Don't you think so? Don't you?] You will usually view the world as it is without any illusions or overly high expectations. [Thanks to Jon Stewart.]
Work and Finances
Choosing
A suitably paid and stimulating job may be difficult to a person born on the first of August. [WHY IS THAT?] You can have a competitive element in career choice and will ordinarily go to great lengths to work for an income to facilitate your desire for a luxurious lifestyle. [Really? Are you sure about that?] Your skilled talent of persuasiveness directs you do especially well in sales, marketing and advertising professions. [Could this be more wrong?] Your financial management plans will usually involve the allocation of some saving funds for the future. An impulsive streak in your temperament can once in a while disturb your usual good intentions to save.
Personal Relationships
For a Leo, the person born on the first day of August is typically friendly and easily approachable with an idealistic view of romance. Your sociable charm and touch of perfectionism can guide you to be sometimes prone to disillusionment concerning love unions in your youth. [No kiddding!] Loving and naturally protective, you tend to need a partner who is frank, uncritical and understanding of your continual need for affection, appreciation and attention. Despite the confident proud front you normally display, you seem to require frequent emotional reassurance from a soul mate. [Are you listening, soul mates?] Expressive and broad minded sexually, your strong lustiness can prompt the occasional episode of unintentional selfishness in bed. [Let's not even begin to go there.] Passionate, giving and loyal, you are particularly receptive to flattery and can often be flattered into submission by it if your fiery temper surfaces. A perfect partner will keep you calm and quell your primary insecurities. [Eli, this means you.]
More: http://www.gotohoroscope.com/birthday-horoscopes/august-1st.html
Leos born on August 1 have a somewhat haughty personality but are lovable people. They need the validation of others, yet they are not likely to sacrifice their true self to that aim. These people set themselves a goal and go after it with little thought of how much time or effort it will require. [AKA: writing books.]Friends and Lovers
August 1 natives have a real genius for creating interesting and fulfilling relationships. They have a difficult time finding partners who meet their needs and may need years to "settle down." [File under: NEVER.]Children and Family
Because of their rebellious nature, August 1 individuals often separate early from their families. They are not greatly interested in becoming parents, since they often have demanding careers. However, if they enter parenthood, they tend to have a liberal attitude. LEO INFORMATION FOR AUGUST 1
You should embrace: High energy, pragmatism, generosity [YES!]You should avoid: Crass behavior, intolerance, poor personal choices[Gosh, that's strange.]
I share this birthday with: Dhani Harrison, Yves St. Laurent, Jerry Garcia and Herman Melville. My peeps.
We are amused
Okay, my first tears of the day - a beautiful bouquet arrived at the door; the card said, "For all that you do, these 'buds' are for you! From the Runfit Gang." My friends at Carole's Wednesday class at the Y. Then I opened the parcel from Patsy, who has written a beautiful, moving poem about friendship and framed it. My inbox is jammed with messages from well-wishers near and far - thanks, FB! - and this morning, Anna, Eli and I did FaceTime for the first time; I've never done it before. There was my grandson on my tiny phone, not quite saying Happy Birthday but he meant to, I'm sure.
I went to the market this morning and came back loaded down, am spending the day gardening and cooking - have to cook huge salads for tomorrow. But right now, I sit here looking at the garden, never more lush than today - it's a perfect day, hot but breezy, quiet because - as always on my birthday - it's a long weekend. There was a gift from the garden this morning - besides two new gardenia blooms, there was one perfect strawberry.
Best of all, I just heard from Chris Cameron, a former student turned professional editor who has just read the current, very clumsy draft of the new memoir. I sent it to two friends because I just wasn't sure if I was on the right track He wrote, "I just wanted to say that I enjoyed it greatly. It is such a joy to read the beautifully crafted sentences and clearly expressed thoughts of a professional. It is compelling and sincere, which of course is what we aim for ... I wanted you to know how successful the draft is so far. As Wayson would say, now you have a good place to start working from.
It has been a long, long climb to here. And here I am, and you are there, and we are all alive. It doesn't get better than that.
Just to take me down a peg or two, friend Lynn sent this, with the note: Here is one which all of us who have dined with our dear Bethie, when the waiter has been a little slow, will be able to connect to:
And Chris turned it into this. A good look for me, don't you think? Onward.
I went to the market this morning and came back loaded down, am spending the day gardening and cooking - have to cook huge salads for tomorrow. But right now, I sit here looking at the garden, never more lush than today - it's a perfect day, hot but breezy, quiet because - as always on my birthday - it's a long weekend. There was a gift from the garden this morning - besides two new gardenia blooms, there was one perfect strawberry.
Best of all, I just heard from Chris Cameron, a former student turned professional editor who has just read the current, very clumsy draft of the new memoir. I sent it to two friends because I just wasn't sure if I was on the right track He wrote, "I just wanted to say that I enjoyed it greatly. It is such a joy to read the beautifully crafted sentences and clearly expressed thoughts of a professional. It is compelling and sincere, which of course is what we aim for ... I wanted you to know how successful the draft is so far. As Wayson would say, now you have a good place to start working from.It has been a long, long climb to here. And here I am, and you are there, and we are all alive. It doesn't get better than that.
Just to take me down a peg or two, friend Lynn sent this, with the note: Here is one which all of us who have dined with our dear Bethie, when the waiter has been a little slow, will be able to connect to:
And Chris turned it into this. A good look for me, don't you think? Onward.
July 31, 2015
Queen for a day
And more - this from my genius friend Chris, who's so creative with a computer. I wrote to him, "This is hilarious. Hideous, but hilarious." I have to say - I would NEVER wear that champagne colour or those huge earrings or fluffy curls. But the sparkly necklace and head thingy and a medal or two - hell yes.
It's 10.15. I'm still 64! Paul wrote a song about me!
Just watched Jon's show from yesterday. My age is showing already - for the last few days, I couldn't stay up as late as 11 to watch, went to bed early and saw the show on my computer the next day. OMG. The end is nigh. But my Jon, though obviously waiting for the last show, is still wonderful - a brilliant bit on the extremely low bar set by the Republican candidates.
And now, humble little people, it's time for me to play with my corgis.
It's 10.15. I'm still 64! Paul wrote a song about me!Just watched Jon's show from yesterday. My age is showing already - for the last few days, I couldn't stay up as late as 11 to watch, went to bed early and saw the show on my computer the next day. OMG. The end is nigh. But my Jon, though obviously waiting for the last show, is still wonderful - a brilliant bit on the extremely low bar set by the Republican candidates.
And now, humble little people, it's time for me to play with my corgis.
boithday, Bethday
First - just talked to a very nice man called Bruce from Bell engineering - and we have an appointment for next Thursday! Progress. Amazing. Stay tuned.
Then, birthday wishes are flooding in. Friend Suzette, who's in L.A. with her husband and fellow producer Pierre Sarrazin (Michael's brother) just sent this :
Thinking of you, ma chère Beth, on the cusp of seniorhood. Which reminds me of a story.
Years ago Michael Sarrazin heard a house alarm coming from the house next door. At the time he lived in a lovely California bungalow on a hilltop in Beverly Hills. He always kept an eye on this house because the owners, an elderly couple in their mid-nineties, were frail. So he went to investigate and helped the lady of the house turn off the alarm which had been accidentally triggered. She knocked at his door with a cake the next day to thank him. She saw that he looked morose and said, What's the problem? And he said, I just turned sixty-five. And she replied, Oh Michael, your whole life's ahead of you!
So Beth, your whole life is ahead of you. Have a great party. Wishing we could be among your peeps.
Me too, Suzette. And from Carol my tenant and friend, who's at home in Ecuador: Wishing you all the best as you enter upon the seriousness of senior citizenship. We are the generation that changed it all! LOVE LOVE LOVE! LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED!It is a pleasure to be on the Magical Mystery Tour with you. Have a wonderful day! Have a lovely party. Enjoy your 65th year! Honestly, it just keeps getting better and better!
And this from poor Lynn, suffering as usual in the south of France. Lynn, whom I've known since I was 17, and her husband Denis, worked for many years at Jean Vanier's L'Arche :My little anecdote for your entering into seniorhood comes from Pierrot Crépieux. Pierrot was the first handicapped person Jean Vanier welcomed to L’Arche in 1963. Last year he was awarded the Légion d’honneur from Président Francois Hollande- the first time ever someone with a mental disability has received the coveted Légion d’Honneur. One of his most quoted statements to the press is the following :« Tant qu’on n’a pas vu qu’on a une belle vie, on a peur de devenir vieux, on râle tout le temps et c’est cassepied pour les autres. » When we don’t realise how good life is, we’re afraid of growing old. We complain all the time, and we’re just a nuisance to others. (my translation).
To you who celebrates life daily and never ( well… hardly ever) complains- you are a true witness to how it’s getting better all time. Getting so much better all the time.
Would give my two front teeth to be there tomorrow. But twin three olds with lots of life to celebrate are keeping me here in France. But will be drinking and making merry in celebration of you tomorrow.
Thanks for quoting my beloved Paul, Lynn. Dear readers, it's important not just to have friends, but to have cheerful, loving, supportive friends like these. There's a package here sent from Gabriola Island by Patsy, who helped me celebrate my 20th birthday, and now my 65th. Lucky, lucky me.
Then, birthday wishes are flooding in. Friend Suzette, who's in L.A. with her husband and fellow producer Pierre Sarrazin (Michael's brother) just sent this :
Thinking of you, ma chère Beth, on the cusp of seniorhood. Which reminds me of a story.
Years ago Michael Sarrazin heard a house alarm coming from the house next door. At the time he lived in a lovely California bungalow on a hilltop in Beverly Hills. He always kept an eye on this house because the owners, an elderly couple in their mid-nineties, were frail. So he went to investigate and helped the lady of the house turn off the alarm which had been accidentally triggered. She knocked at his door with a cake the next day to thank him. She saw that he looked morose and said, What's the problem? And he said, I just turned sixty-five. And she replied, Oh Michael, your whole life's ahead of you!
So Beth, your whole life is ahead of you. Have a great party. Wishing we could be among your peeps.
Me too, Suzette. And from Carol my tenant and friend, who's at home in Ecuador: Wishing you all the best as you enter upon the seriousness of senior citizenship. We are the generation that changed it all! LOVE LOVE LOVE! LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED!It is a pleasure to be on the Magical Mystery Tour with you. Have a wonderful day! Have a lovely party. Enjoy your 65th year! Honestly, it just keeps getting better and better!
And this from poor Lynn, suffering as usual in the south of France. Lynn, whom I've known since I was 17, and her husband Denis, worked for many years at Jean Vanier's L'Arche :My little anecdote for your entering into seniorhood comes from Pierrot Crépieux. Pierrot was the first handicapped person Jean Vanier welcomed to L’Arche in 1963. Last year he was awarded the Légion d’honneur from Président Francois Hollande- the first time ever someone with a mental disability has received the coveted Légion d’Honneur. One of his most quoted statements to the press is the following :« Tant qu’on n’a pas vu qu’on a une belle vie, on a peur de devenir vieux, on râle tout le temps et c’est cassepied pour les autres. » When we don’t realise how good life is, we’re afraid of growing old. We complain all the time, and we’re just a nuisance to others. (my translation).
To you who celebrates life daily and never ( well… hardly ever) complains- you are a true witness to how it’s getting better all time. Getting so much better all the time.
Would give my two front teeth to be there tomorrow. But twin three olds with lots of life to celebrate are keeping me here in France. But will be drinking and making merry in celebration of you tomorrow.
Thanks for quoting my beloved Paul, Lynn. Dear readers, it's important not just to have friends, but to have cheerful, loving, supportive friends like these. There's a package here sent from Gabriola Island by Patsy, who helped me celebrate my 20th birthday, and now my 65th. Lucky, lucky me.
when I'm no longer 64
It's 8 a.m. and I've had my first (bitter) laugh of the day - Bruce just sent this wonderfulness:
I told Daya nicely that I am writing all this down in detail on my blog and won't stop until the problem is fixed, so though they are hoping otherwise, I'm not going to go away. And thanked her for her help.
Stay tuned.
I watched a CBC documentary last night on our over-connected age - people wearing data-gathering wires in their clothing (this will soon be common, we were assured), people who digitally track every detail about their bodies and their lives. Hello, I wanted to say - I've been doing this all my life, it's called a diary! But no, they do it all with apps.
What interested me most was "digital detox" - people having to learn how to disconnect. Silicon Valley folk go to a place called Camp Grounded - "disconnect to reconnect" - where they are forced to put all devices away and actually talk to each other. There's a "human powered search engine," which is a giant billboard replacing Google - when people have questions, they post them on a piece of paper on the billboard, and someone else answers - in pen. There's a "typewriter range" where they can type - "learn to express yourself unedited" - and an Inbox, a giant cubby where they can leave letters and notes for each other. We're going back to the Fifties!
So on that note, my beloved friends - I have decided to take a radical step. Part of my day is spent thinking of you, of what to write here, and then sitting down to do so. And perhaps I need to detox a bit too. I would very much like to share the next few days with you, preparing for my birthday on Saturday and the small gathering of my peeps, as they say, on Sunday. I have to tell you about that. But on Monday, I am going to struggle - and it will be a struggle - not to write here for a few weeks. Just to live my life, without chronicling it.
Except for my battle with Bell. THAT I'll write about. But otherwise, I'm going on a brief digital diet, as they said in the doc. It's not that I don't love doing this, I do. But it's good to change things up sometimes, and August is a good time to do that. I'm going to focus on other kinds of writing. Please don't go away forever; I'm a born chronicler and won't be able to bear not reporting on life on a regular basis.
This is my last day as a non-senior person. 64 - the absolute oldest that the young Paul McCartney could imagine. Tomorrow, I'll be older than that.
http://www.pressprogress.ca/watch_13_conservative_mps_drone_on_like_robots_reading_the_exact_same_scriptAnd just because that didn't provide enough frustration, I called Bell again - half an hour, talking to one person who transferred me to the "varied wire control centre" - isn't that a great name? - where a nice woman called Daya assured me that she would send my issues to a manager called Jay who would send my issues to the Engineering Department. Who will throw them in the garbage.
I told Daya nicely that I am writing all this down in detail on my blog and won't stop until the problem is fixed, so though they are hoping otherwise, I'm not going to go away. And thanked her for her help.
Stay tuned.
I watched a CBC documentary last night on our over-connected age - people wearing data-gathering wires in their clothing (this will soon be common, we were assured), people who digitally track every detail about their bodies and their lives. Hello, I wanted to say - I've been doing this all my life, it's called a diary! But no, they do it all with apps.
What interested me most was "digital detox" - people having to learn how to disconnect. Silicon Valley folk go to a place called Camp Grounded - "disconnect to reconnect" - where they are forced to put all devices away and actually talk to each other. There's a "human powered search engine," which is a giant billboard replacing Google - when people have questions, they post them on a piece of paper on the billboard, and someone else answers - in pen. There's a "typewriter range" where they can type - "learn to express yourself unedited" - and an Inbox, a giant cubby where they can leave letters and notes for each other. We're going back to the Fifties!
So on that note, my beloved friends - I have decided to take a radical step. Part of my day is spent thinking of you, of what to write here, and then sitting down to do so. And perhaps I need to detox a bit too. I would very much like to share the next few days with you, preparing for my birthday on Saturday and the small gathering of my peeps, as they say, on Sunday. I have to tell you about that. But on Monday, I am going to struggle - and it will be a struggle - not to write here for a few weeks. Just to live my life, without chronicling it.
Except for my battle with Bell. THAT I'll write about. But otherwise, I'm going on a brief digital diet, as they said in the doc. It's not that I don't love doing this, I do. But it's good to change things up sometimes, and August is a good time to do that. I'm going to focus on other kinds of writing. Please don't go away forever; I'm a born chronicler and won't be able to bear not reporting on life on a regular basis.
This is my last day as a non-senior person. 64 - the absolute oldest that the young Paul McCartney could imagine. Tomorrow, I'll be older than that.
July 30, 2015
balloons
Hot continues. Today Anna had a meeting with her lawyer, so we met downtown and I took Eli to CBC's kids day. On my way, I passed Ben McNally's beautiful bookstore. Ben is a Toronto hero - somehow, as independent bookstores vanish left and right, he keeps this stunning, tasteful, valuable oasis going. But note how many people are shopping.
I was in a rush and would be out all day so couldn't really shop myself - but I did buy two treats for my daughter and her family - the hilarious "Go the fuck to sleep," which I'd meant to buy when Eli was a baby, and the new Dr. Seuss, "What pet should I buy?" This manuscript was discovered posthumously and has just been published. But it's not like the new Harper Lee, a major disappointment, apparently; I don't know, I haven't read it and won't. It's a true Dr. Seuss book. Another great hero.
Eli and I had lunch, his favourite, sushi. What pleasure to watch this barely 3-year old cramming California roll into his mouth - I who first ate sushi at age 35. The CBC atrium was a zoo with hundreds of kids and parents and camps. We saw some overheated actors dressed up in giant costumes with huge feet and wooly heads - Arthur et al - and played with some Lego. Then a concert began, so we managed to squeeze onto the floor, where Eli promptly climbed into my lap and fell asleep. I managed to protect him for 3/4 of an hour as other kids climbed over his legs and as the musicians clapped and danced and sang. Then a wait and another concert, which he was awake for and nonplussed by. Budget cuts are evident - the idea of a kids' day is great but the performed material was lame. Really lame.
But then - joy of joys - they released hundreds of balloons from the ceiling. Pandemonium.
We stepped over thousands of balloons, got out into the great heat, met Mama and baby brother and had a quiet sit, if such a thing is possible, in the Eaton's Centre.
When I looked in the mirror on my return, I saw that rivulets of the sunscreen I'd put on before leaving home were trapped in the wrinkles on my face. I guess that nearly-65 year old woman in the mirror is me. Ah well. Here's an extremely kind note I just received from my friend Margaret in Vancouver, along with birthday wishes:
A few of the things I’ve learned from Beth. Make lists. Then make more lists.Donate generously to your friends from your curated Goodwill collection.Respond with alacrity and wit to emails, letters, postcards and phone calls.Make people laugh. Write entertaining and thought-provoking books.Go on memorable trips with your friends.Write reviews that get to the heart of a painting. Darn it, how do you that?Cook fab meals at all times.Write the best line I’ve heard about our current PM : he with ‘'the timber wolf eyes.”
I was in a rush and would be out all day so couldn't really shop myself - but I did buy two treats for my daughter and her family - the hilarious "Go the fuck to sleep," which I'd meant to buy when Eli was a baby, and the new Dr. Seuss, "What pet should I buy?" This manuscript was discovered posthumously and has just been published. But it's not like the new Harper Lee, a major disappointment, apparently; I don't know, I haven't read it and won't. It's a true Dr. Seuss book. Another great hero.Eli and I had lunch, his favourite, sushi. What pleasure to watch this barely 3-year old cramming California roll into his mouth - I who first ate sushi at age 35. The CBC atrium was a zoo with hundreds of kids and parents and camps. We saw some overheated actors dressed up in giant costumes with huge feet and wooly heads - Arthur et al - and played with some Lego. Then a concert began, so we managed to squeeze onto the floor, where Eli promptly climbed into my lap and fell asleep. I managed to protect him for 3/4 of an hour as other kids climbed over his legs and as the musicians clapped and danced and sang. Then a wait and another concert, which he was awake for and nonplussed by. Budget cuts are evident - the idea of a kids' day is great but the performed material was lame. Really lame.
But then - joy of joys - they released hundreds of balloons from the ceiling. Pandemonium.
We stepped over thousands of balloons, got out into the great heat, met Mama and baby brother and had a quiet sit, if such a thing is possible, in the Eaton's Centre.When I looked in the mirror on my return, I saw that rivulets of the sunscreen I'd put on before leaving home were trapped in the wrinkles on my face. I guess that nearly-65 year old woman in the mirror is me. Ah well. Here's an extremely kind note I just received from my friend Margaret in Vancouver, along with birthday wishes:
A few of the things I’ve learned from Beth. Make lists. Then make more lists.Donate generously to your friends from your curated Goodwill collection.Respond with alacrity and wit to emails, letters, postcards and phone calls.Make people laugh. Write entertaining and thought-provoking books.Go on memorable trips with your friends.Write reviews that get to the heart of a painting. Darn it, how do you that?Cook fab meals at all times.Write the best line I’ve heard about our current PM : he with ‘'the timber wolf eyes.”
July 29, 2015
my sentiments exactly
How can you tell I'm stuck inside because of the heat and hanging around FB? Reading about Cecil the lion.
Now, this is my idea of a wonderful woman. Wish I'd known her.
Sherri IngreyW.A.S.H - Women Against Stephen Harper16 hrs ·
FINN, Mary Catherine (McCormick) Finn ObituaryIn lieu of donations, Catherine would want you to do everything you can to drive Stephen Harper from office, right out of the country, and into the deep blue sea if possible. Also, she would like to fix the CBC...CANADIANOBITUARIES.COM
Now, this is my idea of a wonderful woman. Wish I'd known her.
Sherri IngreyW.A.S.H - Women Against Stephen Harper16 hrs ·
FINN, Mary Catherine (McCormick) Finn ObituaryIn lieu of donations, Catherine would want you to do everything you can to drive Stephen Harper from office, right out of the country, and into the deep blue sea if possible. Also, she would like to fix the CBC...CANADIANOBITUARIES.COM
at the beach
Yesterday, heaven - a bike ride with Jean-Marc and Richard to get the 5.30 ferry and then to Hanlan's beach. We swam in the lake, we ate a delicious gourmet meal, we walked and swam again. It's an interesting place, because where we were was right next to the clothing optional beach, where many men and women were unselfconsciously naked. So unCanadian.
But first - may I introduce you, again, to my roses of Sharon, with whom I'm a little in love? Who was Sharon, anyway?
Hello, beautifuls.
My handsome and erudite neighbour keeping in touch with the world. See that group behind him? It turned out to be a group of bartenders and servers on their day off, barbecuing and playing in the water and having a good time. Among them was a very tall decorated young man who happened to be my son.
Another handsome neighbour, also keeping in touch.
On the ferry home. The one on your left will become a senior citizen on Saturday. I know - unbelievable, right?
My city.
A word about JM and Richard, who are the best friends and neighbours anyone could ask for. They animate our whole block, making friends with everyone, helping people garden and clean up; they care. About children, too - they have a Tickle Trunk in their house, with gifts for any kids who happen to visit. Just good human beings - and, may I say at the risk of embarrassing them, they have one of the best couple relationships I've ever witnessed; though they're so different, they accept each others' foibles with tolerance and humour, and give love to each other and to the world. I'm grateful to know them.
A THOUGHT FOR TODAY:A happy marriage is the union of two good forgivers. -Robert Quillen, journalist and cartoonist (1887-1948)
From my son's FB page:
The best part of any staff beach party, besides all the drinking and bbqing and swimming.... Is when your mother and her friends are 15 feet away, just by chance, doing the same. Beth Kaplan you are the fucking best.
But first - may I introduce you, again, to my roses of Sharon, with whom I'm a little in love? Who was Sharon, anyway?
Hello, beautifuls.
My handsome and erudite neighbour keeping in touch with the world. See that group behind him? It turned out to be a group of bartenders and servers on their day off, barbecuing and playing in the water and having a good time. Among them was a very tall decorated young man who happened to be my son.
Another handsome neighbour, also keeping in touch.
On the ferry home. The one on your left will become a senior citizen on Saturday. I know - unbelievable, right?
My city.A word about JM and Richard, who are the best friends and neighbours anyone could ask for. They animate our whole block, making friends with everyone, helping people garden and clean up; they care. About children, too - they have a Tickle Trunk in their house, with gifts for any kids who happen to visit. Just good human beings - and, may I say at the risk of embarrassing them, they have one of the best couple relationships I've ever witnessed; though they're so different, they accept each others' foibles with tolerance and humour, and give love to each other and to the world. I'm grateful to know them.
A THOUGHT FOR TODAY:A happy marriage is the union of two good forgivers. -Robert Quillen, journalist and cartoonist (1887-1948)
From my son's FB page:
The best part of any staff beach party, besides all the drinking and bbqing and swimming.... Is when your mother and her friends are 15 feet away, just by chance, doing the same. Beth Kaplan you are the fucking best.
