Happy New Years Darlings!!!

Happy New Year Darlings,

This fabulous Diva had a magnificent time with dear Kevin, welcoming in the New Year on the U.S.S. Hornet, dancing to wonderful old time swing music. Kevin looked wonderful in his Lieutenants Uniform, (it was his fathers but he fit into it perfectly) and I in my 1940’s evening gown, a softly glowing pale lemon yellow, with gold shoes and period rhinestone clips and a white fox fur stole.

I had just been so busy on New Year’s Eve Day. I made calls to Molly Maids to come and do a sprucing up and dust and fluff the Thursday after New Years, didn’t want Juanita to have to do much when she returned, and then I called Betsy to see if she could “baby-sit” little Princess. Betsy said she didn’t mind at all, she and Bill make it a point to not go out on New Years Eve, just too dangerous driving, unless you’re planning to stay at a Hotel where a party is being held.

And that is a little mini-lesson I want to give to all you Diva’s---if you and yours plan to go out for New Years, see if you can do it as a group, and either have a designated driver or plan on reserving Hotel Rooms where you’ve made your New Year’s reservations.

I know of several people who plan a New Years Vacation as a Romantic get-away, such as a major Resort, there are many places one can choose from, just check the internet, but be sure to make your reservations well in advance and if you are concerned about break-ins get a very reliable house-sitter.

In my case I did not have to have that worry except for Princess, so a quick run to Betsy’s house with all of Princess’s little things, the bed and squeaky mouse, her food and dishes. I did tell Betsy to not be concerned if Princess didn’t eat her food, she just might mope a bit, but once Princess saw Jezebel, Betsy’s kitten well they started playing and we just knew everything would be fine.

And then off to this wonderful hair stylist that I know, she’s retired but she keeps a full salon in her home that she has fully functional for certain clients. She specializes in the hair styles from the 40’s and 50’s, but she doesn’t take everyone, even she likes to rest. Her granddaughter has her cosmetology license but is learning from her grandmother how to do these cuts and styles and will be offering it as part of her own services. As soon as she is set up I’ll put her address up here so all you Deco lovers can avail yourself of her services. She knows it’s a good thing to specialize.

So a quick bite to eat, and then to get ready, I played all the swing favorites to get me into the mood, a spray of Channel, and I was ready.

Kevin was very prompt and a gentleman, he presented me with a corsage of gardenias’ and they are hard to come by this time of the year. I could not believe the car that he was driving, a 1930’s Ford convertible, of course the top was up, don’t want to get a chill. And the heating system worked very well.

We had a wonderful time; I saw a number of old friends of ours, so we had a wonderful time catching up with each other lives. I also exchanged calling cards with my new address on it and what evenings and days I would be available.

Now Darlings another little Diva lesson, at the turn of the 1900’s calling cards were a fashionable item to have and among the gentry a necessity, there was even a form of etiquette about leaving calling cards, which I do wish was practiced again these days.

But also what ladies would do would also list on their cards what days and hours they would be at home to receive visitors. Since many of my friends are retired, to be able to list my “at home” times is very helpful. And I almost always will have visitors during those times.

But with you young Diva’s you would most likely have two calling cards, one for business and one for home. If you’re company allows you to print your own business card and you want to let a prospective client know that you are an aggressive go-getter, print your card on shocking pink stock, this way the client will quickly find your card and it will let you stand out in a crowd of cards.

For your at home cards it can be more subtle, but only you will know how much information you wish to give out on your home card, and now a-days it’s almost impossible to let anyone know when you would be available for visitors because many hard working Diva’s bring their work home with them.

But do use the web to look up calling card etiquette you may find it useful. Encourage your friends and co-workers to take up the habit, it’s so much nicer and more organized than writing your phone number on a paper napkin----unless it’s someone you really don’t want to know.

The food was very good, catered by Aroma Restaurant. I had the Grilled Salmon with the Lime Sauce and Kevin, being the meat eater that he is, had the Medallions of Beef with the onion mushroom sauce. I decided to stay with the shrimp Caesar Salad and so did Kevin, well Darlings a man must eat, the Roasted mixed vegetables and the Rice Piaf were also good, although I thought the rice might have been a little dry. But it was finished off nicely with the Mango & Raspberry Mousse, but Kevin being a man had to have the Chocolate Mousse, which I stole a taste from.

And the Music was just wonderful and so very upbeat with an Andrews Sisters tribute that was very well done

I was glad I had my fur and scarf as we watched the fireworks from San Francisco from the fan tail of the ship, it was chilly and breezy, but it was wonderful to be snuggled in Kevins’ arms.

Ahh but after the clock strikes 12 and the balloons or fireworks have come down or gone up, one last slow dance and then it was time to call it a night. Even the most wonderful things must come to an end.

Of course I didn’t call it a night all alone---and Kevin was so romantic.

Of course Diva’s you just don’t have the time to remove the make up, so be prepared for smears on the pillows (I recommend inexpensive white ones), and plan to get up before he awakes so you can freshen up and not have raccoon eyes in the morning.

Another thing, if you have a coffee maker on a timer, the smell of fresh brewed coffee is much better than a noisy alarum.

I had my Gardenia floating in water in a crystal bowl on the coffee table, a reminder of the wonderful night we had, Kevin was wise enough to bring a overnight bag with a change of clothing in the trunk of his car, Juanita took her car with her when she went to visit her family, so it was no problem to park Kevin’s car in the garage.

And so we freshened up and went out for New Year’s breakfast, picked up Princess, took a lovely drive and then all too soon it was time to come home, with some more coffee to fortify himself, I sent him off.

But I felt restless Darlings, I just didn’t know why, so I took Princess for a walk, the neighborhood is safe enough and it was early enough.

We walked down towards the beach, not a difficult walk for me, but I knew Princess would need to be carried home. I found myself looking out towards the Bay, looking at the lights of San Francisco twinkling, thinking what will the New Year hold for me? What adventures will I have? New friends to make?

I picked Princess up and snuggled her under my fur coat (mink darlings and all in black with a matching fur beret type hat), then I heard some young people walking up, they had a baby in a stroller and taking a evening walk, we smiled and said ‘hello’ and then the young father sort of stopped and looked at me again, I asked him if there was anything wrong and he said “no, no it’s just that your remind me of Marlene Dietrich” I knew with the soft light it would increase the resemblance so I simply said in my most sultry voice “I have been told many times of the resemblance Darling. Thank you”

We all smiled, I turned to walk home and with little Princess curled up just under my chin, I found myself singing aloud in my best La Marlene voice ~~~~

“Falling in Love Again,
never wanted to,
what’s a girl to do,
can’t help it.

Love’s always been my game,
Play it as I may,
I was born that way,
Can’t help it.

Men flock around me like moths
around a flame,
and if their wings burn,
I know I’m not to blame.

Falling in Love again,
never wanted to,
what’s a girl to do,
Can’t help it.”

And found myself smiling all the way home.

Until Anon Darlings, Kisses.

Recouping from Christmas--more random thoughts

Well Darlings I trust you all had a wonderful Christmas? I do hope so.

This Diva had a fabulous one, I drove to my oldest brother’s home in San Francisco, with the cold weather the view from his house was limited as there was fog and clouds, and he had the fire going in his fireplace which made everything so cheerful.

Lois, my sister-in-law, helped me get settled in their guest room, she had not met little Princess but she was enchanted with my Diva Darling and the good thing is she is so well house broken. After we got settled, my brother Tom suggested we take a little walk around the neighborhood just to see the lights, and my little girl had her exercise.

When we returned, we had a light dinner, Lois’s housekeeper Marla was going to go to mid-night mass at her church afterwards, but would be with us on Christmas day to serve dinner, but was going on holiday after it was served. Lois had contracted with a house cleaning service to do the clean up the next day, which was just fine for everyone.

Mass at our church was lovely, and uplifting, as we walked back to my brother’s car, there was a man and woman who were homeless and living out of their car, my brother gave them a fair amount of money, they said that they could get gas for their car and drive to her sister’s house who would take them in---they only problem was getting enough to fill up the gas tank because they needed to go to San Jose, they blessed us and we wished them well.

As we got into my brother’s car I asked him, “what prompted you to help them?” and he said he wasn’t sure but he just knew they needed help and felt that what he could give them would make a difference. Lois and I looked at each other and agreed, if by their getting to their relatives’ home it would give them a chance that could make all the difference in the world.

Back at my brother’s we had a nice hot glass of milk with Kuala and went to bed, the next day, I helped Lois with the last bit of preparations and Marla put the finishing touches to the dinner.

And we were invaded. My brother has 4 children all married and all with children, so it was quite a noisy affair, to make it easy on Marla we had dinner first, then Marla could catch her ride to her relatives house and Lois and I would serve the dessert and coffee, but first had to exchange the presents after dinner but before dessert, and I have to say not a single person was disappointed, one of my nephews heard that I had a tiny dog and even got a little gift for her, a squeaky mouse, and it turns out that Princess would not give it up, so to make things interesting for her one of the children would sneak the mouse and roll it up in the left over gift wrap and Princess would look for it and tear into the gift wrap to get it, the children did it over and over until Princess was just worn out.

I must say that I had a wonderful day, and took lots of pictures because they grow so fast.

The next Day Lois and I slept a bit late but we had to be up and ready because the contracted housemaids would be at the house by 11 a.m. I must say they were very efficient and careful. And in a matter of a few hours everything was washed, dried, vacuumed, straightened, neaten and put away. Then we grabbed a cab and went shopping.

That evening we all were invited to a friend of theirs house for Bridge and snacks, but for the next few days, Lois and I went to this Spa that she loves and we had facials, and massages and foot massages, and just pampered. It felt so good, then we grabbed a cab and went to Union Square and plunged into the Holiday sales, for me I just love the perfume package sets, and bought Dior’s J’adore and Gurilan’s Insolence, Of course I just had to see what was being offered by Estee Lauder, then a light lunch and back again to shopping.

We did that for 3 whole days, I found the right black everyday use Coach bag, simple in style without being so gaudy with the Coach logo, and was able to get another piece of the Samsonite Retro collection luggage. And some beautiful pieces of jewelry.

Of course all fun things have to come to an end, and so this Saturday morning I had breakfast with my brother and sister-in-law, packed all my treasures into my car Ms. Wicked, tucked Princess into her little carry tote and drove back home. One thing I’m happy to say is that my mail and newspaper is dropped directly into the house so there is no tell-tale that no one is not at home and all was well.

So this Diva is taking a little break from putting things away, shredding junk mail, putting old newspapers into the recyclable bin, sorting the bills, balancing the check book, and thinking what to do for dinner. Hmmmm I think I’ll go to Angela’s, do some grocery shopping, and then I’m either going to watch Nick and Nora solve the mystery of “The Thin Man” or watch La Marlene in “Witness for the Prosecution” hmmm maybe a James Bond movie, well I guess I’m going to have to spin the dial for that choice.

But Monday I’m going to have to contact Merry Maids to see if they can do a fluff and dust on the house, without my precious Juanita to keep things in line things can get out of hand.

And then its NEW YEAR’S oh I’m looking forward to that! But it will be a bit sad to take down the holiday decorations, but then the spring will come.

Now my Diva Darlings, a little lesson for all of you, I know that not all of you are in the wonderful position that I am in to be able to have a live-in housekeeper or daily help, but if you keep your home organized and work to maintain that organization, it will make it much easier for you to keep it clean, I also suggest at least once a week a good housekeeping service to vacuum, dust and if need be see if they can do other more heavier cleaning such as the stove and changing sheets, you can always do your own laundry, I certainly am no stranger to a washing machine, iron or stove but if you want to maintain your manicure and soft hands and you can afford it do look into a good house cleaning service.

Well Darlings, until the next time all of you use this time wisely and recuperate for the next holiday event.

Until Anon Darlings, this fabulous Diva signing off and going to have a few days to rest.

Last minute Christmas thoughts and ideas

Well Darlings,

Christmas is almost here. The last few gifts are wrapped and boxed and ready to go.

Juanita has joined her daughter and son-in-law and already she’s called me so happy that she forgot that my Spanish is limited. But her brother and sister and their families that she has not seen in over 5 years have arrived, her daughter’s house is over flowing she is just sooo happy and I am happy for her.

For myself well in about an hour I am having some friends over for drinks and little munchies, all very pot luck, already I have the radio playing Christmas music. Koit is such a wonderful station.

Yesterday Bill, Irma, Kevin and I went to Dunsmuir house for the last of the holiday tours, I just love it, so Victorian Christmassy, then we had an early Dinner at this restaurant that none of us have tired before but we heard it was good, Jojo’s in Piedmont, divinely well worth the excellent marks it’s been receiving.

All right Darlings I’ll tell you what we had; now I have to confess I’ve always had a good appetite so I can still burn off the calories, but I do exercise as well—don’t want to be flabby.

It has been so chilly that we all started off with the Butternut squash soup. I had the grilled tuna and Irma had the scallops in a clan and bacon stew. The men as men do had the flat iron steak, of course we all had to sample what the other was having, and darlings, do make reservations. They are on the web so you will have an idea of their menu and prices. For dessert I had the sorbet, and Irma dived into the pear and vanilla profiterole, the men had the cheese selection and stole bits of our desserts.

For drinks the men had beer, and Irma and I had the Chablis. Delightful.

Then we drove around and looked at the Christmas lights in the areas’ that have been marked as Christmas lanes’ with Koit playing on the radio. Everyone was doing that so a great deal of attention had to be paid to on the pedestrians. We finished at Bill and Irma’s home for coffee and cookies what a lovely evening, then Kevin took me home and then….. Well Darlings that would be telling.

And I treasure Juanita so; she had everything ready in the Refrigerator with instructions for me how to heat everything. Well we did do a trade off----I helped her wrap her grandchildren’s presents , so much ribbon and paper and we were laughing because we knew the children would just rip it all off and poor little Princess she got so excited that she started running around the house with scraps of Christmas wrap in her mouth and just growling.

But now the house is lighted with candles, and decorations in red, green and gold, the smells of cinnamon and vanilla and hot cider flow through the house, it’s sort of a house warming as well, because many of my friends have not seen it yet, so this will be an experience for them.

Now for my little Diva lesson, Darlings if you want to throw a party, you can get wonderful platters from your Deli section at your supermarket, or at Cost Co. and all kinds of paper goods as well there. For beverages, Beverages and More has an excellent selection and I recommend inexpensive wine glasses, if it breaks you don’t cry, and you can store it until the next time---restaurant supplies houses offer them. And always make sure that your home has a dishwasher---it’s such a life saver.

And even better have it pot luck with a white elephant gift exchange, things in good shape one doesn’t want or even silly things that one sees can be exchanged at this little game. For the last 4 years a strange looking plastic statue has been circulating around among us, I wonder who will get it this year. Everyone comes up with an unusual way to disguise it.

Tomorrow Constance and her oldest Daughter will come by to help with the clean up and putting away of things, but I don’t want to keep her away from her family too long, so with the three of us it should go quickly. Constance offered because I’m giving her mother a nice long holiday vacation with pay, it’s only fair. Darlings remember, if you have staff that do well for you, treat them well, they can be life savers.

Then Princess and I go off to my brothers in San Francisco, I’ll be staying at his home for the next few days, We’ll be going to Mid-night Mass and a late snack, and then the children and grandchildren (my nieces and nephews) will invade for Christmas Day dinner, then to recover my sister-in-law and I are going to pamper ourselves at this Spa that she’s discovered for the next few days after Christmas and we may see if there is any special sales we can find at Saks or Tiffany’s.

And then on to New Years!! Kevin wants to dress up 1940’s and dance the evening away on the U.S.S. Hornet he’s bought the Admirals seating tickets and the buffet dinner reservations---who am I so say ‘no’.

Romance Darlings, Romance!!

Must go my guests will be here any minute.

Until Anon Darlings, Merry Christmas and Many More.

Random Holiday Thoughts

Well Possums,

The weather outside is cold and frightful, but as the song says, thanks to central heating the temperature inside is delightful.

I hope all you Diva’s and Diva’s-in-Training had a marvelous Thanksgiving holiday, I know I did with my friends and then I had the opportunity to visit my Brother and his wife in Santa Barbara, they have such a wonderful Spanish style home with a magnificent view of the Ocean. Of course knowing how dry drought conditions can be and considering all the fires that have been happening, he has taken very serious steps to insure that his home will be as fire safe as possible. All the usual precautions but also a most interesting pump system in which the entire house and grounds will be sprayed with water in case of fire----all it takes is a telephone call to trigger it if he’s away at work.

He hopes he never has to use it.

And of course I got to see my nieces and nephews as well, and I’m happy to say that a couple of weddings are in the planning stages, I advised them to make it simple and to not over do anything, see what the catering firm and the banquet hall can offer and focus on the wedding vows. Who knows before long there will be (I hope) little Diva’s in training for an Auntie to spoil.

Juanita had a wonderful Thanksgiving with her family and friends, I called her and said to take a few more days off as I was going to be a while with my own family, who I must confess also spoiled my little Diva Darling, Princess.

And now Christmas time is here, All right Diva’s now what do you do for the holidays.

There is one thing that I always advise Diva’s---do not forget the true meaning of Christmas. It is the time of giving, not just the giving of expensive gifts that can totally crash one’s credit card----that is the commercial aspect drummed up by corporations to extract from you from your hard earned cash on trivial things.

No Darlings----give something that will help----there are charities that help the homeless, battered women, needful children, food for families that are in need, who can barely rub to nickels together for warmth. There are the elderly, the forgotten, and the sick.

Look for charities that will help them such as Toys for Tots, St. Jude’s Hospital, Doctors without Borders, any local Food Bank, a local Church’s soup kitchen, Meals on Wheels and many more. Check your newspaper to see where help is needed.

Not to brag but I donate to St. Jude’s hospital and since I do not have children of my own I give to Toys for Tots, and Doctor’s without Borders. As well as other charities. Does it salve my conscious because I have while many do not?

Well Darlings not to sound maudlin but I put that question to my dear friend Mean Kitty----now she can have the sharpest tongue on this planet, but she looked at me and said (and I quote her) “It is important in life to help those not as fortunate, because by any act of kindness it just may be the very thing needed to help someone get back on their feet, but do not seek praise for it---just do it and don’t look back----Jesus once asked his apostles several questions and when they responded in the right way he said, “Feed my Flock, Guard my Sheep” His Flock and Sheep were all of human kind---now it’s impossible to save the entire world, but you can help one corner of it---just do it and don’t think about it, but do it all year long.”

And she was right and that is a Diva lesson for everyone----now on the practical side of donating to charities---Keep the receipts because your generosity helps at tax time. No matter what---a Diva must be practical as well.

Now for something Frivolous----I must confess I had a wonderful time at the Art Deco Deco the Halls antique show and sale----and I found the perfect Desk and Chair with matching glass enclosed book shelves all in blond wood right out of the 1940’s they look perfect in my little office/library. I already have a work center for the computer and everything----but it is not the same as a beautiful desk and chair to hand write notes and balance one’s budget----of course I have an excellent accountant, but Darlings it’s a wise Diva who always keeps an eye on her accounts and expenditures. And to be able to do it at a real desk gives a certain elegance that a computer workstation just does not have.

And I’m still doing decorating in my lovely new home; it’s shaping up very nicely.

And for Christmas, already I have a few choice decorations placed around the house and Manuel has strung some light decorations in the Front, including a perfect miniature tree. So cheerful. Some of my neighbors go to great lengths in decorating but I can understand it, they have children and grand children so why not.

Betsy, Will and I will be going to the Dunsmuir house Christmas Tour a lovely event but one must dress warmly and then well take in the holiday lights that are on display all over the town. I’ve already seen the Dickens Fair with Kenneth; it just gets you into the holiday spirit. And of course the traditional Nutcracker Ballet that is offered by the San Francisco Ballet Co.

I’m giving Juanita time off for the few days before Christmas to just after the New Year, she has family coming into town to visit and there is never enough time to see family.

I am going to see my other Brother and his wife and their children and little grandchildren for Christmas dinner in San Francisco; it will be nice to catch up on all their events in their lives.

Remember Diva’s Christmas is a time for family and friends----but if you love to shop, wear comfortable shoes and get to the stores early.

And I also advise that you read my friend Mean Kitty’s blog about Christmas---she really knows the spirit of Christmas. Her blog is http://meankittynotpc.blogspot.com.

Possums I must confess it was her that got me into doing a blog, even if it is a vanity one.

But now I must tell you that for one day out of the entire year, I am humbled, it’s on Christmas Eve, yes Darlings, I go to church and there listening to the prayers, the singing, I reflect back on my life and how blessed I am and I think long and hard about that family on a cold night looking for shelter and the promise that was presented.

Darlings I do recommend, go to Church at least twice a year, on Christmas Eve and on Easter Eve it’s only then that you can truly understand the meaning of life. For all my frivolity I do read the Bible and I do ponder upon the teachings of the man from Nazareth, I am fallible, I make mistakes, I am vain, and maybe selfish, but no matter what I try to do the best I can, for all my sins.

And that too is being a Diva. So Happy Holidays Darlings, Enjoy! And if you don’t hear from me before New Years---well I’m having fun!

Until Anon. this Diva is snuggling up with her little Diva Darling and dreaming of Gucci, Prada, Chanel

A Tiny Diva Darling~~

Well Darlings I did it!!

In the midst of everything, I made a very serious commitment!! To a 4 pound ball of fluff!

All right Possums let me start from the beginning. 2 months ago my dear, sweet friend Betty’s cat, Tigger, passed away (20 years old the poor little creature was) and after a couple of weeks, Betty was feeling very lost, so I suggested that we go to one of the shelters or adoption programs to find the one kitten that felt that it would belong to Betty.

But try as we might there was nothing! And I have to confess, seeing all those lost little kitties and doggies just broke my heart. There was so much love at these places just waiting to be given a home.

Betty (rightfully) insisted that there had to be a “special connection” otherwise it was not right. I certainly could not argue with that logic and it was dear Betty’s feelings I was considering. While we were having a light lunch someone had left a local newspaper about a shelter accepting applications for volunteers, and that the volunteers would be trained.

Betty called for the hours the shelter was open and then said to me “Let’s go there after lunch, its close by.” So I agreed, hoping that Betty would find the little life that would fill the empty void in her heart (Betty has children but they all live out of state because of their jobs).

So we arrived and I saw that this shelter was accepting applications for volunteers as well as donations. I asked about donations to help out with the animals waiting to be adopted, which they told me about as Betty went to the back area to look among the cats and the kittens. After a few minutes Betty came breathlessly back and said I had to look at this kitten---well there it was, a little thing with deep green-yellow eyes, and it put a paw out to Betty as she approached. Betty then asked me to approach this kitten’s cage and I did but the kitten totally ignored me, its green-yellow eyes completely focused on Betty.

“She’s the one! Oh she’s such a flirt!” Betty exclaimed. I couldn’t agree more, the little thing is beauty, alert, and appeared to have a sharp intellect. She was mostly white with a couple of dark brown spots, longish fur but not too long, and a long fluffy tail that the kitten would hold straight up like a flag. I was happy to see Betty happy.

While Betty was doing the paper work to adopt “Jezebel”, I noticed that I didn’t hear too much barking and asked if they had dogs or puppies waiting to be adopted, the attendant said that they only had a couple at the time, which for them was unusual and that one of them acted vicious, a pit bull that was being trained to fight when they rescued it. They were hoping for a member of a pit bull group to come soon and foster the dog to see if it could become adoptable.

I asked if there were any others and they said they only had one other in, so I took a look and there she was, the smallest, saddest, folornest little creature I had ever seen.

She was a cross between a Pomeranian and Chihuahua with reddish blond hair, not quite as fluffy as a Pom, but tiny. She was curled up on the small bath rug that was provided, I could tell that this was a comedown for her; she looked up at me with eyes that didn’t hold out much hope but not devoid of interest. I went back and asked the attendant what was the history behind the little dog and was told that her elderly owner had died suddenly over a month ago, there were no relatives to take it in as the owner had died alone and had not made any provision for the future care of the little thing, she was three years old, had all it’s shots, in excellent health, house broken and a lovely disposition, but not a good match for a family with active children, which pretty much left the little thing alone since all that was coming in were families with children that was looking for an active family oriented pet.

The Lawyer and executor of the late woman’s will gave specific instructions that the dog was to be adopted and not put to sleep and that there were funds to pay for the board and care of the little thing until it was adopted. I went back and looked at her again and this time she looked at me with more interest, ----dare I? Should I?

Just then a very large and loud man and his wife came in to look at the animals waiting to be adopted; his voice was so loud that I could see the little thing recoil. Looking at the man’s wife she looked like she had been brow beaten over many years.

They were about to look at the little thing and I spoke up and said “I’m sorry but I’m adopting her, I just have to put in the paper work” and quickly went to the attendant and said I’m adopting the little dog. The attendant didn’t waste any time went and brought out the dog and put her into my arms, all the while the loud man was blustering about the dog, but the attendant was firm that I was adopting the dog and that the other one was not up for adoption.

The man continued to be loud until I said “Sir, your life must be very busy with your job and your home life, I suggest that you not adopt any animal that would require a long term commitment, it may not meet your requirements and instead think of installing a pond for Koi, you may find it more satisfying.”

He looked at me dumbfounded but was quiet and taking my courage and working my charm I said “You appear to be a person who loves beautiful, graceful things, yet you need to be free to go and enjoy such beauty as well as attending to business and family which I’m sure make great demands on your time. Having a dog or cat would tie you down, you couldn’t give it the proper attention that a busy person like yourself has to deal with, but a pond to breed and raise beautiful Koi would be perfect for your aesthetic tastes and values and the amount of time and commitment that you could provide.” I was more than surprised that it stopped his bluster, and he began to preen himself muttering something about how busy and important he was.

With further discussion and nudging (on my part and my noticing a smile and a look of relief on his wife’s face) he agreed that something like that would be perfect since he was planning to expand their green house, and a Koi pond would be a perfect addition especially since in the green house it could be enjoyed year around, he could see the value in it and they left in their Mercedes.

Betty and the attendant looked at me with amazed looks and even I could feel myself in shock at having that kind of courage to try that ploy on that man, but Diva’s need to have that kind of courage.

I then realized my decision was the right one when I felt a soft, gentle, wet lick on the side of my cheek, possibly removing some of my make-up. I looked into the now bright eyes and happy face of my little ‘Cinderella’ pooch that proceeded to give me another quick, gentle lick on the tip of my nose, which left me laughing. I looked further at the little thing and realized she needed serious grooming and wondered who would be best for her, not having had this situation before; fortunately the attendant who was putting the paperwork together for our formal adoption was able to give me that information.

It seems that the Lawyer had provided a list of the vet and grooming services that had been working on her, “Well” I said “We are going to have to make you into a little Princess again.” and the attendant said, “How did you know her name was Princess?”

Over the next few days I took her into her vet and her groomer and introduced myself as “Princess’s New Mommy” (Oh that does sound so precious). She’s’ had her full check up and complete grooming from her tiny little head to her tiny little toes. (I know it does sound so Too-Too) and when she came out of the Doggie Beauty Parlor she acted like she knew that all was very right with the world.

So now Betty has her Jezebel who is the perfect fit for Betty, so sweet, and I have Princess; amazingly they get on very well when I take Princess with me to visit my dear friend. Right now in all her preened glory she sits next to me on her own chair and cushion as I write.

I make a regular donation to the shelter where I found my little Diva Darling as well as to the local SPCA. My little princess now goes with me everywhere in her little carryall. I was concerned that my housekeeper Juanita would be upset about my bringing a dog into my newly purchased house but the minute she saw her, soft words of endearments flowed from Juanita’s lips and Princess is very happy with her as well. More than once I’ve spotted them playing catch and Juanita sneaking to her tempting tid-bits. Hmmm, I think I’m going to have to watch Princess’s weight.

Ellen Degeneres and the Iggy situation helped make people aware that there is a lot of love to be adopted at the SPCA and the local animal shelter, but always be sure that it is the right fit for you.

My days are made even more interesting because of this little ball of fluff, she listens to my thoughts and offers her opinions and has the joie de vivre of life, my friends include her in all our adventures, she adores riding in my mustang “Ms. Wicked” and Bill’s Packard. She relaxes when I play the old songs, dances to Dean Martin, loves to curl up in my lap when I watch an old movie and sits right in the middle when my friends come over for hors d’oeuvres, good wine and sparkling conversation, She has become quite the Diva Darling that she deserves to be.

So now my Housekeeper Juanita has gone to join her very large family for Thanksgiving festivities. So I won’t see her for the next 4 days, she has been so excited about seeing her family.

I and Princess are getting together with Bill and Irma and Irma’s sister Iris and Bill and Betty---my goodness two Bills and they are Packard enthusiasts! Just love it! So we are going to have a delightful Thanksgiving dinner at Betty’s home, with other good friends.

All I can say Darlings is that Life for us Divas’ is Good.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving to one and all and Remember Diva’s there is a lot to be Thankful for and to also spread the blessings around to those that are not so fortunate, the Holiday Season is a very hard time to those that are not so lucky as we are.

This Diva signing off thinking of cranberry sauce and stuffing and knowing that she will have to pay for it at the gym. ***sigh****

Time to bring you up to date Darlings,

I think Darlings that it is time that I have brought all of you up to speed on what has happened in this Diva’s life.

I told you that I bought a new car “Miss Wicked” and was in the process of selling my old home and buying a new one.

Well there was a bidding war for my home, most unusual, I didn’t expect it but a husband and wife (both doctors) with two children (boy 6, girl 4) finally laid claim to it. We worked out a very happy arrangement.

Most of the furniture that I had I was happy to sell with the exception of some personal pieces, I have this beautiful Art Modern Vanity table and chair made of solid Maple that was lighten, that has a very unusual shape. It was a piece that I insisted on purchasing, even though my late husband despised it, he claimed it was too, too decadent, poor prude.

But in my previous maudlin state I told you a bit about my marriage to him, not a bad one really when you consider the number of abused women that have to suffer the tortures of the damned.

But enough of that Possums. Well while I was waiting on who would purchase my house and selling off (thanks to an excellent antique dealer that I know) what I didn’t want, I closed the deal on Iris’s house---a very simple arrangement really, had a team of workmen in there to spruce it up with paint and lay down new cedar in the closets, check out the plumbing, bought a new stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, washer, dryer. Just so much FUN!

In the mean time I had my housekeeper Juanita and her daughter Constance store for moving my wardrobe---and it was a good thing it was a team effort, there were things I decided I didn’t want. Constance was eying this evening gown that I couldn’t make up my mind about and I decided that I didn’t want it, so I asked her if she would like it (we’re the same size) and she did. So since Constance was my size we came to a very happy arrangement. I told her that if there was something that didn’t look good on her to take it to this high-end consignment shop and she could get extra money for it.

But the evening gown---It looked so beautiful and right for her----I told her she better keep it for special events. When her husband Manuel came into the room he was dumfounded, his mouth just hung open and then a big smile came on his face, and he said to her in Spanish “You are so beautiful, this makes you look like a Queen, an Angel”

Well even more things turned out just right---Poor Juanita told me that the rent on her small apartment was being raised and couldn’t afford the increase, but that Constance and Manuel wanted to take her in but things would be very crowded I told them that there is a Maid’s room at the new house and if Juanita wanted to she could move in there.

Well we all went over to the new house, (I had to check on the workmen anyway) and showed Juanita the room with its own bath. It’s view out onto the lagoon, and Juanita said that it was larger than her own apartment---- Darlings that even shocked me!

Right away we made arrangements, I talked to the workmen and told them the next room to be painted was Juanita’s and we set about choosing colors (really Juanita did I wanted it to be her choice).

Now my Dear’s where is this all going----simple----it’s a wise Diva that can take a situation and make it so that by benefiting others it also benefits you. By having Juanita move into the new house, she would be saving money on rent; her daughter knew that she would be safe. I was guaranteed that someone would be watching the house when I traveled. And Constance and Manuel would be able to help me on the property from time to time. And I could rely on them. Juanita would avoid that horrible commute and feel more relaxed and refreshed and she could park her car in the three car garage, which still left enough space to store things like extra linens or holiday decorations.

So after the workmen painted Juanita’s room, her family helped her move in, and once the workmen were completely done working on the house, I had a landscaper come in and work on improving the landscape---I decided on roses, very fragrant roses.

Then Irma and I went to Thomasville and I bought the selected pieces of furniture from the Bogart Lux Collection that I wanted. Dears the Bedroom piece with the curved headboard and matching end tables was a perfect match to my vanity table. I just knew I was on the right track. All so Art Deco to Art Modern, and then it was new bed linens, and everything else.

I’m still decorating the place, although I love the dinning room chairs I was not happy with the dinning room table, so I’m still looking for a table.

But Darlings I’m happy, comfortably ensconced in a home I adore, I sold the one that was too big for me but perfect for the family that bought it (just know that now it will be a happy home)---made a nice little bundle on the antique furniture that my late---but not very lamented husband had purchased.

And now I’m going to the Art Deco Show that will be offered in December---two days worth of looking and choosing, I don’t know what I’m going to find---but it will be fun looking for it.

Happy?? You can never be too old to be Happy and live your life and your dream, remember that Darlings.

Now I must dress, we are planning to go to Bix’s. Should be fun.

Kisses Darlings, until later, dream expensive dreams.

One too many martinis and babbling~~~

Alright Possums, this Diva is feeling a little maudlin tonight, maybe one too many martinis.

Diva’s, sometimes one needs to do a bit of reflecting to see where life’s path has taken you, what was right or wrong with your decisions.

But you also have to be aware of the time frame and the perceptions of society of that time. When I was growing up, although my parents wanted me to think independently, make my own money and be financially independent, I was still growing up in an era where women were the dutiful house wives to make the home perfect for their husbands.

Such a conflict!! And such a pressure. Well after college, I was doing very well for myself in my investments making a very good income and I was very reluctant to share that with a husband, any husband.

But my Mother worried that I would be alone for the rest of my life and my Father had met a man who understood business especially from a legal standpoint and was moving up in the law firm that his own father had started. “A good catch” my Mother said, “Excellent Background and a good mind” my Father said----“Handsome” my friends said. But I thought “What is the problem?” then I realized and I talked it over with my Father----“Dad I don’t want to give over my money that I earn to him should we marry, what if there is something that doesn’t work out, I want to be independent just in case”

My Father was wise enough to see my point---he remembered his sister who committed suicide trapped in an abusive marriage and financially had no way out. So he talked to my erstwhile suitor and told him what the arrangements would be and this was before the age of “Pre-nuptial agreements”

So we married, during the honeymoon we came to even further verbal agreements, and I knew the marriage would be loveless and childless. Now a day’s people are quick to see a divorce but you have to remember Possums back then that would have been unseemly and I also knew that the connections that my new husband had would benefit my Father.

I didn’t like the house that he owned but he wasn’t going to sell it for my sake, he bought it for his own self importance.

So since he purchased the house and furnished it before we were married I had decided that there were battles worth fighting and those that weren’t. It’s a wise Diva that knows this.

Decorating the house that he bought was not worth fighting over, there was only one area that I held sway and that was my dressing room, personal sitting room and bath. It was an equitable arrangement. The only time we had an argument was over an Art Modern Vanity table that I bought, he thought it was decadent, I thought it was beautiful I told him that since it was going to be in my dressing room he didn’t have to see it.

Even he realized that there are times to retreat. And he needed me too. I am smart, witty, beautiful, knowledgeable, looked good on his arm, could raise money at charity functions, plan the perfect party, I was the perfect partner to his life.

He let me have my indulgences, my investment and own funds, my 1930’s movies and music, period clothing styles, some of my friends that had the same interests, performing in community theatre; as a matter of fact he made such theatre events a thing for staff and clients.

Oh please don’t misunderstand me, my husband was a good man, he just wanted things his way, and since I had the assistance of an excellent small staff to keep his house running it wasn’t too hard. It left me free to make my own personal investments (and investigations---most interesting story there).

All right I’ll come out with it, I knew that my husband had a mistress; I realized that after we had been married for nearly 20 years. Since he knew that we not commingle funds, there was a house fund, housekeeping and food fund, a bill paying fund and then his monies and mine, we put into the 4 initial funds and since he was the greater breadwinner he always put in more; if he insisted on a large party he would provide the extra money. If I wanted a little get together I paid for it.

He would buy me gifts, furs, jewelry etc. and had no problem with my clothing bill and we did have our medical and dental plan, he never denied me anything---and I knew why.

The Why was Miss 5 ft 5 inches; dark brunette hair, full lips, deep blue eyes, and a figure that was a knock out as they say, 25 years younger---and she kept him happy. But as I’ve always said it’s a wise Diva who knows where her husband stashes his extra money. And my investigations paid off.

One day I informed my husband that it would be a wise thing to do simple wills until we could think of how we wanted to set up a living trust. I pointed out that since I was in my late 40’s and he in his early 50’s it might be a wise move. We had no children (which would have been a blessing but that wasn’t to be) and except for my two siblings and his very elderly mother, we had no other close relatives and my siblings were well off anyway. I thought at first he would resist the idea, but then I could see the wheels in his mind clicking---hmmm wills, hmmm trust, hmmm mistress, hmmm wife.

I suggested that the wills be a temporary arrangement because he was doing a lot of traveling (by plane) until we had some free time to think it all over. Well it wasn’t until later that I found out that he thought that he would have enough time to later sign over some property, stocks and funds to his mistress while we were going to set up the trust and that he could do it secretly since he thought I didn’t know about his love nest arrangement.

But remember my Dear Future Diva’s Moi had been doing her investigations and knew where everything was buried, or comfortably ensconced.
(Am I being Catty---well-----Yes!)

So he thought that the wills would not be a problem until he could make his own private arrangements. (And how did I know that---why though his mistress’s Diary---I’ll explain that in a bit)

Now Darlings you have to understand I had no ulterior motive in mind, I just was aware that we had not made arrangements in case the unexpected happened. Of course my husband thought that he would never die, as a matter of fact he thought he would out live me since there was a background history of stroke and heart attacks in my father’s family, while his lived to very ripe old age, as a matter of fact his mother was still living in a very comfortable and expensive retirement community, the only reason why his father had died was an auto accident (coming home from His mistress’s place, like father like son they say) { Alright yes, Meeyooowl}

But even God has a very peculiar sense of humor, and the Devil takes his own. (Now remember Darlings he was in his own way a good husband, just a cold, sometimes difficult man to deal with and when I married him it was a different time and outlook)

Who would have thought that insuffient de-icing of the wings of a commercial jet airliner would bring our marriage to its final end? I remember kissing him before he flew off, and asked him to at least call to let me know what his return flight would be, then for the next week I went about my business, he would call briefly and up date me on events. Although once when he called I could clearly hear a female voice giggling faintly in the background. Oh well I thought, if he wanted to cheat on the both of us that was his choice, I’m the one with the marriage license.

What I didn’t known at the time is that he took his mistress with him, in a round about way after the plane crash I found out that he sent her by rail to New York for a shopping spree and she joined him a couple of days later, forwarding by UPS all her purchases, to the love nest, hmmm.

I do have to admit, when I found out that it was his flight that had crashed, I felt numb. I realized there wasn’t anything I could do until his remains were properly identified. But when I discovered her name on the boarding list, well then I knew as soon as possible I had to take action. His partners were dumbfounded that I knew where he kept everything and I took action through another legal firm to transfer all that which he had been planning to give to his now late mistress, into my name.

Do I sound cold? Sorry Darlings, but you have to remember I was not sure how I was going to do in my finances, I still had a house to pay off and staff to pay that were dependent upon me, as well as his outstanding bills. I didn’t love him really, but in my own way I was fond of him. And I respected his intelligence in legal and business matters, I learned from him really.

Getting information from his partners I told them that I knew about the mistress and through my investigative sources found out that she had parents and a younger sister and brother. The parents could afford to send the son to college but not the daughter, so Miss 5 ft 5 was sending extra money back to pay for her sisters’ college fund.

The parents could not afford to have the body shipped home but I told them a “little white lie” I said that Miss 5ft 5 was my husbands assistant and that the firm would make arrangements to transport her body home and pay for all the funeral arrangements---which through some arm-twisting they did (Remember Diva’s must be good with Arm Twisting) and though more arm-twisting had them pay out a sizeable amount to cover the money’s needed to pay the sisters’ way through college----we told the parents that it was part of the company insurance policy.

Alright why did I do that----she wasn’t a bad girl---in taking possession of the luxury apartment condo I discovered in a diary that she did care for my late husband, Hmmm I thought, from what I was reading he treated her like a pet that needed to be coddled and watched over---and she gave him complete devotion. Although she did have an ulterior motive, her sister’s college education. I couldn’t fault that---although I have to confess I did wish that he had given me at least half the affection that he gave her.

I destroyed the diary, made arrangements for her mother and sister to travel to her apartment to box and ship those personal items they wanted to keep. I told them to not worry about the lease on the apartment that my lawyer would make arrangements and that it would not be any financial outlay on their part. Again a little white lie, since I was the now legal owner, so why bother their heads about it.

My motive? Why darlings, even I could feel pity---I’m not heartless, I was angry but then in a way I realized that I had sold myself too many years before, but for other reasons---and I was the one with the marriage license. And I knew he would never leave me, things were too good. Remember Divas a married man will never give up his wife and if he does then can you trust him to be faithful? In her diary she constantly thought that he would leave me. Be careful Divas of lies to the heart, they are always false.

Even though this took place 12 years ago, things always remain the same.

I still get a card every Christmas from the sister----she is doing very well in her profession in, of all things, investment banking---hmmm.

His Mother, poor thing was very broken up, her only son, I knew that her care fell to me and I knew I had to do the right thing, she had been in my situation when she was married to my now late husband’s father. And she didn’t have the extra resources at her disposal that I had. She had to have her needs taken care of. Strangely enough we grew closer together, she shared many memories of her husband, her son, her life before them, her dreams she never realized, and she always wanted to be an artist, but her husband discouraged her in that, but I had seen her pencil sketches.

So one day I took her to an artist studio and had her discover water colors, eventually she had her own showing and her works sold very well. It gave her back some of the dreams that she had lost. She passed away in her sleep 5 years after, but feeling more fulfilled than before. Because I would have her over to the house I didn’t change a thing, I was concerned that it would upset her, after she passed away, I didn’t feel the need to have to change anything---why would I, I thought.

Until one day that long flight of stairs just became too much for me, I found myself with shortness of breath. Well a doctor’s examination and pills took care of most of that, but oh that long flight of stairs.

That is why Iris’s house is just so perfect, and I can be fully my own person as I want to be, maybe late in life but better late than never they say.

Oh my dear’s one should never drink more than 2 vodka martinis---all the memories come streaming back---and I have no idea why I blabbed all this to you, except maybe for all of you to learn from it. Always be careful and always remain independent.

Anon for now—this Diva is going to look for an aspirin.