Early fall thoughts

This past week every day had a new twist to dealing with life. My mom had a number of moments. She still loves her earrings.
My dad started thinking about exit strategies for the house they have lived in for almost 30 years- without ever finishing it.
Today I looked more under the hood of a car than I have ever done before. The position felt more like a Fosberry Flop than anyother I have ever been in.
I got to see Terry and Erik last night. We walked so much I wore two very symetric blisters in my big toes. My pretty shoes aren't for walking. The Bolt bus is neat. I would not mind figuring out how to use it sometime.
Today I worked on my continuing aster mystery- what are the new names for the 3 asters that are in bloom right now. also- how to winterize my tropicals and bog plants. have to bring in the dionaea( flytraps) but the sarracenia are going to get to go under a bale of hay and in the "greenhouse" I wonder if I will be able to figure out how to redesign my back retaining walls to repair the degrading railroad ties, or if I will have to ignore it for a few more years. I need to paint the back porch, replace rails in the fence, and get new outdoor furniture including a hammock stand.
I want to go hiking for my birthday. I am thinking AT or Long Path.
I miss Beijing. My studies there were remarkably satisfying even if I still fumble when I try to speak.

Don't read this if you don't what to know what I might like for presents

Holidays can be intimidating for those who have to orchestrate them. Likewise for those who "hate" to shop. Providing holiday cheer for all is exhausting. Last night my husband came home with a very sweet result from his Christmas present giving exploits- an "in store" credit for a store neither of us will ever go near again.

Present suggestions in no particular order: the local gold smith has a design and some stones that have not been set in over 15 years of owning them. I never felt comfortable putting any money toward such an enterprise while the kids were growing up. Now, there is a frugal response to economic news. Should presents be needed someone else will have to throw money at the project till the goldsmith thinks there is enough to start. (That should be good for a number of gift experiences) necklaces seem to be better than other form factors, these days. Eventually you get to take me out, and I promise I will wear something pretty that will show off your good taste.
Buy tickets for an event 3 months out and take the chance. That's what I do.
Say anything nice about what I look like, when you notice.
Cut flowers- I seem to gravitate to deep colors and things that smell nice
Gift certificates to any plant provider I frequent. Hildebrandt Nursery, Brent and Becky's Bulbs, Heronswood, Thompson and Morgan seeds, Longwood Gardens, etc
Likewise, take me to any arboretum you are willing to visit with me. The pleasure of the trip will be worth it. I skip in such places.
Even though I now think I am too old to have my own set of good pearls, I still want one. (Pan Am length, just real, white and reasonably sized, not those silly seed pearl sized graduation ones)
I am also partial to surprise visits to the Cloisters or other NY, Boston, Philadelphia or DC museums.
Take me to a restaurant for the pleasure of helping me to enjoy well prepared food.

Well, that is enough self indulgent wishful thinking.