The weather has run the whole gamut today. Raining and cool, then slightly clearing with more cool temps...then a little rain. Now it is sunshine, but no lollipops, and it feels a lot colder because the wind has picked up. The weather people are saying tomorrow will be a beautiful and dry day, then once again back to the rain and colder temps. Yeah, I knew winter wasn't finished with us yet.
I forgot a couple of things when leaving for workout this morning so afterwards a little trip homeward altered plans just a bit. Took a moment to eat a bite of lunch then headed over to The Fresh Market. There is so much that needs to be done and it will get done but it is good to take an easy afternoon especially since the night was pretty much sleepless until 2:30. Between Buddy not being able to settle down and the alarm going off on the heart monitor it made for a chaotic attempt to get any rest at all. The alarm was due to poor skin contact with the monitor and the only way it wouldn't go off, besides getting up and changing it, was to sleep on my back. That is probably the worst sleeping position or at least not my most comfortable and Buddy could not find a comfortable place because no arm position for her cuddle up on. She tried sleeping on my stomach, near me, then she would go downstairs, come back and begin the process all over again. Finally, we would find something that seemed to be good for all and the alarm monitor would go off. It wasn't the best night for my patience anyway since I had hit some button on a remote and there wasn't a picture on the TV screen except for the notice to tell me that something wasn't working earlier in the evening. Roy's instructions, while helpful, weren't helpful...but he finally figured out what to do but not before my exasperation with the situation had spilled over into tone and words. I apologized for not being kind and being technically inept is no excuse but still...it seemed like a good excuse.
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This morning our area awoke to a very foggy morning. Nothing unusual about that but my message feed is chirping quite a bit with the news of wrecks, crashes and areas to avoid. Thankful that I don't have to be anywhere this morning because at one time all the routes had traffic issues.
The stitches in my mouth have dissolved or fallen away. Probably fallen away is the best description. In the summer when I had the bone grafts the extra...uh...bone from cadavers, would slough away bit by bit...but these stitches kind of began just hanging and it could have been possible but not plausible to become tongue tied. They did kind of tickle and at times you could find me laughing...pretty hard and the laughter made the tickle worse. Thankfully, this never happened in public.
Today is Roy's birthday and he got his day started right with a melodious singing of Happy Birthday by yours truly. Really, the day can't get worse now for him. Buddy did not sing along but instead turned her back on the whole thing. And two for two on giving cards to him on time both Valentine's and birthday. Because of these two signs he believes Jesus' return will be soon. Gee, I know I'm so bad about being on time for birthdays.
So I made the call to order more heart monitor patches early this morning. I hate when I go old lady on the phone or in person. Sometimes I catch myself and other times...well, I just feel bad for a while. So, I am ordering these patches and I didn't stop myself by saying, I must be in the 3% of people I heard about where the patch and skin do not mix...silence...crickets...and then the tell all you've done gone old lady, will there be anything else mam? Boom!
Yesterday, out of the blue Taylor asked me a question...have you been writing much and if so how is it going? Why, yes, I had been. I don't count blog writing but sometimes there is a post that I work hard on and has more to it than the usual fluff. Man, I had a post all set to go but right now the time isn't right. It would be too much like I was talking about something here but when I wrote it, the something here hadn't even happened. It would be easy for others to jump to a conclusion...I don't use the blog or Facebook or Twitter to say things that I wouldn't be willing to say to someone face to face. So, for another time, my hard work will have to be posted but until then....the usual fluff.
Tuesday, February 27, 2018
Sunday, February 25, 2018
Still Loving Fun
I love Roy's photography. He came by his love of picture taking quite accidentally when he went on a mission trip to France. He bought an adequate for the beginner camera and found he had an eye for capturing scenery. He upgraded to a much better camera and began taking classes. He went with his class on field trips and the instructor encouraged the students to enter photo competitions. Sports photography or portraits not his specialty but framing a scene, photos telling a story...he has a gift. He doesn't use his camera to separate himself from the subject or use it to keep people at a distance. Roy can capture a moment and at the same time let the moment become a part of him. There are some scenes that are meant to be a pause. Doug gave us an easel made by the Barnwood guys and I've been trying to find the right picture for it and so last night I asked Roy to look through his photos and find one he really likes, then we'll have it made into a canvas for the easel. I'm so excited for this project.
Last week all the fields and yards had more amber and gold than green. Buds are sprouting on trees, the daffodils break through and give us that feeling of hope that spring is near and will happen upon us before we know. But one quick burst of cold will stop all this spring in its tracks. This morning on FB a picture from last year popped up with the plum tree in full bloom, even more so than this year.
My brother called the other night and we got caught up on things both in a taking care of business sense and just the happenings of our lives. The weather there is a roller coaster just like it can and will be here soon enough.
I read a great article yesterday on, 'Having Fun Is Good For You.' Of course this is not a surprise because having fun or playing is in my wheel house. Fun along with exercise and healthy eating habits but according to this article there might be a little more wiggle room on the healthy eating. Always encouraging to hear there might be wiggle room. Another thing worth noting is experiencing strong friendships is a huge item on the scale of things that are good for you. You know for me, making friends when I was younger was hard, tough. It wasn't until the middle of high school did strong friendships become a bedrock of who I am today. What an influence from friends in those early days as a believer still hold sway over me. And I still like having fun.
It was a computer church kind of morning. Rainy and drizzly, with a slight sore throat...it was an easy stay home decision. I did take care of a few things that I would normally wait until Monday to do, so a little ahead of the game. So the stop at the post office and quick Publix trip helped that happen. I also ate up leftovers from the weekend and will begin the week with a little more emptied refrigerator.
The warmth has been taken over by a slight chill. Our plum tree has bloomed even more and it will all come as a shock when the cold hits with a little more intensity. Still have the winter things out but putting up the heavier stuff. Hopefully, those won't return until next winter.
Last week all the fields and yards had more amber and gold than green. Buds are sprouting on trees, the daffodils break through and give us that feeling of hope that spring is near and will happen upon us before we know. But one quick burst of cold will stop all this spring in its tracks. This morning on FB a picture from last year popped up with the plum tree in full bloom, even more so than this year.
My brother called the other night and we got caught up on things both in a taking care of business sense and just the happenings of our lives. The weather there is a roller coaster just like it can and will be here soon enough.
I read a great article yesterday on, 'Having Fun Is Good For You.' Of course this is not a surprise because having fun or playing is in my wheel house. Fun along with exercise and healthy eating habits but according to this article there might be a little more wiggle room on the healthy eating. Always encouraging to hear there might be wiggle room. Another thing worth noting is experiencing strong friendships is a huge item on the scale of things that are good for you. You know for me, making friends when I was younger was hard, tough. It wasn't until the middle of high school did strong friendships become a bedrock of who I am today. What an influence from friends in those early days as a believer still hold sway over me. And I still like having fun.
It was a computer church kind of morning. Rainy and drizzly, with a slight sore throat...it was an easy stay home decision. I did take care of a few things that I would normally wait until Monday to do, so a little ahead of the game. So the stop at the post office and quick Publix trip helped that happen. I also ate up leftovers from the weekend and will begin the week with a little more emptied refrigerator.
The warmth has been taken over by a slight chill. Our plum tree has bloomed even more and it will all come as a shock when the cold hits with a little more intensity. Still have the winter things out but putting up the heavier stuff. Hopefully, those won't return until next winter.
Saturday, February 24, 2018
Fighting Off The Urge To Nap
With such beautiful warm weather it had to be, it needed to be a day outside. After workout with Taylor, which tomorrow will be our one year anniversary of working together, I stopped by home for a sec and then headed out to Johnson City. It seemed a good idea to see how SequishShawn was running after being worked on this week. There is a definite difference, so welcomed. I put the Kroger back on the list of stops and made it the first stop of the trip. For once the timing was right and it wasn't crazy busy and parking. It has never been that way anytime we have gone. Picked up a few things and then headed over to Academy. Found a pair of New Balance tennis shoes that fit like a dream. A late lunch was in order so Carrabba's fit the bill with the usual lunch of mezzaluna pasta and side salad. Stopping in at Lowe's was very tempting but went ahead to Barnes and Noble. Found a few things and got my free Starbucks for the month. Tried the smokey butterscotch latte and it was pretty good. It was time to wrap up the quick visit to Johnson City and get back home. The sky, sun and clouds were just over the top gorgeous.
Taylor's friend, who began The Regeneration Station business of re-purposed and vintage items was killed in a motorcycle accident near Dallas. The celebration of his life was this afternoon. He was Taylor's first friend when he came to the area and he had begged his friend to give up motorcycles because he was a dad now and needed to be around for his daughter. My heart broke for Taylor today as he faced the afternoon of saying farewell. Tomorrow Billy Graham will be moved from The Cove with a drive through Black Mountain and then onto Charlotte where he will lie in repose at his library. There are so many good stories being shared about the effect Billy has had on so many. While watching the service for Jeanette Clift George, Ruth "Bunny" Graham spoke because her parents had been friend with Jeanette. She said that both her mom and dad claimed Jeanette as their friend and had wonderful times being together as creative people share with one another.
**********
Another spring like day in the mountains. The birds are singing and the squirrels are nervous. Today I get to help celebrate the 90th birthday of a friend that I am so thankful for. Today, Billy Graham's body will leave the mountains officially. Even when driving to Charlotte to pick up family and friends from the airport I get sad when the mountains are in the rear view mirror and the ahead is a little more flatter and kind of Texas looking. The same feeling happens while driving on the Smokey Mountain Expressway going through the Natahala toward Chattanooga. Even though the trip to Texas holds fun, it is always so sad and yes a few tears shed when the mountains are in the rear view window. But the mountains don't matter to Billy anymore, because he is with the mountain maker and mover.
Roy officially tendered his resignation last Saturday....no, not from the office but from leading the Bible study on Saturday mornings. He has been feeling the need to step back for a little bit and made it official. He has learned so much and grown doing this over the past few years and the Bible study helped the transition from living in the big city and moving out to Katy...which is really just an extension of the big city.
What a fun birthday celebration and what a feast! Good cooks are abundant in Brenda's family. Lots of fun too. Came home with some to go for my supper tonight but dang, I am still so full. Upon returning home the project first and foremost to do did not work out. So back to the drawing board. I watched a little bit of Billy Graham's processional going through Charlotte and then arriving at the Billy Graham Library. As they carried the casket inside I couldn't help but think, I hope someone turned off that talking cow in the building.
Our plum trees are blooming, the pear tree has buds and the weeping willow has little green leaves. With our warm up spring has sprung but maybe a little too early. The weather forecasts have cold weather returning during the first week of March. Buddy has settled in for her first evening nap and I am fighting off the urge to nap myself...
Taylor's friend, who began The Regeneration Station business of re-purposed and vintage items was killed in a motorcycle accident near Dallas. The celebration of his life was this afternoon. He was Taylor's first friend when he came to the area and he had begged his friend to give up motorcycles because he was a dad now and needed to be around for his daughter. My heart broke for Taylor today as he faced the afternoon of saying farewell. Tomorrow Billy Graham will be moved from The Cove with a drive through Black Mountain and then onto Charlotte where he will lie in repose at his library. There are so many good stories being shared about the effect Billy has had on so many. While watching the service for Jeanette Clift George, Ruth "Bunny" Graham spoke because her parents had been friend with Jeanette. She said that both her mom and dad claimed Jeanette as their friend and had wonderful times being together as creative people share with one another.
**********
Another spring like day in the mountains. The birds are singing and the squirrels are nervous. Today I get to help celebrate the 90th birthday of a friend that I am so thankful for. Today, Billy Graham's body will leave the mountains officially. Even when driving to Charlotte to pick up family and friends from the airport I get sad when the mountains are in the rear view mirror and the ahead is a little more flatter and kind of Texas looking. The same feeling happens while driving on the Smokey Mountain Expressway going through the Natahala toward Chattanooga. Even though the trip to Texas holds fun, it is always so sad and yes a few tears shed when the mountains are in the rear view window. But the mountains don't matter to Billy anymore, because he is with the mountain maker and mover.
Roy officially tendered his resignation last Saturday....no, not from the office but from leading the Bible study on Saturday mornings. He has been feeling the need to step back for a little bit and made it official. He has learned so much and grown doing this over the past few years and the Bible study helped the transition from living in the big city and moving out to Katy...which is really just an extension of the big city.
What a fun birthday celebration and what a feast! Good cooks are abundant in Brenda's family. Lots of fun too. Came home with some to go for my supper tonight but dang, I am still so full. Upon returning home the project first and foremost to do did not work out. So back to the drawing board. I watched a little bit of Billy Graham's processional going through Charlotte and then arriving at the Billy Graham Library. As they carried the casket inside I couldn't help but think, I hope someone turned off that talking cow in the building.
Our plum trees are blooming, the pear tree has buds and the weeping willow has little green leaves. With our warm up spring has sprung but maybe a little too early. The weather forecasts have cold weather returning during the first week of March. Buddy has settled in for her first evening nap and I am fighting off the urge to nap myself...
Thursday, February 22, 2018
Feels So Springy But The Cold Will Return...You Know It Will
Imagine the surprise this morning after not seeing any of the Feral Fam kiddos, to see MJ looking in the window. Mama Cat has been around so at first that black and white fur would probably belong to her but that face of MJ with more black than white and a little pink nose, well you know the flutters begin...not the atrial flutters, the love flutters. Buddy's energy level rose greeting this welcomed view but then the lure of treats won her attention. I went outside with some food and MJ sat on the steps watching with a little impatience of my slowness. By the time I got back into the house, Camo had joined him and Mama was coming down the hill...but no Cali. Being the daughter of one of the best conspiracy detail assemblers around, I have to fight off the urge to believe that this whole going away thing for extended periods of time was really just to ditch Cali. She doesn't fit with that rowdy bunch... I know better than to read into anything or create an unlikely scenario. The kiddos have been hanging around the deck after finishing off breakfast. They are probably still hungry. I do think they have been off trying their hand at living by their wits but they know where they can get a meal.
So many times once the morning arrives the plans change and thus today changed quite a bit. More errands that might have been put off till tomorrow but so happy to have gone to get them done. A quick trip to Mr. Zips with the light show makes the whole car wash experience trippy. Lowe's was next on the list for bird seed, feeders, bulbs and heavy duty door rug to help with the mud and muck. So, Lowe's didn't have the string lights, so a quick stop in Tractor Supply, which they had none. Whoever is the new buyer for TS doesn't do as many home goods as they did before. Tried to go to Ace Hardware but the parking lot is a zoo with all the restaurants thus no parking. Roy and I had success at Big Lots at Christmas, so I was willing to give it a try and they had the string lights and a few other decor items that needed to come home. Finally got to the grocery shopping and they had Topo Chicos in! Yahoo! Ate a quick sandwich here at the house and then started doing some outdoor work because the day was just to beautiful to stay inside. MJ and Mama were hanging out on the deck and MJ stayed there on the rail and let me get pretty close to him. Camo came up but still no sign of Cali.
Tonight it is a quick salad for supper and then laundry to take care of. The route for Billy Graham's body has been published today. The family and Billy arrived at The Cove this evening. On Saturday they'll do a drive through Black Mountain, close to Montreat, and then onto Charlotte. Living in BG land is so interesting. I have seen so many interesting articles and was even watching a documentary that was done when he first started his revival in Los Angles, called Canvas Cathedral. I need to see if I can find it again to finish watching it. So many sharing memories online and those memories has caused me to think back to those days of watching Billy Graham crusades on TV. I am thinking we went to the Astro Dome when he came to Houston, but I feel a bit fuzzy on that. When Lisa is here we are planning on going to the Billy Graham Library since she has never been there. This time I hope to have a much better attitude than when I went with Dena. Self guided tour is a stretch...they control access and egress. We made an older lady volunteering kind of upset cause we wanted to leave before the film was over and I talked our way out of going to the decision room cause we both had made that critical decision long ago and we wanted to shop in the bookstore before it closed.
So many times once the morning arrives the plans change and thus today changed quite a bit. More errands that might have been put off till tomorrow but so happy to have gone to get them done. A quick trip to Mr. Zips with the light show makes the whole car wash experience trippy. Lowe's was next on the list for bird seed, feeders, bulbs and heavy duty door rug to help with the mud and muck. So, Lowe's didn't have the string lights, so a quick stop in Tractor Supply, which they had none. Whoever is the new buyer for TS doesn't do as many home goods as they did before. Tried to go to Ace Hardware but the parking lot is a zoo with all the restaurants thus no parking. Roy and I had success at Big Lots at Christmas, so I was willing to give it a try and they had the string lights and a few other decor items that needed to come home. Finally got to the grocery shopping and they had Topo Chicos in! Yahoo! Ate a quick sandwich here at the house and then started doing some outdoor work because the day was just to beautiful to stay inside. MJ and Mama were hanging out on the deck and MJ stayed there on the rail and let me get pretty close to him. Camo came up but still no sign of Cali.
Tonight it is a quick salad for supper and then laundry to take care of. The route for Billy Graham's body has been published today. The family and Billy arrived at The Cove this evening. On Saturday they'll do a drive through Black Mountain, close to Montreat, and then onto Charlotte. Living in BG land is so interesting. I have seen so many interesting articles and was even watching a documentary that was done when he first started his revival in Los Angles, called Canvas Cathedral. I need to see if I can find it again to finish watching it. So many sharing memories online and those memories has caused me to think back to those days of watching Billy Graham crusades on TV. I am thinking we went to the Astro Dome when he came to Houston, but I feel a bit fuzzy on that. When Lisa is here we are planning on going to the Billy Graham Library since she has never been there. This time I hope to have a much better attitude than when I went with Dena. Self guided tour is a stretch...they control access and egress. We made an older lady volunteering kind of upset cause we wanted to leave before the film was over and I talked our way out of going to the decision room cause we both had made that critical decision long ago and we wanted to shop in the bookstore before it closed.
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
A Little This And That
It came to mind in the middle of the night that I shouldn't have returned the call to the cardiology office yesterday afternoon. They must have wondered what kind of crazy woman was at the other end of the line. The message I left was convoluted, so this morning I called back, apologized for the gibberish and went on with the scheduling of my procedure for the end of March. You see, yesterday, was the second portion of dental surgery for implants, under anesthesia and by the afternoon pain medication was added to that recipe for gibberish. The surgery went well and Brenda took good care of getting me to the office and then back home, with a quick stop at CVS in between. Oops, in my delirium, I might have asked if we could stop at Duck Donuts too.
Even little Buddy checked on me in the middle of the night. She must have wondered what in the world was going on when I went to bed at 7:30 pm. She stayed close and then once settled, she moved to the end of the bed. Around 1:30 am, the sensation of something furry under my nose woke me up. Guess she was checking in to see if I was still breathing and once she had assurance that breathing was taking place, she laid down on my arm for the rest of the night.
So Roy requested that I take it easy today and stick around home. No problem man. It is a beautiful spring like day. There are hints of its arrival all around because the daffodils have shot up through the dirt to open air and pear trees are beginning to have buds, so are red bud trees, at least in Biltmore Village. Ours isn't quite there yet. Over the past few days the Feral Fam has dispersed and if and when they come back is always a surprise. MJ and Camo have been inching toward going on their own for a little bit and Cali, well Cali didn't prepare and she was left behind by her siblings. She kind of moped around for a couple of days and then crawled through the hole in the fence, not looking back. Mama Cat has been around but not at the normal times. This morning I couldn't go out and feed her so she gave up and moved on. The ebb and flow of the Feral Fam over these last few months has been a learning experience and a delightful gift. Only Mama Cat seems to be the only one around these days. Think the kiddos had itchy feet to go and discover the world.
*************
This morning at CA Diner, I read that Billy Graham had passed away at the age of 99. The diner had a rock station on as background noise and here in NC, where he was from, the DJ's are talking about Billy Graham in between each song. Wow! The newspaper and TV stations are blowing up Twitter and Facebook with stories and asking that we share our stories, pics and videos with them to honor this great man of God. The low key talk this morning in the restaurant was about Billy Graham.What a great man of God.
The day began early as SequishShawn needed to be at Jimmy's for his 5000 mile check up and to have the fuel injectors cleaned. They gave me a loaner car which is an old school Mazda...from back in the day before cameras and blind spot warnings. I actually had to put the key into the lock to unlock the car. The next stop was at C A and I have already written about that. Since it was raining at a good clip, I came on home to wait it out not trusting myself with the old school car. And the electricity just went off...well not off for us because we have a generator. Twice in a week's time.
Last night after midnight I finally got up and changed out my heart monitor patch. The alarm notification kept going off due to a weak skin connection. No one was getting any sleep around here. After hearing numerous horror stories about removing the pad, it came off quite easily and without a problem. Putting on the new patch...well, I read and reread the brochure. I did do all the instructions but I have a feeling that I could be in that low percentage of people where the patch doesn't stick as well. So, probably calling for more patches will be in the future. While falling asleep the alarm went off just one time but the gel felt like it was already pulling away from my skin.
Last week when I was in Walmart and you have to know how much that pains me to write this...anyway, while checking out the clerk made mention of the cat food, that they sell a lot of Little Friskies which my reply was it was a good price. Then I mentioned that it was for my little Feral Fam and the clerk said, well you know ferals and animals on the street can't be picky, they should be happy for whatever they get.That raised my hackles...wherever they are located...to which I said, in the past few months while feeding them, we have ruled out turkey and tuna flavors because they don't like them, love salmon and chicken and tolerate beef every now and then. She said, well they are just trash animals, you shouldn't be so flexible with them...more hackles raised but it was clear this woman had this opinion and a little shudder went down my spine and probably over the hackles as well because her thoughts on this probably extended past animals to people who need assistance and expands past unknown people and onto her friends and family. Sometimes, those little things like that speak more to what is indicative to the large. And sometimes not. I don't know this lady at Walmart, these are just some thoughts and I hope I am wrong. Are we truly generous or are our gifts and words merely a hook to give opinions or desire something in return? I certainly have been on the receiving end of generous hearts this week. Food, phone calls, texts, emails...offers to help and the like before I even got home from the oral surgeon's office. Dan Rockwell writes on leadership on Twitter and he says:
Even little Buddy checked on me in the middle of the night. She must have wondered what in the world was going on when I went to bed at 7:30 pm. She stayed close and then once settled, she moved to the end of the bed. Around 1:30 am, the sensation of something furry under my nose woke me up. Guess she was checking in to see if I was still breathing and once she had assurance that breathing was taking place, she laid down on my arm for the rest of the night.
So Roy requested that I take it easy today and stick around home. No problem man. It is a beautiful spring like day. There are hints of its arrival all around because the daffodils have shot up through the dirt to open air and pear trees are beginning to have buds, so are red bud trees, at least in Biltmore Village. Ours isn't quite there yet. Over the past few days the Feral Fam has dispersed and if and when they come back is always a surprise. MJ and Camo have been inching toward going on their own for a little bit and Cali, well Cali didn't prepare and she was left behind by her siblings. She kind of moped around for a couple of days and then crawled through the hole in the fence, not looking back. Mama Cat has been around but not at the normal times. This morning I couldn't go out and feed her so she gave up and moved on. The ebb and flow of the Feral Fam over these last few months has been a learning experience and a delightful gift. Only Mama Cat seems to be the only one around these days. Think the kiddos had itchy feet to go and discover the world.
*************
This morning at CA Diner, I read that Billy Graham had passed away at the age of 99. The diner had a rock station on as background noise and here in NC, where he was from, the DJ's are talking about Billy Graham in between each song. Wow! The newspaper and TV stations are blowing up Twitter and Facebook with stories and asking that we share our stories, pics and videos with them to honor this great man of God. The low key talk this morning in the restaurant was about Billy Graham.What a great man of God.
The day began early as SequishShawn needed to be at Jimmy's for his 5000 mile check up and to have the fuel injectors cleaned. They gave me a loaner car which is an old school Mazda...from back in the day before cameras and blind spot warnings. I actually had to put the key into the lock to unlock the car. The next stop was at C A and I have already written about that. Since it was raining at a good clip, I came on home to wait it out not trusting myself with the old school car. And the electricity just went off...well not off for us because we have a generator. Twice in a week's time.
Last night after midnight I finally got up and changed out my heart monitor patch. The alarm notification kept going off due to a weak skin connection. No one was getting any sleep around here. After hearing numerous horror stories about removing the pad, it came off quite easily and without a problem. Putting on the new patch...well, I read and reread the brochure. I did do all the instructions but I have a feeling that I could be in that low percentage of people where the patch doesn't stick as well. So, probably calling for more patches will be in the future. While falling asleep the alarm went off just one time but the gel felt like it was already pulling away from my skin.
Last week when I was in Walmart and you have to know how much that pains me to write this...anyway, while checking out the clerk made mention of the cat food, that they sell a lot of Little Friskies which my reply was it was a good price. Then I mentioned that it was for my little Feral Fam and the clerk said, well you know ferals and animals on the street can't be picky, they should be happy for whatever they get.That raised my hackles...wherever they are located...to which I said, in the past few months while feeding them, we have ruled out turkey and tuna flavors because they don't like them, love salmon and chicken and tolerate beef every now and then. She said, well they are just trash animals, you shouldn't be so flexible with them...more hackles raised but it was clear this woman had this opinion and a little shudder went down my spine and probably over the hackles as well because her thoughts on this probably extended past animals to people who need assistance and expands past unknown people and onto her friends and family. Sometimes, those little things like that speak more to what is indicative to the large. And sometimes not. I don't know this lady at Walmart, these are just some thoughts and I hope I am wrong. Are we truly generous or are our gifts and words merely a hook to give opinions or desire something in return? I certainly have been on the receiving end of generous hearts this week. Food, phone calls, texts, emails...offers to help and the like before I even got home from the oral surgeon's office. Dan Rockwell writes on leadership on Twitter and he says:
Generosity is about your heart not about how much you have.
Sunday, February 18, 2018
In The Morning When I Rise...Give Me Coffee
I have started a blog post celebrating one year of staying here without any return short or extended trips to Texas. And I would like to finish that post up but it will wait until another day. This has been the first full winter and while there were bitterly cold days, snow, ice and mud, it hasn't been too bad. I'd almost go as far as to say it has been enjoyable on so many levels. January allowed that much needed time out and quiet to sort through, pray about and then begin to walk out what I felt the Lord spoke to my heart. Now as the days warm up a bit and the precip is rain not snow, life is warming up to the days ahead.
Tomorrow should be the conclusion of the surgery portion of this whole implant experience that began in April of last year. Then once they settle in the visiting the dentist for the crown thing happens. If I am not too jacked up on anesthesia tomorrow afternoon I'll call the cardiologist office because, yes three times was not a charm and I have fallen through the cracks once again.
Yesterday was ADD cleaning day. Yes, once again a project began only for it to morph into something else, then my attention turned elsewhere but happily everything that needed to be done yesterday, was done, just not in a disciplined and orderly manner...but then it wouldn't have been fun.
Between Buddy and me, there wasn't a whole lot of sleeping going on last night. My heart monitor kept going off, I think due to low connectivity or something but it was difficult to get comfortable and not set that thing off. When I woke up this morning, oversleeping a bit, I wrestled with the decision to stay home or go to Sunday School. I'm so glad I got up and went. Our lesson was so good and we all just have a wonderful time with each other. When I came in the room, Inez patted the seat next to her and said sit down...so I can elbow you. She does that when no one will volunteer to read the passage. A couple of weeks ago I read the verses and every hard name for cities had to be in every verse, so today I proofed the passages and read the easy to pronounce section. One of the questions in the lesson was recalling a song that has meant so much to you and of course I volunteered Inez to tell hers...which she didn't. Think she's embarrassed to admit Boot Scootin' Boogie is her favorite...nah! I kid!
With flu and cold still rampant in the area, no big church to sit with the coughers and hackers. I did make a quick trip to The Fresh Market and I almost slept walked through that whole experience because of a huge lack of sleep. But I believe there is enough soft food in the house now and so many volunteered this morning to help me with that, but I'm good.
So it will be an early night for me and I'm hoping to fall asleep easily cause it will be an early rising kind of morning tomorrow. No food or water after midnight...so better get that last few drinks of water in.
Tomorrow should be the conclusion of the surgery portion of this whole implant experience that began in April of last year. Then once they settle in the visiting the dentist for the crown thing happens. If I am not too jacked up on anesthesia tomorrow afternoon I'll call the cardiologist office because, yes three times was not a charm and I have fallen through the cracks once again.
Yesterday was ADD cleaning day. Yes, once again a project began only for it to morph into something else, then my attention turned elsewhere but happily everything that needed to be done yesterday, was done, just not in a disciplined and orderly manner...but then it wouldn't have been fun.
Between Buddy and me, there wasn't a whole lot of sleeping going on last night. My heart monitor kept going off, I think due to low connectivity or something but it was difficult to get comfortable and not set that thing off. When I woke up this morning, oversleeping a bit, I wrestled with the decision to stay home or go to Sunday School. I'm so glad I got up and went. Our lesson was so good and we all just have a wonderful time with each other. When I came in the room, Inez patted the seat next to her and said sit down...so I can elbow you. She does that when no one will volunteer to read the passage. A couple of weeks ago I read the verses and every hard name for cities had to be in every verse, so today I proofed the passages and read the easy to pronounce section. One of the questions in the lesson was recalling a song that has meant so much to you and of course I volunteered Inez to tell hers...which she didn't. Think she's embarrassed to admit Boot Scootin' Boogie is her favorite...nah! I kid!
With flu and cold still rampant in the area, no big church to sit with the coughers and hackers. I did make a quick trip to The Fresh Market and I almost slept walked through that whole experience because of a huge lack of sleep. But I believe there is enough soft food in the house now and so many volunteered this morning to help me with that, but I'm good.
So it will be an early night for me and I'm hoping to fall asleep easily cause it will be an early rising kind of morning tomorrow. No food or water after midnight...so better get that last few drinks of water in.
Friday, February 16, 2018
It's All About The Monitoring
So today is day one of wearing a monitor...no, I'm not under house arrest but late yesterday afternoon, I got the patch. Things sure have come far since the last time of heart monitoring when it was a device on a lanyard and you had to make calls for the data to be received. Now they are patches to be worn from 5-9 days with a smart phone that needs to be within ten feet of you. The monitor is constantly receiving and then sending information about the happenings or non happenings. So, I will be monitored until March 16. The process took much longer than it should have because the monitor person was looking at the next days appointments thinking they were the current day. It was disheartening to sit there and have people called back who just arrived. For a moment the thought occurred that I could be helping the cleaning staff if I tarried there much longer. I really do like Asheville Cardiology but this is the second time of falling through the cracks and the count might go up to three times because the surgery scheduler did not call yesterday like they told me she would.
Mama Cat and Deadbeat Dad after a days absence showed up this morning after serving breakfast. She is sitting on the deck with her eyes fixed on the window almost commanding me to come out there with food. Yes, I saw she and Deadbeat come crawling out of the meadow above us or maybe that should be pasture. He has already headed out and left the family behind. No, now he's back joining in the staring process.
Yesterday was a long day and the night was fraught with interruptions and lack of sleep. Once again I went to bed early and once again there was a major interruption to that plan. The sound of something big falling and crashing awakened me. I kind of knew what the sound was I just had to guess which bedroom it came from. My first hunch was the right one. The fixture for hanging clothes had torn away and broke just like one did in my closet last year only this time it is the closet where Roy keeps his stuff. I did the minimal just to be able to close the doors and be like Scarlet O'Hara and think about that tomorrow. Told Roy this morning. He's going to call our contractor to see if any of the guys on his crew do odd jobs or I might see if Taylor would like to tackle the job. He does contracting work on the side. I'm not going to worry about it right now, it is a late into next week kind of thing. So the day was long because it started early. Something that I enjoy is going for breakfast before my hair appointment at Corner Kitchen and for the first time I ate upstairs. The table was by a window that looks out onto the street and across the way, through the red bud trees, the steeple of All Souls Church could be seen. It is the church that George Vanderbilt built for his village outside his estate. Had the usual Biltmore Breakfast with a side of bacon. After my haircut I ran a few errand there in the village and then headed over to Target. A good Target run and next a Barnes and Noble stop with a coupon involved. Since I was in the vicinity and still had time before my monitor appointment, I made a quick look see at Home Goods...oh who am I fooling, there is never a quick look in a Home Goods. That was fun and with about an hour and a half to fill, it seemed like a good day to drive though the Biltmore Estate. Lots of work being done there and I was joyfully surprised to see they had some sheep and lambs out in the pasture. So, that is a must stop and it was quite the relaxing thing to do before what turned out to be a little bit of a stressful wait at the cardiology office.
It was a warm day, the warmest since November. It was enjoyable but it also nailed down the point that I had seemed to have forgotten, well kind of...that heat affects me. Coupled with the two nights previously of not being able to sleep well, the warmth of the day zapped energy out of me left and right.
This warm day is beginning to turn a bit cooler. You can feel the mist in the air and the skies have gone from dark blue to light to silver to gray and bluish gray. Roy contacted our contractor and he is sending over someone at the end of next week to fix or replace all the closet hardware. He will also have his bid ready for the work to begin on the back porch. Exciting times for sure.
This morning when I did not respond to the stare, MC took the kiddos and Deadbeat up to the farm above us and they were gone most of the day. They weren't around when I came back from Walmart and then a little later Publix. Since getting home I have occupied my attention to the kitchen floors and a little flash of black and white caught my eye. The kiddos were back so it was food prep time and got supper out to them and we will see if MC and DB show up.
Buddy decided mopping the floor wasn't for her so she is upstairs and now I need to finish up that chore and fix supper.
Mama Cat and Deadbeat Dad after a days absence showed up this morning after serving breakfast. She is sitting on the deck with her eyes fixed on the window almost commanding me to come out there with food. Yes, I saw she and Deadbeat come crawling out of the meadow above us or maybe that should be pasture. He has already headed out and left the family behind. No, now he's back joining in the staring process.
Yesterday was a long day and the night was fraught with interruptions and lack of sleep. Once again I went to bed early and once again there was a major interruption to that plan. The sound of something big falling and crashing awakened me. I kind of knew what the sound was I just had to guess which bedroom it came from. My first hunch was the right one. The fixture for hanging clothes had torn away and broke just like one did in my closet last year only this time it is the closet where Roy keeps his stuff. I did the minimal just to be able to close the doors and be like Scarlet O'Hara and think about that tomorrow. Told Roy this morning. He's going to call our contractor to see if any of the guys on his crew do odd jobs or I might see if Taylor would like to tackle the job. He does contracting work on the side. I'm not going to worry about it right now, it is a late into next week kind of thing. So the day was long because it started early. Something that I enjoy is going for breakfast before my hair appointment at Corner Kitchen and for the first time I ate upstairs. The table was by a window that looks out onto the street and across the way, through the red bud trees, the steeple of All Souls Church could be seen. It is the church that George Vanderbilt built for his village outside his estate. Had the usual Biltmore Breakfast with a side of bacon. After my haircut I ran a few errand there in the village and then headed over to Target. A good Target run and next a Barnes and Noble stop with a coupon involved. Since I was in the vicinity and still had time before my monitor appointment, I made a quick look see at Home Goods...oh who am I fooling, there is never a quick look in a Home Goods. That was fun and with about an hour and a half to fill, it seemed like a good day to drive though the Biltmore Estate. Lots of work being done there and I was joyfully surprised to see they had some sheep and lambs out in the pasture. So, that is a must stop and it was quite the relaxing thing to do before what turned out to be a little bit of a stressful wait at the cardiology office.
It was a warm day, the warmest since November. It was enjoyable but it also nailed down the point that I had seemed to have forgotten, well kind of...that heat affects me. Coupled with the two nights previously of not being able to sleep well, the warmth of the day zapped energy out of me left and right.
This warm day is beginning to turn a bit cooler. You can feel the mist in the air and the skies have gone from dark blue to light to silver to gray and bluish gray. Roy contacted our contractor and he is sending over someone at the end of next week to fix or replace all the closet hardware. He will also have his bid ready for the work to begin on the back porch. Exciting times for sure.
This morning when I did not respond to the stare, MC took the kiddos and Deadbeat up to the farm above us and they were gone most of the day. They weren't around when I came back from Walmart and then a little later Publix. Since getting home I have occupied my attention to the kitchen floors and a little flash of black and white caught my eye. The kiddos were back so it was food prep time and got supper out to them and we will see if MC and DB show up.
Buddy decided mopping the floor wasn't for her so she is upstairs and now I need to finish up that chore and fix supper.
Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Happy Happy Day My Friends!
Buddy is celebrating this day of greeting cards, candy and flowers by discovering the bag with cat toys from Walmart. Nothing says a little bit of love than catnip and feathers to a cat, oh and treats.
Last night was one of those gut wrenching nights when one gets too emotionally involved with the Feral Fam, rabbits and cows. Specifically the Feral Fam as Mama Cat has been pushing her failure to launch kiddos out of the nest so to speak. Cali hung around MC yesterday but MC kept her at a distance. When Cali was occupied with a leaf MC hit the road Jack and left her behind. In the dusk of the evening Cali realized she was all alone. This was the opportunity and it felt like she would make that move toward me because she sat and looked into the window. Alas, to no avail did she make the decision to be warm and always fed. I decided to go upstairs because I could not sit here and pine over the empty deck. I did learn something though because I had to make another trip downstairs and scared off a big gray and white cat eating leftovers on the deck. Then around 4:00 am cat noises awoke us and a big gray cat sauntered off up to the gravel road. Once we get this deck made into a porch we are so getting a critter cam. Although, I might not want to know what critters roam about at night. Just before noon today, Deadbeat Dad, MC and Cali arrived for brunch, much to my surprise. I kept Deadbeat back from the food by standing at the window, letting MC and Cali eat first. He seems to be teaching Cali how to hunt which is good because MC gave all that hunting attention to MJ and Camo. Cali was like the kid that goes and picks flowers in right field. See, I know too much about these animals! But, they have been such a gift this winter and their antics have entertained but the best part is once again seeing how compassion and kindness is the best path to sashay.
Today is the big cardiologist visit. Well, at this age they are all big. I've been pretty good eating mostly healthy but I am trying to figure out the lightest of winter clothes for the weigh in. Summer is the better time for cardiologist appointments, clothes wise.
So how better to end a day now into evening but with some Bojangles chicken legs and biscuits. Truly a love feast for the day of cards, flowers and chocolate. I was the cardiologist's last appointment of the day so the waiting room wasn't filled with coughing and sneezing people. I was prepared with hand sanitizer though. My appointment went well and I go back tomorrow to be fitted for a monitor to wear for a month. The last time I had to wear one was in one of the most stressful and emotional times, my mother's passing and then her service. Hopefully, there will not be anything of that nature happening in the next month.
The afternoon before my appointment, Lisa P called and we had a great, great time laughing and anticipating her soon coming visit.
Happy Happy Day My Friends!
Last night was one of those gut wrenching nights when one gets too emotionally involved with the Feral Fam, rabbits and cows. Specifically the Feral Fam as Mama Cat has been pushing her failure to launch kiddos out of the nest so to speak. Cali hung around MC yesterday but MC kept her at a distance. When Cali was occupied with a leaf MC hit the road Jack and left her behind. In the dusk of the evening Cali realized she was all alone. This was the opportunity and it felt like she would make that move toward me because she sat and looked into the window. Alas, to no avail did she make the decision to be warm and always fed. I decided to go upstairs because I could not sit here and pine over the empty deck. I did learn something though because I had to make another trip downstairs and scared off a big gray and white cat eating leftovers on the deck. Then around 4:00 am cat noises awoke us and a big gray cat sauntered off up to the gravel road. Once we get this deck made into a porch we are so getting a critter cam. Although, I might not want to know what critters roam about at night. Just before noon today, Deadbeat Dad, MC and Cali arrived for brunch, much to my surprise. I kept Deadbeat back from the food by standing at the window, letting MC and Cali eat first. He seems to be teaching Cali how to hunt which is good because MC gave all that hunting attention to MJ and Camo. Cali was like the kid that goes and picks flowers in right field. See, I know too much about these animals! But, they have been such a gift this winter and their antics have entertained but the best part is once again seeing how compassion and kindness is the best path to sashay.
Today is the big cardiologist visit. Well, at this age they are all big. I've been pretty good eating mostly healthy but I am trying to figure out the lightest of winter clothes for the weigh in. Summer is the better time for cardiologist appointments, clothes wise.
So how better to end a day now into evening but with some Bojangles chicken legs and biscuits. Truly a love feast for the day of cards, flowers and chocolate. I was the cardiologist's last appointment of the day so the waiting room wasn't filled with coughing and sneezing people. I was prepared with hand sanitizer though. My appointment went well and I go back tomorrow to be fitted for a monitor to wear for a month. The last time I had to wear one was in one of the most stressful and emotional times, my mother's passing and then her service. Hopefully, there will not be anything of that nature happening in the next month.
The afternoon before my appointment, Lisa P called and we had a great, great time laughing and anticipating her soon coming visit.
Happy Happy Day My Friends!
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Dragging Into Monday But Rested Up On Tuesday
This girl be a dragging on this Monday afternoon. I even went to bed early trying to help Buddy settle, but she couldn't decide whether she would settle or not, so for several hours it was very light if any sleep going on. Finally, a little after 1:00 am she decided she had found the perfect niche on my arm and laid her head down. In the midst of this drama a big ol' dose of afib hit, enough to make me get up and take a dose of the meds to help it stop. Thankfully, the ticker went back into rhythm and we both drifted off. She doesn't seem like she feels a 100% and maybe a little bit of a hangover from Friday afternoon's visit to the vet. Thankfully, she is eating, drinking, using the litter box and not hiding, she's just seems to be out of it. We both took a little nap this afternoon, okay I took a little nap, she is still napping away. She's busied herself with bird watching and got a surprise treat of seeing Mama Cat. With the rain, the Feral Fam goes to a dryer place and Mama Cat usually makes the first visit back to the yard checking it all out. Got a little bit of food out there for her. She has visited a second time but so far no kiddo sightings. This just in...third visit back for MC but no kiddos.
It was a crowded Monday morning at the gym. Two classes, lots of PT and the rest of us. Taylor and I worked on more upper body strength and balance. It is paying off in good ol' regular life and came in handy this morning while placing the recyclables by the road. After working out it was a stop at the post office and then a quick trip to the grocery store. While putting up the groceries in the truck a man came up to me and said...LSU? Do you know what that stands for, to which the reply was Louisiana State University. He said no it stands for Love Susie and You. I think he has said that to me before but it was several years ago. It always cracks him up.
***************
This morning I woke up rested because we had a better night. It looks like Buddy is feeling better. Several of the Feral Fam are around this morning, so I got some food out there for them. Funny thing, on the way to putting out food I ran into the Blossman guys in our driveway. Thank goodness I wasn't in my pajamas. They were making a courtesy stop checking on our propane tank. We only use propane for our generator and our power stayed on all through the winter weather.
Yesterday, I noticed a little bit of green coming through the amber colored ground. Ah, yes, maybe a hint of hope of spring and the things to come.
Last night I watched Olympic snowboarding for just a bit but in everyday life I am practicing my curling technique, although I have not watched any Olympic curling. With all the mud and gunk my kitchen floors get a go over almost everyday. Right now I have kind of given up with the keeping up. More rain in the forecast toward the end of the week.
On a FB page I belong to, someone posted a pic of Grahams Men and Boys clothing store. I worked there over Christmas when I was in college and sometimes helped a little in the summer. It was fun helping guys match shirts, ties and suits.
It was a crowded Monday morning at the gym. Two classes, lots of PT and the rest of us. Taylor and I worked on more upper body strength and balance. It is paying off in good ol' regular life and came in handy this morning while placing the recyclables by the road. After working out it was a stop at the post office and then a quick trip to the grocery store. While putting up the groceries in the truck a man came up to me and said...LSU? Do you know what that stands for, to which the reply was Louisiana State University. He said no it stands for Love Susie and You. I think he has said that to me before but it was several years ago. It always cracks him up.
***************
This morning I woke up rested because we had a better night. It looks like Buddy is feeling better. Several of the Feral Fam are around this morning, so I got some food out there for them. Funny thing, on the way to putting out food I ran into the Blossman guys in our driveway. Thank goodness I wasn't in my pajamas. They were making a courtesy stop checking on our propane tank. We only use propane for our generator and our power stayed on all through the winter weather.
Yesterday, I noticed a little bit of green coming through the amber colored ground. Ah, yes, maybe a hint of hope of spring and the things to come.
Last night I watched Olympic snowboarding for just a bit but in everyday life I am practicing my curling technique, although I have not watched any Olympic curling. With all the mud and gunk my kitchen floors get a go over almost everyday. Right now I have kind of given up with the keeping up. More rain in the forecast toward the end of the week.
On a FB page I belong to, someone posted a pic of Grahams Men and Boys clothing store. I worked there over Christmas when I was in college and sometimes helped a little in the summer. It was fun helping guys match shirts, ties and suits.
Sunday, February 11, 2018
Patterns Then And Now
I am not a huge Olympics viewer. It is almost as if there isn't anything else I want to watch, the Olympics fill in nicely...because you know, we all know so much about winter sports, well to the degree the people participating do. Last night snowboarding and ice skating. USA took gold in the snowboarding thing and the guy that won totally looked like a snowboarder....dude. His saunter reminded me of boys from high school days who surfed, lanky and lean, with an ease of laidbackness that few possessed. As for the ice skating portion of the night, ladies short program, is the opposite of dudes snowboarding. Intense and precise with the right amount of athleticism and choreography on two thin blades...on ice. As kids we would watch these skaters and think that we should take up ice skating and back in the day...there were few if any ice skating rinks in Houston. I now know that it wouldn't have been the lack of ice it would have been the big toothed smiles that one must possess to skate so beautifully. Most of the skaters last night did eerily have the same look.
Wilma Dykeman wrote about that...not ice skating, well maybe, but I haven't come to it if she has. She wrote about patterns. She wondered why we take the concept of patterns and force it upon many aspects of life. The exact quote is, "PATTERNS ARE for cloth and paper dolls...Deliver me from people who cut themselves to a pattern." For her in particular she was fascinated with makeup and women wanting to look all alike, according to the popular pattern of a time or season. On a personal note I have never perfected the smokey eye look, nor do I want to. Oh there was a day....though. Guess my pattern wonder would be home trends we buy into. When we bought our home here in the mountains, we went with a totally different feel and vibe than our home in Rancho de Five. Oh there are a few things I would like to add to this house that we have in Katy, like our closet and master bath, but if we had that here we would lose two bedrooms to accomplish that. After we have the back deck turned into a screened porch, the master bathroom is the next project on the boards. No space increase but better use of the space we have. If possible the thing I would change here is putting in the 8 inch baseboards we have there. Love that look because it reminds me of my grandmother's home. We still haven't had back splash installed here in the kitchen. When we first started remodeling here that was a top priority but it isn't today. Funny how priorities change when perspective changes.
In childhood my father took opportunities to preach and to remind me that I would never fit in. He told me what my future life held for me and it would always be on the outside looking in. He stressed that by telling me who I would be, a nanny or a cafeteria worker or whenever my mom would be at a Sunday School fellowship, he would make me sit in a chair in the backyard and watch he and my brother eat dinner....this was to help me accept my lot in life at a young age. You know for a few years, I believed him because he could manipulate circumstances to emphasize this 'truth' to me. But it dawned on me over a course of time being like everyone else wasn't necessarily the best choice to make. So in a hidden way, cause Lord help you if he discovered anything to the contrary of what he said, I relished the idea of being different. Did I make some dumb choices, oh yes, truly I did but slogging through those mistakes helped an appreciation form inside that has served me well to this very day. Life has not been dull, that's for sure. Like my new found friend Wilma writes, "the irregular, and the uneven the unusual, and the unexpected that creates interest and lasting value....Vitality and luminosity: the quality of life itself."
The countdown now stands at one week. The completion of dental surgery next week and a cardiologist appointment to see where things stand for a planned procedure in the near future. My job has been to stay healthy and cold/flu free so that work can progress. So another Sunday morning worshiping at online church. I sure missed my friends in Sunday School. Buddy slept through most of the services I watched today.
This weekend the Fed Cup is here in Asheville. The venue sold out in minutes and Venus Williams is quoted today saying that the crowd has been one of the most fun crowds to play in front of. Tennis is big here, they even have indoor courts which is my preferred type of court, and some have asked with a new lease on life with better knees, have I considered taking up the sport again. No, is how I respond without hesitation. Now it would be fun to just go hit but getting back into the tennis life and all that tennis takes, yet gives, is a pattern not worth repeating. I'm conquering life with balance and functionality...that pays way more benefits in the long run. I confess I do miss practicing drop shots...
Wilma Dykeman wrote about that...not ice skating, well maybe, but I haven't come to it if she has. She wrote about patterns. She wondered why we take the concept of patterns and force it upon many aspects of life. The exact quote is, "PATTERNS ARE for cloth and paper dolls...Deliver me from people who cut themselves to a pattern." For her in particular she was fascinated with makeup and women wanting to look all alike, according to the popular pattern of a time or season. On a personal note I have never perfected the smokey eye look, nor do I want to. Oh there was a day....though. Guess my pattern wonder would be home trends we buy into. When we bought our home here in the mountains, we went with a totally different feel and vibe than our home in Rancho de Five. Oh there are a few things I would like to add to this house that we have in Katy, like our closet and master bath, but if we had that here we would lose two bedrooms to accomplish that. After we have the back deck turned into a screened porch, the master bathroom is the next project on the boards. No space increase but better use of the space we have. If possible the thing I would change here is putting in the 8 inch baseboards we have there. Love that look because it reminds me of my grandmother's home. We still haven't had back splash installed here in the kitchen. When we first started remodeling here that was a top priority but it isn't today. Funny how priorities change when perspective changes.
In childhood my father took opportunities to preach and to remind me that I would never fit in. He told me what my future life held for me and it would always be on the outside looking in. He stressed that by telling me who I would be, a nanny or a cafeteria worker or whenever my mom would be at a Sunday School fellowship, he would make me sit in a chair in the backyard and watch he and my brother eat dinner....this was to help me accept my lot in life at a young age. You know for a few years, I believed him because he could manipulate circumstances to emphasize this 'truth' to me. But it dawned on me over a course of time being like everyone else wasn't necessarily the best choice to make. So in a hidden way, cause Lord help you if he discovered anything to the contrary of what he said, I relished the idea of being different. Did I make some dumb choices, oh yes, truly I did but slogging through those mistakes helped an appreciation form inside that has served me well to this very day. Life has not been dull, that's for sure. Like my new found friend Wilma writes, "the irregular, and the uneven the unusual, and the unexpected that creates interest and lasting value....Vitality and luminosity: the quality of life itself."
The countdown now stands at one week. The completion of dental surgery next week and a cardiologist appointment to see where things stand for a planned procedure in the near future. My job has been to stay healthy and cold/flu free so that work can progress. So another Sunday morning worshiping at online church. I sure missed my friends in Sunday School. Buddy slept through most of the services I watched today.
This weekend the Fed Cup is here in Asheville. The venue sold out in minutes and Venus Williams is quoted today saying that the crowd has been one of the most fun crowds to play in front of. Tennis is big here, they even have indoor courts which is my preferred type of court, and some have asked with a new lease on life with better knees, have I considered taking up the sport again. No, is how I respond without hesitation. Now it would be fun to just go hit but getting back into the tennis life and all that tennis takes, yet gives, is a pattern not worth repeating. I'm conquering life with balance and functionality...that pays way more benefits in the long run. I confess I do miss practicing drop shots...
Saturday, February 10, 2018
Saturday Clean Out and Rearranging...And Fear Packets
We returned from the Vet with a "fear packet" for Buddy's next visit. This is not the first time they have given this packet to us and when it really works, that will be the first time I will gratefully accept it. The packet contains instructions in preparing the animal for a visit and the added fear abating swap for the carrier is touted like an answer to prayer, oh and yes, two chill pills. Goodness gracious, shouldn't this packet be called the calm packet? Isn't that more hopeful than adding fear to it all. Buddy just seems mad about the whole process. Inez, the cat whisperer, helped me get the chill pill in Buddy, in one swift take. Buddy started playing with a toy as soon as she was released from Inez's lap. Buddy was quiet on the ride to the vet and it is only when she gets into the "quiet room for cats" that she begins to show her annoyance. I was going to take her out of the carrier but one of the techs told me that if Buddy bit anyone, she would have to be in a ten day quarantine. What? I'm thinking, so the annual check up and shots aren't worth the $$$? I almost said, oh good, next time we take a trip, I'm bringing Buddy here, let her bite me and bada bing bada boom, pet sitter all lined up for ten days. Really, next time I am going to ask why I have to go back to the little tech room for her shot and mani/pedi. The room is not big enough for two techs, an annoyed cat and me. Remember when they used to just take the cat to the back and you waited in the little room? Yes, I long for those days even in the midst of a zen atmosphere and no fear zone...
I took advantage of the drug induced sleep of Buddy and went to sleep early last night. The past few nights have been more restless than restful and the lack of sleep had caught up with me. A little bit of irritation with the whole vet process made me cranky or maybe crankier than usual. I watched about 20 seconds of the Olympic Opening Ceremony and moved on or rather back to the Simpsons, then onto bed. I awoke in the middle of the night because nature called, so I answered the call. I thought Buddy was sitting on the side of the "waste of space bathtub." So during the response to nature I am talking to Buddy...who sits on the side of the ridiculously low, little bathtub...or so I thought. Retrieving my glasses from the nightstand, I go back into the bathroom only to realize I had been talking to the decorative container filled with razors, shaving cream and bubble bath that isn't used but such a dang cute bottle. This will date me, but kind of like having a Mr. Magoo moment. Go to the Google for look up of Mr. Magoo.
Over the years Monablog has remained consistently inconsistent. There for a season almost everything had to do with various experiences coming from working at a church. Then the more numerous back then than now about spiritual matters posts. Probably the most consistent posts have been looking at life with a sense of humor and playfulness and wonder. Right now it seems most of my posts have to do with weather reporting but the weather has been inspiring and worth the look at winter, my first full winter since we bought the house.
The Feral Fam were entertaining last night...they sit on the deck, wait for dark and then we play laser light chase. I have to stop cause I am laughing so hard at times.
Well, on this overcast Saturday with rain in the forecast, I am cleaning out my closet and rearranging as well. Such a little closet but since that can't change, I'll need to change...getting lots of stuff ready for Salvation Army and the church yard sale in April.
I took advantage of the drug induced sleep of Buddy and went to sleep early last night. The past few nights have been more restless than restful and the lack of sleep had caught up with me. A little bit of irritation with the whole vet process made me cranky or maybe crankier than usual. I watched about 20 seconds of the Olympic Opening Ceremony and moved on or rather back to the Simpsons, then onto bed. I awoke in the middle of the night because nature called, so I answered the call. I thought Buddy was sitting on the side of the "waste of space bathtub." So during the response to nature I am talking to Buddy...who sits on the side of the ridiculously low, little bathtub...or so I thought. Retrieving my glasses from the nightstand, I go back into the bathroom only to realize I had been talking to the decorative container filled with razors, shaving cream and bubble bath that isn't used but such a dang cute bottle. This will date me, but kind of like having a Mr. Magoo moment. Go to the Google for look up of Mr. Magoo.
Over the years Monablog has remained consistently inconsistent. There for a season almost everything had to do with various experiences coming from working at a church. Then the more numerous back then than now about spiritual matters posts. Probably the most consistent posts have been looking at life with a sense of humor and playfulness and wonder. Right now it seems most of my posts have to do with weather reporting but the weather has been inspiring and worth the look at winter, my first full winter since we bought the house.
The Feral Fam were entertaining last night...they sit on the deck, wait for dark and then we play laser light chase. I have to stop cause I am laughing so hard at times.
Well, on this overcast Saturday with rain in the forecast, I am cleaning out my closet and rearranging as well. Such a little closet but since that can't change, I'll need to change...getting lots of stuff ready for Salvation Army and the church yard sale in April.
Wednesday, February 7, 2018
Another Ensconced and Contemplative Day
So happy to see the sun this morning, oops, afternoon. When I left this morning for workout it was a gray kind of day. We had ice at the end of our road onto the main road which I discovered when slipping just a bit while putting out the recyclables for pick up. So happy for the balance work we have been doing the past few months. That was the only ice encounter this morning as the drive over to workout went smoothly. Had good workout with increased time on planks and bug and today was a two rope day and it made the one rope workout feel like a picnic in the park. Although picnics in the park are a lot of work.
I loved the Eli Manning/Odell Beckham commercial! It has been on replay several times this morning. Well done. This was also a fun Super Bowl to watch with periods of The Andy Griffith Show of channel changing.
At 2:00 am we heard the mournful cry of a cat....probably in heat....but came downstairs to check that no one was hurt or in pain. All was well in the backyard. It took a little time to settle back down and fall asleep.
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Happy Wednesday Morning! It is raining, the birds are singing and trucks are driving too fast on wet pavement. It isn't as cold and from the weather reports they say the weather will be milder for the middle of February and then maybe another cold blast at the end of the month. I'm not quite ready for winter to be over yet, but I'm getting there. Right now it feels more like mud season.
Yesterday morning, as we began to stir, that prompted the Feral Fam to move about and sit out back and wait for breakfast. They were a hungry lot and before leaving a few snacks were placed on the deck for them. I headed out the door and over to Waynesville. It has been a couple of months of not being able to get over that way due to schedule and weather...okay, mostly weather because my schedule has mainly been staying around the house, ensconced and contemplative. There have been several articles or essays in the paper of late on the joys of solitude and seasons of quiet and they have certainly been a joy to read and ponder. So down the beautiful road to Waynesville. There were a few fields with the white plastic protection over plowed rows of what I assume to be tomatoes. The hint of spring in those views. I thought of my Houston friend Ann and our shared loved of tomato sandwiches. I went to the Hazelwood area first. Blue Ridge Bookstore has moved over that way in an old bank building. The decor is inviting as small independent bookstores can have. I dropped off some books for their used books section and then headed over to Robin Blu. I love, love, love that store. A very nice selection in spite of it being a trans-seasonal time. Did a quick walk through of Hazelwood Soap Company and inquired when the honeysuckle scent will hit the shelves...looks like April. Wish they also had lotion in that scent. The space next to the soap place has been cleaned up and the soda fountain and lunch counter area looks like maybe...someone...is thinking of opening up a soda shop. Hope so. Drove over to Mast in downtown Waynesville and found a primo parking space with no utility poles or occupied space behind where I parked. They are doing inventory today but I helped reduce inventory just a bit for today's count. Had a good sale section of winter stuff and got some things for Roy. It's a must to peruse the candy section and perusal didn't disappoint. Although it had not been in my original plans, I did stop over at The Blue Rooster for a later type lunch. Had a cup of their baked potato soup and a veggie plate. And with that the trip back on the beautiful road toward home. The Feral Fam were waiting for their next meal which I gladly whipped up and put on the deck for their dining enjoyment. This morning I'm getting a bit of a reprieve since it is raining and they don't usually show up with rain or snow but when the rain dies down a bit, they'll be waiting ravenous I am sure.
I loved the Eli Manning/Odell Beckham commercial! It has been on replay several times this morning. Well done. This was also a fun Super Bowl to watch with periods of The Andy Griffith Show of channel changing.
At 2:00 am we heard the mournful cry of a cat....probably in heat....but came downstairs to check that no one was hurt or in pain. All was well in the backyard. It took a little time to settle back down and fall asleep.
****************
Happy Wednesday Morning! It is raining, the birds are singing and trucks are driving too fast on wet pavement. It isn't as cold and from the weather reports they say the weather will be milder for the middle of February and then maybe another cold blast at the end of the month. I'm not quite ready for winter to be over yet, but I'm getting there. Right now it feels more like mud season.
Yesterday morning, as we began to stir, that prompted the Feral Fam to move about and sit out back and wait for breakfast. They were a hungry lot and before leaving a few snacks were placed on the deck for them. I headed out the door and over to Waynesville. It has been a couple of months of not being able to get over that way due to schedule and weather...okay, mostly weather because my schedule has mainly been staying around the house, ensconced and contemplative. There have been several articles or essays in the paper of late on the joys of solitude and seasons of quiet and they have certainly been a joy to read and ponder. So down the beautiful road to Waynesville. There were a few fields with the white plastic protection over plowed rows of what I assume to be tomatoes. The hint of spring in those views. I thought of my Houston friend Ann and our shared loved of tomato sandwiches. I went to the Hazelwood area first. Blue Ridge Bookstore has moved over that way in an old bank building. The decor is inviting as small independent bookstores can have. I dropped off some books for their used books section and then headed over to Robin Blu. I love, love, love that store. A very nice selection in spite of it being a trans-seasonal time. Did a quick walk through of Hazelwood Soap Company and inquired when the honeysuckle scent will hit the shelves...looks like April. Wish they also had lotion in that scent. The space next to the soap place has been cleaned up and the soda fountain and lunch counter area looks like maybe...someone...is thinking of opening up a soda shop. Hope so. Drove over to Mast in downtown Waynesville and found a primo parking space with no utility poles or occupied space behind where I parked. They are doing inventory today but I helped reduce inventory just a bit for today's count. Had a good sale section of winter stuff and got some things for Roy. It's a must to peruse the candy section and perusal didn't disappoint. Although it had not been in my original plans, I did stop over at The Blue Rooster for a later type lunch. Had a cup of their baked potato soup and a veggie plate. And with that the trip back on the beautiful road toward home. The Feral Fam were waiting for their next meal which I gladly whipped up and put on the deck for their dining enjoyment. This morning I'm getting a bit of a reprieve since it is raining and they don't usually show up with rain or snow but when the rain dies down a bit, they'll be waiting ravenous I am sure.
Sunday, February 4, 2018
Sleet, Ice and Rain All On A Sunday Morning
Growing up and living in humid Houston I have never encountered having dry nasal passages. So in this first full winter for the first time for any extended period of time, dry nasal passages are the bane of my existence. Maybe even Buddy is experiencing this somewhat... Anyway, and Monablog has addressed this many times before, dry nasal passages produce some of the weirdest noises ever coming, with no help from me mind you, out of my nose. Sometimes it sounds like a rotary phone clicking, sometimes the noise sounds like a cat meow, or some kind of whistle...it can keep you awake at night or wake you up at night with those thoughts of what in the world was that sound? At the grocery store today, on all the cold remedies aisles, a search for something other than Vicks Vapo Rub to help with this problem. Publix seemed to have the answer with a moisturizing nasal spray. Don't need it to breath but after using it my nasal passages seem to feel better and so far nothing weird has made a sound from my nose. It was buy one get one free, so we have a good supply for any dry nasal passage problems.
Tonight our area is anticipating snow, ice, sleet and rain and it all depends on the temps when the precip hits. The grocery stores were busy but not too bad. The Exxon station was busy though. So, the new Diet Coke flavors are interesting and although they are not being marketed to baby boomers, the temptation to try them has been too much. The cherry...don't really like it but the blood orange flavor is very good. Today, some lime ginger Diet Cokes came home and once they have cooled down, a sampling will be made. My DC consumption has slowed considerably and for the most part I make healthier choices for drinks. Topo Chico was back in stock so that means it is back in stock here at the house.
This afternoon the sky has become gray and cloudy. The wind has picked up and the wind chimes are playing a wildly melodic tune, sometimes sounding just one note on repeat. The birds have gone through the loose seed scattered on the ground and the Feral Fam are debating on their dwelling for the night. In trying to help keep them warm and their energy to generate heat, they got an extra feeding which MC and Cali just took advantage of. I've been looking at traps to capture them, have them neutered and returned to the wild. From all those I have talked to and the reading of implementing a plan, you have one good chance and after that, if not successful, trust will have been broken and probably a loss at helping them. It has been just too cold to go outside and sit with them while they eat but I have increased the amount of time being out there for them to get used to my presence. It will be cold tonight but not as cold as other nights and the warm up tomorrow looks to be sooner than later.
*****************
Good Sunday morning! No Sunday School today only the service which I don't attend now during cold and flu season because the risk of getting sick is too high. There is very little traffic out on the road with the chance of black ice hanging over...well, the roads. I think we got less than a dusting and more sleet than snow. I'll be attending web church this morning.
I watched the CBS show last night looking into the reopening of the Natalie Wood death. They have more questions than answers but it is looking like it might be worth the investigation.
In the first paragraph the lament of dry nasal passages was the cry. The moisturizing spray worked but not completely. The answer is probably a humidifier at night and maybe we will look into that for the next winter season. For now my signature fragrance here at the house is Vicks.
Tonight our area is anticipating snow, ice, sleet and rain and it all depends on the temps when the precip hits. The grocery stores were busy but not too bad. The Exxon station was busy though. So, the new Diet Coke flavors are interesting and although they are not being marketed to baby boomers, the temptation to try them has been too much. The cherry...don't really like it but the blood orange flavor is very good. Today, some lime ginger Diet Cokes came home and once they have cooled down, a sampling will be made. My DC consumption has slowed considerably and for the most part I make healthier choices for drinks. Topo Chico was back in stock so that means it is back in stock here at the house.
This afternoon the sky has become gray and cloudy. The wind has picked up and the wind chimes are playing a wildly melodic tune, sometimes sounding just one note on repeat. The birds have gone through the loose seed scattered on the ground and the Feral Fam are debating on their dwelling for the night. In trying to help keep them warm and their energy to generate heat, they got an extra feeding which MC and Cali just took advantage of. I've been looking at traps to capture them, have them neutered and returned to the wild. From all those I have talked to and the reading of implementing a plan, you have one good chance and after that, if not successful, trust will have been broken and probably a loss at helping them. It has been just too cold to go outside and sit with them while they eat but I have increased the amount of time being out there for them to get used to my presence. It will be cold tonight but not as cold as other nights and the warm up tomorrow looks to be sooner than later.
*****************
Good Sunday morning! No Sunday School today only the service which I don't attend now during cold and flu season because the risk of getting sick is too high. There is very little traffic out on the road with the chance of black ice hanging over...well, the roads. I think we got less than a dusting and more sleet than snow. I'll be attending web church this morning.
I watched the CBS show last night looking into the reopening of the Natalie Wood death. They have more questions than answers but it is looking like it might be worth the investigation.
In the first paragraph the lament of dry nasal passages was the cry. The moisturizing spray worked but not completely. The answer is probably a humidifier at night and maybe we will look into that for the next winter season. For now my signature fragrance here at the house is Vicks.
Saturday, February 3, 2018
Pre-Snow Dustination
Just as the weather people predicted, a light dusting of snow manifested during the night. Emphasis on light yet it will not get above freezing today. Even a dusting of snow is beautiful. The sun is is out so it is not an overcast winter day. Our next chance of snow is Sunday. Mama Cat must have felt the winter precip coming because she gathered her brood the other night and took them to their safe and dry place. It has been their habit since they started hanging out around here. That means more birds are in the feeder rotation. I have an update of sorts, Mama Cat and Daddy cat are hanging around the tent of napping...and that's all that better be going on...but I think there is too much grooming going on out in the sun for it just to be napping. The kiddos must be with a babysitter....
Roy and his crew have made their final prep for a recruiting trip to Louisiana Tech. This is their second journey to the business college. Each time they go they fine tune and have it down to a one night stay.
Since August, Inez and I have been trying to find some time to go have lunch and enjoy a day. Inez and I don't regularly spend a lot of time together, but she is one of my all time favs and so when this time worked out, we jumped on it. We kept an eye on the weather and decided we could go up to Valle Crucis to eat lunch at Over Yonder and do a little shopping at the original Mast General Store. No matter the season, the drive is beautiful. There was lots of snow in fields and alongside the road, so they got more than a dusting earlier in the week. We decided to take care of the important things first and that would be lunch. We were seated right in front of the fireplace and we had a roasty toasty lunch. They were out of the crispy okra which of course sadness ensued but the tomato bisque assuaged our disappointment...a little. Once again my choice was the veggie plate and Inez got the winter pot pie which looked really good. I was hesitant for the pot pie because it had fennel in it and I am not a fennel fan. We were asking about the house that Over Yonder is in and the bricks that made the walls in two of the rooms are original to the house and the bricks were made in 1861. You know you have to reach out and touch a brick because you are touching history. After lunch we headed over to Mast, first stop at the original store. I headed straight to the shoe dept to check out the sales and Inez wasn't too far behind. We headed to the Annex because there is a much better candy selection there. As we were leaving the mailman shouted out to us, you should stop at the food truck, he has the best brisket! Hello! You had me at brisket...a little throwback shout out to 90's colloquialisms. We got some sliced brisket to go and we were on our way. For just a brief second, we contemplated making a quick stop at Grandfather Mountain...not to go up to the bridge...no sir but to go to the gift shop. No, instead we decided to stop in Micaville to go to the OOOK Gallery. We ventured over to the bakery next door and got a cafe latte and we would have gotten something sweet but everyone must have had a sweet tooth yesterday. Their display case was darn near empty but the lattes were good. What a very fun day we had. Lots of laughter...lots of candy....
Since I had made taco soup the day before and knowing that Brenda's mom likes taco soup, I called over there to see if I could make a quick drive by and drop off soup and some sliced brisket. I did not come home empty handed, Brenda sent me back with beef tips and rice. That will be my supper this evening. Having such a full day tiredness enveloped and only had the strength to make a chicken salad sandwich for supper. It was delicious.
***************
Good Saturday morning! The sun is bright and the temps are to slowly climb above freezing. Tonight, rain, ice and snow are to make an appearance. It is looking like web church in the morning. I am almost through the book The Last Castle...about the Biltmore Estate. It is such interesting reading and behind the scenes more financially than what we learn on tours etc on the estate. Edith Vanderbilt has always shined in the tours and she shines in this book as well. On one of the first Legacy of the Land tours we did, the guide and each guide add their personality to the story telling, reflected that from his research he didn't believe that George V had ever intended to build such a large and ornate home. The guide felt that George was coerced by Hunt and Olmsted to do bigger projects. Anyway, I should get the book finished up over the weekend.
It is looking like our microwave is in its last days or so it would seem. It is an antique microwave, really. So, measuring it and then begin to do some research on the best buy and brand...and installation.
Buddy got a little feisty in the nighttime and took a swipe at me. I shifted and woke her up. So I lost some sleep during the night. She is already on her first morning nap....and maybe I would be too except there are things to do and places to go....like the gas station and grocery store. Ah, the fast paced life...wouldn't trade it.
Roy and his crew have made their final prep for a recruiting trip to Louisiana Tech. This is their second journey to the business college. Each time they go they fine tune and have it down to a one night stay.
Since August, Inez and I have been trying to find some time to go have lunch and enjoy a day. Inez and I don't regularly spend a lot of time together, but she is one of my all time favs and so when this time worked out, we jumped on it. We kept an eye on the weather and decided we could go up to Valle Crucis to eat lunch at Over Yonder and do a little shopping at the original Mast General Store. No matter the season, the drive is beautiful. There was lots of snow in fields and alongside the road, so they got more than a dusting earlier in the week. We decided to take care of the important things first and that would be lunch. We were seated right in front of the fireplace and we had a roasty toasty lunch. They were out of the crispy okra which of course sadness ensued but the tomato bisque assuaged our disappointment...a little. Once again my choice was the veggie plate and Inez got the winter pot pie which looked really good. I was hesitant for the pot pie because it had fennel in it and I am not a fennel fan. We were asking about the house that Over Yonder is in and the bricks that made the walls in two of the rooms are original to the house and the bricks were made in 1861. You know you have to reach out and touch a brick because you are touching history. After lunch we headed over to Mast, first stop at the original store. I headed straight to the shoe dept to check out the sales and Inez wasn't too far behind. We headed to the Annex because there is a much better candy selection there. As we were leaving the mailman shouted out to us, you should stop at the food truck, he has the best brisket! Hello! You had me at brisket...a little throwback shout out to 90's colloquialisms. We got some sliced brisket to go and we were on our way. For just a brief second, we contemplated making a quick stop at Grandfather Mountain...not to go up to the bridge...no sir but to go to the gift shop. No, instead we decided to stop in Micaville to go to the OOOK Gallery. We ventured over to the bakery next door and got a cafe latte and we would have gotten something sweet but everyone must have had a sweet tooth yesterday. Their display case was darn near empty but the lattes were good. What a very fun day we had. Lots of laughter...lots of candy....
Since I had made taco soup the day before and knowing that Brenda's mom likes taco soup, I called over there to see if I could make a quick drive by and drop off soup and some sliced brisket. I did not come home empty handed, Brenda sent me back with beef tips and rice. That will be my supper this evening. Having such a full day tiredness enveloped and only had the strength to make a chicken salad sandwich for supper. It was delicious.
***************
Good Saturday morning! The sun is bright and the temps are to slowly climb above freezing. Tonight, rain, ice and snow are to make an appearance. It is looking like web church in the morning. I am almost through the book The Last Castle...about the Biltmore Estate. It is such interesting reading and behind the scenes more financially than what we learn on tours etc on the estate. Edith Vanderbilt has always shined in the tours and she shines in this book as well. On one of the first Legacy of the Land tours we did, the guide and each guide add their personality to the story telling, reflected that from his research he didn't believe that George V had ever intended to build such a large and ornate home. The guide felt that George was coerced by Hunt and Olmsted to do bigger projects. Anyway, I should get the book finished up over the weekend.
It is looking like our microwave is in its last days or so it would seem. It is an antique microwave, really. So, measuring it and then begin to do some research on the best buy and brand...and installation.
Buddy got a little feisty in the nighttime and took a swipe at me. I shifted and woke her up. So I lost some sleep during the night. She is already on her first morning nap....and maybe I would be too except there are things to do and places to go....like the gas station and grocery store. Ah, the fast paced life...wouldn't trade it.
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