Hunker Down with a Good Read

As we enter the second month of the year I thought you might enjoy some fascinating historical facts and superstitions I’ve discovered about this month. Some you have heard, some not. My sources: Fun world facts.com and Learn bright.org

• ·         The Assassination of Julius Caesar (44 BCE): Although not in February itself, the assassination of Julius Caesar was planned for the Ides of February (February 15) in the Roman calendar.

• ·         The First American Flag Flown at Sea (1775): On February 14, 1775, the first American flag was flown at sea by the colonial schooner USS Alfred during the American Revolutionary War.

• ·         The Signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848): This treaty ended the Mexican-American War and led to the U.S. acquiring territories that would become California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of several other states.

• ·         The First Grammy Awards (1959): The first Grammy Awards ceremony was held on May 4, 1959, but the nominations and voting took place in February.

• ·         The Launch of the First U.S. Space Shuttle (1981): On February 20, 1981, NASA launched the Space Shuttle Columbia on its first orbital test flight.

• ·         Imbolc (February 1): This ancient Celtic festival marks the halfway point between winter and spring. It’s believed to be a time of purification and renewal. Lighting candles and fires is said to drive away the dark of winter and invite the warmth and light of spring.

• ·         Groundhog Day (February 2): In the U.S. and Canada, Groundhog Day is celebrated with the belief that if a groundhog sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If it doesn't, spring will arrive early.

• ·         St. Blaise's Day (February 3): St. Blaise is the patron saint of wild animals in some Christian traditions. It's believed that praying to St. Blaise can protect animals from illness and injury.

• ·         The Death Anniversary of Charles Dickens (February 7): Some people believe that reading a passage from a Dickens novel on this day brings good luck and literary inspiration.

• ·         Valentine's Day (February 14): This day is filled with superstitions related to love and romance. For example, it's said that if you see a squirrel on Valentine's Day, you'll marry a cheapskate, or if you find a glove, your future partner will have the other glove.

• ·         Roman Festival of Lupercalia (February 15): This ancient festival was celebrated to ward off evil spirits and promote fertility and health. It was believed that the rituals performed during this festival would bring good fortune for the rest of the year.

• ·         Leap Year Superstitions: Since February 29th only comes around every four years, leap years carry a lot of folklore. Some believe it's unlucky to start new projects or get married in a leap year, while others consider it a special time for making bold moves.

  
  

I hope you enjoyed these tidbits!

Hunker down with a good read!

A New Year, an Organized Sock Drawer

Here we are, at the very beginning of 2025. What will the year hold for us? I decided to set a low bar to avoid disappointment. But, if my sock drawer is any indication of future events, 2025 will be tolerable.

Did you know that the earliest known socks date back to around the 8th century BC, when the Ancient Greeks wore socks called "piloi," made from matted animal hair?

My mom always purchased more than one pair of the same style and color socks. In theory, when a hole appeared in one, you'd still have a pair. In reality, though, one sock always ends up alone until another one gets a hole.

What does your sock drawer look like? Who knew there were so many ways to store socks?

By Color: Arrange socks by color to make it easy to find matching pairs.

By Type: Separate dress socks, athletic socks, and casual socks for quick access.

By Season: Keep lightweight socks for warmer months and thicker socks for colder ones.

Using Dividers: Use drawer dividers or small bins to keep pairs neatly separated.

Rolling Socks: Roll socks into tight balls and line them up for a tidy look.

Filing System: Stand socks upright like files in a cabinet, making it easy to see each pair.

Marie Kondo Method: Fold socks and stack them vertically so you can see all pairs at a glance.

Drawer Organizers: Use store-bought or DIY organizers to keep socks in specific compartments.

Labeling: Label sections of the drawer for different types of socks or family members.

Hanging Organizer: Use a hanging shoe or pocket organizer to store socks outside the drawer.

Every now and then I empty the sock drawer and match up my socks--a ritual I am sure was not practiced by the Ancient Greeks. Today's sock challenge left only three without a mate. Most likely at least one of the missing will reappear the next time I shake out a bed sheet or slip a sweatshirt over my head. Where socks go remains one of the great mysteries. I'd like to imagine the Ancient Greeks searching for missing socks in the public baths, around the fire hearths, or under cots.

Having only three strays is a huge improvement over last year and I will consider it an omen of good things to come.

In November I shared high intentions of redesigning my website through another provider. I've been using WIX which is incredibly user-friendly (but costly). WIX also allows me to edit, and not having to pay someone for each addition or change is a huge selling point. I have a yearly subscription with WIX that won't expire until summer and canceling it now, won't benefit me. I've looked at several plans. I don't have the energy or mind power to dive into the project with the same gusto I had back in 2020.

Rather than deal with a different website provider, I've focused on finishing the new version of Calico Lane. Jason has worked tirelessly with me on the design. I'm excited about the fresh cover look AND what I hope will be eye-catching, empowering, and fun for readers of all ages.

Since its release in 2022, readers have asked about some of the people in the book. Another exciting change for this version is the inclusion of photographs. Family photos won't be the only ones featured. Snapshots of a few surprising images will catch your eye. I hope this makes Calico Lane feel more intimate for those who don't know anything about me. Copies can be ordered after January 7th from Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/0578340836

and signed copies directly from me through the contact form on my website.

Except for minor edits/corrections, the interior text/story has not changed in the 2025 version. And, if anyone you know would prefer a copy of the original---with the photographed Lane entrance on the cover---let me know. I will have some on hand until the inventory is depleted.

For 2025, I wish you good health, boundless happiness, abundant peace, and a sock drawer that brings you pride!

Best always,

Judy

November-December posting

First of all, I apologize for not sending an early November newsletter. My head wasn't in the proper space, and I needed time to process my emotions following the election results.

I'm reminded by many that hope often springs from the most unexpected places. Amidst the noise and turmoil of the political landscape, countless individuals are working tirelessly to make a difference. Communities are coming together, finding strength in unity and compassion. People are engaging in meaningful conversations, bridging divides, and fostering understanding. Grassroots movements are gaining momentum, driven by a shared vision of a better future. Young voices are rising, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the forefront. While the road ahead may be uncertain, the resilience and determination of people everywhere remind us of our shared humanity.

Change is often slow and arduous, and every small step forward, every act of courage, and every moment of empathy contributes to a brighter tomorrow. Let's hold onto that hope, nurture it, and let it guide us through the turbulent times. We can build a future that reflects our highest ideals and aspirations. The power to create positive change lies within each of us, which is genuinely hopeful.

There will be many challenges in the coming years. Policies will impact marginalized communities --people of color, Latinos, Indigenous and low-income groups, LGBTQ (especially the trans community), and women. It is becoming more difficult for these communities to advocate for their health and safety. Acts of kindness and solidarity are more important than ever. Let's unite to support and uplift each other, ensuring everyone feels seen, heard, and valued and their rights protected.

The holiday season shines as a beacon of hope. Families gather, sharing love and warmth that transcends any hardship. The spirit of giving flourishes. It reminds us of the kindness and generosity that unite us. It's a time when old grudges are forgiven, and new beginnings are embraced. The laughter of children, the scent of pine, and the glow of candles bring a comforting sense of peace. This season whispers of possibilities, brighter days ahead, and the enduring belief that love and hope can light even the darkest winter nights.

I wish you all a serene and joyous holiday season and new year. May the days be filled with laughter and love. Take time to experience the magic of a holiday performance in your community. Select name tags from the giving trees around town and donate to families in need. Volunteer your time at a food bank or other charities. Embrace the spirit of the season by spreading kindness and warmth wherever you go. Let's make these next few months especially special -- not just for ourselves but for others, too.

Cheers!

Judy

News from the author of Calico Lane

Enjoy a production of LEON, my holiday play as produced by Readers Theater Unlimited 2023 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dz7Pv1VBXGI

or The Lost Lake Low Life Theater in 2022

https://youtu.be/0PDw3JgXpoE

On the horizon:

Coming in 2025: an expanded edition of Calico Lane (check out the contest on my website

www.judykiehart.com/calico-lane-the-book

to win a free copy of this new release). The cover is under design now, and the book will include photographs! Have you wondered what Auntie Heley and Uncle Washo looked like? Do you want to see a photo of what the Calico Lane youngsters called the 'castle'? How about a photo of me as a carhop in the 1960s? Get ready for the re-release of Calico Lane, which will be coming early in 2025.

Also, my new book is on track for release during the summer of 2025. You won't want to miss Mixed Shorts, a collection of short stories, free verse, and one-act plays.

I'm taking some time off! Watch for the next newsletter in February 2025.

In the meantime, catch up on the posts from prior months here: www.judykiehart.com/postings