Thursday, December 27, 2018

Desert Trail Column - December 27, 2018

New Year’s Eve at the Palms will be held of course on New Year’s Eve from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. The Palms is located at 83131 Amboy Road at Thompson Road. Call 760-361-2810 for further information.
We send out Rainbows-of-Turquoise-and-Narcissus to Glenda Berndt who celebrates her special day this week. Happy birthday, Glenda!

Darlene’s Commentary:I’ve been reading an excellent book entitled “Emotional Intelligence” written by Daniel Goleman. This book and its contents are set out in clear understandable English. Today I was immersed in a chapter about stress and anxiety and learned that anxiety signals high levels of stress. Our immune system fights viruses and such, but the stress I’ve been feeling lately seems to be making me physically sick. Because I have some thyroid issues from long ago, my immune system is not up to par. Different doctors recommend different things, including herbs and medications, but none of them have proven to be too great. I was hoping I could find out more from a neurologist about how to improve my immune system, so I have made an appointment.

Karen’s Commentary: The little elves are gearing down tonight and so am I. As our mom used to say, “Ah’m tarred an’ wored out!” I love Christmas. Too bad it’s tarnished by shopping and wrapping! Of course I know there is an alternative – don’t buy gifts. Hey, that sounds like a great idea, although I’m not so sure how well it would go over with our kids, grandkids and great-grandkids! We have 13 stockings hanging over the fireplace this year – it’s getting pretty crowded up there. But I love looking at all those colorful stockings just waiting for Santa to arrive. By the time you read this, Christmas 2018 will be past. I hope you had a joyful day, and I hope we all have a great 2019.

Susan Doggett is a Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator specializing in migratory birds. She is a graduate biologist and lives in Wonder Valley. To contact her, call 714-637-8355.
Handy Hint: Container shape is key when it comes to reheating food in the microwave. The corners of rectangular containers usually attract more energy than other areas, leaving the food in those spots overcooked. A round container, on the other hand, allows food to reheat more uniformly. And don’t add seasonings until you’re done. Microwave energy is drawn to salt, so a seasoned top will collect heat and leave the outer layer of your food dry. If you’d rather add salt first, stir it in thoroughly.
Today’s Thought: The University of Alaska spans four time zones.
Until next time . . . remember to take time to enjoy the WONDERs all around us.