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I wish I knew more about how these pages work.  Every blog/community has different settings, and I'm unsure of what to do on this AARP page.  For example, I know I can choose a font style and size, but I don't know how to set a default.  I'm writing now above what I wrote earlier, but is that right?  Should I be "adding on" below my previous entry, or should I be starting a new page with every new date?

I have questions about the photo pages, too.  Why do some of the pictures I upload come out looking very dark, even though the originals are bright?  Why are there often two copies of each photo there, even if I only added one copy?  Is there any way to edit a photo's title without deleting and uploading anew?  How can I easily move a picture into an album?  I've managed okay so far, but some of these questions leave me pondering better/quicker ways to do things.

Thank you to RockyMountainGirl, RedHatter-OBG, and dillieg for your kind words!  I didn't really think that anyone would be reading what I had to say!  I'd like to more about each of you.  I'm not used to sharing my real thoughts this much.  I hope this next "ramble" won't put anyone off. 

My husband and I went to a wedding last night.  The setting was beautiful, the decor and tables were simple and tasteful and lovely, and the groom (surprise!) obviously had input into what the wedding would be like.  This couple really shared, respected one another, and laughed together.  Their wedding was an important milestone in their lives, but uniting their lives was what truly mattered.  There was a tangible sense of caring and good will among all the people who were there.

I don't see that so much anymore.  Too many young couples focus so much on "appearances" and "status" and "making an impression" that they miss the point:  this is the union of two individuals in love.  Brides spend so-o-o much time on wedding plans that they don't have time or patience for their groom!  Nor do they want the input of the groom's ideas (What could HE know about weddings)?  However, many grooms do want to wash their hands of anything wedding related.  Just tell them when and where, and they'll be there.  By the time they are married, the bride and the groom and all those around them are stressed and exhausted.  Hopefully, there hadn't been too many hurt feelings.  I feel strongly that the above scenario shouldn't have to be so.

It used to be that a man and woman married to be together.  If they hadn't become prosperous, they would work together to achieve the things they wanted.  Sharing their lives and their love was what was important.  They didn't require THINGS, and status, and established careers before uniting.

Now, the young people who were just married are clearly focused on one-another.  They already help each other over rough spots.  They respect and accept each other's distinctive personalities, and as a team they will  defend against anything that could challenge either or both of them.  It made me happy to see this wonderful couple whose heads and hearts are so clearly in the right place.  I wished them well, but their future is bright and of their own making.  They are already shaping a beautiful life together.  And, yes, their wedding was delightful.  I owe them my gratitude for including my husband and me to be there on their special day.

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I must start out by saying that I don’t know how to type.  The fact that anyone is seeing this pseudo-journal simply means I have a very tired finger on my right hand.  Of course, speed is out of the question.  I’ve tried live chat, but I’m always asked, "Are you still there"?

Also, I run hot and cold when it comes to how much time I spend on the web or on any particular website.  I’m interested in so many things that I often spread my time too thinly to keep up with everything regularly.  I DO, however, always return to the things that interest me sooner or later.

In recent days I’ve been trying to make my mother’s days more comfortable and secure.  In the process I’m learning things I’ll be able to put to good use for the rest of my life.  I’m also closer to my mother now, which is special.  I still have things I want to know from her, and there is lots to share.

Another interest that is cycling through is genealogy.  I started a simple family tree in 1972, and the branches and roots keep on growing.  I don’t always pursue my searches this actively, but I never abandon the work.  I have recently had unexpected contacts from every part of my family (even my husband’s), and I’m thrilled.  Also, though I’m only 60, I am trying to find ways I can pass my research and data down to younger family members.  Some of them will be surprised to receive genealogical software for a baby gift.  Then I’ll send them the files I’ve created.  Hopefully they’ll add on to it, but at least it will be available should they decide to take a look.

I guess I should close for now.  I really do have the tendency to ramble on sometimes!