Twenty four hours ago snow flakes gently fell to the earth covering fields and yards, barns and houses. This morning the skies are clear and the sun is shinning but that is a deceptive notion that all is back to normal...it is freezing cold outside. Explain that to cats that want to be outside, Buddy on the porch and Riley in the great outdoors. Buddy has resigned herself to the front bedroom taking in all the goodness of sun rays. It was a joyous feeling when the kiddos showed up at the backdoor. I wondered how and if they would make it. I think they use the tent of napping much more than any other cat before or now. That open sleeping bag inside makes a huge difference for warmth.
Yesterday afternoon held a pleasant surprise in a phone call from my friend Carole in Houston. She is seven weeks out from bilateral knee replacements and doing so well. We got caught up on life and her upcoming trips with an eye on her returning to the mountains sometime in the spring. Look out mountains, we'll be cruising but at a safe speed as not to draw attention from any of the fine officers of the law but we will be getting around. Carole truly is one of the most encouraging people I know. Her words will stir your heart and cause a holy fire to start up. Or be rekindled, in the case of letting the once blazing fire within you, that has become embers that are holding on for starting up once again.
After seeing several friends post the article from the opinion page of the NY Times, I took the time to read it this morning; The Joy of Being A Woman In Her Seventies. Although I have several years before hitting the 70's, I am feeling the joy of being in my 60's. The only birthdays I ever dreaded, turning 20, turning 24 because I had this notion I would die when I was that age, and when I turned 50. At least when I turned 50 I made the last day of being 49 the most fun way to spend that day and go into being fifty the best possible I could be. That day Lisa, Dena, Peggy and I spent the morning into the afternoon at the Nord Spa to experience Spa Sanctuary. So we were herbal wrapped, massaged, facialed and manicured or pedicured. In between all these treatments, we had lunch in the relaxation room. After all that, being so relaxed and barely able to walk, we went downstairs had our makeup done and then went to Lupe's Tortilla. Now that was the way to go into the 50's. The article speaks to the obvious of letting things go, accepting new challenges, embracing change and gratitude. I can think of several friends who are in their 70's and approach life with wonder and a freshness. That is better than being a grumbler or constantly being critical. In an email with Roy the other day I made a comment but he thought it was a complaint....no just an observation. Of course, email doesn't have a tone or voice inflection. All those years in my mid to late 50's, sitting in a waiting room at cardiologist offices and more times than not being the youngest patient, I concluded not to be like so many that are used to being the sickest or getting the most attention in their family so they want that to translate to the waiting room. Then when you are in a room with others that are just as ill or even worse than you...who gets to complain the most? It is a good lesson to have learned. One time at church, when I was much younger, an even younger woman said to me about an older lady she had just participated in a wonderful conversation with; she said I wish all older women were as much fun to spend time and converse with as her, most are just sad and cranky. My tennis friend Beth C always seemed to have great insight and wisdom into so many other things rather than just tennis. We talked of getting older in the tennis world, we were in our early 40's...she said when all I can do is lob to play tennis, I think I'll spend more time on the golf course and as I get older, less is more when it comes to makeup. She was right on both counts. Beth also had unusual insights into home decor and colors but that is for another day or blog post.
Okay and speaking of decor, once again I was playing around on realtor.com, looking at pics of homes in TN and the high country of NC. This is not a new observation nor is it unique but some of the pictures posted to sell a house are so odd. Some get more into showing pics of their furniture than the room. One home showed a great picture of an upstairs bedroom and how spacious it was...spacious enough for two queen beds fit and look like rooms that have twin beds, but the beds were unmade. What? Same house, for the kitchen...dirty dishes in the sink, uneaten food on the table...maybe they really don't want to sell their house. Also suspect, only pics of the outside, few if any inside pics...oh and a home that sells about every two years...there has to be a reason.
My entertainment while eating a tuna salad sandwich for lunch was Riley and the kiddos. Riley finally has Punky and Strawyer playing and the deck is their playpen. Running and attacking, playing...that is so Riley's love language. It is so fun to watch their antics but of course by 4:00 they could all hate one another. It helps that Camo has not been around because her presence deters any bonding of the cousins. Right before lunch I experienced a miracle with Buddy. She let me trim her front nails. I had let them get too long. It is so stressful for both Buddy and me to take her to the vet and as long as she is walking normally and doing a few jumps here and there, the steroid shot is procrastinated. She seems to be in very little pain and we can thank the chill pills for that. It seems that Buddy knew the trim would help her out. Whew! She wasn't too keen on the back nails being trimmed but that's because they are not bothering her, yet.
This Sunday we are singing Chain Breaker...I made a suggestion that at the end of the song we could go right into Arthea Franklin's, Chain of Fools. or Working on a Chain Gang or if we really wanted to be subtle in our chain reference, Unchained Melody. My suggestions were of course not taken but you know, sometimes when the thought comes, you have to say it.
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
Slow For Show...Now To Find Some Dough
With Riley wanting back in the garage for a little bit this afternoon and with Strawyer and Punky sleeping on the job, the squirrels were eyeing the backyard. Why? Because there are over 350 bulbs planted back there and they must know a hard cold time is a coming tomorrow and Wednesday. Once again, donning the hat of crazy squirrel lady of north Buncombe County, I found some bad lemons and limes and went outside to throw bad fruit at the squirrels This intrigued Riley who had followed me out of the garage and the sound of lemons and limes hitting the fence where the squirrel had taken up a watch post, stirred the kiddos as well. Sadly, my aim today wasn't as accurate as in the past but I didn't take any warm ups. Still fun getting out for a minute and enjoying these 50 degree temps cause it might take till Saturday to see that warm spell again.
This morning I got out and about to do regular grocery shopping but you know...you buy something you don't need just in case you get to hankering for something. Mine would probably be something sweet. Last week I broke my don't buy anything at the bakery at Publix rule that was instituted after several purchases. You'd think after only one sub par purchase, I would have learned. Almost everything tastes like it is under baked a little and the great deal on their cookies, that looked to be such a deal, didn't turn out to be that great because even the oatmeal raisin cookies were under baked and dare I use the word that so many hate but the middle of the cookies was too moist. After my stop at Ingles, I had to go to the dreaded Walmart and by happenstance picked up a package of their oatmeal cookies and upon arriving home, tried one. Much better than Publix which is something that normally isn't said by me about Walmart. It must have been a God ordained trip because I went straight to a checkout lane and there wasn't a line.
These past few days I have done something that is more like my friend Dena than me. But, the middle of the afternoon has called for decaf coffee lately. The Fresh Market has a flavor Irish Creme Brulee' and a couple of weeks ago I accidentally bought decaf. It is a delicious coffee so, made enough to put in the carafe that comes upstairs with me on coffee in the afternoon days.
Last Sunday evening I watched Remains of the Day for the first time and last night I watched the CNN documentary on the triplets separated at birth, adopted, and then finding each other in their early 20's. Loved Remains and loved the documentary. Both were kind of sad though.
Riley just came back in the garage. She and the cousins have some kind of truce thing going on now that Camo isn't around very much. Some days I feel like there is headway with the kiddos but today wasn't one of those days.
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This morning looking out the window a sense of disappointment hit me, no snow. But it wasn't too much after that the snow began around 9:15, just a little later than anticipated. We are probably in the inches zone since we are not that far from the TN/NC border where the elevation is several thousand feet more than here and that area will get 3-5. Now in the midst of the snow, things quiet down. The cows across the road are huddled together around the hay bin. The birds are gathered around the seed bells hung in the trees in the backyard. Buddy is asleep, Riley safely tucked away in the garage with her heater and the kiddos, well, they are stubborn but they were happy to be fed this morning. As always, the work continues to get them inside.
By chance last night I watched House Hunters and low and behold it was a couple, a young couple, looking to buy a home in Asheville. Their budget from 600,000.00-650,000.00. She has just started a business in the area, sorry didn't catch the very first part of the episode. As usual they do cut aways of the city and it came to mind that I know a lot about the surroundings of Asheville but not Asheville proper. Did the know and eat at all the trendy restaurants in my 30's but that was in Houston. Walking distance to shops and stores...well, that would be nice but not for downtown. No complaining that we are about fifteen minutes from that but for now in the midst of rural. That is changing a little every year. They commented several times, yes, this house has the Asheville look and vibe. I don't know, maybe the first house because is was a craftsman style but the vibe of hardwoods and granite is a vibe just about everywhere. Although if you read articles of what's hot and what's not in design, granite counters are out. Of course they are! Gots to keep everyone constantly remodeling. Earlier this week on the blog I wrote about playing on realtor.com and looking at small homes in the Roan Mountain/not pricey parts of the high country in North Carolina. Most everything I like is updated because we are not do it yourself types nor do I have patience for a remodel. But there are homes and condos that don't have updated counter tops or don't have stainless steel appliances...that doesn't matter much to me anymore but not having step in tile showers has fast become much higher on what is important. Didn't realize until this house how much I didn't appreciate the walk in tile shower like we have in Katy. Back to the young couple with lots of discretionary mortgage money....they went the craftsman styled house, with little to no backyard but lots of room to grow into.
Well, the skies are brightening and the snow is melting already, all in a span of about thirty minutes. Although, it was not in the plans to stop and watch it snow for a couple of hours, it was a good decision to enjoy the beauty that takes place in the midst of something that slows you down.
One of the goals of the morning is to clear out two small tall storage tables because I think they'll go to the church yard sale in April. You know those kinds of tables that are used for putting stuff in when you haven't any clue where else to put stuff. Found some interesting things that had totally been forgotten. Now, if only I would find $20.00 or so, then I'd feel compensated for the hard work.
This morning I got out and about to do regular grocery shopping but you know...you buy something you don't need just in case you get to hankering for something. Mine would probably be something sweet. Last week I broke my don't buy anything at the bakery at Publix rule that was instituted after several purchases. You'd think after only one sub par purchase, I would have learned. Almost everything tastes like it is under baked a little and the great deal on their cookies, that looked to be such a deal, didn't turn out to be that great because even the oatmeal raisin cookies were under baked and dare I use the word that so many hate but the middle of the cookies was too moist. After my stop at Ingles, I had to go to the dreaded Walmart and by happenstance picked up a package of their oatmeal cookies and upon arriving home, tried one. Much better than Publix which is something that normally isn't said by me about Walmart. It must have been a God ordained trip because I went straight to a checkout lane and there wasn't a line.
These past few days I have done something that is more like my friend Dena than me. But, the middle of the afternoon has called for decaf coffee lately. The Fresh Market has a flavor Irish Creme Brulee' and a couple of weeks ago I accidentally bought decaf. It is a delicious coffee so, made enough to put in the carafe that comes upstairs with me on coffee in the afternoon days.
Last Sunday evening I watched Remains of the Day for the first time and last night I watched the CNN documentary on the triplets separated at birth, adopted, and then finding each other in their early 20's. Loved Remains and loved the documentary. Both were kind of sad though.
Riley just came back in the garage. She and the cousins have some kind of truce thing going on now that Camo isn't around very much. Some days I feel like there is headway with the kiddos but today wasn't one of those days.
*********************************
This morning looking out the window a sense of disappointment hit me, no snow. But it wasn't too much after that the snow began around 9:15, just a little later than anticipated. We are probably in the inches zone since we are not that far from the TN/NC border where the elevation is several thousand feet more than here and that area will get 3-5. Now in the midst of the snow, things quiet down. The cows across the road are huddled together around the hay bin. The birds are gathered around the seed bells hung in the trees in the backyard. Buddy is asleep, Riley safely tucked away in the garage with her heater and the kiddos, well, they are stubborn but they were happy to be fed this morning. As always, the work continues to get them inside.
By chance last night I watched House Hunters and low and behold it was a couple, a young couple, looking to buy a home in Asheville. Their budget from 600,000.00-650,000.00. She has just started a business in the area, sorry didn't catch the very first part of the episode. As usual they do cut aways of the city and it came to mind that I know a lot about the surroundings of Asheville but not Asheville proper. Did the know and eat at all the trendy restaurants in my 30's but that was in Houston. Walking distance to shops and stores...well, that would be nice but not for downtown. No complaining that we are about fifteen minutes from that but for now in the midst of rural. That is changing a little every year. They commented several times, yes, this house has the Asheville look and vibe. I don't know, maybe the first house because is was a craftsman style but the vibe of hardwoods and granite is a vibe just about everywhere. Although if you read articles of what's hot and what's not in design, granite counters are out. Of course they are! Gots to keep everyone constantly remodeling. Earlier this week on the blog I wrote about playing on realtor.com and looking at small homes in the Roan Mountain/not pricey parts of the high country in North Carolina. Most everything I like is updated because we are not do it yourself types nor do I have patience for a remodel. But there are homes and condos that don't have updated counter tops or don't have stainless steel appliances...that doesn't matter much to me anymore but not having step in tile showers has fast become much higher on what is important. Didn't realize until this house how much I didn't appreciate the walk in tile shower like we have in Katy. Back to the young couple with lots of discretionary mortgage money....they went the craftsman styled house, with little to no backyard but lots of room to grow into.
Well, the skies are brightening and the snow is melting already, all in a span of about thirty minutes. Although, it was not in the plans to stop and watch it snow for a couple of hours, it was a good decision to enjoy the beauty that takes place in the midst of something that slows you down.
One of the goals of the morning is to clear out two small tall storage tables because I think they'll go to the church yard sale in April. You know those kinds of tables that are used for putting stuff in when you haven't any clue where else to put stuff. Found some interesting things that had totally been forgotten. Now, if only I would find $20.00 or so, then I'd feel compensated for the hard work.
Sunday, January 27, 2019
Sunday Evening Catch Up
Because it seems to be the cat season of life and having an open schedule that makes it too tempting to stay around here and to be available for all the cats dining needs, oops wants, or to spend time with Buddy and help her get over her jealous feelings, I decided to get out this morning and go to a vintage barn sale. No, the barn was not for sale nor was it vintage, it was quite new...nor was it really what one would picture as a barn sale...like a huge barn. No, just a little small barn, almost just big enough to be considered a barn and not a shed. It was past Canton on one of my very favorite roads. Now, I am so glad that I did not get up early to go to this show cause being there at 10:30 ish was just perfect. Found a couple of things but dang, it was 27 degrees and I had dressed for the weather, lined Ugg boots, mittens that turn into gloves and a down jacket, a short period of time was enough for me. Since it is a beautiful day, I decided to do the scenic drive from 110 to 276 into Waynesville after shopping was perfect. Dropped in at Robin Blu and found some earrings and a necklace. The side trip to Robin Blu wasn't planned because you know, big barn sale...oh well, when they have another sale, I'll go cause cute stuff and parking isn't bad. Always take the truck though.
This morning Riley was out early. The kiddos were around and Mama Cat showed up to eat. When she went outside, it was dang cold but a warm up to 43 made things easier. Those cats love playing on the incline amongst the pine straw. This afternoon I called Riley who was on the deck. She came toward the backdoor and didn't seem too sure about calling it a day but she did. Went right to the treats she hadn't finished from this morning. Then she got a few more. Just a bit ago I introduced me sitting in a chair instead of the stairs. Scared her a tad, but the goal is for Riley to trust me even more so that when I can do so safely and efficiently, off the the vet Riley goes.
After thinking over for several weeks whether to continue with Taylor or not, I came to the decision yesterday to take a break. I have almost gone to workout with him for two years. He is the best and I credit so much of the good progress after knee replacements to him. He has helped with my balance and so many other things. He is the only trainer who I have worked with to solve my shoulder problem. After our conversation it sounds like he is considering another path of work and that would surely benefit his family but those who need functional fitness health...well, it will be our loss.
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Finally, after several weeks of bad weather we were all back to the church house this morning. I did a combo lesson from the last two weeks and today. Today's lesson merely got a shout out, but we mainly looked at manna and previous to that the detour God took the Hebrew children on after leaving Egypt. It seems the church heater wasn't working properly and the rooms felt warmish, the sanctuary was pretty dang cool. Even this one who tends to the warm side thought it was a little coolish but very bearable.
Riley went out early this morning and then when I came home to empty bowls and sad faces, of course dinner was served. Riley came in for some treats but then went back outside to join her cousins. Buddy was happy to see me cause she knows she's getting treats. I totally forgot about precip forming on the truck and so happy to be running a little early so that the ice could melt. Even got the scrapper out. Yes, a purchase made in 2010, never used in Houston has come to be very useful here in the mountains. This afternoon like clockwork Riley sat on the deck railing looking at the backdoor. So, opened it and she came running in. Mama Cat was showing some interest and it doesn't seem that Riley is too keen on sharing the space with her grandmother...I don't blame her.
Well the winter watch just came through on the phone for Tuesday. Rain event at first and then changes to snow. It won't last long, well that is the predictions.
Roy is working on another toastmaster speech. He is driven and wants to go through the ranks at a breakneck speed. He's an overachiever so that makes sense. I'm enjoying watching him using humor in his speeches. Humor or at least telling a story is a weak point for him but there has been so much improvement. So glad he is tackling this challenge.
This morning Riley was out early. The kiddos were around and Mama Cat showed up to eat. When she went outside, it was dang cold but a warm up to 43 made things easier. Those cats love playing on the incline amongst the pine straw. This afternoon I called Riley who was on the deck. She came toward the backdoor and didn't seem too sure about calling it a day but she did. Went right to the treats she hadn't finished from this morning. Then she got a few more. Just a bit ago I introduced me sitting in a chair instead of the stairs. Scared her a tad, but the goal is for Riley to trust me even more so that when I can do so safely and efficiently, off the the vet Riley goes.
After thinking over for several weeks whether to continue with Taylor or not, I came to the decision yesterday to take a break. I have almost gone to workout with him for two years. He is the best and I credit so much of the good progress after knee replacements to him. He has helped with my balance and so many other things. He is the only trainer who I have worked with to solve my shoulder problem. After our conversation it sounds like he is considering another path of work and that would surely benefit his family but those who need functional fitness health...well, it will be our loss.
****************************
Finally, after several weeks of bad weather we were all back to the church house this morning. I did a combo lesson from the last two weeks and today. Today's lesson merely got a shout out, but we mainly looked at manna and previous to that the detour God took the Hebrew children on after leaving Egypt. It seems the church heater wasn't working properly and the rooms felt warmish, the sanctuary was pretty dang cool. Even this one who tends to the warm side thought it was a little coolish but very bearable.
Riley went out early this morning and then when I came home to empty bowls and sad faces, of course dinner was served. Riley came in for some treats but then went back outside to join her cousins. Buddy was happy to see me cause she knows she's getting treats. I totally forgot about precip forming on the truck and so happy to be running a little early so that the ice could melt. Even got the scrapper out. Yes, a purchase made in 2010, never used in Houston has come to be very useful here in the mountains. This afternoon like clockwork Riley sat on the deck railing looking at the backdoor. So, opened it and she came running in. Mama Cat was showing some interest and it doesn't seem that Riley is too keen on sharing the space with her grandmother...I don't blame her.
Well the winter watch just came through on the phone for Tuesday. Rain event at first and then changes to snow. It won't last long, well that is the predictions.
Roy is working on another toastmaster speech. He is driven and wants to go through the ranks at a breakneck speed. He's an overachiever so that makes sense. I'm enjoying watching him using humor in his speeches. Humor or at least telling a story is a weak point for him but there has been so much improvement. So glad he is tackling this challenge.
Thursday, January 24, 2019
Cats, Retreat, Birds and Cows....Welcome To My World
When we first moved into the house after some remodeling work, it was a drought year. There were just a few times that it rained for at least a morning or half of a day but never an all day event like we can have so often in Houston. The weather was good all the time although newly planted trees and plants that summer needed extra watering. Then the drought was broken and 2018 became the wettest year on record in this area, more especially to the south. The rain last night began in earnest once the sun dipped below the horizon and a few times the rain against the metal roof hitting methodically with a good beat and easy to dance to, woke me up. There was a little bit of water standing in the backyard this morning. With the temps continuing to drop today, I gave Riley the choice earlier to stay in or go out. She stood there on the threshold contemplating...okay, it was more like sniffing the air, looked back at me and returned to her snug confines with plentiful food and premium treats. Buddy has given up her warden duties this morning. Yesterday, she hung on almost all day to keep an eye of the comings and goings into the garage. I am also trying to do a new routine with Riley. This morning she has been given the opportunity three times to go outside. She turned down the first opportunity and then she took me up on the other times. I worked in the garage with the door open so if she wanted to, she could come and go. We have a little table that used to be on the front porch and this morning it was cleared off and moved over to the window in the garage that will give Riley a little more room to gaze out the window and have the sun on her for most of the morning.
Before moving up here I have had a strong desire to buy an additional home for people to use, to get away. To slow down, to recover, to replenish and enjoy all the mountains have to offer. All along I have said it will have to be the Lord's doing and not us trying to manufacture it happening. Houses in this area aren't as reasonable as when we bought so I have been thinking and praying outside the box...the box being somewhere close by. This past fall while driving along the road in East TN that The Farmer's Daughter is on the thought came, maybe this area hasn't seen homes and land go sky high. Told Roy about that thought and again, prayed but there were other things that had our attention. From time to time I go on Realtor.com and check out those areas and have expanded the search to see if there is anything out there like I have pictured in my imagination and for the price we would want to pay and also not have too much renovations to be done, cause we are not DIY people. Oh, this is sounding like I have an announcement, no I don't but encouraged that there are homes available with the criteria being reasonable and a good view. Last night I got to playing around and expanding the search and saw several places....We are not in a hurry but when warmer weather comes, think I'll be doing some drive bys. Some of the places are in TN and some in NC but relatively close to Boone and Roy loves Mountaineer Football. Last night we were talking about one of the places that has my attention. The house doesn't look like what I'd like but everything else there is in place. This morning I told Roy, you know I am window shopping, playing right now. It is more important to get the back deck replaced with a covered and screened in back porch. Always have the vision and dream, no manufacturing to make it happen...but looking every once in a while keeps hope alive. Have field trips coming up in the spring.
I'm back under warden Buddy's watch. She is here in the bonus room with me, hidden behind some pillows near the window. So when you have an indoor cat whose business is to keep you from helping a cat in the garage or kittens outdoors you have to be sneaky to take care of them all. Buddy was watching Strawyer and Punky at the back window. I leaned over to pick up a piece of paper and Buddy attacked my hand and arm. Now, she was so focused, I understand the wailing and flaying. She had been upstairs sleeping so I sneaked out to the garage to take a couple of videos of Riley for a catch up on FB. Buddy was waiting at the door to welcome me back into the kitchen. We are all tired from this that's for sure. A Buddy look a like has been showing up now and then and he ate all of the kitten's food, so I sneaked some out to them while Buddy was on the front porch.
Right now in Houston a long time friend is saying goodbye to her middle son. He was 36 years old and died of a heart condition in Denver. I have been praying for her every time she comes to mind and she has come to mind a lot.
The birds around here haven't received too much attention of late...but today the backyard was aflutter with bird drama here, there and everywhere. Filled the feeder and threw some of the birdseed on the ground for the birds who won't eat from a feeder. All the little chick a dees, wrens, titmouse and the like were having a wonderful afternoon of eating when a young mockingbird brought all the fun to a crashing halt. His presence on top of the shepherd hook ensured the little birdies staying away but not content with ruling over the feeder, he began chasing the thrashers and blue jays, yes, the other bully of the bird world. It was as if an air battle was taking place right there with the chasing and soaring. Finally the little birds formed a plan to take turns attracting the attention of the mockingbird and the other birds would do the quick grabbing of some food and fly away before the mockingbird could get back. Then the group that just ate performed the same diversion so that the other little birds could grab some grub. This went on for about twenty minutes. Again, another reason not to have a TV downstairs because the action is fierce in the back. Meanwhile in the front cows graze and there are several young ones and that makes fascinating viewing. The winter colors are bold right now with strong harvest colors of green moss and the golden tone of the grass.
Before moving up here I have had a strong desire to buy an additional home for people to use, to get away. To slow down, to recover, to replenish and enjoy all the mountains have to offer. All along I have said it will have to be the Lord's doing and not us trying to manufacture it happening. Houses in this area aren't as reasonable as when we bought so I have been thinking and praying outside the box...the box being somewhere close by. This past fall while driving along the road in East TN that The Farmer's Daughter is on the thought came, maybe this area hasn't seen homes and land go sky high. Told Roy about that thought and again, prayed but there were other things that had our attention. From time to time I go on Realtor.com and check out those areas and have expanded the search to see if there is anything out there like I have pictured in my imagination and for the price we would want to pay and also not have too much renovations to be done, cause we are not DIY people. Oh, this is sounding like I have an announcement, no I don't but encouraged that there are homes available with the criteria being reasonable and a good view. Last night I got to playing around and expanding the search and saw several places....We are not in a hurry but when warmer weather comes, think I'll be doing some drive bys. Some of the places are in TN and some in NC but relatively close to Boone and Roy loves Mountaineer Football. Last night we were talking about one of the places that has my attention. The house doesn't look like what I'd like but everything else there is in place. This morning I told Roy, you know I am window shopping, playing right now. It is more important to get the back deck replaced with a covered and screened in back porch. Always have the vision and dream, no manufacturing to make it happen...but looking every once in a while keeps hope alive. Have field trips coming up in the spring.
I'm back under warden Buddy's watch. She is here in the bonus room with me, hidden behind some pillows near the window. So when you have an indoor cat whose business is to keep you from helping a cat in the garage or kittens outdoors you have to be sneaky to take care of them all. Buddy was watching Strawyer and Punky at the back window. I leaned over to pick up a piece of paper and Buddy attacked my hand and arm. Now, she was so focused, I understand the wailing and flaying. She had been upstairs sleeping so I sneaked out to the garage to take a couple of videos of Riley for a catch up on FB. Buddy was waiting at the door to welcome me back into the kitchen. We are all tired from this that's for sure. A Buddy look a like has been showing up now and then and he ate all of the kitten's food, so I sneaked some out to them while Buddy was on the front porch.
Right now in Houston a long time friend is saying goodbye to her middle son. He was 36 years old and died of a heart condition in Denver. I have been praying for her every time she comes to mind and she has come to mind a lot.
The birds around here haven't received too much attention of late...but today the backyard was aflutter with bird drama here, there and everywhere. Filled the feeder and threw some of the birdseed on the ground for the birds who won't eat from a feeder. All the little chick a dees, wrens, titmouse and the like were having a wonderful afternoon of eating when a young mockingbird brought all the fun to a crashing halt. His presence on top of the shepherd hook ensured the little birdies staying away but not content with ruling over the feeder, he began chasing the thrashers and blue jays, yes, the other bully of the bird world. It was as if an air battle was taking place right there with the chasing and soaring. Finally the little birds formed a plan to take turns attracting the attention of the mockingbird and the other birds would do the quick grabbing of some food and fly away before the mockingbird could get back. Then the group that just ate performed the same diversion so that the other little birds could grab some grub. This went on for about twenty minutes. Again, another reason not to have a TV downstairs because the action is fierce in the back. Meanwhile in the front cows graze and there are several young ones and that makes fascinating viewing. The winter colors are bold right now with strong harvest colors of green moss and the golden tone of the grass.
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
Wind And Cats....That's About All I Know Today
The clouds and sky with the mountains as a backdrop are so beautiful right now. It's almost time for the sunset, oh probably about thirty minutes away. With the tree leaves fallen, from this room I can see mountain views. I never ever want to take for granted these beautiful mountains, skies, sunrises and sunsets. So thankful to live here in these mountains.
Even with it being much colder yesterday and not getting above freezing it feels colder today. Had a couple of errands to take care of so got out around lunch time. The kiddos were in the backyard hoping that something edible would be served soon. Opened the backdoor and Riley was a little iffy about getting out in that nippy and chilly air but she went on out. While getting the food ready Punky and Strawyer came into the garage and checked it out. I closed the door for just a few minutes and then opened it again. Strawyer lingered a bit but then decided to go ahead and get out there to fight for some grub from his cranky mom and his crotchety grandmother. Riley looks on like, what I get fed is a whole lot better than yours. They wolfed down that food so quickly that additional portions were served and my presence helped Punky and Strawyer be able to get something to eat cause Camo was a hissing and a slapping. Again Riley acted like she might want to go back in the garage and she loves hanging around the Mustang, so it is being extra careful when taking the car. I was in luck at Ingles because they were serving orange chicken at the deli/Chinese/comfort food counter. They make good orange chicken. Got home to an empty backyard...left with cats. No sign...no trace...but cats are like that. After a bit, Strawyer and Punky were out playing and then the slow stretch and languid walk of Riley came out from underneath the deck. She looked toward the backdoor, so I went out to the garage and opened the backdoor, Riley came a running, no looking back, no indecision, she decided it was time to get inside. No turning back, no turning back.
*************
It is windy mcwindy outdoors today. Last night the wind chimes in the backyard were belting out a loud and furious tune...being blown to bits by the strong wind. I wanted to look out the window and see the trees buckling to the dance of the gales and gusts but Buddy had settled down, so the smart choice was just to listen and pray, not look and worry. Today, the wind gusts are still gusty. And can now see the trees and well...hmm...don't think I really want to watch this.
Along with the wind last night, right before going to bed I heard the sound of cats caterwauling. That gray cat and a gray and white cat that comes around every once in a while. Downstairs to bang on the window and do the old lady yell...get outa here! They took their fight up to the gravel road. Me thinks Camo might be in heat or something. Of course she has made herself scarce which is really, really fine by me.
Buddy is wearing herself out being a watch cat and keeping an eye on my every move. She mainly stayed downstairs all day and only came up here earlier this evening. Southern Justice was on, love that show, seen them all, but Buddy only stuck around for a bit and then went back downstairs. So I had to go out and do the final bed check on Riley. That little Riley, she has found the total and complete joy of a human rubbing her head, around her ears, around her eyes and on the side of her head. She closes her eyes and takes it all in...until some feral nerve calls her back for a moment. Then she wants her head rubbed again. That little cat has come a very long way.
Even with it being much colder yesterday and not getting above freezing it feels colder today. Had a couple of errands to take care of so got out around lunch time. The kiddos were in the backyard hoping that something edible would be served soon. Opened the backdoor and Riley was a little iffy about getting out in that nippy and chilly air but she went on out. While getting the food ready Punky and Strawyer came into the garage and checked it out. I closed the door for just a few minutes and then opened it again. Strawyer lingered a bit but then decided to go ahead and get out there to fight for some grub from his cranky mom and his crotchety grandmother. Riley looks on like, what I get fed is a whole lot better than yours. They wolfed down that food so quickly that additional portions were served and my presence helped Punky and Strawyer be able to get something to eat cause Camo was a hissing and a slapping. Again Riley acted like she might want to go back in the garage and she loves hanging around the Mustang, so it is being extra careful when taking the car. I was in luck at Ingles because they were serving orange chicken at the deli/Chinese/comfort food counter. They make good orange chicken. Got home to an empty backyard...left with cats. No sign...no trace...but cats are like that. After a bit, Strawyer and Punky were out playing and then the slow stretch and languid walk of Riley came out from underneath the deck. She looked toward the backdoor, so I went out to the garage and opened the backdoor, Riley came a running, no looking back, no indecision, she decided it was time to get inside. No turning back, no turning back.
*************
It is windy mcwindy outdoors today. Last night the wind chimes in the backyard were belting out a loud and furious tune...being blown to bits by the strong wind. I wanted to look out the window and see the trees buckling to the dance of the gales and gusts but Buddy had settled down, so the smart choice was just to listen and pray, not look and worry. Today, the wind gusts are still gusty. And can now see the trees and well...hmm...don't think I really want to watch this.
Along with the wind last night, right before going to bed I heard the sound of cats caterwauling. That gray cat and a gray and white cat that comes around every once in a while. Downstairs to bang on the window and do the old lady yell...get outa here! They took their fight up to the gravel road. Me thinks Camo might be in heat or something. Of course she has made herself scarce which is really, really fine by me.
Buddy is wearing herself out being a watch cat and keeping an eye on my every move. She mainly stayed downstairs all day and only came up here earlier this evening. Southern Justice was on, love that show, seen them all, but Buddy only stuck around for a bit and then went back downstairs. So I had to go out and do the final bed check on Riley. That little Riley, she has found the total and complete joy of a human rubbing her head, around her ears, around her eyes and on the side of her head. She closes her eyes and takes it all in...until some feral nerve calls her back for a moment. Then she wants her head rubbed again. That little cat has come a very long way.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
Cats, Bubba,Pajamas, Books and PTL
I now know where really good books go to die I mean books go to be misplaced. That would be in any of the various baskets around the house that are filled with notebooks, journals, Flow magazines, and well....books. Books that were dead I mean lost to me have been found.
πΆππRejoice, rejoice, the books are, well they've been here, (please cram as many words as possible on these notes) staying home again, rejoice rejoice gokill the fatted calf I mean go pick up some BBQπππ
π£π’π
π Anyway, if you cannot tell, thrilled beyond words to find a few of these books, for such a time as this. Well, anytime is a good time for a book but these will be most helpful.
Another thing to be thrilled about is, in the midst of all the Feral Fam and I mean all the remaining Feral Fam, Riley came into the garage. Interesting though, she went to Punky, looked at her, then headed over toward the back door, stopped looked at her again almost saying, cause you know I speak the language of cats now, I wish, she was saying look, follow me. The food inside is much better, the treats are the premium kind and it is warm....
♮ππ Little house in the woods, tall old lady by the window stood, saw a kitty walking by, helpless as can be...Help me help me help me it said, less those dogs kill me dead...Little kitty come inside, safely to abide....and have treats....πΆπ΅π €
Yes it is music montage Monday here at the Monarch Minor Manor.
I am so thankful that Oscar Turner III, Bubba's, service was on the webcast at Houston's First Baptist Church this afternoon. We knew of him at church for years but when I started working with Jason at church...I got to know Bubba, cause Jason was married to the lovely Paige, who is one of Oscar and Claire's daughters. The service today so honored him, what he believed, what he loved and what an encourager he was to everyone. He would come into the Ministries Suite to see Jason and if I was fortunate that Jason was tied up for a few minutes, I would get to visit with Oscar and Claire if she was there with him. Roy and I got to spend time with their family a couple of Thanksgivings at their place in New Ulm. What a blast to be with the Turners, extended all. Chambers, oldest grandson, spoke today. He was my first assistant to help me on Wednesday nights. I was paying him $10.00 a week cause I didn't know the going rate of an assistant who helped me set up things for directors meeting. Jason made him give me the money back and Jason, who can go high pitched when he is making a point, told me I was paying him what he got a month for allowance. Hey, I am all about the outsourcing aspect of the economy. There are so few memorial services that are true and genuine...cause you know some people just are problems and you have to have a nice way of saying that they weren't when everyone knows that they were. Off the top of my head, Monroe Talley, Marge Caldwell and Mary Helen Davis's services come to mind as being truthful and genuine...
********************************
A cold Tuesday morning but not as cold as yesterday. It's about 23 degrees now but that was close to the high yesterday afternoon. Got a much better night of sleep and the cats seem to be happier with me this morning. Mama Cat probably isn't happy cause she is sitting out back waiting for breakfast and she will just have to wait a little longer.
Last night watching On Demand from Friday night 20/20. It was about Jim and Tammy Faye Baker. Totally forgot that their PTL network and Heritage amusement park were relatively close by. He was cutting edge in thinking outside the box in the Christian world, but he got caught up with the same things that have been tripping up people since the very beginning. An interesting look back and the commentary that in today's culture, instead of stepping back to "fix" things like they did, they would stay involved slugging out their destiny in the midst of it all.
Years ago when Nick and Nora jammies were all the rage, I got two pairs of I Love Lucy pajamas and an I Love Lucy nightshirt was given to me as a gift. Discovered them all nicely stored away and have been wearing them a lot this winter. If jammies can bring joy, these certainly do. Just a little something, just like the Barnes and Noble Sherpa socks...makes it feel a little warmer inwardly and outwardly.
Riley is coming along with being petted. She has come to discover the head rub around her ears and eyes. She still isn't quite sure of the back petting but she's coming around. Mornings seem to be the best time to attempt because once she has been outdoors and returns in the late afternoons to the garage, she is more feral than friendly. I still find it hard to believe she lets me pet her....
πΆππRejoice, rejoice, the books are, well they've been here, (please cram as many words as possible on these notes) staying home again, rejoice rejoice go
Another thing to be thrilled about is, in the midst of all the Feral Fam and I mean all the remaining Feral Fam, Riley came into the garage. Interesting though, she went to Punky, looked at her, then headed over toward the back door, stopped looked at her again almost saying, cause you know I speak the language of cats now, I wish, she was saying look, follow me. The food inside is much better, the treats are the premium kind and it is warm....
♮ππ Little house in the woods, tall old lady by the window stood, saw a kitty walking by, helpless as can be...Help me help me help me it said, less those dogs kill me dead...Little kitty come inside, safely to abide....and have treats....πΆπ΅π €
Yes it is music montage Monday here at the Monarch Minor Manor.
I am so thankful that Oscar Turner III, Bubba's, service was on the webcast at Houston's First Baptist Church this afternoon. We knew of him at church for years but when I started working with Jason at church...I got to know Bubba, cause Jason was married to the lovely Paige, who is one of Oscar and Claire's daughters. The service today so honored him, what he believed, what he loved and what an encourager he was to everyone. He would come into the Ministries Suite to see Jason and if I was fortunate that Jason was tied up for a few minutes, I would get to visit with Oscar and Claire if she was there with him. Roy and I got to spend time with their family a couple of Thanksgivings at their place in New Ulm. What a blast to be with the Turners, extended all. Chambers, oldest grandson, spoke today. He was my first assistant to help me on Wednesday nights. I was paying him $10.00 a week cause I didn't know the going rate of an assistant who helped me set up things for directors meeting. Jason made him give me the money back and Jason, who can go high pitched when he is making a point, told me I was paying him what he got a month for allowance. Hey, I am all about the outsourcing aspect of the economy. There are so few memorial services that are true and genuine...cause you know some people just are problems and you have to have a nice way of saying that they weren't when everyone knows that they were. Off the top of my head, Monroe Talley, Marge Caldwell and Mary Helen Davis's services come to mind as being truthful and genuine...
********************************
A cold Tuesday morning but not as cold as yesterday. It's about 23 degrees now but that was close to the high yesterday afternoon. Got a much better night of sleep and the cats seem to be happier with me this morning. Mama Cat probably isn't happy cause she is sitting out back waiting for breakfast and she will just have to wait a little longer.
Last night watching On Demand from Friday night 20/20. It was about Jim and Tammy Faye Baker. Totally forgot that their PTL network and Heritage amusement park were relatively close by. He was cutting edge in thinking outside the box in the Christian world, but he got caught up with the same things that have been tripping up people since the very beginning. An interesting look back and the commentary that in today's culture, instead of stepping back to "fix" things like they did, they would stay involved slugging out their destiny in the midst of it all.
Years ago when Nick and Nora jammies were all the rage, I got two pairs of I Love Lucy pajamas and an I Love Lucy nightshirt was given to me as a gift. Discovered them all nicely stored away and have been wearing them a lot this winter. If jammies can bring joy, these certainly do. Just a little something, just like the Barnes and Noble Sherpa socks...makes it feel a little warmer inwardly and outwardly.
Riley is coming along with being petted. She has come to discover the head rub around her ears and eyes. She still isn't quite sure of the back petting but she's coming around. Mornings seem to be the best time to attempt because once she has been outdoors and returns in the late afternoons to the garage, she is more feral than friendly. I still find it hard to believe she lets me pet her....
Monday, January 21, 2019
Brrrr.....It's Cold!
This morning I am ever so grateful for Judy C. I texted with her earlier and told her the concerns I had for driving in the cold, little bit of snow and soon coming ice this morning to get to church. Roy had asked me not to get out this morning and normally I would have straight up agreed but this is my Sunday to teach. Judy said she would be there and would take care of the lesson by playing the chapters and have discussion. So next week I'll teach today's lesson. Lots of churches cancelled services this morning but ours didn't.
Light snow is falling and our driveway is looking kind of icy. Our neighbors just drove down our road and they spun a little. There is more snow this Sunday than last week. Earlier the wind gusts were downright scary and it sounded like the house was holding on for dear life. None of the cats are too happy with me this morning. Buddy is upset about Riley in the garage. Riley is upset that I haven't let her out. So I came upstairs cause I'm a little weary of listening to battling cat meows.
One of the best things purchased around Christmas are these Barnes and Noble Sherpa lined socks. They keep the toes nice and roasty, toasty. Gave several as gifts but on this very cold Sunday morning, they are just what I needed.
Taylor cancelled our workout on Monday and I can say I am very happy about that. This cold is supposed to go right into Monday. At some point cabin fever might set in, but don't know, it could be more of a got to get out for supplies kind of feeling later on in the week. More cold, maybe snow forecasted for the middle of the week.
For lunch the cast iron skillet came in handy for grilling a couple of small steaks. The fine folks at Publix had already seasoned them. So a little marinade and it was grilling time. They turned out really good alongside some skinny mashed potatoes. Have leftovers for tomorrow's lunch. Lots of smoke but didn't set off the fire alarm. Checked on all the cats, all is well, all are not happy with me. It feels like 13 outside and Riley wants out, Buddy, she is keeping an eye on things. Right now everything sounds like a cat meow, the dishwasher, the sounds coming out of my nose and then the real cats themselves but not as much as I am hearing in my imagination.
***************************
Over the weekend the Wall Street Journal had an article praising the benefits of a slow morning. Now, most days, that is standard practice around here, but it wasn't always that way. Of course those working years when additional sleep seemed more rewarding than a slow morning are the exception of years past. But now, retired, living in the mountains and enjoying seasons, even today where the feel like temp is -5, a slow morning is to be savored and appreciated. Today is a slow morning day but it also was a very early start. Buddy didn't have a good night last night so that means....well, you know what that means. Up and down, couldn't get comfortable...wandering...staring, oh that was all Buddy. So this morning when that early morning right before 6:00 am sleep kicks in, I got up. Got the coffee going and needed to check on Riley. I know that upsets Buddy and I try to wait Buddy out and go to the garage once she sleeps but with the frigid temps and knowing Riley won't sleep on the blankets or bed out there, just wanted to see how she fared. She fared well. But to check on Riley meant Buddy had to be put behind a closed door and she was not happy about this. Fussed and her paw and claw connected to the side of my mouth. Ouch! We've made up but neither one of us is especially happy with the other one. Well, we are happier now but..... I know Buddy doesn't feel good and this helping Riley has to be getting on her last nerve, but Buddy and I are spending good time together, she's a great lap cat in the afternoons when I try to read books.
With the sun yesterday and this morning any residual snow is melting. We don't look to go above freezing today.
My heart is with friends in Houston today. One family is celebrating the life of a godly man and one family is reeling from the shock of a son found deceased, an unexpected death. They all have the hope of seeing their loved ones again, but today it's especially hard to say goodbye and not being able to say goodbye.
Riley is anxious to get outside and I don't blame her.... Keeping a watch for the other members of the Feral Fam. I tried to get them inside yesterday several times and all times, failed.
With things to do and take care of today, I'll end this blog post. Stay warm!
Light snow is falling and our driveway is looking kind of icy. Our neighbors just drove down our road and they spun a little. There is more snow this Sunday than last week. Earlier the wind gusts were downright scary and it sounded like the house was holding on for dear life. None of the cats are too happy with me this morning. Buddy is upset about Riley in the garage. Riley is upset that I haven't let her out. So I came upstairs cause I'm a little weary of listening to battling cat meows.
One of the best things purchased around Christmas are these Barnes and Noble Sherpa lined socks. They keep the toes nice and roasty, toasty. Gave several as gifts but on this very cold Sunday morning, they are just what I needed.
Taylor cancelled our workout on Monday and I can say I am very happy about that. This cold is supposed to go right into Monday. At some point cabin fever might set in, but don't know, it could be more of a got to get out for supplies kind of feeling later on in the week. More cold, maybe snow forecasted for the middle of the week.
For lunch the cast iron skillet came in handy for grilling a couple of small steaks. The fine folks at Publix had already seasoned them. So a little marinade and it was grilling time. They turned out really good alongside some skinny mashed potatoes. Have leftovers for tomorrow's lunch. Lots of smoke but didn't set off the fire alarm. Checked on all the cats, all is well, all are not happy with me. It feels like 13 outside and Riley wants out, Buddy, she is keeping an eye on things. Right now everything sounds like a cat meow, the dishwasher, the sounds coming out of my nose and then the real cats themselves but not as much as I am hearing in my imagination.
***************************
Over the weekend the Wall Street Journal had an article praising the benefits of a slow morning. Now, most days, that is standard practice around here, but it wasn't always that way. Of course those working years when additional sleep seemed more rewarding than a slow morning are the exception of years past. But now, retired, living in the mountains and enjoying seasons, even today where the feel like temp is -5, a slow morning is to be savored and appreciated. Today is a slow morning day but it also was a very early start. Buddy didn't have a good night last night so that means....well, you know what that means. Up and down, couldn't get comfortable...wandering...staring, oh that was all Buddy. So this morning when that early morning right before 6:00 am sleep kicks in, I got up. Got the coffee going and needed to check on Riley. I know that upsets Buddy and I try to wait Buddy out and go to the garage once she sleeps but with the frigid temps and knowing Riley won't sleep on the blankets or bed out there, just wanted to see how she fared. She fared well. But to check on Riley meant Buddy had to be put behind a closed door and she was not happy about this. Fussed and her paw and claw connected to the side of my mouth. Ouch! We've made up but neither one of us is especially happy with the other one. Well, we are happier now but..... I know Buddy doesn't feel good and this helping Riley has to be getting on her last nerve, but Buddy and I are spending good time together, she's a great lap cat in the afternoons when I try to read books.
With the sun yesterday and this morning any residual snow is melting. We don't look to go above freezing today.
My heart is with friends in Houston today. One family is celebrating the life of a godly man and one family is reeling from the shock of a son found deceased, an unexpected death. They all have the hope of seeing their loved ones again, but today it's especially hard to say goodbye and not being able to say goodbye.
Riley is anxious to get outside and I don't blame her.... Keeping a watch for the other members of the Feral Fam. I tried to get them inside yesterday several times and all times, failed.
With things to do and take care of today, I'll end this blog post. Stay warm!
Saturday, January 19, 2019
My Fair Cat And Other Things
Another day, another Riley story. I don't ever want to forget these times and moments, all of them, sad, happy, scary, worrisome, joyful.... She has been such a gift these past few weeks and reading other accounts of loving feral cats gives hope but also some fears. Probably in my nativity I am hoping for a non-trap situation. It could happen. But time is not on our side.
Sometimes in this process of socializing Riley I feel like I am in the Broadway play My Fair Lady, except it isn't a musical around here. But wouldn't it be loverly if everything clicked and worked sooner than later.
This morning Buddy slept in a bit so it was easier to get out to the garage to greet the morning with Riley. She came right to me and like the habit we've gotten into, I put my hand out. This morning she gave my hand an extra good rub. We moved over to one of the places she gets treats and again, she rubbed my hand and began to eat but as she did, I rubbed her head and the sides of her face and sounding like George Castanza, there wasn't any rebuff on her part, only taking it in and purring loudly. Overjoyed and I would have danced about the garage, if only there was room. So back into the kitchen where the happy dance took place. A little later I went out and we went through the whole process again...petting her, rubbing her head. All the little victories are appreciated. While taking in and pondering the morning's achievement, the sound of a little voice of a meow garnered my attention, it wasn't Riley but outside. There was Punky roaming about the rocks near the butterfly bush. Riley heard it too because she responded with the loudest meow I have ever heard her make. Out to the garage, we exchanged greetings with a petting of her head, then onto the business at hand, going outdoors. When the backdoor was opened, Punky came running up to Riley, did the nose greet and only then realized my presence. She moved back a little but then came toward Riley again. Out they went to the deck. Got food out for Punky and went inside. Another small step on this long, patient road. Of course Camo shows up....at least her presence keeps the squirrels out of the yard and digging up spring and summer bulbs. Ugh! I look out the window from time to time and Riley is busy watching birds and keeping an eye on things. It is always a step of faith for me to let her out that door in the mornings and pray that she'll want to return in the evening.
Well, Riley came into the garage this evening. At first I thought Camo's presence along with Punky and a surprise Strawyer being in the back might keep Riley from coming in. It is kind of fun to watch the interactions. Camo was on the step and Riley came behind her and...well, how do you write this, well, Riley smelled Camo's butt. Camo hissed and took a swipe. Can't blame her, so Riley made her way behind Camo and up onto the deck. Punky and Strawyer were near by. Punky was moving toward Riley and Camo stopped that in a flat minute. This afternoon a Buddy look a like came onto the deck which put Riley and Punky in the scary cat position. Just went out to check on Riley. She's doing good, ate her supper and looks sleepy. She let me rub her head again. And it is such a gift.
**************************************
Our area is bracing for a winter storm, probably more cold than snow but with fast dropping temps in the morning it could be more of an ice accumulation thing. Riley was ready early to go outside and now as the dogs bark and the sky turns more steely gray, I hope she comes back to the warmth of her night time dwelling place. Got her fed, treated and played with before she went out the door. Punky came out of the tent. Got her fed and so it is the waiting game. Have to remember that the feral life is a roller coaster and there isn't too much normal about it. I'm always bracing for that moment when Riley stays out all night and she sure doesn't want to make it tonight.
Yesterday, on the way into Weaverville, I caught a glimpse of a barn set below the road a little distance and usually the view is covered by tree leaves. This quick glance revealed maybe what most of this area looked like about fifty years ago or maybe longer. Because I was driving the legal speed limit of the road, the scene vanished before I was ready for it to and well, you know with curves and such one should constantly keep an eye on the road. We are in the midst of the Hebrew Children leaving Egypt, crossing the Red Sea and venturing into the wilderness in Sunday School. I've been keeping track of their grumbling and since it's not too far into the story, the count is at three. So a barn scene and the Hebrew children....what do they have in common? Nostalgia. Can't help but think of Adam Feldman's book Journaling. The three things that rob us of life is nostalgia, entitlement and bitterness. We get so hung up on thinking of the good ol days...back when. Lots of people say that about singing hymns verses modern songs but I'd challenge them to remember, most Sundays we all sang hymns by rote, especially the 1, 2 and last verse. We didn't really consider the weighty and mighty words....it took the newer songs to do that. Work was a lot harder years ago than today. All the time saving devices we have now...it is more of a matter of what we do with our time. We can remember the good times but the fantasized version of the past robs of today's joys. This morning there was a piece on FB about a man who took his grumbling, complaining friend out of the city and drove him to one of his favorite countryside thinking spots. It didn't make a difference to the grumbler whether he was in the city or the country....his complaints continued. So back to the city they went the friend who tried to help his friend a little wiser knowing that so many miss the miracles around them. Oh the things to ponder now and then.
Speaking of roller coaster previously, with the wind picking up and rain drops, Riley came into the garage. We played a little and then she got treats and I came in the house. Contrary to rumors I do not spend all my time with cats.... Anyway, I went back out to check on her and to play a little more. Roy called and I should just gone inside instead of trying to play and to talk because Riley got a little tangled in the fishing line and ran off into the depths of the garage storage. I was concerned that maybe the little fishing fob and the extra straw I had on the end of the pole might be wrapped around her. Gave her a little time, found the fishing fob but no sight of Riley. Went back in the house and worked on laundry, came back out and there she was. Roller coaster...anyway, she'd like to go out but as much as I would like to let her, now that the chances of rain increase in the afternoon....
Meanwhile Buddy is sound asleep on the bed. She should be cause she couldn't settle last night. It was a long night of not much sleep.
Sometimes in this process of socializing Riley I feel like I am in the Broadway play My Fair Lady, except it isn't a musical around here. But wouldn't it be loverly if everything clicked and worked sooner than later.
This morning Buddy slept in a bit so it was easier to get out to the garage to greet the morning with Riley. She came right to me and like the habit we've gotten into, I put my hand out. This morning she gave my hand an extra good rub. We moved over to one of the places she gets treats and again, she rubbed my hand and began to eat but as she did, I rubbed her head and the sides of her face and sounding like George Castanza, there wasn't any rebuff on her part, only taking it in and purring loudly. Overjoyed and I would have danced about the garage, if only there was room. So back into the kitchen where the happy dance took place. A little later I went out and we went through the whole process again...petting her, rubbing her head. All the little victories are appreciated. While taking in and pondering the morning's achievement, the sound of a little voice of a meow garnered my attention, it wasn't Riley but outside. There was Punky roaming about the rocks near the butterfly bush. Riley heard it too because she responded with the loudest meow I have ever heard her make. Out to the garage, we exchanged greetings with a petting of her head, then onto the business at hand, going outdoors. When the backdoor was opened, Punky came running up to Riley, did the nose greet and only then realized my presence. She moved back a little but then came toward Riley again. Out they went to the deck. Got food out for Punky and went inside. Another small step on this long, patient road. Of course Camo shows up....at least her presence keeps the squirrels out of the yard and digging up spring and summer bulbs. Ugh! I look out the window from time to time and Riley is busy watching birds and keeping an eye on things. It is always a step of faith for me to let her out that door in the mornings and pray that she'll want to return in the evening.
Well, Riley came into the garage this evening. At first I thought Camo's presence along with Punky and a surprise Strawyer being in the back might keep Riley from coming in. It is kind of fun to watch the interactions. Camo was on the step and Riley came behind her and...well, how do you write this, well, Riley smelled Camo's butt. Camo hissed and took a swipe. Can't blame her, so Riley made her way behind Camo and up onto the deck. Punky and Strawyer were near by. Punky was moving toward Riley and Camo stopped that in a flat minute. This afternoon a Buddy look a like came onto the deck which put Riley and Punky in the scary cat position. Just went out to check on Riley. She's doing good, ate her supper and looks sleepy. She let me rub her head again. And it is such a gift.
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Our area is bracing for a winter storm, probably more cold than snow but with fast dropping temps in the morning it could be more of an ice accumulation thing. Riley was ready early to go outside and now as the dogs bark and the sky turns more steely gray, I hope she comes back to the warmth of her night time dwelling place. Got her fed, treated and played with before she went out the door. Punky came out of the tent. Got her fed and so it is the waiting game. Have to remember that the feral life is a roller coaster and there isn't too much normal about it. I'm always bracing for that moment when Riley stays out all night and she sure doesn't want to make it tonight.
Yesterday, on the way into Weaverville, I caught a glimpse of a barn set below the road a little distance and usually the view is covered by tree leaves. This quick glance revealed maybe what most of this area looked like about fifty years ago or maybe longer. Because I was driving the legal speed limit of the road, the scene vanished before I was ready for it to and well, you know with curves and such one should constantly keep an eye on the road. We are in the midst of the Hebrew Children leaving Egypt, crossing the Red Sea and venturing into the wilderness in Sunday School. I've been keeping track of their grumbling and since it's not too far into the story, the count is at three. So a barn scene and the Hebrew children....what do they have in common? Nostalgia. Can't help but think of Adam Feldman's book Journaling. The three things that rob us of life is nostalgia, entitlement and bitterness. We get so hung up on thinking of the good ol days...back when. Lots of people say that about singing hymns verses modern songs but I'd challenge them to remember, most Sundays we all sang hymns by rote, especially the 1, 2 and last verse. We didn't really consider the weighty and mighty words....it took the newer songs to do that. Work was a lot harder years ago than today. All the time saving devices we have now...it is more of a matter of what we do with our time. We can remember the good times but the fantasized version of the past robs of today's joys. This morning there was a piece on FB about a man who took his grumbling, complaining friend out of the city and drove him to one of his favorite countryside thinking spots. It didn't make a difference to the grumbler whether he was in the city or the country....his complaints continued. So back to the city they went the friend who tried to help his friend a little wiser knowing that so many miss the miracles around them. Oh the things to ponder now and then.
Speaking of roller coaster previously, with the wind picking up and rain drops, Riley came into the garage. We played a little and then she got treats and I came in the house. Contrary to rumors I do not spend all my time with cats.... Anyway, I went back out to check on her and to play a little more. Roy called and I should just gone inside instead of trying to play and to talk because Riley got a little tangled in the fishing line and ran off into the depths of the garage storage. I was concerned that maybe the little fishing fob and the extra straw I had on the end of the pole might be wrapped around her. Gave her a little time, found the fishing fob but no sight of Riley. Went back in the house and worked on laundry, came back out and there she was. Roller coaster...anyway, she'd like to go out but as much as I would like to let her, now that the chances of rain increase in the afternoon....
Meanwhile Buddy is sound asleep on the bed. She should be cause she couldn't settle last night. It was a long night of not much sleep.
Thursday, January 17, 2019
Cats, Snow, Taste And See and Thumbs...All Happening On A Thursday
Today just might be the day that Riley won't come back into the garage. With the temps turning cooler and rain or snow in the afternoon forecast, she is defying the conditions to stay around Punky. Earlier I called out to Riley and she came near to the door, meowing and turning her head in the direction of Punky, who sat on the deck stairs. Riley went back to her, touched noses and tried to get her to follow, but Punky isn't too sure about me or probably about her newfound alliance with her cousin. Camo comes and goes, but it has seemed to this non cat that she is trying to ditch Punky and has probably ditched Strawyer somewhere. He has not been around the past day or two. Riley helped Cali with her litter of kittens and watched over them more than Cali seemed to at times. One afternoon, it was just Riley and the little black and white kitten that goes by the name Tux now and Riley played and tried to corral that kitten to keep him on the deck. He rolled off onto the ground and Riley continued herding and playing, with great concern and every once in a while looked on the deck to see if Cali was going to reinforce her efforts of rescue...nope. So now that this cousin alliance has been formed, I may have lost out. After the Buddy attack, I don't blame Riley for being so cautious around the garage last night and this morning. I'll keep an eye on the backyard especially since Mama Cat has shown up. Both Riley and Punky are interested in her but she hisses and take a swipe at them if they get too close. While this drama plays out in the backyard, Nancy and Naia went down the gravel road on the four wheeler. Punky was on the top of the fence, about the third generation of fence sitters here, and Naia tried to get Punky. She gave up the pursuit quickly this time. Riley was hiding and only came out when the coast was clear. The temps this weekend are supposed to be the coldest of the season, so hopefully Riley will come in during that weather event. Part of me has mixed emotions...the process is so slow with ferals and just when I thought a corner of resistance had been turned, the whole Buddy incident happened and set us back. There is good to come out of this, Buddy has a new will to stay awake and be active. I've had mixed emotions and thoughts about Riley in that, I haven't been looking for a new cat, especially a new indoor cat but if God brings them to you, you accept the responsibility. For sure, I love that cat named Riley. She has come so far and maybe this time out by being sheltered and fed in a garage, with toys and treats, will be a big part of who she becomes. So far, she is not like her mom and doesn't seem to traverse the countryside like Cali but she is wild in the trees and on the gravel road. She is well acquainted with all the pathways of to and through, from front to back of the yard and house. With the skies turning that steel gray of a winter storm, maybe she'll decide to come in but in a funny way, I'll be proud of her if she stays with Punky to help her weather the storm.
It is beginning to snow, so I went downstairs but first looked out the window onto the backyard in our bedroom. From there the view was Camo slinking around and Riley coming down from being under the fir tree. I went to the backdoor and called out for Riley and clapped. She came to the door and meowed her heart out, like help me get that little one in. Only just like a bad dream, Camo comes and takes Punky with her up the incline by the fence. Once Riley sees that, she turned and came into the garage. We played a little and she was rewarded with treats. Now, she'll probably take a well deserved nap. All of this went on under Warden Buddy's presence on the bench by the window. Only, sleep finally overtook her and she naps away.
With many things filling my days I have been remiss in writing a blog post about the book Taste and See by Margaret Feinberg. It is always a welcomed email when Margaret releases a book and I get chosen to be on the launch team. It seems like it has been 3-4 times and each time her book has been the right reading for the right time. Taste and See is no different. Sadly, it is not making me want to bake or cook but the comparisons with ancient biblical times with food and modern times is outstanding, just like her book Scouting the Divine. Just these little tidbits about nets, fish, figs and bread...that is how far I've gotten in reading. It is a tug of war because the book is so good I want to read it quickly yet the book is so good, I want to savor and take in each word, each sentence.
One year the skin on my face, right underneath my eyes dried out something terribly. There was a whole lot of flaking going on. I found that Chanel hydro serum worked for a while, then I found another and better product. The next winter the skin on my feet was dry and rough, Detox Gel to the rescue and my feet have never been the same. This winter the skin around my thumb nails has started to split and hurt. It almost makes using my thumbs impossible because of the pain. I have a great product for that but keeping it on my thumb to work...it is nearly impossible. So I Googled thumb thingies, you know those rubber thimble like things that were used a long time ago to sort papers or money, to keep from getting a paper cut. Well, thanks to Amazon I know know the professional term for thumb thingy is thimblettes and they come in sizes. Seriously, I am considering an order so I can put the lotion on my cut and then put the thimblettes on each thumb.
Okay, I ordered them! Here is to healing thumbs!
It is beginning to snow, so I went downstairs but first looked out the window onto the backyard in our bedroom. From there the view was Camo slinking around and Riley coming down from being under the fir tree. I went to the backdoor and called out for Riley and clapped. She came to the door and meowed her heart out, like help me get that little one in. Only just like a bad dream, Camo comes and takes Punky with her up the incline by the fence. Once Riley sees that, she turned and came into the garage. We played a little and she was rewarded with treats. Now, she'll probably take a well deserved nap. All of this went on under Warden Buddy's presence on the bench by the window. Only, sleep finally overtook her and she naps away.
With many things filling my days I have been remiss in writing a blog post about the book Taste and See by Margaret Feinberg. It is always a welcomed email when Margaret releases a book and I get chosen to be on the launch team. It seems like it has been 3-4 times and each time her book has been the right reading for the right time. Taste and See is no different. Sadly, it is not making me want to bake or cook but the comparisons with ancient biblical times with food and modern times is outstanding, just like her book Scouting the Divine. Just these little tidbits about nets, fish, figs and bread...that is how far I've gotten in reading. It is a tug of war because the book is so good I want to read it quickly yet the book is so good, I want to savor and take in each word, each sentence.
One year the skin on my face, right underneath my eyes dried out something terribly. There was a whole lot of flaking going on. I found that Chanel hydro serum worked for a while, then I found another and better product. The next winter the skin on my feet was dry and rough, Detox Gel to the rescue and my feet have never been the same. This winter the skin around my thumb nails has started to split and hurt. It almost makes using my thumbs impossible because of the pain. I have a great product for that but keeping it on my thumb to work...it is nearly impossible. So I Googled thumb thingies, you know those rubber thimble like things that were used a long time ago to sort papers or money, to keep from getting a paper cut. Well, thanks to Amazon I know know the professional term for thumb thingy is thimblettes and they come in sizes. Seriously, I am considering an order so I can put the lotion on my cut and then put the thimblettes on each thumb.
Okay, I ordered them! Here is to healing thumbs!
Kitty Cavalcade.....
It is the kitty cavalcade today. After the kitty cat title of fight the world last night in the garage, all the cats have come back to hear the story of a fight that ended in a draw. This morning it was definitely a wait and see to get out to the garage and feed Riley. Buddy was hyper-vigilant. Finally, not being able to stay awake, she made her way upstairs for her first morning nap. You know, I played it so cool, just like any other morning, getting ready, and then sneaking downstairs to get brunch to Riley. She was ready for it and a few treats. She no longer sleeps by the backdoor but has a hidey hole someplace. When the sun came out, we both headed out of the garage. There was a cat there to meet her outside and thankfully it is our neighbor's cat, neutered and nice. He was looking for some extra scraps, but with only Mama Cat around yesterday, not too much food was put out. By the time I was leaving, Punky had shown up. She meowed at me but kept a safe distance between us, so I whipped up some vittles and left. Upon arriving home, Camo had made an appearance to wolf down some food and then left. Punky was feeling a little deserted. She was interested in Riley but Riley kept her from getting too close. I do not understand the cat world, one day Riley is interested and the other cats reject, then today Riley is the reject dispenser in catdom. It was warm enough briefly to play with Riley and Punky with the fishing pole but the wind picked up and that sent me back inside. I am happy to report that Riley came in this evening. At first, I wasn't too sure she would but Camo was less than pleasant to Riley on her last round, so Riley came into the garage, got some treats and I am sure she is sound asleep because she was on the go all afternoon.
Ran a couple of errands this afternoon. Made a grocery store stop at Publix, brought all that home and put away most everything. Then it was onto The Baked Pie Company because they had lemon drop cheesecake pie today. Brenda told me how good it was, so, you know...it is delicious! Since no matter the route to Baked Pie Company, one has to go through Woodfin...where I got my ticket...first one in thirty one years. So, just in case, I go under the posted limit and dang it, I was so happy to do that cause one of those silver and black cars pulled into a spot to find a speeder. It wasn't going to be me...
After pie pickup it was time to get some birdseed at Tractor Supply. Sometimes I get so involved with the ferals that I forget the birds. Some warblers have found their way to the feeder and this is really nice. Came home, then took half a lemon drop cheesecake pie to Brenda and fam. Larry is recovering nicely from knee replacement surgery. Then on to the Exxon station to fill up the truck. There was a lot of parking available, so it seemed to be the right time to try out Ole's Guacamole. So, two steak tacos and queso. Y'all it was so good! Next time trying the shrimp tacos. Anyway, got it to go.
Buddy has been asleep for most of the evening and I am headed that way soon. It has been a good day and good sleep will be so welcomed.
The 2018 version of Monablog was delivered today. Thumbing through it...January seems to have a recurring theme. It's a quiet season and apparently I am over predictability. Wrote about it a lot last year and this year, well, I have been thinking about it a lot.
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Speaking of predictable, you know a post is going to cover a day or two or seven. This morning before Buddy came downstairs, I was able to get Riley fed. Then when I needed to get something out of the refrigerator in the garage, I just put Buddy in a bedroom. Riley was ready to go to the great outdoors and Punky was hanging around for breakfast. Since returning upstairs Buddy has kept an eye on me but she has finally given up because the call to sleep overtook her.
Today calls to me to be an ensconced day. No place I have to be, nowhere I have to go. Could be snow in the higher elevations today and we are told to expect a very cold Sunday into Monday. Don't know about ice or snow yet. The day began on a good note with a conversation with Lisa P.
Warden Buddy just did a walk about checking on my presence. Still here in the bonus room mam. Guess we need to have another talk about helping the orphans and widows.
Ran a couple of errands this afternoon. Made a grocery store stop at Publix, brought all that home and put away most everything. Then it was onto The Baked Pie Company because they had lemon drop cheesecake pie today. Brenda told me how good it was, so, you know...it is delicious! Since no matter the route to Baked Pie Company, one has to go through Woodfin...where I got my ticket...first one in thirty one years. So, just in case, I go under the posted limit and dang it, I was so happy to do that cause one of those silver and black cars pulled into a spot to find a speeder. It wasn't going to be me...
After pie pickup it was time to get some birdseed at Tractor Supply. Sometimes I get so involved with the ferals that I forget the birds. Some warblers have found their way to the feeder and this is really nice. Came home, then took half a lemon drop cheesecake pie to Brenda and fam. Larry is recovering nicely from knee replacement surgery. Then on to the Exxon station to fill up the truck. There was a lot of parking available, so it seemed to be the right time to try out Ole's Guacamole. So, two steak tacos and queso. Y'all it was so good! Next time trying the shrimp tacos. Anyway, got it to go.
Buddy has been asleep for most of the evening and I am headed that way soon. It has been a good day and good sleep will be so welcomed.
The 2018 version of Monablog was delivered today. Thumbing through it...January seems to have a recurring theme. It's a quiet season and apparently I am over predictability. Wrote about it a lot last year and this year, well, I have been thinking about it a lot.
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Speaking of predictable, you know a post is going to cover a day or two or seven. This morning before Buddy came downstairs, I was able to get Riley fed. Then when I needed to get something out of the refrigerator in the garage, I just put Buddy in a bedroom. Riley was ready to go to the great outdoors and Punky was hanging around for breakfast. Since returning upstairs Buddy has kept an eye on me but she has finally given up because the call to sleep overtook her.
Today calls to me to be an ensconced day. No place I have to be, nowhere I have to go. Could be snow in the higher elevations today and we are told to expect a very cold Sunday into Monday. Don't know about ice or snow yet. The day began on a good note with a conversation with Lisa P.
Warden Buddy just did a walk about checking on my presence. Still here in the bonus room mam. Guess we need to have another talk about helping the orphans and widows.
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
When Domestic and Feral Meet.....
Once again this morning by faith, Riley goes outdoors. You know I pray for that little one to be safe and to return. It's kind of chilly so it was a surprise that she went on out but for a kitty that has run free for all of her life except these past few weeks, the call has to be urging her onward and outward. She looks for Camo and fam but they haven't been around the past couple of days. At least this morning Riley went outside after eating breakfast cause yesterday, she didn't like what was being served.
This morning a godly man who loved God, his family and life went to be with the Lord. I loved talking with and listening to this wonderful man of God. It has been a while but while working at the church there were numerous opportunities to visit with him. You always came away encouraged.
So today, things were going along well with Riley. She went out for a bit and then came back into the garage. When I got home from The Fresh Market, the sun was out and feeling a bit warmer than earlier in the morning so she was out once again. She was into finding a mole when Mama Cat, her granny, showed up. I got her fed but she took a few swipes at Riley, cause granny is a cranky, cranky cat. While Riley was outside we played with the fishing pole and I got the yarn ball and for once it was very nice to have a steep driveway cause you throw the ball and it rolls down on its own. Riley was having so much fun chasing the ball. She had a great kick and twist thing going on. So playing today was a way to convince this little orphan cat that she is better off with me....well, that was until later in the afternoon. Even with the sun still shining the temps were beginning to cool off, so I called and here came Riley running to the garage door and safely inside. A little later I was going to go out to the garage and feed her. That little sneaky Buddy sat on the stairs looking like she was going to go on up but she waited till I opened the backdoor and that lil cat flew out that door and straight into Riley. There was a whole lot of shaking, hissing, and fighting going on. Those two cats took their fight under the Mustang. I called Buddy and was just about to set the alarm off on the car to scare them, Buddy came out from under the car and Riley ran over to another part of the garage to hide. It was just a few seconds, but those few seconds felt overwhelming and powerless. I am thankful that Buddy came when called. Maybe because she was in over her head messing with a street smart cat. A saving grace to the story is Riley is not an Alpha cat, so that was a blessing. Buddy looks ok, maybe just missing a little bit of fur. I mean Buddy was the aggressor and for an old lady she was pretty good. Riley pulled Buddy's collar off and it is probably underneath the car. I got Buddy into the house and then sat out there in the garage for a while to see if Riley would come to me. She would not. So back into the house and did another look see of Buddy. She's good and she's tired. But, she is keeping an eye on me and my travels. I was working in the front bedroom, she was in the bonus room but she came to see if I was working alone. If I go downstairs, she is there...she is kind of like Psalm 139 right now...if I go upstairs, Buddy is there. Where can I flee from her presence? If I make my bed, she is there. That cat is on all point bulletin. I did get Riley's supper out to her and a few treats. So, I will wait to see if Buddy will fall asleep.
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A new day here in the kingdom of cats. Buddy slept close by me all night. That is normal almost every night but she settled in quickly and closer. She and I had a good talk earlier in the evening. I told her she had nothing to be jealous over, cause she is the cat of my heart but Riley, is an orphan and doesn't have a cat pack to run with. She is on her own out there in the world and we are just trying to help her. Hope Buddy understands, but gee, I am sneaking around to get out to the garage to check on Riley. It's exhausting! I don't know how people do this...not with cats but with others that are not their spouses. It takes a lot of energy.
The morning began in the 20's, with frost and fog. Don't know if it is freezing fog or not. The sun is supposed to show up this afternoon, so until the temps get a little warmer as for me and my house, we are staying in.
The other day the thought came, of all the preachers and pastors that have walked through my life. I'd say in but none of them have ever really been in my life, guess the closest would be Pastor Gregg, but that would only be when I was on staff at church. The first pastor I remember was Reverend Tharp. He was an old guy who was retired but helped the little church starting out. He was the pastor of Westbury Baptist when it was a mission church of River Oaks Baptist. My mom was the first person baptized at Westbury...she was a Christian but from another denomination and they didn't dunk, I mean immerse. Then, the mission became a church and the next pastor was Hoyt Greer, who had an affair with a woman in the church...broke up his home and hers, then they married. A W McGregor came next and what is memorable about him is, we sang Jesus Never Fails at the end of every service. During the song, he would make his way to the back exit of the sanctuary and greet as we left. His gait swift, head bowed and Bible tucked away in his left hand and arm. He resigned but a few years later he and his whole family died in a private plane crash. Then came Milton Cunningham, but by this time, I was a teenager who could drive and I went to Willow Meadows Baptist. Ralph Langley was the pastor, very kind man who loved Luke 15, the story of the prodigal son. At Southwest Texas, I went to First Baptist but can't remember the pastor's name but he had played for the Dallas Cowboys and he was nice looking. Well, that seems like a good place to stop.
Going to check on Buddy who is asleep and then Riley, who might want to play but we will have to play quietly cause...we don't want to incur the wrath of Buddy.
This morning a godly man who loved God, his family and life went to be with the Lord. I loved talking with and listening to this wonderful man of God. It has been a while but while working at the church there were numerous opportunities to visit with him. You always came away encouraged.
So today, things were going along well with Riley. She went out for a bit and then came back into the garage. When I got home from The Fresh Market, the sun was out and feeling a bit warmer than earlier in the morning so she was out once again. She was into finding a mole when Mama Cat, her granny, showed up. I got her fed but she took a few swipes at Riley, cause granny is a cranky, cranky cat. While Riley was outside we played with the fishing pole and I got the yarn ball and for once it was very nice to have a steep driveway cause you throw the ball and it rolls down on its own. Riley was having so much fun chasing the ball. She had a great kick and twist thing going on. So playing today was a way to convince this little orphan cat that she is better off with me....well, that was until later in the afternoon. Even with the sun still shining the temps were beginning to cool off, so I called and here came Riley running to the garage door and safely inside. A little later I was going to go out to the garage and feed her. That little sneaky Buddy sat on the stairs looking like she was going to go on up but she waited till I opened the backdoor and that lil cat flew out that door and straight into Riley. There was a whole lot of shaking, hissing, and fighting going on. Those two cats took their fight under the Mustang. I called Buddy and was just about to set the alarm off on the car to scare them, Buddy came out from under the car and Riley ran over to another part of the garage to hide. It was just a few seconds, but those few seconds felt overwhelming and powerless. I am thankful that Buddy came when called. Maybe because she was in over her head messing with a street smart cat. A saving grace to the story is Riley is not an Alpha cat, so that was a blessing. Buddy looks ok, maybe just missing a little bit of fur. I mean Buddy was the aggressor and for an old lady she was pretty good. Riley pulled Buddy's collar off and it is probably underneath the car. I got Buddy into the house and then sat out there in the garage for a while to see if Riley would come to me. She would not. So back into the house and did another look see of Buddy. She's good and she's tired. But, she is keeping an eye on me and my travels. I was working in the front bedroom, she was in the bonus room but she came to see if I was working alone. If I go downstairs, she is there...she is kind of like Psalm 139 right now...if I go upstairs, Buddy is there. Where can I flee from her presence? If I make my bed, she is there. That cat is on all point bulletin. I did get Riley's supper out to her and a few treats. So, I will wait to see if Buddy will fall asleep.
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A new day here in the kingdom of cats. Buddy slept close by me all night. That is normal almost every night but she settled in quickly and closer. She and I had a good talk earlier in the evening. I told her she had nothing to be jealous over, cause she is the cat of my heart but Riley, is an orphan and doesn't have a cat pack to run with. She is on her own out there in the world and we are just trying to help her. Hope Buddy understands, but gee, I am sneaking around to get out to the garage to check on Riley. It's exhausting! I don't know how people do this...not with cats but with others that are not their spouses. It takes a lot of energy.
The morning began in the 20's, with frost and fog. Don't know if it is freezing fog or not. The sun is supposed to show up this afternoon, so until the temps get a little warmer as for me and my house, we are staying in.
The other day the thought came, of all the preachers and pastors that have walked through my life. I'd say in but none of them have ever really been in my life, guess the closest would be Pastor Gregg, but that would only be when I was on staff at church. The first pastor I remember was Reverend Tharp. He was an old guy who was retired but helped the little church starting out. He was the pastor of Westbury Baptist when it was a mission church of River Oaks Baptist. My mom was the first person baptized at Westbury...she was a Christian but from another denomination and they didn't dunk, I mean immerse. Then, the mission became a church and the next pastor was Hoyt Greer, who had an affair with a woman in the church...broke up his home and hers, then they married. A W McGregor came next and what is memorable about him is, we sang Jesus Never Fails at the end of every service. During the song, he would make his way to the back exit of the sanctuary and greet as we left. His gait swift, head bowed and Bible tucked away in his left hand and arm. He resigned but a few years later he and his whole family died in a private plane crash. Then came Milton Cunningham, but by this time, I was a teenager who could drive and I went to Willow Meadows Baptist. Ralph Langley was the pastor, very kind man who loved Luke 15, the story of the prodigal son. At Southwest Texas, I went to First Baptist but can't remember the pastor's name but he had played for the Dallas Cowboys and he was nice looking. Well, that seems like a good place to stop.
Going to check on Buddy who is asleep and then Riley, who might want to play but we will have to play quietly cause...we don't want to incur the wrath of Buddy.
Monday, January 14, 2019
Weather, Sabbaticals, and Riley
We survived the ice/sleet/freezing rain overnight. Many are without power but we only experienced a little off and on yesterday afternoon, not even enough time to trigger the generator. Church will be at 11:00 with no Sunday School. On Thursday, I had found out I needed to teach this Sunday's lesson, so a lot of Friday and Saturday was taken up with preparation...which is enjoyable. The shortened time makes me a little anxious but just like always, He provided the direction. Next Sunday is my normal Sunday to teach, so it will be good to combine the lessons. This morning also brought about the first big sore throat of the winter season which is a sign unto me to cut back, take it easy and take care over my immune system. So, decided that this would be a sabbatical Sunday. It is better to not let anything start and have to fight so hard to defeat the germs later.
This year my #oneword came easily. Last year's not so much but this year the word is meaningful. full of meaning, significance, purpose, or value; purposeful. After choosing the word I noticed that a book and journal I had ordered, more out of curiosity than anything. When they arrived, I just put them on the kitchen table but only noticed last week that the subtitle of the book is, having a meaningful life. There has just been so many things that have needed attending to, reading has taken a backseat. While eating breakfast I was able to peruse a few of the devotions and it looks good. The name of the book is I've Been Thinking by Maria Shriver.
Over the holidays we got a new iPhone for me. With every update the battery became more of a problem but the phone had served since 2011. Not bad. It is an adjustment getting used to not having a home button. The pictures are better than the old phone.
Buddy is asleep on the bed. After a couple of days of not eating her food, she has regained her appetite which means she is eating her chill pill enhanced food which helps her sleep. She slept a lot yesterday and even slept up around my neck last night while I watched TV. Good thing not any of the football teams that are playing are any teams that we follow. She would have not had the pleasant sleep she experienced. Went to the garage and played with Riley a bit. She can entertain herself which is good. She has a new way of playing with the ball in the circle, mainly she is upside down. Got her fed and treated and played out a bit. If it gets warmer this afternoon I will see if she wants to go outside. She turned down the opportunity yesterday.
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The afternoon temps have gotten into the 40's. This morning after feeding Riley and giving her a few treats, I decided to see if she wanted to go outdoors and today she took the offer. It worked well because it is garbage day and so with the big door opened Riley came and went for a little bit. Then she took off with a hard right and on the run to play in the backyard. With the trash down to the road, it was off to the post office and then to workout with Taylor. This was the first workout of the year, so he did a little more restorative work on muscles. We will hit it hard next week. After that it was to the bank and grocery store. When I came home, Riley was still intently playing and keeping an ever intense eye out for moles. She wasn't interested in coming in especially with the sun coming out for just a bit. I was able to eat lunch and then take care of some business related things and just happened to look out the back window at the right time. Riley was sitting there looking at birds but yet keeping an eye open for the backdoor to open. So, I was able to oblige her, opened the door and she came running in. With all the excitement it is safe to assume that both Buddy and Riley are in nap mode.
Riley has started to rub my hand when I put it in front of her...if I try to rub her back though, she's not that thrilled. So once again, patience is the word and the practice to wooing this little one over to the warm side. There is a small heater that can be used in the garage, so her little corner is getting roasty toasty. Went out there to check on her and to see if she was wanting to play but she of course, wanted a treat and then it is looking like she will return to her napping, that I so rudely interrupted.
January 14th, our little dog Tiff was born on this day, as well as Roy's father and my father shared the day with these two. It always signaled, to us, the dreaded holiday season was over and life would return to normal for just over a month until the next celebration rolled around on the calendar. I cannot think of one gift we ever gave my father that he liked. Nothing! We stopped being creative with him a long time ago because it was a total waste. So, we bought shirts and pants probably the last fifteen or so birthdays we celebrated with him. We always bought shirts that Roy liked cause most likely, he would give them back and tell us with his little snear on his face and sarcasm in his voice, he didn't think he could ever like or wear the shirts. Fine with us. Since his death in 2017 I have become more intolerant of behavior that reminds me of him and that intolerance is quickly coming into taking steps away from friendships that feel all too familiar with toxicity. Can't say a kind word? Can't cheer on others when victory over a challenge happens, every remark is some kind of smart a$$ remark under the guise of humor...uh, thanks but no thanks...been there...don't need it. Don't want it. Last year it was taking the steps away from anyone too possessive, anyone who spoke on my behalf when they didn't know what they were talking about, or telling untruths or twisting my words....all on my behalf. Had years of that, now freedom rings and I ain't hanging around to be a possession. There are way too many other fun people to be around and friendships to spend time on. Yep, toxic is an overused term, but as for me and my house, we be keeping the toxic spew on the down low moving along its way.
Roy got new shoes for Sequisha yesterday. He had an appointment for the tires on Friday only thing, they didn't order the tires. So the reschedule was for Wednesday but the tires came in, they were having a slow day, so appointment moved up. They put nitrogen in the tires. Never heard of that but then I don't hang out at tire places too much.
This afternoon's chill has made this perfect for hot tea. We have several favorites here and even though the holidays are over, the holiday tea flavor with orange, cloves and cinnamon, is just right. Then you add some lemon drops and it is all good. My mom used to do that, add candy lemon drops into the tea, fun to hear it crack as it melted. When we first bought the house someone mentioned we should get some Stanley thermoses to have around on display when workmen came to the house, letting them know yep there is a man who lives here. Now I've been using some of these manly Stanley's for hot tea upstairs. Perfect size and keeps the tea all warm, ready for a pour.
Just did another check on Riley or maybe it was more a check on the heater. Riley is all tucked in the corner of the last step, a box with a blanket overflowing onto the mat is her choice, she's still not in the box. Still not a fan of anything soft. She of course was willing to move for a few treats and then settled down next to me. I'm sitting on the stairs, she on the aforementioned mat. She seemed content with my presence but then something feral must have kicked in during the comfort, cause she got up quickly and made her way over to the Mustang acting all independent like. After the demonstration, she returned to sit by me.
After the sabbatical Sunday morning, it seemed the right thing to do, have a sabbatical Sunday evening. So, didn't go to choir but did get to have a conversation catching up with Dena. Great fun and lots of laughs. Also watched a little football and happy that the Saints will be marching in next week since they experienced a victory.
This year my #oneword came easily. Last year's not so much but this year the word is meaningful. full of meaning, significance, purpose, or value; purposeful. After choosing the word I noticed that a book and journal I had ordered, more out of curiosity than anything. When they arrived, I just put them on the kitchen table but only noticed last week that the subtitle of the book is, having a meaningful life. There has just been so many things that have needed attending to, reading has taken a backseat. While eating breakfast I was able to peruse a few of the devotions and it looks good. The name of the book is I've Been Thinking by Maria Shriver.
Over the holidays we got a new iPhone for me. With every update the battery became more of a problem but the phone had served since 2011. Not bad. It is an adjustment getting used to not having a home button. The pictures are better than the old phone.
Buddy is asleep on the bed. After a couple of days of not eating her food, she has regained her appetite which means she is eating her chill pill enhanced food which helps her sleep. She slept a lot yesterday and even slept up around my neck last night while I watched TV. Good thing not any of the football teams that are playing are any teams that we follow. She would have not had the pleasant sleep she experienced. Went to the garage and played with Riley a bit. She can entertain herself which is good. She has a new way of playing with the ball in the circle, mainly she is upside down. Got her fed and treated and played out a bit. If it gets warmer this afternoon I will see if she wants to go outside. She turned down the opportunity yesterday.
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The afternoon temps have gotten into the 40's. This morning after feeding Riley and giving her a few treats, I decided to see if she wanted to go outdoors and today she took the offer. It worked well because it is garbage day and so with the big door opened Riley came and went for a little bit. Then she took off with a hard right and on the run to play in the backyard. With the trash down to the road, it was off to the post office and then to workout with Taylor. This was the first workout of the year, so he did a little more restorative work on muscles. We will hit it hard next week. After that it was to the bank and grocery store. When I came home, Riley was still intently playing and keeping an ever intense eye out for moles. She wasn't interested in coming in especially with the sun coming out for just a bit. I was able to eat lunch and then take care of some business related things and just happened to look out the back window at the right time. Riley was sitting there looking at birds but yet keeping an eye open for the backdoor to open. So, I was able to oblige her, opened the door and she came running in. With all the excitement it is safe to assume that both Buddy and Riley are in nap mode.
Riley has started to rub my hand when I put it in front of her...if I try to rub her back though, she's not that thrilled. So once again, patience is the word and the practice to wooing this little one over to the warm side. There is a small heater that can be used in the garage, so her little corner is getting roasty toasty. Went out there to check on her and to see if she was wanting to play but she of course, wanted a treat and then it is looking like she will return to her napping, that I so rudely interrupted.
January 14th, our little dog Tiff was born on this day, as well as Roy's father and my father shared the day with these two. It always signaled, to us, the dreaded holiday season was over and life would return to normal for just over a month until the next celebration rolled around on the calendar. I cannot think of one gift we ever gave my father that he liked. Nothing! We stopped being creative with him a long time ago because it was a total waste. So, we bought shirts and pants probably the last fifteen or so birthdays we celebrated with him. We always bought shirts that Roy liked cause most likely, he would give them back and tell us with his little snear on his face and sarcasm in his voice, he didn't think he could ever like or wear the shirts. Fine with us. Since his death in 2017 I have become more intolerant of behavior that reminds me of him and that intolerance is quickly coming into taking steps away from friendships that feel all too familiar with toxicity. Can't say a kind word? Can't cheer on others when victory over a challenge happens, every remark is some kind of smart a$$ remark under the guise of humor...uh, thanks but no thanks...been there...don't need it. Don't want it. Last year it was taking the steps away from anyone too possessive, anyone who spoke on my behalf when they didn't know what they were talking about, or telling untruths or twisting my words....all on my behalf. Had years of that, now freedom rings and I ain't hanging around to be a possession. There are way too many other fun people to be around and friendships to spend time on. Yep, toxic is an overused term, but as for me and my house, we be keeping the toxic spew on the down low moving along its way.
Roy got new shoes for Sequisha yesterday. He had an appointment for the tires on Friday only thing, they didn't order the tires. So the reschedule was for Wednesday but the tires came in, they were having a slow day, so appointment moved up. They put nitrogen in the tires. Never heard of that but then I don't hang out at tire places too much.
This afternoon's chill has made this perfect for hot tea. We have several favorites here and even though the holidays are over, the holiday tea flavor with orange, cloves and cinnamon, is just right. Then you add some lemon drops and it is all good. My mom used to do that, add candy lemon drops into the tea, fun to hear it crack as it melted. When we first bought the house someone mentioned we should get some Stanley thermoses to have around on display when workmen came to the house, letting them know yep there is a man who lives here. Now I've been using some of these manly Stanley's for hot tea upstairs. Perfect size and keeps the tea all warm, ready for a pour.
Just did another check on Riley or maybe it was more a check on the heater. Riley is all tucked in the corner of the last step, a box with a blanket overflowing onto the mat is her choice, she's still not in the box. Still not a fan of anything soft. She of course was willing to move for a few treats and then settled down next to me. I'm sitting on the stairs, she on the aforementioned mat. She seemed content with my presence but then something feral must have kicked in during the comfort, cause she got up quickly and made her way over to the Mustang acting all independent like. After the demonstration, she returned to sit by me.
After the sabbatical Sunday morning, it seemed the right thing to do, have a sabbatical Sunday evening. So, didn't go to choir but did get to have a conversation catching up with Dena. Great fun and lots of laughs. Also watched a little football and happy that the Saints will be marching in next week since they experienced a victory.
Saturday, January 12, 2019
The Life of Riley
Well, life with Riley continues. Today is the 12th of January and she has been coming and staying in the garage since December 24th. During the warmer temps she spent most of her days outside and even made a slight connection with her family yesterday. But when it was turning cooler and a little before dusk, I called her and down the hill she ran, straight into the garage.
When she first came into the garage, her stools were runny but now eating solidly good food and thanks to Buddy sharing her Fortiflora, gastrointestinaly, Riley has come along way. There, we got that delicate subject out of the way. Even after the debacle on the 26th of trying to get her into a crate, she has trusted me again. She greets me in the mornings with lots of rubbing around my legs and feet. She will touch her nose against my hand and in the past several days, she has let me pet her just a little bit. She knows the two places I will put treats and will wait until said treats are delivered.
It seems that play is the way to this kitty's heart. So, we play a lot with the laser, the fishing pole with the small rubber fish on the end, the ball in the chute thing, stuffed animal, and newest feather/ribbon/animal on a stick thing that she chases all about. She and Cali played hard everyday and so it seems play is her love language, that is if cats have a love language. There is something about soft textures that she doesn't like, so she won't use the bed or a box that I put a blanket in. Today most of the blanket came out of the box so that she feels just the bottom of the box on her paws. So, maybe she will use that more to stay warm in the evenings.
Yesterday, was a sunny day. She went out and played, chased birds and squirrels making this mama happy....about the squirrels not so much the birds. Camo and Strawyer were in the backyard and for the most part the remnants of the Feral Fam got along. Even with Mama Cat thrown in the mix. Riley, Camo and Strawyer even laid on the same big rock together taking little cat naps. There for a moment, I thought it might be hard to get Riley to come back in last evening but as the first paragraph said, she came running in. That is one smart kitty.
She plays with all the toys and is not afraid of them like Cali and MJ last year. Pine needles are bark were their preferred toys.
I am so glad her instinct told her she was safe in that garage. She had come and gone plenty of times, even Cali did that but until the 23rd, no inclination to stay had ever been expressed. With coyote mating season upon us, I like knowing she is in the garage at night.
Every once in a while, Riley walks with the same languid style of Cali and I tear up a bit but what a gift having Riley in the garage has been. She is kind of like a teenager when we are outside, she'll play but reverts to feral mode in front of the other cats by going under the deck when walking close by.
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Old News, Just A Week Late
It was a rainy, overcast, dreary, miserable, cold morning that began way too early. Like 3:30 am early because someone could not settle down, lie still and go back to sleep...no it wasn't me. Finally, I got up and began getting ready for a dental checkup appointment. All the normal ways of going toward the Biltmore area had lots of traffic and wrecks, so Google Girl suggested an alternate route and it worked out well...well, kind of but that is a boring story. Teeth cleaned and Glory Be To God, no cavities...no dental work needed, so I left with an appointment in July and the dental goody bag of toothpaste, dental floss and toothbrush. Most of the rain had tapered off and the options were considered but the choice was The Fresh Market for a few things and then a quick stop at Tractor Supply.
Riley was ready to roll outside upon returning home and opening that door comes with a prayer she'll want to come back. Because of time limits this morning we didn't play but she took her time deciding on her move...what was making her a little hesitant? Camo was out on the deck. Camo without any kittens. Brought out some food for her and put out a few treats for Riley and Camo took over and ate the treats...everything. Riley made her way up by the fence and went through the opening. A little later while downstairs, I looked out the window and Riley was making her way beside the fence and crossing over to the deck....so, I went and opened the backdoor and she came in like she had been doing this her whole life. She has a different attitude outdoors and even runs under the deck when I come near...but that backdoor opened and inside the garage, she is purring, looking for treats and rubbing around my legs. We played a little when she came in and then it was time to get into the house. Gale called yesterday and asked if I could teach this Sunday because Judy has the flu and Gale has a family thing...not a problem, we are in the midst of the plagues, Passover and passage. Oh alliteration, you are a Baptist's friend. So that means Exodus.
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It was a rainy, overcast deary miserable, cold morning...but today I got to sleep in till almost 8:30. Thank goodness, cause I was really needing the rest. Because it is a rainy day it felt like a good day to stay inside and take care of things...ok, laundry but other than playing with Riley, petting Buddy and working on the lesson...that's it.
With all the rain I didn't give Riley the opportunity to go out but we have played a whole lot more than usual. Playing might be just the thing that helps her trust more. It is not having blankets or a soft bed to sleep on cause she seems to not like the softness or texture of blankets and bed. But she will chase a red laser light or a fish on a fishing pole for the longest time. Of course, she loves the food aspect and today, I added some of Buddy's prescription food to her bowl and Riley seems to find it very tasty. Trying to help her with gastro/ poopage issues. She is more loving in the morning and will rub her head on my legs but she also does that to the car...and boxes. Oh well, but she doesn't draw back as quickly when I put my hand for her to smell. Patience, but I am wanting her to drop all those months of being really, really feral and become really really domesticated.
The good news from yesterday, no cavities or work that needs to be done, see them in six months goes along with the semi good news Roy received. Roy had a dentist office visit too, having a crown put in. The Dr doesn't like how his other crowns have held up, that he installed, so he is going to replace them for free. Yea! All good news in the dental world.
My friend Brenda, well her hubby had knee replacement surgery today and it sounds like it all went well. Told them when they get home I will bring a meal...no I am not cooking! Larry doesn't like Italian food so I told him I was bringing pasta. Got a reaction so that means he is doing just fine.
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So, this is all old news but I feel like starting a new post, so this will have to do.
Riley was ready to roll outside upon returning home and opening that door comes with a prayer she'll want to come back. Because of time limits this morning we didn't play but she took her time deciding on her move...what was making her a little hesitant? Camo was out on the deck. Camo without any kittens. Brought out some food for her and put out a few treats for Riley and Camo took over and ate the treats...everything. Riley made her way up by the fence and went through the opening. A little later while downstairs, I looked out the window and Riley was making her way beside the fence and crossing over to the deck....so, I went and opened the backdoor and she came in like she had been doing this her whole life. She has a different attitude outdoors and even runs under the deck when I come near...but that backdoor opened and inside the garage, she is purring, looking for treats and rubbing around my legs. We played a little when she came in and then it was time to get into the house. Gale called yesterday and asked if I could teach this Sunday because Judy has the flu and Gale has a family thing...not a problem, we are in the midst of the plagues, Passover and passage. Oh alliteration, you are a Baptist's friend. So that means Exodus.
********
It was a rainy, overcast deary miserable, cold morning...but today I got to sleep in till almost 8:30. Thank goodness, cause I was really needing the rest. Because it is a rainy day it felt like a good day to stay inside and take care of things...ok, laundry but other than playing with Riley, petting Buddy and working on the lesson...that's it.
With all the rain I didn't give Riley the opportunity to go out but we have played a whole lot more than usual. Playing might be just the thing that helps her trust more. It is not having blankets or a soft bed to sleep on cause she seems to not like the softness or texture of blankets and bed. But she will chase a red laser light or a fish on a fishing pole for the longest time. Of course, she loves the food aspect and today, I added some of Buddy's prescription food to her bowl and Riley seems to find it very tasty. Trying to help her with gastro/ poopage issues. She is more loving in the morning and will rub her head on my legs but she also does that to the car...and boxes. Oh well, but she doesn't draw back as quickly when I put my hand for her to smell. Patience, but I am wanting her to drop all those months of being really, really feral and become really really domesticated.
The good news from yesterday, no cavities or work that needs to be done, see them in six months goes along with the semi good news Roy received. Roy had a dentist office visit too, having a crown put in. The Dr doesn't like how his other crowns have held up, that he installed, so he is going to replace them for free. Yea! All good news in the dental world.
My friend Brenda, well her hubby had knee replacement surgery today and it sounds like it all went well. Told them when they get home I will bring a meal...no I am not cooking! Larry doesn't like Italian food so I told him I was bringing pasta. Got a reaction so that means he is doing just fine.
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So, this is all old news but I feel like starting a new post, so this will have to do.
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Oh Happy Day, O Happy Year...Welcome 2019
Happy New Year! Happy 2019! O, Happy Day!
My plans were to close out 2018 with a blog entry or rather an add on blog entry that covered several days, but since it is a new year and all of that, it seemed good to start the year with a new, fresh entry. Hmmm....don't know about that fresh part because most probably this year's blog will be a continuation of the theme from 2018...cats...feral cats...and one domesticated, fun loving, gray cat, Buddy. Okay, maybe fun loving is a stretch for dear Buddy, because as she ages, she's a little to a lot more whiny....depending on the day or dare it be said, at night. . Roy has renamed Buddy, Treaty Pie especially in the mornings. She has just joined me to warm up her little paws from her morning of porch sitting.
2019 came here in sleep except for a distant rumble of fireworks or thunder...probably fireworks at midnight. It stirred us just a bit and then it was as if nothing happened. It was also a sleep in kind of morning which if any resolutions for the new year had been made, early rising would not be one but the thought of being more productive did surface, then quickly submerged itself cause, mostly, that ain't going to happen...at least as the world views productivity. Roy is the goal person...so he has set goals...whereas I am more of a mindset kind, yep, that is the best way to describe that. So this first day of 2019 came as a relaxed and laid back mindset with no particular goals for today other than maybe....emphasis maybe...empty the dishwasher and watch the LSU football game. Oh, laundry but that emphasis is already on the third load.
This morning Buddy got treated and then headed to the front porch because it is a warmer kind of day. Kind of nice after having rather cold temps leading into the holidays. Then it was to the garage to feed Riley and do a little playing. Because it isn't raining and not particularly cold, Riley was given the chance to go back outside but after a few hesitations, she came back into the garage. Going down there in a minute to give her the option again and hoping that we set a pattern for her to feel free and safe coming and going. In all the research of feral cats, she is defying the odds. She is counter intuitive, even more so than Cali. Who kept close but a distance once she became a young adult cat. Riley is at that young adult cat age....we are playing with things that were purchased last year in hopes that the Feral Fam might play and they never indulged into the fun except for the red laser light. Riley and I did that last night in the garage and she had a grand time of never capturing the light. All cats, after they figure out they aren't going to catch the light lose interest...but for now laser tag and the fishing pole toy is of great interest and play to Riley. Well, after a few rousing games of fishing with Riley and after treating her, I opened the door and she went out...came back to the threshold and then back out, up the stone path, slowly, gingerly making each step, came to the spot where her mom is buried...moved on for a few feet then sat under the fir tree. She looked back for a second and then like a hundred other times, she went into the brush and bramble. Later on I'll go outside and call her, to see if she comes and if not, it will just be getting used to a new normal hopefully of a coming and going Riley. Oh totally remiss and not shouting out to her, "use good judgement!" Doug and I heard that phrase often enough growing up.
This year I am leaning toward my #oneword being meaningful. A couple of years ago the word ful was the oneword and that way it could change daily...what that meant, thankful, grateful, playful...etc... While 2018 seemed meaningful and it was, that wasn't the oneword for that year. In fact 2018's word came later than sooner.
2019 also is beginning with a new iPhone. Think it was 2011 around the new year when getting the last one. Memory was fading, quickly deleting pics at the Biltmore while having our Christmas lunch at the Inn, so I could continue taking snow pics left and right. So, it is getting used to no home button and taking screen shots differently. The Sprint guy that helped us has a very interesting family history, ancestors one of the early settlers, and he has led an interesting and varied life...come to find out, he lives in Leicester. So with the iCloud, making the big switch between phones is a whole lot easier than it used to be. We were getting this errand done while Mustang Sam was in the shop for Auto Butler and oil change and rotating the tires. In by 8:00 out by noon. Makes me a little happier with the dealership since you can't make an appointment for oil changes etc... After dropping off Mustang Sam we headed over to Another Broken Egg but the original plan had been to eat breakfast at Moose Cafe. Roy is a waffle man, thus the change of venue....then for me the relative closeness of a Barnes and Noble to shop after the holidays was a joy and easy decision.
The day after Christmas we made plans with our very fun friends Cuman and Inez. Our first choice had been taking Roy to the Cataloochee, but with the government shutdown, translate that to bathrooms not open, and the probability of rough roads, we went to second choice, eating at Bonnie and Clyde's. Well, with B and C closed for the holidays, we went to Tommy's in Weaverville and enjoyed a delicious late lunch. But before eating Cuman took us back to the dam in Madison County. This was pre-flooding, whew! It was still very powerful though. Since he took us there last year, I have tried to find the way back and each time, lost, but in a beautiful countryside that made the trip enjoyable. So, now I know the non-twisty turny road to get there. I love hearing the stories since Cuman and Inez grew up in the area. With Wednesday being such an emotional day due to the earlier debacle of trying to get Riley into a crate and we not being fast enough, bedtime came very, very early for this child. And all the friends that reassured me that Riley would come around...cause you know I didn't believe them...well, they were right.
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I was too nervous to watch the LSU game, so it was constantly checking Twitter and it is so good that they won. Now to wait till the fall for LSU football to begin again and thankfully, baseball isn't too far off.
Then last night while planning to finish up this post, Love, Gilda was on CNN. She has always been a favorite and loved her comedic style. So, after watching and filled with documentary emotions, the best decision was to go was my hair and go to bed. If it comes on again, please watch, even if you didn't like her on SNL. Having current comedians read from her journal, very poignant.
Riley was all lovey dovey this morning and it is so hard not to try and pet her. It is just a natural reaction, like with Buddy, but after reading an informative article about putting aside the lap cat wish and tending to their immediate needs to help them come to a better life. In a bit I will open the back door and let her out. A nice day and tonight rain is supposed to move in, so here's trusting she will return later this afternoon when I call for her.
January 2nd, Shell texted a fraud alert to us. Were we in Miami? Uh, no...think the small charge is a try and see if it will go through. Roy called them and they are sending new cards. They also said there was an account out there with my name on it, so he cancelled that too. Think it happened in Gastonia when stopping for $1.94 gasoline.
So this day is getting away and there are a few errands to be run. Happy New Year! Thank you for reading Monablog.
My plans were to close out 2018 with a blog entry or rather an add on blog entry that covered several days, but since it is a new year and all of that, it seemed good to start the year with a new, fresh entry. Hmmm....don't know about that fresh part because most probably this year's blog will be a continuation of the theme from 2018...cats...feral cats...and one domesticated, fun loving, gray cat, Buddy. Okay, maybe fun loving is a stretch for dear Buddy, because as she ages, she's a little to a lot more whiny....depending on the day or dare it be said, at night. . Roy has renamed Buddy, Treaty Pie especially in the mornings. She has just joined me to warm up her little paws from her morning of porch sitting.
2019 came here in sleep except for a distant rumble of fireworks or thunder...probably fireworks at midnight. It stirred us just a bit and then it was as if nothing happened. It was also a sleep in kind of morning which if any resolutions for the new year had been made, early rising would not be one but the thought of being more productive did surface, then quickly submerged itself cause, mostly, that ain't going to happen...at least as the world views productivity. Roy is the goal person...so he has set goals...whereas I am more of a mindset kind, yep, that is the best way to describe that. So this first day of 2019 came as a relaxed and laid back mindset with no particular goals for today other than maybe....emphasis maybe...empty the dishwasher and watch the LSU football game. Oh, laundry but that emphasis is already on the third load.
This morning Buddy got treated and then headed to the front porch because it is a warmer kind of day. Kind of nice after having rather cold temps leading into the holidays. Then it was to the garage to feed Riley and do a little playing. Because it isn't raining and not particularly cold, Riley was given the chance to go back outside but after a few hesitations, she came back into the garage. Going down there in a minute to give her the option again and hoping that we set a pattern for her to feel free and safe coming and going. In all the research of feral cats, she is defying the odds. She is counter intuitive, even more so than Cali. Who kept close but a distance once she became a young adult cat. Riley is at that young adult cat age....we are playing with things that were purchased last year in hopes that the Feral Fam might play and they never indulged into the fun except for the red laser light. Riley and I did that last night in the garage and she had a grand time of never capturing the light. All cats, after they figure out they aren't going to catch the light lose interest...but for now laser tag and the fishing pole toy is of great interest and play to Riley. Well, after a few rousing games of fishing with Riley and after treating her, I opened the door and she went out...came back to the threshold and then back out, up the stone path, slowly, gingerly making each step, came to the spot where her mom is buried...moved on for a few feet then sat under the fir tree. She looked back for a second and then like a hundred other times, she went into the brush and bramble. Later on I'll go outside and call her, to see if she comes and if not, it will just be getting used to a new normal hopefully of a coming and going Riley. Oh totally remiss and not shouting out to her, "use good judgement!" Doug and I heard that phrase often enough growing up.
This year I am leaning toward my #oneword being meaningful. A couple of years ago the word ful was the oneword and that way it could change daily...what that meant, thankful, grateful, playful...etc... While 2018 seemed meaningful and it was, that wasn't the oneword for that year. In fact 2018's word came later than sooner.
2019 also is beginning with a new iPhone. Think it was 2011 around the new year when getting the last one. Memory was fading, quickly deleting pics at the Biltmore while having our Christmas lunch at the Inn, so I could continue taking snow pics left and right. So, it is getting used to no home button and taking screen shots differently. The Sprint guy that helped us has a very interesting family history, ancestors one of the early settlers, and he has led an interesting and varied life...come to find out, he lives in Leicester. So with the iCloud, making the big switch between phones is a whole lot easier than it used to be. We were getting this errand done while Mustang Sam was in the shop for Auto Butler and oil change and rotating the tires. In by 8:00 out by noon. Makes me a little happier with the dealership since you can't make an appointment for oil changes etc... After dropping off Mustang Sam we headed over to Another Broken Egg but the original plan had been to eat breakfast at Moose Cafe. Roy is a waffle man, thus the change of venue....then for me the relative closeness of a Barnes and Noble to shop after the holidays was a joy and easy decision.
The day after Christmas we made plans with our very fun friends Cuman and Inez. Our first choice had been taking Roy to the Cataloochee, but with the government shutdown, translate that to bathrooms not open, and the probability of rough roads, we went to second choice, eating at Bonnie and Clyde's. Well, with B and C closed for the holidays, we went to Tommy's in Weaverville and enjoyed a delicious late lunch. But before eating Cuman took us back to the dam in Madison County. This was pre-flooding, whew! It was still very powerful though. Since he took us there last year, I have tried to find the way back and each time, lost, but in a beautiful countryside that made the trip enjoyable. So, now I know the non-twisty turny road to get there. I love hearing the stories since Cuman and Inez grew up in the area. With Wednesday being such an emotional day due to the earlier debacle of trying to get Riley into a crate and we not being fast enough, bedtime came very, very early for this child. And all the friends that reassured me that Riley would come around...cause you know I didn't believe them...well, they were right.
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I was too nervous to watch the LSU game, so it was constantly checking Twitter and it is so good that they won. Now to wait till the fall for LSU football to begin again and thankfully, baseball isn't too far off.
Then last night while planning to finish up this post, Love, Gilda was on CNN. She has always been a favorite and loved her comedic style. So, after watching and filled with documentary emotions, the best decision was to go was my hair and go to bed. If it comes on again, please watch, even if you didn't like her on SNL. Having current comedians read from her journal, very poignant.
Riley was all lovey dovey this morning and it is so hard not to try and pet her. It is just a natural reaction, like with Buddy, but after reading an informative article about putting aside the lap cat wish and tending to their immediate needs to help them come to a better life. In a bit I will open the back door and let her out. A nice day and tonight rain is supposed to move in, so here's trusting she will return later this afternoon when I call for her.
January 2nd, Shell texted a fraud alert to us. Were we in Miami? Uh, no...think the small charge is a try and see if it will go through. Roy called them and they are sending new cards. They also said there was an account out there with my name on it, so he cancelled that too. Think it happened in Gastonia when stopping for $1.94 gasoline.
So this day is getting away and there are a few errands to be run. Happy New Year! Thank you for reading Monablog.
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