So, what Worcester happenings are coming up?  Here are a few

• Pet Rock Festival.  This impressively-large animal expo will be held on Sunday, September 12, from 12-5 at Quinsigamond Community College; the rain date is September 19.  Tickets for the event are $12 for adults and $5 for children.  An exciting array of notable, regional bands will be performing, and vendors, contests, and food offerings will also be available.  The money raised from this exciting day benefit various animal causes.  The Worcester Telegram and several other local businesses are sponsoring the “largest on the East Coast of this kind” fest.  For more info, go to www.petrockfest.com
• Start on the Street.  This arts and music festival takes place on Sunday, September 19, from 11-5; the rain date is September 26.  The free celebration encompasses several blocks in the Park Avenue vicinity.  Artists, food vendors, bands, craft makers, activities, and so much more will be on hand.  Be sure to sport comfy footwear (you may do a lot of walking), and it might also be wise to take along a foldable chair (seating is limited).  Portable toilets will be available to the public at 255 Park Ave.  Detailed information concerning this event is available at www.startonthestreet.org
• Worcester Art Museum: Unveiling Celebration of “The Dead Toreador.” For all the art lovers out this, this experience should be exciting!  Edouard Manet’s masterpiece will be on loan to the Worcester Art Museum from Washington D.C.’s National Gallery of Art.  The festivities begin on September 25, from 7 to 10 p.m., with dancers, small plates (tapas), wine, and live music.  Manet, a legendary 19^th century French artist, received both acclaim and criticism for his collection of works.  In this particular painting, the dead bullfighter is symbolic of the appreciation Manet had for the animated showmanship of Spanish artist, Diego Velazquez.  The cost for this extravaganza is $40 for nonmembers and $30 for members.

Well, summer is not officially over, but it is winding down.  Nonetheless, an exhilarating fall is on hand.   For additional “around town” events, go to www.worcestermass.org/calendar-of-events

1. Value old friends and welcome new ones.  Friendships work to keep us vital and bestow a remarkable sense of zeal into our lives.
2. Smile at a children.  Believe it or not, you are an unwitting instructor and will be teaching a lesson of kindness that could remain a lifetime.
3. Cry when you need to.  Even if you have to retreat to a solitary space, don’t suppress tears.  Releasing emotion helps us to deal with other issues at hand.
4. Throw a picture party.  Every now and then it’s wonderful to pull out the albums and reminisce about happy times (maybe with cheese, crackers, and wine as accompaniments?).
5. Encourage your children no matter what their age.  We often need the support of our parents no matter how old we are!
6. Respect your parents.  They may never live up to the idealized images that reside in your head, but chances are they love you just the same.
7. Call an old friend.  Even if you are the one who made the last contact, pick up the phone.  Some people become preoccupied with everyday living and forget to stay in touch.
8. Treat yourself to a luxurious indulgence every now and then.  As long as the extravagance does not become habitual, no one is getting hurt (and you deserve it!).
9. Don’t beat yourself up over past mistakes.  No one is perfect, flawless, or devoid of error.  Instead, think of the misguided steps as learning tools.
10. Strive to be the best you can be.  As you do this, though, do not knock those around you.  Otherwise, your best will be the worst in you.

Another year has arrived, and with it comes a renewed sense of hope for the future.  May 2010 hold peace, happiness, and the fulfillment of all that is good within us.

• Party Punch.  This drink is fruity and adds a measure of refreshment to an afternoon or evening party.  In a punch bowl, mix 8 cups of cold orange juice, 1 bottle of fruit juice (100% juice is preferred), and one bottle of Dry Champagne, sparkling wine, or sparkling cider (sparkling cider is a great nonalcoholic alternative).  Slice one orange (rind on), and cut in half 10 to 15 strawberries: add to bowl.  If desired, squeeze ½ a lemon into the concoction.  (If making the alcohol version, you can also add a shot or two of Triple Sec, as well).  Taste.  If the flavor is too pungent, add cold water (in small increments) until the taste is right for you.

• Wine Spritzer.  This recipe is simple to make and pleasant to drink; it can be prepared with red or white wine (both versions will be included).  White wine.  Combine one bottle of dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will do nicely), one bottle of unflavored sparkling water, and one small can of frozen strawberry concentrate (or any other fruity concentrate).  Blend well in a large bowl.  Ladle mixture into wine glasses and garnish with fresh berries.  (For a nonalcoholic delight, replace the white wine with a nonalcoholic white wine or white grape juice).  Red Wine.  Combine one bottle of red wine (Chianti goes perfectly) and one two-liter bottle of carbonated orange soda (or ginger ale).  Ladle into appropriate wine glasses and garnish with fruit.  (For an alcohol-free adaptation, use nonalcoholic red wine or red grape juice).

• Spicy Coffee.  So you prefer something hot?  How about a coffee drink?  Mix ½ cup of instant coffee (decaf if you prefer), ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼  teaspoon of ground cloves, and 9 to 10 cups of hot milk (low-fat if you are watching calories).  Pour in coffee cups, and top with a shake or two of ground cinnamon.  NOTE:  For an alcohol-infused chocolate flair, add 2 to 3 shots of Godiva Original Liqueur or Crème de Cacao before pouring.

* It is important to note that all of theabove can be made without alcohol.  If using alcohol, remember to drink water regularly to avoid dehydration (and don’t drink and drive).

Another festive thought?  Soak fruits like cut oranges and peaches in red wine for several days (or longer) for a delightful, fruity aperitif.  Again, Chianti is great; however, purple grape juice can be used for a nonalcoholic option (keep the liquid covered in an airtight jar, bottle, or container).

So, 2009 is almost over.  Let us raise our glasses in thanks for the blessings in our lives and the hopes of a New Year filled with happiness, health, abundance, and gratitude!  God Bless.