Signs of the Season

Hello again Greendale,

I’ve seen clear signs of early fall. I found a brown birch leaf on my porch the other day. At least I think that's what it was. What with all the dogs in the neighborhood, I opted out of taking a closer look. Plus, I was nearly mowed down in the school necessities aisle at yesterday. So, I guess our rosy-cheeked students are preparing for yet one more year of learning.

Another clue that the year is slowly coming to a close is the Christmas sales on the shopping channels. Apparently, if you don't have your holiday shopping well in hand by the end of September most of the items you were hoping to purchase will be gone and you will be one of the few with no gifts to give when the big day arrives. After all, much of the joy of the season depends on the feeling of perpetual angst and desperation right?

You should know that the is mailing out their fall program book shortly. You can get a sneak peak of the fall programs on their website.

Just in case you're considering that extra sip of the bubbly let me remind you that our So forewarned is forearmed right.

Don't be looking in your mailbox for the Greendale Schools Annual Report this year. So, instead of the paper copies you must look on the district website for the info. I hear they plan on mailing a postcard reminder though.

I think the outside of the building looks better already. Plus, the senior housing site is coming along at a rapid pace.

I heard via the grapevine that the Village Center recently hosted . The night was replete with artists and a fashion show starring our local Greendale celebrities. I sure would have gone had I known about it beforehand. I asked several of my neighbors about it but they were in the dark as well.

Mark your calendars. The Greendale Entertainment Assocation will be holding their very popular Children's Resale event at the on October 8.

It might also be time to start preparing yourself for the . This will include a 5K run or a 2-mile walk on Sunday October 16. Registration information is available at the

There were many big headlines the past week. First, an earthquake and then , but here in Greendale we have had nothing but perfect weather … sunny, warm with a nice breeze. Who could ask for more? Tons of people walking down my little street, across the bridge and presumably down to the Village Center for a cup of coffee or an ice dream delight. Like a poster of middle America right?

For those who are trying to lose a pound or two I have some news that may interest you. The New York Times has some food choices that are not only healthy for you but are also calorie poor, inexpensive and environmentally friendly.  For an entree they suggest a nice mealworm pilaf followed by a slice of cicada banana bread.  High protein, low fat and very tasty if eaten quickly and with ones eyes closed. Apparently, due to dwindling world resources this may be a future option for feeding a growing population. I'm sure PETA will have something to say about it though.

Oddly, after Gump (the bottomless pit) had scarfed down both his food, half of Nosferatu's food, two house flies, part of a raisin cookie, several stalks of cat grass, half a cup of birdseed and possibly part of an apple core — it was Nosferatu who stopped eating for two days and had to go to the vet.

After an extensive exam (and $180 later) it was decided that it must have been something she ate. I thought that probably Gump's eating habits made her nauseated. Happily, she has fully recovered.

Due to a little glitch, I spent a few hours at a local Emergency Room last week. Nothing serious. The doctor said it was still OK for me to buy green bananas. So, all is well. I tell you this to impart some useful info. If you are going to the ER — either as a patient or family member — be sure to take along either a book, some knitting, your iPad, a chess set or something to occupy your time. I'm thinking when someone there hollers STAT it means Sit Tight And Twiddle your thumbs.

Anyhow, that's about all there is this week. For heaven's sake get out and enjoy the weather.