Its a gift! And its for You!

Today is February 29th, 2012, a day which didn't exist last year or the past 4 years for that matter. I awoke this morning with the thought--here is a 24-hour-period that all human beings have been given (at least those who follow our calendar). What shall I do with it? The choices are endless, really, and one could easily decide to squander those hours on activities not normally done, or to use them to do something truly amazing, and/or to serve other people. Wise use of time takes planning and forethought, and frankly, I didn't do it this leap around. My husband and I went to get "virtual physicals" ( a topic for another time) which ended up taking 6 hours including travel time. We had planned on three so the day was really one of waiting and driving, along with a great discussion with a radiologist regarding our magnificent insides. I feel a great deal of remorse that I didn't plan more efficiently so I could have used this free day in a more meaningful way. I guess spending six hours with my spouse of 40-plus years is pretty meaningful and maybe this was the best use of my "free" time. Next leap year, 2016, I have resolved to be more prepared and dazzle everyone with my fabulous choices. How did you use your 24 hours?

Head case

First of all, I need to explain that I haven't written anything for a while because, and I am not kidding, I couldn't find the "new post" label at the top of my blog. Where it went, I don't know, but today it showed up again so I am posting. This type of issue is not unusual in my life, and generally, I am not at fault, contrary to the opinions of all my children and husband.
For several weeks I have wanted to pontificate on the reasons one gets a head cold, which I had a few weeks ago.
To begin with, why is it not referred to as a "nose" cold, or a "sinus"cold? Because, really, where else would have you have a cold if not in your head? Anyway-
It is my belief that we get colds for the sole reason of helping us realize how wonderful life is without one. Isn't it true that when you are humming along in life, healthy and carefree, that you never think about how great that is? But when I get one of those awful, stuffy nosed, ear-clogged conditions I immediately think back on how well I felt just the day before, and how unappreciative I had been. I also vow to be thankful every day in the future for good health, and the ability to take air into my lungs without effort, to be able to sleep without having to wake and blow my nose, or swallow without pain, or move around without a headache. Unfortunately, once back to my old healthy self (is that an oxymoron?), I promptly forget about all those promises.
I suppose many of life's little annoyances come our way so we will appreciate the good in life, and the less likely we are to recognize and express our gratitude, perhaps the more often we'll experience the annoyances. I know this comment could generate a whole host of contrary opinions (especially from my family) and I really don't want to go that route. I would rather close this post and go be happy I no longer need to carry a tissue around with me.