We, the thinking American public, have been slow in catching on to what has been happening for years. If you want to really scare yourself, forget horror movies, check out the National Debt Clock and watch the numbers click higher and higher. Then find out who the top two debt holders are (China and Japan). It won’t be long before China owns us. And without even a single mortar round. Who would’ve thunk it.

Cell phones are one of the most convenient, abused, overused, rude inventions to come down the pike in my lifetime. I carry one for emergencies. In my former profession (journalism) I was on the road a lot and often in the evening, but I would not have it now that I’m retired except it makes my husband happy. Problem is…I often forget to charge it or turn it on.

Telling a lie is too much trouble. It’s one more thing to remember. Besides, I am who I am—-always have been, always will be—-12, 20, 67!

The myth that marriage equals happily ever after.

Couldn’t care less. Much more concerned with the rape of our economy, our planet, and the deterioration of our society and loss of civility, global reputation and sense of proportion.

I now read the price per unit (writ in miniscule numbers) on every single item in the supermarket. Yesterday I picked up a box of name brand cookies, saw it was $9 and put it back on the shelf. I have never done that before in my life. Now I do. I also look for two-fers. Supermarkets seem well aware that if they offer a “deal,” shoppers will take advantage of it even though it may not be “their brand” or something that was on their list. Gas: hah! I have identified the cheapest place to buy it (Costco), but if it is out of my way, I find myself passing one gas station after another where I consider the price outrageously high. As I do, I say to myself: “I have now officially become my parents,” because they used to do the same thing even before this type of inflation. Clothing? Luckily, at my age and stage (retired) it doesn’t matter that much to me, so I rarely shop and when I need a new pair of jeans I head for the flea market, a box store or a catalog. Have you noticed the price of greeting cards? I just bought a disc so I can learn to make my own on the computer. The biggest disappointment for me is no longer being able to buy little gifts when I see something that is perfect for a friend or family member. We have tightened our belts so much, I may end up with a waist again. That’s the bright side!

McCain: Camo green Hummer. Obama: Black Jaguar. Clinton: Silver Prius.

The best beauty aid isn’t packaged. It’s a smile. The time will come when you won’t be able to tweeze the chin hairs or apply the lip gloss, but the smile will never fail you.