Good Eclipse Morning!

Good Eclipse Morning! Already the alerts are rolling in keeping our area informed on traffic. There are a whole lot of extra people around here. There are reports that some of the small towns in the total eclipse zone, while enjoying the financial harvest, might not be enjoying the onslaught of people and their demands. I have two here during this eclipse season and they are a joy to host, my brother and Dena.

Dena arrived on Wednesday and we did what fried chicken loving people do, we headed over to The Blue Rooster after picking her up in Charlotte. We have had a blast doing and going and being. It is so relaxing in the evenings sharing the front porch with friends and family. Thursday we had a change in our plans because of the high threat of rain in the higher elevations. We went to Marshall, Burnsville and Hot Springs. Friday we had a leisurely breakfast and made a trip out to Barber's Orchard and Duckett Produce.

On Saturday, Doug arrived on time just as he said he would. It didn't take us long to get moving out the door to go to the Leicester Studio Tour. First stop, Addison Vineyards because that is where the blacksmith shows his wares. Oh my goodness, his work never disappoints and we all made purchases with him. We went inside the wine tasting building to see the other artist displaying their work. We made our way toward the Big Sandy Mush where the man who makes brooms has his workshop in an old general store. While out that way we stopped at the pottery guy's studio and the wood working studio. The wood one was a little disappointing. We decided lunch was in order so we stopped at one of the sponsoring restaurants and it was closed until further notice. That doesn't bode well for its future. Dena had never eaten at Stoney Knob but Doug had before and liked it. So, it was Weaverville for lunch. Delicious as always and then it was back at it on the tour where we made stops at several other places. Exhausted from laughing and shopping, we came back to the house. Retired to the front porch and enjoyed snacks for supper.

Dena and I went to Sunday School and Doug joined us for church. The ladies in our class love Dena and so we all got caught up with one another. Our Sunday School class is aptly named, The Joy Class. We certainly are filled with joy and enthusiasm. Our pastor is teaching a mini series and stopped in our class to strongly encourage us to stay for his sermon. He looked at me the whole time which didn't bother me at all because I am probably the most guilty of not staying for the service or leaving early before the preaching. But, these last few weeks my absences have been health related. Even with the new A/C it is so hot in the worship center. I was sweating like a pig, although pigs don't sweat, in the choir loft yesterday and the beginning of that light-headed feeling slowly encroached my well being. Doug, Dena and I had made plans to stay for the service yesterday, so being there wasn't as a result of a personal exhortation. Some Sundays I have to choose coming home and tuning into the webcast of First Baptist Houston as my church service. This is all a part of changes I am having to make to keep out of afib which has the risk of a stroke always involved. After church we came home, changed our clothes and headed over to The Fireplace Restaurant for lunch, It did not disappoint! Then onward to The Biltmore Estate where we took in the beauty that envelopes one there. We stopped in at the Inn for a glass of iced tea on the Veranda to conclude our afternoon.

Once we got home it is back onto the porch. Brenda called and asked if she could come over. Of course! She came bearing gifts of jalapeno poppers, a salty candy treat and a birthday cake for Dena. It was all good! And we were blessed that she was able to stay a bit and visit. More laughter that of course ensured a good night's rest, well that and all the fat calories we consumed.

There are details of our days that I will come back to when they have returned to their homes. We have had so much fun!

Today, we are sticking close to home because of all the eclipse traffic. I better get moving and onto the store. We are grilling steaks tonight.

Early to Bed, No Sleep And Early To Rise Makes One Tired

There is a beautiful stone church off of I 40. It seems like it should be an Episcopal church by the architecture but when I found myself at that exit several weeks ago I was surprised to find that it is a Baptist Church. This morning as I took a different route to The Fresh Market there was another stone church and yes, this time, it was an Episcopal church with a red door. I went to the website and read that the church was built in 1905 and then I explored the pictures of the interior and the stained glass , wooden pews and stones creates a warm worship space. From the pictures on their website it must have a pumpkin patch in the fall. I'll have to keep a watch for that and maybe a Christmas program. I would love to go inside that church. These stone churches remind me of Gail Godwin, one of my favorite southern authors because several of her novels take place in just such a type of church and score the stories take place in the mountains of NC.

It has been a morning. It began with very little sleep and a short night. The alarm for 5:30 am was just too early. I got up and ready to be at the Toyota dealership at 7:30 to have SequishShawn's 5000 mile service appointment. Since the dealership has been bought by another owner, I am not as pleased with the service appointments. Last time they said I declined fuel injector cleaning and how can one decline if one is never told. I would have said yes. They wanted to do the bumper work that is a recall today but I didn't have the extra time to give. I really don't know if they did the 21 point or 18 point inspection cause I got a lot less paperwork and just the word that everything checked out ok. It feels like they didn't do all they said they did...who knows but as much as I love my truck I might find a different vehicle or maybe go to the Toyota dealership in Johnson City. It looks like they have cut back on service reps as well. I think Phillip, the rep I liked so well, didn't make the transition.

So I stopped at The Fresh Market and they are changing the recipe for their tuna fish salad. I went there specifically for the tuna salad because I like it so well. Disappointed, I put up the cart and headed toward Weaverville to go to the bank. Then a breakfast burrito from Sonic and on home.

Right by the Post Office a large gaggle of geese were gathered on the lawn but one of those geese had been hit by a car and laid out on the road dead with blood everywhere. The other geese seemed to be preoccupied with food and not so much as a goodbye to their feathered friend. I was still thinking of that poor goose while going down the stone steps to put some birdseed in the feeder. Out of the corner of my eye I spotted a snake. So still...I thought it might be dead but I ran back up the stairs as quickly as I could carry myself. It was not dead and I think maybe I have found his little hidey hole. That is for another day....

This morning on the way to the dealership I saw three dear, a mama and two babies. Beautiful in looks and in motion. Today I have seen all my Bunny Foo Foos. From granny all the way down to newest baby bunny foo foo. I watched baby scare away cardinals and then saw teenage bunny, chase off baby...just like what had happened to it several weeks ago by a bigger bunny.

My dentist called this morning with the news they need to do some work on an old implant before they can do the surgery. He is hoping to contour the crown and not have to put on a new one. But, if he does, dental surgery is postponed until that gets taken care of. So I go early in the morning to see him which kind of changes up morning plans, but that's okay. It is good to be flexible and it is good to be able to see a dentist on such short notice.

I made a second batch of green sauce and I think it is pretty good. Trying to be kind to the dentist and not have too bad of breath. I also worked on a gallon of blackberries brought to me by Inez last night. I didn't hear her knocking at the porch door so she came around back and knocked. Scared Buddy off upstairs but she returned rather quickly.

For a day that began with me feeling overwhelmed, scared (snake) and tired...I worked in the kitchen..the day has ended on a rather nice note.

What's Not To Love About Ninfa's Green Sauce

It is looking like the rain and storms are passing by us. I would take rain but not a fan of the storms. As the skies darken I am mesmerized by all that is going on in the backyard. I don't get much done when there is so much to take in. There must be at least 8-10 young cardinals in and around the trees. The hummingbirds are busy coming to their feeder but good grief, they are territorial and chase off any bird that dare come and drink of the nectar. Well, here comes the rain after all. It was brief but at least some rain. Although I am thinking I will need to go out and reapply Vick's Vapo Rub to the pole that holds the bird feeders. This could be the deterrent I have been looking for. I put the Mentholatum all over and applied a thick coating. It has been interesting to see the squirrels jump onto the pole and jump off just as quickly. Then work at getting the rub and the fragrance off. We will see how this develops.
*****************
Good foggy morning. The birds are out and Buddy is on the front porch...mostly. It is one of those mornings where she is in and out. I have my breakfast and will need to get ready to go to workout with Taylor. This is my last workout for a while because of my schedule. I had considered cancelling today's session but I need to get in and do some work since I am once again playing regain stamina.

As it goes on many Saturday nights, I had a horrible night trying to sleep. Buddy would not settle and those times she tried, she was back up and gone for a bit. Finally around 4:00 am she was able to settle and go to sleep which meant the same for me. I don't think she was feeling good but has seemed to snap out of that once Sunday arrived. I contemplated the thought of having a sabbatical Sunday but decided to get up and get ready. I woke up with a sore throat which is a sign unto me I have been pushing it and the good ol' immune system is telling me to slow down. I went to Sunday School but not church. Came home, rested and ate a salad. Then I made a quick run to the store to pick up a few things I had ordered. Rested upon returning and then went over to Vivian's to give her birthday giftings. I also came home with giftings, supper for today, green beans and some homemade peach ice cream. Also, I took her some Ninfa's green sauce I made on Saturday and I think I made a green sauce convert.

Brenda called later in the early evening to see if she could bring back the dolly we had put the trunk on to take to her home. Sure thing, come on over. She brought some homemade cookies and I shared green sauce. Another convert!

Inez just dropped by with some berries and some peppers. I'm eating green beans made by the one and only Vivian. They are heirloom green beans and they are really, really good! Gave some green sauce to Inez and yes, another convert. I am happy to make something for my friends that they've never had before and they like it. What's not to love about Ninfa's green sauce?

The Happenings Of The Week

Having the front porch screened in has made a change in our morning routine. It used to be that Buddy wanted me downstairs to be the supplier of treats to start the day. Now, when she rushes past me on the stairs her destination is the front door, not the kitchen. She goes out for a bit and then wants her treat. Most mornings after porch time and treats, she wants to spend some pre-nap time on my lap. This morning I made the huge strategic mistake of not having my coffee mug there by the chair. But that's love, sacrificing the morning joe for a happy kitty cat. She is back to her bird watching and I'm happily drinking my first cup of coffee. All is well, all is peaceful for this morning.

I am working on all the little last minute things that need to be done before Dena arrives on Wednesday and Doug on Saturday morning. Part of that is working on getting my stacks of books and magazines down to a manageable level. I do not consider stacks of books clutter but decor'.

This next paragraph will date me but I felt like, once again, living a Seinfeld episode. Lifeway did the reveal of Living Proof Live events for 2018. One of the event locations is in Boone. So I thought, that would be fun to attend there in that mountain town and decided to buy two tickets and if for some reason I couldn't go, I could gift them to someone. Well, that plan came to a screeching halt when I could not remember my password or user name from when I bought tickets in 2008...LP in San Antonio. So I went through the list of user names and passwords that I am prone to use...no dice. Now usually, the website asks for your email and they send a link for you to reset your password. No....at Lifeway, you have to call Customer Service to get that info. Well, I was not going to call Lifeway...and that is where it got a little Seinfeld like...remembering the episode where Alec Berg, great John Houseman name, gave Jerry tickets to the hockey game and tells Jerry he might be able to give him tickets for another game...think these were playoff tickets. Kramer asks Jerry if he has called Alec for the day after thank you for the tickets and Jerry says, I thanked him when he gave them to me...that should be enough. So, when I was talking to Lisa P on the phone I told her the whole password/user name debacle of 2017 and said in my best high pitched voice, a little Seinfeldish, "I'm not calling Lifeway!" I then told Lisa P that I had tried using Roy's name and different user names, no dice. In a conversation with Roy he mentioned that Living Proof would be in Boone next year and he thought I should get tickets and go. I told him that the Baptist Book Store, Lifeway, was not in the 21st century in resetting passwords and again, in a high pitched Jerry voice told him, I am not calling Lifeway! Well my friends, just like Jerry I ended up making the call, only my story line turns out better than his, sitting in the nosebleed seats for the game. No wait time and the nicest woman helped me rediscover my password after answering a few questions to establish, that I am who I say I am. I asked if she would stay on the line while I tried logging in...first attempt, nothing...asked on capitalization, and proceeded for a second attempt...and as George Castanza would say, I was in, baby! Now, before I actually made the call, I procured a hotel room in Boone. Cause tickets for a LPM event with no hotel room would not be good. Success! Two tickets purchased for cold, cold Boone in the later part of winter. I am positive though, I'll get to wear boots, stylish flannel shirts and jeans to the conference.

You can hear the funniest or the strangest things in grocery store parking lots. On Thursday I had just pulled into the Publix lot parking space when...of course...a mini van pulls in beside me and parks. I was heading into the store when I remembered my gym lock was in my pocket, so I went back to the truck to put it into its spot and at that same time the mini van people had finally removed themselves from their vehicle. It wasn't a young mom with thousands of children, no it was an elderly couple, an elderly couple that weren't happy with one another. They stood behind my truck and argued. I felt like it was being between a rock and a hard place...trying to go into the store without passing this unhappy couple. I didn't want to be one of those she was at the wrong place at the wrong time kind of things. Yet, I could not just stand there and act like I can't hear a word they are saying...because they were using their outside voices. Bottom line, they were arguing over the fact he drove too slow and although she didn't use a bus reference, I could have given that to her but you know, being at the wrong place at the wrong type thing. She ended their whole "conversation" reminding him that buying a mini van had been one of the worst decisions they had ever made and she wanted to get rid of it and have a fun car. I was never so proud of a moment....I almost wanted to fist pump her...they moved on into the store. I too made my way in but seriously considered high fiving her if we found ourselves on the same aisle.

And I am retaining the title of Crazy Squirrel Lady of Buncombe County. My supply of bad lemons and limes is exhausted, so I have gone to chunking ice at the squirrels that jump into the bird feeders. I also may or may not have used expired Pam spray on the pole that holds the bird feeders.

Thursday But It Feels Like A Wednesday

We enjoyed a lovely summer day yesterday. Cool enough for opening windows and letting the breeze in. I went out early but not early enough to put the picket fencing around half of the sunflowers. The bees had already staked their claim to those flowers and the buzzing so close to my head, deterred my work. I went to The Google to see if and when bees take a break. They are the hardest working insects in the business...well, maybe ants work harder, I'm not sure. Google assured me that cool mornings and evenings are not bees favorite times to pollinate. Last night I was able to finish unrolling the fencing and get it around the sunflowers to hold them up better.

Before getting out and about for the day I received a text that my new glasses were ready. So a little change in plans and over to Weaverville to pick them up. My prescription had significant changes after holding steady for several years. My eyes are adjusting and this morning I realized how hard they worked yesterday with new glasses. Gee, I see things much better too! These glasses are lighter than the last pair but once I get adjusted I think I will have new lenses put in the frames from last year. I still like them a lot and hadn't planned on getting new glasses.

With new vision I headed over to Walmart and make the dreaded Walmart trip. I have to admit this time it wasn't too bad. They have rearranged the store, updated the checkout lanes and with school just a couple of weeks away up here, it wasn't too crowded. I got what I went for and maybe a few more things that just jumped into the cart. The plan was to make a Lowe's stop but I decided to make that trip on another day and came on home for lunch. I realized too those purple hull peas were not going to shell themselves, so yesterday I sat out on the front porch with two big enamel bowls and shelled purple hull peas. Feeling kind of domestic, I cooked those babies up with some onion and ham all afternoon. Then went on and finished up the blackberries for freezing.

We've had a bit of rain. I was able to get over to the Post Office. Picked up a package from Peggy and it is a beautiful bird feeder. Now, I am trying to decide if I will hang it now or will I wait for next year when we redo the back deck and make it more of a screened in porch. I have been contemplating a quick run over to Duckett's before heavier rain is supposed to move in later this afternoon. If I don't go today I'll hang around here and get things ready for upcoming guests.

A Tuesday

Just by happenstance, I read an email sent out by Margaret Feinberg this morning. She writes books and Bible studies for Lifeway and one of my all time favorite reads has been Scouting The Divine. Margaret took a year to look with shepherd's eyes, beekeeper eyes and vintner eyes spending time with people who raised sheep, kept bees and had vineyards. One of the most interesting books I have read. In the great book purge of 2011, that book went to a new home but since we live in an agrarian community now, I have a vested interest. So before knee replacement surgery last year I bought the book and the workbook and like how many good intentions go, I did not do any of the work in the workbook. But I think that good intention was just too soon for its time. I didn't realize that I'd be so tired from working so hard with therapy so all the books I planned to read didn't get read. Nap time called out to me a lot and so did early bedtime.

Last night I made my first steak in a cast iron skillet and it was good! Of course steak rub from Taste of Texas makes everything taste great. I cooked the steak on a cast iron grill pan so not only was it tasty but it looked good. Add a few sliced tomatoes and call it supper.

So I saw Taylor yesterday morning for my first workout post cardioversion. Because his DMS machine that I love so much has an electrical current aspect to it, for right now, no more DMS while my heart settles back into normalcy. We are looking at everything that contributed to these recent flare ups, but probably the real culprits are the usual suspects, heat and stress. It felt good to workout again and as predicted, my arms and shoulders are a little sore from the TRX work.

We are experiencing some rainy days with the rain tapering off today. The flowers and trees are certainly happy for the thirst quenching drink. As a bird nerd, I had a delightful time with a singing sparrow yesterday. It sang among the forsythias and I on the front porch with the bird call app. The cardinals are getting their colors now and I hope they remain around here. I have gotten use to seeing them so often in the backyard. Last night baby bunny foo foo came down into the yard. I was so happy to see it because I had missed its morning visits and as I have written before I get too emotionally involved with these animals. There is a cow across the way with a slight limp and I am keeping my eye on her.

After a couple of errands and dropping off a trunk, I am home. A little tired but not too much. Thinking it will be a salad kind of night and fruit for dessert. The sun has come out. I began a little fence project this morning but will have to continue this evening or in the morning. Have to find times when the bees aren't buzzing around the flowers.

I just saw on Twitter that Glenn Campbell passed away today. In junior high I was friends with his niece and she made such an impression on me I cannot even remember her name. She was nice...actually I think we shared a friendship with a mutual friend and that's how I knew her. He had such a beautiful voice.

A Good Birthday

Yesterday morning I got the sweetest birthday gift. With eyes filled with wonder and awe I watched a new crop of little baby bunny foo foo's frolic and play in the tall grass near the gravel road. It was a special moment. With an errand to run in Tennessee I was up early and trying to get out of the house by 8:30 am but it was closer to 9:00. The Amish store had received blackberries from Michigan and they were available as first come first served. It is a beautiful drive and I enjoyed the trip. Once I got there I got the blackberries and a few other things, then hit the road to head toward home. Filled up with some cheaper gasoline in Tennessee while there too. I made a quick stop at home, put up the blackberries, and let Buddy sit on my lap for a few minutes. Then it was off to Waynesville. Because of construction I chose the Canton way with a stop at Duckett's. They had purple hull peas which makes me especially happy. I had missed the first day opening at Barber's and I needed my first mixed drink of the season....an apple and peach slushie. Bought some corn on the cob as well as a few apple cider donuts. I headed toward Hazelwood district and went to a couple of shops there and then headed to downtown Waynesville. Thankfully, a close parking spot opened up just as I turned the corner, so I was able to get in and out of Mast General Store. The last stop was Main Street Mercantile and I did a quick look see and began my way home. Once again took the longer but more scenic way home. Off and on during the day friends called to wish me a happy birthday and it was fun checking on FB to see greetings.

When I got home I opened my very fun gift and card from Lisa P. Roy called and we got caught up on the day's activities. Then I talked with Dena and then Brenda came over. She and some of her family had gone to the Burnsville Craft Show and when she got home she made me a cake. A delicious strawberry cake. After Brenda left Roy and I once again caught up but I was so dang tired from such a fun, full day....I watched a little TV and then fell asleep till 1:00 am. Buddy was being a little pesty and it seemed she didn't feel well. So up and downstairs to check the litter box, and since I was checking it...I might as well take care of it. Came back upstairs to a feisty Buddy...but she calmed down finally and we were able to get back to the business of rest.

Morning came early and I had a brunch to attend for our new mentoring ministry at church. We had delicious food and a great time. I especially loved hearing the stories from Karen's mom. She needs to record these stories, as a preacher's wife in the mountains of North Carolina...a traveling pastor for the Methodist Church. Great stories of another time but the same great God who though times change, He never changes.

After brunch I headed over to The Fresh Market for a few things and then returned home. I have tons of things to do but a nap is calling my name. Then I take care of veggies and fruit.

Heart beat is holding its own and staying in rhythm. I cancelled with Taylor yesterday for the chance to ease back into workout things. Thankful stamina is returning. I'm taking each day in step working toward the goal of being back in full tilt. I am still feeling the effect of two weeks of afib and flutter. As the nurse at the hospital said as my heart rate bounced around so fast and so quickly, she said her heart is in afib on crack. Wow, glad to be back to the regular syncopation.

5000 Mile Checkup

What a difference a little Chaka Khan makes in the morning. The morning came very early today as it was the big shock a heart day. It was foggy, so I need to mark it down on my calendar. Brenda was here at 6:00 am on the dot and we headed to Mission Hospital. She has spent some time there of late with her aunt, so she knew the ropes and where to go. Got to the heat cath lab, checked in and it wasn't too much of a wait and I was taken back to my Chaka Khan room. The nurse got me all wired up and all the water drinking paid off with no rolled veins. There were two nurses from cardiac ICU/Care that are learning to cardioversion so that their area can do them quicker for patients and not have a long wait for patients in need. While we waited my afib was setting off alarms and it was unsettling to watch how the numbers vacillated all over the heart beat spectrum. Soon, they let Brenda come back to visit with me while we waited. At 8:05, they began to mark time by giving me the Michael Jackson drug and I resisted the urge to sing, Don't Stop Until I Get Enough. But after asking me for the 100th time my birthday, the last thing I remember saying is aren't y'all going to wish me an early Happy Birthday? Next thing it is 8:25, pulse rate is 66, BP a little on the low side and no afib! I already felt better. They watched me for a bit, gave me a Diet Coke, and then took me on a walk around the area to see how I did...and I did well. Got dressed and wheeled out to valet parking where Brenda was waiting. We decided on a Cracker Barrel breakfast and then headed back home cause the sleepies were taking over. And I have taken several naps since coming home. It's an afib hangover because for almost two weeks my heart has been running a marathon with no rest. It will take a couple of days to regain stamina and strength. The Doctor's orders for me today is, be a couch potato and believe me, I have been following those orders. Buddy keeps me company for some of the naps and she has just returned from her latest nap upstairs.

You get asked some really strange questions on the phone and then at the hospital. The question, do you feel safe in your home is probably to detect abuse...well, there is no probably about it. So, they asked me that question this morning and then when they put the big electrode patch on my back she asked me where the bruises on my shoulder blade came from. I was tempted to report Buddy but she has made up for her whole Saturday night thing by being so sweet and by my side since Sunday. No, it is from the deep tissue machine that Taylor uses on my shoulders. He did extra work there on Monday and taking a blood thinner makes for easy bruising. I'm also very happy to say no when they ask have you fallen in the past three months.....nope, nada!

I'll have a follow up appointment and EKG in a few weeks. I would like to get an echo cardiogram on the schedule. If not here I will make the trek back to Houston for that and to see if the monitor in me should be replaced. It has been very helpful of late and the battery is just about out.

This morning at 5:30, Roy called to pray with me. His prayers of faith are so encouraging and helps me believe and have faith too. I am looking forward to getting back with NC life, which means produce stands and orchards. It means ease of feeding the birds and watching bunnies and throwing bad lemons and limes at squirrels. I have written before I had been feeling a little off, not 100% and that translated into quiet days. These quiet days have been so welcomed. These days have made me so grateful and thankful. In these quiet days the Word has come alive in my spirit.

So guess today has been my 5000 mile tune up before the next birthday coming soon.

The Beginning Of Apple Orchard Season

The last day of July in 2017 feels like a fall morning with temps in the mid 50's. Tomorrow begins the counting of foggy mornings because mountain lore says the number of foggy mornings in August is the number of snow showers we will have in the winter. Now I know it doesn't surprise you that this is an inexact science. Because it is foggier toward water and in valleys. Nevertheless, it is fun to wake up each morning and mark the calendar. Yes, I am easily entertained.

Our church had a fellowship/cookout at one of our member's homes last night...a 120 acre farm with gorgeous views. I had been looking forward to going but knew that if I did I was pushing myself way beyond my limited physical parameters when I am out of sync. Buddy and I were sitting on the front porch when my phone rang. It was Brenda and she had gone to the cookout. She was dropping her mom off at home and then Brenda was coming here bringing me a to go plate from the cookout. Mr. Jarrett served steak sandwiches provided by three of his cattle in his herd. I ate a slice of the meat and it was so good. Brenda also brought a smattering of small bites from the dessert table. So, I have my supper for tonight.

Digger, the groundhog, came very close to the house today. He was by the deck checking out some delicious weeds. I scared him off, twice. The bunnies have been around today along with a whole bunch of cardinals.

I am so glad I decided to stop by the house after meeting with Taylor. There were a couple of bills that needed to be paid and I also decided to grab a quick sandwich before heading to the grocery store. The hospital called while I was here needing some information and I was able to use the opportunity to ask a few of my many questions. I don't like droning on that in Houston I had a lot more info before going into the procedure but it sure is helpful to have.
*********************
The temps aren't as cool this morning but we are on the clock to count morning fog now that we are in August. Wow, this year has certainly gone by fast. Today one of my favorite apple orchards and produce stand opens and while I entertained thoughts of going today, it is best I don't. One I would be too tempted to eat apple cider donuts and I also saw that road work begins today on the Smokey Mountain Expressway...which is the way to go to the orchard. I do know a back way though. No, it is better to stick around the house and enjoy a quiet day.

Really, I have had a lot of quiet days even before the diagnosis. In hindsight, I think I knew I wasn't 100%. Other than a few trips to Johnson City and the one day I took along the Parkway, I pretty much am sticking around the house, working out and my regular errands. I've done some reading, nothing new there, and have been writing...for my own enjoyment and process. I started a couple of projects and I completed some but others have gone by the wayside because it seems that I need professionals to actually implement what needs to be done. I have spent lots of time on the front porch with Buddy.

One book I am re-reading is Wendell Berry's, A World Lost. Reading Berry is so helpful in my word formation of thoughts I am having trouble expressing on, well not paper but on tablet would be the correct usage. Roy and I were talking the other night about being a place of contentment in our lives. View points from our age vantage has certainly shown us that we pursued a lot of things that just don't matter. We've received unexpected blessings from unexpected places. I wish I hadn't spent so much time on trying to make things happen when I was younger. There is a lot of well meaning advice that just doesn't fit circumstances and situations. Competition  when you're just starting out should be avoided, but that is almost impossible to do. I know a lot of busyness in years past was mainly done to avoid issues or to alleviate boredom. The same can be applied to procrastination which I have done my fair share of. Yep, Wendell Berry fiction and essays surely can get one to thinking.

I can't help but hope that by this time tomorrow my heart will be back in rhythm and I can return home to sleep off the anesthesia.

Sleepy Sunday

This morning after a particularly rough night, I am staying home. I estimate the total amount of sleep last night was less than three hours. When your heart is out of rhythm falling asleep can be tough. You feel the pounding in your chest or the sloshing about that sometimes produces a drowning kind of feel. The skipped beat is also alarming. Couple this with a cat who could not settle either...which makes for a long, long sleepless night. I have been fortunate that many nights I only experience the flutter effect but here on the countdown to cardioversion, it is feeling more like afib at times. No matter it is all out of sync and I'm looking forward to syncopation.

Buddy also had a temper tantrum this morning and took a couple of good swipes at my arm. It has been a long time since she has done that. Roy said her actions were probably a result of me sleeping later and her desire for treats and porch time. I wasn't following her schedule. I admit, I started crying cause it hurts and it hurts emotionally. Sometimes crying comes not so much of the action but because of frustrations that have built up. It is disheartening to have worked so hard these past few months, eating right, exercising and taking better care to have this rhythm thing crop up. Since this began in 2008 I think I internalize more often than before. Periodic outbursts from frustration kept things in check, but I can't have periodic outbursts anymore and that is not a bad thing. It has been a helpful thing. I'd like to be all spiritual and say I have given everything over to the Lord....I try to but not always successful. I saw this quote on FB yesterday, "Over thinking is a special form of fear. This fear becomes worse when adding anticipation, memory, imagination and emotion together." Many times I have been told I over think things. It's true yet I can go to the other end of the spectrum of "it doesn't matter." I used to say that I didn't care but really it doesn't matter seems to be the better description. So this morning I sit in front of this computer, probably overthinking the coming week, internalizing fears and feeling like I am walking on a tightrope. Not that I have ever walked on a tightrope, but I have seen movies where it has been done.

I ventured over to the Fresh Market yesterday. They are advertising more prepared meals and that includes better selection. It is true. The deli is better than before. The spring blend coffee had been marked down 50%, so I bought a few more packages. The spring blend is one of Roy's favorites, but he is off caffeine right now after a dental appointment and before a Dr appointment. Sometimes it seems one person in a store becomes the bane of existence while trying to traverse the aisles. One lady seemed to be filling that role yesterday for several of us. She should have gotten a cart to hold all her purchases. She fumbled about tying up cart traffic throughout the store. I tried my best to stay out of her way but we met up in produce, deli and bakery.

Well, Buddy just now got her porch privilege. It is still coolish outside. On my FB feed this morning two posts were in line and it seemed ironic, both about endings to new beginnings. A long time member of HFBC passed away from pancreatic cancer yesterday morning. It seemed like he passed so quickly after receiving the diagnosis. There was such hope because it had been discovered in stage 2. He was a member of the choir and his now grown daughters were with him in the Christmas Pageant each year. He was the smiling Roman soldier, although Roman soldiers weren't supposed to be smiling. He had a great passion for life, his family and his God. The numerous no overwhelming response to his family on FB is unbelievable. Such kind words for such a kind man. His almost life long friend wrote a moving tribute this morning about Bill and included his quirkiness, which good friends are required and wont to do. The very next post is about a woman who is retiring after 35 years of employment and ministry at HFBC. The last 13 years she has been Pastor Gregg's executive assistant. She now passes the torch to CourtneyS who will do a fabulous job. It won't seem the same without Mary on staff but she now joins the retired and will wonder how she did everything when she had her job.

The baby bunny has been out in the back off and on all day. The grandma rabbit was around last night. Even the groundhog got in on a visit and even though he was eating weeds, I chased him off. Last night Buddy and I were treated to a wonderful display of birds. It is intoxicating to take it all in. The sun was setting and covered the field across the way that brought out all the different hues of green. It is sad that beyond the trees, the land has been surveyed and perked. Soon the building of more houses will begin. I saw the cows from that pasture loaded up into trailers the other morning on my way to workout. It made me sad to hear their cries.

My heart didn't race as much yesterday as it is today. I have taken my meds and hope the slow down will kick in. A nap is crossing my mind and my eyelids are feeling a bit heavy. It dawned on me the other day that this week I have eaten Mexican food more often than ever here. Kind of like being in Houston. No Turkey Creek lunch today since I stayed home from church but my tuna salad sandwich hit the spot.

Rain+Cooler Temps=Birds And Other Observations

With cooler temps and a gentle rain, I ate lunch on the front porch Friday. Both the front and backyard are filled with cardinals in all shapes, sizes and coloring. Baby Foo Foo is in the backyard eating bird seed that the birds have dropped or scooted off because it is not their choice or favorite seed. The doves are the worst with this.

Thursday evening our Sunday School class had a party. Gale opened up her beautiful home for a Mexican Fiesta. Everything was delicious and it was such fun.

I saw Taylor yesterday and he did restorative work on me and I did core work. I will be so relaxed and stretched for my cardioversion. Instead of the usual of running errands, I came on home and enjoyed the rainy afternoon. After a really busy Thursday, it seemed I needed a day of rest. I had my yearly eye exam at Optix on Thursday and all is well, except my vision prescription has changed...so I needed to order new frames and lenses. I went with a blue frame this time. I still like the frames I am wearing and I think I'll have the lenses changed over in this pair after I get the new glasses.

It is interesting to watch things from afar. Not be in close to the action or in the know about things happening or movement within organizations. If you want to, you can watch and draw your own conclusions as things move forward or backward or even stagnate. You can take what little that is known about the situation and draw all kinds of conclusions. You can watch social media and pick up the insults and put downs that are crafted in a not in a too obvious way to express dissatisfaction or anger.  You can watch a not so surprising ending to a season for several and could they not see the direction life was taking or did they see it and decide not to express their fear or view. I hope for happy endings. Watching from a distance can either amuse or it can become a focus that consumes way too much time and energy. Right now, I watch amused and wonder how it will all turn out. I don't have a pony in the show, so no vested interest other than knowing I used to be smack dab in the middle of stuff going on and relish the fact, I don't have to participate anymore. Many times I end up praying for the ones that are going to hurt the most from the changes but there have been many that have gone through the same type thing and their stories of victory can encourage tremendously.

Last night I talked with Roy about a conversation I had Wednesday at the hair salon...it has bothered me somewhat. The Wednesday conversation, not talking with Roy about it. Without going into details, I had to beg off from the discussion because of an already elevated heart rate and it wasn't so much the topic but the actions and attitude expressed before the "topic" was broached. This is something that I experience every other visit at the salon and maybe just maybe, it is time to find another salon and stylist. It's not that my hair is that complicated, but I stuck around because  in a pinch I could buy hair product there...but thanks be to God Nordstrom carries the product and no shipping charge and all the while earning points toward Nordstrom Notes. It's all good in the product arena of life.

Our area is enjoying a bit of a respite from summer this weekend with lower temps and less humidity. the flowers and trees in the front yard were needing a bit of water, so I am thankful for the rain we had. The birds are hanging out probably waiting for a new delivery to the feeder, so I must move on.

A Smattering Of Thoughts

Sunday night in choir practice began with the song No More Night. An oldie but goody. No More Night, one of the first songs I learned in choir at Houston's First Baptist so many years ago. The choir sang without sheet music and there weren't any prompter screens with words. I checked out the music to memorize the words for my first Sunday in the loft. Nervous...but thankfully the choir wasn't depending on me for my sure, strong voice. Brought back some good memories as we practiced the song for a later date.

It is looking very probable that I won't be having a cardioversion tomorrow. Fell through the cracks there at Asheville Cardiology but encouraged with the conversation I had with a scheduler this morning. In fact, she just called back and the procedure is scheduled for next week. Once again kindness was the chosen path when feeling so frustrated and uneasy. Proverb reading is helping those anxious thoughts not translate into angry words and attitude. Also telling her the relief of not cancelling a hard to get hair appointment and she laughed and said we must go to the same salon. I'm feeling more at ease now and the valet tradition continues...With all the construction at Mission, valet parking at the heart center is complimentary, which is hospital talk for free! Whoo hoo! Valet parking was the deal maker years ago for me going to the Med Center in Houston.
***********************
Ah Wednesday morning....I slept really well. In fact I think it could have been the best night's sleep in a while. Buddy's cooperation is always key for a good night. Also with atrial flutter you don't have the heavy booming feel that robs one of rest. My hair appointment isn't until later so I have the morning to ease into the day.

So far the most taxing thing has been taking the garbage can down to the road. Well, that part wasn't hard, it was just getting me back up our road to the driveway that took a lot out of me and created a rather good sweat. On the way back from a quick grocery store trip, I got the trash can and slid it into the back of the truck. That robs me of the use of the backup camera. So, I had to do it the old fashioned way like I did when I was a kid, backing up five miles in the snow only using side mirrors and rear view mirror. I carefully backed down the driveway and stopped midway to pull the can out, place it to the side and then complete the backup with a camera in full use. Yes, it has come to this, I am writing poetic about trash can delivery and removal. Bet you can't wait for yard waste removal postings.

Talked with Peggy yesterday and we exchanged recipes. No, really, we did. Doesn't happen often but it does take us by surprise when our conversations go in that direction. Lisa P and I were texting all things bird and bird related. She has a feeder now and has a cardinal sighting which can be really special in her part of Texas. I'm enjoying these young cardinals hanging around here. They are beginning to get their coloring now so flashes of red streak across the sky. I have another baby bunny foo foo coming to the backyard. There is a rotation of five rabbits it seems and last night I noticed a mama bunny spending a lot of time in an indentation part of the yard and with the binoculars I can see the tops of the baby bunnies ears moving about in the tall grass.

Well....the day awaits and the sun is peeking through the overcast sky. I have become the kind of believer I thought less of when I was a teenager when it comes to parking in Biltmore Village. Yes, a prayer for a close enough parking spot, not to wear me out getting to my hair appointment, has been included in my morning prayers.

No Surprise No Waste

I would like to blame Janet Jackson and Publix grocery store for the out of the rhythm heartbeat that has come to visit. Back in the day, when Janet began a song...which one escapes me now, she said give me the beat...maybe it it What Have You Done For Me Lately, which after hearing it numerous times in the grocery store caused me to download it from iTunes. It is only a matter of time for me to break out in full dance mode while pushing that cart up and down the aisles. Good grief, when I have it playing in the car...totally in dancing in the car mode. So far no one has reported erratic dancing while driving.

When I went to the cardiologist in April, I almost went dramatic and thought maybe a small overnight bag might need to accompany me. Such wild afib going on. Came home with a follow up appointment. So when that appointment time arrived yesterday, no thoughts of anything other than routine filled my thoughts. Yes, I had been experiencing a little heart flutter but nothing too major. Yes, I had been a little more tired but attributed to the hottest part of the year here. That annoying heart cough thing had increased, but nothing that had me worried. My ankles not swollen, no extreme fatigue... Since April I've paid more attention to caffeine intake, cutting back sugary desserts, except for coconut cake at The Blue Rooster, and been drinking lots more water. I have turned down Vivian dessert...that tells you how serious I have been! Many meals have been salad, a little protein, and fruit. I've lost weight...been working out...so the appointment results yesterday took me by surprise. The hint...when the stethoscope remains over your heart for a longer time than usual. The other hint, my pulse was 142. EKG, and bada bing bada boom, atrial flutter. Never had atrial flutter diagnosis.  Atrial flutter is a better organized out of rhythm heart thing....so maybe there is hope for me with a better organized out of rhythm thing, there is hope for organization for other areas of my life. So, a  cardioversion is in order and will be done next week. This better work I am cancelling a hair appointment for this.  While this totally took me by surprise I know none of this surprises God. So, there is a good chance if the radiology map had been ready for my implants that I would not have had the procedure on Thursday as planned because of my pulse. Yep, no surprise to the Lord.

Where I get a little nervous is a new hospital verses the familiar Texas Heart Institute. A new to me Dr and staff and I am going into the procedure with a lot less information than I am used to having. I can't help but wonder why they haven't done an echo cardiogram. Why so quick to cardioversion, although that is not a complaint.

So, I have done what they told me to do as I left, to keep calm, keep cool and relax. Saturday was a totally relaxing day. I got brave to take my pulse and BP. BP was better and pulse was down somewhat and at times the machine did not detect any atrial flutter. Brenda and her mom dropped by for a minute and brought me supper from J & S Cafeteria. Delicious!  I took BP and pulse before Sunday School this morning and it was good BP but pulse up a bit. I only went to Sunday School even though I heard the A/C had been replaced in the sanctuary. Just visiting a little in the hallway after class, the heat got to me. Angela, associate pastor's wife and friend, called me yesterday to check up on me and see if I needed a ride to the hospital for the procedure. So appreciated that call and she also shared with me that she had visited the Cornell Bird Lab. They made the app I use to call in the birds for Buddy. Sounds like a wonderful place to visit. After Sunday School I headed over to Turkey Creek Cafe for lunch. Today, fresh to order fried chicken was on the menu and I got me some fried chicky legs, fried green tomatoes, creamed corn, collard greens, pinto beans, a little mac and cheese and a little mashed potatoes. Yum! Oh and some fresh sliced tomatoes.

We had a brief rain shower this afternoon and every bit helps. After lunch I headed over to the grocery store because I had forgotten to buy bananas for the next few days. The skies were dark in the northeast when I pulled up and when I came out of the store the skies were a much darker hue, thunder and a threatening look. Weather alerts are going off left and right on the phone. Roy is calling me too and sending me pics from The Nord as he was there buying new shoes to wear to the office. With Nord in town shoe shopping isn't as painful and as time consuming as it used to be for him. 14 narrow is a difficult fit to find. I got home before the heavens opened and for that I am thankful.

Roy was a little disappointed yesterday when he left Bible study. He leads and teaches it now and they are going through Mark I think. Anyway, they were at Jesus and the 5000 men, five loaves and two fishes part. He had suggested that the Elisha and widow woman with sons, who owed creditors story in the OT was a type of the feeding of the 5000. I thought it was an awesome insight when he shared it with me yesterday and last night right before heading to bed I looked all that up. I told him this morning not to be disappointed with the group's understanding of that, but be happy that it meant so much to me. And guess what, this morning as I opened the quarterly to read the lesson for today, it was Matt 14 and the feeding of the 5000. No surprise to God at all and I was able to share what Roy had gotten out of the lesson he taught yesterday. No waste at all.

There Seems To Be a Theme Here

It is 3:30 in the afternoon and it has been quite the exciting day. From the start, let me be honest with you...I do not like creatures, reptiles, vermin or any other kind of nature. I love cute nature. And there was a day when something like this would have happened and the For Sale sign would be in the yard and I would have packed my bags and headed over to the Inn on the Biltmore Estate to wait for the end results and report.

Last night, right before dusk, I noticed the birds didn't have any water in the birdbath. I got a pitcher of ice and went out to give them water. I also put water in the back birdbath. I think I added a little bit of seed to the front feeder and then I came back in through the garage and shut the garage door. A little later while sitting on the front porch with Buddy, I kind of heard this loud thumping noise. I had brought out the little speaker and just though a bunch of birds were hanging around and making noise cause my bird calls were calling them in. Later in the evening, after coming in I kind of heard a loud thump and thought it was Buddy. This morning while drinking coffee I heard a thumping noise again and I went to see if Buddy had come back in the house...no, but I had pulled the recyclable bag out and thought the noise merely could be the sound of bottles settling. After taking my time and easing into the morning, I opened the garage door to go out and put bird seed in the feeders. Oh my goodness! The corner where the birdseed is kept was a mess. The one night I didn't put the feed back in the container tightly...  I deduced with my citified eyes that things had been thrown to the ground, a fruit fly trap package had been opened and strewn about. Strawberry baskets and been moved...I didn't think this was the job of a mouse but maybe a squirrel, seeking revenge, or a raccoon. I was leaning toward raccoon after my experience with them two years ago. Apparently, my choice of yard decor was not their choice. So they threw it about the yard.  But I am kind of new to all of this and learning my way about. So before I called Roy or phone a friend or text a friend, I called Orkin. The call was recorded for quality purposes. The young woman getting the info and everything else was just so nice and yes...I did the old lady nervous thing...I started talking way too much about everything...then I said to her, I'm so sorry, when I get nervous I talk a lot...without taking a breath...and giving you details that you don't care about because there is nothing that you can do about it. Ugh, I hate when I do something like that. Guess it is kind of was a pride thing because I was so happy that yesterday when the service checking out at Academy was sub par, I almost said...hey, you know Academy began in Houston, TX...and I am wearing an Astros shirt...did you ever think I might be a secret shopper John and Sheila? But I didn't say that and just went on my merry way. So back to this most engrossing story....so I texted Bill and Vivian. Then I called Roy and he said he would order mountain lion urine for me...I thought he had and he said no that was a joke. Hey, I am in dire straights here....come on! He ordered fox urine with expedited delivery. He said, call Brenda because Vivian was at a Mary Kay Director Meeting or call Inez. So, I called Brenda. She and Larry came over, inspected the scene of the crime of unlawful entry and found raccoon, uh...DNA...but I will say this does a raccoon poop in a garage...yes, it does. Then Brenda found a paw print. Larry looked throughout the garage and felt pretty sure it was gone. Then all the snake videos and such came to mind and I asked him, it wouldn't be hiding under the hood of the truck would it? He doubted it but looked for me and showed me no paw prints on the battery or anything like that. I heard from the Orkin guy about an hour ago and they were on their way. They will inspect the attic and crawl space and elsewhere. That will be complete peace of mind for me.

When I talked with Roy he reminded me of a story from the long ago when we were first married. Roy traveled quite a bit and the apartment we were living in had carpenter ants in the linen closet. They lived in the door and nothing got rid of them. So every morning I would get up, grab my Bible and read Psalm 91 to them, letting them know they could not live there and told them they had to leave in Jesus Name. Them I kicked the door to let them know I meant business. I did this month after month. One night, we came home from church and when we turned on the light in the bathroom. all those carpenter ants were out of the door and in and around the bathtub. Quickly, we began killing them. So he said, go out there and read Psalm 91 out loud. A little nervous, I just read loudly through the door and was getting ready to go outside to read when Larry and Brenda to the rescue and detective work.

You know that peace of mind thing I wrote about? It has been anything but.....

It is now Saturday morning. It has been a whirlwind since I began this post. I wish I had never called Orkin but it is what it is. We are trying to determine if what they said is true or not or if they are just trying to do work that might not need to be done. Funny, nothing here ever gets done in a hurry in the area. No push, but Orkin is pushing and I have turned them over to Roy. Here's the deal, Roy is easy going but when someone starts to push him to do something, he doesn't stay all that easy going. When a company tells you there is damage etc to the crawl space and they want $12,000.00 to fix it...well you would like to get a second opinion. This started because a rogue raccoon got into the garage and it has dawned on me, even if there had been a problem, the two guys who came out would not have fixed it. They are just inspectors. They didn't even want to look in the attic...now if there is such a problem below wouldn't a look see in the attic bear notice? And why do they want to begin the process so quickly and they kind of poo pooed, seems to be a theme here, the notion that Roy wants our contractor to look before okaying work? One guy said, yep, let a guy from Lowe's come in...they can't even get the materials cause they are not licensed to do so. Uh, no our contractor isn't just some guy standing outside of Lowe's with a sign, will work for money. Gee whiz!

In the midst of all the stress I was trying to keep relatively calm. One of the hottest days temp wise we have had this summer. I think dealing with all this was just the icing on the cake and the stress and heat spilled over...unto the next post....

Drives, Road Kill, Bunnies , and Matters

We have a new routine around here and it is called Buddy's porch time. She ate her treats, sat in my lap for a moment and then made her way to the front door. This morning I let her out on the porch before all the meowing began. Last night we sat on the porch with the small Bose speaker and called the birds. Our front feeder and around the swing was filled with cardinals and a few tufted titmouse and Carolina wrens. She stayed out there until almost dark, resting on the glider and taking it all in. This does tire her out and she is not as restless before bed or throughout the night. As we are experiencing our warmest temps of the season, we have hit 91, and yes, Houston friends are laughing at me. They have to be thinking 91? 91 is a low temp in the morning. See, I am truly acclimating.

I decided a little trip to Johnson City seemed to be in order yesterday. The drive is one of my favorites, although I say that about almost every drive, and I do miss Academy Sports and Outdoors not being closer. Since it seemed right to also join in another Houston startup, Carrabba's for lunch, the plan was made. To add to the Houston representing, I wore an Astros shirt. Once arriving in JC, the first stop was Barnes and Noble. Mixing it up a little since it is usually the last stop before returning home. Sometimes in a smaller Barnes and Noble there are unique to the area things to find and this store has one of the best Bible selections around. Onward to Academy where I found a few things such as HOT Slap Ya' Mama Cajun spice. Not for me but for a certain wily squirrel. It was time for lunch and it was delicious. There is a Kohl's across the way from the restaurant  and while Kohl's is not usually a shopping stop, it seemed like the thing to do before leaving JC. I found a pair of pink capris deeply discounted to $19.50 and a shirt 50% off and that is without a Kohl's card or coupon. The clerk checking out shoppers asked me if I was from Houston because of the Astros shirt. She was too, in fact her great grandfather was one of the major developers for The Village, River Oaks and Briarwood. For non Houstonians these are some of the most wealthy areas in Houston both in residential and business. I wanted to ask how did you get here to JC and working a register in Kohl's? She was an older lady with classic features and her makeup impeccable. Most of the families involved in development of Houston way back in the day are still around, still own homes in the area they helped develop. The ride back included a brief stop in Erwin to get some cheap TN gasoline and a stop at Publix to get more of the sugar sweet or sugar kiss cantaloupe. My new obsession.

Had a book waiting by the front door, thank you UPS, Wendell Berry's book, A World Lost. I've read it before and gave it away in the book purge of 2011. But a description in the book of Andy Catlett's aunt has ruminated in memory and while I could not remember her name or from what book she came from, going to The Google helped narrow down and eventually find it.

Love these ease into the morning days. Nothing concrete on the schedule, which makes this one quite happy. Tomorrow holds workout and a follow up cardiologist appointment.

I think Janet Jackson and Prince are on a music loop at the grocery store. A little What Have You Done For Me Lately gets me up in down those aisles in style. No, I haven't broken out in full dance mode, but I can feel myself getting closer to that.

One of the groundhogs had gone on to groundhog heaven after becoming road kill yesterday. I think by the size and location of it on the road in front of my neighbors house, it is the little groundhog that sat on my neighbors porch in the mornings. Saw one of my bigger ones yesterday and chased him off with a shout. Not a mighty shout, just a kind of get out of here shout. Last night the baby bunny and a little bit bigger bunny were both dining in the backyard. At first I thought it was Mama Foo Foo but she was in the front yard. Little baby bunny approached the other rabbit timidly...moving closer grass blade upon grass blade. After some tedious maneuvering, they touched noses....held that position for a few seconds and then the bigger bunny made a chase move toward baby and then went back to chowing down on clover. Baby bunny kept following the bigger bunny. Bigger didn't want to hang out with baby. Yes, I might have had a few tears come to my eyes and walked away for a few minutes. When I came back to the window baby was eating by itself. I've gone to The Google this morning to find out more about this bunny behavior. Yes, when one is easing into the day, there is time to read about rabbit behavior and let Buddy spend extended time on the porch. She's inside now as the day is beginning to warm up.

Several blogs I read have been doing a season of life theme. Interesting reading from women of all ages. Have been thinking about this in my daily Bible reading and journaling. Thinking about the season where I am and listening closely. One thing that has come to mind is this, throughout life I have been prone to say, too many times, "I don't care." Most of those times truly I didn't. The risk was worth the consequences. There were times of saying I don't care and yes...there was a lot of caring going on but one has to don the mask. It seems now the don't care has transformed into it doesn't matter. There is a whole lot of difference in those phrases. Well, I have the morning to contemplate. Have a good one y'all!

Random Things

This post might just be filled with random thoughts and questions that might be answered or might not.

A couple of Sunday mornings ago, when the sanctuary or worship center or where we have big church....who knows what it is being called these days, VBS decorations covered the stage and planets were suspended over the congregation or worshipers or here's all the people (from the long ago make a church with your fingers) game (probably some new term that I'm not hip to.) Where I was sitting the perfect opportunity to take a picture of the cross before me, the world behind from the song I Have Decided to Follow Jesus, presented itself. I should have taken the picture after church but I forgot.

Why is it so difficult to find a hammock stand? Peggy gave us a hammock as a housewarming gift. The two trees that we had planned to hang the hammock from had to be cut down due to the fact one was too close to the house and the second tree was a trash tree that was causing all manner of tree havoc. I found a stand at Lowe's but no one to help me take it to the check out and into the truck. I was not wanting a repeat from the whole swing loading time with the not so pleasant person who wasn't too happy she had to help us load the truck. I could order one from Amazon but I fear for the correct delivery. USPS delivers so much of their stuff now, I could see them trying to stuff that huge box in the mailbox. I jest...kind of... Today, we had an Amazon delivery and even now with the easy access to put the box inside the porch or beside the door, scary mailman only puts it in front of the garage door. Most of the time we get notice that the package has been delivered but we don't see it for another few days. I asked the postmaster at the post office about this and as nice as the man is, he had no answer for me. But, I do like they have a candy dish for customers. Really, what a nice touch. We don't know where your package is but have some Smarties. I mailed a package today and when asked if it anything liquid or dangerous or fragile is in the box, I accidentally touched yes on the screen. I feared that agents were going to descend on me for saying yes. Why can't all these terminals coordinate? One kind you have to wait for the green light, one wants you to push this button and another terminal wants you to push another button.  The guy laughed at me and said well...what's in the box. I told him...nothing dangerous at all...and he said we will just say it is fragile then and added he could tell just by my reaction that there wasn't any reason to worry.

Buddy has come in from the front porch which means I can quit air conditioning the whole neighborhood. Buddy has found a huge patch of sun right behind my chair. I reached down to pet her and I noticed that one of the small butterfly bushes was shaking violently. Of course that is a sign unto me that a groundhog, I believe it was Chuck, was right beside my deck, chowing down on a butterfly bush...What! Since Buddy is right here and she cannot be trusted to stay put, I had to yell at Chuck to get the heck out of here. I'm yelling like a crazy lady, get out of here...NOW! No chance to grab a bad lime to chunk at Chuck. I looked for groundhog repellent today at Lowe's. Oh there is plenty to be found for every other known animal but groundhog.  Someone suggested I get bobcat urine or some other predator urine to scare them off. Where does one find bobcat urine? Now that's a job I wouldn't want to have...OK Nancy, go out there to those back cages and see if you can get some bobcat urine in a bottle. Then we can sell it. Sure thing boss!
****************
Roy found mountain lion urine for me. What!? Amazon sells it. Fox urine for squirrels, coyote urine for cats....unbelievable! We did lose one of the groundhogs today...I think Chuck Jr is now considered road kill. God rest his soul.I saw him this afternoon upon returning home. This looks to be the same groundhog that sat on my neighbors porch in the morning.

Buddy has been on the front porch and I have been watching out the back window. I did go out to the porch with my portable speaker and we really called in some birds tonight. Lots of cardinals and Carolina Wrens.

I have had a fun day and look forward to having another day tomorrow with nothing on the schedule but what I want to do. I'll write later about my adventures today.

Songs and Sights

We got out of choir early this evening...not too early though, but early enough for me to run by Sonic with a lot of others who were on the same wavelength to get some ice cream for National Ice Cream Day. I just needed a little taste of the cold stuff on what has been a rather warm day. Since I had ice cream it called for the long way home and the sunset....well, it was just perfect for this day. Buddy and I have been out on the front porch. The fireflies have kept her amused but she'd rather see birds.

Oh happy day that Turkey Creek Cafe is open again on Sundays. Today they offered a farm to table service. I went with the all you can eat offering because I wanted to try all the veggies. They were so good and I had meatloaf but also had the choice of fried white fish, cooked to order, and pulled pork. I love that they are open on some evenings too. I forget about them around lunch time and by the time I think, that is where I'll go...they're closed. Marissa has persevered and she is doing well.

Even though I took two naps this afternoon because chunking bad limes and lemons at squirrels and groundhogs is exhausting, I did have time to get things picked up a bit in my project room. Things were moving right along until I came across one of my favorite books of all time, Walking On Water by Madeleine L'Engle.  Stopped and read just a bit and once again inspired by her words and thoughts.

I can tell something is stirring...you see, I have this God size dream of having another home here for ministry purposes...not official ministry types, although they are included. I shared with John Bolin what God has placed on my heart but I knew it would have to be something of His doings, I was not going to manipulate circumstances and situations to get a home. The economy has come back around here like gang busters and homes like what we looked at in 2014 have doubled or tripled in price. This week I was about to give away some things that I have planned on using in the dream big house and it hit me, many times when something is near by God's design, is the time I give up or doubt. Yes, I am taking this as a sign unto me that God has not forgotten the dream He placed in us and that I should stand even stronger in thanksgiving and praise, thanking God He has provided.
************************
The sound of Mike the Mower Man is a lovely greeting this afternoon. The grass and weeds have grown with the uptick of rain we have had, although not as much as other regions around the area. I wonder if he has come across any of my thrown fruit in my constant combat against squirrels and groundhogs?

My workout with Taylor was good this morning. Worked on core and balance. He is also helping me keep scar tissue at bay. For this I am thankful. Afterwards I made a quick trip to the bank, Publix and CVS. I am in a salad mood and I am trying to go with that as long as my mood goes that way. I picked up some fresh eggs from Aunt Jenny via Vivian. We are in the warmer days and most afternoons you can find me reading or working on the computer. Buddy has stirred from an upstairs nap and looks to be determining what she would like to do next. She would really like to go out onto the porch but it is too hot to be air conditioning the whole neighborhood.

And now on Tuesday morning Buddy is doing the same thing. Taking a little nap on the front porch. I sat out there a while drinking coffee and conversing with a Carolina Wren. Using the Merlin App, the wren and I had quite the conversation. And yes, I found this to be fun. I am contemplating the day ahead and if I am getting out and about or if I am sticking around home. I'll make that final decision later. For now I will enjoy the songs and sights of the birds.

Conspiracy, Nature and Fun

Coming from a long line of conspiracy buffs it is something I fight off all the time. It seems our family line is gifted with taking minute details, that have nothing to do with each other and weave those details into a fabulous tapestry of conspiracy. Since I am not a practicing conspirator the weaving doesn't come easily to me anymore. Yet, the "gift" lies right beneath the surface of life. There are offshoots to this gift, being able to see past the obvious and there are downsides as well, overthinking things. The other night I had to fight the urge to link these unrelated causes and effects and I knew what had caused the tweaking and aches. I have never been prone to panic attacks but since experiencing heart issues, I've had a few in the past few years and the Doctors have told me it is quite normal. So I aggravated a muscle around my shoulder blade. I knew when I did it and before going to bed I used the detox gel I love and some Bio Freeze. That combination was sensory overload. So tweaked muscle plus over use of gels and sprays plus falling asleep on my arm=thinking I might be having a heart attack...when I knew good and well I was not having one. If you don't fight the theory off you begin imagining aches and pains and symptoms. Upon awakening the next morning all signs of muscle tweak was gone, I did my workouts and that is that but I have to confess I didn't sleep well that night. A friend asked me if I called Roy during the night while experiencing all this, ah no. Deep into the night is not Roy's best conversation time, much less compassion time. No, I talked to God about it all and reminded Him, I do look forward to the day of being with Him but I also thanked Him for letting me live here in God's country and I wasn't quite finished with living here yet, if that was alright...

Thursday, I got to see the work and results of the grand re-opening of the Fresh Market nearby. They certainly made better use of their space and the prepared food/deli has expanded and looks very appealing. They still had some of their spring coffee and I bought a couple of packages cause Roy loves that flavor. Fresh Market closed in Houston much to the sadness of many friends.

I saw a glance of her yesterday morning...there in the mirror. Every once in a while I see my mom in my features. I am kind of a mish mash of family...sometimes I look like both my grandmothers, sometimes I look like my father but mostly if there is a glance to be caught, it's my mom's features. I like it when that happens.

Our area received a welcomed surprise yesterday of an afternoon thunderstorm. The radar, yes I am becoming a weather nerd as well as a bird nerd, showed showers to the north and south of us. Many times rain coming from the northwest gets torn apart by the mountains and the atmosphere kind of makes the rain jump over Asheville and reform once again. Then Black Mountain and surrounding areas get the deluge. Several have told me this area is known to the old timers as dry ridge. I call it the Cinco Ranch split cause the first year we lived in our home there, in the midst of drought, rain would form and split to go to the north and south of us. I was so thankful for the rain for many reasons but specifically I wouldn't have to water the flowers before going to the women's ministry event at church.

Which was a lot of fun, the event last night. We made a square of wood come alive with comforting words. So there was painting, drying, placing our vinyl onto the prepared plaque, painting over everything with another color choice, and sanding and distressing our work. The evening was named Salty and Sweet, so the snacks met every need and gave us the sugar rush to do the work. I have to admit the tedious work, which can put me over on the NancyMon stress scale, was happily outsourced to kind friends who bore my burden so to speak. I would still be there trying to finish up my piece if I hadn't had help.

Before the rain yesterday, the backyard was teaming with nature; two groundhogs, three squirrels, baby bunny foo foo, and about 6-8 young cardinals. Of course the doves were around and a mockingbird came in to make an appearance.

The Anniversary Sale is about to begin at Nordstrom. Well, it actually has for card holders. Long ago you had to be at a certain level to have the early access. This year I wasn't particularly interested but I did a quick look see on Thursday and found much to my delight and surprise that Nord carries the hair products I like, Oribe. Since I love Nord Reward points I ordered what I needed and of course there is the free shipping.

Thankful for an easing into the day Saturday.

Rambling In and Out of The Mountains

It is feeling rather warm today and there is less humidity today and tomorrow. Once last night I awoke and saw that the fog was rolling in big time. Sure enough, this morning there was thick, dense fog to be found everywhere. As the sun begins to burn through it, the morning clears with sunlight. I overslept this morning. It was one of those waking up early things and turning over thinking I will sleep only thirty more minutes and it turns into an hour and a half. Still got ready and made it to church on time. Not having much of a commute helps.

My house cleaning screeched to a halt on Saturday. After mopping upstairs and downstairs, and using my Norwex stuff, I realized the vacuum cleaner wasn't picking up anything as it ran. Uh, oops, I haven't cleaned the filter in a long time which means, I have never cleaned the filter. So after washing the filters, who knew there were two, they had to dry. We had rain in the late afternoon so with the filters drying, it was too good of a day to waste cleaning, so I converted to the reading portion of the day.

Another accurate hit on a squirrel with a small apple.  I do have compassion as I let one of the squirrels finish its drink of water. The only squirrel that gets the chunking is the one so slow to give up ground and leave. The beauty of it being the apple rolls down the hill and I retrieve it for another shot for another day.
****************************************
Well, now it is Tuesday evening. Sometimes life gets in the way of writing but that's ok. All three readers of Monablog have to find something else to do until I am able to sit down and think through things or go with the consciousness of thought...which can get me in trouble.

Today, I did a fun thing. I got up early, not a fun thing, and left the house around 8:20. Off to the Biltmore Park area to Another Broken Egg. Dena and I discovered the ABE goodness while in Rosemary Beach several years ago. When I get a chance I head that way cause their menu is a variety of breakfast goodness. Today, I went with the traditional breakfast. Delicious! Then to Barnes and Noble where I hit the jackpot in all things reading. Yes, just what I need more books to read when I haven't read books I already have. A little farther down the road and boom, you are at Target. They had one box of the little solar mason jar lights left, only they hadn't marked it down like the other Target. The summer things were on clearance and getting ready for school is taking over...which means I won't be at Target too often in August or the beginning of September. I went to Hobby Lobby and found a bowl 60% off, the regular 30% off price. Next up on the day in south Asheville was a trip to Southern Chicks which is really closer to Hendersonville but then it is just one big ville around here. Lots of cute stuff, all reproduction stuff and yet that did not stop me from buying a couple of things. Very cute in the metal and farmhouse genre. So then I traveled back toward Asheville toward the visitor center on the Blue Ridge Parkway where I thought I could buy a senior park pass but no....have to buy one at a park where you pay, like the Carl Sandburg house. Three years ago I went and turned right around when on the path the sign said snakes live here. That's all I needed to read. I did find a couple of cute t-shirts and decided to go home the long way on the Parkway. When I got to the Pisgah Inn where I had planned to stop, take pictures and peruse the gift shop only it was pouring down rain. I had a rain jacket but decided to keep going down the road and exited at NC 215, which is one of my favorite fall drives. Summer is not too bad either. The waterfalls along the way were full not like the little trickles of years past in the drought. Once I got in Canton, why not go ahead and go to Ducketts Produce Stand. Then why not go onto The Blue Rooster for a late lunch. I did the farmer's supper of five veggies, mac and cheese (counted as a veggie here), collards, green beans, lima beans, and fried green tomatoes. Coconut cake may have been a to go thing....

Uneventful drive home except taking it all in because it never gets old, the mountains and valleys. My goodness the corn looks wonderful! When I got home I unloaded most of the truck, sat a bit, talked with Roy and then went to the front porch with Buddy. Got my bird app going and calling the birds. Most responsive Carolina Wren and Carolina Chickadee. Of course Buddy cannot get to them and she looses interest and just wants to nap.

Tomorrow the Parkway has road work shutting it down to one lane. That is one of the reasons I chose today to enjoy the ride. I love days like today, at my own pace and interests. I like these kinds of days with friends too, but today was just an opportunity to get in the truck and ramble about.

Travel Its Path, Find Rest For Your Souls

 Jeremiah 6:16

This is what the Lord says:
“Stop at the crossroads and look around.
    Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it.
Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls.

There is a road that I travel almost everyday of the week. It is a winding, curving road. The scenery runs the whole gamete from houses and farms, rivers and valleys, trees and vegetative overgrowth of every kind of weed, both beheld in the beauty of flowers and in the world of just plain old, ratty tatty, ragged weeds. There is a house and the man that lives there...well, I have seen him outside many, many times. He never ever has a shirt on. What's with that? Even after several years, there are bends and turns and squiggly  yellow signs warning drivers to slow down for the curves ahead, that can still take me by surprise. When I come upon that wiggly squiggly portion of the road, I cannot help but think of the day when two drivers were trying to draw me into a staged fender bender. It would have worked except for the grace of God. I was distracted and in deep thought because Roy had called and I happened to be in the grocery store. He told me that Adult Protective Services had called him at the office. He was none too happy about that and he interpreted the conversation to be that of, who is going to take care of these antics and complaints about my father. He suggested I stop whatever I was doing, go home and call them back from the house phone...being that I was in NC and a NC number would show on Caller ID. A wave of nausea came over me, no make that several waves of nausea. The usual began, me shutting down, drawing inward, gathering the emotional wagons once again to fend off an attack. An untrue and mean attack. Driving home, thinking about and praying for the upcoming conversation with the authorities, the near accident attempt happened. But oddly enough, I missed the intended victim and the second person involved jumped out of a truck that had pulled to a stop on the side of the road. He was yelling I saw everything! I saw everything! Only there was nothing to see cause nothing had happened. Maybe this was supposed to be a sign unto me that the empty, untrue accusations that were a waste of time and taxpayers money would be empty, void...the set up wasn't going to work according to the plan. When I talked to the lady investigating the claims I asked her to call my brother. He could explain what was going on since I had not seen nor talked with my father since March 27, 2012. Doug talked with her, referred her to another investigator that had worked this case just a couple of months before and asked her to call back if she had any questions. We never heard from her again. The story isn't really about all that, it is about that place on the road that brings me to thankfulness and praise every time I wind around it because God protected me that day and turned something meant to be sinister to nothing at all.

There is usually a crossroad to our decisions on how we will react. I love driving the roads around here because there are so many moments that have been special taking in the scenery and beauty of this area that we get to call home. When I come to these places, I tend not to think firstly of the issue or problem that brought me to drive but rather to recall the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living...and at those places sometimes I stop...well, not on the wiggly squiggly portion of the roads, but a safe spot to pull over and be grateful and thankful...to give praise to God.

Yesterday, another chance to remember as Buddy and I made our way to the vet's office. Yes, the time I dread, mani/pedi time for Buddy. Roy and I decided not to give her a chill pill before her appointment. Sometimes, I think the stress of getting the pill into Buddy adds to her behavior. Waiting for the pill to do its work we have to make sure all the hiding places are inaccessible. Instead, I quietly closed doors during commercials as she and I relaxed in the bonus room watching TV. Watching TV during the day is not a normal thing for me but sometimes I watch before going to bed. So Buddy settled in nicely. She even let me carry her downstairs without a fight. With new knees I think the certainty of my steps is the reason why she didn't squirm. Didn't fight me going into the crate and she didn't meow chaotically as is the norm. As we made our way to the appointment I realized I hadn't been on this particular road since that fateful night in April when my tooth broke. With Publix so close I rarely go to The Fresh Market, which is on the same road as the vet. Lots of changes happening as the economy in the area picks up. But as we rode along I was able to be grateful that there is an urgent care dentist in the area, that we have dental insurance and came to realize, sometimes I am little dense, who am I kidding? Sometimes??? Anyway, my frustration with the timing of getting appointments and procedures clearly came from my lack of attention or urgency to secure a dentist here in a timely manner.

And at the vet appointment with the techs that have all the notes on Buddy and the procedure to remove her from the cage, I said something that they probably took offense to. They always want to take the crate apart to which I respond, just open the top of the crate. The look on their faces says, no one is that brave. So, I undid the top, heard their gasps as I reached into the cage and petted Buddy. I should have taken her out but instead looked at them like...see. So, they put a towel over Buddy to get her out and then this mat over the towel. I think this adds to not calms down Buddy. The trimming was uneventful and for this I am happy. They weren't too happy that I hadn't given Buddy a chill pill, so I said, her vet in Houston has driven a team in the Iditirod Race in Alaska numerous times and says if I can do that, I can trim a cat's nails. She doesn't towel Buddy at all. I love how they treat our pets but sometimes they are a little too zen for me.

It is so entertaining for the most part...yes, even squirrels but not so much snakes, watching nature happen among the butterfly bushes and around the bird feeder in the backyard. These young cardinals siblings are skittish and throws the everything off as other birds scatter from the nervousness of young birds.They are usually out kind of early...Early in interpretation of the morning riser...anyway, they seem to have lots of fun together. The special treat last night, the Bunny Foo Foo's eating together as a family. Mom had her baby with her while dad ate near the gravel road keeping an eye out for predators.

So this Saturday morning is feeling like a brunch morning. Roy said he almost called me earlier while he waited for Bible study to begin. I am so thankful he decided against that. Again there seems to be the conspiracy not to let me sleep in by Roy and Buddy. Buddy cooperated this morning so that left Roy to be the rogue conspirator...thankfully, he came to his senses.

Re-purposed Skill and Training

The day you don't think there will be any rain...there is rain. Overcast and cloudy most of the morning, then we had a little shower and the sun came out bright as can be. I turn my back to the window and the next thing I know, thunder, which brings Buddy down the stairs lickity split. Our living room is rather dark but the rain has let up some. These little early evening showers will help to keep flowers blooming and trees green. Oops, that last little bit of lightning felt a little too close.

I was so tired from driving to and from Charlotte last night. Vivian and Bill had asked me over but as much as I love them and banana pudding, I had to take a rain check. For a moment the thought of doing some laundry made a brief appearance in my thinking but thankfully, I came to my senses and opted out of doing laundry until later.
*********************************
Awoke to a foggy morning. The alarm clock, Buddy, kept going off about every fifteen minutes. I think Buddy and Roy have a conspiracy going not to let me ever sleep in or sleep late. With knees fixed I think I could sleep like a teenager again. Well, except for the whole Buddy and Roy conspiracy thing.... I am happy for a ease into the morning kind of day. Nothing on the schedule but a trip to CVS and to Publix.

I had music going loud last night and missed Brenda's call. Vestal Goodman was belting out Looking For A City and What A Lovely Name. Brenda was stopping in at Vivian's and then she wanted to stop in here. I texted her when I heard the VM and said I'm here come on. I was working on the front porch getting more of those little clips up to install the last strand of mason jar solar lights. Think I will finish out the whole porch so I can use little Christmas lights when that season arrives. Those won't be solar though. There weren't any leftover fireworks last night either. It is refreshing not to have days on end of fireworks. When I went to workout yesterday, I saw the firework set up in the yard of a neighbor down the road. If they had been outside, I would have stopped and thanked them for the beautiful display they had on the 4th. Brenda came over and we visited for a little bit. Both of us have had, not busy schedules, but rather full days in the recent week.

We could have had a prayer meeting yesterday at the gym. Judy C and Inez were there. Judy is working with Taylor too and is seeing results like I have seen doing his workout and stretches. I need to fix my playlists on my music cause somehow I lost the ones I had when I hooked up to the new computer to download music into the phone. No biggie to do. But I really liked the order of songs on the old list.

Yesterday, something must have been going on out here. While at the Exxon station, two unmarked police cars with sirens and lights blazing went down the highway. When I made my turn toward Weaverville, I saw several sheriff patrol cars along the way. On my way home from CVS there was a sheriff right across from the Post Office. Felt very safe going in to get our junk mail.

So thankful that the Indigo Buntings were around here for Lisa P's visit. She would love watching these young cardinals around the feeder and yard. There are two sets of young un's. The younger ones frequent the front feeder and are a bit more skittish. Constant bird fights keep Buddy interested in continuing porch life. There is a Carolina Wren looking to build a nest and truthfully, those birds seem interested in being close to human life or they know a good thing when they see it. I have discouraged it from building a nest between two cushions on chairs on the back deck. We hardly use the deck because of that whole underground railroad for animals thing going on underneath it. Right now at night there seems to be a colony of frogs living under the deck. Their loud night time serenade comes in like high def surround sound in the living room, which is a bit disconcerting. Yes! Dis-concert-ing. I am so not going to write, did you see what I did there? OK, I just wrote it but as narration not as look how clever. There is a guy on Twitter that adds that so often and I would unfollow but then I must get a buzz out of seeing him write that so many times about his blog posts and articles. Yes, he truly respects his audience. But I digress...Carolina Wrens, that is what I was writing about...well, I'm done but I will say Carolina Chickadees respond really well to the bird calls on my phone. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I have become a bird nerd.

Several friends have asked me if I am going back to playing tennis with new knees in place. I can emphatically answer, NO! I would have to develop a lob game and I just can't do that after being beaten by older ladies who only do deep lobs. No fun at all! No one has asked if I would go back to playing softball and I bet there is a senior ladies team around here somewhere if I checked, but no softball doesn't interest me either. But it is good to know I still have mad throwing skills. Since becoming the Crazy Squirrel Lady of Buncombe County, part of my job, nay, duty, is to keep squirrels off the bird feeder. How come bird feeder is two words but birdbath is not? Again, I digress... So yesterday, in the rain mind you, I was so upset with this one particular squirrel, who looks at you, puts his paw over his heart and I imagine him saying, "Elizabeth, I'm Coming!" (Sandford and Son reference for any millennials reading this. Old TV show)  This squirrel is becoming quite used to all the noise I make in order to chase them home. So, I picked up one of the little apples that Roy picked off our trees, went outside and perfectly timed the throw to hit that squirrel right in his....squirrel butt. He jumped so high and ran so fast up the hill, to his home far away in the neighbor's tree. Yes, softball skills are being re-purposed into a viable mountain skill.

I'm thinking that driving SequishShawn might be good training if I ever decide to apply for a job at the Biltmore. They are hiring laundry workers right now but laundry doesn't seem to be my passion. I think it would be fun to drive a shuttle bus on the estate. Vivian sent me pics from her brother, who is the longest tenured employee on the estate, of all the bears in the upper parking lot the past few days from the early morning before the estate opens. Anyway, I would have to think of some corny jokes to tell while driving the shuttle, so maybe I should work on those.

Speaking of laundry, the machine has stopped and it is time to load clothes into the dryer.

Fourth and Fifth

The drive home from Charlotte is always kind of sad no matter who I drop off at the airport. Unless it is someone who gets on my nerves, then it is a happy time...that's never happened...well from the drive from the Charlotte airport. Nah... But when I see the mountains rising in the distance my heart soars cause life in the mountains is a dream come true. Today as I made the drive into that beauty I was listening to the choir and orchestra of HFBC and listening to them sing and play How Great Thou Art. Truly an experience and I love the last note when I can hear my friend Dana sing that high note or is it me? No, it is Dana.

Why oh why did I look out the window this morning and think I saw a black stick? Soon I knew it wasn't a stick but a snake. A Florida black racer snake out there toward the end of the driveway twisting his head this was and that. I called Roy to look and he was nonchalant about the whole thing. I stepped away from the window and came back...dang...where did that snake go? Roy went outside with a hoe in his hand to investigate. He knows where it might be living so this will push the timeline of getting the land by the driveway landscaped. I went the whole summer last year not seeing one snake on our property...they are here but I didn't have to see them.

Last night we finished up our work outside...well, all that we are going to do for now. Roy got the trim painted. We hung new lights along the stone steps. Roy also trimmed some of the shrubs in the front of the house so Buddy and I can have a better view of the bird feeder out front. Then he trimmed some of the firs that have gotten so big, only because we needed to see the road better. Roy grilled steak kabobs and veggies last night for supper. It was all so good especially since I had some Taste of Texas seasoning for the steak.

Yesterday morning was an early one for me. I had my CT scan and impressions appointment with the oral surgeon. I love that they run on time and so I had a little time to kill before my workout session with Taylor. The Dr. is so nice and I think he will do a great job on the work that needs to be done. At the workout with Taylor I learned a new workout on the TRX and I knew that there would be muscles screaming their displeasure this morning...I was right. In fact they were rather perturbed with me last night. By nightfall, neither Roy nor I felt very good. Him from getting hot while working outside and me working inside for a hot body.  I jest...it wasn't that hot outside. Ha! It was and I could work till the return of Jesus and enjoy a hot body for one second before the rapture.
****************************************************
I enjoyed a wonderful display of fireworks last night. All through the valley the reverberation of the fireworks sounded. The new houses on the ridge had a great display. I went upstairs to see if Asheville's fireworks were visible but only some of the highest in the sky. What's nice is everyone stops shooting them around 10:00 pm.

On the way home from Charlotte, I stopped at the Cracker Barrel in Morganton. Even in my sadness I was able to beat a horde of children to the restroom and did so without breaking a hip. We had stopped for lunch there on the way and I saw a few things I wanted to purchase. So, I waited till coming home to do so and to see if I still wanted them. Nothing big just little North Carolina items.

The morning is passing quickly, so I better get moving and start the things I need to do.