Dear Edith Ann aka Lily, Perhaps you haven’t noticed but it’s the parents and the grandparents that are going to suffer most in this economy as the children have not been given a good work ethic. I’m not talking about those lost their moral compass wallstreeters and bangsters and their ilk but us formerly middle class hard working folk who are seeing their nest eggs dwindle and are worried sick about the future. Actually I was amazed to find some kids that would shovel and cut my lawn, not American children but the children of Irish immigrants. What a godsend for me. I’m 76 and thes chores become increasingly difficult and probably the main reason that people sell their houses. But now that isn’t even an option. Lois Titherington

My Mom had a saying”if fools wouldn’t go to market, garbage wouldn’t be sold”. That really sums up this collection of tasteless items for the very wealthy. Whoopie’s book being the only exception. I thought gifts were supposed to be given great thought for the individual and not just an outlay of cash and conspicuous consumption! By Lois T.

Nicole Kidman has made some fabulous movies but my all time favorite was MOULIN Rouge. Now she has a baby and I certainly can relate to that unbelievable experience. I am so happy that she is love and cherished and hope that they stay together. Lois Titherington

I HAVE HEARD AND SEEN SO MUCH IN MY 76 YEARS! BARACK OBAMA BEING ELECTED PRESIDENT LAST NIGHT TOPS EVERYTHING EXCEPT THE BIRTH OF MY CHILDREN. I STAYED UP MOST OF THE NIGHT AND COULDN’T HELP REJOICE IN THE REALIZATION THAT THE NAYSAYERS AND BIGOTS LOST AND A NEW DAY HAS BEGUN. LET HOPE BE THE MANTRA OF US ALL. LOIS TITHERINGTON

I agree with you and I absolutely can’t fathom religion that requires covering yourself or wigs or any of the external trappings that set people apart. Religion should be carried in your heart (or non-religion).There’s so much I don’t get. Tattoos for one.Fatwahs etc. They all go under the big WHY????? Lois

Lesley, You are so wise,smart and I love you. I agree about sleep and making bad decisions. We can only imagine how daunting this campaign is. We see him getting thinner and trying to defend himself against all sorts of irrelevant stuff. When will the American public stop listening to all the Roves of the world and choose a president who at least has the brains to pick the right people to help him run the country. Last time they chose the man they most wanted to have a beer with. No wonder we’re in this mess! Lois

Suzy, Your story moved me greatly. Life moves so swiftly and we would like to have no regrets, but I detect that you wish that you had gotten to Lulu sooner. I’m sure that in your daily life you are good to those around you and that counts for a whole lot. L.T. 3/29/2008

i have this enormous collection of Hermes scarves that have never been worn and probably will never wear, Hermes shoes, boots etc. they all sit in my closet and I do feel so guilty that I spent all that money and I don’t lead that kind of lifestyle anymore. My son and daughter, my grandchildren , my sister and family are what I care about. I like to travel especially to California to see my daughter and grandchildren. My retirement is about learning new things and freedom to do what I choose. L.T.3/29 a little after midnight