Top 10 at 99*

I was recently asked by a friend to name my 10 favorite things. I am happy to do so. Here is that list in no particular order of preference:

1. My family, including the newest arrival, a jolly little guy  with a round face who enjoys his life and likes to engage with the world.

2. Keeping in touch with people; I am always happy when people share their joys, concerns and interests.

3. Writing my blog which involves picking a topic of interest, researching it, learning more about it, and, yes, sharing my opinion.

4. Reading stimulating books, learning about facts and events I had not known before.

5. My home, high on a hill with a panoramic view of San Francisco, The Golden Gate Bridge and the East Bay, which I appreciate so much.

6. Listening to classical music especially, Mozart, Chopin, Verdi, Donizeti, Bach but excluding the two Richards, Wagner and  Strauss.

7. Opera, really a subset of 6 with drama added.

8. Good television drama like The Durrells in Corfu or A Place to Call Home.

9. Traveling. Nowadays mostly on TV with Rick Steeves but I am glad that I was able to do so much of it during many years, discovering different places and talking to people about their lives.

10. Cats. I like their independence, aloofness, soft fur and willingness to be friendly and be petted.

*Editor’s note: Simone turned 99 last Thursday…….