AARP Online Community: jc2gether63

KNOW THE FACTS . . . BEFORE APPLYING

By Carol Ann

The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. I decided to retire on October 2, 2009. After reading an article “Boost Your Income!” under the Personal Finance section of the September & October, 2009 edition of the AARP Magazine, I realized that many people were missing out on making extra money, by not knowing their rights on how and when to file for Social Security benefits.

According to the article by Lynn Brenner: If you’re married or divorced, these little-known strategies can add thousands of dollars to your Social Security checks. Every year, retirees pass up a whopping $10.1 billion in Social Security benefits—spousal benefits that most people don’t even know they’re entitled to.

I had visited the Social Security office a couple of times. The first time was to escort my hubby to apply for his benefits when he turned 63 years old. The second time was to learn what I would receive, depending on when I retired and my work history and get a print-out for future reference. No one ever mentioned any alternative options to receive the most over the long haul.

Most financial advisers would suggest that an individual take their benefits at age 62, instead of full retirement age (FRA), which for most people is now 66 years or later. I was told that it would take 13 years for a retired person to make more money by waiting until they were FRA. Of course, if you are independently wealthy, this wouldn’t be an issue for you.

I am in excellent health for someone my age and my primary physician keeps telling me, “You know you are going to live a very long time,” after listening to my heart, and checking me out.

I was concerned that if I took early retirement benefits with Social Security, I would be short-changing myself in the years to come. The cost of living raises (when they give them) are based on your current payments. If I took a discounted benefit, my increases would be less for my remaining years too.

The article in the AARP Magazine explained another option that no one, not even the employees at the Social Security Center told me about. It described different financial situations and the best way the couples should file to make the most money.

It informed me that I could file for S.S. benefits now at 63 yrs. and 11 months, at one half of my spouse’s benefit; and when I turn 66 years or FRA, I could re-file under my own number and not be penalized for early retirement. My husband’s benefits allowed me to start receiving payments that would only be $200 a month less than if I filed under my own number now. When I reach FRA, I will receive the full amount of my benefits and it would be $300 a month more for life. Plus my cost-of-living increases would be based on the new higher amount.

When my hubby asked the employee that was working on my case, “What do you think is the best thing to do?”

She responded, “Oh sir, we aren’t allowed to advise any one; just give you the numbers. Everyone’s financial situation is different and we can’t say.”

Thankfully I have a pension from another job that I had for 12 years, but I did need some added funds to pay for my COBRA, or continued medical coverage from my former employer, for 13 months, until I reach 65 years and am eligible for Medicare.

This was the perfect solution. I now will receive monthly S.S. payments that will more than cover my COBRA, and I will still be able to receive my FRA benefits too without being penalized. I might even consider waiting more than my FRA to get a larger monthly income. I will have to see what the financial environment is at the time.

Prior to reading this article, the only way I knew to be able to receive the full amount after you already filed and started to receive payments, was to pay back every penny you received. Since most people spend what they receive, paying back thousands of dollars wasn’t a viable option.

I am so-o-o-o thankful that I read the article to Know the Facts . . . Before Applying. I am going to receive enough money to cover my new COBRA, or medical expenses, until I reach age 66 when I will receive my FRA benefits too.

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Added: October 22, 2009
Views: 61 | Comments: 2 | Bookmarks: 0

The Job . . . A Urine Test

THE JOB - URINE TEST

(Whoever wrote this one deserves a HUGE pat on the back!)

Like most folks in this country, I have a job. I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit. In order to get that paycheck in my case, I am required to pass a random urine test (with which I have no problem). What I do have a problem with is the distribution of my taxes to people who don't have to pass a urine test.

So, here is my Question: Shouldn't one have to pass a urine test to get a welfare check because I have to pass one to earn it for them?

Please understand, I have no problem with helping people get back on their feet. I do, on the other hand, have a problem with helping someone sitting on their **** - doing drugs, while I work. . . . Can you imagine how much money each state would save if people had to pass a urine test to get a public assistance check?

I guess we could title that program, 'Urine or You're Out'.

Pass this along if you agree or simply delete if you don't. Hope you all will pass it along, though. Some thing has to change in this country -- and soon!!!!!!!

Added: October 17, 2009
Views: 38 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

I'M STILL HEEE-RE

I’M STILL HEEE-RE

By Carol Ann

During our RV journeys, Jim, my hubby, and I stayed in Rincon Country West Resort in Tucson, Arizona, for the winter of 2003. We were relaxing on our patio, when the 36’ Pace Arrow motor home, drove up across from us. A thin gentleman with white hair popped out of the door; went to the back of their rig and with a few hand signals had the driver of the motor home back up perfectly into the site, lined-up perfectly for the water, sewer, electric and cement patio. We were curious to see who the driver was that did this excellent parking job with only one try. Off goes the engine and out walks a petite lady, with short brown hair and big smile. After watching numerous big rig drivers make many attempts to find the right spot, we were flabbergasted to see this lovely little lady accomplish a task that eluded so many other experienced men. We had to meet her and her partner.

These two lovely travelers native to New Orleans, were fulltime RVers. The expert driver was Claudette and her husband of more than 50 years was Don.

Don had retired from AT&T after 40 years of service and transfers to New Jersey and Ohio. After raising a daughter Debbie and a son Donnie, Jr.; they sold their home in Ohio and hit-the-road. They were fortunate enough to cross the United States three times. They not only traveled by motor home, but they also participated in Volkswalking. That is a German term, “volksmarch,” meaning “a people walk.” They explained that these Volkswalks took place all over the country and they earned badges for completing the 10 kilometers or 6.2 mile treks.

Don’s 26 surgeries, including inserting a pacemaker and defibrillator, didn’t seem to slow them very much, other than Claudette taking over the driving responsibilities. They traveled from Florida to Alaska. They were very unassuming people, but had wonderful stories to share, if someone took the time to ask.

We loved their independence and they understood our need to travel and learn too. We became fast friends. We might not see each other for a few days, but were thrilled to compare notes of our adventures when we reunited. They told us about fun places to see like

Tombstone

and Jim, who loves photography, would snatch them both up and drive them to Tucson Mountain Park to witness the beautiful desert sunsets.

At the end of the 2003/04 winter season, we made plans to meet again next winter in Arizona City at Quail Run RV Park. Knowing Don had medical problems, I took the time once we arrived in October of 2004, to learn where the closest hospital facility was located. I never dreamed that my concern for Don would save Jim’s life. Later that month Jim had a heart attack. Thankfully I knew where to drive Jim and they airlifted him to a heart hospital. He had angioplasty and a stent implanted, all in less than an hour and a half. We were workamping at Quail Run and the day after Jim returned from the hospital, the manager told us we would have to leave immediately or pay to stay. I paid for one week to allow Jim to recuperate. I typed a new resume for just me and talked the management of Palm Creek Golf and RV Resort, located in Casa Grande, AZ, to hire me in exchange for a full hook-up site.

I had the sad news to explain to our friends what had happened, but we would be staying only 9 miles away from Quail Run. They had already paid a deposit to stay at Quail Run, so we continued to meet and have fun together.

The following year after we both returned from traveling, Don and Claudette joined us at the Casa Grande Resort. Our wedding anniversary was July 27^th and their wedding anniversary was July 29^th, so we celebrated together on July 28^th.

Don’s health was beginning to fail. Their last road trip was to visit their son in Denver, CO and their daughter, in Dayton, OH. Unfortunately he ended up in the local hospital with heart and high blood pressure problems. The high altitude of Denver left him short of breath, during his stay.

When they returned they realized as Jim and I did, that although we LOVED the life on-the-road, that we no longer had the stamina to stay on the road. We both purchased a park model here in this lovely resort and we sold our RV’s.

We still shared local events like the O’OdhamTash, pronounced (O-Au-Tumm Tash) means “gathering of People.” In 1967 the town O’Odham of Casa Grande wanted to celebrate and honor the Native Americans that live on reservations north and south of Casa Grande. It started out as a barbecue and then evolved into a four-day celebration, including a parade, rodeo (with Indian participants from as far away as Canada), arts and crafts exhibits and sale, as well as native foods such as fry bread.

Don had several surgeries for aneurysms, but even with tubes and a vac machine, he still would volunteer working along with Claudette in the mail room. He was always willing to help others. With all of his medical challenges, I never remember him complaining. He pushed through each and every day to make the most of it.

This wonderful gentleman lived a full life. As a younger man he knew how to make wooden toys for his children and grandchildren. He would put his children to bed at night and read stories to them. He and Claudette took their children and grandchildren on many trips with them to share the wonderful experiences of traveling. He was one of those “unsung heroes” that took his responsibilities seriously and took care of his family and always had a wonderful wit. Being with him was a joy.

When I saw him walking around the park with his wife, I could always tell it was him because of his bowed-legs. The years were tough on his body, but his loving wife cared for him, including always feeding him healthy food. I would go to the church service in the resort and bring him a “Holy Cookie” on my way home. After every service they gave out cookies and coffee. I saved mine for Don. I know he had his own stash of candy, but I enjoyed the impish smile he gave me when I arrived with the goodies. Don was also frugal, so getting a FREE treat was even better.

The last couple of months, his visits to the hospital and visits by home health nurses became more frequent. With all that was going wrong, he would still smile and say, “I’m still heee-re!” And so he was.

To complicate things even more, Claudette was volunteering at Palm Creek at a “Welcome Party” by helping serve food. She wanted to give Don a coupon to get a FREE ice cream. As she rushed across the parking lot, she thought she had stepped over one of those cement parking blocks, but her foot caught the top of one and she went flying. The scrapes were nothing compared to her broken left wrist. It was broken so badly that you could see the bone bulging out where it didn’t belong. The manager of the park and one of the volunteers rushed her to the hospital and the office manager called me to let me know the bad news. My hubby stayed with Don and I went to the hospital for support and to give her a ride home. Yes, she needed surgery a few days later and the stress seemed overwhelming, but they both did the best they could each day.

Her frustration was her inability to do everything for Don as she had always done before. She couldn’t even drive for 6 weeks. Everyone in the park chipped in and helped. They did find other ways to get by, like using paper plates, because neither one could stand that long or wash the dishes. We all helped with shopping, doctors’ appointments, clothes washing, etc.

Claudette suffered more pain than she had ever experienced before. She did recover after the surgery. But one night when Don was home, he became very weak and she called us crying that she couldn’t move him from the bathroom. Jim went two sites away to their home, but Don’s legs went limp and he couldn’t move him either. He mouthed to me, “Call 911.” We knew Don didn’t want to go back to the hospital, but it was an impossible situation. We live less than a ½ mile from the hospital and the Rescue Squad and the E.M.T.’s showed up in less than 5 minutes. They were very kind and caring and transported him to the hospital. After a short stay in the hospital and several blood transfusions, the cardiology doctor recommended that Don go to a rehabilitation facility to gain his strength before he went home. He was there only two weeks and Claudette took him for his doctor’s appointment on Friday, August 21^st, from the rehab facility and the doctor said that he was doing great and he discharged him and stated that he didn’t have to come back for six-months. Even the staff at the doctor’s office cheered and applauded at the good news. They celebrated by stopping at Cracker Barrel and shared a lovely meal. Don was to be discharged from the rehabilitation facility on Tuesday.

Unfortunately Claudette received a telephone call from the nurse the next morning stating that Don had fallen, but he was okay. When Claudette arrived, he was unresponsive. She called the nurse and the nurse called the doctor. They were suspicious that he had a stroke because one side of his mouth drooped. They transported him to Banner Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix, because they specialize in treatment for strokes. Claudette called me crying from the hospital and I joined her as soon as I could make the 45-minute drive. They had done a CT of his brain and it showed that he had a massive bleed in 1/3 of his brain and it even displaced his brain. The doctor offered to keep Don on life-support until his two children could fly in on Sunday. I stayed with her until it was starting to get late. The nurse did some tests to see if he was responsive, but he was already gone. I kissed him good-by and hugged Claudette. They allowed Claudette to spend the last night with him in his ICU room.

The next morning he received the last rites and his daughter and son came to say “Good-by.”

This man was a loving man, a responsibly man, a caring man with a wonderful sense of humor. He didn’t make the nightly news, but he brought joy to those who met him. When I look at his chair, I can still see him with his newspaper saying, “I’m still heee-re.” Yes, he is still here in all of our hearts and memories.

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Added: October 11, 2009
Views: 54 | Comments: 2 | Bookmarks: 0

SIX MAGIC WORDS

SIX MAGIC WORDS

By Carol Ann

Recently my hubby and I attended one of those marketing promotions for timeshares, just to earn tickets for a Las Vegas show. They try to make everyone feel like they are long lost friends. They go around the room asking questions and calling people by name. This RAH, RAH session went on for 2 hours. We explained that their program did not meet our needs and left with only the freebies in hand.

After we returned home from Las Vegas, my hubby had the following fun dream:

He dreamed that we were attending the Wyndham Resort Program and the sales rep asked Jim, my hubby, how long we were married?

He responded, “Forty-six years.”

He asked, “What do you attribute to the success of being married that long?”

He answered, “We really do get along, but occasionally I do use six magic words . . . Okay dear . . . right after the game.”

The salesman then queried, “After all those years, she must do something that bothers you?”

Jim responded, “Yes, she sends cards to everyone for everything. She gives me stuff to mail almost every day. She could be sending cards to cousins that have been dead for five years, but she keeps sending them, because they are in her little book.”

The rep responded to him, “What do you say to her when she gives you the mail?”

He answered, along with the chorus of the rest of the crowd, “Okay dear . . . right after the game.”

The salesman said, “You have good timing. Are you a standup?”

Jim answered, “No, I’m a sittin’ down,” while gesturing with his hands as only an Italian would do.

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Added: October 5, 2009
Views: 55 | Comments: 2 | Bookmarks: 0

WINNING IN LAS VEGAS . . . BUT NOT AT THE TABLES

Winning in Las Vegas . . . But NOT at the Tables

By Carol Ann

In the spring my hubby Jim and I visited Harrah’s in Laughlin, NV. I played the nickel slots and he played Texas Holdem’ (a poker table game).

After we returned home, we decided to check what credits we earned by using our Players’ Club cards. You use your card whenever you gamble or purchase anything and it gives you credit towards future rewards, like discounted room rates or FREE for the “high-rollers.”

Jim checked the price they would charge him for a room in Harrah’s, Las Vegas, for 4 days in September. According to his play, the rate was $40 a day, each day for a total of $160, plus tax. Although I didn’t play much, I suggested that he enter my ID number to see the rate they would charge me. To my surprise they offered me a rate of $40 for the first night and comped the other 3 nights. The total cost for the 4-night stay in Las Vegas would be $40 plus $4 tax. Obviously I am NOT a high-roller, playing with nickels, but times are tough, even in Vegas. It works for me . . . so we booked it.

Then he said that we would be leaving Las Vegas on Thursday, so we could stop at Laughlin overnight and it would make the return trip shorter. We checked the room rate on my card and again it was FREE for a river-front room. We booked it too.

We left Sunday morning on Grandparent’s Day. It was a sunny morning and we stopped in Wikieup

for a pit stop. A few miles down the road our engine made a horrible noise and it sounded like something flew off the engine. We retraced our drive for about one mile, but didn’t see anything on the road. Then sadly we realized our air conditioning no longer worked. It blew air, but it was hot.

We drove across Hoover Dam and witnessed the ongoing construction of a new bridge

to help divert traffic away from the dam. Since 9/11 many new plans to safeguard our country’s treasures have been implemented. We smiled at the lovely statues

guarding this one. We just were praying that we didn’t breakdown on the dam. We kept a close eye on the temperature gauge.

We made it to Harrah’s in Las Vegas in timely manner and while waiting to check-in, two marketing ladies offered us free tickets to see Rita Rudner. That was the one show that I absolutely wanted to see during our stay, but the tickets would cost over $100. I was willing to stand in one of those lines that offer half-price tickets, but now we were offered a better deal . . . FREE. In the past, Jim would not have been willing to sit through a two-hour presentation in return for tickets for a show; but he knew how much I really wanted to see Rita and he agreed. Not only did we get the tickets for free, but they gave us four FREE buffet dinners.

Because we arrived a little early, a room with a king-size bed, wasn’t ready yet. We took a room with two queen-size beds, but it turned out to be a blessing. The room was much bigger with a refrigerator, safe, etc. and was the closest room to the elevator.

Once in our room we called the local Honda dealer and explained our predicament. They told us to come right over. They checked our car and told us that the air conditioning condenser blew. The mechanic suggested that we replace the entire system, because when it blew, it blew off debris and in a month or two we would experience problems with other parts of the system. The bad news . . . it would cost approximately $3,300. The good news . . . when Jim and I hit-the-road, he decided we would have limited funds for repairs and decided to buy the extended warranty. That’s right . . . we were totally covered. We didn’t have to pay a penny to replace the whole A/C system and they gave us a loner car for the day it took to make the repairs.

That night we enjoyed one of our FREE delicious buffets and then laughed uncontrollably at the Rita Rudner Show.

The next day we picked up our freshly washed and repaired car and we didn’t miss a beat. Jim and I enjoyed the meals at Harrah’s, but we had a certificate for a discount at the buffet at the Flamingo, only two doors away. We enjoyed a lovely brunch and the best Belgian waffles I have ever eaten. Then we strolled through the gardens

watching the flaming pink flamingoes,

ducks and fish. We stopped at the area where they held wedding ceremonies,

and felt blessed to be there and still be together and in love after 46 years of marriage.

We returned to Harrah’s where Jim played in a Texas Holdem’ Tournament and I played some slots, so we would be invited back at incredible rates.

Our stay in Las Vegas flew by and then we drove to the Harrah’s in Laughlin, NV. This time Jim cashed in a tournament, but not enough to cover our prior gambling donations.

The views at Laughlin were lovely because of the Colorado River

and numerous blooming flowers

throughout the grounds. We returned home on Friday, to rest up from our vacation.

The first thing everyone asks when you go to Vegas is, “Did you WIN?” We did WIN, but not at the tables. We stayed in two outstanding resorts for 5 days for $44 total. We got 4 FREE buffets and 2 FREE show tickets and we had repairs on our Honda completed, worth $3,300 for FREE too. Best of All, we had a wonderful time together. Yes, we WON in Las Vegas . . . but not at the tables.

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Added: September 30, 2009
Views: 457 | Comments: 6 | Bookmarks: 0

TIME TO MOVE ON . .

TIME TO MOVE ON

By Carol Ann

A year and a half ago, I was thrilled to hear from the human resource department of the local hospital wanting to know if I was still interested in a receptionist position for the Medical Imaging Department?

I responded, “Absolutely,” and gave them an updated application and resume, reflecting my background as a Hospice Volunteer, Hotline Crisis Counselor for abused women and children, manager of a physical therapy facility, receptionist and billing for Internists and Orthopedics, as well as numerous positions in the non-medical field. I needed a job that offered medical insurance that would not eliminate my husband, with a history of a heart attack. The hospital had a large group and excellent coverage.

There was a lot to learn because the position required that you know the protocol for Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine, X-ray, CT, and special procedures. Not remembering to ask a patient if they were allergic to iodine prior to scheduling a CAT scan with contrast could result in the patient experiencing renal failure and ultimately death. Additionally the position included covering the receptionist duties in the Cardiology Department every third week.

The Medical Imaging Department typically schedules two receptionists to cover the 4 lines and 5 departments. Two days a week a portable PET/CT Scan arrives and then we deal with a 6^th department.

The experienced receptionist had been there for more than ten years, and like most people that know their job well, didn’t have anything written. Even the telephone list was more than 3 years old with missing numbers and wrong numbers. My first question was the priority of events to open the office? This started the beginning of writing procedures, updating the phone list, because another new receptionist was to start in a couple of weeks too. All the exams that we needed to enter into the computer had their own unique codes and questions. I created a small loose leaf book, divided by department for quick reference.

The office opens at 7 am and the second, support receptionist starts at 8 am. One morning three months after I started, a patient came in to register without the required labels. I called the admitting office and asked them to print them for me. Then I called one of the x-ray technicians and asked if she could just cover the desk and phones, so I could retrieve the labels. I made the mistake of power-walking there and on the way back, I felt something “pop” in my left knee, followed by intense pain. I thought I tore a ligament. I grabbed the guardrail on the side wall and hobbled back to my seat. My backup came and I called my supervisor and I had to fill-out the proper Workmen’s Compensation forms and had my husband drive me to a subcontracted medical facility for x-rays. The doctor told me that it appeared that I fractured my tibia and showed us the x-ray that he thought showed it. He then ordered an MRI, that proved that it was not a fracture, but a severe sprain.

I did everything I could to get better as soon as possible. I did the proper cold/heat treatments and eventually using a Jacuzzi to help. I know the doctor would have kept me out a lot longer, but I didn’t want to leave the other receptionists short-handed, so I returned to work after a few weeks, instead of six weeks.

Unfortunately the younger generations’ work ethic is very different than mine and most of the mature employees. The two other receptionists would take breakfast breaks every morning from 15 to 30 minutes. Many times they would all go to the hospital cafeteria to buy breakfast together, so I would not only have to juggle the 4 phone lines and patients in Medical Imaging, but the phones automatically forward from Cardiology if they aren’t picked up by the 4^th ring. This would be followed by numerous personal phone calls from family and friends.

The youngest receptionist would feel find coming into work, until her boyfriend would call on his day off and she would mysteriously get a migraine headache and have to leave. She took several days off on Wednesdays, until he had his days off switched to Friday and Saturday. Yup, then she called in on a Friday to say her daughter was sick and couldn’t make it in.

One Friday afternoon, she asked if she could leave at 1:30 pm to get a head start on her weekend. My supervisor approved without even looking in the waiting room to see that it was packed. It wasn’t until she went to leave at 4 pm, when said asked, “Are you busy?” She then got an x-ray tech to help answer the phones until 4:30 pm.

Recently the young receptionist took two weeks off for her National Guard training, followed by the other receptionist taking a week off. Then the one that was off for training took a couple of vacation days. During this entire short-handed period of almost a month, I was the one that ran over to Cardiology to do all the paperwork, ordering, scheduling, preparing the equipment for the Cardiologists, then run back to Medical Imaging as my regular post.

Additionally the other two receptionists determined that I should be the one to run to “the barn,” a.k.a. an aluminum storage buildings without air conditioning where old records are stored, to retrieve files requested by medical providers or patients. The barn is home to black widow and brown recluse spiders. The other two receptionists were to check on missing reports and mail out requests for medical information, but I did that too.

I noticed with all this extra walking back and forth, my knee was experiencing more and more pain. Then my back started to hurt because my gait was off from trying not to cause more pain to my left knee. I decided it was time to see my primary doctor to get a cortisone shot to help alleviate the pain.

When I explained to him the situation that led up to the immediate problem, he explained, “You are hurting from all the excessive walking on the hospital cement floors. I will give you the injection, but you really need to stay off the cement floors for a couple of weeks to allow the medication to work and allow your back to heal.” He wrote me a note and then said that the hospital has another form he would have to fill out.

I apologized that I wasn’t aware of that, but I would get it to him A.S.A.P.

I was informed by the human resource department (HR) that because I would be gone for more than 3 days, it would be under the Family Medical Leave Absence (FMLA) act. I had to fill-out an application they e-mailed me and my husband returned the application and doctor’s note to HR. Jim also took the medical certification to the doctor’s office.

The next day I called HR to see if they received the required medical certification from the doctor. Another employee got on the line and informed me that I was required to give 30 days notice prior to using the FMLA. I told her that I didn’t know 30 days ago that I would have the problem. She then went on to explain to me that just because I received an injection in my knee, that it did not entitle me to take off two weeks.

I explained about how my back was hurting as well. She said, “If the doctor doesn’t mention about my back or more information other than my knee, my claim for medical leave would be denied.”

I then asked her, “If you decide I am not entitled to take off, what happens?”

She said, “We would use your Personal Time Off (PTO).” I put in for a vacation for a week three months ago and if they use all my PTO, I wouldn’t have any time to take off in mid-September.

Let me see . . . I have over 140 hours of sick time they are now telling me I may not be able to use. They have frozen all raises so in April when I was eligible to get a raise . . . NOTHING. They stopped matching the 403 (b) and there is no other pension plan. I have never been late and show up early and start work before actually clocking in.

I am old enough to apply for social security and it would be more than enough money to pay for COBRA, until I reach age 65. I only have one body and the job with all the extra work dumped on me to contribute to the hospital’s profitability is no longer worth it. I am truly thankful that I had the job for a year and a half, to have the necessary medical insurance. But now . . . It is time to move on.

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Added: September 20, 2009
Views: 82 | Comments: 2 | Bookmarks: 0

Smoking can KILL you!

Smoking Can KILL you!

By Carol Ann

My husband of 46 years, in a failed attempt to quit smoking, was starting to go through withdrawal. Realizing that he didn’t have any more of his Winchester cigars (funny looking, little skinny cigars that look like pot), he jumped up and said; “I have to run to the store.”

I knew from the quickness of his decision and the urgency in his voice, why he had to RUN to the store.

He drove to the local Circle K and a Border Patrol vehicle pulled up next to him. As my hubby got out of our car, the doors of the store went flying open and two Mexicans came running out of the store, each with a case of beer in their arms.

The two husky border patrolmen, blocked their path and the Mexicans knew they were dead meat. One of the patrolmen said, “What’s up guys?”

The thieves put down the two cases of beer, faced the wall and assumed the position. The patrolman shook his head and said, “I guess you stole the beer?” . . . as the store clerk came running out of the store.

The poor officers probably just wanted to stop for a cup of coffee to keep them going. My hubby as a retired police officer gave up all firearms when he retired. But it wouldn’t take much to think that he could have been caught in the crossfire of a robbery! Smoking can KILL you!

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Added: September 3, 2009
Views: 30 | Comments: 0 | Bookmarks: 0

MOTHER'S FINAL REVENGE

Mother’s Final Revenge

By Carol Ann

I received a telephone call from my niece Donna last Saturday to let me know that my Father, a.k.a. the man I grew up with, died on Thursday, in a nursing home back in Philadelphia, PA. But wait . . . before you start sending me condolences, this individual tried to kill my mother and sister. My sister had to move out of our house in her senior year of high school and live with an aunt, because my mother felt she could no longer protect her from his fury.

When I was 16 years old, I convinced my Mother to move out before someone ended up dead. After 3 years and 3 attorneys, my Mother was granted a divorce. He would call my Mother to taunt her by telling her that the last attorney was really cheap, he only wanted $800 to sell her down-the-river. Once they learned that he had the money, they offered to sabotage her. During the time prior to the final decree, Mother was told that she could save money by researching his assets ourselves. I went with Mother to city hall and learned that he held mortgages on most of his employees’ homes, sold the house we grew up in and he owned a duplex in Philly.

Mother and I drove to the sight of the duplex at night and learned that his future second wife and husband lived on the first floor and he lived on the second floor. The lights were on in his bedroom and it was a hot summer night so he had the curtains open and the windows were open. Mother and I watched as he and my eventual step-mother got undressed and get in bed together, while her husband was downstairs. At that point . . . we left.

Unfortunately for my step-mother’s first husband, he ended up dead. They told the police that he hung himself. I don’t think so and neither did her two daughters. They didn’t speak with their mother for a year, until one of them wanted a fancy wedding and thought it was time to make up for financial reasons.

I also believe that this evil man was responsible for the death of one of his employees. He had a major fight with him during the day and that night they went out and had a drink together . The employee died that night from an overdose of alcohol and drugs. Yes, the employee drank but he did not do drugs back in the 1950’s. He was only 34 years old; married with 4 young children. I think the evil one put a drug in his drink.

Here is the kicker . . . Father was an atheist, but ironically was scared to die. It didn’t make sense to me why he would be so afraid of dying, if he thought he wouldn’t pay the price of his actions during his time on earth?

My sister called me and asked me what was the date of our

Mother’s birthday? I said, “July 23^rd.”

We both laughed because we realized he died on Mother’s birth date. Just maybe her spirit (she died in 1993) came to visit him and scared him to death on her birth date. Mother’s final revenge came on July 23, 2009.

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Added: August 1, 2009
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AUTOBIOGRAPHY IN SIX WORDS

AARG.org had a challenge to write your own life story in only six words. If you are truly a writer, using few words is truly difficult. Here is my Life Story:

FOUND LOVE, FAMILY, FRIENDS AND SMILES

Have a Great Day!

Carol

Added: May 7, 2009
Views: 126 | Comments: 1 | Bookmarks: 0

DERBY DAY

DERBY DAY

By Carol Ann

The 135^th Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs, will run

on Saturday, May 2, 2009. The “Run for the Roses” a race for thoroughbred 3-year-old horses all vying for a two million dollar purse, has been held the first Saturday in May since 1875. Yes, this is the oldest continuous sporting event held in America. The term Run for the Roses, comes from placing a blanket of roses on the winning horse in the winner’s circle. Actually this event is the culmination of a 2 week-long celebration. Traditions of the South abound from mint juleps, the traditional drink of The Derby, to wide-brimmed hats, decorated with flowers, fruit or ribbons.

The race is 1 ¼ miles or 10 furlongs long and is also called the fastest two minutes in sports (the approx. time of the race). This is the first leg of the Triple Crown. It will be followed by the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

I was introduced to the world of horseracing when I was 8 years old. Growing up in Pennsylvania, horseracing was against the laws of the day, so my parents took me and my sister Joyce, to Delaware State Park to enjoy the fun. My father gave us $10 each and said that we could keep our winnings, but had to return the original $10 dollars, if we won. He was willing to accept the loss, should we pick the wrong horses. The smallest bet was $2. You could choose Win, Place or Show. To collect the biggest pot for choosing the winning horse, your horse had to come in first. If you selected Place, you got paid a discounted amount if your horse came in first or second. The Show bet, paid a discounted amount if your horse came in first, second or third. So we had enough to bet on 5 races, unless we won money to play additional races. I’ve always been conservative and typically placed Show bets. I didn’t win as much, but I didn’t lose very often either. My first day at the races was an usually lucky day. I picked 7 winners and one second place horse. I only bet Show, so I collected on every race, even if it was less than I had picked them to Win. The amount you are paid is determined by the odds that are posted prior the start of the race. If the horse had odds of 5 to 1, meant the track would pay you $5 for each dollar, plus the return of your original bet. In other words, you would get $12 for your $2 bet, should your horse win.

A few years later, my mother was told by my father that she had cancer and didn’t have long to live. Her response was, “If that’s the case, I’m not leaving anything for the old man.” My mother and I would wait until 11 PM the night before a race and drive into the city (Philadelphia), and pick up a copy of the Daily Racing Form. She showed me how to read the form that had the lineups for all the tracks for the next day. It would show the horse’s names, jockeys, trainers, owners, weight of the horse, the history of the races they previously ran with the times they ran, with the odds and how they finished, along with the length and type of race. Mother showed me how to handicap the horses. She showed me the list of winning jockeys and trainers and explained that the number 5 gate position won the most. She said to pick a heavier horse for a turf race or race held on the grass, instead of the dirt. If the track was a sloppy track, to pick a horse that was designated a “mudder” or a horse that liked running in the mud and had a winning record on less than ideal track conditions. We would both pick our tentative horses and wait until we reached the racetrack, to learn of any changes or scratches (horse cancelled from the lineup), before making our final decisions.

The next day we would race down the New Jersey Turnpike and then stop for lunch at Howard Johnson’s. Mother explained that the turnpike tickets were time-stamped and if she didn’t stop, it would show that she was “racing” too, and didn’t want to chance getting a ticket.

Mother would bet anything from $5 on the nose or to Win, to $250 to Win, Place and Show, called betting across the board for choosing to bet on the same horse for all three bets. As much as she tried to throw the money away . . . the reverse happened . . . she won. The year that we went to the races at least three days a week we attended Delaware Race Track during the day and when the sulky races or harness horseracing started their racing season, we went to Brandywine Race Track that same night. I won enough money to pay for my own season pass at a local swimming club and put $500 in my savings account. The best thing I learned was excellent math skills and it really helped me as an adult working at two banks and an investment company. I also got to meet people from all walks of life.

When we went to Atlantic City Race Track, they didn’t allow children in, so Mom would set me up on a blanket outside the fence to the entrance of the park. I would have a battery-operated radio to listen to, if I was bored with the music that blasted from the public address (PA) system in the park. Mom would pass a hot dog and drink to me through the fence. She would take my money and place my bets for me. I couldn’t watch the race, but I could hear if my horse won or lost over the call of the race on the PA system. I only allowed myself $5 a day to bet. That meant I could only bet on two races, if I lost both. Many times if I was ahead, I would quit and take my winnings home. In this new era of child abductions, a parent could not do what my Mother did, but I didn’t think about how dangerous it was back then.

Well, my father was lying to my mother about her diagnosis and prognosis . . . why . . . I don’t know? She lived more than 20 years and they got a divorce after 27 years of marriage.

But it is that time of year again. Yes, my mother was unconventional, but she taught me a lot too, about life skills. The horses in the race this year have names like Desert Party, I Want Revenge, Chocolate Candy, Mr. Hot Stuff and Regal Ransom. Our whole family picks a horse, just for the fun of it. In 1986, I picked Ferdinand, with jockey Bill Shoemaker and trainer Charlie Whittingham, because the announcers said that the jockey and trainer were all “too old” to win. My hubby and sons laughed at my pick, but I had the last laugh . . . Ferdinand Won! Who will I pick this year? I will have to wait for the final lineup and weights to handicap properly . . . or maybe I should pick the horse in gate number 5, in honor of my late Mom. Hope you all have a Winning Day!

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Added: April 25, 2009
Views: 130 | Comments: 5 | Bookmarks: 0

My Journals (46)