Too little time

The older I get the faster time seems to slip by.  This year has flown.  Next year may seem to go faster.  There are so many things I want to get done but don't seem to have the time to do them.  I have a hard time setting priorities so there are times when I feel like I'm behind the 8 ball.  When in college I always waited until the last minute to do term papers.  Strangely, those were the ones that got the better grades.  The ones I did in a timely manner sucked.
I've set goals for this weekend.  Decorations will be coming down.  I'll be putting the Christmas tree outside for the birds so I'm making extra popcorn for it.  There's cleaning up to do.  Sewing to do for an upcoming event.  Knitted projects to finish.  Guess I'll just have to take one thing at a time and not get frustrated.  I know it'll all be done eventually.  Now to just get to it.
Y'all be safe this weekend and may 2018 be a better year for you and yours.  Blessed be.

Chilly

'Tis a bit chilly here in North Georgia.  Only in the 20's this morning.  At least the sun is coming up to warm things up a bit.  Cold gray days are depressing to say the least.  The weather here has been a bit strange.  First it was warm, now it's cold, then it's supposed to get warmer again within the week.  Not good for sinuses.  I'm told I have allergies.  Hmmmph.  It's this stupid weather that can't make up it's mind.  I don't mind going out so long as I don't have to stay out.  I do have lots to do inside.  Sewing is at the top of the list at the moment but I also have to take down all the holiday stuff.  The birds and squirrels will be happy when I put out the tree as there is a nice cranberry/popcorn garland on it.  I may even add more.  I also purchased a nice big bird feeder that is, at least, semi weather proof.  Trying to clean a bird feeder with soggy seeds in it is a big pain.  Because the squirrels have figured out how to unscrew the top of one of the feeders I have out I bought a carabiner so that, although the feeder will twirl, the top won't unscrew.  Should be interesting to watch.  While I'm not fond of tree rats, I mean squirrels, they have to eat too, I guess and the population seems to have exploded this year.
Y'all have a safe New Year.  I'm staying home and will probably be in bed asleep before the midnight hour.  Too many drunks on the road.  I do wish you all good health and peace.  Blessed be.

Unbelievable

Yesterday I had to break down and go to the "Urgent" Care office next to my doctor's office.  When I woke up from the anesthesia this last Thursday I had a horrible sore throat and thought it was from the O2 they'd given me and would go away.  Well, it didn't.  It kept feeling as though I had something on the back of my tongue.  I looked in the mirror yesterday morning and, lo and behold, saw tiny white globs on my uvula (that little dangly thing in the back of your mouth).  Uh huh, strep.  Ordinarily I would have waited until today and called my doctor's office but, with the holiday coming up, I figured the sooner I started antibiotics the better.  So I went and sat with other folks who had various ailments to see the PA at the Urgent Care.  She verified strep.  Said she didn't even have to do a swab.  Gave me a 'script for a Z-pack.  What I want to know is where in hell did I get the strep from?  Was it from the hospital?  Or was it brewing before I had the procedure on Thursday?  This time of year who knows.  To top it off she told me I have fluid behind my ear drums which is indicative of allergies.  At this time of year?  Is that what's causing my cough?  So I'll be getting some allergy medication after I make all my Christmas deliveries (I'm past the giving it to others stage).
Like I said, unbelievable.
Y'all have a marvelous week.

It's the prep

Yesterday I had the joy of having a colonoscopy.  The procedure itself isn't bad, although I now have a very sore throat and cough (probably from the oxygen), it's the prep.  Having had one in the past I thought I was prepared for spending a number of hours on the throne the day before and the morning of.  I had my phone, my iPad and a book.  Oh, and Depends for when I just had to get up and walk around before my legs went numb.  I'm sure that's more than you ever wanted to know but I had to share.  I actually got about 2 hours sleep.  My daughter was kind enough to go with me as she had to drive me home.  The anesthesia really hit me hard.  When I got home all I wanted to do was sleep.  She stayed with me for a while just to make sure I would be okay.  I dozed some with my kitty snuggled up with me. Later friend A came by after work to check on me.  Not long after she left I went to bed.  It wasn't even dark.  I slept for about 13 hours and believe I could sleep for a few more. I still have a sore throat though not as bad and I'm still tired.  Don't think I'll be going anywhere today.  Would like to know where the cough came from.  I was told that I even coughed while under the anesthesia, which surprised the heck out me and them.  Because of my age I was advised that I would need to have one in 5 years (just a suggestion).  Yeah, right.  Hopefully by then they will have come up with a better way.  If I make it another 5 years I'll consider it.
For those of you of a certain age I'm sure you understand.
Y'all have a loverly day.

Go figure

At the beginning of the week the temperature during the day was in the high 50's or 60's.  This morning it's snowing.  Go figure.

Time

Time....where does it go?  The older I get the faster it flies.  Nowadays it seems to get away from me, especially when I need it to get things done for a deadline such as events at the gallery.  Now it's Christmas and I have meringues to make and gifts to wrap and decorations to put up.  All around meetings and doctor appointments.  Geeesh.  Then there's the grocery shopping for Yule dinner.  This year has flown by faster than ever.  Pretty soon the new year will be here and it'll start all over again.  I'm hoping to manage time better but I'm not counting on it.
Y'all have a great day and remember:  time waits for no man (or woman, for that matter).

Slept in

I slept in this morning.  The past couple of days were long ones as my daughter and I participated in the Mistletoe Market at the gallery where I am a member.  Glad my daughter was with me.  She was a big help and it was fun being with her for two whole days.  She has a good eye for setting up and displaying wares.  For the most part I did fairly well.  Better than some.  A couple of vendors left at the end of Friday because they hadn't sold anything.  It didn't help that their goods were high priced.  I sold some table runners, hand made tree ornaments and a couple of pairs of Christmas earrings.  Everything hand made, of course.  I'll put the earrings in my inventory in hopes that they sell.  If not I'll store them for next year.
We did have a large number of people walk through.  It being a holiday weekend in Helen, GA.  Unfortunate for those vendors who did not sell during the two days but they will be back in February for Winterfest in hopes of doing well.  Also they believe in supporting us.
Part of why I'm so tired is that I helped with setup and teardown.  That means I was there longer than everyone else.  I loved doing it, though and knew I could sleep in.
I'll try to get my butt in gear to work outside this beautiful day.  There's one area that really needs to be taken care of in preparation for next year.  And I have bulbs to plant.
Hope everyone had a peaceful Thanksgiving.  I did with family.  And now it's on to getting it together for the next holiday.  So Merry Chrismahannakwanzakayule.

Getting there

Winter is getting there.  We haven't had a cold autumn but now the temps are beginning to drop into the 30's at night.  Actually it's been like a roller coaster temperature-wise.   It's supposed to go up into the 60's today.  Once it's warmed up I have work to do outside.  Bulbs need planting and a small garden patch needs to get the rest of the weeds and dead plants removed so it can be tilled.
I've started making the candy I make every year.  Meringues, both peppermint and cinnamon.  Right now it's just the peppermint to take to the Mistletoe Market the two days after Thanksgiving.  I still have last minute preparations for it, but I'm getting there.
Y'all have a satisfying day and remember:  it won't get done if you don't do it.

Temporary fix

My neighbor came by and checked everything out.  The outside unit was fine.  The inside unit is where the trouble is.  The fan wasn't working....then it was.  Later in the afternoon, however, I noticed that it was getting a bit cool in the house so I checked the thermostat (the new one, 'cause the old one was kaput) and saw that the temperature was lower than it should have been.  Even though I turned the temperature up, the fan would not come on.  Another call to my neighbor.  He came back over and, sure enough, the inside fan would not go on.  Happily he happened to have one in his storage unit down the road.  Not the same kind, but good enough until he could get a proper replacement.  Monday he'll get the right part.  So, once again, I have heat.  If he hadn't been able to fix it I told him I had a portable heater I could use and would stay downstairs with it on near my recliner.  I would also put on more layers, maybe have a fire in the woodstove in the basement.  Happily I didn't have to.
Much to do today so.....
Y'all have a great day and remember:  a day without sunshine is like...night.

Fortunate

I am very fortunate to have a neighbor who is in the HVAC business.  Woke up this morning to no heat pump sound.  Even the emergency strips don't seem to be working.  Guess they wouldn't if the heat pump isn't.  When I realized that it didn't go on even when I turned up the thermostat I got in touch with him.  He'll be here shortly.  I hate to disturb him on a Saturday but it's in the 30's outside.  Also the downstairs thermostat doesn't seem to be working either.  Happily I have fireplaces and a wood stove in the basement if worse comes to worst.
I'll make sure to have hot coffee available for him.
Y'all have a good day.

Wondering

I wonder why there is so much strife in the world.   Has it always been there?  Do we just now see it because of TV, Twitter, Facebook, etc.?  I don't watch the news except for local stuff and even then sometimes take it with a grain of salt.  Certain stations are on my no watch list because they are so slanted toward opinion, not fact.  Same with some newspapers.    Sometimes, I believe, we are told too much.  Sometimes we are too much in the lives of public figures.
And I also wonder about those so-called "stars" of Hollywood who believe that their opinion matters more than us regular folk.  Or that they can get away with stuff we would be put in jail for.  They think so highly of themselves.  I wonder if they are secretly really people with low self-esteem who need to be idolized.
Guess I'm just an ostrich who wants to be left alone, believing that there is still good out there, somewhere.  Yes, I do see it now and then so I know it exists.  I just believe it needs to be made more public.  I wonder how many people would watch a "GOOD NEWS ONLY" station?  No, it wouldn't last because, for some reason, people want to see the bad stuff.  Bring the widow on the set....dirty laundry....and all that.
Sigh....y'all have a nice day.

New problem

Had the stitches out yesterday.  Dr. said it was looking good.  I have to go back in a couple of weeks though because there is another spot on the back of the same ear.  Because it is a basal cell carcinoma, which I'm told rarely becomes malignant, I going to ask if it is absolutely necessary to excise it.  Maybe it can be frozen instead.  If it doesn't have to be removed I'm going to let it be for the time being.  If it gets bigger, etc. I'll consider getting it excised.  It doesn't help that the surgery might interfere with my wearing a hearing aid.  I had to keep wiping the antibiotic ointment off it this time.  Happily I was able to wear it at least.  My hearing isn't so bad that I could get away with not wearing it but people would sure be unhappy with my constantly asking them to repeat themselves.  Because winter is coming and I won't be working outside, my skin will have a break.  I'm letting my hair grow, also, so my ears and neck will be covered by the time spring rolls around and I start working outside again.  And because I live by myself I do have to get out there.
Y'all have a glorious day and remember:  he who hesitates may be waiting for traffic to pass.

Dermatologist

Going to the dermatologist today to have the stitches removed from my left ear.  A week ago I had a basal cell carcinoma removed.  I thought I might end up with a pixie ear but no.  Just a little indentation.  I wouldn't have minded a pixie ear. I know it's healing  'cause it itches!  I've been keeping Neosporin on it as told.  Taking a shower to wash my hair is interesting.  I've gotten the ear wet but have been VERY careful drying my hair and drying my ear.  Now when I go out in the sun I have to wear a hat so my face and ears are shaded.  Maybe when my hair gets longer and I can cover my ears with it I'll just put on sun block.  I don't like to wear hats.  They get in  my way, especially if I'm working around bushes and trees.  The joys of getting older, hah!
Y'all have a good day and remember:  not all who wander are lost.

One of those...

You ever have one of those days where nothing goes right?  Well, I've had one of those weeks.  It seems everything I put my hand to just didn't want to go right.  It didn't matter what I was trying to do.  I need to get some things made for Mistletoe Market the two days after Thanksgiving so I tried doing some sewing.....hah!  Then I tried to make some jewelry.  I succeeded in making some simple earrings.  After that, well my hands just wouldn't cooperate, nor would the rings.  I tried again today.  Guess what....again, nothing would cooperate.  I think I'll take a nap.

Time

Hard to believe it's the end of October already.  It is said that time passes more quickly the older you get.  I didn't believe it back when I was younger.  I believe it now.  It seems as if there isn't enough time for me to get done things I want or need to do.  I wonder why it is.
Y'all have a happy day and remember:  today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

My two cats

I have two cats, Cleo and PB (stands for Peanut Butter).  As I mentioned before Cleo decided to wet my bed in one spot.  Since that time I have put one of those flannel backed table cloths over the waterproof bed pad and under the bottom sheet.  It makes a crinkling noise when I get in bed but at least I won't have to wash the bed pad and it doesn't bother me, especially when I'm asleep.  Since I've done that, however, she has refrained from repeating her bad behavior.  I also purchased something called Feliway.  It's a pheromone that calms cats down.  I did that because ever since PB came home after having the claws removed from her unusable leg (she was catching it on stuff when she moved.  I found the cat bed at the bottom of the stairs on a few mornings) Cleo hisses at her when she gets too close.  It seems to be working.  Now that colder weather is moving in Cleo may be spending more time inside and I don't want any cat fights.  Sigh.  For the last few nights PB has slept between the coverlet and top sheet on my bed snuggled up against my back side.  Cleo has slept on top of the coverlet snuggled up against my front side.  What's with that?  I mean, I certainly don't mind.  It's kinda nice.  It's just that I can't move 😁😼.  Some time during the night they depart and go their separate ways and I wake up alone.
In the morning Cleo usually goes outside first thing.  Now that it's getting cooler (it was in the 40's this morning) she is staying inside until the sun has been up for a while and the front porch is warmer.  PB has taken to going out on the enclosed back porch.  There is no heat out there but she doesn't seem to mind.  I have put a small heater out there since I moved an Angel Wing begonia out there.  Her other favorite spot now that the weather has turned is to lie on the heat vent near the front door.  Sure wish I could understand them better.
Y'all have a good day and remember:  He who is laughing isn't crying.

Some days...

Some days I get some things done, others I don't.  Sunday I think I slept most of the day.  Don't know why.  Yesterday, being grey and rainy, I thought I'd play with some bright colored fabric.  I didn't.  Instead I started a basket and made a couple of pairs of earrings.  I ordered more rings online so I can make more earrings.  I also started a copper bracelet in a Byzantine pattern.  There's a Christmas market coming up at the art center and I need to get stuff made.  Should have started a while back but...
I take advantage of these "creative" days.  If I'm not in the mood I can't do a decent job so I don't even try.  Hopefully I can get some more accomplished today.
Y'all have a blessed day and remember:  today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

Early morning

Got up at o'dark thirty this morning to finish some planting at the art center.  The other days when I was planting it was way too hot (and it's October!) even at 9:00.  Finished this morning just as the sun was coming up and had just enough light.  It was an interesting experience trying to plant in half light but at least it wasn't hot.
Decided to treat myself to breakfast at one of the local restaurants.  The Sautee Trail Cafe is not far from me and is always crowded on Sunday morning.  Happily I got there before the breakfast rush.  Even so, they were pretty busy already.  Pancakes, sausage and coffee filled me up quickly.  The sausage was nice and spicy.  A young girl was trying to learn the register...not easy when the place is busy.  People were patient, though.  A good thing.  I hope they're as patient after church.
Y'all have a good day and remember:  You're not getting older, you're reaching perfection.

Bad cat

Any of you out there know how to cure a cat from peeing where it isn't supposed to, especially since there is a litter box that is cleaned out every day?  My cat peed on my bed for the third time early this morning.  Nothing like rolling over and getting a wet foot.  I have no idea why she does it.  The box is only 5-6 feet from the door of my room.  I've had her checked out at the vet and she doesn't have kidney problems and her bladder is fine.  She hadn't done it in a long time so I'm wondering why she did it early this morning.  Looks like I'll be making another appointment with the vet.  It's time for her  yearly check and shots anyway.

Internet is back!

Woo hoo I have internet again!  Isn't amazing how much we now rely on it?  The equipment has been upgraded and is much faster.  I have satellite, not cable or land line.  Hopefully this will last another few years like the last equipment.  Heck, it even has it's own wi-fi so I don't need a router!  The reason I have satellite is because the local phone company sucks.  It's the only company in this area and there is NO customer service.  Many people are getting rid of them.  If only there was competition maybe they'd get their collective heads out of their butts and try to keep customers.  The ones who suffer the most are those where cell phones don't work so the people need a land line.  Of course it costs more but the lack of frustration is worth it.  My blood pressure stays where it should and I'm not screaming at the computer 😁.
Y'all have a great day and remember:  You're not getting older, you're reaching perfection.

I'm baaaack

My trip to Alaska was awesome.  The end of August and beginning of September is the perfect time to go.  Except for one rainy morning the weather couldn't have been better.  I can even say the I belong to the 30% who actually saw the mountain (Denali). Glacier Bay was phenomenal.  The skies were clear and we were able to stay longer than usual.  I'd post pictures but my sister was the photographer this trip.  No calving while we were there. It's kind of sad to see how far the glaciers have retreated.  While staying at a lodge in Denali National Park we did the tundra trip starting at oh god thirty in the morning and were blessed with sightings of Dall sheep, a bull moose, bears, ground squirrels, and an eagle.  In Ketchikan my brother and I went crabbing.  Not literally but did get to go out on a crab boat, then feasted on Dungeoness crab.  Juneau saw us at the Mendenhall glacier.  It too has receded a great deal.
Unfortunately there were folks on the trip who had horrendous colds and coughed a lot, especially on the bus.  One in particular was sitting right behind us and my sister ended up sick the last three days of the trip.  When she got home she went to Urgent Care where they treated her for pneumonia!  I really felt bad about it since she had never done a trip like this before.  My sister-in-law was also sick so that put a bit of a damper on the trip.  I'm lucky (so far) that I haven't come down with anything.  I credit the vitamins, etc. that I take, particularly Vitamin C.  I take a lot of that.  I don't understand folks who lie on the form before they get on the ship.  They can still get on the ship but they might have to wear a surgical mask to prevent the spread of germs.  Inconsiderates!  Plus there's hand sanitizer all over the place.  Sooooo, if you are in a large party touring Alaska make sure to take plenty of Vitamin C  before and during the trip and use hand sanitizer!
If you do a land/sea trip be sure to do the land part first.  You'll understand why I say that.
I haven't covered every little bit but you can get the gist of the trip.
I got home in time for Irma.  Was without power for a few days but that gave me the excuse to sleep.  The time difference kinda puts me out of whack.  I think I'm still running on Alaska time which is four hours behind here.  Was concerned about all the folks in Texas and hope none were too badly affected.  Didn't have much chance to watch the news so those of you Texans who read this I would like to know how you fared.
Blessed be.

Goin' away

I'm taking a trip with my sister and brother starting tomorrow.  We are all going to Alaska for a land/sea trip lasting two weeks.  Because we are getting older we have all pretty much decided that a yearly get together would be nice.  In the past we have not been close.  There is quite an age difference between us.  My brother is 5 1/2 years older than I and I am 11 years older than my sister.  All of our parents are gone.  I'm looking forward to this trip.  Who knows when we'll all be together again?  Although I've been to Alaska this trip will take me where I've not been before.  Denali is one of the stops and we'll be there for three days.  Hopefully we'll get to see plenty of wildlife.  We'll be cruising the second week and will get to see glaciers.  There is no blue like glacier blue.
My friend A will be taking care of my kitties while I'm gone.  I sometimes think they like her better than me.  Maybe that's because she gives them more attention while she's here.  Or treats.  I'm glad she's able to do it.
Time to get crackin'....lots of stuff to do before I leave.  Yes, I'm packed, but there's always last minute stuff to do, like clean, laundry, etc.  I like coming back to a somewhat at least clean house and clean clothes.
Y'all have a safe day and remember....when you throw in the towel you're just creating more laundry.

The eclipse

I happen to live where the eclipse will be total.  We expect a hoard of people in the area.  In fact, all the hotels, motels, and campgrounds are booked solid.  I plan to stay home and off the road 'cause sure as shootin' some idiot will be driving and look at it and cause a crash.  And speaking of idiots, a friend of mine overheard someone whine..."why couldn't it come on the weekend?"  And this person votes?
My daughter has a dental appointment so is bringing the kids up so they can see it.  She has access to the good glasses to view with.  I plan on recording it on the tv.  That way I can enjoy it as many times as I please even though seeing it for real will be cool.  There is a possibility of cloud cover here but the effect will still be there with the sky going dark.
It will be interesting to see if the animals react to it.  My two cats will probably think it's time for bed and will want their treats.  Surprise!
Anyone out there going to do anything special?

Travel

I love to travel.  There are some countries I won't go to, which I won't mention, just because I wouldn't feel safe.  There is a map on the wall in front of me which has pins stuck in it showing where I've been during this life of mine.  As I look at it I realize that there is much of this country that  I haven't seen, particularly the middle. I just may have to remedy that. Of course, it would be nice to have a travel companion.  I selfishly often wish my daughter did not have children.  We travel well together and I love her company.  That being said, the children are pretty good when on the road.  Nowadays they have portable video players and cell phones to keep them occupied.  Perhaps we could do a trip north stopping at Williamsburg and other historical sites.  My goal would be to end up in Maine at the same time as the lobster festival in Rockland.  We would, of course, have to stop in Bangor and visit the Duck of Justice, perhaps meet T.C.  I doubt I will live long enough to do all the traveling I want to do.  My bucket list has only one item.  That is to go back to Australia and once again visit Uluru (Ayers Rock).  Maybe throw in Coober-Peety (sp?) and see what it's like in that town underground.
Of course, if wishes were horses beggars would ride and if frogs had wings they wouldn't bump their asses when they jumped.  I shall be content to squeeze in what I can while I'm still upright.
Anyone out there have a special place you want to visit?
Y'all have a delightful day.

Friends

There's a group of us that get together on Fridays at a local gallery.  Some are willing to run the front desk some not.  We tell people coming in that we are "playing" in the back room and they are welcome to come back, especially if they have any questions.  Otherwise we leave them to themselves to walk around and browse.  Meanwhile we are in the back room doing whatever.  Some do pottery, some paint, some sew or knit.  I mainly knit but will sometimes make jewelry or do hand sewing.
Last Friday Sue decided that, since her husband was going to be out of town this week, it was time for a dinner get together at her house. So last night we got together and had a lovely time.  We each brought something.  That way Sue didn't have to provide the whole meal.
I have a difficult time making myself go to social functions.  More than once I've come up with an excuse as to why I can't go.  Lately, though, I have been making myself get out of the house because I realize that when someone invites me it means they would like me to be be there, they aren't just being polite.  Also, the older I get I realize that socializing is a good thing.  It used to be that I believed people invited me out of pity because I live by myself.  Or that I didn't get invited because I'm single and they're married.   Either way, I usually stayed home.
I believe our group is special.  If one of us needs help it is there.  It's beginning to restore my faith in friendship because I know these friends are true.

We Are in Trouble

My brother send the following link to me.  It may not work as it may have been pulled but if it hasn't you are in for a shock.  This girl has just graduated from Harvard?

http://eheadlines.com/wp-content.uploads/2017/06/StraightOuttaHarvard.mp4

I fear for our future.

The pond

Yesterday my friend D came over early and we went down to the pond with some Pond Master and a super soaker to try to get the weed killer on the lily pads that have taken over.  I wouldn't mind so much if they would flower but they don't. Only a small area of the water is visible.  I'm pretty sure the carp I put in there a while back are gone, either by suffocation or blue heron.  The reason for the super soaker is that it will spray 30 feet whereas a normal sprayer only goes about 10 feet.
I have not been down to the pond in quite some time.  The last time I went down there (about 2 years ago) alone, I broke my leg.  That's another story.  Needless to say the vegetation has taken over and needs to be dealt with. My friend D doesn't want me to go down there by myself and, actually, neither do I.  Anyway, she had the day off yesterday so she came over early and down we went.  The super soaker worked like a charm and it was actually somewhat fun to let the lily pads have it.  Hopefully the solution soaked into the pads and started to work.  We did have a brief shower in the afternoon so we'll see if that affected the stuff.
As for the dam, I'm going to try to get the guy who mows for me to go down and take care of cleaning that up.  A number of sweet gums have sprung up and they need to be gone along with the rest of the weeds, which are knee high.  It isn't surprising that things are a mess since it's been neglected all this time.  The overflow pipe is still clear enough for water to go into it even though there is growth around it.  That kind of acts like a filter I guess.  If all else fails I'll make up some non-toxic weed killer and go down when it's a clear day and let the weeds have it.  Would really rather not have to though.
"Owning" property (I really feel that I don't own it, but rather am caretaker) can be hard work.  I'd rather that than rent.  At least I can pass it down to family.
If any of you out there in the blue nowhere have any suggestions as to how to get rid of the lily pads please give me the information.  Thanks!
Y'all have a loverly day and remember:  today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

Weeding

Going outside to weed before it gets too hot  Tried yesterday and only lasted about 45 minutes.  It's getting hot early in the day here.  And muggy.  Then there's the rain in the afternoon and evening.  I think the weeds are going to win...sigh.
Y'all have a good day.

Memorial

Off to another memorial this morning.  My long-time friend Alex. He was a Vietnam vet and is getting  a proper send off at the lake where he lived.  He had a hard time of it when he got back from the war and fought drugs and alcohol for a long time before he got clean.  Liver cancer finally took him.  The really sad part is that he died alone at home.  His long time off and on girlfriend had tried to call him but no answer so she called the local police for a welfare check.  They had to break into the house where they found him.  She was on her way from Texas to talk to him about what he wanted done.  I wish he had called me.  I'd have been there in a heartbeat.
This is the second memorial I will have been to in a week.  The first was a woman who was killed doing what she loved to do....working as a corner marshal at Road Atlanta.  She went to help a downed motorcycle rider and tripped.  The rider who hit her couldn't avoid it.  It was the first time a worker has been killed at the track and hopefully the last.
I will mourn their passing but know that they are in a better place with no pain.  Blessed be.

Code of Ethics for Professional Journalists

I took this from the Colonial Williamsburg magazine.

Ethical journalism should be accurate and fair.  Journalists should be honest and courageous in gathering, reporting and interpreting information.
Ethical journalism treats sources, subjects, colleagues and members of the public as human beings deserving of respect.
The highest and primary obligation of ethical journalism is to serve the public.
Ethical journalism means taking responsibility for one's work and explaining one's decisions to the public.

The Society of Professional Journalists, once called Sigma Delta Chi, first adopted a code of ethics in 1926, borrowing from the American Society of Newspaper Editors.  The latest code was adopted in 2014 and can been seen in its entirety at spj.org/pdf/spj-code-of-ethics.pdf

One has to wonder just how many journalists actually have read the code and follow it.

Cleaning house

I have a house guest coming on Monday.  She will be presenting a talk and workshop at my quilt guild.  Therefore, I must clean my house.  It isn't too bad anyway, mind you, but could do with some dusting and vacuuming.  So the next couple of days will see me doing just that.  I'm only going to worry about the downstairs.  The upstairs is for the grandchildren, cats and my room (which IS a disaster). I might straighten the loft up a bit.  That will certainly confuse the cats.  Happily my guest likes cats and, when asked about food likes and dislikes, stated she's like Mikey except for a couple of things, things I don't like either so no worries there.
I'm hoping the blueberries last while she is here.  I've been picking them every morning and it looks like they may be gone by next week.  I'm keeping some in the fridge just in case.  I'm also going to ask my neighbor if he'd mind if I come over there and pick.  He has lots and LOTS of blueberries.  Once mine are gone I'll be cutting the bushes back in hopes that the bush out instead of up.  I know they are happy where they are (the drip line from the roof).
Y'all have a really, really, REALLY good day.
P.S.  I will be SO happy when the special election here is over.  The ads are nothing but mud slinging and I'm sick of it.  No matter which one the 6th district gets it's a losing situation.  And I'm sick of all the negative stuff coming out of DC.  Never have I seen so much attempted destruction of a president.    Glad I'm not just growing up in these times.

Received word last night that a long time friend has passed away.  He had been fighting cancer for a while and we had hoped the treatments would work.  The really sad part is that he died alone.  Another friend was on her way from out of state to check on him and help him.  When she couldn't get him on the phone she called the local police and asked them to do a welfare check.  They got no response when they got to his house so they broke in the door.  I wish he had called me, so does my daughter.  We've known him for so long.  He wouldn't, though, because he wouldn't want us to see him in such bad condition.  Nor would he want us to "go out of our way" to help him.  He was a very private person.  I mourn his passing but know he is no longer in pain.
If only he had called.

Grrrrrr

Wednesday I took my truck in to have routine maintenance.  Came home, had lunch, then started for an appointment.  When I turned the ignition a component warning light came on.  Called the dealership, arranged to bring it back in after my appointment.  Turns out it was an O2 sensor or some such.  The truck is only two years old! Yesterday I took my van in for routine maintenance as my daughter was going to use it to get to St. Lois for a gig.  She brought her van in for an oil change and a look to see what might be making a small noise of some sort.  She was going to leave it there and get it when she came back.  See, my van is in much better shape than hers 'cause I take it in for maintenance when it's due.  She tends to forget.  Any way, my van is ready so we stop at Lowe's to pick up a couple of tarps, then on to home where she'll take my van to an appointment then go home and get ready for St. Louis.  Wellllll, we're on the way to my house, stop at the four way stop, start to continue, get just through the stop to the other side and......nothing.  The engine quits.  Could. Not. Get. It. Started.  Daughter calls the dealership while I call a friend to come pick her up to get her to her appointment.  The dealership calls the tow company (which had just recently gone by me).  I had a feeling I knew what it was.  Fuel pump.  Yup.  Unfortunately the dealership didn't have one on hand.  (They never do). Luckily, my daughter's van was taken care of so that's what she's ended up taking to St. Louis.
There's more to the story but I don't want to bore you with too many details.  My van will be ready some time today.  No, I don't like to use after market parts, which they could have put in yesterday, because there's no guarantee.  I hate to think of how much it's going to cost but....I love my Astro van and will keep it running as long as I can.  Wish they still made 'em, but then they wouldn't be as good 'cause nowadays they just don't make 'em like they used to.
Came across these stress relieving tips that I give consideration to:
1.  Stand up
2. Stretch
3. Take a walk
4.  Go to airport
5.  Get on plane
6.  NEVER RETURN

P.S.  My 2005 van has 270,000 miles on it, hers has over 300,000.  Mine tows like a charm, hers doesn't anymore.  Luckily she didn't have to tow to St. Louis.

Frustration

First it was squirrels trying to eat my porch.  Just recently it's pileated woodpeckers trying to drill into my house!  While I don't plan on killing the woodpeckers I will scare them off with my BB pistol.  As for the squirrels I have purchased a pellet rifle with a scope (don't laugh).  I figure if I can get enough of them with it it just might keep them away.  They are so stupid, though, they just might come back for more.  When I asked my critter guy what causes the squirrels  to gnaw on the porch he said it was due either to stress or over population.  I have noticed that they are smaller this year.  Heaven knows they have enough hickory nuts to feed them and the oak trees supplied acorns.  Of course there's a rivalry for the acorns with the deer.  The woodpeckers haven't been back, so far, after I fired my BB pistol in their general direction.  Guess they may have more brains than the squirrels.
Oh, the joys of home ownership.
Y'all have a beautiful day and remember.....it is what it is.

A little humor

The Presbyterian church called a meeting to decide what to do about their squirrels.  After much prayer and consideration, they concluded the squirrels were predestined to be there and they shouldn't interfere with God's divine will.

At the Baptist church the squirrels had taken an interest in the baptistery.  The deacons met and decided to put a water slide on the baptistery  and let the squirrels drown themselves.  The squirrels liked the water slide and, unfortunately, knew instinctively how to swim so twice as many squirrels showed up the following week.

The Methodist church decided that they were not in a position to harm any of  God's creatures.  So, they humanely trapped their squirrels and set them free near the Baptist church.  Two weeks later the squirrels were back when the Baptists took down the water slide.

But the Catholic church came up with a very creative strategy.  They baptized all the squirrels and consecrated them as members of the church.  Now they only see them on Christmas and Easter.

Not much was heard from the Jewish synagogue;  they took the first squirrel and circumcised him.  They haven't seen a squirrel since!

Hope you enjoyed.

And now it's hot

I think we're breaking records here for the temperatures in May.  It was almost 90 yesterday and could be even hotter today.  And it's still May!  For a while it was much cooler...a "cold" spell if you like.  Wish it would make up its mind.  I have learned to go out quite early to do the weeding.  Which means I have to get up early 😒.
I decided to paint my two rocking chairs on the porch yesterday.  I used spray paint and almost wish I hadn't.  My hand was really hurting when I got through.  It was quicker, though.  Trying to find cushions to fit, however, was not as quick.  I finally found some and even those didn't quite fit right.  they'll do for this year.
Y'all have a pleasant day and remember....life is just a bowl of cherries (hmmmm, wonder how many remember that one?)...not.

Mother's Day

Wishing all Moms out there a Happy Mother's Day.  May your blessings be many.

This 'n' that

The list of people I used to follow is fairly long.  Now there are only two or three still posting here.  Don't know why or where they've gone.  It's a bit lonely.  I'll still be posting, though, as it helps keep me centered, so to speak.  And there are a couple of people who read me and post comments.  Oh well, onward and upward.

Taking the day off as far as weeding goes.  Planted a curly willow day before yesterday.  Hoping the deer don't eat it.  I have three more to plant and feel kinda proud that I was able to get cuttings to grow enough to plant.  Now I just have to figure out where to put them.  

I need to figure out where to put the mason bee houses, also.  They've been busy under the porch so I think I'll be setting one up there.  I didn't know what they were when they first appeared.  There they were making holes in the soil, going in and out.  Almost decimated them then because I didn't know what kind of bee they are.  Now I'm glad to see them as they are great pollinators.

The blueberry bushes are full of almost ready berries.  Pretty soon I'll be able to go down and pick 'em for my cereal.  Love fresh blueberries.  And they're good for you!

Looks like it's going to rain today.  I'm going to a brunch at one of the local restaurants.  It's being put on by a local clothing store so there'll be a fashion show.  The money raised goes to the animal shelter which needs all the help it can get.  It was overwhelmed when 300 animals were seized from a place where the neglect was horrendous.  Even the U.S. SPCA had to come in and help.  I don't understand how people can do that to animals.  It wasn't just dogs and cats but horses and donkeys as well.  Although there may have been extenuating circumstances I hope they are never allowed to have animals again.

If any of you out there in the blue nowhere are mothers I wish you a Happy Mother's Day.  

Weeding

For the past two days I've been getting up with the roosters so I can get out early before the sun comes up over the trees.  It's started to get warm and I need to get a lot of weeding done.  Last year a friend helped but she has a job now so doesn't have the time.  I might make it through 2 hours but that's about my limit.  This old body can't do as much as it used to.  My muscles are letting me know that, especially my knees.
I'm hoping to fill in the bare areas with  more plants.  That's for this weekend....maybe.  The goal, of course is to not have any bare areas.  I believe I mentioned before that there won't be a vegetable garden this year.  We're supposed to have another dry summer this year and I don't want to take the chance of my well going dry.
With all that said I'm off to get outside while it's still cool.  The weeds are calling.  Y'all have a good day and remember.....weed is a four-letter word.

Brrr

It was 40 degrees this morning on my front porch.  Brrr.  This is May for crying out loud.  Geesh!
I think I'll wait 'til it warms up a bit before going out to do some weeding.  Bought a milkweed plant yesterday in hopes of attracting Monarchs.  I'll probably have to wait until the plant is much bigger and producing its pods, etc.
Sunflower seeds have sprouted and are beginning to show leaves above ground.  The seeds are from last year's "crop" so I hope they are just as huge.
Stuck a sweet potato in a pot of soil.  Will see if it does anything.  A sweet potato vine would be pretty hanging off the porch.
Texas hibiscus seeds are starting to sprout.  Those are in a pot on the porch.  Until they flower they will look just like pot plants (Cleome do too) so if I get a visit from the local constabulary......
Not having a vegetable garden this year.  My friend who so generously helped me last year is working for someone and doesn't have time and I have too much weeding and planting to do out front.  My goal is to get the front to a point where it's nothing but flowers and decorative bushes (the rosemary has gone crazy as well as the oregano).  Just hope I have enough time on this earth to get it done (no I'm not on my way out at least not that I know of).  Maybe the elephant ear plants will take over.
The new gutters were installed just in time.  The day after we had a good gully washer.
As well as buying the milkweed plant yesterday I also bought English Tarragon and Thyme.  A great stone and iron crane sculpture now graces the garden as well.  The whirligig I purchased last week has been working hard at keeping the deer away.
Okay, onward and upward.  You have a glorious day.

Don't know what's going on with the weather.  It was in the 40's this morning when it's usually in the 60's.  Will only get into the upper 60's today.  Unusual here in Georgia for this time of year.  At least the sun is shining for the moment.  We're supposed to get some rain later.  I think it's trying to make up for the drought we had last year.  The pond is definitely full.  Went down there last week and noticed lots of trees coming up right where I need to get down to the edge.  Looks like there's work ahead.  The water level is maintaining somehow so I don't have to worry about that right now.  There is work to be done but it can wait for a tad and inasmuch as I'm not traveling this summer (at least I don't plan to) I can wait a bit until someone can go down there with me.  And I want to wait until it's dry.
Saw some bees down there but on't know what kind they are.  They aren't yellow jackets.  They are small, almost invisible but definitely bees.  And they hover near the ground.  Need to be careful there.
And, again, the bloody water lilies are taking over.  Sigh.  Oh well, will get things done as I can.
Y'all have a lovely, peaceful day.

And finally....

Here's the last of it.

a pace of asses
a pack of dogs, hounds, mules, weasels, wolves
a paddling of ducks
a pandemonium of parrots
a parliament of owls
a party of jays
a peep of chickens
a pitying of doves
a pod of pelicans, porpoises, seals, whales
a pounce of cats
a prickle of porcupines
a pride of lions,, peacocks
a raft of ducks
a rafter of turkeys
a rhumba of rattlesnakes
a romp of otters
a rookery of ennui's
a rout of wolves
a school of fish, opposes, sharks
a scold of jays
a scurry of squirrels
a shiver of sharks
a shoal of fish, sharks a shrewdness of apes
a siege of herons singular of boars
a skein of geese
a skulk of foxes
a sleuth of bears
a sloth of bears
a smack of jellyfish
a sounder of boars, pigs, swine
a sneak of weasels
a span of mules
a stand of flamingos
a streak of tigers
a string of ponies
a stubbornness of rhinoceroses
a swarm of ants, bees, eels, flies, gnats
a team of oxen
a tiding of magpies
a tower of giraffes
a train of camels
a tribe of goats
a troop f apes, baboons, buffalo, foxes, gorillas
a troubling of goldfish
a turn of turtles
a ubiquity of spares
an unkindness of ravens
a wake of buzzards
a warren of rabbits
a wisdom of wombats
a yoke of oxen
a zeal of zebras

I knew some of these but, for the most part, a whole bunch of new ones.  So, that's your education for this week.  There won't be a test.
Y'all have a wonderful day and.....surprise someone with an act of kindness.

a continuance

Here are some more group nouns...

a gaggle of geese
 a gam of whales
a gang of buffalo, elk, weasels
a gaze of raccoons
a glaring of cats
a grist of bees
a gulp of cormorants, swallows
a harem of seals
a hedge of herons
a herd of antelope, asses, buffalo, caribou, cattle, deer, elephants elk, giraffes, goats, horses,    
               kangaroos, moose, rhinoceroses, seals, swans, swine, walruses, zebras
a hive of bees
a horde of gnats
a host of sparrows
a hover of trout
a huddle of walruses
a husk of hares
an intrusion of cockroaches
a kettle of hawks
a knot of snakes, toads
a labor of moles
a leap of leopards
a leash of foxes
a lounge of lizards
a memory of elephants
a mob of emus, kangaroos, whales
a murder of crows
a murmurations of starlings
a muster of peacocks
a mute of hounds
a nest of ants, bees, mice, rabbits, snakes, toads
a nursery of raccoons
a nye of pheasants
an obstinacy of buffalo
an ostentation of peacocks

to be continued......

Nothing today

Have much to do and do it early.  Will be back tomorrow.  Blessings.

More nouns

Yesterday I started a list of collective nouns for animal groups.  Today I continue...

a colony of ants, beavers, gulls, penguins, seals, easels
a company of parrots
a congregation of alligators
a conspiracy of ravens
a convocation of eagles
a corps of giraffes
a coterie of prairie dogs
a covey of quail
a crash of rhinoceros
a den of snakes
a descent of woodpeckers
a dole of turkeys
a down of hares
a dray of squirrels
a drift od swine
a drove of asses, cattle, oxen, swine
a dude of doves
an exaltation of larks
a family of beavers, sardines
a flamboyance of flamingos a flight of doves, swallows
a float of crocodiles
a flock of camels, ducks, goats, sheep, turkeys
a flutter of butterflies
a fold of sheep

Okay, enough for today.  I'd never heard of some of these.  How 'bout you?

To be continued.....

Meanwhile have a gorgeous day.

Something different

The Hermit wrote about what some animal groups are called and I got curious to see if there were more.  I found a list that I'm going to share part of today then more later on.
These I found on Pinterest but they may have come from writeathome.com

an aerie of eagles
an ambush of tigers
an arc of doves
an army of ants, caterpillars, frogs
a bale of turtles
a band of gorillas, horses, jays
a bank of swans
a barren of mules
a bask of crocodiles
a bed of eels, oysters, snakes
a bevy of quail, swans
a blessing of unicorns
a bloat of hippos
a boil of hawks
a bouquet of pheasants
a brace of hounds
a building of rooks
a brood of chickens, jellyfish
a business of ferrets, flies
a cackle of hyenas
a caravan of camels
a cartload of monkeys
a cast of hawks
a cete of badgers
a charm of finches
a chattering of starlings
a clamor of rooks
a cloud of flies, gnats, grasshoppers
a clowder of cats
a cluster of cats
a critter of spiders
a coalition of cheetahs
a cohort of zebras

That's enough for today.  As you can see there might be more than one name for a group of animals, etc.  I wouldn't mind seeing a blessing of unicorns.
Y'all have a glorious day.

Gutters

Heard a noise the other night when we had a gully-washer come through.  The next morning I saw what it was.  Half the gutter in the back of the house had come down.  Hoped I could do something about it myself but, no.  So I called someone I found in the yellow pages.  He came out and was amazed that the whole system hadn't come down because of what was attaching the gutter to the house.  The weight of the trash that had built up was just too much.  Partly my fault for not getting it cleaned in the fall.  A friend had put me in touch with a guy but he never showed and I just forgot about it.  Too much else on my mind I guess.  I used to clean it myself by climbing out on the roof but age and wisdom kicked in.  So I'll let the pros do it from now on.  At any rate the pro came out, looked at it and gave me a price I can live with.  Actually I'm going to get them all redone as I don't want any other gutters detaching.  I'll have his guys clean 'em, too, when the time comes.  Sometimes it's wiser to have a pro do the job even though it kicks you in the wallet.
Y'all have a lovely day.

?

I don't understand it.  He treats her like shit and he's still living in the house.  The kids never know when he's going to have a temper tantrum.  He's still doing things he's not supposed to while on probation.  He's working job #5.  It may last a few weeks then it will be on to another one.  He doesn't like being told what to do or how to do it.  He's bringing junk to the house and she can't even park in her own garage.  He thinks he's hiding his drinking but there are beer cans all over the place "hidden".
I've backed off but I may have to step in again and tell him to leave like I did before.  I really don't care where he goes just so long as he is GONE.  She deserves better.  She has a heart as big as the state of Alaska but I believe it's time she toughened up and told him that it definitely isn't working and it's time for him to leave.  I keep waiting for her to do that.  I'm tired of it all.  He is only interested in himself and always will be.  He's a narcissist of the first order.  He is NOT committed to the family.  He never will be....only committed to himself.  He once told me that I am the cause of her "angst".  Really?!!
I love her and hurt for her.  I just wish she would wake up!  But I have to let her do it her way.😢😕

The thumb

I would say that the thumb is probably the most important digit on the hand.  Without it gripping would be nigh on to impossible.  Unfortunately arthritis has decided to take up residence in my right thumb.  Particularly in the knuckle closest to the wrist. This is very much an imposition since I knit, weed, weave baskets, make jewelry and other stuff and my thumb is most important in all those things.  I've started wearing a brace at night in hopes that it will help.  I can't stop what I'm doing so must persevere.  Oh yeah, there's that cleaning house thing, too.
Actually it has taken up residence in my left thumb as well, just not so badly.  Sigh.  Getting older is NOT for sissies!
Y'all have a productive day and ask yourself:  if a tree falls in the woods and no one is there, does it make a sound?

Self-sufficiency

I try to be as self sufficient as possible.  That means I need to know how to do a number of things that would otherwise take someone else to accomplish.  For instance - the other day I had asked a friend to change out the battery in my van because it had gone deader than a door nail.  He came over after work and removed the old battery and was going to come back the next day to put the new one in.  I don't think I would have succeeded in getting the dead battery out because of the strength I saw him need to undo the bolt on the brace holding the batter on its platform.  The next day, however, he didn't show because of work.  The next day after that I decided I wanted to use the van so I proceeded to attempt the task of getting the battery in the van and hooking it up.  I did it!  And I didn't even scrape a knuckle.  The hardest part was the brace as the angle was awkward and it took a bit of time to get the bolt in the hole.  She started right up.  Yay me.
Yesterday I worked on one of my garden beds.  The one where I'll be planting sunflowers.  A trip to Lowe's and I had soil and compost to add.  I'm going to wait until the guy who mows tills it all in before I plant.  I don't have a tiller.  Have thought of getting the little one that's advertised (Mantis) but that wouldn't be big enough for some of the other areas I want to plant in.  Since my guy is willing I'll let him do all that for me.  These bones are getting too old to be doing much heavy work, although I'll push if I have to.  Living by myself is my choice.  I'm lucky to friends willing to help when needed.  These next few weeks I'll be busy outside giving those weeds who have taken up residence their eviction notices.
Yes, minor things I can do.  I will call in the big guns for those I can't.  I know my limits, some of which have been learned the hard way.
Y'all have a lovely day and remember.....smile...it makes people wonder.

Spring

I do believe Spring is finally here.  The dogwoods are in bloom and I have iris blooming along with a couple of tulips from Holland a couple of friends gave me.  The weather is warming.  I've started getting the urge to work outside....so many weeds!  Don't believe I'll have a vegetable garden this year.  Last year was a lot of work for little return.  I'm not sure about the asparagus.  So far only three or so have been harvested.  The ones I planted last year haven't shown up yet.
Don't think I'll be traveling until August.  I did go to Fairhope Alabama a couple of weeks ago with a friend to visit her daughter and son-in-law.  It's a lovely place and the food around there is really good (as attested to by the weight gain).  There may be some day or weekend getaways.  We'll see.  Uncle Sam took a big chunk of change so things will be tight for a while.
So many of the folks I have followed here have gone away.  Kinda makes me sad.  Guess everyone has gone to Facebook or Twitter or some such.  I'll stay here.
This morning I'm going to try my hand at hooking up the new battery for my van.  A neighbor was kind enough to remove the old one.  I went and bought a new one.  He was going to come install it but had to work.  Afraid it was going to rain I managed to wrangle it onto its place in the engine compartment.  Of course the black lead decided to tuck itself under the battery so I had to maneuver that out.  No easy feat since the battery is almost snugged up against the side of the engine compartment and the "shelf" it's on is exactly the size of the battery.  I managed, though, with a few strong words and determination.  My neighbor hasn't been able to come by so I'm going to hook it up myself.  When I asked to him on the phone he was amazed I'd gotten the darn thing in.  I told him why I'd done it and that I was a person who did what needed to be done...somehow... even at my age.  I guess he thought I wouldn't be able to pick up the battery (why don't they make them with a handle anymore?) since they can be quite heavy.  So now I hope I have the right tools to finish the job.  If I do I'll pat myself on the back.
Experimented with ramps last night.  There's a vegetable stand that sells them up in Otto so I thought I'd try 'em.  Not bad but more trouble than they're worth.  I cooked them with potatoes, bacon and eggs.  Have any of you had them and, if so, what did you think?
Y'all have an awesome day and remember:  A friend is someone who listens to your BS, tells you to your face that it's BS and then listens to more of your BS.

Wet

Was in Alabama for a few days and was supposed to come back Monday.  When we got up it was raining like crazy and the weather wasn't looking good for travel.  Not only that but a section of I85 had collapsed in Atlanta due to a fire under an overpass.  Ordinarily that's on the way home.  Some re-thinking had to be done as we watched the weather on TV.  Seems violent storms were in the path we were going to take.  Some research by our host produced a good route. Tuesday we left AL and headed home.  The sun was shining and all looked well.  The drive was longer than it would have been had we come the usual way but that was out of the question.  So we took a different route which was quite pleasant.  The roads were good and not crowded.  We saw some countryside we hadn't seen before.  Our only stops were for fuel.  Yesterday was different.  Rain and lots of it.  We've been in a drought so the rain is a good thing.  Just wish we hadn't gotten it all at once.  My pond is now definitely full but I won't go down there until someone can go with me.  Don't want to break my leg for a third time.
The weather this year has been very strange.  In the 70's in January and February.  March was a seesaw of warm and cold and it looks like April is going to be more of the same.  Doesn't look like it's going to get above 60 today.  Hope the sun stays out.
Y'all have a great day.

I need a map

I need a world map.  I was sitting in my travel agent's office yesterday and noticed she has a map on the wall with pins in all the places she's been.  I need one.  I've tried to remember everywhere I've been but the list gets too long.  It would be great to have one on the wall in front of my computer so I could look at it and maybe plan where to go next.  There would be plenty of pins in it.  I think I'll look into getting one I could mount on cork board or some such so I could stick pins into it.
Where have y'all been?
Have a great day and remember:  not all who wander are lost.

light show

What a light show there was last night!  And lots of booming thunder.  I couldn't get on the internet so I shut down my laptop, turned off the light, and enjoyed nature's show until I fell asleep.    I could tell what direction it was heading as the thunder became quieter.  It came from the northwest and headed toward the east.  Of course there was a lot of hard rain, which is why I couldn't get the net.  That's okay, though, since we need rain.  We're still in a drought.  I'm not sure I'll have a garden this year because I am on a well and watering last year made it go dry.  Happily the well refilled quickly.  I don't want to take the chance this year.
I love a good thunder storm.  When I was younger and living on the coast I would go down to the beach to watch.  I was really happy when there was a good wind to go with it.  The waves crashing on the shore, the wind whipping my hair, lightning flashes and thunder.  Nothing like it.  I miss it sometimes.
On to the mundane....I need to get a copy of my electric bill so I can go get my driver's  license renewed.  I paid this month's and promptly threw it in the trash which has since been taken away.  Sigh.  I don't know why "they" have to have all the documentation we must take.  I've only been driving in this state since 1982.  And my picture is on my old one!  But, one must be careful these days.  I even had to show my license to have a copy made when I took paperwork to the gentleman who is preparing my tax returns.  Something about tax fraud.  Since I never get anything back, anyone wanting to pay my taxes is welcome to. :)
I can't help but wonder when babies are going to start getting chipped.  Don't laugh.  It could happen. We're being spied on now, especially since almost everyone on the planet has a cell phone, me included.
Ah, well, I'll think and remember the good old days when a kid could go outside and play all day without a parent hovering close.  Being able to go out on Hallowe'en and wander the neighborhood without an adult.
Y'all have a worry-free day and ask yourself:  When is this "old enough to know better" supposed to kick in?

Back from Expo

I got back from Expo yesterday.  Slept most of the day.  I was one tired bunny.  I would say that most of the folks that run it are younger than I am and they work all the shows.  I couldn't do that.  their next stop is Lakeland, FL.  It was a good show with a good turnout.  God willing' and the Creek don't rise, I'll be there next year.
I won't be going anywhere now until August.  I'll be busy around here until then.  Don't know if I'll have a garden this year since my friend D is working full time and won't be available to help.  Don't think it's going to be a big deal as there are sure to be plenty of volunteers from last year, especially the tomatoes.  The asparagus bed pretty much takes care of itself, wanting some weeding done now and then.  I should have a bunch this year.
Can't believe it's in the 20's this morning.  This weather is ridiculous.  It's March for cryin' out loud!  This is the South!  Geeeesh.  Pneumonia weather if you ask me.  One doesn't know what to wear.  I do remember, though, one year it snowed in April.  'Course the first snowflake here causes everything to stop.  I do wish the warmer weather would hurry up.  My sinuses don't like this.
I also wish we could leave the clocks alone.
Y'all have a loverly day and remember:  Retirement, the pay sucks but the hours are great.

To the Expo

I'm off to work at the Sewing and Quilting Expo for the next few days.  It's a yearly thing thing and I enjoy doing it.  I used to (way back when) work I & D at the Georgia World Congress Center.  It's fun to watch a show come together and then take it apart.  Most people don't have a clue how much work goes into setting a show up.  It will take about two days for this one.  Mainly it's hanging quilts, putting up signs, etc.  That's today and tomorrow.  Thursday and Friday I'll be a class assistant and whatever else they need me to do.  Saturday my daughter is coming down and we'll spend the day shopping and helping out in our guild's booth.  Saturday evening I'll help dismantle.  Who knows, maybe I'll lose some weight?
Y'all have a calm day and remember:  today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

Back again and gone again

I'm back from the quilt retreat.  It was a good time with friends and even productive.  I finally finished binding the quilt from hell (long story) and got some other hand work done. I'm home for the weekend, have a doctor's appointment tomorrow (3 month check), then on Tuesday it's off to work the Sewing and Quilt Expo in Lawrenceville for 5 days.  I'm also taking three classes.  I do believe I'll be good and tired when I get home.  My friend A will be watching my kitties again, bless her.  After this I don't plan on going anywhere until August.  Of course, that may change but...so far I haven't seen any classes at William Holland or John C. Campbell that I want to take this year.
Got some sewing done yesterday.  We give comfort quilts to members who have lost a loved one or are going through really bad times.  So I'm making some squares for that 'cause I got in the mood after the retreat.  I may still be in the mood after the expo.  Then again I may just want to sleep.
The weather has been fickle.  Wish it would make up it's mind.  Although some days are warm and sunny I won't be planting anything until after Easter.  Safer that way.  Whenever I observe people buying plants on a warm sunny day before Easter I know they'll have to come back after those plants have succumbed to the cold blast we usually get.  It's hard to resist sometimes, though.  My daffodils, narcissus, etc. are blooming like crazy and the iris are beginning to grow up.  Hyacinths and crocus are blooming also.  However, it's been down into the 30's at night so.....
Y'all have a great day.  Don't jump the gun on planting 'cause I'd hate for you to have to pay for plants twice.  And remember:  he who dies with the most toys and she who dies with the most fabric....are still dead.

Home again

Well, I'm back home from the islands of sun.  The time with my daughter was great.  We haven't had this much time with each other since before her daughter was born.  This trip was better.  We had fun in class and on the excursions.  We even got to swim with and feed stingrays!  The only drawback to the trip was coming down with a nasty cough, which I still have.  Don't know if it's a cold or allergies or something of both.  Grrr.  Won't be home long.  I have a quilt retreat coming up and a few days after that the Sewing expo where I'll be helping set up and tear down.  After that I'm staying home!  Maybe then I'll get to feeling 100%.  I know I'll be doing a lot of relaxing.
Y'all have a most pleasant day and remember:  It's okay to talk to yourself, it's even okay to answer yourself....but when you ask yourself to repeat what you just said you have a problem!

Question(s)

Where is all this hate coming from?  Who's paying people to create violent "protests"?  Is this what young people are being taught...that it's okay to destroy property, hurt others just because they don't agree?  In a perfect world, of course, we would all get along, respect one another, everything would be hunky dory.  Unfortunately it hasn't been that way since time began, only now it seems worse.  Where has respect disappeared to?  I don't know how much time I have left on this planet but I'm glad I am not a young person that will have to live with all the uncertainty there is out there.  Maybe I've got my head in the sand but, if so, it will stay there in hopes that reason will again prevail.  Meanwhile I will live my life to the fullest I can, love as much as I can, do as much as I can, believe nothing of what I hear and only half of what I see (especially with news broadcasts).
Y'all have a better day today than yesterday and an even better tomorrow.

This 'n' that

It's cold outside today.  Yesterday also.  This after temps being in the mid to upper 60's.  Go figure.  I call it pneumonia weather.
Getting antsy.  Want departure date to hurry up and get here.  Going to be with daughter in the tropics for 11 days!  Just her, me and a few hundred other people on board ship.  We'll be taking classes while at sea and going on excursions while in port.  Need to find something to keep me busy until departure.  Maybe clean?  There's always purging (getting rid of old clothes, etc.).  Hmmm, what to do, what to do?
 Wish warmer weather was here for a while so I could get some yard work done.  Still have a ways to go on that bush outside (sort of) the kitchen window.  It needs to go.  I'm halfway there in cutting the branches down.  What I could use is a neighbor with a chain saw.  Oh well, will have to do it the hard way, I guess.  At least that would burn off some of the calories I seem to have stored in my middle. 😁
So, what do you have planned for the day?
And remember:  Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

Meetings

Yesterday I was at an all day board meeting during which I basically just sat and listened.  Most of it is over my head but every once in a while I would interject a comment or question.  The only reason I'm on this board is because the president of said board wants me to "watch her back".  Most meetings that's what I do if she has to introduce something that may be unpleasant but necessary.  I'm not very patient when it comes to items on the agenda being discussed to death without getting anywhere.  And it's amazing how quickly said item is totally lost while comments or discussion goes in a totally different direction.  That's kinda where I come in.  I'll raise my hand and ask if we can get back to the main point.  Do I get dirty looks?  Sometimes.  But sometimes people don't realize they've gone totally away from what needs to be taken care of.
Today is a continuation of yesterday.  I'm hoping it doesn't last all day again.  I do know that not everyone who was there yesterday will be there today.  These meetings are necessary and, since we are a non-profit, must be done in order to apply for grants and such so we can keep our doors open.  the process is tedious and grant givers are very particular in what information they want.  Key buzz words have to be used.  Certain points have to be made.  So I'll sit there and interject only if I feel it necessary to get us moving along.
Y'all have an interesting day and remember:  losing doesn't mean you should throw a temper tantrum.    It's unbecoming.

Boom!

In the middle of the night I had to get up to answer Mother Nature's call (I've learned to never put her on hold).  I got back into bed and BOOM! along with a bright flash of lightning.  The thunder was so loud I think the whole house shook.  My bed did.  And that was it!  Just that one flash and boom.  Then rain for about 10 minutes, maybe.  It could have rained longer, I fell asleep.  Happily the power didn't go out.  We're supposed to get more of the same later today.  Like maybe just in time for the Atlanta/Green Bay game.  I'll be nice and dry and busy sewing, won't be watching 'cause I could care less (although it would be cool if Atlanta played in the Super Bowl which I won't watch either).  I used to watch but nowadays there's too many commercials and too much talking.  Same with baseball.  The last baseball game I watched was the Dodgers and Yankees in the World Series back in the 50's.  Again, too many commercials and yackety- yak.
Okay on to knitting and sewing on the wet day.  Y'all behave and enjoy the game.  And remember:  it's only a GAME!!

Weather

I'm hoping the weather holds today so I can get some more work done outside.  I believe it's supposed to be up in the 60's which is fine.  There's this one humongous bush that blocks my view of the pond and it has to get a major hair cut.  There's a lot more that need to be done but it will have to wait until consistent good weather.  Right now it's iffy.
I've only planned two trips this year.  One in Febru-ugly and one in August.  That gives me the whole of spring and most of summer to get things done.  Good days will be for the outside and rainy days for the inside.  I really do want to get thing done.  There are days, however, when I just can't seem to get going.  When that happens I get mad at myself for wasting a day.  The I realize that maybe it happens for a reason (which I haven't figured out yet).  I do suffer from depression now and then so maybe that's it.  Anyway we'll see what I can get accomplished this year.  Not sure about a garden, though.  My friend won't be available to help and it's more than I could handle so maybe the soil will remain fallow.  Or I might get volunteers from last year.  I do plan on adding organic matter to the soil so it will be nice and rich next time around.
Y'all have a creative day and remember:  if wishes were wings, frogs wouldn't bump their asses when they hop.

It's gone...maybe

I listened and watched last night.  No soft whirring sound, no soft breeze.  I think it's gone.  Hopefully the open window did the trick and I won't find a bat that died of starvation somewhere in the house.

I have a bat

I have a bat in the house.  How it got here I haven't a clue.  It presented itself night before last as I was eating dinner.  The only reason I know it's here is that I saw it.  They make no noise when they fly unless you are very close and hear the almost silent flutter.  I opened the front door hoping it would fly out but no success.  Unfortunately my tripod cat got out without me knowing it so she spent the night out on the front porch.  I never saw her get out.  When she didn't come running when I doled out treats I knew something was off.  When I went out on the porch and rattled the treat container I heard her small meow come from under the grill cover.  Poor baby, she didn't know what to do, so I picked her up and brought her back into the house.  I don't think she'll do that again.  Last night the bat appeared again, flying around trying to find a way out.  I opened the east facing window, and took off the screen, left the window open hoping it would find it's way out in the moonlight.  Sigh, I don't think so.  I finally fell asleep with soft whirring sounds as it flew around the room.  Actually I won't know until tonight.  I'll keep the window open again if I hear/see it but won't be able to when we get rain.
A few years back, as I was putting on my waders, I felt something quite uncomfortable in the right boot.  When I took them off I discovered a small dead bat in it.  Now how it got there is anyone's guess.  I leave the waders hanging on a hook on a 6x6 post in the basement.  How the heck did it get in the house, never mind inside the boot of my waders?  I can only wonder.  As to the present guest I can only wonder there also.  All windows have screens and are closed as are all the doors.  The dampers in the chimneys are closed as well.  I rarely open the front door at night, except to let in the cat.  One of those things called damned if I know I guess.  I really hope the guest will find it's way out tonight if it didn't last night.  There's nothing for it to eat. I don't want to find a dead bat anywhere in the house.
Any suggestions out there?
Y'all have a loverly day and remember:  normal is just a setting on the dryer.

Today

Today I am going to finish a quilt come hell or high water (there's a saying to look up HJ).  It's only a wall hanging but I want to get it finished so I can take it on my trip next month to show the lady who designed the pattern and taught the class a while back.  Daughter has appointment with Chiropractor so I may be watching Sprout.  Then this evening I have a meeting at the gallery.  A busy day.  The kind I like.
So, what are you doing today?

Projects

I have a number of projects I would like to finish.  Most of them have to do with quilting, or should I say, kits I need to complete.  Unfortunately, I'll start a project, get to a certain point, get tired of it and put it "away".  Some time usually goes by before I get back to it.  Meanwhile I have likely started another project.  Sigh.  I'll be going to a retreat the end of February and have been assembling projects that need finishing with hand sewing.  I don't like hauling my machine and all the things that go with it.  Not to worry, I have plenty to keep me busy the 4 1/2 days I'll be in the  mountains of NC.
Quilting isn't the only area where I have unfinished pieces.  I also make baskets and I have two that are trying to call my name.  I see the bare bones every time I go down to the basement to work on doing laundry or sewing.  I keep telling myself I really need to get them done.  They would make great gifts.  Just haven't had the drive.  Hopefully I'll get them done some time this year since I don't plan to travel as much.
Do you have any UFO's?
Y'all have a productive day and remember:  today is the tomorrow we worried about yesterday.

Baby, it's cold

Baby, it's cold outside!!  Got up to 11 degrees outside.  Thankfully the sun is supposed to shine and it's going to get up to about 32.  Wow!  Last week we were in the 60's.  Go figure.  Many people make the assumption that it's always warm in the South.  Not so.  Even Florida gets cold.  I've been in Miami when it was in the 30's.
My electric bill is going to be on the high side for this month.  Heat pumps are almost worthless when the temps get below freezing.  Heck they just can't keep up.  This keeps up and I'll light a fire in the fireplace tonight.  Going to my grandson's birthday party today will be interesting.  I'm not sure the kids will play outside considering.  Have never been to this particular home before so don't know how big it is.  I don't do large groups of kids.  The noise!  Which is probably why I won't go to my granddaughter's birthday party in a couple of weeks since it will be at Chucky Cheese.  Way too many rug rats and noise!!
Am feeling the air coming out of the vents right now and it isn't even tepid.  I'm told that the way heat pumps work is that they take the heat out of the air. (simplified explanation)  What??  It's 11 degrees outside.  Where's the heat in that?
Guess I'll go take a nice hot shower and put on some long johns.  At least I know how to dress in these temperatures.
Y'all stay warm.

It snowed

Woke up to about 2 inches of snow.  This was after it snow, warmed up, then snowed again.  It's melting now and will probably continue until it freezes tonight (oh joy).  It's pretty at first, isn't it?  Just glad I don't have to go anywhere today.  Doing some knitting and sewing instead.  At the moment the sun shines brightly.  Let's see what tonight and tomorrow bring.  I'm supposed to go to my grandson's birthday bash at a friend's house.  Giving a ride there to another friend who won't drive if the roads aren't perfectly clear.  Geeesh.
Y'all have a loverly day and remember:  snow is a four-letter word.

Snow?

We're supposed to get snow tonight.  Hmph.  Here, the first snowflake causes major panic and all the milk and bread disappear from the store.  School will let out 2 hours early today, even sooner if it starts to snow earlier.  It amuses me since I used to live up North and dealt with winters and snow up there.  We have so many people that have moved here from up North that you would think they could handle a bit of the stuff.  To be fair, the road departments really don't have enough of the right equipment to clear the roads quickly.  They're getting ready, though with brine mixture, etc.  Me?  I'd rather a snow storm than an ice storm.
At least I have a 4-wheel drive truck so if any of my neighbors need help....
Y'all stay warm and remember:  he who dies with the most toys...is still dead.