Wednesday's Christmas Hodgepodge

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 1. I feel like episode 400 cannot go without comment. That's a whole lot of Hodgepodging folks. 2000 questions if my math is right. So, what's something you feel like you do 400 times a week? 

This question made me curious to find out how many Hodgepodges I have participated in.  This is #221 to the best of my calculations.  Thank you Joyce for all you do to keep the Hodgepodge going.  I don't know how you come up with all these questions! 

I feel like I do laundry and wash dishes 400 times a week.  I have a dishwasher but there are still many things I wash by hand, like pots and pans, certain glasses and plastic containers.  

2. Tell us where you were and something about what your life looked like in the year 2000? 

In the year 2000 I was engaged and planning my wedding.  I was also teaching second grade in a quaint village by the water and it was my dream job.  It was an exciting time and I sure had a lot of energy.  

3. Do you like cinnamon? What's something you make and enjoy that calls for cinnamon? Of the cinnamon 'foods' listed which is your favorite-red hot cinnamon candies, cinnamon toast, cinnamon rolls, cinnamon toast crunch cereal, apple cinnamon oatmeal, churros, an Indian curry?

Yes, I like cinnamon.  I sometimes put cinnamon in my oatmeal (lately it has been pumpkin spice instead) and I make apple pie that calls for it.  Cinnamon toast is my favorite, followed by cinnamon rolls which I rarely have. I usually have cinnamon toast with tea when my stomach is upset and I need to eat something.  We may have cinnamon rolls for Christmas breakfast.  

4. Does Christmas 2020 (or Hanukkah) look much like it has in years past, or is this year vastly different for you and your family? How so? How are you feeling about it all? 

This year is vastly different for us.  It is the first year we will be staying home and not getting together with extended family.  It was a hard decision but the fact that I may have been exposed to COVID made it easier.  Not everyone agrees with me but I feel better erring on the side of caution.  I feel sad but at the same time relieved to not have to worry as much.  

5. What's one thing you need or want to do before this year ends? 

Organize some closets.  

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

December's Bill Hodgepodge

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(www.fromthissideofthepond.com)

1. What's something about Christmas that most people like, but you don't? Elaborate. 

I do not like shopping malls at Christmastime.  I used to love strolling through and looking at the decorations and seeing the crowds but not anymore, even before Covid.  I much prefer to shop online.  I do like to walk through quaint villages and window shop but don't do that often.  I like to see those villages in Hallmark movies now ;)  

2. Tell us about one cherished tradition from your childhood and if you'll make it happen this year? 

Making Christmas cookies and yes I will make it happen this year.  I started but have a lot more to bake.  

3. In 1941 FDR declared December 15th Bill of Rights Day. Citizens were encouraged to fly the flag and gather for prayers and other ceremonies as appropriate. Did you know this? Will you fly a flag? Can you name all the rights and protections guaranteed in the first ten amendments of the US Constitution? Of the ten, which two do you value most? If you need a list you'll find one here. 

I am ashamed to say I did not know this or at least I don't remember knowing this.  Yes, our flag is flying and it has been.  Again, I am ashamed to say I cannot name all the rights as easily as I should.  I may be able to come up with them if I really tried.  I value #1 and #2 most.  

4. Do you know someone named Bill? Tell us something about him? Is there a famous 'Bill' you'd like to meet? 

Yes, I do.  He is my dad.  He is loved very much.  No I can't think of a famous Bill I'd like to meet.  

5. A step in the right direction, on the right track, bragging rights, be in the right place at the right time, get off on the right foot, right as rain, right side up, give your right arm for, have one's heart in the right place...choose a 'right' that applies to your life in some way in recent days and tell us how it's so.

I think I am on the right track as far as losing weight and getting healthier.  I pretrack all of my food to make sure it fits into my plan and have started doing some exercise.  I have lost 33 lbs. since the end of August so I just need to keep going.  

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Wednesday's December Baking Hodgepodge

 

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1. What do you think it means to have the holiday spirit? 

Remembering the true reason we celebrate Christmas and rejoicing in that truth.  

"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

1 “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” 

Luke 2:11-14

2. What's one thing you've baked this month? Have you eaten the finished product? How much baking do you do around the holidays? What baked sweet something does your family insist is on the menu during this season of the year?  

I haven't started my Christmas baking but I have baked 2 ingredient bagels.  I have some in the freezer and I ate one this morning.  I do lots of baking around the holidays.  My family requests cream puffs and lots of Christmas cookies.  

3. Your most recent 'half-baked' idea?

I thought of leaving the closet doors off of the office closet, thinking it could be part of the room.  My husband just painted it so it was empty.  As soon as I started putting everything back I realized I would like the doors ;)

4. Where were you the last time you 'baked' in the sun? The top ten sunniest destinations in the world (most sun from January-December according to this site) are Dubai, Bali Indonesia, Los Angeles CA, Miami FL, Barbados, Dominican Republic, St. Lucia, Mauritius, Antiqua, and the Canary Islands Spain. Have you been to any of the cities listed? Which one on the list appeals to you the most? If the world were not upside down crazy and you could lie on a beach anywhere right now where would you go? 

This past summer as I was floating in my pool.  These days I wear sunscreen but I remember the days well when I used suntan oil and didn't have a care about my skin.  I flew into Miami once many years ago but then drove North to West Palm Beach.  Barbados and Antiqua appeal to me the most because of the gorgeous beaches.  If I didn't have to fly I'd go there.  Otherwise I would pick an East Coast beach that I could drive to.  

5. Today I wish I had more _____________________.

Energy.  I was able to do a lot this morning but now am in an afternoon slump.  I have so many things I'd like to do but just want to drink tea and watch Hallmark Christmas movies.  I won't though. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

If anyone is curious about the 2 ingredient dough I used to make "bagels" it is a WW recipe and uses nonfat Greek yogurt and self-rising flour.  The dough can be used to make breadsticks, pizza dough, cinnamon rolls, apple turnovers, etc.  Whoever came up with it is genius! It is not the same as a NY bagel but I use Trader Joe's Everything But the Bagel Seasoning and they are pretty good. 

December's First Hodgepodge

 

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1. Here we are entering the last month of the year 2020. 2020!! Every year The Oxford English Dictionary publishing team chooses a word that captures the general mood of the year we're leaving behind, or the one word that will leave a lasting impact on the world at large. This year they needed sixteen words in order to cover the whole enchilada. 

While two of the other major dictionaries selected pandemic as their word of the year, Oxford came up with a long list including-bushfire, impeachment, acquittal, coronavirus, COVID-19, lockdown, social distancing, reopening, Black Lives Matter, Cancel Culture, BIPOC, mail-in, belarusian, moonshot, net zero (read more about each word here)

Of the words listed which ONE would you say should be in the number 1 spot? Which word/phrase on this list would you be happy to never hear again? 

COVID-19 should be in the number 1 spot because it seems like for most of the year there hasn't been a day that has passed where we didn't hear something about it.  I would be happy to never hear social distancing every again.  I am not debating the effectiveness of it but I do know that people are not made to live alone away from others.  

2. What one word from your own list of words describing this year sums up/best reflects your 2020? Tell us why. 

Change.  There have been many changes this year.  Some good like my daughter graduating and starting college, and my son building his own comicbook series.  Some not so good like not being able to attend church in person for months, not spending holidays with extended family, not being able to walk into a store without wearing a mask, etc.  

3. Do you like peppermint? Peppermint mocha, a candy cane, peppermint bark, peppermint tea, York Peppermint Pattie, peppermint ice cream...of the peppermint treats listed, which one is your favorite? Will you bake anything featuring peppermint this holiday season? 

Yes, I like peppermint.  Yes to candy canes (if I can find any made in the USA), peppermint bark and peppermint ice cream.  I usually only have peppermint tea if I am not feeling well as it is supposed to be good for stomach ailments and headaches.  Mint chocolate chip ice cream is my favorite although I don't know if that is technically peppermint.  My other favorite is peppermint bark and yes I will be making that this holiday season even though it doesn't require baking.  

4. Besides Christmas, what do you associate the color red with? How about the color green? 

I associate red with hearts and Valentine's Day and green with St. Patrick's Day.  

Also this Scripture verse:

“Come now, and let us reason together,”
Says the Lord,
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
They shall be as white as snow;
Though they are red like crimson,
They shall be as wool."

Isaiah 1:18

5. Is your tree up? Real or artificial? Is your house decorated? Is your shopping done? Started? Wrapped? On a scale of 1-10 with 1 being Scrooge-like and 10 being Buddy the Elf, how's your Christmas spirit? 

My tree isn't up yet but hope to get to that this week.  It is artificial.  Yes, my house is decorated.  My shopping is not done as I am still waiting for Christmas lists.  I did purchase a few things online and am waiting for those to arrive.  My Christmas spirit is an 8, maybe it will go higher this year.  We all can use some extra cheer!  

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Last week we celebrated 19 years of marriage.  We didn't go out to celebrate but hopefully we can make up for it next year.

Have a great week :)

Wednesday's Peaceful Hodgepodge

 

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(The link isn't working again, ugh!  Joyce's blog is www.fromthissideofthepond.com)

1. How do you define peace? 

An inner calmness that isn't dependent on outside circumstances.

2. November 3rd is Election Day in the US of A, but did you know it's also National Sandwich Day? Let's vote, shall we? egg salad or tuna salad? chicken salad or grilled chicken on a bun? peanut butter and jelly or a bagel with cream cheese? turkey and swiss or ham and cheddar? grilled cheese or pimento cheese? roast beef-corned beef-or make mine veggie? 

Tuna salad (mine made with Hellmann's vegan mayo because I avoid eggs)

Grilled chicken on a bun

Bagel with cream cheese (I love pbj too)

Turkey and swiss but I'd prefer ham and swiss

Grilled cheese (with bacon and tomato)

Roast beef (I like hot pastrami on rye better) 

Katz's Deli, NYC 

3. When did you last say (or feel) 'no rest for the weary'? 

On Monday.  It was one of those days where there seemed to be so much catching up on things.  I was extra tired for some reason, maybe the time change.  It felt like I kept going all day and night.  

4. This time last year, where were you? 

Same place as this year.  

5. Share a favorite song, verse, or quote featuring the word 'peace'. 

"You will keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You."

Isaiah 26:3

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

My peaceful place.  Hope to get there today.  

Wednesday's Chocolate Day Hodgepodge

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I am not sure why but the link doesn't seem to be working.  Joyce's blog can be found here: 

http://www.fromthissideofthepond.com/

1. Boo, boo-hoo, make a boo-boo, boo(ze)...pick one and tell us how it relates to life lately. 

Boo-hoo has become a funny saying in my home lately.  It usually follows something said that sounds like a big deal at the moment but really isn't.  

2. Do you like the color orange? Would we find this color in your home? Your wardrobe? Peach-pumpkin-tangeringe...your favorite shade of the three listed? 

I love orange leaves in Autumn.  I have fall decorations in my home that have orange in them.  I do not have anything orange in my wardrobe.  Tangerine orange is my favorite.

3. October 28th is National Chocolate Day. What's the last chocolate something you tasted? On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being out of this world delicious, how would you rate it? 

Diet friendly brownies I made the other day.  I froze them so I can take one out when I want a treat.  It is made from a box of brownie mix and a can of pumpkin.  I would rate it a 6.  It isn't cakey which is how I prefer my brownies, but more chewy.  I enjoy having one with some frozen blueberries and light whipped cream on top. 

4. Life is like a box of chocolates or so says Forrest Gump's mama. Would you agree? Aside from the pandemic fallout tell us one way this saying has played out in your life. 

While we don't know all the details of life ahead of time we can trust the One who does.  

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;

6 

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall direct your paths."  

Proverbs 3:5-6

5. As October winds down tell us three things you loved about the month we're bidding adieu. 

1. Cooler temperatures

2. Leaves changing colors

3. Being able to wear comfy jeans

6.  Insert your own random thought here. 

Congratulations Justice Amy Coney Barrett!

 

Wednesday's Traveling Fall Hodgepodge

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1. Just your weekly mid-week reminder that it's fall y'all and it's my favorite. I love nearly all the flavors of fall but let's weigh in with an either or today...pumpkin or cranberry? hot apple cider or pumpkin spice latte? cinnamon or maple? apple or pear? ginger or sage? carrot or butternut squash? Yes you have to choose. What's a favorite dish made with one of the flavors listed here? 

Fall is my favorite too!  Joyce is making this question hard, I like most of these.  Since I have to pick...pumpkin over cranberry but I love cranberry sauce.  Pumpkin spice latte over hot apple cider but I wouldn't say no to a hot cider.  Maple is one of my favorite flavors so I'd pick that over cinnamon but I use cinnamon pretty much all year long.  Apple over pear.  Ginger over sage.  Carrot over butternut squash but I like both.  I love pumpkin bread, apple pie and maple walnut balls which are a cookie that I make at Christmas time.  

2. Do you miss traveling? In this season of almost no travel do you think you've grown anxious or fearful about traveling again? Or has all this staying home not going anywhere made you restless to get out and see the world? What book have you read or what movie have you watched that has inspired you to travel? 

No I do not miss traveling.  Sadly I am not much of a traveler anymore.  Yes Covid definitely has made me more anxious and fearful about traveling.  Not so much about the virus but more about restrictions on travel, quarantine rules, etc.  Can't think of a recent book or movie that has inspired me to travel. 

3. A time you felt like you were 'flying by the seat of your pants'? Explain. 

I think it was my first teaching job.  In retrospect I should not have taken the job.  It was a Hebrew Preschool that provided Special Education services.  I am not Jewish and a very limited understanding of the Orthodox community.  I had a class of twelve little ones, ages 18 months to 4 years old with various needs.  I wasn't given a curriculum or really any direction.  Many of the children had to be carried, some were deaf, some had various health needs.  In my opinion they should not have been grouped together like that.  It was very difficult to meet all of their needs.  I was so relieved to leave half way through the year and found a much more suitable teaching position for me.  Looking back I don't know how I did it except by flying by the seat of my pants.  I don't like knowing I didn't do my best :(  

4. Do you struggle with road rage or are you more of a 'Sunday driver'? Do you like to be 'in the driver's seat (literally and/or figuratively speaking) ?

I do not have road rage although I can be tempted to get annoyed at other drivers at times.  Actually just the other day I was in the passenger seat and my daughter was driving.  A car turned out and it appeared he was unaware of oncoming traffic.  My daughter swerved slightly.  I reacted and in retrospect should have been calmer.  My daughter reminded me of that ;)  I am not a 'Sunday driver'.  Yes I like to be in the driver's seat figuratively speaking but I prefer for my husband to drive most of the time.  

5. Something you've recently 'put the brakes on'? 

Late night snacking.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

 

Wednesday's Sweet Hodgepodge

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1. Let's start things off right...Wednesday is National Dessert Day. What are we having? How often do you  make/serve dessert? Store bought or from scratch? 

I am having sliced banana, spread with PB2 (peanut butter powder bc it has no oil therefore less fat) and frozen, topped with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, light whipped cream and a few sprinkles.  That is because I am on WW.  For the rest of the family I usually make from scratch desserts like blondies,  chocolate chip cookies, apple crisp or chocolate cake.  If I don't bake anything we sometimes have ice cream or store bought cookies around.  

2. Slow as molasses, icing on the cake, that's the way the cookie crumbles, have your cake and eat it too, half-baked idea, that takes the cake...which phrase might be applied to something in your life in recent days? Explain. 

Have your cake and eat it too.  I started WW eight weeks ago.  I am losing weight and I have not been hungry.  As long as I plan my meals and snacks ahead of time and incorporate a treat each day I think I can stick with it.  In the past any diet I have tried restricted certain food groups and that made it hard to maintain long term.  

3. Something that's 'easy as pie' for you to do?

Giving myself a manicure.  I haven't been to a nail salon in years and polish my nails at least every week.  I don't think there is much to it but I have heard people say they can't do their own nails.  I don't remember what book I read this in...but the author included checking your nails as part of the preparations made the night before church because you don't want to look down and see your nails a mess on Sunday morning.  It really stuck with me.  

4. Are you someone who likes to 'sugarcoat' news you think might not be well received, or are you more of a tell it like it is and let the chips fall where they may? Do you like to receive your news the same way you give it? 

I think I am more of a tell it like it is although I hope that I am compassionate and gentle in my approach.  Yes that is how I like to receive news too.  

5. Something you did recently that made you feel like a 'smart cookie'? 

I preheated the baking sheets before cooking peppers and onions for fajitas.  I finally figured out how to have nicely browned peppers and onions instead of soggy ones.  I learned that from watching my daughter make homemade French fries 😉 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

I managed to erase many of the comments on my blog accidentally.  I really do not like the new Blogger.  I was trying to figure out how to use the various features and before I knew it they were gone.  Apparently there is no way of getting them back.  That was frustrating!  I still can't seem to get my formatting and font the way I like it either.  I will have to keep working on it and see if I can figure it out.  If I can I will feel like a smart cookie for sure!

Have a great rest of the week 😀

 

Wednesday's Nice Everyday Hodgepodge

 

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1. What's one part of your everyday routine you'd be better off without? 

Internet surfing.  Usually I start out looking for one thing and end up in a hundred other places.  Before you know it much time has been wasted.

2. October 5th is/was National Do Something Nice Day. So what did you/will you do? 

I went pumpkin picking!  Well actually it is a local church that makes their front lawn into a pumpkin patch but I did choose some pumpkins for my front steps.  I also bought a couple of Mums at a local nursery.  It was a gorgeous fall day and I enjoyed being out and about. 

3. What question do you hate to answer? 

How much do you weigh?  LOL!  I have lost 17 lbs. since the end of August though.

4. Do we have control over technology or does it have control over us. In that same vein, have you watched The Social Dilemma (available on Netflix) and if so what did you think? 

I think we have control over technology although some people act as if they don't (I don't mean people who don't understand how to use technology but those who use it irresponsibly).  

I have not watched The Social Dilemna.  This is the first I am hearing about it. 

5. What are three small things that make your day better? 

God's Word, my kids and a steaming hot tea.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

Last week Joyce asked us a question about coffee.  It got my thinking how some people make the best coffee.  Mine always comes out different and usually not so good.  What is the secret?

Wednesday's End of September Hodgepodge

 

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1. When is the last time you experienced nostalgia? 

The only thing I can think of is seeing a glass Coca-Cola bottle.  I remember when I was a little girl the local gas station had a soda machine.  You put the coins in, open the door and pull out a glass bottle of soda.  I think the machine had a bottle opener on it.  I gave up drinking soda in January.  I love it and know once I start drinking it I will crave it so am trying to be extreme.  

2. September 29th is National Coffee Day. Do we need this? Ha! So are you a coffee drinker? If so how many cups per day, and tell us how you like it. Is there a recipe you enjoy that calls for coffee as one of the ingredients? 

I am more of a tea drinker although I like coffee.  My husband does not like the smell of coffee (can you imagine?) so I don't make it every day.  I like it regular, in NY that means with milk and sugar.  That is how we order it in a deli.  Delis and diners have the best coffee, better than any specialty shop.  I do not know of a recipe that calls for coffee.  

 

3. Do you find praise or criticism to be more motivating? Explain. 

Praise is more motivating to me.  I like making people happy and a job well done.  Receiving words of praise is an encouragement to do that.  

4.  What's a television series you keep coming back to and re-watching? 

Little House on the Prairie.  That show never gets old and it is family friendly.  

5. As the month of September draws to a close give us three words to describe your mood. 

Tired, mellow, hopeful.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

It hasn't felt much like Fall here yet.  I am looking forward to the crispness in the air, burning my fall scented candles, and wearing clothes other than capris and t-shirts.  

Wednesday's Aging Hodgepodge

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1. What's one thing you learned at the ripe old age of whatever age you are now?

It is not good for people to be isolated from one another.  I think I always knew this to a certain degree but with COVID I really have seen it.  It is especially hard for the elderly and those who are limited in going out to start.  

2. I read here a list of foods that can help you look younger-

extra virgin olive oil, green tea, fatty fish, dark chocolate, vegetables, flaxseeds, pomegranates, avocados, tomatoes, spices, bone broth 

How many of the foods listed have you tried? How many do you eat regularly? Your favorite from the list?

I have tried all but flaxseeds and bone broth.  I regularly eat extra virgin olive oil and vegetables.  My favorite is dark chocolate.  

3. Something you miss from the 'good old days'? When were the good old days anyway?

Being excited to watch a TV show because if you missed it you couldn't watch it anywhere else and there was no "on-demand".  Everything is available so easily these days, it doesn't seem to make anything feel special.  

4. What are two or three of the most rewarding things to be found in growing older?

The little things don't matter as much as you once thought.  What other people think doesn't matter as much as it once did.  

5. What's your favorite part of your life right now?

My family.  Watching my kids as they grow and mature.  Seeing them use the gifts God has given them is a blessing! 

6. Insert your own random thought here.

 Happy Birthday Week Joyce!

Wednesday's Labor Hodgepodge

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1. Something you've done in recent days or months that might be described as a labor of love?

Getting things ready for school to start.  My son started 10th grade and since we homeschool I organized all of his books and my paperwork so we would be off to a smooth start.  I wanted to help my daughter who started college but she had it all figured out.  I am adjusting ;)  

2. Last time you 'worked your fingers to the bone'?

Back in July when I helped a friend move out of her home.  I deep cleaned after it was empty.  

3. According to a recent survey people named the following ten jobs as the hardest-nurse, doctor, paramedic, police officer, firefighter, surgeon, healthcare worker, bomb squad, farmer, and prison warden. Of the jobs listed which would you say is the hardest? The one you'd most like to do? Least like to do? What's one job you would add to the list?

The hardest- a surgeon.  I would not want to do any of these jobs.  If I had to pick one it would be a farmer because although it is super hard work you aren't dealing with life or death situations.  I would least likely want to be part of the bomb squad.  My heart races and hands shake at the thought ;)

I would add teachers to the list.  I know some people think teachers have it easy but to be an effective, good teacher is very hard work.  

4. A recipe you make that is labor intensive, but worth it?

Eggplant Parmesan.  I make it every year for my husband's birthday, which happens to be in a couple of weeks.  There are so many steps to it and it takes a long time to make.  There are always so many pots and pans to clean when I am finished.  It is his favorite dish and he gets so happy when I make it so that makes it worth it.  

5. Last job you did or task you completed that required teamwork?

I can't think of anything.  It feels like so long since I've worked with anyone.  

6.  Insert your own random thought here.

Beware of the newest scam going around.  Last night I received a phone call from someone claiming to be from Amazon.  The Caller ID came up "Amazon Customer Service" and it even had the correct phone number.  The woman said they noticed suspicious activity on my account and wanted to know if anyone in Ohio had access to my account.  I said no.  She said there was an order placed for an iPhone for $750 and she would need to transfer me to the security department.  Then she asked if I had my cell phone so they could call me.  I said no way, connect me through this line.  She said no she needed my cell phone.  I told her she is being reported and it is a scam!  She calmly said "Ok, you can do that".  I hung up and immediately called Amazon to report it.  There wasn't any suspicious activity on my account.  These hackers can do just about anything including making whatever they want come up on Caller ID.  I hope they figure out a way to stop these phone scams.  It is sad to hear of people getting taken, especially the elderly.  

Wednesday's September Hodgepodge

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1. The Hodgepodge lands on the second day of a brand new month. Tell us one thing you're looking forward to in September.

Cooler weather!  I love being able to open the windows and have crisp, cool air blowing through the house.  Although that may not happen yet.  Some years September has been very warm.

2. Do you enjoy browsing second-hand shops? Last thing you bought or 'inherited' second hand?

No, I don't enjoy browsing second-hand shops.  It just is not my thing.  The last thing I bought second hand was a beautiful cherry china cabinet.  It was never used but was sitting in someone's house.  Her mother bought it when she was moving and then found out it wouldn't fit in her new place.  The daughter had no room for it and listed it on FB Marketplace.  We had to rent a truck from Home Depot but even with that expense it was a steal!

3. Something you had second thoughts about after committing to, purchasing, or posting/commenting  online?

It is something I committed to but if I post it here I will have second thoughts about posting it online!  

4. What's a product or service you use that you'd rate as second to none?

Amazon Prime.  Even though there were some delays in the height of COVID, I still can get almost anything I want or need delivered to my door in two days.  Their return policy is very good and hassle-free.  

5. Something you do so often or that comes so naturally to you it's second nature ?

Taking off my shoes when I come into the house.  I have been doing that for years and don't even think about it.  It keeps the dirt and germs from the bottom of our shoes from getting tracked through the house.  I have indoor flip-flops and on a couple of occasions I have walked outside wearing them.  They then became outside shoes ;)  

6. Insert your own random thought here.

I have been on a weight roller coaster for a long time.  I lose weight, then I gain it.  Repeat.  Last week I impulsively joined WW digital.  I have only told a few friends but am trying not to say too much in case I don't stick with it.  I lost 4 lbs. so far and haven't had to eliminate any foods.  If I want something, I work it into my points and enjoy it.  Here's hoping I stick with it!