Adventure Or Porch Sitting...It's All Good

Easing into the day, a little battle weary and worn. Yes, hauling that hose down to the front yard and then maneuvering  it close enough to water all the new plants and then back up to the front flowerbed where I left it in a big mess cause frankly my dear, I was done. Note to self when the work for the porch begins, have a gate put in that front fence cause the faucet is on the far side of the house, the side I hardly ever willingly go on and just out of reach if you are in the front yard. Today my shoulders, arms and legs are saying...good job but you haven't used some of these specific muscles for quite sometime.

None of the Feral Fam is around. Here of late, I have only seen them in the early morning while they gaze into the window looking for any sign of life to bring breakfast to them and they haven't been doing that. My main job was to see them through the cold winter and now that it is warming up, sometimes warming up, they are out exploring their world beyond under the deck and farther than the gravel road. I did see Camo briefly yesterday but from a distance and she is hard to see with her coloring. Buddy sits at the window looking for her friends until Buddy's eyes get too heavy to keep a watch out and she falls asleep.
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The rain that has been talked about and watches issued about is here. The weather alert kept going off last night but the rain they said would begin, never really did but this morning I woke up to rhythmic sound of rain hitting the roof. Got the rain gauge set up for this round of showers. The wind has picked up as well.

I love biblical conversations with Roy that spontaneously happen and we had one of those conversations this weekend. I don't remember what prompted the conversation but he brought up the story of Peter in Acts 3 after the crippled man is healed. Peter points them to Jesus...because Peter says, why are you looking at us...we couldn't do this in a million years on our own, Monarch Translation. It reminded him and now me that we should be like Peter when we are used by God...take the attention to where it needs to go...The Lord!
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It feels a little empty around the house...usually that isn't a happy thing but this morning I am quite thrilled that two loads of stuff from our home went to the church yard sale. These past few weeks it has been going through the kitchen and then summer clothes and doing a sweep throughout the house. Things that we loved in decor but now time for someone else to enjoy them and of course the "plans" for somethings that just didn't work. Bedspreads and shams, sheets never opened and the like has lessened the clutter just a bit. I kind of like clutter but then I come to my senses. I have been debating on taking a couple of desks over to the church today but on closer inspection on one of the desks, the leg that we thought was just loose has suffered a little crack that wood glue could fix. I took it apart last night but don't think it will go to the sale cause I don't feel right doing that even if a note was attached to the desk explaining a little wood glue would eliminate the problem.

Yesterday I read an article about getting rid of things that no one wants to inherit. Books and china and postcards...icky furniture all were on the list. Some books went to the yard sale, The Mitford series of books. I have given up ever reading the series because the style of writing doesn't appeal to me, even when the stories take place in Western North Carolina. This was my third and final attempt. Elizabeth Elliott  went that way last year. Over the years I have tried to read her books...again her style doesn't engage me as a reader.

This morning we are hopefully on the tail end of the rain. Overcast but those newly planted snowball bushes are looking good! With the cooler temps I have kept my trusty old friend close by...no, not Buddy but a sweatshirt rescued off the clearance rack at Target sometime in the early 1990's. This gray ubiquitous sweatshirt that had been worn while playing tennis or working out has mainly been an at home staple for the past twenty or so years. The neck and armholes are frayed just a bit and the material is wearing think but I love this sweatshirt! There for several years I didn't wear it because I didn't want it to wear out but sound thought got a hold of me...it was meant to be worn and on a morning like this, an overcast spring morning with the red bud and dogwood trees blooming, framed by an overcast steely gray sky, I'm ensconced here in the house, with a cup of coffee, some books and Buddy fast asleep in the window. This long time friend completes the feel of the morning...while there is stuff to do, I have the privileged of easing into the day.

Roy and I have been talking about mentors and mentoring because it is a theme in the workplace these days. Usually, mentoring has been promoted more in the church, I mean I know it is there in the workplace, as it just seemed to happen, but now there is an emphasis. Our conversation reminded me of two mentors in different times of life whose influence is still bearing fruit today. We never called it a mentoring relationship but I learned so much just doing and experiencing everyday things with them and our conversations uninterrupted and meaningful...as well as silly and I did come away with the best tortilla soup recipe from Carol B. On a side note...I had never heard the term corporate America until moving up here. At first, I found it kind of funny but as I heard it used by various people I began to understand....corporate America is Houston. Almost everyone we know is involved and employed by corporations. It is just how things are whereas here in a more rural area, working for a corporation might not be as universal. I guess it would be like here if I mispronounced Appalachian, it would be weird to the hearer. 

My friend Geni called this morning and we had a great time catching up and then Carole called, only I didn't know it was Carole....so I checked voicemail and I called her back. I'll pick her up Thursday morning....so let the adventure begin or we can sit on the porch, either way...it is good. Today is the year anniversary of when the work began on our front porch....hopefully, the back porch work will begin soon.

Snow, Mow, Grow, Plateau and Blow

On Monday it snowed...On Tuesday Mike mowed...On Wednesday it's in the 80's so plants grow...Tomorrow at 49 degrees the temps plateau...On Friday the winds pick up and really blow....  It is an adventure this April in all things weather related.

Since it was a beautiful day it behooved me to get out and about....so Waynesville sounded like a destination for the day. Left early to eat at Blue Rooster...fried chicken, mac and cheese and green beans. Might have brought some coconut cake home with me. Then I headed over to Belk's looking for some pillow shams for the new quilt in the queen bed bedroom. Think I found something that works and...also found a few pillows and things that will work in the bonus room. I am in the process of changing out several of the pillows and covers.
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This morning was an early rise and shine because of a doctor appointment at 9:00 in Hendersonville. The traffic wasn't bad and Andy was running on time...so, I was out of there before 9:30 and feeling in a really good mood it felt like an Another Broken Egg kind of morning. It did not disappoint. Had the banana foster waffle and good manners prevented me from licking the plate clean. Made a quick stop in at the Barnes and Noble and then headed toward home. Oh, I made a trip to the bank and then on home. The skies looked like snow and while this April that wouldn't be too far fetched, it wasn't in the forecast, even in the higher elevations. Upon arriving home I set out to gather things together for the church yard sale next weekend and also get a few things here and there put away. Since I had a two week restriction on activity, there is a lot to catch up on.

On this visit more things were ruled out health-wise. So, the vague journey continues but I am paying attention to all that the Lord is doing.
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I can't seem to get a post written. I was out the door early for workout. Thank goodness we did mostly restorative work today because my body is tired. Last night I went to bed around 10:00 and woke up several times with leg cramps. Didn't hydrate enough yesterday. After our workout I headed over to the post office and then to Lowe's for a few more flowers. Since I was that way I decided to go to Ingles and get a few things and then I came home and started working outside. It is in the 60's today and really warm. My progress was thwarted by the drill not being charged so I changed directions and worked on flower boxes for the front deck. I also knew I needed to water the snowball bushes that were just planted...so with that I brought the heavy hose to the front and attached it to the hose already on the side of the house. It was hard work and note to self, sprayers need to be replaced every year. They loose their hold or something, so not only was I exhausted now I was sopping wet but those new plants all got watered. Good thing we don't have an HOA cause I would be in trouble for leaving the orange hose in the yard but I don't have the energy this evening to bring it up closer to the house. That will be an endeavor for tomorrow....maybe. I read that snowball bushes need a lot of water once they are planted and with rain not expected till Sunday and the high evaporation rate of water, I knew there would need to be some watering going on today. Mission accomplished!

It seems surreal to be watching coverage of Barbara Bush's life and now her funeral tomorrow in Houston from here. For years I would see Mrs. Bush at Rice Epicurean and she once almost hit me in the parking lot...Tomorrow her funeral will be held at St Martin's Episcopal church. It is a gorgeous sanctuary. For many years Roy and I attended their Christmas Eve service because First Baptist had gone to the afternoon type services and it felt more Christmasy to attend there, in the evening. The music outstanding, choir and the organ...oh my goodness....  Every year when you'd walk in especially at the 9:00 pm service, the fragrance of bourbon and scotch mixed with fir and poinsettias greeted you as you walked into the sanctuary. I loved that smell. You don't get that mixture too much in a Baptist Church.  I always joked with Roy that by taking communion there at St Martin's I had committed a fire-able offense at First Baptist cause that wasn't no grape juice being served. We saw them there several times. The lady I worked for Betty Baker, who had more money than God, also went there. One day as I was writing checks and doing some correspondence for her, Mrs. Baker said...did you see the steeples I paid for? St Martin's was going from a 1960's type building to the huge Gothic cathedral now.

I am worn out. All the gardening and I just had to bring in or cover the plants I put out today, finished cutting up the rest of the delicious strawberries and of course making sure Buddy has enough treats. I moved stuff going to the yard sale downstairs, at least some of it, and doing a few other things to get ready for my friend Carole's visit. Hoping for warmer temps, which I think we will have when she is here.

Spring, Snow and A Sly Manipulator

Earlier this morning mainly overcast skies and misty meadows held the promise of the predicted rains to come. Just a couple hours later the rain is falling at a pretty good clip and the sound of the rain hitting the metal roof is hypnotizing and relaxing. When the skies are this silver and gray, the green of trees, shrubs and grass against this back drop, beam with verdant hues. Truly, a delight for the eyes and restfulness of the spirit. Sunday morning, the road is quiet and even the birds that normally sing through just about anything are silent letting the sound of the rain take center stage. After our rain gauge broke this winter, I purchased a new one this week. Yes, the stand for it is in the yard and the glass gauge, still wrapped in bubble wrap on the kitchen counter.

Yesterday, Roy was out early doing the thing he loves, taking pictures. His schedule in the recent past has made it nearly impossible for him to plan to get out around the countryside. When he heard about a stagecoach in a nearby small town, he headed that way...and as per usual...he had a few missed turns even using GPS. The offer of taking a short ride in the stagecoach was accepted although he tried to talk his way onto the top of the stagecoach to take pictures. He said it was a tight fit with little room to move. I love the picture of the donkey he sent me and he didn't get to ride it nor was an offer extended inviting him to do so.

Yesterday, was the year anniversary of a broken tooth and it has been a year since I have eaten ribs cause you know that is what I was eating when the tooth cracked and then fell apart. A year later, an unneeded root canal and a great patching job by my wonderful dentist...the tooth is holding together...the root didn't turn and so with a little time on our side, at a later date, the tooth will be removed and the process of an implant will begin or maybe a bridge. Last April was a frantic month trying to get appointments and referrals to dentists and doctors... How timely this year that the ablation was at the end of March and this year I went into the month of April with a heart in rhythm and peace in my spirit....very different from last year.

Sometimes on FB I look through the pics that antique shops and dealers post and it is kind of funny to see, especially on consignment pages, furniture that was all the rage when we were newlyweds. Yes, our generation gave the world dressers with big mirrors and little tiny cubby holes or shelves around the mirror.  There isn't enough chalk paint in the world to cover that mistake in decor. Some of the chests and dressers that are updated in the chalk way still have the original early American hardware on it. That is something I don't understand. While thumbing through a magazine the other day, the style of furniture we had in our bedroom, we splurged and made the Drexel commitment and investment...or so we thought... was featured in a magazine, repurposed into modern bright colors.
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The remaining dusting of snow is only on the back deck, where the sun hits later than earlier. Little kitty paw prints show that one of the Feral Fam was out looking for breakfast and then I saw MJ sitting on the rock looking into the kitchen. So, I mixed up some food and put it out the garage back door...he is a happy camper. Since the sun is so bright Buddy has gone upstairs for her first morning nap in the sun.

Yesterday, my first visit to workout with Taylor since the ablation. What held me back from going last week was the bruises from the procedure on my leg. I missed about three weeks so it felt good to be back and then the working out portion started and maybe my joy diminished into a little bit of tiredness. After working out, I had a coupon for Barnes and Noble and yesterday was the expiration day. Found a couple of things and made note of some books...but I need to go through the to be read pile and whittle it down just a bit. Since I was close by and it was a cold day, I went to the Antique Tobacco Barn and strolled around. Saw a few tempting things but left without buying anything. I think the prices now reflect the economy, cause they seemed higher but I haven't been there for over a year.

So, I headed toward home with a Publix grocery stop beforehand. No, I didn't buy any cat food there, don't like their selection, but a very familiar circumstance happened once again in the parking lot. I am loading the groceries into the truck and a car pulls up and I hear this tear soaked voice asking me if I knew where..... This is about the fourth time this young woman has pulled this on me and I interrupted her and said, this is about the fourth time you have approached me asking me where you can find a ministry other than Goodwill, Salvation Army or  ABBCM . She's good cause she switched to I'm just trying to find Walmart! And she cried even more. My spidey Houston street sense kicked in and I am making sure that no one is getting in my truck while we are talking. She works alone most of the time but you never know. I gave her directions and she drove off and when I left I looked around to see if she had just pulled off and waiting for another victim. I almost drove over to Ingles to see if she was working that parking lot but decided to leave her well enough alone. I was telling Roy about the experience and that young woman doesn't seem in need, except for a job to keep her out of parking lots, and she has great command of shedding tears on demand. She looks to be in late twenties or early thirties and her window of opportunity for crying to move people is closing. She'll have to develop new skills to work people for money. I sound cold hearted and yes, that can be a default setting when I feel like someone is trying to manipulate me like she was. She doesn't know that I studied at the feet of the master manipulator, my father, and this stuff doesn't move me like she had hoped.

I had a late lunch and I made Roy's recipe of tacos. They were delicious! Cleaned up the mess and then watched the snow fall. The second throw arrived yesterday for the bonus room and it looks good. So, the pillows and spreads that I had been using will be going to the church yard sale.

Three Days of Spring....One Day Of Winter

Looks like another spring day for the mountains. Two in a row and maybe it could be three...  The air is filled with lovely spring time fragrances but the exception to that would be yesterday. There were several confined burns in the area and instead of the smoke blowing away, it settled into the valleys. Truly it was like the song, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes. Across the fields in front of our house the smoke was so thick and gray that it looked like fog. The door was open to the porch but finally it had to be closed because the smoke was getting to me.

It was an early morning yesterday and although I left with plenty of time for a lite breakfast before my haircut, I forgot to factor in one thing, tourists. Corner Kitchen was packed and I took the last seat at the counter. It worked well since I was having a lite bite to eat and with the extra time I looked through Williams Sonoma. Always fun to see the new things that people who like to cook and bake have at their disposal. So the haircut went well. Christine and I have been talking for a couple of months of going a tad shorter for the summer...so in faith, cause the last time I got a haircut it was snowing, we made a few changes yesterday and it turned out well. And with that I hit the road heading over to church for the luncheon that is done for those home bound who cannot go to church every Sunday. Lunch was delicious and conversations, fun.
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Thursday after the luncheon at church and after a little twenty minute nap at home, I made my way over to Weaverville to run some errands. The last stop on this lovely jaunt was the grocery store. This time it was Ingles, but this has happened to me in Publix and never in Walmart. My napping was in the recliner so I was still kind of dressed up from the earlier activities of the day. Ingles and Walmart have about the best prices on cat food, especially wet food. So when I find myself in one of those stores I buy cat food and at both stores I have been asked this question, "how many cats do you have?" The first few times my response was witty, saying something like no, it is how many cats have me? Or these cats have me trained not to buy any food with turkey or tuna in it...wet food that is. The prices are usually 10 cans for a specific amount, so that is what is purchased. When I was asked on Thursday, with me kind of dressed up and looking halfway decent, it dawned on me, that maybe this isn't just a source of conversation while checking out but maybe it is a wellness check to make sure I am not eating cat food as a source of protein. Okay, this is not the first time I thought this but other times I looked like I had just come in from the barn, so maybe they were going with my look plus cat food, surrounded by junk food. Many times the grocery cart does have the look of college students eating habits, popcorn, fruit, crackers, snacks.... Thursday, when asked, I responded not with some witty repartee, but with one indoor cat who won't touch wet food and we buy her food from the vet and four feral cats who like Little Friskies Shreds in salmon, beef or chicken. The checker looked at me and said, do you believe you are only feeding four ferals...well no, I wasn't born yesterday. Dead Beat Dad and then a potpourri of various male cats whose fur runs the gamut in color but they are all huge cats come around looking for food and probably, most definitely, a little somethin' somethin'.

With such a nice day it was hard to remain indoors. I was just getting ready to head out when the phone rang. It happened to be the people whose package I got last Sunday and today, Fed Ex had delivered a package for me to them. So, now I know where they live and if there is a mis-delivery, then I can get their package to them. She was very nice and told me that a big chunk of land had been sold by her and that 57 townhouses were to go in, but the company went belly up, so someone else bought the land but no announcement if there are plans. No wonder the guy in the green house is trying to sell...I thought it was for the houses across from him but more so it could have been the townhouses. Since I was out already, I stopped at Fresh Market for a couple of things, then came on home. Did more work outside including hanging the new bracket for the hummingbird feeder.

The Feral Fam have been around today but not together. Last night they were kind of hanging out and wanting more food, but they hadn't eaten what I put out there. This morning I put food out and it was gone rather quickly. Cali has been around today but MJ and Camo are out running around. Buddy was upset when I was putting more solar lights by the stone stairway, because she was on the porch and I was outside...not paying attention to her.

I am just about done with the spring to summer clothes change out although Monday could be a very cold day. There is a project I began this morning and I'll need to get upstairs and complete it before going to sleep. Seems like I had some of strangest dreams last night but one dream wasn't so strange because my mom was in it. I like when she is in my dreams...

Roy got out today to take pictures. It has been quite sometime since he has been able to do that. He even rode in a stagecoach today.

Dena called this morning while at the airport waiting for her flight. She has a business trip. We got the quick catch up so that was nice.

Well, I think I need to think about supper and then getting the project finished up. Need to check on the Feral Fam...lots of rain is on the way tomorrow and they kind of sense that, so they have probably headed up to their safe and dry spot.

Wednesday, Oh Lovely Day

The day has flown by and yet it has been somewhat productive. Besides working on, and right now it seems by faith, changing out winter clothes for warmer weather outfits and getting boxes filled with stuff going to the church yard sale, I have also been able to schedule some appointments. The pace of life marches slowly here and so do waits on appointments but shock and surprise, I did get an appointment scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. It is just for a scan of the tooth that broke about a year ago, had a needless root canal on and has been built up but not with a crown as of yet because we are waiting to see if it is good, with no infection. Writing that sentence will probably take more time than the scan.

Even though I had a few hesitations with some things, I decided to cast those hesitations aside and go to choir last night. I knew I would not be able to sing the whole time and that was probably answered prayer for some, but the fellowship and the music wooed me back to the church. A couple of friends from choir laughed and said no way when I mentioned I was an extroverted introvert. Yes, way. Love being at home, but I do well at social things. The difference is that I don't crave the attention, I don't have to be the center of attention...usually when I say something funny or make some observation it is to bring laughter to others, not say things so people will say, you sure are funny. Before going back to church I needed to take the trash can down to the road and while this is not one of my favorite chores to do and many times I can work up some anxiousness over the whole ordeal, I was able to get it down to the road and decided the recyclables can wait till next week.

It is odd that the Post Office rarely gets Saturday or Sunday deliveries from Amazon to us on those two days but if it is a package, not for us...it is waiting outside the garage door on a Sunday afternoon. This afternoon I took that package back to the post office and told them it had been delivered to us by mistake. They seemed a little shocked that I brought it to them and even a customer in line said, I'll take it. Meanwhile on Saturday they had delivered several books I had ordered from Amazon and those packages were shoved into the mailbox without much hope of being able to get them out without taking down the whole thing. Roy had just put cement around the bottom of the pole to shore up the mailbox. All of us had received a note telling our group to get things up to regulation....except when they cram boxes into a box without thinking about the rim on the inside that keeps the box from being pulled out easily, you loosen the pole. It is frustrating and I hate that Amazon uses the post office now mostly for deliveries.
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Life is never dull although there can moments of lull. I just sat down with a cup of coffee and got a text from a friend, "my job for two days is to sit in ISS with two that got caught doing it in the hall behind the stairwell." Now there is something I don't get texted everyday and it sounds like my friend is getting punished more than these kids. I did ask if it was jr high and yes it is. Sometimes she subs in elementary schools.
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Well, it is Wednesday and the above is about as far as I got blogging yesterday. I had a few things to get done and then headed over to the dentist for a quick scan on a tooth. The news on the tooth wasn't the good news I wanted to hear but I have two options, two good options, and I don't have to act on anything very quickly. Dr. Justin Hodges is the real deal, honest and caring.

Since it was a beautiful day I drove over to the Biltmore Estate and drove though the gardens. The tulips are beautiful! I picked up some cheese straws in the winery and then had an early supper at Cedric's. I came home after that and didn't do one thing that was very productive.

I thought about making a trip over to Johnson City today but nixed that idea early this morning. That trip might be made next week. It is such a beautiful day with a warm up coming a little later this morning. Seems like a good day to do a couple of outside things. This morning MJ and Cali are playing underneath the tree on the gravel road. The mowers cut up there yesterday. Yep, the sound of mowers surrounded us yesterday and it was a delight to take in the fragrance of fresh cut grass.

Extendomatic Post

Last night with the rain, the Feral Fam didn't get the usual evening meal but there were leftovers and it looked like those morsels had been devoured at some point in the night. This morning MJ sat on the deck post looking into the windows searching for any movement or stirring. He saw me and perked up, Cali who was absent most of the day yesterday, ran onto the deck sensing that food may be afoot soon. Because of the weather and still being in my jammies, the Fam got their breakfast outside the garage backdoor. They were served on a new to them welcome mat and they have been playing about in the backyard with full tummies. Even Camo is back but just probably for a bit. Think she has moved on and has a new life without her brother and sister.

Another thought last night, I was glad to be a week out from the previous Friday. Much better sleeping. I forgot to mention the nurse that prepped me and was with me in recovery in the hospital. As they are hooking you up to machines, taking vitals and doing other junk there usually is conversation that is just a little beyond small talk...ours conversations centered mainly around Waco. She and her friends had just taken a trip to see the Silos and all things Gaines related. She and her friends took the time to walk around the Baylor University campus and that is always a delightful conversation because the campus is so beautiful. She and her friends are wanting to return and I suggested that they go to San Antonio when they are in the area. Still representing Texas.

Today, I have been doing small things that need to be taken care of. Kind of changing out winter clothes for spring but with the reappearance of winter it is hard to do so. By the end of the week we should be experiencing warmer temps. The red bud trees are so beautiful right now and hope the below freezing temps don't hurt apple, pear and peach crops. It is the beginning of produce stand season and each week seems to herald this wonderful time of year.

Yesterday, while going through files and papers at the desk, I found the 2013 CT scan written report. No mention of a bone lesion but that doesn't mean they might be able to see something from the actual scan. My pulse racing as I read through the report hoping a mention. It kind of deflated my sails for a bit but my hope is not in a piece of paper or a report. The book I have been reading and have found so interesting isn't cooperating with present circumstances....so that book will return to the shelf for another time. I'm thinking I might read a mystery or something like that next.

I am gathering lots of things for the church yard sale at the end of the month. We decided there were mugs and dishes we did not use and probably will never use, so to the yard sale box they go. I am even parting with a few sheep related items because dang it, I keep acquiring other sheep type stuff. When the closet fell in several weeks ago, we discovered shoes we hadn't thought about since we moved here three years ago. I figure we have not missed these shoes one iota, so into the yard sale box they go. 

Got the order of service yesterday for Sunday and I can't remember the long sermon preacher's name, so to be safe, sitting near an exit. I've been thinking about it...pastors these days salivate at the thought of a second service or multiple campus sites. Maybe, if they were timely in their messages, God would grant those things that it seems every preacher worth his mettle dreams of...more people, more services, more campuses. We are told in the Bible to be faithful in little and we will find ourselves with being given the more...or to whom much has been given, much is required....just a thought on an overcast rainy day. You might be thinking that I am obsessed with time on Sunday mornings...no, but when you have been taken advantage of in this arena, it is a sensitive subject. Thankful that Turkey Creek Cafe will be open on Sundays during the spring and summer season, but they don't open till 12:00. I told Marissa, you're just making me go to big church...Yep, still sitting near an exit.
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A quick wrap up on the above...because it is Monday morning. Preacher was good, preached a message from Luke 10, the good Samaritan. One of my favorite parables in the Bible. Previously I had underlined all the verbs in the story and the most action of course is with the Samaritan and he talked about that yesterday...service and ministry that needs to be a passion before it becomes a program or maybe not letting that passion become a program. Interesting thought he presented, the priest probably knew the Levite was behind him...so he left the beat up man for him. The Levite is the worship leader in the Temple...so a priest and worship leader crossed over to the other side of the road and left the man there clinging to life and then came the Samaritan. I was thinking yesterday about this, and thinking of my experiences on being on staff at a church and not being on staff at a church....but many times we think the obvious ones in God's service would be the ones to minister and help but more times than not, it is an everyday person that God sends our way.

The Ups and Downs Of Weather

The cool beginning of the morning changed into a rather nice, sunny and warm afternoon...if you kept out of the wind. Didn't even need a jacket. I decided to get out and take care of some things and add fun stuff along the way. Went back to The Pink House to see if there was anything else there calling my name...yep, a few little things. Picked up Buddy's cat food at the Vet and made a quick dash into The Fresh Market.

Yesterday, the trip to Target in Arden was really disappointing. The store still has the really old Target design and it is difficult to find what you're looking for. Even the Magnolia Home section is sub par. They had tons of people working but only one register open. The love/hate relationship with Target is real. That meant today was a needed stop at the good Target off Tunnel Road. Found some things I had been looking for and then made a jaunt through Home Goods. Found some pillows to replace several on the front porch. Nadeau has opened near Whole Foods. Dena and I went to the one in Houston and they have interesting items. If we were closer to being done with the porch redo, there is a light I would have bought. So, it will be a waiting game to see if it is still there when the time comes.

On the way home, it was such a lovely day, a drive to Marshall seemed to be the thing to do. Right now the red bud trees along the river are in full bloom and a few dogwood trees are as well. The trees and vines are greening up the stone and rocks. The French Broad has been a beautiful green of late when it usually looks like the color of the water at Galveston Beach. There is a spot where road work can slow you down and that was just fine. California Baptist University's choir was keeping me company along the way. With the sunroof open, it was a glorious day indeed. I also stopped at the pretzel store that has opened where the pot pie used to be. His pretzels are warm and delicious. And the man who owns it is very personable.

The Feral Fam has just two regulars pretty much anymore....Cali and MJ. Mama Cat shows up from time to time but Camo has found her own life spending most of her time up at the farm above us. I was later in serving breakfast this morning and when I called for them, Cali came running down to the backyard from the gravel road. Roy moved the tent of napping down to the deck and they use it for evening playtime. It is so fun watching them chase and hide from one another.
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Of course on this Friday morning Camo shows up for breakfast. These Ferals! They keep me wondering about their coming and goings. In this time that they have been hanging out here Mama Cat has taken on a new persona or is that catsona? She was defiant and bold but these days she seems to bow in obedience to her three kiddos. She moves with more fear than she used to. This morning Cali didn't come to breakfast with the others but then she likes to sleep in. 

I see now why I've been instructed to take it easy...and that includes into next week. The bruises on my leg from the procedure have now formed an area of contusions that is as big as the great outdoors and as they heal, there is a bit of pain involved whenever I forget to take it easy and do something more strenuous than I am allowed. For the most part I feel the biggest difference in my heart rhythm during the day and feel a few fibs and flutters at night. They told me to expect a little fib and flutter and that is what it has been...little.

So, today and tomorrow I am trying to get caught up with stuff here around the house. No lifting is involved. It would be wonderful to be able to change out winter clothes for spring, but winter just keeps coming back for a visit here and there. The temps on Sunday are only going to be in the low 50's and I have no idea what I am going to wear to church.

Did You Call Before Digging?

I just called our landscaper back at 9:30 pm. I didn't realize it was so late. Oh my...but we discussed dog woods and rocks and stuff like that. Our yard is going to be so gorgeous! If there were yard of the months in our area, I'm sure when it is all said and done...we'd be winning. Roy and I got a later start to the day, partially my fault and maybe a little bit his.

Yesterday afternoon when it warmed up a bit, Roy began putting water sealer on the deck. He had put wood putty and sanded it, well sanded it for the most part. He used what we had bought previously, which was a clear stain and we needed to have a bit of color in it. So, because it seems like it is our tradition, we went to the dump to take cardboard to be recycled. Then we stopped at the post office an then made our way to Lowe's. I'm not really supposed to be driving...but I am feeling good and just a little too afraid of Roy on these narrow country roads in a big truck. While we were discussing what we would get, a guy came up to us that is painter and told us that the Olympic stains were going to be discontinued, so we should go with something else. We were about to make the mistake of painting over water seal and he told us no, just get Thompson's to finish out or we would regret and have to redo in less than a year. What a godsend and we got his card cause he is a bit of a handy man as well as painter and such. He is working for a builder over on New Leicester Highway. It was so tempting to go look at hanging baskets but there is some talk we might have snow this weekend. Roy and I went to lunch at CA's, it was delicious and then went to the bank and Ingles. We got home and began working on all the stuff we needed to get done and I think we just about got everything done on our list.
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Well, it is now Wednesday evening. Inez rode with us to Charlotte yesterday and she and I had a great time coming back to Asheville via detours and unexpected turns this way and that. Between Inez and Brenda, I am learning more shortcuts and different ways to get to most of the places that seem to be on the calendar these days. On the way to Charlotte, we stopped at Cracker Barrel. They were a bit shorthanded and the wait was long and Roy was keeping an eye on the time so that he make his time. We rushed through our meal and hit the road. On the way back Inez and I stopped there only to get a to go of their new peach iced tea. Once again...a little bit of a wait but this time our drinks were comped. Things didn't slow down once I got home and I looked to settle in early because I had an early morning appointment today.

The cardiologist office had called several times, even on Friday afternoon, which I thought was odd since I was at the hospital for the night. We finally caught up late yesterday afternoon. At this time I am not going into any details because things are early in the journey but they saw something on the CT scan they thought I should have looked at. The nurse calling sounded very concerned, a little freaked out and I thought the call on Friday and Monday from my regular Dr to come in yesterday, couldn't, so I went today, was just them moving up my regular appointment that I made for the middle of the month. Of course I went to Doctor Google last night and about scared myself to death after looking up the medical terms I clearly know nothing about. Roy and I talked through it last night and we also prayed through it. I went to sleep right away...no worries...no anxiety....cause that isn't going to help anything at all. So it was an early morning trip to Hendersonville. Andy narrowed the concerns down for me...much better than Doctor Google. While I am not out of the woods, we have a plan and will eliminate all the things that are least likely.  None of us know anything right now but the Lord does and that is the only thing that matters.

This took me by surprise and shook me emotionally for a bit. This is not how things are supposed to work...yes I mentioned that to the Lord and I am sure He needed my input on the situation. You know, you get the knees fixed, regain functional fitness and then have a heart tune up....it means it is time to fly, to live and have energy....dare I say it...galore! That word still cracks me up. But we shall see and I am confident of this, I know my Redeemer lives! While reading in The Passion Translation last night, Proverbs 3, I found the verses that I am grounding myself in for this season.

"My child, never drift off course from these two goals for your life: to walk in wisdom and to discover discernment. Don't ever forget how they empower you. For they strengthen you inside and out and inspire you to do what's right, you will be energized and refreshed by they healing they bring. They give you living hope to guide you, and not one of life's tests will cause you to stumble. You will sleep like a baby, safe and sound- your rest will be sweet and secure. You will not be subject to terror, for it will not terrify you. Nor will the disrespectful be able to push you aside, because God is your confidence in times of crisis, keeping your heart at rest in every situation." Proverbs 3: 21-26.

So not facing immediate demise at least from this.... although that really isn't true on I 26. I worked my way home by shopping stops. Found some cute things at Southern Chicks. Then stopped at Target and Hobby Lobby. Next stop, Biltmore Park and then onto Publix.

Nathan and Andrew were busy in the front yard when I arrived home. They have created a flower bed and planted two dogwood trees, a red one and a pink one. Roy asked if they called 311 before digging because in Katy it is a must with all the pipelines and cables running underneath property. Uh, no need Roy... we are on a well and septic system. If there were pipelines we would be using natural gas not propane. He knew that but when you're in the pipeline business, that is one of the first things you ask. It is going to be one beautiful flowerbed to behold from the front porch. But no flowers will be planted until after Mother's Day...have to get through the dogwood winter and then the blackberry winter...frosts that usually happen every year. Spring here has seemed like a few hours at a time with winter not wanting to bid a fond farewell.

Waiting For 12:30

After years and years when younger of never needing a doctor or a hospital, I have spent significant time at both in these past few years. And coming out of the deep sleep of anesthesia seems to have the sound of many voices as you're told what to do or what not to do. All that was happening Friday afternoon, even could hear Roy in the midst of what sounds like chaos but this is the first time I have ever come out of that deep slumber praising Jesus and glorifying God. Not vocally but in my thoughts and I was so happy to give Him the glory. I wondered, had I been with the Lord and He answered me quickly in the midst of following instructions to lay still, don't move, you did good...I am always with you Nancy.

Before any surgeries of late, there has been a bit of anxiousness in me. Nervous yet trusting. This time was so different...such a peace and calmness in my heart and spirit. Even the nursing staff commented on my blood pressure being so good and heart rate on an even keel in circumstances that usually raise everything. The Dr came in and began explaining in depth the procedure and the steps he would take going on one side of the heart to fix the afib and then using a balloon like thing to go over to the other side of the heart to fix the flutter. He then asked if I had any questions...uh...no...still trying to take in all the information in the few minutes before the anesthesia. Then came the woozy shot and I kind of remember the two men putting all the patches on me in the OR and talking to me as they did....then...until coming to and praising God.

The view from the hospital room looked like I was in prison...we even saw a man working on the roof and I told Roy look it is shift change for the guards. The nurses that took care of me are some of the best nurses I have ever had. Finally at 5:30 they let me raise my head off the pillow and bed and I could move my legs. But I was anxious to get home because neither Roy nor I had a good night. His sleeping chair made for short people and I think every hour a nurse came in to check on my incision where the catheter began its journey to the heart. Someone needs to invent the quiet IV pump, that kept me awake until Roy gave me his noise reducing headphones and I listened to music on my phone.  At 6:00 am they came and removed the stitches and at 7:00 they removed the Foley catheter. Sat up to eat breakfast...stood without any dizziness....performed the bathroom requirements....so I was good to go as soon as they had all the paperwork done and signed. With the paperwork done and explained, we were out the door to meet up with Brenda who had pulled her car into the car port. Roy wanted to eat lunch so we went to Turkey Creek Cafe. We got home and I went straight to bed and slept till 5:30 pm.

After I had woken up a bit Roy fixed me a plate of delicious Easter food that Vivian had dropped by. Oh my so good and topped off with banana pudding for dessert. We watched the Loyola/Michigan game and then I got ready for bed. So tired still and had a great night sleeping.

Once it hits 12:30 today, I can take a shower. Roy is making sure I follow directions to the inth degree. Last night Roy said, the kids are out back waiting for supper. Would you like for me to go feed them? Yes! So he took everything out there for them and they were quick members of the clean plate club. I had to come downstairs to take meds and Camo and Cali were out there on the deck looking in...I knew they were still hungry, so Roy took more out there for them. This morning I fed them at the garage door and they have been hanging around. Buddy was so happy to see us and she stayed with me all afternoon and night. This morning she spent a great portion of time with me but she seems to know all is well, so she had gone on about her daily routine.

Today is Easter Sunday and I hate missing church but watched a service from Houston's First Baptist. All the glorious Easter hymns in one medley. I miss singing that particular arrangement.

Jesus defeated death, hell and the devil. He is Risen!