Scene Around

Finally, getting down to work...

Being a recent widow, I kept putting off looking over things and donating or throwing away things. It took me more time than it should have because parting with "things" can be very painful under such circumstances. I started with boxes that held much paperwork, etc., and found the following clever piece that I decided to share with you. It's titled "Inner Strength." I don't know the writer:

"If you can start the day without caffeine or pep pills,

If you can be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,

If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles,

If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it,

If you can understand when loved ones are too busy to give you time,

If you can overlook when people take things out on you when, through no fault of yours, something goes wrong,

If you can take criticism and blame without resentment,

If you can face the world without lies and deceit,

If you can conquer tension without medical help,

If you can relax without liquor,

If you can sleep without the aid of drugs,

If you can do all these things, then you are probably the family dog!"

(NUFF SAID!)

Remembering Jewish history...

On Feb. 14, 1949, the modern Israeli Knesset convened for the first time. In his inaugural speech, Israeli President Chaim Weizmann told the new parliament members that the aim of the Jewish state would be, before everything else, "to gather in the exiles from all parts of the world." He emphasized that this was a great day not only in the lives of the Jewish people but also in the history of the world.

(I agree!)

At last, something older than me...

About a week ago, my neighbors (and long-time friends) LEA DAVIS and her youngest son, DAVID DALPAY, drove over in a 1930 Ford Model A car David had just purchased. He is a collector.

They took me for a ride around my area. Chugging along, we were noticed by other drivers, etc.

(Great fun... and I didn't even have to push!)

Roth Family JCC fun...

On Wednesday, March 15, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. there will be a delightful and informative program at the Roth Family Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando, 851 North Maitland Ave, Maitland.

"Enjoy a delicious lunch while participating in a sophisticated, interactive, in-depth look at many of our earliest leaders from the patriarchs and matriarchs. We will discuss their experiences and breakthroughs, and their major contributions to the tapestry of Jewish wisdom and consciousness."

Class will be led by Rabbi MICHOEL RENNERT of JOIN Orlando.

Please RSVP to MARNI CHEPENIK at 407-621-4056.

The event is free to JCC members: $5 for nonmembers.

Shout-Outs...

What a treat it was recently to meet a wonderful guy, ERIK SALZENSTEIN, a waiter at Outback Steakhouse on Aloma Avenue, Winter Park.

Erik was super efficient, super entertaining and sooooo cute! When I first entered the restaurant, I requested a handsome waiter and my request was filled (and refilled!) Outback is lucky to have you, Erik!

Another lucky restaurant whose general manager is TIM WOOD, is Toojay's in Altamonte Springs. Their waitress MARY JOHNSON, was not only proficient, she was super-funny and entertaining. What a great way to spend the afternoon!

(Eating and laughing, my two favorite things!)

Speaking of laughing, here's one for the road...

One day, Moshe and Sydney meet at the Altamonte Mall. "So how's life treating you Moshe?" asks Sydney.

"It's not too bad, Sydney. God has been kind to me and let me reach 40 years of age last week."

"Mazel tov, Moshe," says Sydney. "Did you get any nice presents?"

"Well," replies Moshe, "my wife Sarah bought me an SUV."

"Wow!" says Sydney, "What a fantastic present to be given. I would love to have such a great car!"

"Don't get too excited," says Moshe. "Sarah only bought me Socks, Underwear and Viagra."