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Going Around In Circles

I have a problem. As a full-time writer, it is literally my job to create content. In my day job as a non-profit communications manager, I compose e-newsletters, tell impactful stories, post on several social media platforms, update website copy, send press releases, and do similar tasks, all to engage people in our work and raise money. At night, I love to read books, listen to podcasts, download today’s New York Times on my Kindle, read through some of the blogs I follow and write my own blog posts.

I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the digital chaos that I am addicted to online. And it is coming at me in all directions. Maybe it is time for me to take a detour off the information highway. And yes, I do see the irony in all of this because I am part of the problem, but that’s a post for another time.

I could use a break, or maybe I just need a new hobby. Something outdoorsy, although I’m not really a nature kind of person. Plus, it is winter, and I don’t love the cold weather.

Maybe I’ll travel. I’m in the mood to watch my favorite sport – baseball – but the only way to do that right now is to go to spring training. I’ve been there before and loved every minute of it.

But it’s in Florida, so on second thought, maybe not. Stupid COVID-19.

Maybe I need to throw myself into a home improvement project. But, I should save up first because we completed our new deck and patio this past summer.

Or, maybe I need some retail therapy. That does seem to help, but I’m currently decluttering closets in my house. I don’t want to add anything right now. That seems like self-sabotage to me.

Since I am so indecisive, maybe, I’ll read up on how to find a new hobby. Yeah, that’s what I’ll do. I’ll check out the latest articles and podcasts on the subject. And maybe I’ll sign up for a few newsletters and follow some social media influencers of a certain age to get some ideas. And maybe…

Shit.

I think I’m back to where I started.

Betty White on a Snowy Day

Betty White

I’m having a lazy Saturday. It’s cold and snowy outside, and nothing pressing needs attention on the homefront. I admit that it’s nice to slow down for a change. I don’t do it often enough. We actually had dinner plans with several couples tonight for our semi-annual, post-holiday get-together, but with COVID-19 cases rising, we all thought it would be better to reschedule.

Instead of running errands and cleaning up around the house, I grabbed a comfy blanket, a hot chocolate, and my Kindle. As luck would have it, Hot in Cleveland is now showing on Amazon Prime. I’ve been a fan of Betty White ever since The Golden Girls. I always found her to be the most caring and charming of the four women on the show – even though she played a bit of a dim-wit. After reading so many tributes and watching clips – especially on the game shows – I decided to start Hot in Cleveland. I’m also planning to watch The Mary Tyler Moore Show for the first time. I’m a little embarrassed to say that I’ve never seen it before, but I was only allowed to watch Sesame Street back then.

I read up on Betty White and her happy life and long career as the first lady of television – having a career that spanned for decades until her passing. She seemed like a smart broad with a sense of humor that would make others blush. She also had some words of wisdom that I’d like to share with you. Here are some great quotes from the great Betty White:

“Kindness and consideration of somebody besides yourself keeps you young.”

“Everyone needs a passion. That’s what keeps life interesting. If you live without passion, you go through life without leaving any footprints.”

“The older you get, the better you get. Unless you’re a banana.”

“I just make it my business to get along with people so I can have fun. It’s that simple.”

Betty White … may her memory be for a blessing.

A Memo On Winter Coats

Dearest Family,

Now that the first snow has fallen and the temperatures have dropped significantly, I want to reacquaint you with a wonderful, state-of-the-art feature that came with our house. I understand that after two seasons of warmer weather and a lovely fall, you may have forgotten its purpose and existence.

Drumroll, please…

Meet the coat closet! This special place conveniently located in our front foyer is set behind two sliding doors and well equipped with everything you need to hang up your winter jackets. Over the past year, management has taken great care to retire the hangers that no longer serve a purpose. They include but are not limited to the bent, metal ones that could poke your eye out and the cheap versions that came from the local dry cleaners. These hangers have been replaced with new and improved versions that I believe you will find to be highly qualified and to your liking.

And, if I may be so bold, consider taking an extra minute to zip up your coat after placing it on the hanger to ensure that it doesn’t wind up on the floor.

Please note that management will no longer tolerate the aforementioned coats being thrown in places such as (but again not limited to) – the seating bench in the foyer, all of the couches, the red swivel chair, or the dining room table. Winter coats left on your bedroom floors will also not be searched for or retrieved by management when you submit a request for me to find them. I have determined that this responsibility is well below my pay grade.

By performing this simple but important task, you can continue to play a crucial role in contributing to the overall beautification of our living space.

Management greatly appreciates (and wholeheartedly insists upon) your cooperation in this matter.

Thank you.

XO,

Elisa (the “management”)

 

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